The Cumbrian War

[OOC]
YE GODS! What was that that Notharah wrote!

Perhaps I should do some filling-in. Oh and it was only Notty I asked to hold back a bit - he'd started writing this story on his own!
[/OOC]


1115 hours - April 4, 1985

We've been holed up in here for ages now, but it's quiet outside again. During the long hours of sitting around I briefly filled in our Elf on the occupation. I left out certain things though, like Andrew for example, and the strength and position of our forces. I also left out precisely where we weakened the walls. I still didn't trust our new guests, but I suppose they would get their chance to prove themselves soon.

Amohl woke up about half an hour ago and had a bite to eat. He's still pretty weak though and can't seem to stay awake. Ben found a few bits and peices among the cupboards so he mixed him something to help him rest.

Jaden and I have decided that it's quiet enough for us to sneak out. We let the others know and leave quietly by the side entrance. [We make our way to the east of town, to the area near the troll cave, and slip through with only minor skirmishes.]

However, at the end of the fortifications there is a guard tower. If we try to make a break for it we will be seen. The Elf is getting a bit cocky and volunteers to go and 'wipe them out'. "Leave this to me" I say. Taking Fen'edril from my belt, I throw it out across the back of the guard tower.

"You missed" Feril states.

Without saying anything, I focus on my arcane ring. The ring is my family signet ring, but it is also part of a set. Made by the creator of Azram's star and Fen'edril, it is a ring of control. Responding only to my family, like Fen'edril, it gives me unparralelled control of thrown objects.

As Fen'edril slices past the guard tower, undetected by the guards, I use my will and my ring to pull my star directly back across the tower. In mid-flight, my star makes an acute turn, and slices the head clean off the guard, who crumples silently to the floor. I catch Fen'edril, who retains no blood and reattach it to my belt. "Let's move on".

1645 hours - April 4, 1985

We have been walking a fair few hours now and finally, the flag atop the main pavillion in the liberation encampment has come in sight over the horizon. Standing in the shade of a tree stands Andrew.

"Andrew, you made it!" I cry, giving him a brief hug. Regaining my composure I ask "and the reinforcements? They're here?" He nods in the direction of the encampment. "We'll be ready in an hour" he says.

"I've got wounded, and an old man who needs attention. Would you mind if I skip the liberation and tended to them? I wouldn't be too good in a battle I'm afraid - I'm not very good at battle tactics! And besides, I desperately need a bath!"

Andrew grins and motions me towards a smaller pink pavillion next to the main one. "The ladies tent" he explains. His expression turns to one of curiosity. "Who are the other two with you?" He asks. I tell him what I know and add that the Elf makes me uneasy. "Take Harold, Ben and the old man to the hospital tent, where they'll be attended to. Ben can help out there with his herbalist training. I'll keep an eye on the Elf."

I curtsey to him, wish him luck and head off to the ladies' tent. When I look back he has begun issuing orders.

[OOC]
BTW Maniac, I PM'ed you about Tyran's character. If you haven't got it yet, then try not to kill him off. Just wound him so we can send him back to Caladon to recover. That way if he ever does return he can carry on without restarting.

Good luck with the fighting everyone! I'm off for a well-earned bath! :razz:
[/OOC]

 

[OOC] Ok First post for me.
I am a Dwarven Warrior Named Mercren Redstone
My skills are Master Melee, Expert Firearms, Expert repair, apprentice healing and 20 strength to boot.
My equipment is Elite platemail, The first and most powerful Pyro axe ever crafted and a my families heirloom, a one of a kind finely crafted Revolver formed by a Dwarven Gunsmith from pure Dwarven steel, bandages and bullets.
My current mission is to represent the Dwarven interest of peace between Tarent and Stillwater. Unfortunately the Tarentian officials had other ideas.[/OCC]

Taken into custody by being knocked out with a sharp blow to the back of the head and stripped of all clothing only to be given an overly large robe to which to cover my self is not my idea of an honorable defeat.
Then bound and shackled and dragged into a small room with an all to bright light only to have questions repeated over and over until they thought I was on the braking point and decided to electrocute me.
"Where is your clan located." The man asked in a cruel voice.
"I cannot tell you," I would say.
"Fine then tell me this," He said holding up my pyro axe. "How was this weapon made?"
"I did not make it" I replied
"Ahh but all dwarfs no the secret of the Pyro Axe if memory serves." He retorted
"I will tell' I said. "On one condition."
"Fine what is that condition" He said knowing that the information of this Supped up Pyro Axe would certainly bring him a promotion.
"Your guards must leave rules forbid me to convey the information to more then one person at a time."
"Certainly" he smiled shrewdly. And with a flip of his wrist the two guards left. Closing the heavy metal door behind them.
"Now tell me wha-" He never finished his sentence because he was underneath an over turned table which knocked his breath out. I grabbed my axe and beheaded him before he could alert the guards. I went to the door and cut the hinges off with two swipes. Then pushing with all my might I pushed it down. Jumping through the now open portal I struck one guard fatally in the chest and the other in the face a millisecond after.
I ran down the corridor to the armory here I found my equipment and some other interesting things. Including 7 gold bangles, a silver pocket watch, a master set of lock picks, an emerald ring, a ruby ring, a black diamond pendant, sturdy boots, a leather satchel, a small cloth bag of marbles, a white silk shirt, red leather pants, a wrist sheath with ordinary dagger, 3 glass stilettos, 5 throwing daggers, a fine revolver, 2 boxes of ammunition, and her prize possession, a mechanical dagger made by a master. Further down the corridor I heard sounds like chewing opening the sliding eyepiece I saw a Tall, muscular in that wiry sort of way. I saw a human woman with short red-gold curls, dark blue eyes, almost black, and very pale skin knowing on a set of ropes around her ankles. I cut the lock on the door and kicked it in.
"Well hello." She said in a ho hum kind of way.
"Err hello" I said blushing the way Dwarfs do under their bears so you cant tell that they are. I throw her some clothing from the recent looting of the armory. She changed while I turned my back. When she was done I gave her the weapons from the armory.
"Hay this is my stuff you have." She said when I handed her the mechanical dagger. We went through my inventory and separated the things between both of us.
Finally it came time to make are escape she lead the way having a very good memory for detail.
[OOC] If its not up to scratch tell me and I'll fix it. I think Rosenshyne or Royalleve was getting board in her cell. Also note my char knos nothing about what is happening in Stillwater that is why Royalleve is going to have to lead, as she knows Tarents troop movements. [/OOC]

 

Life is never quite so boring as when you're tied up in a cell with no way out. My lips were starting to chap, but I really didn't see an alternate course of action I could follow. And then, like a short, squat guardian angel with hair, a dwarf kicked in my cell door. I spit out a piece of rope and said hello. I couldn't be sure, but I think he blushed as he mumbled something back and threw a pile of clothes at me. Hair. Yeah, he had an awful lot of hair. He turned around so fast he almost fell over, and I started to dress, singing one of Lukan's favorite bar songs under my breath. Something about milk maids and sheep... In any case, wonder of wonders, he had given me my belongings! I shrieked in delight and hugged him as hard as I could, catching him by surprise. "Thank you! These are mine!!!" I squealed again, and helped him sort out the rest of my belongings.
"You wouldn't happen to know the way out of here, would you?" I asked. He sort of grunted in that non-descript way dwarves have... "I'll take that as an uh-uh," I murmured, and slipped out the now battered cell door. Just as quickly I slipped back in, and plucked the shackles from he ground. "Suveneir," I explained cheerfully to the dwarf's raised eyebrow. I slipped out the door for a second time, took a look down the corridor, and closed my eyes. I ran through maps in my head for a moment, trying to see the way out. The dwarf came out into the hallway after me. "Where t-" he started to ask. I held up a hand and concentrated. "Left, straight, fourth door from the... right? Two lefts, second door on the right, up a circle stair, through the barred door, and the third door on the..." I whispered, trying to go backwards from my current position, "Not left, this is my left, we need to go..." I opened my eyes, grabbed the dwarf's hand and ran silently down the corridor.

 

I sit up and strangle the scream in my throat. Looking around, I don't see anything immediately familiar. I seem to be inside some sort of tent, filled with beds. Someone comes running up towards me, looking both concerned and happy. "You're awake! How do you feel?"

"Umm, okay I guess. I feel like I should know you. But I can't quite figure out from where. And speaking of where's, where do I happen to be right now?"

Ben looks at me closely, worry creeping across his brow. "You don't remember me? What's the last thing you do remember?"

Technically the last thing I remember is that awful dream, but I don't think that's what he means. Think back. "Let's see, I remember some traveling companions attacking me in my sleep, robbing me, and leaving me for dead somewhere . . . near Stillwater? Yes, that's it." I begin to recount the events that led up my meeting him and his friends, and he seems to be delighted. "So that's where I know you from. I assume I finally succombed to all those wounds and the infection and was brought . . . to this hospital?"

With a little prodding I get Ben to recount what's happened while I was unconscious and apparently hauled around the countryside. "I was just starting to mix up some poultices and potions when you woke up."

I give him a little grin. "A budding mage and an herbalist? My, my, what a surprising young man. You wouldn't happen to have any mint would you? I've got a potion in one of these pockets I'd like to mix it in." I start reaching for a pocket before I realize my robes aren't there. "Umm, when did I get undressed?"

"We, uh, had to take your robes off. They were filthy and ragged, and in the way, sorry."

"Quite alright lad, they were just a gift afterall," I rush on before a tear starts to fall. "Did you check them before you threw them out? Find a small bottle by chance? What about my staff? I don't see that here."

"They're both under the bed."

"Good, good, think you could fetch me a robe? Blue preferably, always been my favorite color." Ben nods and rushes off to find a robe from somewhere. I reach under the bed and grab my staff and the potion bottle. I lift the sheets to check out my condition and am gratified to note that not only are all my wounds mostly healed (just a few bruises left), but they were even kind enough to give me fresh undergarments. But I wonder who the brave man was who put them on. Maybe it was a woman. Smiling to myself, I consider uncorking the potion and drinking it. "Not without that mint I won't. Besides, who knows if I'll need it later or not."

Ben rushes back in with a robe, which is a ghastly shade of orange. "This is the best I could find," he said in the way of apology as he hands it to me.

"I hate orange, but I suppose it'll do for the moment. Thank you." I get out of the bed and start to put it on. The robe is a bit small. "I can't believe I have to go outside and face people in this." I grab my staff and deposit the bottle in a pocket.

"Outside? Are you sure you should do that? You were in awful condition when you collapsed."

"I was, and thanks to you and Katherine, I'm on my feet again. I owe you a lot. Now, do you happen to know where Katherine is so I can go thank her?"

Ben blushes and looks down at his feet. "I think she's taking a bath."

A huge grin crosses my mind at the thought. "Well then, I suppose I'll just have to wait 'til she's done. Might as well take a stroll until then." I clap Ben on his shoulder and head towards the exit. After stepping outside, I breathe in the fresh air and stretch. "It's good to be alive again."

 

[OOC]
Sorry Draco, but you can't just wonder around the compound. at least, not until we've checked up on you!

Dw, I see you've got busy - I've been PMing Rosie about the excape, but I'll scrap that. I'll still come and get you though, as I don't know you've been freed yet!
[/OOC]


2000 hours - April 4, 1985

I've just finished having my bath. There is a polite knock on one of the spars. I hurredly wrap my towel around me. Melvin, squire to Moonblade, is waiting outside, holding a message. It has on it the wolfen seal of the Magick council in Caladon. "Came in by Falcon not five minutes ago" he said, "Oh, and that old man you brought in is up and about. Had to send a couple a' guards though. Seemed to want to go awanderin' around camp. Just thought I'd let you know". With that, he dashed off to take some wounded soldiers off to another makeshift hospital tent. We seem to be filling them up rather quickly. I wonder if the others are getting on OK.

I break the seal on the envelope. Bad news. At the onset of war, the council sent a spy into Tarant in order to determine their most likely next moves. It appears that the spy, codenamed 'Eve' has obtained some vital information, but all contact has since been lost. Information is sparse out of Tarant at the moment, so it is unclear if she is dead or imprisoned. It is my job to find her. Below the text is a desciption of the subject and a photo.

Concentrating my will, I incinerate the letter. I quickly dry myself off and dress in a loose-fitting, but elegent dress. If I'm going to Tarant then I don't want to appear out of the ordinary.

Since my father died, I've used my link with the council to obtain my training. In return, they send me on often delicate missions where they cannot be seen to be directly involved. These missions are usually diplomatic in nature but occasionally, like this one, more are more covert.

Having dressed, I walk over to the small tent that Amohl is resting in. He stands up as I enter, dressed in some sort of garish orange robe. "Glad to see you lass" he says. "Have you got my monkey yet, it's just that I've got to tell my friend I'm going to be late and.." He stops as I hold out my hand.

"I apologise for being curt my friend, but something has come up that needs my immediate attention. If you need a message sent then we've got a falconner over near the north of camp. It's the tent with the blue and silver flag on it. I'm afraid you'll have to be escorted and your message censored if need be. This is a war zone after all and we've yet to acertain your loyalties. If what you say is true however, then I'm in no doubt you'll be allowed out unescorted."

I beckon Ben over, and tell him that he has to stay in camp for a while. I tell him that I have received a message from the council in Caladon and that I must leave immediately. "Here's 1000 coin. I'm afraid I'm going to have to leave in in Gather's care for a while. I'll leave a note with Gather concerning your training. Unfortunately, this mission is going to be dangerous and you're needed here in the camp hospital tents." He nods his understanding and wishes me luck.

I quickly write a note to Andrew and leave it in his tent. It explains that I have to leave on a covert mission for the council and that would he take care of Ben for me. I don't expect to be away for more than a week, but could he see to Ben's training. I seal the note with my signet ring and leave a pouch of coins for the training and expenses and a scroll of resurrection with a request that Andrew revives Cyrus for Ben once Stillwater is freed - if I don't return in time.

Within 10 minutes, I've got Pheonix saddled and packed and I'm headed off east to the river. Next stop - Tarant.

[OOC]
Maniac, sorry to dash off, but could you take care of Ben's training when you get back. I'd like him at least apprentice in melee and dodge when I get back, and if you can boost his fire magick training then all the better. Thanks. Kat.

Rosie, see you in a couple of posts I imagine.... and you too DW.

Official announcement:
Notharah is in Ireland for 10 days from Monday (taday). He has PM'ed me a detailed description and character profile for Feril and has charged me with continuing his character input in his absence. Please do NOT mess with his character too much - just keep him in the background a bit - or I won't be able to keep up with both my character and his, especially as they will be in different parts of the story. Thankyou
[/OOC]

 

[OOC]
I was hoping that dwarves would make an alliance with Tarant so that it would get an upper hand. It would be more interesting this way. More action, more "impossible" missions. I guess it's too late now. Hmmmmmmmmm...maybe Tulla? Nah they wouldn't. But DW I think that even if you were attacked the dwarves wouldn't start a war against Tarant because they keep to themselves and if they would it would be too easy. Tarant wouldn't stand a chance being attacked from three sides.
OK. I'm waiting for Jaden & Feril to make their turn in the battle. And BTW leave the injuring of Moonblade to me 'cause I already have an idea.
[OOC]

 

[OOC]
No problem, I fully expected someone to come along and stop him. Amohl is very independant and forgets that sometimes people don't like him just wandering around doing whatever.
[/OOC]

After Katherine left the tent, I started pacing a bit. "A falconeer, marvelous. Too bad I can't tell her everything, she'd definitely want to see for herself. Always been curious, just like me. It's been so long since I've seen her, I hope she's been getting along alright." I look around the relatively bare tent. "So, how do I get an escort to this falconeer, and how do I write my message?" Ben has already left for the medical tents to help the wounded, so I pop my head outside and repeat my question to one of the guards there.

"Well, since we're supposed to be guarding you, we would be your escorts. And they've got paper and ink there." They lead me away, heading for the falconeer's tent. Amazingly, they seem to follow a path that keeps me away from anything sensitive. It's so nice to see someone who's good at what they do. A slight smile breaks onto my face. "Here we are, we'll have to stay by your side and make sure you don't give away important information."

"I understand." I see ink and paper already laid out on a table. I walk forward and begin my letter.

One of the guards points at the last bit of the letter, "What's that mean?"

"Oh, that's just a name she knows from our past, to let her know for sure that this message is from me. And that it wasn't forced or anything, just need to let her know I'm perfectly fine."

The guards step back a bit and start a whispered conversation. Coming to a conclusion, they turn back to me and nod. "Okay, you can send the message."

I hand the message to a falconeer and watch as he rolls it up and slips it into a small tube. He proceeds to tie it to a falcon's leg. Then looks at me. "Where's it going sir?"

I froze, trying to think quickly. Somehow, this had never occured to me, that I'd have to tell them where she lived. Then I had a thought. "Could you have him just fly north towards the mountains? When he gets there, he'll probably be attracted to the proper place. She has that affect on animals."

He just looks at me blankly. "I need a location."

Struck by inspiration, a run back to the table and grab a piece of paper. I sketch a quick map of the mountain range to the north of us. With some landmarks for reference, I mark the general location of Mare's home. Handing it over to the falconeer I explain, "Just send him to this circle here, she'll find him. Don't worry."

He shrugs and turns to the falcon, then releases it into the air. I watch in awe as it circles the tent once, then flies away north.

While being escorted back to my little home, I have an idea. "Say, you wouldn't know where they would've thrown my robe do you?" Both guards indicate a yes. "Superb, could you take me there? And is there a place I could wash it? And some needle and thread so I fix it up?" With a few more affirmatives, we're on our way.

 

In lue of Notharah:

After Katherine talked with that half-Elf, he came over to me, followed by two burly-looking guards. "I'm not too sure what I'm supposed to be doing here" I explain. "I came seeking adventure, which I seem to be right in the middle of, but I'm by no means skilled at pitched battle".

"No matter" replied the half-Elf. "I've had a word with Katherine and she's voiced some concerns over how trustworthy you actually are. After all, we know practically nothing about you. In light of this, I'm afraid you will have to be escorted back to our encampment and retained there for the duration of the battle."

With this, the half-Elf nods to the two guards and they escort me back to the camp. I glimpse around behind me and see the army spread out along the ridgeline to the north of the town. This could be a long battle. I wonder how long they'll keep me under guard? I could of course, always escape, but then again, that would hardly make me any more trustworthy in their eyes.

Silently I'm lead to a nondesript tent and the two men take up positions to keep an eye on me. I notice two other heavy-set men guarding the entrance. [I sigh] They really don't trust me do they?

I look around my new surroundings. Not too bad actually. Definitely not a prison, and quite comfortable. I sit back on the bed and put my feet up. "Well, I definitely seem to have found an adventure" I say to nobody in particular.

[OOC]
Sorry to side-line you Notharah, but I won't neglect you toatally I promise. You can kill me in 10 days time if I've done anything wrong with your character. :razz:
[/OOC]

 

[OOC]
Alright since Noth is away and DoS doesn't seem very interested in the thread I'll finish the combat.
[OOC]

The battle had already been going for three or maybe even more hours. The sun was almost set but the battle was still going on although it was much smaller.
I saw an enemy sergeant scream a strange command:
"Let out THAT one!"
"But Sire..."
"Don't object to your superior!"
"Sir yes Sir!!!"
"I saw how some soldiers opened a gate of a farmhouse and inside was a cage with the biggest and the most evil looking ogre ever to set foot on Arcanum. It seems the Council gnomes are still active with their experiments. The soldiers opened the cage and were instantly smashed by the ogre or a beast would be more precise. The ogre rushed forward and attacked Moonblade. Moonblade fought fiercely and cut the ogre a few times but it's skin was very hard. The ogre was a bit slow but it finally smashed at Moonblade's shield sending him into the nearest wall and leaving unconscious. The beast marched onward to finish off his prey...I beheaded another enemy who was in my way and launched myself at the creature stabbing him with my swords but the blades didn't go deep. The mutant shook like mad and I flew into a near wall but was fast enough to kick off it. I leaped on the ogre's shoulder's It tried to catch me with it's two fearsome hands. But I easily dodged them. But the beast wasn't so stupid...as I was to cut it's throat...the beast smashed into a nearby wall with it's back throwing me to the ground...My back was aching and my vision was blurring. The beast swinged for a final blow but I rolled out of it's way. I jumped at it but it's huge fist smacked into my chest probably broking most of my ribs. Luckily I put on my mithril chain mail before that battle or I would've been dead. I tried to stand up but was too weak...the beast started to run forwards me. I quickly swallowed a fatigue restorative and again rolled out of it's way as the creature smashed into a wooden building's wall destroying the whole wall. I noticed that my swords where nowhere to be seen and then saw them at the place where the beast hit me with it’s fist before. The ogre leaped at me but I pulled all my strength and leaped on it's head, pulling out my dagger and stabbing one of it's eyes. The ogre moaned in pain and swinged it's head throwing me into a nearby bush. I was unarmed now. I thought of a plan then. I ran over into the house which was now missing one wall. The beast charged at me. At the last moment I leaped through the window and the beast smashed into the other wall and the roof went on it. But that abomination was still alive. It was slowly standing up. I quickly ran up to my swords and picked them off the ground. As I turned the beast was already running at me with lighting speed. I leaped out of it's way, kicked off and leaped at it beheading it with a scissors move. YES!!! It was dead I raised my swords shouting "Victory!!!" and fainted because of immense inner bleeding.
I awoke the next morning. One of my rangers ran up to me.
"Sire?"
"I'm alright...considering I'm here alive I guess we won?" I raised an eyebrow but wasn't sure of the answer.
"Yes Sir! Long live the Silver Lady!!!"
"Long live the elves!!!" I was smiling. I hadn't felt a feeling like this for a long time. "How's moonblade?" I asked.
"He's alright I guess. But it seems he lost his memory from the hit so one of the caladonian mages teleported him back to Caladon for father treatment Sir. The mage came back with a notice that taking into account your flawless leadership during the sabotage mission and during the main assault the King of Caladon grants you total control of the troops currently stationed in this territory."
"Really? That's fantastic!!!........................ Can you call Katherine here? I have to thank her...AGAIN" I smile.
"Sire she went on some secret mission but she left you a note."
"Bring it here..." *and I thought I was getting along with her, I guess I'm back to my lonely life*
"The note Sir." the elf handed me the note.
I read the note.
"Call me that boy Ben."
"Yes Sir."
After a while Ben entered my tent.
"How are you feeling Sire?" asked Ben.
"You can call me Andrew although not in the eyes of my soldiers" I wink to him. "Katherine asked me to train you since she left for some time but it's your choice. Taking into account that I haven't fully recovered and since now I'm the only leader here I'm sorry to say that I won't be able to train you until things settle down a bit." Ben hangs his head sadly "BUT...I might ask someone else to train. Now I want you to think seriously on this one. I may ask one of the soldier's in the camp to teach you some basics OR you may go to Quintarra and learn there. Of course I would order an escort for you then and would write a recommendation letter which considering my high rank should be enough for you to get the best possible teacher OR trainer in Quintarra. So now go to your tent and think. Come back when you have made up your mind..." Ben starts walking forwards the exit. "Oh and say the guard outside that I called him.�
"Alright!" Ben looked much happier.

"You called Sir?"
"Yes. Report on the situation."
"Well thanks to the sabotage mission the casualties are very small compared to the totally annihilated enemy force. We only lost only a few elven warriors and caladonians didn't suffer many casualties either. We are now strengthening our position in town."
"Glad to hear it. Order everyone who is capable to gather in the town center in one hour time. Dismissed."
"Yes Sir!"
When the soldier left I climbed off my bed and went to take a bath. Then I went to my chest of items and put on my elven silk pants, my mithril chain mail and my grey cloak. I took my two swords, my bow and quiver. I noticed that my weapons were all polished and sharpened.

After an hour...
I went out and walked into the center of the town square. All soldiers were already gathered and anxious to hear my speech. I started:
"Well first of all I want to say that you all fought greatly in the battle and that I am proud to lead such forces." *elves start to shout joyfully* "these words are for you too caladonians since I am your new leader for the time being so I say again I'm proud to be your leader brave warriors."
"Long live Gather!!!" everyone shouts.
"We won only with minimal casualties but don't get careless, half of this army was compiled of mercenaries which were former thugs and such and so there were only few experienced warriors but that doesn't mean you didn't fight well. I stand here on this platform looking at your brave faces and think...tarantians will be sorry they started this war!!!" I raised one of my swords saying these words and it shined in the morning sun.
Everyone raised their weapons shouting "Victory!!!" my heart was drowning in joy...

 

[OCC] I have an idea just wait [/OCC]
Dont rescue us untel My next post

 

My cell had been deep in the underbelly of Tarant, and the walk through the sewers was an experience I could've done without, but in the end, we were out. Unfortuanately, out meant standing in the basement of a certain venerable citizen. While Gilbert Bates was long dead, his mansion was still very alive with moving bodies--Tarant had moved their government headquarters within the stone walls.
Luckily, there was no one in the room, and I knew an alternate way out. An eye for detail is a wonderful thing... I walked over to a chest of drawers on the far side of the stone room, and opened the top left drawer. Inside were several layers of folded servants' clothing, however, that wasn't what I was looking for. I reached into the drawer, sliding my hand to the back of the dresser. I felt cautiously for a small depression, and pressed. A door silently slid open next to me. The dwarf jumped back in surprise. "It's... seamless!" he announced, "Incredible!" I agreed, but also didn't care.
I walked through the disguised doorway, beckoning the dwarf to follow me. "Watch your step," I murmered, "I might've missed a couple on my way in."
"A couple what?" he asked, then answered his own question, "Traps."
I glided across the floor, ears alert for the muted click of a trigger. Luckily, we made it to the last doorway without incidence. Evidently, they hadn't found my way in. Bates was a wily old man... I grinned as I realized I probably knew my way around his house better than they did.
We stood in a masoleum, catching our breath from the final climb. The dwarf recovered before me, but then, by the look of him, he hadn't been held for nearly as long... Or had he? A suspicion bloomed in my mind, and I didn't think to question it. I grabbed his hairy little head and pushed him against the casket for leverage, mechanical dagger in hand. I pressed it against his throat, deep enough to feel the pull of taut flesh, and slowly hissed through my teeth.
"Might big coincidence, isn't it, you showing up just when I decided to leave. Perhaps your superiors knew I couldn't be held, and sent you. Let me out, then kill me, is that it? Not this kitten, dwarfie, I know your kind. You don't understand a cause, you simply follow orders, don't you? So why don't you tell me what your life's worth, and see if I'll buy... And don't forget to talk slow, I don't want to miss your last words..."

 

She led us through the twisting and turning catacombs to a room judgeing by the support beams I would speculate of a very large house. As I hypothesized about just how large she reached into a drawer and was felt around inside of it. Suddenly she withdrew her hand and a large portion of the door opened "It's... seamless!" I announced "Incredible!" she agreed though only half heartily "Watch your step," she murmured, "I might've missed a couple on my way in." "A couple what?" I asked, and then answering my own question, "Traps?"
I scanned the door with my eyes once more interesting contraption rivaling even the Wheel Clans" technique I spat at the thought of the Wheel Clan. Before I know it we where inside another building I caught my breath. Then I felt my hair being grabbed "what a day to forget my helm" I thought. She pressed her dagger to my thick skin under my chin, thick it was thick but not thick enough to with stand the thrust of her dagger.

"Might big coincidence, isn't it, you showing up just when I decided to leave. Perhaps your superiors knew I couldn't be held, and sent you. Let me out, then kill me, is that it? Not this kitten, dwarfie, I know your kind. You don't understand a cause; you simply follow orders, don't you? So why don't you tell me what your life's worth, and see if I'll buy... And don't forget to talk slow, I don't want to miss your last words..." She said

I could have got her with my axe and she would have got me too but I decided I still had much to do before I could die.

"Before you end my life perhaps you would like to hear about my clan."
"If it has relevance"
"I believe it will aid you choice. "

I told the story of my clan "My clan is one of the few noble clans left. We are the blood decedents of the Iron clan and share very close ties with Caladon. I was sent here to represent the noble clans as a negotiator although that isn't my specialty. You see Both Tarent and Caladon need are ore, But lately Tarent has been intercepting are shipments to Caladon. We cut off trade to them but still they will not stop. Because of the Wheel Clan, as you may know the Wheel clan is the so-called lead clan what you don't know is they are corrupt and evil. They do hideous experiments on other Dwarfs with creatures they make such as the Dread Crystal Spiders the Wheel clan made them by fusing together technology and magik the result is a very powerful but unstable energy when mixed with a living entity it imbues the life form with power which is very destructive. They have done this for many years. They did this in the Clan Wars against their adversaries and this is how they earned victory. My clan barely survived the clan wars the Wheel clan doesn’t even know it did. I was sent here as a negotiator but also to gather intelligence I found out the wheel clan is now allied with Tarent and that Tarent may even be receiving shipments of Dread Crystal Spiders. I must get word to my clan if we are to take action are numbers are few but we are valiant warriors, The Wheel clan must fall if we are to stop this abomination from spreading it must be destroyed. "

She is Silent choosing my fate but the dagger had loosed when I spoken.

[OOC] Hope you happy now you have the kingdom of the Dwarfs + Dread Cyrs spiders and all you gained was 14 or so warriors. Oh and iI think where ready to be saved I know i am.[/OOC]

 

In lue of Notharah:


1100 hours - April 5, 1985

I spent the night wondering what was going on. There seemed to be a steady trickle of injured during the entire evening, but no-one was telling me anything. However, during the late evening, after the battle had raged for more than three hours, I found out something that even the guards couldn't stop - everyone was talking about it and I could here right through the tent.

I appears that whoever was in charge of the army - some captain from Cumbria - has been seriously injured and sent back to Caladon to recover. I could also make out that the second in command was badly injured too, but he was taken somewhere. The battle finished soon after.

This morning, I've spent the last 2 hours pacing back and forth, trying to find out what has been going on. I would still like to be part of this adventure but it seems to be passing me by. If only I could find out what's going on without making matters worse for myself.

I get bored with this frustration.

"Hey, what's going?" I holler to the two burly men, still keeping an eye on me. They look at each other and smirk. "Well, no matter who's side you're playing for, I suppose we can tell ya'. It's not going to make any difference. We've won the battle and liberated Stillwater!"

I sit back down on the bed. The adventure was over? Maybe if I joined up with these people they would take me with them? Just then, the guards outside mumble something to the two men in my tent, who turn to me. "Gather's up." They say to me. "He's goin' to make a speech in the town centre in an hours time and wants everyone present, includin' us. Since you've been patient, and in light of your help yesterday, we're gonna' take ya' with us instead of chainin' ya' up."

Could this be my chance? I think to myself.

An hour later I'm standing at the edge of a large crowd of people. THe half-elf I met last night is standing at the head. "So he's gather!" I say to myself. His speech is short. He thanks everybody for their help and then announces that he's been given command of the troops due to the captains incapacitation.

When everyone starts to mave away, I stay behind. Waving my arms, I try and attract Gather's attention. If he is in charge, then he is just the person I need to talk to prove myself and perhaps find further adventure!

 

0930 hours - April 5, 1985

The sun has just begun to rise in the east and it's gentle light glints off the river Tar as it ripples it's way down the valley towards a large yellow haze on the horizon - Tarant.

I breathe in the fresh morning air and stir Pheonix into a gallop. When I get to Tarant I'm going to miss the fresh air. I've only been there twice before, both on diplomatic missions for the council, and on both occassions I have disliked the atmosphere in the city. This time it will be worse.

Tarant has been under marshal law since the war began, but my noble standing should help - as long as I don't attract too much attention to myself.

The battle in Stillwater would be over by now. I hope we won.


1130 hours - April 6, 1985

Having been riding swiftly for over a day now, I reach the outskirts of Tarant. Already I can smell the sulphur in the air from all the coal-burning machinery.

I've approached from the east side of the river, so as to avoid the boil. I don't want trouble this early on and besides, under marshal law it would be unusual for a noblewoman to be wondering around in such unsavoury areas of the city.

Leaving Pheonix hidden in a coppice, with a magickal ward to protect her against bandits and beasts, I make my way unseen into Tarant. It seems larger than I remember, but then it's been a few years since I've been here. Thinking back about the letter from the council, I head to the last place this 'Eve' was seen - the Cemetary. It's as good a place to start as any.


1315 hours

It took a while to get here. I've had no trouble from anyone. Even under marshal law, people still have to go out shopping. With such a lot of people just milling around the streets, just another noble woman out for the day attracted no undue attention.

I bought some flowers from a local shop and slipped into the cemematary under the pretence of visiting a relatives' grave. After half an hour of wandering around I am just about to give up when there is a commotion from inside one of the mausoleums. Carefully, I slip a throwing dagger from it's sheath under my sleeve and creep along the wall to the door.

Inside is a heavily-bearded Dwarf and a dirty young human woman. The girl is holding a dagger of some sort to the Dwarf's neck and the Dwarf is babbling on about his clan. Surprised, for I thought no Dwarf spoke of their clan, I listen more intently.

".....blood decedents of the Iron clan and share very close ties with Caladon. I was sent here to represent the noble clans as a negotiator, although that isn't my speciality. You see, Both Tarant and Caladon need our ore, but lately Tarant has been intercepting our shipments to Caladon. We cut off trade to them but still they will not stop, because of the Wheel Clan - as you may know the Wheel clan is the so-called lead clan, but what you don't know is that they are corrupt and evil. They do hideous experiments on other Dwarfs with creatures they make, such as the Dread Crystal Spiders. The Wheel clan made them by fusing together technology and magick. The result is a very powerful but unstable energy and when mixed with a living entity it imbues the life form with power which is very destructive. They have done this for many years. They did this in the Clan Wars against their adversaries and this is how they earned victory. My clan barely survived the clan wars - the Wheel clan doesn't even know it did. I was sent here as a negotiator but also to gather intelligence. I found out the wheel clan is now allied with Tarant and that Tarant may even be receiving shipments of Dread Crystal Spiders. I must get word to my clan if we are to take action. Our numbers are few but we are valiant warriors. The Wheel clan must fall if we are to stop this abomination from spreading. It must be destroyed!"

The girl loosened her grip on her dagger and draws back slightly. As she does so, the light filtering in through cracks in the roof catch her reddish-gold curls. There is no douct about it. [I smile] Looks like I've found our missing spy.

[OOC]
I'll let you sort out what you are doing to each other before I make my introductions. If you want to leave the Mausoleum, then get me to make my introductions - Rosie, you can trust me because I know your codename (Eve). In which case, my character will lead you to the river next to the cemetary, where you can follow her upstream a way before heading up the bank and go east a bit to Pheonix. Once you're in the coppice then we'll make our formal introductions.

I hope Dwarves like water! :wink:
[/OOC]

 

[OOC] Bah I Hate water why do you htink I refuse to Bathe :razz:. [/OOC]

As I finish my story I catch movement out of the corner of my eye. Drawing my axe would not be the wisest thing to do with this dagger pointed at my neck but not being the most rational dwarf in the world that’s just what I do. Three things happened at once I drew my axe out of its holder on my belt dived at the mausoleum door and got hit in the shoulder with a finely made dagger. What direction it came from I don’t know I was too concerned with the listener at the door. I do not know how much he heard but he must not escape with the information. I dove through the door knocking him back I jumped on him pining his arms with my feet I was about to separate his head from his body when I noticed he was a she. I promptly got off her arms and freed her. No true warrior kills a woman for no reason.

[OOC] This way you still get to decide my fate. Also what about Makeing GB's mansion Tarents Town hall Because its alot bigger then that little one they have near the university. And its walled in making an attack even harder.[/OOC]

 

[OOC]
Dwarves must be myopic - how could you not realise that a beautiful, well-indowed young woman wearing a loose-fitting elegant dress was not infact a woman! It's a good job you invented the eye-glasses! :wink:

Also, if you'd read Rosie's threads then you would have realised that Bate's mansion is infact being used as the government headquarters and war room during the war. (ie. Already is a kind-of town hall, except there are no menial jobs being directed from there).
[/OOC]


Getting up and brushing the dust off my dress, I eye the hairy little Dwarf. Well, no-one can fault his manners.

I look back at the girl hiding in the shadows. "A friend of yours 'Eve'?" I ask. The girl looks at me with surprise and scorn.

"I suppose they sent you to get me did they?" she asks back. She walks over and wrenches her dagger from the Dwarf's shoulder. If the Dwarf winced, then it was well covered by his beard. As she does so, I notice that she is wearing an interesting black-diamond pendent. It is obviously old but equally obviously well-made, with fine twisted silver braiding.

"Perhaps introductions would be good, but we'd better get out of here first" I say. "I've got a way out, but it will involve using the river." [I look at the Dwarf] "Perhaps you should come with us too."

We quietly slip through a gap in the fence and head down to the water's edge. Keeping carefully hidden amongst the reeds, we make our way upriver until we clear the edge of the city. The Dwarf seemed a bit upset at this latest maneuver and kept mumbling something about baths. At the mention of baths, I look at the girl called 'Eve'. Maybe once we get her out of here, she should have one too. She looks rather dirty at the moment and those locks of hers just hang limply around her shoulders. [I smile] She should scrub up nicely and I could do wonders with those curls!

Once clear of the city, we scramble up the bank and head east until we reach the coppice where I left Pheonix. However, I've just thought of a small snag. I'd expected to teleport out of Tarantian territory, but with this Dwarf tagging along then it rules out that option. Pheonix can carry both myself and the girl, but she wouldn't be able to carry all three of us. That's something we'll have to discuss.

[We reach the coppice and I turn to the other two]. "Well, we should be safe here for the time being, so it's time for introductions I think. My name is Katherine L'Anara. I, well, let's just say I run errands for the Magick council of Caladon." [Looking at the Dwarf again] "I've been sent to rescue 'Eve' here, but it seems that I have you to thank for that, my good Dwarf. OK, it's your turn now..."

 

[OOC] Think about it. Its bight out side and dark inside so all I could really see was your silhouette. In regards to GB mansion -Opps I missed that part or forgot it oh well. Yes and also if you guys ever return to Caladon I’ll head back to my clan and go get my goggled helm so I can see the difference between friend and foe. Finally your not that beautiful you don’t even have facial hair.[/OOC]
The woman got up and brushing the dusted off her dress she looked at me peculiarly.
She then looked past me to my comrade
"A friend of yours 'Eve'?" she asked. The girl looked her with shock and ridicule.
"I suppose they sent you to get me did they?" she asks back. She walks over and yanks her dagger from my shoulder. She how ever did not pull it out straight and it made a triangle mark in my skin.

The newest member of are little crowd led the way to the edge of the river we ducked among the reeds moving carefully I slipped in a few times due to the lack of boot adorning my feet and the lack of boots. DAMN that’s what I forgot, boots. Then we went in the water for the last leg of the venture. During this time is when I really got mad. "Not only will I have to retreat my armor because of the rust spots that are sure to form I have to change the blade on my axe and refuel it. What the hell was that that just moved past my leg? Ok um-big people I can't seem to reach the ground here. Damn fish, your lucky I m using my hands to stay afloat or I would take my axe too your gills. I hate this water its oily and gooey it doesn’t have the same density as the normal cave bath water" I mumbled
Finally we reached shore after what seemed like an eternity. She lead us to the east until we reached a wooded area. I saw a beautiful hoarse hidden in side the wood.
[We reach the coppice and she turns to us]. "Well, we should be safe here for the time being, so it's time for introductions I think. My name is Katherine L'Anara. I, well, let's just say I run errands for the Magick council of Caladon." [Looking at the Dwarf again] "I've been sent to rescue 'Eve' here, but it seems that I have you to thank for that, my good Dwarf. OK, it's your turn now..."
I Begin "I am Mercren Redstone of the Nobel Clan Bronze Axe" I then proceeded to retell my story. When I am about half way through I hear a sound in to woods coming from the south. "You two had best leave here" I said "I will take care of this these days there are plenty of dwarfs in Tarent I can blend in until I find some transport. I have a friend in the city who will hide me he is used to taking gambles [I smirk at my pun] also I know of an air machine near the outskirts but tell me where shall we meet. "
"Meet us near still water within 3 days"
"Fine but go now I will take care of every one who attempts to follow you. "
So they left just as three Tarent guards approached with one halfling in a smoking jacket. The halfling drew a pistol witch had its barrel cut off two other guards fell before they could draw their swords one guard drew his sword and attempted to lunge at me I parried his sword and did a complete 360 degree arc aimed at his mid section. He attempted to block but his sword snapped. He looked at me then to his sword hilt then to me again. He threw it at me and hit my shoulder again. Luckily, the handles part it so I plucked it off the ground and chucked it at him by pure luck it hit him in the ankle. That's when I felt pain ripple down my back. I turned to see the gnome smiling at me. I hit the little basterd with a sure slice and he was dead quickly enough.
I walked over to the other man and hit him in the midsection as he attempted to get up. I then got very tired so slept under a near by tree tangled in its roots. My last thought was "it must have been poisoned" then all went dark.

 

[OOC]
Sorry DW, I forgot about the light differential and I suppose you wouldn't be too familiar with the sillouette of a woman seeing as you're a dwarf, so I'll let you off. :razz:

And sorry to hear you were poisoned DW. Get better soon! :wink:
[/OOC]


1700 hours - April 6, 1985

The Dwarf introduces himself as Mercren Redstone. Apparently he is from the Clan Bronze Axe, supposedly thought lost by the other Dwarven clans. Suddenly there is noise from the south - someone must have tracked us somehow.

"You two had best leave here" states Redstone in a tone of voice that defies argument. "I will take care of this. These days there are plenty of dwarfs in Tarant so I can blend in until I find some transport. I have a friend in the city who will hide me - he is used to taking gambles. Also I know of an air machine near the outskirts, but tell me, where shall we meet?"

I think quickly. It would be best for Eve and myself to head out of Tarantian territory as quickly as possible. Following the river back up to the Stillwater encampment would be the best option and we would be safe with the army. Besides, Moonblade will need us. If Eve truly has completed her mission then she is probably the most valuable person we have on Cumbria's side! "Meet us near Stillwater within 3 days" I reply to Redstone.

"Fine, but go now. I will take care of everyone who attempts to follow you." was the Dwarf's reply.

Quickly I haul a somewhat disgruntled Eve onto Pheonix and jump up behind her. There is no time to find that teleportation scroll now and magick that powerful would leave a residue clearly detectable by anyone approaching the coppice. Spurring Pheonix into a gallop we swiftly leave the coppice and head north along the side of the river valley. "Good luck and thank you noble Dwarf" I mutter under my breath.

We speed along at a fast gallop until the sun starts to set. I pull pheonix back to a canter. Eve is staring out over the river Tar. The sun is setting over the water, giving a vivid orange glow to the slowly moving water. Letting out a slow breath, Eve appears awed by the scene. "I've never seen a sunset like that before. I've spent most of my time in Caladon and you can't see things like that there. I saw the sun rise over the ocean once, but it's not the same is it?"

I smile at her and rein Pheonix in. Dismounting, I help Eve down and tether Pheonix to a nearby tree. I decide to spend the night here, rather than teleporting back to Stillwater. Besides, it would give me time to get to know are mysterious little spy. As I prepare a fire, Eve sits by the bank of the Tar and gazes mesmirised out over the gurgling water. After the bustle of Tarant it's so peaceful out here and I begin to relax again.

An hour later, we've eaten and I lay out two large bear-furs to sleep in. Eve doesn't even bother to undress. Within minutes she is snuggled up in the fur and fast asleep. She must be tired after her experience in Tarant.


0800 hours - April 7, 1985

The sun is up and it's warmth bathes my skin. Time for an early morning bath I think. Just the thing to get rid of all that city grime. Eve is already up and humming to herself. "Morning Eve" I say. In the morning sun I can see just what sort of state she is in. I Scowl at her. "Time for you to have a bath too I think."

She definitely didn't seem too pleased, but after a bit of coaxing I convince her to come down to the river with me. Twenty minutes later, we're both drying ourselves off in the morning warmth. I take a while to appraise her new appearance. I was right, she definitely does scrub up well and those loevly coppery curls of hers catch the morning sun brilliantly. Absently, I twist my own long red hair around my fingers. I know from her description that she is only two years my junior and now, standing naked on the bank of the river and quietly humming a tune to herself, I can see that she is indeed a young woman - all traces of the scraggly little girl I met yesterday banished by the cool water of the Tar.

She catches my eye and blushes. Giggling, she wraps her towel around herself and runs back up to camp to get dressed.

[OOC]
Hope you're not too bashful Rosie! :wink: Oh, and I just CAN'T let you wear those horrible dirty rags of your now that you're finally clean. I've got some spare clothes in Pheonix's saddle bag, so get me to sort you some of those out for you. Kat.
[/OOC]

 

I awoke the next day or what I hoped was the next day. My back was terribly stiff and I could feel the dried blood under my armor as I pickled my self off the ground. I was lucky to be alive and I owe my life to my Dwarven blood. I walked over to there the gnome lied; I stripped him of his smoking jacket and repaired it. I cleaned it out in the river and dried it in the sun. I put it on storing my armor in my pack. "Its amazing how much fits in these packs" I thought. I walked toward Tarent right over the main bridge just as I had done before I turned down Dovenshire Way and proceeded to the Gentleman’s Club.to meet my friend Guren Rockharrow master gambler of Tarent.
I walked in and he greeted me as soon as I caught his eye
"Redstone? Mercren Redstone? Is that you?"
"Yes," I replayed "I have much to tell you friend can we go to the back room."
He led me through the door to the back room. I told him all about the deeds of the Wheel clan then I told him what I knew about the war.
"These are truly dark time for us all." He said then lighting up. "So you say that you need transport, I just happen to have the key for the fastest mode of transport you will find." He told me of a flying machine that was hidden near the docks around an entrance to the old sewer ways.
When I got to it I found something that interested me on it was a plaque that said
"This mini Aero blimp the first of my new inventions shall be my greatest achievement ever- Cedrick Appleby."
What it was however was a small blimp connected to an aeroplane both invented in Caladon and now brought to Tarent. I boarded it was just as Maxims’ aero flyers where built so I knew what controls where which. I used the near by air tanks to fill the blimp and began to float upwards I turned the propeller on and was on my way, no one the wiser. I made great time and within 4 hours I was near Stillwater I decided at Stillwater and continue on foot. Unfortunately Appleby being himself forgot to place any type of braking system on the landing gears nor did he put anything to slowdown the plane so I clipped the balloon ropes then went down towards the ground much in the way birds don’t. I pulled up on the controls and careening into a building I was knocked unconscious but I the ground broke my fall.
[OOC] I beat you to still water Oh feel free to revive me... Some body[/OOC]

 

The woman who had interrupted my session with the dwarf practically dragged me down to the river to bathe. I fought like a banshee as she threw me into the water, sputtering like a cat. I glared at her as she undressed, laughing softly. I pulled off my now soaked clothes, and threw them on the bank. She grabbed a lump of something soft and sweet smelling, and advanced on me. As she reached me I realized what it was--soap!!! I shrieked and tried to swim away, but I was tired despite my night's sleep. Being stuck in prison and tortured kind of takes it out of you. She caught me in the shallows and proceeded to--ick!--clean me. She didn't let me go till it felt like I was missing two layers of skin, at which point I scrambled out of the water, looking for my clothes. I hummed softly to myself as I looked, but I finally came to a realization. They were gone! She had done something with them, the foul demoness! I grabbed a length of clothe nearby, wrapping myself in it, and ran back towards camp. As I looked back, I caught her watching me with a huge grin on her face. I couldn't help it. I giggled, and scampered into the trees.
She followed me a few minutes later, and I scowled at her. "Where are my clothes!" She looked up, surprised. "You weren't actually planning on wearing those again, were you?" she asked.
"I most certainly was!" I retorted, "They're the only clothes I've got!"
She looked at me in disbelief. "I thought you were supposed to be a skilled thief."
"I am! I'm just sort of..." I mumbled something under my breath.
"Just what?" she asked. I turned bright red and shook my head. She was digging in her saddlebags, and looked up at me. "Come on, you just what?" I took a deep breath.
"I'm sort of... well, I like to drink, see, cuz then I'm not so sad, about Lukan, and everything, and when I'm drunk, I'm kind of... well... I don't pay real good attention, and lately, I've been drunk more than usual, and when I wake up in the morning, things are kind of, well..." I blushed a deep shade of cranberry, "They're stolen." I closed my eyes and waited for her to laugh.
I heard an odd squeaking sound, and looked up. She had her face buried in the saddlebags, and she was trembling. Hey, at least she was trying not to laugh! After a moment, I began to giggle, too, and soon we were both sitting on the ground, laughing so hard our ribs ached. When we finally quieted down, she tossed me something that resembled clothes. "What is this, a... dress?" I looked at her incredulously, "You expect me to wear a dress?!?"
She smothered a giggle, and took the dress out of my hands. "Come on, I'll help you put it on. I'll make a lady of you yet." I stood up obediently, but couldn't help muttering "But I don't want to be a lady..."