The World of Layonara
Character Development => Development Journals and Discussion => Topic started by: Tazmanius on July 01, 2006, 12:45:17 PM
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It is said in the far off lands that a man could be truly wealthy if his story is set down in pictures(The swirling writings that make up the text of Jaleel's people and culture).
Following the black and red horror that was the end of his peace on Mistone..when the blades had flashed in the night,the blood of his friends and mentor pooled on the ground and his haven from the past had been razed to smouldering ashes...Jaleel had wandered.
In time his travels took him to Hlint...how he ended up there he could not be sure...a dream or destiny?He dreamed of a great Dragon it is said and this set him on his course...along with what his late mentor,Steward,had taught him of the ways of Rofirein..and the skills to survive.
So there he was in the rustic town of Hlint,a gathering place for all types of adventurers..a small cosmopolitan boiling pot of intrigue,politics,debate and adventure.
His first days in Hlint were slow and small scale..in terms of adventuring or training to better himself...he defeated some sort of rat beast that lived underneath the town,he helped drive away some goblin scouts and met one Robert Hearth,a fellow Rofirein adherent and a most noble man.
His first adventure with Sir Robert..took him to the upper levels of the mines of Haven...where ogres had staked their claim,killing and driving out the local miners and all but ending plentiful iron supplies in the region.On the way to the mines the two companions happened on a strange yet enchanting and hauntingly voiced girl...possibly of elven origin..who seemed quite shy and talked not in the tongues that we know but seemed to project her emotions by a series of differently resonating clicking sounds and intonations.
Somewhere along the way...the girls name was somehow determined,at least in the common tongue..or as near to it as was possible....it was Auuumi...and the two original companions,although letting her accompany them,did not know if she meant them ill will or good fortune..and so watched her with caution.
After several battles with the ferocious ogres in which Sir Robert took the lead..the party ascended back to the levels of Haven..and after splitting what treasure they had acquired and exchanging farewells..they went their seperate ways.
Jaleel had made some new friends in his early days in Hlint..had observed the potential inadequacies of his preferred weapons(Shortswords..or shortsword and small sheld)..and had resolved to possibly ,at some time in the future,get to know the more common weapons used...namely the longer bladed sword such as Steward had once weilded.
Other things had troubled him,however....why and what were the images that seemed to rise from his deepest mind...moonlit blades,dark robes,heat,blood...strange tongues....?The more he was involved in battle the more he saw a need for a few tricks...perhaps he should seek out a tutor at some stage to help him become more of an agile warrior?
Many Paths and many questions lie ahead for Jaleel Ibn Isran Al Korak...
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As the days passed by in Hlint,Jaleel began to experience more and more the diverse cultures that would assemble in the town...all races,religions and callings would gather in preparation for adventure.
One such group that assembled took him into their numbers...and even now he owes gratitude to Miss Addison for this opportunity.They trekked through marshes and swamps...fought lizard-folk,trolls and even entered a tomb where they fought with some vile bloodsucking restless dead.
Much coin was gained and these experiences helped shape and mould Jaleel into a more competent fighter as his companions offered advice on these creatures weaknesses,tactics to use and such.
After a couple of days in the wilderness much of the party dispersed,leaving a small group of around 5 remaining and it was decided to travel to a cave near Velensk...to acquire some metal deposits and fight the ogres there.The going was hard and many wounds were sustained before the party withdrew to a camp that overlooked the cave entrance..awaiting a better opportunity to strike within.
Alas,the ogres had brought fresh troops to the battle and the party was being overwhelmed...and one Kinson Ravenrock showed bravado or was it arrogance in trying to battle the ogres with a mining tool?Jaleel tried his best to stem the tide but a blow felled him and as he hovered between death and life...the party moved out.After a while he awoke in a weakened state..lost,disorientated and utterly alone...and it was only by good fortune that he happened upon Krys..one of the party..who guided him to where he had fallen so he could recover his dropped gear.With regard to the others...it seemed they had abandoned him..especially once the good paladin Kinson had taken over leadership.
After a long and hazardous trip back to Hlint....Jaleel sought out and confronted Kinson about what happened...he seemed somewhat off-handed in his manner...saying that the loot taken had been split and blaming one Talen for taking most of it.Jaleel tried to get the point across about the abandonment but this was ignored or not realised by Kinson and his friends..including one Rhynn who appeared to wish to buy Jaleel's silence.He would not take blood money and left the conversation slightly embittered but a little wiser.
During these adventures and the days of less activity Jaleel still experienced the dreams and the blackouts..and People say of him talking in strange tongues and mentioning names ..If only he could recall.He has learned something of human nature and wonders if all paladins are as dishonourable as Kinson...and why does Rhynn give off a bad aura...and why would a paladin consort so much with one who does so...and what of sweet,innocent Auuumi who appears to be under Kinson's sway?
Jaleel is even more resolved to follow the Dragon and protect his charges as best he can..and not leave any behind in lands they do not know.He has also realised he needs to be a bitlighter on his feet and as his strength as a warrior relies on speed and such...must try and find a teacher who can better help him strike from a position of advantage...something,he knows not why,he feels a strange affinity for..hitting from the shadows..surprising opponents et al.
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And so we continue on with this record...
Jaleel now felt that he could put little trust in many in and around Hlint...and thus attempted to strike out on his own..a decision he would regret as time after time he had todrag his battered and bruised body back to the town from the Redlight Caverns.
He suffered much..and endured such hardship that it shattered his very spirit and temporarily locked inside his mind memories of recent experiences.
Somewhat chastened by these experiences he knew that he must find friends...true ones at that to help him and be helped in return if he were to follow his mentor,Steward's,teachings and over the next few days he met several.
First there was Aeryn..a kindly soul and a good companion,happy to share the front line if needed.
Second there came Eghaas..a newly arrived weaver in the town..a fairly quiet but capable fellow.
Thirdly came Thomas..a Paladin of Rofirein..a good man..but with flaws.
During this time..aside from a few adventures with the aforementioned..also undertook many tasks for persons in and around Hlint and Fort Lalst..delivering messages..collecting weapons for the guard in Fort Llast etc.Having made a bit of gold and travelled far..even across the seas...something which he wasn't all too pleased to do...he is also acquired a splendid helm.
The dreams continue...people still keep saying he is speaking in tongues every now and then and falling in to trances and such...but he remembers nought.Is it his past seeking him out?If only he could remember.
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And so time moves onwards...
Jaleel has gained in experience..that as a warrior,that as a person..and most importantly the experience of people..and friends.
He has adventured with many since his first days arrived in Hlint...and has,he hopes learned from them and the experiences and adventures they have shared.
Jaleel has travelled far and wide in thse past months..the far flung lands across Mistone...the far reaches of Rilara...and even to dangerous and wounded Dregar.
He still has been having episodes...and fits...although,as time passes,he seems more able to control this...even if he still cannot find within himself the cause or the memories he has lost.
Money comes and goes..spent on outfitting himself with some of the finest weapons and armour he can use and afford...as well as a healthy supply of healing poultices and infusions..ah the joys of trying to lead the fight in light mail.
Jaleel now trains for an hour or two each day..trying to perfect his techniques..and even attempting some new styles....that he has seen practiced by some of his companions...the way to move without being seen or heard...to strike with surprise and such...and he has started trying to locate a teacher for such.
As to adventures.....that is for the next time
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And so to some of the adventures experienced...
Aside from the usual travelling companions...Jaleel has met others..an enigmatic Monk called Silverhand has shown him kindness and much wealth..in coin and in the benefit of experience.
They have mined topaz together..been into a crypt at the foothills of the greypeaks...an experience where thanks to a Dwarf named Kurgin..Jaleel managed to survive...barely.
Jaleel has also been in the company of a mysterious hooded maid..pretty of face when it is seen...called Talia...whom his friends Aeryn and Eghaas have also accompanied.
Perhaps his most challenging adventure up to this date was when he went with the Lady Jennara..and an assembled group into the Forests near Haven...there they encountered bandits who they drove off with some ease...before entering a dungeon..a deep,foreboding and spiritless place...After battling their way down through hordes of creatures that could confuse the mind..or cause the earth to erupt..they entered what appeared to be a crypt...dark..dank and silent..
All of a sudden the silence was shattered by malevolent chanting and a ferocious battle ensued with what appeared to be walking dead...later identified as Vampires..at first the battles went well..but as time went on and the group grew fatigued..the relentless horde began to drive them back..one of the party..Dean fell..and several were sorely wounded..some.like Jaleel having,or so it seemed,some of their very life essence robbed from them.
The group decided to head out..and after battling more creatures..the end,and escape,were in sight...but fate had decreed that some should fall...and amidst a crashing and crumbling of the ground...4 or 5 of the party fell and were engulfed..Jaleel amongst them.Luckily the few survivors managed to drag the badly injured and near dead to safety and secure transport to Hlint...where they all amnaged to recover..in time.
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Jaleel,now a little wiser and a little more accomplished..ranges further and further afield with a broad range of differing friends..Aeryn,Eghaas,Agron and Dean,Silverhand,Robert Hearth from time to time,Jennara,Thomas Stormsynger and Daniel Poetr...the latter both Paladins of the Rofireinite order.
Jaleel still trains and still looks for guidance and teaching in perfecting the more shadowy and potentially deadly forms of combat...he feels still a growing affinity for this style..but cannot discern why he feels so drawn to it.
As for adventure..many tasks have been undertaken and only a few remain..
He has sought some lost oil in the Greypeaks..with Addison and Treana...and was so close to attaining the prize before being struck a near fatal blow by an ogre's club...as he tried to put himself between a rushing ambush of ogres and miss Treana.
He has met two ladies of dubious virtue..one frequents Hlint much..her name is Muireann..and he fears she shall hurt a good man...Eagle...for she seems fickle in her choice of company..and quite shadowy company it is she keeps some of the time.
The other..although a bit of a painted lady..who he surmises enjoys life's pleasures...she does follow Xeen after all...is called Sillol..and she had an interesting and quite fulfilling conversation with him.She witnessed one of his turns..and has offered words and guidance to help in trying to determine what the nature of this affliction is...and even invited him for a relaxing bath and talk at her home in Fort Llast.
She kept going on about marriage...getting confused and thinking he was in love with one who he calls a friend..but his duty is to his God..and the one who does tug a bit at his heartstrings is a ward..and thus he will protect her..but not progress any other intent with her.
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Ah..where was this humble chronicler...ah..let me see..oh yes..
Jaleel..the lay blade of Rofirein..
well...he made it with one other to secure some of the lost oil consignment in the Greypeak mountains...Gal'lerion Windsbreath if what he told me is correct...names get jumbled over time's passing.Through the use of magic and trickery..the pair got to the hold of the Ogrish leader and although Jaleel was gravely injured..the prize was secured.
It is written that between these adventures and meeting people he continued to exercise both his mind and body..to become a more nimble and able warrior...and he actively sought out potential trainers.Many of these were surprised at how quickly he adopted their styles and oft enquired if he had trained in such a manner before...but he could not remember and thus it was put down to his thirst for the knowledge and a natural grace and ability being the reason he did so well.
Over the next several weeks,following his near fatal...but successful journey into the peaks..he completed almost all of the tasks that people wished done..
Breaching the Ogre ridden mines of Haven and personally helping to bring down the mighty Ogre warlord laired within...braving the undead menace in the crypts of Krandor with the aid of a steadfast group..and many other tasks..trivial and not so..
Soon he was devoid of any clearlydefined tasks..and it was time to seek out adventure further afield..wherever it could be found and where the most good could be done..But that is another story..
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And so it came to pass that Jaleel joined several different adventures..further afield and even wandered beyond Mistone to areas he had not braved before...One of the most noteworthy achievements is listed here in this brief account..
He partook of an excursion into the lair of some foul Bugbears..fierce goblinoid creatures who hold an island off the coast of Rilara near Point Harbour.The group was small,the danger great...but the rewards and satisfaction offered were bountious.
The group had been larger..but several left saying that they would all die,they were not strong enough,they were foolish..and other such remarks..
The party made it;s ways across the seas,avoiding Mists baleful eye..and reaching the lair without encountering resistance...they happened upon a lady..who joined the five determined bringers of justice..and they entered the dark and foreboding ruins.
Within the ruins..the stench of death and the cold creeping grasp of evil pervaded the whole atmosphere...fear was choked back,dry mouths could utter no words as they began to encounter strong opponents...ferocious in their defence and determined in their resolve to resist the party.
The battle grew harder...the clash of metal on shield,metal on armour and the twang of bows was oft supplemented by the cries of the wounded and the colourful and magical projections of those so gifted on both sides.
After what seemed an age..the din of battle began to subside...wounds were tended and sweat begrimed warriors lifted their helms and lowered their arms...victory had been achieved..
None had died...and the enemy leader was dead...so much for the ne'ersayers back in Hlint...much was owed to Rofirein for protecting them and much to the mysterious lady of the blade who,by chance,had joined them at the last moment.
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Time rolls onwards..people like the days come and go...new meetings..new friends..sad partings.
Jaleel still felt like an outsider to many...was it his accent,his skin colour..or the memories of his culture...the only thing that seemed to survive that far away struggle with the lady of storms.
Does his experience of almost drowning at Mist's behest colour his judgement..perhaps..for he had many clashes with milady Muireann..a fair and comely woman who was a follower and priestess of Mist.Her way with men,her flirtations and even the way she dressed showed more of a Xeenite leaning than of her true path..but each to their own..I suppose all may interpret their dogma as they see fit...unless,of course,it harms others.
After many clashes with Muireann regarding her fickle ways and her beguilment of a string of men..it came to a most unwelcome situation.Muireann,indignant at Jaleel's words..it was her who interpreted them as a slur on her chracter...and as some say,if the cap fits...anyway,I digress.
Miss Muireann,showing as much self righteous indignance as would be fitting for a Toranite..bade that Jaleel should meet her in the arena in Fort Velensk.Jaleel agreed after much goading and cajoling as he is not one who likes fighting women.
After a hard fought match..Jaleel beat her down,and then,a little embarrassed by it all...proclaimed the matter done with.
He would try to keephis thoughts on Muireann to himself..but will she remember to observe the quiet also?He has beaten her in a fair honour challenge and thus ..in the eyes of the law his word is proved..and she is,to all intent and purpose..through this trial by combat proven as whatever he wishes..but he sought not vengeance...he just did what had to be done.
Only time will tell if the lady can control her anger..but being a Mistite..it is more likely that her anger will rise and fall with the tides...unleashing in a storm of words and possibly actions..for Mistites do not observe the laws of the civilised.
As life progressed..Jaleel adventured far and wide with some of his usual friends..and new ones too..the De'Averlaines..a Brother and sister sworn to serve the Dragon..and their less than savoury and perhaps non too trustworthy brother Ark.Beli..a monk short in stature but big in heart and soul..and Silverhand..another monk of exceptional capability.
Themeetings and the new skills Jaleel observed the likes of the above using has drawn him to try and adopt some of their methods in his training...and some of the exercises he does..seem to touch on latent memories...perhaps drawing on skills or energies of his past?
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The dreams,the nightmares and the waking fits have subsided somewhat..Jaleel grew more in control of his being and having doen this could actually bring himself to adventure further afield..to that which,for some unknown reason,he once dreaded...dark and mysterious Dregar.
Greta Pranzis lay in ruin...and the dangers were more threatening here..but so ws the wealth..and the opportunity to learn new techniques and better old ones..not only through practical use but also through observing the more seasoned adventurers who frequented the dark places here.
In the space of a week or two Jaleel had made several trips to Dregar...firstly in a group of many skilled persons...he fought side by side with them..watched them..learned from them.
Secondly with Robert Hearth...together..just the two of them...went deep into the Deserts and fought many creatures...and made a fair sum into the bargain.
Jaleel marvelled at Roberts skills..and acted more as a support to the flashing blade of Robert than an equal.One day perhaps he will be of comparable skill...one day.
The excursions closer to Hlint also proceeded..almost daily ventures abroad with the likes of Beli and company..often into the Blood Desert or the Swordrust mountains...and adventures with Silver also continued.
Learning that Jaleel needed oak for a bow..to be presented to a lady in Haven...for the armoury there..Silver offered to help Jaleel get the oak...and so the pair went deep into the High Forests..trying not to kill without need nor angering the tree spirits of the place.
Gathering the wood was no easy task as spiders and other creatures assailed them..but the pair prevailed and after some time the oak was gathered...all seemed well..
BUT..
As Jaleel loaded the last of the oak into his pack or fixed it about his shoulder...a large group of spiders and beetles emerged from the undergrowth..Jaleel was overwhelmed and poisoned..and soon fell into a near death slumber..as he dreamed a poisoned dream...the soul mother came into his vision and took a part of him for her trouble..then sent him back,barely alive...to the world of the living.
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Not long after his first Visit to the soul mother's table...whilst getting oak in the High Forest...he found himself back in the area.
This time he was part of a much larger,and in fact,chaotically organised group...who blundered their way along rather than any organised expedition.They fought griffons..orcs...and then the turning point came..
A bear was slaughtered for no real reason other than it was there...it was not near the path...and was no threat to the party..yet...a bloodlust was seen amongst some that was disturbing..including at least one member of Jaleel's own faith.
The party moved onwards..and then provoked the Treants of the forest,the ancient guardians and keepers of the place...into a battle..and once again the bloodlust clouded the eyes and the minds of many who should have known better...Jaleel could not accept this breach of the laws of the Forest..something he had discussed a time before with an Orcish resident called Kor...and so he left the party to their own devices and destruction.
A while after this incident..and with relations between brother Daniel and Jaleel healed following the formers descent into bloodblinded savagery..Jaleel went with a group into the Crypt at the edge of the Greypeak's...named for it's builder or it's resident..Storan's.
After much battle and a hard time within..the group had battled to the inner sanctum..where the one called Storan..did indeed reside amidst his undead minions.It was here and at Storan's hand Jaleel had his second meeting with the Soul Mother...but once again she did not desire his company too long and he was sent back to the living world.
There have been many smaller episodes of adventuring that have happened to Jaleel...Greypeak expeditions,the trolls of the Ajari..ogres in the blood desert...and even a trip or two to Rilara nad Dregar.
J'ser..a man of guile and who is light on his feet has made acquintance with Jaleel during these times..and has offered to show him a little instruction in ways to improve his prowess in such areas..ones that Jaleel feels will enhance his own skills with the blade and combat....thus he has worked some more routines into his daily regimen of training and honing of his skills.
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Ah..time seems to move on faster..the dreams are almost gone...now it is more of a nagging ache in the back of Jaleel's mind as some memories hover in his sub-conscious as ghostly images...in time..perhaps he will remember...could it be all the trips to Dregar...does the answer to his past lie there?
Adventures come and go..with friends old and new..the great cycle continues on it's relentless journey..and some,like Jaleel,are caught up in it's wake.
Ah Miss Muireann...she has made several comments about things Jaleel has said in the past..or has twisted what he has said..and tries to goad him..even after he had won her challenge in the arena and said the whole thing was in the past and done with.
Jaleel has adventured more with his close friends..and others who grow closer like Silverhand and Beli..the latter usually in the company of the De'Averlaines and an eyecatching priestess of Rofirein..Serissa.Her graceful walk..her calm words ..and often kind ones..and her smile..help soothe the aches of battle from Jaleel's bones and keep the chill of the darkened skies at bay.
As to adventures...expeditions into the deserts and forests of Dregar have yielded good coin and some items..including a pair of valuable boots..which Jaleel cannot decide whether to keep or to sell...the most notable adventure involved a most convoluted situation...involving missing artifacts that a halfling wished retrieved...
Jaleel had heard rumours of a gathering and decided to try and aid as best he could...after some debate with the halfling..and a man named Epheris...the party,numbering some powerful personages,headed into the depths of the blood desert.
After battling many desert dwelling ogres and such...a man clad in full armour..who claimed to have fled Pranzis was located..somewhat annoyed at us killing his friends..the ogres.
He clutched a shield in a fierce grip..a shield that seemed to radiate some sort of magic..a magic that it was determined held sway over the fellows mind.After much conversation and persuasion the man was persuaded to take some rest and during his slumber..the party managed to extricate him from his shield..and break the mind spell that held him.
After some deliberation it was decided to take both the shield and the man to a temple..a place where mind and body could be healed,a place known for it's militant defence..where the shield and it's threat could be kept safe out of the hands that so desperately desired it..for the fulfillment of some dire plan.
The party managed to gain their goal safe enough..but just as they went to enter the temple...the man called Epheris showed up..hah..a man..transpired that he is in fact some sort of demon or devil that shifts or possesses forms.
A most desperate battle ensued...with the party and a force of guardsmen attempting to defeat this Epheris..who appeared to be a master of the blade and whose blood heritage offered him supernatural defences.Many guards fell..as did some of the party...Jaleel called out to throw the bag containing the shield up to one standing at the door so that it could be taken into the holy sanctuary..whether he was heard or not does not matter..because someone had the presence of mind to do just as he had suggested..and the party and shield managed to gain the safety of the holy ground.
Members were healed..the gravely wounded and near dead were nursed back to health by the temple's healers and they gave their word to secure the cursed shield in their strongest vault and place it under a heavy guard and ward.
And so..in the end..the party prevailed..but ..the story..I am sure was far from done.
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The wheel moves onward and the pendulum swings....
Brother Daniel..a true and noble man had put forth Jaleel's name to be listed on the rolls of the Knights of the Wyrm..a great honour...and one Jaleel felt he was somewhat short of.He was no paladin,had no airs and graces,he was freer in his mindset than many who followed the order..A humble bladesman..how could he who spurned the use of the restrictive heavy armours and who preferred to weild two blades...not the sword and shield or greatsword of knights..even be considered for such an honour.
He has grown,as I his chronicler was informed,somewhat confused as to what to do with his path...he feels drawn to develop a fighting style more suited to his physical skills..one where he can attack speedily and from surprise...But he is undecided..especially in what path to pursue later.He continues to train in such skills..but is no longer sure if that is where his path lies.
As to other things..Erik..a priest ..and good friend has suggested the forming of a small adventuring guild..where Jaleel,he and other like minded people of comparable skill and interests may set out on quests and mission of exploration and aid together.This is a thought for the future..
And with regards to things that have been on his mind or have troubled him..well..he sees Miss Serissa spending more and more time in the company of Barion..a great warrior and hero..how could he ever match his prowess?Also of late..a truce of sorts between Muireannand Jaleel has ensued..they have even had some good discussions..on all manner of things..even religion.
Adventure has been somewhat slow...mainly confined to the local areas around Hlint..and an excursion or two into the mines of Haven...although one adventure does deserve some note..
A party had assembled at the Ox Merchants..for he was troubled by disappearances...after questioning him and his oxen..and searching about...a small fissure was found in the barn.
The party descended into the depths of some dark subterranean hold..and were soon engaging orcs and other beasts..including hulks.
After much battling..and some wounds..and sadly..a few losses...the goal was achieved and the oxen located..but alas..they had to be left down in the depths for no way could be found to bring them out...
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The shadows grow and fade..as time marches relentlessly onward...
Ah joy of joys...Barion is to be married..and not to miss Serissa..there is light in the darkness.
Jaleel's training continues..but he grows more and more unsure of his future path..even as the times of decision draw nearer...
As for adventures..well...he has encountered a man called Pendar..who always goes about wearing a hood..he knows not why..that is Pendar's business..but the two of them ventured forth into the Ajari and slew many lizardmen...Pendar was a sight to behold and weilds mighty magics as well as he does a sword.
A further great adventure was at the behest of the great hero Kobal Bluntaxe...who asked for adventurers to gather at the port of Lorindar on Dregar.Here Jaleel was amongst a large company,so large that they split into two groups...and Jaleel was luckily placed amongst friends and people he knew such as Celith,Elrend,Barion,Gunther,etc.
H enoticed that Barion seemed relieved to not be in a party that contained one Angela Swann..for soem reason..as much as he was relieved not to be placed with Ozymandias..the lord of lies.
The party travelled form Lorindar top Pranzis..where a disagreement between Lin'da and Elrend resulted in the former,without thought for the party or their fate,to quit and vanish..luckily the day was saved when they acquired the services of Miss Serissa and a good friend Godim Harjuna..a mage of no little talent.
Thus re-inforced the party set forth for the Firesteep mountains on an island off the coast of Dregar..something about the name stirred up ghostly memories within Jlaeel..but he had no time to dwell on this..nor ascertain the meaning..as the party moved at a good pace.The journey was long and dangerous...giants..giant..nay...Huge scorpions..trolls..evil druids..all lay in their path...and all were ..through the grace of Rofirein..defeated..
After a boat trip..they reached their goal...fiery and dark mountains..where the darkened sky semed to be more oppressive than ever..yet where the cold could not reach.Here in these treacherous lands they battled numerous kobolds and even drakes..before gaining some respite ,after much tinkering,in a fortified manor...alas poor Celith was ambushed as we entered and lost to the onslaught of a kobold attack.J'ser tried to save Celith but also was struck down..butMiss Serissa called on the powers of the Lord Proetector and risking harm..managed to bring J'ser back from the soul mother's limbo.
After a pitched battle at the walls..the enmeies lay dead and the party managed to escape the refuge that had become a prison..and Celith was raised..and so onwards they went ..in search of precious metals and minerals.
All went well....aside from an accident by one of the mages..where he went on ahead of the party..and was quickly overwhelmed by kobolds..missile fire took them all down and miss Serissa performed yet another miracle...so far the losses had been to ill luck rather than bad leadership..as master Barion and Gunther had ably led the line..
At last we sighted our goal..a cave in the mountainside..wherein lay riches...but..we were ambushed..a horde of Kobolds overwhelmed master Barion..elemental beasts and creatures of living rock assailed the party..and then..a mage cast some foul enchantment..half the party fell..and those few left..decided discretion was the better part of valour and made for home.
Mistress Serissa fell..and as he had been charged to defend her..Jaleel..who barely survived the spell...felt responsible..he had failed in his duty..and now wonders how to atone.
After a long hard trek home..with a few close calls..getting lost..stumbling through a giant camp and such..the party..or those left made safe ground in Hlint.Here the loot was divided..some argued for it to be split among those left..but Jaleel and a couple of others remained firm and said it should be split equally between all who had made the trip.
A somewhat shady figure..called Aly-something had been tasked with looting in the main for the party..yet when it came time to share..he had but 6000 or so gold and one set of monk's robes he had found.Jaleel was suspicious as given the enemies fought and what the natives of Dregar often carry..this seemed somewhat lower than it should have been..especially item wise.Even worse was the fact that this man..this thief..took the robes without drawing lots as he said non could use them as they were for a monk..was he a monk..no..thus he stole from those who had assisted him..and will not be trusted again..or should not be..for he places his own self before the others.
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And thus it was that Jaleel was visited by the soul mother a third time..assailed by a flock of four griffons after he had completed his training in Port Hampshire.
I,Jaleel's chronicler write the following words as they were spoken to me by Jaleel.
Of life and such..Mistress Serissa seems to have grown distant and does not talk as much as she once did...wedded to the church perhaps..and possibly a little unrequited love for Barion..or one of his adventuring companions perhaps?
Of Muireann..seen her a few times in the company of Ark..she seems to draw a certain type to her..predators..who I sense see her as easy meat and desire to bed her ..not wed her.Tis a shame as we have actually begun to converse often and without much conflict..perhaps the church would frown on such..but I make my own choice on who I speak to..I may be faithful to Rofirein..but I'll not be ordered by others as to how I conduct my social interactions.What point is there to justice and order if it strips one of the freedom and will to make one's own choices and decisions.
Of Events..
I came into Hlint to seea gathering about the well.near the wagons..many were gathered there..some I knew others I did not..this group..primarily made up of the "Great and the Good*..and the likes of Ozymandias Lewelyn and his sycophants..great perhaps..but more evil than good.
I had missed much of the conversation..but references..half in jest and half serious were made about laying waste to Hlint..and other such unsavoury remarks..
The group was then called to move by Ozymandias..and so we all went to a different area..then the party moved once a gain..going into the courthouse..a public building..but here they showed their true intentions...and asked many to leave and saying it was a private meeting.I left and proclaimed them elitist bigots..heroes of the people hah..self serving and servile puppets of Ozymandias more like.I t never ceases to amaze me just how much influence one like him exercises over supposedly noble personages..seems they do not realise that he is most likely using them to his own ends..and that they are merely dancing to the tune he plays.
Jaleel then went on to say more about this incident..
A while after this slap in the face for the common people and the closing of a public building by these elitists..Ozymandias and Celgar..passed where I sat.I remarked on the situation..and within a few sentences..he..the oh so wise and knowledgeable bard had contradicted himself.First he said I personally had not been asked to leave or excluded..then within a sentence or two had said I was rude folowing them and eavesdropping on their meeting..hah..what a fool.Firstly they convene a meet in public..eventually a public building..and say to follow and then wonder why and get all high and mighty when the public wish to see what they speak of.
So..what secrets do they try to keep from us..what plan does Ozymandias now try to put forward for himself and his dark masters?And why do such noted citizens and heroes follow so blindly as sheep would a shepherd..and not see that this shepherd is more the wolf than the protector?Self confidence and arrogance and misplaced pride is a failing amongst many it seems..
Jaleel also made note of a couple of other incidents related to this..
Celgar,who I had recently travelled with..tried to belittle me by harping on about his acts and heroism in the defence of Pranzis and the fall of Blood..such a lack of humility.just shows his like for what they are..Egotistical and self opinionated fools.He seems to not realise that many had not the opportunity to take part in the defence of Pranzis or such..yet tries to use it as a soapbox for his own ego.
Rhynn..with whom I had much sympathy following a recent situation..to which I shall refer later..hanging off Ozymandias coat-tails as if he is some sort of svengali that offers her the comforts she so desires...most likely she wishes to learn from him and further her consortations with demons and devils...much in the same manner as he...and one day she will lust for the power he has and try to usurp him and it.Power corrupts..
Why do good people even have contact with the likes of such diabolists?It goes against all that is good..what next..necromancers pillaging Hlint's graveyard so that their dinner parties can be well attended?
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Jaleel now makes mention of a peculiar incident involving Pyrran..Himself..Brisbane and Tyrian...oh..and indirectly Rhynn.
After an excursion abroad with Pyrran as part of the group..we came to rest at a camp outside of Hlint.Our rest was soon disturbed however as Pyrran was seized about and had a blade placed to his throat by Epheris..some sort of demon or devil that I had encountered in the past.
T'was strange really as I had not long before this asked Pyrran as to what Epheris could be doing in Pranzis ,as I had spied him there only a few days previous.
Epheris kept telling us to back of and such as both Tyrian and myself had drawn our blades..and meant to engage him in an effort to free Pyrran.Before we could do much however..Lady Brisbane a Druid of no little power arrived as if from nowhere and after a brief war of words with Epheris transformed into a large red coloured dragon with a crest of gold..and carried Pyrran,in front of our awed and not a little feared eyes.
Epheris was not happy..he said as much and it was written across his face..and thus Tyrian and myself tried to intervene..lest he should go and try to take out his anger on the town and it's populace.What seeed like a good idea at the time turned out to be not so wise as after a count of three we both lay gravely injured at the roadside as Epheris showed a display of supernaturally efficient swordplay.
Twas not until later we heard of further doings by this man-devil....who apparently had threatened Tash'r..although some corrective punishment for that one was well overdue...and had struck Rhynn with a curse that deprived her of the ability to speak and thus the use of her magics.
As a footnote to the last two entries..Jaleel informed me that Rhynn had threatened him with a note she displayed after the confrontation with Celgar and Ozymandias..seems she is sweet on the aged bard or something..and is also close to Celgar..perhaps she works her way through the official census?
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Training and honing skills continued..
Events and recent adventures had once again started to confuse Jaleel's mind with questions..and the search for answers.
Jaleel undertook a trip or two into the battle fens with such stalwarts and friends as Freldo,Silverhand and Thorkain at his side..and these proved both profitable and very fulfilling as he gleaned a little more knowledge on various fighting styles.
Now..if only he could find out more about the bladesong and how to master the basics of it and work therm into his techniques.
An important expedition..across the continent of Dregar was undertaken..another artifact was to be recovered like the shield afore it...this time it was a cloak...and it was noted that such had disappeared froma temple in the North...
The trip to the temple was fairly uneventful as most dangers were avoided..and the party made their goal just as light was fading.
Some spoke of eyes watching them..and creatures sent to spy...but jaleel saw nought of this and awaited further news from those who entered the temple to treat with the priests within.
Soon it was determined that a girl,no more than a child had taken the cloak with her and disappeared from the temple...to the mountains where the trolls dwell they said..
And so..the party travelled into the snowy wastes and after a long battle with trolls..came upon the girl wherein a delicate negotiation took place between the possessor of the child and the party.
Several offered themselves in exchange for the girl..and Jaleel..tried to use the truth in his heart to deceive the fiend to take him instead..even telling some untruths...and hoping that when it looked within it would perhaps catch a glimpse of whatever it was his past held and would be confused by his now true heart..I mean..would he lie..or could he lie?
What happened next is somewhat hazy..but according to the party..after an excellent shot by Jil to the clasp of the cloak...making it drop and thus removing the possession...jaleel seized the cloak and made to run off with it...luckily he was prevented from this as he may never have escaped the frozen wilderness or it's denizens.
So..the cloak was recovered and the girl returned to the temple..where her poor mind..if it could not be fixed..could at least be soothed.
The party then made it's way to a place where the cloak could be secured and warded...but agents of whoever had interest in it..devils..pit firnds some called them...blocked the way .but after a few short sharp skirmishes the party and the cloak were safe.
What will happen next ..and how will the other party fare in their quest on Xantril?
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Time has almost reached full circle and Jaleel will soon need this old chronicler no more as he has learned enough from me and may choose to write his own accounts...but another adventurer or two will no doubt find my humble home and set me new tasks.
Quiet times in Hlint and the area..jaleel has taken part in a few groups ho have olundered parts of the ogre held Haven mines..and done some small party and solo adventuring also..including a trip deep into the Sielwood with Drogo and others..where great manwolves dwell and also a creature that someone said was a basilisk or something..quite deadly.
The most interesting things to happen recently where an expedition to Saudiria on Dregar..a desert surrounded town on the eastern coast.Jaleel was lucky that a friend..and sometimes adventuring companion Samir was encountered en-route..for without his assistance he would probably not have made it to the town.Whilst killing a little time they went and plundered a cave in the desert..fighting giants before they said their farewells.
Jaleel then awaited the rendezvous time...with others arriving as the hours..and even a day or two slipped by.He felt at home here in the hot desert lands..and something was stirred within.
As the gathering grew he recognized a friend,Gunther was somewhat weak and pale...and had been assailed by some giants back at an oasis on the way to the town..adn an effort was made to rouse some volunteers to go and help Gunther recover some losses incurred and to avenge his injuries.
A small group was gathered from the people assembled..although several declined or seemed not to care..most shockingly of all...the Paladin Caighd of the Rofireinite Order..was in a listless modd..and failed in this duty of care.Seems nowadays he has been paying more attention to a female bard than his holy duties.
Even with such derelictions by various persons Gunther was aided and the balance set right.
After more waiting and an even greater gathering..Jaleel encountered a woman who was the object of their gathering..a woman who paid him some unwelcomed attention..and who in fact..made his flesh crawl...But one has to make sacrifices for the faith and thus he tried to play the polite and concerned adventurer and servant of Rofirein.
It transpired that the woman had lost her cat..a Malar beast of over-large size and provided a blanket as a means for the party to both track and coax the lost companion home.With what knowledge that could be gleaned the party headed out..first to the docks..where after questioning a few sailors,dockhands and ships captains..the party had a lead and managed to secure passage to a jungle infested land a fair distance travel away.
Jaleel,after his recent escapades with another cloak..grew quite attached to the one the woman had given..and this drew some strange looks from certain of the company.
Hacking their way threw thick undergrowth and surviving..with some casualties ambushes by pygmies and then lizard folk...eventually a village was reached and some respite from the jungle terrors.
A deal was struck with the local headman of the pygmies and the party was given some indication as to where the cat may be..and after another arduous though safer trek..they descended into some sort of underground cavern system.
Across an underground river a beast was spied..was this the malar beast?Jaleel did not know for he had never seen one..and so,as some of the party approached and tried to soothe it..Jaleel pulled forth the cloak from his bag..hoping to get a positive reaction..as the woman had said,from the beast...unfortunately it did not go to plan so he went to replace it into his pack.Suddenly he felt a force upon him and his arm was struck so hard that the cloak went tumbling into the water...and when Jaleel looked to see who had done this..he saw it was Caighd..who then proceeded to abuse him and make threats..to which Jaleel retorted in defence..afore the woman who appears to have turned Caighd's head and thus draws him from his path as a paladin intervened...she also berated Jaleel as Caighd smugly hid behind her skirts..oh how the valiant have fallen...and how the Paldin's of our faith all seem to waver and fall or are found wanting...oft because of a shapely turned ankle or a pretty face.
Whilst this went on..it transpired that the beast was in fact a sailor who had been transformed somehow by the woman..Jaleel had a feeling something about her was not quite right.After some mighty spells were cast upon the manbeast it was transformed back to a man..and true to his word..the pygmy chieftain allowed the group safe passage back to the boat...
On confronting the woman....about all this..she once again tried her charms on Jaleel but using the very cloak she had given him...as Brisbane held her down in a bear form...he bound and gaged her..so that she could be brought to justice and any others she held captive could be located and freed.
Alas..somehow she escaped..some form of spell or item...but justice and right will be served for images of her have been drawn and placed in prominent positions around the ports of the lands..and when a lead is found..perhaps she can be found and made to pay her debt.
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And here we are...almost at the present..I have learned much since being called by the Dragon...the lamented Gold Dragon Ozlo I beleive.Perhaps I was one of the last called afore he fell..?
Just a few personal notes and views...some thoughts laid out on parchment so I can refer to them..
Of my friends..
Aeryn..an elf and a weilder of the bladesong..a style of combat that intrigues me and makes me wonder if it or some form of it can be adapted to my style..that of two blades...can it be learned..can it be fashioned..or some form of it to suit my need?
Daniel..A steadfast and true friend..a most devout follower of Rofirein..with views on a par with mine..compared to the majority of our faith's paladins this man stands head and shoulders above them for duty,loyalty and honour.
Erik...A priest,a fellow joined in adversity..a level head to temper my wilder moments..one who sees the need and has the vision to try and establish a regular cadre of seasoned adventuring friends...a group where elitist attitudes would have no place.
Beli..A redoutable Monk..leader of many adventures..a flurry of fists and feet..and possibly the fastest thing on two legs I have ever seen..Alas he has been called back to his monanstery for some time.
Robert Hearth..An honourable and adventurous man..one who does not bother about one's rawness or talent..but who will guide a person and help them..show them that the only true way to learn is to experience the danger firsthand.
Silverhand..much do I owe this man..adventure..guidance..learning from the nuances of his fighting style and adapting a little as best I can.He has taken me into danger..but more often than not has brought me out safely again.
Thorkain..a steadfast dwarf..of gruff toner but large heart..stands as a rock amidstt a sea and lets wave after wave of enemies break upon his hammer.
Freldo..A pleasant change from many of his experience..happy to assist..always there with a witty tune or spirit lifting conversation.
Samir..the same as Freldo in his ways with the less experienced..but more practical and a good guide to follow.
Pendar..a warrior and a mage of sorts..good with both magic and sword and seems to share some thoughts along the same lines in regards to some issues.
Eghaas..a simple and uncomplicated sorceror..happiest when his friends are happy..and happier still when they have a gift of bat guano for him so he can make more fireballs.
Serissa..ah..a priestess of Rofirein..dutiful,honest..good company..a smile that lights up the darkened and clouded sky...a breath of fresh air..and like a light summer breeze she lifts one's spirits when they flag.
Many others..many names..too many to count who have helped or are regular companions in many adventures abroad..
oh..and last but not least Muireann..a priestess of Mist..who my faith decrees I should have no converse with..yet..there is much to be said for intelligent conversation..especially between supposedly contrary religions or people.From such discussions..ones from different points of view much can be learned,compromises reached and a common ground of tolerance reached.
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Of those I have issue with..
Ozymandias Llewelyn..yes a powerful man..one who calls the tune many others dance to..more fool them.He gives of an aura of something not quite right..like meat left hanging too long.He apparently walks the planes,deals with demons and devils and even has relations with one of the latter I believe.Many seem to trust his words and I know not why..he may have been a great hero once..but now..I suspect he will olead many to their dooms in the search or is it lust..for his own power and that of whatever unholy masters he serves.
Rhynn..a confusing creature..one day quite cold and callous ..the next helpful and ..well..she used to be ..talkative.Another who deals with demons and such..as evidenced by the situation with Epheris.One who seems to pay more than a passing interest in various consorts but who seems especially attached to Ozymandias..no doubt he would need some magic potion to enable him to satisfy whatever desires she holds for him
Ark..a black sheep of the De'Averlaine family...shady..underhanded and one who would threaten harm to those who serve his brother's church.A man devoid of faith except in himself and with it loyalty only to himself.
The great and the good..this encompasses a gathering of so called heroes..pompous,overbearing,self opinionated,self righteous and self centred elitist bigots..foremost amongst them is Celgar..but then again..he seemed to be Rhynn's latest plaything so could possibly be forgiven in part for such foolishness.
Tash'r..a mishievous,irritating and oft law breaking follower of Mist..flouts the local laws of Hlint as if they do not exist..frightens the common folk and yet escapes justice..oh and has openly assaulted a member of my faith..for no more reason than she wished to.
Then there are those that fall or falter in their duty or stumble on their path..
Brother Thomas..a Paldin of the Faith..cited in a case of ribald attention towards Muireann..but also noticably seems to withdraw from expeditions or fights as the danger increases..thus failing in his duty to protect.
Brother Caighd..oft a quiet man..which is no sin..but lately has become sullen.moody and afflicted with disinterest in his duties..has openly struck a fellow follower..has refused a duel of honour and has failed ,when called upon to assist in helping a felow adventurer for no more reason than he was in some sort of melancholic stupor.Also tends to hide behind the very skirts of the woman who has unmanned him and persuaded him off his path..
There are others that trouble me with their attitudes sometimes..be it tolerance or just a careless way with the lives of others..such has been seen of Darkchild..also known as Kiva..but who has redeemed himself somewhat of late.Nepp..also changed a little of late..for the better..Aly..a rogue and vagabond who steals from his party and makes off with anything he deems worthy without the option to share...he will take a party's protection and healing but is so selfish as to try and rob them..
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One issue that troubles me greatly,well two to be honest are as follows...
Firstly..Pranzs and Blood's former General..idf such can be said Broegar.A man responsible for much death and destruction..the sacking and pillaging of holy places..he is now feted as some sort of saviour who has restored order..but at what price?Many of his laws are morally wrong..they restrict personal freedoms that people fought and died to retain...and yet many who stood by the fallen..in those harsh battles openly accept Broegar's rule and laws.
What does this say..Do they not think that it dishonours the memories of those that fell..do they not think that their inaction and acceptance of this tyrant nullifies most of what they fought for..and dishonours themselves.
Should a former..(sic(General of Blood be allowed such free reign..and by doing nothing are they not allowing him to just consolidate his power..possibly in preparation for his next conquest and subjugation?
Secondly..What of Rofirein's church?They stay silent on many matters..they do not seek us,the faithful out to give us instruction or goals..there is little or no guidance...why do they stay silent?
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Well..here I am writing now for myself..so what to record..ah yes..
Met up with Silver and went to the Berhagens...had a person to see in some Dwarven Fortress thereabouts...on the way there and back we had a merry time with some Golems and Giants..Silver is truly a wonder to watch in combat..seems to hardly ever get struck and does some devastating damage...wonder if there is anything I could learn from his style and adapt to mine?
Met up with Drogo,a dwarf named Exodus..my friends Erik and Aeryn..and think it was Tash'r and possibly one or two others for a foray deep into the High Moors.
We worked our way into the depths of a cave system there..a stronghold of some Lizard folk who have been troubling Hlint...After a few close calls we struck the leader down and emerged with his head..which Drogo and myself returned to Garent in Hlint.
Managed to make it safely through the Greypeaks to see Charles Dawson...and bring him what he needed...gave me a book that has some sort of magic upon it..could be useful.Fell foul of some ogres on the way back...slew a good number afore I was nearly laid so low as to see the soul mother by a berserker..seems I still grow overconfident sometimes.
Travelled to North Point on Dregar where I had heard tales of a party gathering..something to do with a lich..and since an incident in Hlint...many months ago..I had sought some way to avenge a wrong wrought by such a creature..perhaps this very one.
Many had gathered and after the tension of drawing lots...I made it in..just.
Not sure whether I was as elated as I should be as both Rhynn and Ozymandias accompanied us..one is self serving and more than they seem I think..and the other..Rhynn..is an enigma..one moment quite palatable..the next wreathed in dark threats or apathetic musing.
At least Rhynn has her voice back..so that is good..then again...seeing as she has said she will kill me..may have been better for her not to have the power of her magics to aid her against me...such is fate..good news and bad rolled into one.
Well..we located some sort of underground dwelling..dark,musty and foreboding...I say located..more like stumbled on..as we all ended up in the same place by some magical means.
Firstly after much preparation and much discussion we set forth to investigate..demons..devils..all the same to me..but such unholy summonings we encountered and fought...or in Ozymandias case..bargained with.
Eventually we encountered a cadaverous looking man..who it turned out was a lich..but a most pleasant and personable..and very reasonable one it seems.The bad half of him is the terrorizing one so he says..and amidst all the talk of curses..demi-liches and such..several goals were determined..
Thus..we head out to find answers..to locate a lost love..lift curses..and eventually defeat the beast.and lay hs good half to rest...I hope.
Latest venture I got involved in was to the dire woods and the cave therein..oh and another excursion into the Berhagens...undead..spectres so I'm told..golems fashioned of living..or would that be dead bone?..ogres..harpies..more Golems hewn of living mineral..Giamts..
All in the company of some steadfast companions..Silverhand..Eredel..Cymmeran..Wren Thendor..and several others.
Much gold and even some items..that for some reason..I am stuck with..my poor oxen is beginning to suffer greatly at the burden..must try and find a room and get storage as soon as possible.If only the church provided such.
Still no word from the Church and nought of the Knight's of the Wyrm..perhaps Daniel's recommendation did not make it to them..or they deem me not worthy of note..no matter..I shall continue to do the Lord Protector's work to the best of my ability wherever I can.
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More adventures and more tasks....
While recently in North Point and Willows Weep I managed to pick up a further two quests..no doubt there are many more such tasks out there...firstly I am tasked with defeating a bull-headed chieftain and,no doubt,a lot more besides for a person in Willows Weep...some Maze-like Dungeon...now to find it and some stout companions to aid me.
Secondly..I spoke to a priest at the local temple in North Point..alas they would not let me see the cloak...but he,by way of consolation..I know not why..mentioned a ring belonging to Drezneb or somebody..and said I should seek out a wandering priest called Athus..well..only Dregar and who knows where else to trek across to locate this man.
Of adventures...was part of a group that traversed the lands near fort Velensk..some of us had a bit of experience and had been this way many times..others however..were new hereabouts and I feared for them.
We,luckily for us I suppose,encountered Wren Thendor on the way..and with this extra strength..and the know how of Tegan..sacked the nearby cave of it's Topaz and slew or drove off many ogres...and then we traversed the Ajari swamps..discipline and good preparations allowed us to cut a swathe through the vicious trolls there..and much bounty was forthcoming.I think the less experienced party members learned much from this.
A note or two on the above venture...firstly..we were left at the last moment by one who called himself Hood..a dark elf..he seemed eager for adventure yet when it was close ,as was the danger,he left without word or warning..a coward perhaps..or a maybe,as some suggested...he wished to see us all die..his loss as we made much coin from this.
Another thing learned..spellcasters need to be more careful for the warriors who act as a wall to break enemies initial onslaughts...several times we were injured by our own mages eagerness to throw fire at the enemy.
Then again..according to Praylor..a Paldin or a priest..we are no more than ,as he termed it,meatshields to protect the casters...I sthis how it is?Are casters more valuable than we..are our years of training and mastering our combat skills seen as little more than an annoyance by enemies..or lesser skilled and expendable commodities by casters?Hmmph..They may be able to transmute themselves into creatures or summon magical aid..but I wonder how long many of these casters would last without us.
After some rest,reflection,respite and training..I took up my sword once again..and ventured forth from Hlint to Velensk..I had heard rumours that a group of my friends were in that area..and so..after a journey that was a little arduous...4 griffons attacked me on the way from Fort Hope...I managed to locate and join up with Silver,Erendel adn Cymerran...oh..and Malor was there as well.
With thse friends and a few others..dwarves..a man named Earl and such..we set forth into the Berhagens..Golems and Giants fell to us in large numbers...and after a successful trip we broke up into a smaller party..as some cared not to travel with us to Dregar.
Note..Seems that for adventurers not many are really so adventurous..making interminable assaults on the mines in Haven or the Topaz in the Dire Woods cave seems to be the extent of their adventurous ambition.I thought adventure was about striking forth into unknown lands and ridding them of evil..but to many it seems it's gossiping in Hlint or sallying forth where little risk lies.
Anyways..On to Dregar...here we..Silver,Cymeran,Eredel,Malor,Earl and myself teamed up with Tegan and Tash'r..this would choose in the end to be an unwise choice it seems.Tash'r is like a mischievous child..always playing practical jokes..and being a bit of a disruption to any party..something of an attitude that seems to rub off on Tegan also...but more of this soon.
The party set forth from Pranzis..and after cutting our way through to the desert mines..and picking up some nice loot on the way..a book..a wand..some robes and an Iron Longsword..we made our goal.The party was a little disjointed at times with Tegan and Tash'r sharing their own companyb and proceeding at thier own pace..oft well to the rear of the group.
In the mines itself we found much combat and also once again....more miscast spells..that did ourselves harm...Tegan was very useful here..for her magical defences and skills...
On the way out however..things went awry..the party scattered somewhat...some running well ahead of the rest..and as I was picking over the corpses of the fallen giants..I soon found myself alone..
Note..Why do parties often run ahead and leave their gatherers unprotected and isolated?You would think they would take more care of those who carry the spoils.
Well..as I tried to leave the cave..3 Giants attacked me..I battled for a shortwhile thinking my companions would swiftly return to support me..they did not..I made a run for the exit..only to seea giant place itself in a firm blocking position.I had little choice..I had to fight..3 Giants..against me weighed down with coin and items...and my wards and protections failing or spent..
I think I had cut one down and wounded another afore I fell unconscious...hovering on the edge of the soulMother's garden....then snapped back quickly..as,after what seemed an age..my companions had returned..and master Cymerran had managed to revive me and draw me back from the clutches of impending death...lucky I carry two soulstones.
Here things started to go bad...it seems Tegan and Tash'r had views..about abandoning comrades and such..one's I must admit I am in some agreement with..and yet..they were two of the first out of the cave.So double standards..They then began to snipe at varoos people and even seemed to ignore others by having a conversation with each other..and so..as they rushed off ahead..the party decided to take it's time and be free of such chaotic divisiveness.
Eventually we reached Pranzis and safety..well safety under Broegar's boot..hmm..maybe not...But here we split the gold..which was not as much as hoped for..due to the fact that when I fell..one of the giant blows must have ripped the coin sack asunder and spilled much of the coin.We then travelled to a house in Loridar and made our way back to Hlint from it..all the time I was being pestered by Malor for a robe..Did he not trust me..or is it just the way of mages and such to be impatient..they should learn some discipline.
Hindsight Addendum..Must admit..was not too happy with losing Tegan and Tash'r..not so much for it being an injustice or such..as they clearly followed their own path and were not really concerned as to party welfare...but more because they did not receive a share of the coin garnered.
Silver,Eredel and Cym are friends..and thus I have to stand by them and go with their decisions..they have done much more for me over time than Tegan or Tash'r..but I still feel troubled over depriving the latter of their share.
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Well...here we are again...another break in my routine that allows me to find time to tell a bit more of my adventures,my life and my aspirations.
First off..even though I am unsure now as to my progress and direction...I still seek to enhance my skills and master those that I do have..and still I watch the likes of J'ser and Silverhand or their ilk for any incite into their techniques that I can adopt or adapt or both..for my own routines.Furthermore..I still wish to engage in more formal training should J'ser ever manage to find the time...perhaps gain some practical knowledge from others also..to broaden my choices as I am sure there are many variations on each style.
Still my friend Aeryn insists the bladesong is a secret and so I shall seek out,perhaps,another who may know it's secrets and nuances..or one who can point me to a teacher.Aeryn knows I wish to master my art and yet he holds back on this..I cannot see why..surely my use of it would bind us closer as friends and brothers in arms..and would help perpetuate this noble artform?
Of Events..Ozymandias and Rhynn..with the aid of others were acting in the streets of Hlint..playing Blood and his minion(Wonder if she enjoyed playing his slave as I am sure she wishes to be under his power in more ways than one..and yet still she puzzles me.)..and a pair of Black Wizards.
This display caused much concern hereabouts and although,with hindsight,one can see a certain warped humour in this..the situation itself is not one of levity...as it was frightening for many common folk.Did give some insight into a few things though and a third Dragon God was told of...whoever or whatever it may be.
Of Adventure..well..I was asked to meet brother Daniel in Sandstone for a gathering...and adventure.I went but was non too sure as to what it was all about...maps..ancient temples..other places..all strange to me.
I arrived in the small port town...on the coast of the Anuroch..and waited for some 2 days afore my friend and his band hove into the port.2 Days of boredom and the sounds of the sea...
We travelled forth into the dunes of the Anuroch and after some travel found ourselves in an oasis valley..with a small village..and a few natives dotted about..although most slunk into their homes and hid or watched sullenly from the shadows.One man however did give us some information regarding our goal but tempered our enthusiasm by mentioning that the snakes were in the midst of the breeding season and it would be most treacherous to attempt the journey at this time.
Thwere was much deliberation,a certain amount of division and much disorganisation...and with these conditions in play and the party scattered all about...one of the mages made forth intothe serpentine vastness of the desert..the place where the snakes lay.
I,and I think Daniel...and perhaps others..felt duty and honourbound to follow her..even if we thought it folly..Daniel and I are of Rofirein and are sworn to protect no matter the danger to ourselves..and thus had little choice in the matter.
There was much damage wrought by the snakes..many sat at the soul mother's table this day...and it just showed how destructive such division and indecision can be.
Let us hop it goes better next time...and that the leaders are more coherent as is the group.
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After recent adventures to Dregar..including a couple of short excursions not mentioned in detail I found myself wandering back in Hlint.Not much to do except train and talk.
During one of these conversations,involving Lady Muireann and others..somehow Kiva's name was mentioned...not in any offensive manner..unless a listener thought so of him him or herself.The words spoken were purely of a neutral intent and meaning and thus any who could form a decision based on what they heard or thought they heard..such as one fellow did..must have ill will or a low opinion of Kiva themselves.This fellow..Jareg by name..said he had heard me insult Kiva...when actually all that was said in reference was"Kiva and his ilk"..now how this can be construed as offensive only the Gods know..for it could refer to Kiva asa heroic type..or such.However this is interpreted is surely in the mind of any who may have heard..although at some twenty or more yards from a private conversation..amidst the murmurs of a busy town..how this fellow heard anything is amazing.
But..if he did..then it is his own twisting or interpretation of the meaning or what lies in his mind that corrupts the statement..no doubt with a little help from that evil and spiteful demoness..Tash'r.
This Jareg..who took umbrage..left having made threats...hah..can he not see the fault lies in hmself and not others..perhaps this Kiva has slighted him or caused him pain..maybe over a woman..as these oft cause dissent between friends.
And on the subject of women..ah..my Brother Daniel...he kissed a miss Drawna in public view..does he go down the road of Thomas and Caighd?Is he being led from the path by base lusts?He is not even sworn to this woman..not by ceremony..not by declaration..and yet he undertakes such lewd public displays with her.
Of adventure..I have had several..although mostly humble affairs...there was one however,that troubles me greatly for I was one of the more experienced members of it.
A party had assembled and we headed out for adventure..out to the Silent Watch hills where we fought goat men...thence to the Topaz caves and the Dire woods...Ogres.Giants,Harpies,Undead..all fell before our cleansing blades and spells and the arrows of our bowmen...nought could stop us..and we had grown by the addition of Wren..a mighty warrior.
We then turned to the Ajari..a place reeking of evil..a place of trolls..and a place of a greater evil...but initially all went well...we did as before..worked our way forward with discipline and zeal.Trolls fell in droves and we advanced deeper into those festering mires.
After a battle at some sort of Trollish temple..we happened upon a tomb or such..it emanated evil..and I recognised it under the growth of the past year..Twas a place I had travelled to twice before..once with miss Addison and a very eexperienced group..and another less successful encounter where we had stumbled into it rather than a planned entry.
Many of the group wished to enter..I did not..and warned against such folly..with the resources we had at hand...but brave Wren was very convincing and thus the group descended into the depths.I had to go with them as is my duty...and sadly I convinced miss Talia..who had returned to the area.
Things went badly...the group listened not and some rushed forward and were slain by some sort of summoned devil lizards...but..after a heavy fight these were beaten back and the party withdrew.It looked as if most would escape..but once again..some in their exuberance either did not heart he words to follow in my footsteps ..or did not listen..and took a different route...an ambush was sprung and more of these horrors appeared.Several fell after a battle on the bridges..and with about half the party..or perhaps 2 fifths..down..a withdrawal was ordered.
Not learning from what had gone before..a Druid..Kargoth I think his name is..careered forward with some summonings and was set upon by Trolls before the party had time to recover or reoragnise after the debacle below..and mor e fell...It was sad...where there had been discipline and measured progress..now there was chaos..and such had cost many lives.All for the glint of riches.
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Ah..tis an ill wind that blows..probably the doing of one of Mist's supposedly loyal followers...only loyal to herself that one...a Tiefling..one of demonic stock..always trying to cause argument and strife..always trying to bully with her overt spell displays and transformations into a hulk..must be some sort of attention seeking ploy by her..mind you,as time goes on more and more grow tired of her antics and see her for what she is.
Ah..why the sudden outpouring you ask..well..after the incident with Jareg that I mentioned last time..there were developments...
Firstly,whlst having a nice chat with some friends..Daniel,Praylor,Shamur and another one or two..Kiva,Nepp and Ash showed up.Comments were made by Kiva and Nepp..trying to bully and intimidate.I rose to this..as I was at a low ebb following the recent catastrophe in the Ajari tomb..they threatened death and such..and said Jareg would be the instrument..hah..they cannot even fight their own battles now..but must use their friends.
This group were then so rude as to sit down amongst us..uninvited..such bad manners and rudeness..in the desert..for this they would pay with their lives for only invited guests are shown the honour of safe passage.
Several days later..having just risen from my bed..I spied a small group watching a man atop the Hlint watch platform..he seemed to have an ensorcelled elf as his slave..I s that not a crime?
Then Muireann showed up..and when the elf broke it's bonds...and tried to attack the strange one who had attempted to control it..She called forth the power of her Goddess and slew the elf.
Two.observers then launched into a tirade against Muireann..calling her a murderer and such..and I suspect they were looking for any excuse for trouble..for soon..as I tried to defend Muir's actions..they turned their attentions to me.
They made some remarks..as if they knew me or of me...and made some veiled and not so veiled threats..the large half ogre or giant..following the smaller one's lead..if they had not been so insulting and threatening..then it would have been comical to see such a display of circus magnificence...All the little man needed was a hoop for his larger friend to jump through.
After an exchange of words they departed and conversed with Tash'r..
At first I put their malice down to Kiva and Nepp..but the fact they had converse with Tash'r would suggest her malignant and poisonous little hand in it.Perhaps she paid them to incite trouble..I would not put it past her..yet another who cannot fight their own battles it would seem.
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Ah..back to adventures..well..after a quick word to myself and any who may read this one day.
Why is it that people seek conflict amongst their fellows?Is it because Blood is dead and now they have no common purpose or goal...are they so bored they must create tension and trouble?
Anyway..back to the matters at hand..adventure..
I decided to head down to the Dire Wood area near Fort Velensk..both for some peace and to be nearer my God's temple..It transpired to be a most fortuitous path ..as on the way to my goal I happened upon no lesser person than Lord Tarradon Duvall..a Captain of the Knights of the Wyrm..such an honour..such fortune..the Dragon surely works in mysterious ways..and I think it was the Lord Rofirein's doing that we should both meet out there in the middle of nowhere.
We talked at length about various church affairs..and he also gave me a task..a message to pass on to Brother Daniel..of whom,despite a recent moment of weakness,I still praised highly..if any should be invested as a Knight of the Wyrm it sis he..for he has the most honour,loyalty and duty that I have ever seen in a man.
Tarradon then invited me to go forth intothe Dire Wood with him..and I accepted...our blades grew thick with the ichorous blood of the spiders there and cold to the touch from the many spectres slain.
After a time he departed for business at the Temple in Fort Velensk...whereas I ..with my spirits lifted by the encounter..set off to do battle with some giants...
A day or so later..I encountered a group..who numbered amongst them my friends Dulan and Roy..and several others..including the bard Karn..and one who..is called Vugar I think.After some quick work in the Topaz caves..we set off towards Fort Velensk..where we encountered both Jamesan the bard and Good Aeryn..one of my truest friends.
Aeryn seemed not his usual happy go lucky self but acceded to my request to accompany us on an adventure of exploration...and thus..so assembled..we set sail for the mysterious Dragon Isles.
At the docks we fell inwith another adventurer..Rakan I think he is called..and then proceeded to explore and battle the dangers and evils ofthese new lands.
Walking Trees..driven mad and twisted by evil's touch...a fire drake..twisted and corrupted forms of humanoid..and then Bull-Headed men..deep ina cave...and a fierce bull like creature..that petrifies with it's breath.
The company was steadfast through all these trials..Dulan lead us with vigour and was ever ready to lay healing where needed...the bards aided us with hearty and rousing songs of battle or laments to dampen the spirits of the enemy...and the others all pulled together as a team..hacking and slashing through whatever horrors fate threw our way.
Alas..poor Aeryn..he was not himself..gone was the beauty of his song..the blade did not sing with it's normal vitality..and he seemed lethargic in his strokes..I wisH I knew what ailed him so I could counsel or aid him.
The party then took a boat to another part of these lands...where Dulan said wolfmen lived..but sadly he had to leave as he had pressing duties..and soon thereafter...following a battle with a horde of Harpies..Jamesan also had to take his leave.It was thus decided we should turn back for our healing and magic was now depleted and to press on further into unknown lands seemed like folly.
Several battles took place along the way..more of the evil and ugly walking trees...and another drake..a close run thing..but we made it and took ship to Fort Velensk where we bade each other safe travels and went our seperate ways.
Aeryn..though..just left without word..I did not see him go..but recall him talking to a dock hand..so perhaps he has taken ship somewhere?I hope he is safe..and thathe will soon return to his old self..this change in him troubles me.
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Several days after the excursion to the Dragon Islands..whilst sojourning in Hlint..I was asked by Samir to accompany him and Sa'kura to Dregar...thsi I duly did and we also took with us Praylor..the Toranite Paladin.
When we reached Dregar..we were joined by another traveller and frequent companion of mine..Malor..a likeable..but sometimes clumsy casting little fellow.
We headed to the Anuroch..ah how I feel a stronger bond to that place each time I visit..almost as if the wind over the dunes whispers my name and welcomes me as a long lost friend.
A stiff encounter with some Giants at the oasis ensued..and thence we met another party bound for home..amongst it's number were Wren..the brave warrior..and much to my distaste..Tash'r.the evil,scheming dark caster of Mist.I am sure I heard her utter some words..perhasp an incantation..as we exchanged greetings with Wren...wonder if she cursed us?
Ah..foul witchery and curse it must have been for after a brief stop in Saudiria..we travelled into a nearby cave in search of Silver..and were cruelly ambushed by two groups of Giants..and then mauled by others as the party retreated...all but one fell gravely injured..and he,Samir only just survived by the skin of his teeth and the Lord Protector's providence.
We regrouped and went back..this time..it seems the magic of Tash'rs curse had dissipated for we gained the silver with some ease and made to return to Pranzis and thence home..
After another stiff battle at the oasis..we amnaged to get back..and I then led Praylor and Lady Sa'kura across Rilara..and back to the safety of Hlint as I had promised Samir.
Hmm..perhaps I should be more wary of the demoness..and get some wards from the temple to confound her black curses?I shall consult with the temple in Velensk on such things and see what may be done...I just hope others realise just what she is before she works her dark arts on them.
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The pondering on my path continues..do I draw on the vague memories that lie buried at the depths of my mind..and that have started to surface bit by bit...they point me in the direction of learning more of the guileful arts.Yes..I have been studying the way J'ser and others like him fight..with a little impromptu training thrown in..and yes..I have also watched the way Silverhand gracefully ..but methodically deals with enemies..but the question remains..do I learn more properly some of these skills..or stay more strictly on the path of the warrior?
New skills could enhance the way I work in combat and be a boon for me and a bonus for those I seek to aid and protect..but also..it could be a double edged sword...leading to a dilution of my current art..a time of choice draws near..and soon I will have to make a decision..very soon.
Of other events and adventure..I have travelled a fair bit lately with Dulan...and Jamesan..and feel I am becoming attached to the professional but easy attitude of Dulan and his Un-Named guild.I have also spent time with an assortment of friends...Silverhand,Eredel and Cymeran..
Been to Dregar once again..another trip further into the Dragon Isles.and most recently a trip to gather platinum amongst the battle fens.
Of the Dregar trip..went as part of a mid sized party into the Anuroch again..had a late addition in the form of Lillian into our party.A good warrior..if a little rough around the edges..possibly pointing to a rushed learning of the various skills and missing out on the finer points of the art..not that this lessens her abilities.A little bit forceful in trying to command the battle lines mind you.
A good trip..with no casualties and some good coin...travelled with Eredel for the trip home via his house portal and on the way..picked up a nice bow..he said it was very old and had been crafted during the old race wars.
Of the Dragon Isles trip...Dulan led us..we managed to avoid a lot of the potential threats traversing to where a boat took us to a rocky islet..here we fought harpies before venturing into a place ..a temple of sorts..where many werebeasts lived.
Then it was through forests and swamplands ..fighting or avoiding satyrs and trolls..before descending into the depths of what looked like a trollish temple..and thence further down into a place where drow walked and kept lizard folk in cages..I wished to free them but there was some discussion as to them being evil also...although not wholly convinced as there is good and bad amongst every race...you only have to look around Hlint to see this...the arrival of a large group of drow made our decision for us..and thus we headed out and back the way we came.
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Continuing on from my last entry...
Have been spending a lot of time around Fort Velensk..the air there is cleaner and less polluted by the smell of ox dung that hangs in the air around Hlint.I have time to venture forth and combat undead..mercenary bandits and such at my leisure...and be away from the petty bickerings that are arising more and more amongst the adventurers that gather in Hlint.Exodus and Celgar appear to have had a falling out over something there..tis bad when heroes of the battles with blood begin to fight each other..Is it something in the air..or just boredom and no common enemy to fight that does this?
Finally got the message from captain Duvall to brother Daniel..he seemed grateful but a little sad that it was not grander news..and I see even his faith perhaps begin to show cracks as we of Rofirein gain little word or direction from our leaders.
On a related issue..there are rumours..even printed in the Dragon's Whisper apparently..that our faith is somehow in league wioth and supporting Broegar...surely this cannot..could not be true..his justice is twisted and divisive..stripping many of their basic freedoms...are we not for justice and also for protecting such freedoms.Would our leaders who held the citadel long after the city of Pranzis fell..give in so meekly to a usurping tyrant?
Recently went back to Hlint..to see if any of my friends were about...saw Aeryn..still a little melancholy..which I do not like to see..apparently Dorena was not what she seemed..he mentioned some sort of shifter..and I offered some advice which he seemed to take on board and which ..I hope has lifted his spirits a little.
Bumped into Eghaas..who was a little beside himself as apparently certain people had been trying to goad him with spells and derogatory remarks...perhaps some time in the stocks would calm their errant behaviour?
And..as mentioned before..a trip into the Battle Fens..Dulan,Karana,Jamesan and myself..very profitable with a haul of much coin over 2000 each..and a hefty weight of mined platinum..what I mined I donated to the Un-Named..for if I had a skill,although Dulan has offered to help me with some crafting...I would be trying to join them.
Karana is something to behold in combat..wild..fierce..and sometimes uncontrolled..but even the largest of Trolls fall before her.
As a side note to this trip..we snuck down into a cavern..where once a dragon laired...very eerie..and still radiating a sense of evil...it is now inhabited by spiders and a strange beast..callled a beholder..the former,or some of the former we slew..the latter..we injured afore it made it's escape.
The hole in the ceiling is foreboding as..with such a fine natural habitat..tis only a matter of time before one of these wandering dragons we hear reports of finds this place and rekindles the terror that must once have emanated from these fens.
As to my path...I have decided..that I shall seek to find more formal training in the ways that call out to me from my memory..the way that J'ser seems to use so skillfully...I think it will be but a brief sojourn but the skills could be most useful and allow me to construct a more devastating and effectice style of fighting.
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As I sit here..awaiting the gathering of the Explorers party..a trip to lands across the seas..I have remembered two a couple of other things I must record..
Firstly..news of a sort..and quite horrific and disturbing at that..Whilst in converstaion with Praylor ..it came to be said unto me that ..Tash'r..the one responsible for many pranks and spells being perpetrated in Hlint..and witnessed in assaulting a priestess of the faith with spells some months back in Hlint..has gone further..
According to Praylor..she assaulted and near killed a druid out in the Goblin wastes..not sure what the trouble was over..but apparently he tried to heal the druid's wounds afore Miss Brisbane came along and carried her off..hopefully to recover.Will this act go unpunished or will this dabbler in the black arts finally be tried for the crime against Serissa nad have this added to the growing list of rule-breaking she has been party to?
Secondly..travelled to the Great Library..ah..what a wonderous..and large repository of learning and the written word..read about Blood..a book by Ozymandias Lewelyn ..no less.Also browsed other tomes..of Rofirein..of death by a Rofireinite cleric..and a treatise on the geography and history of Dregar.Most informative place...although possibly in need of a little tidying up as it does look in a bit of disorder.
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Well..I have started some rudimentary preparations for my extended training in a new fighting style...or is it?Each time I watch or discuss on the skills that J'ser and others like him use..I feel an affinity with the style..not so much learning a new..as remembering what once was.
And so..to other deeds..
Was part of an expedition that went into the deserts in search of a drow woman..all to do with a puzzle and a dilemma concerning a troublesome lich and it's intent to become a more powerful being...known as a demi-lich.Is there just one lich that suffers two personalities..has it come to pass that..the original really is split asunder and is two seperate entities?Are we being manipulated and played for fools?
Tis hard to tell what is right and what is wrong...we were sent on this errand to find Thomas Artorius lost Love..to ask for forgiveness..yet,as was said by Rhynn..why?Yes..why would one who loved a person so..inflict new pain..more pain..pain that had been healed and a wound that having closed was now ripped open and bled as fresh as the day it happened past?
Now the sad maiden wishes to see her undead love..hmm..some concerns over that..and what may transpire.
A trip to the haven mines...started out as a nice sized group..soon snowballed into a cumbersome and unweildy one...some order of sorts was retained..but..often people would rush off ahead without planning or there was a confusion of different voices and instructions.Perhaps the best sized group is one of around eight adventurers..from experience this seems a well manageable and successful size..of course it would also be dependant on striking the right balance of it's constituent members and their professions.
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Travelled out to Rilara...a gathering of a group..artifacts..and choices..
Lasttime we had gathered on this particular path..disunity and strong-mindedness had cost us dearly in the Anuroch..this time..we strove for a better handling of it all.
We split into two groups...one Karthy bound..the other to make for Lannisp[ort.Not exactly sure what our goal was..but..I am a dragonsworn...thus I am there to protect and guard as best I can..not to question our goal.
We moved from lake Rillon to Lannisport without much incident..Ashiel led the way...as our scout..our blind Gnome brought up the rear..tapping his way along with a stick..and causing us some concern as he meandered along his way.
In Lannisport..Lin'da tried to swim down to a temple..to commune with the priests there in search of answers to our quest..but..near drowned..and Rawkin's healing with victims of the sea..seems to be a little rusty.Freldo however seemed to have the right medicine as I am sure I saw a smile from Lin'da when he gave her what he called mouth to mouth.
After some questioning of a local shiphand..we managed to gain information relating to an old woman..a witch no less..in the swamps who could make amulets that allowed breathing underwater...and so we set off..
A long and hard fought trek through the swamp of Lost Souls..nice name...many a troll fell to our blades and magics...then there were large snakes...why is it always snakes..and more trolls.
After a day ortwo travelling..we made our destination...a solitary tower that seemed like an oasis amongst this desert of festering bogs and hostile creatures.
The woman we had come to see was,luckily,at home and bade us to enter...what a tragedy it would have been had we come all this way for nought.
After the usual pleasantries were exchanged Freldo played some music for her..supposedly related to a staff that was a key to the quest.Many of us..had images or feelings from this..and the woman eventually,seeming a little saddened by the tune,took Freldo's violin bow...and told us a long but absorbing tale..
The tale related to one Saquan..a sea elf..who was the central player in a great legend..one that involved treachery and war..mindless slaughter and eventually righteous and vengeful power released.We learned of the current known as Harj's breath..that is a major support to life under the seas,of the elves and merfolk that dwell in it's warming flow...of the great creatures of the depths..stonefish..Kratkin..and whales..and we also learned how men and others had betrayed ages of aid from the undersea residents..driven by greed.
This greed eventually led to the near extinction of the sea beasts..and had effects that touched the very foundations of the undersea society...eventually leading to a great battle..where the heroine..Saquan..and the remnants of the sea peoples destroyed the betrayers.
After this..and Rawkin's desire for more stories..we managed to gain information from the woman as to what she would need for the amulets...
Polished gems of alexandrite,topaz and garnet...ad 2 gold ingots for each...dusts of the same types and enchanting oils..and ruby dust for each five.
Seems that we have many hard tasks ahead to gather the materials...but it shall be an adventure that will not only further our goal but bond us all closer together...and who knows..maybe we will..as Rawkin hopes..be rewarded with more knowledge and tales from this wise woman?
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Ah..I must be off to Fort Velensk to place myself at the mercy of my Lord Rofirein..for I have failed in a task.
I gathered a party together to go into the High Forest and curb the excesses of orcs that lair there..and prey upon traveller s and caravans.
The group that assembled was more than capable..Arkolio..Roy Ainsworth..Erik Kendall..Gruwlz..Miss Serissa..and myself...and so assembled we set forth..clearing kobolds and birdmen on the way..and then felling a couple of griffons that assailed us at the edge of the Forest.
Then we were there..we prepared and struck at the Orcish raiders...a couple of sharp fights ensued and they retreated...as I thought..into a nearby ruin..I urged we follow..and drive them from this place...and so...we all entered a nightmare.
The ruinous halls were gloomy and fetid..and we were immediately beset by foul monstrous rats...I expected orcs and yet we saw none..just these beasts..the deeper we went..the more that appeared..
I was surprised we encountered no undead in such a lifeless place..thankful of that though.
We struck down lower..and alas..good Gruwlz ran ahead...he called out there were slimy creatures and then..I heard it..
A lumbering beast was upon him..and soon the others...a breath of charnel stench..and a roar that reverberated around the dark halls..I saw it then..a dragon..or at least a dragon of sorts..Gruwlz,Erik and Roy fell..Serissa and myself ..sorely wounded retreated...and of Ark..well..all I could hear was a cry for aid..as we retired to recover.
Serissa nad I managed to gain some safe ground where we rested and prepared..afore going forth and attempting to aid our grievously injured or fallen comrades..more rats..so many ..they wer like a living sea...and then..blocking our way...the beast itself..at least 25 feet tall..it seemed..the Dragon...which Serissa said was a Wyrm..great claws flashed and cut at us..it;s putrid breath grasped at our throats..but with blade and faith..we slew it..and made our way to the place of the fallen.
Of Ark there was no sign..Gruwlz alas..had made the journey along the path of souls...Roy and Erik..miss Serissa brought back from the edge of death with her skills and divine magic..though it cost her dearly.
We made good our escape from those terrifying halls..and now I seek to find out more about them and what dwells within...one day..when our strength has grown..to cleanse them and halt their decay and vileness spreading and corrupting the High Forest.
But now..I must go and pray for forgiveness..and take task to atone for leading my friends to such folly..a hard lesson..but a valuable one I suppose.
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Ah what to write about...not really done too much worthy of note since I last put quill to parchment...but I shall try to gie a little commentary on a few things that have transpired.
Went forth into the mountains with Shamur,Talia,Roy and others...led by Ireth..
We were seeking a matriarch beholder or such...and Ireth's laying down the law beforehand..saying thing's such as follow my orders or I will abandon you all and such rankled with me...no true or noble warrior should leave their charges and comrades without a very good reason..
The caves we entered high in the Sworderusts started easily enough..just some spiders...but then came soldiers of living rock...seemed much tougher than any others I had encountered and our weapons laboured,as did our swordarms,to make any impact...but after a time..we managed to beat them down..and then entered the next cavern where another horde greeted us.
CHARGE!Shouted Ireth..so much for the care and attention to detail she had so vehemently preached aforehand...and soon..the battle turned against us..we should have drawn them in small numbers to a defensive line...not rushed forward like a bunch of Drunken Voraxians.
Sweet,innocent,fragile Talia..out of mgics I guess..rushed into the fray with her dagger and was struck down instantly..and I swear I saw the soul mother hover above her out of the corner of my eye.
Then Ireth called for us to run..which all but Shamur did...in fact one of our number..had long fled..and quit us..in our hour of need.Luckily good Pendar had come behind us and applied copious amounts of healing..thus keeping us alive.Ireth..having got us to safety then returned,for Shamur I expect,and told us to continue fleeing..something which I could not do..I cannot abandon a comrade..let alone good friends in the midst of a fight.Ireth fell..and we tried to perform a fighting withdrawal..in the confusion..I passed a hastily retreating Pendar as I went back to aid him..and my exit was blocked and in no time I was pummeled to the ground by these creatures..where I lay deathlike for some time.
After we had all managed to reassemble and had regained ourselves and our composure we debated long and hard over the morals and failings of this debacle...Ireth strongly holding her point in front of Pendar and only admitting some small blame after he had departed.At least she had the decency to admit that.Perhaps her friends would happily abandon each other to a grisly fate...maybe that is their way..but it seemed that Roy,Shamur and myself al have a certain honour debt relating to ours and do not agree with abandonment.
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Well..my training and grasp of new skills starts to progress and in time..perhaps shall bear fruit.I say new skills and yet,somehow,I feel accustomed to much of what I am learning..feel voices calling to me in a low murmur..wonder what it means..
Had a trip into Haven...again..so exciting...well maybe not so...but wasa good exercise in teamwork...we struck first at mercenary bandits that plague the lands near Haven..and thence into the mine itself.
Pretty uneventful there and back...except that we encountered Brisbane...kept changing from Bear to attractive female..quite disconcerting really..never know whether to speak to her or growl at her.She was helpful though in healing a fair amount of wounds we picked up following an ambush.
Had a self declared mercenary..Thomas of Hurm he calls himself..along with us...his skills showed some improvement as he got the feel for fighting the ogres and displayed some bravery.Alas he fell to an ambush as we made our way out and as we waited to recover his belongings..Miss Talia..wandered off..and a long wait ensued whilst we searched for her.I sent the majority to the surface to rest whilst IO stood guard at the place we had last seen her..in case she returned...and then went to rest myself...when the others had rested and come back to stand vigil.
In the end all was well..Talia was found..we recovered Thomas belongings and then split coin...a good team effort all-round..so different from some of the larger party affairs where hardly any listen,many rush forward leaving the gatherers exposed to ambush...or where personal gain and favour is placed before the welfare of the party..
Hlint has become quiet of late...no sign of Tash'r randomly casting spells..and making nasty comments..quite refreshing really.Some peace in Hlint...although I spend much time in and around Fort Velensk nowadays..seeking solace in my God..for any wrongs or those of my comrades.
I pray oft at the Temple..hoping for a sign or word from the hierarchy..as to our direction...or on the Knights of the Wyrm...one day perhaps..
Whilst mentioning signs from the Gods..a strange encounter not so long back...whilst with Eghaas tracking down and halting mercenary bandit attacks near Fort Velensk..we were set upon by two huge Griffons..never seen them hereabouts before..I was laid low..although I stopped bleeding..as I lay there dazed..fearing for Eghaas safety..a great whitle light shone down on me and I was healed...I thence proceeded to slay the two Griffons...I cannot explain what happened..i can only think it was my God..watching over me and protecting me..and also allowing me to fulfill my duty to my friend and save him from death...
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Ah..the temptations of the flesh...a pretty smile..a shapely leg..
Mybrother in Rofirein Daniel..is smitten it seems...not with Lady Dora in whom he appeared to show a little interest..but with Drawna..one of Xeen..and the very one he recently kissed in public on the street of Hlint.
Now he spends more and more time with her..one who is from an opposed faith to our own..not that it is an issue with me..I take people as I find them..irrespective of what we are led to believe..after all miss Silool of the same faith...Xeen was also kind to me in the past.Laws and rules are made as guidelines..some are just others are made by inflexible men..who have their own agendas and prejudices and thus..such laws can be bent to ones own need or even ignored should they be unacceptable.I think the laws of our church that govern who is and who is not an enemy are in the latter category..as I have met some amongst so called enemy faiths that are decent and honourable...and good company ij their own ways if one sets aside the religious differences.
What bothers me about Daniel's situation is that following the kiss..he recanted what had happened as a weakness on his part..and yet now he returns to the same woman...is it truly love or does she enspell him?I hope it's the former for his sake..and also hope the church will accept this union..and not be blinded by bigoted and slanted views.
Neither Daniel or myself are Paladins..thus we are not bound as tightly to the church rules..although we honour as much as we can or as much as we see as right...and with little word from our leaders..and no guidance why should a brother of the order not find comfort in his hour of need where he finds it..if this is the love that the Lord Protector decreed than who am I or any of us to denounce it.
I just hope the lady's intent is honourable and that Daniel is not turned or made to stumble on his path..as has happened to others..like Thomas and even Caighd...He would be a great loss to the church..and should be inducted into the Knights of the Wyrm as readily as can be attained..for he has honour and duty that outshines many supposedly more devout.
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Ah a grand adventure these past few days...
Aside from the usual laying to rest of undead that spew forth in the vicinity of Storan's ancient crypt...and the regular trips to Fort Velensk..life had become a little slow of late.
Granted..following Dulan's words and Eredel's regarding teaching me some crafting in the former case and helping him craft some items in the latter..I have slowly..begun to nurture my skills in this area..primarily smelting and a bit of tinkering for now..but perhaps I shall progress into armour and weapon crafting..we shall see.
Anyway..back to the original thoughts I wished to set down..regarding a trip to the Dragon Isles..
Took Bee,of the Dragon's Whisper there aided ably by noble Shamur..for an extended mapping and sighteeing tour..we traversed much of the islands..and encountered mushroom men,Bears with the heads of owls..great Forest horrors...Harpies..
Then we travelled deeper..fighting a small group or two of Satyr's and avoiding the larger for we only numbered three..and had no healer or mage to aid us.
Further and further we travelled..with Bee making maps and notes along the way ..especially of point s of interest..like where the Drake lairs...the Troll Temple..the hall of the werebeasts and such...
Alas we did make one error in judgement..as we travelled amidst a swamp..we came upon a boat and took it...apparently,according to Bee..to the Serpent Isles..not a place I shall return to swiftly..as we were assailed by vampiric,blood draining creatures...to which..brave Shamur succumbed.
Bee and myself managed to drag Shamur's near lifeless form to safety and in time..with Bee's attentive ministrations he recovered...
To round our trip off we entered the Bullman caverns and fought with some and the beasts they seem to use as guardians..foul smelling Bull-like creatures that can turn a man to stone.All in all a good trip with a decent reward of coin and I hope much good information for master Bee.
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Ah tis good to be here in Fort Velensk..a clear sea breeze..and the contemplative restivness of Rofirein's Temple..here I can gather my thoughts,reflect and set down on parchment such things as come to mind.
I am here resting from battle wounds...and so I shall continue my tales...
A group of us had gathered in Karthy..set to have converse with the good lich(aleegedly)..Thomas Artorius..so we could help him atone through a meeting with his long lost love..and indirectly bring his worse half to his downfall.
The Journey into the snowcovered peaks of Northern Dregar was fair and uneventful..the cold was biting however..and it was almost a welcome relief to enter the portal tomb that would take us to the Lich's abode.
Once there..much was talked of..and a sense of distrust and apprehension began to ripple through the gathering...A lich being good goes against all teachings on the matter and near enough all folklore and oral tradition also.Can this monster be trusted..onwe who would fill the heart of one he loves with renewed anguish and emptiness....to ease his own burden?Only time and providence will tell in this matter...and we must be ready for any treachery and from any direction...perhaps we shall have both of Thomas' selves to lay to rest through more forceful means than we hoped for?...perhaps he will betray us...or perhaps he does speak the truth and wishes to atone...although I trust the Lord Protector to guard and protect my soul from such as this Lich..I may need it.
I think I trust master Ozymandias more than this creature...and that is some leap of faith on my part.
Anyway..I digress from the main story here..always get caught up in my own thoughts...
Whilst treating with the Lich Thomas..he informed us of a ritual and an article he needed to form a vutal part of it.It transpired that this item..some form of sacred bowl had been carried by caravan...and all would have been well..had it not..the caravan that is..been waylaid by marauding orcish raiders.The vessel had not been well guarded as the ones who possessed it knew not of it's nature..value..or power...we could only hope the orcs were similarly blind to it's provenance.
And so..with time against us...for how could we know whether the orcs could discern the items use and power...we went to Dalanthar and then struck into the hills and peaks seeking out the Orcish fortress...the main bastion of which we reached after a plethora of short sharp skirmishes with orcish pickets and patrols.
The resistance within the citadel itself was much stiffer...and the battles became laboured...even some foul abyssal creatures came into the fray..but eventually..we gained the main hall..where the chieftain and hopefully the bowl...our objective lay...
Another sharp battle..one in which both Ferrit and myself were struck down gravely and left hovering so close to the soul mother's realm afore being plucked back by divine intervention.
A thorough search was undertaken...a chest unlocked..a helm and an axe..both greatly enchanted were found..but no bowl.
Where was it..ah..revelation..if they knew not it's nature..would it still.most likely..just be with the other mundane goods of the caravan..probably still without...and as if to echo my thoughts..Master Ozymandias turned up..bearing the object..and proclaimed..as I had foreseen in that moment of calm...that it had been without and we had not needed to breach the inner sanctums of the fort..the two who gained the items..the helm and the axe..wee most grateful we had however.
So what next..as we return to the lich..are we all just pawns being manipulated at his whim..are there really two liches or is it Thomas pulling a double bluff and will the ritual he wishes to perform be a way of securing this demi-lichdom that he seeks...and hides this by blaming a supposed evil half or twin?And what of his former love..what of her..is she safe or has the lich claimed her as a part of this ritual..will we see her and make sure she is safe..or have we all played into his hands anmd ultimately..will we be responsible for unleashing a more terrible threat upon the lands?
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And now a story of great folly...
First there was a trip to the Dungeon near Haven...a place of dread set amidst the woods where mercenary bandits ply their trade.The place is called the Un-Named Dungeon...although how it exists without a name relating to the danger and death within is quite beyond me.
A decent sized party had formed to tackle the place..and the journey there was fairly uneventful as were the early descents....we dealt with the hulks and xorn pretty easily.
Then we came to a lower level..one where I knew vampires laired..we prepared and I warned that there were vampires left and right and that we should be cautious.I was slightly slower than the others entering as I adjusted my pack and made sure my wards and such were holding..they went on ahead.
Did they not listen?For as soon as I entered..I saw them rush forth in a mass...where diligenge would suggest to try and divide the enemies and bring them to us in small numbers.The first to fall was Dalan..a dwarf...wonder if he had led the charge?The vampires were amongst us all now..along with other creatures..fourlegged skeletal monstrosities with a brain like protuberance on their backs...and massive bears with glowing red eyes.People were dropping left and right...I tried to rush to wherever a comrade was in danger of being overwhelmed but the tide was too strong..and our numbers grew less and less.Still they came...I tried to cut a path for those left to escape..I think some made it into the upper tunnels...then..with a quick look around and hearing the command run..I tried to withdraw..bleeding and weakened from deep wounds..I was blocked and battled my way out the door and up...but the enemies were in pursuit.
I made it up to the next level of tunnels..someone was ahead of me...and they roused the hulks,horrors and xorn in those caves...now I was trapped..and before I had time to consider an option..I was drifting into blackness.
I awoke..albeit in a weakened state and tried to regain myself...but this ultimately was to fail also..as one of my companions decided to use a bow...bad idea as he alerted a horde of beasts..and a xorn..took most of what strength and health I had managed to draw from deep within.Praylor fell..and I heard the sound of battle as another,whom I knew not,and who had not been in our party tried to battle the angry xorn that the bowshot had awakened..I went to aid..but too late..he fell..and the creature turned fully to me...I was lost..for weakened and bloodied..I was in no fit state to meet it on equal terms.
The black void overwhelmed me and I saw memories cast adrift from my mind as sand blown across the desert...I reached for them..but they were gone.
So..to sum up..we failed...why do people let their overconfidence rule their heads.They were warned of the dangers and yet..they did not listen..and cost many of us..due to their bad tactics.
When will people with bows learn..why do they insist on shooting a bow into a horde of creatures when one is a match and prudence suggests to draw them forth to battle one at a time..
As a footnote to this...I later learned that a rescue party was formed with some new people and some of the old party..why did they not wait for us all to join..why did they just selfishly,in the case of the old party members,think of themselves and consider not the rest of us.
Seems there are always those,regardless of experience and sound tactics,who prefer to only listen to their own counsel.......
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Ah has been a while since I set quill to parchment...then again of late..I have begun to grow more melancholy in my feelings..things go on about me that sap my spirit,not to mention the soul mother beckoning.
Having last talked about the folly of a group..now I must turn to the folly of individuals..2 cases of such in fact..both with a heavy cost.
Firstly,feeling confident and wishing to aid master Eredel..I paid a visit to the bandits outside Point Harbour...I sought gold and having heard they hoard such..I decided to pay them a visit.
I entered the lair...and managed to,rather easily,dispose of a sentry near the crude door..I then spotted two more..and buoyed by the confidence of the first fight..I went to do battle...As I engaged..2 more entered the fray...the first fight had gone easily and I thought that although this would be a hard fight..I had their measure...oh how wrong can one be.Son my blood was pumping forth from numerous cuts and a darkness descended over my eyes....and the Soul Mother appeared to me..
The secod incident occured in the Greypeaks...
I had offered to guide and protect a group of people to Lar...Ark,a woman unknown to me and Mille.
The journey started well enough..disposing of undead in the foothills before ascending to the highest mountains.As I looked down into the valley that was the route to Lar..I asked for caution and that the group follow my path strictly..This was not done..
Mille,a creature who had let a party down in the past..running from the Swordrust cave when Ireth and myself were laid low...and who had not the decency to rejoin us or split any coin gathered....decided not to listen to my words.
She wandered ahead of us..invisible..but off the route I had planned...I had been to this valley many times,and to Lar and knew a fast and relatively safe path through the Ogre traps and tripwires..something gained with,and through,harsh experience.Soon,thanks to Mille's uncaring nature and selfish blundering..for she was invisible and safe...a horde of ogres descended on us as we reached the valley floor.I wondered what to do...but my duty spoke loud to me..I must protect those in my group and this I tried to do...delaying the onrushing mass of ogres for vital minutes whilst they made their way back up the Mountain...An Ogre Mage froze me where I stood and as I struggled to rouse myself...a massive club darkened my mind..and once again the Soul Mother came calling..
At least the other members escaped with their lives...no thanks to Mille...who.to my knowledge played no part in the fight...and who once agin departed,albeit later after a heated exchange with party coin.She tried to blame first the other party members then me for the debacle...when in truth,had she listened to the voice opf experience and not gone blundering off..tripping alarms here and there..the journey could well of passed without incident.
Fine for her being invisible...but so were the tripwires which she did not even seem to care that she triggered...what a selfish thief she is...twice now she has not aided her companions..I shall not give her a third time to let me down.
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Finally managed to secure some gold ore..and Hillhound skins.
Went to Rilara with friends and brothers where we accomplished much and garnered much reward..At least some such as Daniel,Praylor,Shamur and Eghaas can be trusted.
Purchased a belt for myself off one Balthazar Woll..and a fine belt it is..a belt that affords me better protections and is most comfortable to wear..and finely crafted it is too.
Of adventure....Well..we finally laid the Lich that had been terrorising the lands to rest but not afore he and his minions had laid waste a whole community.
Many a hard fight in the underground crypts and also during the ritual that was to finally lay this to rest..Many of us fell gravely injured...as we had to rely on reduced wards and such due to the fact that our many potent mages were involved in performing the said ritual..but in the end all was well and good...mind you,I have a feeling this story is not truly ended yet.
With another group,a lot of whom,had been companions on the Lich expeditions we went seeking answers regarding an ancient staff and other artifacts...first to a house in Krandor..where we spent a long time trying to retrieve Ferrit's body and disarm the deadly traps there.
Then to a cave deep in the woods..an old dig site..where what we really sought had been eroded or deliberately erased...and where we did battl;e with the denizens of the caves.
We had also encountered a Tide of Mist...Yashilla/Yashillia...who wished to join us...but..seeing as she is an enemy of sorts in this venture,,to have brought her along would have been foolish.