EBRP Adventure Thread

[WhiteFang]

Location: L13

Strong wind is blowing from North at Majestic Tower and a fade voice said "This is serious. We must avert this crisis." It was none other, respected Master Pent Heartstorm. "Master, we have dispatched a platoon to assist Kenneth." Kristine said in a worried manner though. Lord Calvin added "Master, may i assist Kenneth too, in this mission?" Master Pent pause awhile and said "I have another task for you. Both of you step down please. I need some quiet moments." Both replied "Yes Master."

[Scouty]

L-18

Now marked off as a traveling adventurer, Siloux de Fraun sets about for adventure. Upon his horse, he gallops from nation to nation.

Fearful of going through the route he had gone previously, Siloux has decided to take the shortest stretch of land across the Wolfpack and into one of the nations above it.

For Fortune!

[Dragonator]

L7 Dragons Keep; Front Gates

Dragonator stepped out of the entrance hall, and proceeded through the driving rain to his waiting carriage. Getting in, he said to Galcor, his bodyguard, not a pleasant day to start our travels in, is it?

No my Lord, it most certainly is not. Are you ready to leave?

Most certainly, the sooner we are on the road, the sooner we can get to the meeting place. I hope to be there a day in advance so we can set up for the arrival of the representatives from the other kingdoms. I am hoping all will go smoothly. Driver! Let us be going!

The driver loaded the last few bags onto the back of the carriage, got up on the driving seat and, pulling down his hood, set off into the misty rain. Unknown to the party, a shadow was tailing them...

Meanwhile...

L7 Dragons Keep; Councilor Scorpia's Chambers

Turning from his window, Scorpia faced the Shadow. They have left, and your man is following, I presume?

He is as close as can be without being seen.

Excellent, he will hopefully carry out his duties soon. You know what you need to do, don't you?

Oh course, as long as I am paid the agreed upon amount.

Here is the first half. You will get the rest once the job is done. Make sure you do it properly, I don't want any mistakes.

You can rest assured that all will go well, me and my men have never failed a job.

Also Meanwhile...

Grim ascended the stairs, heading towards Adyms chambers. He will be waiting, and hungry to I suspect, he muttered to himself, placing his laden tray of steaming food on a small table to take a rest. I wish there was some better way to get up there than by the stairs, he grumbled.

Walking to the end of the corridor, he knocked on the door, waited a moment, and then said, I have brought your breakfast, Mr. Wrenchmonger, I hope you are hungry...

Edited April 19, 2008 by dragonator

[Inertia]

Location: m-20

Jorgis hefted the strange axe and nodded, "Aye, the same in our society" Jorgis was astounded at the number of weapons that Jorund had on his person, that made Jorgis a little more cautious, Jorind would need a few guards on his door. "This way please," Jorgis lead the way down towards Ban's Pointe.

[Deinonychus]

IC JORUND HATIEECREDE 20-M

::Usually quiet and withdrawn, Jorund makes small talk. Being alone in the deadlands for so long can make anyone miss regular human (or other) interaction ::

"How goes things against the Undead? From what we heard in the northlands, your kingdom was savaged in the first attacks. I only encountered scattered patrols so I'm assuming their legions must be concentrated elsewhere now. "

[Inertia]

location: M-19

Jorgis decided to speak to Jorund with caution, "They only got to the border, there's not much them undead can do against the Castles on the Forged Gate into the realm, but they did manage to burn down a lot of forest and plains. Dirty fighters, them undead, but we're more interested in the Orcs, they need to pay."

He didn't mention that most of the Thunderhammer forces were off on campaign, but Jorgis wondered if the Viking already knew. Another Dwarf signalled with a crystal from the Sentry post on the floor of the valley, the Dwarves had already closed up the mines and hidden the forge works, Jorgis knew Tyrius would have his head if he didn't hide the all too important technology.

[Deinonychus]

IC JORUND HATIEECREDE M-19

:: deliberately ::

"Some say...some say the advent of the un-men and the dead rising to wage war on the living is a sign that the end times are upon us. That the battle of Ragnarok is nigh, and we must all be prepared for everything we know to end and again be reborn."

[Inertia]

Location: M-19

Jorgis stopped, "I am not so sure, I think that there is only one thing to do in these circumstances, destroy the Wizards, they are what has caused all of this." Jorgis nodded and relized that Jorund was speaking of his gods.

"Aye, but there be not as many Undead as dead, otherwise these good lands would be already overrun". he paused and continued.

[iamded]

Also Meanwhile...

Grim ascended the stairs, heading towards Adyms chambers. He will be waiting, and hungry to I suspect, he muttered to himself, placing his laden tray of steaming food on a small table to take a rest. I wish there was some better way to get up there than by the stairs, he grumbled.

Walking to the end of the corridor, he knocked on the door, waited a moment, and then said, I have brought your breakfast, Mr. Wrenchmonger, I hope you are hungry...

L7 Dragons Keep; Adym's Room/Planning Area

Adym was pondering over his latest sketches, wondering if he should go with the automated hinge design, or a wind funnel design. He had been up for about an hour now, though he only recently actually got out of bed to compare his thoughts with his notes.

Now, the wind funnel would provide a lot more lift, although I still have to thing of a way to steer and maintain pitch... maybe I could have the hinges to keep balance, and maybe I could modify them to steer as well, and then I could make a funnel to lift it...

Just then his stomach grumbled, reminding him it was time for that morning meal and if he didn't have it he wouldn't be able to work to his full potential. That or he had gas. Just then there was a knock on the door. Adym quickly gathered up his notes and hurriedly placed them in his satchel, which he hung from the chair. Then he heard Grim call out:

I have brought your breakfast, Mr. Wrenchmonger, I hope you are hungry...

Adym smiled and whipped the key out from his shirt. He had made a crude necklace from some string to hold the keys he had been given by Lord Dragonator. He unlocked the door and opened it, to see Grim standing holding a steaming plate of food.

Please, call me Adym! said Adym, as he took the plate Grim offered to him. So, Grim is it? Is that your birth name, or was it a nickname, or something? I mean, it's not exactly a common name, you know? It's not like you bump into someone who goes, oh hi, I'm Grim. Not that someone would introduce themselves after you bump into them, they'd probably curse at you under their breath. Anyway, I'll let you speak now. Adym smiled at Grim, who looked at Adym with a sort of frowny smile upon his face, like he was trying to hide his embarrassment at being blatantly and unknowingly made fun of with a cheery smile. It wasn't working.

Are you okay? You like kind of ill. Long walk up the stairs, huh? Yeah, I was thinking that when I came up. Well, ran up. I tell you, I was knackered after that. Anyway, I had this idea of these stairs that go around some wheels, and loop around underneath. So the wheels are fixed into place, and as they spin they pull the stairs up for you, so you just have to stand there. Anyway, uh, I think I said I'd let you talk. So you go ahead. You had something to say, didn't you? I can't remember...

Adym's stomach rumbled annoyedly.

Oh yes, my breakfast! Thanks Grim! Adym sat down at his desk and started eating his meal. Grim looked at Adym in a confused disbelief, wondering whether to chat with Adym or to leave this nut while he had the chance.

[Dragonator]

L7 Dragons Keep; Adym's Room

Grim looked at this character with scarcely hidden confusion, and wondered to himself why his master would want such a crazy man working for him. I... he began. Hmmm, this wasn't starting well at all.

I trust you had a pleasant sleep Mr... Adym, he said. Ah, Grim is a nickname, you know, back when you fist join the army, everyone calls you by a nickname. Well I kind of just adopted it as my real name. My old one wasn't that great anyway... Struggling to keep up with the conversation, Grim made a sad attempt at a grin and said, but your idea for... moving stairs is kind of... cool, if a little out there. Then again, I am sure my master would be all ears, I however am but his loyal bodyguard, and can't really imagine such things. I'll... be outside if you need me. Grim scuttled out of the room, for the first time in his life feeling decidedly uncertain and embarrassed in the face of Adym's blind innocence.

Standing outside, Grim wondered why anyone would want to kill a person like Adym, and so decided that there should probably not be much of a threat. But you can never be too certain...

[zero1312]

L-18

Dragor prepares to ambush Siloux as he mistaken him for something else as usual due to his bad eyes.

[AgentRick]

M-18

Repeling the fire cavalry is a hard job, but it gets easier when the threat of fire is out. Edthgar and his forces finally finished fighting the cavalry just as Teythar was finished questioning their orc friend.

[Scouty]

L-18

La-dee-da-daa. There's some nice scenery in this part of the country. Wait, something moves in the bushes...

Siloux pulls out his bow and places an arrow to it.

[Shadows]

L-15

Northern border of Wolfpack territory.

Southern border of Dragon Masters territory.

Aside from that brief encounter a few days ago, this has been a remarkably easy trip.

It has, lad, but believe me, there will be plenty of action in our futures.

I think we should stop in that village ahead. The horses could use a rest, and so could I.

That'll be fine, it should give me a chance to see if anyone knows of the coming storm.

Sky looks clear to me...

I was speaking figuratively.

Oh.

The carriage continues on into the small village and stops next to a deserted looking pub.

Well, this looks like an exciting place.

All the better, we don't need anyone interfering with our progress. A little peace and quite never hurt anyone.

Isn't it a little odd that we didn't pass anyone along the way?

Well, they're probably out in the fields while it's still daylight.

Aluvar and Grandoth climb down from their seats and Alyssta, wearing her cloak, steps out of the carriage.

I'm famished, let's get something to eat!

Plenty of time for that... after you take care of the horses.

Oh, right.

Grandoth tends to the horses as Aluvar and Alyss enter the small, dark pub which is aptly identified as "The Cave" by a weathered sign. Stepping inside the half timbered structure, they're met with the smell of stew and ale, but the place is otherwise empty.

How odd. I'd expect to see someone around.

Call out for the owner, perhaps he's in back.

Yes, right. Oh, barkeep!

Nothing. Not a sound but the crackling fire and creaking floorboards as they walk around the room.

Something is wrong here.

Very wrong.

The front door slams open quickly, a lone figure silouetted by the bright sunlight streaming in. Alyss reaches for her sword, then realises that she didn't bring it. Her hand settles on the handle of a concealed dagger.

This whole village is empty!

GRANDOTH! Don't ever do that again, it's enough to give an old man a heart attack!

I knew it was him all the time.

Uh huh, sure you did. You can let go of your dagger now.

Hmmm.

As they are discussing the situation, the birds fly in through the open door.

This whole area is dead.

No one for miles!

Not even any animals!

NOTHING!

That settles it then, something is definitely wrong here. Bluervo, I'm going to send you back to Sir Kwiras with a message. Make it quick and try to catch up with us, we'll be continuing on north from here.

Aw, that's a long trip.

I debated sending you all the way to Crown castle.

Sir Kwiras it is!

Aluvar scribbles a note, rolls it up tightly and places it in a small metal vial on a chain, which he hangs around Bluervo's neck.

Get going, this is very important!

I'll be back when I can. Bluervo flies out the door and out of sight.

What do we do now?

Well, that stew seems fine, but I'll run a few tests to be sure. If it is, we eat, then check out the rest of the village, restock our supplies, and continue on. We don't have time to deal with whatever this is now, and I don't think that staying overnight would be such a good idea.

Agreed.

I'll look for some supplies in the back while you check the stew.

I'll get us some ale.

Alyss tosses her cloak aside, since there seems to be no one to conceal her identity from.

Have you done something to your hair?

I thought that if I changed it, I might be able to travel without this infernal cloak. We're far enough outside of Crown lands, I doubt anyone would recognise me now. Why?

Oh, I just thought it was... different. Yes. I...

I wonder if there is a cold stream near this village.

I believe I spotted one off in the distance as we were approaching, why?

Just thought someone could use a little cooling down.

I... uh... oh...

I see what you mean, dear.

Aluvar and Alyss laugh a bit as Grandoth turns blood red. Regaining his composure, Grandoth heads into the storeroom looking for supplies as Alyss brings a few mugs of ale to a table. Aluvar decides that the stew is fine and serves them each a hearty portion. They are unaware of the eyes watching them through the side window of the pub. They eat quickly, load up some extra supplies, and quickly leave town, only stopping to check a few more small buildings as they go. All are unoccupied, just like the pub.

It's strange. Nothing is disturbed. Fires are burning, food is cooking, tools look like they are just waiting for their owners to pick them up and resume their lives, but no one is here.

Invasion? Surprise attack?

Without a chair or table overturned, a door smashed, anything? I doubt it.

There has to be some explanation, maybe it's the skellies trying to be sneaky.

Unless it was something even more sinister.

That's exactly what I'm thinking, my dear, exactly what I'm thinking...

They continue their journey northward. The horses, while displeased by the amount of time they've had to work without a rest, still seem relieved to be leaving the village. The whole party is somewhat relieved, actually. Even their newest passenger.

[WhiteFang]

Location: L14

Lord Kenneth advanced forward and sheaths his sword. His men followed closely behind, ready for any sudden movement. For a moment, someone or something came out of the bushes and collapsed in front of them. The group went forward in a careful manner, feared it might be an act of ambush. When they came in close, it was a young boy lying down. He seemed to be injured badly. They were claws marks on his hands and legs. Lord Kenneth said to his men “Carry the boy out of here. We will re-group with Lord Percival at the entrance.” The group went back. Little they did not know, there was another person watching them too.

[Batbrick]

M-18

Fershwitz Boran was still captured, but his captors were growing overconfident and were spread thin after the battle. Though Fershwitz expected Scourge to have another trick up his sleeve, for now he had to formulate his own escape plan. The man named Teythar finished his questioning, Fershwitz had only given him silly answers that both knew were incorrect, he was a coward, but no snitch. He kept working on thep lan while the Crown knights moved around him..

[Scouty]

L-17

After identifying the bush empty, Siloux continued along. Concerned about open dangers, Siloux travels off the road and quickly with his horse. On an on, he continues.

[iamded]

Adym thoroughly enjoyed his steaming hot breakfast, and immediately went back to work, sketching in a few things and writing a few notes. Then he packed up his papers, stuck them in his satchel, and called out to Grim, who was standing guard outside the door.

Grim, I'm about ready to see the, er, dungeons now, you know? I've got to test out some things...

Grim nodded and began to lead Adym down the stairs.

[Shadows]

L-14

Black Knights territory

Uh... Aluvar...

Grandoth stops the carriage about 300 yards short of a group of Black Knight soldiers. Aluvar peers out the carriage window, then climbs up top.

Oh, maybe they know about the village back there.

So we approach?

Of course lad, we've nothing to fear.

If you say so.

The carriage begins moving again, slowly making it's way toward the soldiers, who looks less than thrilled by the whole situation. As they get closer, one of the soldiers begins shouting for them to stop.

What do we do?

Wipe them out. All of them.

WHAT?

It's a joke, if you could live long enough, you'd eventually get it.

Um, sure.

Grandoth stops the carriage, much to the relief of the somewhat panicked looking soldiers. An armoured knight approaches.

I am Lord Kenneth of the Black Knights, and you will surrender immediately.

Surrender?

Now now, don't worry lad, I'll take care of this.

Aluvar jumps down from the carriage and begins to approach Lord Kenneth. Troops immediately surround him, pointing swords and spears menacingly in his direction.

I'd really prefer you stopped that.

They didn't.

Fine, but don't say that I didn't warn you. With wild motions and arcane chanting, Aluvar casts a small but effective spell of dispersal. The troops surrounding him are sent flying anywhere from 8 to 19 feet, depending a lot on their weight.

SORCERY! HE'S SOME KIND OF EVIL WIZARD! ATTACK!

No one moved. Aluvar grinned from ear to ear.

You know, it would save you a lot of trouble if you just read this letter.

Glancing around at his troops disapprovingly, Lord Kenneth steps forward to take the letter and begins reading it.

Uh. Hmm. I see. Well then, now that we've cleared that up, would you like an escort for the remainder of your trip?

I think we can handle it ourselves, don't you?

Quite.

Plus, you have the matter of that lad in the bushes over there.

Lad? Bushes? Where?

Aluvar points at a small bush. One of the soldiers approaches it and is tackled by a small boy.

He's my brother! You won't hurt him or I'll kill you all!

Any idea who he's talking about?

Oh, yes, we found an injured boy. Clawed, like an animal had attacked him.

It weren't no animal, it was the monster!

Monster?

Monster?

Monster!

Might explain the village we just left. Dead empty, not a soul to be found.

We've received similar reports locally!

NO! I MEAN... MONSTER!!! BEHIND YOU!

The group turns to see a very large troll, accompanied by a dwarf.

That's odd.

Odd? It's downright bizarre.

What's he doing with that thing?

The bugle or the bicycle?

I don't know, which one is the red one?

That's the bicycle.

I think they're arguing about something.

Probably which one gets to ride first, though I don't think either one will do particularly well at it.

Ride what?

The bicycle.

I see. No, I don't see, I'm lying.

It's perfectly understandable, those won't be invented for a few hundred years.

Oh, of course, that explains it.

The dwarf and troll wander off towards the south, completely unaware of the confusion they've caused.

So, lad, is that the kind of monster that attacked your brother?

Which one?

You have more than one brother?

I meant which monster.

Were there several?

No.

You sure he isn't your son?

I don't think I even have a son, why do you ask?

No reason...

Grandoth jumps down from the carriage.

Look, we need to get moving, nightfall approaches and we need to make it to a village soon, the horses are tired, I'm tired, this story isn't going anywhere...

Story?

Don't ask.

Another relative?

It wasn't that funny the first time.

Sorry.

Well, he's right, we really need to continue our trip. I suggest you get the lad to describe the monster, and maybe try to chart out where the attacks have occured. Perhaps you can determine what direction it's travelling in.

That's a good idea!

Then on that note, I will bid you, good day.

Aluvar and Grandoth board the carriage and head off toward the north. Lord Kenneth is left standing in the middle of the road, wondering just what all of that was about. Glancing over at one of his soldiers, he comments on how odd the whole experience was.

Well, I suppose we'd better get to tracking this monster before any more villages are wiped out.

Yes sir!

Just then, Lord Kenneth spies a very large, very dark creature moving in the shadow of some trees.

It's in those trees! Attack!

The soldiers charge toward the trees, where they discover ...

[Scouty]

L-16

Despite it being Nightfall Siloux runs quickly with his horse. The threat of a force in the Crown region was ever so growing. He now entered Wolfpack region. Even though he has never been this far in the land, he kept moving North.

Quick, my companion, we must go until we cannot go any longer, then we will stop for food. Perhaps the next day. I'll get you some nice apples, if there are any in this region.

[WhiteFang]

Location: L14

A large claw came out of the bush and scratches the charging soldiers. The soldiers were caught by surprise at the size of the beast. The glowing red eyes and its black slender body surrounded by its evil aura. Claws on its leg were extremely sharp to break any armor and shield. Many soldiers were seriously injured by the foul beast. Lord Kenneth went forward and unleashes his sword, battled against the beast. The beast fought back and slashes onto Lord Kenneth. He defends himself with his Dragon Shield and called upon his sword, Blessed Sword. The beast knew that it was not a normal sword as it filled with immense holy aura. It charged against Lord Kenneth, pushed him to the grounds and his sword flew few meters away from him. Supporting archers are extremely exhausted too, partly resulted due to Aluvar dispersal magic spell earlier.

Lord Kenneth lifted himself up and getting ready for the beast next offense. “Get the boys out of here, this beast is a mythical summon creature. Only weapons which are infuse with magic are able to hurt it. Quickly fall back and re-group with Lord Percival.” Lord Kenneth said to the rest of his soldiers and pushed himself to retrieve his sword. He thought to himself, wishing that Aluvar is here to assist in this assault. On the other hand, Lord Kenneth finds Aluvar’s actions and words hard to understand. But the letter proved his worthiness and credibility, and he is definitely not a simple character. Lord Kenneth lifted his sword and swings towards the beast and prevents it from charging.

Suddenly, there is someone coming from his back.

[Dragonator]

M9; On the Grand Highway

Dragonator was nearing the end of his second day of travel. As evening was approaching, they he had decided to stop for the night at The Crown, a small inn in the village of Gerbain. Stopping outside he entered the inn, calling for the Barkeeper.

I will have two rooms please, one for myself and another for my two companions. We will take your best. I am Councilor Dragonator, from Dragons Keep.

Ahh, yes, I will have it arranged my Lord, the Barkeeper stuttered as he rushed to get everything prepared.

Turning away from the bar, Dragonator looked at Galcor. Pulling out a sealed letter he handed it to Galcor and said, take this to the old man in the cottage that we passed when we entered this village. Don't be to long.

As you say, master.

Meanwhile...

L7 Dragons Keep

Grim took Adym down through the depths of the Keep to a small barred wooden door. This is the room you will be working in. Adym turned the key in the lock and entered the room. It was rather spacious, with a ramp on the opposite side leading up to a set of wooden cellar doors. There were a number of crates full of assorted pieces of wood, metal, stone, fabrics etc.

Edited April 22, 2008 by dragonator

[Shadows]

L-14

Black Knights territory

North of our previous location by a few hundred yards

Go back.

What?

GO BACK, NOW!

Yes sir!

Grandoth turns the carriage around in a wide arc and begins heading back toward Lord Kenneth and his men.

Look at it! It's horrible, like a big pool of black from which no light can escape!

That's a fairly good description, I must say. Aluvar begins banging on the roof of the carriage. Alyssta! Prepare for battle, bring Falsmite and my purple wand!

WHAT? I'll take care of that thing myself, we can't put her in danger!

You can't. We can. You'll stay with the carriage and try to keep Lord Kenneth's men from doing anything stupid, they can't fight it either.

Yes sir...

The carriage stops directly behind Lord Kenneth who turns to see Aluvar and Alyssta approaching, weapons in hand, a steely determination across their faces. Realising that help has indeed arrived, he quickly backs away from the beast, which now seems much more interested in the recent arrivals.

You should not have come back, old man.

Don't bother, your taunts and mind tricks have no effect on me. You're just another hellspawn, the likes of which I've dealt with a hundred times before.

The creature glances over at Alyss.

And what of the little girl? Do you bring a girl to a battle? Is that all you've got to confront me?

Oh, I'll show you what I've got, and you don't want any part of it!

He laughs a bit, then notices Falsmite glimmering in her hand.

Well, it would seem you have a bit more wisdom than I expected. I haven't seen a sword like that in a long time, a long time, and wielded by a woman? Could she be who I think she is? No matter. Your day will come. All of you will be dead and I will feast upon your souls. There is no sense in wasting my efforts here.

The beast conjurs up a fireball which it flings, not at Aluvar and Alyss, but directly toward Lord Kenneth. Realising that he can either save Lord Kenneth, or kill the beast, Aluvar casts a quick protection spell over the Lord and watches as Alyss charges, in vain, for the beast has already begun his teleportation spell and disappears before she can reach him.

Who does he think I am?

Uh. I have no idea. You know how those demons are, they just ramble to try to unnerve you. Didn't mean anything, I'm sure.

Hmmm...

The fireball bounces harmlessly off Aluvar's spell, doing no harm, aside from a bit of emotional shock to the poor Lord, who now looks like he's just about through with this whole situation.

Y-y-y-you saved me from that, that unholy creature, whatever it is.

It's a black wraith demon. They basically suck the life out of anyone they come in contact with. As a matter of fact, we should tend to the wounds your men have suffered, or they'll all be dead, or worse, by nightfall.

Oh, yes, immediately. Men! Gather together, we must deal with your wounds immediately, and bring the boy we found, he needs caring for as well.

The soldiers begin gathering together, some in particularly bad shape, but none fatally wounded. They are, however, unable to find the boy.

It seems he's gone, sir.

He can't be gone, he was too weak to walk.

Yes, I know. His brother appears to have disappeared as well.

Oh, that isn't good. You must find him.

We'll send out a search party as soon as you've tended to their wounds.

Yes, let's get started.

After a half hour, Aluvar and Alyss have finished patching up the soldiers and Aluvar casts a quick cleansing spell to rid the area of lingering evil.

That should help, but it won't last long. Find that boy. If you don't, you may be facing another monster tomorrow. We must be going, and we won't be coming back this time, we're already behind schedule, and there are much bigger matters ahead.

Thank you again, sir. I doubted you a little earlier, I confess. You seemed, well, hard to understand. I see now the wisdom behind your words and deeds and wish you well for your journey.

Thank you Lord Kenneth, good luck to you too. You're going to need it. We're all going to need it.

Aluvar and Alyss reboard the carriage and continue north, not looking back.

[WhiteFang]

Location: L14

"My Lord, what happened? Why there are so many injuries on you and the men too? Sir Percival said, reuniting the rest of the soldiers together. Lord Kenneth replied “Black Wraith Demon has strike our citizens in the nearby villages. This explained where the missing people went. Aluvar and Alyss, both of them saved us from the hands of the foul demon. I am too reckless to act this mission on my own. Clearly enough, my powers are not strong enough to protect my men.”

Sir Percival pulled Lord Kenneth up and looked into his eyes and said “My Lord, you should not be blaming yourself for the mistake you made. The men trusted you because you are our trusted commander. Don’t be foolish and sob over spilt milk. What you should do now, is to get us organized and re-group. We have a report to submit.”

Lord Kenneth stood on his own without the help of Sir Percival “Yes, you are right. I must be strong, for the sake of my men and my citizens. Percival, I have some immediate tasks for you to attend to. Activate the reinforcements at One Leg Tavern which led by my sister, Kristine and assist me in finding the 2 boys. They are the sole witnesses in this tragic incident. We lost them during the battle. I will like you to do the other task for me too. Please move to the northern part of our kingdom and alert all border patrols to be vigilant against hostile unnatural beings. And also, ensure a safe passageway for Aluvar and Alyss whom are travelers. Make sure no harm or obstruction will come into their journey. They are on an important mission and I want them to be safe especially in our lands. This is the least, I can do for them.”

“Yes, my Lord. I will follow your orders immediately. It’s good to see your usual self again.” After finishing his sentence, Sir Percival rode on his steed as fast as he could, and disappeared behind them. Lord Kenneth looked at his sword and sheaths it and shone upon his men and said “My men gather around me. I will heal your injuries from my sword. For your bravery, we will defeat the beast together.” The men gathered around Lord Kenneth and he started his magical chanting and whisper to “Blessed Sword”. An immense light shone upon them and Lord Kenneth said “Healing light, bring forth and heal the brave ones.” The bright light shone onto the soldiers and the injuries began to recover. The men are happy and their fighting sprits rose again. Looking at his men with a smile, Lord Kenneth said “Let’s not waste anymore time. We must find the two boys soon. There is only one day left before that foul demon returns.”

[Shadows]

L-17

Castle Kwiras

Midnight

Sir Kwiras stared off into the distance, papers and maps spread out before him.

I've got to make some sense of all this. Reports of missing villagers, random attacks by undead forces, and now my own son has disappeared! This must all be related!

Kwiras slammed his fist on the desk with a resounding thud. Tap, tap, tap, a sound came from his tower window, already closed for the night. He peered out into the pitch black sky, unable to see anything that would explain the sound.

Perhaps someone at the door? He flung open the door, finding no one.

Tap, tap, tap, louder, and from a different direction this time.

This is quite maddening. Oh, how I miss my dear Lenore. She always had a way of calming these frayed nerves.

Tap, tap, tap, louder still and coming from ... the roof?

Oh, this is getting ridiculous. Kwiras crossed the floor and threw open the window. Looking out and upward toward the roof, he saw the source of his vexation. A dark bird.

A raven?

Oh, no, it's just me, Bluervo.

A talking bird? You must be part of Aluvar's band.

Aluvar has a band? Who sings?

What?

Nothing. Aren't you going to invite me in?

Oh, ahem, yes, do come in.

Thanks! I have a message for you.

What about?

I have no idea, it's in this vial around my neck, though I suspect it's about a village we found.

Deserted, fires crackling, food cooking, nothing distubed, but no one there?

That's incredible! You should be on TV.

On what?

Nothing. Maybe you should read the note.

Yes, I think so. You know, you lot are peculiar, all of you.

I know. We like it that way.

You would.

Kwiras retrieves the vial and slides out a small paper which he begins to read.

Maybe you could read it aloud? I wouldn't mind knowing what it says too.

Oh, well, I suppose so. "Sir Kwiras," that's me.

I knew that.

Right. "Found a deserted village. Suspect unnatural causes, perhaps a black wraith demon. No time to investigate, will try to deal with along the way. -Aluvar." Well, that was short.

Pretty much says it all.

I suppose it does. Wait... there's a second note in here. It says I'm supposed to read it aloud.

Oh good, fire away.

Huh? Whatever. "Please send Bluervo to Crown Castle with the following message: Alyssta is with me. Don't worry, it is her destiny."

SQUAWK!

What does that mean?

Pretty much just that I don't really want to deliver that message, the King will probably want me cooked for dinner, and I'm really going to have a word with Aluvar when I return.

That's quite a compact language you have.

It is. Actually, I left out the four seperate times that I cursed his soul and where I impuned his parentage.

I see. Thank you for skipping all that.

Sure, no problem. Well, if I'm going to Crown Castle, I'd better get started first thing in the morning.

I think he means for you to go now.

You would think that. Fine.

Shall you return this way in the future?

Nevermore!

Bluervo flies out the window and off into the night. Sir Kwiras scratches his head, pondering this latest message, it's method of delivery, Aluvar, the Princess and her destiny, and many other things until he finally nods off to sleep at his desk.