The party had wandered someway down the passage, each in their own little worlds. Yshania had noticed Harry run off ahead only to return with a puzzled expression. As requested, Yshania examined the tracks that lead before them...she had not paid them any attention earlier...quietly she admired the priestess' observation skills...
"There seems to be two sets of feline prints, but one uses it’s back paws only. The other feline alternates between running on all fours and walking on its hind legs. There is also something odd about the tail on that one. Then there …” She pointed to a specific set of confusing prints.
Yshania considered the herbs that she had ingested then dismissed the thought. No not them. Suddenly she was struck by the thought that the truffles could have some cutaneous method of absorption and berated her own carelessness...she need to warn the others...blushing, she glanced at the others' expressions.
Still Vivien was preoccupied with a struggling broom (Yshania made a mental note to discuss this matter soon) Harry looked bewildered, but not disbelieving, Dragon Wench smiled dreamily (only adding emphasis to Yshania's sense of detachment). Yshania felt she needed to address the issue, T'Lainya was studying her for a response.
“Well it seems to be a large rabbit.” she squeaked. The gods she hated it when her voice belied her confidence.
She was relieved if not concerned by T'Lainya's response. Though T'L offered support to Yshania's theory, Yshania sensed uncertainty in her words.
As the party rounded the corner, they were suddenly confronted by the evidence. Yshania was quietly impressed by her own deductions, though more than perturbed.
Fumbling in her pockets for her dog eared night time reading of fantastical creatures in order to identify the beings, she accidentally knocked off the cork of her Patchouli oil. 'Damn' she muttered to herself as the cloud of perfume engulfed her...she thought of asking T’Lainya to cast Zone of Sweet air but then realised Patchouli would mask the fact she hadn't bathed in four days so thought better of it.
Yshania gasped as the lion cast teleport and the party of creatures before them disappeared.
‘That would explain the gaps between sets of prints’ she thought aloud. T’Lainya raised an eyebrow. ‘Well the prints seem to disappear then reappear only a few feet away, they do not seem to have mastered the spell. I wonder where they are trying to get to – and why they did not acknowledge our presence’. Yshania fell into deep thought, moving forward to read the tracks, noticing sub-consciously that Dragon Wench was lifting her nose and sniffing the air.
‘They are futuristic characters’ offered Dragon Wench in her wisdom. Yshania, having retrieved her dog eared night time reading of fantastical creatures could only confirm the possibility as no reference or connection could be found.
‘It is the Hare that throws imbalance into the equation’ she muttered to herself. ‘Since when did felines care for the time of day?’ She knelt and brushed the dust around the floor. ‘I would hazard a guess that the Hare is here to perfect the transportation spell. These creatures are making attempts on time travel, and are struggling to move more than a few feet at a time. There is something mad and hysterical about their motive, but I sense no evil in the shadows of their Ki’
She looked up at the others, who observed in consternation. It was at that moment that a small girl with flaxen braids came pelting around the corner, and following her were three bears. The smallest in a plaintive voice addressed the adventurers.
"SOMEBODY has been sleeping in MY bed, SOMEBODY has been eating MY porridge."
Yshania watched, horrified, as the little girl fled passed them. She gave chase. At the next corner, as would have been predictable in any nightime story to scare the elven children, the little girl stumbled and fell. The three bears bore down with malicious intent. At that point Yshania yelled ‘STOP!’ in the biggest voice she could muster.
The largest of the bears turned gravely towards her, breathing heavily he growled ‘who says stop?’
Slowing to a calm walk towards the creatures she knew that she could only charm one of them, and bloodloss was against the grain. Silently she dipped inside her blouse and pulled out two apples.
‘Can I tempt you with some fresh fruit?’ she asked. With a roar the bear ran towards her and snatched the apples from her proffered hands. ‘Do you think these will replace our porridge? Do you think this measly offering will repair our chairs and our beds?’
Now completely perplexed, Yshania quietly retrieved the apples and replaced them inside her shirt. Reluctantly she drew out a small bunch of herbs and offered them in replacement.
A moment passed as the large bear studied the greenery she had offered. Slowly a large ursine grin began to spread across his muzzle and he retreated quietly to confer in whispers with his mates. All this time the poor girl lay prostrate on the tunnel floor, her eyes flitting terrified between the party. Eventually the largest bear returned.
‘We will take your offering’ he said gruffly ‘on condition the brat does not return. We are tired of missing breakfast and having to put up with additional carpentry after a morning walk, for the sake of the curiosity of man’
Yshania glanced at the small girl, hoping for some kind of promise. At that point the child just upped and ran. Too terrified to scream she legged it away from Yshania and off down a tangent corridor Yshania and her friends were yet to investigate. Yshania looked back at the bear. ‘I thank you for you charity’ she said.
Turning her back on the bears, who had huddled to admire the fronds, Yshania headed back to the party.
Order of the Dark Flame: The Adventures Continue (no spam-story)
T’lainya watched the little girl flee from the bears in consternation. She was about to follow Yshania when she had a sudden thought. She walked a short way to where the bears and the girl had come from. She looked at the footprints that started from the center of the floor and shook her head. She quietly walked towards Yshania, who was confronting the bears. T’lainya mouthed the words of the True Sight spell, clutching the symbol of her faith. She was rewarded when the forms of the bears wavered and blurred, the ursine outlines becoming thinner and more humanoid. She took a deep breath to hide her amusement. She walked over to the bears and greeted them.
“We seek information, perhaps you could help us.” T’lainyas voice was courteous.
“What do you have to trade for it?” The larger bear asked in a rumbling voice.
“Hmmmm, a few leaves and stones gilt with magic that fades by first light of dawn. If that pleases you not, perchance you would find contentment with a goose that holds fast all that touch her?”
The bears looked quickly at each other and started backing away from the redhaired priestess. “Perhaps we don’t need trade items after all.” The middle bear spoke nervously.
“Oak, ash and thorn! Hold fast for we mean you no harm, yet cold iron will I bind you with if you try to leave.”
The bears silently studied the group and the smallest one sighed. His figure shimmered and turned into the wemic shaman. Then he turned into a huge cat with blindingly white teeth. Tlainya tapped her foot impatiently. The cat motioned to the other two bears, who remained in that form.
“It’s been long since the tales have even told of a pooka, much less three.” T’lainya smiled at the disgruntled Fey-folk.
“Hmph” The cat snorted looking as dignified as a cat can. “What do you wish of us? We don’t have any buried treasure at the rainbows end, that’s leprechauns.”
T’lainya laughed. “Nothing quite so spectacular. Truly we only seek to find our friend Gwalchmai. He disappeared from his room and we are concerned.”
Dragonwench interrupted quickly. We think he was kidnapped and we want to rescue him.”
Viv nodded and made a desperate grab for the broom as it slipped from her hand and flew between the startled creatures. Harry grabbed at the broom which slithered away and circled the group again. T’lainya groaned and put her hand over her eyes. Remembering what happened last time she hastily opened them again. Dragonwench snaked her arm out and succeeded in pulling a few straws from the broom. It seemed to shudder and then flew behind Viv, hiding behind her, like a child expecting punishment. Everyone stared for a moment and then the three craetures started laughing uproariously.
Wiping a tear from it’s eye, the middle bear shifted shape into the large white rabbit they had seen earlier. “Priceless, priceless I tell you. Are you a comedic troupe?” As he noted their embarrassment the rabbit chuckled again. “Never mind. We saw those sneaking drow around here earlier toting a prisoner.”
The cat named Ch’shhrr spoke eagerly. “They didn’t seem very competent for drow.” He looked thoughtfully at the group before him. “Har-vee, it’s almost time to leave. You can find the tracks to the north. Errrmmm you haven’t seen any strange fungi around have you?”
T’lainya smiled and said “No, we haven’t. Perhaps the reality distortion will help some to grow. Thank you for the help.”
The three creatures bowed grandly and the rabbit took a small gold disc from his pocket. He concentrated and they disappeared, the white of Ch’shhrrs teeth the last thing to disappear.
Dw looked curiously at T’lainya who winked and said mildly the fungi were best not put into the hands of such a notorious prankster race as the pookas.
“We seek information, perhaps you could help us.” T’lainyas voice was courteous.
“What do you have to trade for it?” The larger bear asked in a rumbling voice.
“Hmmmm, a few leaves and stones gilt with magic that fades by first light of dawn. If that pleases you not, perchance you would find contentment with a goose that holds fast all that touch her?”
The bears looked quickly at each other and started backing away from the redhaired priestess. “Perhaps we don’t need trade items after all.” The middle bear spoke nervously.
“Oak, ash and thorn! Hold fast for we mean you no harm, yet cold iron will I bind you with if you try to leave.”
The bears silently studied the group and the smallest one sighed. His figure shimmered and turned into the wemic shaman. Then he turned into a huge cat with blindingly white teeth. Tlainya tapped her foot impatiently. The cat motioned to the other two bears, who remained in that form.
“It’s been long since the tales have even told of a pooka, much less three.” T’lainya smiled at the disgruntled Fey-folk.
“Hmph” The cat snorted looking as dignified as a cat can. “What do you wish of us? We don’t have any buried treasure at the rainbows end, that’s leprechauns.”
T’lainya laughed. “Nothing quite so spectacular. Truly we only seek to find our friend Gwalchmai. He disappeared from his room and we are concerned.”
Dragonwench interrupted quickly. We think he was kidnapped and we want to rescue him.”
Viv nodded and made a desperate grab for the broom as it slipped from her hand and flew between the startled creatures. Harry grabbed at the broom which slithered away and circled the group again. T’lainya groaned and put her hand over her eyes. Remembering what happened last time she hastily opened them again. Dragonwench snaked her arm out and succeeded in pulling a few straws from the broom. It seemed to shudder and then flew behind Viv, hiding behind her, like a child expecting punishment. Everyone stared for a moment and then the three craetures started laughing uproariously.
Wiping a tear from it’s eye, the middle bear shifted shape into the large white rabbit they had seen earlier. “Priceless, priceless I tell you. Are you a comedic troupe?” As he noted their embarrassment the rabbit chuckled again. “Never mind. We saw those sneaking drow around here earlier toting a prisoner.”
The cat named Ch’shhrr spoke eagerly. “They didn’t seem very competent for drow.” He looked thoughtfully at the group before him. “Har-vee, it’s almost time to leave. You can find the tracks to the north. Errrmmm you haven’t seen any strange fungi around have you?”
T’lainya smiled and said “No, we haven’t. Perhaps the reality distortion will help some to grow. Thank you for the help.”
The three creatures bowed grandly and the rabbit took a small gold disc from his pocket. He concentrated and they disappeared, the white of Ch’shhrrs teeth the last thing to disappear.
Dw looked curiously at T’lainya who winked and said mildly the fungi were best not put into the hands of such a notorious prankster race as the pookas.
[url="http://www.gamebanshee.com"]GameBanshee[/url] Make your gaming scream!
"I have seen them/I have watched them all fall/I have been them/I have watched myself crawl"
"I will only complicate you/Trust in me and fall as well"
"Quiet time...no more whine"
"I have seen them/I have watched them all fall/I have been them/I have watched myself crawl"
"I will only complicate you/Trust in me and fall as well"
"Quiet time...no more whine"
-
Yshania
- Posts: 8572
- Joined: Wed May 09, 2001 10:00 pm
- Location: Some Girls Wander By Mistake
- Contact:
Yshania observed this interaction with mild amusement…fey folk heh? She chuckled to herself…that would explain some of the mysteries, but not all of them…
Suddenly she felt aggrieved that their identification had happened after her trade for the little girl’s life. She grumbled quietly to herself at the loss of the herbs, at which point Harry materialised from the shadows. He winked at Yshania then opened his hand to reveal the bunch of herbs he had skilfully pocketed from the pooka.
‘Hey!’ yelled Yshania, she grabbed for the bundle, but not before Harry, grinning, melted back into the shadows. Yshania grumbled some more.
Vivien, oblivious to the goings on, turned to comfort her broom. The broom rustled miserably and rubbed against her leg. Vivien whispered to it whilst rearranging it’s bristles. Here, thought Yshania, was strange sight. She smiled to herself, recalling a similar interaction she had witnessed many years ago now. He, ironically, was also a mage. He was travelling in search of his fortune, his dream only for promotion within the University. His strange friend was no broom, however, it was a case on legs, that used to follow the mage like an obedient dog. Yshania racked her brains to recall the young man’s name…
Rinsed Out?
Rinsed In?
No!! she had it! Rincewind. Oh he was a whimsical character Yshania remembered fondly. She wondered if he had ever achieved his heart’s desire…
Snapping back, she approached Vivien. ‘How is it?’ she asked, smiling.
‘it is a he’ Vivien responded. ‘he is okay, a little shook up though’ Yshania reached out and stroked the brooms bristles. The broom shivered it’s content. ‘he likes you’ grinned Vivien, excited that another was showing interest.
‘Here’ said Yshania, dipping into her bag, ‘I have a little left over linseed oil…maybe Broom would like it’ Smiling broadly at Yshania, Vivien took the small bottle, giggling as the Broom began to shudder in bursts of badly contained excitement.
Turning back to T’Lainya she asked what had caused her suspicion of the fey folk in the face of all this absurdity….
[ 10-16-2001: Message edited by: Yshania ]
Suddenly she felt aggrieved that their identification had happened after her trade for the little girl’s life. She grumbled quietly to herself at the loss of the herbs, at which point Harry materialised from the shadows. He winked at Yshania then opened his hand to reveal the bunch of herbs he had skilfully pocketed from the pooka.
‘Hey!’ yelled Yshania, she grabbed for the bundle, but not before Harry, grinning, melted back into the shadows. Yshania grumbled some more.
Vivien, oblivious to the goings on, turned to comfort her broom. The broom rustled miserably and rubbed against her leg. Vivien whispered to it whilst rearranging it’s bristles. Here, thought Yshania, was strange sight. She smiled to herself, recalling a similar interaction she had witnessed many years ago now. He, ironically, was also a mage. He was travelling in search of his fortune, his dream only for promotion within the University. His strange friend was no broom, however, it was a case on legs, that used to follow the mage like an obedient dog. Yshania racked her brains to recall the young man’s name…
Rinsed Out?
Rinsed In?
No!! she had it! Rincewind. Oh he was a whimsical character Yshania remembered fondly. She wondered if he had ever achieved his heart’s desire…
Snapping back, she approached Vivien. ‘How is it?’ she asked, smiling.
‘it is a he’ Vivien responded. ‘he is okay, a little shook up though’ Yshania reached out and stroked the brooms bristles. The broom shivered it’s content. ‘he likes you’ grinned Vivien, excited that another was showing interest.
‘Here’ said Yshania, dipping into her bag, ‘I have a little left over linseed oil…maybe Broom would like it’ Smiling broadly at Yshania, Vivien took the small bottle, giggling as the Broom began to shudder in bursts of badly contained excitement.
Turning back to T’Lainya she asked what had caused her suspicion of the fey folk in the face of all this absurdity….
[ 10-16-2001: Message edited by: Yshania ]
Parachute for sale, like new! Never opened!
Guinness, black goes with everything.
Guinness, black goes with everything.
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dragon wench
- Posts: 19609
- Joined: Tue Apr 24, 2001 10:00 pm
- Location: The maelstrom where chaos merges with lucidity
- Contact:
In an absent sort of manner Dragon Wench observed Yshania and Vivien bending intently over the broom. Strangely, she got the distinct sense that it was scrutinizing her, almost casting a beady little eye from amongst its bristles. Dragon Wench shook her head, wondering if her perception was related to the general frame of mind she had entered since consuming the mushrooms. She decided that she would have to study the brooom more carefully when she felt herself again.
While thus preoccupied the random thought crossed her head that since she was clad in her mage robe rather than armour, perhaps she should make some effort to protect herself. Summoning all the focus she could muster, she began to weave Stoneskin. As soon as the spell was completed, she noticed a sudden shift in the tunnel's temperature, and looking down she realised that the spell had gone terribly wrong.....
In place of her mage robe was a diaphanous garment that appeared to be at least as revealing as the ripped clothing worn by Yshania and Viv.
Blushing scarlet, she attempted to melt into the shadows, hoping fervently that this attire would prove to have at least some protective qualities in the event of an attack.
While thus preoccupied the random thought crossed her head that since she was clad in her mage robe rather than armour, perhaps she should make some effort to protect herself. Summoning all the focus she could muster, she began to weave Stoneskin. As soon as the spell was completed, she noticed a sudden shift in the tunnel's temperature, and looking down she realised that the spell had gone terribly wrong.....
In place of her mage robe was a diaphanous garment that appeared to be at least as revealing as the ripped clothing worn by Yshania and Viv.
Blushing scarlet, she attempted to melt into the shadows, hoping fervently that this attire would prove to have at least some protective qualities in the event of an attack.
Spoiler
testingtest12
Spoiler
testingtest12
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Yshania
- Posts: 8572
- Joined: Wed May 09, 2001 10:00 pm
- Location: Some Girls Wander By Mistake
- Contact:
T'Lainya opened her mouth to respond just as Yshania spied Dragon Wench from the corner of her eye. Suddenly T'Lainya's explanations were not paramount. Rushing across to Dragon Wench, Yshania stood protectively in front of her - shielding her embarrassment whilst she rummaged through her bag...
Digging deep she discovered an old, but still semi intact, cowl. Watching the others with a mean expression, she challenged them to laugh...T'Lainya just watched, Harry smirked, then reddened and turned his back, Vivien grasped the broom close to her - protecting it's innocence.
Turning back to Dragon Wench, Yshania opened up the cylindrical garment and motioned for DW to step inside it. Standing back from Dragon Wench, Yshania felt mildly pleased with her initiative. Though the garment was loose and possibly unstable, it allowed DW a little modesty.
Yshania made a mental note to call this a mini dress.
Digging deep she discovered an old, but still semi intact, cowl. Watching the others with a mean expression, she challenged them to laugh...T'Lainya just watched, Harry smirked, then reddened and turned his back, Vivien grasped the broom close to her - protecting it's innocence.
Turning back to Dragon Wench, Yshania opened up the cylindrical garment and motioned for DW to step inside it. Standing back from Dragon Wench, Yshania felt mildly pleased with her initiative. Though the garment was loose and possibly unstable, it allowed DW a little modesty.
Yshania made a mental note to call this a mini dress.
Parachute for sale, like new! Never opened!
Guinness, black goes with everything.
Guinness, black goes with everything.
While the ladies helped DW rearrange her wardrobe Harry decided to go scouting further down the passage giving them some privacy.
Silently sliding from shadow to shadow he soon heard the harsh tones of 3 drow males out to prove themselves against the dangers of Underdark, grinning coldy at the thought of getting some revenge for the death of his wife Harry pulled his blades out and moved out of the shadows so the drow could see him.
They moved slowly to cut off Harry from any possible escape route and tried to taunt him into something rash and he just waited motionlessly for them to attack, a few seconds later the first ran in swing his mace at Harry's head. Catching the mace behind it's head with his sword Harry shifted his balance and kicked the other attacker in the stomach before stabbing the mace wielder in the middle of his chest.
Leaving his sword in the drows's chest Harry drew his favourite dagger with his off hand and taunted the 2 remaining drow, they both moved in cautiously as there was a look on his face that seemed to promise death. Attacking at the same time they attempted to get a lucky disabling blow in but Harry was ready for this and turning the tables slashed one of the drow across his face causing a non lethal but bloody wound rendering his unable to see.
Facing the last drow Harry could see from his stance that this was the most skilled of the drow. Both wielding dual swords they circled slowly before engaging with a harsh clash of steel on steel. Exchanging various cuts on each others arms and legs Harry could feel his arms grow weary from the extended battle while his enermy was still fresh. The finale was set when Harry felt his grip slip on one sword from the blood flowing down his arm, the drow saw this and leapt in beating his sword down, while plunging his other sword into Harry's shoulder. Harry twisted away from the drow, pulling his sword from his hand, while using his off hand to plant his dagger into the drow's eye.
They both slumped to the ground and Harry tried desperately to reach the healing potion in his pocket before he passed out from lack of blood.
(OOC if this is a problem i can edit it... to what i have no idea
)
[ 10-17-2001: Message edited by: Harry2052 ]
Silently sliding from shadow to shadow he soon heard the harsh tones of 3 drow males out to prove themselves against the dangers of Underdark, grinning coldy at the thought of getting some revenge for the death of his wife Harry pulled his blades out and moved out of the shadows so the drow could see him.
They moved slowly to cut off Harry from any possible escape route and tried to taunt him into something rash and he just waited motionlessly for them to attack, a few seconds later the first ran in swing his mace at Harry's head. Catching the mace behind it's head with his sword Harry shifted his balance and kicked the other attacker in the stomach before stabbing the mace wielder in the middle of his chest.
Leaving his sword in the drows's chest Harry drew his favourite dagger with his off hand and taunted the 2 remaining drow, they both moved in cautiously as there was a look on his face that seemed to promise death. Attacking at the same time they attempted to get a lucky disabling blow in but Harry was ready for this and turning the tables slashed one of the drow across his face causing a non lethal but bloody wound rendering his unable to see.
Facing the last drow Harry could see from his stance that this was the most skilled of the drow. Both wielding dual swords they circled slowly before engaging with a harsh clash of steel on steel. Exchanging various cuts on each others arms and legs Harry could feel his arms grow weary from the extended battle while his enermy was still fresh. The finale was set when Harry felt his grip slip on one sword from the blood flowing down his arm, the drow saw this and leapt in beating his sword down, while plunging his other sword into Harry's shoulder. Harry twisted away from the drow, pulling his sword from his hand, while using his off hand to plant his dagger into the drow's eye.
They both slumped to the ground and Harry tried desperately to reach the healing potion in his pocket before he passed out from lack of blood.
(OOC if this is a problem i can edit it... to what i have no idea
)[ 10-17-2001: Message edited by: Harry2052 ]
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dragon wench
- Posts: 19609
- Joined: Tue Apr 24, 2001 10:00 pm
- Location: The maelstrom where chaos merges with lucidity
- Contact:
Smiling gratefully at Yshania, Dragon Wench wrapped the cowl around herself. While she would hardly describe herself as modest, she did feel that being dressed in a garment that was suited to late night cavorting might not be entirely appropriate in a battle situation.
Still feeling somewhat light-headed, she glanced around and noticed that Harry was nowhere to be seen. At that moment, a shout echoed down the passageway......
[ 10-17-2001: Message edited by: dragon wench ]
Still feeling somewhat light-headed, she glanced around and noticed that Harry was nowhere to be seen. At that moment, a shout echoed down the passageway......
[ 10-17-2001: Message edited by: dragon wench ]
Spoiler
testingtest12
Spoiler
testingtest12
Meanwhile, back on the tarrasque hunt...
The five companions (Nippy, Yshania, Lomoro, Loner, and Kramor, in case everyone has forgotten ) made their way to the Templar encampment, guided along the way by Yshania. It was a surprisingly uneventful journey. Loner noticed a distressing and increasing lack of wildlife as they went forward -- perhaps a sign, she thought to herself, that they were getting close. Perhaps creatures sensed the tarrasque's approach from a distance, and shied away. But she said nothing, and banished the thought from her mind.
"Any ideas on how we're going to...replicate me?" Lomoro asked cheerfully. Loner glanced sideways at her former master. From his merry demeanor she could almost imagine he was having a good time.
Kramor had been scouting ahead, and returned at a canter. His face was grave. "You all had better ride up here and see this, quickly," he said, and the group wordlessly followed after him.
After riding only a couple of yards, a shape, like a massive dark shadow, came into view ahead, accompanied by the terrible stench of rot and death. A silent chill ran through the group. This is it, Loner thought, and felt terror rising in her heart. But when she conquered it enough to think clearly, she realized that she could feel no fear from Kramor. He was perfectly calm. Even the normal fighting adrenalin was absent...
The motionless shape grew ever larger till finally it blocked most of the sunlight. The group, lower faces covered against the now-overpowering stench, craned their necks to squint up at it, and when they realized what it was, they all let out a collective gasp, and flinched violently, spooking the horses.
There, suspended by what could be called its hind claws from a massive scaffold among the trees, was the great hulking carcass of the tarrasque. Its underside was split and its innards had been scraped clean. Its grotesque head was missing.
Kramor sat motionless, staring straight ahead. Nippy only shook his head in disbelief. Lomoro, beside Loner, had remained perfectly still. Loner herself felt her head swim; she slipped from her horse and fell to the ground in a faint.
The five companions (Nippy, Yshania, Lomoro, Loner, and Kramor, in case everyone has forgotten
) made their way to the Templar encampment, guided along the way by Yshania. It was a surprisingly uneventful journey. Loner noticed a distressing and increasing lack of wildlife as they went forward -- perhaps a sign, she thought to herself, that they were getting close. Perhaps creatures sensed the tarrasque's approach from a distance, and shied away. But she said nothing, and banished the thought from her mind."Any ideas on how we're going to...replicate me?" Lomoro asked cheerfully. Loner glanced sideways at her former master. From his merry demeanor she could almost imagine he was having a good time.
Kramor had been scouting ahead, and returned at a canter. His face was grave. "You all had better ride up here and see this, quickly," he said, and the group wordlessly followed after him.
After riding only a couple of yards, a shape, like a massive dark shadow, came into view ahead, accompanied by the terrible stench of rot and death. A silent chill ran through the group. This is it, Loner thought, and felt terror rising in her heart. But when she conquered it enough to think clearly, she realized that she could feel no fear from Kramor. He was perfectly calm. Even the normal fighting adrenalin was absent...
The motionless shape grew ever larger till finally it blocked most of the sunlight. The group, lower faces covered against the now-overpowering stench, craned their necks to squint up at it, and when they realized what it was, they all let out a collective gasp, and flinched violently, spooking the horses.
There, suspended by what could be called its hind claws from a massive scaffold among the trees, was the great hulking carcass of the tarrasque. Its underside was split and its innards had been scraped clean. Its grotesque head was missing.
Kramor sat motionless, staring straight ahead. Nippy only shook his head in disbelief. Lomoro, beside Loner, had remained perfectly still. Loner herself felt her head swim; she slipped from her horse and fell to the ground in a faint.
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Gwalchmai
- Posts: 6252
- Joined: Wed May 09, 2001 11:00 am
- Location: This Quintessence of Dust
- Contact:
“What do you think you’re doing?” Kirlin shouted at the four Spider Scouts. The four Drow girls hastily tried to hide the ‘Kama Sutra Advanced Merit Badge Handbook’ and Pickly quickly re-buttoned her uniform. “You girls know those techniques are only for the most advanced scouts!” Kirlin continued to berate, “There are slaves in the Pleasure Dome that would kill to know those techniques!”
“But all the girls are trying it!” Mavin whined.
“Kids these days. So eager to grow up. Humph.” Kirlin thought to herself, then she said, “You are much too young. At least start with the basic moves first.”
“Like what? Kissing? Anyone can do that!” Gerty said.
“Anyone can do it badly. A good kiss involves blood and struggle.”
“Show us!”
Kirlin frowned at the girls. This was not the usual role for a Nest Mother, but the prisoner did have a certain attractiveness.... “Alright, but you will have to imagine that this male is awake.” She straddled Gwalchmai’s waist and pinned his shoulders to the table. “Note how my knees have trapped his arms so that he is helpless.” She then grabbed a handful of his hair and pulled his head up. She bent her lips to his and kissed him violently. Her tongue probed deep into his mouth and a trickle of blood ran down his cheek. Suddenly, he began to respond, his own tongue fighting with hers, his teeth biting her lip. A long moment passed, as Kirlin was surprised at the violence of his kiss. Breathless, she pulled back, and saw Gwalchmai looking at her with a look of mild amusement.
“Well, that’s a nice way to wake up!” Gwalchmai said.
“But all the girls are trying it!” Mavin whined.
“Kids these days. So eager to grow up. Humph.” Kirlin thought to herself, then she said, “You are much too young. At least start with the basic moves first.”
“Like what? Kissing? Anyone can do that!” Gerty said.
“Anyone can do it badly. A good kiss involves blood and struggle.”
“Show us!”
Kirlin frowned at the girls. This was not the usual role for a Nest Mother, but the prisoner did have a certain attractiveness.... “Alright, but you will have to imagine that this male is awake.” She straddled Gwalchmai’s waist and pinned his shoulders to the table. “Note how my knees have trapped his arms so that he is helpless.” She then grabbed a handful of his hair and pulled his head up. She bent her lips to his and kissed him violently. Her tongue probed deep into his mouth and a trickle of blood ran down his cheek. Suddenly, he began to respond, his own tongue fighting with hers, his teeth biting her lip. A long moment passed, as Kirlin was surprised at the violence of his kiss. Breathless, she pulled back, and saw Gwalchmai looking at her with a look of mild amusement.
“Well, that’s a nice way to wake up!” Gwalchmai said.
That there; exactly the kinda diversion we coulda used.
-
Gwalchmai
- Posts: 6252
- Joined: Wed May 09, 2001 11:00 am
- Location: This Quintessence of Dust
- Contact:
Stumbling back, Kirlin shouted “How did you awaken! Was it all a subterfuge?”
Gwalchmai just shook his head, “Last thing I remember is falling asleep in my bed. How did I get here?” He looked around and saw the distinctive architecture and furnishings of a Drow habitation. A tall, powerful Drow warrior, the one who had been kissing him, stood protectively in front of four young Drow girls. The girls all wore matching purple uniforms, with sashes emblazoned with various badges. He sat up, noting that he was still dressed in his breech cloth, and that his arms were bound by his sides with strong leather straps. Subtlety, he tested the strength of his bindings. They held. He also noted that his nose hurt a little....
Kirlin’s smile spread slowly across her face, her eyes gaining an evil glint as her surprise gave way to a more delicious feeling. This prisoner had surprised her with that kiss - a kiss worthy of a Drow Queen - but now that he was awake, the fun could truly begin. She reached for her bundle of instruments. “Now, Scouts. We will begin some lessons in advanced torture techniques....”
“Aw,” Pickly moaned, “No more sex?”
“Don’t worry my dear, Good torture often involves sex.” Turning to Gwalchmai she said, “Now, my first questions will determine how this human learned to kiss like a Drow.”
“You’ve obviously never met Dragon Wench,” Gwalchmai muttered. Then he began to get worried as the Drow warrior moved toward Gwalchmai in a most menacingly manner. Something had to be done to buy him enough time to get loose from these bonds. If he could only polymorph like other Druids, he might soon be free. But a Spirit Animal might prove an adequate distraction. He focused inwardly, communing with the natural elements that permeate all. He hoped to call on a Spirit Tiger or a Spirit Wolf. Instead, two animals appeared, a large yellow bear dressed in a red shirt, and a small pig wearing a stripped garment. Needless to say, everyone in the room were quite surprised. Kirlin dropped her Nyuk-nyuk pincers.
“Oh, hello,” the bear said amiably, while a low rumble emanated from his stomach. “I seem to have a bit of a rumbly in my tumbly.” The bear ambled up to Kirlin, “You wouldn’t happen to have a small smackeral of honey, would you?” Speechless, Kirlin shook her head.
“I’m sorry P’oo-Bear,” the pig squeaked from behind, “I don’t seem to have any honey either. I don’t even have the haycorn cookies I baked this morning. Perhaps you will have to find something else to eat?”
“Something else to eat? Like what?” The bear sat and tapped a claw of his forefoot to his temple, saying, “Think, think, think. Oh, sometimes I wish I weren’t a Bear of Very Little Brain.” Then the bear’s nose quivered as he sniffed the air. “I’ve got it! I could have some Drow!” With that the bear suddenly leaped at the unprepared Kirlin. The bear savagely tore into the woman, spattering blood from wall to wall. Four girls screamed in unison as Kirlin’s head flew from her body and landed at their feet. The mayhem seemed to last for hours, but it was really over in seconds. The girls blinked, and the bear again looked quite peaceful, sitting and gnawing on the thigh of Drow. “Well, its not honey, but it’ll do.”
The pig looked around the room as the girls huddled in the corner. Spying Gwalchami, the pig said, “Oh d-d-d-dear. Poor Gwally is all tied up.” A pang of fear ran through Gwalchmai as the pig walked over to him. Fortunately, the pig didn’t seemed to be hungry for flesh, and simply began nibbling at the straps. Freed, Gwalchmai thanked the pig and bear just before they were un-summoned.
Breathing a sigh of relief, he wondered at the strange turn his summoning had taken. Normally, he always had control over his spirit animals. But this had be decidedly unusual. Unreal, even. He was beginning to think something was horribly wrong, when he smelled a familiar sweet scent. “Wild Magic. I should have known.”
Gwalchmai just shook his head, “Last thing I remember is falling asleep in my bed. How did I get here?” He looked around and saw the distinctive architecture and furnishings of a Drow habitation. A tall, powerful Drow warrior, the one who had been kissing him, stood protectively in front of four young Drow girls. The girls all wore matching purple uniforms, with sashes emblazoned with various badges. He sat up, noting that he was still dressed in his breech cloth, and that his arms were bound by his sides with strong leather straps. Subtlety, he tested the strength of his bindings. They held. He also noted that his nose hurt a little....
Kirlin’s smile spread slowly across her face, her eyes gaining an evil glint as her surprise gave way to a more delicious feeling. This prisoner had surprised her with that kiss - a kiss worthy of a Drow Queen - but now that he was awake, the fun could truly begin. She reached for her bundle of instruments. “Now, Scouts. We will begin some lessons in advanced torture techniques....”
“Aw,” Pickly moaned, “No more sex?”
“Don’t worry my dear, Good torture often involves sex.” Turning to Gwalchmai she said, “Now, my first questions will determine how this human learned to kiss like a Drow.”
“You’ve obviously never met Dragon Wench,” Gwalchmai muttered. Then he began to get worried as the Drow warrior moved toward Gwalchmai in a most menacingly manner. Something had to be done to buy him enough time to get loose from these bonds. If he could only polymorph like other Druids, he might soon be free. But a Spirit Animal might prove an adequate distraction. He focused inwardly, communing with the natural elements that permeate all. He hoped to call on a Spirit Tiger or a Spirit Wolf. Instead, two animals appeared, a large yellow bear dressed in a red shirt, and a small pig wearing a stripped garment. Needless to say, everyone in the room were quite surprised. Kirlin dropped her Nyuk-nyuk pincers.
“Oh, hello,” the bear said amiably, while a low rumble emanated from his stomach. “I seem to have a bit of a rumbly in my tumbly.” The bear ambled up to Kirlin, “You wouldn’t happen to have a small smackeral of honey, would you?” Speechless, Kirlin shook her head.
“I’m sorry P’oo-Bear,” the pig squeaked from behind, “I don’t seem to have any honey either. I don’t even have the haycorn cookies I baked this morning. Perhaps you will have to find something else to eat?”
“Something else to eat? Like what?” The bear sat and tapped a claw of his forefoot to his temple, saying, “Think, think, think. Oh, sometimes I wish I weren’t a Bear of Very Little Brain.” Then the bear’s nose quivered as he sniffed the air. “I’ve got it! I could have some Drow!” With that the bear suddenly leaped at the unprepared Kirlin. The bear savagely tore into the woman, spattering blood from wall to wall. Four girls screamed in unison as Kirlin’s head flew from her body and landed at their feet. The mayhem seemed to last for hours, but it was really over in seconds. The girls blinked, and the bear again looked quite peaceful, sitting and gnawing on the thigh of Drow. “Well, its not honey, but it’ll do.”
The pig looked around the room as the girls huddled in the corner. Spying Gwalchami, the pig said, “Oh d-d-d-dear. Poor Gwally is all tied up.” A pang of fear ran through Gwalchmai as the pig walked over to him. Fortunately, the pig didn’t seemed to be hungry for flesh, and simply began nibbling at the straps. Freed, Gwalchmai thanked the pig and bear just before they were un-summoned.
Breathing a sigh of relief, he wondered at the strange turn his summoning had taken. Normally, he always had control over his spirit animals. But this had be decidedly unusual. Unreal, even. He was beginning to think something was horribly wrong, when he smelled a familiar sweet scent. “Wild Magic. I should have known.”
That there; exactly the kinda diversion we coulda used.
Dragonwench looked at the other women and they headed off in the direction of the shout. The women entered the area, spells and weapons ready only to see Harry slumped on the ground, the bodies of 3 male drow near him. There was a large red stain soaking his shirt and his face was ashen from loss of blood. Dragonwench stood guard while T’lainya knelt by Harry’s side. She quickly cast a healing spell on him, watching the wound close and the blood loss stop. She extended a hand to him, helping him to his feet.
“Let’s find Gwally as soon as possible.” T’lainya rummaged in her bag and came out with a tiny miniature chest. She carefully set it down and whispered a word. The chest grew to a normal size and she produced a key. She opened the chest and carefully took out a small bottle. Gingerly wrapping it in a cloth and wrinkling her nose she put it in her belt pouch. She closed the chest, locked it and shrunk it again, carefully replacing the key. She looked up to find the others watching her with varying degrees of interest.
“Leomunds chest, a mage friend made it for me. The potion is the Syrup of D’sney, it’s very potent. I’d like to close this warp if I can.”
“Let’s find Gwally as soon as possible.” T’lainya rummaged in her bag and came out with a tiny miniature chest. She carefully set it down and whispered a word. The chest grew to a normal size and she produced a key. She opened the chest and carefully took out a small bottle. Gingerly wrapping it in a cloth and wrinkling her nose she put it in her belt pouch. She closed the chest, locked it and shrunk it again, carefully replacing the key. She looked up to find the others watching her with varying degrees of interest.
“Leomunds chest, a mage friend made it for me. The potion is the Syrup of D’sney, it’s very potent. I’d like to close this warp if I can.”
[url="http://www.gamebanshee.com"]GameBanshee[/url] Make your gaming scream!
"I have seen them/I have watched them all fall/I have been them/I have watched myself crawl"
"I will only complicate you/Trust in me and fall as well"
"Quiet time...no more whine"
"I have seen them/I have watched them all fall/I have been them/I have watched myself crawl"
"I will only complicate you/Trust in me and fall as well"
"Quiet time...no more whine"
-
Gwalchmai
- Posts: 6252
- Joined: Wed May 09, 2001 11:00 am
- Location: This Quintessence of Dust
- Contact:
“Well, that was about the most horrible thing I’ve ever seen…” Girty said.
“That cuddly old bear killed Kerlin!” Mouse gasped.
“I’m sorry you had to see that,” Gwalchmai said to the four cowering girls, “Now, do you mind telling me what is going on?”
“We captured you,” Mavin said proudly, “We had hoped to just kill a few surfacers, then we found a way into the great Keep of the Dark Flames. We found you and captured you thinking that you were the great Darkpoet, but were pleased to find that the Dark Flames have a leader even more powerful than Darkpoet.”
“Though, as it turns out, just about anyone could be more powerful than Darkpoet, since he runs around getting bitten by Gibberlings…” Pickly groused under her breath.
“Leader of the Dark Flames? Me?” Gwalchmai chuckled, “Hardly. The Dark Flames have no specific leader. We operate more along egalitarian lines. But what does Darkpoet have to do with this?”
“Surely you know Darkpoet. He of the renegade demon? The consort of Teshana?” Girty said helpfully.
“I know who Darkpoet is, but I don’t know any Teshana. Do you mean T’lainya?” Gwalchmai asked.
“No, no. Teshana was one the Drow’s greatest warriors, who was in love with Darkpoet. Though she was not so great as to avoid getting herself killed.” Mavin said, “I can’t believe Darkpoet never spoke of such things to you.”
“Darkpoet is a very private individual. But he is not here, and I am, unfortunately. I assume we are somewhere in the Underdark?” Gwalchmai looked around the room, and was pleased to see a small cell in one corner. “I’m going to have to ask you young ladies to step into that cell, so that I can figure out how to get out of here without running the risk of my erstwhile captors causing me additional problems.” He saw one of the girls looking to make a run for it, and thought a small threat might help, “Remember, I can conjure more cuddly bears whenever I want.”
Thus convinced, the four girls had no choice but to allow themselves to be confined in their own cell. Gwalchmai thought it would be better to cast a locking ward on the cell door, just in case the four knew of some means to escape, but he hesitated. He felt extremely uncomfortable casting spells with so much free-floating Wild Magic about. “Knowing my luck,” he thought to himself, “I would probably conjure up some sort of short elf dressed in bells and red and green clothing again.” He shuddered at the memory. Nevertheless, he thought he should give it a try, and cast a simple ward. The spell seemed to work correctly, locking the cell securely, but he noted that the iron bars had apparently turned to wood. He tested the bars, and they still felt as strong as iron. Shrugging, he hoped that the cage would hold the four young Drow, who seemed in awe of him.
Gwalchmai thought it would be prudent to do a bit of exploring, but first he examined the remains of the Drow warrior that his strange bear had killed. The armor she had worn was useless, torn to shreds. A small bag at her belt held a large handful of precious gems, looted from Teshana’s quarters, though Gwalchmai had no way of knowing this. An amulet caught his interest, and as he extracted it from the bone and blood, his eyes widened as the scraps of dark Drow skin turned light. Glancing at the head of the body, he saw that she was not Drow at all, but resembled High Elf. He surmised that she had been a spy in deep cover. Deep enough to be willing to threaten him with torture. Gwalchmai felt a pang of guilt at her death, but knew that there was nothing else he could have done given the situation. He placed the amulet around his neck and looked in a mirror. His features had become those of a male Drow cleric. This, and some leather armor and other clothing he found in another room, presented interesting possibilities.
He had always wanted to explore the Underdark, so given his new-found illusion he ventured out of the clubhouse. The vast underground city was astonishing. He could appreciate the way the Drow had constructed their houses and buildings so as to take advantage of the natural stalagmite forms of the caverns. A certain harmony with underground nature was evident. A place of violent commerce, the city teemed with Drow and their slaves.
He found himself in a business district, and thought a little shopping might be nice. Merchants sold everything imaginable, weapons, armor, slaves, potions, and other sundries. He purchased victuals from a store that specialized in buttery cinnamon-flavored sweet rolls. Another store sold iced coffees that were quite good. He noted that much of the clientele of the district appeared to be younger, apparently affluent Drow, who were more intent on impressing each other than actually shopping. Many shops catered to these teenagers by selling fashionable clothing. The stores had unusual names such as The G’app and Ye Olde Navy. But Gwalchmai was interested in something more unusual; perhaps something magical.
A short search led him to a place that caught his interest. Called Viconia’s Secret, it appeared to contain a wide variety of unusual clothing, including magical armor, cloaks, undergarments, and lingerie. The clerks in the store were eager to help. They showed him a particular robe intended for the discerning mage: it had the ability to turn invisible on command. The wearer would remain visible, but the clothing would appear to disappear. Quite distracting for the enemy in combat, and quite useful in other situations. There were also diaphanous undergarments that appeared to be made from fragile spiders’ webs, but imparted ample protection from cold-based attacks as well as significant lift and separation for the female form. Needless to say, Gwalchmai made a number of purchases that he intended as gifts for the female members of the Dark Flames. “They’re gonna love this stuff,” he thought to himself with a secret half-smile.
He only made one purchase for himself. A cloak of polymorphing. He rarely regretted choosing the Totemic path in his studies, but the ability to polymorph might have been less bloody than conjuring a large yellow bear. Loaded with packages, he went back to the Spider Scout’s clubhouse. The first thing he noted was the absence of the four young Drow. The he heard a commotion outside, and one of the girls shouted, “Hurry! He’s in there!” He quickly barred the door, and looked around for a way to escape.
“That cuddly old bear killed Kerlin!” Mouse gasped.
“I’m sorry you had to see that,” Gwalchmai said to the four cowering girls, “Now, do you mind telling me what is going on?”
“We captured you,” Mavin said proudly, “We had hoped to just kill a few surfacers, then we found a way into the great Keep of the Dark Flames. We found you and captured you thinking that you were the great Darkpoet, but were pleased to find that the Dark Flames have a leader even more powerful than Darkpoet.”
“Though, as it turns out, just about anyone could be more powerful than Darkpoet, since he runs around getting bitten by Gibberlings…” Pickly groused under her breath.
“Leader of the Dark Flames? Me?” Gwalchmai chuckled, “Hardly. The Dark Flames have no specific leader. We operate more along egalitarian lines. But what does Darkpoet have to do with this?”
“Surely you know Darkpoet. He of the renegade demon? The consort of Teshana?” Girty said helpfully.
“I know who Darkpoet is, but I don’t know any Teshana. Do you mean T’lainya?” Gwalchmai asked.
“No, no. Teshana was one the Drow’s greatest warriors, who was in love with Darkpoet. Though she was not so great as to avoid getting herself killed.” Mavin said, “I can’t believe Darkpoet never spoke of such things to you.”
“Darkpoet is a very private individual. But he is not here, and I am, unfortunately. I assume we are somewhere in the Underdark?” Gwalchmai looked around the room, and was pleased to see a small cell in one corner. “I’m going to have to ask you young ladies to step into that cell, so that I can figure out how to get out of here without running the risk of my erstwhile captors causing me additional problems.” He saw one of the girls looking to make a run for it, and thought a small threat might help, “Remember, I can conjure more cuddly bears whenever I want.”
Thus convinced, the four girls had no choice but to allow themselves to be confined in their own cell. Gwalchmai thought it would be better to cast a locking ward on the cell door, just in case the four knew of some means to escape, but he hesitated. He felt extremely uncomfortable casting spells with so much free-floating Wild Magic about. “Knowing my luck,” he thought to himself, “I would probably conjure up some sort of short elf dressed in bells and red and green clothing again.” He shuddered at the memory. Nevertheless, he thought he should give it a try, and cast a simple ward. The spell seemed to work correctly, locking the cell securely, but he noted that the iron bars had apparently turned to wood. He tested the bars, and they still felt as strong as iron. Shrugging, he hoped that the cage would hold the four young Drow, who seemed in awe of him.
Gwalchmai thought it would be prudent to do a bit of exploring, but first he examined the remains of the Drow warrior that his strange bear had killed. The armor she had worn was useless, torn to shreds. A small bag at her belt held a large handful of precious gems, looted from Teshana’s quarters, though Gwalchmai had no way of knowing this. An amulet caught his interest, and as he extracted it from the bone and blood, his eyes widened as the scraps of dark Drow skin turned light. Glancing at the head of the body, he saw that she was not Drow at all, but resembled High Elf. He surmised that she had been a spy in deep cover. Deep enough to be willing to threaten him with torture. Gwalchmai felt a pang of guilt at her death, but knew that there was nothing else he could have done given the situation. He placed the amulet around his neck and looked in a mirror. His features had become those of a male Drow cleric. This, and some leather armor and other clothing he found in another room, presented interesting possibilities.
He had always wanted to explore the Underdark, so given his new-found illusion he ventured out of the clubhouse. The vast underground city was astonishing. He could appreciate the way the Drow had constructed their houses and buildings so as to take advantage of the natural stalagmite forms of the caverns. A certain harmony with underground nature was evident. A place of violent commerce, the city teemed with Drow and their slaves.
He found himself in a business district, and thought a little shopping might be nice. Merchants sold everything imaginable, weapons, armor, slaves, potions, and other sundries. He purchased victuals from a store that specialized in buttery cinnamon-flavored sweet rolls. Another store sold iced coffees that were quite good. He noted that much of the clientele of the district appeared to be younger, apparently affluent Drow, who were more intent on impressing each other than actually shopping. Many shops catered to these teenagers by selling fashionable clothing. The stores had unusual names such as The G’app and Ye Olde Navy. But Gwalchmai was interested in something more unusual; perhaps something magical.
A short search led him to a place that caught his interest. Called Viconia’s Secret, it appeared to contain a wide variety of unusual clothing, including magical armor, cloaks, undergarments, and lingerie. The clerks in the store were eager to help. They showed him a particular robe intended for the discerning mage: it had the ability to turn invisible on command. The wearer would remain visible, but the clothing would appear to disappear. Quite distracting for the enemy in combat, and quite useful in other situations. There were also diaphanous undergarments that appeared to be made from fragile spiders’ webs, but imparted ample protection from cold-based attacks as well as significant lift and separation for the female form. Needless to say, Gwalchmai made a number of purchases that he intended as gifts for the female members of the Dark Flames. “They’re gonna love this stuff,” he thought to himself with a secret half-smile.
He only made one purchase for himself. A cloak of polymorphing. He rarely regretted choosing the Totemic path in his studies, but the ability to polymorph might have been less bloody than conjuring a large yellow bear. Loaded with packages, he went back to the Spider Scout’s clubhouse. The first thing he noted was the absence of the four young Drow. The he heard a commotion outside, and one of the girls shouted, “Hurry! He’s in there!” He quickly barred the door, and looked around for a way to escape.
That there; exactly the kinda diversion we coulda used.
-
Yshania
- Posts: 8572
- Joined: Wed May 09, 2001 10:00 pm
- Location: Some Girls Wander By Mistake
- Contact:
Yshania marvelled at T'Lainya's presence of mind...though silently wondered the reasoning behind the Syrup of D'sney. She was rather enjoying the warp, though realised more pressing matters were at hand, and this transgression was more than a distraction.
Silently she nodded her agreement, wondering at the properties of this liquor and how and when it would be administered.
She walked off ahead, leaving the other's murmering between themselves. Crouching at an intersection, she knelt and examined new tracks in the dirt. Standing she crossed to one of the tunnels, noting that these tracks must have been those of the three drow that had run into Harry. Returning to the intersection, she studied again the prints. There were older prints here, lighter in foot and more of them.
Returning to the group she offered they should take the eastern tunnel. 'The drow men came from the west, possibly headed east' she summised 'there are older tracks already headed in that direction'
T'Lainya nodded once, Harry glanced at the others. Vivien looked concerned as the broom started to shiver. 'Then we go east' said Dragon Wench decisively.
The party grouped and took the eastern tunnel. Yshania absently ran her fingers along patches of fools gold in the rock wall as they walked...distracted somewhat by it's false beauty.
As they approached a new intersection there was a faint glow of light. Instinctively Harry, slipped into the shadows, Yshania and Dragon Wench dropped their hands to the hilts of their weapons...Yshania admiring Dragon Wench's calmness and self control, no wild magics just yet.
Glancing at T'Lainya, she noticed the priestess moving forward of the slowed group, she dropped into step with her. Vivien had started motioning her hands and murmering...
There was a palpable tenseness in the air...Yshania caught the smell of drow on a fleeting breeze through the tunnel, she drew her scimitars....
Silently she nodded her agreement, wondering at the properties of this liquor and how and when it would be administered.
She walked off ahead, leaving the other's murmering between themselves. Crouching at an intersection, she knelt and examined new tracks in the dirt. Standing she crossed to one of the tunnels, noting that these tracks must have been those of the three drow that had run into Harry. Returning to the intersection, she studied again the prints. There were older prints here, lighter in foot and more of them.
Returning to the group she offered they should take the eastern tunnel. 'The drow men came from the west, possibly headed east' she summised 'there are older tracks already headed in that direction'
T'Lainya nodded once, Harry glanced at the others. Vivien looked concerned as the broom started to shiver. 'Then we go east' said Dragon Wench decisively.
The party grouped and took the eastern tunnel. Yshania absently ran her fingers along patches of fools gold in the rock wall as they walked...distracted somewhat by it's false beauty.
As they approached a new intersection there was a faint glow of light. Instinctively Harry, slipped into the shadows, Yshania and Dragon Wench dropped their hands to the hilts of their weapons...Yshania admiring Dragon Wench's calmness and self control, no wild magics just yet.
Glancing at T'Lainya, she noticed the priestess moving forward of the slowed group, she dropped into step with her. Vivien had started motioning her hands and murmering...
There was a palpable tenseness in the air...Yshania caught the smell of drow on a fleeting breeze through the tunnel, she drew her scimitars....
Parachute for sale, like new! Never opened!
Guinness, black goes with everything.
Guinness, black goes with everything.
“Remember, drow have some resistance to surface magic. Try to cast spells that will spoil their infravision, light hurts their eyes.”
T’lainya’s voice was low and reassuring. She cast a Recitation spell on all of them. She drew her flail and waited. Her calm demeanor showed no trace of the anger burning within her. She subdued the feelings, knowing that anger brought mistakes, and mistakes against drow tended to be fatal.
The small party moved forward and heard a female voice say, ”Hurry! He’s in there!”.
Viv cast a Wizard Eye that showed them 4 young female drow dressed in the dark leather armor the drow favored. They were busy trying to force open a sturdy door. T’lainya cast a spell that outlined the drow in a brilliant green light, voiding any chance for them to disappear into the shadows. T’lainya lifted her flail and moved forward carefully.
T’lainya’s voice was low and reassuring. She cast a Recitation spell on all of them. She drew her flail and waited. Her calm demeanor showed no trace of the anger burning within her. She subdued the feelings, knowing that anger brought mistakes, and mistakes against drow tended to be fatal.
The small party moved forward and heard a female voice say, ”Hurry! He’s in there!”.
Viv cast a Wizard Eye that showed them 4 young female drow dressed in the dark leather armor the drow favored. They were busy trying to force open a sturdy door. T’lainya cast a spell that outlined the drow in a brilliant green light, voiding any chance for them to disappear into the shadows. T’lainya lifted her flail and moved forward carefully.
[url="http://www.gamebanshee.com"]GameBanshee[/url] Make your gaming scream!
"I have seen them/I have watched them all fall/I have been them/I have watched myself crawl"
"I will only complicate you/Trust in me and fall as well"
"Quiet time...no more whine"
"I have seen them/I have watched them all fall/I have been them/I have watched myself crawl"
"I will only complicate you/Trust in me and fall as well"
"Quiet time...no more whine"
-
Gwalchmai
- Posts: 6252
- Joined: Wed May 09, 2001 11:00 am
- Location: This Quintessence of Dust
- Contact:
Gwalchmai heard one of his pursuers begin the words that would cast a Knock spell. He had only scant seconds to find some means of defending himself before they opened the barred door that led downward into uncharted tunnels. He wished that he had purchased one of the scimitars, clubs, or staves he has passed on his shopping trip, but the one store had proven to be a significant distraction from more practical matters. Then he remembered the cloak he had purchased. The instructions had given three codes used to turn the wearer into a Wyvern, a Sword Spider, or a Fire Salamander. He carefully recited the words to polymorph into a Fire Salamander, thinking that it would provide greater maneuverability in the tunnels of the Underdark. Just as he finished the words, the Drow girls finished their Knock spell. To everyone’s surprise, the door didn’t just open, but it, and a large portion of the wall and staircase disintegrated into nothingness. Gwalchmai’s nostrils flared at the sickly sweet smell that hung in the air. A feeling of dread overtook him just as blue and red swirling lights surrounded him. The cloak went to work polymorphing him, and Gwalchmai’s perspective changed. The Drow girls seemed taller and they seemed to loom menacingly. Gwalchmai thought to scorch them with some Salamander breath, but a long, sticky tongue shot out from his mouth instead, neatly snagging a passing housefly. “Damn this Wild Magic!” Gwalchmai said – or tried to say, but all that croaked out was, “Rib-bit!” Gwalchmai was hopping mad.
That there; exactly the kinda diversion we coulda used.
Georgi felt herself slammed against the slimy stone wall, a rotting tentacle of regurgitated body parts, sludge, and decayed vegetation pinning her against the fetid rock. Struggling fiercely, she quickly became aware that if she did not free herself, her chest would be crushed in a matter of seconds. Crying out in rage and frustration, she attempted to hack at the tentacle with her sword but could not get enough momentum for an effective strike. As the blackness threatened to engulf her, she caught a glint of light... then -- release! Dropping to her knees, panting, she saw the Mordenkainen's Sword swing back to towards its owner and Georgi nodded her thanks to Simbul. She quickly scanned her situation. Anicka was down, her skull split wide, presumably dead. Jennabard was badly wounded and she, along with a small contingent of Aglarondian regulars, where pinned down to her left. All around them the unstable cavern boiled with frenzied drow and orc warriors. Thantor had wedged himself into a vertical crevice in the rock, seemingly in a daze. The beads of sweat on his forehead, however, betrayed the fact that he was actually locked in an intense psionic battle with the Abomination before them. Only Simbul seemed in her element, her wild, tangled hair and tattered robes flowing around her as she levitated in the air, spell combinations lashing out around her like whips. She was indeed something awesome to behold. Georgi drew herself into a crouch and quickly moved back into a defensive position, protecting both herself and Thantor. It seemed like ages ago when she and Thantor were safe, back at the Keep. Before their excursion into hell. Before... the Simbul...
Those who will play with kitties must expect to be scratched.
Many are cold; few are frozen.
Absence is to love what wind is to fire... it extinguishes the small, it enkindles the great.
Many are cold; few are frozen.
Absence is to love what wind is to fire... it extinguishes the small, it enkindles the great.
-
Georgi
- Posts: 11288
- Joined: Sat Apr 21, 2001 10:00 pm
- Location: Can't wait to get on the road again...
- Contact:
Georgi headed back to the keep, considering Rai'ya's last words to her: "Best not to invite trouble child... it can have a nasty habit of finding you." She frowned. Living is trouble -- not that someone who had been dead for centuries could appreciate that. She found she was restless and irritable. While she admired everyone who had done such a wonderful job caring for the wounded and dying, that was not her place. And the fact that she didn't have a tangible enemy to channel her frustrations against made it all the more difficult for her. She decided to find Thantor who she had not seen since the casualties started pouring into the keep. Like Gwalchmai, she had heard that he had refused to treat the wounded based on rank and had established a triage station in the main hall. This, of course, lead to a confrontation with the elven commander. She shook her head fondly, as the hint of a smile touched her lips.
Once at the keep, she quickly stabled her horse and headed for the triage area. The initial chaos of incoming wounded and dead had subsided somewhat and some semblance of order had been established at the keep. Still, it was unnerving to Georgi that her place of refuge, a place that she had shared so many enjoyable and happy moments with friends was no longer a sanctuary. Passing through the kitchen area, she found Jennabard alone at the table. She looked up quickly when Georgi entered and smiled, happy to see a familiar face. She quickly brought Georgi up to speed on recent events and offered to go with her to find Thantor. They found him in one of the side rooms, sitting with a very agitated young warrior who was evidently suffering from some form of battle shock. As they respectfully waited outside until Thantor was through with his ministrations, Georgi was concerned to see how exhausted Thantor looked, tired and drawn. Yet he was not haggard, nor was he irritable or distracted. After the warrior calmed a bit, Thantor offered him a potion and in a few moments, he was asleep. Thantor stood heavily and smiled tiredly when he saw the two women.
"Your bedtime stories pack a fairly hefty punch," Georgi teased, attempting to lighten the mood.
"Passiflora and valerian -- my one-two combination," Thantor replied, still smiling. He embraced her and gave Jenna a friendly hug as well, then peered at them carefully. "How are you doing?" he asked with concern. "Have you eaten this evening?"
Georgi looked directly into his eyes and said, "I was just thinking of asking you the same."
Jennabard quickly joined in, "Yes, young man," she said with mock severity, "when was the last time you had something to eat?"
"Gee, mother, let me see... " Thantor said, his eyes drifting up as if to seriously consider the question.
"Maybe you would like some dessert before your supper?" Georgi said in a pseudo-husky voice, sliding her hand along the length of Thantor's chest.
When he did not answer, Jenna prodded him, "Yes?" But Georgi has noticed that Thantor was no longer paying any attention, that his gaze was leveled at something near the window. Something large and black.
"Don't toy with me, Alassara. I am not in the mood," Thantor growled in a low, threatening tone. "If you have something to say, then say it and be done with it."
Once at the keep, she quickly stabled her horse and headed for the triage area. The initial chaos of incoming wounded and dead had subsided somewhat and some semblance of order had been established at the keep. Still, it was unnerving to Georgi that her place of refuge, a place that she had shared so many enjoyable and happy moments with friends was no longer a sanctuary. Passing through the kitchen area, she found Jennabard alone at the table. She looked up quickly when Georgi entered and smiled, happy to see a familiar face. She quickly brought Georgi up to speed on recent events and offered to go with her to find Thantor. They found him in one of the side rooms, sitting with a very agitated young warrior who was evidently suffering from some form of battle shock. As they respectfully waited outside until Thantor was through with his ministrations, Georgi was concerned to see how exhausted Thantor looked, tired and drawn. Yet he was not haggard, nor was he irritable or distracted. After the warrior calmed a bit, Thantor offered him a potion and in a few moments, he was asleep. Thantor stood heavily and smiled tiredly when he saw the two women.
"Your bedtime stories pack a fairly hefty punch," Georgi teased, attempting to lighten the mood.
"Passiflora and valerian -- my one-two combination," Thantor replied, still smiling. He embraced her and gave Jenna a friendly hug as well, then peered at them carefully. "How are you doing?" he asked with concern. "Have you eaten this evening?"
Georgi looked directly into his eyes and said, "I was just thinking of asking you the same."
Jennabard quickly joined in, "Yes, young man," she said with mock severity, "when was the last time you had something to eat?"
"Gee, mother, let me see... " Thantor said, his eyes drifting up as if to seriously consider the question.
"Maybe you would like some dessert before your supper?" Georgi said in a pseudo-husky voice, sliding her hand along the length of Thantor's chest.
When he did not answer, Jenna prodded him, "Yes?" But Georgi has noticed that Thantor was no longer paying any attention, that his gaze was leveled at something near the window. Something large and black.
"Don't toy with me, Alassara. I am not in the mood," Thantor growled in a low, threatening tone. "If you have something to say, then say it and be done with it."
Who, me?!?
Thantor noticed Georgi's hand go instinctively to the hilt of her sword as she moved slightly in front of him and Jennabard taking a defensive position. He admired their seasoned instincts, but they would be as fodder to this one, who had taken down whole armies singlehandedly. They waited and slowly a large, black raven emerged into the light. With a flash, it became a tall, attractive woman with wild silver hair. She was barefoot and wearing what had once been an elegant set of black robes, now tattered and in disarray. Everything about her suggested she was mad, except for her eyes. Fierce, intelligent, probing, and aristocratic. She pointedly evaluated Georgi and said, "Thantor. You are with child." Knowing Georgi's quick temper, Thantor moved his hand against her to suggest restraint, but surprisingly Georgi returned the mage's gaze with aplomb and offered, "Jealous? I mean, that you will probably not be with child... at least, not without a Domination spell." Thantor smiled in spite of himself. He liked Georgi's style.
The mage minced closer to Georgi and replied tartly, "You pride yourself on an ability that any b!tch is your equal and any sow immeasurably your superior."
"A barnyard analogy. How appropriate," Georgi retorted.
The mage laughed and looked at Thantor. "She's quick. How fun for you."
The mage minced closer to Georgi and replied tartly, "You pride yourself on an ability that any b!tch is your equal and any sow immeasurably your superior."
"A barnyard analogy. How appropriate," Georgi retorted.
The mage laughed and looked at Thantor. "She's quick. How fun for you."
Those who will play with kitties must expect to be scratched.
Many are cold; few are frozen.
Absence is to love what wind is to fire... it extinguishes the small, it enkindles the great.
Many are cold; few are frozen.
Absence is to love what wind is to fire... it extinguishes the small, it enkindles the great.
After eating a couple of sheep, Jinx strolled around the Keep looking for a place to take a nap. He peeked his head in Gwally’s room, when he did, Jinx smells Drow. He found the hole and squeezed his way in, following the scent of Drow and something else. The smell made his stomach rumble, “frog, I haven’t had frog in a long time.” Jinx thought to himself. He moved quickly through the tunnels, the scent of frog was getting stronger, Jinx was starting to drool. He shoved Dragon wench, Yshania and T’lainya out of the way. “Excuse me, pardon me, and get the hell out of the way!!! Hungry dragon coming though!” Jinx yelled. Running through not paying attention to the four drow. He picked up Gwally the frog, “Gotcha, oh baby where have you been all my life?” Jinx poked the frog, it let out a girly squeal and tried to wiggle away. “No, no, no, my precious tasty frog, my you are a fat one too.” Jinx felt he was being watched, when he turned. He then noticed the four-shocked Drow, annoyingly Jinx belched out four fireballs and burned the Drow.
He turned back to his snack, smiling he gave the frog a lick. Jinx’s face turned into a sour expression, then to…..”EEEEEEEEWwwwwwwwwwww, what the???? DRUID??? WHO WOULD??? YEEEEEEECHHHHH…….. DROW??? IT DOESN’T TASTE LIKE A FROG….. EWW EWWW EWWW”
Jinx bounced around with his tongue hanging out of the side of his mouth. As he dropped the frog, “POOOOOOFFFFF” Gwally, returned to himself. After seeing Gwally, Jinx didn’t know what to do. He grabbed the first person standing close by, which was Dragon Wench. Jinx, started to give DW slobbery dragon licks, on the side of her head and face. To get rid of the taste of Gwally. To DW’s demise, she had the honor of dragon slobber, with strong hints of sheep, old Druid, Drow and frog. Dw started to turn green………………
He turned back to his snack, smiling he gave the frog a lick. Jinx’s face turned into a sour expression, then to…..”EEEEEEEEWwwwwwwwwwww, what the???? DRUID??? WHO WOULD??? YEEEEEEECHHHHH…….. DROW??? IT DOESN’T TASTE LIKE A FROG….. EWW EWWW EWWW”
Jinx bounced around with his tongue hanging out of the side of his mouth. As he dropped the frog, “POOOOOOFFFFF” Gwally, returned to himself. After seeing Gwally, Jinx didn’t know what to do. He grabbed the first person standing close by, which was Dragon Wench. Jinx, started to give DW slobbery dragon licks, on the side of her head and face. To get rid of the taste of Gwally. To DW’s demise, she had the honor of dragon slobber, with strong hints of sheep, old Druid, Drow and frog. Dw started to turn green………………
Vivien peeked around Yshania, still not believing what she was seeing. There were burnt lumps on the ground, and what looked like blood all over the walls; a still and bloody figure in the corner made her almost whimper with worry. Her eyes then caught the form of Gwally crumpled on the ground and she started moving towards him, fearing for his safety, but slobbering sounds and acks made her pause. That big figure that had pushed past them in the cave had been a dragon! It was the smaller one, she wasn’t actually sure of the name, but Jixx maybe. Its body was practically wrapped around a frantic Dragonwench. With a frown she pushed the dragon back, freeing her now wet and shaking friend. The dragon looked at her in surprise and drooled slightly on her hand, and Viv realized how beautiful and mysterious dragon’s eyes were. There was truth to the old myths, that dragons could affect the minds of mere mortals with their very presence. She watched the shadows and lights whirl within his eyes, and visions danced within her mind, images of bloodlust and ages of time and freedom. She wondered what it would be like to have that kind of life, to have morals so different and she gently caressed the dragon’s head.
Suddenly the broom wrenched itself from her hand, and twitching with apparent vexation, wacked the dragon across the nose before shoving itself between Viv and the beast. With a roar the dragoon bathed the broom with fire as the broom whirled and thrust at the dragon’s tender stomach and eyes. The dragon managed to take out what was remaining of the wall during the fight, and Viv felt herself lifted by some wind at a twitch of it’s tail, seeing the others lifted as well. She knew dragons had that ability, but had never felt such power before. She skidded against a soft shape and realized she had landed on Gwally, his form seeming weakened as he tried to rise. Getting off of him she shook his shoulder to wake him further, calling to T’lainya who was now crouched against the wall near to the tunnel, for healing.
She heard a sharp in take of breath and turned to see Harry’s vague form, melding with the shadows staring down at what looked like an entire city of Drow, and with the recent fire works, they were entirely exposed! Alien words rang through the air, and she heard clattering feet getting closer as she struggled to help Gwally stand.
Her frantic eyes found Yshania and Dragonwench trying to rise from being thrown, and she wondered if they realized that there was no way they could take on an entire Drow city.
Ooc: Can change this if needed Oh, and the brooms not done for yet, fire just makes it stronger
Suddenly the broom wrenched itself from her hand, and twitching with apparent vexation, wacked the dragon across the nose before shoving itself between Viv and the beast. With a roar the dragoon bathed the broom with fire as the broom whirled and thrust at the dragon’s tender stomach and eyes. The dragon managed to take out what was remaining of the wall during the fight, and Viv felt herself lifted by some wind at a twitch of it’s tail, seeing the others lifted as well. She knew dragons had that ability, but had never felt such power before. She skidded against a soft shape and realized she had landed on Gwally, his form seeming weakened as he tried to rise. Getting off of him she shook his shoulder to wake him further, calling to T’lainya who was now crouched against the wall near to the tunnel, for healing.
She heard a sharp in take of breath and turned to see Harry’s vague form, melding with the shadows staring down at what looked like an entire city of Drow, and with the recent fire works, they were entirely exposed! Alien words rang through the air, and she heard clattering feet getting closer as she struggled to help Gwally stand.
Her frantic eyes found Yshania and Dragonwench trying to rise from being thrown, and she wondered if they realized that there was no way they could take on an entire Drow city.
Ooc: Can change this if needed
Oh, and the brooms not done for yet, fire just makes it stronger