Lost Control, The Shears are Forged

A campaign set in the cold and dangerous reaches of Vaasa, where six inexperienced yet confident adventurers comes to a crossroads in their personal journeys. This campaign is run by Jorge Jaramillo.

Characters

 * Joseph Savioré Daydominico is a devout follower of Amaunator, and a Deva. Played by Davy.
 * Ezekiel Kofflesheist is a no nonesense gnome outlaw on the lam. Played by Ignacio Jaramillo.
 * Iris Sinbar is a human guard looking for answers. Played by Joe Cruz.
 * Estel is an innocent and inquisitive young human girl, who has no memory of her past. Played by Dan Rogers.
 * Azurra Taurtryo is a man of nature, charged with protecting Estel. Played by Keith Novack.
 * Vinok Darksong Anakalathai is a Goliath who reveres nature, and is waiting for more guidance. Played by Ryan Neenan.
 * Slitthraxxx‎ is a confused Dragonbron whisked away from his party. Played by Joe Cruz.
 * Gwenneth Gilrouis is a lost girl looking for many things. Briefly played by Bethany.

Bringing Light to Vaasa
Dark times had fallen on Faerun. Wicked men ruled the lands, and the innocent were forced for hide in the shadows. This was the reality that Joseph Savioré Daydominico was coming to terms with. It was said that every journey starts with a single step. For Joseph, that first step would be the troubled lands of Vaasa, his parents’ homeland. In order to achieve his destiny, he would have to prove himself worthy of it. The absolute majesty of Amaunator’s Light will shine upon Vaasa, and Joseph Savioré Daydominico will be the beacon. Talagbar would be the first place blessed by Amaunator’s virtue. The poor here lived in meager housing. They seemed unharmed, but they did not seem to feel the unbridled joy of bathing in Amaunator’s light. It would be Joseph’s quest to bring light to this town.

He would need to settle himself into this town first, though. He learned from a kind villager that the town priest, called Father Aslen by the people, would often take in travelers. A man of the cloth, yes, this must be Amaunator’s Will as well. Joseph found a small area filled with many shrines. There were shrines to gods of goodness as well as gods of evil. Joseph found the shrine to Amaunator and made a quick prayer. He then made his way to the nearby house. According to the villager, this was where the priest lived. Joseph approached the door and knocked. A middle-aged man bearing the holy symbol of Tymora answered the door. This must be Father Aslen. He was a very kind man, and readily allowed Joseph to stay at his house. The two started having a friendly conversation when the sounds of screams filled the air.

Joseph rushed toward the scream. These are truly dark times. Joseph came upon a kobold attacking a villager. When the creature saw Joseph’s fullblade, it changed its focus from the villager to Joseph. Even a kobold spends some of its life in the sunlight. Joseph was unwilling to snuff out the light of the creature’s life and deliver it into death’s dark embrace. As long as there was life, light had a chance. This was Joseph’s philosophy. Through Amaunator’s grace, Joseph merely knocked the kobold out instead of killing it. The thankful villager told Joseph that the kobold seemed interested in metal. The blacksmith was nearby and was a large supply of metal. Joseph would not wait. He dashed to the blacksmith. Let Amaunator grant him the speed to get to the blacksmith before it was too late.

The Outlaw Returns
It was a cold morning; then again, it’s always cold in Vaasa. Food and water were starting to run low. It had been a while since he last saw civilization. Talagbar was close by, and he hadn’t been there in quite some time. The plan was simple. Get some food; get some drink. A few nights in a bed wouldn’t hurt much either. With luck, he’d be back on the lam before anyone’d recognize him. Even though the Sleight of Many Hands had been disbanded for some good eleven years now, Implements’s notoriety often preceded him. He couldn’t stay in one place for very long, so after Talagbar, he’d lay low for awhile, and repeat the process in another town.

Even after all these years, Talagbar’s still a little hole in the ground. The poor people were still wasting their lives for those scumbags, the Warlock Knights. It’s not his problem, not anymore. Before restocking his supplies, Implements decided to stop at a drink. He was in luck. While their booze was never the best, The Greedy Fox was good enough, and, on top of it, it was open. Too bad his luck was about to change.

After ordering a cold drink, the barkeep started ogling him. The look on his face was one Implements had seen before. The barkeep recognized him; and, worse yet, he started asking questions. It was too soon. He didn’t get his supplies yet, so he thought up a lie and thought it up quick. Implements quickly finished up his drink. Maybe today wasn’t his lucky day. As he started to leave The Greedy Fox, he heard the yell of a boy outside. The outlaw dashed out of through the doors of The Greedy Fox. What he saw made his stomach turn.

Kobolds… Implements hated kobolds. The kid was fine. That short ugly lizard seemed to be more interested in the metal tools the boy was carrying. He seemed more interested in the metal tools, that was until Implements walked out through the doors. It was high noon, and the duel was about to begin. Implements was the quicker draw and injured the kobold with a blast from his wand. The wound wasn’t fatal, however, and the kobold fought back. Fighting back would be that dirty lizard’s last mistake. Implements the Grave Digger raised his wand one more time and shot the kobold between the eyes. While that shot didn’t finish the kobold, the next shot would. The small outlaw made sure that the boy was safe, but before he could get all the answers he wanted, he heard more shouts. These were coming from the blacksmith’s. So much for a quiet stay in Talagbar…

An End to Her Boredom
Iris had missed the last undead repulsion, and even those were starting to feel routine. This week had been particularly dull. High points include breaking up another one of the McAlister boys’ fights and finding some propaganda from the Holy Liberators. Morrin also broke out of the slave quarters again and stole some food and alcohol from The Greedy Fox. It has been a very quiet and boring week.

That boredom ended on Eleint 20th. The day started like any other boring day, and on top of it all, Iris was stuck with the unenviable task of collecting taxes. The morning passed by, and Iris was nearly done with the task in record time. All she had to do was stop by at Fineas’s place and collect from him. However, on her way to the blacksmith she was interrupted by a kobold that was interested in her metal gear. Finally, there was some action for Iris. The cunning kobold nearly proved to be too much for Iris. However, before the kobold could deal a death blow some of her compatriots in the guard came to her rescue. With their help she was able to defeat the kobold. Her blood was pumping. There were more kobolds in town. They wanted metal for some reason, and, before the interruption, that’s where she was going. Duty calls.

Loneliness and Hope
The Devil’s Circus… those days were supposed to be but a horrible memory. No such luck, of course. He was comfortable with the Panther’s Paw. Through his years of training, he learned to cope with his loss and thought that might work to make a difference. Elladestra, though, had other plans. Thanks to her meddling, Azurra had to leave his new family. For what? The answer was probably the worst joke of all. He had to go to a small town in the dark land of Vaasa. Then he had to wait.

Waiting was annoying. The town’s people weren’t that much better. It was cold and the dreary atmosphere didn’t help Azurra’s mood either. Why did he bother listening to Elladestra’s request? He bothered because the girl he’s waiting for will become a target for the Devil’s Circus. She felt a little woozy. She looked around, and she was confused. She couldn’t remember anything. That was ok, though. She looked at herself. She liked her clothes. They were nice. On the back of her robes was a symbol. She thought, and she thought. Finally she remembered. That was the symbol of the god Ilmater. Ok, that’s even better. She remembered something. Hmm… could she at least remember her name? She tried and tried. Estel? Could that be it? It felt familiar, so she decided to go with it. Now with that out of the way, Estel headed toward the nearby town. It was chilly out. There was bound to be someone kind enough to let her warm herself out. A nice meal, a warm place to sleep, these things would make today a great day. Anything else would be icing on the cake.

And it looks like cake was on the menu. Estel walked into Talagbar wide-eyed, taking in everything the small town had to offer. All the people were very busy. They seemed nice enough. Then a very serious-looking man walked towards her.

This was the girl? She sticks out. She’s wearing strange clothes and wears a large symbol of Ilmater. The girl’s optimistic chirping grated on Azurra’s nerves a bit, but, like it or not, he knows that he must protect the girl, if not for the girl’s sake, for his own.

He has to protect Estel, even though he’s never met her. That’s weird, but it’s nice to make a new friend even if he’s not the friendliest person in the world. He must be sad that he left his friends in the Panther’s Paw. He’s a good man, and he has a pretty tiger. The man showed Estel around town. It was a lot to absorb. There was so much to see. Finally, the man, Azurra, took Estel to the house he was staying at. A nice family, the Okanes, let’s travelers stay for free.

This girl was quite the oddity. Despite her youth, she was quite knowledgeable and insightful. She’s also very kind, perhaps too kind for a dismal world like this one. Another day came and went. After another breakfast at the Okane house, the girl and Azurra heard a scream from outside. It was Mrs. Okane. A pair of kobolds was standing over the woman. Estel was alarmed and wanted to help her. Azurra knew, though, that he had to protect the girl and ordered her to stand back. He could handle the vile creatures on his own. He soon realized, however, that Estel was very far from helpless. As the kobolds attack him, Estel used her own magic to heal Azurra’s wounds and battle the kobolds. Azurra managed to kill one of the kobolds. The girl, however, foolishly let the other kobold escape. Although, he was annoyed, Azurra didn’t scold the girl. She was already tending to the frightened Mrs. Okane. Soon the pair heard another scream. The girl looked at Azurra, and he already knew what this would mean. Protecting this girl would be anything but easy.

Stupid Little Lizard People
He was tired. He needed a place to stay. He wandered to a town. The spirits lead him here. He was so tired. The downlanders don’t look too happy, but he was tired. He took a nap.

He woke up. There were many downlanders looking at him. He stood up. He was hungry. He went to a pub. It was the only pub he could find. He sat in a chair. The chair broke. Stupid flimsy downlander chairs… He sat in another chair. It did not break. Downlanders looked at him. Many looked scared. One scared female came to him. She asked what he wanted to eat. He wanted to eat food. A few minutes later she brought him food. He ate the food. He was still hungry. It was not enough food. He asked for more food. The lady brought more food, and he ate it. When he finished eating the food, he paid for the food.

He needed more money for food. He did not know why the spirits wanted him here. That was ok. The downlanders don’t seem too mean to him. He would stay here until the spirits told to go somewhere else. Until then, he needed more money for food. There was a mine in town. He went to the mine. He told downlander at mine that he wanted a job and needed money for food. The downlander wanted his name. He told him to call him Darksong. He worked at the mines for a few days. He met some dwarves. They were slaves, and they were not happy. He felt bad for the dwarves. Freeing them would cause too many problems, so he did not do it.

One day at work at the mines, he heard some yelling outside. He ran out and saw an ugly small lizard man thing. It was stealing metal from a mine cart. Darksong ran to the small lizard person and beat him to a pulp. He did not kill him, though. The small ugly lizard person was scared. Darksong asked it some questions. He found out that there were more small ugly lizard people in town. They wanted metal too. There were many more of them at the blacksmith. He also learned that the small ugly lizard people are doing this because the orcs are making them do it.

Darksong threatened the ugly lizard person and told him not to come back. He then made his way to town. Nearby town, he saw many many of the ugly small lizard people. He shouted to them. He told them that the orcs said to leave. They were confused, but they obeyed. Darksong then made his way to the blacksmith. Maybe this was why the spirits wanted him here.

Chapter I: Trouble at the Blacksmith
Iris hurried to the Finneas’s place. She had known the blacksmith for a long time. If the kobolds were after metal this would be the place to do it. When Iris arrived, she saw a horrible sight. Several of the townspeople, many which she knew, were on the ground. Injured or worse… She also noticed that some other people had arrived on the scene. There was a large person, a man with a small girl, a person with chalk-white skin, and a gnome. The gnome looked vaguely familiar, but that would have to wait. Finneas needed help.

Amaunator’s Light infused Joseph’s fullblade with righteous fury. This fury, though, would not seek vengeance, but justice instead. Death was rarely the answer. Joseph tried to do the virtuous deed and let the kobolds and orcs escape with their lives. These other people here, good-intentioned, though, they may have been, did not share in his sentiments. Even the young girl ended the lives of some of the kobolds. No child of that age should ever have to end the life of another creature. The great loss of life weighed heavily on Joseph.

The big guy’s got some nice tricks. That pale fellow’s not too shabby either. Not quite sure what the deal was with the guy and the little girl. She has some spunk. This other skirt, though, she was of the town guard. Implements didn’t much care for the law and he sure as heck didn’t like how she was looking at him. Finally, she called him out. The lady, a term he used lightly, called him an outlaw. It wasn’t the first time the law had caught up with Implements. It probably wouldn’t be the last. He had to her shut up. He told a bad lie, but she bought it. He wasn’t too sure if the others bought it, but they were keepin’ their mouths shut. That was good enough for him.

Darksong found the blacksmith. He thought the blacksmith was dead. The blacksmith was not dead. The blacksmith was faking. The blacksmith was scared and unhappy. The orcs took a cart of metal and the blacksmith’s daughter. The blacksmith wanted his daughter back. The blacksmith asked Darksong and the downlanders to help him. The blacksmith offered a reward. Darksong and the downlanders agreed. All of them followed the tracks of the cart, the orcs, and the ugly little lizard things.

This would probably go much faster if the girl and gnome weren’t here, but Azurra knew that he couldn’t let Estel out of his sight. He also had to admit that the girl was special and an overall asset to this hastily assembled group. The pale man had very keen eyes, which proved useful in following those disgusting creatures. In fact everyone seemed to assist. The gnome had a good lay of the land. A trait Azurra could respect. The large creature kept pressing on, even going so far as to pick up the gnome to make the tracking go faster. Despite not knowing each other, they were working well together, a very necessary quality the group would need for the battle. A battle, Azurra knew, would be coming soon.

Finally they found the girl. Thank goodness she was ok. The orcs or the kobolds didn’t hurt her. Estel was relieved. Oh no! The cart of the metal was getting away. At least the girl was here, though. One of the nasty orcs was holding her. He threatened her, and Estel was pretty sure that he wasn’t lying. The big man put his weapon down. The pale follower of Amaunator charged at the orc though. That was bad. The orc would surely hurt the girl, maybe even worse. Azurra seemed very angry because of what the man did. There was no time to be angry, though. They had to save the blacksmith’s daughter. A fight began. It was exciting for Estel, but also a little sad. She didn’t want to kill the kobolds and rats, but she knew she had to in order to save the girl. Zosa, the name Estel gave to Azurra, didn’t seem to mind killing so much. The orc used his axe and hurt the girl very badly. Estel was afraid that she might have died. Everybody worked together, though, and eventually, everything worked out. The orcs and kobolds were beaten, and the girl was rescued and healed.

Thank goodness that Anna was safe. Finneas will be glad to see her again. There was a problem, though. The orcs and kobolds got away with the metal. Anna seemed to be worried that her father would get in trouble over this. She told us that the metal that was stolen was a special kind of metal. Iris wasn’t sure what she meant. She didn’t know or even think that Finneas worked with some special metal. The others debated as to follow or not. The answer was fairly clear, though. They had to find the metal, especially if it meant Finneas’s wellbeing. The orcs and kobolds had a long head start, though. They had to hurry.

A lot of time was wasted with the battle and talking with the blacksmith’s daughter. Azurra knew they would have to rush to catch the metal. The track was easy to find, though. At some point the monsters tried a pathetic trick by having the cart’s tracks spit up. The warrior of Amaunator found the tracks, they wanted easily enough. The man had good eyes, but Azurra was still angry over his careless actions in the battle before. At least both the girl and Estel were safe. That was all that mattered right now. Dealing with incompetence would have to wait. Especially now that the cart was in sight.

Kobolds… they just never seem to stop comin’. Though, in a strange sense, Implements was fine with that. That just meant that there were more kobolds for him to kill. The orcs and stolen metal was there as well. This whole nasty business can be settled in one swoop. The solution, simple: kill ‘em all! Implements was, once again, the quickest draw and fired at the orcs and kobolds. Those other guys quickly started brawling out in front. That law lady took on one of the orcs while the big guy took on four more. Implements reminded himself not to get on that guy’s bad side. Oh crap! They left an opening. An orc, bigger and smellier than the rest, ran straight at Implements. Then more of those yeller kobolds came. No no no no no! Those darn fools he was with couldn’t get back to protect him in time. Yeah, the little girl and the man with the cat were there, but they weren’t enough. The orc knocked Implements down, but the little girl got him back up. This was bad. Implements wasn’t sure how much more he could take. The last thing he saw was an axe coming straight down on his head.

Aahhh! He’s dead! The orc killed him! Zosa and Estel were right there and they couldn’t save their new friend, the gnome. Estel felt powerless and scared. The orc kept swinging furiously at Sparkfang. Estel could tell that this was hurting Zosa. She knew that the two shared a special bond. She had to help Zosa or the orc would kill him too. The orc was chasing them away from the others. They were too far away to help. Estel and Zosa managed to fight off the orc. She was glad that Zosa lived, but she was also sad because they couldn’t save their new friend, the gnome.

One his allies had already succumbed to death’s dark embrace. Joseph was also momentarily incapacitated by the kobolds. Was this metal worth the loss of life? Probably not, Joseph thought. However, he was in this battle, and he had to protect himself and defend the light. Thanks to the girl’s divine power and Amaunator’s Will, Joseph fought with renewed fervor. The woman from the Talagbar’s guard and the large hominoid prove to be invaluable in defeating the orcs and kobolds. It saddened Joseph to know that he played in the hand in the death of so many, even if most of them had slipped away from the light. What made the metal worth all this?

The orcs and lizard things are dead. They won. The found the metal. It was strange looking. It was not natural. The little girl with the grumpy downlander said it was called Ironfell metal. The girl said it was the body of someone called Telos. She didn’t know anymore than that. Why did the orcs want this unnatural metal? Darksong would think more about that later. It was time to go back to the town. The blacksmith’s daughter was safe. He put the dead gnome in the cart and dragged the cart back to town. They went to the blacksmith. The blacksmith was happy to have his daughter home. He was glad to see the blacksmith and his daughter happy. The happy blacksmith gave everyone in the group a reward. Darksong appreciated the reward. The orcs worried him, though. Why did they want the unnatural metal, he asked himself again. Maybe this was why the spirits lead him here.

Chapter II: Their Reward
Like the others, Iris was thankful for the reward, though, she was also happy to see Finneas and Anna reunited. Finneas was also kind enough to pay for the gnome’s resurrection. They all went to Father Aslen’s house. The kind priest took the gnome’s body and gave the party his assurance that the gnome would be alive in the morning. It was late, but they were hungry, Iris included. She suggested the Greedy Fox. It’d be a good chance to unwind, and they would finally be able to get acquainted. The others agreed, and Iris lead them to the Greedy Fox.

The Greedy Fox was a small but nice little pub. It was the type of place that the villagers went to relax after a hard day’s work. The food was tasty, but, more importantly, Estel finally got to learn the others’ names. Estel introduced herself. She also told them that she really couldn’t remember much more than that name. She didn’t really know why she was in Talagbar. Of course, she already knew Zosa, and that he was there to protect her. The big person was a goliath. They come from the mountains. His name is Vinok Darksong Anakalathai, Darksong for short. He wasn’t sure why he was in Talagbar. He worshiped nature and said the spirits lead him there. The lady was Iris Sinbar. She’s a member of Talagbar’s guard and has lived in the city pretty much her whole life. She seemed suspicious of the gnome. Iris said that the gnome reminded her of an outlaw. Finally there was Joseph, the man with the very pale gray skin. He said that being in Talagbar was his god’s will. He didn’t explain anymore than that. Estel was fascinated by the entire group and wished that she could learn more of their stories, but it was getting very late. They agreed to meet the next day, this time with the gnome. Estel couldn’t wait.

Why was he wearing a dress? Why did he smell so … pretty? The last thing Implements remembered was that orc’s axe. Looks like that dirty orc got what was comin’ to him. Not before he got Implements, though. Looks like luck was on his side again. If Implements didn’t hate orcs before he really hated them orcs now. The thanked the good priest and met up with the pale holy man who’d fought at his side the day before. The man, Joseph, warned Implements that the lady was the local law, and that they were all supposed to meet at the Greedy Fox. Implements wasn’t too keen on meetin’ the woman again, but he was always up for a drink. At the pub Implements was introduced to everyone. The big ‘un was called Darksong. The little lady was Estel. The guard lady was Iris. The man who didn’ seem quite right, hangin’ round the little girl, was Azurra. Of course, they wanted to know who he was. Implements, of course, didn’t want to do that in front of the law lady. Nah, that wouldn’t do, he reckoned. Implements kept his mouth shut. When that sonofa, Azurra, started callin’ him out, it was that pale Joseph who which came to his aid. Implements didn’t mind that none, though. The two started squabblin’ and let him be. As the meal was getting done, some more of the town guards came in. They wanted the group to go to the town meetin’. Looks like they didn’t have much choice in the matter either, so they went.

They went to a building that was a single large room. There were lots of downlanders there. Many stared at Darksong. In one corner there was a large downlander surrounded by his guards. That man might be the town leader. The meeting began. A lot of the town’s people spoke about what happened. Almost nobody died. The only people that died were the ones killed at the blacksmith’s. The town wasn’t damaged much either. Mostly tools were broken to get at the metal. The town’s people were confused. The kobolds, small ugly lizard people, did not attack the town. They did not attack in a very long time a dwarf said. This dwarf was not a slave, and that confused Darksong. The dwarf said the last time kobolds attacked the towns was a long time ago when Sneifanglen was in the region. The smart girl, Estel, said that Sneifanglen was a strong follower of Tiamat. The downlanders kept talking about kobolds. None of them spoke about orcs. This confused Darksong, and he couldn’t keep quiet. He said that the kobolds were ordered by the orcs. The downlanders were confused. They didn’t see orcs. Then Joseph said that they were after the special metal. The town leader asked where Finneas was. Finneas must have been the blacksmith’s name. He was not in the meeting. The leader motioned the guard and some of them left. Darksong was worried. Joseph probably got the blacksmith into a lot of trouble. The people spoke some more. When the meeting was finished the town leader and some guards went up to the group.

Azurra didn’t like when Joseph charged the orc holding the blacksmith’s daughter hostage. He didn’t like how he allowed the gnome to hide his name from the group. He didn’t like how Joseph spoke up in the town meeting. And he certainly didn’t like the way the town leader and some of the guards were walking up to the party. The town leader introduced himself as Galvin Hildenoth and asked the group to follow him to his house. Did they really have a choice? The guard followed the six which followed Hildenoth to a large cabin at the edge of town. Hildenoth, being the gracious host that he was, let the group in first. His house was full of hunting trophies. It was littered with the skins of dead animals. Azurra could tell that this upset Darksong a little bit, and it didn’t please him much either. Hildenoth went straight to the point. He was thankful that we helped the town, but he didn’t trust them. So much for gratitude, Azurra thought. A group of adventurers meant a group of possible usurpers. Azurra didn’t like the tone he spoke in at all. It was paranoid and threatening. Hildenoth wanted an assurance that they wouldn’t try to take Talagbar away from him. Which everyone did. Of course, words weren’t enough for the dictator. He required the group to do a service for him. If they refused, they’d be exiled, possibly worse. He was kind enough to offer the group two choices. Alert the mining town of Delhalls about what happened in Talagbar or meet with the orcs. Darksong felt much more comfortable meeting with the orcs. The orcs were under a treaty with Vaasa. This attack clearly went against that treaty. Hildenoth wanted to know if the orc clans were breaking the treaty or if some orcs were going rogue. He promised a reward if the mission were completed successfully and also promised to brand the group as enemies of the Warlock Knights if they abandoned the mission. Fantastic… After the meeting was done, he was kind enough to let the six out of his house. The lack of gratitude and the position he found himself in angered him greatly.

After the meeting Joseph and the others went to meet up with the blacksmith. He was alive, though, he was beaten. Joseph did not approve by the tyrant’s methods, but he knew he had to abide by his laws. At least for now… The remainder of the day was spent in preparation to complete the coming quest. The next day, after his morning prayers, Joseph met with the others and quickly began their journey. Danger lurked in every shadow in these troubled lands. During the first day’s travel, they came across a large monster. This monster, a chimera, seemed more interested in its meal than it did in the party. That was until Joseph made a mistake. He was too loud while trying to move around it. This made the chimera uneasy. Joseph was angry at himself for putting the group in danger and tried to get out of the creature’s view. This only assisted in worsening the situation. Thankfully, the others understood the situation better than Joseph did, and they backed away from the chimera, giving it its space. There was still much for Joseph to learn. He knew that their aid was all part of Amaunator’s great plan. Their aid will help him shine when the time was right. By Amaunator’s good graces, the remainder of the day and horrible night were uneventful.

After some sleep, the group continued. During the day they found a group of those ugly lizard things. What were they called? Kobolds, that’s right. The kobolds were hunting a large deer. The group attacked the kobolds on sight. Maybe they could ask one of them about the orcs. The battle wasn’t too tough until the dragon showed up. The dragon and the magical kobold made the fight harder. The gnome didn’t die this time. The fight was hard, but the group won. They continued on their way again. Rats! Darksong forgot about questioning the kobold. They walked for the rest of the day, and rested at night. Darksong had the last watch. Nothing happened the first two watches. Darksong heard a scratching sound from the ground during the third watch. Zombies were coming out of the ground. He woke up the others. They were all surrounded by the zombies and their zombie hounds. A zombie grabbed Estel, and the others ran to attack everyone else. Azurra was not happy that a zombie grabbed Estel. He channeled the spirits of nature around him and hit the ground. The ground shook with his primal fury as it destroyed a lot of the zombies. Darksong was impressed. The others fought well too. Right before daybreak, the last zombie was knocked down. It was not destroyed yet, though. It stood again and hit Joseph very hard. Joseph was dying. Estel destroyed the zombie with her god magic and healed Joseph. The day was here and the zombies were gone. It was time to rest and continue.

Finally, there seemed to be progress. They were approaching the bridge to cross the river. Ugh… an orc and a gnoll were blocking the path. As they got closer Azurra noticed that the orc and gnoll were wearing the symbol of the Warlock Knights. The meeting probably wouldn’t be pleasant, but at least it shouldn’t be violent. The filthy gnoll started staring at Estel. Azurra felt his blood start to boil. This would be more than simply unpleasant. Of course the two oafs wouldn’t let the group pass. Nothing in this forsaken land seemed to agree with Azurra. The gnoll made a preposterous proposition. The beast said that it would allow the group to pass if they gave it Estel. The filthy mongrel started sniffing around the girl. This got Azurra furious, but he dare not open his mouth, lest he would say something that he shouldn’t. The orc, however, noticed the vicious glare that Azurra was giving the gnoll. The brute knocked Azurra to the ground and threatened to wipe that look off of his face. The group mentioned that they were on a mission from Galvin Hildenoth. Not only did the beasts not comply with the group’s request, but they also scoffed at Hildenoth. Once again, that ghastly cur sniffed around Estel. It said it would be happy with a finger or two. Thankfully, Darksong was a little more cool-headed than Azurra was. The orc was willing to take a simple bribe and let them cross the bridge. Azurra was glad to be away from those two. Terrible and angry things filled Azurra’s mind when he thought of the gnoll. With luck, that beast will be skinned alive before he had to do it himself. He had to settle down. They were past the gnoll now, and Estel was safe. He hoped that the orc clans wouldn’t be so dispicable.

Chapter III: Reaching for the Spirit Beast
Estel was glad to be away from the gnoll and orc. They made her feel uncomfortable, and they made Zosa very angry. Time would pass, though, and Zosa would calm down. She was sure of that. Nothing much happened the rest of the day. The night was also calm. No zombies, no kobolds, nothing bad happened at all. The six traveled well into the next day, and saw strange posts with painted skulls on top of them. Estel found the whole setup a little creepy, but she also knew that there was a lot in the world she didn’t quite understand, orcs being among them. The six friends realized that this must be the border into the orcish lands, and they crossed into them. Implements didn’t like orcs. ‘Specially countin’ on what they did to him a few days ago. If they were to run into some unfriendly orcs, Implements was gonna shoot first. After going around in orc country for some a ways, they heard ‘em coming. A group of orcs on top of big ole wolves came a runnin’ towards them. Course, this was supposed to be a mission of peace. However, Implements reckoned, no one probably told the orcs that. The big’un, Darksong, started a talkin’ with the orcs in their own tongue. Implements didn’ know what they were saying, and he didn’t care none too much either. All that mattered to him was that those dirty orcs weren’t gonna kill ‘em, at least not yet. Looked like them orcs were going to lead the group over to their chief. On top of that, they wanted the group’s weapons. Implements wasn’t too happy ‘bout giving up his staff. They were unarmed and headed deeper into orc territory. Implements knew that he had to keep on ‘is toes, or things were gonna get downright ugly.

Aside from a few interruptions, everything was going quite well, Iris thought. The orcs not attacking on sight was promising. Being disarmed, while, a little worrisome, was understandable. They were, after all, in the orcs’ land. Before long, the group had reached the orcs’ village, which lay at the base of a tall mountain. Iris was a little uncomfortable at the gazes the orcs gave to her in the party as they were led though the village. Their eyes showed a mixture of fear, suspicion, and hatred. Iris could tell that the others also seemed a little uneasy, that was except for Darksong. He seemed strangely at ease and was quite sure that the orcs wouldn’t hurt them. After a short wait, a very old orc walked toward them. Living in Vaasa all her life, Iris had seen many orcs in her day. This, though, was by far the oldest orc she had ever seen. Not only was this an incredibly old orc, but it became increasingly clear that this orc was the one in charge. Never had Iris heard of or seen something like this. The old orc did not speak at first. Instead he looked over each of the group. As the look turned to Iris, he paused and gazed at her longer than at the others. Why? Was she the only one that noticed that? Why did he look longer at her? Iris was confused but said nothing. In fact, nobody said anything at all for a few moments. Finally, Darksong broke the silence and started asking questions: questions about the recent attacks and questions about the Ironfell metal. The old orc started speaking in strange metaphors. Talking about the ancient war, and talking about some “Falling Star” and some “Rising Cloud” and a “Storm of War.” It really didn’t make much sense to Iris. When pressed on the questions, the orc said he would not answer to outsiders. They would have to become members of the clan. In order to do that they would have to climb the nearby mountain and take a fang from the Spirit Beast that lives at the top of the mountain. The younger orc at the side of the venerable orc seemed angry at this. Iris kind of understood. After all, their group didn’t have a single orc amongst them, and the young orc said that this rite of passage was an honor for the orcs. The younger orc stormed off. Iris and the others decided that it was best to undertake this task in the morning, after a good night’s sleep.

The dark nights seemed especially long in the troubled lands of Vaasa to Joseph. The orcs watched Joseph and his compatriots. The orcs, Joseph thought, must have felt as uneasy as he did. They were, after all, the outsiders. Through the grace and almighty majesty of Amaunator, however, there were no incidents during the night. The six recovered their loathsome weapons and implements, and headed toward the mountain. At the foot of the mountain was the younger orc from the day before. He came to warn them about the goblins that inhabited the mountain. He explained that goblins had driven the dwarves out of the mountain sometime ago. Despite his anger at the situation, this orc gave Joseph and his allies very useful information. The old orc from yesterday and now this orc, their actions further reinforced Joseph’s beliefs that all beings need to be given a chance. Violence, and especially death, was rarely the right choice. With the light of Amaunator shining on Joseph and his allies, the six begin their climb towards the heavens.

The mountain was beautiful. It reminded Darksong of home. It was colder than home, but it was like home. The downlanders had trouble climbing the mountain. Darksong helped them many times. He carried Estel over chasms. Darksong liked the mountain and the climb. He did not like the weird plants or the goblins as much. The goblins fired crossbows at Darksong. That hurt him a lot. There was a magical goblin too. His magic made smashing the goblins harder. Then more goblins and a giant boar came out of a cave. There were too many gobins. The little things annoyed Darksong. Darksong pushed a goblin and the boar off of a cliff. He then climbed the face of the mountain to get after some more orcs. Azurra called his spirit companion to battle some of the goblins out of reach. He made them run away. Joseph fought some of them on the ground. Axehead Zeke attacked goblins that were far away with his magic. Estel used her god magic to heal Darksong and the others. A lot of the goblins ran away. Darksong was ok with that. If they came back, he’d smash them again.

With that annoyance out of the way, it was time to continue the trek up the mountain. However, it seemed that there was a disagreement as to which would be the best way to go up the mountain. Half the group seemed to believe that it would be a good idea to go into the caves. What fools! The goblins came from there. They argued that the tunnels could take the party to the top of the mountain more quickly. There was no guarantee of that, and they knew that the goblins were using those tunnels as well. It was a stupid plan. Of course, that idiot Joseph sided with that plan. In the end it was three for the tunnels and three against. Azurra’s companion, Sparkfang, would be the deciding vote. That traitor, though, decided to go into the cave as well. Azurra knew when he had lost and also knew better than to argue with Sparkfang. The seven went into the mountain.

It’s warmer in the mountain than it was outside. It was darker too, but Joseph lit one of his Amaunator Rods. It was very bright. Estel was fascinated by the old Dwarven tunnels. It was a little scary, though. Every once in a while, Joseph, or someone else, would hear some skittering. The goblins were probably watching them. After a little bit of walking, the group found a pile of treasure. There was money and items in the pile. They also found some dragon scales that were white. Estel didn’t see the harm in helping herself to a little bit of the treasure, but Zosa and Joseph said no. Oh well, at least they agreed on something. Finally, after some more wandering in the tunnels, they were nearing the exit. Then there was a crash! Oh no! There was a fire quickly burning behind them, and it was moving towards them quickly. They ran quickly away from the fire, but then things got worse. At the exit of the cave were more goblins waiting for them. It looks like they’ll have to fight again. Estel hopes that everyone makes it out of the fight alive.

Not again! Joseph hated these pointless battles. The goblins weren’t his enemies. He just wanted to complete the task the old orc had given them. It’s true that the goblins attacked them first, but his allies exasperated the situation by always resorting to lethal force to defend themselves. The goblins were cunning. Not only was the fire quickly burning behind them, but as they stepped out of the cave the goblins let loose a large boulder. It was through Amaunator’s grace that Joseph wasn’t crushed by the boulder. However, Amaunator choose to give Joseph a much more difficult test when the fire erupted from the mouth of the cave. Joseph and several of his companions were burned by the flames. The goblins, realizing the danger of the fire they set also ran a distance back. The long battle was exhausting. Darksong pushed himself to the limit, and the Zeke fell from his injuries. Joseph himself had taken much damage, but the goblins had to be defeated. While he did not want to kill them, they could not be allowed to attack him or the others. With the light of Amaunator shining down on him, he engaged a group of goblins away from the safety of his comrades. This would be a costly mistake. Joseph fell into darkness as the goblins beat him to the ground. Amaunator still watched over Joseph, though, for moments later, he would awaken to continue the battle. Victory was achieved shortly thereafter. One goblin was scared and tried to escape. Joseph chose to let him go. Azurra wasn’t quite so generous. In a cold act of cruelty, he snuffed out the light of the fleeing goblin’s life. This saddened and angered Joseph. He understood why Azurra had resorted to this, but he also knew that it was wrong. After a short rest, light returned to the fallen Zeke and the others, exhausted, were healed. They were getting closer to the mountain’s peak, so they pressed on. Unfortunately, Zeke was unable to continue. The cold was much more than his small, tired body could take. It looked like Joseph would have to spend a night on this mountain. Joseph hated the night.

Chapter IV: Dorien, Merran, and Thorcan
It was very dark. Iris could see herself plainly, but that was all she could see. She was surrounded by blackness. She could not see the ground; she couldn’t even really feel the ground. She knew she was standing, though; so Iris walked a little further. Out of the darkness she suddenly saw her friend Merran. He was standing next to two other dwarves. One was Throcan Orangeshield. She didn’t recognize the third dwarf. Iris approached the dwarves, but something was wrong. Merran didn’t seem like his normal carefree self. All three dwarves had deadly serious expressions on their faces. What was wrong? She had to find out, but a sense of dread was holding her back. She stopped mere feet away from the dwarves. Why was she so scared? Iris didn’t have time to think about that, though. The three dwarves lunged at Iris, and knocked her to the ground. Why were they doing this to her? Iris screamed and pleaded. Why Merran? Her cries did nothing. The dwarves mercilessly beat Iris. Was she going to die here, at the hands of these dwarves? No! Iris fought back. It took every ounce of strength that she had, but Iris managed to stand up again. The dwarves backed away for a second. Iris cried out to her friend one more time. Why was Merran doing this? The questions, though, fell on deaf ears. The three dwarves again ran at Iris. They took hold of her arm. The dwarves were pulling at her arm with unreal strength. She could feel her arm being pulled out of its socket. The pain was unbearable, but Iris tried to wrest her arm back from her assailants. Her efforts were in vain, though. Iris heard the horrific sound of her flesh being torn from her. AAHHHHHHHH!!!!!!!! Iris fell to the ground; the only thing she could see was the three dwarves, holding her blood-soaked arm as if it were some trophy. The dwarves’ celebration was cut short, though. Thunder crashed loudly around them all. Then lightning started striking the ground. Iris was helpless. She was too tired from her ordeal to try and seek shelter from the lightning. The dwarves, on the other hand, seemed panicked. The lightning was indiscriminant. It struck at everything in sight. Thorcan was first. The lightning struck him down. Merran was next. He walked up to Iris and knelt down beside her. He looked right at her face. Iris couldn’t tell what this meant. His face still seemed cold. He still wasn’t the same Merran she knew her whole life. She wanted to ask him one last time what was going on. She couldn’t, though. Merran was hit by lightning. His beard ablaze, as his lifeless body fell next to Iris. After Merran died, the final dwarf stopped running. He held Iris’s arm up to the heavens. Lightning flashed again, and it kept flashing. Iris knew it would only be a matter of time before she and the dwarf here hit. She was first. There was no pain. If she had to die, at least it wouldn’t be painful. That was reassuring. Hmm… Strange… Iris was still aware of her surroundings, though, she knew for a certainty that her body was destroyed. She didn’t’ question it, though, and watched what was happening. The final dwarf was still standing, not for long, however. Many bolts of lightning hit him simultaneously. His body was annihilated. Lightning kept crashing. No place was safe from the storm’s wrath. After what seemed like hours, the lightning stopped. All Iris could see was her arm. It was completely unharmed.

That was a good rest. Implements was feeling much better... much much better. His head felt a bit fuzzy, though. Everyone was talkin’ too much. They was talkin’ about plants and spores. Implements couldn’t really concentrate on that. The skirts were talking about dreams they had. The young’un, Estel, was a’chirpin’ bout some guys fighting. The law lady said she had a dream too and hung onto her arm. Implements didn’t care none too much, though. He wanted to get to the Spirit Beast, get its fang, and get off this darn mount’n, away from these dirty goblins. This talkin’ just slowed things down. After s’more talking, they finally started goin’ up the mountain again. Implements was sick of these mountains. They were too cold.

Ok, so it was Tyr’s holy symbol they were wearing. Great, that’s another piece to the puzzle. Estel had a little trouble concentrating on the task at hand. The Spirit Beast and the fang were important… important in completing a task for that big bully, Galvin Hildenoth. No, the thing on her mind right now was the dream she had the night before. She had explained it to her friends. No one could really make sense of it. At least Joseph recognized the symbol of Tyr, though. As she and her friends got closer and closer to the top of the mountain, she let the dream replay in her mind… Estel was walking through a field. It was a nice green field; and it was peaceful. That wouldn’t last. Clink! Crash! Ka-Chink! Estel was all too familiar with these sounds. Someone’s fighting! Estel ran to where she heard the sounds and found two men fighting. One was a tall elf with long blond hair and blue eyes. He wore shimmering armor and wore the symbol of the fallen god, Tyr. The other man had short white hair; his eyes reminded Estel of the eyes of a dragon. This man also wore the symbol of Tyr, but around the symbol was the image of a wingless golden dragon. Estel didn’t understand, though. Why were they fighting? They both worshipped Tyr. They looked angry and were shouting at each other. Estel couldn’t understand what they were saying. None of this made any sense. Estel shouted to them. She pleaded for them to stop. Nothing… they didn’t hear her. She had to get closer. Maybe then they could see or hear her. She had to talk with them. She didn’t know why, but she just had to make them stop fighting. She ran towards the two. Though, with each step she took forward, the two men seemed two steps further away. Estel ran and ran and ran, but the men just seemed further and further away. Wait!!! Estel wanted answers. She needed to speak with them. Estel shouted herself hoarse, but it did nothing. Estel would keep on running, never getting any closer… It was a strange dream, to say the least. Why would she dream of two men she never met wearing a symbol to a god she didn’t know offhand? It had to be more than a mere dream… Estel was sure of it. Find the answers, though, would have to wait. Stupid waiting!

The snow seemed whiter. The mountain seemed more mountainny. Darksong felt a little weird, but it was a good weird. He didn’t mind. They were close to the top of the mountain. Darksong would smash the Spirit Beast and take its fang. The old orc would answer his questions. That would be that. The group saw something coming towards them. It looked like a beat-up old dwarf for a second, but then Darksong got a better look. That’s no dwarf! That’s some ugly lizard dwarf thing pretending to be a dwarf! RaAAAHhhH!! Kill it!! Darksong knew it had to die. This thing is some sort of abomination of nature. He charged the lizard dwarf and hit it very hard with his hammer. He hurt it. Good. It was time to kill it. Then Joseph and Azurra started yelling. It wasn’t a lizard? Just a regular dwarf? NAAHHH! Couldn’t they see the blue scales? The lizard dwarf was also yelling. It wanted to know why Darksong was attacking it. That was obvious, though. Cause it was some dirty evil lizard dwarf thing. The thing was yelling that it wasn’t a lizard. Just what a lizard dwarf would say! Some of the other guys didn’t seem sure either. It looked like a lizard to them too. Joseph and Azurra were sure, though. They said he w wasn’t a lizard. Hmmph! Darksong lowered his hammer. He didn’t like this at all. They asked the lizard some questions. The lizard was so beat up because it tried to take on the Spirit Beast by itself. It said that the Spirit Beast was the reason why all the orcs and goblins were on the mountain. If the Spirit Beast were dead, maybe the dwarves could take their home back. The story sounded fishy to Darksong. Why would a lizard wanna do that? Maybe it wasn’t a lizard, but that made no sense! Darksong could see the lizardyness of the dwarf, plain as day. They talked some more. It wasn’t important talk. Then the lizard went on its way, and the six went to the top of the mountain.

The top of the mountain was beautiful. The color of the strange plant life and the snow painted a wonderful picture. The strange mist was also eerily serene. Joseph thanked Amaunator for allowing him to see such a sight in this land. He couldn’t allow himself to get too distracted, however. This was where he and his allies were to fight the Spirit Beast. Joseph not only saw this as a test from the old orc, but he also saw this as a test from Amaunator. If he lacked the strength and will to defeat the Spirit Beast, he could never face his destiny. As he prayed to himself, preparing himself for the battle, he noticed the plants releasing their spores, much like he noticed the night before. The mist coalesced with the spores swirling through the air. After a few seconds it started to take shape. By Amaunator’s light… what was that thing? It seemed like some primeval beast. It looked like a large primitive mammal. The head seemed like a cross of a canine, rodent, and reptile. It was mostly covered in fur. It let out a horrific howl, and combat began. Joseph wanted the battle to end as quickly as possible. He charged the Spirit Beast and called upon the power of the Sun God. Joseph’s blade shined with the light of Amaunator as he cut a grievous wound onto the beast. The Spirit Beast turned its sights onto Joseph and attacked him ferociously. Everyone did their part in attacking the beast as well as protecting one another. The fight seemed to be going in their favor. Then a massive clap of thunder erupted from the beast. It shed its fur and turned into something more reptilian. The beast fought with renewed vigor. Its claws struck harder, and the beast possessed new thunder and lightning based powers. Joseph prayed to Amaunator for the strength to overcome this challenge. The trial was truly difficult. Joseph fell before the beast’s might, but thanks to the grace of Amaunator and the help of those with him, they won. The creature reverted into its mist form, Joseph was told. All that was left behind was a single fang. Darksong claimed the prize. Joseph was glad that they didn’t have to slay the Spirit Beast, and prayed to Amaunator that the trip down the mountain would be safe.

Iris was tired. The battle against the Spirit Beast was an exhausting one, and now they had to go back down the mountain. It’s him again. The group ran into the dwarf, Dorien. He still didn’t look like a dwarf to Iris, though. He looked like a lizard. Still, though… for a moment Dorien looked like the third dwarf in her disturbing dream. Dorien asked the group if they had killed the Spirit Beast. Azurra and Darksong said that the beast was beaten, but it could not be killed. The dwarf-lizard seemed disappointed, but was at least thankful that it was beaten. Iris didn’t trust Dorien, though. Neither did Darksong or Estel. They also saw the dwarf as a lizard, and, on top of that, he was one of the dwarfs from her dream. Estel accused him of not being honest with his motives. Tempers flared, but nothing resulted. Iris and her friends left Dorien and continued down the mountain. After going down a couple for a few minutes, they heard a loud desperate howl. It was the Spirit Beat! Something must have happened to it. Did Dorien go and kill the beast? Before they had time to consider what happened and to act, the mountain started to shake violently. They had to get off the mountain fast! Quickly, they ran down the mountain and through the tunnels. They encountered goblins on their way down. Neither Iris’s friends nor the goblins were interested in killing each other. Only one thing was on all of their minds: Escape! Without interruptions from the goblins, the trip down the mountain was much faster than the trip up it. Eventually, they made it off the mountain. Goblins and animals accompanied them. A safe distance away from the mountain a large group of orcs were staring at the mountain. Iris hadn’t had time to pay attention during the run down, so now she turned around to see what was happening. By Tempus’s blade… the mountain was collapsing. Iris turned to her companions. They were all stunned by what they saw. Darksong said that he believed that the Beast was the spirit of the mountain. While Iris didn’t really understand the spirits of nature that Darksong and Azurra believed in, she was understood what Darksong said and was inclined to agree with him. Darksong went up to one of the orcs. He wanted to tell the old orc what had happened. At first the orc was too busy looking at the mountain, and then a fearful look crossed his face. He was worried about the old orc and led the party into the village.

What had he done? Azurra couldn’t believe what was happening. The mountain was crumbling down. The Spirit Beast was probably dead. Azurra had a bad feeling in the pit of his stomach. As the orc led them to the chief’s hut, he couldn’t help but fear the sagacious orc’s safety. There was a large crowd outside the chief’s tent. The six were allowed to enter. Shankakru… Azurra was haunted by the ghosts of his past. The old orc chief was dying in front of his eyes. Even in his final moments, the orc cared about for those around him. Azurra saw him pass over the mantle of leadership to a younger orc. The wise orc told the younger orc to answer the group’s questions. Moments later, the orc passed on. Azurra felt powerless again. While neither Shankakru’s death nor the death of this orc were his fault, Azurra couldn’t help but feel responsible. Why did this happen again? The new orc chieftain drew a circle in the earth, and the seven were teleported to the border of the orcish lands. It was now time to get the answer they sought, the answers that many died for. Ferralnoc, the new chief told them many things. The plant which let out the spores was sacred to the clan. It was used in many of their rituals, and it was said that those under its influence could see the truth. Maybe Darksong and the others weren’t crazy after all. Maybe that dwarf was some sort of lizard. The effects of the spore, though, would be temporary. The orcs that attacked Talagbar were most likely the newly formed Storm Fury Clan. They are led by a half-orc named Purogg. He also told them that Ironfell Metal was the body of Telos, a being the orc tribe called the Falling Star. Telos fell from the sky many years ago. Ferralnoc didn’t know why the Storm Fury Clan would act with the kobolds, nor what they wanted with the Ironfell metal. Finally, Ferralnoc said that his clan would still honor the treaty with the humans of Vaasa. He would inform Azurra and his friends if anything were to happen. The party had been accepted into the orc’s clan. They were brothers. This was all too familiar to Azurra. He wish that he could remember this fondly, but it only brought back bad memories. They had the answers they wanted, it was time to go. Not a moment too soon for Azurra.

Finally, things were easy. Not a single dirty kobold or orc to ruin the trip back to Talagbar. A bit on the borin’ side, but least it were easy. Implements could almost say it were pleasant. Almost, if it weren’ for that dream he had. In the dream Implements saw himself wanderin’ the plains. He saw his ol’ pals. There was Dead Eye and Trick Blade talkin’ to some humans. Out in the distance he saw Big Benjamin Bigg talking to some human with white hair. They seemed pretty peaceful. Then those blood thirty Warlock Knights a ‘showed up. Lots a killing happened. The humans were killing each other. Then Implements started joinin’ in on the fun. He charged in, staff a’blazing. Something was off, though. Implements was fighting with the Warlock Knights. What? That ain’t right? He hated the Warlock Knights. Implements killed many of them humans. He then set his sights on Big Benjamin Bigg. Why did he go after his ol’ boss? It didn’ matter. Implements went after him. As he ran towards big, he was the havoc that the Warlock Knights was causin’. He liked it. Those humans had to die. He was glad when a Warlock Knight took the head of Trick Blade. Dead Eye and some humans fought together, but they was surrounded. They was done for. That didn’ matter none, Implements had his eyes set on Bigg. Bigg seemed confused. He didn’t get why Implements attacked him. Implements didn’t understand neither, but he liked it. He liked it a lot. Bigg tried a’fightin’ back, but it didn’t help him none. Implements knocked ‘im down to his hands and knees. Bigg tried beggin’ for his life. Disgusting... Bigg was always yeller. Hahaha! It was funny. Those humans and his gang, they were all dead, all but Bigg. Implements would fix that soon, though. He lifted his staff and a’pointed it at Bigg’s head. Implements was glad. He enjoyed it plenty. There was a flash of light… That was it. That was the dream. It concerned him greatly. He didn’t like it none too much, but it was just a dream. No point botherin’ the others about it for now.

Darksong and the others were back in Talagbar. He was back to normal. Things didn’t look weird to him anymore. They went to talk with Hildenoth. They told him what they learned and what happened. Hildenoth cared nothing of the mountain or the noble orcs. Darksong was angered by this, but there was nothing he could do. Hildenoth gave them a reward, and they left. They went to the pub to decide what to do next. They talked about a few things. Like the dreams they had. Darksong didn’t have a dream. He did have a vision, though, so he didn’t mention it at first. Estel caught him on it. He described his vision. He had it a few nights before. When he was on watch, he was looking at a fire. The fire showed him a vision. He saw some of his kin. They were in mountains he didn’t know too well. They weren’t his clan, but they were his people. He saw three dwarves with the goliaths: Merran, Thorcan and Dorien. Darksong didn’t know why the dwarves were there. Then there was a great earthshake. The mountain trembled, and a great chasm opened up. The earth swallowed his people, but not the dwarves. That was his vision. Darksong already didn’t like that lizard dwarf, Dorien. He didn’t like Thorcan Orangeshield either. Darksong was told that he betrayed the other dwarves. After describing the vision a little bit, Darksong told his friends that they should check the other dwarves. Estel was still affected by the plants. She might be able to tell if Merran and Thorcan were lizards as well. They liked the plan.

There was a lot Estel wanted to do now. She had to meet with the dwarves from Iris’s and Darksong’s dreams. She also wanted to learn more about her dream. Since her dream involved the god Tyr she decided to go to Father Aslen first. She described the men in her dream. Father Aslen recognized one of them from the description as Alexander Alcarin. The elf was a former Chosen of Tyr. He left the Church under bad terms, however. That was great! She had a name to one of the faces. This was a great start. She decided to talk with the dwarves the next day. Iris led the group to Thorcan Orangeshield first. He lived in a big house. Grr… Darksong was right! He’s a lizard too! They asked him some questions, like if he knew Dorien. He said he didn’t, but he was still a lizard. Darksong asked about Goliaths. Thorcan said they were in the mountains to the east. He did lightning tricks with his fingers too. That was creepy. No one else noticed it but Estel. Next they met with Merran. Darksong knew him, and he was Iris’s friend. He was lizard too! They asked Merran about Dorian. Merran also didn’t know Dorien. Estel asked about the man white hair in her dream. Thorcan didn’t know anything, maybe Merran might. She was in luck. Merran said the name Traim, but he also said that Traim’s been dead for a long time. Rats! She had to find out more, though. That was yet another lead she got, even if it was from a lizard. Seeing that Father Aslen was a good source of information, she went to him yet again. Estel asked the good father who Traim was. Estel wasn’t disappointed. Traim was a legendary hero of Vaasa. He was a follower of Tyr who helped establish a large temple to the Former Triad in the Blood Marshes. However, much like Merran had said before, Father Alsen said that Traim died roughly forty years ago. His remains were buried at the temple. Estel also learned one more piece of information. Traim was often called a Holy Liberator of Tyr. Estel got really excited. She thanked Father Alsen and couldn’t wait to tell the others what was on her mind. Here goes! Estel was sure that this Traim was the leader of the Holy Liberators. Or maybe it was the angel of Traim, or maybe it was his son, or maybe it was someone acting in his name. Point was that the Holy Liberators had to be related to Traim somehow. She knew it had to be true. It just made too much sense. Zeke’s dream, which Estel had to drag out of him, also had Traim in it. His old gang was talking to humans with Traim. They had to be the Holy Liberators. She was right. She knew it! Estel was pretty sure Zeke agreed with her. Estel was so excited. She had to find Traim. She had to find the Holy Liberators. The group had nothing to do right now. That’s what she wanted to do. Darksong, though, wanted to find his people in the mountains. He seemed worried about them… He really really wanted to see them. Awww… Estel wanted to find Traim very badly, but she understood how important this was to Darksong. Fine… the group decided to go into the mountains to the east to look for the goliaths that Darksong saw in his dream. Zeke, though, came up with a great plan afterwards. He said that they should go to his old gang’s hideout. It might help lead them to the Holy Liberators. Estel was happy and excited again. She was one step closer to understanding the dream.

Chapter V: The Decision to Protect
Iris wasn’t too pleased with the plan. Looking for the goliaths in the mountains to the east was one thing. Tracking down the Holy Liberators was an entirely different matter. She knew firsthand how dangerous they could be. As much as she didn’t like it, though, these people were her friends. This trip seemed very important to Estel and Darksong. It probably mattered to Zeke as well. However, if she were to leave again, she would have to tell someone. She decided to go straight to the top, to Lord Hildenoth himself. She went to Lord Hildenoth’s cabin early on the day her friends were supposed to go into the mountains. She told him exactly what the group planned on doing: going into the mountains to find the goliaths and then going to the Sleight of Many Hands old hideout to see if a lead to the Holy Liberators could be found. Lord Hildenoth had a mixed reaction to this. He seemed intrigued by the first proposition. He left the room momentarily and returned with a strange statuette. It was a stone carving of a boar. Lord Hildenoth said that this trip presented a great opportunity to establish friendly relations between the goliaths and the people of Vaasa. He asked Iris to wear her formal cloak which had the symbols of both Talagbar and the Warlock Knights on it. He also asked Iris to present the statue to the goliaths as a peace offering. Iris was honored by Lord Hildenoth’s request. He was pleased by the trip to the mountains. He didn’t seem as pleased with the plan to visit the old hideout to find the Holy Liberators. Lord Hildenoth thought it too risky for the gnome to try to get in contact with any remnants of his old group. Furthermore, contact with the Holy Liberators could prove dangerous to Talagbar as a whole. That organization is ruthless to the Warlock Knights. Lord Hildenoth pointed out that if Iris, a member of the town guard, were captured by the Holy Liberators, Talagbar’s safety might be in jeopardy. Iris understood her orders. Meet the goliaths and deliver the peace offering on behalf of Talagbar and the Warlock Knights, and to avoid contact with the Holy Liberators. Now she had to inform the others.

Curse that dictator! What right did he have to tell the party what they could do? How could Iris so blindly follow Hildenoth? Azurra couldn’t believe this. Azurra had no intention of following these “orders.” Thankfully, neither did most of the others. It was no surprise, though, that the fool, Joseph, didn’t want to cause any inconvenience. After deciding not to bow down to any dictator, they went into the mountains. Darksong led the way. The terrain was uneven, and the climb was difficult. Even Darksong had trouble and fell once during the trip. Of course, the fool had to hurt Estel during his tumble. He should have known better. Azurra was annoyed, but since Estel wasn’t seriously hurt, he couldn’t stay angry. After sometime on the mountains they crossed over a ridge and onto another treacherous slope. That idiot, Joseph, was once again careless. He fell down the slope and attracted a group of drakes. The spitting drakes quickly ganged up on Joseph. Darksong ran in to distract the drakes, so that Joseph may have time to regroup. Did Joseph take advantage of this? Nooooo! Azurra cursed to himself as he saw Joseph charge in and gain the drake’s attention. Iris, Estel, and Azurra came to try to keep that fool alive and to help out Darksong. Zeke kept the flying psuedodragons at bay. The onslaught of the drakes was too much for Joseph to take. Despite the setbacks, though, they were victorious. As was expected, though, that bleeding-heart, Joseph, lamented the death of the drakes. Kill or be killed, that was nature. How could such a simple concept escape him? It irritated Azurra to no end. After a brief rest, they examined the nearby caves. Some treasure was found in one cave. The other cave, though, was far more interesting. A clutch of eggs were found. Two were rage drake eggs and two were psuedodragon eggs. The others seemed intent on taking and caring for the eggs. While Azurra wasn’t sure if he personally would have done that, he couldn’t say no to Estel. She took the psuedodragon eggs while Darksong took the other eggs. After that brief interruption they continued their search for the goliaths.

Implements didn’ care none too much about the goliaths. Whatever floated the big guy’s boat… He was interested in goin’ to the old hideout. He was getting’ anxious about it. He hadn’ been there since the day those scumbag Warlock Knights took everthin’ away from him. Too many memories filled his head. It looked like the reminiscin’ would have to wait, though. Joseph saw a camp. They got closer and saw a bunch of humans with a smaller guy. They was dressed like bandits. Implements couldn’t make out their faces. Both sides got closer. It was a face off. Implements was never one to back down from a fight. Then the small guy spoke. Implements knew that voice. He hadn’t heard it in eleven years. That was Dead Eye, sure as we was a standin’ there! Dead Eye and the humans took one look at Iris and saw the mark of the Warlock Knights. They wanted the group dead, and Implements couldn’ really blame ‘em. Dead Eye wasn’t much too pleased to Implements neither. He accused Implements of betrayin’ them and siding with the Warlock Knights. Implements and the others tried to explain that they weren’t Warlock Knights, but Dead Eye was stubborn as always. Implements knew that he’d have to knock some sense into his old friend, and he was fine with that. The fight began, and the plan was simple. Knock ‘em all out. A lot of the humans went after the law lady. Dead Eye went straight after Implements. One by one, them humans started fallin’. The big’un was closin’ in on Dead Eye too. That old goat was still clever. He disappeared and ran when things were goin’ ‘gainst him. They still had some prisoners, so it weren’t no total loss, and, Implements figured, he’d have the chance to see Dead Eye again. After a few minutes it was time to question the humans. Pretty much as the group figured, they was part of the Holy Liberators. Lil’ Estel asked if their leader was that Traim fellow. They said he wasn’t, but they did say that their leader had white hair. They wasn’ gonna say their leader’s name or location, though. Joseph asked some question about Shar. The humans didn’t know nothing. Then Darksong asked ‘bout the goliaths in the mountain. The humans said that they were dangerous. Tryin’ to kill all the downlanders or somethin’ like that. Darksong didn’ seem too pleased to hear that. Implements couldn’t blame him. Implements still wasn’t too pleased ‘bout being his ol’ friends’ enemy now on account of that skirt, Iris. After the questions, Estel promised to let ‘em go if they delivered a letter to their white-haired boss. Of course, they agreed. Then they ran off like dogs with their tails between their legs.

Had he said too much? Should he have asked about Shar? He had to take the chance, though. With a name like the Holy Liberators and obvious connections to a great hero of the past, Joseph thought it was a good chance to learn about the forces of darkness in the region. Oh well, Amaunator will enlighten him with the knowledge when the time comes. He just need be patient. That’s what everyone was doing. Joseph was also thankful that there was no needless death the in the previous battle. The campsite that they left behind was an added bonus. Estel didn’t trust Lord Hildenoth and was examining the peace offering. Both she and Zeke detected magic, divination magic, to be more specific. As the group was ready to turn in for the night, the group heard the sound of a beating drum? The goliaths sprang down the sides of the mountain with amazing speed. They were surrounded! Joseph prayed to Amauntor for protection, as he prepared for battle. Estel was not quite ready for the battle when one of the goliaths riding on top of a dire boar charged straight for her. Estel, no!! The beast rammed into Estel and sent her flying into the campfire where she was engulfed in flames. How savage! Joseph had to contain his anger, lest darkness would take over his heart. He was angry for what they did to the young girl, but he would not let the anger over take him. The battle went downhill from there. An enemy archer from atop the cliff fired arrows relentlessly at Azurra. A hulking goliath that nearly dwarfed Darksong charged down the mountain and brutally attacked Iris. Yet another Goliath riding a boar went after Joseph. This was a bad situation. Joseph called upon the might of Amaunator and dealt the goliath in front of him a serious blow. With Darksong’s assistance, one of their opponents fell, injured, though, alive. Oh thank Amaunator, Estel managed to drag herself out of the fire. She seemed quite injured not mortally wounded. She even helped Iris by issuing a divine command that momentarily stopped the goliath’s assault. Then something peculiar happened. Estel started screaming. She was afraid, deathly afraid of her surroundings, and she ran from the battle field. Joseph was very concerned. He had never seen Estel act like that. On top of that, she was away from the safety of her friends. Nearly as bad was the fact that Joseph and his companions couldn’t count on her healing abilities. This was further exasperated when Azurra fell from his wounds caused by the goliath’s archer. Iris fell shortly after. With two of the party down and Estel unable to fight, defeat was certain. Then something miraculous happened. Darksong and the goliaths were speaking. Joseph didn’t understand what they were saying, but one thing was clear. The fighting stopped, at least for now. Darksong told Joseph to take the others, to leave the mountains, and not to follow him. Darksong wouldn’t explain himself, but he didn’t have to. Joseph understood. Darksong had sacrificed his freedom for his friends’ lives. Joseph and the others tended to their wounds as Darksong was taken away by the goliaths.

Estel felt as though she were in a deep haze. What had happened? It was late at night, and she and the others were walking. Didn’t they already have a campsite? Maybe what just happened wasn’t a dream. Last thing Estel could clearly remember was hearing the drums as was examining the peace offering. Then wham! There was a fire and burning, things got really scary. People started falling. Darksong was taken away… Wait this all really happened, didn’t it? Poor Darksong… it wasn’t fair! He’d he have to go do a thing like that? Joseph said that they weren’t to follow him either. That’s crazy! Everything today was crazy. Why did she see all those crazy things? Could it have been because of the plants? Estel sighed. Being able to “see the truth” was handy. Maybe it wasn’t such a good thing anymore, though. The trip back was a quiet and sad trip. She already missed Darksong. Very late into the night they returned to Talagbar. Everyone went back to their places without even a goodbye. Estel and Zosa went back to the Okane house. It was very late, so they had to be let in. Mrs. Okane looked at Estel and was upset. Estel did realize that she probably didn’t look all that great. Her clothes were dirty and burnt. She probably had lots of cuts, bruises and burns on her skin as well. Mrs. Okane wanted to know what happened. Estel saw nothing wrong with telling her the truth. She told her about the mountains, the goliaths, and the boar knocking her into a fire. Mrs. Okane was shocked, and she started scolding Zosa. She said that he shouldn’t take Estel on dangerous adventures because she was a child. That annoyed Estel. She’s not a regular little girl! She can take care of herself. And why was she taking it out on Zosa? That’s not fair! Estel liked Mrs. Okane but thought she was way off base on this matter. Zosa said nothing and went to their room. Estel followed. The next day, Estel decided it was time to cure herself of the plants. Since she wasn’t getting any better and didn’t know how to cure herself, she went to Father Aslen. He can do it! She was sure of that. Zosa and Estel went to see Father Aslen, and he cured her in a jiffy. Estel was a little bummed that colors didn’t seem as vibrant and things overall seemed boring again, but at least she was healthy!

Azurra felt powerless. Anger and despair were creeping into his heart. He had already lost two families before his very eyes. He was afraid that he might lose a third one. Darksong was gone, and Estel suffered serious injuries that night. Mrs. Okane was right, to an extent. He should have done a better job protecting Estel. Azurra didn’t want to speak with anyone. Estel’s endless chirping about meeting with the others and of optimism grated on his nerves. Why would he want to meet with them now? He was of no use in the state that he was in. Meeting with the dictator’s lapdog, the naïve fool, or the gnome would do no good right now. Azurra just wanted time to himself, but Estel wouldn’t give him any peace. He begrudgingly agreed to meet with the others. A lot of good that meeting did, though… Azurra didn’t think that he could feel much worse, but after an evening of listening to Joseph talk, he was proven wrong. Joseph had a ridiculously idealistic view of the world. Of course, he suffered crushing disappointment when the world failed to live up to those expectations. Joseph’s incessant lamenting over this was as aggravating as it was depressing. It even brought Estel’s spirits down. The only slightly interesting bit of news came from Iris. She said that the town was holding a small festival in about a week’s time. Azurra didn’t care too much, but Estel seemed excited about it. That was enough. She could use a vacation. With the unproductive meeting done, Azurra and Estel went back to their room. The next two days were uneventful. The third day proved to be as infuriating as it was eye-opening. Azurra and Estel were having their breakfast when two people entered the Okane kitchen and interrupted them. One was a man dressed much like Iris. Azurra was pretty sure that he was also a member of Talagbar’s guard. The other was some woman. Azurra didn’t pay her much mind, since she wasn’t the one with a sword at her side. The woman spoke to Estel and asked her some questions. Questions about the night Darksong left the group. These questions irritated Azurra. The pair listened and was visibly appalled by what they heard. The man turned his gaze toward Azurra. He introduced himself as Edgar Salvone, Captain of the Guard of Talagbar. He demanded to know how Azurra could let a ten year old girl go into the mountains and be so grievously injured. He accused Azurra of being an irresponsible guardian. Azurra tried his best to stay calm and ignore the accusations. However, when that pompous prick said he was going to take Estel, Azurra snapped. No one was going to take Estel from him. That arrogant fool had no idea of what Estel was capable of or what her destiny had in store for her. Estel was his responsibility, and he let Edgar know that. The captain challenged Azurra to see if he was really up to the task of protecting the girl. Hah! Azurra would not back down. No, he would die sooner than let Estel be taken by that man. The two went outside the building. Estel was with the woman nearby. Azurra was doing this for Estel. He had to remind himself that as the duel began. Azurra knew that this wasn’t going to be an easy fight. There was already a small crowd that was continuously growing at the spectacle that the captain was creating. Azurra could not call out Sparkfang in these conditions. No matter, he’d make do with what he had. That self-righteous fool, Edgar, unsheathed his weapon. The sword’s dull luster told Azurra that Edgar’s sword was forged from Ironfell metal. Azurra’s prospects for victory weren’t good, but he had to win for Estel’s sake. The fight began, and Edgar ran at Azurra and dealt a powerful blow. No good! Azurra backed away and fought with all his might. Edgar was too nimble and too strong. Azurra could not land a good blow against the captain. Despair was starting to creep into his heart again. He was going to lose. He was going to lose Estel! NO! Azurra started swearing as he fought with all his might. This couldn’t be happening! This won’t happen! The captain occaisionaly spoke to Azuura, giving him praise for his determination. Azurra would take any of his patronizing, though. He would fight! Azurra even set up a barrier of growth in between the two, anything that could buy Azurra some time or give him an edge. As much as Azurra tried to deny it, he knew what the outcome would be. Edgar said that Azurra was simply too weak to properly protect the girl. Azurra didn’t know what hurt more at the moment, his wounds or the sting of Edgar’s words. Edgar then lifted his sword and a shot of radiant energy fired into Azurra chest. He fell, unconscious, cursing Edgar and his own weakness as he fell. Moments later, Azurra eye’s opened. Estel was at his side; she must have healed him. The beast was trying to claim his prize, Estel. Estel, though, said she would not come. The man had the nerve to call her selfish. The two argued a bit. Edgar preaching about the child’s safety, with Estel arguing back. Azurra used this distraction to relaunch his attack against the captain of the guard. Estel also joined in on the fight and, though divine power, commanded the captain away from Azurra. The man would not be swayed either, though. Azurra stood his ground, ready to fight to his last breath, when, all of a sudden, an unlikely ally got in between the two. That fool, Joseph? What was he doing here? This was none of his business. This was between Azurra and Edgar. Edgar seemed to share these sentiments and asked Joseph to step aside. Joseph would not, and started spouting the same nonsense as always. Edgar started walking past him, but Joseph would not relent. Joseph spoke of Estel’s gifts and Azurra’s virtues. He spoke about his desire also to keep the girl safe. He spoke of the determination and duty Azurra felt for the girl. He spoke for a long while. At last, when the speaking was done, Edgar lowered his sword. He was gracious enough to allow Estel to stay with Azurra. Pompous jerk… However, Edgar gave Azurra a warning. If Azurra ever allowed Estel to get seriously hurt again, Edgar would kill him. With that stern warning, Edgar sheathed his sword and left. Azurra was relieved, Estel was safe, and where she belonged. He also had to thank Joseph. Despite all the harsh things Azurra has said to him, Joseph went to his aid. Joseph didn’t have to. He would have been well within his rights, but he helped Azurra. Azurra walked up to Joseph and thank him.

Chapter VI: Seeds of Change
Joseph was lying on his small bed in Father Aslen’s house while he was recollecting the day’s events. He had to admit, despite his numerous misgivings, Joseph had fun… Not even a ten-day had passed since Darksong’s disappearance, but those around him were getting excited about the coming festival. Joseph could not, though. Darksong was still gone, and grave injustice still plagued the land. How could Joseph participate in a festival when the dwarven slaves could not? Of course these reasons were secondary to Joseph. For most of his life celebration has been marred by tragedy. This celebration would be sunshine to the people in Vaasa. Amauntor would bring light to their dark lives by means of merriment. Joseph did not want him to bring darkness to these people. Joseph feared, more than anything, that Michael would come. The dark one derived twisted pleasure from darkening what should be the happiest of occasions for Joseph. Yes, he prayed long and hard to Amaunator, hoping that his light would shine on the people of Talagbar during the festival. Fearing that any happiness in the midst of friends would attract his destined foe, Joseph tried to avoid the festival altogether. His companions, though, had other plans. The people of Talagbar were certainly happy. There were many games and events going on. This was the sunshine that the people of Talagbar needed. Just seeing their happiness elevated Joseph’s spirits slightly. Estel was bounding with youthful energy. She wanted to participate in as many of the day’s events as she could. She also tried to convince everyone to join her. The first event she participated in was a horse race. Estel, Azurra, Joseph and some of the locals participated. Joseph found himself caught up in the celebration. For once his mind wasn’t solely focused on the gravity of his destiny. Thankfully, horse racing wasn’t part of his greater purpose. Joseph had a poor showing. One of the locals won the race. However, Estel finished strong with second place. Joseph really enjoyed himself. Estel would try to join a contest to see who could grow the largest pumpkin. Because of her use of magic, she was ineligible to enter, but she was given an honorary ribbon. That amused Joseph. Even Ezekiel would get in on the festivities. Estel, Iris, and Ezekiel participated in an archery contest. Zeke and Iris performed fairly well, but the locals took this event as well. Next on Estel’s agenda was the rock throwing contest. The object was simple, throw a rock as far as possible. The rock, however, was very large, too large for Joseph. That didn’t stop Estel, though. Iris also joined the competition along with another member of the local guard, a rather large man at that. It warmed Joseph’s heart to see Estel try with Azurra coaching her along the way. She didn’t throw the rock very far, but her effort still garnered much praise. Iris performed very well, eventually winning the event. The large guard, named Bors, though, injured his back during the first throw. Thankfully, Estel provided some first aid, but it didn’t improve his performance much for the second throw. Still, Bors was thankful for the help and was a good sport. The next contest was the baking contest. Of course, Estel entered. Joseph decided to enter as well. He had spent much of his life on his own. As a result, he had to cook a large portion of his meals. All that practice made him quite adept at cooking, or so Joseph liked to believe. He was confident in his cooking skills, but now was the chance for him to pit his skills against others. Mrs. Okane of the boarding house and Mrs. Darkeye of the Greedy Fox also entered. Joseph wanted to make something special. Estel, with help from Azurra, was baking a pie. Mrs. Okane was also baking a pie. Mrs. Darkeye was baking a grand cake. Joseph had to do something special. He prayed to Amaunator for divine inspiration as well as seeking the collective wisdom of the Daydomicos which preceded him. He had it! Praise be to Amaunator! He would create a flat bread pie with tomato sauce, cheese, and an assortment of herbs and spices. He would call it a Pizza. Eventually everyone would have their dishes ready. Lord Hildenoth would be the judge of this contest. He first went to Estel. He seemed quite pleased with the pumpkin pie’s taste. He then went to Mrs. Okane. Her pie was some sort of berry pie. Hildenoth was not so kind with her. It was clear that Hildenoth would not spare anyone’s feelings in this contest. Joseph was up next. He was anxious, yet confident. What would Hildenoth think of this creation? Hildenoth took a slice of the pizza. Yes! Thank Amaunator, he liked it. Hildenoth was quite impressed with Joseph’s entry. All that was left was to try Mrs. Darkeye’s cake. Hildenoth made it clear; her cake won the baking contest. Joseph was a little disappointed, but he was still very happy and proud of his performance. The next contest was the pie eating contest. This time Estel bit off more than she could chew, quite literally. Estel, Zeke, Azurra, Iris, Bors, and two others entered this contest. Joseph was content to just watch the spectacle. Joseph found it quite amusing to see Estel stuff her face full of pie. Unfortunately, she nor Iris nor Zeke could finish a single pie. Azurra, though, ate with all his might. In the end, though, his stomach was no match for Boors. The large and kind-hearted guard out ate everyone there. Azurra did win a consolation prize of five pies, though. There was one contest left; however, this would be one that Estel would have to sit out. It was a drinking contest. Iris, Zeke, Boors, and a local entered this contest. Iris couldn’t hold her liquor very well and was the first to drop out of the contest; then was the large Boors. All that was left was a local drunkard who actually tried to get Estel to enter the drinking contest and Zeke. The two went tit for tat, until they eventually could go no further. Both were forced to stop drinking at the same time, however, the local couldn’t hold onto his liquor and threw up. Zeke was declared the winner. The night was all but over at this point. The festivities were winding down. Estel had one more thing planned, though. By means of a magical ritual, Estel created a colorful display of fireworks in the shape of animals. The brilliant colors filled the night sky. It was beautiful, truly a glorious way to end a glorious day… Back in his bed Joseph recounted these events and felt guilty. Despite the oppression of the dwarves, the disappearance of Dark song, and the danger he puts everyone in, he still had the gall to celebrate. May Amaunator forgive him for his transgressions.

Argh… She had a pounding headache, and her back ached a bit. Iris could hear her friends’ voices. Why? Slowly but surely, Iris realized that she wasn’t lying on her bed in her house. She was sitting at the bar in the Greedy Fox. Wha? Oh right! It was slowly coming back to her: the festival, the drinking contest, the strong alcohol. She must have passed out here last night. Oh well… bleary eyed, she got up, and joined her friends for breakfast. As everyone was finishing their meal Captain Salvone entered the pub. He was looking for the group. Lord Hildenoth wanted to see the party. While Edgar didn’t get into specifics, he said it was an honor. Iris knew that many of her new friends didn’t trust Lord Hildenoth, but she was still anxious to find out what this honor was. She and the others went straight to Lord Hildenoth’s cabin after breakfast. After greeting the party, Lord Hildenoth explained what he wanted of Iris and the others. Twice a year a ceremony to induct new members into the Warlock Knights is held. The ceremony was to be held in Palischuk, and Lord Hildenoth was to attend. Lord Hildenoth wanted Iris and her friends to accompany him. As usual, they would get paid for their services, and it would be chance for them to visit a city as grand as Palischuk. This excited Iris. She couldn’t remember the last time she set foot in a city other than Talagbar. Hildenoth looked at Estel and added that he was aware of how interested she was in the Holy Liberators. He told her that if they went, she may have a chance to meet some. After all, such a migration of Warlock Knights from all across Vaasa would be too tempting a meal for those dogs to pass up. With luck they might run into some Holy Liberators. They would leave the next day. Iris, of course, agreed. Edgar was the person that usually accompanied Lord Hildenoth on these trips. She was deeply honored to have this opportunity. The others agreed to go as well. The rest of the day was spent getting supplies and horses for the coming trip. Early the next day, everyone met at Lord Hildenoth’s cabin. It was time to start the trip to Palischuk. The trek wouldn’t be a long or eventful one. They made it to the city slightly after nightfall. Palischuk was truly a sight to behold. The city was very well fortified. Large walls surrounded the city, and many guards were stationed around the city as well. Iris could understand why. With the looming threat of the kobolds, orcs, and undead, defense was a priority. Lord Hildenoth spoke with one of the guards at a gate, and the group was given entry to the city. Lord Hildenoth led the group to a very nice looking inn, The Winter’s Embrace. Looked expensive… thankfully, Lord Hildenoth said he would pay all of the expenses. Iris was getting ready to enjoy this part of the trip.

Palischuk, eh? This were the first time Implements set foot in this city. Security was too tight. This was one of the cities that which Implements always tried to avoid. On top of that, thanks to that ceremony, the city would be crawlin’ with those scumbags. Implements didn’ like the situation one bit. That sonofa, Hildenoth, led them to a nice little joint. Only problem, the place was full with them Warlock Knights. Many of which didn’t seem too keen on seein’ Implements. One of ‘em went straight to Implements and tried to start somethin’. Usually, Implements wouldn’t give kicking a Warlock Knight in the shins a second thought. Problem was they outnumbered him. By a large number too, he reckoned. So he thought up a lie. Claimed he weren’t this Implements fellow. That durn Warlock Knight was a bit too sharp, though. He picked Implements off the ground. Implements’s trigger finger was startin’ to itch. Lucky for that dirtbag, though, Hildenoth came and told that fellow to put Implements down. Those other guys decided that it might be best if’n they go to their room and wait till the Warlock Knights leave. Implements wasn’t one to run from a fight, but he weren’ no fool neither. Implements had a good meal and waited the rest of the night in their room. Next mornin’, Hildenoth said the group’d meet the ruler of the city, some scumbag Warlock Knight by the name of Mansard Kanaoth. Supposedly, it was two of his brat that which were gonna become Warlock Knights in the ceremony. Everyone had to clean up, dress up, and congratulate the two twerps. Nah… Implements weren’ gonna do none of that garbage. He’d go, but he wasn’t gonna make no fuss. Weren’ his kin. Weren’t his friends. Weren’ his problem.

Hildenoth led the group to a small castle in the center of this decrepit city. The downtrodden people, the gray streets, all of it deeply bothered Azurra. As they reach the castle, Hildenoth reminds the group to be polite. Whatever… Azurra wasn’t particularly looking forward to this meeting. After gaining entry into the castle the group was greeted by a fairly old man. This tyrant was Mansard Kanaoth. Azurra already disliked him, but he held his tongue. After niceties, the group was pointed to a set of doors which led to a courtyard. They were told that Mansard’s adopted sons would be there. The courtyard was a sight to see. It had beautiful green grass and several colorful beds of flowers in the center there was a beautiful fountain. Estel was taken by the courtyard. Azurra really couldn’t blame her. However, they weren’t alone. There was an attractive young woman with long dark hair sitting at the fountain, and there were two young men practicing their swordplay close by. The girl noticed them first and greeted them. She was Mansard’s biological daughter, named Serana Kanaoth. When she started speaking the other two took notice and introduced themselves. The younger one was Leorinn Kanaoth; the older one was named Daarkonthis Kanaoth. The princess was immediately taken by Estel. She seemed really interested that Estel was a follower of Ilmater. The two seemed to get along quite nicely. Leorinn wanted to know more about the group. No one really said much of anything except Estel and Joseph. Joseph opened his big mouth and said that he was on a quest to rid the world of darkness or some idealistic foolishness of that matter. He also said his first stop was Vaasa. Instead of taking it as an insult, though, Leorinn agreed that Vaasa was a dark place. He said that when Serana became queen things would change. Serana and Leorinn would bring justice to the land. Humph… more idealistic garbage, but at least they were in a position where such change might be possible. At least the two meant well. Azurra commented on the matter and what a fine queen Serana would become. That fool, Leorinn, took offense to the compliment. Azurra was confused and annoyed. Talking, being sociable, or being at all amiable weren’t among Azurra’s strong points, but he in no way meant any harm. Leorinn got quite angry and left. Good riddance… Serana seemed concerned for her brother and promptly ran after him. Great… this was quickly becoming a disaster. Daarkonthis, who had been mostly quiet until now, stayed behind and warned Azurra to learn to watch what he said and how he said it. He also said that he would inform his father of how the meeting went. Fantastic! Azurra somehow offended the three spoiled brats, and he would get killed for it. Azurra and the others left the courtyard and the castle. That whole meeting annoyed him to no end, but soon he realized that Estel was a bit disappointed. She had taken a liking to the Princess Serana and wanted to speak with her more. Azurra felt no guilt for offending the three brats, but he did feel a little bad for Estel.

Awww!! That Zosa! Estel knew that he didn’t mean to mess things up, but still! She wanted to talk with the Serana some more. Oh well, they had the rest of the day to wander around the city. After some shopping, Estel decided to try to see the princess again. No way the guards would just let her in, though. No way… She had it! She’d try to go in the front door, of course; but, just in case, she’d also write a note. Yeah! That way she’d be sure to get in reach her somehow. The plan worked just as she hoped it would. Well, almost… The guards didn’t let her in. They did take the letter, though. Now all that was left to do was wait. Estel hated waiting. They all went back to the Winter’s Embrace. Estel was glad that all the Warlock Knights were gone. They were all at that ceremony thing. Leorinn and Daarkonthis must have been special, Estel, thought. They were supposedly the youngest members ever to be inducted into the Warlock Knights. Oh well, it was time to eat, and put the meal on Hildenoth’s tab, of course! During the meal, a member of the guard from the castle showed up and delivered a message from Serana. Estel was excited. She wanted to meet Estel again. Alright! Her plan worked! She took the others with her to the castle. Once again they met her at the courtyard. They spoke some more. Estel learned that Serana were followers of Torm. A member of the castle staff taught them the ways of Torm. They secretly worshipped him. After a few minutes of talking, Leorinn and Daarkonthis returned. Leorinn ran up to Serana and hugged her. They were members of the Warlock Knights. Serana was proud of her brothers. They didn’t seem too thrilled to see the group, though… to be more specific, to see Zosa. Oh well. Estel spoke some more with Leorinn and Serana. She mentioned the Holy Liberators and her dream about the white-haired man. Serana and Leorinn were amazed that such a small girl did everything she said. Daarkonthis, though, listened to Estel’s description of the white-haired man. When Estel also said that he was the leader of the Holy Liberators, Daarkonthis left in a hurry… Uh oh, did she say too much? Oh well. Eventually, Leorinn said that it was late and that he and Serana had to retire for the night. Ok, they had a good chat and were becoming friends. Estel was happy. Estel and the others went back to their suite and slept the night away.

Odd, it was morning, and Lord Hildenoth still hadn’t returned yet. Iris and the others started getting ready when a tired, disheveled, and slightly hung over Lord Hildenoth entered the suite. He really didn’t like these get-togethers with the other Warlock Knights. He didn’t see eye to eye with them on many issues. He had to spend time with them, though, and the drink made it bearable. Lord Hildenoth then briefly asked about the day before. Estel had mentioned that she may have inadvertently given Daarkonthis a promotion. Of course, Lord Hildenoth wanted to know more. Estel told him about her dream and how she believed that the white-haired man from her dream was the leader of the Holy Liberators. Lord Hildenoth was intrigued, and Iris felt a knot in the pit of her stomach. She didn’t inform Lord Hildenoth about any of this. This would reflect poorly on her. She was very nervous, but Lord Hildenoth said nothing of this. Instead, Lord Hildenoth informed the group that they would depart soon. He would say his farewells to Mansard and his offspring, while the Iris and the others were to wait at the southern gate of the city for his return. It was a simple enough task. On their way to the gate some strange man approached Estel and started speaking with her. The man was not a fan of the Warlock Knights. Things got eerie when Karn, the man, learned of the groups connection with the Warlock Knights. He shouted that the Warlock Knights took everything from him: his home, his family, even his life! At that point it let out a fearsome scream and the undead emerged from within city limits. There was mass hysteria as people on the streets ran for safety. These weren’t corporeal undead. The city walls could not protect the inside from this kind of threat. It was up to Iris and the others to protect the city’s people. Karn and the others like him were easily put down. However, there were poltergeists on the rooftops of nearby buildings. They made things far more difficult. Joseph and Zeke were at their mercy. Iris realized her sword would be no use and drew her longbow and started firing. Azurra used Sparkfang to pursue the poltergeist on the other roof as well. Estel tended to Zeke’s and Joseph’s wounds. Thanks to everyone’s combined efforts, they were able to drive off the poltergeists. There were few civilian casualties. Iris was glad that they could help save the people, but what of Lord Hildenoth? They had to return to Lord Kanaoth’s castle to see if he was safe. They quickly ran to the castle to find Lord Hildenoth standing outside the castle, with his sword drawn. He was fine. Moments later, they left together for the trip back to Malabar. The ride was largely quiet until Lord Hildenoth heard something in the distance. He quickly rode off to see what it was. Iris was a little slow to react, but when she was ready she followed. However, as she started to leave, orcs started running toward her friends from the opposite direction. This must have been a plan to split the group up. It worked!

Chapter VII: Happy Birthday, Signed MMD
Undead and now orcs… looked like this here trip wouldn’t be so boring after all. Implements was quick on the draw and fired an icy shot from his staff. The shot exploded as it hit the ground killin’ two of the orcs. Two less orcs to worry ‘bout… The remainin’ orcs charged in. The orcs were itchin’ for a fight. Implements wasn’t gonna back down. These orcs were from that Storm Fury clan. A mighty large one went for lil’ Estel. The law skirt and Joseph went to help ‘er out. The fight was brutal. As usual, Joseph was knocked down. Even that grumpy Azurra took a beatin’. For a while, things were looking grim. Implements weren’t too sure if he’d make it out of this one. But, it looked like luck were on his side. One by one the big tough orcs were fallin’. However, luck weren’t on Iris’s side that fight. She died. An orc knocked her down. She was still breathin’, but Estel just couldn’t save her. The leader of the orcs said somethin’ cryptic about their plans. Course, the ugly freak wouldn’ come clean and tell the group what it was talking about. That beast got what were coming to him, though. Finally, better late than never, that ol’ goat, Hildenoth, came back. Seemed like he had orc troubles of his own. Too bad they didn’ cut him down. He didn’t seem none too sad to see the law lady go. No honor among those scumbags, the Warlock Knights. Whatever, those other guys planned on takin’ her to the good Father Aslen.

He couldn’t save her. The light of life was taken away from Iris, and Joseph couldn’t prevent it. How could Hildenoth be so cold? Joseph was filled with sadness and even some anger. He just wanted to go back to Talagbar and have Iris brought back to life. He prayed to Amaunator that nothing else would happen. Sadly, his prayers would go unanswered. A few hours later, as they approached Talagbar, both he and Hildenoth heard sounds all around them. They were surrounded. Hildenoth would not run from this fight, though and called whoever was surrounding them out. They were Holy Liberators. No… Joseph didn’t want to fight them, not here, not now, and certainly not with Hildenoth there. Hildenoth charged into battle with murderous intent. Azurra fought with the same intensity as always. Zeke wasn’t one to hold a punch. Joseph realized that it would be up to him, and maybe Estel, if any of the Holy Liberators were to survive. With aid from Amaunator, Joseph knocked one of the Holy Liberators out. In all honesty, they weren’t putting much of a fight. Hildenoth was hideously powerful, and Zeke and Azurra were making quick work of the others. Joseph had one Holy Liberator in front of him. Joseph knew that the Holy Liberator’s best chance of surviving was to escape. He made a difficult choice and thanked Amaunator for the strength to stand by it. Joseph lowered his weapon and urged the Holy Liberator to escape. This infuriated Hildenoth. Joseph would not sway, though. Sadly, though, his efforts were in vain. He didn’t leave the battlefield, and it cost him his life. The battle was over. They were victorious. All of their opponents save one slept in death’s eternal darkness. This was a sad victory for Joseph. He didn’t want hurt the Holy Liberators or make enemies of them. Now, though, many of them lay dead at his feet. This wasn’t enough for Hildenoth, though. He was furious at Joseph. Joseph would have let one escape, despite the danger that could pose to Talagbar in the future. Joseph had heard this argument from Azurra before. Nothing justified the taking of life in Joseph’s eyes. Joseph once again thanked Amaunator for granting him the strength to stand strong amidst such adversity. He was actually nervous now. What would Hildenoth do? He was prepared for the worst. Hildenoth struck Joseph with his fist. Joseph quickly thanked Amaunator again. He was thankful that Hildenoth only hit him with his fist. Though, apparently, Hildenoth wasn’t done with the Holy Liberators. In a distasteful act of barbarism, Hildenoth decapitated the dead and mounted their heads on branches he cut from the surrounding trees. This, he said, was to serve as a warning to any and all that would oppose him. He then had the last survivor of the Holy Liberators taken captive. Joseph begged Amaunator for forgiveness. He meant to spare the man’s life. However, Joseph had doomed him to a fate possibly worse than death.

Grr… just as she was starting to like the guy! Hildenoth is a really big jerk! Estel couldn’t believe the things he did to the Holy Liberators. She couldn’t believe that he’d punch Joseph or the fact that he’d just leave Iris dead. She quickly took back everything nice she ever thought about him. He’s a monster! Argh! She was in such a bad mood. Now they had to bring Iris back! But what was the point? She was Hildenoth’s lapdog. It took some time, but Zosa finally calmed Estel down a bit. He convinced Estel that she wasn’t mad at Iris… Yeah, Estel figured that was true, but she was still soooo mad! Then Zosa bought her an expensive ritual scroll with their reward money from the trip. Iris was alive again, and Estel had some new ritual scrolls to learn. She felt much better, even if she still hated Hildenoth. That’s how things stayed for quite a while. Several days later the pseudodragon eggs finally hatched! They were so little and cute! Estel named one, and she let Zosa name the other; Lhûg and Little Zosa, respectively. Zosa said he wouldn’t help Estel take care of them, but she knew better. She knew that Zosa thought they were cute too, and that he would help her out. He found out that they ate creepy crawly things like bugs and worms and stuff. Estel loved Lhûg and Little Zosa sooo much. She knew that Zosa loved them too. She didn’t think, though, that Mrs. Okane loved them very much. She didn’t seem to want pseudodragons in her house and didn’t want them to make a mess. Estel and Zosa were in a pickle. They didn’t want to wear out their welcome because of Lhûg and Little Zosa. Thankfully Iris offered to let Estel, Zosa, and their new friends stay at her house. Estel was thrilled. Lhûg and Little Zosa seemed to be happy about it too. They liked Estel. Then after that, things were great. After a few weeks, Lhûg and Little Zosa were off flying around catching their own meals. The people of Talagbar were used to them, and used to everyone in the group. Things were great.

Another cold mornin’… nothing new about that. It was Nightfall now. It was getting close to winter. Implements always hated the winter. There were many things he hated, but Joseph weren’ one of them. Fer the last few days, Joseph’d been stayin’ in his room all alone. Implements knew that something was a’botherin’ him, but Implements also knew better ‘an to pry. Joseph didn’ go diggin’ into his sordid past. It was the least Implements could do for him. Implements decided to take a mornin’ stroll. It’d been years since Implements stayed in a place long as he’d been in Talagbar. He didn’ mind it so much. Durin’ the morning stroll he ran into Lil’ Estel. Least she didn’ have those lizards buzzin’ and chirpin’ round her. Implements liked ‘em but not in the mornin’. Estel said she got some letter from Princess of Palischuk. Implements didn’ care none too much, but it gave the lot to get together and discuss things. Nothin’d happened much in the last few weeks. Course, the others were rounded up easy ‘nuff. Joseph, though, was still behind his door. He didn’ wanna come out. He said that he’d put everyone in danger. Problem was that he wouldn’ say much more than that. That loud mouth, Azurra, though, wouldn’t let things be. He was a’yellin’ at Joseph somethin’ fierce. He jus’ don’ know when to quit! Just like Joseph did for Implements many weeks ago, Implements would stick up for Joseph. It weren’ up to Azurra when people spoke their minds. ‘specially, when he wasn’t doin’ any talkin’ ‘bout his past either. Eventually, Joseph would come a little cleaner. He told the group that his birthday was comin’ up, and that it meant somethin’ very bad was gonna happen. He said he wanted to put some distance between himself and the group so that nothin’ bad would happen to ‘em. Azurra started yellin’ again. Heart was in the right place, but the man don’t know when to shut up. Iris ran off and started cryin’, typical skirt. It was clear, though. The group was gonna stand by Joseph whether he liked it or not.

A few days had passed since that upsetting meeting with Joseph. Even thinking about it upset her. It was Iris’s duty to protect the people of Talagbar. It was duty and privilege to protect her friends. How could Joseph not trust her or the rest of his friends to look out for him? She tried to push it to the back of her mind. His birthday was still a few days away. There was little point in worrying about what might happen. Iris would just deal with it when it did happen. On a completely separate matter, it seemed that Estel and Princess Serana had become pen pals of sorts. The day of the unfortunate meeting, Estel received a letter from the princess. Estel quickly replied. She was so excited to tell her about Lhûg and Little Zosa. More than that, though, it seemed that there was interesting news. Those terrorists, the Holy Liberators were on the run, largely thanks to Daarkonthis. This, to Estel, also meant largely thanks to her. Also the Storm Fury Clan was growing in strength. It seemed that in the relatively peaceful weeks in Malabar, the scene up north was anything but peaceful. Of course, Estel was obsessed with the white-haired man. Estel went so far as to have Joseph assist in writing a letter requesting that Estel be given an audience with the white-haired man upon is capture. Iris wasn’t too interested in the white-haired man, except for Estela’s sake, but she did want to hear news about activities with the Holy Liberators and the Storm Fury Clan. She, along with Estel, eagerly awaited Princess Serena’s next letter.

It was dark outside. Joseph normally wasn’t up this early. He preferred to wake to Amaunator’s light. He didn’t have that luxury today, though. He had to leave Talagbar. He had to get away from his new friends. He tried to explain it to them, the danger they were in. They wouldn’t listen, though. No, the best option, right now, was to leave the town and weather the storm. Joseph packed some supplies, just enough to last him a day or so, and left Talagbar. The plan was simple. He would just go several miles outside of town and wait. Joseph had done this type of thing before. It worked then, and it should work now. He found a nice spot to set up camp. It was slightly off the main road and an hour or so away from Talagbar. As he finished setting up camp, dawn came to wish Joseph a happy birthday. Joseph smiled and thanked Amaunator for such a beautiful gift. He tried to enjoy the sunrise as long as he could, but he couldn’t. The day’s dark reality weighed heavily on his spirit. His birthday would never be a happy occasion. This one had the potential to be disastrous. Joseph made a critical error. He allowed himself to become close to others once again. There were now people that he was afraid of losing. There was Iris, who was always dependable and trustworthy. Despite her loyalty to Hildenoth, Joseph knew she was a good person and trusted her. There was also Zeke. Joseph felt a special bond with the gnome outlaw. He was the first person of the group that Joseph opened up to. While the two never spoke too much, there was a great sense of respect between the two. Then there was Estel. She was special too, for many reasons. Joseph wouldn’t be able to live with himself if anything were to happen to her. Even Azurra… the two didn’t get along very well, but Azurra stands for what he believes in and cares deeply for Estel. That alone earns Joseph’s respect. Finally there was Darksong. He gave up his freedom, maybe even his life, for Joseph. Joseph could not Darksong’s sacrifice be in vain. He could not allow his doom to put his friends in danger. Joseph kept telling himself that he just had to make it through the day. If he could make it through his birthday everything would be okay. He waited.

That idiot! Azurra just learned from Zeke that Joseph left the town early in the day. He was spotted heading south a few hours ago. On top of that, Zeke found a letter. It was addressed to Joseph Savioré Daydominico. Daydominico? Was that his actual last name? Was it some title? No time to worry about that. There was more. All the letter said was “Happy Birthday.” It was signed MMD. Chances were that this MMD was the person Joseph was so scared of. That fool shouldn’t have left by himself, though! He needed his friends nearby just in case something happened. He needed everyone there for moral support. Bah! There was no time to waste. Azurra could ream Joseph when he reached him. After assembling everyone, they rode their horses quickly to the south, the direction that idiot was last seen going. Before too long, Azurra and the others found Joseph. He was sitting by himself in a small campsite. Grrr… at least he’s safe.

Hahhahahahahaha…

No! Those fools! Why did they come here? They aren’t safe! Joseph understood why they came. That wasn’t the point, though. They put themselves in real danger. Argh! Now they started asking questions again. He couldn’t answer all of their questions. The more they knew the more danger they’d be in. He would only tell them the very broad story. That wasn’t enough for them, though. Then Zeke took out a note. It was signed MMD. Oh no… Amaunator, please... don’t let this happen.

They have a right to know.

NOOOO! He’s here! Joseph started looking frantically around him. He felt like a mouse being toyed with. Michael was toying with him. Joseph could hear his voice echoing in his head. Joseph quickly realized his friends were becoming worried. Estel looked frightened. This was bad. He had to protect them somehow. They were scared, and they wanted answers.

Say my name.

Stop it! They were in enough danger as it was. Joseph prayed to Amaunator for help.

''SAY MY NAME! Shout it to the heavens! Shout it to Amaunator!''

Joseph gave in. He dared not incur his wrath. He would appease his enemy if it increased his friend’s chances of survival even the slightest bit. Joseph said his name. He said Michael Malizia Daydominico. The hideous taunting continued, though. Everyone started looking around. They hoped they could find Michael. Joseph did too, even though he knew better. Michael wouldn’t be seen unless he wanted to be seen. Then Joseph heard exactly what he had hoped he wouldn’t.

Whom shall I take from you for your birthday?

This was more than Joseph could bear. He was about to lose those close to him yet again! Amaunator please! He begged Amaunator for help. He begged, knowing that his pleas wouldn’t be answered. The Treaty would never allow for such intervention. He didn’t care, though. Michael was about to kill his friends! Please! Not again! Joseph was desparate. Then it stopped. Michael wished Joseph a happy birthday, and the taunting ceased. It wasn’t over, though. Joseph was positive of that. There was never a time when Michael appeared that wasn’t followed by great tragedy, and the day was far from over.

Darn it, Joseph! What was he gettin’ everyone into? Implements said he’d stand by him, but now Implements was afraid he bit off more ‘an he could chew. No one saw or heard this Michael guy yet. It was clear, though, that he was really spookin’ Joseph out. Joseph’s fear didn’ help matters none either. Lil’ Estel was a wreck. A kid shouldn’t be scared like that. The group stayed out there with Joseph for a few hours. Nothing happened. Everyone decided that it was time to git back to town. At town, they all just wandered a bit, makin’ sure nothin’ was out of the ordinary. Then night came. Implements looked at Joseph. His face was white as a ghost. Implements was about to ask what was the matt…AHHHHHHHH! What has happening!! Implements saw himself burst into blackish purple flames. Implements couldn’ think straight. The pain was too much. Moments later, though, the law skirt helped him get the flames out. Where’d the others go? Iris explained to him that Azurra, Joseph and Estel ran to Father Aslen’s. His house were on fire too. Not him too… Despite the pain he was in, Implements ran to the good Father Aslen’s house. The same flames that engulfed Implements moments ago were now burnin’ Father Aslen’s house. Joseph wasted no time and ran in. The boy better come out alive… A few moments later, Joseph and Father Aslen made it out. Both looked real bad. Estel and Azurra used their magic to heal their wounds. Father Aslen, though, was hurtin’ bad. The flames weren’ natural. Implements could see the flesh fallin’ off of the good father’s face. He barely looked human. Then the law showed up. They tried to save the house, but it were no use. It burnt to the ground. The lawman, Edgar, showed up. He was a’wantin’ to know what was goin’ on. Joseph said it was his fault. Edgar didn’ seem to care at the moment. Bigger things were going on. He decided to get Hildenoth. A few moments later Joseph had a look of horror on ‘is face ‘gain. He turned to Azurra and told him to run with Estel. The law skirt went with ‘em. Implements didn’ like where this was headed. He had a guess, but asked Joseph anyways. Joseph said that this scumbag, Michael, meant to kill Estel…

This was bad. This Michael person was clearly too strong for Azurra. He was igniting people and buildings with that strange fire, and no one could find him. He was far more than they could handle, and if Joseph told them to run that could only mean a few things. That he was about to strike, or worse, he was going after Estel. It didn’t matter, though. If that monster wanted Estel, it would have to be over Azurra’s dead body. Iris and Azurra took Estel just a little outside Iris’s house. Estel was petrified. This situation was too much for her. Why didn’t Joseph explain this sooner! No… Azurra didn’t have time to be angry. Far too much was at stake. He had to be composed and ready to act if and when the enemy arrived. After a few moments they saw a figure knocking on Iris’s door. They froze for a moment. Nobody knew what to expect. Then Azurra and Iris soon realized that it was Hildenoth. Good… Hildenoth is a mighty warrior. While they don’t see eye to eye on some things, Azurra knew that Hildenoth cared about the well being of Talagbar. Iris went over to Hildenoth and called him over. Azurra and Iris then started explaining the situation to Hildenoth. He looked over at Estel and wondered what this Michael person wanted with her. They talked for a while, but Estel was silent. A deathly white look of fear was on her face. She then said that the man wasn’t Hildenoth! What! Azurra started cursing his own stupidity as he prepared to defend Estel. He ordered Estel to run back to Joseph, and, for a change, the girl obeyed. Azurra felt sad as she ran. He was quite certain that he’d never get to see her again. Michael then started to taunt Azurra, calling him Amaunator’s and Elladestra’s little lapdog. What did he know of Elladestra!? Azurra asked, but the monster merely taunted him more. They’d bought enough time. Estel must have made it to Joseph and Zeke. It was time to slow this freak down, even kill it, if they could. Azurra and Iris launched an attack on this beast that looked like Hildenoth. No… they couldn’t land a single blow. He was way too strong for them. Michael raised his arms and the very ground beneath Iris and Azurra started to church with sickly blackish purple bubbles. In addition to the unspeakable pain, shadowy hands grasped at Azurra and Iris. No! They couldn’t move! They were stuck and helpless as the bubbles ate away at them. No… Azurra was too weak again… no… Estel…

Joseph prayed that his birthday would just end. He also prayed that Estel was safe. There had been no sign of Michael in a few minutes. No fires, no taunts… It was quiet. Then that quiet was shattered by Estel. She was running towards him and Zeke. There was no sign of Azurra and Iris, though. No, what could have happened? Estel came and explained what happened. He appeared as Hildenoth? This was bad. There was no way to tell when and where he’d strike from then. Then Hildenoth show up. There was no point worrying now… Michael was here. He just walked up to Estel and grabbed her. She winced in pain from his touch. The monster! No! Joseph couldn’t let this happen, he charged at Michael, with the strength and majesty of Amaunator behind him. It did Joseph no good, though. He couldn’t damage him. Then Zeke fired at Michael and struck true. The simulacrum disappeared. Estel was safe, for now. Again, Hildenoth walked toward the three. They didn’t know what to expect. Hildenoth started speaking with them. Ok, Joseph and Zeke were pretty confident that this was Hildenoth. He explained that the monster took control of him. He was aware of what happened. Azurra and Iris were down, but they’d survive, Hildenoth said. Estel, though, was still skeptical. Hildenoth walked towards her and tried to reassure her. How was Michael going to strike next? Who would he disguise himself as? Hildenoth got closer to Estel and patted her on the back. Once again she winced in pain. NOOOO! How could he be so stupid! Estel vanished while Hildenoth collapsed onto the ground. She was gone… ESTEL! NOO!!

Where was she? It was cold, and it was dark. Was this what it was like to be dead? No, she wasn’t. Estel was pretty sure of that. However, she couldn’t see anything, but she could hear Joseph’s cries and Zeke’s shouts. She could then hear the townspeople starting to call for her. A few moments later, their voices were joined by Iris and Zosa. Then he spoke to Estel.

''Call out to them. Ease their suffering. Let them know that you are okay.''

The voice came from all around her and within her. The voice was like ice. It chilled Estel to the core. No… she wouldn’t call out to them. That’s what he wanted. She then heard Iris’s voice again. She was calling out frantically.

Call out to them or Iris’s house will burn to the ground. The choice was difficult. She knew that if she gave in something horrible would happen. Maybe she would die. Maybe someone else would die. Estel didn’t know for sure. What she did know as that she had to endure. Then Estel heard the horrible sounds of a raging inferno. Estel could now hear Iris shouting about her house. Sorry Iris. The shouting continued. Each one was painful for Estel. Why was Michael doing this to her? Why was he doing this to Joseph? It wasn’t fair! She just wanted it to end. She was nearly at the breaking point.

''If you cry out to them, I promise no one will die. Just cry out to Joseph and it will all be over.''

It was tempting. All she had to do was cry out. It wasn’t very much to do. However, Estel knew that she couldn’t trust him. This man was evil. He hurt Zeke, Father Aslen, Iris, and Zosa. He even burnt down Iris’s house. The voice kept tempting her. She wanted to cry out. She wanted everything to end. She wanted to believe Michael, but she knew she couldn’t. Be strong Estel! She couldn’t let herself give in to this maniac. No, she remained strong. As much as she wanted to cry, she didn’t. She wouldn’t.

This is no longer entertaining.

Estel was gone, and now her house was on fire. This was too much for Iris. She called out for help, but realized that it was meaningless. He house would soon be consumed by the hellish black flames. Finding Estel was more important anyway. As Iris was about to continue the search, Estel appeared in front of her engulfed in those awful flames. Iris acted fast and helped put the fire out. Estel stood up. She looked very weak and had tears in her eyes. She ran into Iris’s arms repeating that she didn’t cry. She didn’t cry. Iris just held her. Before long, Estel fell asleep in Iris’s arms. Joseph and the others were still frantically searching for Estel, but it wasn’t too long before Iris found them and let them know that Estel was safe. Everyone was relieved. Though, everyone was still on high alert. This Michael person could still be lurking around. Hours passed with no sign of him. Midnight had come and gone. It was no longer Joseph’s birthday. Everyone was tired, and they needed their rest. Joseph, though, would decide not to sleep the rest of the night. There was a problem, though. Iris’s house was gone. The cold reality of the situation hit her again. She had no place to live. All of her precious memories that she kept in that hose were gone, and that wasn’t all. It wasn’t just her home; it was also the home of Estel, Azurra, Lhûg, and Little Zosa. Zeke, Joseph, and Father Aslen were also homeless. For the night, they stayed at the Okane’s house. Mrs. Okane is a very understanding woman and took everyone in for the night. Everyone was tired, and, aside from Joseph, everyone slept. The next morning was not a happy one. Iris was miserable. Not only did she fail to protect everyone, her home was gone. Joseph blamed himself for everything that happened the night before. Estel tried to console Joseph, but the guilt he felt was too great. Azurra was also angry, and threw the group out of the room he and Estel were staying in. He refused to share his pain. The group, with the exception of Azurra, went to the Greedy Fox. Those that knew of Joseph’s involvement were cold to him. Iris honestly couldn’t blame them. She was angry as well, but this wasn’t all Joseph’s fault. This was Michael’s fault. However, there was something more alarming than the town’s anger towards Joseph. There was a rumor that Lord Hildenoth had not recovered from the night before. Everyone rushed to Lord Hildenoth’s cabin. It was heavily guarded. None were allowed inside. The guards merely said that he was resting. It was suspicious to say the least. Iris knew she had to get to the bottom of that, but it would have to wait for later. Estel wanted to write Princess Serana another letter. She wanted to let the princess know what had just happened in Talagbar. Very well, Iris had matters of her own to worry about. She needed a new home, and she hoped that Lord Hildenoth was doing well.

''Happy Birthday, Joseph Savioré Daydominico. I hope you enjoyed it as much as I did. HAHAHAHA!''

Chapter VIII: Searching for the Buuran'chir
Right now Azurra hated this Michael Malizia Daydominico. He wrought havoc on Talagbar and could have killed Estel. Azurra was also angry with Joseph. Joseph brought Michael to Talagbar and to Estel. Azurra was still angry at Edgar. Edgar’s words from all those weeks ago came back to haunt Azurra. Though, more than any of these other people, Azurra hated himself. He had once again proven to be too weak to protect Estel. He was too weak to protect her from the Goliath attack, and he was powerless against Michael. The shame he felt was too great. After everyone had left in the morning, Azurra took out the mask. It was time. He had neglected wearing it when he should have. Not this time, though. The shame was too great. The mask was cold, heavy, and very uncomfortable, just as it should have been. Estel and Sparkfang didn’t approve of the mask, but the burden wasn’t theirs to bear. They couldn’t understand. Azurra would just make sure to take off the mask when Estel was nearby. After wearing the mask for a few hours, Estel returned with Joseph and Iris. Why did she bring them here? Azurra shortly after learned the reason. The rumors were true. Hildenoth was unconscious still, and the blame rested with Joseph. Those fools wanted one more task out of Joseph before unceremoniously throwing him out of Talagbar. Those ungrateful swine! After all Joseph and the others had done for them, this was his thanks. What annoyed Azurra nearly as much was Joseph’s compliance in the matter. He was aware that he was going to be thrown out of Talagbar, yet he would still do this task, a still undefined task. He would do this out of a sense of duty and honor. The fool! Estel also seemed hell-bent on following Joseph. If he were to leave Talagbar, so would she. And where would everyone stay!? Of course, they had no idea. Bah!

Two days had passed, since she was called to bring Joseph before Edgar. During those two days there was no change in Lord Hildenoth’s condition. He was still unconscious. That was why she wasn’t surprised when she was ordered to bring Joseph back to Edgar. Edgar wasn’t alone, though, when Iris brought Joseph to Edgar’s office. Sevarius was there with him. The old ritualist wasn’t sure what was wrong with Hildenoth. However, he was sure that he could develop a ritual that would be able to wake anyone, regardless of the affliction. He needed a special component for the ritual, though. Supposedly, in a mountain cave northeast of Talagbar, there dwelled creatures call the buuran-chir. Sevarius said that the moss that grew on their backs made for a potent reagent. He needed some to perform the ritual. He then gave Joseph a map to find the cave. Edgar finally said that mission needed to be done quickly. The longer Lord Hildenoth was unconscious, the longer Talagbar would be in danger. If any of Hildenoth’s rivals were to learn of his condition, they would strike at Talagbar to claim it for themselves. Iris knew what that meant. If something like that were to happen, there was a very real chance for the people of Talagbar to become enslaved again. There was no way Iris would allow that to happen. She and Joseph left Edgar’s office. They knew what they had to do. Shortly after leaving the barracks, though, Sevarius went outside to meet with them again. He quickly said that legends spoke of the Guran-chuk, lord of the buuran-chir. He could only imagine the power of the moss that grew on its back. It was clear that he wanted some of this moss. He offered to reward Joseph and Iris handsomely if they brought back some of this moss. Shortly after Sevarius’s offer, they were approached by Thorcan Orangeshield. He had spoken with Edgar and Sevarius shortly before Iris and Joseph did, so he knew that the two were going to go to the buuran-chirs’ cave. Thorcan wanted those caves, though, to expand his mining operation. However, besides the buuran-chir, troglodytes inhabited the caves. Thorcan made his disdain for the troglodytes very apparent. He offered a bounty of one hundred gold per troglodyte skull returned. Of course, Joseph would have no such part in the deal. He made it quite clear that he would never willingly kill, especially for money. Iris, on the other hand, listened to the dwarf’s offer. Between this off and Sevarius’s, Iris may be able to afford a new home. Joseph realized that a task such as this could be dangerous for the two of them. They called on Zeke, Estel, and Azurra for help. Zeke made it clear, though, that if it were up to him, Lord Hildenoth would never awaken. Iris didn’t care for the bandit’s words, but at least he was helping. Estel, as always, was more than happy to help. Azurra, as always, complained but decided to help out as well. Iris and Joseph described to the others the mission. Sadly, no one knew much more about the buuran’chir. All the group knew collectively was that the troglodytes revered them and worshipped the Guran-chuk as a god. As Joseph explained the urgency of the mission Estel turned pale. The reason made Iris’s heart skip a beat. Of course, it was no secret that Estel and Princess Serana were sending letters to each other. However, Estel recently sent the princess a letter describing the recent events, including Lord Hildenoth’s condition. This was potentially catastrophic. Should anyone other than the princess read the note, Lord Hildenoth and Talagbar could be in grave danger. Joseph informed the captain of the situation. It was as bad as Iris feared. There was no time to waste. They had to leave immediately.

Implement’s jus’ wanted to get this over with. He hated the thought of savin’ that scumbag. Being asleep forever was more ‘an that jerk deserved. He just had to keep reminding himself. He was doin’ this for Joseph, not Hildenoth. After a bit of riding they got to the cave. Implements weren’ the only one that which wanted to get this done. Lil’ Estel wanted to finish this here task quick too. She was worried about Talagbar. Didn’ seem like it would be quick, though. The cave was a deep one. It was deep, dark, and there was nothin’ in it. Why did Implements agree to this again? After what felt like hours to Implements, they reached a new part of the cave. It branched off in different directions, and there was definitely somethin’ down there. Joseph led the way. Too bad he set a trap off. Poisoned darts fired out of the wall. Joseph didn’ wanna be a pin cushion and ran out of the hallway with the trap. Azurra tried usin’ that big cat of his to disarm the trap. Didn’t quite work like Azurra wanted it too, but it worked. Then Joseph went down the hall again. At the end of the hall was a door. Joseph went in first. There was a flash of light, an’ Joseph ran out. Somethin’ attacked him. Azurra decided it was time to rush in and fight back. Implements was fine with that plan. When everyone came in, what they found was a lil’ blue kobold. Disgustin’! The lizard called itself Kremziek. It was sniffin’ around Iris, said something in some weird language, then said it was too soon for her to be there. Course, it never explained what “too soon” meant, stupid lizard. The cowardly kobold was hidin’ in the corner shouting about its “shinies.” Then ever’one started being nice to the varmint. They was saying that they wouldn’t hurt it, or steal its stuff. Implements wondered about what ever happened to the first plan: the plan about beatin’ the thing. Oh well, at least the lizard agreed to lead the party to the burran-chir thing, and it even gave lil’ Estel its shinies.

Estel found the kobold kind of cute. Not only was he going to lead the group through the cave, but he even gave Estel his treasure stash. Kremmy was alright in her book. Now if she could only figure out what he was saying before. Kremmy was a sharp one. Whenever Estel tried to perform her comprehend language ritual, Kremmy would spot her. She’d get it done, at some point, though. She had to. Kremmy was too fascinating. Shortly after Kremmy started leading the group down the cave, they ran into a bunch of creepy crawlies. There were a whole bunch of spiders, stirges, and even a firebat. The spiders and stirges kept attacking everything they could reach. Iris got really hurt that battle. The firebat flew through the air swooping down to attack. Kremmy seemed interested in the bat most. He said he wanted to eat it. Eww!! It was a tough fight. The stirges were a pain when they latched onto Iris. They were sucking her blood! Eventually, though, the group won. Then Kremmy ran down and started to eat the dead bat. That bat was as big as he was. He then put what he didn’t eat in a bag. Kremmy was definitely weird. Cute, but weird. Now, if only Estel could figure out a way for Kremmy to go back home to Talagbar with her.

Slow down, foul-mouthed lizard! Kremziek was an oddity. Why was he leading the group through the cave? Azurra wasn’t sure, but he wasn’t about to look a gift kobold in the mouth either. Kremziek was very annoying, though. He constantly shouted at everyone. He had a tendency to run ahead either forgetting or not caring about the fact that only he knew the way. Kremziek tended to be a little slow when it came to warning the group about danger, and he also made sure to make himself scarce at the first sign of said danger. He was their guide, though, so he had a use for now. Estel had also, for some insane reason, become fond of the thing. Azurra would just have to put up with Kremziek for the time being. After a while of being led through the cave and avoiding swarms of stirges, Kremziek warned the group of a lair of kruthiks up ahead. These insect like subterranean reptiles could pose a threat. Iris went up first to see what Kremziek was talking about and assess the situation. Too bad Iris was a fool and went too close. Did she learn nothing from watching Joseph get pummeled time after time? Guess not! Looked like it was up to the group to save Iris from the kruthiks. They swarmed all over Iris and their hive leader sprayed acid all over everyone. As usual, Joseph rushed into action, but he was lucky this time. The kruthiks were more interested in that fool woman, Iris, this time. Azurra knew that fool couldn’t take much more of the beating and called Sparkfang to her aid. The kruthiks were dangerous, but they eventually fell to the group’s might. The kruthiks had also managed to secure a rather large sum of treasure. Estel’s eyes bulged when she got a look of the treasure. Her greed disheartened Azurra a little bit, but he knew that she was young. They did defeat the kruthiks, and to the victor goes the spoils. Kremziek, though, also felt that he was entitled to some of the treasure. Watching the old kobold and the small girl, two beings of very similar size, shovel gold and treasure into their respective bags was quite a sight. Azurra almost found it amusing… almost.

Joseph was uneasy. He asked Amaunator for forgiveness for feeling the way he did, but he just could not trust Kremziek. Not only did the kobold attack him, unprovoked, but he would not help the party out at all in battle. Joseph got to experience firsthand just how strong the kobold was. Joseph was fairly sure that the threats they faced could have been minimized had Kremziek decided to help. He would not, however. Kremziek just led them deeper and deeper. It was this that particularly made Joseph easy. The further they went, the farther he was from Amaunator’s light. Eventually, Kremziek brought them before a door. He said that beyond the door were the troglodytes. This meant that, if Kremziek were to be trusted, they were close to the buuran-chir. Joseph, though, was clearly able to hear talking and movement on the other side. Iris said that the troglodytes knew that the group was there and was preparing for attack. That was it. Joseph knew that the he and his friends were too tired for another fight. While they were all discussing the best course of action, Kremziek opened the door and ran. RAH! Joseph was quite angry at the kobold. The troglodytes immediately attacked, and Joseph was their primary target. Their aim was exceptional. The troglodytes’ javelins pierced Joseph’s legs and held him in place. The troglodytes and their rage drake were relentless. Iris was so exhausted that she was barely able to fight. Estel and Azurra fought as best as they could. Joseph, though, thanked Amaunator for Zeke’s presence. His powerful magic helped save Joseph’s life. Everyone dug deep and did their part. The battle was won. Then that troublesome kobold came back. Quiet rage built up within Joseph, and he asked Amaunator for the patience to deal with Kremziek. Joseph was grateful that they won the last battle, but there was no way they could withstand another attack, especially while they were within the troglodyte lands. Kremziek offered to take them to a safe place. Joseph didn’t like going deeper into the cave, but he had little choice. Kremziek led the party through a small passage to a room where they could rest. Estel performed a ritual to make sure the troglodytes wouldn’t be able to hear them, particularly that noisy Kremziek. It was now late at night in a deep cave. They set up watches and prepared to rest for the night.

Chapter IX: The Anointed One
It was the middle of the night. That law skirt, Iris, just woke up Implements. It weren’t mornin’ yet, and they wasn’t under attack. What was the matter? Then Iris pointed at a panther. What the! What was one of them doing in cave sleeping right next to them. Implements decided that he should try an’ scare the big cat off. He fired an acid orb at it. The thing roared and then started screamin’ like Azurra? What was goin’ on here? That blowhard! He transformed into a panther in his sleep. Bah! Implements didn’ know Azurra could do that! He saw a panther, so he shot it. It was that simple. Whatever! Implements didn’t care. He knew by now that most of what came out of Azurra’s mouth was nothin’ but hot air anyway. Now he knew that Azurra could turn into a panther too. After all that noise, Implements went back to sleep. After the rest, it was time to go on. Course, them smelly trogs were back. It was time fer another fight. This trog was different. He had a bunch of help. The lizard had earth and fire critters with ‘im. One of ‘em was some kind of earth spirit thing. That was givin’ the group some trouble. Especially, Azurra. He turned the big-mouth into a statue. The trouble didn’ stop there. Then that spirit went into the statue and attacked. That wasn’t all, though. The trog also had a hellhound with ‘im as well as two things throwin’ lava at the group. The real problem was Azurra, though. The statue was attackin’ Iris and Joseph, and it wouldn’ stop. Joseph made the hard choice to break the statue. Implements felt bad. It wasn’t an easy choice to make, but it were the right one. Implements knew that he probably would’ve done the same thing if Joseph didn’. Lil’ Estel didn’ take it none too well. She started bawlin’ in the middle of the fight. Lucky for her, things were pretty much taken care of. Implements had taken care of the things throwin’ lava and Joseph took care of near everthin’ else. Soon it was over. A dead stinkin’ lizard, some other dead beasties, and a broken Azurra. This trip was goin’ great… That scumbag, Hildenoth, better appreciate this.

Joseph killed him! There had to have been some other way. She was sad that Zosa was dead, and she was angered and confused by Joseph’s actions. It didn’t make sense. What where they going to do? Esel knew that Father Aslen would need part of Zosa’s body to revive him. They didn’t even have that. There was no body, just a pile of rock! What was she going to do?!? Then Kremmy told her to grab the pieces and to go back to the room they rested in. What was Kremmy up to? Everyone did as he said. When everyone was in the room Kremmy said he’d fix up Zosa for five hundred gold. Everyone who could chip in did. Then Kremmy did some rituals. One put the statue back together. The other ritual turned him back to flesh. There was one problem, though. Zosa was still dead! Still, that was much better than before. Though, one thing was clear to Estel. They had to go back to Talagbar. They had to revive Zosa now. The others didn’t see it the same way, though. They wanted to finish the mission. What!? Zosa was dead! They just couldn’t leave him that way. Besides, things would be much more dangerous without Zosa. They had to go back, but would they listen to Estel? Noooooooooo!!! Fine! Estel just wanted to get the stupid moss and get out of the stupid cave. The stress was getting to her. Talagbar could be attacked at any moment, and now Zosa was dead… but whatever! Kremmy led them deeper into the cave. After a short while of leading the group he said he said one of the buuran’chirs was up ahead. Finally! Everyone moved ahead to get ready to confront the buuran’chir. Wowie! It was huge! The buuran’chir was almost the size of a small house. It kinda looked like a really big turtle. It didn’t have a mouth, though, and its eyes looked like big vacant white orbs. It looked like a turtle, but instead of scales, it was covered in lots and lots of rocks. Finally, where the shell would be, there was a large growth of crystals. The crystals were glowing a whitish-blue color. Moss was growing on the crystals. Ok! All they had to do was beat this thing and grab some moss. Joseph and Iris went up to the monster-turtle thing and attacked. The thing was huge! It started stomping them with its enormous feet. It knocked them silly. On top of all this, the creature’s hide was very very thick. Joseph and Iris were barel affecting it. Zeke could hurt it, but the crystals on its back were absorbing the energy and using it against the group. This was really bad! This would have been dangerous with Zosa, but without him there was no chance. They had to get the moss, and they had to get out of the cave. Estel came up with a plan. Zosa would never had let her go through with it, but he wasn’t in a position to tell her no. Through use of divine power, Estel commanded the buuran-chir to fall to the ground. She then ran and climbed onto its back. Joseph and Iris distracted it, while Estel grabbed as much moss as she possible could. After she had enough, Estel jumped off the creature’s back and ran towards safety. Joseph and Iris, though, had a very hard time escaping the buuran-chir. It wouldn’t let up the pursuit. Zeke also tried to distract the creature. Thanks to everyone, Iris got away first then Joseph. Zeke could have gotten away too! He could’ve! Stupid Zeke! He was staying behind to buy everyone more time. Stupid Zeke! He didn’t need to do that! Everyone was already safe! The buuran-chir started pounding away at Zeke. He was getting beaten down very badly. NOOOO, JOSEPH! What was he doing!? Joseph went back to help Zeke! NOO! They’re all gonna die! Estel’s mind was frantically trying to come up with a way to save them. There had to be something she could do… Hey! Wait! What was Iris doing? She was dragging Estel away! NO! Zeke and Joseph are still there with the monster! They’re gonna die! STOP, IRIS!

Iris was a member of Talagbar’s guard. Talagbar had to come first. The beast was too strong. She felt bad that two of her friends had to die, but there was nothing she could do. Estel had the moss. If anything happened to her, it may be too hard to get the moss from Estel or, worse, from another buuran-chir; and, of course, Iris couldn’t let anything happen to herself. She had to get this moss to Sevarius. It was a hard choice, but she knew she made the right now. She really did feel bad for the fallen. Even if Zeke was an outlaw and Joseph was responsible for Hildenoth’s condition, they were her companions. Iris especially felt bad for Estel. Iris could see the color draining from Estel’s face. The young girl was almost catatonic. At first she struggled when Iris dragged her away, but that was short lived. Finally, the two reached Kremziek. The two told him that they had the moss. It was time to get out of this cave. That kobold, though, had other plans. Kremziek said that the buuran-chir the group faced was a younger one. The moss on its back was worthless. What!? Iris and Estel were dumbstruck. After everything that had just happened, the moss Estel had was worthless? Iris wasn’t sure what to do. They needed to get that moss. Hildenoth’s life and the freedom of Talagbar depended on it. That crafty kobold had a plan, though. He said he’d lead Iris and Estel to the “big guy” for one thousand gold. Ugh… that was steep, but there was little choice. Iris and Estel paid Kremziek his fee. He tossed them each a small vial of liquid. After drinking it, the two turned invisible. Kremziek followed suit. As they prepared to go deeper into this cave the three of them ran into Joseph and Zeke! They were alive! What a relief. Estel, though, seemed to be a fireball of emotions, ranging from relief, to confusion, to anger. After the quick reunion, Kremziek gave Joseph and Zeke some vials as well. They quickly went through the rest of the cave. On their way, they found several more buuran-chir’s. Some of them were much larger than the one they encountered earlier. They also encountered some more troglodytes, but, thanks to Kremziek’s vial, they slipped through undetected. Iris wondered how much longer this would take. Her question, would be answered soon, though. Kremziek led them into an enormous chamber. Iris felt a sense of foreboding. The group walked into the chamber.

By the gods… what was this? Joseph couldn’t believe his eyes. There was a huge array of hieroglyphics and runes going around the room. They emanated immense magical energy. More amazing than that, though, was the being inside the chamber. It was similar to the buuran’chir. There were some striking differences, though. The first thing to strike Joseph was the sheer enormity of the beast. It dwarfed the other buuran’chir he had seen, and it was easily the size of a large house. While the general shape of the body was the same, the head was more shaped like that of a serpent rather than one of a turtle. This creature also had a mouth, and its eyes were not the vacant white orbs of the other buuran’chir. The feet also weren’t as flat as the others; it had massive claws at the ends of them. Truly, this was the most fearsome beast Joseph had ever laid eyes on. To think that such a beast could live so far underground, away from Amaunator’s light. There was little doubt in Joseph’s mind that this had to have the Guran’chuk. The other buuran’chir had seemed like large animals: mindless and instinctual. Joseph was unsure what to make of this creature, though… until it spoke. The Guran’chuk had a short conversation with Kremziek in a language he could not understand. After a short while it spoke with Iris. The Guran’chuk referred to her as the “Anointed One.” She was the one that was to break the seal around him; however, she was not ready. This was probably what Kremziek had alluded to when they first met. The Guran’chuk said he had been in this cave for millennia, and that the time spent had quelled his rage. While he was not enraged, the Guran’chuk was not a patient being. Understandably, Iris had many questions, though, the Guran’chuk answered few. He did command Iris to walk through the circle. Iris did as he commanded. She made it through the circle unharmed. Joseph didn’t realize this until now, but underneath the Guran’chuk was a door floating in space. Iris had just noticed it as well. She asked about it, but, of course, the Guran’chuk would not answer. It was around then that the Guran’chuk started losing its patience. He wanted everyone to leave now. It was too soon for Iris to release him. Iris, though, was still unsure. Was this supposed to be her destiny? She seemed confused. Joseph, knew too well, though. This was to be her fate. Just as it would be Joseph’s destiny to face Michael in battle, it would be Iris’s destiny to release the Guran’chuk. Joseph just wasn’t sure if this was for good or for evil.

“The Appointed One?” What the heck was goin on here? That thing was humongous, and it was a jerk! It threatened to kill everyone, except Iris, if they didn’t leave right away. It also seemed to really want to be let out of that seal. Estel didn’t trust it, and she didn’t like it. Of course, she wouldn’t say that to its face, but she could still think it! She didn’t want to get squished, though. She, as well as the others, knew it was time to leave. Kremmy and the Guran’chuk started talking again in their language. Kremmy said that Shar Malam was using the Storm Fury Clan, and that his plans went against their goals. The Guran’chuk said that the “Appointed One” would destroy the Storm Fury Clan. Iris? Destroy the Storm Fury Clan? Shar Malam? Estel listened on. Kremmy then said that Eldresh was up to something. The Guran’chuk didn’t seem worried. Finally the Guran’chuk warned Kremziek that the “three who are one” have started to move. Three who are one? The lizard dwarves? Kremziek immediately stopped talking and looked at Estel. Uh oh! Estel was wracking her brain. Did she just say lizard dwarves out loud? She must have! Uh oh! The Guran’chuk just ordered Kremmy to destroy her. No! This was bad! Then Estel got really lucky. Kremmy convinced the Guran’chuk to let her go. He said it would upset Iris too much and jeopardize things. Awww, Kremmy… thanks! Estel was thankful, but it was really time to go. The Guran’chuk was too scary, and they had to get back to Talagbar. They needed to get the moss to Sevarius, and they needed to get Zosa revived. Kremmy led everyone out of the cave. He shooed the group away and acted all tough and grouchy. Estel knew better, though. He could have killed her if he wanted to, but he didn’t. Kremmy was a big softy. Bye Kremmy! Estel was going to miss him, but she had to get back to Talagbar. Estel was happy that nothing excited happened on the trip back to Talagbar. Estel was relieved to see that Talagbar was still there. No one attacked the city and took over. Joseph went to see Edgar. He said that Edgar looked awful, but he also said that Father Aslen was back. Now it was time to deliver the moss and get Zosa revived. It was late at night, but the group went to Sevarius anyway. He didn’t seem to happy about being woken up in the middle of the night, but he seemed very happy to get the moss. He even took the “worthless” moss… Estel was suspicious, but Zosa was waiting. They next went to Father Aslen’s house. It was still burnt to the ground, but he had made a small hut. Father Aslen covered up his face. The burns must have been terrible. She felt bad for bothering him late at night to bring Zosa back to life, but Father Aslen didn’t mind. Unfortunately, though, he lacked the necessary reagents for the ritual. Zosa would have to wait until the morning. All Estel could do was wait now. The waiting wasn’t too bad, though. By the next afternoon, Zosa was alive again. Everyone went to eat at the Greedy Fox. There she explained what happened with the buuran’chir and the Guran’chuk and Kremmy, and the being turned into a statue that was smashed by Joseph, and the not going back to Talagbar right away, and the “Appointed One” stuff, and etc. Hmm… Zosa seemed kinda grumpier than usual. He just walked back to the Okane house, Estel followed him. Zosa’s been through a lot. After talking with Zosa a bit she went back to the Greedy Fox. Going back there she walked right past one of those lizard dwarves, Thorcan. What did he want? She then saw Iris with a small pouch of gold in front of her. What just happened? When she got the answer, Estel was flabbergasted! How could Iris tell Thorcan about the Guran’chuk!? How!? Wasn’t Thorcan one of the dwarves that ripped her arm off in a dream? Why? Why would she do a thing like that? They can’t be trusted. How could Iris be so …. Grr!! Estel went back to Zosa. Now she needed to cool off for a bit.

He was tired so was Thragg. He spent most of the night running away from Firmwill’s pursuit, but he was finally back in Talagbar. He had much to tell the others. He went to the Greedy Fox. That was where they ate food. Darksong was right. He found Iris, Joseph, and Axe-head Zeke there. They told him some stuff about some guy and these big turtle monsters. What he had to tell them was much more important. He told them a bit of what happened when he was gone.

Brotherhood: A Side Story
The other goliaths had taken Darksong away. He was content, though. It was better this way. This way he could save his friends. The goliaths took him to their village. It was small, but it was nice. One of the goliaths he recently fought took Darksong to a small cave. He told Darksong to sleep there. Darksong would speak with the chief in the morning. Darksong was ok with this, but he had to ask a question. Why did the goliath’s attack the downlanders? The other goliath said that they didn’t always attack them, but that has changed recently. Hmm… it looked like Darksong would have to wait until he spoke with the chief to find out more.

It was the next morning. It was a long time since he slept in a cave where his people lived. It was nice, but Darksong had things to do. He had to talk with the chief. He went to the chief’s cave and met with the chief. The chief’s name was Firmwill. Darksong asked Firmwill why the goliaths attacked the downlanders. Firmwill said the downlanders wanted to take the Ironfell metal away from them. The goliaths used to just scare them away, but the downlanders are coming more often. Firmwill had a feeling something bad was going to happen. Then Darksong asked about the lizard dwarves. Well, he didn’t say they were lizards. He just asked about dwarves. Firmwill had not seen dwarves in the area. Darksong left Chief Firmwill’s cave.

Darksong wasn’t too happy. Firmwill’s answers didn’t help at all. He had to see if anyone else in the village could help. Darksong started talking with a lot of the goliaths. They were nice here. Even though they hurt his friends, these goliaths didn’t seem bad. Two of them asked Darksong to go on the morning hunt with them. Darksong agreed to go and went hunting. They hunted a dire boar. It was big, but they got it. Darksong spoke with the two he hunted with afterwards. Their names were Boarkiller and Stoneleaper. He asked them if either of them had ever seen the lizard dwarves. Neither of them did either. Stoneleaper said he did see a gnome, though. Stoneleaper said that no one ever believed him, though. Boarkiller was one of those that didn’t believe Stoneleaper. Darksong wasn’t sure yet, but he thought he believed Stoneleaper. Darksong remembered the gnome that was with the Holy Liberators that wanted to kill Axe-head Zeke. Maybe Stoneleaper wasn’t crazy, but Darksong just wasn’t sure yet.

A lot of time passed. The rage drake egg hatched. Darksong named the drake Thragg. Thragg liked alcohol. He didn’t learn anything new. No one he spoke too had seen the dwarves. No one had seen a gnome. No one had seen a lizard dwarf. No one felt an earthquake. Worst of all, no one was letting him leave. Darksong was stuck in the village. The spirits must have wanted Darksong to stay. He had to find out what the lizard dwarves were up to. He had to save this village.

Finally, one night, Stoneleaper woke Darksong up. He said the gnome was back. What? Darksong couldn’t believe it. This was the type of thing he was hoping for. Stoneleaper said the gnome went into Firmwill’s cave. Darksong and Stoneleaper went outside of Firmwill’s cave and listened in. Darksong did not understand what they were talking about at all. The gnome said he was also with the Holy Liberators, but it wasn’t the same gnome from before. They talked about a circle drawer almost being done. The gnome said Purogg would come to the village to pick up some of the Ironfell. The gnome told Firmwill that it was almost time and not to mess up. Darksong really didn’t understand too much, but he got the idea. Something bad was going to happen. Firmwill and the gnome were going to do something really bad. It would probably happen when the circle drawer was done. That would be pretty soon.

The gnome and Firmwill were done talking. Darksong and Firmwill had to get out of there. They ran and hid. The gnome found Darksong. The gnome was invisible, so Darksong could not see him. The gnome said he was going to kill Darksong. Darksong said that was a bad idea. It would cause problems. The gnome agreed. The gnome then asked about Darksong. Darksong said he knew Zeke. The gnome did not look like he liked Zeke. Darksong had to take a chance. The invisible gnome could kill him, but he had to take a chance. He asked the gnome about the dwarves. Of course, the gnome didn’t know anything. The gnome left, and he didn’t kill Darksong. Darksong met up with Stoneleaper and went back to his cave to talk about what happened. Stoneleaper didn’t understand either, but he thought that the circle drawer might be a goliath named Farroamer. As they were talking Darksong got a message in his head. It was that sneak lizard dwarf, Dorien! He said the gnome never left. He said that the gnome was planning on killing them. Grr!! Why should he trust the lizard dwarf? The lizard dwarf killed the spirit of the mountain and lied to them. It was better not to die, so Darksong told Stoneleaper to wake everyone and gather them to Firmwill’s cave. Darksong decided that he would go see Firmwill and find out what was going on.

He went to Firmwill and told him that he heard what he and the gnome were talking about. Darksong wanted answers. Firmwill said that all the downlanders in Vaasa were going to be trapped there forever. The downlanders would never be able to go into the mountains or threaten the goliaths again. Firmwill wanted to trap the downlanders, but the gnome wanted to kill them all. Firmwill didn’t want to do that, but he was fine with it. Darksong still didn’t know how they could do it. This sounded really big. Something too big for the gnome or Firmwill to do. He asked who was doing the magic. Then a scary voice spoke in his head. The voice said it was behind it, and it threatened to kill him. Darksong knew it was time to go. Darksong found Stoneleaper. Stoneleaper was beaten up because the others didn’t like being woken up in the middle of the night. It was important that Darksong let the other goliaths know what was happening. Stoneleaper said he would get some in the morning. Then they could talk about Firmwill and the gnome.

Early the next morning Darksong was woken up by the lizard dwarf. What was he doing there? Dorien told him that the circle drawer was probably by the Great Glacier. Darksong didn’t trust him, and he told the lizard so. The lizard dwarf didn’t like that. He told Darksong that he didn’t need his help, and Dorien left. Then Darksong met with the goliaths that Stoneleaper gathered. Darksong told them everything about the gnome and about Firmwill. They didn’t believe him. Darksong was frustrated, but he understood. They sided with their chief, not with the outsider. Fine, Darksong got it. He had to leave the village. He had to stop what was going to happen. Stoneleaper told him to sneak away. Darksong would not be allowed to leave. Darksong would not sneak away, though. He went to Firmwill and told him that he was leaving. Firmwill told Darksong that he couldn’t leave. Firmwill didn’t want Darksong to mess with the plan. Darksong said that the lizard dwarf was going to anyway. Firmwill didn’t trust Darksong. He didn’t bring Firmwill any proof about Dorien. Firmwill would prepare for the worst, though. Darksong left Firmwill’s cave. Firmwill wasn’t going to let him leave. He needed to find another way.

Darksong packed his things and tried to walk out of the village. The two guards, Quick Stalker and Heavy Guard, didn’t let Darksong leave. Darksong told them that Firmwill was planning something horrible. Firmwill was planning something that would doom the clan. They didn’t believe Darksong either. No one believed him. Darksong asked them to talk to Firmwill. Heavy Guard wouldn’t listen. He was getting mad at Darksong. Quick Stalker said he would talk to Firmwill later. That was good enough for now. Later that day Darksong saw Quick Stalker go to Firmwill’s cave alone. A few minutes later Quick Stalker left and went back to his cave. Darksong went to Quick Stalker’s cave to find out how it went. Darksong wasn’t happy with what he found. Quick Stalker did not seem right. He was also wearing a new headband that was similar to Firmwill’s headdress. Quick Stalker said everything was fine. Darksong knew something was wrong. Either Firmwill lied to him or Firmwill is using that headband to manipulate him. Darksong went to Heavy Guard to warn him. Heavy Guard didn’t want to listen. He was being very stubborn.

The next day he spent much of the day sitting and telling people that Firmwill was going to get everyone killed. Many goliaths ignored Darksong. Many got very angry. Later in the day Heavy Guard went to Darksong. He noticed that Quick Stalker was acting strange. He didn’t know if Darksong or Firmwill was responsible. If Heavy Guard didn’t trust Darksong, then he should kick Darksong out of the village. Heavy Guard agreed. Heavy Guard agreed!? Maybe Darksong got through to him. Darksong started to leave when Quick Stalker showed up and blocked his path. It was forbidden for anyone to leave, and Quick Stalker told Darksong that over and over again. Heavy Guard got mad and probably sad too. He punched Quick Stalker in the face. Some other goliaths joined in to break the fight up. Stoneleaper told Darksong it was time to go. Darksong agreed. He left the village and traveled for as long as he could. He made sure no one followed him. He was tired so was Thragg. He spent most of the night running away from Firmwill’s pursuit, but he was finally back in Talagbar. He had much to tell the others.

Chapter X: Edgar’s Worst Fears
It was good havin’ the big ‘un back. Too had he didn’ have any good news. Then he told the same story again with Azurra and lil’ Estel. A lot was goin’ on. None of it was much good. Joseph told that law man, Edgar, ‘bout which what Darksong was talkin’ about. Joseph didn’ seem none too happy about Edgar’s reaction. Seems the law man didn’ care too much. He’d rather let Palichuk deal wit’ the Storm Fury and whatever else was gonna happen. Estel decided it were time to tell ‘er friends in Palischuk herself. She went to Sevarius to see if he would teach ‘er how to do a Sending ritual. He said that he wasn’ allowed to. No one was allowed to help her send or git messages. Course this didn’ make lil’ Estel happy at all. She later found out that she couldn’t even get mail. No, Estel weren’ none too happy at all about this. Ever’one learned that that scumbag Hildenoth was gittin’ better, but still Estel wasn’ allowed to do nothin’. It bothered Implements, so he could imagine how much it bothered lil’ Estel. All this just reminded Implements on how much he hated them Warlock Knights.

Iris felt bad for Estel. It must have been hard for her. She wasn’t allowed to talk to her friends in Palischuk. Captain Edgar had a point, though. Estel did put Taligbar in danger, even if it was an accident. At least Lord Hildenoth had woken up. He still needed a bit of rest before he was fully recovered. Unfortunately, no one was quite sure what to do about the dangers Darksong spoke of. They needed to figure out what to do or all of Vaasa could be in danger. The next day everyone met at the Greedy Fox to discuss what could be done. Estel wanted to warn her friends in Palischuk what was going to happen. If the captain wouldn’t let her send them a message she was determined to go there herself. The Storm Fury Clan, though, was situating itself around the city. Before a decision could be reached, though, there was a commotion outside. Oh no! The city was under attack! It was hard to make out from inside the Greedy Fox, but Iris was pretty sure the assailants were associated with the Warlock Knights. The guards’ worst fears were coming to fruition. Rival Warlock Knights must have heard of Lord Hildenoth’s condition. They must have come to seize control of the town. Iris wasn’t going to let that happen. The others also sprang into action. Darksong crashed through one window and Zeke went through another. Joseph followed Darksong, and Azurra followed Zeke. Iris and Estel went towards the front door. When Iris got to look outside the door it was worse than she thought. She knew firsthand that the Warlock Knights often worked with other races. However, seeing orcs and gnolls attacking Talagbar alongside humans was disheartening. One of the human invaders was holding a boy hostage. Joseph foolishly rushed towards the boy’s captor. The horrible man didn’t hesitate killing the boy. Joseph, stricken with guilt and anger, slew the murderer. There were many more attackers, though. The orcs were tossing sacks of flaming liquid onto the roofs of the nearby buildings, including the Greedy Fox, itself. Seeing this just reminded Iris of the house she had lost just a few days ago. No! She couldn’t let this happen. She wouldn’t! Even if there were gnolls, orcs, and even a bear, Iris would fight. She would defend her home and the people of Talagbar. She knew the others felt the same way. Unfortunately, it wasn’t quite that easy. The invaders fought ferociously. The orcs even went so far as to run into people and explode. Iris shuddered. Such fierce determination they have! Such lengths they’ll take to claim Talagbar as their own! It didn’t to Iris, though. Talagbar was her home. She had lived in Talagbar since before Lord Hildenoth saved the town and all its people from the oppressive Duke Gentz. She knew all too well how the other peoples of Vaasa suffered. There was no way she would let the same fate befall Talagbar once again. Now it was her turn. Iris would save Talagbar, its people, and Lord Hildenoth. No matter how determined the attackers where, they could not match the strength of her resolve. That was impossible! She was sure of that; and, before long, Iris and the others proved it. They managed to slay all of the assailants in their general vicinity. Some people came to assist with putting out the fires. Iris wanted to help, but she and the others knew who the real target of this attack was… Lord Hildenoth. Iris knew they had to hurry.

This was stupid! Everyone was still breathing heavily! It was clear to Azurra that rushing headlong into another battle right now was suicide. Hildenoth wasn’t worth this! Estel seemed more determined than anyone to save him. Why? She hated him. Was she doing this out of guilt? Bah! Her conscious was going to get him into trouble. Azurra had tasted death a few short days ago. He was NOT ready to taste it again, but Estel clearly had other plans! Foolish girl! Everyone went with her despite the reservations some had. Guess he had no choice… As quickly as they could, everyone rushed towards Hildenoth’s cabin. It was as that pompous jerk, Edgar, had feared. A pair of Warlock Knights stood in front of Hildenoth’s cabin, with many of their lackeys behind them. One of the Warlock Knights was obnoxiously loud, shouting all time. He had light hair, almost white, and was wielding a halberd. He and was calling Hildenoth out. The other Warlock Knight was far quieter. He had darker hair and spoke softly to the loud one. Azurra wasn’t quite sure what to make of him. He didn’t have time to think about it, though. Edgar and a group of guards came out of Hildenoth’s cabin to confront the Warlock Knights. The loud fool looked at Edgar, and the quiet Warlock Knight said something to him. Then the loud one shouted some more… It was really starting to get on Azurra’s nerves. Apparently, Hildenoth did a bad thing in training Edgar in the ways of the Warlock Knights. Oh well… Azurra didn’t care. What mattered right now was stopping this before it went any further. The Warlock Knights didn’t want to draw this out any longer either. The pair ran straight at Edgar and the guards. Azurra and the others fought the weaklings that stood in their way. Things weren’t going well for Edgar. The pair of Warlock Knights were simply too strong for the guards. They dropped like flies. Before too long, Edgar was left to fend for himself. Azurra had a strong dislike for Edgar, but he respected the man. Azurra didn’t want him to die, but he had a group of lackeys to deal with. These guys put up a bit more of a fight than Azurra expected. It also didn’t help that he and the others were still tired from the last battle. The enemy had a hexer on their side that was a particular nuisance. He kept transform Darksong or that fool, Joseph, into woodland creatures. This slowed things considerably. The enemy, though, didn’t pay attention to Estel. Wait… where was Estel going? NO! That fool girl! She was headed to Edgar! This battle was way out of her league. Azurra knew, firsthand, how strong Edgar was. If the Warlock Knights were just as strong as Edgar, Estel wouldn’t have a chance. That fool! That idiot! That moron! Azurra didn’t like leaving his comrades behind, and he liked the idea of dying even less. That stupid girl, though, left him with no option. He had to protect her. Azurra quickly realized how hopeless the situation was when he got there. Estel was desperately using her healing powers to keep Edgar standing, and the Warlock Knights were stronger than he had anticipated. Gah! One of the Warlock Knights turned his attention to Azurra. No, he wouldn’t be able to take much more of this. Azurra then realized that he probably wasn’t coming out of this battle alive. Grr… stupid Estel. Azurra then cursed Elladestra’s name for sending him on this fool’s errand. Ergh! His vision was starting to blur. Azurra had lost too much blood. He could still hear Estel, though. That was good. Even if the girl is a selfish brat, at least she’s still alive. Azurra then heard the loud Warlock Knight. He felt the impact of a mighty attack. Azurra fell to ground. Did he buy Estel enough time for Darksong and the others to arrive? He hoped so, cause there was nothing more he could do. That fool girl better survive…

Zosa! Not again! She couldn’t let Zosa die again! She couldn’t let Edgar die! She couldn’t let Hildenoth die! Estel could not let Talagbar become enslaved by these men! This was all her fault! She had to make things right. She had to protect everyone, but it was so hard! Joseph, Darksong and the others were too far away. Edgar was hurt bad, and Zosa was dying! What was she going to do? Estel decided to consecrate the land Edgar was on. This would help him and hurt the bad guys a bit. It wasn’t too much, but it should help Edgar last a bit longer. Moments later Darksong came charging in. Thank goodness! Just like Zosa, the dark haired Warlock Knight attacked Darksong. That gave Edgar a chance to heal a bit. This was good. Estel’s hopes started to rise for a moment until the white haired Warlock Knight did a devastating attack. It attacked everyone around him. Everyone!? Oh no! Zosa!! He’s not breathing anymore! No! Zosa’s dead! Estel was getting desperate. Zosa was dead, Edgar was faltering. Darksong was helping, but he was no match for these two. She had to get Hildenoth. Even if he needed his rest, he had to help. There was no other way! Estel ran inside Hildenoth’s cabin, looking for him while concentrating on the consecrated ground. Oh no… What happened to him? Estel finally found Hildenoth, but no longer was he the proud and powerful ruler of Talagbar. He was withered. No! That didn’t matter. He had to help! Estel was doing this for his sake as well! But he was soo weak. He had trouble walking and even lifting his sword. Estel helped him as best as she could, though. Everything depended on this! Hildenoth came out and entered the battle. She had to support him. She had to support Edgar. She had to support Darksong. She had to protect everyone and Talagbar. She couldn’t let it end this way. While Iris, Zeke and Joseph fended off the others, Edgar, Darksong, Hildenoth and Estel were slowly wearing down the two Warlock Knights. The white-haired one fought ferociously. He really wanted Edgar and Hildenoth dead. The other one, though, was hurt pretty bad. He ran away. The white-haired Warlock Knight got really mad and ran off too. Joseph and the others won their fight as well. One of the Warlock Knights’ henchmen surrendered. Phew… Estel was relieved. Then she remembered Zosa… He was dead, and it was her fault. It was ok, though. She had to look at the bright side of things. Talagbar was safe, and Zosa would be alive again soon. Hildenoth started talking. He was sure to thank her and everyone. No wait! What! Don’t listen to him, Edgar! Don’t kill the surviving enemies! No! Stop it! Estel was getting angry. They were beaten. There was no need to kill them too. Hmph! She let Edgar know what he was doing was wrong, but then he snapped. He started yelling at her. What? She just helped save everyone! Where was the gratitude!? Selfish child? What! He then started going on as to how it was her fault this happened and that it was her fault Azurra was dead… She knew it was her fault. She felt bad enough. Joseph tried sticking up for her. She was grateful for that. Much more grateful than these stupid jerks she just risked her life protecting. No, Estel had it with Talagbar. She risked her life, that was the thanks she got?! Edgar didn’t seem to care about the ritual Darksong was talking about either. There was still Princess Serana. She was Estel’s friend. That settled it. She was done with Talagbar. She was going to Palischuk.

Chapter XI: Departure
Joseph, at least to some extent, understood what Edgar was going through. His home was in danger, and several of his men died before his eyes. They may have even been more than his men. They could very well have been his friends. It saddened him to see darkness cloud the heart of a good man like Edgar, but he had no right to take it out on Estel. However, Joseph knew he would be unable to convince him of that right now. There were more important things to do, such as returning the light of life to Azurra. Father Aslen was more than gracious enough to raise Azurra from the dead again. Estel was thankful as well. In the time they had to wait for they spoke and thought about their future at Talagbar. Joseph was quite sure that they would be held responsible for what had happened. While he didn’t like it, Joseph was ready to accept any punishment. The real problem, though, was the danger that Darksong spoke of. They would have to wait for Azurra’s return, though. Such an important task warranted his input. Estel seemed a little apprehensive as the time for Azurra’s return come closer. That foolish Edgar, Estel was still a young girl. His words must have had an impact on her. Joseph tried to console her. If the light of Amaunator couldn’t ease these shadows then what use were they? Joseph did what he could; he felt a little as he had a little success. Finally it was time for the reunion. Azurra, for all of his callousness, was back. Joseph made a quick prayer to Amaunator asking that these resurrections wouldn’t become a regular occurrence. It wasn’t quite the happy return Joseph had hoped for, though. Estel was afraid to approach Azurra, and he made no effort to approach them. He was cold, distant, and angry. That fool! Couldn’t he allay Estel’s guilt at all? Couldn’t he attempt to ease her suffering? Azurra walked off with few, if any, words.

This was getting ridiculous! In the span of a week Azurra had died not once but twice! And for what! To do the biddings of some wretched follower of Amaunator! He cursed Elladestra yet again. Estel could see that Azurra was angry. Good! He had every right to be angry! If that girl wanted to be treated as an adult then now was a good time for her to start acting like one! Azurra was sick of treating her as an adult yet at the same time giving into her stupid, selfish, childish whims. The girl wanted it both ways, and Azurra was sick of it. It wasn’t Azurra job to ease her conscience. He was through babying the girl. His task, much as he was starting to loathe it, was to protect Estel. If she wanted to feel better about getting him killed, then it was up to her to make the first step. A step she was too cowardly to make. Before too long, Azurra, Joseph and Estel were summoned to Hildenoth’s cabin. Great… Azurra knew this was coming, and he was not in the mood to be yelled at by that dictator. Wow, what happened to him? Hildenoth was but a shell of his former self. Did the attack from Michael wound him so much? Stupid Joseph! However, the surprises didn’t stop there. Hildenoth didn’t plan to execute them, throw them out or anything like that. He also didn’t seem too angry; though, the hypocrite had the nerve to doubt their integrity. Whatever… No, more than angry Hildenoth seemed dejected. He was quite certain that his rule was coming to end, which meant that Talagbar’s relative prosperity was going to end as well. The small town lost nearly a third of its guard in that attack. More were certain to come. Estel had brought doom to Hildenoth and the people of Talagbar. Joseph helped put Hildenoth into this state. Why was he there again? Bah… stupid Edgar… Anyway, despite this, Hildenoth had no plans to punish anyone. No, he quite plainly said that it would better serve Talagbar if they were alive and within the city, so they could help repel the inevitable attacks. Sink with the ship, right? No… it wasn’t high on Azurra’s to-do list. Nothing was very high on his to-do list right now. He was sick of a lot of things and a lot of people. He still had a mission, though. He still had his duty to protect that brat. Estel made it clear that she wanted to leave for Palischuk. Fine, Talagbar or Palischuk, it didn’t matter, Azurra would protect her, but he was through attending to her childish needs. Heh, perhaps Edgar was right after all. Maybe Estel really was just a very gifted and spoiled child. Well, she had better grow up and fast.

Iris really didn’t know what to do anymore. This was almost too much for her to handle. Lord Hildenoth was in a very poor state. All the land was in danger as well. Estel made it quite clear that she wanted to leave Talagbar. The others were starting to feel the same way. It wasn’t quite that easy of a decision for Iris, though. Talagbar had been her home for her entire life. Not only that but she was also a member of the town’s guard. She had a duty to protect it. Iris was wildly conflicted, though. As much as she wanted to protect Talagbar, as much as she knew she had to protect Talagbar, part of her wanted to go with the others. Iris wanted to help her friends, and she wanted to protect all of Vaasa, not just Talagbar. She just didn’t know what to do. There had to have been some way to protect Talagbar if she left. There must have been something that she could do or set up. She just had to think of it. While Iris was thinking of a solution to her dilemma, Azurra, Joseph and Estel went to tell Lord Hildenoth of their intent to leave. The look on their faces upon their return told Iris that it didn’t go too well. Understandably, Lord Hildenoth was very angry. Joseph and Estel were partially to blame for this turn of events. Iris couldn’t deny that, and the two planned on leaving the town to fend for itself. They had a good reason to leave, though. They wanted to prevent this ritual from happening. Still, though, Lord Hildenoth was furious. He wanted the three of them out by sundown. If they weren’t out, he would force them out. This was bad. Iris was running out of time to make a decision. She wanted to go with her friends. She wanted to make a difference for all in Vaasa, but she couldn’t abdicate her responsibilities to her homeland or to her people. Maybe Palischuk could lend Talagbar some aid. The others were on their way to Palischuk. It wasn’t too impossible to believe they could help, was it? Iris went to Lord Hildenoth to inform him of her decision and of her plan. Lord Hildenoth struck the reality of the situation into Iris. Palischuk was no ally of Taligbar. They had their own problems with the Storm Fury Clan, and if they sent their forces into Taligbar, they would not likely take them out again. No, this was Talagbar’s problem. It was up to them to protect it. Lord Hildenoth made it very clear that he did not want Iris to leave. She understood. He was right. She had to protect her home. The others were going to Palischuk; they could get help from the princess. They weren’t alone. Talagbar, on the other hand, was alone. She had to make sure that the peace and happiness that Lord Hildenoth brought to the people endured. She had to make the sacrifice. The time for the others to leave quickly approached. Iris didn’t want to leave them. She had enjoyed their company and their adventures together. She would miss them. Tears welled up in her eyes as she wished her comrades a safe journey. Iris wished them luck. They had a big journey ahead of them. She did too. Talagbar was sure to see more excitement in the near future. Iris had to stay strong, though, for Talagbar’s sake and for her friends. She would see them again; and next time, she hoped, it would be under happier circumstances.

She wasn’ such a bad skirt. Considerin’ his number of run-ins with the law, Iris was probably one o’ the less troublesome ones. Even still, Implements was glad to be rid of Talagbar, and that scumbag, Hildenoth. The sooner ‘e died, the better. Though, Implements was amazed how easy he let them off. He figured it were better not to think too much ‘bout it, though. What which were important right now was findin’ the goliath Darksong spoke about. The circle drawer or whatever he called ‘im. Lil’ Estel, though, wanted to go to Palischuk first. Bleh… Implements was gettin’ tired of sittin’ around towns and the like. It was makin’ ‘im soft. By the time Implements got close to Palischuk, he was whistlin’ another tune. The city was surrounded by them orcs, the Storm Fury Clan. Ain’t no way they was gonna get inside, but Estel wanted in anyway. They started reachin’ towards the gates when them dirty orcs spotted them. Ever’one hightailed it over to the gates. Course, they wasn’t openin’ for nobody on account of all the orcs. Lil’ Estel begged the guards to let ‘em in. She tried usin’ her connections with the Princess. Did no good, though. That guard was tough as nails, and wouldn’t be lettin’ anyone through. Time was runnin’ out, though. The orcs were a’comin’ and fast. The group had no choice to ditch Palischuk for now. The orcs followed, but gave up chase before too long. Estel weren’ none too pleased, but there were more ‘portant things to do than talkin’ with the Princess. They had to find the circle drawer. To do that, they had to go up north toward the glacier. Vaasa was a cold place… The glacier was gonna be colder, Implements reckoned.

Darksong felt bad for the little girl but not too bad. He did not want to go to Palischuk. He wanted to find Far Roamer. The stupid lizard dwarf said he would be close to the glacier, so that is where they went. It was very cold. It didn’t bother him too much. The downlanders were cold. Near the glacier they found a big line in the ground. It went as far as Darksong could see. The little girl said it was some sort of book magic. It must be the circle. Lizard dwarf said that the Circle Drawer was coming from the south… Darksong had to think. He was pretty sure that the Circle Drawer was going east… close to Storm Fury. He did not like going close to Storm Fury, but he had to stop the Circle Drawer. He had to stop Firmwill. Everyone walked for a while. Then the magic line stopped. They found a big rock. Axe-head Zeke said it was residi… resdiu… redis… grr. Stupid long word… He said the rock was magic. Estel looked crazy. She wanted the rock. The little girl was very greedy. There was also a grave near the rock. That was more important. It was a big grave. Maybe it was Far Roamer. The grave was dug up. It was a dead goliath. It had to be Far Roamer, the Circle Drawer. His body was mangled. He had a pack with him. The pack had a letter in it. Darksong read the letter. It was from that lizard dwarf, Dorien! The lizard dwarf said he did not kill Far Roamer, but he did bury him. He said even with the circle not finished, the ritual can continue. I won’t work as good. He said that Firmwill’s ritual used three magic circles as a power source. One circle would be close to the Wise Mountain Clan. One circle would be close to the Storm Fury Clan, and the last circle would be near Telos City. The lizard dwarf said he would destroy the power source near Telos City. He said it was up to them to destroy the other two. Hmph… Darksong did not like or trust that lizard dwarf as far as he could throw him, which was pretty far. He liked Firmwill less. He had to stop Firmwill. Darksong would go along with that lizard dwarf for now. What was the little girl doing? It looked like Estel was doing some book magic on Far Roamer. Why?

Maybe they could learn something if she did this ritual. It wouldn’t hurt. After all, they just found a TON of residuum. Estel was excited. On top of all that juicy residuum they found, Estel was finally going to try out this ritual. It was still creepy doing it on a messed up corpse, though.

''He was moving slow and looking at the ground a lot. The rock must have been very very heavy. There were some sounds. Someone was getting close. !! It was some orcs.''

''The goliath said, “Something. Something something something something. Something something something something, something?”''

''“SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING PUROGG!” Purogg? That was the leader of the Storm Fury Clan, wasn’t he?''

''“Something something Purogg something something something. Something something something something!” The goliath, who seemed calm at first, was getting angry.''

“SOMETHING PUROGG, SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING!” This orc was clearly in charge, and he liked to say Purogg’s a lot too.

“The other orcs shouted as well, “SOMETHING PUROGG!!” Estel really wished that she could understand what they were all saying.

''The goliath started staring at the orc in the lead. He held his weapon, a really really big hammer, up. “Something! Something something something something something something something something! Something something something something!”''

''“HAHAHAHA! SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING PUROGG!!” ''

''Then the orcs charged towards the goliath. The goliath was very strong, though. The orcs were ferocious, and they ganged up on the goliath. The big orc was just watching at first. The goliath was clearly stronger than all the other orcs, but they were still wearing him down.''

''“PUROGG SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING. SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHIN SOMETHING. HAHAHA!” It definitely seemed to Estel that the big orc was taunting him somehow.''

''“Huff… huff… Something something Purogg. Something something something something. Something something something. Something something something something. Huff… huff…” The goliath was breathing heavily. Occasionally, Estel’s view would become obscured as the goliath wiped the blood trickling down his face.''

''“SOMETHING? SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING PUROGG!! SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING.” Then the orc drew a large axe and joined in the fray. The goliath was strong. Several of the orcs were bleeding a lot. They didn’t give up, though, and their leader was also very strong. Any doubts that Estel may have had about these guys being with the Storm Fury Clan soon vanished as the big one attacked. Thunder and lightning both came from the orc. He was scary. The goliath tried to fight back, but between his wounds, the vicious onslaught, and the fact that he was outnumbered, he was going to lose. Estel knew that he would die, but it was still sad seeing it from his own eyes.''

''“Something something… Something something something. Something something, Purogg…” This was the last thing that Estel heard the goliath said. He then fell to the ground. Estel could see anything. She could still hear his breathing, though. It was slow. Get up! You’re gonna die! Estel then heard footsteps approaching. Get up!!''

''“SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING SOMETHING PUROGG!! SOMETHING!!!” ''

Estel let out a quick gasp. The vision was over. That was it… that’s how he died. How awful… Estel tried to explain to the others what she had seen to the best of her ability. It was tough, though, since she didn’t understand what they were saying. She had a decent idea of what happened, though. The goliath probably knew the orcs. So did the orcs betray the goliath then? Maybe... Estel just wasn’t sure. The goliath did seem surprised and upset. Rats! If only she understood! Oh well… now more than ever, Estel knew that the Storm Fury Clan was dangerous and had to be stopped, so did this ritual. Speaking of rituals… there was still all that residuum! That would really help out the cause, so everyone started chipping away at the big rock. It was gonna take a while.

Hmph! This was gonna take a while. Lil’ Estel had that greedy look in ‘er eye. She wanted that residuum somethin’ fierce. Implements didn’ blame her much. It was very valuable, but it was still a waste o’ time. Implements lighted a cigar and just waited as the others smashed the rock. A bit o’ time had passed. They managed to get some of the rock, but then some varmints came which was claimin’ the rock was theirs. They was itchin’ for a fight to take ‘er back. Course, the group didn’ wanna give up the rock none too much either. Well, ‘cept fer Joseph, that was. He didn’ wanna fight over a rock. Implements didn’ mind, though. He was never one to back down from a fight. There were a buch o’ monsters too. There was a big ol’ eyeball of a beholder, a whole mess of hobgoblins, some smelly ogres, a pair of mangy bugbears, and a mean lookin’ oni. Yup, this fight weren’t gonna be an easy, he reckoned. That just made it all the more ‘citin’, though. That odd group of critters knew their stuff. They worked like a team. The hobgoblins ran all over the place like lil’ rats. One o’ them was stayin’ a big behind and doin’ some short of magical shout to mess wit’ the group’s heads. Them smelly ogres and the oni was up front. Darksong and Joseph tried to keep those three at bay. Their leader, the beholder, stayed close behind and was a’firin’ eye rays at Joseph and Darksong. The oni had some gunk on its teeth that which made it hard for Darksong to overcome the beholder’s rays. One o’ them rays put ol’ Darksong to sleep, and those mangy bugbears went ‘round and started attackin’ Estel and Azurra. One bugbear was stranglin’ the life out of Estel. She tried to protect herself wit’ her magic, but the shoutin’ hobgoblin made things tough. Azurra tried his best to stop ‘em, but he had troubles of his own. Joseph and Darksong were takin’ out the ogres and the oni. It took a lot of time, though. Implements, meanwhile was tryin’ his best to fight the that darn eyeball. It was flyin’ out of ever’one’s reach. It was up to Implements to deal with it. They was makin’ progress. They might’a been able to win, but Estel was in danger. The bugbear was doin’ his job good. Estel couldn’ breath. She lost consciousness and was startin’ to turn blue. If the fight went on, she was gonna die. Implements hated to admit it, but he was feelin’ very bad too. The eyeball was really hurtin’ him and Joseph. Joseph already had some close calls, and Implements knew he couldn’ take much more. Azurra made the tough call. He surrendered. Implements hated givin’ up, but he knew it was the right thing to do. The bugbear handed over Estel, and everyone started walkin’ away from the rock. Implements saw somethin’ that grabbed his ‘ttention, though. The dead oni had a bag o’ holdin’ on it. It would be a shame to leave empty-handed. Implements tried to pick it up, but the shoutin’ hobgoblin spotted ‘im. Course the monsters wanted to know what he was tryin’ to pull. Implements had to think up a lie quick on the spot. He came up with somethin’ quick. He said that the bag belonged to the goliath, and that the goliath was an old friend of his. The monsters got mad. They thought the oni was holding out on ‘em and started shouting at each other. Implements and other took this as their cue to get out quick, before they started to think they wanted the bag for themselves. They lost the fight, and that ate at Implements. They was all still alive, though, and they got the bag. It could’a gone worse.

Trying to Find a Lost Friend
This was unusual. He’s never been gone for this long. Even Flynn had no idea where he could be this time. Alexander could take care of himself. There was no denying that, but Gwenneth was still worried. Where could he be? What could he be up to? Gwenneth tried to be patient; she tried to be strong. Flynn saw right through the façade, though. He knew her too well. Flynn said that the time to wait was done. Yes, Alexander enjoyed time to himself for his own machinations from time to time, but this was enough. The two immediately started travelling around the Dalelands to see if they could find any leads as to his whearabouts. Thank you, Flynn.

However, this proved uneffective. Uneasy days slowly turned into agonizing weeks, yet there was still no sign of Alexander. All means of contacting him had failed as well. He was not responding to sendings. These setbacks were discouraging, but neither Gwenneth nor Flynn would give up. Their search would eventually take them beyond the Dalelands towards the Moonsea. It was here in Hillsfar where the two finally found a trace of their missing friend.

In Hillsfar Gwenneth learned that she and Flynn weren’t the only people looking for Alexander. Not too long before their arrival someone had also been asking about him. It was a deva woman. She was described as cold. The woman seemed intent on tracking down Alexander. She meant to kill him. Why? What had Alexander done to this woman? The only other thing the pair learned was that the woman has headed eastward… towards Vaasa. This news, moreso than of Alexander’s hunter, weighed heavily upon the pair. So much had happened in Vaasa in the last year. She had found Alexander; she reunited with her childhood friend, Flynn, and helped save him. She made many friends and fought in many battles. Some were very costly… Vaasa was not a place she longed to return to. She had Flynn by her side, though. As long as the pair found Alexander before the woman did, all would be well. Gwenneth and Flynn decided to take a ship towards Hullburg, and from there they would cross the Galena Mountains into Vaasa. Flynn seemed very cautious as he set foot back into Vaasa. As hard as it was for Gwenneth to come back here, it must have been much harder on Flynn. Gwenneth knew that she would have to support him as much as she could. Flynn was quite familiar with the land, much more so than Gwenneth was. He wanted to head northward towards Dehalls instead of the much closer Darmshall. Gwenneth had been to Darmshall before. It was a fairly large city. Flynn’s decision not to go there confused her a bit. Wouldn’t it be easier to get information on Alexander in a large city? She slowly realized why he avoided Darmshall for now. Flynn didn't want to attract any attention to himself. He was no longer under the Black King’s influence, but those who knew him back then may still linger. He had to be careful. They headed for Delhalls.

Delhalls was a very small mining town. It was an awful place. The people here looked miserable. An oppressive shadow hung over the town. Dwarves and men were forced into slave work in the mines. The people looked hungry and destitute. Being here and looking at the state of these people depressed her. Had she more time, she would gladly have helped ease their suffering. Flynn took Gwenneth to an inn, and he booked a room. He then told her that he would be leaving for a few days. Flynn was going to Palischuk. He was going to try to meet up with some old contacts of his. Was he crazy? That was way too dangerous. What’s worse, he wanted Gwenneth to stay behind. No… he wasn’t crazy… It was probably the best way to go about finding Alexander. Flynn made some contacts while under the Black King’s power. While those contacts were unsavory, they were still a good source of information. Flynn was taking a great risk, but the potential payoff was great. That didn’t ease Gwenneth at all, though. It was still very dangerous, and now she had to worry about Flynn as well.

Gwenneth had to stay put… She didn’t really know her way around Vaasa anyway. She knew Castle Perilous was north and that Darmshall was to the south. She was basically stuck in this depressing town all alone. She decided to see if she could learn anything on her own. Gwenneth went to a tavern and started asking about Alexander. Then Gwenneth saw her. It was a female deva, matching the description of the one hunting Alexander. This was her chance to find out something, anything. The woman had a cold, nearly expressionless look on her face. She did not look like she wanted to be disturbed, but Gwenneth approached and asked nonetheless. Gwenneth went straight to the heart of the matter, and asked directly about Alexander. The woman answered quite plainly that it was her mission to seek him out and to destroy him. He was one of the lieutenants of the “Devil of the South.” What? That made no sense for so many reasons. Gwenneth knew that, while Alexander was rough around the edges, was a good man. He would never be associated with someone known as a devil. Second, Alexander wasn’t the type of person to become someone’s lietenant. Gwenneth had to learn more, but the deva woman wouldn’t tell her any more. She said that it would endanger Gwenneth and endanger her mission. This was getting her nowhere. Gwenneth pushed on, though. She asked for the woman’s name, yet the deva wouldn’t even give up that information. After that, she left. Gwenneth was a little disappointed that she hadn’t learned more but learning anything was promising; even if it made no sense. Gwenneth quickly sent a message to Flynn. Maybe he could follow up on this information.

Unfortunately, Flynn didn’t know who the Devil of the South could be. He hoped that one of his contacts might have more information. However, Gwenneth, in the mean time, had to wait. A few days passed. She was getting a bit lonely and depressed. She was stuck in Delhalls by herself, pretty much powerless to help in anyway. Then a group of injured men arrived in the town, one of them was a Warlock Knight of Vaasa. Yes, she could help these people. Healing them was the least she could do. The men were very grateful. Gwenneth learned that the men were attacked by a group of men calling themselves the Holy Liberators. They were a group of people that attacked the Warlock Knights and their settlements without regard for any civilians caught in the crossfire. They did this in the name of freedom. How horrible… How could such a group that would endager the innocent call themselves holy? There was more to the story. The men that led this group bore the symbol of Tyr on his back. This could not be coincidence! Alexander once followed Tyr. Even if this man weren’t Alexander, he might have information that could lead her to him. She had to try! Gwenneth asked where they were attacked by the group. They told her that the Holy Liberators attacked them while they were on their way to meet with the Wise Mountain Clan, a clan of orcs in the region. It wasn’t very far away either!

This was her chance to make a difference. Gwenneth was depending on Flynn to do everything while she waited. She wasn’t helpless, and she had gotten some very good leads. Gwenneth had to find the Holy Liberators before they left the area. Flynn was too far away to do this himself, so it was up to her. Gwenneth sent a message to Flynn with the good news and told her about her plan to find the Holy Liberators. Flynn seemed hesitant to let Gwenneth do this on her own. He was always looking out for her, but, in the end, he knew she was right. It was too good an opportunity to miss out on. Flynn said he would try to meet with her as soon as he could, and that she better stay safe. He should talk… What Flynn was doing was just as dangerous. Oh well, Gwenneth made the necessary preparations and left as quickly as she could.

Bounty in the Feywild
There Dansith went again… He was complaining about the mission. He was right, though. Everything about this job was strange. They usually didn’t go after people. The boss said that chasing after people for money was a slippery slope, so why did he agree to a job chasing some eladrin named Eldresh? The weirdness didn’t stop there. They were all in the Feywild now. The place was as dangerous as it was beautiful. The Feywild seemed familiar yet completely alien. None of the group had ever been there. Even Fahrel knew very little about the Feywild. The group was walking into the situation blind. Then there was fact that none of them, except the boss, met with the client. No one in the group even knew the guy’s name. They knew he was a dwarf, but that’s all the boss every really said to the rest of the group. Slitthraxxx knew, though. He heard the boss mumble the name to himself. The dwarf’s name was Dorien.

Slitthraxxx had to wonder. Why would the boss agree to such a job? Was the money promised just that much? Was there something more to it? It seemed reckless of the boss to just accept a mission into the Feywild to hunt down an Eladrin, and, on top of it, not tell the rest of us all of the details. Slitthraxx was sure there was more to the mission than the boss let on, but he wasn’t talking. It made everyone uneasy. Dansith was the only one that was openly complaining. The rest of the group knew better than to openly question orders from the boss. Everyone just all hoped that he knew what he was doing. In Slitthraxxx’s six years with the group, nothing had ever caused him to doubt the boss, until now.

The deeper they got into the Feywild, the more uncomfortable everyone became. To Slitthraxxx, this job to kill Eldresh almost seemed as an affront on nature itself. The monsters in the Feywild were otherworldly and fearsome. Even the humanoid fey inhabitants were difficult to deal with. They were very whimsical and not overly helpful, often sending the group in the wrong direction. After a few days of this, everyone was on edge.

This mission that the dwarf wanted them to do was seeming more and more like suicide. It was time for the boss to come clean. No one wanted to go any further. He stayed quiet, though. All he said was that this needed to be done. Glurbash didn’t like that answer. Dansith didn’t either. Slitthraxxx had faith in the boss, though. Fahrel was just amazed to be in the Feywild. She decided to stick this thing out to the end, and, for all their grumbling, Dansith and Glurbash stayed. Eventually, they came upon Eldresh’s dwelling. It was a beautiful compound deep in the forests of the Feywild. All that was missing was the sun. Deep clouds hung in the sky, but now was not the time to admire the scenery. They had a mission to do. They needed to stop this Eldresh. The boss, as much as Slitthraxxx admired him, was not one for extensive planning, so the group did what they always did. Fahrel did a quick scout, and everyone hit the path of least resistance with the most force possible. The eladrin guards around the area were quite strong. Far too strong for Slitthraxxx to take on his own, he was glad to be supported by the others. Not much further, Slitthraxxx kept telling himself. It wasn’t too much further until they reached Eldresh.

As the team pressed on, Slitthaxxx noticed the look on the boss’s face slowly change. Before, it was his normal expression while on the job. Now it was one of anger and determination. Slitthaxxx didn’t get it. Maybe he was mad at the situation he dwarf put everyone in. It was rough, but they had gotten out of tougher situations before. That couldn’t be it. Was the boss angry at this Eldresh person? The answer would have to wait until after they beat Eldresh. Glurbash, as usual, enjoyed the thrill of the battle. Slitthraxxx did notice Fahrel’s expression changing as well, though. It was the opposite of the boss’s. She looked like she was losing the will to fight. Why? Once again, Slitthraxxx had to put his mind back on track. The goal was nearly in sight. They were approaching a heavily guarded room. Eldresh had to be there! Eladrin weren’t guarding this alone, though. There were cyclopes as well. The massive hulks were extremely strong. Dansith, watch out!! No! A Cyclops struck Dansith on the head with his axe. He fell to the ground dead. The brutes were too strong! Slitthraxxx had trouble dealing a solid blow against one. The boss, on the other hand, was unphased. He fought on. Glurbash, Fahrel, and Slitthraxxx kept up the battle as well as they could. Despite the overwhelming odds, though, the boss’s leadership saw them through the battle. Dansith’s death hit Glurbash particularly hard. Glurbash grabbed Dansith’s crushed body and smashed down the doors. Eldresh lay ahead.

It was a beautiful room with a small throne at the head of it. Sitting on the throne was a regal looking eladrin with stark white hair. She wore night blue that rustled as if they were in the wind, which struck Slitthraxxx as odd, because they were indoors. To her sides were three more eladrin maidens: one with blonde hair, one with dark hair, and one with white hair. Slitthraxxx was sure that the one on the throne was the target, Eldresh. Glurbash set Dansith’s body down and started shouting curse after curse at the eladrin. The three seemed disinterred in the group as a whole. Eldresh, though, made a stern face and stood up. Slitthraxxx didn’t realize while she was sitting on her throne, but Eldresh was quite tall… for an Eladrin. As she stood up, her robes and now her hair started to move as in caught in a strong wind. In a voice that echoed like thunder, she introduced herself as the Eldresh, the Bralani of the Autumn Storms. It was a nice sounding title, Slitthraxxx had to admit, but the title left little impact. It was her appearance. Lighting was starting to spark from her eyes, and her voice only grew louder. Glurbash wasn’t impressed and continued cursing her out. Fahrel, though, was awestruck and bowed before Eldresh. What was going on?

The boss sneered and gave the signal to attack. Glurbash and Slitthraxxx raced toward the Eladrin. Eldresh shouted, “Sule! Oromeva! Tyelke!” The three eladrin then raised their hands, and the floor started to shine. Nooo! They had all walked into a trap! There was a bright flash of light… Then nothing.