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Post by Cläy on Oct 15, 2007 1:49:00 GMT
Jahn watched the battle with a kind of detached amusement. It was rather funny the way his compatriots had stormed into battle with no regard for themselves, leaving the fighter – obviously and easily the best fighter among them – in their wake. Even funnier was the fact that none of the horsemen had yet sighted him. Jahn said nothing, and flirted seriously with the idea of just walking away and leaving them to their own devices.
Sapphire’s hands worked furiously. One of the horsemen’s heads fell forward – he snapped it up, trying to remain awake as the hypnosis overcame him. He could fight it no longer, and toppled from his horse, snoring loudly. “Yes!” said Sapphire gleefully. “I – AAAH!” For another horseman had charged straight towards him. Deck acted quickly – strumming his lute, he lured the horse away from Sapphire and towards him. Another strum, and the horse, thoroughly disoriented, ran around in circles before bolting away towards Jahn. The horseman spotted the fighter and leveled his sword, ready to strike.
Jahn had given in to the idea of going it alone again, and turned away. Hoofprints thudded along the ground behind him. Jahn stopped, strained his ears. Yes – it was getting closer. And on his left side. Jahn took out his axe and waited for the horse to appear alongside.
The horseman whooped gleefully – his victim wasn’t even getting a weapon out – he seemed resigned to his fate. The horseman brought his sword down towards Jahn’s head – and caught the hilt of an axe squarely in his stomach as Jahn turned and swung it violently. “Bu…bu…” he breathed pathetically, trying to stem the flow. Blood gushed out and stained his tunic. He collapsed, still bleeding profusely. Jahn turned back and strode towards the battle. Putting his axe away, he stopped on the periphery.
“You see,” he said loudly – loud enough to have everyone stop and turn towards him, “what shall happen to you if you cross Lord Falzynne?” “Lord…Falzynne?” a horseman whispered, fear stricken. “Yes,” Jahn replied, “Do you think Sergeant Clott will take very kindly to you men killing those who his most trusted superior has asked me to supervise?” “But…Sergeant Clott gave us orders…” “Perhaps Sergeant Clott is unaware that the prisoners had already been captured by myself on Lord Falzynne’s orders! It wouldn’t surprise me, the man is a bit thick.” “Yes, but…” “SILENCE! Let us pass, and I shall bring these men to Sergeant Clott myself. I have business with him myself, you know.” “OK, yes Sir, thank you.” “Good. One last thing – wake that snoring b*stard up. I can barely hear myself think.”
Jahn walked purposefully ahead, not looking at either of the remaining horsemen. They shrank away as he passed, fear in their eyes. As soon as they were out of earshot, Deck slapped Jahn on the back. “That was BRILLIANT, lad!” “Yes, well done,” agreed Sapphire. “I thought we were for it there…” Cornelius admitted. “How did you manage that? And who is Lord Falzynne?” Anselm asked. “A bit of bluff, a bit of luck, a bit of knowledge,” Jahn said, “you see, just before you guys found me again, there was a troll…”
Larian watched the party walk on. The fools! she thought angrily, as if Lord Falzynne would dispatch his own men to hunt for Daemaus when the task could easily be delegated to that dimwit Clott. She climbed through the trees silently, gaining on the party. Sensing the moment, she dropped down in front of them. Jahn, leading stopped dead. Everyone bumped into him before noticing what Jahn was staring at. “You,” he spat, contempt clearly evident. Larian smiled indulgently. “Me. Hello, darlings.”
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Post by Aidan on Oct 21, 2007 0:01:58 GMT
The brave heroes stared back.
"Join me," Larian said, "and you shall live to see tomorrow."
Jahn looked at Larian. You could see the hatred flowing through his eyes and he felt his fists begin to clench.
"You'll never find Daemaus," spat Sapphire. He fired several spells at Larian, who just shrugged them off.
"I'm too powerful for you, fools," grinned Larian evilly.
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Post by Alaric on Oct 21, 2007 17:07:31 GMT
"You may be powerful, but you'll never find Daemaus," came a voice from the back of the group. "He's far too clever to be caught like this. Why I'm sure right now he's probably relaxing in a hot spring somewhere with his many girlfriends. Oh, that handsome devil who's not us." "Nice try," Larian smiled. "But don't take me for an idiot, Daemaus. Or should I say Dekrin Daemaus, ex-bard of Lord Wickrin?" "Ah, flark. One of these days that Suggest spell will work. Look, while I'm glad all that time I spent praying to Chronicolas for women to fall out of the sky looking for me finally paid off, this really isn't the time," Deck moved to the front of the group. "So just get your weapons out and let's get the obligatory fight scene over with." "Oh please, like I'd waste my time fighting you," Larian laughed. "Besides, my orders are to kill you only. The rest of you may live if you leave now." "Ha! That would have worked a couple of days ago, but now we've all bonded into an elite team that would never turn its back on each other. Right guys?" "Erm, I've only just met you all," Cornelius pointed out. "And you probably deserve whatever you're being killed for," Anselm scolded. "Still, unless you can prove the lawfulness of the death of this man, I am forced to protect him. I don't suppose you have a warrant, do you?" "I need no 'warrant'. My lord's wish is the only authority I need." "Then I shall stay and fight," Anselm replied, in a tone that Deck could only describe as disappointed. "Again, what fight?" Larian asked, and faster than the eye could see, she threw a dart at Deck. The bard cried out in pain as he fell to the ground. "Deck!" Sapphire cried, kneeling down next to his fallen friend. "You," Larian pointed at Cornelius. "You're familiar with Carbotosious Hydrosine, correct?" "Yes," answered Cornelius, startled. "It's an odd chemical, not particularly reactive, no harmful qualities. Unless of course..." and then realisation dawned on his face. "Unless what?" Sapphire asked urgently. "Unless it's mixed with Argarbus Nitoxyde," Cornelius continued. "And then it becomes a toxin, causing the body to go through a number of nasty effects, ultimately resulting in...death." "Correct," Larian smiled. "And guess what I laced my dart with?" Jahn roared as if snapped out of a trance, and pounded his way towards the assassin. But it was too late; she was already up and away through the tree before he could touch her. "Cornelius, what's going to happen to Deck?" Sapphire asked. "Well, he'll be unconscious for a while. I'd say about an hour or so. Then he'll awaken, but will be under paralysis. Then there's the headaches, the nosebleeds, the blindness and finally...well, I'd give him about 6 hours to live." "Can he be cured?" asked Anselm. "There is one known cure I can brew up, but it requires the Aktrik herb. Not especially uncommon, but I've none about me, and I doubt we'll find one here." "Then we take him to the next town, quickly," Jahn grabbed the unconscious bard and slung him on the cart. "I'll show that wench something alright," he muttered.
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Post by Cläy on Oct 22, 2007 3:01:37 GMT
Larian returned to Lieutenant Montjoy's office. She was not surprised by the reaction she had caused - she had considered the idea of fighting, but her orders were to kill Daemaus only. If the others interfered, then they could die too. But she hoped it wouldn't have to come to that. Now...focus... "Sergeant Clott!" "Sah!" Clott appeared in the doorway. "What comes of the party I requested you capture?" "Already captured, sah. Lord Falzynne sent someone especially." "Lord Falzynne? Is he back in the country?" "No sah, but I have a letter from him here, sah." Larian took the proffered piece of paper and read it. The page was blank, but a soft tinkling noise came from it. Larian looked up. "Who gave you this?" "My soldiers I sent to capture the bard, sah." Larian nodded. It made sense - obviously they had returned to the horsemen and given them an enchanted note, making them think it was from Falzynne, when in fact it was nothing but a worthless scrap. The magic was strong enough to fool someone as dimwitted as Clott, though. "Clott, did you follow them at all?" "No, sah, with a warrior of Lord Falzynne escorting them it would be pointless." "Quite, quite. I have one last question for you, Clott." "Yessah?" "Are you aware of the best method to ensure large blooms of geraniums?" "Ger-whats?" "Geraniums, Clott, geraniums...Flowers, you buffoon!" "I didn't know you liked flowers, sah." "Trust me Clott, there's a lot you don't know about me. The best way to fertilise geraniums is with a combnation of soil and flesh." "Flesh, sah? We have cows out the back." "I'm not interested in cow flesh, Clott. What I am interested in, however..." Clott gasped. A red stain was quickly spreading over his uniform. He fell to his knees, looked up. "Sah...?" "You really are a fool, aren't you, Wilfred James Clott? Why would Lord Falzynne send a warrior like that when he has me available? You've outstayed your welcome by a fair distance." Larian reversed the Disguise Self spell, watching Clott's eyes widen in shock as she returned to her natural form. Clott breathed a few shuddering breaths, fell to the floor, and was silent.
"Where do you know her from?" Sapphire asked Jahn. "We've had a few run-ins before," Jahn grunted, "Less said the better." "I'll go and look for the local medical institution," Cornelius said, "they should have some Aktrik I can use." "Don't bet on it," Jahn said, "I reckon she's come here before us and destroyed or stolen it." "Stay positive Jahn," urged Sapphire, "Deck won't be cured with that attitude." Jahn grunted, and continued on. His mind was whirling - when he had sighted Larian back in the forest, memories came flooding back. The fires - people screaming - a cold laughter - a black horse (he remembered this vividly, for its rider had almost removed his head with a swing of the sword) - and a figure cloaked in black no one could get near. The cloak! It was her! It wasn't everything, but if he could kill Larian, he could partly avenge the good folk of Widderford. "There's a bar," he said, "I'm thirsty," and he led the way towards it. Sapphire and Anselm followed silently.
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Post by Aidan on Oct 22, 2007 22:29:04 GMT
Anselm, Jahn and Sapphire sat at a table. A barmaid smiled warmly at them.
"What'll it be, dears?" she asked them.
The trio ordered their drinks. Anselm and Jahn sipped contentedly, but Sapphire was a bit uncertain. It wasn't the drink that worried him, but what could possibly happen to Deck.
"We've got to do something for Deck. That dart Larian used may have seriously affected his health."
Sapphire placed a few coins on the counter, then began to make his way back to where Deck was left. Just as Sapphire was about to turn a corner, he soon came face-to-face with another horseman. The horseman wasted no time in capturing Sapphire, and soon they were off.
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Post by Father Austin Purcell on Oct 22, 2007 23:52:39 GMT
"Father Anselm?"
The priest looked up from his glass of water at the man who had addressed him. A novice monk, attired in a black habit like Anselm's own garb.
"Yes?" "I represent the Abbot of Mervaulx."
Anselm frowned. Mervaulx Abbey? Surely we haven't come that far from Teras Minor.
He looked at the table for a second, then said quietly: "And what does My Lord Abbot request?" "He is in town on business for the Abbey. He requests your presence at his lodgings immediately. He promises he will not detain you long."
Anselm glanced at Jahn. "It doesn't pay to defy an Abbot," he said apologetically. "Go, by all means," Jahn said sullenly, gazing at the bottom of his tankard. "The rest of us aren't going anywhere soon. Oh, and if you see Sapphire, tell him to get a move on."
Anselm nodded and followed the monk into the square. "How does the Abbot know I'm here?" he asked. The monk chuckled faintly. "No ecclesiastical figure moves within a hundred miles of Mervaulx Abbey that Abbot Perceval doesn't know about," he grinned. "We have a nickname for him: the clairvoyant cleric."
The monk's grin faded when he noticed Anselm's lack of any reaction whatsoever to the joke. "What about your friend? The one the big fellow asked you to speak to?" asked the monk, as they crossed the square.
Anselm paused. "Well, he's not about. Possibly wandered off somewhere. He'll be back. Is this it?"
The two had come to a halt in a side street, next to a large stone house. "These are the lodgings of My Lord Abbot, Father," said the monk. Anselm looked up. Above the door was a large wooden shield, freshly painted in the arms of Mervaulx Abbey. A more careful observation revealed it had been painted over several times in the past, and was probably adjusted accordingly to bear the arms of whatever eminent person was staying there.
Aside from the shield there was little else of note about the building. One end bore a half-timbered extension, and the main body of the building was illuminated by six large latticed windows. The monk knocked on the large oak doors, and a small hatch slid open.
"Who is it?" "Brother Gerard and Father Anselm, to see the Abbot." "Very well."
The hatch slammed shut again, there was a heavy metallic rattling, then the door creaked open. The monk stepped aside, and Anselm entered.
A second monk, clearly the porter, beckoned for him to sit. In the absence of anything else more productive to do, Anselm obeyed. Whilst the porter resumed his position behind a little desk next to the door, the monk who had referred to himself as Brother Gerard rushed through a side door.
Anselm waited. He began, quite unconsciously, to whistle a cheerful little hymn, before the porter was overcome with a coughing fit. He recovered, to Anselm's great suspicion, the moment Anselm stopped whistling.
Needless to say, he remained silent until Brother Gerard returned.
"The Abbot will see you now, Father."
Anselm rose, crossed the hall, and followed Brother Gerard into a room which was almost certainly an anteroom. There was the sound of a door opening, and in came Perceval, Abbot of Mervaulx. He was a tall, thin, pale figure, clad in purple and wearing an absurdly ornate ring on one hand, which he extended for Anselm to kiss in the customary fashion.
"My Lord Abbot." "Father Anselm. Rise, my son."
The Abbot motioned for Gerard to leave, then led Anselm over to the fireplace. "I am a busy man, Anselm, so I shall keep this brief. You left Teras Minor with company, did you not?"
Anselm was taken aback slightly, then said softly: "How did you know that?" "I know. Never mind how. Now is it or is it not true?" "It is." "Describe them to me."
Anselm cleared his throat. "W-well, milord... there's Jahn... he's a fighter, there's a wizard, a doctor and-" "A bard?"
Anselm went pale. "Y-yes..." "With a map?" "D-do you m-mind if I s-sit down?" Anselm said, trembling. "If you must," said the Abbot severely. "Does he have a map?"
Anselm swallowed. "He does, milord." "And would I be right in thinking," he said quietly, "he intends to discover untold riches and so on?" "With all due respect, milord... why does this interest you?"
The Abbot drew himself up to his full height. "Just answer me, Father." Anselm squirmed slightly.
"Yes."
There was a long pause. The Abbot strode over to the window and gazed across the town square.
"Get that map off him." he said simply.
Those five words were enough. Anselm didn't, to his astonishment, find himself questioning the order. He didn't even wonder what the Abbot of Mervaulx could possibly want with a map. As far as he was concerned a superior had given him an instruction and he would fulfil his vow of obedience or die trying.
And so it was, two minutes later that Father Anselm re-crossed the square and entered the bar. Jahn, to his surprise, was still alone. "No sign of Sapphire?" he asked. "No," said Jahn quietly. "Odd. Quite odd." Jahn raised an eyebrow at the apparent lack of concern in Anselm's voice. "I wonder if something's happened to him." the priest remarked in the same nonchalant tone. "Would you think it worthwhile us searching for him?"
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Post by Cläy on Oct 23, 2007 3:03:57 GMT
Jahn shrugged. "If you want." He stood up. It was at this moment that Anselm appreciated just how tall Jahn was - although Anselm himself was well over 6 feet, Jahn was a full head taller. If he was to stop Jahn preventing him getting the map, it would be a very difficult excercise. "What about Cornelius?" Jahn was asking. "Oh...erm..." Anselm started in surprise, lost in his own thoughts. "Yeah, we should tell him about Sapphire." He said it without any real inflection, but Jahn nodded and led the way out of the tavern. Deck blinked. He wasn't in a dark room last time he checked. He blinked again. Yet he definitely was now. Again. Why was he in a darkened room? Again. A figure stood in the doorway. "Good, you're awake," Cornelius said. "And how are you?" Deck tried to say 'My neck hurts', but when he opened his mouth, no sound came through. He tried to rub his neck instead. His arm was numb and didn't respond as he wanted it to. He raised it a few inches, then let it flop pathetically down on the bed. "Ah," said Cornelius, "I thought as much. Now, we need Aktrik to cure you, as you well know. However, it seems like Jahn was right, and there isn't a seed of it to be found here, let alone enough to help. I'm going to have to find the others - we will need to look for it in the wild." He walked out of the office. Deck watched him leave, fearful. Chronicolas, I need to get though this. Give me some time...!Cornelius stepped outside the door. The local doctor had kindly allowed him to house Deck here while he tried to cure him, but there were only a few short hours left. Cornelius heard hooves thudding the ground, and looked up. A horseman, with the same uniform as those in the forest, looked down at him. Cornelius tried to step past, but the horse turned, blocking his way. It was at this moment that Cornelius saw who else was on the horse. "Sapphire?" Sapphire nodded, fear clearly visible. The horseman threw a rope around Cornelius to bind him, and lifted him onto the horse with Sapphire before riding off.
OOC: Hey, do you reckon we should start trying to figure out the main plot behind this? We've got Lord Falzynne, Larian, Abbot Perceval and to lesser extent the now deceased men of the military all trying to bring down Deck et al with no real explanation. Hell, Lord Falzynne is just a name at the moment, nothing else. Just something that's come to mind.
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Post by Alaric on Oct 23, 2007 9:55:03 GMT
OOC: Bah! Plots are for lesser beings. Our RP needs no plot. Actually, we've had a plot all along, and we're still following it. It's just this constant story and development keeps getting in the way. I think once all of that's finished, we'll work on a singular narrative.
IC: If Deck had known just how often he would get poisoned on this adventure, he'd have given up before it started. To think, all he'd wanted was a Lecktrik Lute! This treasure had better be worth it. He'd hate it if it turned out it was just a piece of paper with the word 'Love' on it or anything. Flarking map! It was obvious what he should have done. He should have just copied the cursed thing and given up the original. If his arms worked, he'd be doing that right now. Where was everybody? Hopefully looking for some of that...Acrylic or whatever Cornelius had called it. That couldn't be too hard to find, right?
Safely hidden in the underbrush, Larian cast a Communication spell. A red ball of magic orbited in front of her. "I bring good news, my lord," she said. "The bard is dead." "Dead?" said the orb. "Are you sure?" "Yes, my lord. He's been poisoned. He'll be dead within hours." "A slower process than I expected," the ball mused. "Why not simply kill him outright?" "I had hoped to finish the poisoning at night, when they were asleep, to make it look more natural. But thanks to some military blundering I was forced to act." "Even so, a quick slice to the neck..." "His friends were close, sir. I did not think it worth the risk to take them all on, when my dart could do so much more damage." "Then what of the map? Is it in your possession?" Larian hesitated. "...No." "You disappoint me, Larian. The bard's death was merely to prove a point. The map was the main reason why I sent you." "I will get the map, sir," Larian promised. "It shouldn't be too hard to find them. A cleric, doctor, fighter and wizard shouldn't be too hard to find in this sleepy region." "Do not fail me, Larian," the orb warned. "It would be most unfortunate for you if you do." "Yes, my lord. Sir, there...there is one other thing I feel I should mention." "Yes?" "Lord Falzynne has gotten involved." The orb grew dim while the lord considered this. "To be expected, really. Daskan is his domain. Don't worry. Even if he does get his hands on the map before you, it will do him no good." "I see." "But Larian...make sure he doesn't even have the chance." "Yes, my lord." The orb vanished as Larian darted back into the trees, making her way towards our heroes.
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Post by Aidan on Oct 24, 2007 2:01:44 GMT
Cornelius and Sapphire were being taken to the villains' lair.
"You two! Provide us with some information on Daemaus!" hissed one of the guards when the horseman arrived.
"We'll never tell you anything!" bellowed Cornelius.
"I have magical abilities and I'm not afraid to use them," growled Sapphire.
"If either of you lift so much as a finger on us, we'll have your heads," sneered the men.
The guards had taken Cornelius and Sapphire to a large dungeon, which was dark and dank.
While the guards and horsemen slept, however, Cornelius and Sapphire made several attempts to try and break out.
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Post by 01Salty on Oct 24, 2007 21:29:29 GMT
“Well isn't this just dandy,” grunted Cornelius, and strutted to and fro in front of Sapphire trying to think. They had tried many times to escape, but all failed.
“What are we going to do?” asked Sapphire, “Deck can't last much longer.” “Not without any medication," added Cornelius, "If he doesn't get any within the hour he'll die.”
Cornelius gave up pacing, and sat down on the wooden bench Sapphire was sitting on. “Argh,” exclaimed Cornelius, feeling a pain in his rear, “Sat on my darn telescope again.”
Cornelius pulled it out of his back pocket, and extended it. “Ah well, it didn’t get damaged,” he murmured.
Then, Sapphire sat up suddenly. He had an idea. “I know how we can get out,” he said to Cornelius. “Oh, another plan?” muttered Cornelius, “Your hypnotizing spell doesn’t work remember?” “No, we could use that telescope,” said Sapphire, “Do you have anything long and thin?” “I MOST CERTAINLY DO NOT!” spluttered Cornelius, before thinking through the question, “Actually, I do have a compass. You know, the ones used to draw circles?” “Yeah, that’ll do. Perhaps you could attach that to the end of the telescope, and extend it to where those keys are on the wall.” “I see what you’re implying,” nodded Cornelius, and immediately went to work. He pulled out his compass, extended the metal point at the end all the way, used two rocks to bend it slightly, and wedged the end of the compass into the end of the telescope. “I hope this works,” said Sapphire. “I’m sure it will,” replied Cornelius, “After all, I made it.”
Sapphire set a sleeping spell on the watch guard, and Cornelius extended his telescope full length. He stretched his arm out of the bars, and after a few minutes of struggling he managed to lift the keys off the hook, and lifted them back down to himself. “Splendid!” smiled Cornelius, and as quietly as possible unlocked the latch.
He slowly opened the large metal door, and with the guards still under the spell the two made their way quietly and quickly out of the dungeons, and finally managed to slip out of the lair and darted into the forest.
Meanwhile, Deck was still lying on the inspection table, and was now breathing heavily and produced a cold sweat. Anselm entered the room quietly, and strode across Deck towards his belongings which were on the floor. He silently bent down, picked up the map, and made his way out the door. “Anselm,” gasped Deck, “What are you doing?” “I must follow orders,” replied Anselm bluntly, and continued out.
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Post by Father Austin Purcell on Oct 24, 2007 22:42:24 GMT
Deck, wincing, leapt up. "Bring that back!"
Anselm turned and gave a feigned apologetic look. "I really am so terribly sorry for what I am about to do. Nothing personal, you understand, but it is for your own good."
Deck began to limp towards the door with a great effort and extended a hand towards the priest. Anselm smiled, and slammed the door shut. There was a dull thudding from within, and a minute later, Anselm re-opened it to find Deck sprawled on the floor. He tossed something towards him.
"What is it?" "A bottle of Mirth. I observe you managed to hide a bottle after my little deed in Uburiharmon. I was planning to destroy it, but I suppose a medicinal quantity won't hurt you in your current state," said Anselm, leaving again.
The cleric stepped into the street, and swiftly made his way to Perceval's lodgings. "I need to see the Abbot!" "You're too late," answered a servant. "He departed for Mervaulx Abbey two hours ago."
Anselm swore under his breath. "Do you know where I can buy a horse, then?" "Certainly. Try Falzynne Street. Other side of the square. Old 'Arry. He's expensive, but he has the best horses for miles."
* * * * *
Fifteen minutes later the priest was making his way through the streets towards the north gate of the town. He rode carefully but swiftly; he was unused to riding, but at the same time wanted to put as much distance between this town and himself before dawn.
A guard challenged him. "Who goes there?" "Father Anselm, on business for Abbot Perceval. You'll let me pass if you know what's good for you." He edged the horse forwards into the light of a lantern. "My apologies, Father," said the sentry, smiling. "I've been a bit tense lately. What with all the rumours an' all."
Anselm forced a smile, gestured a blessing on the guard and rode onwards. He headed down a side street, where the light was dimmer. He paused, sensing someone behind him, and twisted around in the saddle to look behind.
Nothing.
The priest sighed, and turned back.
"And where," said Jahn coldly, "do you think you're going?"
Anselm swallowed. "I'm j-just going to the next town. I thought I might find some Aktrik there." "Like hell you were, Father." "What are you implying, Jahn?" said Anselm, tightening his grip on the reins. "I think you know what I'm implying. Hand it over." "Hand what over?" "Don't play games with me!" said Jahn, stepping forwards. "I'm not an idiot, Priest. I saw you going through Deck's belongings. Now give me that map."
Anselm instinctively reached for his dagger. "I'm armed!" he cried. "Daggers aren't much use to horsemen," Jahn said calmly. "Now are you going to hand the map over or not?"
Anselm glared at the warrior for a moment.
"It is the property of the Abbey of Mervaulx, Jahn Naismith, and I will do no such thing."
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Post by Cläy on Oct 25, 2007 1:16:37 GMT
Jahn gripped his sword tighter, and tried not to roll his eyes. Anselm tried to walk past him, but a quick sidestep prevented that. “Anselm…” Jahn said. “What?” “You do realise I can’t let you keep that map.” “And why not?” “You stole it. And let’s face it, as a priest, stealing is one of those things you just shouldn’t do.” “You stole it too.” “That was different.” “How?” “You’re a priest, I’m not. I wasn’t purporting for it to be anything but mine. You are saying it’s ‘the property of the Abbey of Mervaulx’ – who the hell are they?” “My religious order.” “And what gives them the right to ‘own’ Deck’s map?” “I possess it, therefore my church possesses it.” “It doesn’t work like that. I can’t let you keep the map.” “And what if I do?” “You will leave me no choice.” Anselm considered. The prospect of having his guts sliced open was not an altogether appealing one, and the way Jahn kept reaching for his sword made him rather nervous. He had sworn to obey Abbot Perceval, but at this stage – call me selfish, if you will – he rather preferred staying alive. Plus, obviously, Jahn wasn’t the most rigid person around, he might be able to get talked into it at some stage. “OK Jahn, you win,” he said, stuffing the map into his pocket. “Let’s go find the others.”
Cornelius and Sapphire crouched low. Several pairs of regimented feet passed before them. “How are we going to get out of here with all these soldiers looking for us?” Sapphire asked. “I don’t know,” Cornelius admitted, “but we can’t just stay here forever either.” “Yes,” agreed Sapphire, “unless…” “Unless what?” Sapphire didn’t answer. Instead, he moved slowly forward. Muttering some words in what Cornelius recognised as Germanic Latin, a sudden gust of wind rushed through the bushes. “What was that?” Cornelius asked. “Wait and see,” Sapphire smiled. A few minutes later, the next section of troops marched through. Simultaneously, all 5 soldiers reeled as though struck by a large mallet, and collapsed on the ground. “That was incredible!” Cornelius whispered excitedly. “That takes a bit out of me,” Sapphire admitted, panting, “but it’s worth it. Hurry up and get changed?” “WHAT?” “Into their clothes.” “You expect us to dress up as soldiers looking for us?” “Do you have any better ideas?” Cornelius sighed, and took off his robe.
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Post by 01Salty on Oct 28, 2007 7:54:01 GMT
Soon enough, Cornelius and Sapphire had managed to find soldier's clothing that fit them. As Sapphire collected his belongings to put into the soldier's colthing, he saw Cornelius gathering all of his own clothes, folded them in a pile, and placed them under his arm. "What do you need those for?" asked Sapphire. "I'm taking these with me," sniffed Cornelius, "Someone like me cares about his exquisite and rare clothing, like my favourite suit. I don't expect you to understand."
Sapphire rolled his eyes, as they finished organising themselves and went back to the town as soon as they could, before any more soldiers came out. "Deck hasn't got long now before he dies," said Cornelius darkly, looking at his chain watch, "If only we could find some Aktrik. It's the only way." "Did you say Aktrik?" came a little gruff voice from beside them.
Sapphire and Cornelius immediately stopped. They saw a small ferret-like merchant in a rather dirty suit, standing beside a wooden cart filled with bottles, trinkets and assorted rubbish. "Yes, we did say Aktrik," said Cornelius, suspicious. "Well, what would you say if I told you I had the last suuply of it in this whole town?" smiled the merchant. "We'd say we'll give you any price you want," exclaimed Sapphire. "Within reason," added Cornelius, "Where is it?"
The merchant pulled out a small box, and opened it. Cornelius' eyes widened, as a small amount of Aktrik herb was found in the bottom. "I'll give you 200 trobs," approached Cornelius. "350 or no deal," argued the merchant. "250." "330." "270." "370." "YOU WENT UP!" cried Cornelius, now very annoyed. "Hey, I'm a seller, not a scholar," sniffed the merchant, "However, I do like that suit you have there." "You'll never have it," growled Cornelius. "Listen you!" snarled Sapphire suddenly, "We're powerful warriors. If you don't accept 200 trobs with the suit don't expect to live to see tomorrow!" The merchant immediately subsided. "What?!" gasped Cornelius, "I shan't!" "What's more important?" asked Sapphire, "Your clothing, or our leader's life?" Cornelius pondered, and with great difficulty agreed. "200 and the suit it is then!" he said, and as Cornelius handed over the money and clothing the merchant handed him to box. "Thank you," smiled Sapphire, "You've made a wise decision."
The merchant nervously smiled, as Sapphire and Cornelius made their way again. "Excellent bluff, my friend," said Cornelius, "But I certainly hope this treasure is real. 200 trobs is way too much for a little herb like this, and I'm starting to miss my suit already."
They soon ran up to the doctor's building. They walked inside, to find the inspection bed empty. "Where is Deck?!" cried Sapphire.
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Post by Alaric on Oct 28, 2007 10:46:32 GMT
"Flarking priests," Deck muttered, as he ran about the town trying to find some sign of Anselm. As much as he hated the cleric for becoming the latest person after his map, he had to give him some credit. If he hadn't given him the Mirth, he would never have been able to retake contorl over his limbs. Guess it really was a wondercure after all. 'Course, it didn't help at all with the headaches. Or the blood streaming out of his nose. But flark it, he'd dealt with worse. Next to a bad night at The Drunken Cat, poison was a doddle. Finally, he caught sight of Anselm. "Right!" he shouted, storming up to the priest. "I've had just about enough of the way you've been treating me. Give me back my map or so help me I'll..." "Get away from me!" That didn't sound like Anselm. That didn't even sound like a man. Upon closer inspection, what Deck had taken to be the robes of the cleric was in fact the dress of a young woman. "Oh...er...sorry about that," he said as the woman ran away. What was wrong with his eyes? Everything was blurry, details fading into another. He needed to sit down. That was a mistake. As soon as he did so, he felt his body stiffening again. "Oh, flark," he groaned, trying his hardest to lie flat before the paralysis set in. No reason to be stuck in an awkward position, after all. "So what else 'an 'o 'ong, eh?" he shouted to the sky, his lips hardening mid-sentence. "I u'o 'i i' 'ere 'e a'a'in 'et 'e." "My my. Are you sure you're a bard, and not a psion?" The image was blurry, but Deck recognised the voice. Oh Chronicolas, why have you forsaken me? Larian opened up Deck's jacket and felt around inside. Deck had to admit, it wasn't an unpleasant experience. "Where is it?" she asked when she'd finished. "'ou'l'n't 'ou 'ike ' 'oh?" Deck tried to smile. Larian sighed, and reached into her bag. She pulled out a potion bottle and a brush, which she used to coat Deck's face with the potion. "What was that?" he asked. "Antidote. Now perhaps we can get some sense out of you," she replied. "Where's the map?" "Oh, Anselm's got it. Well, unless he's given it to whoever told him to take it from me. That's of course supposing that Jahn hasn't stolen it off him, or Lord Falzynne's took it from one of them, or perhaps whoever you're working for's got someone else on the case who's nicked it of any one of them." Larian stared at Deck for a moment. "I know, I don't really get it either," he smiled. "But in summary, I haven't got it. So there." "I don't believe you," said Larian. "I think one of your friends is hiding the map because you're so easy to beat up. And if you don't tell me who it is, I'll kill you." "Well, one of my 'friends' does have the map," Deck tried to nod, but forgot only his face had been cured. "And I've already told you who it was. But since you don't seem to believe me, you might as well kill me. I'll be dead enough soon anyway." Larian lowered her knife to Deck's throat. It hovered for a few seconds before she reconsidered. "No, Ive a much better use for you. A hostage." She grabbed Deck's legs and began dragging him along to her hideout. "That's another thing I'm sick of," Deck muttered to himself.
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Post by Cläy on Oct 29, 2007 2:56:41 GMT
Anselm and Jahn returned to the tavern. "And Sapphire is...where?" asked Jahn. "I expect he must have come back, saw we weren't around and wandered off on his own," Anselm said, "no big deal." "I rather think it is," said Jahn thoughtfully, "he'd have stayed here waiting for us I reckon. Well, let's head over to Cornelius." "How long do you reckon Deck has left?" asked Anselm. "It's been about 4 hours," Jahn said, "I wouldn't be too shocked if he's already..." he abandoned his sentence and walked ahead.
Cornelius and Sapphire walked slowly around the bed where they had left Deck before. "You said 'paralysis', right?" said Sapphire. "I did," confirmed Cornelius, looking under the bed. Nothing. "And as far as I know, nothing except for the Aktrik brew can cure him." He patted his pocket, making sure the herb was still in there. "What else is Aktrik used for?" "Well as I say, it's pretty common. A lot of potions use Aktrik - Delamatrating Potion, Brew of Copiousity, Mirth..." "MIRTH!" Jahn and Anselm stood in the doorway. "You said Mirth, Cornelius?" "Yes." "Look on the ground." Four pairs of eyes scanend the floor. Saphhire shouted, "Look! Blood!" "Of course!" Cornelius said, "Nosebleeds! But how..." "I gave him some Mirth earlier," Anselm admitted, "thought it might cheer him up." "And it was a bit of payment for the..." Jahn started - Anselm stomped on his foot to shut him up. "He must have regained use of his limbs thanks to the Aktrik in the Mirth," Cornelius reasoned. "So if we follow the trail of blood, we should be able to find Deck." He walked out, eyes firmly down. Sapphire, Jahn and Anselm followed, Anselm lagging behind. It would have been so much easier if it was just Jahn... now I've got to avoid all three of them...
Larian began wrapping ropes around Deck. "Is this really necessary?" Deck asked. "I am paralysed, after all." "That's true," Larian admitted, "but...you know...it's just the done thing, tying hostages up so they're really helpless. Plus it makes it harder for your little friends to rescue you." She finished, and stood up. "So...the map." "...is not in my posession, as I have already told you." "I don't care about who's got it at the moment. What do you want to use the map for?" "Well let's see...it's a treasure map, so I'm looking for the nearest pigsty." "Don't give me that," Larian spat, "you're looking for the treasure, aren't you?" "Of course. Why would I not?" "Because you've got yourself into a lot of trouble. And this is just the start." "Can I ask a question?" "You just did." "Besides that one?" "Fine, what?" "Why do you want the map, anyway?" "Because I have been ordered to get it by whatever means necessary." "Ordered? Who by?" Larian hit him across the mouth. Blood reddened his teeth, making Deck look even more pathetic. "You're asking a lot of questions for someone about to be killed." "I want to know why I'm dying, that's all." "It's enough that I want the map. And if it is with one of your friends, I shall bring them here myself." She turned away and cast a second communication spell. "Naismith!"
Jahn's head throbbed. "It's her..." he gasped, "...a communication spell...hell, I didn't know that's how they worked." "Are you there Jahn?" "Yeah I'm here. What do you want?" "Do you want to see Deck again?" "Do I need to answer honestly?" "Yes." "Damn, I was afraid of that. Yes, I do want to see him again." Thanks, Jahn, Deck thought gratefully. "Do you know where he is?" "No, of course we bloody don't. Look Larian, either get out of my head or provide something useful for us." "OK then Jahn. Come to Metwillicay Manor - it's on the outskirts of town, you can't miss it. There's some lovely gargoyles out front." "And what will we find there?" "Deck. And me. Nothing else." Larian cut the communication spell. Jahn reeled as his head lightened. "Are you OK?" Sapphire asked. "I'll live," Jahn shrugged, "right. Metwillicay Manor it is then."
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Post by Aidan on Oct 29, 2007 19:01:06 GMT
Jahn, Anselm, Cornelius and Sapphire began their journey toward Metwillicay Manor. What they didn't know was that Larian had planned something wicked for them. She had put a spell on the gargoyles so they would attack the next person to approach.
"Those fools won't know what hit 'em," she sniggered to herself.
Meanwhile, the four men were still making their way towards Metwillicay Manor. Their legs ached, but they struggled on nonetheless. Soon, the four arrived. The gargoyles stood ominously in front of the place and began to attack!
"What the -!" shouted Jahn.
Jahn and Sapphire began to deliver blow after blow, as Anselm and Cornelius watched but the gargoyles rammed themselves against the duo. The fight lasted for some time. Jahn used an axe to decapitate one of the gargoyles, which soon collapsed.
"Amazing!" remarked Sapphire, awed.
Sapphire magically severed the head of the remaining gargoyle; then he and Jahn, along with Anselm and Cornelius made their way into the castle.
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Post by 01Salty on Nov 3, 2007 10:07:43 GMT
The four 'rescuers' were walking slowly through the large open doors, and made their way down the dark and gloomy hallway. Cornelius was admiring the collecting of busts along the sides, but the others were more concentrating on getting to the end of the corridor. They came up to a large iron door, and Anselm walked up and understandably knocked on it. "What are you doing?" gasped Cornelius. "Knocking on the door," replied Anselm, "It's what most people do with doors." "It might set off a trap," said Sapphire nervously.
Jahn considered this, and noted the smell of something burning in the air. He then realised what would happen next. "GET DOWN!" he yelled, and pushed the other 3 onto the floor.
They were just in time to miss four giant flames spurting out of holes in the walls. When they subsided, the four sat up. "It singed my hair!" cried Cornelius, who had since taken off the soldier chain headgear. He and Sapphire were still wearing the rest of the soldier clothing however. "I'd be more worried about our lives than hair," replied Anselm. "Maybe it requires a password," pondered Sapphire, and walked to the front of the now standing group, "OPEN SESEME!"
Nothing happened. "Maybe it's 'door open' or 'abracadabra'," said Cornelius, who walked up beside Sapphire.
Suddenly, they heard a noise with the door. In an instant, arrows darted out of holes across the door. Sapphire and Cornelius were too frightened to move, so Jahn and Anselm hid behind them. Luckily, the arrows were at waist height, so the ones shot towards Sapphire and Cornelius bounced off their armor and chestplate. Both stood there, taking on the numerous arrows shot towards them.
When they stopped, Cornelius exhaled. "That's the most terrifying thing that's happened to me," he confessed. "You haven't been to 'The Drunken Cat', have you?" asked Jahn sarcastically.
At that moment, a small window slid open near the bottom of the door. Two little bulgy eyes gazed up at them. "Oh, you managed to survive all that," said the little creature in a raspy voice, "I might as well let you in."
The four looked at each other, both confused and unsure of what they would face on the other side of the door...
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Post by Alaric on Nov 3, 2007 11:44:21 GMT
Meanwhile, deep within the manor...
"So how much did all this cost you, then?" "It cost me nothing, it belongs to my lord." "Then how much did it cost him?" "I don't know." "And the magic gargoyles? Where'd they come from?" "A wizard, probably." "Nah, you'd need like a sourceror for that. Well, to get good ones anyway. I guess yours might have come from a wizard, considering how easily beaten they..." "In the name of the sacred 13, do you ever shut the abyss up?!" Larian snapped. That stupid bard had been talking non-stop ever since they'd arrived, which right now felt like forever, and it was seriously getting on her nerves. "What's wrong? Don't you like my mouthwords?" Deck smiled. "I shouldn't have given you antidote," Larian sighed. "I should have realised when I did it you'd do something like this." "What, talking? Considering it's all I can do, yeah, you really should have done." "You're trying to distract me, aren't you?" said Larian. "That's what this is. You're hoping by that throwing me off through talking, I won't be ready for your friends. Isn't that right?" "Nope!" Deck grinned in excitement. "I'm just really, really, really, really bored. I can't really do anything other than wait to die." "I could help you with that," Larian grabbed her knife and held it close to Deck's face. "Yeah, see, I don't think you would," Deck replied nonchalantly. "You see, if you do that, you'll have lost your bargaining tool." "It'd be ages before your friends found out." "Yeah, but once they did find out, they'd try and kill you. And I think they have a good chance of winning. You're quite outnumbered, and there's no way you could be prepared for a multitude of attacks. No, the best thing for you to do would be to keep me alive, so you can peacefully arrange a swap between me and the map." Larian blinked. That plan actually made a lot of sense. Of course, she'd already thought of it hours ago, but coming from the bard... "Have you done this before?" she asked. "You'd be surprised," Deck laughed. There was a pause as the two waited for the other to speak. "I'm still bored." "Gah!" Larian shook with anger. "Then what would make you not bored?" "Could you give me some antidote?" Deck asked innocently. "Nice try." "No, I mean just for my arms. Then I could play my lute." "Why should I let you do that?" "Well for one thing, it sounds a lot better than my voice." Larian considered this. "Alright then, but no tricks," she warned, dabbing some antidote onto his arms. Deck reached for his lute, gave it a quick tuning, and then went into a rendition of 'Docky's Kasoose'. It was a simple tune, easy to memorise and fun to play, and although he'd progressed many levels since he'd learnt it, it was still one of his favourites. Larian watched the bard throughout, listening to the tune. Deck took a quick glance at her. She seemed to be enthralled by it. "That was...nice," she said once he'd finished. "I'm glad you think so," said Deck. "That was one of the first things I ever learnt to play. 'Course, now I can play even better tunes." "Would you?" Larian asked. Her voice sounded different somehow-less full of malice, perhaps. "Sure. What should I play?" "I...I don't know any songs," Larian admitted. "I was never really into music." "Oh, then you haven't lived! I know! Tell me what you make of this one." Deck launched straight into the early Baetless classic, 'Trust Me Tonight'. Like most of their early hits it was about people getting to trust each other more, presumable for romantic reasons. While most people preferred the later Baetless hits, when they got involved with Lecktriksery, Deck appreciated the early simplicity of their beginnings. And apparently, so did Larian. "I knew you'd like it," said Deck, noticing how serene she seemed. "Don't you think people should trusrt each other more?" "...Yes, I do," said Larian softly. "Like tonight, for example. Don't you think you should trust me?" "Yes, I should." Oh my Chronicolas, it worked! A Suggestion spell actually worked! Finally! I was beginning to think I'd lost my touch. "Now why don't you take off that silly hood and tell me a little about yourself?" Deck suggested. "OK."
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Post by Aidan on Nov 5, 2007 4:19:01 GMT
Sapphire, Cornelius, Jahn and Father Anselm walked through the door. They were greeted by the sound of the raspy voice, and the narrow, bulgy eyes stared at them.
"You seek the one they call 'Dekrin Daemaus?'" the little creature asked.
"Yes," replied the four men. "Will you lead us to him?"
The creature stared at them, dumbstruck.
"Yes, but be warned - danger lies ahead!" it said.
The four rescuers opened the door, and soon found themselves face-to-face with several monstrous creatures. There was a monster that looked a bit like a dragon, with razor-sharp teeth and deadly claws.
Quickly, Jahn unsheathed his sword. The dragon let out a terrifying roar, sending a chill down everyone's backs.
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Post by Cläy on Nov 6, 2007 5:43:02 GMT
"Why is nothing ever easy?" Cornelius sighed. "It wouldn't be as much fun otherwise..." Jahn said grimly. Holding his sword high in both hands, he waited for the dragon to move. Some creatures that Sapphire recognised as Lewthers scrabbled towards them. He shot some spells at them, burning their eyes. They screamed and clawed at their faces blindly, running off. "Yes!" Sapphire hissed happily, before turning his attention to the ceiling - helio-kin hovered, waiting to strike. Cornelius ran for the corner. He was terrified as he watched the wizard and fighter go about their business and not just for himself.
The dragon suddenly forced its way forward. Jahn leapt - onto the dragon's neck. He grunted in pain as the dragon's head hit the floor, and only just kept his balance. Hugging the neck, he tried to slice the dragon's neck. Its scales were too think, though, and all he managed was a thin gash along the neck. Jahn sheathed his sword, took out his axe. He swung it fiercely towards the dragon's eyes before meeting a strange resistance. "ANSELM!" he bellowed. "I had to!" the cleric yelled, "look above you!" Jahn did - three helio-kin had been repelled by the force-shield and flew dazedly into the surrounding walls, crashing and falling to the floor. "What am I supposed to do now, then?" yelled Jahn. "It's only temporary, just try again!" shouted Anselm. Jahn did so, striking paydirt. The dragon roared in pain, bucking and thrashing about. Jahn was thrown off, and struck his head against the wall, before slumping, unconscious. "Jahn!" shouted Cornelius. "We can't do anything for him now!" said Sapphire, "Just get out here and help!" Cornelius did so, a little hesitantly. His first clumsy swing with a sword procured from one of the Lewthers (which had dropped them thanks to Sapphire's spell) connected with a helio-kin, his confidence raised somewhat, and he entered the battle with vigor.
Anselm knelt by Jahn. Sprinkling holy water over his forehead, he murmured a healing spell. Jahn stirred, woke up. "Whhhrrrrrr..." he slurred. "Don't worry yourself, Jahn," Anselm said, "Let's leave this place, it is far too dangerous for us." And I can give the map to Abbot Perceval with your approval. "...no..." "Why not?" "Be better to find Deck first," Jahn said dumbly, "And anyway...I like to fight." He raised himself unsteadily, leaning on Anselm for support. Anselm rubbed his shoulders once Jahn was capable of standing on his own, and watched as he rejoined the battle. That hurt even just doing that...what are the chances...Perceval, I'm trying, I really am!
Sapphire and Cornelius were emboldened by Jahn's return to the fray, and swung, spelled and fought with all their might. Bodies of beats and demons piled up around them. Finally, it was three heroes against one blinded dragon. "Who wants him?" asked Jahn grimly. "Well, dragon hide does make a nice suit..." Cornelius said.
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