The Diary Of Snake (A D&D Adventurer)

ALL TALK NO ACTION

2009-09-28T09:50:00.000+08:00

We began our third day as ‘normal’ as we escorted the humans and Vespa back to her father. I stood next to her and I tried to act casual, to conceal my emotions. Phobos again was silent.

Behind me I could hear Rhodes complaining… again… and I begged Torin if he had silence to use it. Soon I had had enough and stormed back to where Rhodes and Berrien were and standing to my full height glared at the dwarf and yelled “If you even think of hurting Vespa I will hang you from the nearest breach by your beard, take out your crag hammer and beat you like a piñata!”

He responded in typical dwarfish fashion by asking about my scales/hide obviously threatening to skin me, Berrien asked “what vexed me so?” I, still enraged spat “what stands before or should I say beneath me and if he is not careful I shall put him beneath the ground!” At that I turned away ignoring whatever prattle he was saying.

We soon arrived at the outskirts of the castle. Soon a crowd gathered and despite not being able to understand them (and Torin’s reluctance to translate) I could tell that they too were pro-dragon born and anti-dwarf. And in my mood I would probably be rewarded for impaling Rhodes for the third time in as many days. Phobos was silent, usually it is she who recommends such things.

We reached the castle and a guard approached us. (Torin translated for us) The guard believed that the princess was at her retreat. Vespa told him that she had been kidnapped by people disguised as city guards and how we had rescued her and we were to be trusted. The guard who travelled with us backed the story up with tales of our gallantry on the journey back. He scanned the group, as if to take our measure and when his eyes met mine he VERY quickly moved on, for only darkness lay in my eyes with the promise of death. When his eyes fell upon Rhodes they turned from fear to abject disgust and scowled at him but due to Vespa’s words to the same he trusted him.

I helped Vespa down from the carriage and we escorted her through the ‘commoners’ quarters where we noticed that there were other races here. These races occupy the other classes/casts. While the half-orks were the laborers the Halflings seemed to be merchants. This did not mean there weren’t ‘nobles’ of those races but due to the predominantly human occupation they were few and far between.

During the walk to meet Vespa’s father several people decided to use Rhodes to see how accurate they could throw their assortments of rotten fruit. As has become custom he voiced his concerns and I only heard the same sound that a Mr Brown heard when his elders spoke to him.

We come into a courtyard where a cage held a bedraggled, dirty dwarf which was next to a gallows. Rhodes grumbled “bloody typical” Berrien tried his best to console him but he is a dwarf.

We soon came to the ‘noble’ district this was cleaner and more aesthetically pleasing and soon we reached the palace. As if on cue they promptly ‘requested’ that the dwarf disarm, in a gesture of friendship Berrien offered up his weapons but Rhodes said it was not necessary. Again the guards made a gesture at the dwarf but Vespa spoke to them and we were permitted to see the king. (Under a six man battle hardened guard of course.)

Vespa was then escorted arm in arm by one of the guards to the throne room. There we saw two thrones. Upon one sat the king and on his left was an empty throne. On it sat bejeweled crown. We all bowed in respect to the king and Vespa ran to him and they hugged. Such happiness I have never had for myself was on their faces and I found myself alone in my thoughts for Phobos’ voice had gone. The king looked at us with the same awed look we’d gotten from others and then the speaking bearded cockroach look when he looked at Rhodes.

Vespa told him of her adventure and our bravery and it was plain for us to see that while he was relieved that she was safe he was even more relieved to know that she was ignorant of her ‘other half’. She then told him of the oddity of us not understanding their language. At this he waved over a courtier who then scurried off. After an uncomfortable wait a tall thin man in a purple robe who’s hair was as white as snow and who’s eyes were purple/red and piercing with skin a black hue appeared to address us. Berrien and Palos both hissed in anger at the appearance of their ancient racial foe.

The Black wizard wove his magic and cast a more powerful version of the comprehend languages spell that Torin used and was able to converse with us. This is where we found out that the dragon born, or dragon lords as they called them, along with their good allies fought in a war some centuries ago. In that war the dwarven god was killed and they turned to evil and thus were branded and treated as such. It was apparent that at the conclusion of the war the dragon lords had ‘gone over the mountain’ to continue the fight and the elves and Eladrin had gone to their crystal cities to await the next big war.

We tried to explain our back ground but the black wizard did not seem to believe in other realms. A combination of Rhodes (I believed at the time to be an error to allow a hated race to speak for us but it was intended to show our trust in him) and my using the obvious differences in our culture seemed to arouse his interest. The two other matters the language barrier and ‘trusting the dwarf’ we settled next I vouched for the dwarf but his weapons still had to be peace knotted and as for the language that was the most weirdest thing I had seen so far.

The wizard called in an attendant who carried a fish bowl with strange looking fish in it, apparently from some place called Bayble for they bared the same name. We were asked to put them in our ear, I did so and I finally could hear their language (and thus Vespa’s.) I told Vespa that it was my pleasure to have protected her and she replied in her sweet voice that I was welcome in the palace and could speak to her at any time.

Soon it came time to perform the ancient custom that has been passed down from adventurer to adventurer regardless of age or experience. Gain reward, spend it all and plead poverty. All while chanting that song of old “how much is that vorpal sword in the window”

While the others purchased their wares I felt it was time to make both a fitting name for myself and a proper title for Phobos. So I commissioned a vampiric blade to be made and in the twilight hours I held Phobos in my hand, her blade now so black your eyes slide right off her. I proclaimed my self Snake “eater of souls” and to Phobos, who I have wielded in battle countless times, Phobos The Black Blade. To my astonishment she replied in my adoptive mothers’ voice. Not in my mind as was with Phobos but in my ears. I was for the first time unable to think of a response to her approval of my self proclamations. For it was not an aspect of my mind that craved to love and be loved but some one who did once before.

She told me that she had forgiven me for being the instrument of her death but could you blame the blade or the madwoman wielding it.

During our conversation I found out she did seek vengeance on my parents but would gladly join me in my quest for happiness whatever the battles we might face, and to my delight she felt no jealousy towards my feelings for Vespa. Only that she did not want me to get hurt.

Over the next two weeks while we got used to the languages and customs of the realm we were in I wrote a poem for Vespa. As the others got their items of power and from what I understood Torin had a credenza or a chiffonier purpose built to fit on his chariot. It was during this time that Rhodes found time to talk with the dwarf that was caged. After refusing to talk to him I skillfully (at Rhodes’ request) snuck him some food but he shouted that by the chained god he would get vengeance.

Towards the end of the second week Malachi (the drow wizard) came with Vespa to see us leaving her in the next room he told us the story of what had happened to her and what was going on.

We were told that when she was young a stranger came to the castle and offered his friendship. When it was refused he bestowed the curse on Vespa. The group that had kidnapped her was a rebel group of soldiers.

The King had an uneasy peace with a neighboring country, Rodania, to which its prince Eugene was to marry Vespa in order to mend the rift. For King Carloft had already sent probing raids into the country and if the marriage failed it may be war.

This of course had one problem. Every full moon she turned into a beast. There was a ritual that a warlock had found that could cure her but could only be done on his tribal lands. The King has asked us to escort her there with promises of great reward. I said I would do it for Vespa and needed not reward but Malachi told me they paid their debts.

Arrayed against us was the usual factions that did not want the marriage to take place (and what of me I thought) along with the allotment of random creatures that got in our way. I did ask Vespa how she felt and she was unsure of marrying someone who she did not know. I gave her my poem and I understood that being the only child put immense responsibilities on her. She thanked me for the poem and was happy that a dragon lord took an interest in her.

So be it. Onward we go to save the princess from a monster and for what? To place her in the arms of another, to risk all for the hope that both kingdoms will be nicer to each other. I cannot be there for her always. I can’t be by her side at every moment (It would be very rude come wedding night) and so I will show her how to defend herself and a few other tricks I have picked up. Love may hurt but a blade below the belt is a nice way to persuade someone to discontinue a course of action.

LOVE BITES

2009-09-28T08:12:00.000+08:00

While writing my diary I tried to draw a picture of what our names were for Vespa. Mine was by far the easiest but the others were not so simple. Before employing this tactic I showed them to the others, the idea was met with some support but Rhodes suggested (and thus defeating my idea) that we speak them phonically. I humored him during his speech because he had forgotten that neither she nor we had any idea what the other was saying. The dialect and syntax was too different in my opinion to make it a viable option.

During the night I had my heart to heart with Phobos about my feelings and she appeared to understand. But still I felt she was holding back, at that time the guard came back with some rabbits. (why is it always rabbits?) The family, a portly pair of human adults and a pair of kids not even six years of age, joined us. But while Vespa was haughty with the adults, she was playful with the kids. Phobos echoed my thoughts when she whispered “like a cat”. The guard seemed to still be wary of us but put his faith in Vespa’s trusting us but not so much Rhodes.

Soon it was time to turn in and Vespa suggested that the children spend the night with her, the parents turned pale and from what I was told by Torin and by their body language they were horrified at this. After much talk and after Torin interposed himself between her and the family trying to indicate that he would protect them Vespa relented and in a huff went to bed alone. I tried to be a comfort by drawing myself in a protective stance over her sleeping form but that did little to sooth her mood. The guard approached Torin and thanked him for his intervention and then he told him to “beware the moon”.

Berrien told us of certain creatures that were affected by the cycles of the moon and some people even worshiped it so we should be on our guard. This apparently entailed everyone being with in striking distance of Vespa’s cart/bed. I however slept in the tent with Phobos angry at the others for being THAT untrusting and I said “If they kill her they die”. As I drifted off I heard Phobos whisper “Does that include me?”

I was awoken by Palos yelling “Get up the monster has awoken!” At which I thought “it has now!”

Torin tried to get the monsters attention. He pointed at it violently and using both hands pressed together palm to palm he brought them to the side of his face and using all his arcane mastery he indicated that the monster should go back to sleep if it be so kind and awaited the response of the beast, Rhodes however shouted a terrible beast is attacking the princess!” to which Torin responded "It is the princess”. Rhodes then remarked ”SHUT UP I'm getting my story straight” He then attacked and I heard both his hit and the beasts response and the roar of pain and tearing of flesh.
Vespa (the beast) leaped over my tent, dodging Rhodes swing, and landed along side Torin who seeing that his masterful plan had failed cast Bigbie’s hand but a quick swipe from Vespa made him miss and she moved into the tent to feast of the meal within and as a regal does started with the entrées.

As the boy was devoured Palos appeared in front of the tent in a flash attempting to save the family. His two swords flashing cut into her flank. In response she wheeled around and slashed him with a claw. I leaped to my feat drawing my blades and said” In no uncertain terms are we to slay her”. I could hear Berrien awaken Hescan via a bow poke to the gut and the wine thunk of the arrow striking the beast Vespa.

Rhodes charged but his blow missed he then shouted” Avast ye' bastard I've come to slay you as I've done before!” I retorted” you haven't slain me yet Dwarf”. The beast suddenly became a cloud of claws and despite an arrow appearing in its flank from Berrien who shouted ”Don't kill it it's the princess” to that Rhodes replies ”Thanks I never figured that out”. But the blows took their toll on Torin, Rhodes and Palos all of whom got clawed and pushed back and flattened, save for Rhodes whose closeness to the earth helped him stay upright. Torin tried to use his Bigbie’s hand again but the beast dodged. Palos flipped onto his feat and charged the beast but his swords only found fur, Hescan awoke stood up and in a commanding voice yelled ”fight on” and I could see Palos' wounds heal, I slithered up to her flank saying ”Forgive me my princess”, stabbed her in the flank then Phobos blinded her. I then had to swallow my spit due to the families presence. The guard got his act together and took a swipe at the beast, I gestured him to get the family out.

Rhodes hid (quite well) and struck the beast but got cut from her spiny hide. Palos scored a glancing blow on her as Torin's Bigbie’s hand failed again. The beast tried to leap clear of us and despite taking a huge amount of damage fled. I gave chase and sliced into her flanks and Hescan backed me up delivering the knockout blow. Right then in front of our eyes the beast changed shape and reverted to that of the princess. Even as Phobos said it I used my cloak to cover up the princess. It was at that point that Rhodes complained that it was because of the fact she was the princess we could not kill it.

As Hescan tended to the wounded and buried what remained of the boy we discussed what had happened and it was agreed that she was a lycanthrope but that was not all, the guard told us that not only was she under a curse but her father has been concealing the fact from her (hence the lock up). That led us to the next problem. Tomorrow night there would be one final full moon, so we had to come up with a plan. As we discussed this Berrien consoled the human noble female. Her husband, who was quite distraught, made remarks at Rhodes which needed no translation. Rhodes understood. “Humans have such short lives to have kids”.

There were a few more problems to be rectified, the most pressing of which was that Vespa had no clothes. Despite Phobos' remarks on typical male groups we did eventually get the noble woman to give us some of hers.

Then came the matter of prevention. This did result in two things: One, we “secured” her in what remained of the canvas of her tent. Two, we needed to make a sleeping potion to keep her asleep.

I admitted “I lack the knowledge but if I had the right ingredients I could give it a shot.”

The rangers, while we traveled, tried to find some herbs that we could use but being in a foreign land came back with what the guard indicated was poisonous. He showed them the colored tip to seek out. It was near dark when they returned and as the sky turned black I had made a potion that I believed would work.

I then goatherd up the poisonous plants and pocketed them. Berrien’s keen eyes fell upon me and he warned me on invoking his ire should I use them.

Soon we ate and thanks to the noble woman Vespa ate the potion. Whence she fell into a deep slumber, to our relief. That did not prevent the same if not even more excessive “precautions”.

I again was alone with Phobos and my thoughts when it happened. The others were arrayed in a combat formation ready to strike the moment the beast appeared. (A lot of faith in me eh?)

Palos bow in hand fired two shots, both piercing her furry hide. Berrien’s follow up spiting tree attack bounced off the cart. Hescan moved up and using warlords strike slammed his weapon into Vespa’s ribs, strengthening us all. He then used hammer and anvil on her and Rhodes struck her with a mighty blow. In response Vespa tried to move but Rhodes cut into her, as she passed she retaliated and clawed him. Again she turned into a cloud of claws striking Rhodes, Berrien and Hescan. Rhodes got the worst of it as chunks of flesh and blood were ripped off his torso. The others received nasty cuts and were knocked flat. I remembered its last appearance, so drawing both blades became one with the shadows. I awaited it to try and eat the family, Rhodes, despite his many attempts to hit, missed again and took on his rein of steel stance.

Palos woke Torin using the most ancient of techniques. Then using shadow wasp strike pierced her furry skin and she howled in pain. Both Berrien’s and Torin’s shots/spells missed their mark. Hescan rose to his feat and charged, striking Vespa, Vespa leaped over the others in an attempt to escape, I gave chase striking once from afar.

Now seeing that if she ran I could not return her to her family I charged after her, and with Phobos dark blade glistening in the moonlight, and despite the damage from her fur, cut deep into her legs, and as she screamed in pain a single tear ran unnoticed down my cheek, for it had nearly crippled her.

Rhodes joined me and his crushing blow hurt her even more. Vespa barely dodged Palos jaws of the world as he moved up. Berrien’s electrified arrows whizzed over head and Hescan's blow like wise missed. Even as Torin’s magical missiles exploded into her it was Rhodes stance attack that felled her. Fortunately for her (and even more for him) he did not go for his much wanted kill.

She collapsed once more to revert to her beautiful self.

I find my self now in a foreign land with foreign thoughts and feeling, “Why do I feel this way about this human? Is it because of her monstrous side? But if that is true why do I want to save her from it? Why is the hunger easier to quell when she is with us? Above all else. Why do I want to protect her from others with my life?” I've asked Phobos but she is silent.

EVERYONE HATES RHODES

2009-08-15T08:26:00.002+08:00

After a short rest and some magical transference of power I suggested that we partake in some petty and pointless vandalism trashing the keep and setting it on fire etc. For once I had an accord with the dwarf (maybe I was wrong about him?).

As we made our way to the entrance of the keep I collected Kallel’s body, strung him up at the entrance to the portcullis and then activated the trap. As the hot liquid poured over the lifeless form of my victim the scent of cooking meat and internal organs reached my nostrils, waiting until he was well done I decapitated him skillfully, removed the top of his burnt skull and had myself a nice morning tea (I saw it in a play once about an archaeologists adventures in a temple of some sort).

“This place has been good to you” Rhodes said, true if not ironic words.

Our leader started to lead the party to the swamps where we came from when I reminded them that the keep was also a week point in the veil between our realms (I would regret this). So he wove his magic, cast his spell and the portal appeared.

Stepping through, the tunnel turned from its normal blue to insidious red and a demonic voice informed us that we “had interfered for the last time” and that he would “send us to the lowest plane of hell” where we would “suffer unspeakable torment for all eternity” he then gave a impressive maniacal laugh. Suddenly the tunnel turned back to its blue colour and a female voice told us that she was interceding and that while she could not send us to our realm she could put us where we could do some good. (totally ruining the demonic voices nice monologue) And so in a flash we were on a pebbled beach overlooked by cliffs of a white hue, the voice then said “I hope you can make a difference, do you best”

I pondered the recent event while finishing my snack. The voice had asked us to do good and then to do our best but my best is far from good so what in Zhirs name does this voice want from me. My thoughts were interrupted by Rhodes asking me was I intending to keep onto Kallels head? I responded that I was going to make a goblet out of him. At this he strenuously objected and argued that it is wrong to do this to a sentients body and I should cast it into the sea. I stared him in the eyes and demanded the same from him and his comrades in regards to the dragon they carved, up without regard for me or Torin, for what ever foul purpose they had in mind. Unfortunately while my point was well validated it did spark the “back in the time of the dwarven empire” monologue.

We headed towards the cliffs where we found a crudely carved staircase with some writing on it that none could decipher. Climbing them we came insight of a keep. Our keen eyes noticed that the doors were open and being the adventurous types that we are went to investigate.

Inside we found signs of battle, bits of what were people strewn around, the stables had been smashed but the most telling thing was that the damage came from within. We decided to announce ourselves in response a voice in a language that we did not understand responded thinking quickly I grabbed some debris and a(thanks to a prestidigitation) white cloth tried to indicate that we meant no harm(yet). A guard appeared upon the stairs looked at us then his eyes fell on Rhodes on spat on the ground.

At this time we acted quickly, Torin cast a spell so that he could understand the guard while the rest of us showed our respect to the fallen, as Torin cast his spell a second voice this one obviously female had called out and despite not understanding her or him it was obvious she was in trouble and the guard retreated.

Palos, Berrien and myself with Phobos at my side faded into the shadows as Rhodes stated “the enemy of my enemy is my friend” went for the doors (where some tracks/drag marks were) adjacent to the stairs where I was headed. Berrien covered Rhodes and I remarked that we would flush the enemies toward them. Rhodes opened the door and found that five humans awaited him. He then charged up the stairs to his left. Berrien also entered the room and promptly shot the crossbowman causing nice wounds, in return the crossbowman shot him in the chest. Torin picked on the crossbowman as well shooting him with a well placed magic missile, he did however tell us that they had said to “defend the princess” I heard a voice that was my own but the words that came out could not have been mine “disable them don't kill them” it said.

Palos having reached the top of the stairs and moved to the corridor there he open a door. He came across the humans that had been lying in wait and one of the humans(h1) struck him knocking him down to the ground, leaping to his feet Palos used evasive strike to enter the room where the human had retreated hitting solidly. I moved up to cover Palos' rear and attacked the same human (h1) as if it had started a trend, Rhodes joined in on the fun but missed then assumed a stance of steel. Berrien continued his ranged duel with the crossbowman and took a shot at the human behind(h4) but missed both. The crossbowman was just as inaccurate his bolt shattering on the door frame. The much picked on human(h1) took a hit from Rhodes(due to the stance) and missing his shot tried to retreat and got another, Rhodes skills as a fighter came to the fore as he struck all within reach and dodged or parries all comers attacks, Torin’s magic missile smashed against the wall near the crossbowman.

Palos shifted up but missed, I was not so graceful as I moved in to attack. I slipped on some invisible debris and was wide open to attack, Rhodes shifted up dropping his shield and drawing his mordencrag but his blow glanced of his opponents armor(h3). Berrien sent a shot into the crossbowman causing a near fatal wound, he then charged his bow but his splintering impacted the ground. One of the humans(h2)struck Palos wounding him but the others(h3,h4) despite, or because of, the stance damage couldn't lay a blade on Rhodes. Only the grievously wounded “leader”(h1) got in a blow. Torin’s magic missiles sent the crossbowman crashing into the ground and unconsciousness.

Palos twin strike rendered the human he was pursuing(h1) unconscious, I slither up into a flanking position and nearly eviscerated the unmarked human(h4) then I spat at them causing more wounds(h2,h3) and as I tried to finish off my prey(h4) I overstepped and became vulnerable myself. Rhodes missed his target and assailed his ears with profanities. Berrien took down his opponent (h2) with a well placed shot, Rhodes' stance power took down one human(h4) even as another human missed(h3)and Torin’s magic missile exploded above his head.

Palos' thin strike wounded the remaining human and I shifted up and with a nice blow knocked him out(to my and Phobos' amazement I did not have an accident or a whoops my finger slipped moment)

While we tied up the guards Berrien opened the door to find a heavily manacled female human “dressed” in rags she seemed surprised to see him, not that she was rescued it was as if she had never seen an Eladrin before and the strange reactions didn't end there. When Torrin and I entered the room she had a look of what can only be described as awe on her face and an even bigger surprise (and to my delight), upon seeing Rhodes she had a look of abject disgust as if something she trod on has tried to have a discussion with her.

We searched the room and found an anomaly, scratch marks, after failing to get any info on it from the female I gave her the traitorous rangers clothing(one from a pre-diary encounter who's head I also carry) to wear. Berrien gave her a sword, weather or not she can fight is yet to be seen. With Torrins help we managed to understand her name was princess Vespa and that if we escorted her to her father there would be a reward in it. We found a map and it was a four day journey.

Vespas repeated sighs of distaste of having Rhodes in her presence caused him to remind us all of the fact that his race has faced persecution before, and for many lifetimes have they endured, and even in this far flung realm he would also endure, no mater what the hardship or racial abuse he would have to face. I remarked to Berrien with a sympathetic look “We need a bard”.

On the first day of travel we passed from farm areas into the wilderness were we come upon a caravan being asalted by hobgoblins again the strange feeling of being unsure of my actions came over me even when Vespa asked “Are you not going to help the guards my lord?” I did note that the standard on the humans was the same as the ones at the keep. Palos,unaffected by the same malady as me, shot a hobgoblin to which Vespa responded “Good shot sir elf”. At this I finally had some clarity and yelled to the others (and Phobos noted to myself) Target selected let the slaughter commence". And as one on the human guards collapsed to the ground I struck one of the hobgoblin with spite, Berrien taking my cue finished it off (this made the princess happy indeed) the others moved forward to engage.

Palos fired again at the hobgoblins and the human killed another. Two more hobgoblins
appeared and attacked the guard, Berrien deeply wounded one of the hobgoblins nearest the guard, Torrin likewise wounded one of the close hobgoblin. Rhodes ran forward shouting out about the injustices of his race and himself as Vespa said "your slave is escaping”.

Palos fires an arrow and grazed his target, the remaining hobgoblin attacked the guard while gesturing emphatically at Rhodes but missed. I finished off the hobgoblin nearest the guard leaving Berrien to delay and Torrin to spit at the two remaining ones. To the hobgoblins shock Rhodes (an ally in this realm?) jumped on a nearby rock and struck the hobgoblin who quaked with a crushing blow.

Palos moved forward to reach the hobgoblins, both hobgoblins missed their targets and my shot deflected off the rocks. The remaining guard got into flack and impaled the hobgoblin. Berrien still covering the princess tried to get her to draw her sword. Torrin's magic missile hit the last hobgoblin hurting him. Rhodes, full of anger, struck the last hobgoblin so hard it was driven into the ground like a steak.

After the battle the guard eyed us with caution but upon seeing the princess stood down.
We returned to the wagon he was protecting to find a family of well dressed humans inside (nobility perhaps).

What a realm we have entered and what does one make of this decision by a goddess to put us here in the hopes we will make a difference but she left out in what way, for good or ill?

And then theres Princess Vespa either I'm beginning to like her or I'm going to end up killing her I must be careful how I talk to Phobos about this for I could feel the “Typical male look” the second she got on bended knee in her room and I smiled, sheepishly mind you, at Berrien because no matter what I say in my defense she can turn it against me but that being said I think its time I told her about my family and why I feel the way I do around Vespa.

FULL CIRCLE

2009-07-17T16:45:00.000+08:00

We left the scene of carnage blood still dripping from us and a quick search revealed a secret door as is standard practice I did not find any traps and with my usual skill unlocked it. In doing so I noticed that there had been recent activity as recent as three days ago. Opening the door we found a corridor that ended in a dead end but the exit might as well have had a flashing sign saying SECRET DOOR HERE for it was that obvious as was the simple trap. Through the door I heard conversation regarding a ceremony – the one involving my fallen comrades, so we set up an assault order, I loaded a malice missile and opened the door.

What greeted me was a sight that boiled my blood. The Paladin was strapped to a statue in the likeness of Orcus, across the room a hobgoblin archer (1) shouted a warning to his fellow soon to be deads. Berrien leaped into the room sighting three hobgoblin archers and a dire wolf at which he fired two shots striking once. I loosed a malice missile striking hobgoblin (1) its acid eating his flesh. Hobgoblin (1) still reeling from his melting hide retreated and fired at Berrien but the arrow went wide. I heard a guttural curse and an arrow hitting the floor as if dropped. Another arrow flew at Berrien and grazed his arm. The dire wolf growled and ran up the stairs to attack us but became somewhat stuck and vulnerable as it was too big to fit. Palos moved then charged one of the hobgoblins out of my sight (3) and I heard the familiar slicing sound of a hit. Guy called upon his god and sent a burning column of light at the dire wolf but it shrugged off most of the blow. The dwarf charged the dire wolf striking a good blow he struck again but the wolf ducked Torin, our fearless leader, cast chill strike at the wolf chilling its veins he then warmed it up again with his fiery spit.

Berrien’s shot may have missed the wolf but I used its trajectory to score a nice hit drawing gouts of blood. To my left I could hear the hobgoblin (3) assail Palos but had to duck when Berrien shot at him even though it missed and he did little damage Again the sound of arrows dropping to the floor came from the center of the room as hobgoblin (2) fumbled. My previous targets (1) shot may have hit Berrien but did little damage. Suddenly Kallel appeared from a secret door and struck Berrien with the black mace. The dire wolf scratched the dwarf, Palos pressed his assault on his quarry as his first blow was deflected then cam the sound of flesh and bone giving way when Palos cleft the hobgoblin (3) in twain with the other sword. Guy cast beacon of hope then asked his god to heal Berrien and his prayer was answered in spades as Berrien was healed to full fighting fitness. The dwarf used brash strike on the embattled dire wolf caving in its scull (die Bubu die good dog woof) Torin’s’ thoughts turned tactical as he thought to use the door as cover for his next attack, giving him total cover against reprisals but his keen intellect devised that he could not open the door attack and then close the door with any chance of success so he sent a magic missile at the melted hobgoblin (1) but in his impatience he missed and settled for covering our rear flank.

Berrien shifted and shot Kallel I too shifted and struck a powerful blow on him I then tried a repost strike but it glanced off his armor. The hobgoblin(1) with half a face attacked the dwarf but barely scratched him finally figuring out how to use a long bow the hobgoblin with butter fingers took aim and with great skill missed Guy completely but no-one seemed to notice. Kallel moved to attack Guy striking him twice causing his flesh to rot and decay. Guy activated his symbol shifted and healed his wounds. The dwarf shifted and using brash strike deeply wounded Kallel. Torin cast a shocking spear at Kallel and was clipped for the insolence.

Berrien drew his swords but his blows were deflected with Phobos singing from the last attack I used a combination of blade and poisonous spit to further wound Kallel in what must have been a miracle the archer that couldn’t finally managed to hit someone. His arrow struck Palos who instinctively swatted the mossie bite, his comrades (1) attack missed Berrien. Kallel attacked the dwarf causing his flesh to rot away, Palos struck Miss Missy (2) and Guy struck at Kallel, but missed, who shifted to give the dwarf flank, who failed to hit, our leader tactically decided to heal.

Berrien teleported to a corner of the room and sent two electrically charged shots at both Kallel and Mr. Melty (1) striking both. I shouted “Fly Phobos, remove his sight and we shall soon remove his life and heart” and as she blinded Kallel we both drank of the blood now seeping from his wounds. The now blind Kallel missed the dwarf .Palos twin struck his opponent slaying him while Guy cast sacred flame upon Kallel and a column of flame seared his flesh. The dwarf stumbled (on his beard perhaps) and Torin cast a thunder wave hitting the remaining archer (1) but not Kallel.

Berrien shot at Kallel piercing his armor and flesh so I moved up and Phobos bit deep into Kallels left lung and neatly parried an attack from Mr. Melty. Kallel attacked the dwarf twice both blows powerful and his skin turned a sickly pallor. Palos drew his bow and sent two shots at Kallel both bounced off his armor. Guy sent a second sacred flame at Kallel burning him just as the dwarf shifted and using a brash strike dealt Kallel a mighty blow. Torin magic missiled the last archer, killing him.

Berrien fired his electrically charged shot into Kallel. I shouted “For blood! For friendship! For revenge!!” and Phobos flew out and pierced Kallels heart. I then leaped the distance between us and ripped out Kallels heart with my bare hands and treated it like a heart shaped apple.

As we feasted upon the dripping heart of Kallel the others laid our lost Paladin to rest to prevent him from being raised as an undead. Searching the room we found the secret door Kallel came through and unlocking it found the many baubles and trinkets of his station. I sat upon a chair and after offering some to the others, who politely declined, finished off the juicy heart.

Through another door I heard muffled conversation and positioning ourselves for attack I opened it. It was another of those classic corridors with a door to the left and two doors on the right. Further on at the end of the corridor was another room were an odd looking dark skinned dwarf stood guard. Our dwarf suggested that we creep up as close as possible before striking.

Palos and I crept up in the shadows towards dark-D but Palos kicked a loose stone alerting dark-D to his presence. Being made he charged dark-D down and with twin swords gleaming, struck only managing to graze him. Torin cast a spell and a cloud of daggers encircled dark-D but only seemed to be a gnat bite to him. Guy cast and a blast of light blew a chunk out of the wall behind him. Suddenly a hobgoblin war chief burst from one of the doors near me and not seeing me, charged Palos. His ignorance of me cost him though, as with glee, Phobos sliced deep into his back and drank his blood. Out of the door next to me another creature came, it leveled its staff at me and, still reeling from the shock, missed me entirely and left an opening. The Drugar (dark-D) attacked Palos hitting him with his war hammer and to my surprise his beard spat sours at him also I saw movement as another attacked him.

Another creature appeared from the room the chief came from, took a swing at me which Phobos neatly parried and slew him as he tried to leave. His friend tried to do the same and only succeeded in replicating the result. Berrien shot the war chief which struck home. I shoved the war caster back into the room and spat into his face. As I followed him in our dwarf charged passed me and struck a good strong blow upon the war chiefs back.

Palos then collapsed to the floor from his many wounds. Torin’s magic missile missed the war chief. Guy ran forward and cast divine glow into the room striking the other Drugar (d2) and healed the fallen Palos. The war chief overbalanced and left himself open for attack and the war caster cast a spell that would slide me around him but I got in a sneaky blow. He then made break for it but ran into Berrien who shouted that I had fallen. In the other room the Drugars again put the hurt on Palos rendering him unconscious and near death, I heard the shot and the hit. I followed the war caster and asked “What are you doing with my bitch?!” and slid up behind him and shoved something hard into his rear and he fell at my feet.

Torin missed with his attack and Guy again healed Palos bringing him back from the brink and burnt the war chief with a well placed sacred flame. The war chief struck at our dwarf whom parried the spear while the Drugars tried again to kill Palos (poor old Palos) but failed. Berrien took aim and sent an electrically charged arrow into the brain of the war chief, his body convulsed twice before falling.

I leaped into the fray using repost strike on both of the Drugars, our dwarf charged forward taking a hit from one Drugar while the other slipped in some of Palos' blood and used covering attack marking one of them. Palos leaped to his feet and struck one of his attackers as unfortunately Torin miscast and became a target himself. Guy, as if it had become a new tradition, healed Palos and then cast sacred flame on the unmarked Drugar. The marked one struck our dwarf dodging an arrow from Berrien. Activating my armors ability I slithered into a flanking position but could not pierce the armor of the unmarked Drugar while our dwarf struck the most wounded of the Drugar killing him. (killing kin perhaps)

Palos and Guy got no love this time but Torin’s cloud of daggers (cloud of gnats) struck the remaining Drugar, as if to avenge his fallen comrade the Drugar struck our dwarf with a powerful blow and sent poison into his veins. I attempted to strike down the Drugar but again was foiled by his armor however our dwarf struck him with a powerful blow. (you could hear the ribs breaking)Palos with vengeance in his heart cut down the last Drugar with a well placed twin strike.

At last my quest is complete. All that remains is to bury the paladin (I believe our cleric is going to return him to his church) and our former leader. For now I have done what I had set out to do. Phobos lovingly soothed my sadness and reminded me that even though I new what the shadow fell would do to me I came and conquered and enjoyed the taste of Kallels heart on our lips and gaining the satisfaction of feeding that gnawing hunger that has been with me since birth and it dawned on me that the second part of the prophecy that my parents feared so has come to pass.
I prayed to Zihir that I would pass through my home of birth completing the prophecy but the road there would be fraught with danger and I will leave a trail of heartless victims to ensure that they know what the darkness of my home coming brings.

OOH THAT’S GOTTA HURT!

2009-07-17T16:43:00.000+08:00

Before us double doors blocked our passage and the other door was on the balcony. Our fearless leader suggested that he could use his chariot to elevate us to the balcony. After some discussion on how best to use him as a counter weight, theory being that if he rose up the chariot did also it was considered to be impractical. So it was the double doors.

Palos and I checked the door for traps and locks finding no traps but a lock that prevented the door from opening to the less skilled I deftly disabled the lock and opened the doors with little difficulty.

As we carefully walked down the corridor it branched off to the left parallel to a door and continued on to a T-junction but before we could continue the door swung open. Through this door came two chatting goblins, discussing of all thing one of their birthdays. Spoiling for a fight Palos lunged forward lashing out with his long sword at the goblin on his left cutting into its hide. Not to be outdone Torin spat his fire at the pair only burning one. Annoyed that the others were taking OUR kill we surged forward and while I spat poison at the pair Phobos cut deep into the one on the right giving the wall a new undercoat of red. Guy cast divine glow scorching the one facing me and giving us strength to fight. The birthday goblin fled into the adjacent corridor where we heard surprise from within. The one on me, now frothing at the mouth, struck at me with a strong blow. Such was his rage he ignored his wounds even when Phobos cut him for his troubles. I heard a crack as Berrien’s arrow shattered on the wall and the dwarf charged forward. As he passed the frothing goblin it hit him with its weapon, the dwarf pressed his assault striking brashly and wounding it deeply.

Palos used his evasive strike to gain flank then murdered the air however Torin blew out its spine with a well placed magic missile. We blended in with the shadow and stood parallel to the dwarf hoping to catch any who entered the corridor in a trap. Guy readied himself for action and Berrien covered our rear. The dwarf barreled into the room and I heard the familiar crunch as his blow struck home.

Palos entered the room and slashed his quarry Torin maneuvered to the entrance and sent a thunder wave into it. We rushed into the room sighting a Bugbear and two goblins , Birthday boy and another (the rest were at our rear thus Berrien ploy ), leaped an upturned table and Phobos and I nearly eviscerated the Bugbear. Hoping to take it down I foolishly didn’t use my repost maneuver. Guy sent a blast of holy energy that scorched its fur. Now the Bugbear wanted payback and struck me with a mighty blow Zihir must have had my back as the one behind me missed by a fraction. The dwarf finished the Bugbear and covered my withdraw (I may not like him but he kills just fine)

Palos twin blades carved his opponent into two goblins about half size and moved back. Torin dismounted his chariot and retreated up the corridor where I last saw Berrien. Feigning weakness (Phobos quoted a classic play) I moved behind the dwarf to lure the goblin to me (and to heal). Guy cast sacred flame upon the goblin near us giving me some relief. It attempted to run only to be stopped by a well placed blow from the dwarf, in retaliation the goblin lashed out but hit nothing but air (poor air it aint your day). I saw two goblins charge up the corridor to Torin and Berrien avoiding Palos blows I heard a scream as Berrien’s swords connected who called for us to come. I quipped “coming mother”. The dwarf vented his anger on the goblin causing grievous wounds

Palos twin blades struck a bleeding goblin. I leaped over the table with Phobos at my side as I reached the entrance Phobos flew out killing one of the two goblins here allowing Palos and myself to switch places like in an old story involving a tea party and a loony in a hat)and setting up flank with Berrien I could hear Guy engaging the goblin in the room The goblin between me and Berrien cut me but I ignored the blow Berrien slipped on some blood and left himself open as I heard the death rattle of the goblin in the room the one I was fighting was cut down by Palos’ blades.

After a short rest we entered the bathroom and at one end there was a statue of a half serpent and a half woman, I understood the use of the bathroom (room where the bath is) but I still am wondering if there is such a thing as a toilet. I have heard of a mythical device but never seen one or met anyone who has used one. Perhaps it is just one of those things that are written of in fantasy to create the illusion of mystery and wonder. Creeping silently (sneak sneak sneak CLANK CLUNK) we exited to the left to a T-junction and took the right passage to a single door where inside we heard noises. I checked the door for traps and locks. Upon finding none I burst through, greeting me were two humans and three hobgoblins.

Phobos leaped into the room striking one of the humans. I followed suit and attacked the same one then spat at both humans with my poison. Berrien’s arrows pierced the flesh of one of the hobgoblins who readied as if awaiting some sort of order. The human nearest me struck me with his mace bringing stars to my eyes the other attacked Berrien but he deflected the blow. The hobgoblins reacted at this point. One, despite a shot from Berrien, striking me with a painful blow and the other striking Berrien. As if from nowhere two bolts struck Palos. Torin got no love from his breath or spell as he tried to clear the bottle neck we were in. The dwarf tried to clear a path as well but his blow was deflected. Guys spell only grazed the hobgoblin on me and Palos lashed out at the same one swinging twice yet only hitting once. Phobos fearing for my life slashed my assailant but did nothing to slow it down. Taking a great risk Berrien (bless him) took a shot at a hobgoblin but missed fortunately so did the monster on him.

I felt the humans dagger pierce my thigh and my vision turned red with rage his friend attacked Berrien finding his mark. The hobgoblin struck me but received a cut to the face in return as another struck a mighty blow on the dwarf and again the shadowy bolts appeared in Palos armor. Torin tried to cast a spell and was hit by a hobgoblin ruining his shot. Guy cast his healing I was too mad to see on whom but I did enjoy it when the dwarf smashed a hobgoblin.

Palos long swords flashed and while the hobgoblin blocked one was struck by the other Phobos brought me to my senses and gave me a healing potion as I used my inner healing to well heal. Berrien’s luck was on a break and he missed. The humans attacked Berrien and the dwarf but both failed to hit, the hobgoblin however was better and struck a powerful blow. Again the stealthy shooter struck poor Palos who looked near death. Guy’s righteous brand failed to brand anything but it enabled the dwarf to (while screaming obscenities ) wound the hobgoblin deeply.

Palos teleported to where he thought the snipers were and finding them twin struck one. Slithering up Phobos and I neatly killed one of the hobgoblins. Berrien drew his sword and struck one of the humans who had him in a flanking maneuver with a hobgoblin. This proved to be fruitless because Berrien dodged both attacks the hobgoblin facing the dwarf struck a powerful blow only to find that its enchantment halved its effect. Both of the snipers drew blades and missed Palos while Torin’s magic missile killed a human on Berrien. Guy told the dwarf to go for the human. He complied, brashly striking him ending his life. Guy struck the last hobgoblin and I saw an opening.

Palos still engaged with the snipers struck both of them (sharing the swords between them) Phobos and I stalked the last hobgoblin creeping up on his exposed flank and in a series of brutally vicious strikes dissassembled him spreading his intestines over the floor save for the piece dangling from Phobos’ blade. Berrien took aim with his bow and slew one of the snipers but Torin missed the other sniper. The dwarf tried to bury the remaining one under the barrels but he rudely rebuked him however Guys lance of light burned it.

Palos shifted and waited for my signal. I, using the dwarf as a stepping stone, leaped onto the barrels and gave Phobos a brain chaser to go with her hobgoblin tripe.

BAD MOON ON THE RISE

2009-07-17T16:41:00.000+08:00

For those who came in late:-We are on what is to our likening a(n) (un)holy quest to reclaim our friend the paladin and the warlords bodies be their souls there or not and return them to our realm and killing all who dare stand in our way. Accompanying myself and my darling Phobos are a mixed bag of misfit “adventurers”. Berrien and Palos, two Eladrin rangers skilled in bow and blade respectively and who's killing ability is admirable. Guy, a cleric of the sun, who’s divinity has caused many a foe to burn away and our wounds to be healed. There’s Torin, a fellow dragon born, skilled in the arts arcane, packs a mean loogie and travels around on a disk (his chariot). Then there is Rhodes, a dwarf fighter ---nuff said. As for myself and Phobos ask us the question that is on your mind, we dare you, and you’ll find that we have added another tongue to our collection

We ventured further into the Shadow Fell and eventually came upon an area that seemed suitable to make camp. Phobos and I were obliged to share a watch with the dwarf who made snide comments about my relationship with Phobos. I reminded him that our skills at killing protected his rear flank and he should be respectful of that.

During a most beautiful dream involving myself, Phobos, the dwarf and a pair of sheers I was awoken by a sharp pain, I awoke to find myself staring at a strange rat like creature assailing me. With it was about half a dozen rats and a few other of its ilk but our attention was on “Mr. Stabby”. Moving as one Phobos and I rose up and struck the offending creature cutting deep into its furry hide. Berrien teleported into a flanking position and cut into its flesh with his longsword. The dwarfs hammer crushed on of the larger rats into a bloody pulp. Then the creature on me shifted its position and bit me and Phobos reacted with lightning speed, slashing into its body in retribution. One of the other rat/humanoid things’ swords cut deeply into the dwarfs hide. Another struck Torin with a powerful blow, Palos neatly dodged an attack, Guy cast a beacon of hope both weakening those near him and healing his wound he received earlier. He followed this up by sending a bolt of white radiance that blew a chunk of flesh from one of the ratty things. Torin then sent a chill strike down its throat but it dove out of the way at the last second but was badly burned by his fire breath a moment later while a rat was reduced to ash. Palos used an evasive strike to cut a bloody chunk out of his foe and then shifted to attack a rat assaulting Berrien, killing it.

I ordered Berrien into an advantageous position for us he then moved and struck and as he did Phobos and I made our move as one. We slithered up behind the creature so that he was between us and Berrien, then in perfect synchronicity, we struck our blows simultaneously and severed his spine and pierced his heart that burst showering us both in arterial spray. As our victim was prepared for the carrion eaters I spat my venom at another wererat while Phobos tried to blind it with a deft strike at its eyes. While only partially successful it did cause it to cease attacking us (pity). The dwarf’s next attack was clumsy allowing the wererat to land a blow. One of its comrades charged Palos but missed. Guy healed my wounds fully and then sent a sacred flame that scorched one of the wererats’ furry hide and Torin finished it off with a well placed magic missile shot as Palos struck a carefully placed blow that bit deep into its flesh.

Moving with “elegant grave” Berrien moved and lashed out at one of the nearby wererats, however it parried the blow allowing myself and Phobos to move into flank and transform it from a living, breathing thing into a mass of twitching, VERY dead pile of bloody gore. The dwarf attacked the remaining wererat with a blow that whilst powerful opened himself up to attack. This time the creature decided running away really fast was the better part of valor. Guy raced after it hurling barbed insults, Torin’s magic missile missed, Palos teleported and charged but his blow was deflected by the wererats sword. Time appeared to slow down as Berrien took up his bow and let fly with an electrically charged arrow. It seemed to home in on the wererat, no matter where it moved, the arrow followed as though alive, and it struck with such force that the wererats entire head was torn from its neck. So sudden and violent was the blow that its body didn’t realize it was dead and still tried to escape for several seconds.

We then tended our wounds and even though we had bite marks we avoided contracting any foul diseases.

We continued toward Fallcrest and to our surprise instead of being just a mirror of it, it was a much older version of it. The dwarf asked of the group if anyone wanted to enter the town, believing in an information gathering expedition I put my hand up and immediately regretted it as the dwarf said “bye” grabbing Phobos before she could violently react. I told the dwarf that he should be serious he again made a feeble reference to some mythical creature and I promptly ignored him.

We pressed on and made camp later. This time despite Palos lending the dwarf a spare hide armor we were not disturbed. The only event was when an argument between myself and the dwarf about entering Winterhave arose. Torin using his academic knowledge informed us that being a mirror of our realm it may not garner us any information and that we should not go on what someone said. I disagreed but the dwarf deffered to our leader and so it was decided that we will make camp near the keep so we will be fresh before we enter.

From the direction of an abbey in the distance we spied a gray speck on the distance and as one does when presented with an unknown we hid and prepared to kill it then loot its still warm corpse.

The gargoyle as Berrien identified it tried to grab Torin. Its strong stony arms encircled him and it made to fly away with him. I loaded a malice missile (an acid one) and fired at it striking its right flank, as the acid ate it Torin tried unsuccessfully to break its grasp. Palos fired two shots at it one struck home while the other split on its stony hide. Berrien’s shots likewise only snapped as they struck it. The dwarf surged forward dealing it a mighty blow, fueled by this he struck again but the hide proved too tough for him. Guy sent a beacon of light at it hurting it.

I then fired a normal bolt at it wounding it badly. I loaded a malice missile but it failed to do anything. Torin again tried to escape but the gargoyle proved just too strong. Palos aim was off and his shot went wide. The same was not true for Berrien for his shot pierced the hide of the creature and dropped it to the ground. That was good but the twenty foot drop was not. Fortunately Torin is a mage and cast feather fall to glide to the earth unharmed.

I find it ironic that most normal people hope to have an uneventful night so that are well rested fro the next days work. This is not the case for adventurers for some unfathomable reason they hope that all manner of calamities befall them and so once again during our watch the disembodied head of Kallel appeared. Not to give out free veiled threats as is the norm but to offer us a deal. Two thousand gold pieces to go away. This was where ones inner self can sometimes come to the fore. The dwarf tried to barter for more money using his “humor” but that annoyed the head, this caused the head to try to cut deals with us individually. Berrien, always defiant, spat insults. I asked a simple question “When could I collect my friend’s corpse?” To this the head replied “4four days” giving us a time frame to work in (were it ever that simple?)

After a short strategic meeting several points were made.
1) If he is able to spy on us setting a trap would be pointless
2) If we charge in now we may have some advantage but we’d be underpowered
3) If we move, rest and charge we would be at full power

And so it was decided that option three was the best because it kept up the pressure he was feeling. We found the keep and like the town it was no longer ruined but a true keep with flat windowless walls but it beckoned us to enter and not one to say no to and ominous keeps call we approached.

While the road had no traps it also had no recent tracks which meant that all the villains were in the keep (makes it easier to kill them all) First however there was the small matter of the portcullis that blocked our way. Having a keen sense of danger for these moments proved to be beneficial for as one might expect it was trapped. A simple one, when one raised the portcullis one had boiling liquid pored on them. The others inquired of my expertise on this and I told them triggering it was simple but it may be alarmed. Climbing to the top was easy in theory but we did not know what was up there so with practiced skill and aid from Palos I disarmed the trap and the portcullis was lifted

To my surprise from the next room some creatures were discussing how they should be quiet, they’re meant to be guards so to be fair we decided to test their guard skills and barged in. Lo and behold two goblins (soon to be less) behind a balcony.

Guys spell hit the wall, I moved forward for a better shot but in doing so encountered unstable floor as I yelled a warning Phobos had already struck the goblin in the chest. Berrien on my instruction fired at the one on the right. The goblins made their move, the left one threw an all too familiar pot at me and as it struck I was stuck fast to the ground. The one on the right was not as dexterous and dropped his pot which exploded in flames singeing him. The dwarf delayed and told Torin to move forward. Palos took careful aim and with masterful shooting grievously wounded the right one. As per his instruction Torin moved his chariot forward belching flame at the goblins burning both. The dwarf hurled a javelin at the right one but only scratching it then he moved back to cover our flank negotiating the unstable floor quit well (because he is nearer to it I suppose). The goblin took blows from both Phobos and Berrien which sent it into a rage. It leaped off the balcony onto Torin’s Chariot and cut deeply into him with it’s axe. Palos shot at the enraged goblin piercing its flesh with both shots. Torin moved over to the dwarf and struck it with his staff nearly kill it and the dwarf finished the job.

DARK SOEL REBORN

2009-06-20T07:02:00.000+08:00

Before commencing our journey I, in what Phobos chided was out of malice more than anything else, announced that I transfer leadership (was it ever mine to own) to none other than the mage. Like typical adventurers they accepted this as if it were nothing important. (Phobos made the point that all parties were a democratic one)

Palos wanted to buy some alchemist fire but had only a few gold to do it. As usual my talents were forgotten. I reminded him that I could do the very same but at only the cost of making them. So instead of one, for 10 extra he got many. As we left I was trying to name my enchanted X-bow. I thought of just referring to it as “my little friend” but after almost bursting from laughter Phobos made a rude inference at this being taken and suggested Spite and to name my alchemical bolts as malice missiles. Somehow this felt right so collecting Spite and more malice missiles we journeyed to the Shadow Fell.

Following the river we traveled to the swamplands and headed south, our leader suggested that we tie ropes around his “chariot” and like good little soldiers the others did.

We came upon a building covered in weeds and moss indicating we had arrived at our destination. But we were not alone here. For before we could react a dragon as black as the night sky burst from the nearby pool, surged forward and reared up in a ferocious display that froze all but Guy and Talos in their tracks in awe and fear.

Guy sent a beacon of hope at the Dragon but was deflected off its black scales. Torin spat a glop of fire and a shocking spear at it, both scorching it and electrifying it respectively. Not to be out done by an upstart cousin it breathed in deep and bellowed out a stream of acid that burned our flesh and seared our lungs, Rhodes activated his amulet to shield himself so was less effected. Phobos and I cut right. I turned and promptly missed with Spite but had the foresight to tell the others to spread out and hit it with ranged. Guy cast a daunting light that pierced its hide. Torin maneuvered and let loose a chilling strike that caused its skin to flake off and chip from the cold. Berrien’s and Rhode’s ranged attacks bounced off its amour and only one of Palos’ shots hit.

Still apparently “upset” with Torin the Dragon gave chase, biting a chunk of flesh from him for hurting him so. I also noticed it spit, melting Talos’ flesh. Covering my maneuver to the dragon’s pool Phobos flew at the Dragon, striking two savage blows. Thus I set up an ambush. Guy’s attack glanced off its thick scales, his follow up attack struck home wounding it deeply. Torin, trying to avoid further punishment, maneuvered away joining up with Guy and Rhodes. Berrien’s first shot went wide but readjusting the second struck a penetrating blow.

Enraged, the Dragons fury was loosed as a stream of acid at Guy and the others near him scorching them as the acid ate flesh. Rhodes chased down the Dragon and while his first blow was deflected his second was a painful one. The beast now turned his fury on Rhodes and Berrien both who dodged, then his claws reached for Rhodes. One missed, the other scratched him. Sensing an opportunity I arose from my watery cover and sent a powerful shot that bit deep into its scaly hide then I sank beneath the waves again leaving barely a ripple. Guy sent a beam of light that struck home and burned the beast and Rhodes was blessed with healing. Torin’s attack missed as Palos and Rhodes moved in tandem to flank the Dragon. Palos’s attack may have missed but it gave Rhodes the opening he needed to cave in the skull of the creature.

Looting the now dead Dragons nest gained us a fair amount of coinage and enough magical items. I must make it clear that while I did nothing to stop or dissuade them from their barbarism I found it interesting that they seemed to relish skinning other sentient creatures for future profit and if I did that to one of their kin I’d be branded a monster.

Before us the temple stood in ruin and a quick search led to nothing. The mage began his works. A shimmering portal that looked like water appeared before us and the others went through in ways that made them comfortable. (Torin surfing) It was at this point Phobos and I discussed the parties’ actions. We agreed that, as is typical of so called adventurers, they would justify their actions by stating that their morals inhabited the gray areas of the spectrum. We occupied the more darker region and thus need not explain our actions to any of them (to wit I AM EVIL) holding Phobos close to me we entered the portal and immediately it felt and looked as if we were racing through a winding tunnel shifting directions and at odd intervals and the only noise reminded me of a pig squealing but soon we found ourselves in the Shadow Fell.

I remarked “Welcome to the Shadow Fell and the dark aspect of your soul.” Phobos asked about being surrounded by darkness. Again I replied “Its like a second home to me” The Dwarf chided me on THAT remark declaring that could easily guide them to our friends but ignored a slight slip of the tongue by one of the others.

Then I focused on the paladin and the amulet gave me a north east feeling. We decided to travel along the road to this Guy quipped “I like roads.” I, without missing a beat, joked “I Know.”

Soon a boat appeared. Its passengers, one fore, one aft and five in the middle, sailed down the river in the opposite direction. I did have an odd feeling that the gods of this realm had placed our paths to intersect as if to deliberately cause a fight but focused on our goal we ignored them entirely.

We seemed to be traveling back to kobold hall by the direction we were going with the obvious difference that the plant life was shriveled and blackened versions of what was there. No sooner had the thought crossed our minds then we were beset by twisted versions of what were once people-undead-

Palos fired twice at a zombie both shots hit. Phobos lunged at an undead, striking a mighty blow, then retreated to join me in the shadows beneath a tree. Berrien loosed an arrow but it went astray. A death lock wright hurled an orb charged with foul necromancy at Rhodes but the warrior batted it away, and in reply charged the creature and dealt it a crushing blow sending bits flying. His second strike dealt a near mortal blow. Torin spat his breath at a group of them killing several and wounding another. Then killing it and causing another to be wounded. The zombie charged at Rhodes and Palos missing Rhodes and barely scratching Palos those that could not strike at us moved ever closer. Guy held aloft his symbol of his god and turned them bathing the abominations in his gods light, annihilating all but two. (The death lock ceased to become a lock)

Palos and I missed our targets and in doing so left ourselves open to attack. Berrien shot an electrically charged arrow at one of the creatures sending waves of energy through it and another. Rhodes struck a zombie but left him open to attack and got a nasty cut for the effort. Torin let loose a blast of thunder striking both creatures near me. Guy sent a divine glow at his targets turning one to ash and scorching another.

Palos crushed his opponent and teleported behind another, moving deftly Phobos and I moved into flaking position with Palos and cut the creature in half. Rhodes appeared to await something as Talos’ chill strike wounded the last zombie and caused it to try to escape. This would prove to be an exercise in futility as Rhodes sprang into action and ended its unlife smashing it into fine powder.

We are here in the darkness. The others can’t see it but I can feel it as can Phobos. It hungers and we will feed it with those who stand between us and our mission. I have only asked Phobos a simple question. Will the “he/its evil so it doesn’t count” excuse work when we please our god while feeding the dark? Zhihir only knows.

SEEDS OF DARKNESS

2009-06-20T07:00:00.000+08:00

After slaying our foes Ragnar scoffed at the ease at which they fell beneath his blade. He bade us farewell as he sought out greater challenges to the west. We continued our journey to Kobold hall and soon came upon a bespectacled dwarf who upon seeing us waved us over.

Guy took it upon himself to act as mouthpiece for the party. The dwarf asked us our purpose in the area and when Guy responded we were asked for our license and it appeared to “check out and all be in order”. The bespectacled dwarf indicated that they were maintaining the level of the Kobold population by setting a “bag” limit on the amount that could be killed. This apparently was for the sole purpose of having adventurers kill them. That meant that they were bred to be killed for someone’s pleasure.

Upon hearing this I charged the dwarf and grabbed his throat while Phobos prepared to slash his jugular. At this the guards leaped out and bade me to stand down on pain of death. I shouted that it was a barbarous plan and that none should be bred just to avoid troubles and in my haste I also said that I will never be locked in the dark again.

Guy seemingly wanted this man dead for he asked “how many can we kill?” Rhodes spoke to the other dwarf in his own toung and after a brief discussion told me that the law of inevitability dictated that a creature bred for a misconceived purpose would rise up and kill them all. This gave us pause and when Phobos told me that the Kobold would soon use him as a gimp I had to laugh and because it was a human idea it was doomed. I decided to let this one meet his fate after bending him to my will, in such a contest there was no doubt who the victor was. To his credit he did well to cover his fear. We moved on, deciding instead to go to the city. We needed information on how to rescue our fallen friends trapped in another realm it seems.

Suddenly a horn sounded. As if by instinct Talos melded with the shadows as a pack of Orks appeared to challenge us. I reacted with lightning speed loading and firing an acid bolt that seared the flesh of the leader, whence I also vanished from their sight. Berrien’s shot went wide. The Ork leader, still melting from the effects of my bolt, charged Rhodes who neatly parried the blow, returning the favor his blow didn’t breach the Orks defenses but the second hit was a crushing one. The other Orks charged as one. One was cut in half by Rhodes as he passed by.

Guy called upon his god and the Ork leader’s strength drained from him. Guy called again and dealt the leader a vicious blow whilst annihilating another. Torin the mage sent a sphere of electricity toward our foes electrifying one and wounding another, following up this he spat his breath at them wounding them further.

From the shadows I loosed a bolt at the leader but it went wide and I vanished from view. Talos used his Eladrin ability and teleported behind the leader of the Orks and his swords bit deep into Ork flesh. Berrien fired the killing shot that pierced that leader’s heart.

Rhodes drew his hammer saying “now my arm is complete”. He struck one of the Orks and crushed another. The Orks, disheartened by the loss of their leader, failed to hit Rhodes. Guy on the other hand was not so distracted and sent forth a daunting light further hampering their efforts. Talos sent a chilling strike at one of the Orks but did not slay him.

Phobos and I surged forward ducking under the blades of our prey. We got in behind him and as one we drank deeply of his blood even as his life left him. Talos blades cut into the last mad Ork but he still stood. Berrien’s bow removed the last weaker Ork from this life. Rhodes struck a near fatal blow on the last mad Ork exclaiming “die vermin”. In response the Ork struck me receiving a blow from Rhodes however the Orks wounds healed. Guy’s god must have been elsewhere as even though he healed my wound he did naught to the Ork. Despite our combined skill the last Ork dodged Phobos and my attack but Rhodes’ hammer finished the job none the less.

A careful search of the bodies revealed two parchments that indicated that the Orks had put a hit out on the one who envisioned and created the kobold breeding plan, a Barron Münchhausen. Also it was discovered that there was a Orkish wizard in the olde hills that was experimenting in ways to access the very realm to which we were seeking---the shadow fell (if we had a minstrel he would play an ominous tune).

So we journeyed on toward Fallcrest but were intercepted by a lone figure wearing a circlet of silver. Before we could announce ourselves he dared to call Guy out. Indeed he seemed to want an honor duel with our cleric for some inexplicable reason. Phobos reminded me that because it was an honor duel I could not interfere unless attacked or given cause.

The duel started when the wizard sent out bolts of energy that went wide of the mark. Guy’s response was swift and accurate as a beam of light burned the wizards flesh. The wizard called forth a bolt of lightning that struck Guy true but did little in the way of damage. Calling his god Guy sent a lance of faith to strike down the wizard and nearly did so for when the smoke cleared the wizard meekly said that he had made a mistake and thought that Guy was some other person.

The others seemed convinced that this was a perfectly honest mistake but Phobos saw through the lies. As did I, and before the other could react we leaped at the weakened wizard and Phobos bit deep into the spine of our victim severing not only the spine but the tenuous link he had to existence itself. As the body of the wizard slumped lifelessly to the ground I found it amusing that only the dwarf called the action into question. Knowing that Phobos would want to defend her actions in a simple and effective way I would of course help her. I tried to use words to explain and justify our actions to Rhodes. This however proved to be a fruitless exercise and I ended up in a circular argument where instead of accepting what I had done he questioned the explanation, prompting another explanation, prompting another question and so on. What did settle and end the argument was not my explanation being accepted nor my action being revealed as EVIL (by their definition) but by the party reaping the rewards….after that nothing was said.

So once more we traveled on. As we did so I pondered my relationship with Phobos. Ever since rescuing her from the ruin and from the clutches of the creature that held her there, we have become almost as one, our thoughts and instincts are so in sync. She is always at my side and when I hold her I swear I can feel what she feels and in battle this intensifies ten fold.

Soon however we did reach our destination, Fallcrest, and after the obligatory spending we set about the mission. To get our friends back. This entailed drawn out dialogue with a more learned person than our mage. He was not only happy to receive our information about the Orks but actually had available not one, but two scrolls that would get us to and from the shadowy realm where we were now headed.

I ventured the option of getting the Ork wizard to aid us but the counter argument was that it may take too much time, due to the Orks reluctance to aid us without “compensation”. Accepting this I did my best to make my (they did elect me) team aware of the perils they did face. Rhodes mistook this for my reluctance. I cant fault him for that however another wrinkle was added when we received word that the realm would be full of shadowy mirrors of ourselves and people in this one. Undaunted the group decided to press on given that we did have a way to and from via a spell and the location of what I understood was and area that was like a wall between our realms and an amulet that would direct the wearer to whom they thought about. In their haste they have decided to give it to the rangers because of their “tracking abilities”. I probably shall remind them of the fact that it is an emotionally based item and considering even though I have fallen from the light I still wish to see my friend the paladin and return him dead or by the will of his god alive to this realm.

And so it is off to the realm of shadow. Where our opposites lie in wait, to rescue our friends. A fool’s errand perhaps but I dare you to try and stop us. For we may have to see if you are allergic to having your spleen torn out or lungs perforated by a arrow or bolt. Live or die this is now akin to an (un)holy quest. For I will not stop until I know my friends fate, even if both Phobos and I have to slaughter the entire realm to do it.

OF KILLS & COMRADS

2009-06-20T06:28:00.000+08:00

Prologue: Greetings reader if you are reading this then either you have slain me & pried this from my cold lifeless hands or you have stolen it from me believing it to be of great value. If it is the former I congratulate you on a task that would have been very costly, if however it is the latter then count the number of minutes, hours & days you have left until I find you, because that is how long it will take you to die---then again look behind you. Phobos wants a word with you.

I have decided to compose a journal, a diary if you will, of my adventures & exploits with my party of brave adventurers. Not only to remember those who were lost in battle but to forever note the ones who fell beneath our blades or bows. Not only that but I vowed one never to be forgotten or locked away again & this will be my testament to my rise to immortality. Either in script to inspire others who lurk in the shadows to follow my examples or in life for them to emulate.

As you may know I am now only known as Snake. A fitting title for one who writhes in the darkness striking fear in the hearts of his prey before plunging his blades into it. I have just finished laying siege to some ruins that contained both treasure & tragedy. For I lost the only other human that I could call a friend, for without him the shadows beckon & the urge to strike from them grows.

All that remained from victory was one final room. As we entered all we could see was that the floor was covered in slime but the walls were clean, too clean in fact, as those verses in dungeon lore suggested something called a gelatinous cube could be responsible.

Once again the others pandered to the MAGE’S whims & awaited him to cast his spell that would create a disk that floated above the ground (his chariot). He then bravely acted as forward scout to search the room ahead, with a rope around his waist & around a corner where upon the rope suddenly went slack!

Reacting with lightening speed I tried to pull the rope back with the aid of Guy, our human cleric, but all for naught. My Eladrin friend Talos steely eyes sought out a target ready with bow. Rhodes our Dwarven killing machine valiantly moved out to find out the fate of our friend. Ragnar, the barbaric human, gripped his weapon anxious for a kill & Berrien, an Eladrin whose skill with the bow is a wonder to watch (especially the results), moved to cover the Dwarf.

Suddenly our mission mage appeared. His scales soaked in a viscous almost transparent goo & in his state could only describe his attacker as a clear gloopy thing. At this the team covered the mage’s withdrawal but to the right Rhodes spotted other creatures & engaged them.

Steeling him-self against the horror our mage took the time to recuperate as Berrien let fly with his arrows & Guy called upon his god to strike down the attackers to the right, which I learned later were undead. I saw Berrien turn & spot an unseen opponent, prompting Talos to charge recklessly forward to confront the foe face to ---face? Casting a sun rod so that we had a target.

Suddenly the Mage’s assailant “appeared” & attacked Berrien. I reacted immediately & let loose a bolt that pierced its membranous hide. The cube of goo reached out to ensnare Berrien & Talos. Berrien dodged the strike but Talos was ensnared & drawn into its gooey innards.

From the left I could hear that Rhodes had struck a near fatal blow against the undead. As if spurred on by this Ragnar charged our gooey foe & vented his fury upon it with a mighty blow that also served to fuel his anger. Our mage cast a spell & Berrien loosed arrows but both failed to harm the creature. Throwing his gods fury against it the cleric stuck out with incantation, distracting the creature long enough for Talos to use his innate power to teleport away from his gooey prison & strike a vengeful blow against it.

I commanded Phobos to strike the creature & obediently she pierced the hide. Seemingly in retaliation it moved toward us swallowing Berrien & barely missing Ragnar. From the right the undead pressed the attack only resulting in a retributive strike that killed one & wounded another. In response to the attack on him Ragnar struck a blow that bit deeply into its gooey form.

Once again the mage’s time in the goo seemed to affect his aim but Berrien’s aim was true, as was Guys god bestowed power as it scorched our foes hide. Talos attempted to strike against our foe but it went wide a second time failing to damage it. Moving forward Phobos & I struck at the creature provoking it to try & run us down, in an attempt to get at the mage, we slice a vicious blow as it attacked leaving it on the edge of oblivion & once more as it passed by pushing it over, covering us in its life’s “blood”. Ragnar, cheated of a kill, charged the remaining undead reducing it to bits with a powerful blow.

As the sound of battle ceased to echo in the room I felt that I had learned from my experience & finally grasped this strange thing called alchemy. Others similarly had new understandings but pressing things also were on their minds.

Amongst what remained of our enemies were items that were enchanted with magic that, as our mage described, protected against certain attacks & one against falls. However these & other items were to be divided up, upon arrival at town.

Once there it was discovered a celebration of some sort was in progress. It is based on some fat annoyingly jolly man dressed in a red suit, adorned in black belt, with black boots & white gloves. I swear that when he laughed that belly moved like a bowl full of jelly, but I put that down to the fact that I was enjoying the drink aspect of this festival.

We spent a short time in town “shopping”. I decided to collect instructions on alchemical products in the hope of making them on our journey. One of the humans, Ragnar I think, wanted to get an ‘executioners’ axe’. The only on available was owned by the executioner. I toyed with the idea of getting him a “Christmas present” but thought better of it. Why should the reward of the kill go to another?

It was decided that next we should clear out a place called Kobold Hall & during the trip down to its location I practiced my alchemical arts. Upon arrival I became one with the shadow as did my Eladrin friends.

We allowed those less capable to draw fire so I could strike & fade at will. Enveloped by the woods we came upon them in a clearing. A pack of kobolds & what appeared to be lizard folk, I barely heard that their leader was talking of a union between the two clans. Gothic agreed to this. We however had other plans for our prey.

Ragnar charged forward howling with bloodlust & striking the kobold leader with a blow that turned him into a fine red mist. Following up this attack he move on to another kobold, heedless of the danger as they attacked him, killing it. I loosed an acid bolt that struck one of the lizard folk but did little to dampen his anger, Talos followed up my attack wounding him further. The enemy closed in on the mighty Ragnar, but their blows only annoyed him. The mage spat his breath at the kobolds reducing one to ash and scorching the wounded lizard folk. He then let fly with a spear of crackling energy that electrocuted both the kobolds & lizard folk --- only the folk lived. Berrien’s arrows flew wide, so using his Eladrin powers he moved to the shadows to get a better shot - - even the trees knew not that he was there.

Two of the stronger kobolds attacked the mage, barley missing him. The cleric’s wrath lashed out at them striking a near fatal blow on one. Ragnar whirled around with his blade slaying one & cleft another in two, my shot going wide I maneuvered in front of the mage hoping to draw an attack or lure the kobold into a trap Talos however had better aim & struck a potent blow against our kobold foe.

The last of the lizard folk struck out again at Ragnar but failed to hit him. The mage threw a spell at one assailant obliterating him (he can kill good), Berrien’s arrows struck a penetrating blow against the other who turned and fled, taking a lance of light from the cleric in the back. Rhodes simply walked up & slew the lizard folk as if it was nothing while Ragnar charged the fleeing kobold & buried his blade deep in its spine ending its life.