Journal of the Dark Priestess

[Aragon]

The visions continue ... a premonition of things to come ... a foreboding to the enemies of the Dark Sun.  The vision is the same as always.  The red mists swirl through my head and surround me.  Through the darkness I see a white skull.  It peers at me and gazes into my very soul.  In the darkness shapes move.  It is then that my mind travels to a land across the sea, it becomes clear to me that the land is Dregar.  A wave of darkness washes over me as the darkness takes the form of an ancient black box.  The box is covered in ruins, deplicting the final victory of the Mad God.  The darkness and malignant energy issues forth from this box, leaving a wake of destruction where ever it goes.

It is then that the box begins to move, it hastens through the forests of Dregar.  It soon becomes clear that the box is being chased by a form of light.  The light restores all that the box destroyes.  The light radiants with the faith of Katia.  It chases the dark box over the sea to another land, a land filled with dark and foreboding jungles.  Deep into the jungle the chase continues.  The box is making much haste but the light continues to close in on the box.  

Just as the box reaches a ancient crypt it is overcome by the light and bursts sending forth a wave of energy that destroyes all the undead across the land.   The vision then fades back into the red mists and ends abruptly.

Whatever the meaning of this dream is, there can be no doubt to what my role is in it.  The box must not be taken by the followers of light.  We must intercept it and if possible recover the box before it falls into the hands of the enemy.

[Aragon]

The premonitions that I have had are beginning to become fullfilled.  It seems that this little box has caused quite the stir.  The mists arose in Hlint and a group was formed to search out the nature of the mist.  An unatural storm arose far to the east in the lands of Dregar.  It was as if two powers were colliding and waging a war.  As the adventurers formed in Hlint, lead by Rhizome, it all became suddenly clear to me what must be done.  This black box could not fall into the hands of the enemy.  The five of us, Marcus, Nethro, Caldiir, Kit and I, set off at once to beat the party to the box.  Not knowing the true nature of the artifact we sought out Ozy.

Ozy seemed quite different than his normal story telling self.  He required a payment for his tale.  There is a festering darkness within Ozy, what devices this bard holds is yet to be seen.  What I have learned is that the tales of Ozy are often diluted and manipulated to his own will.  This would be rather clear as our journey was set forward.  

To Rilara our party flew, knowing that Rhizome's band would not be too far behind.  Onward we spead to the Bone Hill only to find that our interpretation of Ozy's tale was incorrect.  We would follow the growing darkness that now was forming over the Kingdom of Rodriem.  It was there that the Bard met us once more.  More riddles, more tales and off he set towards the crypt of my vision.  The way was quite perilous and Ozy prooved to be difficult to follow, leaving only minor clues and riddles to guide us.  Where Nethro and Caldiir wandered to, I do not know.  Thus it was that the three of us finally deciphered the clues of Ozy and arrived at the Watch Tower.  In a matter of only a few hours the band of Rhizome arrived.  

The tension was rather thick as both groups stood there.  We were obviously out-manned, but not with out firepower.  An unease truce has ensued as we wait to enter the tower.

**************

Last night the strangest encounter I believe I have had to date took place.  It was late and the parties had each settled in for the night.  Through the dance of the fire upon the rocky cliffs I could see that Rhizome was up and stirring about.  What he did next still has me in shock.  He asked to speak with me away from the parties.  We walked for several minutes along the rocky shoal of the coastline until we came to a small wind protected outcrop of rocks with a view of the camp and tower below.  

He seemed to know of the truce that exists between Serenity and I.  This seemed to please him.  His next question to me has caused me much reflection.

"Chanda, if you obtain the box will you use it to reestablish a temple to Corath and embrace the new avatar of Corath?"

There is no need for me to recount here all the ensueing dialog.  Suffice it to say that he wishes the box to be opened and the spirit of Arakanor Lightbane released, thus allowing the rightful avatar, Nathan Birche to be restored.  He is willing to help me obtain the box on the condition that; 1) I seek not to open the sealed tomb of the Broken Forest; and, 2) I respect the bond of friendship with him.  The problem with this is that he wishes it released, not allowing me to possess the box.  Plenarius will never allow this box to be recovered by the alliance, nor will I allow it to be destroyed.  If the essence of Arakanor is released all the minions of Lord Corath will be destroyed.  

We parted company agreeing to meet agian soon when we both have had a chance to think more on the outcome of the box.  Of this I am sure ... to allow the box to fall into the hands of Katia is to accept failure ... this I can not do.  I must speak with Kit in the morning to devise a plan.

[Aragon]

There can be no other way.  The other options will not work or will draw too much attention to us when we succeed.  I have tasked Kit with making the necessary preparations for the vessel.  The Unholy Champion of Corath will require a vessel to reside within.  I know not how long my strength will be able to contain his essence.  But it is the only way.  This will prove my faith and loyalty to the Dark Sun.  I will not fail to do his bidding.  

*returns to the circle of skulls to continue her cleansing and preparations to receive the essence of Arakanor Lightbane within her.*

[Aragon]

I have failed. I was unable to secure the black box from Rhizome and Plenarius. There can be no excuse; there can be no regret. I will accept the punishment that Lord Corath deems for me. Failure is not tolerated. Yet, even in failure I will prove my loyalty. For this is but another test, will I abandon the faith at the first test or will I stand firm and committed to the Lord of Darkness. There can be no doubt; to renounce my faith now would invoke the wrath of my Lord.

Yet though I failed to obtain the box, I was permitted to stand in the presence of the Avatar of Lord Corath. I felt the pure evil that radiated from him. It wrapped around him as vapors of mist. His voice was as the screams of a thousand dead. Had I not been worthy he would have destroyed me outright. In this there is promise.

I have spent the last few days in the company of Ozy. Much have I learned from him, and much still I have to learn. For with Ozy one learns through their questioning him. Yet he leaves the recipient to discern the meaning of his words. Ozy has explained the nature of Arakanor and several others of the faith. It seems that the first Avatar of Corath was Asamalic, better known as Emerald the Skull, although this was made based upon the sheer power and influence he held. For Lord Corath was compelled to make him thus. Arakanor Lightbane sought the same path to become an avatar, but did so falsely and thus failed in his attempt. The first true Avatar is The Dark Sun. Ozy explained that it is he who dealt with Rhizome.

Many other things I have discussed with Ozy, the most interesting of which seems to be what would have happened should I had obtained the box from Rhizome. Two alternatives would have transpired; the first, if I had opened the box within the light as Rhizome and I had planned, the outcome would have destroyed all of us. On this point Ozy was surprisingly quite clear, thus I do not doubt him. The second alternative would have been should if The Dark Sun had commanded me to give him the box. There is no doubt in my mind that should he have bade me give the box to him that I would have obliged his will. But in doing this, the outcome would have been the same; The Dark Sun would have unleashed the box destroying all present ... except maybe Ozy. This leads me to wonder if I have indeed failed my Lord. For had I been destroyed I would no longer be a piece in the game.

A piece in the game, all are pieces moved to and fro by the movers. The Master Meddler had an interesting vision on this ... I asked him "Would the death of Ozy be a minor move in the game?" It was possible the first time I believe that Ozy has been asked a question regarding his death. For he has seen his death at the hands of his own son, Legacy. There can be no doubt that the loss of Ozy would bring much joy to some and extreme sorrow to others. Yes I believe a loss of Ozy would be a major shift of the pieces. It would cause much more change than say the death of Rhizome or Plenarius. Ozy said Rhizome's time is short lived; he will not be a piece much longer. It seems that his appointment to High Druid of Seilwood is both a curse and boon. The greatest of Aeridin have been sacrificed to restore the great oaks in times passed. So it is that Rhizome will soon be required to make the very same sacrifice.

Perhaps I will one day inquire of the diviner how I will be called to meet my Lord. Until such time as he calls me to his side, I remain devoted to my calling of Priestess.

[Aragon]

It appears that the rumors of the Drow massing is true.  The Underdark grows restless and the hour of their attack is nigh.  This was confirmed to me by Navarre.  The time for the unification of the Underdark is at hand.  This accounts for the message that all faithful drow return to their homes.  Baeron Ca'duz has choosen me to be an integral part of the attack on the continent of Mistone.  This is my chance to regain standing amongst both faiths.  I dare not scribe the role which I am to take in this conquest for fear that this journal fall into the enemies hands.  Suffice it to say that Kit has been charged with ensuring that I do not fail, and should I fail he is to end my miserable existence.  Marcus, Kit and I have begun researching what will be required to fullfill our task, it will not be easy but we shall succeed.  I have assumed the identity of Lily Raines from Lorindar.  With Kit being my mute sparring partner named Reginald.  Marcus is to use the name of Johann Steinke.  For the time being I must play a role unfamiliar to my nature.  A follower of Aeridin here learning fighting techniques, accompanied by my mute half-brother.  

I am a bit perplexed at Navarre's declaration to Rhizome of the iminent attacks.  I always thought The Left Hand Black valued subilty and intrigue in his servants tactics.  But I suppose I still have much to learn of the teachings of Baeron Ca'duz.  Navarre made a very pointed example of my "alternatives" to serving the Baeron in this matter.  As perhaps a priest might put it, "There are many hatchlings in each brood of spiders.  One can never hope to kill all of them."

[Aragon]

The events of these most recent days have caused me much reflection ... and anguish.  I feel as if the whole world knows who I am, for both good and bad.  Three times in as many days have I had a visit from unexpected sources.  While at first I thought them related it appears that the drow are weaving many webs upon the surface.  At least from what I can tell I seem to be trusted and in the favor of these drow.

I have come to rely upon the strength and the knowledge of Kit.  More times than I like to consider has he been the means of my rescue.  Even Xander could not have seen that Kit would prove to be my greatest ally.  This is not at all to discredit the loyalty shown by Marcus Perrin.  For it is these two only in whom I now fully trust and confide.  The words spoken by the woman Lithany echo through my mind.  "Nethro is an idiot, I made my mistake by trusting you two and an idiot."  I have never seen Kit brought to the true rage that his people are known for like I did upon the revelation of Nethro's wagging tongue.  Openly declaring that he was the one to deliver a message for Lithany!  Her declaration of the demise of Nethro is a fact I am certain of.

The note ... black, the words written in blood tied together with an ornate ribbon and engraved emblem.  Such an oddity to find floating in a well in Hlint.  The words of the letter paint an even stranger picture.  Was this note meant for me?  Or did the powers that be know I would be the one to fetch the water from the well.  Regardless the message is quite clear in what I am to do.  "Stay lower than grass, for it hides you well, the Watcher hunts you from Hell.  ... the drinker of souls has come once more. --S"  Who is this Watcher and why have I come to his attention ... assuming the note was meant for me to read?  Who is 'S'?  Kit showed the note to Rhizome, perhaps he can make sense of things.

What did Quin want with Wmeky?  This to has been heavy on my mind during the few moments that I could spare to consider it.  And why has Wmeky not reported to me of late?  My disguise seemed to work well enough to fool even Quin thus allowing me to see them speaking.  I believe that Wmeky no longer rides the fence between the conflicts.  I must speak with Rufus soon and advise him of what transpires.

But these matters both a minor in comparison to the greater issue at hand.  Why was the dark mage seeking me?  If not for the aid of Kit I would still be lying in the mud of that outpost.  Yet even as we fled he was able to overcome me.  Who is this dark mage and why does he seek me?  Too many questions ... How does the mage fit in with the drow messenger?  Who is Lue Lightfinger and what is this Silver Vial we are to deliver?  *An inkblot follows this question as Chanda collapses from exhaustion and fatigue.  She awakens to find the journal closed with the ink and quill placed neatly upon the journal, with a blanket drapped over her shoulders.*

[Aragon]

I must say sometimes I can even surprise myself with my cleverness.  I did not truely expect him to accept my offer, I even asked him a second time to be sure that I heard him correctly.  Daron was willing to trade his soul to my Lord in exchange for my raising from the dead his fallen giant-ogre friend.  I must say the chaos and fear that ran rampide in the streets was delightful when my Lord sent his servant to collect on the arrangment.  The Harvestor of Souls came and claimed the soul of Daron.  May Lord Corath see my deed and find favor in my actions.

It seems that Tom, the adopted son of Plenarius and Brisbane, wishes to aid his sick mother.  He approached me desiring that I fullfill the offer I have made to him many times.  There is much potential in this child.  Children are so easily shaped and formed into what one desires.  He wishes to refine the minor skills he possesses in the art of subterfuge.  I have promised to set up a meeting between he and Caldiir.  The irony is that he wishes to aid in the fight against the Drow.  I must speak with Caldiir on weither he will take an apprentice.

Tom departed and I found myself soon encircled by a band of Drow hunters.  One in particular annoyed me to no end.  He demanded I remove my hood so that he could judge weither I was Drow or not.  Who does he think he is?  No one makes demands of a Priestess of Corath, if there had not been a crowd I may not have been so restrained.  These ignorant people, no wonder the Drow will bring them into subjection.  When they let ignorant brutes like this Alti lead them in their decision making.  The embasil had not common sense enough to lower his scythe with the lightning striking in Hlint.  I do not think he will forget his ... shocking experience.

Kit and I left him to sizzle upon the tower.  Lord Corath was indeed with us as we happened into the camp to find Lue Lightfinger sitting by the fire.  She had gotten my note.  We agreed to meet at her residence in Leilon.  We had to give a man dressed in black the slip and we soon arrived at her home.  Under the cover of invisiblity, Kit watched my conversation with Lue.  

I have learned from Lue that this silver vial is a component required to forge the legendary Blade of Shadows.  The only person capable of forging the blade is an unnamed dwarf in Arabel.  Lue wishes that this vial be given to him for safe keeping.  I made no such promises, only that I would do as Lord Corath bade me.  Though the words of Serenity still resound within my mind, "Corath may not be at the top of Blood's list of enemies, but none-the-less he is upon the list."  Not long after departing the company of Lue, Kit and I were once again met by the drow.  He asked if I had it.  When I told him I did not he spake his warning that I was being watched, so what else is new ...

[Aragon]

I stood in a garden of stones; a place that seemed devoid of time, yet time was of its very nature, a place of mysteries and truths, a place of prophecies.  How Ozy had found me, how he had known, how much he knows ... questions that I do not know the answers to.  We spoke for what seemed like an eternity, though in a place such as this time has no meaning.  The chessboard, the scorpion, the mirrors and the sword; secrets and truths.  

Ozy explained much of what he knew of this place and much of what he had discerned.  Yet the question that perplexes me the most is the one I asked him.  Why have you brought Chanda the minor priestess of Corath to this place?  His answer has been upon my mind ever since.  

"It was the best time to do so.  Any sooner and you would not have understood, any later and you would have decided upon other things."
"Like the vial."
"Precisely."

I have learned much from this visit, some things have been revealed while others confirmed.  One thing is clear now, the board is moving and my lord moves as a piece clad in white.  Corath is no longer upon the bottom of the list of enemies of  Blood.  He has sent his general, Dreznab, to hunt for me.  What potential he sees, what he fears of me, I do not yet know.  But I now realize the importance of the Blade of Shadows, and why I must see to this vial.  I must soon again meet with Lue Lightfinger and learn of the ordeal, if the Drow have not found her.

****

The venom continues to claim its prize.  Just as Navarre has promised the way will be clear for the Queen’s Bishop to Check and finally mate.  Those pieces that would thwart the checkmate are no longer a threat.  Those not inflicted with the soul venom, are prevented from fighting with fear of the repercussions felt against their loved ones.  

The tension is growing as the greatest hero’s of Hlint are helpless.  Each and every time I have walked in Hlint I have been set upon by the fears and prejudices of those who remain untouched by the venom.  To date I have not found them any smarter than a doorknob, and thus have been able to outwit their petty assumptions and accusations.

I still await the start of the game.

[Aragon]

The game has begun, yet even as the game begins the end lies closer than ever.  As more and more of the pieces become pinned upon this chess board, it becomes increasingly easier to deliver the check upon the opponent.  Two rooks and the Queen's Bishop are all that will be needed to checkmate and end the game.  The check has been initiated by the King's Bishop, and passed to the King's Rook.  Final preparations are being planned for the checkmate.  There is no way for white to prevent the checkmate.  King's Rook is to ensure the promotion of one of King's pawns before the checkmate.

*****

It seems that Nethro has been poisoned, though this does not come as a surprise to me, it is an unexpected move by these drow.  Perhaps this is Lithany's way of getting retrobution, or perhaps she doesn't trust his decision making process.  *pauses a moment* It seems we have quite a bit in common.  

Brisbane grows inquisitive as to the nature of my involvement in current events.  She pressed me for information and even brought up the name of Navarre.  I side stepped her questions but I sense she saw through my ploe.  I must say I will be glad when tasks are completed.

[Aragon]

What is the value of a spy?  How far can his words be trusted ... or can they be trusted at all?  I believe, as always I must temper my emotions with regards to the information that I have been given by Wmeky.  His words ring with a measure of truth yet confounds the logic I have come to understand.

In the halls of the courthouse we met behind closed doors.  For a time we stared at each other, each of us searching the face of the other for words not spoken.  He told the tale of Navarre and his desires to find a bride.  In the midst of all that is happening I find it rather poor timing.  It seems that he has commanded each of the major houses of the city of Olist Orbinn to select a bride for him.  The chosen one will become the vessel for the return of the true Dark Mistress.  Only she who is chosen can wear the Diadem of Souls.  What power this amulet holds I know not.

In the logic of Wmeky, Milara seeks to destroy the Great Gold Rofirein, by thus doing he will ensure his ascension.  He is using the drow to weaken the continent of Mistone so he can achieve this end.  In turn the drow are using the alliance.  There can be only one reason as to why the drow would seek out a priestess of Corath to do their bidding, a scapegoat.  The reaction of Kit on this matter speaks volumes that this came as a revelation to him.  I believe he is being played a fool as much as the rest of the alliance.  Perhaps Wmeky is trying to poison the alliance against itself, perhaps his words have a measure of truth, and we shall see which proves to be the course.

It bothered me that Wmeky would come forward with this information at this time.  He said he had used his Sava roll, he had chosen to break the rules of the drow game.  What bothers me the most about his accusations against Kit and Caldiir are that I have seen no inclination of such desire from them.  Not that I would put it past them, but if Kit desired my position in the alliance he could have it and should I fall there will not be anything left for him to rebuild.  He needs the Corathites as much as we need him at this moment.

After gathering what knowledge I could from Wmeky I confronted Kit with the knowledge I had obtained.  He took much of the knowledge as a surprise, weather it was an act ... I don't think so.  It was while I was in the manner of probing the desires of Kit that Lithany once again visited us.  She told me that I was to meet one of the women that had been selected by a house of Olist Orbinn.  I am to meet with Katrien and answer her questions.  Lithany was clear to how much I was to answer and with what measure of truth; I am to be myself and follow the teachings of my god.   The drow would expect no less.  

Kit then began to question Lithany upon the knowledge I had just presented to him.  Would the drow be able to repel and attack by the armies of Milara?  Her answer:
     "You do not see what we see, right now we do not seek conquest.  Our taking of Spellguard was for another purpose.  Plans are being laid to reach the surface in force, yours is one.  Right now Allurial is in Xantril, she cannot resist the fall of Spellguard.  When she returns she will leave every force to move us.  The seven sisters are not to be taken lightly.  She will be gone a short time longer.  Your next task will involve more of what I speak now.  Dregar and Rilara are easy to imprison and take compared to Mistone.  Mistone has much the others do not.  Allurial, shifter, many many people of power, it will be a challenge and one digested a piece at a time."

It seems the webs of the drow have their many eyes on other things.  Yet the promise she made to Kit before she left still bothers me ... "After this is over you will have the place you have earned.  No more and no less."  What is this place that Kit has earned?  Does this speak in harmony with what Wmeky had said?  I have contacted Marcus and put him on his guard incase the drow and Kit decide that they have no more use for me.  

Always have back-up plans ... perhaps one of the vials of poison delivered into the proper hands would hedge my bet.  Such a vial would go far for developing an antidote for the people.  Such a vial could be worth a lot of gold in the proper hands.  Perhaps it is time I spoke with Quin and prepare an avenue of protection.  As Lithany said, Corathites will be Corathites.

[Aragon]

How did they know?  How could they have known?  Every preparation was made to prevent them from finding out.  Perhaps it was Quin who let the secret slip or his spy Wmeky.  Regardless, somehow they drow knew the move we were to make.  Conveniently, Kit was the one that suggested us keeping one vial as insurance.  Though he was not privy to my plans regarding Quin, he seemed to fall right into my plan.  But, this seems little more than a mute point; there are no more vials of the poison.  Apparently the drow did not trust us any more than we trusted them.  They sent their assassin to tail us and ensure that we completed the task.  How they found us, I know not.  There will be no deal made with Quin ... the people of Mistone will endure the full fury of the poison.  I have done what I can to aid Quin; he is not a man of many brains to be certain.  He must be led by the nose to the facts.  For his sake and the sake of the people of Mistone, for their blood is no longer on my hands, let all hope that Mirren can decipher the warning I left for them to ponder.  

"Beware the tears of Katia.  Take no comfort in the life they bring."

For my part I have accomplished my task, in a word CHECKMATE.  The fountains of Hlint, Velensk, and Hampshire are now infected with the poison of the drow.  Though the victory seems quite hollow and not with out its price.  The unholy hand of Lord Corath has restored me restored to life.  Marcus spoke of the condition I was in when he found me in Hope.  My partially consumed heart lie smashed upon the ground, a gaping hole was visible in my chest and I lay in a puddle of my own blood.  He carried me invisible back to the safe house and laid me down within the circle of skulls.  My blood must have enticed my lord to restore his servant.  I am made whole once more with only the last words of the drow ringing in my ears, "Did you think to fool the drow?"  I will show these drow the meaning of the word ... vharcan.

******

I have spoken with the bard; his timing for such things is uncanny.  But his message this day was solemn and remains still with me.

"The Great dragon god has been attacked, you must defeat the scorpion before he rises and takes his place, but not before protecting the gods.  If they fall he rises, you must battle him on Layonara for only on Layonara may the water be unleashed.  Lucinda was struck and when one strikes the lady of magic, magic suffers and so do all the other gods.  She must be defended, as must the mad one for should the Ascender learn his secret many will perish.  What I granted to you this day is what I have granted to no other, but perhaps you do not yet know what was granted.  There is another that must be rebuked first.  The great oak was captured and stricken for many years.  Lucinda was torn.  I will let you decide who is next.  Knowledge, life, magic and death. Which is next?  Two can beat the one, but so long as all remain divided the Ascender will gain the gold.  Do not let death be taken off the board more then you would let life or magic."

His words are spoken in riddle and much of what he spoke is understood to me.  There is no doubt that the next the scorpion will attack is Death.  The powers that he could achieve but such an attack would grant him the strength he needs to overcome Rofirein.  To this end I have contacted Rhizome, as was my bond to Serenity, such is my bond with Rhizome.  Twice now has Ozy spoken the necessity for the gods to set aside their disagreements.  Ozy does not speak without purpose.  Together Rhizome and I will lead Life and Death to overcome the Scorpion and preserve Lucinda.  For all are dependant on her weave.

The viper now sits poised to strike, the scorpion has begun his assault and Ozy has confirmed to me the spider within the web.  To defeat the drow we must entangle them in their own web.  For it is as Wmeky spoke, the scorpion drives the spider.  Before his departure Ozy left me with one last piece of knowledge:

"Those that watched no longer do.  There is one other in the world like shifter.  That one is not the one it was in the past and as things stand now will not be what is of the future.  Find that one and change the path.  A single pebble can break the damn and change the course, a single grain of sand can create a single ripple and a single ripple can overwhelm all."

[Aragon]

I was pleasantly surprised this day to receive a message from an old friend.  He had been away for quite sometime.  His absence was cause of great anxiety for me.  So it was my relief when a familiar black feline came bounding through the woods and nearly knocked me off my feet.  It seemed that he too had missed the woods of Mistone and familiar faces.  He bore a note from his master who wished to see meet with me in Hlint.  With a nod and a pat on the panther’s sleek back off he ran to tell Rufus I was coming to see him.  

With a brief interchange of pleasantries we retired to the local inn and found ourselves seats in a dark and secluded corner of the smoke filled establishment.  No one seemed to notice our presence there, which was fine as far as we were concerned.  There we sat discussing all that had transpired since Rufus' departure east to Xantriel.  His familiar lay at his feat, only the occasion twitch of his ear told me that he wasn't asleep.  

Several hours passed as I recounted the tales, with each story our conversation grew darker and soon our voices were little more than whispers across a table.  Rufus was in the process of telling me concerning the Forsaken Temple and a great ruse that had been played upon the people of Mistone, when the panther let loose a low guttural growl.  Instantly he was on his feat, muscles tensed as he crouched low to the ground.  Almost as quickly Rufus had sprung to his feet and was scanning the inn.  I sat frozen in my chair knowing that if something was amiss there was little more that I could do.  

The panther crept toward the door, he had caught sent of one watching and listening in the darkness of the inn.  The panther’s heightened senses were not fooled by shadows or sorcery.  The panther had the assailant trapped, and slowly his sleek outline proceed towards his prey.  At the sight of the stalking feline, Doria had plastered herself against the wall.  Fear kept her voice from crying out.  But it was not she the panther was after.  Suddenly Rufus let loose with a shower of white magical energy, but at the very moment of his casting something distracted his attention and the spell fired all around him.  Blinded by the light, Doria fell to the floor in pain; this drew the attention of several drunken patrons that came running.  The panther reacting on pure instincts leapt at them and in a single swipe of his massive claws both lay dead on the inn floor.  The panther had reacted so fast Rufus was unable to control the creature before the deed had been done.  

Where the assailant had fled, who knows?  Rufus and I exchanged quick glances.  Not needing any words between us we shot for the door, with the panther in pursuit.  We stopped behind some houses to exchange our farewell, with a promise to meet again soon.

I too fled the city but I was forced to return to it to finish some business.  I walked past the well when I noticed someone rise to his feet and begin tailing me.  I walked on a bit further before turning to confront the halfling.  He accused me of murder and conspiracy to commit murder.  It took all the restraint I could muster to keep from cutting the halfing into a quarterling.  He claimed to have a witness he could produce, but knowing that more than likely he would be off to get Captain Garrant, I turned my face towards the eastern gates of Hlint.  Captain Garrent has been looking for any excuse to put me behind bars; the mere insinuation of wrongdoing would be enough for him.  The halfling must have turned back to make sure I was there because he saw me racing for the gates.

But now instead of one halfling, there were two chasing after me.  Fast little buggers they are they soon caught up to me and continued with their accusations.  Once again I fled, this time back to the city.  I pushed open the gates; my heart was pounding in my chest.  One thing I had always been told by my mother, do not every be caught.  As if she was speaking through me I called upon Corath to envelop me in his darkness.  Instantly everything went dark in the area.  I ran through it hoping it would confuse my assailants.  The continued in pursuit through the darkness, I looped around the city and head back to the now shut gate.  With a kick the gates flew open.  I thought the open gates would give the illusion that I had fled back outside the city.  The ruse worked and much to my surprise an unseen ally was waiting for just the right moment.  I felt the familiar tingly sensation as his magic faded me from view.  

I had escaped my pursuit.  No doubt my welcome in Hlint is worn out.  By now the Captain will have been informed and they will be watching for me to return.  Weather I murdered the ignorant sloughs or not, they will want to know what happened.  Few in numbers are those I call friend, to lose one would be grave indeed, especially one called Rufus.

[Aragon]

I met a most interesting of person the other day. I felt a strange feeling as I passed by her; it was as if a struggle was pulling within her. Light battling Darkness. Each trying to gain the upper hand on the other. It was something I had never before felt in another person. Her soul split between her former master and the one she now claimed. It wasn't until she drew her blade that I began to understand the nature of the conflict. Written in runes upon the blade was the all too common phrase, "The blood of my enemies will only sate my thirst when I use their bodies to serve your cause." The blade pulsed with the unholy might of Lord Corath. Yet the woman professed loyalty to Toran. I suggested that we speak a bit more in private.

I led the woman back to a safe place were we could talk privately. Matilda ... the name rings with a measure of familiarity ... perhaps I have heard an elder speak her name in passing. She once was a devout Priestess of Corath, but she now says to have turned aside the path of the dead. Foolish woman, does she not remember the very teachings she once proclaimed. There is no turning back, especially for one of the anointed of Corath.

The irony is that she claims to serve Toran, yet wields a blade consecrated to Corath. I told her of her folly. She refused to believe my words, though I belief they have struck home with this one. How can one truly serve a god of light and wield a blade of darkness? I will continue to press this one back to the faith she has tried to set aside, unsuccessfully mind you. I will expel the light and return her to her master, one way or another.

*****

It seems that even in a perceived failure I triumph. What I thought was a complete failure to create an unholy ring of Corath, turned out to be a great boon. The failure in crafting led me to gather more gems for Marcus. It was while I was in the process of getting him malachite, that I spotted a different color in the rock. I extracted the gem and upon cleaning it discovered it to be an emerald. An emerald, the rarest of minerals on Layonara. Most fortunate to have discovered this gem. It will go along way in the aiding of construction on the temple.

As a side note, plans to build in Berhagen Mountains have been scraped. Further review of history and maps has shown that a large settlement of dwarves resides in these mountains. Including the tome of the one that aided in the defeat of the False Avatar Arakanor Lightbane. The Forsaken Temple may truly be the best location, though I am not giving up my search for a better location.

[Aragon]

News travels slowly to the distant lands of Mistone.  Normally I wouldn't think twice about hearing that a follower of Toran has met their end.  In fact normally I would laud the accomplishments of the one that brought the end to the Toranite.  But this day has yeilded tales that I thought at first could only been the slanderings of drunken sailors too long at sea.  These tales seem to be true, for why would anyone speak such words about Quin if they were not true.  His soul harvested by the reaper.  Yea it seems my threatenings to him from long ago have born true.  

*There appears to be an ink blot caused by a quill smashed in upon the page in anger.  It seems that some time passes before the next entry.*

A worthy enemy and companion to say the least was Quin.  We were as night and day ... I have been cheated in accomplishing the victory that was meant to be mine.  This demon has stolen my chance to defeat the beacon of light on Mistone.  No longer are you of light Quin, you now serve my master as even I can not now.

[Aragon]

*Seals up the last of the letters handing them to the animated bones.*

"Now fly my pets and do not fail me."

It is finished, the Dark Alliance is no more.  No longer will the webs of deciet from the drow be a matter of my concern.  Rufus and I had agreed sometime ago to end the alliance.  But we thought it best to keep things quite until all had been revealed.  I need not ask Rufus why he thought it best to end the alliance, for in truth I know the reasons.  Though I sense much fatigue in one who was once so strong.  Could the powers he weilds now be draining the strength from him.  He did mention that I have displeased that bastard child Delmir.  Ha, let her be displeased, did she really think that I would not try and seek my own ends.  Did she think I would just go willingly?  Failure indeed, I did not fail ... I delivered the poison to the wells.  I only regret not getting one of those vials to Quin.  That would have made things most interesting to behold.

Once again the followers and the faithful of Corath are on their own against the powers of good.  We shall disappear into the shadows and await our revenge.

[Aragon]

Once again they send their messenger to inquire of the silver vial.  The buffoons, they know the answer before they arrive.  If they know where to find me then they most certainly know the answer before they ask the question.  They say the same thing at each and every meeting, "Find it ... deliver it ... do not fail."  What makes them think I can find it any easier than they can.  They have more resources at their disposal than I do.  Yet they spout about me not placing the failure on them when I inquire for knowledge from them.  Certainly if they can't find ... how am I?

*sets the quill down for a moment listening for the sounds of Agustus*

It seems that Marcus has begun an orphanage.  He has taken his orphaned nephew in as an apprentice.  Agustus is the name of the annoying little twit.  I believe I made a most frightening experience from our first encounter.  He will learn to mind his place and most certainly his tongue.  He has much to learn, but perhaps he will be useful in time, with the proper teachings of course.

But if what Lue Lightfingers and Ozy said are true then this vial is in possession of a powerful group located in Arabel.  Their name escapes me for the moment but Ozy said they were all vampires.  The undead, creatures that feed on the living and yet are beyond the control of Lord Corath.  For these creatures have no soul to bind them to any power but themselves.  They will be most reluctant to part with the vial ... assuming I am even able to find these creatures of the shadows.

[Aragon]

With two blood wells now destroyed it seemed like a good idea to visit the Place of Prophecy.  The location of most interest to me was that of the chessboard.  I found that some things had changed since my last visit.  White's bishop is in position to take black's bishop; Both of black's knights have advanced.  The move appears to that of white.  Will white's bishop take the unguarded black bishop?  It was as I was leaving from this place and was crossing the bridge that I happened upon Talan.  He mentioned that someone was to deliver a gift to black's queen.  I pressed him for some information and learned that it wasn't the silver vial.  So then what is black's queen to recieve?  I speculate that the black queen is the soul mother ... what is she desiring?  It was in this conversation that a thought came to me.  What if I am black's bishop ... I am unguarded ... the Black Wizards told Rufus to kill me.  *pauses*  Certainly I am not a bishop on the board of the world ... I most certainly am nothing more that a pawn in the grand scheme, yet even a pawn may become a queen.  So then which side of the board is Chanda truely on?  If the Black Wizards are in leagues with the drow and the rise of Shandosian then they are no doubt black pieces ... but where is my Lord?  

*****

Marcus approached me about speeding up the training of Agustus.  Once more the Soul Mother has claimed a portion of his soul.  He feels his life waining and is concerned that she will call him before Agustus is ready.  I have agreed to this.  I dislike the runt; he is arrogant, and decietful ... a perfect candidate for the priesthood.  Yet I do not think he will walk this road.  Too long he has been tainted by magic-users and their bending of the weave.  The power of faith ... that is true power.  Power from the gods themselves to act in thier will.  A mage simply uses that around them ... should the weave fail they will fail, but when one receives their power from faith on high the power is endless.  

*****

The Arm of the Ram is meeting with much success.  The false front will bring in much gold for the building of the temple.  Yes, the temple will go forward, despite the efforts of those who would see my end.  Let them come ... let them see the power of my faith.  The temple will be built ... Layonara will again see the rise of another temple to Lord Corath and I shall be the High Priestess who see it so.  The time grows nigh that I will receive the mantle of High Priestess, my development in His priesthood will bring glory to him. The Mad God will regain the power he once had ... the people will again know Lord Corath.

[Aragon]

*The following thoughts are chaoticaly sprawled across the page.*

"What is a Rocklord?" ... "She confirmed that Duron has a large part yet to play." ... "Duron may be a great crafter but there is one greater." ... "Duron is part his mother and part his father." ... "Jasimine was next in line for Hierophant." ... "Why did Duron flee to the Citadel of Dorand?" ... "If Duron may one day craft a great weapon and he is part of his father, Festus, then perhaps his father is indeed the one that will craft the Sword of Shadows." ... "Lue mentioned the great smith who lived near Arabel." ... "Duron is the last of the Rocklords." ... "Katia does not know where the silver vial now is." ... "Duron must be guarded against corruption." ... "Dorand is the dwarven god of crafting." ... "Stone and rock are the dwarven resources and thus the domain of Dorand." ... "Duron is capable of calling forth elementals of stone." ... "Blood wishes to rule all of Layonara, what better weapon to turn agianst him than the very earth itself." ... "Where is the silver vial?"

[Aragon]

This day has turned out to be most rewarding.  It began as I was making my way back to Leilon from Hlint.  As I was journeying my path crossed with a woman who called herself Lia Di'makiir.  She immediately began to inquire into my faith and why I could believe the way I do.  Interestingly enough it seems that she was bound though a dark ritual by Lord Corath to a demon.  She now curses the blessing she once asked for, wishing to banish herself and the demon to the lowest reaches of the Abyss.  Her past now haunts her, a knowledge of the deeds she has done while under the charms of the demon.  I wonder wheither it is better to be a slave to the demon, not knowing what your actions are; or to be a slave to the memories of that which you have done?  She cries for revenge, yet once again the only one that will heed her call is He who she once called to in the ritual.  How ironic.  Yet while we discussed her situation the demon appeared before us, congradulating her on accomplishing one of three tasks.  This infuriated her, the more she resists the aids him.

But she grew board of hearing how she could rid herself of the curse if she only sought the right sources and soon departed.  I had only just started once more when I came upon a brute of a creature.  An ogre named Zort was wandering towards me.  It was at this very moment that I realized the boon that Corath had just given to me.  This ogre seemed willing to talk with me.  He knew not of Lord Corath, nor did he know of my reputation.  I began to render him the victim of all things; I pointed out how so many have used him, a flattered him into trusting me.  He asked me to be his manager, which in truth is what I desired all along.  I took him with me to Leilon so that I might try this ogre and see if it was worth my efforts on him.  I would soon find him to be most usefull.

As we happened along the road past the Blackford Castle, we could hear raised voices and shouts coming from near the lake.  Much to my surprise was the sight Zort and I beheld as we crested the hill.  There below us was Ramanon with Lailith holding a blade to his throat.  As much of a surprise as this situation was to me, I am sure it was even more of a surprise to them.  Not to mention a relief to Ramanon to look up and see his priestess coming to his rescue.  I shall have to remind him of this occassionally.  In the commotion of Zort wanting to smash, and Lailith and the others surprise at my arrival; Ramanon quickly escaped the confines of Lailith's blade and promptly executed his spell of invisibility.  Where he fled I know not, but I do not think he escaped unscathed from the encounter as Lailith's blade had a measure of blood where Ramanon's neck once was.

I must remember to thank Lia some day for delaying me on the road as she did.  For has she not I would not now have a bodyguard nor would Ramanon still have his breath.  Lord Corath be praised for the gifts that he has given this servant devout.

[Aragon]

The nature of true power has been on my mind of late.  Many profess to have it but few in truth know of it.  For neither blade nor weave are true power.  While the mighty often believe they have found it, it more often resides with the simplest of minds.  Self mastery is a part of it ... yet it in truth is not the true power, it is but a means to understanding true power.  

All those who seek the Mad God must discover the nature of true power ... What is true power?  How does one obtain it?  These are the questions that all those who would walk the path must answer.

****

Ramanon said she was ready, Marcus thought should would be an assest to the cult.  The only two people in whom I can rely and trust.  Upon their counsel I sent for Tamera Jarden.  Marcus delivered the message in person to her, the nature of the world now is too unstable to send black letters by the normal carriers.  I sat across from her in my normal manner.  My mind searched her thoughts and pryed into her very soul.  Darkness ... seeds planted deep within her soul.  As I listened to her words and her expression of her desire for power, the words of my Lord spoke in my mind.  "Let only the worth walk the path."

Tamera disavowed herself from the Lady of Chaos and desired that I show her the path of Lord Corath.  While I spoke to her my mind was shown a vision of what Tamera would be required to prove her worth.  I saw a path ... black as night ... there upon the path was Tamera poised ready to begin.  Yet three obstacles barred her journey.  I approached each of the obstacles and found the following engraven upon it:

"Where dark and light meet ... At the mountains feet.  There lies the door ... Bring the ring that he once wore. "

The second obstacle was much the same as the first, it read:

"8 pedestals upon which I rest ... yet dire is your test ... My bite, my sting ... upon thy blade I bring."

I looked to the third obstacle and nothing was yet engraven upon it.  My mind then returned to the conversation with Tamera, she was finishiing relating her knowledge of the nature of power.  I then proceeded to challenge her with the two obstacles, only the worthy may walk the path.  She left with a profession of a desire to prove her worth.