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Post by sleepingdragon on Jul 2, 2016 16:31:40 GMT
sd: Ealdorman Leuthere was saved and Drefen's attack thwarted, but the cost was high. Their allies from Tolwick had proved false and the remaining forces of Esterpool, Lyngfold, Parlaw, Malhurst and the Brotherhood had suffered some sixty casualties. Tolwick had suffered far worse, however, and Leuthere believed that if they rode south immediately, Tolwick would be hesitant to march against them. In the aftermath of the attack the remaining allied Ealdormen immediately accepted Leuthere as their commander - it was clear that Drefen saw their gathering as an opportunity to destroy them in one blow, and Leuthere was clearly the only person in Aelswyth with the military experience to oppose him.
the Brotherhood had captured a number of Drefen's men in the fight. The captive Bloodguards were utterly unshakeable, and so Leuthere ordered their execution and the destruction of their blood magic blades. The ordinary mercenaries and the soldiers of Huncestre proved more receptive to talk, however. ominously, they learned that about a week and a half ago, Drefen had vanished for several days, and had returned abruptly three days later by boat off the eastern shore of Aelswyth. His personal blade, Saviour, had been set with a great red ruby, shining like a beating heart, and since then Drefen had seemed unusually willing to take risks, throwing himself into the front of battle with unusual ardour for one who typically led from the rear. At about this same time, Drefen had also uncovered a plot by one of his lieutenants, a man called Ricsige, to assassinate him. Ricsige had not been executed, so far as any knew, but he had been taken captive and not seen since. Hogar: "More blood magic, no doubt."said Hogar disgusted hearing the reports of Drefen's latest activities Leofric: Leofric nodded, frowning thoughtfully, "Sound like he went to that temple on that isle which is the site of powerful rituals instead." Leofric: He glanced at his peers, "I suppose we might have to seperate the sword from him. Shame we do not have an enchanter with mastery over metal Beomund: Beomund laughed. "I've no idea if my magic will be any match for the ensorcellments on his sword, but perhaps something can be done." Leofric: Leofric smiled slightly, "I hope so, No doubt we will think of something." Edmund: Edmund smiled at Beomund's words. "That gives us hope. Drefen is a man, whatever powers he has bargained for." sd: Leuthere came to see the party when they had had time to catch their breath and eat. "We're going to march immediately, put some distance between us and Tolwick. Drefen has probably had information about Yonwin's progress leaked to him, and might move to cut him off. We need to make sure he has to focus on us for long enough that Yonwin and Wynflaed can arrive and turn the tide." Leofric: Leofric nodded with steel determination in his eyes, ready for a fight. "We are always ready." Beomund: "We're with you, ready to do what needs to be done," said Beomund. sd: "If Drefen is joining the front of battle it might be we can take him down quickly...we're going to keep a close eye on him, and I want you ready. I've seen you fight and you're the best we have," said Leuthere. "I want to kill him myself, for Wynflaed, but she's more concerned with being sure that he's dead than exactly who does it." Edmund: "We will do our best to make sure of that," Edmund said grimly. Beomund: "It sounds as if he has some magical protection, but he may not be counting on opponents with our abilities," added Beomund. "At the very least I expect we shall be able to give him more fight than he expects." Hogar: "We have faced foes not too unlike him in the past."said Hogar "However, I wouldn't be too surprised if he expects us." Leofric: Leofric managed to sneak some time to restore his powers by meditation. he opened his eyes looking weary. "I feel I cannot use the potions so I need to mediate. So very hard to do it that way." Edmund: Edmund had taken a potion himself. Hogar: So did Hogar, commenting "I'd rather face Drefen and his men using as little magic as I can, as you're far better at that, but I'll be glad to cast any spells I can on you." sd: the remnants of the allied army rode south. The countryside was utterly abandoned now, every farm and village deserted in anticipation of the climactic battle to come. Reports were that Drefen's army was three days march to the south, and they were making towards a place called Brindlepool, east of Lyngfold and south of Tolwick. They were nearer to it than the allies and would surely occupy it first, but Leuthere wanted to be sure they reached there as soon as possible to give him as little time to fortify and prepare. outriders were sent ahead of either army, and there were a few minor skirmishes, but no true fighting. There were light dustings of snow that fell regularly, but it slowed them only a little.
At about mid-day of the second day of their march, 15 December, a group of a half-dozen horsemen rode towards them. Their shield displayed Drefen's gold and red eye, however one at their head pulled out a white flag and attached it to the end of his spear, waving it overhead. Leofric: Leofric eyed the horsemen with great skepticism Hogar: "Parley?"said Hogar, in both distaste and surprise "I didn't expect that." Beomund: Beomund looked equally suspicious, but looked to Leuthere for his reaction. Edmund: "I wouldn't trust them," Edmund said. "Could Drefen be spying via these people?" sd: "If Drefen wants to throw away more men then fine. I don't parley with him." He turned to face a lieutenant. "Get the nooses ready." Beomund: "Might they at least have useful information?" suggested Beomund. "Carefully managed by Drefen, of course. But it might be worth hearing them out." sd: the leader of the horsemen, seeing that he had their attention, dismounted. His horse stepped away somewhat gingerly. The man threw his shield down, removed an axe, and hacked it down directly into the symbol of the eye. In case they had missed it, he held it up before them, and his men began to dismount and do the same. Edmund: "Don't kill them," Edmund said urgently to Leuthere. "Not unless we have spoken to them first, to see if they are really turning sides." sd: Leuthere nodded. "If they're defecting, they'll be useful." He ordered the lieutenant to send out a score of men to strip the horsemen of their weapons and bring them to him for interrogation. Hogar: "Killing men who surrender would encourage others to fight the death. As long as they're not bloodguards or Drefen's closest men, I say we spare them." sd: "Oh I hope all Drefen's men fight to the death, for Wynflaed's sake. And if Huncestre loses more soldiers, that hardly bothers me," Leuthere replied. Edmund: "Do you want us to speak with them?" Edmund asked :Leuthere. "We have had some experience." Leofric: Leofric frowned with a moment of insight, "Should Drefen fall, that Eahfrid's lifespan is going to be very short." Hogar: "We are not easy to trick."added Hogar sd: "Yes, I'll be there and you can do the main talking. If I'm there being silent and ominous they'll be more inclined to cooperate." Leofric: Leofric nodded with agreement as there are quite few apart from Leuthere who is also tall and very ominous. Leofric: Edit: few of them Edmund: "That should work very well," Edmund said with a slight smile. sd: Leuthere and the party went into his pavilion, where the surrendering soldiers were taken. Their leader was a broad-shouldered, golden-haired man with a fat nose and a grisly scar along the left-hand side of his face - an axe wound which had claimed all of his ear save a stub. He had a fresh wound in his thigh, from an arrow, and one of his men had one similar. Wincing, the man knelt before Leuthere and offered him his gauntlet. "Great General Leuthere..." the man began.
"Ealdorman Leuthere," Leuthere corrected him.
"Y...yes. I am Estmar of Wihtpool. My men and I will no longer fight for the usurper, and we have decided instead to serve you as the man best placed to bring peace back to this land. As well as my own service, I bring information that you will find extremely useful, plans of the enemy which I was able to take before my departure." Edmund: Edmund stepped forward. "I'm sure you understand we will need to ask a few questions. Why have you decided to change sides now?" Leofric: Leofric stroke his stubble beard thoughtfully, curious as to see what the answers is sd: "We've been unhappy for some time, but until your unified army was formed we feared that the usurper's victory was inevitable. Captain Drefen and his lieutenants use us and would not allow us a soldier's right rewards. We are poorer now than when we started this campaign." Edmund: "So you are in effect mercenaries, and will fight for whoever offers the best chance to loot and rape your way accross the country?" Edmund suggested, watching the men carefully for their reactions. sd: Estmar looked offended. "I am no mercenary, I'm a soldier of Wihtpool Rape. The soldier deserves a reward for hazarding his body, but Captain Drefen would deny it to us in pursuit of his own ends. I told Lieutenant Ricsige this and sought to sway him, but he wouldn't listen." Leofric: Leofric raised an eyebrow with interest and pointed out, "We have heard about Lieutenant Ricsige who plotted to assassinate Drefen taken into captive and not seen since. I wonder if you know anything about that?" Leofric: EDIT: heard the rumours sd: "He did. I had no idea that he planned that, though I would have helped him if he asked me. He was our commander. After his death we feared suspicion would fall on us so we knew we needed to take the chance we had to flee while it was still possible. I overheard that Drefen had been consulting maps and coded plans with his spies, so when they were finished I used what authority I still had to get access to the pavilion where they had met and steal the plans." Edmund: "You are certain that Ricsige is dead?" Edmund asked. sd: "Well...I suspect so. I couldn't say why Drefen hasn't displayed his body, but everyone else who has betrayed him in the past has met that fate, and I know others of Ricsige's co-conspirators were executed." Edmund: "Hmm," Edmund seemed to be considering this. "You took Drefen's plans? How did you get them, surely they would have been locked away or guarded?" sd: "They were guarded, but I outranked the men guarding them and was able to intimidate them into giving them to me." Edmund: "Of course Drefen will know now that you have them, and if he realises that you have defected, that we have them," Edmund said. sd: "Possibly, but if we act quickly he may not put the two together. At any rate, those men are not likely to say that I took them, they'd be executed if they were found to have let me take them." Leofric: Leofric looked at Estmar and asked with interests, "How did you get these wounds? Drefen's men?" sd: "Some of them gave chase and fired at us, yes, but we outran them and they couldn't keep following or they might run into your outriders." sd: "Where are these plans?" Leuthere said suddenly.
"Your men took them, Ealdorman, they are in my saddlebags." Edmund: "Be careful with them," Edmund said quickly. "They will need to be checked." Hogar: "We know Drefen uses magic of the foulest kind. Do you know anything about that?"he asked the prisoner sd: Leuthere sent several of his men to get the plans. Estmar looked startled by Hogar's question. "There are rumours but...I have not been with him for long, I don't know anything about such matters." Leofric: Leofric considered this ans replied, "I see. Well, it is a fact that he does." He sighed for a moment. "So what is the general mood among the men from your and several Rapes? Are they also unhappy or just more scared of Drefen?" sd: "There is a great deal of discontent among the men of the Rapes, though Drefen's own men are utterly unshaken. He has promised a large reward when the campaign is successful and we return to Huncestre, but gold in some future time that you may not live to see is no great motivator." sd: Estmar paused and added. "They are however still confident in the man's reputation. If you can beat him with any kind of decisiveness in the field, they'll abandon him." Edmund: "We will certainly try!" Edmund stated. sd: Leuthere's men returned with Estmar's saddlebags. "Do you have any more questions for him, or should we look at these?" said Leuthere. Leofric: Leofric shook his head. Leofric: He then eyed at these saddlebags sd: Estmar and his men were taken away while Leuthere shook out the saddlebags, which contained a number of maps and coded notes. "Hogar, help me look at these maps, we'll need to get someone to decode the rest." Leofric: Leofric nodded, "Edmund and I broken Drefen's ciphers before. Should be pretty straightforward." He told Leuthere. sd: the maps were detailed plans of the area around Brindlepool. Crosses indicated places where Drefen planned to place men - a range of hills in the northwest was ignored, deemed, from the notes, to be too far from his planned camp to defend. Those hills would grant them the advantage of height and allow them to potentially move south to aid the men of Aellington - after much study, Leuthere became convinced that the plans were fakes. "Estmar is a genuine defector, but there's no way Drefen would be foolish enough to write this all down and allow him to run off with it, especially if he was serving under a man who just tried to assassinate him. I'd guess Ricsige told him that Estmar was unhappy and he predicted he was going to switch sides, and he decided to let it happen." Leofric: Leofric nodded with some disappointment, "At least we are aware of these falseness. Still, is there any way to deceive Drefen into thinking we got the plans but are not aware that they are false and can use that to our advantages?" He shook his head, "Sorry, I am not a strategist, perish the thought." sd: "There might. He probably means for us to make for those hills and ambush us, but we can perhaps turn the tables. Let me think about this..." Hogar: "The best deceptions have some truth in them, though."said Hogar "I wouldn't be surprised if some of this information is actually correct, to confuse us..." sd: Leuthere had his medics tend to Estmar and his men and decided to integrate them into his army - though they had been allowed to escape, he guessed, their swords could still kill Drefen's men all the same.
They rode south. In the late evening on 17 December 229 they began to see the fires of Drefen's armies. He had already reached Brindepool and had set up a camp on the south side of the pool - though it had frozen over in the heart of the winter, it would still be all but impossible for the allied armies to cross and strike at Drefen's base. Between the hills where they believed and ambush waited and the lake there lay a narrow strip of grassland which Drefen clearly intended to hold against them. Further south, a detachment of his forces had been sent to engage with the armies of Aellington, to prevent them from joining up. In the darkness it was almost impossible to make out numbers, though they guessed that Drefen's armies outnumbered theirs by a small number. sd: Leuthere came to see them. "The battle will start in the morning," he said. "We've had a messenger from Wynflaed, she's sent a group of horsemen who should arrive late tomorrow or morning of the next day at the latest. We'll be aiming to avoid too decisive a confrontation until then." Beomund: Beomund looked grim but ready. "I wouldn't put it past Drefen to have a nighttime assault planned. Let us be ready for whatever comes." Edmund: "Is there any way we can make it appear we have been fooled by the plans and are heading into those hills?" Edmund mused. Hogar: "Illusions?" suggested Hogar "But it would take a lot of magical energy." sd: "I intend to do just that," said Leuthere. "We'll send a detachment to take to the hills while our main army engages with theirs. I'll send Vadir to command that force, and perhaps one of you as well if you wish - I doubt Drefen is going to put himself in harm's way too quickly." Edmund: "It seems he has been leading from the front recently," Edmund said warningly. "We can't assume anything." sd: they slept fitfully, aware that Drefen was entirely capable of another night raid. He did not commit to one, however, and they woke in the morning and marched across the snowy plain towards the lake of ice where Drefen was encamped. Vadir and Beomund led a detachment away towards the hills, where Beomund checked for and soon found signs that indeed an ambush was prepared for them there. Marching purposefully into the trap, they sent a group of Bloodied Eyes ahead as seeming scouts. As the two main forces marched towards one another on the plain below, a hail of arrows suddenly sailed towards the Brothers, but they were ready and retreated in good order back towards a spot they had passed, where they could force Drefen's men to fight them uphill. The two forces began to clash first of all.
Leofric meanwhile sent forth his senses, scrying on Drefen's main army, trying to catch a glimpse of the man himself and the disposition of his forces. He found them in excellent order - they marched in perfect unison, shields overlapping with one another, spears and swords ready. A small group of horsemen rode before them and behind them, trampling up dust to obscure their numbers, but this could not defeat Leofric's magic. Leuthere had ordered him to find where Drefen's archers were located - he hoped that if they were able to take the high ground, then his men would be able to turn and rain volleys down on them.
A little over an hour after sunrise, as the men in the hills began their fight, the two armies came together. Eahfrid's black sun sigil could be seen in places, but it was clear whose army this truly was - the red and gold eye peered from hundreds of shields, gazed down upon them from banners, probing, judging and finding them weak and unfit for life. Their own motley banners seemed meagre in comparison.
Though Leuthere's strategy had been to seek to avoid decisive confrontation, this proved extremely difficult - a detachment of Bloodguards charged suddenly towards one of their flanks, pinning the men of Lyngfold in place while the remainder of Drefen's troops charged in to deliver a hammer blow. Things might have gone ill, but Leofric's roving eye was upon them, and he pointed out to Edmund the exact spot to use another spell to the most devastating effect. Sudden darkness broke out in the midst of the men, and in the time it took them to overcome their confusion Lyngfold were able to break free and turn. Drefen recalled his troops, and the two sides sat ready, staring warily at one another, as the morning went on. sd: the battle raged on. Hogar went among the men who had been fighting, patching up wounds where he could so the men could rejoin the fray, or where that was possible, ensuring lives were saved rather than lost. A Brother he had served with, Brifard, had taken a heavy axe blow to his shield hand, and two fingers hung on by threads of flesh. Hogar knew there was no choice - the wound would become infected unless the fingers came off. Two Brothers held Brifard down and the man ground a branch between his teeth while Hogar sawed through the fingers. Brifard passed out in agony, but his life was saved and he would likely be able to fight again another day, albeit with somewhat less aptitude than before.
Leuthere had determined that gaining the high ground was important, and so he had snuck away and went to join the men fighting in the hills. There the battles were rolling skirmishes, but he and Beomund put their heads together and found a spot where, they thought, if too many of Drefen's men came together at once the ground would give way. They proved correct, and with this Vadir's detachment was able to utterly rout the force that had been sent to ambush them and seize the higher ground. Leuthere gave orders for archers to be sent to the hill at once.
Below, however, they had carried through a charade of pretense that Leuthere was still with them, flying his personal banner. Edmund used his magic to mime his voice, calling out from seemingly everywhere, confusing the foe. Leofric, in the absence of their general, went to the backlines and set up a command tent, ensuring that orders could be smoothly carried to every subcommander with as much speed as possible. By the time Leuthere returned to reclaim control, the sun had risen high and it was into the afternoon, and as he had hoped they had avoided a decisive clash. They continued to wait, daring Drefen to be the one to take the first step. In the distance, they could see the men of Aellington, engaged in a battle against another force led by Drefen's loyal lieutenant, Merefin. sd: Leofric, Leuthere and a number of his commanders came together, where the scribe cast a spell of telepathy on them. With these links, it was now easy for Leuthere to be kept aware of the situation on all fronts. Beomund, meanwhile, organised the building of hasty fortifications to protect their archers, while Drefen, seeing the threat, sent away a detachment to try to engage them. Taking advantage, the allied armies feinted towards the flank that had just been left exposed, with Edmund riding with them blowing his flute and seeming to be preparing for a charge. Drefen shifted his men to protect, but as their ranks became temporarily disordered Leuthere launched his real attack, smashing hard into the men of Huncestre and slaying many before they could form up ranks again. sd: as evening drew near they continued their battle, shield walls coming together and then smashing apart. The detachment sent to attack their archers came up the hills, but Beomund had gone out ahead, concealing a large boulder amongst the snowy stones. The great stone fell and smashed into the men, and then a group of archers laid down their bows and took up spears, charging and driving Drefen's forces back.
Fatigue was setting in, but Leuthere was tireless. He had a chance now to avenge his wife's family, and he went before his men, crying out that the horsemen of Esterpool would arrive soon, and that they would, at last, destroy the vile murderer who would stop at nothing, even killing women and children in his merciless thuggery.
Then a voice boomed out through the air. They knew it at once - they had heard it in the cursed village of Keldenby, condemning its people to never rest. "I WILL DESTROY ALL WHO THREATEN THE GASTON RACE!" Drefen cried, his voice enhanced by magic which Edmund had used many times before. "What of the women and children who died because of the treachery of the vile people of Arindon and Cyningham? Do you know of the farmers of Albeck, of children eaten alive, of women raped endlessly by monsters because the folk of Cyningham sold their lives to save their own? ALL WHO BETRAY OUR PEOPLE WILL DIE IN AGONY! I WOULD RAZE A MILLION CYNINGHAMS TO SAVE THE GASTON RACE!"
the vitriol and determination in that terrible voice caused many in their lines to shrink back, though for his part Leuthere was merely made angrier and did not cease to revile Drefen. In his anger and his men's discomfort, however, their lines were temporarily exposed, and suddenly Drefen's men were on them. From afar they saw a huge man who Estmar identified as Acwulf, commander of Drefen's personal guard, wade into the fray with a mighty two-handed axe, slashing a bloody swathe through their ranks, smashing into the Ealdorman of Parlaw and hacking a leg out from under him. He was saved by the intervention of his men, though he was carried from the field in agony and was unlikely to ever walk again.
Leofric and Hogar were able to salvage the situation - Drefen had sought to envelop their left flank while they were confused, however the pair led a contingent of men towards the frozen lake, using it as a shield, forcing Drefen's men to either cross the perilous ice or withdraw. As they took the latter option, horns blew from the east, and in the dusk they saw the horsemen of Esterpool riding hard, spears glinting in the night beneath the Star. sd: Edmund went among the men, shaken by Drefen's hatred and the fall of Parlaw's Ealdormen, reassuring them, shaking them from their fear and giving them the courage to continue the fight until the end sd: To counter Drefen's power over the men, Edmund cast the same spell. His voice amplified he called out in a clear voice "Men of the Long Shore! You are fighting for your homes, for your wives and children, for all that you hold dear! Drefen does not speak for Gastons or for you!"
The battle continued. Many were exhausted now, having fought all day, moving in and out of the battle lines, catching a few minutes of hasty sleep, eating standing up and then re-entering the fray. Nearly a thousand men had already lost their lives and more were continuing to fall as Drefen and Leuthere clashed again and again. In the east, the men of Esterpool divided, half riding directly towards them, while another half rode fearlessly across the frozen stream leading to the lake, moving to smash into Drefen from behind. Seeing this threat, he began a fighting retreat, a section of his men peeling off to join Merefin in his struggle against Ealdorman Yonwin. Leuthere tried to shove forward into a gap the retreating men left, but it was only a feint, and when the men drew apart again their own side had suffered the worst of it. sd: while the battle raged, Beomund had come down to rejoin the main camp. Armour stripped from the dead of either side was brought to him, working with a team of smiths, and they hammered tirelessly, reshaping the metal, repairing punctures, knitting together mail thrust through with spears and arrows, removing a fine great helm which had been smashed in so heavily with a spear that the dead bearer's head remained jammed inside until the metal was expanded. As the armour was repaired, it was sent back out to the frontlines so their men would be as well protected as possible as the fight neared its climax. sd: the sun began to rise again as the riders of Esterpool headed for the fray. To the south, they headed for Drefen's camp - he sent a detachment of his men to cut them off, and Edmund and Beomund worked to thwart them. Rigging up primitive catapults, they flung shards of broken weapons over the lake into the path Drefen's men were taking, some coming down to lie hidden in the snow, others raining down on their heads inflicting terrible wounds. In response, Drefen sent Acwulf out. He was nearly seven feet tall, a mighty beast of a man who carried a two handed axe in one hand and a sack in the other. He sent the sack spinning towards the banner of the Bloodied Eyes, and in the dawn light the mutilated heads of Osfrid and Frealaf came flipping out. Their eyes had been gouged out, their tongues nailed to their foreheads, their jaws dislocated and left hanging grotesquely, gaping wide with smiles of shattered teeth.
Filled with rage, the Bloodied Eyes rushed forward, and the hand-to-hand combat became intense. Leofric advised them quickly, finding the right path to take through the snow, and Leuthere and Hogar mounted horses which the Esterpool riders brought them and charged. They rode hard, wheeling round to smash into the enemy on the flank. Suddenly, from behind a bank of snow came some of Drefen's own men - and Drefen himself. His mount barrelled straight into Hogar's and sent him spilling to the ground, and a phalanx of Bloodguards stood beside him. For a moment it looked like the final act of the drama was at hand, but then an arrow tore through the sky from the hilltop, aimed straight at Drefen's head. It would have struck him right through and slain him where he stood, but the air shimmered and there was a strange sound like the pumping of a dying heart, and the arrow suddenly vanished. There came a cry of pain as the arrow rematerialised ten paces away, slamming through the helm of a Bloodguard and slaying him instantly. Seeing this, Drefen hacked down a Brother who leapt into his path and left the field. Beomund: Beomund wiped the sweat from his brow as Leuthere and the companions gathered once more to prepare for the final stage of the battle. "We now know Drefen's Blood Bond. Each time he is injured, the wound will transfer to one of those he is bonded to. There can't be more than 8 or 9 of them, and it is likely more have died in the battle. We'll know they are all finished when we draw his blood." At this last he grimly patted his hammer against the palm of his hand. Hogar: "And that we will do, sooner or later."said Hogar smiling grimly sd: in the chaos almost all of the armies of Aellington had been destroyed, and Ealdorman Yonwin dead, but what few of his troops remained had joined their own forces, and Drefen's general Merefin had also joined with him. The two forces were now joined in urgent battle, and Leuthere prepared for a charge. Edmund and Beomund, taking advantage of the chaos, slipped off with a contingent of horsemen, who slammed into Drefen's flank, overlapping the end of his shield wall and rolling his men back towards one another. Drefen rode to oppose them, and at that exact spot Leuthere, Hogar, and Leofric made their stand. A greatsword would be impossible to use in the crush, so Leuthere took up a spear, battling in the shield wall and slaying a Bloodguard. Hogar and Leofric worked in tandem - Hogar slashed his axe down onto the lip of the enemy's shield, drawing it down, and exposing their head so the Shifting Blade could slash down. Their success was such that Drefen once again rushed them, the ruby on his blade, Saviour, gleaming in the rising sun. As Drefen neared the fray, he suddenly slipped in a patch of blood, left ironically by a dead man of Lyngfold, and nearly went barrelling into their spears. He was able to rise and cut his way free, but not before Hogar was able to cut out with his axe. The air shimmered around him again, and the axe hacked suddenly into Merefin on the other end of the shield wall and cut down the man who had been Drefen's right-hand for many years. Drefen remounted his horse and rode hard towards his camp to regroup.
"Now's the time!" Leuthere said in a brief lull. "The camp is under attack, and a path is clear. While we have them tied up, take some horses and head for the camp. I need to command the troops, but it will give all the men heart if they know you're heading to put an end to this."
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Post by sleepingdragon on Jul 16, 2016 21:06:44 GMT
sd: "Now's the time!" Leuthere said in a brief lull in the fighting. "The camp is under attack, and a path is clear. While we have them tied up, take some horses and head for the camp. I need to command the troops, but it will give all the men heart if they know you're heading to put an end to this." Leofric: Leofric nodded quickly, "Indeed and we will endeavour to end Drefen's blood-soaked life!" He glanced around for horses for himself and his three friends. Beomund: Beomund looked thoughtful, as the calm before a storm. "His reckoning is coming." Edmund: Edmund mounted up and raised his hand to Leuthere. "We will bring justice to Drefen at last." Hogar: "His day has come."said Hogar taking up his horse, with grim determination "He lived in blood and he will die in it, no matter what other tricks he may have up his sleeve." sd: the party rode off. they circled round the great melee that had ensued between the armies of the allies on the one side and of Drefen and Huncestre on the other, wheeling to the south. A few arrows slashed towards them, but they sailed wide and those who had fired them could not pursue through the lines of allied troops. The bitter winter wind whipped their faces as they rode, the sounds of the dead and dying behind them like a hymnal procession, bidding them speed on.
Here and there they passed straggling units of men on either side of the battle, many of whom were fleeing. At least once they passed a pair of men, both stuck with multiple arrow wounds, but pushing on regardless. One wore the livery of Aellington, and the second, who was more heavily wounded and could not walk, wore the uniform of Ealdorman Eahfrid, but now these erstwhile foes had put aside their enmity and sought to survive together. A line of bodies from a previous melee barred the party from reaching them, but as they continued on towards Drefen's camp and looked back, they could see the figures in the distance, perched against a dying tree, seeking to mend one another's wounds and think no more of war.
Soon they crested a rise and found themselves overlooking Drefen's camp, situated in a small piece of land jutting into the Brindlepool. They could see that the camp was encircled with a great ring of spikes, and that furthermore Drefen had dug a circular ditch and had diverted some of the water of the pool into this to serve as makeshift moat. Two wooden bridges served as the only avenues to access the camp - a wide bridge at the southern edge over which supply carts could be carried, and a narrower one at the northwestern edge. There was fighting at both bridges and some in the camp itself, and all around there was a swirl of battle between the men of Esterpool, who had dismounted to fight, and Drefen's Bloodguards. A group under the banner of the Bloodied Eyes were also fighting their way towards the camp. The party stopped to cast any spells they could use to enhance their skills and plan for the battle to come Leofric: Leofric focused and applied his spell of strengthening their bodies for brutal combat again, however he kept failing his spell five or six times before successfully casted it. Once he seen everyone finished calling upon the Powers, he casted a spell to help them to resist the spells that may find it way over. He looked unsteady for a moment when he finished doing his spells. Edmund: Edmund had quickly cast his spells and moved over to Leofric, taking him by the arm. "After we deal with Drefen you must rest." Beomund: Beomund cast his own spells, including one to sharpen Edmund's arrows against armor. "I feel the world will need to rest after these events." Hogar: Hogar knew he could not afford to lack any possible advantage, and so he cast two spells on himself, to protect and hasten his body. Edmund: Edmund smiled grimly. "When Drefen is removed from it the world will be less burdened, that is for sure." Leofric: Leofric nodded, grateful at grateful concern, "I literally cannot cast any spells at the moment. May God be with us." Edmund: "He is, we know that from all that we have seen and done," Edmund said more cheerfully than he felt. "Let us face the brute then, and put him down like the mad dog he is." Edmund: "What is our plan of attack? We should aim for Drefen first and foremost." Leofric: Leofric narrowed his eyes at the plan, "I approved of the plan. We should aim for the less defended ones. Even we will struggle of heavily outnumbered. Edmund: "So over that bridge to the north west then," Edmund said, his eyes on the scene before them. Leofric: Leofric nodded as he patted his newly accquired mount with his gloves, "Sound good to me!" Hogar: "Northwest is more lightly defended."said Hogar sd: the party rode on. As they came near to the camp, they dismounted, for their horses were not war-trained and could not be counted on not to flee when taken into the chaos of battle. Already they could hear the sounds of screaming, dying men, of clashing weapons and bowstrings.
They tore on through the frosty grass, stained red with blood and gore. As they approached they saw the Bloodied Eyes had arrived on the scene and a group of them were trying to force their way across the northwestern bridge, but their path was barred by a group of Bloodguards. There was another melee on the southern bridge too, where the men of Esterpool fought a losing battle. Some few had managed to force their way into the camp, but these were being ground down by Drefen's superior numbers. Around the camp they could see three men with the hairless, moon-faces of eunuchs - these men carried no weapons but daggers, and were armoured in studded leather and metal caps.
In a fray near the centre of the camp stood Drefen, blade to blade with a Bloodied Eye. Around him were the elite members of his Bloodguard, whom he had granted the position of Thegn, though as he was no lord he had no legal right to do so. Drefen's sword Saviour was in hand, red ruby shining bright. Upon Saviour's elaborate cross-guard there was etched an image, of a group of women and children huddled beneath an upraised blade. It was held out, seemingly, as if to parry some great oncoming blow - or perhaps they knelt in fear before its menace? Blood ran up the blade, and many around him were wounded, but Drefen himself had no wounds, nor even a scratch upon his shining mail. His embossed shield bore the symbol of the red and gold eye, staring out pitiless upon a weak and unworthy world. Hogar: Hogar eyed Drefen with steely determination, having obviously wanted to face the man for a very long time Leofric: Leofric ran toward the northwestern bridge with his friends. He watched the Bloodied Eyes under pressure. Hopefully they can bring some light relief sd: Drefen raised Saviour and sliced straight past the upraised shield of his Brotherhood foe. The Fryderi blade hacked deep into the man's midsection, and he fell with blood bubbling at his lips. sd: on the southern bridge, one of the Bloodguards took a nasty cut to his belly, though he fought on Edmund: Edmund eyed one of the mages, firing an arrow speedily which hit him in the guts. The man grasped at his belly then slumped to the ground. sd: across the camp the batle raged. On the north bridge, three Bloodied Eyes and Bloodguards fought, screaming curses, hatred glinting in every glance. A Bloodguard slashed out, but underestimated his foe, who brought his shield slamming up into his face with such force that he was hurled to the ground. In the camp itself they fared better, with one man of Esterpool struck through the leg and hurled to the earth. sd: at the northwestern bridge the Bloodied Eyes had the upper hand, landing a blow on a prone Bloodguard, though he was not seriously hurt and managed to kick the legs out from under his next attacker, who fell to the turf beside him Hogar: Though it looked like he would have preferred to attack Drefen himself or one of his guards, Hogar noticed a mage was close and uncovered and sized him for a moment before throwing his hatchet with deadly strength. The weapon flew low, going towards the man leg and would likely have cut one of his arteries had he stood still - but the man desperately threw himself to the ground, though he did it so clumsily that rather than avoiding the projectile, he caught it in the middle of his head and was dealt a telling blow. sd: in a melee on the western edge of the camp, the huge Acwulf, the leader of the Bloodguard, raised his enormous two-handed axe and slammed it down hard on an Esterpool man who had been knocked down at his feet. The axe slammed hard into his head, sending him slumping over dead or dying in the dirt sd: the only one of the three mages who hadn't been taken down immediately cast a spell, aimed for one of the Bloodied Eyes. Hogar had recognised the dread words - it was a malign spell to leach the strength from one's limbs and leave them worthless, however the man resisted the dark effect Leofric: The arrival of Leofric along with Beomund bring a sense of doom on the Drefen's men facing them. Leofric with a simple cut, stabbed a bloodguard brutally through his abdomen. The bloodguard collasped, trying to keep his inside inside his body. This dying man is no longer able to fight. Leofric then turn his attention to another bloodguard opposing Beomund sd: Drefen, having gutted his previous foe, turned to an exhausted Bloodied Eye pressed hard by two Bloodthegns. Drefen struck the man a heavy blow with Saviour, and the ruby glinted red, but the man stood on his feet, spitting out a broken tooth in Drefen's face. "Oathbreaker!" sd: the battle raged on. One of the Esterpool men was finally borne down, overwhelmed by numbers, but on the south bridge one withstood a terrible blow and stood defiantly Edmund: Edmund threw down his bow, pulled out his flute and played a martial air to raise the spirits of their allies. sd: a fallen Bloodied Eye slashed out with his sword, aiming for the Bloodguard at the northwestern bridge who had been knocked sprawling. Drefen's man tried to roll aside, but succeeded only in rolling into the blade's path, which slashed straight through an artery. The man began to bleed profusely, leg slashed to ribbons Beomund: Beomund, seeing the nearest foe fallen, attempted a quick spell to shove a Bloodthegn off of the bridge. His casting failed however, in the commotion of the battle. sd: a wounded Esterpool man somehow desperately fended over a great stroke from Acwulf's axe Hogar: Hogar took the Darkling Axe from his belt and whirled it menacingly as he moved towards the bridge where his companions would soon set foot on sd: the Bloodied Eye facing Drefen was finally felled by two terrible blows - one struck his leg out from under him, and as he moved his shield to cover this wound he opened himself up to a blow to his head, and crumpled, bleeding out at Drefen's feet. sd: the remaining mage began casting a new spell, hands upraised as he took cover by a stack of barrels Leofric: Leofric launched himself at the another bloodguard and this man fell beneath his forcefully blow of his Shifting Blade sd: Drefen, scanning the battlefield, saw the party on the northern bridge and immediately made for them. "With me, Bloodguard!" he shouted, his voice magically enhanced. Edmund: Edmund grabbed his bow back and drew an arrow. sd: a number of Bloodguards bore bows and they fired. Edmund dodged one arrow, while one struck Hogar's shield and another failed to penetrate his mail. A last arrow went for Leofric, slamming past his shield and sticking into his armour, but fortunately not managing to dig into his flesh sd: the Bloodied Eyes fought on against their hated enemy. On the south bridge, one raised his blade and brought it crashing down through a fallen Bloodguard's helm, shearing through flesh and bone. It sawed straight down and into the man's eye, where it was yanked out, great gouts of blood and brain gushing out Beomund: Beomund slammed his hammer against the ankle of the lone Bloodthegn protecting the bridge. There was a great crunch, and the man fell against the boards with a useless leg. You whisper to Hogar: as Drefen came forward, Hogar noticed he glanced around for his men and made particular care to locate one of the Bloodthegns behind him sd: "WITH THE CAPTAIN!" Acwulf cried. His deadly axe flashed through the air and sheared diagonally down through the face of an Esterpool man. He fell forward, dead in an instant, his throbbing, ruined brain clearly visible through the utter ruin of his skull Hogar: Hogar glanced at Drefen and the men surrounding him, and suddenly he seemd to notice something. He called out to Beomund and Leofric "Drefen's bloodbound to one of his 'thegns'!" and pointed quickly at one of the men with his axe Leofric: Leofric merely grinned at this new, marking this particular thegns. Leofric: Leofric made ready and glanced at the ongoing soldiers with a look Leofric: of pure disdain and even a hint of amusement. sd: two Bloodied Eyes near the party focused on a fallen Bloodthegn, who fought with surprising skill - deflecting one blow and driving the butt of his sword up into another's face, momentarily blinding him Beomund: Beomund joined the Bloodied Eyes to wail his hammer against the shield of the fallen Bloodthegn. The man managed to deflect his blow, though he was hard pressed against the onslaught. Hogar: Hogar reached the base of the bridge and could finally stand beside Leofric and Beomud sd: the sole remaining mage finally completed his long spell. dark energy pulsed from him and into the Bloodied Eye and two Esterpool men who kept up the fight on the south bridge. Their limbs suddenly lost all might, the weight of their armour becoming utterly unbearable, stones upon their backs sd: though sapped of strength, the men on the south bridge fought on grimly Edmund: Edmund had been moving round behind the others and now he could see the mage in his hiding place. He drew the great black bow, sending an arrow crackling and sparking accross the battle ground towards the man's face. The eunuch crashed to the ground. Edmund: while the bow howled its war-cry. Beomund: Beomund began to cast a spell to push a charging Bloodthegn into the water, but at the last moment a glimmer of light from Drefen's shield got in his eye, and the spell failed. Leofric: Leofric watched the Bloodied Eye dealt with fallen Bloodthegn with ease and stowed away his shield and focused on his boardsword. "Come on, reclaim your honour, men!" He try to encourage the remaining Bloodied Eye Men Leofric: Leofric's Shifting Blade shifted, it grew larger and larger. Eventually it became a greatsword. He, inspired by Ed's beautiful flute slipped past immense man, Acwulf and cut into his Acwulf and pressed on, making sure this man cannot attack anyone. He did however notice that Acwulf shurgged off a blow that fell a lesser man. He merely grinned larger. sd: "Honour?" cried Drefen. He was unable to reach the fray through the narrow press on the bridge. "The Bloodied Eye Brotherhood are fools who are too weak to do what has to be done to protect our people. May you and your Code burn forever!" Leofric: Leofric snorted that "And you have proven yourself WEAK! WEAK!" sd: a number of Bloodguard archers prepared to fire. Edmund however was quicker, firing a lightning fast shot. The cry of the Screaming Bow rent the air, and the arrow rent the Bloodguard, punching straight through him. As he collapsed, Edmund came up with another arrow already nocked sd: one fired at Edmund, who rolled aside, while two more fired at a Bloodied Eye who had dropped into the back rank and was preparing a javelin. The first shot struck the shield which he was crouching behind, but the second shot sliced straight towards his sword arm. With great speed he was able to bring the shield round and block this as well Beomund: Beomund swung his hammer at Acwulf, but at the last moment the man managed to bring up his greataxe, and the two mighty weapons let out a great clang. "Today we will find that there is more to victory than strength!" he called. "We have not let ourselves become monsters, and that is why we'll win!" sd: "If you think I'm speaking of physical strength, then you understand nothing," said Drefen. "But thank you for the information you provided about Telsey, it allowed me to ensure they met justice for their crimes." Hogar: "Brothers, this is the day we make Drefen and his dogs pay!" screamed Hogar as he swung the Darkling Axe at a bloodthegn with ferocious strength, biting deep into one of his legs and sending him crashing on the bridge's wooden planks. Beomund is disconnected. Edmund: "It is the hand that wields the weapons, and the mind that guides the hand, which will be judged," Edmund called out. "You will pay for the blood you have shed." sd: "Indeed. The minds of the traitors of Telsey, who sold out their fellow humans to goblins, were judged. I rejoice in their deaths." Drefen glanced to his men behind him. "Javelins." Beomund has connected. sd: at their Captain's command, the Bloodthegns behind him began to draw javelins, as they could not get into the fray due to the narrow space on the bridge sd: "Bloodied Eyes! Your leaders knew I was right to do what I have done. I was awaiting judgement in Phalen for weeks and they did nothing. They were too weak to back me, and too weak to oppose me. So you were, so you are, lacking in moral clarity, lacking in strength, lacking in will. You will be buried." Drefen called. Beomund is disconnected. Leofric: Leofric followed up with another attack on Acwulf and managed to bypass his defence again and wounded his left arm so heavily that the arm fell on to his side uselessly. His eyes only show pure determination in his eyes, only highlighting Acwulf's oncoming death. Hogar: Hogar lashed out again, hacking deep into the leg of another bloodguard which fell just like his companino before Hogar: edit:companion Beomund: As Acwulf staggered from his injuries, Beomund lurched forward with a surge of effort, slammering his hammer into the other big man's abdomen. Slowly, he toppled to the boards of the bridge. "You have many words to justify your crimes, Drefen," he said, staring forward at the general as he came into view behind Acwulf. "Now let us have a final judgment." sd: if Drefen was afraid, he didn't show it, pointing Saviour at Beomund and urging him forward. Leofric: Edmund: Edmund took aim at one of the Bloodguards with javellins, hitting the man in the guts. The arrow did not hit as hard but it stuck in the flesh. sd: javelins sailed back and forth, but to no efffect, sailing wide of combatants on both sides Beomund: Rather than move toward Drefen at his urging, Beomund casually smashed his hammer down upon a prone Bloodthegn, slaying him. He kept his cold eyes locked on Drefen all the while, waiting for the man to advance on their defensive position. sd: "Gather at the end of the bridge," Drefen told his men, preparing to move back as the line shifted Hogar: "Don't let them get away!"shouted Hogar as he cut through the leg of a fallen bloodguard in a spray of blood, killing him sd: "Javelins!" Drefen cried. The three Bloodthegns threw, aiming at those who did not have shields - Edmund, Leofric, and Beomund. The bard took a light wound and the scribe dodged, but the spear flung at Beomund dug deep into his arm, piercing and impaling through his armour sd: just as it seemed the spear would pierce straight through Beomund's arm, he activated his magical belt, and instead of sticking through his flesh it spun away Leofric: Leofric quickly stood up from his prone position and walk calmingly toward to them, with simple rage in his eyes. sd: Drefen hacked out at Hogar, who was able to raise his shield and drive Saviour away. The man's strength was not tremendous, compared to those of Beomund and Hogar himself, however it felt as if he knew exactly where to strike for maximum effect sd: the Bloodguard and Bloodthegns who had flung javelins had retreated away from where they dropped their swords, so instead they reached for two handed axes strapped to their backs, drawing these out and preparing to drop their shields Edmund: Edmund drew out another arrow and nocked it to his bow. Beomund: Beomund struck at Drefen, but the general easily knocked his blow aside. Hogar: "DIE, DREFEN!" shouted Hogar raising his axe high above his head and then swinging with extraordinary speed and force at the Captain's head, too fast for the man to block despite his skill. Just before the weapon struck however there was a strange, unearthly sound and the air shimmered, and the axe seemed to disappear for a moment from Hogar's hands to bury itself in the skull of the collapsed Acwulf, who took the wound for Drefen. sd: "There are many who will need to die first, Bloodied Eye," Drefen replied. "The Gaston race needs me to live, and you to die." Leofric: Leofric followed up Hogar's attack with another attack and this time, the wound it will dealt was transferred to another bloodthegn. Leofric: He watched as Bloodthegn collasped and laughed a little as he kept up his attention. sd: a Bloodied Eye stabbed down at the fallen Acwulf, but couldn't penetrate his armour. Swearing, the man dropped his sword and reached out for the fallen Bloodguard's greataxe Beomund: Beomund noticed the Bloodthegn nearby who had been injured in place of Drefen, and so aimed his blow for Drefen's torso. As his hammer struck the same ghastly sound and shimmer appeared, and the head of Beomunds axe appeared to cave in the Bloodthegn's chest. sd: Drefen slashed out at Hogar, who blocked the blow Hogar: "Your blood magic can't work forever!" screamed Hogar as he swung at Drefen's head for the second time. Again there was a sound, the air shimmered and then the axe vanished for a moment - though they could not see where to. A scream from one of the the tents however made them realize that the man bound to Drefen was inside it, and had taken a grievous woud. sd: "I'll need to renew it after I've killed you. Ricsige there has been very useful, I've learned how to bind it to one who is unwilling. I'll face few revolts when the lords of the Long Shore are bound to me, and then I'll be free to scour the land of traitors." Edmund: Having loaded his bow, Edmund fired at one of the other Bloodguards before he could fire back, striking the man in the belly and seeing him fall with satisfaction. sd: Hogar blocked a blow of a Bloodguard's greataxe sd: The Bloodied Eye who had picked up Acwulf's axe was shot in the process, but it only pierced his armour a little. Annoyed, he swung the axe down hard and hacked straight through the fallen Bloodguard's middle, strewing his guts across the bridge. Beomund: Beomund continued to swing repeatedly at Drefen, who had regained his footing and managed to block his blow. "Even as the last of your men die around you, you speak of this imagined future," he said, panting. "Blind as ever, Drefen!" Hogar: Cheering for Acwulf's axe, Hogar kept swinging at Drefen, but this time the villainous captain caught the attack on his shield sd: one of the Bloodied Eyes took a heavy wound from a greataxe and fell Leofric: Leofric reached out again and targeted the Captain again. The wound transferred to poor Ricsige's head. The tent can be seen having blood all over and a quick scream that was quickly grugle away sd: the Bloodied Eyes fought on, but had the worst of the affair, with one smashed hard in the face with the butt end of an axe and stumbling blinded Beomund: Pressing their advantage as the trio assaulted Drefen together, Beomund lashed out viciously at his swordarm. This time the weapon connected without the Bloodbond protecting the captain, crushing into his armor and causing him to drop his magic blade, his arm hanging useless. Hogar: "Stay strong, brothers! Drefen is nearly done for!"shouted Hogar to the Bloodied Eyes rejoicing in Beomund's heavy blow Leofric: Leofric smield seeing that Drefen is taking wounds and went for the chance like snow cat hunting after its prey and caused a serious wound on Drefen;s left arm, causing it to make left arm useless, Leofric smiled for a moment and glanced at Hogar. Edmund: Edmund quickly drew and fired at another archer, impaling him Edmund: "And this is how we win Drefen!" Edmund called out. "By working together, not imposing our will upon each other." Hogar: With a fearsome, bloodcurdling shout Hogar followed up on his companion's attacks and swung the Darkling Axe at Drefen's now useless sword arm for the last time. The weapon tore through the limb powered by the ferocious strength of righteous vengeance far too long delayed, severing it in a thick streak of crimson blood which fell on Hogar's face and armor. Drefen's mutilated body collapsed to the ground, finally dead for good. sd: Drefen fell to the earth at Hogar's feet, blood pumping from the stump. He still looked unafraid. He directed it towards Hogar's feet, spraying him with blood, and as he died they heard him mutter. "May you...know...no...rest..." he spat blood and bile at Hogar. "A curse...may you...know...no..." And at last no further words passed the lips of the bloody captain. Leofric: Leofric frowned for a moment, "Hmm... Cut off his head." He narrowed his eyes at the last utterings of the Captain Edmund: Edmund saw him fall. "YOUR CAPTAIN IS DEAD. END THIS FIGHT NOW!" he called out in a loud and commanding voice to the rest of Drefen's men. sd: in stunned disbelief at the defeat of the captain who had never known defeat, the Bloodguards who survived proved entirely willing to accede to Edmund's request. Around them, the battle still raged, as men who knew nothing of Drefen's fall continued to strive to slay or save the Captain who had already perished. Hogar: Ignoring the curse, Hogar chopped off Drefen's head and raised it high for all to see. Beomund: "He's died ten times over," called Beomund. "Spare yourselves the same fate!" Edmund: Edmund came forward. "HERE IS THE CAPTAIN WHO COULD NOT BE DEFEATED. HE HAS BEEN DEALT JUSTICE AT LAST." Leofric: Leofric hugged Hoagr around the should and nodded, "I didn't sense any magical energy with his curse. Of course, has he have more time, he might be able to cast that kind of curse. Just ignore it." He said with comforting tone. Hogar: "Even if the words he said as he got what he deserved had any power, it would still have been worth it."said Hogar, resolute Leofric: Leofric nodded with agreement, "And let us pray that we will never see another one of his kind." sd: Edmund's magically carrying voice drew attention, and many eyes turned to see the head that Hogar carried aloft. It took time, and some men still pointlessly lost their lives in the carnage, continuing their bloodletting in the name of one who had already gone. So many had fallen - Osfrid had fallen, and Ealdorman Yonwin, and Trumwin with his furious desire for vengeance. As the battle subsided they learned to their sorrow that Vadir too had been slain, the Bloodied Eye banner swarmed by the Bloodguard and finally overwhelmed with numbers, though Leuthere had cut a path through and rescued his body. Orped was found collapsed with exhausation - though he had taken no part in the battle, and would survive, he would need many weeks of rest before he was capable of the slightest cantrip. But Ealdorman Leuthere was hale and whole, and he was eager to see that Drefen was truly dead. "You were going to split the Bloodied Eyes' share of the loot with me, half each," he said. "But half a head is useless. Wynflaed would pay dearly for that skull." Edmund: "I think Wynflaed deserves to have it," Edmund said. Leofric: Leofric looked slightly concerned on hearing about Orped's fate and was relieved to hear that Orped will recover. Hogar: "So many good men fell today..."commented Hogar bitterly before turning to Leuthere "She can have it, knowing we helped killing him is enough of a trophy for us." Beomund: Beomund nodded. "Indeed. Though perhaps the Brotherhood should take some memento, as a reminder of the suffering he caused and the folly of his path, to Brothers who come after." Hogar: "...but perhaps we could take an eye as a token. "Hogar added "He was a monster in a man's body, after all. I doubt Wynflaed will mind." sd: Leuthere gave a sad smile. "No. It will take her time to accept that it was a Bloodied Eye and not her that killed the man, but as long as he's dead she'll be happy in the end. Now...I have many burials and burnings to arrange, and messages to send out. Huncestre is beaten and that will cause a change here on the Shore."
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Post by sleepingdragon on Jul 16, 2016 21:12:32 GMT
The death of Drefen was a hammer blow against the army of Huncestre. The soldiers of that Rape soon surrendered, but those who were Drefen’s personal troops were more stubborn. Some refused to believe their unbeatable Captain had or even could be defeated, battling on in the belief that his fall was yet another of his elaborate ruses – a man who had faked his death once could do so again.
Others, in rage and despair, lashed out at those they regarded as most responsible for his fall, the Bloodied Eye Brotherhood. Before the battle could be won many more Brothers were slain in a suicidal charge against their lines by what remained of the command structure of the Bloodguards, who would not allow themselves to continue in a world where those they saw as weakling betrayers of the Gaston race had the victory. Soon, however, they were overwhelmed, and either captured or slain.
The news of Drefen’s fall spread quickly, and seemingly reached Huncestre immediately – the weary Orped guessed that some of the eunuch mages remained there, and any failure on their part to contact Drefen by telepathy would have alerted them to the Captain’s death. Before his fall could become general knowledge, Eahfrid and a number of his closest supporters, seeing their doom at hand, slipped aboard a ship and set out to sea.
By the time those without magical aid learned of Drefen’s fall it was too late, and the usurper Ealdorman of Huncestre was well on his way. He could neither return to his old home in the Lost Lands from which he had fled, nor anywhere on the Long Shore, and he could not risk a journey south without running the ships of Aelswyth and Estencestre, and therefore there was only one destination he could be making for – the isles of Coelney in the southeast.
There was little however that could be done of this now, for those who had survived the battle had upon them the more immediate tasks of saving the lives of the wounded who could be saved, and burning those who had died. Over a thousand men had perished in the great battle of Brindlepool, the single greatest loss of human life on the Long Shore in a hundred years since the invasion of the dragon. But while that war had been waged to defend their homes from monsters, in this war all the slaying had been dealt out and suffered by human beings, without a single goblin, orc or dragonspawn within fifty leagues.
From such a field of folly few could truly be deemed victors, but if one could be found it was Ealdorman Leuthere. He had wreaked a terrible vengeance upon those who had caused such misery and pain for the woman he loved, and his star now shone above all the lords of the Shore. The Ealdormen of Aelswyth had acknowledged him as their chief, and though this had been intended as a temporary mantle it now seemed probable it would continue. The Ealdorman of Aellington had died on the battlefield, and the Ealdorman of Parlaw maimed. He was unlikely to ever step again, save only that he could step aside and allow one of whole body to take his place. The Ealdorman of Tolwick had betrayed the alliance and would likely pay a dear price, as his lords now sought to impeach him for his two great crimes – proving himself a traitor whose word was worthless, and even worse, picking the wrong side. All three of these Ealdormen would need to be replaced, and it seemed unlikely that any candidate could win unless they had the favour of the victorious captain of Brindlepool.
But once the initial elation of victory passed, Ealdorman Leuthere’s mood soon turned subdued and worried. The great Rape of Huncestre had long been the bulwark of the Long Shore, and though the fortress itself remained all but impregnable save to treachery such that Eahfrid had used, in the wars with the orcs and then the battles on Aelswyth the greatest part of Huncestre’s fighting men had been killed or maimed. Much of the rest of the Long Shore had been bloodied, and until the most recent time only Aelswyth had escaped – but now they too had reaped a harvest of the slain.
The Bloodied Eyes, too, felt their initial satisfaction turn to sorrow. Over half the Brothers who had set out from Phalen had perished in the campaign. Drefen was finally dead, but even this proved a fact that the Brothers began to regret. The greatest part of his deeds in life had been monstrous, but the people of the Long Shore could thank him for at least one thing, that through his generalship he had utterly routed their landward enemies in the Old Forest, destroying the orcish threat thoroughly and completely. The Brothers could only wonder in sorrow of what might have been had he used his immense skill and intelligence for a nobler purpose. Instead through his singular lack of humanity and compassion his talent had been squandered and turned to a vice, and the man who should have become the greatest of the Bloodied Eyes had brought them their greatest shame and dishonour.
While Drefen had destroyed the orcs of the Old Forest, the goblins of the far north, as well as the slavers of Coelney, remained, and Leuthere feared they would now come to prey upon the weakened Shore. He therefore began to write to the Ealdormen of each Rape, and the lords of Huncestre, calling for them to meet to plan the defence of the Shore as soon as possible.
Leuthere’s dislike of the Bloodied Eyes meant his lips were closed to the party, and with Drefen’s fall he called on the Bloodied Eyes to fulfil their vow, take their share of the loot, and be gone from the Long Shore by the speediest way. Though Drefen had failed of his promise, the Bloodied Eyes kept theirs, and battered, reduced in number, but restored in honour and pride, they set south for Estencestre whence they could take ship.
Though Leuthere would tell them little of his plans, the surviving leaders of the Eyes were experienced men of war and were easily able to determine what options lay open to him. He was likely to seek alliances elsewhere, and only three possible allies lay open to him. The lords of Gundergrad were unlikely to be of use – divided as they were, with no common structure for decision making, they would be allies of limited use. Rapprochement with the Council would be more fruitful, but an extremely difficult one to sell to the lords of the Shore who prized their independence.
This left Leuthere one other option, and an easier one, most likely. While persuading an assemblage of lords like the Council or the Gundergrad chiefs would be a long, drawn out process, it was far simpler to make alliance with a single man, and this avenue now lay open to him. The new King of the Lost-Lands would be a more useful ally for the security of the eastern shore than the disparate lords of Gundergrad, and one less grasping and more palatable to the lords of the Shore than the Council.
But such matters were for now of only academic interest to the Bloodied Eyes, for though they had redeemed some of their stained honour it had come at the loss of many men, and their banishment from the Long Shore would continue. And so it was that on the 1st day of January in the 230th year of the Virian calendar, as the party celebrated Leofric’s unknown birthday, they and the Bloodied Eyes boarded ships and set back towards Phalen.
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Post by sleepingdragon on Jul 16, 2016 21:17:00 GMT
The snows were falling heavily when they arrived back in Phalen on 11 January 230. In the months since they had left for the Lost-Lands the enemy activity in East Phalen had grown, but thus far the Undercity Watch had succeeded in holding them back.
The steady trickle of Gaston settlers had now grown to a wave, and the news from their homeland showed clearly as to why. King Elfwine III would come into full manhood in the spring. He had long been promised to Sybella, the daughter of Regent Hrothgar, but as his regency ended and the reign of the King began there were whispers that many of the Dukes were unhappy with Hrothgar’s power, and would seek to bring him down. Many believed the King would break his betrothal and marry another, to humble his over-proud servant. A decade after Duke Hrothgar of Haragmyne had brought an end to the chaos of the Lordstrife, the spectre of civil war haunted Gastony, and many of the desperate and frightened people of the realm fled before the rumour of its return.
It was not only in Gastony where these reverberations were felt. The Regent had been the architect of the League with Palania, and there was great concern on the Council that if he fell from power that the new regime in Gastony would have a new view of their allies, viewing them as enemies…or subjects. The Ealdorman Heorot of Bluebrycg and his adherents banged this latter drum, and called for the influence of the Church and the Gaston settlers in the land to be curbed before it was too late. The Church said would be no change in policy towards Palania on the part of the Crown, for it was God’s Will that the sundered branches of the Gaston race should unite to face their enemies, but the worried words of their countrymen undercut their arguments, and their influence on the Council was waning.
While these rumours were troubling and of great import, they were not at all the topic of interest to Sigrun when she sent Leofric an invitation that was truly a demand that he, Beomund, and Orped see her and tell her about what they’d discovered in the Lost-Lands and the Long Shore. It was the news from the Lost-Lands that most interested her, and one item most of all – the news that somehow, Aethelwulf and his companions had caused the aethyric surge which the party had felt so long ago while sailing towards Kalmar.
When reported to the Conclave this caused them to make plans immediately. Such an event was a display of magic to rival their own cleansing of the Plague Fields – and one carried out by far fewer people and at much less effort. The Conclave contacted the southern Changers immediately to discuss the possibility of sending envoys to Aethelwulf to try to learn more of how he had achieved this, though they were doubtful that the newly risen King would be eager to give away such information for free.
At the same time, the Conclave laid other plans, and they told the party they would likely need their help to carry them out. Too much lore had been lost to them in the tumults after the invasion of the dragon, but in those days there had been one mage deemed the wisest in the Conclave, the greatest of the Ring of Secrets, until he had left them and chosen to hoard his secrets to himself. The great sage Manehtar had secluded himself in his Library, bound with wards and traps, and the few reports they had had suggested it was still largely intact and untouched – and in the very heart of East Phalen, ringed round by innumerable goblins and orcs…
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Post by sleepingdragon on Jul 31, 2016 14:19:41 GMT
sd: as January went by, the snow fell heavily on Phalen, and Maccus and Goldwyne found themselves almost overwhelmed attempting to aid the many casual labourers left without work and homeless in the bitter cold. Every morning the frozen bodies of those who could not be helped were dragged out from alleys or in some cases even inside buildings and taken out to the great pyres around the city for the disposal of the dead. The great influx of Gaston settlers fleeing the possibility of civil war only added to the difficulties. The Church would no longer aid them directly, but nonetheless continued its work on the streets, though many complained that they favoured the Gaston settlers over the native Palanians. Many settlers agreed contracts of service and departed for Prestenbroc, which had more than doubled its population in the last few months.
throughout the cold month, Sigrun and others in the Conclave worked behind the scenes to organise the aid they would need for the party's quest to enter Manehtar's Library. The Library lay in East Phalen and to reach there in normal times would be impossible, so the Conclave would need to arrange for a distraction to draw the monsters away from the area long enough for the party to do their work. As the weeks went on Leofric got the impression from Sigrun that this was proving more difficult to arrange than she'd expected - nonetheless, on 1 February 229 she sent word to the party that this was now sorted and that they should come to speak to her that day. Leofric: Leofric spent the remaining weeks on restoring his energy by the Runestone and drinking foul potion. His energy was the lowest which was so recently spent on dealing with the Evil Captain Drefen. He also focused on improving his strength and dexterity for the upcoming fights in their inevitable meeting with the Orcs. During the final week, he managed to track down a druid who taught him extremely useful spell in increasing his strength to teach him to increase the speed itself which shown to be more useful. Beomund: Beomund spent his time back in Phalen continuing to study the Conclave's magic, learning new spells to shape wood and stone to his will. He was eager to begin their next adventure, and when Sigrun sent word to the party he quickly readied himself. Edmund: Edmund spent a week resting and recuperating, regaining his magical energies. He then concentrated on learning new magical skills which would create realistic illusions. When not closeted with his books or practising with bow or instrument, he organised assistance for Maccus and Goldwyne in Phalen, supporting their work among the desperate and the provision of hot food and shelter for as many as possible. Also he quietly started a new building project, to provide a community meeting house for Bexcheap - a place for entertainment and learning as well as meetings. Hogar: Though Hogar's mastery of melee combat with axe and shield was by now so great that there seemed to be little room for improvement, he kept practicing with them, though he spent far more time training to fire a bow, a skill he had picked up far more recently. Not all of Hogar's training in Phalen was focused on physical pursuits, however - far from it, as the cunning warrior spent weeks learning two new spells from some local teachers, gaining the power to conjure magical darkness in a small area and exhaust a foe's physical energies at range. The party had bought some magical powder that allowed the user to teach far more quickly than was normally possible, and after receiving some suggestions from Leofric's on how to best educate others, Hogar offered to teach both him and Leofric how to best use their unimpressive but growing physical strength. Hogar: edit: him and Edmund sd: Leofric led them to Sigrun's home, which was a modest, comfortable two-storey home which was utterly unremarkable to look at and gave no sign that a mage lived within. Sigrun opened the door - she had had her seventieth birthday while the party were away in the east, and walked very slowly as a legacy of an orc mace that had shattered her hip during a raid several years ago. As she could no longer navigate stairs, the second floor of her home contained little save boxes of old belongings, while the first floor was a tangle of papers, scrolls, tomes, inkpots, pens, and the like. Her hair was white as snow and her face wrinkled, but her grey eyes still sparked with intellect. "Come into the study," she said. "If you want a drink, my grandson brought me a few bottles of Sharran wine while you were heroing." Leofric: Leofric greets her with a smile, "Thank you, Sigrun." Beomund: "Let me fetch it," said Beomund, urging her to sit as the group entered. sd: "Not a problem. You know where I keep the wine Leofric..." before she could instruct the scribe to fetch the wine, Beomund made his offer and Sigrun laughed. "Is this the chivalry of the Gaston knights? I've not had much chance to get to know them, they tend to react badly to sorcerers." She indicated to Beomund where the cabinet was, buried under a mound of papers. "Don't spill any on my maps if you enjoy being alive," she added cheerfully to Beomund, heading towards the study. Beomund: "It's the chivalry of a man who enjoys his wine, madam!" said Beomund with a laugh. "And rest assured, I enjoy maps nearly as much." He moved to carefully set aside the papers and pull out a bottle. Edmund: Edmund looked around with great interest, and followed Sigrun. "Beomund has talked about Sharran wine. I look forward to tasting it!" Beomund: "I'm no expert," said Beomund as he poured for each of them. "But one doesn't need to be a connoissuer to know what tastes good and warms the body." sd: "It's been very irritating trying to get the Undercity Watch to cooperate," Sigrun said as she walked and Beomund poured the wine. "Indeed, I didn't think they were going to offer any help at all until someone else showed up to help." She opened the door to the study and there, to their great surprise, sat their old companion Arianhod, who they had not seen since a great wound she'd suffered in the battle on Tisseney where Beomund had been rescued had forced her to retire. "Fortunately, when the Soiled Sisters informed the Undercity Watch that they were going to be raiding East Phalen regardless and that they could help or sit on their hands, they stopped being so intransigent." Edmund: Edmund stepped forward and bowed. "It is a great pleasure to meet you again Arianhod." Leofric: Leofric was clearly surprised to see Arianhod back and smiled slightly, "Truely," Hogar: Hogar seemed at first taken aback by seeing Arianhod again, but then he smiled "We hope you are doing alright." Beomund: Beomund placed the bottle down and clasped his hands happily as he greeted Arianhod. "I'm glad to see you looking well, Arianhod. The debt I owe you has weighed upon me." sd: Arianhod nodded in greeting to the party. "I had a few months that were hard, and get a headache occasionally, but I'm fine. Anyhow...there have been several orcish slave raids on the docks while you've been gone, quite a few poor women have been taken. Not of great concern to the Council, but it is to us. We're going to free them in three days." Beomund: Beomund's expression darkened at this, and he quickly took a sip of wine. "I'm with you," he said finally. Edmund: Edmund nodded emphatically although he said nothing and waited for Arianhod to say more. Leofric: Leofric nodded with his fingers stroke his clean shaved chin, agreeing with Beomund. Hogar: "Of course we will be honoured to help."said Hogar, as if that was a given sd: "Well, you won't be with her," said Sigrun. "While the Sisters and the Undercity undertake their distracting raid, you'll be heading for Manehtar's Library through the Undercity. The Watch have refused to lend us a guide for this expedition, the ingrates. I've had to find another instead, who should be here shortly. The problem is that there are more Virian converts and Gaston settlers in the Watch than ever before, new Cadavers to replace the old. They don't like helping us, especially not on what is effectively a mission entirely for our ends - this isn't like the Plague Fields where there was a clear benefit to the Council." sd: *Undercity Watch Edmund: "A very short-sighted view," Edmund said sadly, shaking his head. Leofric: Leofric sighed, nodding, "Understandable. Shame you was never able to finish that spell you was working on." sd: "The average lifespan of an Undercity Watchman is shorter than your average insect," Sigrun said waspishly. "You wouldn't expect them to show foresight." There came a knock at the front door, and at Sigrun's glance Arianhod stood and went to answer. Edmund: "Their leaders should, and councillors even more so," Edmund said with a sigh. Hogar: "I wish we could use what influenc we have to do something about that..."muttered Hogar Edmund: "Difficult in Phalen, but we can try in Bexcheap," Edmund said with a slight smile. sd: Arianhod came back into the room and following on her heels was Deoneath, moving in total silence. He bowed to Sigrun. "I'm sorry I've not been able to persuade the Watch to be of more use to you, the old maps you found were invaluable in sealing up points of entry," he said. Sigrun waved her hand dismissively. Beomund: "It's good to see you, old friend," said Beomund, the darkness in his voice lightening a bit. Leofric: Leofric smiled at seeing another face from their past adventures, "I hope you are doing well. Hope Rahere is doing okay as well." sd: "Rahere took an arrow three expeditions ago. He's recovering now," said Deoneath. "My superiors were not eager to help you on this mission, for reasons I suspect Sigrun has already told you. When I volunteered to be your guide they told me that I should accompany the raid, so I told them that if they wished to charge me with desertion they can, and enjoy finding replacements for the men who will resign to support me. I was honoured to guide you as part of my duties with the Watch, but this time I guide you because you are my friends." Edmund: "We will be honoured by your company," Edmund said. Hogar: "Your skills proved invaluable time ago and they will do so again, I do not doubt that." Hogar added, obviously pleased to have Rahere on his side again Hogar: edit: Deoneath sd: "We've penetrated into the East Phalen Undercity near to Manehtar's Library several times, though of course the Library itself is a mystery to us," said Deoneath. "There is an area west of the Library, in the Gaston Undercity, which flooded at some point and forms a great subterranean lake. We'll approach it from that direction. We have a cache hidden nearby that includes a small skiff." Edmund: "I'm glad we won't have to swim," Edmund said with a smile. "There will only be our small party?" sd: "That's all, yes," said Sigrun. "The fewer the numbers, the less likely you'll be spotted. At any rate, the monsters haven't been able to get into the Library for a century, so there won't be hordes of them waiting for you, just whatever Manehtar left behind - which might prove more formidable." Edmund: "We've met a good few 'guardians' in our time, " Edmund said, "although there might be something new there." Leofric: Leofric nodded, "Hopefully, we can deal with any new formidable challenges. No doubt Manehatr have many traps and defences for the unwary and wary visitors." He sighed thoughtfully. sd: "There's a very important warning I need to give you," said Sigrun. "Manehtar left the Conclave because he found our rules restrictive - he disliked having to share his discoveries with those he thought lesser than he was, and he hated being barred from involvement in politics. There were rumours at the time that he may have had a hand in High King Ethelhelm's sudden death, so the throne could pass to Manehtar's friend Cynewulf instead. Be that as it may...at the time he left us, he was researching what he termed the 'Hidden' spell. He knew that in previous civilisations, it was possible for spells to be cast in such a way that they could not be detected through magical means. He resigned from the Conclave seven years before the fall of the city - if he discovered this spell in that time, then you may not be able to discover his wards with magic." Hogar: "How would we discover them, then?"asked Hogar, puzzled "Mundane means, such as our eyes? Clues in his books?" Leofric: Leofric frowned seriously at the warning. "I see, that will pose some difficulty. We will have to assume that he did. Also if he found the rules too restrictive then we will have to assume that all kinds of magic could be in use. Are there any hints of his particular expertism like illusions?" sd: "Your eyes and your wits. They've served you well enough, hopefully they should continue to do so. As for his books - anything in his hand will probably be coded. Before you go I'm going to find you a sample of his writing so you can identify his hand." Sigrun shook her head to Leofric. "Manehtar was a brilliant mage. Before he left us he had learned spells of all four Rings, which no one has done since and very few had done until that point. He was strongest of all in our Ring, however." Leofric: Leofric nodded, "We will be careful. And hopefully, we will leave the defences of the Library intact afterward." Edmund: Edmund nodded in agreement. "What in particular do you want us to look for while we are there? Beomund: "If we succeed here, the lore we find should be invaluable," said Beomund. "Worth the risk, it seems." sd: "Most particularly, anything in Manehtar's own writing. I can't be too specific about what else to look out for, because we have no idea what he might have been able to get his hands on while he was no longer with the Conclave...there are several lost books in particular that are likely to be useful to us, however." She reached into her pocket and handed the list to Edmund. It read:
Thaumaturgical Treatises, by Alrin of Balagost Wells of Power, by Ingolfr of Cannock The Weaves of Dunewyrd, by Cuthburga the Seer The Tome of Lost Tomes, unknown Reliquary of Lost Peoples, by Osmod the Blind Edmund: Edmund's eyes lit up as he scanned the list, then handed it to Leofric to examine. "The Tome of Lost Tomes?" sd: "Fragments from ancient and lost occult books. It may not even exist, if I'm honest with you." Edmund: "Or it may list books which Manehtar has since got hold of.." Edmund mused. Leofric: "Very interesting. We will do our best finding these books as well." Leofric glanced over the list, "I recognised most of these names." sd: "Indeed. I have one other thing that will be of use to you." She reached into the desk and pulled out a tightly drawn leather bag. "Be very careful with this," she warned. She opened it, and within was fine white dust. "If you sprinkle this on some objects, for example a pile of scrolls, and speak the command word, those items will shrink for a time. This should allow you to carry out more scrolls and books than you might otherwise be able to carry. And for the love of the gods, don't fall in the lake on the way out." Edmund: "We will make every effort not to," Edmund said with a straight face. "That is a most useful substance." sd: "It is. I will give you one bit of advice on using it, from personal experience. Before you pour it out into the palm of our hand, remove any rings you might be wearing." sd: *your hand Edmund: After a moment's surprise, Edmund laughed. "I imagine forgetting to do so would turn out to very painful." sd: "It did," she said, fidgetting with her wedding ring in memory. "My husband could be an irritating man at times, but that time he managed to annoy me even though he'd been dead for almost a decade." Edmund: "He created the formula for the powder?" Edmund asked. sd: "Oh no, not at all, my husband had no more magic than an especially slow dog belonging to an especially devout Virian priest. I didn't cast a single cantrip until years after he'd passed. But I'd have not been wearing the ring but for him." Edmund: "You came late to the mage's life?" Edmund asked, surprised. sd: "In my fifties, yes. Until that I was just a farmer's wife and amateur scholar." sd: "And a mother, I should add," she laughed. "Though my children are all gone now. Their children visit me occasionally, but they don't really like Phalen. They tried to drag me away after the orcs nearly killed me, I needed to give one of them a bash in the head with a particularly heavy book before they stopped trying. His head was never good for much of anything anyhow." Beomund: "I hope I maintain a fraction of your energy as I reach your age, Sigrun," said Beomund. sd: Sigrun looked the smith over. "You're a big man and stronger than an ox, you won't age well when your muscles go," she said bluntly. "In my experience, only small men age well, because they were never used to smashing their way through things." Edmund: Edmund grinned at this. "Thank you for giving me hope." sd: "Pretty men age almost as badly as big men." Beomund: Beomund laughed, Sigrun's brutal honesty breaking through the foul mood that had lingered on him since he learned of the slave raids. "Well, then I suppose it will be a competition for which of us can age less badly." Edmund: "Plainly using magic does not cause one to age fast," Edmund said to Beomund, with a sidelong glance at Sigrun. "So perhaps we won't do so badly after all." Leofric is disconnected. sd: the party bid their farewells to Sigrun, Deoneath, and Arianhod, and returned to their manorhouse to prepare. As they went Arianhod explained that some fifty Sisters had gathered to participate in the raid, and they would even be led by four of the most high ranking of the Sisterhood - the Grey Tainted. Only women who had personally experienced orcish slavery were inducted into their ranks to learn their powerful battle magic, and their fury in combat and hatred for the orcs burned like the heart of a volcano. The Sisters would be raiding aboveground, crossing the river some ten miles to the north and then riding hard to the south, while the Undercity Watch would attack from below. Hogar is disconnected. sd: 4 February 230 dawned as the Sisters had predicted - the temperature had abruptly increased the day before and though it was beginning to cool, mist hung over Phalen, East and West. The skies were mercifully clear of snow. The Sisters had agreed with Sigrun and the leaders of the Watch that they would send signals when they were ready - they had not explained what these would be, beyond that they would recognise them immediately.
As they agreed, Sigrun and Deoneath met them in an abandoned brewery near the docks. Sigrun had brought with her several letters in the hand of the famous sage - none contained any particularly interesting information, being simple instructions on basic principles of magic. Manehtar's writing was sharp and hard, all crisp lines pressed firmly upon the parchment, as he had written in anger. Deoneath, meanwhile, had brought two quivers of arrows, iron and silver, a bandolier containing numerous vials of carefully stoppered poisons, and two large pairs of metallic shears for cutting through the chains that would likely be used in the library to secure books to the wall. He gave one of these to Beomund and carried the other without complaint. Hogar has connected. sd: 4 February 230 dawned as the Sisters had predicted - the temperature had abruptly increased the day before and though it was beginning to cool, mist hung over Phalen, East and West. The skies were mercifully clear of snow. The Sisters had agreed with Sigrun and the leaders of the Watch that they would send signals when they were ready - they had not explained what these would be, beyond that they would recognise them immediately.
As they agreed, Sigrun and Deoneath met them in an abandoned brewery near the docks. Sigrun had brought with her several letters in the hand of the famous sage - none contained any particularly interesting information, being simple instructions on basic principles of magic. Manehtar's writing was sharp and hard, all crisp lines pressed firmly upon the parchment, as he had written in anger. Deoneath, meanwhile, had brought two quivers of arrows, iron and silver, a bandolier containing numerous vials of carefully stoppered poisons, and two large pairs of metallic shears for cutting through the chains that would likely be used in the library to secure books to the wall. He gave one of these to Beomund and carried the other without complaint. Edmund: Edmund breathed deeply of the fresh air, before they went underground, and spent some time quietly apart, thinking and praying. sd: "The Sisters told me to wait by the door," said Sigrun. "What they mean to do that won't give them away to the orcs I don't know. It's a pity they don't know telepathy, it would be useful here. We offered to send a mage with them but they said it wasn't necessary." Beomund: Beomund asked Deoneath and his companions to gather around him, and then cast spells to prepare them for their task, enhancing the enchantments that were already upon their weapons, as well as protecting them from injury even without their armor. Hogar: "I have no doubt they will perform their task adeguately. "said Hogar to Sigun "And I hope so shall we.". He sounded grim and resolute, as he often was, but not especially worried. sd: "This magic is quite useful, I should have had Rahere teach me. I suppose it's rather late for that now," said Deoneath. He felt at his bandolier, running his fingers one by one over the vials - he had had the tops of the stoppers shaved and cut intricately, so he could identify which poison was which even in the dark. Beomund: "There are always things we could have done better," replied Beomund. "For now, let's pray for the Sisters and for our own mission." sd: as Beomund said this, an ethereal figure suddenly popped into view directly in front of them. She was a tall, slender woman with a grim face, though her features were difficult to determine as the figure was entirely translucent. She reached out to Sigrun and her hand passed directly through her. "The attack is starting now. May She watch over you."
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Post by sleepingdragon on Aug 7, 2016 13:23:17 GMT
sd: as Beomund said this, an ethereal figure suddenly popped into view directly in front of them. She was a tall, slender woman with a grim face, though her features were difficult to determine as the figure was entirely translucent. She reached out to Sigrun and her hand passed directly through her. "The attack is starting now. May She watch over you."
"That's an intriguing thing to be able to do," Deoneath said quietly as the apparition faded. Hogar: "Quite flashier than telepathy." Hogar said, smiling faintly at Leofric Edmund: "Very handy," Edmund said with a smile. sd: "Well...they'd be in trouble if they needed to speak to someone without it being obvious to everyone else around," Sigrun said with a sour look on her face. "Still, I wouldn't mind being able to do that to frighten my grandchildren." Leofric: Leofric smiled slightly at that, "Is that what's illusions are for?" He remarked shortly. "I prefer unobtrusive magic." Edmund: "Every man, or woman, to his own, eh Leo? " Edmund said with a grin at his comrade. "Illusions are more theatrical and I rather like that." sd: Deoneath eyed his bow critically, then checked to make sure the spare bowstrings he kept up his sleeves were still in place. "We should get moving," he said. Beomund: Beomund stood beside him, giving a slight bow to Sigrun. "Thank you for your help." Edmund: Edmund picked up his bow and pack swung them over his shoulder. He made a low bow to Sigrun. "I hope that we shall meet again very soon." sd: "If you're not out later today you're likely not to get out at all, so I would hope it's very soon," Sigrun replied. "The Soiled Sisters won't keep the orcs busy forever, so make haste." Leofric: Leofric nodded with agreement, "Thank you for your help. We will get back." He promised. Hogar: "We thank you again for your assistence."said Hogar to Sigrun sd: Sigrun nodded to them while Deoneath fished out a keyring from his pocket and unlocked the door to the abandoned brewery. Within he led them into a storage area which was filled with empty casks. Deoneath wandered along one row of casks, tapping them, until he came to one which did not sound hollow. "Could you give me a hand with this?" he asked Beomund. Beomund: Beomund moved up and crouched to get ahold of the cask and move it aside. sd: the cask was extremely heavy, but the two were able to shift it aside, revealing a trapdoor concealed beneath it. "We filled the cask with sand to deter anyone who might break in looking for ale," Deoneath explained, wiping his brow. He knelt by the trapdoor, looking through the keyring before finding a long silver key and inserting it into the lock. He pulled the trapdoor open, allowing a ladder affixed to the underside of the door to slide into place. Deoneath casually leapt down into the hole, catching the ladder halfway down, and then sprang off it again and down onto the ground. Beomund: Beomund quickly followed, though he moved with less agility. Edmund: Edmund stood aside to allow Leofric and Hogar to go before him before following more carefully. Hogar: Hogar stood at the front, gripping his axe both to face any potential foe and benefit from its darkvision-granting enchantment Leofric: Leofric slowly went down the ladder meticulously, eyeing his vicinity as if he expects Orcs to suddenly appears. sd: Deoneath retrieved a lantern from his pack and lit it as the party climbed down. The cellar was clear here, save for a strong, circular iron door set in the centre of the floor, and a single iron bar set nearby. Deoneath had already retrieved the key by the time Leofric finished climbing down, and he swung it open to reveal a short corridor and then another door, this one wooden. "Any orcs who find this will need to spend a lot of effort to get through," he explained, unlocking the second door with the same key. "I apologise for this, but there's no ladder here," he said, pulling out a length of rope and tying one end to the bar. He tossed the rope down and climbed down to the slick cobblestones below. Beomund: Beomund climbed down eagerly, looking forward to seeing the buried architecture once again. Hogar: Hogar quickly climbed down, soon reaching the floor and eyeing the shadows there warily Leofric: Leofric after his peers went down, climbed down the rope. His eyes darted around, clearly focus on the matters ahead Edmund: Edmund followed, carefully. sd: at the bottom of the rope, Deoneath had dropped his equipment and was, for some reason, scooping up mud from a corner into his hands. He glanced at Leofric and Beomund. "Throw the rope back up and shut the door, and then I'll need to get on one of your shoulders," he said crisply. Leofric: Leofric nodded as he came forward, ready to help ou Deoneath. Edmund: Edmund watched Deoneath with interest. Beomund: Beomund tossed the rope up and reached up to swing the door shut as quietly as possible, before turning to Deoneath's work. sd: Deoneath clambered up on Leofric's shoulders once the door was shut, and began to apply the mud to the ceiling around the hinges of the door, concealing them to any monsters who might pass by. He had to get the other three to pass him several more clumps before he could finish his work, but in the end the door was hidden from casual view and Deoneath climbed down and pulled out a waterskin to clean his hands. sd: they were in a long, narrow corridor between several broken pieces of wall. There was some kind of large chamber to the west of them, but that was not where they were heading. To the east, towards the portion of the Undercity under monstrous control, the corridor angled gradually down and into darkness. Deoneath pulled the door on his lantern almost wholly shut, allowing only the slightest sliver of light through. Without further word, the Watchman strode down the passage, bow ready in his free hand. Leofric: Leofric shook his head with a sense of respect for Captain Deoneath who fought the monsters and criminals in the blackest subterranean vastness. Edmund: Edmund moved to the rear of the party and followed Deoneath's example. Beomund: Beomund followed as well, doing his best to adjust to the darkness as he walked. sd: Deoneath led the party down. The uppermost level of the Undercity, the Phalen of the Valing clans which Caragaur had destroyed, was where the Library itself lay, however this was also the level which the monsters watched most closely, and the pathways of the Undercity were blocked off in many places by broken buildings. Instead Deoneath led them down to more ancient levels, the Alanian Phalen which the ancient High King Peada had razed in the Gaston revolt against the Empire. The party passed through long corridors ringed round with shattered Alanian architecture, filled with thick, mournful air redolent of shattered Alanian dreams. They passed into a broader chamber, at the centre of which lay a broken statue of an ancient Alanian emperor whose identity could no longer be distinguished, for the plaque bearing his name had been scrawled over with the foul script of the orcs. The emperor's head had been shattered, and his manhood had also been cut off and put in his upraised hand in place of the sword which had been broken long ago.
Deoneath led them on past this square and along a narrow street. Here and there they had passed some scarcely discernible signs which other Undercity Watchmen had left to warn them of dangers, however here he was looking for a more prosaic piece of writing. His lantern fell on ancient graffiti and he nodded. "There's a building near here with a stair leading up to the level above," he said. As they passed by, Leofric and Edmund were able to read the writing, which helpfully informed them that a man by the name of Hagano was a cocksucker. Deoneath led them to a shattered square stone building, leaping over the front step. "We dug a trap here, don't step on the stair," he said. The party leapt up over the trigger plate and Deoneath climbed up a set of stairs which led to an attic. One of the walls there had been smashed in by a falling piece of masonry, and Deoneath strode into the broken corridor and wound his way slowly up.
As they passed through the narrow, claustrophobic corridor, Leofric and Beomund having to bend double to avoid hitting their heads, they began to hear a noise of water above. Deoneath eventually pushed open a trapdoor and the noise immediately became louder as they climbed up into a huge chamber like a great urban cavern.
This section of the old city had been almost entirely flooded by the waters of the Saltanow pouring down from innumerable holes in the earth above. A great subterranean lake stretched before them, submerging a shattered cityscape. Broken roofs could be seen throughout, occasionally piercing the surface of the water like stone lillies, long rotted pieces of furniture floating as driftwood through the lake. Deoneath was able to blow out his lantern here, for the light filtering down from the world above served as uncanny starlight by which to see. Deoneath headed towards a small, sheltered alcove, Leofric near on his heels, and disaster was only narrowly averted by Hogar's sudden, shrill whistle. The two stopped and looked back, and Hogar was able to point to the pit trap they had nearly stumbled into. "That wasn't here before," Deoneath said, sounding uncharacteristically worried. "I hope the goblins haven't found our stash." Edmund is disconnected. Leofric: Leofric frowned upon hearing Deoneath's concern, "Me too. Good eyes Hogar." He thanked Hogar. He prepared himself for a possible fight. Hogar: "Good thing I saw that." said Hogar looking at the pit trap on the floor Beomund: As with the last time they had visited the Undercity, Beomund cast his eyes about with wonder to match his wariness, drinking in the sight of the ancient buildings and statues. He spoke little until Hogar noticed the trap. "We should move slowly from here in case there are any more." Leofric: Leofric nodded as he drink in wonderful sights of surreal underground lake Hogar: "Before we move on, however..." Hogar began to chant and gesture, and cast a spell on himself. His eyes shimmered for a few seconds before settling "There might be magical trickery, too - best to keep my eyes ready for that too." sd: "We shouldn't need to move much further on land, if the goblins haven't disturbed it our skiff is nearby," said Deoneath. Beomund and Edmund were able to disarm the trap, and they followed Deoneath into the small alcove where he found, to his relief, that the skiff was still there with its oars - though the Watchman checked carefully to make sure that no surreptitious holes had been knocked out of the bottom of the boat before he was prepared to carry it out to the lake. Leofric: Leofric gave a sigh of relief on seeing the skiff and suggested that Deoneath to take a helm while others can do the rowing. Edmund has connected. sd: Deoneath pushed the boat out and took the helm, while the others seated themselves behind him. "Keep an eye out, if we row over a roof that juts up too high it'll take out the bottom of the boat, and this water gets deep enough to drown in," Deoneath warned. Edmund: "We'll be careful," Edmund said emphatically. "I'm not the best of swimmers..." sd: with Deoneath at the helm and Beomund at the rear, they rowed out silently into the great lake. The submerged buildings beneath them were like reefs, and the party had to take great care to avoid these - Hogar removed his armour for much of the early part of the voyage and swam alongside them to point these out, and Deoneath joined him at one point so they could shift a great fallen beam blocking their path. They continued on. At one junction they found their path blocked by a precarious looking building. Beomund examined this carefully, and was able to advise how it could be pulled down without risking it collapsing onto their boat.
They passed through several narrower sections in which Hogar and Beomund had at times to climb out of the boat and onto paths overlooking them, pointing out the safest route from above. Deoneath's keen sense of the Undercity was invaluable. There was one extremely worrying moment at there was a groan overhead, and suddenly a great stone came crashing down towards them - dropping his oar, Deoneath was able to reach out and grab it to prevent it from smashing down onto the boat. He nearly toppled over the side with the weight of it, but Leofric quickly cast a spell to augment his physical strength and the Watchman was able to right himself and drop the rock carefully into the water. They continued on - Leofric used a spell of light to guide them, sending it out when Deoneath deemed it safe. They passed the narrow sections and rowed out again into a great wide section of lake. Many round, broken red roofs dotted the area ahead, and below they could see the submerged remnants of a great crossroads. sd: as they rowed, Deoneath suddenly squinted ahead. "There's some men with bows on top of that building, and that one as well, to the left," he said quietly, as if he had simply spotted a dark cloud on the horizon rather than potential assassins. The party looked to where he'd indicated and indeed it was true - there were seven or eight men on what appeared to be a small remnant of floor of a tall building almost directly ahead of them, and a half dozen or so on a relatively intact rooftop off to the right. The wore dark clothing and did not seem to have any metal armour, but all carried bows, with arrows nocked and ready, aimed in their direction. The men crouched behind what little cover they were offered by the shattered architecture. You whisper to Edmund: Edmund, gazing at the men, suddenly noticed that the arrows the men were slick with some kind of substance, most likely poison. In addition, the most obvious pathway to the men directly ahead of them, a watery passage between two broken walls, had a thin wire stretched taut across it. Edmund followed the wire up to where a large boulder was poised atop a wall, ready to fall down on their boat if they rowed directly at the men. Edmund: "Trap ahead!" Edmund hissed. "A wire accross the passage. And probably poisoned arrows!" Leofric: Leofric frowned, "Did they knew we are coming?" He whispered to himself Hogar: Hogar frowned and muttered "Goblins I'd have expected..." Leofric: He glanced at Hogar, "Maybe that Pit traps was not from Goblins?" Edmund: "Stop or that stone will crash onto us!" Edmund said. sd: Deoneath gazed ahead. "We have a fair distance yet before we set that off," he said. "Edmund, kneel as if you were going to fetch something from your pack and use that as a pretext to string an arrow to your bow. If Beomund or Leofric stand over you it should shield what you're doing from their eyes, and then you can come up and fire." Edmund: Edmund nodded very slightly and leaned forward over his pack. Beomund: Beomund moved as casually as he could to shield Edmund from view. Leofric: Leofric also moved as casually and left his sword down as if he was helping Edmund with something. Instead and after more than one try, he managed to cast a spell that not only increase their might but also their fleetness. Hogar: Hogar bid his time, waiting for the chance to strike against their would-be ambushers Edmund is disconnected. Edmund has connected. sd: test sd: "Shoot now, before they catch on," Deoneath said, rowing on as if nothing was the matter. Edmund is disconnected. Edmund has connected. sd: "Shoot now, before they catch on," Deoneath said, rowing on as if nothing was the matter. Edmund: Edmund quickly cast his spell over the arrows and sat up, raising his bow. Edmund: Firing off an arrow at one of the unsuspecting targets ahead of them, he watched with satisfaction as it hit the man full in the chest, remaining buried in his flesh. sd: the assassins were completely taken aback by this sudden attack, and as they reacted in confusion Deoneath suddenly plunged his oar into the water. Leofric's spell of haste had not only been cast on the party, but on the vessel itself, and it shot forward with such speed that Deoneath nearly capsized it in his surprise. Fortunately, he righted the skiff quickly and whirled towards a safe passage further south - while it would take longer this way, it at least was not trapped. Water sprayed over the party as the Watchman rowed hard across the sunken road. sd: add - the cry of the Screaming Bow sounded like a great hunting bird, tearing even across the roar of the Saltanow pouring down from above Leofric: Leofric grinned wickedly for a moment as he rushed toward to the back to drop his sword and shield. He muttered a quick spell granting himself the extra might and picked up an oar to join Deoneath. Beomund: Beomund had been quietly chanting to himself, preparing a spell. As soon as Edmund loosed his arrow, he shouted the final words. Parts of the stone floor and rooftop on which the mercenaries stood suddenly rippled, flowing aside like the movement of a gentle stream. Many of them suddenly found themselves above empty air, and fell toward the cold lake and their boats below. sd: poisoned arrows, bows, and assassins fell like raindrops, flying off in all directions. Two of the would be killers on the northern roof fell directly onto their boat below with loud thuds, overturning the vessel with the force of their fall. One of the men could be heard to shout "FUCK!" so loudly that even the Saltanow could not drown him out, though it could yet still drown him if he stayed. Their ambush completely spoilt, the men prepared to leap down to their boats to flee, and then when they saw the magically enhanced speed at which Deoneath rowed, they threw their weapons down. sd: Deoneath laughed and shook his head as they rowed towards the nearest building. As they came near, they saw the assassin who Edmund had shot poke tenderly at the arrow prodding into his chest - as he did, they saw the silver ring on his finger which marked him as a Virian. Leofric: Leofric's moods look increasingly annnoyed Edmund: "Do you see that?" Edmund hissed. "Traitorous scum." Hogar: "We'll want to rescue them for questioning."said Hogar "Well, at least one..."he adde sd: the men had thrown down their weapons and were looking at Beomund in terror as Deoneath pulled up to the nearest building. Two of the men did indeed appear to be Virians, and from the look of them, even countrymen of theirs, though the remainder were clearly Palanian hirelings. "Beomund and Hogar, tie these ones up. We'll want to row across to the other building before they decide to run - keep your arrow trained on them Edmund," said Deoneath. Edmund: Edmund did as he was bid, the bow pointing unwaveringly at the frightened men. Beomund: Beomund tied up the men near him, his cold expression doing nothing to quell their fear - though his observant companions lightly noticed the trace of a smile undercutting his intimidating gaze. sd: "Fucking sorcerers," the wounded man swore as they rowed across. His accent was extremely familiar - indeed the same accent, that of the poor of the city of Malagen, as their companion Edmund's. Hogar: Hogar tied the men together with Beomund, in complete silence and eyeing them with disdain. Leofric: Leofric sighed with an hint of annoyance on this, looking forward to see what these men have to say Edmund: "You were the ones who laid a trap which could have sunk our boat and drowned us, and tried to ambush us with poisoned arrows," Edmund said coldly. "What kind of man does that make you?" sd: "A Virian, sorcerer," the man responded. He held the poisoned arrow out at Edmund. "Scratch yourself with that and see where your spells get you." Edmund: "You have no idea do you?" Edmund spat, his Malagen accent strong now. "Who employs you to attack strangers for no reason?" Beomund: "Mercy is a Virtue," said Beomund coldly. "Be glad that we're showing it." Leofric: Leofric merely stared at them, eyes dispassionately. sd: "A man called Osmer hired me in early September, when I was in Barthenfold," the man replied. "A job to kill four dangerous sorcerers masquerading as Virians. We'd have to sail to Phalen for it, but the pay was too good to turn down." Leofric: Leofric frowned thoughtfully at the name of Osmer and glanced at the others. Edmund: Edmund laughed. "Masquerading! We ARE Virians. Osmer played you for fools." Beomund: Beomund frowned, glancing down at his feet. "Haloth... It saddens me it's come to this," he murmured. Hogar: "Hardly surprised."said Hogar to the others, expecting them to understand sd: "You're sorcerers, not Virians. If you were still in Gastony you'd be dead and you'd deserve it. As it is someone was willing to offer the four of us twenty gold up front, and as well as three thousand gold to split between us, and forgiveness of all past crimes, when we returned with proof of your deaths. I don't know who this Osmer is but if I were you I'd not want enemies that rich and powerful." Leofric: Leofric whistled at the sum of the reward. Beomund: "I hope your time in Palania will teach you that the Church is not the true arbiter of the truth of the Way," said Beomund. "But I recall when I would have felt much the same as you." Edmund: "We all would once. Living in Palania has opened our eyes. You are still blinkered, sadly not just by ignorance but by greed," Edmund said. "If Osmer thinks wants us removed that badly, then we are doing something right." Edmund: edit* If Osmer wants us removed Hogar: "As the amount he offered you should have made you realize, we are not easy prey."said Hogar to the prisoners "Luckily for you however we are not without mercy...are we?"he asked looking at the others sd: Deoneath had been examining the poisoned arrow, sniffing it. "This must have cost you quite a bit," he said casually. "I have a few questions for you, one poisoner to another. My first question is - who in the Undercity Watch told you about this secret and highly sensitive mission? And my second," the Watchman pulled one of his vials out, unstoppered it, and held it under the man's nose so he could smell it, "is whether or not you want to drink this. Answer the first, or you will. Mercy might be a Virtue, but I'm just a pagan." Leofric: Leofric cracked his knuckles for a moment as seriously considering the fate of these men Edmund: "Mercy for a rabid dog would be death, so make your minds up quickly," Edmund hissed. sd: the man tried to squirm away from the poison vial, but Deoneath grabbed his face with his free hand and prised his jaw open. "I'll talk, fuck, I'll talk," he said, straining to get the words out. Deoneath restoppered his poison, looking as angry as they had ever known him. "Heorstan, his name is, Heorstan Hathring. He's some kind of captain or other in the Watch."
Deoneath made a fist. "Promoted immediately, his brother is some kind of noble in Gastonland. I'll have him hanged." Leofric: Leofric nodded, "I heard of Hathrings. A noble house based near Leofingas, which is the Regent's duchy." He sniffed dismissively. "It matters little here." Edmund: "But these wretches are keeping us from our mission," Edmund said quietly. "We need to decide what to do with them." sd: Deoneath spoke quietly to Leofric. You whisper to Leofric: "Don't tell anyone about this yet. I want to be able to surprise Heorstan when we emerge alive, and my word in person will be worth more than Sigrun's sent through some spell they won't trust." Leofric whispers: "I was planning to get in touch with Sigrun on this matter. But I will not do so." He nodded. sd: Deoneath gathered the others together and spoke quietly. "We won't send word about this yet, when I go above I want to be able to surprise Heorstan in person," he said quietly, covering his mouth so the prisoners could not see what he was saying. "I have a plan for what to do with these people that will allow us to keep them here as prisoners while we deal with the Library, but I need you two to pull it off," he glanced at Edmund and Beomund. Beomund: "What do you need?" replied Beomund immediately, trusting Deoneath's judgment. sd: "These people have two boats. We'll force them to lie on the ground and turn the boats upside down over top of them - that way they'll be hidden from any goblins that might go by. We need to gather some large rocks to put on top of the boats to stop them trying to escape. Edmund will explain to them that Beomund has put a spell on the rocks so that if they make any noise or try to escape, the rocks will grow heavier and crush them to death. Beomund, I just need you to murmur some occult sounding words while we put the rocks on the boats." Beomund: A grin crept over Beomund's face. "I will be the ominous sorcerer they think I am." Leofric: Leofric glanced at Beomund, "Somehow, I think it is true. You are much more ominous than I am!" Edmund: Edmund smiled and moved to speak to the men. Edmund: "We are Virians, but in one thing your employer Osmer was right. We are indeed sorcerers." Edmund said, looking down at the men with a cold glint in his eye. "To ensure you do not interfere with our work, we will leave you here. But with goblins everywhere, you would be unsafe, so we are kindly going to use your boats to hide you. We will cover the boats in rocks to keep them in place, and then we will cast a special spell on the rocks. So if you even think of making a sound, or trying to escape, the rocks will grow much heavier and then they will crush the boats and squash you like insects. Do you understand?" sd: the assassins nodded, clearly terrified. "Can you...take this arrow out?" the man Edmund had shot asked through gritted teeth. Edmund: Edmund called Hogar over. Hogar: Hogar pulled out the arrow with deft hands and practiced ease, leaving the wound no worse off than it was before. Edmund: "Do what you can to make him comfortable," Edmund asked Hogar. sd: Deoneath rowed the boat out and returned a few minutes later with some stones rummaged from the wreckages of several buildings. Hogar: At Edmund's insistence, Hogar further treated the assassin's wound with some bandages and poultices, greatly improving its condition. sd: they lay the men down on a relatively dry patch of ground underneath one of the buildings, and Deoneath and Hogar flipped the boats over them and began to pile the stones on Beomund: Beomund stood to one side as they placed the stones, and began to chant, mixing the words of spells into nonsense that would be amusing to his friends but would sound authentic to those unversed in magic. His chanting grew louder until it reached a crescendo, and he stomped his boot down to punctuate the "spell". Leofric: Leofric smiled with a hint of grimness as he turned his focus back on the upcoming mission to the Library and the awesome powers that it must reside and protecting it
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Post by sleepingdragon on Aug 21, 2016 12:10:32 GMT
sd: with their prisoners safely disposed of, the party were able to examine what they'd taken from them before moving on. Though many of the poisons the assassins had brought had been ruined when Beomund had caused them to fall into the water, Deoneath was able to recover a number of vials and dry them off carefully. He sniffed at each vial in turn to determine what they did, quickly identifying which had been the one coated on their arrows. "This one is mixed with the venom of a particular type of snake found only in Ersenland, very expensive," he said. "I looked into getting some years ago, but it reacts very badly to the cold. I'd guess they made this before leaving Gastonland and then thickened it in some way to preserve it, though that would reduce its potency somewhat. If you were scratched with it at any rate you'd be too confused to even think, much less use a spell." Leofric: Leofric shook his head with a sense of misgiving, "That would be most unfortunate. Good thing we didn't get shot at." Edmund: "They were fully prepared for us." Edmund looked grave then gave a slight smile. "But they underestimated us all the same." Hogar: "I'm not surprised they have these kind of resources, considering their employer."said Hogar grimly sd: "I assume you know or guess who this Osmer person is," said Deoneath. Edmund: Edmund nodded. "It is an alias, of a sort." He seemed reluctant to say more. sd: Deoneath nodded. "Perhaps best that I don't know, then." He moved on and picked up a javelin, hefting it. "The weight of this is strange." He held it close to his ear and tilted it a few times. "The head is filled with acid. A clever idea, I've tried for a long time to work out how to do this with an arrowhead but there's not enough space to fit in any appreciable amount of the stuff. You'll want to handle this carefully." Edmund: "We should take any useful items and throw the rest in the water," suggested Edmund. Hogar: "I think we could use all of it, eventually. No use wasting good weapons and tools, and it would be quite fitting to use them against 'Osmer' himself or more of his hirelings." sd: "If you can carry them. You can always put them in the skiff for the moment, though getting them back from its stash to the surface may be difficult," said Deoneath. Edmund: "I think it will be a while before we come face to face with 'Osmer''" Edmund grinned, "but I look forward to the day when justice is served on him." Beomund has connected. sd: they were able to gather together most of the weapons and armour of their enemies and stuffed it in the skiff before setting off. Deoneath again took his place at the front of the boat, rowing them silently through the strange lake. Reefs of masonry threatened from time to time to sink them, but Deoneath was a canny boatman and they were able to evade all these dangers. They passed for about twenty minutes through the lake before passing through a shattered marble archway and into an area where the ground began to slope upwards and broke the surface of the water. In the darkness ahead of them they could faintly discern a broken set of walls and a rusted iron gate, and there was rubble all about them, hindering their passage. "The Library is up ahead," said Deoneath, rowing up to a sheltered spot and mooring the skiff to a broken pillar. "This place is quite possibly guarded. From what we can tell the orcs and goblins have mostly given up trying to get into the Library, but they'd prefer we didn't either." Beomund: "Hopefully our friends' distraction has lightened the guard," said Beomund, though without much confidence. Leofric: Leofric nodded, looking serious as he considered the challenge of the Library ahead Edmund: "It was the intention so I hope they have succeeded," Edmund said. Hogar: "The magical wards there must be very impressive."said Hogar Edmund: "We'd better prepare to protect ourselves then," Edmund looked around. sd: Deoneath looked up, wondering if the light filtering through from the holes above would suffice, and evidently decided it would as he did not retrieve his lantern. "We should sneak up to that gate there and take a look around." Leofric: Leofric nodded as he made a gesture and a chant to sense magic. "Will keep an sense out for any magic ahead." You whisper to Leofric: at first, he tasted nothing save the flavours of his own gear and that of his companions. Suddenly, after a few moments of concentration, however, he felt a taste like a thick, cloying honey on his tongue. He felt other flavours trying to emerge, but the honey-taste was overpowering, like a thick film atop a stew, concealing all below. With an effort of will he forced himself to disregard the honey-taste and to focus for a moment on several other sensations - a thick burning taste he knew was a sign of fire magic, another like biting into a glacier, and a third that sizzled upon his tongue. There was another sensation too, which had the feeling of eating something alive, as if he had swallowed a spider and could feel it attempting to crawl up his throat. This last he guessed was some manner of ward, one able to shift its own properties in response to any stimulation. Leofric: Leofric looked like he focused elsewhere nodded, "Yes, I can sense there are some spells, fire, ice and acid." Leofric looked like he focused more strongly, "There is also a ward which is able to change its own properties to response to any stimulation. And finally he managed to discover the Hidden spell." Leofric: He added afterward, "I would not normally sense them." sd: "This should be interesting," said Deoneath. The Watchman drew an arrow then prepared to creep towards the gate. Edmund: "Wait, should we cast our spells to prepare for attack or would that be wasteful?" Edmund asked. Beomund: "Manehtar? Pfah, we have Leofric!" said Beomund with a smile. sd: "It's probably not a bad idea," said Deoneath. Edmund: Edmund spread his hands over his arrows and muttered the words which would bring them alive with electric energy. Hogar: "So the 'hidden' spell was not hidden well enough, it seems!" said Hogar congratulating Leofric on his magical sensitivity Leofric: Leofric smiled slightly at the praises given by his peers, "Indeed, although I would be much happier once we get out of here. I will redo that spells that grant strength and speed." He made a gesture and words to enscroll his peers and Deo with them. "It should last for two hours or so" Hogar: Hogar did not cast any spells, but he readied his bow, obviously intent on firing at least one arrow before engaging in melee Edmund: Edmund also cast the spell over Deoneath's arrows. sd: Deoneath crept forward, with the party following close behind. They were approaching what seemed to be a walled compound, though the walls had mostly crumbled. In the distance they could perceive the dark, rising shape of the Library, which seemed to have been untouched by the years in comparison. Deoneath paused as he advanced, and indicated a thin slit in the wall before the gateway. "Trap, some kind of spinning blade," he said, pointing out the metallic glint within the slit. As the party advanced, their feet scuffed slightly against the battered cobblestones underfoot, and Deoneath tensed. "Orcs, one there, more inside." He began to try to line up a shot along the northern wall, behind the gate, as within they heard a deep voice shout a warning. Leofric: Leofric made ready for a fight, his Shifting Blade and Shield ready to slay these monsterous enemies.. You whisper to Edmund: the shout seemed to have come from the right - Edmund guessed one group of enemies was there, but he heard another moving in answer directly ahead, in a space beyond two large pieces of upended stone You whisper to Hogar: looking towards where Deoneath had spotted a target, he saw an orc with an upraised javelin and spear readying to throw. The orc seemed to move very carefully, and looking near the creature's feet he saw why - there was a spear trap hidden very well amongst the cobblestones, ready to impale anyone who would rush forward to attack the creature Edmund: Edmund stared directly ahead, where a gap showed between two large stones. "There's something moving there." he hissed. sd: from where Edmund pointed, there came two loud, crazed war cries Hogar: "Spear trap there!"muttered Hogar pointing at the ground in front of one of the orcs Deoneath had spotted Leofric: Leofric muttered a quick phase granting himself more mightness Leofric: He moved closer to the enterance without triggering the trap. He presented a readiness to fight. sd: a number of creatures suddenly emerged from the darkness. There were two great orcs, javelins and kite shields in hand, sprinting forward as if to draw the party's fire, while another orc came behind them, looming almost eight feet tall, with great lanky arms, utterly unarmed and unarmoured. A number of ordinary orcs were also emerging, javelins and round shields at the ready, two-handed axes strapped to their backs. sd: Deoneath fired at the first of the orcs he had spotted, but the creature took the shot on its upraised shield and then readied to hurl its javelin back towards the Watchman. Edmund: Edmund moved accross to see the massive shape of the unarmoured Orc racing towards them. He coolly drew back the bowstring and released his shot which flew straight as a die, plunging deep into the monster's guts. Hogar: Hogar aimed at the same gigantic orc Edmund had just wounded and unleashed an arrow, but the projectile missed his mark. Cursing, the warrior dropped his bow and reached for his shield. Beomund: Beomund went to work on disarming the trap. Examining the mechanism behind the slit in the wall as best he could, he determined that if he could push aside one of the more delicate components, the triggers would not be activated. Using a spare arrow, he managed to reach through the slit and nudge the component just enough that it would get caught up and stop the activation. Leofric: Leofric quickly whispered a spell of protection granting himself protection, miserable as it is Hogar: Hogar held his shield in front of him as he advanced beside Leofric sd: a trio of javelins were hurled towards the party as they advanced. Edmund and Hogar were able to spring away from those thrown at them, while Leofric blocked one with his shield sd: another trio of javelins were thrown their way - Beomund and Edmund dodged another two, while a third struck Hogar but stuck harmlessly in his armour sd: Deoneath took a vial from his bandolier, and in one swift motion threw the stopper away and dipped his arrow into it. Hogar: Hogar finally took the Darkling Axe from his belt, eyeing the approaching orcs menacingly Edmund: Having lost sight of his prefered target, Edmund quickly took aim at one of the other Orcs. The arrow lodged in its chest. Leofric: Leofric grinned wickedly at the Edmund's target and rushed toward to him ready to take advantage of Edmund's wounds sd: as Leofric rushed forward, he noticed that the orcs were clustered in a particular area - because there were, hidden under the dirt and rubble, two vicious iron traps, with long hooked metal prongs to entrap a leg, each studded with iron spikes to destroy flesh. He was able to point the two out and he and Beomund were able to move between the traps sd: as soon as the two had darted forward, with Hogar following up behind them, there was some movement from the ruined wall where Beomund had disarmed the trap, and two of the tall, unarmoured orcs flung themselves up onto it. One was the one Edmund had shot earlier, and he looked down at the bard with fire in his eyes while the other zeroed in on Deoneath. The third darted out to engage Leofric from behind, while the two berserkers also moved out to flank the group sd: "There you are," Deoneath said casually, fitting his poisoned arrow to the string and aiming at one of the huge orcs. Leofric: Leofric eyed the unarmed Orc which engaged him and smiled grim as he focused on him. Leofric: EDIT: Leofric eyed the unarmoured Orc which engaged him and smiled with grimness as he focused his entire attention on this hulk sd: the huge orc reached out with clawed hands for Leofric, but the scribe was able to hold him at bay with his shield Hogar: Charging together with Leofric and Beomund, Hogar swung at one of the orcs with wild strength, but found his blow blocked, though barely sd: the two orc berserkers flung their javelins. One was a perfect throw straight at Hogar which looked like it would split him in half - but he turned and expertly took it on the shield, straight in the Bloodied Eye painted upon it. A second was flung at Beomund, who tried unsuccessfully to twist away - the dart struck him straight in the head, and only the power of his magic belt caused it to not pierce straight through into his skull - instead it struck a strong point in his helm, and bounced away, leaving him bloodied but alive Beomund: Beomund grunted in pain after the blow from the javelin, but turned to face the nearest orc. He swung his hammer with magically enhanced strength, and although the creature managed to parry his blow its arm was numbed from the force of it. Leofric: Leofric dropped his shield carefully while his blade shifted into greatsword, as expected from Shifting Blade. Once it grew larger, he made an attack on the unarmoured Orc but to his surprise, it acutally avoided his attack by moving. sd: the two huge orcs dropped down from the walls. Deoneath spun and fired his poisoned arrow at one of them, but the creature showed great agility, dodging underneath the arrow Edmund: Edmund fired quickly, hitting the already injured Orc in the guts again, but despite the horrible wounds it remained upright and as ferocious as ever. sd: the two berserkers flung away their shields and readied two-handed axes, eager to rush into the fray Hogar: With a vicious chop of the Darkling Axe Hogar nearly split in two head of the orc who had previously blocked his bow, sending the brutish creature collapsing to the groud. Beomund: Beomund swung again at the nearest orc, aiming for its unguarded leg. Despite the creature's great size, the blow landed with such strength that it was spun up into the air feet first. It knocked into another orc before falling to the ground, its leg a bloody ruin. The other orc stumbled backward and inadvertantly stepped in the nearby bear trap, which locked firm on his own leg. Leofric: Leofric made another fray against this Orc Hulk and managed to hit him and decided to deepen the wound in the Orc's Head by slowing digging it in it. It seriously caused a wound. Leofric grinned as he was about to take the sword out Hogar: Hogar took advantage of Beomund's blow and swung at the orc's trapped leg, severing a major blood vessel. Thick black blood started flowing forth all over the trap. sd: two-handed axes at the ready, the two berserkers gave bloodthirsty roars and rushed towards the fray Beomund: Beomund turned to the last orc beside him, and lashed out once more with tremendous strength. The orc attempted to parry, but the blow struck its weapon arm, the force of it vibrating through the limb and shattering its bones. Leofric: Leofric brutally withdraw his blade and the great Orc fell with horrible hole in his skull. As it fell, he can see the rushing Orcs with gaint axes. sd: a trio of javelins were flung towards the party, but Hogar was able to block one on his shield, while Beomund and Leofric rolled away sd: "Run," Deoneath called to Ed, making even a request to flee sound calm and reasoned. The Watchman ran directly at wall which the orcs had previously climbed up on, and with his great, magically enhanced speed he sprang directly up onto it. Edmund followed behind, and the two orcs clambered up. One, particularly limber, came within a hair's breadth of them, murder in his eyes, corded muscles bulging from its massive frame. Deoneath and Edmund leapt down from the wall, and the two orcs followed. The huge creatures were unencumbered by armour and they would surely have caught them in ordinary circumstances, but fortunately Leofric's magic allowed the two archers to outdistance their foes. Hogar: Hogar's axe bit deep into the chest of an orc who had been previously struck by an arrow, throwing the creature to the ground into unconsciousness. sd: one of the berserkers reached the fray and swung its massive axe at Hogar, who spun and deflected the attack with his shield sd: Beomund turned on the exposed berserker and brought his hammer whistling down. It smashed the orc full in the face, shattering teeth and cartilege as it fell senseless to the ground. Leofric: Leofric inspired by immense attacks shown by his peers, Beomund and Hogar, he focused on an orc and sliced his arm off after bypassing its flimsly defence sd: Deoneath and Edmund continued to flee, leaving the large orcs well behind them as their magically enhanced legs allowed them to tear around a corner sd: the second berserker reached the fray and slashed out at Leofric, axe checked by a parry from the Shifting Blade Leofric: Leofric replied to a slash by the second berserker with a desperate attack on the berserker's head. He brtually ran his Shifting Blade into the face and withdrew it, blood pouring out of its remains of the face Leofric: The berserker collasped sd: the trio made short work of the lone remaining orc they faced in melee, and Edmund and Deoneath were able to outrun the unarmed orcs long enough for them to come to their aid. Leofric cut down one of them, and the second turned to flee but died with one of Deoneath's arrows through the back of its head.
the battle done, the Watchman pointed out two makeshift hide huts erected underneath ruined arches. "There probably would have been twice this number without the raid above," said Deoneath, examining the number of footprints around the entrances to the buildings. Leofric: Leofirc nodded, "Still, that was a hard fight. Thankfully, we manage to prevails." Beomund: "God be with those above!" said Beomund, clutching a cloth to his headwound. Hogar: "We couldn't have done this without them. Let me check that, Beomund." said Hogar before setting to the task of bandaging and treating the rough wound his companion had suffered. With his deft hands and long experience, he was able to greatly improve its condition so that it would not hinder Beomund in any way. sd: Deoneath went to search for the poisoned arrow, but found it had snapped against a wall. "A pity. That poison would have left him dancing with phantoms, some folk on the Bluebrycg docks use one of the ingredients to induce hallucinations. I've never seen much attraction in hallucinating, myself, but some people seem to." sd: the Watchman pulled out his spear and, with practised effort, went around and jabbed it into the throat of each fallen orc to make sure they were truly dead. He came at last to the orc Hogar had cut, which was dying, but not quite dead, in the leg clamp. Deoneath raised his spear as if to strike it through the heart, then shrugged and pulled back, allowing the creature to bleed out instead
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Post by sleepingdragon on Aug 28, 2016 16:55:26 GMT
sd: with the orcs dead, the party were able to proceed towards the main building. Areas like this, which had been outbuildings, were utterly ruined, however the central Library itself, a massive structure sheathed in white marble, remained partially intact. In places it stretched high above - it had been one of the tallest buildings in East Phalen when its master still lived, with a great spire that stuck out into the sky like a spear raised in defiance of the dreaded dragon Caragaur. Rumours said that the highest part of the spire was still visible amongst the orcish controlled ruins of the eastern city, and indeed they could see a great tower soaring up over a hundred feet towards the dark ceiling of the cavern where they now stood. The tower was however in bad shape and they doubted it would be safe to enter.
Sigrun had explained that the Library's main entrance had been on its eastern wing, accessible only by a long staircase, but much of the eastern Library had been ruined, clearly damaged by some great fire. Across the great courtyard they could see the wreckage of ballistae and scorpions set up in Phalen's last, desperate days before its fall at the hands of the dragon's army. There had been, Sigrun had read, two other entrances - one which had been used to bring in supplies and was likely beneath the wreckage of the east wing, and a rear entrance on the western half of the Library, which was in considerably better shape. Winding through the wreckage of the outbuildings, the party headed towards it, along a route scrawled with orcish and goblin markings - they did not need to understand the language to guess at what these markings said, for amongst them were crudely drawn skulls and flames to warn those who would approach the home of the great sage Manehtar. Leofric: Leofric shook his head with a sense of admiration Beomund: "I would have liked to see the city at its height..." murmured Beomund. Edmund: Edmund gazed at the tower and the enormous buildings. "Maybe one day it will be possible to rebuild, or even to surpass. A long way off, but who knows..." sd: "There's several thousand orcs who would object to that particular notion," said Deoneath, at the front of the party. As they went forward, they saw numerous dead orcish and goblin bodies affixed to posts as they moved on - most were little more than bones now, but some were more recent and still retained some flesh. "Although if they continue to kill one another like this, it would be helpful." Hogar: "We object to orcs and goblins."said Hogar, grimly sd: as they turned a corner, the slight smile on Deoneath's face faded and he shielded his eyes. The corpse of a human man had come into view, dangling upon a high spike which had been impaled through his rectum. The man was stripped naked and his body showed signs of terrible torture - his eyes had been gouged from their sockets and nailed through each palm, his tongue ripped out and flung at his feet, and his bare chest was covered with terrible scars. Over the dead man's heart, the symbol of the Prophet's Star had been carved with a jagged knife, and then obliterated by four long lines running along the cardinal points. sd: "Leofwine," Deoneath said quietly. "His patrol was ambushed about a month ago and he got separated from them as they made their way back to the surface." Beomund: Beomund's face held a continuing grimace. "At least we found him, and he can be given his rites." sd: "Yes. We have to get him down - he had converted to the Virian Way in the summer, he would want to be burned. He has a wife and a daughter but...it would be no service to return him to them in this condition." Hogar: Hogar steeled himself and barely grimaced at the sight, though he was obviousyl not pleased. "They'll pay for this, too, the monsters."he said as performed the grim task of taking what was left of Leofwine off the spike. Edmund: While Hogar worked to bring down the poor mutilated body, Edmund quietly intoned the song for the dead. sd: the horrendous stench that erupted as Hogar dragged the Watchman's corpse from the spike was foul beyond description, but the Bloodied Eyes did not select their members amongst the fainthearted and Hogar was able to get the man's body down and drag it into a nearby building which was sheltered from view, where they could build a pyre in relative safety. sd: after they gathered material for the pyre, Beomund was able to erect a makeshift structure from the rubble to shield the smoke from any eyes that might be watching, while Edmund softly sang the song of the Tearful Veil, which recalled the grief of the Prophet upon his first return to Malagen after the Revelation, where he had found his wife Celhild and their sons, Leofric and Osric, had been taken from him in the great plague that had nearly claimed his own life. Beomund: "It's a brave sacrifice you men of the Watch make," said Beomund. "Let's hope Leofwine's work contributes to fewer having to make that sacrifice in the future." sd: "Our country affords us very few luxuries, but we have, at the least, a great number of choices of how we can die," said Deoneath. "When I die, it will be without an arrow left in my quiver." Edmund: Edmund nodded. "It is unlikely any of us will die of old age, but our lives are not wasted." Beomund: "Let's just make sure that violent death isn't on this mission," said Beomund. "We're all still needed for a while." sd: Deoneath nodded. He turned to Leofwine's smouldering pyre and raised a clenched fist in salute to his fallen comrade, then turned and continued on the way towards the Library. Leofric: Leofric only nodded with agreement on what Edmund said about dying young, sd: they came at last past the grim line of bodies - thankfully, Leofwine was the only human they found - and to the rear entrance which Sigrun had spoken of. Two great stone gargoyles perched upon high plinths to either side of an imposing set of double doors engraved with Manehtar's personal sigil, a great winged sphinx, and it showed the monsters' fear of this place that the statues had not been knocked down. They looked up onto the marbled wall and saw, to their amazement, a mark several stories up, to the left of the rear door, on the north side of the Library. It was a great long line, nearly twenty feet long and thicker than a bull's neck, with thick flanges to either side like daggers all along its length. It had smashed into the side of the building and partially staved it in, but the walls of the Library were strong and had even been able to withstand this - a clear remnant of the stroke of a mighty dragon's tail. Edmund: "At least we won't have to face a dragon," Edmund murmured, gazing up at the mark. "Yet..." Beomund: "Perhaps after we find the secrets of this place, we'll be ready to," replied Beomund. Hogar: Hogar looked at the signs of the dragon's tail on the wall, almost awed. "A mark from Caragaur himself!" he commented "We heard so much of how dreadful he was, but this is the first time we see a mark of his might. Luckily the walls proved even mightier" Leofric: Leofric eyed the Library and its wounds carefully, "Very impressive building, to even stand against Caragaur's attack. Hopefully we can deal with its magicial defences." He frowned for a moment, "One would need to be ready for anything or anyone in this Library." sd: Deoneath cautiously approached the door, checking it carefully. "I...don't think it's trapped," he said after a moment. Leofric: Leofric shook his head and told Deoneath, "Back when I manage to sense the spells on this Library, we got fire, ice, acid traps and a ward that can response to any entry. If my guess is right, we are close to them by now." He frowned with a concern Leofric: He glanced around at his peers and suggested, "I could cast a spell that can give some protection against magic. if that will help." Edmund: "I can help whovever leads the way to be more able to avoid the traps, should they be sprung," Edmund said. sd: "That would be useful," said Deoneath. Edmund: Edmund touched Deoneath's arm and muttered words. Leofric: Leofric once everyone has done their spellcasting, "I am throwing in the ability to see in the darkness as well" He did his spell once and frowned for a moment before doing it again, this time was successful. sd: when everyone was finished, Deoneath turned and gingerly pulled open the door, which was indeed not trapped. Within, there was a short corridor which extended out into a large square chamber.
The chamber within was utterly covered in scorch marks, the floor had in places been partially burned through, and there was dried blood all over the floor and on every wall. In the southeast corner of the chamber was a great door, thick as a portion of city wall, a strong portal of iron and stone that they suspected even a team of miners with the heaviest mattocks would have trouble scratching. The door had four locks, one in each corner, and these all appeared to be of excellent make. Edmund: "Plenty of opportunity for traps there," Edmund said, gazing at the locks. sd: "This door will swing shut as soon as I let go," Deoneath warned. Edmund: "We could maybe jam it open, but that might not be a good idea.." Edmund said. Leofric: Leofric nodded, "Yeah, it might trigger something already. We can always break out if needed." He said in quiet confidence. Leofric: Leofric is ready to go into the Library and to explore its strange mysteries Edmund is disconnected. Hogar: "Can we?"asked Hogar, sounding unsure "We can certainly try..." Leofric: He took a closer look at the bloods and noticed, "They are all Orc and Goblins bloods here. Sounds like they are destoryed by traps." Leofric: Leofric eyed Beomund with askance, "Worth a try?" Leofric: EDIT: eyed Beomund with look of interest, You whisper to Beomund: looking down the corridor, Beomund noticed that there was, barely perceptible, thin slits in the walls, from which an iron door was designed to slide, which would trap anyone in the square chamber inside once it was set off Beomund: Beomund pered forward for a few long moments, before pointing out some barely perceptible slits in the walls ahead. "I think a door will slide through and trap anyone in the chamber ahead if that's set off. We'll need to be careful and keep a lookout for the mechanism." Beomund: "That suggests we could jam the outer door without risk," he added. sd: hearing this, Deoneath shut the door, then went to one of the nearby outbuildings and found a long, thin piece of broken masonry. Returning, he jammed it securely into place. Leofric: Leofric smiled slightly, "Good find, Beomund. You got good eyes." Beomund: "I probably won't for too many more years, with our habit of spending time in dark ruins," he replied, before moving slowly forward into the corridor, looking for mechanisms. Leofric: Leofric nodded as he followed very carefully You whisper to Leofric: as they entered the chamber, Leofric glanced up and saw that the ceiling, some twenty feet overhead, was not nearly as thick as he would have expected it to be. Looking carefully, he saw that there were actually hinges in the corners, and once something was triggered these would slide open. He guessed this was a false cover, and there was another, heavier roof above which would come down onto them - it would, he guessed, be all but impossible to jam this in the time they had, however, especially as the mechanism was high overhead and out of reach. You whisper to Edmund: striding in, Edmund became almost immediately aware that the floor directly inside the square chamber felt strange underfoot, and was hinged and designed to fall away once a trigger was tripped. It did not seem, however, that stepping on it was that trigger Leofric: Leofric pointed out that the ceiling got hinges in the corner. "Should something get triggered, these would slide open with heavier roof which will come down onto us." Leofric: "Sadly, it seems it is not possible to jam them since they are too high and out of our reach." Leofric highlighted the problem. sd: "Presumably it resets at some point, or else it would still be down," said Deoneath. "But who knows how long that will take? We don't have much time, once it's triggered we may not be able to risk fleeing for the exit..." sd: Edmund had noticed as they entered the large chamber that the floor underfoot felt wrong - he guessed that it was designed to fall away, though this was not triggered by the obvious trigger of stepping on the floor, as he had already done this. sd: Deoneath moved forward some more. "It's not the whole floor," he said. "This feels more solid. Perhaps only part of it falls, to try to trap anyone who runs for the exit." You whisper to Beomund: Beomund carefully examined the iron door he had noticed that would slide shut behind them. He guessed he might be able to jam it, however he noticed that there were intricate pieces of metalwork within the narrow slit and he guessed these might trigger something - if any attempt to jam the iron door failed, then this might be enough to cause the ceiling to come down. Beomund: "I can attempt to jam this door," said Beomund, carefully examining the iron door that would slide through the slits in the wall. "However, if I fail, it looks like it might bring down the ceiling." Leofric: Leofric nodded, "Still worth a try." He considered this issue You whisper to Beomund: barely noticeable underfoot on the charred floor, Beomund noticed several wards etched upon it. They were anti-magic runes, curses against any of Manehtar's rivals who might seek to use the arts of which he was the master to try to enter his domain. It would, he guessed, be extremely unwise to attempt magic in the chamber or the corridor - this would most likely set off the ceiling You whisper to Hogar: barely noticeable underfoot on the charred floor, Hogar noticed several wards etched upon it. They were anti-magic runes, curses against any of Manehtar's rivals who might seek to use the arts of which he was the master to try to enter his domain. It would, he guessed, be extremely unwise to attempt magic in the chamber or the corridor - this would most likely set off the ceiling Edmund is disconnected. Beomund: Beomund pointed out a few barely noticeable runes etched upon the floor. "I think these are meant to bring down the ceiling if we use magic within the chamber. Manehtar was truly cautious..." Edmund has connected. Leofric: Leofric frowned with concern as he eyed the runes, "Casting magic or ongoing active magic?" He wondered Beomund: "Since we're all still alive, I'm guessing only new castings," replied Beomund. Leofric: Leofric smiled with a hint of grimness, "Glad to hear that!" sd: "Did your Conclave expel this man, or did he leave voluntarily?" Deoneath asked. "Because I'd like to expel him myself." Hogar: "I wonder if this would affect any kind of magic, including the most minor spells, or only the advanced forms."wondered Hogar Leofric: He sighed for a moment, "He left because he believe that the limits set by the Conclave on the range of magic is too much for his ego." Beomund: "We probably shouldn't risk it, Hogar," replied Beomund. "In any case, it might be best for us all to move back into the corridor as I attempt to jam the door." Leofric: Leofric took a position sufficently far away Edmund: Edmund moved forward to assist Beomund. sd: unfortunately, as they attempted to jam the iron door Beomund inadvertently struck something and there was a great grinding noise overhead. "We only have a few hours!" Deoneath cried, grabbing at the iron door as it tried to slide out, straining against it. "If we run, by the time the roof is down we might not have a chance to get in!" sd: edit - by the time the roof is back up Edmund: "Run then," Edmund said. "I can work on those locks." Leofric: Leofric nodded, "Will give you a hand with the runes if any on these locks." He followed Edmund. Edmund: Edmund ran accross to the door, took a deep breath, wiped his hand on his trousers and set to with his lockpicks. sd: Deoneath sprang into the chamber, bracing himself in preparation to hold up the roof. "We need to spread out!" he warned. Hogar, Beomund, and Deoneath did this while Leofric and Edmund went for the door. As the ceiling hurtled towards them, they saw that it, too, was covered in dried blood, and in places there was a fine powder where bones had been ground to powder under its might.
Edmund began to pick the first of the four locks on the door, which was of excellent make. As he picked, he felt a strange sensation - the tumblers were moving, and not simply in response to his pick, but as if they possessed a will of their own. Leofric looked into the locks and saw runes shining there, and he tried to put forth his power to stop them. He found he could not defeat the will there, but, at the least, he slowed it enough for Edmund to finish picking the lock. Behind them, there was a crash as the floor, where Edmund had noticed, fell away in a neat triangle covering the upper left hand corner of the room - if they were to retreat now, the only way would be to leap over the edge or else into the pit itself. sd: Edmund and Leofric continued against the living locks, noting with alarm that the lock Edmund had just picked was actually trying to re-lock itself without any apparent motive force. Leofric looked into the runes, and realised that if he reached out and carefully wiped away a part of one symbol, he could reverse the effect - he did this, and the second lock easily slid open. At this same time, the ceiling came down right above their heads - with a great heave Hogar, Deoneath, and Beomund pushed back against it, straining their muscles with all their might to prevent themselves from being crushed. Leofric, who was quite tall, now needed to stoop next to Edmund. There was a sound and a rune beneath the grime on the western wall glowed. Acid poured down from above, but fortunately it covered only the same section as before, where none of them stood. sd: they worked feverishly. Edmund picked another lock, and the others desperately held up the roof, their bodies aching with horrible exertion. Another rune glowed, directly behind Hogar, and suddenly frosty shards came sailing down. One icicle the size of a small spear went arrowing straight at Edmund, aiming straight at the back of his neck as he picked the lock. It hurtled true - and was foiled by the spell which Leofric had cast to resist magic. More ice came sailing down, striking at Leofric, Edmund, Hogar and Deoneath, but all were unharmed Edmund: Edmund swept sweat out of his eyes and started on the final lock. Hogar: Sweat formed on Hogar's brew as he did what he could to held the ceiling up, occasionally glancing at the marks left by the triggering traps on the floor beside their feet Hogar: edit: brow sd: Edmund began to work on the last lock, forehead awash with sweat. He put the pick in, began to tease it, and felt his hand slip. He saw the pick before him began to flex in the lock, and in his mind's eye he had a terrible vision of it snapping in half and jamming in the lock, dooming them all for sure. He said a prayer, and God answered and gave him the serenity to ignore the terrible pressure and work lightly, as if he were but strumming his lute in a gentle practise. Leofric saw a rune on the very first lock light up again and he put forth his will and stamped it out, just as Edmund's pick turned. As Hogar and the others strained against the ceiling, Beomund heard a noise behind him, and by instinct he leaped and rolled in the air, twisting between two huge blades that came sweeping out from the wall. As Beomund took his hand from the ceiling, its great weight finaly became too much for Hogar and Deoneath to bear - they were hurled to the floor and everyone looked up to see the ceiling, moving towards them like an expectant lover moving in for a kiss. They hurled themselves down onto the ground...and the roof stopped lowering as Edmund gave a last turn and picked the final lock. Edmund: Edmund fell down on his knees and thanked God. Beomund: Beomund gave a tired, relieved laugh. "If that was the entrance, I'm looking forward to the rest of this place," he said, slowly pushing himself up onto his hands and knees. sd: "That was slightly challenging," said Deoneath. "I'm glad I didn't get us all killed." The Watchman began to crawl to the door. Leofric: Leofric sighed with a big relief and also praised God as well. He manage to crawl his way toward to the door. "I never felt this close to death before!" He whispered to himself, Edmund: Edmund crept forward and gently pushed the door open a crack. Hogar: "We did it!"said Hogar as he took the opportunity to clear some sweat from his eyes. There was a hint of pride in his voice, as if he believed they had succeded thanks to their own strength and cunning rather than God's help Leofric: He have to agree with Hogar as Leofric's power enable their group to survive the toils so far/ sd: slowly, they crawled forward and through the door. This chamber, at least, was entirely intact, untouched by the devastation wrought on the other sections of the Library. It was a large room with black marbled floors etched with many runes and mosaics. Long rows of bookshelves ran north-south across the chamber, filling almost the entire room save for four alcoves at the cardinal points, which were set back a little and had tables, benches and chairs. Chains ran from every book and scroll save those out on the tables - for all the care he had taken to guard his lore, Manehtar had clearly still worried that someone might enter and gain access to his treasures. They noticed that in the east and western alcoves were marble statues which clearly depicted the man in idealised form, a tall, handsome man, who held an open grimoire in one hand, the other held high in a casting pose. The party stood up as they entered, limbs stiff. Deoneath glanced up at the ceiling as though it were a wild animal likely to dart towards him, but thankfully it made no move in reply. Leofric: Leofric eyed the rows and rows of bookshelves carefully and smiled with a sense of pleasure. Still, his eyes look vary if there are more traps in this place. Leofric: wary* Edmund: Edmund stared at the statue. "Overwheening pride," he muttered. Leofric: Leofric nodded with an agreement, "Indeed. Still, one cannot deny that he manage to compile all these knowledges." Hogar: "Impressive, isn't it?"said Hogar "Thinking of building something like this yourself someday, perhaps?" he asked Leofric, joking as if to fight the tenseness of the situation Edmund: Edmund looked about. "You can't take it with you." sd: "If he hadn't compiled all this knowledge and hoarded it, it wouldn't be here for us to come and take," Deoneath pointed out. "Of course if he'd shared it we might not need to come and take it as someone else would probably have written it down..." Edmund: Edmund nodded. "What is the point of hoarding knowledge? It should be free for all to use for good." Edmund: "What bard would lock up his songs and forbid anyone else to sing the,=m?" Edmund: edit* them sd: Deoneath nodded and pulled out the huge shears he had brought with him for the purpose of cutting the chains. "Friends, it's time to spread enlightenment." He gave the shears an experimental slice. Leofric: "That''s fair point." Leofric have to agree although he glanced at Edmund with a hint of misgiving, "Only to a limit, do we want to see the power to summon terrible beasts from the Void or some ancient weapon from the time of Alanians." He shook his head as he eyed the chains, "Still, it is better to be careful, there is still a ward that may be still active." He glanced around. You whisper to Hogar: as Leofric spoke of wards, he looked across at a nearby bookcase and noticed there was a small rune etched into the surface, almost hidden by the book atop of it. It was some manner of summoning rune, likely calling a spirit of some kind. You whisper to Edmund: as Leofric spoke of wards, he looked across at a nearby bookcase and noticed there was a small rune etched into the surface, almost hidden by the book atop of it. It was some manner of summoning rune, likely calling a spirit of some kind. Edmund: Edmund nudged Leofric. "Do you see that run under the book?" Edmund: edit* rune Leofric: Leofric took a closer look at the rune. Edmund: "A summoning rune?" Edmund suggested. sd: examining it closely, they saw it was a summoning rune, one to call forth a spirit which would assail their minds and seek to wrack them with insanity. Now that they knew it was there they could try to disable it, though this risked setting it off sd: add - Leofric noticed several small sigils he did not recognise among the runes - these were, he thought, part of the Hidden spell, which would have made any attempt to detect this summoning rune with magic useless Leofric: Leofric eyed the summoing rune and put forward his power and made the summoning rune harmless with a nod. Edmund has connected. Leofric: Leofric eyed the summoing rune and put forward his power and made the summoning rune harmless with a nod. sd: "We should pile any books we want by the entrance here," Deoneath suggested. "Then we can use the powder at the very end, that gives us the most time to get back to the surface. There might be more of those runes - can we spare the time to sweep the chamber to get rid of them before we begin?" Edmund: "It would take a long time to clear a place this size," Edmund said thoughfully. "And we don't have a long time." Leofric: Leofric frowned for a moment and realised, "Since Manehtar would not set the runes to trigger against himself, it might be possible to weave illusions to make us to look like Manehtar. We could use these statues as a model." Edmund has connected. Leofric: Leofric frowned for a moment and realised, "Since Manehtar would not set the runes to trigger against himself, it might be possible to weave illusions to make us to look like Manehtar. We could use these statues as a model." Edmund: "I think I could do that," Edmund said, thinking to himself how hard it might be. sd: "A pity we haven't got Rahere to spread the load," said Deoneath. "But we'll make do." Edmund: Edmund quietly prepared himself, looking at one of the statues, then speaking words quietly and gesturing towards each of his companions. Edmund: As he did so, they shimmered slightly and then took on the appearance of a tall handsome man in a robe, the spitting image of the mage of the statues. Edmund allowed himself a wide grin. Hogar: "Ironic for Manehtar's wards to be breached thanks to his need for self-celebration."smiled Hogar sd: the party hunted through the shelves, picking out anything on those topics of interest to the Conclave and keeping a particularly close eye out for anything that might be written in the sage's own hand. Indeed, soon Beomund found just such a thing, left out on one of the tables in the western alcove. Whatever it said was impossible to tell, for indeed as Sigrun had warned it was in a cipher, and seemingly a quite complex one at that. Beomund contented himself with putting the small tome aside, though as he did he looked at the table and noticed that the books there, presumably those Manehtar had been reading at the time of the sack, were all about one topic - dragons and their weaknesses. Beomund noticed that among the documents there was another interesting thing - another letter in the sage's hand, and this one was not coded. It was dated some two years before the fall of Phalen, and Manehtar had addressed it to 'My dear friend Cuto'. To their surprise they broke off quickly to read the letter, which was sent to the hero, Cuto the Swift, and gave him advice on how he might seek to ambush the dragon, regretting only that Manehtar could not come himself due to concerns in the capital, but hoping that his friend would accept his gift of enchanted arrows which he had crafted from the ore of a fallen star. Had these been the very arrows that allowed the hero to shoot out Caragaur's eye above the lake that now bore Cuto's name?
As they went, they found more than one runed trap, but thanks to Edmund's illusion they were foiled. Beomund moved towards the centre of the chamber, where there was a sun etched onto the floor - he quickly examined it and found that the floor there was indeed designed to be swung open, however there was no way to do this manually. There were likely switches around the room - and as he thought of this, he glanced up and saw that the statue of Manehtar in the eastern alcove had the hand which held the grimoire pointing directly towards the sun. Striding towards it, past a table covered with books depicting various dragons, Beomund reached up and touched the underside of the sage's stone hand. There was a grinding noise, but no immediate effect - there were, he guessed, further switches throughout the chamber.
Leofric, meanwhile, came across a very curious sight. It was a book titled the Great Exile. That was a very famous tome whose title he recognised, for it was the famed account of the flight of the Gastons from their ancestral home in the far east, penned by a bard who had lived through it, Carileph of the lost isle of Paransey. This tome, however, indicated a different author, one 'Instio of Ingelren'. A quick search in the area allowed Leofric to find another hidden switch. Beomund went back to the central sun and guessed they had two more switches left to find before it would open. In the process he stepped upon the stone experimentally, and a chill went through him as some dark presence arose from the ground, however the spirit was foiled by Edmund's illusion and did not attack him. sd: the party continued. Edmund found an Alanian tome left out on one of the tables, which Manehtar had been reading. It was written by an anonymous mage of the late Empire, who had, at great peril, disguised himself as a dragonspawn so he could study them. He had captured three of the creatures, and with great difficulty and long tortures he had forced them to teach him their language, though what he had learned of that was sadly not consigned to this page. Nonetheless, there was much of interest there.
Seven points for seven gods, the vile ones etch it on every surface, it wrote. Such are their names, so far as I can make them in a human tongue. These Gods do not have areas of life as our own deities, as of agriculture or law - rather, each God represents an aspect of the draconic psyche. The mightiest of the Dragon Gods is ANCALAGON, the Dragon Who Rends With Tooth and Claw. He is the top of the seven points. CARAGAUR is the name of the Dragon Whose Flames Bring Death. He is the least of the Dragon Gods, near as I can make, with few worshippers. He is the lower left hand point. TERITHRAX is the Dragon Whose Craft is Boundless. It is He who gave the dragonspawn the power of necromancy, and his power waxes with each corpse His children raise. He is the upper right hand point. CULRAMAUR is the Dragon Who Delves and Hoards. He is the dragon who slumbers for aeons upon a bed of gold, awakening if even a single penny is knocked from its place. He is the the middle left point, on the bottom of the star. DAEDELOTH is the Dragon Who Soars In Terrible Majesty. He delights in every frightened glance that lesser creatures such as humans throw to the sky, in fear that they might see a mighty dragon approach. He is the upper left hand point. GALAZRA is the Dragon Whose Cunning Masters All. While Terithrax is a master of lore, Galazra is the dragon who abducts princesses and forces villagers to offer up their maiden daughters in sacrifice, and delights in the cruelty that comes of making the weak commit atrocities to avoid the wrath of the strong, offering clemency in exchange for promises He has every intention of breaking. He is the bottom right hand point. GAULAMARTH is the Dragon Whose Scales Are Adamant. He is the dragon of impossible endurance, whose mighty hide can turn a thousand blades. His power swells with each warrior who falls in heated combat with the dragonspawn, cursing as their blades prove worthless. He is the top right hand point.
The book had many such passages - the seven pointed star, with no associated pentagram, was there drawn with each God's place shown. The dragonspawn honoured all seven Gods, but typically honoured one above all others and would colour the relevant point of the star in gold to honour their patron. Their culture was surprisingly uniform between all clans, no matter how disparate - this gave credence to the dragonspawn's own belief, that they were a young race, who the Dragon Gods had called into existence by drawing upon the power of places of tremendous magical power in the far wastes of the world. The author speculated that the Dragon Gods might from time to time seek to incarnate again upon this plane of existence, but at this time they might be slain permanently while they wore mortal flesh again.
Leofric, meanwhile, found a strange book and immediately realised something was wrong in its formation. It would not come away from the wall, even after Deoneath sliced through the chain - it was nailed to the case, and within its spine there was hidden another switch.
Meanwhile, as they hunted, Leofric discovered one of the books Sigrun had asked them to watch out for, Thaumaturgical Treatises, in the Fryderi tongue, by the sage and sorcerer Alrin of Balagost Edmund: "What an extraordinary book," Edmund said as he turned the pages. "Disguising oneself as a Dragonspawn..., interesting." Beomund: "If these dragons represent some element of the draconic psyche, I wonder what the deaths of two of them mean for dragonspawn minds," said Beomund, stroking his beard. Hogar: "I had long suspected the symbol the dragonspawn use was connected to their patron gods, so I am not surprised to find confirmation."said Hogar as they discussed the implications of this new knowledge "It is interesting to know that Caragaur was the weakest, and to learn of Gaulamarth - I never heard the name before." Leofric: Leofric smiled at a book they managed to find, "At least we manage to find one." Glancing at Edmund, "Yes, so much to learn in this library. Shame we won't be able to read them all." Edmund: "That would be many year's work I suspect," Edmund replied, looking sadly around at the shelves. sd: the party continued their search. Edmund located a copy of The Weaves of Dunewyrd, by Cuthburga the Seer, one of the founders of the Ring of Secrets, which contained in depth discussion about magic, both actual and theoretical. Showing it to Leofric, they each saw passages which clearly had been read many times, from the condition of the pages, and, they guessed, were some of the inspiration which Manehtar had drawn upon to create his Hidden spell.
Leofric found a lengthy treatise in Alanian about the Forerunners and their strange practises, which had been written whilst prior to their disappearance, and simply referred to the natives of Palania as 'the Strangers'.
The Strangers are a race of great sexual immorality, read one passage. They create amongst their tribes societies of degenerate men who prefer unnatural congress to frutiful union with a woman. Their priestesses possess a sexual magic which they term drawing out fire. They will lie with a man, and sear from his seed all potency - for this, the severing of the power to procreate in mundane fashion, grants great power to create magically. These priestesses will lie with the men who seek to be admitted to these societies - they will draw out their seed only once, and from that point on in their lives they will not be able to father children, but their parts will otherwise work in what perverted practises they please.
As Beomund and Hogar piled up numerous tomes about wells of magical power, Leofric stumbled across something strange - he put his foot down on the ground towards the midpoint of a shelf, and suddenly found his foot sinking down through the floor. It was an illusion, and there, reaching in, he found the final switch. When he pulled it, the sun symbol popped open, revealing a dark, spiralling staircase.
They were prepared to continue on, however one last passage Hogar found in a tome pulled them up short. It was several hundred years old - indeed, from the context, it seemed clear, it dated to the years shortly after the death of the Prophet. The nameless mage who had written it was writing of the need for wizards to come together in new associations, for in recent years they had, to their alarm, found their power waning, and soon he doubted they would even be able to regenerate magical capacity without need for recourse to external substances. Since the Strange Star rose, every spell is harder - my apprentice became so useless I sent him away it wrote. It is due to some strange event in Maseda, they say, but now one might as easily reach the moon as Mount Maragar to destroy this wretched dampening. Ed: Emund shook his head. "So magical power would be naturally restored, without the trouble we must go through... " Beomund: "The Prophet's Star..." said Beomund in a low voice, before trailing off into silent thought. Leofric: Leofric looked at this information with interest, "So in the past, the mages use to regenerate power without potions. Interesting... These wellbeings of power.... 1. Still, we should know more once we go through these books." Hogar: "It is interesting to find out that once upon a time wizards did not require potions or complex rituals to restore their energies, while as for the rest...I am hardly surprised. "said Hogar "The Strange Star must be the Prophet's, and we have known for a long time that Virian mages have worked to make magic itself weaker and harder to use. Remember Thenghelm? He may have followed in the Prophet's footsteps. It all fits together..."Hogar trailed off, the usually silent warrior obviously having thought a lot about this. Beomund is disconnected.
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Post by sleepingdragon on Sept 3, 2016 16:27:25 GMT
sd: while the illusions Edmund had wove still remained in place, they moved around the floor, banishing the various malign spirits bound to runes across the chamber - they might need to flee back this way, after all, and this time they would not be in disguise. There were a dozen in all, four of which had more powerful spiritual auras, but Leofric was able to drive them all out nonetheless. This done, they turned to the secret staircase in the centre of the room, which spiralled down into darkness. Deoneath crouched by it, peering into the gloom. Leofric: Leofric eyed the secret staircase with vigilance and glanced at the opening as if he can see anything that Deoneath can see, sd: below, they could distantly see that there was a short, winding passage, followed by corridors snaking off in opposite directions. The pathway was in places so narrow they would need to squeeze in their armour to pass - the great sage himself, presumably, had not often worn full mail. Deoneath paused for a moment, then began to climb down the stairs at the head of the group, keeping a wary eye out. Edmund is disconnected. Edmund has connected. Edmund is disconnected. Edmund has connected. Beomund: Beomund followed, his large frame giving him some trouble, though he had long experience navigating narrow passages. sd: Deoneath moved on, selecting the left-hand corridor at random. Soon, however, they found the passages winding off in random directions, doubling back on themselves or ending in abrupt dead ends. "A maze..." While he still recalled the way, Deoneath returned to the bottom of the stairs, drew red chalk from his pack, and began to trace their path on the wall. Beomund: "Glad you were prepared!" said Beomund upon seeing the chalk. Leofric: sd: Deoneath went ahead, guiding them with the hard-earned expertise the Undercity Watch had won for themselves below-ground. Now and then they passed through sections where the floor was covered with mosaics and runes - Beomund and Edmund were able to determine something of a pattern in these, for certainly Manehtar himself must have had some kind of short cut or way to quickly recall the direction he needed to travel - surely he had not meant to run a maze himself every time he went downstairs? Or perhaps he did. They were able to determine some patterns through trial and error, but it was tedious work. You whisper to Edmund: as they went down one passage, Edmund looked ahead and, just as Deoneath was about to step onto it, noticed a very well hidden rune incorporated within the mosaic pattern, one which surely was a trigger for some manner of trap. sd: edit - Hogar and Edmund Edmund: "Deoneath, stop!" Edmund called softly. "There's a trap within that rune" sd: Deoneath went rigid as a reed a mere instant before his foot brushed against a very well concealed rune amongst the mosaic pattern. "Thank you," he said to Edmund, backing off carefully. Edmund: Edmund smiled, relieved. "If only we could ascertain the pattern Manehtar used - it must be there.." sd: Leofric and Hogar moved forward to disable the magical rune, while the others backed off in case they inadvertently triggered it. They nearly ended up doing so, as Leofric almost touched the arcane mark while drawing his own rune of neutralisation, however he narrowly avoided doing so and they were able to disarm the trap - it was, they guessed, a rune of magical fire. Hogar: "I think this is one of the strongest wards we have ever faced."said Hogar relieved after they had disarmed it "We have to be very careful." Leofric: Leofric nodded with a hint of respect, "Very careful. We should be very care for any surprise." sd: Deoneath backtracked to the stairs, tracing the shortest route onto the wall in blue chalk, then they continued. the Watchman became aware that they were heading down, very, very imperceptibly. At one point they nearly went down more rapidly, as Beomund discovered a pit trap blocking the pathway, but Edmund and he were able to jam it and continue on. And on. After one long stretch in which they explored every possible nook and cranny, they found themselves back at the disabled pit trap. It seemed they were trapped altogether, until Leofric had an idea and they returned back to a cross-roads. The scribe confidently strode towards and through a seemingly solid wall, and they were able to climb down a short ladder and continue. sd: Deoneath retraced their path, then they went down and on. This section of the maze was especially confusing, with passages rising and falling, criss-crossing over one another. At one cross-roads they came across another bound insanity spirit, which Edmund and Leofric were able to banish. They continued down a long passage, and Deoneath noticed that, at certain intervals, they kept coming across a recurring pattern among the mosaic - a small constellation, over which hovered a number of moons. With each iteration, the number of moons reduced by one, and when, at last, they came to the constellation with no moons, Deoneath felt around carefully and found there was indeed another illusory wall to the party's left. He stepped through it, then gave a startled cry. There was a sound of rapid movement which quickly stopped. "There's a drop here..." he said through the illusion. "Reach out carefully and you should be able to grab he top of the ladder." sd: *the top sd: they came to another section of passages, and here they found repeated illusory walls - to their confusion, these often simply resulted in more dead ends. Beomund was able to determine the pattern, and they managed to push through and they came to the largest and most comfortable section they had yet reached, a squat square chamber which had further passages leading off in every direction. They sat for a quick rest, drawing out their waterskins, and Deoneath was about to turn back to draw the correct path when there was a strange shimmer in the air just near Beomund. Deoneath had an arrow nocked and ready with incredible speed, but there was nothing solid there, only a dark, vaguely humanoid figure. Something laughed. "You can put that away," a woman's voice said. "This is only a projection, you haven't reached me yet. Perhaps if we can arrange things...amicably..." the woman paused for a moment, as if searching for a word in an unfamiliar tongue, "then I won't be here when you do reach me." sd: the figure had no discernible figures, and was black as ink, flowing and liquid. Edmund: Edmund jumped in shock and stared at the projection. "Who are you?" he breathed. sd: *features! Leofric: Leofric eyed the projection with a great degree of caution. sd: "I'm many things," a man's voice responded. "In this particular instance, I'm an unwilling guardian." The inky figure vanished from sight and reappeared behind Edmund. The figure's voice was full of bile as it continued. "A slave to one who is dead. Still, you might free me." Edmund: "You are a bound spirit?" Edmund asked. "Bound by Manehtar?" Hogar: Hogar grimaced in distaste as he acknowledged the spirit's presence and said "It seems Manehtar's used magic the Conclave had good reasons to forbid." sd: "'Spirit' is perhaps not the precise term, but that is more or less the situation," the woman spoke again. "Which is unfortunate for both of us. As things currently stand, if you did reach me I'd be forced to slaughter you. Not a prospect that bothers me, but...you are the first ones to get into the Library since Manehtar died, and I'd rather not have to wait for the next group to set me free." Beomund: "And what would you do if set free?" asked Beomund warily. sd: "I would leave behind this dismal plane of existence and return home, gratefully. And I would of course allow you to take whatever tomes of lore it is that you've come for, there are any number in the chamber where my body is bound." Leofric: Leofric asked, "Are there many bodies bound as such?" sd: the man laughed. "I am the only one Manehtar bound here...that I'm aware of. There are most likely others elsewhere in his secret chambers." Edmund: "It seems Manehtar considered himself above ethical concerns, and was happy to use the darkest of arts to protect his knowledge," Edmund said with an edge of disgust in his voice. "To free those bound thus would be a good action, I am sure of it." sd: "It would be as good a deed as you will ever undertake, of that you can be certain," the woman replied. "Do you agree to free me? I can tell you how to get through the rest of this maze if so. Manehtar forbade me to send my projection into the rest of his inner chambers, but not into the maze itself, and I've long since determined all its secrets." You whisper to Hogar: the woman's voice rolled with obvious amusement around the term 'good', and had it been possible for a shadowy figure to roll its eyes it would have done as Edmund spoke of ethical concerns. Though, so far as Hogar could determine, the creature was certainly determined to be free, part of his soul shrieked against this, and, he knew, at the least, they should better understand who they were dealing with before agreeing to such a task. Hogar: After a few seconds silently glaring glaring at the projection, Hogar spoke to the others "I have a bad feeling about this. We should understand who we are dealing with." Turning to the spirit itself, he adressed its form "We did not get as far as we did by being as trusting as you would have us be. For all we know you could be an evil spirit,rather than an innocent soul trapped for no fault of its own. You say you are many things..." sd: the figure reappeared behind Hogar. "'Evil', 'innocent', 'fault', these are terms of such harsh and unrelenting judgement. You are dealing with a creature trapped in a cage, is that not enough?" Beomund: "There are men who must remain caged so that others do not suffer worse fates," said Beomund. "I imagine it is the same with spirits." sd: The man's voice spoke with great irritation. "If I am to remain caged here, then I will ensure you're unable to obtain what you are seeking. You are perhaps strong enough to inconvenience me slightly, if you are powerful enough to reach here, but no matter. Why seek a fight you can avoid?" Hogar: Barely bothering to turn around, Hogar spoke again, this time with more harshness in his voice "You make it sound as if you are quite a powerful being....and that only gives us more reason to think carefully about the consequences of freeing you." sd: "I have been bound on this plane for what must be a hundred years, if you free me I'll have no desire to return to it until long after you are dead," the woman replied. "But a being of power I am, and if you deny me you will come to regret it deeply." Leofric: Leofric frowned for a moment as he considered the option before him You whisper to Edmund: the creature, he thought, certainly told the truth that it had no desire to remain on this plane for now - but it had spoken of returning to it after they were dead, and he had little doubt, eventually, it would do so. If it was truly a being of as much power as it seemed to fully believe, then it would be impossible to tell what damage it might cause. Certainly he doubted the creature would be restrained by any semblance of conscience. Hogar: Hogar seemed slightly aback by the spirit's words, but then he recovered and looked at his companions, as if expecting them to speak up on the matter and offer their opinion Hogar: edit: slightly taken aback Leofric: Leofric considered it and said, "I think it is worth the risk." He conclused. He glanced at Edmund, wondering what he is coming up with> Leofric: EDIT: risk to agree to it" Edmund: Edmund stared at the projection, his brows drawn in a frown. "It is the case that you want to return to your own plane. But what of the future? We don't slaughter all those we face, in fact we have reached agreement with all manner of opponents, or would-be opponents. But there are those - both men and not-men - who have no compunction and will kill or destroy without consideration. We would be foolish to release you without taking some care to prevent you returning here and running amok, though at this time you may not wish to do so." sd: the woman laughed ."There are goblins and orcs around this library - I may be bound here, but I know this. Sooner or later, some of them may find themselves in your situation - do you think they would hesitate to let me be free?" The spirit paused, then the man's voice spoke. "But you may have certainty then - if you let me free, I will leave this plane and I will not return for a century. I, Tashqarrazzedar, swear this upon my essence." Leofric: Leofric nodded as if this promise is enough for him, he glanced at his peers You whisper to Edmund: the name tickled something in the back of Edmund's mind, a tale one of the other bards had spoken. The tale spoke of a demon of such power it might have constructed itself a throne to contest the other innumerable princes of the abyssal realms, but the demon Tashqarrazzedar preferred to wander the wastes of every plane, contesting its will against the mighty mages, dragons, and other powerful beings, seizing control of their bodies for a time and then growing bored and departing. A mere glimpse of its true being had driven villages into frenzies of terrified, maddened worship. All that it ever gained, however, the demon lost in carelessness and desire for new sensation. Edmund: "Tashqarrazzedar... I have heard of you," Edmund said, thoughtfully. "You wander the planes seizing control of the bodies of powerful beings and then tiring of your game. How did one such as yourself become trapped here? What powerful being were you inhabiting at the time?" sd: The woman hissed. "The sage tricked me," she said bitterly. "I could hardly pass up a chance to seek control of such a powerful wizard, but he had concealed his strength. I think at the time he believed he might be able to unleash me upon Caragaur and at least distract him. I told him it was pointless to seek to inhabit a god and so he kept me here instead, to guard his treasures." Leofric: Leofric shook his head, "Make sense." Edmund: "That is... impressive. Manehtar was even more powerful than we knew." Edmund looked at the others. "Tashqarrazzedar is a demon of reknown. But it seems to genuinely want to remove from this plane, having been turned into a mage's guard dog for a hundred years." Leofric: Leofric raised an eyebrow, "Interesting. Clearly there is no depth to the mage's ego!"" Hogar: "Is he truly a demon such as those bound by the elves, or some other form of spirit? Galazra too was called a demon, yet we understand him to be something different. Not that this makes this...thing less of a threat upon the world, I suppose, but it is best to know everything we can about it..." Edmund: "Yes, Tashqarrazzaedar is a real demon," Edmund replied. "A prince of the Abyssal Realms no less. Or he would be if he didn't wander the planes trying it on with mages and other powerful beings. This time he met his match." sd: "Galazra is an upjumped dragon whose grandsires I made my playthings," Tashqarrazzedar spat. "My essence recalls the dimmest of days when creation was spun from nothingness. Manehtar was able to overmaster me, just, but Manehtar was mightier than you by far. I could not even feel joy when he and the dragon butchered each other, for it meant no one knew I was here and so I was trapped." Edmund: "We are not pretending to be as mighty as Manehtar, or as you," Edmund said quietly. "And it is because you are who you are that we have to seriously consider the outcome of freeing you. Tell us how we may send you back to your own realm." Edmund: Quietly he said to the others, "we have to get into the library. Do you see any other way forward?" Leofric: Leofric whispered back, "I don't and beside, we will let the Conclave know and let face it, I am getting more and more disgusted with Manehtar." Hogar: "I do not, and I would say there must be...yet if Manehtar was so mighty and cunning and wise, how could he simply have left a way to get around his guardian?" said Hogar dejected, his voice both low and sad. He agreed with Leofric "I would still not do this, but if we truly have too I believe we should immediately let the Conclave know so they can let the people of the future know. And I hope they will accept that this deed was necessary and not expel you and Beomund. Still, even with these conditions. I do not want to let this monster free." sd: "I wouldn't make a deal with a demon, but you know these matters better than me and I'll trust your judgement," said Deoneath. Beomund: I'll need to leave in about 40 minutes, for I'm guessing 45-60 Beomund: edit: ignore Hogar: "There...is something, I think."whispered Hogar as if he had a sudden realization. He spoke slowly and in the most hushed tone he could while still being udible by his companion, but there was a strong undercurrent of hope in his voice "I believe its captivity may have weakened it considerably. If we somehow were to destroy it, it would still return to its plane, but it would take a very long time to reform, perhaps longer than a hundred years and, most importantly, it would be permanently weakened. There's a chance it wouldn't have the strength to return to this plane, even." Edmund: "It's still a demon prince, and might take some killing," Edmund said. "Can we bind it to never come back? It may want to avoid confrontation as much as we do." Hogar: "Sounds too easy, doesn't it? I doubt it would be willing to accept such a deal and actually keep its part of the bargain. You can still make the offer of course, but what if it refuses?Would you willing to face all but certain death and try to destroy it?" Beomund: "If it is weakened as you say, I suspect we have the power to at least challenge it. Manehtar defeated it when it was at full strength," said Beomund. Leofric: Leofric nodded, "Worth a try." Hogar: "That is my thinking as well."Hogar said at Beomund, nodding "But we must all agree on this, this would be the hardest battle we have ever faced and it would do no good if one us faltered." sd: "I'm with you," said Deoneath immediately. "I don't know what use I'll be against a demon prince, but defending the Undercity is my duty." Edmund: Edmund nodded then stepped forward. "Tashqarrazzedar," he called. "We have condsidered unbinding you. But a hundred years is too short a time. We ask that you swear in your true name to never return to this realm of existence. Then we will free you from your binding." sd: "I am asking you to free me from potentially eternal bondage of the will of one who is dead," the woman responded. "Why would I accept the certainty of eternal bondage of ones who will be dead? I will swear to two centuries upon my truename, and no longer." Edmund: "You think we are like Manehtar?" Edmund said. "But we consider it." Edmund: edit * we'll consider it Edmund: Edmund said nothing but looked at his companions. sd: "Clearly you aren't like Manehtar," said the man. "You would do well to remember that. I nearly took control of him, and he was powerful enough to slay a god, though it killed him in the process." Beomund: "It is hardly bondage to be kept out of another's home, when there are other places to go," replied Beomund. "And I suspect you do not wish to risk a fight with us in your current state, or you would be willing to wait for these orcs you say are coming. Even that you should not count on - the people of Palania have been making gains against them. Why not give up on this realm, for safety and freedom elsewhere?" sd: "I am Tashqarrazzedar the great, do you think I am concerned about safety?" the woman's voice was withering. "That is a worry for mortals. This is the most populous and active of all the planes, I would not foresake it for all time." Edmund: "We have to weigh up two things," Edmund said quietly to the others. "How we can get the books out in a limited space of time, and whether we should risk the return of this demon in two hundred years." Leofric: Leofric sighed for a moment and said, "The overriding factor of this mission is to recover the books and scrolls that we need. While I despise the idea and would love to shatter its essence across all planes, I have to admit that my plan will have to go along with this demon's condition. But, I can make sure that the Conclave know about it so in two hundred years, it can be dealt with. Of course, you may have other ideas and I will agree with you if everyone believe it should be fought." Edmund: "I agree with Leofric. If we can at least bind the demon to two hundred years." Beomund: Beomund nodded. "I think that is the wisest course, though it pains me." Hogar: "I believe it should be fought. I did not come here with the belief that surviving would be certain or even likely. Two centuries is a lot of time, it is true, but I would rather risk my life as we have many times than accept this deal spend the rest of my lifetime wondering if we couldn't do better than possibly doom the people of the future for our immediate gain. Even if it was for a worthy cause. " sd: the inky creature flicked around the room repeatedly, though never coming near enough to the group to eavesdrop on them. "So?" the woman asked. "Do we have a deal?" the man continued. Leofric: Leofric fingered through his black hairs with his copper hands, although covered with armours. Edmund: "We will release you from this world if you swear by your true name not to return within two hundred years," Edmund said with a nod. Hogar: Hogar sighed but said nothing, obviously having expected that his companions would have accepted the deal. sd: Within the darkness a light that might have been an eye lit red, then blue, then yellow, then green, then back to red. "Superlative. I will, of course, need to teach one of you my truename to do this. I will only teach one of you this, and only if you swear upon the souls of your family that you will not teach it to anyone else. There's something else that you'll need to do, but I'll tell you of that after I teach you the name." sd: "I should warn you," the woman began, then continued in the man's voice, "that certain lesser creatures have been known to suffer minor bouts of madness upon hearing my truename spoke aloud. So it is as much for your protection as mine that I don't inform you all. You will get a certain glimpse of my hidden self, I suppose, and contact with a superior entity is risky for human beings." Edmund whispers: "This entity specialises in taking over the minds of mages. Suppose it is trying to do that by singling out one of us..." Leofric: Leofric fingering his stubbles and whispered back a reply to Edmund. Edmund: Edmund had looked doubtful and whispere something to Leofric. Edmund: edit* whispered Leofric whispers: "If he have to tell anyone, it would have to be me." Leofric frowned, "I am worried about what is something else that we need to do." Leofric: Leofric narrowed his eyes, "What is this something else we need to do?" sd: "That is simple enough. Manehtar bound me to his secret study by means of a fetish, which he has bound in his summoning chamber not far from where I am. You will need to enter the summoning chamber, locate the fetish, and destroy the binding upon it. There are, I believe, some other type of guardians there, but I'm forbidden by my binding from seeking out information on what they might be. If not for the binding, I would have destroyed them long since and freed myself, of course." Leofric: Leofric sighed for a moment and nodded, "Teach your truename to me and I will not teach it to anyone else upon the souls of my family." He nodded with steel determination in his eyes sd: Another spot of light appeared in the darkness, this left eye flickering through colours at a different pace and a different order from its right. "As you will." The inky figure leaned in close to Leofric, reaching out to touch the scribe with a spectral hand Hogar: Hogar looked sullenly and warily at Leofric, as if he expected his companion to possibly lash out and need to be restrained anytime sd: the demon seemed to speak to Leofric for a long time You whisper to Leofric: the series of blasphemous syllables that poured forth from the demon could scarcely be deemed to be speech, sounding more akin to the spasming agonies of a dying man. They reverberated upon Leofric's soul, battering his being with awful force. Before his eyes appeared to image of a haggard, hideous being, with a human-seeming face but lacking in the specificity and solidity that true mortals possessed. Its skin was slick and sallow, its hungry mouth distended grotesquely, its bony arms filled with a terrible might. It locked red eyes upon Leofric for a moment, then the image vanished from his eyes and he stood stunned before the inky figure. Edmund: Edmund watched Leofric carefully for any sign of him either being possessed or running mad. sd: "...upon my truename that I have spoken to you, I swear that I will not return to this plane for two centuries, if you will find and destroy the object that binds me here," Tashqarrazzedar finished in the woman's voice. Leofric: Leofric blinked his eyes sharply and glanced at the others, "I am fine." He replied with unconcerned tone. Edmund: Edmund let out the breath he had been holding and grinned a little shakily at Leofric. "I really didn't want to have to deal with you mad or possessed." sd: Tashqarrazzedar laughed sharply. "I will instruct you in how to pass through the rest of the maze. You'll eventually come to a set of stairs leading down into a square chamber, and then there's a short chamber with a pool in the centre. It forks off to the left and right, with a storage room directly north. Go left and you will reach the summoning chamber. Do not go right along the corridor with many tapestries, or else you will come to me, and if you come to me before you destroy the fetish I will be forced to devour your souls even after what we have agreed." Leofric: Leofric nodded warily, "And trust me, you do not want to see his true form." Leofric: He warned the others Leofric: EDIT: Its Edmund: "Let's get moving then," Edmund said, suddenly brisk. "We don't have much time." Hogar: As they walked, Hogar spoke "Once this is done and we are out of here, you will want to start thinking what you will tell the Conclave. I hope they will be understanding considering the urgency of the situation, but I think you might want to prepare for the case they are not." sd: Tashqarrazzedar instructed them how to pass through the rest of the maze, what traps were there, and how to bypass them. Doing this, they were able to come quickly to a spiralling staircase which led down, through an illusory wall, and finally into a moderately sized square chamber. Manehtar the sage had spared no expense in outfitting this room that none save himself would ever be allowed to see - it was sheathed in white marble, with round tables of the finest mahagony, etched with many runes. Upon the southern wall were hung antlers, animal heads, and even the head of a slain wyvern, a lesser cousin of true dragonkind. Tashqarrazzedar had warned them that it had been forbidden to examine these chambers in detail, and therefore it was possible that Manehtar may have left some other traps behind that it knew nothing about. Keeping a close eye out, therefore, they looked around. Leofric: Leofric quickly casted a spell with ease, "We might have a fight with other enemies. I will cast a spell that give strength once more."
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Post by sleepingdragon on Sept 11, 2016 9:36:52 GMT
sd: Tashqarrazzedar instructed them how to pass through the rest of the maze, what traps were there, and how to bypass them. Doing this, they were able to come quickly to a spiralling staircase which led down, through an illusory wall, and finally into a moderately sized square chamber. Manehtar the sage had spared no expense in outfitting this room that none save himself would ever be allowed to see - it was sheathed in white marble, with round tables of the finest mahagony, etched with many runes. Upon the southern wall were hung antlers, animal heads, and even the head of a slain wyvern, a lesser cousin of true dragonkind. Tashqarrazzedar had warned them that it had been forbidden to examine these chambers in detail, and therefore it was possible that Manehtar may have left some other traps behind that it knew nothing about. Keeping a close eye out, therefore, they looked around. Leofric: Empowered by his own spell of increased strength, he glanced around the chamber and shook his heads, "What a waste" He muttered to himself. He look around cautiously with his Shifting Blade at ready. Leofric: EDIT: HEAD! Beomund: "Manehtar did live well, didn't he?" said Beomund, looking over the room. "Not only an obsessive scholar." Edmund: "Obsessed with himself," Edmund said scathingly. Hogar: "Truly."said Hogar "At least he did some good, if what we have been told about dying against Caragaur is true." Leofric: Leofric nodded, "Which may be his only sole redeeming value to him. If it is true, but then, who would know back then." Leofric: EDITL Leofric nodded, "Which may be his only sole redeeming value to him. If it is true, but then, who would know back then." sd: Deoneath carefully examined the room for traps, and, finding none, began to gather up books - here, thankfully, Manehtar had not bothered to chain them to the shelves, as he had not intended that anyone else should have access to these. "We should take all of these," said the Watchman. "If Manehtar thought them important enough to hide them down here, they must be useful." Beomund: "Or perhaps this is where he did his light reading," replied Beomund drily, though he began helping to gather the books. Hogar: "Careful. Though there was no trap on the shelves, the books themselves could be trapped, or the text!" Leofric: Leofric nodded, "And one should be careful. Some of these books could be of very dark nature!" Edmund: "I'm sure Manehtar must have keep a journal of some kind," Edmund said, balancing a pile of books before him. Leofric: Leofric helped out with the gathering of books, quickly noting any titles on them sd: Edmund's guess was more than correct - they found over a score of books in Manehtar's own hand, though every one was encoded. There were numerous other works, most of which proved to be written in Alanian with a smattering of other texts. Amongst the works was a copy of Wells of Power by Ingolfr of Cannock, another text Sigrun had told them to look out for. Ingolfr wrote of how the University of Magic in Cannock was erected upon the site of a place which sorcerers had identified as a site of aethyric sensitivity, a spot where the wall between planes was thin and pliable, where reality itself seemed warped and weak, the air pregnant with potentiality. Leofric: Leofric's eyes widened with the implication, "Another of these Wyrds. Interesting." Beomund: "If there is a Wyrd in the ruins of Cannock, that means the dragonspawn control it now," said Beomund. "I wonder how successfully the creatures have studied them." Leofric: Leofric frowned for a moment, "There was an explosion at the University of Magic in Cannock, that may be relate to a Wyrd, maybe it is sealed." Hogar: "Whatever happened, I doubt it was good. It could be that Wyrd is now closed, which while perhaps sad, might be better for the world than being in dragonspawn's hands..." sd: they piled the books ready to be taken up and through the maze, then Deoneath moved to the door and opened it the barest crack. Peering out into a corridor, he pointed. "There's some kind of trap on that wall, a swinging blade perhaps," he said. Leofric: Leofric gestured at the trap for Edmund and Beomund to destroy with a smile Leofric: EDIT: Leofric gestured at the trap for Edmund and Demound to destroy with a disarming smile sd: they were able to disarm the trap and continue on to an irregular chamber. At the centre of the chamber there was a low pool fed by some underground spring which had bubbled away quietly for a century, even as the city around it was laid to waste. Next to the pool's base was a marbled bench upon there lay a lute. There were three passages to their left, right, and straight across as they entered, and they realised this must have been the chamber Tashqarrazzedar referred to. The demon itself would be along the right-hand path, which was hung with tapestries, while to their left would be the summoning circle. Hogar: Hogar eyed the lute curiously. "A trap?" he whispered "Or..." Leofric: Leofric looked at the right-hand path with frank wariness, "Not a good idea to go to that route. I wonder what horrors that the summoning chamber might contain." Edmund: Edmund examined the lute without touching it. sd: Deoneath went and washed his hands in the water. "There's a rune over there on the wall, about two feet high, it looks like the ones we saw earlier to summon the spirits in the upper library," he said calmly. Leofric: Leofric took a closer look and focused on it with his copper-dark eyes. Edmund is disconnected. Hogar: Hogar stood close to Leofric and helped him examine the rune Leofric: He smiled with a sense of relief as the rune dissipated before their eyes, Leofric eyed the rune once more, "I got a better understanding on how to deal with these traps." Edmund has connected. Leofric: Hogar stood close to Leofric and helped him examine the rune He smiled with a sense of relief as the rune dissipated before their eyes, Leofric eyed the rune once more, "I got a better understanding on how to deal with these traps." sd: beyond the rune was a short corridor ending in a large, thick stone door engraved with Manehtar's sphinx symbol. Leofric: Leofric moved closer warily looking for traps and try to hear anything beyond the doors sd: there didn't seem to be any traps, though the door itself was firmly locked and far too solid to deal with by physical force Edmund: Edmund moved forward and took out his lockpicks. sd: it took Edmund three tries to deal with the very expert lock, but fortunately this one had no attached traps or other surprises. Edmund: Edmund listened for a moment before gently opening the door. Beomund: "It seems we've made it farther than he expected anyone to make it," said Beomund. Edmund: "That would not surprise me," Edmund said with a smile. Hogar: "We're far from done, though. Don't get cocky." sd: within, they found themselves on a marbled balcony surrounding a central chamber some fifteen feet below, with a set of white steps leading down on its north side. An eight-pointed star had been engraved upon the ground in the centre of the chamber, and though they had been drawn over a century before the occult materials in their construction caused the circle to still shine red. Four great pillars etched with runes upon the balcony held up a high ceiling twenty feet above, and perched in a great circle around the perimeter were stone gargoyles, each the size of a large man, crafted with intricate skill. A large chest lay along the southern wall, and there were other boxes at the bottom of the stairs by the summoning circle. Edmund: "Wouldn't think of it," Edmund said as he gazed around the great room beyond. Leofric: Leofric slowly glanced around, trying to find the demon's fetish You whisper to Edmund: there were sealed boxes in a recess at the base of the stairs, and he thought that, as well as those he could see, that the marbled floorstones were somewhat loose and could potentially be pried up. You whisper to Hogar: there were sealed boxes in a recess at the base of the stairs, and he thought that, as well as those he could see, that the marbled floorstones were somewhat loose and could potentially be pried up. Leofric: EDIT: and the other guardians Hogar: Hogar pointed at some of the marbled floorstones. "I believe some could be lifted. It's worth searching there, too" Edmund: Edmund nodded in agreement. "There are those sealed boxes too," he said pointing to the base of the stairs. Leofric: Leofric looks like he want to start rooting through the boxes in question. Edmund: "I can use the illusion spell on us all again, it might work," Edmund suggested. Leofric: Leofric nodded, "Hopefully it wouldn't trigger anything in question." Edmund: "Our walking down there might trigger them," Edmund replied. "Hard to tell where these guardians are." Leofric: Leofric merely gripped his Shifting Blade tighter, "Well then, we will deal with them should we need to." Edmund: Edmund touched each other his companions in turn, finishing with himself, cause them all to take on the likeness of Manehtar which they had seen. sd: once the illusion had taken effect, they walked into the chamber and towards the stairs. As they went, five Manehtars in a row, however, several of the gargoyle statues began to move. A quartet of the creatures flapped down to the ground on strong wings, landing near to the party, while another four were stirring upon the walls. They did not make any immediate move to attack, but their hostile intent was clear enough and it seemed unlikely they could fool the things for long. Hogar: Hogar had taken up his bow and placed himself in the rear of the party for once, obviously intent on firing at least one arrow at the creatures before joining the melee sd: Deoneath, seeing that the party were preparing for a fight, raised his bow and snapped off a fast shot at one of the gargoyles, but it gave a flap of its wings and easily dodged Edmund: Edmund swung and fired at the same gargoyle, but again the wretched thing flapped out of the way. He muttered something under his breath which might have been a prayer. Leofric: Leofric smiled slightly as he stepped toward the oncoming gargoyles with his mighty Shifting Blade ready Hogar: Hogar too fired at the gargoyle, and despite being a far less skilled than his companions managed to hit the creature in its belly. Though unenchanted the projectile had been shot with tremendous strength, and serious cracks formed into the stone of the gargoyle's body. You whisper to Leofric: looking at the constructs, Leofric thought they would not fall to ordinary damage like a human - they would need to suffer heavy damage to the head, or else somewhere in the midsection, to be disabled Leofric: Leofric alerted others, "Aim for the head or somewhere in the middle to kill them." sd: Deoneath dodged away from a gargoyle that was moving towards him, and began to nock another arrow sd: those gargoyles nearest to the party strode towards them, while those that had been further away began to fly towards the fray at great speed Edmund: Edmund reloaded,calling on the bow's magic to speed his hands. Leofric: Leofric with his Shifting Blade manage to hit a gargoyle on its head with all his strength and it collasped, broken and useless. Beomund: Another gargoyle lunged at Beomund, but he managed to step aside at the right moment to cause it to tumble to the floor. He quickly took advantage and swung his hammer, smashing its head into powder. Hogar: Hogar dropped his bow and quickly wielded the Darkling Axe, readying himself to swing it at the approaching gargoyles sd: the gargoyles in the air swooped down with great speed, tearing towards the party sd: Deoneath finished reloading as a gargoyle bore down upon him Edmund: Edmund fired quickly at a gargoyle that was heading for him, the arrow hitting it solidly in the head. Leofric: Leofric reached out into the air to attack the flying gargoyle, despite his difficulty, he manage do wound gargoyle heavily although not so sd: the gargoyles swooped in. Those attacking Edmund and Deoneath flew wide, while Leofric kept his foe at bay with his sword's length. Another lashed its tail out at Beomund, who held up his hammer to parry the blow. Though he kept its tail from his flesh, the creature wrapped the tail round the haft of the hammer, holding it firmly so the smith would not be able to swing it Beomund: Beomund strained against the stone tail, and finally managed to wrest his hammer free. Hogar: One of the gargoyles had landed on the chamber's floor and rushed toward Hogar with surprising speed, nearly catching him unaware. However just before before the creature's stony claws could pull the axe from his grip Hogar suddenly shifted and stuck the creature's face with the haft of his weapon right between the eyes. The stone did not crack, but a lot of dust was raised temporarily blinding the gargoyle who, extremely disoriented, fell sprawled on the ground. Hogar: edit: stuck->struck sd: Deoneath snapped off a shot at the gargoyle near him, burying into its stone leg. At such close quarters, the Watchman dropped his bow and went for his spear Leofric: Leofirc managed to slip by its defence and smashed Gargoyle's head into smithness Beomund: Seeing how Hogar had managed to blind one of the gargoyles, Beomund leapt aside from one swooping at him, kicking up dust into its eyes. sd: the gargoyles continued their attack, but failed to land a blow Beomund: As the blinded gargoyle attempted to swoop back around, Beomund leapt up and struck it lightly, just enough to send it further off balance. The creature had lost all sense of direction, and its wings flapped wildly as it plummeted to the floor. It struck head first, cracking it to bits. Hogar: Hogar swung his axe with amazing strength at the the head of the defenceless gargoyle, smashing it to rubble. Edmund: Edmund fired again at the gargoyle now hovering above him, but again the shot was not enough to bring it down, although now it was damaged in both its midsection and its head. Leofric: Leofric strolled over to the gargoyle fighting Deoneath and attacked it on the head. However, his damage was not sufficent enough to destory it outright. sd: one of the gargoyles struck out at Hogar, but he easily avoided the blow and brought the butt end of his axe up into its face, blinding it. The remainder of the battle proved simple, as they outnumbered their remaining foes and were easily able to bring them down without any injury. They looked up warily at the remaining gargoyle statues, but these made no move, having no more purpose than serving as decoys for the true gargoyles. This done, they moved down into the summoning circle. As they went they felt a palpable sense of unease - it was fortunate, they realised, that they had fought the gargoyles upon the balcony rather than within the summoning circle itself. sd: one of the gargoyles struck out at Hogar, but he easily avoided the blow and brought the butt end of his axe up into its face, blinding it. The remainder of the battle proved simple, as they outnumbered their remaining foes and were easily able to bring them down without any injury. They looked up warily at the remaining gargoyle statues, but these made no move, having no more purpose than serving as decoys for the true gargoyles. This done, they moved down into the summoning circle. As they went they felt a palpable sense of unease - it was fortunate, they realised, that they had fought the gargoyles upon the balcony rather than within the summoning circle itself. Edmund: Edmund examined the circle with wary interest. Leofric: Leofric quickly looked over his Shifting Blade making sure it is not nicked from attacking what all purpose, stones. sd: Deoneath headed down to the midpoint of the staircase, where it branched into left and right hand steps leading down. Unsure which to take, the Watchman shrugged and simply vaulted down, landing next to the metal boxes. He immediately began to search for traps. Edmund: Edmund came over to join him. Leofric: Leofric quiickly came over via the stair, taking a look at the Summooning Circle as he learn something Leofric: EDIT: if he can learn something sd: Deoneath moved the two small boxes out, which were filled with a variety of arcane reagents. These out of the way, he pried up the stones and soon they discovered two very small metal cylinders, smaller than a human palm, one red and one blue. You whisper to Leofric: the blue cylinder, he realised immediately as Deoneath began to reach for it, was trapped You whisper to Edmund: the blue cylinder, he realised immediately as Deoneath began to reach for it, was trapped You whisper to Hogar: the blue cylinder, he realised immediately as Deoneath began to reach for it, was trapped Leofric: Leofric warned Deoneath, "Careful, the blue one is trapped!" Hogar: "Wait!" Hogar stopped Deoneath "Trap!" sd: Deoneath had been reached for the blue cylinder, but after this warning, he noticed the small active rune traced almost invisibly upon it, and he backed off. The red receptacle, they noticed, had no such rune, and seemed safe to open Leofric: Leofric focused his will on it and dismantled the rune trap on the blue cylinder sd: with this trap disarmed, they were able to open the blue cylinder. Within, they found a tiny shard of red crystal, irregularly shaped, edges jagged as a blade. Encircling it were tiny bands of iron and silver, which stayed fast in place - despite having no obvious means to do so. They were neither fastened together nor to the crystal, but rather floated impossibly over the crystal, solid as their own bodies. Edmund: "This looks like it," Edmund said. Hogar: "Bizarre." said Hogar "So destroying this would let the demon return to hell...?" Edmund: Edmund picked up the red cylinder and opened it. Leofric: Leofric glanced at the fetish, "Let me have a look at it?" He opened his hand to recieve it sd: Deoneath picked up the cylinder and dropped the red crystal out into Leofric's palm You whisper to Leofric: immediately, the scribe felt something strike at his mind, and he mustered his will to defend himself sd: as the fetish was placed in Leofric's hand a strange look passed across the scribe's face, and though the party could see nothing they knew Leofric was engaged in some manner of contest of wills sd: Leofric's hand raised as if to smash the fetish, but he could neither make himself close his fist around it, nor hurl it to the ground. The scribe's arm slowly lowered and the red crystal stayed undamaged in his hand. From elsewhere on the floor, they heard a shriek of anger and pain, high and thin You whisper to Leofric: he had pushed past two levels of protection, but he had failed at the last hurdle. He knew he could try again, but this would open his mind up more. Leofric could feel Tashqarrazeddar's frustration welling within him - the final barrier had been the demon's own will pushing back, imprisoned and forced to try to protect its own gaol. sd: as Leofric tried again, unsuccessfully, to break the fetish, they heard the demon screech so loudly that Deoneath glanced over his shoulder to see that it wasn't directly behind him as it sounded. Hogar: Hogar seemed to grow uneasy, as things weren't going their way Leofric: Leofric paled as he glanced at the fetish, "It is too strong to break with my own will," He frowned once more. Leofric: "You could help..." Hogar: Hogar put his hand on Leofric's, as if to help him crush the crystal sd: the two put forward their wills. At first, they needed to drive the sheer power of their minds directly against the ward Manehtar had set, but Leofric, having practised this, managed it easily. The second hurdle involved a series of tiny runes, barely perceptible, scrawled in arcane inks that formed and reformed as they strove against them.
"BREAK IT!" a male voice screamed. "BREAK IT NOW NOW NOW NOW BREAK IT BREAK IT NOW!" the woman screamed. As they pushed through to the third and final layer, Hogar learned what Leofric had already discovered - in some twisted sense of humour or cruelty, Manehtar had forced the demon's own will and arcane skill to be used, against its will, to defend its own prison. They heard the demon shrieking like a wild animal dying of its wounds. Then the silver and iron bands began to peel back, and Leofric pushed the demon's soul from the red crystal. An ear-splitting noise filled the air as Leofric smashed the fetish underfoot, and then there was only silence. Leofric: Leofric gave a shuddering sign of relief on seeing their promise done. Edmund: Edmund clapped Leo on the shoulder without a word. Leofric: sigh* Hogar: "Well, we did it."said Hogar "Though I'm still not comfortable with the thought of the demon someday coming back to our world..." Edmund: "It might be the safest outcome. At least we have warning." Edmund said. Beomund: "Unfortunate indeed," said Beomund, "but we had other dangers to face. At least the orcs did not discover it." Hogar: "Just remember we are definetely going to speak to the Conclave about this." sd: as Edmund's hand clapped the scribe's shoulder, there was a shimmer in the air behind the scribe and when they turned the dark cloud was there. It was beginning to fade, as if pierced through with the sun's light, but this time they knew the demon was there in truth, and not only in projection. "Finally..." the woman's voice sighed. The cloud blinked out and reappeared near Deoneath, reaching out to him. A clawed appendage emerged from the cloud, and the Watchman leapt back. "Two centuries is not such a long time for my kind," the man said. Edmund: "Demons plainly have a strange sense of humour," Edmund said grimly as the demon finally faded away. "But we'll be ready for him." Leofric: "At least we don't have to face it in a fight." Leofric shook his head. "Hopefully, we should be able to get into secret study." Hogar: "I don't expect we'll be alive in two centuries to face him."said Hogar "Unless something really strange happens." sd: "You'll be dead, not ready," said the demon, man and woman speaking together in unison. "Perhaps I shall seek your descendants, if any of them are interesting." And with that, the cloud vanished. They caught the slightest glimpse of a horrific, emaciated creature within the cloud before it blinked out completely. Leofric: Leofric sighed for a moment and eyed the others, "What was in the red cylinder?" He asked curiously sd: within the red cylinder was a silver ring, set with a solid stone of jade. Upon the inside of the ring were carved symbols of arcane potency, all but invisible to the eye. Edmund: "A magic ring it seems..." Edmund gazed at it with keen interest. "What do you think Leo? Is it safe?" Leofric: Leofric looked at the ring. "Not only safe but useful. It allow you to cast a spell with lower power once in a while." Edmund: Edmund held out the ring to Leofric. "I think this would serve you best." Leofric: Leofric only nodded solemnly and took the ring. sd: with the demon gone, there was nothing to stop them from entering the mage's secret study, which was a round chamber of dark marble divided by two great blue curtains. There was a bed and a bureau upon the southern wall, and the north side was entirely filled with bookshelves - they guessed the mage had put up the curtains to stop any possibility of sparks flying from the braziers near to his desk onto the dry scrolls. Looking around, they noticed that the bed was covered with dirt and grit, and there was a small hole dug from the stone above it - presumably the demon had dug this, whether from boredom or a futile attempt to escape they could not say. Upon the bureau they saw numerous works about dragons, and flipping through the coded pages they saw numerous drawings, in great detail, of a dragon's scales, as well as plans for huge, barbed ballistae bolts. They guessed from the pictures that these were to be forged from the same kind of meteoric iron which the mage had forged arrows to give to Cuto the Swift, but they would, for obvious reasons, require much greater quantities of the metal. Deoneath began to scour the shelves, piling books up in great haste, soon finding a copy of the Tome of Lost Tomes and other works which Sigrun had told them to look for Edmund is disconnected. Beomund: Beomund joined Deoneath in searching the books, a satisfied half-smile on his face. "I think Sigrun will be pleased. Let's hope these are worth the sacrifices." Leofric: Leofric nodded as he glanced across the books and picking them.
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Post by sleepingdragon on Sept 18, 2016 13:44:05 GMT
sing the magical powder Sigrun had provided them, the party were able to shrink down many of the writings of Manehtar the Sage, and they passed out of the Library and hastily began their retreat towards the nearest exit from the Undercity.
As they passed out of the rear entrance they once again had to crawl, but they did not have to bend so low as on their entry – the roof was already resetting itself, as were the other traps, and when they were able to stand again they could hear the quadruple locks clicking back into place of their own volition. Though the spirits they had banished within the Library would not return, the monsters of the Undercity would not have any easier time entering due to the party’s actions.
There was tremendous astonishment when the party and Deoneath emerged from the Undercity, not only alive but with a dozen prisoners in tow – the bluff the Watchman had thought up and carried out with aid from Edmund and Beomund had kept the would-be assassins completely pacified. Their testimony rapidly showed that Heorstan had betrayed the Watch, and he was soon taken into custody. Deoneath was pushing hard for him to be treated as a deserter and therefore punished with death, though he thought disgraceful banishment back to Gastony was the more likely outcome.
The Watch and the Soiled Sisters had encountered heavier resistance than they had expected in East Phalen, and though they had managed to rescue a number of enslaved women and to distract the enemy long enough for the party to succeed in their mission, their losses had been greater than they had hoped for.
From Deoneath and others in position to speak to some of those who had been rescued the party heard troubling news – the monsters on the eastern bank were beginning to unite, and the organisation they had showed in the battle was greater than usual. Amongst the rescued there were tales of a single Chief, a human slaver of great cruelty and intelligence, who had brought some of the critical orcish and goblin leaders to heel.
Arianhod had suffered another wound in the battle, but when she had begun to recover she passed an equally worrisome tale to the party – three of the women they had rescued, though they spoke the Gaston language in Palanian accents, knew little or nothing of the land or its customs, for they had been raised in villages deep in the territories held by the orcs, where they were bred as chattels. Such a fate was too miserable to be contemplated, and to stand by was unthinkable to the Soiled Sisters, who were already planning to free as many of these people as they could, and if possible to ignite revolt among the people. Such a venture would need time to plan, but Arianhod thought the Sisters would be all too glad of the party’s aid when the time came.
The Conclave were overjoyed with the recovery of so much lost lore from Manehtar’s vaults, though it would take time for the sage’s codes to be broken. Sigrun told them in tones that were almost admiring of the lengths the man had gone to in order to keep his writings secret, using a shifting cipher which altered from page to page, or even paragraph to paragraph, referencing passages from outside texts as anchors to reveal which characters substituted for which.
They were somewhat less pleased with the bargain the party had struck with Tashqarrazzedar, but Sigrun was quick to reassure them that they had in no way violated the Abjurations – the aim of the Abjurations was to prevent the Conclave from binding demons into this plane, but certainly not from binding them out of it. And they would, at the least, have plenty of time to prepare for the demon’s return, though Sigrun suspected that it would return to this plane in some part of the world where the Conclave had no sway – if there even was a Conclave then, for certainly they had not existed two centuries previously, and even the Virian Way had only just been Revealed.
Their task done, the party returned to the manor house to rest and prepare for challenges to come…
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Post by sleepingdragon on Sept 25, 2016 16:18:03 GMT
While January had been a month of bitter cold, February turned unusually mild, to Maccus' great relief. The shelter was able to provide relief to the urban poor without need for more resources, and there were no more frozen bodies to be found on Phalen's streets each day. As March drew on the snows were already beginning to recede.
With the early thaw it was easier for tales to spread than would typically be the case in February, and traders from the northwest brought troubling news from Suthfryd and the stricken region of Krygarland.
The dragonspawn offensive in Krygarland had been checked in recent times, due to the intervention of Sweryn Dragonslayer, who the Council recognised only as Ealdorman of Krogsager but was more widely known by the title he claimed for himself, the King of South Fryddenland. The Dragonslayer had personally led his armies against the dragonspawn and had put them on the back foot.
In the fall, however, he had been forced to withdraw some of his forces due to trouble on his northern frontier, which was significant enough that he himself had to go, leaving his two adult sons in command of the Krygarland forces. The Dragonslayer was a much more experienced general than the princes, and with his departure the dragonspawn had begun to push back. Then disaster had struck in some unknown fashion, and though the full tale was not known, it was certain that the two princes were dead, and most likely not at the hands of the dragonspawn.
The Dragonslayer was filled with grief and fury, and he placed the blame for his sons' assassination in one place - at the feet of the Virian Church. It was known that the Church had sent fighting men to Krygarland to battle the dragonspawn, and these had never cooperated with the Dragonslayer, who had expelled all Virian missionaries from his realm. He now claimed that his sons' murder was the Church's revenge on him for this, and with only his youngest son, who was but two, remaining, the realm of the Dragonslayer seemed likely to face a regency if he were to pass away before his youngest came of age.
Soon a message was sent to the Council, with the air of an ancient Alanian emperor passing orders to a wayward subject. As it was the Council who had invited the Virian Church into Palania against the wishes of Suthfryd, the Dragonslayer commanded the Council to bring the Church to heel. His demands for redress were steep - he firstly set for his murderered sons the eye-watering weregild of a million gold coins, and secondly he demanded that the Council should hand over to him the persons of the Vice-Priest and the three Councillors of the Virian Church. These last would serve as hostages for the Church's good behaviour, while the former, as the one ultimately responsible for the actions of the Church in Palania, would be executed. As well as reiterating his previous demand that the Council should renounce all claims upon Suthfryd, he added that having hazarded his own troops and his own body, as well as lost two of his sons, in the battles in Krygarland, that the Council should accept reality and recognise that that region, too, had passed out of the hands of the Gastons and into the orbit of the Fryderi.
There was of course no chance the Council would accede to these demands, and the Vice-Priest vociferously denied any involvement in the assassination of the princes. The Dragonslayer vowed to send proof of the Church's involvement as soon as he was able, and he further threatened that he would regard refusal to pay the weregild he was due, and the Council's sheltering of those who had murdered his sons, as acts of war, against which he would respond with force of arms.
This, then, was the future that seemed to await the party - civil war in their original homes, and war against Suthfryd in their adopted home. But these still lay ahead. There were other problems more immediate, and these called for their attention.
While the land of Oswingas which had been the Plague Fields had been cleansed, and the passing of many months proved this was a lasting reclamation and no temporary anomaly, the Council's efforts to settle the land were very slow. Land had been offered, and very cheaply, to any who wished to remove there, however the spectre of the curse still lay over the land. To many, Oswingas was a land that had been stricken by magic they did not understand, then seemingly rescued by magic they did not understand, and they wanted no part of such an unnatural region.
At the urging of the Ealdorman Heorot of Bluebrycg, therefore, in early March the notables of many regions of Palania would gather in Oswingas for the purposes of merrymaking and relaxation, with the hopes that the willingness of the leading clans to enter the land without concern would allay the suspicions of the commons. Hardly willing to be outdone by Bluebrycg, those parts of Oswingas under the control of Middlemere also called for days of feasts and celebration, and the party were invited to such a gathering in Bexcheap, organised by Elder Wulfnoth of the Changers.
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Post by sleepingdragon on Oct 8, 2016 17:34:50 GMT
sd: despite the troubling news from the north, the Council were determined to go ahead with celebrations in Oswingas and the party began to prepare for the journey there. Synne's father was among those who had been invited, and Synne would be coming as well - Dunstan, for whom social gatherings were a misery, simply feigned illness to have a pretext to stay at home. Ostensibly, the party would be the hosts of the event held at those parts of their Bexcheap manor that had yet been constructed, though as they had not yet been there in their lives Elder Wulfnoth was the real host and organiser of the event. The party's names were however much better known than the Changer's, which was entirely to his satisfaction. Leofric: Leofric spent a week mediating beside the local runestone to restore his energy so recently spent against the Library. He spent other three weeks learning more spells from the Ring of Secrets, the Ring of Beast and the Ring of Battle. Since there is a social gathering approaching, he even found time to pick up some dancing, ever since his embarrassment in Leofric: the Long Shore Beomund: The news of the poor women raised as chattel amongst the orcs had sent Beomund into another of his depressive moods for a time, though he managed to motivate himself with magical practice and drawing designs. He spoke often of looking forward to visiting their new manor once more, and finding the right plot for the church he hoped to construct nearby in honor of Aisha. Hogar: Though Hogar's body had been unhurt in their expedition, the adventure and interaction with the demon had taken a toll on his mind. As soon as the party had no immediate need of him he took the horn of soothing they had found a long while and used it. Though the warrior was lethargic and sluggish that week, he seemed somewhat better off at the end and resumed practicing his archery skill, though his improvements were very slight as something was off in his tutor's teaching method. He used the horn again the week after that, obviously still feeling he could use the relief it provided provided and having no shortage of gold and silver to grind down for his magic, and when he was alert and focused again he spent the remaining days until the event studying Palanian law. Edmund: At first Edmund was restless and found it hard to settle to practising his music or studying in quiet contemplation, no doubt as the result of his experiences in the undercity and dealings with the demon. Instead he spent the first week exploring the land around the city with a practised woods-woman, improving his hunting and the skills of survival in the wilds. He found Freware to be a woman of few words but soon learned to respect her. On the few occasions the others saw her, she turned away hastily from them. By the end of the week, Edmund felt more like himself and was able to spend time resting, recovering his equilibrium by use of the Horn, and his magical powers in quiet contemplation by the runestone. In need of something more lively now, he took the lute they had brought out of the library to the Bards College and found a teacher to help him improve his playing. Any spare time Edmund spent visiting the hostel and the school, playing and singing and storytelling to cheer the inmates. sd: with the mild winter Maccus found he would be able to leave the shelter in Goldwyne's hands, giving him a much needed break as he too decided to accompany the party. Their captain of the guard and Synne's lover, Atol of Parwick, came with them along with a small honour guard, though it was doubtful that anyone in Palania needed guards less than the party. Still, it was both safer and more pleasant to travel in a group, and, numbering ten, they set out on 5 March 230.
As they rode, Synne was looking at the party with a sour expression on her face. This was hardly an unusual look for her to wear, but there was a pensiveness and even a wariness mixed in with her gaze as well, and those were not characteristics that commonly showed on the face of Synne of the Werlings. Leofric: Leofric patted his mount, glad to be on a proper warhorse. He eyed Synne curiously. Edmund: Edmund had been riding along, feeling relaxed and looking forward to meeting and performing to new people. He had brought the lute, his good fiddle, his flute of course, and even the drums, hanging behind him on his horse. Humming to himself, he had at first, unusually, failed to notice Synne's strange looks but when he did, he moved to ride next to her. "You don't seem glad to be out of the manor and heading for a party, Synne?" he said enquiringly. sd: Synne gave Edmund a sideways glance, then looked ahead to where Atol was riding, slowing her pace slightly. When she had opened up enough space she said, "I haven't told anyone this yet, I suppose you'll do for the first. Better than father, at any rate, even if he will be pleased by it." Edmund: Edmund also looked ahead to Atol, then back. "His?" he asked quietly. sd: Synne looked insulted. "Of course it isn't his." Edmund: "Forgive me lady, but you seemed perturbed. I should not have made such an assumption," Edmund said contritely. sd: "It's fine. I needed to get Dunstan drunk enough to be willing to actually be alone in a room with me without wanting to hide, but not so drunk as to be useless, it took a few tries. I noticed a little while after you got back from the Long Shore, and Atol was away at the time so I know it's not his. The first one at least needs to look definitely like me or Dunstan and not Atol or it will be suspicious." Edmund: Edmund nodded, making sure he displayed not even the ghost of a smile. It was so hard to tell whether Synne was joking or deadly serious, or might fly off the handle at the slightest comment. "I am glad for Duncan's sake that you persisted. My congratulations to you both." sd: "I haven't told Atol yet, which is why I looked perturbed. He knows he can't have me to himself and I wouldn't let him if he could, but I think it's what he wants. So far Dunstan's not actually been any competition to him." Edmund: Emund did frown at this. "Do you think he may cause trouble? It would be best to be prepared." sd: "I doubt it, but I'll keep an eye on him. It's a pity Maccus is a man or I'd have him deal with Atol, maybe I'll see if I can find someone else. Otherwise I'll just need to have a word with him and explain how it's going to be." Edmund: "I think Atol might react badly to Maccus making advances to him," Edmund smiled at the thought. "I suppose he doesn't have any interest that way?" sd: "No. I think he's mostly interested in me, the bloody fool. People do all manner of stupid things for love even though it probably doesn't exist. I'll need to make him see that things can continue as they were before except that I'll sleep with Dunstan occasionally...very occasionally, considering his issues." Edmund: Edmund nodded thoughtfully. "If he does show any sign of reacting badly, please let us know." sd: "I'll make sure you're around when I tell him, I'm more concerned he might conceal what he thinks and then do something stupid when you're away. Maccus can probably keep an eye on him anyway, even if he can't seduce him he can get him to go out with him and get drunk so if he's got any thoughts like that they'll come out. Don't worry, I can handle Atol." Edmund: "I hope so, but you aren't alone," Edmund bowed slightly. sd: "I should thank you, I suppose. It's taken me a number of years but I've actually grown somewhat fond of the husband you've given me, even if he is an awkward cunt who won't look you in the eye." Edmund: This time Edmund had to smile. "I'm glad for you both - you are good for him too." sd: they continued northwest. With the entire party mounted, it took a little over a week to arrive, and they reached Bexcheap the day before their feast on 13 March 229.
The old bulidings had all been torn down, and new cottages had been erected in their place. The site of what had been the Farm of the Deathless, where the party had battled a wight and his army of undead children and then found the grimoire that had set them on their path towards magic, was now the centre square of a village of the Changers. The foundation stones of the church to be erected in Aisha's honour were north of there, near the shores of Lake Spear, and a primitive dock had also been erected. The long curse laid upon the land had killed all the fish in the Lake, however with the cleansing some had begun to swim down from the Cambers to populate it, and Erlene had also brought some fish alive down from the hills. Any fishing in the lake would be banned for several years at any rate so the lake's vitality could be replenished, but in time the communities of Oswingas could become self-sufficient.
The hill on the outskirts of the old village, where the runestone lay, was where the Conclave had begun to construct the party's manor house. At the moment, only some basics had been finished, and these mostly in wood - a central hall where the feast would be held, an armoury, stables, and a small dormitory. The now clean runestone lay in what would eventually be their central courtyard, encircled by a high wall. Shoots of trees were everywhere the eye could see, though these would not reach their potential until the party's time had gone. sd: edit 13 March 230! Leofric: Leofric eyed the village and the new manor house, "Look like it is coming along well." He said to his peers. Edmund: Edmund looked about with a joyful expression. "This is because of what we did. The land becoming alive again." Hogar: "It's a good start." said Hogar smiling as he surveyed both the building efforts and the land recovering its vitality Beomund: "It's good to see the land healthy," agreed Beomund. "I would give much to see what this place will look like in a century." sd: tired after a long night's journey, they rested in the dormitory and greeted Wulfnoth in the morning. "Some of the guests are already arriving, Lord Garrick of the Olthorings is on his way and Balnoth of the Oberings arrived in the night. There is also Lady Guthild, Councillor Hothbeohrt's wife, who I wanted to speak to about something," he said. Leofric: Leofric greeted Wulfnoth, "Good to see you again. Good to hear that guests are coming, especially pleased to hear Balnoth is here today." He said with a smile. Edmund: Edmund agreed. "It will be good to see him again." Hogar: "Balnoth is a good man and it is good to have him around."stated Hogar matter-of-factly "Though I would rather not burden him too heavily by relying on him for information or influence." sd: the feast began in mid-afternoon, and by that time most of their guests had arrived, with other entourages heading elsewhere in Oswingas passing on a regular basis. Outside their hall bonfires were set up so the various guardsmen, servants, and other followers of the notables could partake in the festivities, while the main guests were within the main hall. Wulfnoth's suggestion was that they should allow everyone to gather, and that Edmund should then enter to perform for them, as the best way for things to get properly underway, and so it was that the party entered their own feast after almost everyone else. There were many guests they knew; Lord Garrick of the Olthorings, who had succeeded Dunstan's father Morcar as the head of their clan, stood at the rear wall near an open fire, ignoring a noblewoman's attempts to make small talk with him, while Balnoth sat on the nearest bench and rose with a smile on his face the instant the party entered. There were also Dunstan's aunt on his father's side, Aethelu, who sat on the far bench speaking to an unfamiliar looking warrior. Her youngest daughter, a spirited young woman named Annis whose previous interaction with them had been to attempt to pick Edmund's pocket at Ealdorman Durwyn's funeral, was on her own in the far corner. Maccus was at the end of the near bench, engaged in what seemed to be a heated row with a nobleman whose badge was one of those of a house they knew was based in Phalen, though they did not recall exactly which house it was. Synne and her father were further along this bench. Standing near the table was a woman in her mid-thirties, with long golden hair, dark circles around her eyes, and a strange smile on her face. Wulfnoth had said there were a number of people who had come who intended to, or had indeed already, settled nearby, often disfavoured sons of the nobility. This one they guessed was the one he had named the Lady Coenburg of the Gulfing clan, who had lost two husbands to orc attacks in Tarnemuthe, and had become known as the Dark Widow despite her fair colouring. Lady Guthild of the Gelshering clan, wife of a Councillor of Phalen, stood near the open fire speaking to someone with the look of a Coelneyman. Edmund: Edmund looked around as he entered the hall. He smiled warmly at Balnoth, nodded to the people he did know and raised an eyebrow at Annis, showing he remembered her. With a deep bow to the entire company he spoke the words of welcome, and then raised the flute to his lips. Beomund: Beomund gave a slightly awkward bow behind Edmund, and made his way into the room, hoping to pick up some of what Maccus was arguing with the nobleman about while Edmund performed. Edmund: After starting with a cheerful tune on the flute, Edmund changed to a more plaintive air as he began the introduction to his own telling of the story of the Plague Fields, some sung and some spoken in his clear carrying voice. Then he took up the new lute and playing some old airs from his homeland, finishing with a familiar song popular in his new home. Leofric: Leofric gave his bow, welcoming the group of notables and noted the ones he known. As Edmund played his tunes, he made his way across the room. Hogar: Hogar greeted the assembled nobles as well as he could manage, managing to not make a fool of himself though his social graces somewhat lacking compared to his companion. He scanned the room, thinking about where he should sit. Leofric: He noticed Balnoth came over to them and greeted him warmly. "I hope all is well?" He asked warmly sd: Balnoth stepped towards Leofric and Hogar and embraced them each warmly in turn. He indicated he wanted a word with them, but waited for Edmund's performance to complete before speaking.
the conversations had stopped while Edmund played, but when he had finished, the nobleman next to Maccus resumed awkwardly. "I did not mean to offend. Still, I think my proposal is a sound one. You and your masters must spend a fortune helping these people, when they could be convinced to help themselves," the man said.
having spent years at court, Maccus could typically be diplomatic, but there was a tinge of anger in his voice as he spoke. "I am heartsorry Lord Gleawfrith, but your proposal did not sound like you intended to convince anyone, but to force. It is an illhearted notion." Edmund: Edmund finished putting his instruments away, with another bow and smile to those who appreciated his performance. He caught Annis's eye and beckoned her over. sd: Annis began to walk over towards Edmund, then indicated that he should come to her instead, so they would be further away from any prying ears Beomund: Hearing this, Beomund approached Maccus and the nobleman more closely. He bowed. "Good to see you, Maccus! And Lord... Gleawfrith? A pleasure. I couldn't help but overhear something that sounded relevant to myself and my companions. Is there something you wish to discuss?" Edmund: Edmund moved accross. "How are you Annis?" sd: "Gleawfrith, Lord of the Walthing clan of Phalen, at your service," said the nobleman to Beomund. "And I was merely discussing an idea with your serving man here. I know that your party are extremely generous in funding certain charitable measures for the poor of Phalen, but it seems to me that better than helping the poor is for them to learn to help themselves. There is rich land here to be taken, and people in Phalen who need land. If we could make them move here..."
"You would move frightened and poor people from their homestead to a country that is heartstrange to them, and against their will?" Maccus interrupted. "People fear this land, and for good reason. Even if it is no longer spiritsoiled, there are dragonspawn in the hills and less to defend them than there are in Phalen." sd: Annis looked somewhat frightened. "Edmund, I need your help," she hissed. "My wretched cousin is encouraging my mother to marry me off to some random boy in Stencumb to shore up his position there, as if I were an Olthoring to begin with! You have to make them stop." sd: "Bealdoric's blade and die, it's good to see you again my friends!" Balnoth said to Leofric and Hogar. "I've had a few words with this Wulfnoth...it's remarkable to think isn't it? If not for that letter I sent you these Changers might not be here at all, and would the Cleansing have succeeded without them? The world is strange..." Edmund: Edmund put a hand on Annis' arm to calm her. "Is your mother really taking notice of this cousin's words?" sd: "Of course my mother is listening to Lord Garrick! I took...well...I saw...some of the letters he'd written her." Beomund: Beomund did his best to remain polite. "An... interesting suggestion, Lord Gleawfrith. I think I can speak for my companions in agreeing with Maccus here that we have no plans to make anyone go anywhere. You are right, however, that there is good land here for settlers. If you have any proposals about helping make the conditions right so that people see it as a good opportunity rather than a fearful risk, we would certainly listen." Edmund: "Tell me about this boy in Stencumb, do you know anything of him?" Edmund asked. sd: "Oh they haven't settled on one yet, there are three or four they're considering. Hardly anything in there about what kind of people they are, just what would best benefit the clan I'm not even part of! It doesn't really matter who they are, I don't want to get married to anyone! I won't just accept it like Synne in the end, if I have to run to get out of this I will." Hogar: "The world is indeed strange, and the more we live and do the more we understand it."replied Hogar to Balnoth, smiling sd: Lord Gleawfrith frowned. "You have a good heart, milord, but it's hardly as if it's any safer in Phalen than here in Oswingas, and it will turn out best for them in the end. If people will not take the opportunities that are offered to them, why should they be allowed to sit idle and wait for better?"
Maccus drove his fork hard into his chicken to forestall himself from stabbing Gleawfrith with it. "Forgive me, milord, but these people will fight you rather than be forced to leave Phalen. They have already had to remove themselves once, and now they are heartset upon remaining in Phalen or dying. At least they have reason to suppose the Council will continue to pay a mind to Phalen and not forget it if more lands are reclaimed." Leofric: Leofric nodded with agreement with Hogar, "I agreed, although I am still surprised at how a chance overhearing someone at God's Hill during the Middlemere festival can lead to such an event." Leofric: EDIT: The Godshill Edmund: Edmund looked over to where Synne was sitting at the table. "I think you should have a word with Synne when you can. Together we will do our best to find a way out of this. I hope that one day all women will be free to live as they choose. In the meantime we must make what arrangements we can." sd: "Chances are strange things. If events three years ago had played out differently, you might be dead in a shipwreck, I carried off to whatever horrible fate Cynegels had for me, and Lady Synne might have wed Leof of Rulburna." Edmund: "God's will works itself out in ways we do not fully comprehend," Edmund said softly. "But He would have us serve the good of all men, and women too. Marriages should not be based on force." sd: Annis grabbed Edmund by the arm. "Yes, I'll do that, but I'm not prepared to wait for one day. Did you know that Lord Garrick is quietly looking into how Lord Morcar died? Last time I was in Stencumb I stole some of his letters and saw it. There were a few enquiring about his health before his untimely death, and a few to people in Phalen about cousin Dunstan." Beomund: "You must understand why the people would feel better off in Phalen, Lord Gleawfrith," said Beomund. "I am no mean warrior, and I sleep more soundly there knowing the brave men of the Undercity Watch defend my hearth. And it has only been a short while since the cleansing. Perhaps more of them will come around in time, as we continue to make this place secure and prosperous. I would be happy to speak of the land's virtues and offer support for those who choose to move here, and I expect the same is true of my companions. If the noblemen of Phalen were to offer arms and supplies to help the growth of the settlement, the process might be quicker." Edmund: Edmund sighed. "You still have your lack of respect for other people's property I see. But sometimes foreknowledge of evil justifies a small wrong. I don't know what can be done about it as yet, but thank you for the information nevertheless. Now we must circulate among the guests or it will be remarked on. Come with me and at least pretend that you are sociable." sd: "I understand that they would be afraid to come here, but we must be brave and face what we fear at times," said Gleawfrith.
"Gleawfrith," Maccus said, deliberately ignoring his honourific, "I am heartsure that you have never been weak and afraid in your life. If you had, you might better understand those who are." Maccus stood up. "I have a countryman over by the fire there, speaking to Lady Guthild, I wish to go and speak with him." He walked off abruptly. sd: "I only disrespect others' property because they disrespect me by considering me property," Annis replied. "Do you care for a dance then, or should we pretend to be sociable with different people?" sd: "I've not heard anything more about Leof since he vanished into the Cambers, I hope that he died but I doubt it," Balnoth added to Hogar and Leofric after a moment. "That man over there on the benches, Daedharh of the Kempings, is one of Ealdorman Felgild's close supporters. I'd ask him about the affair but...ah...well, he doesn't like me." Leofric: "Ah..." Leofric made a note of Daedharh and nodded, "I hope you yourself have no troubles since?" He asked curiously. sd: "Oh nothing, he was sent as an emissary some years ago and took offense to my manner. I was recovering from a wound at the time and short-tempered, I apologised for it but some people hold grudges forever," said Balnoth. Beomund: Beomund nodded to Maccus as he left, and did not remark upon what he said. "This is a new beginning for these lands," he said to Lord Gleawfrith. "The way I see it, they should be built by souls who wish to be a part of the venture. Stones laid by eager hands build firmer foundations than those that tremble and recoil. You are welcome to make your suggestions to my companions, my lord, but I think you will find them more receptive to suggestions of aid for settlers than of mandates. Now, is there any other matter you wish to discuss?" Edmund: "I am one of the hosts, and so sociability is both a duty, and in my case also a pleasure," Edmund said. "I am going to speak to the Lady Coenburg. You may come with me or not, but I will be honoured to have a dance later." Hogar: "I hope none of Cynegels' associates or supporters have bothered you since he was...dealt with."added Hogar to Leofric's words sd: Gleawfrith nodded slowly. "The rumours are saying the monsters in East Phalen are uniting, there are even rumours of a single man in command of them, or some small cabal. I have been urging Lady Guthild and her cousin to take swift action now before they are able to fully join their efforts, but she seems unwilling to act. What do you think we should do? Should we launch a great strike now? It would be risky, there's no defences east of the river." sd: "I'll go hang around near Synne and speak to her, if I can get her father away," said Annis. "Until later." sd: "Nothing at all!" said Balnoth. "That man who pretended to be me, Scand...he passed through our village once, but he is little threat anymore, with one hand and no tongue. I gave him twenty silvers and he glared at me. I think he hated me, but knew it would be the death of him if he did anything." Edmund: Edmund nodded and watched her walk away, then moved over to bow to Coenburg. "Welcome my lady." Beomund: "A troubling question, my lord," replied Beomund, scratching at his beard. "The rumors are dire. I would tend to agree that swift action is needed, but there are better strategists than me. I'd like to discuss the matter with my companions, especially Hogar, who I'm sure you've heard has a keen mind for such things." sd: "Thank you," she said to Edmund with a smile. The dark circles around her eyes were even more prominent when Edmund came near, and her eyes were those of one who was not entirely present. "That was a beautiful song you played, milord. Do you think that this land truly is clean now, and the great danger is gone? Many don't seem to agree, or there'd be more who would have come to settle here, other than us who are desperate." Hogar: "A shame a man with such abilities would use them to become a killer for hire. "said Hogar, sighing "Luckily not everyone uses their talents to such perverse ends, the Sisters who trained him do good work and we have collaborated with them again recently." sd: "Unfortunately we're ruled by politicians and not warriors," said Gleawfrith. "Now Daedharh over there, when I spoke with him earlier, thought we should wait until the tribes have united more, on the basis that if they have chosen a single leader then we can cut off his head and break their spirits, while if we attack too soon they'll remain hundreds of disparate enemies who need to be cleared out individually." Edmund: Edmund considered her strange manner, even as he smiled and answered. "It is still recent in men's minds, lady. In time they will come I am sure. This land is clean by God's will and the efforts of many brave souls. It will bloom again." Hogar: "Still, what matters is that you are safe. "said Hogar to Baelnoth "Perhaps we should talk to Daedharh and see if he is more willing to share some of what he knows with us." sd: "Do you think so?" Coenburg sounded disappointed by the prospect of prosperity to come for Oswingas. "I suppose I could use some quiet, after Tarnemuthe, they don't want me there anymore. They think I'm cursed, so where better for me to be than here?" sd: Coenburg turned to a serving man, having drained her glass of mead. "More, please," she said, not taking her eyes from Edmund. sd: "You'll have better luck with him than me," said Balnoth. He glanced over at Lady Guthild. Maccus had stopped for a quick word with the man who appeared to also be a Coelneyman, but Maccus quickly left him and made towards the door. "Just going to get some air," he said to Hogar and Leofric as he passed. Edmund: "I am sorry to hear that," Edmund said, genuinely sad for this forlorn woman. "You have born more loss than one person should suffer. But cursed? No. I hope that here you can make a home and friends." Leofric: Leofric frowned slightly at Maccis' reaction, "I hope you enjoy your evening," He thanked Balnoth for coming, and shared a glance with Hogar on to approach Daedharth sd: "Oh, they're probably right. Two husbands, seven children, and they're all in the ground while I'm here," said Coenburg. "Your friend Beomund is a smith, I'm told, do you suppose he'd make me a sword if I asked him for one?" she took her mead from the serving man, and offered another to Edmund. "I used my second husband's to kill the orc that killed him, but that got taken with his things." Edmund: "You are a woman of courage," Edmund said. He looked accross at Beomund. "I think he would do that for you. Would you like me to ask him for you?" sd: "That would be good of you," said Coenburg. "That Changer woman, Erlene, she told me there are still dragonspawn up in the hills, and if she knows how to fight them why shouldn't I? I don't think I'd be much good with a bow though, my eyes aren't very good. I have problems sleeping sometmes you see, and it hasn't done them any good." Leofric: Leofric approached and manage to sit in between a nameless noble and Dadharth and greeted the surrounding folks with couresty. Beomund: Beomund gave Gleawfrith a troubled nod. "Thank you for informing me. Let me go find Hogar, and I'll speak to you later when we've gathered our thoughts about this." He moved to tell his friend about the different plans circulating for responding to the threat. sd: Daedharh looked over to Leofric and reached out with a massive, knobbly hand that had clearly gripped a sword many times. "Well met. I am Lord Daedharh, of the Kemping clan of Rulburna. I'm glad to meet you, rumours say you are some of the mightiest warriors in Palania." Hogar: Hogar followed behind Leofric and sat beside Daedhrah almost immediately after him. "Modesty aside, there is some truth to these rumours."he said "We have fought many battles against many foes both human and monstrous and lived to tell the tale." Edmund: "I will speak to Beomund when the guests have gone, my lady," Edmund bowed again and moved off again, towards Oslac and Guthild. Leofric: "Well, perhaps. But there is always some more mighter somewhere in Palania." Leofric replied thoughtfully. "Still, we manage to survive thus yet." sd: Oslac the Coelneyman was a short, stocky man with a weather-beaten face. He had little of the Coelney accent left, having spent much of his life trading in other lands. "This King Guthafyr is likely to be much more open to contact with the mainland than the Masked Ones, I'd wager," he was saying to Guthild and Balnoth. The former Ealdorman waved to Edmund as he approached. Beomund: Glancing around at the remaining guests, Beomund moved to greet Dunstan's aunt Aethelu and the unfamiliar warrior with whom she was speaking. Edmund: "It is good to see you again," Edmund said warmly to Balnoth, then greeted the Colneyman and his escort with courtesy. Edmund: "You were speaking of King Guthafyr?" he asked.
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Post by sleepingdragon on Oct 15, 2016 15:54:17 GMT
sd: Edmund had approached the Lady Guthild, the wife of one of the Councillors of Phalen, a sharp-featured woman in her mid-thirties. With her were Oslac the Coelneyman and Balnoth - the former Ealdorman of Stowecott leaned across inelegantly and rather dangerously near the fire to shake Edmund's hand.
"We were discussing King Guthafyr, yes," said the Coelneyman. "He has driven his enemies from Bartholme, though Cynric escaped him and has taken shelter on Langholme. The Heartfire at Stowenhithe has gone out because Guthafyr banned the rites to rekindle it, the Masked Ones are calling for a crusade to remove him but I'm unsure if many people want to fight Bartholme and Sharney together." sd: Beomund meanwhile had approached Lady Aethelu, Dunstan's aunt and young Annis' mother. She was conversing with an unfamiliar man, or more accurately it seemed the man was conversing at her, as he spoke very rapidly and scarcely let Aethelu speak. "...half a dozen or so of them. They're dangerous, dragonspawn, but there wasn't anything to be done so I waded in. I was glad to have an archer at my back even if she is a woman, if you'll pardon me. She did for one of them certainly. I understand your daughter is a spirited one as well, but we'd be a fine match as that's just how I like them, no gentle maidens for me! Ah!" He noticed Beomund suddenly and slammed an open hand down on the table. "There stands a man after my heart, he never runs from a fight either by repute. Ulger, of the Osteling clan, at your service." sd: Leofric and Hogar were in conversation with Lord Daedharh of Rulburna, a big man who had clearly known many battles. "It is a shame Ealdorman Felgild isn't here to greet you as well, but he has ridden on ahead, he has important matters to discuss with Ealdorman Heorot. We should be speaking more now that Oswingas is retaken, we have a common frontier in the Cambers and if the dragonspawn could be driven from the hills we could bring peace to this whole region." Edmund: "Guthafyre brings change, but that can be a good thing," Edmund said carefully, watching Oslac for his reactions. Beomund: Beomund introduced himself to Aethelu and Ulger, giving the man a firm handshake. "I did my share of running in the war in Gastony," he said mildly. "But I've won a few fights here as well. I would enjoy hearing your stories, friend. At the moment, I would be grateful if I could borrow Lady Aethelu to discuss some news from her nephew Dunstan." Though he had no news he intended to share, he thought the poor woman could do with some relief from Ulger's chattering. sd: Oslac smiled. "The mainland is where I make my living, kings who look to here are good news for me. I don't care much for this Virian Way but I've more interest in golds than gods, and at least with Guthafyr in charge I won't have to watch flesheating whenever a nobleman dies." sd: "Of course you can," said Ulger. Ignoring what he had just said, he turned back to Aethelu. "I'll bid you farewell for now, but I do think you should speak to Lord Garrick about my suit."
"I will," said Aethelu, standing as it didn't seem Ulger was going to leave her and Beomund be.
"That's excellent, I know he is trying to form alliances nearer to home but a wise Lord at the moment would be trying to form links here in Oswingas. One good marriage could bring your clan more strength than you might imagine in years to come. I've paid little and my lands aren't settled properly yet, but when they are I'll have so many hides I may as well be an Ealdorman. Your daughter likes to ride, doesn't she, perhaps she should come back with me tonight and I can show her the area - with you as a chaperone of course, I meant no impropriety. Is this acceptable to you?" Edmund: "We met Guthafyre when we undertook some work in Coelney," Edmund said, feeling relieved he would not have to tread carefully on matters he felt strongly about. "He seemed set to be a decent leader. The Masked Ones on the other hand tried to cause us trouble, unsuccessfully." Beomund: Beomund stood alongside the lady, taking her arm. "I'm certain Lady Aethelu can determine her evening plans soon, my friend. For now, my news is really quite urgent." With that, he drew her away somewhere that Ulger couldn't see or hear them clearly. "I'm sorry about that my lady. It appeared you needed rescuing from that brave warrior at least as much as those darkspawn did." sd: Lady Guthild had spent more time listening than speaking, but she interjected here. "They are a troublesome group, the Masked Ones. With a few honourable exceptions like our friend Balnoth here, priests should concern themselves with the gods and leave ruling to those focussed on this world. Oslac, are you in contact with King Guthafyr directly? If so please come back with me to Phalen, I'm sure my husband is not the only one on the Council who would be willing to offer some aid to Guthafyr, in coin if no other way." Hogar: "We have fought the dragonspawn many times and are always eager to deal them a grevious blow if we have the chance, or help those who fight them. "replied Hogar to Daedharh "In fact during our latest adventures we make some discoveries about origins and so called 'dragon gods' which we hope might prove useful against them at some point. Though perhaps it is knowledge more useful to a sage or scholar than a general, but you never know with these things.... As for the Cambers, we have heard rumors of other threats there in addition to the dragonspawn. I'm sure you have heard about Leof and how he is rumored to be there, perhaps in league with the witch." sd: Aethelu smiled at Beomund as they moved away from Ulger. the dark-eyed Lady Coenburg gazed over at Beomund as they went past, and gazed at him over her mead.
"Thank you," Aethelu said to Beomund with relief. "If that man's sword was as great and large as his ego then every dragonspawn in a thousand leagues would be dead. He'll not have Annis at any rate, we need to make connections nearer to home. You had news from Dunstan?" Edmund: Edmund nodded in agreement with Guthild's remark. "There are always risks when faith is used as a means to gain power." Edmund is disconnected. Beomund: Beomund shook his head. "Nothing of import, it was just the first thing I thought to say. I'd be happy to distract him more, if necessary. What does your daughter think of her prospects, if I might ask?" sd: Daedharh scowled. "The rumours are most likely true, the raids on our Weapontake have been greater since you exposed that degenerate's schemes and he fled into the Cambers. He's not shown his face however which is unlike him, I pray he found the miserable end he deserves. As for the witch...every now and then a man out on patrol will vanish in the Hills. A party Leof himself led some five years ago found such a one who'd vanished from my brother's troops several years earlier, the witch had beguiled him and he'd given her his heart. She'd used him as a spy in the Gap. I'd not have thought Leof the type to fall for such a thing himself, but I'm no mage." Leofric has connected. sd: Aethelu smiled. "My brother Morcar used to tell tales like that to get me away from inappropriate men, or just people who bored him. We had a tutor we disliked, so he studied our father's handwriting and wrote him a note in his hand banishing him, the tutor was halfway to Wihthrycg before any of father's men found out. When he found out well..." Aethelu trailed off. "I'm sorry. You asked something about Annis didn't you? Ah yes, her prospects. Well she would prefer not to have any prospects, and to marry who and if she wishes. Of course I understand why, but we have responsibilities to our clan." Beomund: Beomund looked a bit uncomfortable at Aethelu's mention of her brother, though he passed it off with quiet condolences for her loss. Then the conversation turned to Annis. "Ah, yes, responsibilities can sometimes get in the way of our preferences. Though if you're vigilant, perhaps someone will come along who aids your clan and makes her happy." Edmund: Edmund bowed and excused himself, moving over to speak to Garrick. sd: "I would hope so, yes," said Aethelu. "She says that I wasn't married until I was twenty and she should have that long at least, but these are different times and Garrick and I are not my father." sd: Garrick was standing quietly by himself, gazing across the chamber towards where Leofric and Hogar spoke to Daedharh. He raised a horn of ale as the bard approached. "That was fine music you gave us, my friend," he said quietly. "I was sad to see that my nephew didn't come with you, is he unwell?" Beomund: Beomund nodded with understanding. "Yes my lady. These are trying times. Just know that my friends and I shall do what we can to help your clan, and I'll pray things work out for you and for Annis. Now, can I help you integrate back into the party without being cornered again?" He had seen Lady Coenburg's look out of the corner of his eye, and hoped to introduce himself. sd: Aethelu glanced over the table. "My daughter and Synne seem to be speaking, I'll go and sit with Renweard. He was very ill several months ago, I think he is on the mend though I fear he may not last long." Edmund: Edmund bowed politely. "Dunstan is well my lord. He sends his good wishes but feels that either he or Synne should remain at the manor, and he has been undertaking experimental work as well, which is hard to leave. It is good to see familiar faces here," he sad looking round the room. Edmund: edit * said not sad sd: "Some familiar and some not so familiar, that woman you spoke to earlier isn't one I know. I recognise Daedharh there, of Rulburna, Felgild's right-hand man." Garrick shook his head. "Poor Felgild. Edmund, what could ever possess a man to try to kill his own father, do you think?" Beomund: Beomund nodded and escorted Aethelu far enough that she could avoid Ulger's attention as he said his goodbyes. Once that was done, he made his way over to introduce himself to Lady Coenburg. "My lady. I am Beomund the Smith, and I bid you greetings." He could think of little else to say immediately. sd: Lady Coenburg gave a tremulous smile. "Oh I know, I spoke to your companion Edmund earlier. I'm Coenburg of the Gulfing clan, formerly, but no longer welcome in, Tarnemuthe." Leofric: Leofric frowned at what Daedharh was speaking about Leof, "One hope that he meet his dire fate although, the world often have many unpleasant surprise in store for us." He shook his head with dismay. "I too share the sentiment with Hogar regarding the Camber Hills." You whisper to Edmund: it was entirely plain that Garrick's question of patricide was not entirely, or even principally, about Leof Leofric: Leofric took a drink from his fine mead. Beomund: Beomund shook his head sadly. "The cruelty of people... Well, I hope you will find these lands more welcoming, a new place you can call home." sd: "Oh I hope so, a cursed woman for a cursed land. Still, I think those who come here won't be as small minded as those at home," said Coenburg. She asked one of the serving men for more mead, and when he returned she passed Beomund a glass. "I had a request for you which your companion was going to make on my behalf, but I should just ask you directly as you're here. Would you forge me a sword? If I'm to be in such a dangerous land I should have something to hand to defend myself, I doubt the dragonspawn will cross the street to avoid me because of the curse." Leofric: He asked Daedharh with interests, "I wonder if you heard any news from Darkholt and the fight against the elves there? Did Durwyn the Younger had any success against them?" Edmund: Edmund took a slow calm breath, while thinking furiously. "That would depend on the father. And the son. One might kill for greed or power, another for simple survival. Even those closest might not know what motives lie beneath the surface. Families are like locked vaults in keeping things secret." sd: "Young Durwyn has managed to destroy many of them, though they still raid the outlying settlements. Some fled north into the forested regions of the Cambers, where I hope they and the dragonspawn slaughter each other," said Daedharh. sd: "I don't know about your Virian Way, Edmund, but our gods tell us that to kill your own sire is a terrible crime, no matter the justification," said Garrick. "I hope for Felgild's sake he and his son never come face to face again. Such evil shouldn't be allowed to fester and persist." Leofric: Leofric smiled slightly at the news, "Good to hear about some success in this dark world." Beomund: Beomund looked a bit taken aback at how casually she seemed to accept the curse. He nodded gravely at her request, however. "I can understand why you would want such a thing, my lady. I have lost much myself - though I cannot pretend to understand your own losses - and a weapon is a comfort in a dangerous world. I will craft you a blade, and in the mixing of iron and grief there will come an alloy of steel and resolve. This I swear to you." sd: Coenburg smiled broadly. Her eyes seemed fixed on some point behind Beomund where no one stood. "Thank you, good sir," she said, putting her hand on Beomund's arm. "There's many comforts to be found in the world in places you might not think to look." Edmund: "Was Leof's motive ever discovered?" Edmund asked. You whisper to Leofric: as he reviewed what Daedharh had said about Leof, the man seemed to have given him an oddly specific epithet - degenerate he had named him, a term that seemed entirely inadequate and unrelated to attempted patricide Beomund: Beomund gulped slightly, finding Coenburg at once compelling and slightly frightful. He briefly and awkwardly touched the hand that rested on his arm. "In-indeed my lady. Those of us who have lost what we thought made up our lives must find our comforts where we can." sd: "No. Balnoth looked into it for a time I think, he returned suddenly from a patrol in the Cambers, he went looking for some of his men who had remained behind, and then suddenly he tried to kill Felgild. He cut down four of his Thegns in the process, and left the Ealdorman a horrible scar across his nose," said Garrick. Leofric: Leofric looked as he was thinking some issues over and asked Daedharh about Leof strightforwardly, "I am curious as the term that you use degenerate for Leof? Any particular reason as for the term apart from attempted patricide?" sd: "Do you dance, Beomund? I could use a dance, or perhaps I'll give these people a song - I've not had a chance to sing in front of people for such a long time." Coenburg took another drink. Hogar: "We heard his actions may have something to do with his father's actions towards one of Leofric's friends."said Hogar after Leofric Edmund: Edmund frowned in thought. "Could it be related to something he found on his return, perhaps to do with his men? Or maybe some event in the Cambers, perhaps someone... or something... that had influenced his mind?" Hogar: edit: Leofric's friends -> his friends Beomund: Beomund smiled, taking his own hasty drink. "I could attempt a dance, Lady Coenburg, though that shouldn't indicate I will succeed. I would love to hear a song from you, though. Perhaps Edmund would accompany you with some music." sd: Daedharh looked angry. "What other term would you use for one who spits in the face of the man who gave him life and everything he has? He thought Felgild didn't have the right to impose discipline on his men and when he returned and found a reminder that it was Felgild, not Leof, who is the Ealdorman of Rulburna it was too much for him." sd: "Let's dance first, even if it's only an attempt." Coenburg drained her mead in a single motion. Edmund: "I was thinking that there might be a sinister reason for his actions, rather than a personal one," Edmund said soothingly. "In which case, it might endanger any who came under its influence." Beomund: Beomund gave a bit of a shrug and followed suit in draining his mead. "If you'll lead me, then!" sd: Garrick gave Edmund a long look. "There is a witch in the Cambers, is that what you're suggesting? Leof had been away in the Hills..." Edmund: Edmund nodded. "I can't say for sure, but such a thing is a possibility don't you think? If this witch did influence Leof, she is a danger to others." sd: Beomund's attempts to dance were entirely feeble, but Coenburg was skilled enough to lead him and prevent him from looking like too much of a fool. "You and your companions are none of you wed, are you?" said Coenburg. "Strange, but I suppose your lives don't allow easily for that manner of commitment." sd: "That's something to think of, though I fear it may prove otherwise," said Garrick. "Families are filled with secrets as you said, even ones where you would have sworn that all was as it seemed." Leofric: Leofric's eyebrows raised and replied with a calm tone, "I am just curious as to what drove a man to attempt such awful deeds." He shook his head, "Apologises." sd: Daedharh grunted. "Fine. Many have wondered the same. Ealdorman Felgild for his part is tired of hearing of it - there is no reason whatsoever that could ever justify treason and attempted patricide. Let us speak of other matters then, if you please." Edmund: "Speaking of families, will you permit me to ask your daughter to dance?" Edmund asked, very politely. Beomund: "Indeed, my lady. I imagine Edmund will be the first of us to find a match, though perhaps with so many women fawning after him a decision becomes more difficult!" His grin flickered slightly as he continued. "As for myself, I was wed once, and I do not think I will be again. At least until I fulfil my vow and build a tribute to her that satisfies me. We all must settle down from a life of risk at some point, though it's sometimes hard to think of the form that life will take." Edmund: edit *your cousin sd: "Of course! Annis will like that, and I do care about what she wants whatever it is she would say. It's the sad fate of a Lord that he must balance what he wants and the rest of the family wants with our duties." Edmund: "Of course, but hopefully duty may coincide with happiness," Edmund said with a smile. He walked over to where Annis was in deep conversation with Synne. sd: "I'm sorry," said Coenburg. "I've wed twice, and both have died in front of me. Horrible, though truthfully I never loved either of them. There'll never be a third, I'm sure, I'm too old and Palanian noblemen want a woman who will give him living children, not dead ones," the song finished and Coenburg smiled and gave Beomund a bow. "I've a song to sing now, don't bother Edmund. I know ones that go best without music anyhow." Edmund: "Please excuse me interupting," Edmund said with a bow to Synne, then turned to Annis. "Would you like to dance, lady?" Beomund: Beomund gave Coenburg a smile that was both nervous and as comforting as possible, as he stepped back to observe her performance. sd: "Well I already asked you to," Annis said waspishly, rising. Synne looked a bit nonplussed, then rose as well. She noticed Garrick from the corner of her eye, her stance hardened, and she strode towards him, curtsying and extending a hand. Coenburg had persuaded the current singer to be silent and she waited while several lords and ladies prepared to dance. Edmund: Edmund took Annis' hand and led her forward, ignoring her temper. "It seems the lady Coenburg is about to sing without accompaniment, which will likely not be music for dancing." Leofric: Leofric noted that other are dancings and knowing his courtesy, he looked for a partner and asked Aethelu, "Lady, would you like a dance?" He asked courteously. sd: Coenburg began to sing, and indeed this was only a short song, one to get them into the mood but not to be danced to itself. From the mouth of this beautiful noblewoman came an unusual choice, a song more suited to a dank tavern than a lord's hall. It was a song of the hero, Cuto the Swift, but not of his archery, his bravery, or his skill - rather, it suggested that his epithet derived from a more private area of life, in which swiftness was generally regarded as an unmanly and altogether embarassing trait. Lord Renweard gawked at her and Coenburg faltered slightly, but then the singer she had pushed aside joined in, and soon they had the feast banging on the tables and laughing aloud. When this song faded, the singer took up his lute and played an air of a more traditional Palanian dancing song. Hogar: Hogar excused himself from the dancing, as he would rather not embarass himself, and was left at the table slowly drinking as he surveyed the scene. sd: "Oh of course, I'd be honoured," said Aethelu, taking Leofric's hand. Edmund: Edmund applauded as Coenburg finished. "She has a lovely voice, if an unusual choice of material," he said with a grin at Annis, as he started the steps of the dance. sd: "Lord Renweard might fall ill again if she sings a song like that twice," Annis said with a smile. "She's insane you know. Seven children, none lived older than five. They call her 'the Dark Widow' because it's more polite than the other term Synne told me." Beomund: Beomund found himself laughing as he clapped along with the song, and at the end had to wipe a tear from his eye. Hogar: Hogar smiled at the bawdy song, as if forgetting the stress of the situation and the horrors of their last adventure. Edmund: "Synne is a clever woman but I wouldn't repeat the things she says," Edmund said with a shake of his head. "Coenburg has also seen two husbands killed before her, and herself slayed the orc which killed the last. Such experiences can make one mad, but it is possible to be brought back from the brink. We may have a way to assist her. sd: as Coenburg sang, they danced. Leofric and Aethelu were competent, though not graceful in any great measure. Synne and Garrick seemed to be closer than they ought to be for this song, and though the Lord of the Olthorings tried to draw away Synne simply pulled him closer and seemed to be speaking into his ear the entire time. There was, at any rate, no point in anyone trying to compete, for Edmund and Annis dominated the floor and soon many of the others had stopped to watch them. Ulger's stare at Edmund's back had the force of a barrage of crossbow bolts, but it meant nothing - their grace could not be discomposed by such spite. As the song reached its crescendo, Annis gave an arch smile and allowed Edmund to spin her directly towards the great pit fire in the centre of the room - Annis went cartwheeling towards it, hair awhirl, and stopped with an abrupt handstand upon the very edge of the flames. She kicked herself back into a standing position and took Edmund's hand again as the song ended, to raucuous shouts of approval. Leofric: Leofric smiled slightly seeing how well Edmund and Annis danced together. Edmund: Edmund bowed low to Annis and kissed her hand. "My lady, if you ever need to work for your living, I think you have a rare talent to call upon," he said with a twinkle in his eye. "Do you sing and play that well too?" Beomund: Beomund applauded heartily for both the musicians and the dancers. Leofric: However, Leofric is pleased about not messing up the dance and bowed to Aethelu for putting up with his clumsy dance. sd: "Oh, far better," said Annis. "I'd sooner hold an axe than a lute, but mother thinks that would be unladylike. I think I'll get one anyhow." sd: though the dance had ended, Synne was still speaking into Lord Garrick's ear, and continued to do so even as the next song began. Edmund: "If you wish to learn, I would be more than happy to teach you," Edmund said, his breathing still a little fast, and maybe not just with the exertions of the dance floor. sd: "All the tales I've heard say you prefer a bow, but that's no real weapon," said Annis. "Or did you mean to teach me to play a lute? I already know how to do that." sd: Synne spun abruptly away from Garrick and muttered what appeared to be an expletive as she strode back towards the table. Before she reached it, she instead turned and strode over towards Leofric and Aethelu, gesturing at the same time to Annis and Edmund and indicating they should meet her outside. Edmund: "An arrow can kill a man, or a monster, as well as an axe," Edmund said with a shrug. "I have a spare lute if you want to play together." He looked up as Synne strode past, and sighed. "Perhaps later." Leofric: Leofric noted Synne with interest and followed Synne with the others outside. sd: as a second dance ended, Coenburg indicated again she would sing without accompaniment. This time, her song was not one that anyone could dance to, or that could bring merriment for anyone. It was the Great Lament, an epic song of old Palania, of which each verse was sung from the perspective of a mother of an endless procession of fallen sons, whether brave warriors or cowering children it made no difference, for all had fallen before the wrath of the dragon, all melted in his flames, or devoured by his great maw. Coenburg's haunted eyes glistened with sorrow and her voice shook, but did not break, as her grief was poured out like wine upon the transfixed assembly. Edmund: Edmund stood by the door listening, unwilling to move while Coenburg made a moving performance of her own grief. Leofric: Leofric also paid close attention to the sad song. sd: "Hurry the fuck up, or you'll be the ones moaning with grief after I take my boot to your bollocks," Synne snapped at them. "We need to sort something." Leofric: Leofric then paid close attention to Synne as he went after her, "What is the trouble?" He asked with a hint of concern. Edmund: "We are supposed to be the hosts, and two minutes will make no difference," Edmund hissed, rare anger showing in his face. Beomund: At first Beomund almost fled the room as the song begun, but then he settled down and let it wash over him as he did what he could to remain composed. Idly he tore at a piece of bread, and anyone who paid close attention could see it eventually obtaining the shape of a church. sd: Aethelu looked very uncomfortable, but Synne relented, though she paced with palpable impatience. When Coenburg's lament ended, Synne stormed through the door and into the air, then around to a half-constructed outbuilding. Edmund is disconnected. Hogar: Hogar looked curiously at Beomund's efforts, but then his attention was caught by Synne's actions sd: when her song ended, Coenburg's composure appeared as if it might break, but she mastered herself and strode over to Beomund. "I have had enough company for the nonce. Would you like to walk with me, good sir?" Leofric: Leofric went after Synne, glancing around to see if Maccus is still in the area. Edmund has connected. Edmund: Edmund applauded then moved outside and followed Synne. Beomund: Beomund slowly took his church of bread and placed it on the plate, before looking up at Coenburg with a wan smile. "I would be honored." He stood and took her arm. "That took skill, Lady Coenburg, but most of all it took courage. Thank you for gracing us with your song." sd: there was a feast down the hill where the various servants and retinues of the lords were celebrating, but Leofric could not see Maccus amongst them. Synne entered the outbuilding and waited for the other three to join her. Her eyes were fixed directly on Aethelu. "I've just been speaking to Lord Garrick about my husband," Synne said. "Leofric, Edmund, you are both much more diplomatic than me. Do either of you want to speak to Lady Aethelu here about her brother?" sd: *other four Edmund: Edmund sighed again. "I think one of you could fetch a cup of wine for Lady Aethelu, and something to sit on. I will try to explain." Leofric: Leofric managed to get a cup of fine wine and a suitable seat. sd: "What do you mean, my brother? I had two brothers, and both are dead," said Aethelu, looking angry. "Annis, love, go and get your mother something to drink. Don't worry, I'll deal with what we were talking about as well," said Synne. Leofric: EDIT: Leofric managed to get a suitable seat. Edmund: "I said I will explain," Edmund said warningly to Synne. Once the things were fetched, he sat before Aethelu and began, his voice soft but serious. "We speak of your brother Morcar, father of Dunstan. There are... things which you do not know about him, and the way that he treated his son." Hogar: Hogar got up from where he was sitting, not having emptied his mug and plate - perhaps the tenseness of the situation having damaged his appetite - and went to join for Leofric, Synne and Edmund. sd: a look passed across Aethelu's face. "He preferred to keep things private. I offered to foster Dunstan when he was young - I lost my mother young as well, and a sister I thought of like a mother - but he wouldn't hear of it. Morcar was a difficult man." sd: Hogar entered at about the same time as Annis returned with wine for her mother. Synne's face was carved of iron as she leaned against the far wall. Edmund: "It is a great pity he did not let you foster Dunstan," Edmund spoke even more softly. "For he... did not behave as a father should towards his son, or any boy in his care for that matter." sd: Aethelu gave him a long look. "Annis," she began, and Synne interjected harshly. "Stay! There shouldn't be secrets like this in families, and you are my family as well now, whether you like it or not." sd: a silence hung in the air. It seemed clear, as she looked at them, that Lady Aethelu might know or at least guess at what they meant to tell her. You whisper to Hogar: it futhermore seemed to Hogar that Lady Aethelu's hand shook on her wineglass, and she sat tense as a windlass on the verge of snapping Leofric: Leofric pursed his lips together as if it was increasingly clear that Lady Aethelu know what they were talking about. Edmund: Edmund held his hand up for quiet. "This is not easy to say, but for years Morcar treated Dunstan not as a son, but as one would a wife. He forced himself on the boy, even made him dress the part. I am sorry that you have to hear it like this, it would have been better for Dunstan himself to tell you, but he found it impossible to confide it anyone for years. We only found out by a chance meeting." Hogar: Though he came later, Hogar seemed to understand what was going on, obviously having paid some attention during the earlier festivities. "If I may be so bold...perhaps the lady already knows."he said sullenly, as if to bring attention to her obvious nervousness and shaking hands sd: Aethelu shut her eyes. "I..." she tried to stand, shakily, trying to make for the exit. Synne made to stop her, but Lady Aethelu's legs began to buckle before she took more than a few steps. "I...I can't feel my hands.." Lady Aethelu fell backwards and lay with her face towards the ceiling. When Annis cried out Lady Aethelu waved vaguely in her direction. "Let me...be...it will pass..." Leofric: Leofric frowned with concern for Aethelu's health. Edmund: "Hogar, look to the lady!" Edmund said, dashing to Aethelu's side and taking her hands, rubbing them gently. "Is this something that happens frequently?" sd: "Not...for a number of years...I had them often when...father was still alive..." Edmund: Edmund took off his jacket and folded it under her head. "I am so sorry for having caused you this shock, but there is more. Garrick is looking into the circumstances of Morcar's death..." Hogar: Hogar helped with making lady Aethelu comfortable "Perhaps we should indeed let her be, at least for now."he said to Edmund quietly but loud enough that those nearby could hear "She already seems throughly shocked." sd: "How could I be shocked? I should have known this would happen again." Edmund: "Happen again?" Edmund repeated, his blood running cold. "What do you mean?" sd: "I...please apologise to Dunstan for me, I should have been more persistent. When my sister was dying I told her - I swore to her! - that when father died this wouldn't continue. Please, don't judge my brother too harshly." Leofric: Leofric looked appalled for a moment when Lady Aethelu mentioned that this would happen again Leofric: EDIT: have happened in the past Edmund: Edmund looked aghast. "Your own father too? Oh lady, you must have lived such fearful lives. But Dunstan has broken free, and with Synne's help is learning to trust." He looked at Synne, wondering whether she had told her news. Hogar: "He's a good man and has come a long way despite his sad past."agreed Hogar about Dunstan sd: "I know. I know that Dunstan killed Morcar. I won't allow it to come out, I'll speak to Garrick about what's happened," said Aethelu, trying and failing to rise. She sighed. "We should have poisoned father, I think mother probably tried. He was ill once when I was young, not long before she fell...or maybe he was really just ill. I know that you mean well and wish to protect your friend, but I'll not sleep tonight now, or his ghost will come back to me and I couldn't bear it." Leofric: Leofric shifted for a moment and sighed sadly at the horrid history and try to comfort Aethelu with words. sd: "Annis, your mother's spilled her drink, get her another," Synne said, little sympathy in her eyes. Edmund: Edmund took her hand. "I think Garrick knows. He spoke about sons killing fathers... He may not believe there is ever a justification for killing a father, but when a man abuses a father's power, then if there is not other recourse..." sd: "Lady Aethelu, as I know your secret you should know mine," Synne said sharply. "I was never abducted, I fled, and I even killed a man to stay free. I only returned because these people persuaded me that your nephew would make a good husband who wouldn't mistreat me and make me a slave. You won't make Annis go through something like that just so she can have what should be hers by rights. And this is a command, not a request. You'll make it clear to Lord Garrick that Annis won't marry anyone but who she chooses, or I fucking swear to you, I will make sure everyone in Palania knows what your father was." Edmund: Edmund sighed at Synne's method of delivery but he did not disagree with her sentiments. sd: Lady Aethelu sighed. "As you say. Now, will you leave me alone please? I want to talk to my daughter when she returns. Keep the door from opening too widely when you leave, I don't want anyone to be able to look in and see me in this state." Edmund: Edmund nodded and rose with a little bow to Aethelu. "We will do everything we can to help, just ask," he said quietly to her. sd: Synne stalked from the chamber and waited for the party outside. She gave Annis a hug as she passed. "You've wed me into a nice clan," she said mildly when Annis had gone in to see her mother. "Still, I'll make sure they try not to behave like total cunts." Edmund: "Most of them are victims as well, even Morcar it seems," Edmund replied. "But who knows what goes on behind closed doors. We will do our best to straighten this thing out." Leofric: Leofric sighed slightly once it look like Lady Aethelu is doing better and left the outbuilding. "All we can do..." He muttered after Edmund's words. Leofric: He eyed around the surrounding to make sure the area is secure. Hogar: Hogar looked like he would rather be anywhere else. "How, though?"he whispered to Edmund "There is only so much we can do here, other than convince the people who are at fault or did not do as much as they can to apologise." sd: a serving man came up to the party as they returned towards the main entrance to the feast hall. "Pardon, masters, your man Maccus has sent me to fetch you." Edmund: Edmund shook his head, "We can but help to soften the blows, or protect those who need our aid. "As they approached the doors of the hall, Edmund put his hand on Synne's arm. "You may have the tact of a rabid, but I for one am glad we were able to help you, and Dunstan too. Edmund: edit * tact of a rabid ox Leofric: Leofric eyed a serving man and quicked his pace as if he is ready for a fight, "Lead the way." Edmund: Edmund walked quickly after him. "I hope this isn't trouble." Leofric: Leofric sighed for a moment, "We always walk into troubles!" He muttered Hogar: Hogar seemed almost relieved to have Maccus' call bring them outside there. He walked quickly with the others. sd: Maccus was apparently to be found in another small, half constructed outbuilding. "He...he told me to say that he was downstairs, in the first room on the right, and you should enter quietly," the serving man said, looking uncertain. Edmund: Edmund looked at the man warily. "Is he not on his own?" sd: "He's not, no." Hogar: "I don't think this is an ambush, but it is a weird situation."said Hogar to the others Leofric: Leofric gave his thanks, "Thank you for your help." sd: Edmund crept downstairs carefully, with Hogar and Leofric behind him - Beomund still being engaged elsewhere with Lady Coenburg. The downstairs section of the building appeared to be a barracks of sort, however most of its chambers were incomplete. The first room on the right, however, had at least a bed. As Edmund entered carefully, he saw Maccus was in the bed, lying with another man who was atop the Coelneyman, kissing him. The man was big, with the muscles of a warrior, and there was a puckered scar on his back which looked like where an arrow had pierced all the way through - whoever the man was, he was fortunate to have survived such an injury. Neither he nor Maccus seemed to notice Edmund's stealthy entrance. Edmund: Edmund cleared his throat and spoke rather uncertainly. "We were told you wanted to see us." sd: the man atop Maccus turned with a stunned look on his face, but before he could pull free the Coelneyman wrapped his legs round the man's middle. "Ah, yes, I did. I apologise for this heartshameful entrance, but I thought some of the things my companion was intimating to me earlier were things he might not express if you didn't find us in this particular situation."
"You bastard, you tricked me! They'll fucking kill me!" Maccus' bed mate cried.
"You should close the door," Maccus said to Edmund, tightening his legs. "If you wish me to repeat what I was doing earlier, Alhstan, then be still and cooperate. These people are friends and you needn't fear them." Edmund: "Come in!" Edmund told his companions. "And close the door quickly." Leofric: Leofric entered the chamber and closed the door once Hogar went in with him. He stood against the door, with his arms closed, his dark eyes glitters in the gloom Hogar: "Well...."said Hogar matter-of-factly "I hope what comes out of this is worth this intrusion on your...privacy." sd: Alhstan managed to break free of Maccus' legs and guiltily fling a blanket over himself in a pathetic attempt to muster some dignity. "My most heartpleasing companion is Alhstan of Rulburna, he was telling me something I thought you would find interesting," said Maccus. "Repeat what you told me about that man Ailwin."
Alhstan's eyes on Maccus alternated between fury and terror. "The Ealdorman will fucking kill me, I told you!"
"These are the heroes of the Plague Fields, eyelovely one," said Maccus with a yawn. "If Ealdorman Felgild bothers them they will crush him like an insect. "And you should pay no mind to those who try to make you feel heartshamed." Leofric: Leofric eyed Alhstan with pure steel will and asked in his serious tone, "Who is Ailwin and what relevancy is he?" sd: "I serve Lord Daedharh, I'm one of his armsmen," explained Alhstan. "So was Ailwin, I...I got to know him for a time."
"When you bedded him, yes," Maccus interjected casually. "He had similar predelictions to you and I. And don't be stupid. At times I will lay with men, and at others with women, and there is only dishonour in this if you wish there to be."
"Well...regardless. He joined the Ealdorman's guard and I didn't see him after that. He'd, ahh, become close to another. The Ealdorman found out and had the penalty for our...predeliction...applied." Leofric: Leofric pursed his lips and said, "Ah... how unfortunate for Ailwin." He frowned as he considered this as he asked, "What happen next?" sd: Leofric: Leofric pursed his lips and said, "Ah... how unfortunate for Ailwin." He frowned as he considered this as he asked, "What happen next?" sd: "There were rumours that he was...rather close with master Leof. Leof was in the Hills fighting dragonspawn, Ailwin had taken a wound in another battle and so he stayed behind and so the Ealdorman was able to take him...he's dead now." Edmund: "What did Leof do when he returned and discovered Ailwin's fate?" Edmund asked. "Although I think we know." sd: "Everyone knows what he did, but not why," said Alhstan. Hogar: "So for Leof Ailwin was more than a friend, and that explains why he reacted so violently to the punishment."said Hogar sd: "Ailwin was found dead afterwards. They said Leof had killed him, maybe he even did. Certainly he went to visit Ailwin, and then he went to kill the Ealdorman." Ed: "So it seems Leof became an attempted patricide for his personal reasons, not witchcraft or evil influence after all," Edmund said quietly. sd: "That is how it seems, yes," said Maccus. "I thought this information was best provided to you in person. Do you wish to speak to Alhstan any further? We have matters to attend to." Ed: "Unless you know where Leof is now?" Edmund asked Alhstan. sd: Alhstan shrugged. "The Cambers, probably? He might well be dead, though I doubt it. He's the greatest swordsman I've ever known, I doubt the dragonspawn could stop him if he wanted to pass through." Ed: "Thank you for giving us the information Alhstan," Edmund said. "We'll leave you in peace to carry on," he added with a grin at Maccus. Leofric: Leofric nodded at the couple in bed, "Have a pleasant evening." He said with courtesy, Hogar: Ssiling slightly at Leofric's words, Hogar added "We thank you for what you told us." as they left sd: the party left and began to make their way back towards the feasthall. For a second straight time, before they could enter they were interrupted as Wulfnoth headed towards them, having apparently also left the assembly for a time. To their astonishment, there was a small nightingale perched upon his left shoulder, which hopped across to the right, then back to the left. "Come with me, quickly," he said. "I've just had a message from Erlene, she's out scouting the Hills," he said. "She's the one who sent this bird. I spoke to her a moment ago - the dragonspawn are coming, and in numbers."
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Post by sleepingdragon on Oct 23, 2016 16:12:44 GMT
sd: the party left and began to make their way back towards the feasthall. For a second straight time, before they could enter they were interrupted as Wulfnoth headed towards them, having apparently also left the assembly for a time. To their astonishment, there was a small nightingale perched upon his left shoulder, which hopped across to the right, then back to the left. "Come with me, quickly," he said. "I've just had a message from Erlene, she's out scouting the Hills," he said. "She's the one who sent this bird. I spoke to her a moment ago - the dragonspawn are coming, and in numbers. Leofric: Leofric's eyebrows went up with alarm and he looked slightly concerned by this news. "This is worrying, although not entirely unexpected with the cleansing of this land." He frowned for a moment, "Do we have any more information regarding this force?" Edmund: "We will need to warm our guests and their people," Edmund said gravely. "It seems Coenburg will get her chance to use a sword earlier than she expected." sd: Wulfnoth led the party away from the feast towards his private chambers, where they could speak more openly. "I don't wish to cause a panic. From what Erlene said the main force isn't heading towards Bexcheap, but further south, towards Stanfax. That's where Ealdorman Heorot and his guests are gathering. I'll be contacting him shortly," said Wulfnoth as they came to the door of the living quarters. You whisper to Beomund: he and Coenburg had gone to find some privacy in the guests' quarters. She was a wild lover, having bitten his ear hard enough to draw blood at one point. He returned towards the feasthall to find his companions, and as he drew near he saw them walking off behind Wulfnoth, who appeared rather agitated. Hogar: Hogar seemed almost relieved that there would be fighting to do - as if it would be a relief compared to the current situation. "It's a good thing Erlene spotted them. Should we advance to face them, or help set up defenses?" he asked sd: "There's too many to fight before gathering our forces - I'm more concerned about Erlene. She's taken shelter in a small dell but the creatures are all around her and she can't leave without being seen," Wulfnoth replied. "If we leave Bexcheap now though I suspect that when we return we'll find nothing much left." Beomund: Beomund joined the group as they left the feasthall with Wulfnoth. His hair was hastily flattened, his shirt was pulled up so as to cover more of his neck, and his ear appeared rather reddened. He nodded to the others, and blinked a few times as he moved his focus onto what Wulfnoth had to say. Leofric: Leofric frowned with increased concern for Erlene's fate, Edmund: Edmund gave Beomund a hard look and then a ghost of a smile flitted accross his lips. "Can we not do anything to help her?" Hogar: Hogar acknowledged Beomund's return before turning to the others "She might be able to hold them off for a while, but...we can't let her be taken, something must be done." Hogar is disconnected. Hogar has connected. Leofric: Leofric's eyes glanced around the room. "Yet, we meant to defend Bexcheap from such forces." sd: "I hope you can, I want you to ride out to meet with her. You might need to cause some manner of diversion, or perhaps she'll simply wait until the dragonspawn have gone past her," he said, opening the door and hastily climbing the steps to his private quarters. The nightingale finally hopped down from his shoulders and landed on his desk as they entered. When the door was shut, he continued. "You might have something else you can do. When Erlene was in hiding she watched the creatures go by. At one point a huge winged creature went overhead and she got a look at it. It wasn't a true dragon, thank God, but a wyvern - she saw that it had only two legs and a barbed tail. There was a man riding the wyvern, she caught a glimpse of him as it went overhead. Not a large man, but lean and strong, entirely wearing black. She thought he had a long face, and hard blue eyes." Leofric: Leofric's face looked slightly alarmed, "That sound like Leof to me or most likely sound like him." Edmund: Edmund nodded. "I'd say it's beyond coincidence." sd: "I thought it might be," said Wulfnoth. "Ealdorman Felgild travelled here with Lord Daedharh, but Daedharh came here while Felgild was to continue on towards Stanfax to meet with Ealdorman Heorot. If he knew what was happening I'd guess Leof saw this as a chance to strike at Ealdorman Felgild when he had few of his soldiers with him." Hogar: "The man himself, at last." said Hogar, drily "And with quite a mount. Perhaps this will give us the chance to bring him to justice." Edmund: "Leof really has gone to the bad," Edmund said with a sigh. Leofric: Leofric nodded with steel determination, "We can do what we can do with the diversions and potentially, to deal with a wyvern and its rider." He looked like he doesn't relish this extremely dangerous task at all. sd: "I've taken the liberty of having your horses saddled and your equipment made ready. If you would ride out immediately, I'm going to contact Felgild and Heorot while you get your armour on. Erlene said she's about ten leagues up in the Hills, almost due west of here." Edmund: "I just hope Leof hasn't brought the witch with him," Edmund remarked as they went to prepare themselves. Leofric: Leofric nodded, "Thanks, we will leave immediately." He is ready to rescue Erlene, "I assume you will deal with our honourable guests?" He went with Edmund and made a comment, "That would be interesting! Especially, it seems that she is responsible for pitting Middlemere against Bluebrycg." Edmund: "We will have to deal with her soon or later I expect." Leofric: "If we do, there is a bounty of 500 gold for her head by Middlemere." He muttered Edmund: "That's a fair amount, although we are hardly in need ourselves," Edmund said thoughtfully. "We could use it to build up the community here." sd: the party prepared themselves, donning armour hastily - though Beomund had cast a spell that would protect them even without it on, magic could be dispelled and they didn't want to be caught unprepared. As they mounted their horses, Wulfnoth came out to speak to them. "Felgild has already been attacked!" he said quickly. "A group of about a dozen men and some manner of sorceress ambushed his party while they were heading for Stanfax. He and a few of his Thegns have cut their way out and are fleeing west towards the Belas. I'll organise some fighters to try to intercept these men, but I fear the dragonspawn will be heading in that direction too. When you rendezvous with Erlene, head along the river and try to pick them off from behind." Edmund: "Ah, the witch, I'll be bound," Edmund said excitedly. Leofric: Leofric nodded vigorously, "We will do our best. Not going to be easy." sd: "I'm going to gather the guests and their retainers. Unfortunately some of them have gone wandering - doubtlessly Leof knew a good time to attack would be when our soldiers were happy and drunk! Thank God Erlene has a hatred of mass gatherings and decided to go scouting instead," said Wulfnoth. Edmund: "I doubt if there will ever be a time when we can let down our guard," Edmund said. "Not in our lifetimes at least." Beomund: "I don't think Leof will be counting on Erlene, or on us," said Beomund. Leofric: Leofric sighed slightly, "To be honest, we are very thankful for such scouting." He glanced at Edmund, "Agreed." He gripped his Shifting Blade, "At least, my blade will taste dragonspawn blood in revenge for this land should it come to it" Hogar: "A chance to defeat Leof, the Witch and some dragonspawn - this is a dangerous situation, and yet full of opportunity."said Hogar Leofric: He adjusted his scale armour once more and mounted his warhorse, Aeris with his Shifting Blade ready to use sd: "If Leof and his creatures come to Bexcheap they'll find us made of sterner stuff than they expected," said Wulfnoth grimly. "We need to prepare. God be with you." Leofric: Leofric nodded with same grimness, "God be with you." Edmund: "And with you," Edmund replied with a bow of farewell. sd: as they prepared to ride out word was spreading among the guests. Lord Ulger's face was somewhat white despite his earlier boasted prowess against the dragonspawn. Annis found a soldier so staggeringly drunk he seemed unaware of the situation. He tried to kiss her, and then Atol of Parwick shoved him to the ground and held him down with a massive foot while Annis relieved the man of his axe. Synne had found a spear somewhere and looked entirely as if she planned on using it despite her condition. She paid the party little mind, casting her eyes about as if something was missing. Wulfnoth was speaking to several Changer Elders, but as the party rode off he turned once to watch them, and when they looked back and saw him pointing towards where the Prophet's Star had emerged in the night sky. You whisper to Edmund: they rode along at great speed, hooves pounding. They had passed perhaps a mile from Bexcheap when he heard a groaning sound from amongst a small outcrop of stone off to their left, and when he glanced over he saw a man's hand shakily reach up and grab at a stone, as if trying and failing to pull himself up. Edmund: "Stop!" Edmund called when they were about a mile out from Bexcheap. "There's someone hurt up there." He dismounted and went cautiously over to a small outcrop of stone. Leofric: Leofric frowned for a moment as he fingers his Shifting Blade hilt. "We need to be wary." He moved his mount closer Hogar: Hogar followed Edmund, though he sounded wary sd: as they came nearer, they saw a man pull himself up with difficulty, scrabbling at a bit of stone and pulling himself up into a seated position atop of it. They recognised him, though they could not recall his name - he was one of Lord Renweard's armsmen, who had just come of age to serve him when they themselves had left the Werling estate and removed south to Phalen several years before. He was still shy of twenty, a whip-thin young man with short cut red hair. His left arm was clearly broken, hanging limply by his side, and there was a broken piece of javelin jutting from his abdomen. He waved weakly towards the party. Leofric: Leofric came closer as he glanced at Hogar, "Could you help him with his wounds?" Edmund: Edmund came up to him, although he was keeping a careful lookout. "What happened? Who attacked you?" Leofric: Leofric is still mounted, keeping a close lookout at the surrounding area. Hogar: "Give the man a moment's respite." said Hogar as he set to the task of checking the man's wounds and pulling out the javelin from his belly without widening the wound sd: the man grimaced. "There was a group of men, half a dozen of them or so, and a woman," he said. "When you and Lady Synne went out to speak to Lady Aethelu, the Lord Renweard thought he would have a breath of the air. He had two more of us as guards and we thought it would be safe if we stayed near to Bexcheap. The woman suddenly appeared - one of the most beautiful women I've ever seen, I'll tell you - and was asking us for directons to the village. While we were distracted the men came out of hiding from among the rocks and attacked us, I took a javelin before I even knew what was happening." Edmund: Edmund exchanged a significant look with Leofric. "What happened to Lord Renweard and the rest of them?" Leofric: Leofric exchanged a look with Edmund, knowing who is this lady most likely to be sd: "Lord Renweard tried to escape and raise an alarm, the woman spoke some manner of spell and let out some manner of crackling ball, Lord Renweard fell over and the men took him. The other two are dead, their bodies are...maybe half a mile west of here I think," the man said. "Listen. I thought I was going to die too, they could have cut my throat. The woman stood over me and told me to go back to Bexcheap. I should 'fetch the Gastonlanders," she said. She said they were going to ride north, along the lake. She said if you don't follow, and alone, then they're going to torture Lord Renweard to death." Edmund: "Well, at least we can now confirm the witch is definitely behind this," Edmund said, his face exceptionally grim. Hogar: Hogar grimaced. "She knows about us - despite our fame, I somehow hoped she wouldn't seek us out." Leofric: Leofric sighed for a moment as he considered this, "Thank you for your help. You have done well." Edmund: "It proves one thing, she is afraid of us," Edmund said. Beomund: "Can you make it back from here?" Beomund asked. sd: the man nodded slowly. "If I was going to bleed out I would have done it already. Their horses aren't that good, just farm animals they've stolen I think. If you ride hard you could catch them quickly." Edmund: After thanking the man, Edmund indicated to the others that they should speak privately. "We have to rescue Erlene first, but I don't think we should let this man know. Suppose the witch has put in place some way to monitor him, or to listen?" Leofric: Leofric nodded, "There are spells that allow to listen" Leofric: He glanced around for a moment and quickly casted the spell to sense magic as he muttered and gestured Leofric: He glanced at his new Ring of Shaping You whisper to Leofric: - along with the manifold arcane aromas arising from his companions and their gear, Leofric sensed a few spells from Bexcheap - indeed, as the Changers there awoke to the threat they were using their own magic, and he sensed a magical signature he felt sure was Wulfnoth's casting a spell at that exact moment. ignoring these, he put out his senses in other directions.
North of them, at the very edge of his senses, he felt unfamiliar sensations. He felt a half-dozen dweomers of an unfamiliar tradition - a higher magic, but he guessed more in tune with the practises of the Soiled Sisters and the Nighthawks than the sorceries of the Conclave. It left a powerful taste of horseflesh in his mouth, one so powerful it made him glance down at Aeris for a mad moment, lips watering. There were two other minor cantrips - one he recognised well, having a taste like strong nectar. A lesser version of the very spell he was using. The second took him a moment to recognise, having a clear, crisp flavour like iced wine. A sip of that draught and he felt his senses would be sharpened, especially his vision. He had known Sigrun to utilise this cantrip herself, a spell to magnify sight and allow her to scrutinise badly damaged scripts, or to see from greater distances - if the witch had this spell on her and was within his own magic's range, then Leofric thought it quite possible she was looking at them at that exact moment. Leofric: Leofric stood still for a moment and said, "They are about a mile away and it is possible that the witch is looking at us with magnified witchsight. They have some strange talents that improve their riding skill." Edmund: "We need to get away from her spying if possible," Edmund said urgently. Hogar: "Careful."said Hogar "She might notice what you are doing and perhaps do something about it - cast a spell back at you, or just kill or torture the man." Beomund: "Can you find Erlene as well, perhaps?" suggested Beomund. "If the dragonspawn have moved past her we might be able to focus on the witch and her men." Leofric: Leofric blinked for a moment, "I can get in touch with Erlene about it." Leofric: He focused inward, trying to get in touch with Erlene Leofric whispers: "Hello Erlene, how are you doing?" You whisper to Leofric: "Hello Leofric. I still haven't been able to move and this stone against my back is killing me, but there are worse things that could be killing me now. I'd guess there's maybe three hundred dragonspawn, two or three times that number of undead, and a few groups of humans on their side. I wish I knew their language, I'd have picked up a great deal of information by now. I hope none of them use a detection spell at the moment or your telepathy would show up and I'd be fucked, but I don't imagine they're going to just use something like that for the sake of it. I think there's multiple clans, the golden point on their shields has changed position a few times." Leofric: Leofric passed on the message, "About three hundred dragonspawns, six to nine hundred undead and few groups of humans on their side. Several clans are involved. She is still unable to move." Leofric: She said this with some concern. Hogar: "Dreadful numbers, and even more dreadful to know humans are siding with them." Leofric whispers: "Unfortunately, we got some issues here as well. A witch kidnapped Lord Renweard and wish to draw us off to north and currently spying us. So we may be delayed. Would you be safe there for bit longer?" He asked regretfully. You whisper to Leofric: "Fuck. Frankly, you coming towards me is more likely to get me spotted than it is to help, it's not like you can fight several hundred dragonspawn on your own. Go after Renweard, and contact me in an hour, either the dragonspawn will all be past me by that point, or if not then there's too many and we should all be running like hell. When they've gone I'll use a spell to move more quickly and try to meet up with you." Leofric: Leofric nodded as he repsonded Leofric whispers: "We will do our best! God be with you." Leofric: Leofric said, "She heard and since it is still very risk to go after her, we should go after Renward instead You whisper to Leofric: "I'd sooner four or five hundred Thegns, but that'll have to do." Edmund: Edmund frowned. "What about Felgild?" Leofric: Leofric frowned for a moment, "That would have to wait. We have to eliminate that group north or they will come back here and cause even more trouble." Edmund: "The sorceress will be delighted, this was what she intended," Edmund said, in an unusually angry tone. Leofric: Leofric sighed, "Well, let make sure she is clearly disappointed...." Leofric: Leofric look ready to go north Leofric: "Beside, they are about a mile north." He gestured sd: deciding to head after Lord Renweard, they sent his armsman on towards Bexcheap and then rode north. As they went, they saw in the distance from a high knoll a group of riders emerge from behind the rocks and speed away north. Their anger was hot within them - clearly the intent was to draw them as far from the invading dragonspawn as possible, and apart from abandoning Lord Renweard to a grisly fate, all they could do was to go after them as quickly as possible sd: they tore after Renweard's abductors, their warhorses pounding through the stony hills with tremendous speed. as the armsman had said, their quarry's mounts were only farm animals, not well suited to keeping up with the great steeds of Gastony, and soon they were gaining quickly. Amongst the stones their quarry tried to lose them, but Beomund was able to find safe and speedy paths through, with he and Edmund following the kidnappers' tracks. As they pursued, the kidnappers began to climb a narrow path, but Leofric examined the surroundings and realised it would bend back towards them shortly, and rather than wasting time trying to follow Hogar was able to find another way around, allowing them to gain several minutes on their enemies.
They rode hard after the kidnappers as they began to descend. Ahead of them was a more open area, and in that open ground their superior mounts would allow them to rapidly catch their foes. The kidnappers appeared to be steering towards a narrow gully to the west, sheltered from view and with only a single steep, treacherous pathway down. They raced on towards a rocky shelf near to the path down, desperately trying to outrun their enemies. Their horses were in a lather as they drove them on relentlessly. The kidnappers were certainly more accomplished horsemen than they, and they seemed as if they were going to succeed, until Edmund noticed a dying tree overlooking the shelf. As the bard spotted this, Hogar drove heels to the flanks of his mount and spurred it on, a dark blur speeding towards the edge with reckless abandon. Hogar put up his shield and slammed into the dying tree at full force just as their enemies were about to begin the descent down into the gully. The force of horse and rider sent the long-dead tree crashing down, tearing up the earth overlooking the gully. The tree struck a large stone as it fell and dislodged it, sending a great cascade of stones and snow down into their enemies path. Unable to proceed along their chosen route, the kidnappers were forced to divert back north and towards the open land, passing beneath a shelf like an archway of stone. Realising the party would now inevitably catch them, the men rode towards a small rocky hillock, the only particularly defensible terrain within reach, and waited there. Leofric: Leofric wiped the sweat out of his eyes, "Look like they are waiting for us." He muttered Beomund: "Approach carefully. Who knows what they plan to do with the prisoner," said Beomund, panting from exertion. Leofric: Leofric pursed his lips, "I would have them all killed to a man." His eyes glared at them. Hogar: "Better to face them here and now than later."said Hogar, obviously proud of his earlier feat Leofric: Leofric casted the spell to allow them to see in the dark in case Hogar and Edmund decide to cast Darkness sd: as the party began to cast spells to prepare for a battle to come, a woman's voice suddenly boomed out in the night, under obvious magical enhancement. "Come forward, where we can see you," she called. "Lord Renweard will die if you don't come forward in the next ten seconds, he has two spears pointed at his throat." Leofric: He quickly casted the spell to allow extra strength and haste Beomund: Beomund had cast a spell to sharpen the group's arrows. At the sound of the woman's voice, he glanced at his companions. "Ready?" her murmured, already moving forward. Leofric: Leofric smiled with grimness as he prodded his horse forward, "Ready." Hogar: Hogar had swiftly enchanted his own eyes to perceive magical auras, obviously expecting that to matter in the encounter to come Edmund: Edmund nodded and followed the others. Edmund: "This is madness," he muttered. "We're being manipulated." sd: they rode forward into the open. The enemy had taken up positions atop a small hillock with several large boulders. Around the field there were long-withered trees, and piles of stones. There were six men in dark garb on the hill, wielding either long halberds or else a spear and large shield, all armoured in scale with mail coifs. Two were mounted near one of the large boulders, and pointed their weapons at Lord Renweard who had been hurled to the ground by the stone. Behind the other boulder there was the sorceress, who had dismounted. She was in perhaps her mid-twenties, a dark, handsome woman, though her skin was very pale and seemed stretched. She spoke again. "We have a task for you - a simple one enough, and once you've performed this task we will return Lord Renweard to you. Otherwise, we will be forced to take unfortunate actions for everyone concerned." Edmund: Edmund spoke out, his voice ringing clear. "How can we trust one such as you to fulfil a bargain." sd: "Such harsh words for someone you don't know!" the woman laughed. "But it scarcely matters if you can trust me. The question is whether you'll do as I say or not. Let me explain the task to you simply. There is a bridge which the settlers are rebuilding west of Wapanstede. We want you to ride up to the bridge and prevent anyone from crossing it - you are trusted, so if any groups of soldiers pass by there you can tell them, with the authority of the heroes of the Plague Fields, that you order them to turn back. If you ride hard you will be there by morning, I judge. If you prevent anyone from passing, we'll return Lord Renweard to you at sundown tomorrow." Edmund: "That's an intriguing request lady," Edmund said thoughtfully. "Would you be willing to give us your name?" sd: the woman looked like she was going to refuse off-handedly, then shrugged. "Balethiva is my name." Hogar: Hogar said nothing, but watched the woman with interest, obviously sizing her up and finding her formidable Edmund: "You are an interesting person, lady Balethiva," Edmund said. One hand rested lightly on his flute. "I am most surprised we have never heard of you." Hogar: "You must have had an interesting life."said Hogar, stressing the last word as if implying something "A shame it had to lead to this." sd: Lord Renweard looked at them underneath the hooves of one of the warriors over him. His eyes were afraid, but ready, even for death - he had known many decades of life and would probably not live long even if he was to be rescued. Edmund: Edmund suddenly moved his hand, muttering the words to a spell, and a wall of darkness appeared over the men nearest to them. Leofric: Leofric eyed Hogar with a steel look in his eyes Leofric: understanding Beomund: Meanwhile, Beomund had been murmuring the words to begin a spell of protection, and upon the signal he waved his hand and said the final words, granting magical armor to Lord Renweard. Leofric: Leofric noting the signal decide to throw a shocking spell at the Balethiva, the undead. Hogar: Hogar had been chanting under his breath and gesturing with his free hand, and unleashed a spell immediately after Edmund's - more darkness apparead, covering other men. sd: "Kill the old man! For the Chosen!" Balethiva shouted. Hogar: "Beware, the men have fighting magic of their own!" Hogar warned the others as the battle began Edmund: Edmund began to weave a spell. Leofric: Leofric nodded as he compelled his warhorse forward for a fight sd: the two men standing over Renweard thrust out at him with halberd and spear. Their thrusts were aimed straight at his head and should have pierced right through his skull, but Beomund's spell was like the thickest helm covering him, and their thrusts were turned with only a light gash left on Renweard's face. sd: barring Edmund, who was dismounting, the party rushed forward. The kidnappers, realising that Renweard was protected and that in any event there was little good having a hostage that did not prevent the group from attacking, abandoned him and spurred their horses on. The sorceress meanwhile was casting a spell Edmund: Edmund leapt lightly down from his horse. Edmund: As his companions raced away from him, Edmund completed the spell he was casting. Suddenly a massive mountain cat appeared in the centre of the rocky hillock. Edmund: With screams of fear, the men's horses went berserk, thrashing and rearing to get away, and so terrified that none of their riders were able to control them. Horses trampled the men as they were thrown, and one man was kicked hard in the chest. Freed from their restraint, the horses raced away into the night, frothing and sweating. sd: the sorceress attempted to cast a spell, but at the last moment she got distracted by Edmund's sudden illusion and the arcane syllables tangled on her tongue. She gave a scream, and they felt the occult backlash as her casting failed and rebounded on her mind. Screaming in incohate fury, the sorceress stood, now heedless of safety, consumed with blind rage Edmund: With a muttered prayer of thanks for the chaos his spell had caused, Edmund quickly swung the bow off his shoulder and reached for an arrow, his eyes never leaving the crazed sorceress. Leofric: Leofric on charging Aeristhyht wielded his greatsword managed to strike down on a rider and slashed deeply into the skull and into the chest, He brutally withdrew it and the kidnapper collasped, clearly dead. He looked for another target, his eyes full of pitless fury. Beomund: Beomund struck downward at another kidnapper, striking him heavily in the chest. However, the man had supernatural endurance and remained standing. Hogar: Hogar rode forth between Beomund and Leofric, swinging his axe down at his foe's head with tremendous strength. With a desperate move the dismounted warrior caught the attack on his shield, but then Hogar suddenly shifted in his saddle and managed another swing which split his foe's head in half from pate to neck in a gory spray of blood
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