ZCerberus

Cool concept indeed. Interesting boat designs on the front too. Good work!

I like it. The felling water technique isn't my favorite, but the section at the bottom where the falls hit the river is excellent!

A solid start cable foxley. Glad to see Avalonia returning to power.

Thanks everyone. He is a super handsome kid! @ robuko- Yes LD and crew went crazy! The family and I have been displaced from our home due to storms. To busy watching little guy anyways, but once we get the routine down and we have power again, I can get back to being active. Lots of builds to see!!

When is the second due? I didn't think he was here yet! New baby Avalonians all over!!

Good work guys. Welcome new guys. Good choice on choosing the Western Paradise! I am still out of commission for a few weeks, but I'll be back as soon as baby doesn't require feeding every 2 hours!

Heh. 2014 theme?

One of the greats, our own Sirens of Titan only ever builds 2 sides as well. It certainly conserves bricks, but makes them hard to bring to a show.

A little boy. Hopefully you can meet him someday at Brickworld.

Baby arrived yesterday on time. I hope to make it to BW2014 for some pizza and friends. Dale- hope you added lights to that build this year!

Very nice. The part I always liked best was the sloped staircase. Thanks for the insight on your techniques,they could be very useful one day. Also great use of all the reddish brown as carved wood details, they are great. Part of me liked the old pictures better. For whatever reasons the colors of those pictures were more eye pleasing and the angle hid some of the small spacing issues like the ones between the stair treads. Still lovely and an awesome build.

Okay- still working on the index and story thread. It's starting to look pretty sharp!

Chapter V- Cedrica Fallen, Rise of the Hand by Sirens of Titan And so it was that the great Elemental Plague washed over Historica from border to border. From the frozen plains of Mitgardia, to the lush forests of Avalonia, all the way to the sandy expanses of Kaliphlin, and the boiling volcanoes of Nocturnus, great elemental monsters devoured villages and towns, forcing the citizens of Historica to flee by the thousands. Only the great capitals and largest cities continue to hold out against the elemental threat. While the monsters at his command decimate the landscape, Victor Revolword plots the overthrow of Historica’s Capital Cerdica. In a dungeon not far from the High King’s mighty city, a well-dressed gentleman fears for his life. He is a servant to the High King; one of a myriad of fateful lackeys sworn to his majesty’s service, who finds himself in a dire situation. The door to the small dungeon room opens and the black wizard himself steps through. Victor: “Do you know who I am, servant?” Servant: “Yes. You’re that wizard… The one who unleashed the elementals. Please don’t hurt me! I don’t know anything, I swear!” Victor: “Silence! You’ll do well for yourself if you rethink your loyalties. Now, keenly pay attention to what I say. Rumor has it that the king’s servants use a secret entrance in and out of the capital city. The rumors go on to say that this entrance leads out somewhere in the wilderness by the Hammerhead lake. If that were to be true, I very much want to know about where the entrance is. Now speak, I am a busy man.” Servant: “What? There’s no such a thing! The only way in and out is through the guarded gate! You have been misled, good sir.” Victor: “Careful, servant. Lying to me has dire consequences. I ask again; where is the hidden entrance inside the city?” Servant: “I swear to you, there is no such a thing!” Victor: “Very well, then we must do this the hard way” He walks towards the door and calls out. “Rellik, come in here.” A tall, intimidating character steps through the door. He is armored from head to toe, and yields a mighty war ax. His face is blistered over and muddy, his eyes a piercing shade of blue. He walks in, bows, and stares down the terrified servant. Victor: “Are you familiar with “The Hand of Corruption” servant? Of course you are; you must have heard stories about them your whole life. I’d like you to meet their leader, my trusted general and the agent of your Guilds’ undoing! This is Rellik Nam; the Scourge of the Eastern Kingdoms.” Servant: “Impossible! The Hand of Corruption is just a folk tale!” Victor: “Oh, it’s more than a tale foolish servant. It’s a cursed legend. “The Hand” forgives no one; its grasp is far reaching, and its retributions are swift. Look into Rellik’s eyes servant, and tell him you don’t know anything about a secret entrance in the wilderness.” Servant: “I beg you sir, please realize I know nothing! I fear for my life, and your general fills me with terror… Alas, I cannot give you what you want, as it does not exist. Please good sir, let me go, I’m merely a servant. I know nothing of the affairs of the High King…” Victor: “Enough. Rellik, this tight-lipped and stubborn servant won’t tell me what I want to know, and I grow impatient. Persuade him to speak. I shall be outside.” Rellik Nam: “Yes my lord. My pleasure.” Servant: “Wait! No, please sir, I swear I don’t know anything! Oh no!!!” Victor leaves the dungeon cell, and closes the door shut behind him. After a few minutes of horrific screams and sounds of struggle, Rellik opens the door and flashes a rotten grin to his master. Victor nods, and walks in along with blistered creatures who carry the mark of the “Hand of Corruption” on their armor and shields. The servant lies on the ground, bloodied, weeping and clutching at his side. Victor: “Well Rellik? What did he say?” Rellik: “There is a small town on a lake near the capital. Above the lake is a windmill; isolated from the rest of the village. A trapdoor in there will lead us directly into the antechamber of the King’s Summer palace.” Victor: “Wonderfully done Rellik. It appears we are ready for our little escapade. How large is our force?” Rellik: “Five hundred strong; more are joining every day my lord. “The Hand” has ways of corrupting the mind. Very soon Histroica’s own defenders will be marching under our banners.” Victor: “Excelled Rellik! Now… we no longer need this spineless worm. Feed him to the wolves.” Rellik: “Yes my lord.” ----------------------------- Meanwhile in the Mitgardian capital of Valholl an old Norse warrior steps through the threshold of a well-lit library room. He looks preoccupied, and the haste in his step suggests purpose and timeliness. Jarl Nibelung: “Ah, Hersir Chorian! You’ve come just in time! Step closer, tell me; what is the situation outside of Valholl?” Elon Chorian: “It’s pandemonium out there Jarl Nibelung! The damned elementals have devoured everything east of Ondylion. My city is taking on thousands of refugees. I make a great sacrifice coming here today; I pray you have something important for me.” Jarl Nibelung: “I do Hersir. We may have found a way to dispel the Elemental magic used by the traitor Victor Revolword!” Elon Chorian: “By the gods! Do tell Jarl!” Jarl Nibelung: “I received a visitor late last night. He came to the palace all the way from the top of the temple on Mount Varocha. He is a monk of the Order of Eden. He brought a curious scroll along with him. He claims that the magic described herein can dispel any elemental monster.” Elon Chorian: “Magic? That’s what we resolve to? We’re Norsemen men Jarl! We fight with sharpened steel. I’ve seen these monsters with my own eyes; I hardly see how a magic spell can knock them down! And why am I summoned to hear about it? I am no wizard, Jarl Nibelung!” Jarl Nibelung: “No, but there is something you should know. Let me introduce the monk to you. Brother Hemli, please come over.” A man dressed in a grey tunic, yielding a magic staff, stands up in the opposite corner of the library. He puts the book he has been reading down, and walks towards the Jarl and the Hersir. Brother Hemli: “Yes Jarl?” Jarl Nibelung: “Brother Hemli, this is the Hersir of Valholl, Elon Chorian. He needs to hear what you told me about ancient sites of power.” Brother Hemli: “Ah yes! It’s a fascinating scroll we have here! It describes the elemental magic used by the black wizard Victor to raise the elementals. Interestingly enough, it appears that the elementals, while mighty and powerful, are susceptible to a particular type of ancient magic. This is the same energy present at mystic sites throughout Historica! Elven villages, mystic forests, haunted cavers, and many other locations emit this benevolent type of magic; harmless to people, but deadly to the Elementals. As a result they won’t go near these sites!” Jarl Nibelung: “You see Chorian! This is a major advantage to us! There are areas throughout Historica where these elementals cannot go! We can use them to organize our forces; make camps for our soldier and refugees, and eventually use the magic to drive these abominations back to Oblivion!” Elon Chorian: “With camps like these, we can organize a resistance and fight back towards the cities! But can we move this magic around?” Brother Hemli: “Yes! Mages trained in this magic school can accompany your forces and drive the monster back!” Elon Chorian: “Then we can win this war! This is great news indeed!” Jarl Nibelung: “There is unfortunately a complication. Victor has not been seen since the attacks started. Without knowing where he is, we have no way of stopping him. While we can hold back the elementals, he too can summon them without end. We risk turning all of Historica into a permanent magical battlefield, the consequence of which will be severe for generations to come! Worse yet; I’ve heard news from our friends in Avalonia; they say regiments of the “Hand of Corruption” roam their countryside, abducting young men, forcing them to join the ranks of Victor’s corrupt forces. It seems that the wizard is planning something big. Brother Hemli: “Yes… they are corrupt creatures from the eastern Kingdoms, led by an infamous blood-thirsty fiend. If the wizard manages to raise himself an army of them, the elementals will be the least of our problems.” Elon Chorian: “Then we must move quickly to secure locations around Historica! If they are indeed safe from elementals, we can use them as war camps to hunt down Victor’s forces and to find him!” Jarl Nibelung: “That was my plan yes. But we must move quickly.” Elon Chorian: “I will return to Ondylion and prepare a war party!” Jarl Nibelung: “Good. Brother Hemli will go with you; he will ensure the city is safe. Meanwhile, the other Guild leaders have already begun preparations of their own. The armies of Historica move to its ancient places, and prepare for the coming storm. Let’s pray to the gods that we are ready when it comes.” ----------- In the High King’s summer palace, the royal steward is frustrated. After calling on the servants several times, not a single response has come from his majesty’s kitchens. Steward: “Unbelievable! What kind of servants are you!? If the King was here he’d have you booted from the high tower from taking so long to answer! I said what kind of…” As the Steward raises his voice in annoyance, he suddenly falls silent. Instead of the neatly dressed royal staff he commands, a raggedy group of repulsive creatures storm into the chamber. The steward is taken aback by their ghastly appearance, and he stumbles backwards as they approach him. Steward: “What in the name of his majesty’s sacred honor is going on here?! Who are you?!” Victor: “I am the next High King of Historica. Your Kingdom will tremble before my might. Now where is the High King?” Steward: “Usurper! Traitor! Curse you and your abominable minions! This chamber is sacred! GUARDS!!!” Rellik: “Your guards are dead pathetic human. All that’s left on this floor is you. Now answer my lord’s question, or you shall join them.” Steward: “Merci! Merci! I will tell all! The King is at the theater! He loves the plays! He’ll be back soon; must be no more than an hour until his return! Please don’t kill me!” Victor: “How comical that your High King enjoys the finer things whilst his Kingdom burns. Which way does he come back into the palace? Speak!” Steward: “He’ll come from the Eastern corridor! He’ll be escorted by two guards, no more! I swear it!” Victor: “Excellent! I like this servant. He knows what’s good for him. Let’s keep him around. Rellik, prepare a little surprise for his majesty. Make sure he is taken alive and brought to me.” Rellik: “Yes my lord.” (He bows and leaves) Victor sits on the throne. Victor: "The reign of the High King is coming to an end and my glorious reign is beginning. Soon, Victor the Black Wizard will rule all of Historica, and all will bow down before him." And so it was that the land of Historica fell into darkness. The elemental monsters summoned by Victor Revolword tarnished the land, banishing Historica’s people all across the Kingdom. As countless refugees sought shelter form the elements, the dark forces of the “Hand of Corruption” pillaged the land, abducting guildsmen and forcing them into service of the black mage’s ever-growing army. From these times of hardship rose countless brave Historicans who swore to avenge their homes and loved ones, and bring the rule of Victor Revolword to an end. Directed by the insight of an ancient order of wizards, the displaced guildsmen soon learned of the magical power of ancient sites. Shrines and temples, mystic groves and ancient ruins, Dwarven mines and all manner of caves and crevices were long ago endowed and saturated with an arcane type of magic, deadly to elementals. As Historica’s people make their way to these ancient, mystic sites new hope overcomes the gloom of desperation. The heroes of the Guilds assemble in their mystic sanctums, and gather strength for a final push against the usurper and his minions.

Chapter IV- Elemental Magic By Sirens of Titan And so it was that through all the efforts and and hard work of it's citizens, Historica recovered the lost Elemental Crystals. Upon hearing that all four crystals had been found, the Historican Victor Revolword sent the following letter to each of the four Mighty Guilds of Historica. "Dearest Guild Leaders, I believe I have found the answer to where the lost Shrine of the Druids may be located. As it is our High King's Command that the shrine be discovered, I humbly request that you send forth your four adventurers; Lord Owain Of Avalonia, Ragnar'The Fearless' Nibelung of Mitgardia, Kathyrin Flagg of Kaliphlin, and Kahzoul 'The Reaper', of Nocturnus to meet me in five days time at high noon on the outskirts of Cerdica. Each adventurer should bring their guild's crystal so that we together may locate and open the shrine. I must insist that those four be sent, as I trust no one else with a task as important as this. I cannot say more as I fear this letter may be intercepted. ~Sincerely,Victor Revolword" And so it is five days later, and the sun is high in the sky as the four adventurers meet on the hill overlooking the capital. Owain: "Hello friends, it has been too long!You stil alive Kahzoul? I wasnt sure if you'd make it given how unsafe Nocturnus is these days." Kahzoul: "Nocturnus? I wouldn't talk, considering the mess the drow have created in your lush homeland! Those little buggers pop out of every hole; they're like vermin I tell you! Soon they'll be all over!" Ragnar: "Ha...I'd like to see them things try and burrow under Mitgardia's frozen tundra and solid granite mountains! The Drow will never make it in Mitgardia, I can assure you... Kathyrin, how are things in Kaliphlin?" Kathyrin: "I can't complain. It's been a tough few months; overturning every stone in the desert in search for a water crystal sure wears down on you. I'm eager to see what Victor has found out!" Ragnar: "Here he comes now!" Victor: "Ah, there you are, the four great heroes from the four great guilds! Forgive the sudden and mysterious circumstances of my summons, but I have made a discovery that no one is aware of! The exact location of the shrine was made clear to me, and the crystals woill likely confirm it!" Owain: "Victor,all of Historica was out and about looking for secret shrines and burial sites; how have they not found it? I'm starting to think it may not be in Historica at all!" Victor: "Ah, and therein lies the exciting part of the discovery! It is in Historica! It's been under our noses our entire time! Tell me, what have you heard about the Knights of Cadarn?" Kathyrin: "They were an ancient order of knights, in the days before the Guilds. They were hailed as brave warriors and ruthless fighters." Victor: "Correct, but do you know what their specialty was?" Owain: "If they were anything like modern knight's I'd put my money on drinking and/or brawling." Victor: "No, they were expert Mage hunters! They believed in the Chivalry and words of spiritual leaders and sought to root out magic from the world. They did not succeed, but they recorded their exploits and projects very thoroughly!I stumbled upon a History of the Knights of Cadarn, and after a few chapters found an interesting description of a shrine, very much like the one we're looking for! It was taken over by the Knights, who drove away the Druids and sealed the entrance. To make sure no one would ever find it they built a fortress on top of the it! The Fortress of Mizia!" Ragnar: "So all we need to do is find the fortress ruins?" Victor: "I looked for its location, and after countless hours of research realized that it was still standing! After nearly one thousand years, the fortress was still very much intact!It is not called Mizia anymore, it's an occupied ruin; in the on the West border of Nocturnus!" Kahzoul: "Occupied? Occupied by who?" Victor: "A blood-thirsty Orc tribe, no less! Travelers won't come near it, and that is why I need you. These Orcs are man-eaters, not the civilized Orcs you're used to in your cities. They will attack us if we approach, so we must be ready for a fight. I am just an old man, but with your four's skill, I believe we can make our way through the fortress and into the shrine! But I must confirm it, please take out the crystals." The adventurers do; as the crystals approach each other they start to glow. Victor: "Quickly now... Yes yes, let us see... Aha it is exactly as I thought! The crystals point East! We are headed towards the fortress then!" Owain: "Do you know what we'll find in the Shrine Victor?" Vicrtor: "If I knew I wouldn't be going along on this journey with you! I'm sure the King will be very pleased with whatever treasures we find. Now let us depart..." The adventurers and Victor travel for 3 days and 3 nights and arrive at an impressive sight; a run-down archaic fortress that oozes a chilly magical tingling. There are human bones and head about the grounds, and the adventurers cautiously approach the gate. Orc Guard: "Human! Meat!! Let's get them brothers and sisters!" Victor: "Now now, there's no need for anyone to get hurt! We simply want to move inside. These four are excellent warriors, let us pass and there won't be any trouble!" Orc Guard: "Humans talk too much! Warggghh!Kill them!" Owain: "I guess we're doing this the hard way then?" Ragnar: "It's more fun this way! Yarghh!" Kahzoul: "I've got the high positions! Jumping is my thing!" (he jumps onto the battlements) The adventurers engage the horrific Orcs.... Ragnar: "Take that, Yearghh, and that! You want some too? Yargh! Keep coming at me, I'll take you all on you worthless vermin!Kahzoul, you jumping monkey, get off your perch and join the fight!" Owain: "I guess that's how they teach you to fight in Nocturnus! AAAH!... By jumping around until the enemy gets dizzy and falls on his sword!" Kathyrin: "He's killing more than both of you combined you loud-mouth! Yahh! Stay down Victor, there are more of them coming!" Kahzoul: "That's the last of them! Yahhh!" The adventures assemble in from of the fortress gate. Victor: "Oh my, that was almost too much for my old bones... So, here we are, the fortress of the Knights of Cadarn! The shrine entrance will be somewhere below the altar. Be weary; I feel strong magical forces at work here..." Kathyrin: "We're ready for whatever comes our way Victor! Let's head in!" The group enters the fortress and quickly finds the abandoned altar. After several attempts to life the slab fail, Victor notices grooves in the stone in the shape of the Elemental crystals. Once the crystals are places, the slab sinks into the floor revealing a hidden stairwell. The group heads down. In the darkness of the underground, the smells of moist rocks and and fresh vegetation give the party a whiff of freshness. As they walk along a dark corridor an doorway appears; as if cut into the rock. Light illuminates the landscape on the other side, and the party of travelers head in. They arrive at an impressive sight; the Temple of the Druids. Victor: "Behold friends; the oldest shrine of its kind in existence! Look around! These floors and statues are thousands of years old! This place predates Historica!" Ragnar: "What on earth kind of temple is this? I haven't seen anything like it!" Victor: "It is a Shrine for the worship of Elemental magic! Look around; we are surrounded by the 4 elements; each has an altar on which the crystals should be placed." Kahzoul: "The brifge is out, we could swim but the water is turbulent; we'll never make it!" Victor: "Allow me." (he raises his staff and utters) "Mostikus!" Kathyrin: "Amazing!" Victor: "A cheap trick compared to the magic we'll find here. Off we go now let us cross!" Ragnar: "What are these eagle statues for?" Owain: "They look like the altars Victor mentioned; but how do we know what crystal goes where?" Victor: "You must think in terms of the elements; look here an Elder Wood tree; the symbol of the ancient earth. The earth Elemental crystal goes here!" Kathyrin: "There are stepping stones into the water there; it must be for the water element! The fire pits signify the fire element and Ragnar, if I'm not mistaking, that misty cauldron rock there symbolizes the air element!" Victor: "Excellent observations my dear! Can you reach the altars safely?" Ragnar: "Yes, be careful Kathyrin; that water is treacherous!" Victor: "Here we go, place the crystals on the altars and I will recite some ancient druid enchantments!" Victor: "Wonderful! Get ready now!" As Victor reads of ancient Druid chants, the floor of the cave trembles and an ancient trap door opens in the shrine revealing a glittering object. Ragnar: "What is it Victor? Treasure??" Victor picks it up, and walks to the edge of the water. Victor: "Oh it's better than that my lad, better than that! It's the helm of the Druid Head priest! The enchantments herein are more potent than any magic we possess! I've been looking for it all my life!" Owain: "Wait, you said you didn't know anything about what was kept in here!" Victor: "Ah, yes, I may not have been entirely honest you see; my true purpose in coming was to obtain this lovely artifact that the Knights of Cadarn wisely hid away from mankind so many centuries ago! You see, this artifact makes me the most powerful magic user in the world, and it is high time I got my way. I should thank you all, without you I would never have been able to find the crystals and get inside the Shrine! Now Historica is mine for the taking!" Ragnar: "Are you mad old man! We'll cut you down before you manage to raise an arm in defense!" Victor: "Let's make sure that does not happen!" (He raises his staff and utters a chant. Suddenly the adventurers are held down by an invisible force) Owain: "What on earth is going on! Stop it you old coot!" Ragnar: "It's pulling me in! I can't move!" Kahzoul: "Aaah the fire! He's pulling me into it! Stop him somebody do something!" Kathyrin: "Help! I'm gonna drown! It's pulling me towards the deep!" Victor: "Easy there my pretties, the more you struggle the worse it'll be! You're gonna be servants to my will!" The adventurers are pulled into the elemental altars and disappear. Victor: "Ah, my apologies, but I need your souls!" (He collects all 4 crystals) "I hope you're comfy in there! Now to test how powerful this Helm is; I should be able to materialize in another dimension. Let's try the realm of Elemental Spirits!" (He brings his staff down onto the floor; the room begins to spin, and he is transported into a place with no obvious dimensions or features) Victor: "Spirits can be seeded into these vessels! I am sorry my friends but you will be the host of these spirits! Each of you will become an elemental being under my command... The Drow are an annoyance, the real threat to Historica was right under your noses this whole time!And all I had to do was put on the guise of an old geezer! You High King is not safe, your Guilds are not safe! I will put events into action that will challenge Historica's very existence! Now, I summon you spirits of Elemental magic! Take on these souls and vessels! Serve me and destroy my enemies! I command you, OBEY!!!" Brilliant lights shoot across the darkness and find their way to the Crystals that now house the unfortunate adventurers; each one erupts in a brilliant display of it's element's properties. From the seeds rise four giant Elemental Monsters... Victor: "Rise! Rise and obey your master! By virtue of this Great Helm, I command you to do my bidding!" Victor: "The hour of the Black Mage Victor has arrived! My elemental forces will reduce Historica to rubble! Doom is coming!!! Dark days have come to the once peaceful kingdom of Historica. He Black Mage, Victor Revolword, has gained tremendous power from the Great Helm of Elemental Magic, and released it upon the Guilds of Historica. The four elemental crystals have spawned a myriad of elemental minions that now make their way from the border of Nocturnus towards the four regions of Historica and its mighty capital Cedrica. At first the attacks came at small farmsteads. Earthquakes, tidal waves, conflagrations of fire and icy winds destroyed small town after small town. As the elementals consumed more and more structures, they became ever more powerful. Today, the elemental monsters at Victor’s command have made their way to the major cities of Historica. Elemental mayhem has ensued as the shape-shifting minions rain chaos upon the cities of Historica. Desperate efforts to save the towns and cities have proven futile, and as the smoldering ruins of the once great settlements are abandoned in the wake of the elemental turmoil, the task at hand is survival, not victory.

The Story of The Guids of Historica! ======== Origins ======== The bard’s song tells a tale of a world long forgotten, Race against race, clan against clan, shields clashed with swords; long ago when Men of the Lion fought Men of the Falcon, and human armies succumbed to Orcs and undead. Each group clashed with its neighbor for power, unleashing upon the world a great scourge, and the arcane land was thrown into chaos. When it all seemed but lost, a council of wise men and sages was summoned. From all the lands they came to convene in the old world’s great city; the fortress of Cedrica. To settle the grievance and end a millennium of bloodshed, the sages declined all the treaties of old and joined all the clans into one mighty Kingdom; Historica. They founded the Four Great Regions- each one a realm in itself; - Mitgardia in the North, Nocturnus in the East, Kaliphlin in the South and Avalonia in the West, so that trade routes would spring up and clans would meet in the markets and not in the theatre of war. The wise men chose a family of great honor, to uphold the truce and to keep the four guilds from dispute, and descendants of that mighty kin to this day rule the Central lands of Historica. So goes the legend. For ten decades the races of old have migrated and spread through the world, following the trade routes, establishing cultures and prospering towns. Today, it is a world of wonder and natural beauty; a realm where a man and a woman may find peace. But peace is short lived… Treacherous assassins have tried to murder the King! The capital is in shock and there will be repercussions; the Four Regions assemble their forces as the balance of power shifts, and blame is passed around. For the first time in a century, the guilds of Historica build up old defenses and prepare for the inevitable confrontation; everything hangs in the balance, and Historica is on the verge of chaos once more… Guildsmen; this is the world you inhabit, this is the place where you will make your fortune, build a mighty empire and battle for the glory and honor of the banner… ======================== Book 1 - The Revolword Saga ======================== Chapter I- All Along the Watchtower and Historica's Wonders by Tazmaniac Chapter II- A Home Away From Home and The Royal Tour by Si-MOCs And so it was that the four Great Guilds of Historica reinforced the bonds between them with masterful diplomacy. Pleased with the newly-established era of unity, the High King Draconius has decided to tour the realm of Historica, so that he may survey all the newly-built embassies and note-worthy sights first-hand, and reward all those whose efforts had helped insure the peace. From the Capital Stronghold of Cedrica, the High King, his entourage and armed guard shall make their way to each of the four realms of Historica. Thus the King has sent messengers to every Guild, decreeing they must prepare their land for his arrival. “It is a time of peace and prosperity” the King has announced; and all in Historica will be well advised to remember it. With this new peace, the High King has decided to focus the the realm in more historical pursuits - gathering a great champion from each realm to look for an infamous Historian who may hold the answer to the Mystery of Historica's fabled hidden shrine... Chapter III- The Search for Truth and The Treasure Hunt by Derfel Cadarn The Search For Truth: The land of Historica is enjoying a time of peace and prosperity! New Embassies and fortifications have been built throughout the land and the High King can finally rest at ease, knowing his reign is at an all time high. He knows that under his rule, Historica has indeed become a mighty realm. Now all it needs is something that will boost that claim-will; a talisman, something unique and special, that could become a true symbol of all that is just and good about Historica. There is no shortage of Legends about treasure in Historica, and the High King has been showing an increased interest in whether or not there is really any truth behind the tales. One legend, in particular, has really caught his attention. All children of Historica grow up with The Tale of the Lost Shrine Of The Druids. It is a tale about the first settlers of this mighty land; a powerful race of Druids who lived in harmony and were as one with the land. It is said that they built a sacred shrine, and within its walls they placed 'The Soul Of Historica'. This treasure is said to contain the power of the four Elder Druids who sacrificed their lives so that the land would forever be blessed. It is indeed, a treasure of extreme importance and power. People have been searching for this treasure for centuries, but to no avail. Presently, the story is accepted as nothing more than a legend. But is it indeed just a legend? That's something which the High King is determined to find out. Four warriors, one from each corner of Historica, have been assigned the task of tracking down a retired Historian; the only man in the Kingdom who may know the answer. Lord Owain Of Avalonia, cousin of Artorius Rex Ragnar'The Fearless' Nibelung, nephew of Jarl Nibelung Kathyrin Flagg, slave sister to Dextrus Flagg Kahzoul 'The Reaper', bodyguard and trained assassin of Lord Ssilyrrlith After many weeks of ceaseless searching, the four finally track down the Historian to a dwelling in Nocturnus, a place known as Grim Hollow....... Owain: "You sure this is the place?" Kathyrin: "Why?" "Doubting my skills are you now?" she grinned. Owain: "But look at it!" "Dark and dirty and falling to pieces, who lives like this?!" Kahzoul: "Oh I am sorry, would you prefer it if we planted some lush green trees? Perhaps a nice row of flowers along the front, yes?" he asked sarcastically. He lowered his tone, "Fool, your not in Avalonia anymore!" Owain: "Mores the pity" he grumbled. The group took a moment to gaze upon their destination. Could the answer to the most sacred of treasures really be found in such a place? Ragnar: "Enough time wasting, lets just do what we came here for and head back" he growled. Kathyrin: "Agreed, after all, we are being watched." Owain: "Watched?" he shouted. "By whom?" Kahzoul: "Drow spies of course." he said casually. "They've been watching us ever since we set foot into Nocturnus." He seemed to find the situation amusing. Kathyrin: "Then they know why we're here?" "They know of the Shrine and the Historian?" Kahzoul: "Oh yes, they know alright." he smiled. Ragnar: "If they know" he snarled, "then why haven't they already taken the Historian, learned his secrets and gone ofter the Shrine themselves?" Kahzoul: "That's not their style." he said with a grin. "They find it far more fun to let us do all the hard work and find the treasure, then they can just come and take it from under our nose!" Owain: "Not on my watch!" he roared. Owain stepped out from the group, drew his sword and looked out towards the gloomy land of Nocturnus. "COME OUT YOU COWARDS!" he shouted. "COME OUT AND FIGHT!" He unbuckled the straps of his shield and threw it to the ground. "I'll MAKE IT EASY FOR YOU, NO SHIELD, ONE HAND BEHIND MY BACK!.....COME OUT AND FIGHT!" His shouts were greeted with nothing but silence. He spat on the floor in disgust, picked up his shield then turned to walk back to the others. Kahzoul: "What a fine display." he mocked, clapping his hands. Rangnar: "And what did that achieve?" Owain: "Look, if they are out there, then at least they know that Avalonia is not afraid of a fight!" Ragnar: "Nor is Mitgardia!" he stroked his hand across the blade of his axe. "And you would do well to remember that!" he said said dangerously. Owain: "I'd end your life before you had time to swing that hedge cutter!" Kathyrin: "I'll cut both your throats right now if you two don't pack it in!" she shouted, then smiled. "Come on, lets get this over with." The group made they way to the main door. The stench of the overflowing sewers wasn't making this task any easier, but they knew they would soon be on their way home. Owain: "Right, I'll break down the door." Kathyrin: "No!" she said shocked. "We're not thieves, we knock." Owain looked bemused. 'Just kick the door in' he thought to himself, but nodded at Kathyrin, who went ahead and knocked. And so they waited, and waited........and waited! Owain: "What a surprise!"...."So now we kick the door down right?" Karzoul: "Leave it to me, amateurs." he hissed. He made his way to the door, placed his hands on the lock and within a flash the door swung open. Owain: "How did you do that?" he asked confused. Karzoul: "Oh please, picking locks is child's play, we Nocturnian's know how to pick a lock from the day we can first stand!" "Not to mention a wealth of other tricks!" he boasted. Kathyrin: "Lock picking?" she raised an eyebrow. "Whats that for then, thieving?" Karzoul: "No...well, not as such" he grinned. Owain: "More likely for when the imbeciles manage to lock themselves out their houses on a daily basis!" he chuckled. Karzoul: "I'll ignore that comment Owain, besides, the door's open, so lets go." Into the building they went, glad to be away from the harsh eyes of the watching Drow. Now to speak to this Historian! Ragnar: "Strange place this." he looked around the lower floor, scouting for anything that may be threat. "Shall I stand and guard the door?" he snarled. Karzoul: "No need, like I said, the Drow won't make a move yet." he spoke with a confidence that washed onto the others. Kathyrin: "I guess your right, they wouldn't stand a chance anyways!" Owain: "I'd kill them all before they even got through the door anyway, so its really not an issue is it?"....... Karzoul rolled his eyes and carried on searching the lower floor with the others. Owain decided to have a look around as well, until something caught his eye. Owain: "Look at all those barrels of Mead!" he cried, "and they're full too, I knew this would be a worthwhile journey!" He raced over to the barrels. Owain: "Perfect, now lets see, six full barrels....So, we're gonna need to find some sort of wagon to get these back to mine and..." Ragnar: "Oi" he interrupted. "If anyone's having those barrels of Mead, its gonna be me!" "Besides, I don't need a wagon, I'll just carry them on my back like a real man!" he grinned. Owain: "That's stealing!" he said. Ragnar: "What?" he asked confused. "What's the difference with you taking them then?" Owain: "I'm borrowing", he said with a smirk, "borrowing." Kathyrin: "No one is stealing or borrowing anything." She spoke with a half smile while flicking her dagger in the air. Owain: "Come on Kath, its a long journey back home you know!" Ragnar: "Aye, journey goes a lot quicker with a barrel of Mead!" Kathyrin: "Must I remind you two that we are on a mission for the High King? We are here in the hope that this Historian will give us some information regarding the Lost Shrine! Not only have we already broken into his house, now you want to take his supply of Mead as well?...What next?" she grinned, "I wouldn't tell us anything if I were him!" Karzoul: "Hey, over here." he called the other three over and nodded towards the staircase. "Up the stairs, I hear movement coming from one of the rooms, that's probably our guy!" Sure enough, the sound of somebody moving could be heard coming from the upper floor. They made their way up the stairs and pushed open the door. Someone was sitting at a table at the far end of the room. They had found the Historian. Historian: "Ahhh, I've been expecting you." Owain: "Expecting us?" he gasped. "Did you not hear us knocking? Four bloody hours we were waiting out there, FOUR!" Kathyrin: "Oh shut up Owain!" she snapped. She turned towards the Historian. "I must apologize for his rudeness Mr...." Victor: "Revolword, Victor Revolword" he smiled, "And don't worry about that business with the door; yes I heard your knocking, but you can't be too careful round here, likely to get dragged outside and robbed if you answer your door in this hamlet." Kathyrin: "Well its good to know we have found you safe and sound." she smiled. "There's a matter we really could do with you expertise on, lets just say its historic." she smiled. Victor: "Well you have come to the right place, but first let me get you all a drink, you must be thirsty?" he asked. "I have some very fine Mead downstairs, I'll go and fetch some for you all" he offered. Owain: "Its ok, I know where it is, I'll get it." Victor: "Oh...ok...splendid. Yes, that's very kind of you Sir" Owain bounded off downstairs and appeared again ten minutes later. He had managed to haul and struggle a whole barrel of mead to the top. He stood exhausted, but looking very pleased with himself. Kathyrin: "What are you doing?" she asked shocked. "You only had to fetch one beaker each!" she rolled her eyes shaking her head. Ragnar: "You did well lad!" Owain: "Yeah, I know." The two of them stood there grinning, while Victor poured them all a drink. He seemed oblivious to what Owain had done. Victor: "Right then, what is it that I can help you with?" Kathyrin: "We need some information on a shrine; if it exists and where it can be found." Victor: "There are plenty of old ruined shrines in Historica, are you looking for one in particular?" he asked. Kathyrin: "The lost Shrine of the Druids." she watched for Victor's reaction. Victor: "Ah yes, but of course." he calmly leaned back in his chair then looked up at them. "You're treasure hunters then?" Kathyrin: "Not as such, the High King has shown an interest in the Shrine and would like to know whether it really exists?" Victor: "Of course it does" he chuckled. "Legends don't just appear, they may grow and be exaggerated over the years, but they are all based on real events." he looked carefully at the group. "Yes it does exist, and it contains the greatest treasure in all of Historica. I have devoted a large part of my life to finding it, and through that journey I have learned much." Owain: "Ok....So where is it, how do we get there?" Victor: "I'm afraid its not that simple, you can't find the shrine until you have the keys." Kathyrin: "Keys?" Victor: "The keys open the shrine, and its the keys that, when found, reveal its location." he gave a sly smile. "So you can't find the shrine or open its door without the keys." Ragnar: "Right then, so we need these "keys", fair enough." he scratched his beard and looked at Victor. "So where do we find them?" Victor: "For years men have been searching, but nothing has ever been found. Why do you think that could be?" Owain: "Because they've rusted away!Or better still, maybe they never existed at all!" he scorned, then got up and drowned another beaker of Mead. Karzoul: "Perhaps...I've encountered most of Historica's sacred items on my travels, but never a Shrine key; I'm afraid that they may be lost forever. Or..." Kathyrin: "Or maybe they aren't keys in the conventional sense?" Victor: "Exactly my dear, the keys to the Shrine are not keys in the conventional sense, but something else entirely." Kathyrin: "What exactly are they?" she asked. Victor: "Crystals. Four Elemental Crystals; one for each of the ancient elements." Karzoul: "Earth, Air, Fire and Water...?" Victor: "That's correct, and when they are all found and brought together, they will reveal the location of the shrine." Owain: "Crystals eh?" a look of interest crossed his face. "I bet they're worth a fair price?" Kathyrin: "Don't even think it Owain!" she snapped. Owain: "I know, I know, just jesting" he smiled. Kathyrin: "Now then Victor, how exactly do these Crystals show the location of the Shrine?" Victor: "On each Crystal there is an inscription that explains where the shrine is located, but this inscription does not become visible unless all four are brought together." Kathyrin: "I see; so once we find them, how do we open the door of the Shrine?" Victor: "According to an old manuscript I found, the Keys are placed in some sort of device, and their power unseals the door." Ragnar: "Now we're getting somewhere!" he said excitedly. Karzoul: "Well that explains why no one has ever found the keys, they've all been searching for the wrong thing." he smiled with amusement. Owain: "Its just like what I've been saying all along" he proclaimed. Ragnar: "What?" Owain: "Nothing...never mind." Kathyrin: "So, its just the location of these Crystals then, have you discovered any information on their whereabouts?" Victor: "I'm afraid I do not know their exact locations, but I do know that they were hidden in each corner of Historica. The Earth Crystal is hidden in Avalonia, the Air Crystal can be found in Mitgardia, the Fire Crystal lies in the land of Nocturnus and the Water Crystal rests somewhere in Kaliphiln." Owain: "Great, well that narrows it down, so somewhere in each land of Historica, there lies a Crystal hidden! All we need to do is spend the rest of our lives searching every inch of each land trying to find them!" he sighed and slumped down in a chair. Kathyrin: "That's all the information we needed!" she exclaimed. "We now know the shrine and keys exist, we know that one is hidden in each realm, and we know what they do and how to use them! That's more than enough!" Owain: "Yes but there's still the burden of trying to find them, it would be never ending!" Kathyrin: "Not if the whole of Historica is looking for them! We'll find them!" she said enthusiastically. Owain: "I'm sure your right." Kathyrin: "Victor, if you knew all of this, why haven't you tried looking for them?" Victor: "Ah therein lies the problem; you see, only a Mitgardian can find the Crystal in Mitgardia, just as only an Avalonian can find the Crystal in Avalonia.The same is true for every land, and alas it's one of the reasons I never bothered looking for them myself." he chuckled. Kathyrin: "Thank you Victor, your information and help have been invaluable; we're in your debt. Is there anything we can do for you in return?" Victor: "I just want to see the Shrine finally discovered, that's all." he smiled. Kathyrin: "You shall see that happen, I promise! Its time for us to leave, there's lots to be done." The group stood and said farewell to Victor. He seemed excited at the prospect of the Shrine finally being discovered, but why wouldn't he, after all, its the Shrine of Legend that countless men have searched for all their lives. The group headed outside into the darkness of night. Owain and Ragnar fetched the horses, then they all gazed out into the darkness. Owain: "Whats our move now?" Kathyrin: "We each head back to our leaders, report everything we have just heard and then, I expect, they will speak to the High King. A plan will likely be put into action to find the Crystals." Ragnar: "So this is where we part ways then?" Kathyrin: "Yes, we have done our part, whatever happens next is up to our leaders and the High King to decide." Owain: "Fine with me, I just want to get back to Avalonia; its a long journey." he said with a sigh. Karzoul: "Yes, I do feel for you guys." he grinned. "I expect I will be home in under an hour!" Owain: "Yes, but then you've got to mess around trying to pick the lock to get in!" he laughed. The group smiled and said farewell to one another. They were going home, successful in their mission and excited to finally be able to set foot back in their beloved lands after so long away. So the stories were true. The shrine did exist and so too did the mysterious treasure hidden inside. But before this treasure could be found, four Crystals must be located; and that will be no easy task. Objects of such great importance are bound to be hidden well, in treacherous places; bound to be guarded by all manner of unspeakable creatures and traps. One thing is for certain; they must be found! For the glory of the High King, and for the people and legacy of Historica! Finding of the Air Crystal by Cara Finding of the Fire Crystal by lisq Finding of the Water Crystal by Erynlasgalen Finding of the Earth Crystal by ZCerberus

What are the Guilds of Historica? The Guilds are a Castle MOCers paradise where builders can connect with other castle fans to build in a connected world of five distinct Guilds, each with their own territory, history, and geography. The world grows as builders compete in challenges to win prizes, enhance their building skills and progress the official lore of Historica. Guilds score gold by competing in challenges and by "free building" in their own guild to grow their world. Here is your scoring and challenge headquarters! ======================== Active Challenges and Judging ======================== Active Challenge: None Freebuilding Most Recent Completed Challenge: Book III: Challenge IV - The Turning Point Active Vote: None Most Recent Completed Vote: Book I - Challenge VI Official lore of Historica (Locked) ===================== Book I Gold Count ===================== Avalonia- 3,991 Mitgardia- 3,841 Kalphlin- 3,840 Nocturnus- 3,473 Varlyrio- Not open (Current through Book I - Challenge VI) ================================== Previous Challenges and Winners ================================== Book I - The Revolword Saga Challenge I- All Along the Watchtower- Winners: A- ZCerberus K- gabe M- Busboy489 N- Tazmaniac Challenge II- Home in a Foreign Land- Winners: A- Rolli K- gabe M- Ecclesiastes N- lisqr Challenge III- The Treasure Hunt- Winners: A- ZCerberus K- Erynlasgalen M- Cara N- lisqr Challenge IV- Elemental Mayhem- Winners: A- ZCerberus K- Erynlasgalen M- Torgar N- Hyler Talliwell Challenge V- The Mystical Sanctum- Winners: A- ZCerberus K- robuko M- Torgar N- Dr Rod Challenge VI- The End- Winners: A- ZCerberus K- Gideon M- Ecclesiastes N- Dr Rod Book II- The Civil Wars Challenge I- The Battle For Noctunus Winners: BLACK SPIRE. Individual winners: A- Emma B- Torgar C- Gunman Challenge II- The Battle For Mitgardia Winner: Challenge III- The Bettle For Avalonia Winner: Challenge IV- The Battle for Kaliphlin Winner: DESERT KING. Individual winners A- B- C- Challenge V- The Battle for Historica Winner: The Alliance! Individual winners A- Alliance-______ Spire-______ B- Alliance-______ Spire-______ C- Alliance HQ (and Titus V) Spire-______ Book III Challenge I - A Time To Rebuild Challenge II - Bread and Circuses Challenge III - What Will Tomorrow Bring? Challenge IV - The Turning Point =================== Indices and Guides =================== MOC Index Guilds of Historica Wiki City Guide Varlyrio Guild- Not open for membership. Full Story Document

That was more of a generic comment- but good work man!! That's what I like to see!!

This topic will contain review for Lord of the Rings and The Hobbit when I get around to formatting them all Brickington sends me all the links. Thanks Bricky!! Click the picture to see a review. Second and third reviews, follow the blue links. 2012 LotR ========= 9469- Gandalf Arrives 9470- Shelob Attacks Review 2 Review 3 9471- Uruk-hai Army Review 2 9472- Attack on Weathertop Review 2 9473- Mines of Moria Review 2 9474- Battle of Helm's Deep Review 2 9476- Orc Forge 30210- Frodo's cooking Corner 30211- Uruk-hai with Ballista 2013 LotR ======== 79005 The Wizard Battle 79006 The Council of Elrond 79007 The Battle at the Black Gate 79008 Pirate Ship Ambush 2012 The Hobbit ============= 79000 Riddles for the Ring 79001 Escape from Mirkwood Spiders 79002 Attack of the Wargs 79003 An Unexpected Gathering 79004 Barrel Escape 79010 The Goblin King Battle 30212 Mirkwood Elf Guard 30213 Gandalf at Dol Guldur

We have quite a few indices and guides here in History, so instead of having 500 bazillion sticky posts, let's have a one stop shop for all your guides and indices! INDICES ======= Historic Themes Review Index -Click me for browse the Reviews for Historic Themes. Lord of the Rings Review Index -A Collection of LotR Reviews. Lord of the Rings MOC Index -Click me to see a chronological index of MOCs from your favorite film franchise. The Hobbit MOC index -Click me to see a chronological index of MOCs from your other favorite film franchise. Guilds of Historica MOC Index -The Castle MOCers paradise! Click me to browse the Guild MOCs. Western Moc Index GUIDES ======= Derfel's Detailed Guide to Building a Medieval Village -The master, the legend, the guide of all guides. See DC's secrets here! -Derfel's Guide Discussion. kabel's Medieval Ships Guide -His name might not be capitalized, but his guide is quite "capital". Damaximus's Wall Shield Decoration Guide -A fun technique to decorate walls. Venunder's Tree Building Guide -Want to add some trees to your builds? Find out how to build one here! Small Tree Tutorial Masa's Palm Tree Tutorial Roof Techniques Snot Rock Tutorial - build sedimentary rocks, by kabel

Went with something similar. Paradise y'all, paradise.

Welcome, welcome!

Come on guys! Learn to format a link for Pete's sake!! Just type in some text, highlight it, click the link icon and insert the URL. No more of this unformatted long URL garbage, it looks uglier than a Mordor Orc!

Awesome. Welcome Wedge.

Very cool.