Illusions Most Shabby

The night went calmly. Morning greeted us with higher snow drifts and sunlight beaming in the cave. After the other awoke, breakfast eaten, fire was put out, and gear repacked, we gingerly left the cave. Wandering back through the forest and new snow, we quietly discussed where we should go next. Lim wanted to look at the attack site again, Alloriah wanted to go back to Master Ron Dangledongledot to see if he knew anything about the weather. I, wanted to go back to the Countess', to see if we could find any more information from her. She knows more, a lot more. Though Lim did agree about checking back at the Monastery. To make sure they were both still alive, after the attack on us last night, they may have found trouble as well.

We trekked our way back through the noticeably higher now drifts, as we walked the day quickly became overcast and gloomy. Halfway there I noticed that it was quiet, eerily quiet. Telling the others I would look ahead, I slipped off into the shadows of the trees, circling around the hill that the Monastery sat atop. Many marks in the snow belied the footfalls of many peoples. I quickly circled back to Lim and Alloriah, telling them something was amiss, and to stay back as far as they could with out being seen. I would circle back toward the Monastery and get as close as I could to see exactly what was happening.

Throwing my hood back on my head I once again began making my way around the hill of the Monastery, working my way carefully up it. Shortly, very shortly I heard voices, men whispering. Creeping slowly I made my way directly behind seven men dressed in very shabby armour. One was speaking, something about circling around and taking them from the side. I drew my dagger. Suddenly a loud *crackle* from the Monastery caught my attention. It was as if lightning lit it in the gloom of the day. I could see figures, large figures outside of it. Where was Master Ron Dangledongledot and Vernin?

The men I was behind were talking again, then an eighth ran up, a shallow wound upon his arm. He was a scout it appeared and whomever had taken over the Monastery had scouts in the woods as well, circling around trying to get a better look at these men. The ones in front of me were still talking softly then one of them mentioned the Crow. I swear, I could feel my ears perk up. If these were them men the Crow sent, then we are a bit worse off than I thought. Their armour was shabby, weapons rusty, and the men themselves looked unkempt. A few moments later Master Ron Dangledongledot, himself, came sneaking up to the group. He stopped and began speaking to them, from what I could gather whomever had taken over the Monastery, came during the night, Vernin was still inside, and these men were trying to take it back. I decided it was time to step into the conversation. 

Literally.

"What, precisely, do you propose to do?"

I stepped out of the shadows directly behind one of them, thinking myself humorous. I was immediately greeted with a short sword through my ribs. Elven humor is not human humor, I must try to remember that. Groaning I fell to my knees, the other men had their weapons drawn on me. Lovely. Master Ron Dangledongledot called them off, telling them who I was, and scolded me for my entrance. I was given a healing potion, and helped to my feet. Quickly we exchanged information, and I was told to make use of my talent to keep alert for the other scouting party.

Master Ron Dangledongledot, and one of the soldiers, went off in the direction to gather Lim and Alloriah, while I prowled the immediate woods. It was fortunate for them I did. I came upon two of the invaders, making short work of one of them, it amazes me how delicate creatures are in their backsides. The other though, was a archer, and a talented one as well. Shooting, running, and then shooting again, impressed me quite a bit. I had quite a time of it, but eventually the human made a fatal mistake, and was silenced. It is not wise to creep around a forest while I hunt.

Soon Alloriah and Lim rejoined us and we learned that another faction has interest in the same amulet that we were sent for, they moved in and are now guarding the Monastery. They are being led by a dark Cleric, and forces are double our numbers. Vernin is still inside, unfound as of yet. We discussed plans for recapture and relief over a sparse cold meal. Finally we had the ground plan for a tactical assault. I would use my shooting skill circling around the front of the Monastery to its right side, still ahead of the building. Demeterious would be sent to guard my back. The men in their armour, shabby as it is said that they would hold the line ahead of Lim and Alloriah. Lim and Alloriah planned on casting spells, entangling, and more harmful ones. Mater Ron Dangledongledot said he would do what he was best at. I looked at him and received a wink as a reply. We were to take out the dark Cleric, but act as we see fit. 

As we moved into place something about one of the men's armour seemed wrong. I squinted looking closer at it, and instantly the illusion the was cast upon it was gone from my eyes. What he does best indeed. I pulled the hood of my cloak up and began stealthily picking my way around, noting that Demeterious was absent. Hoping that she would send him after me shortly I continued. Soon we were all in place. Lim called out to the dark Cleric, and the battle begun. 

I remember it as a mass of vines growing out of the ground grasping men who were charging our line, shouts and screams, my bow singing while the arrows whistled along. Soon though, too soon, some of the men realized where I was and what I was doing. The table turned on me. I remember screaming for help from Alloriah, wishing for Demeterious, praying for him even to come to my side, but no help arrived. I could feel the wounds taking their toll, but eventually the men that turned their attention on me fell. It took all of my concentration to get back up and continue my bow's song, this time singing to the dark Cleric, himself. 

I climbed atop one of the shambled out rooms and let my bow sing, glancing quickly at the battlefield I saw men downed, on our side and theirs, Lim his lips moving in a spell, Demeterious standing beside Alloriah, who was just standing behind one of our men. Just standing there! Eventually the battle was hard won for us, the dark Cleric stumbled behind another shamble out room. sank to my knees exhausted, viewing the outcome. All of their men dead. One of ours downed, dead as well. The rest were wounded. Lim followed the dark Cleric behind the shambled out house. I hoisted myself up and down the side of the building I was on, following Lim. When I reached him, he was pulling his half spear out of the Cleric's body, it was red with blood. Lim, himself looked as green as new spring grass and he quickly stumbled away from the body, a dumbfounded look on his face. I do not think he heard me speaking to him. 

Shrugging off Lim's odd actions as a first kill, I took note of the Cleric's robes and took a few scrolls and potions off his person as well. The men began dragging the bodies of the slain into a pile, keeping our own fallen man away from it. We gathered in front of the Monastery, eventually with a little searching, and a lot of calling Vernin crawled out of a hiding space clutching his staff. We reconvened and began relating tales. Master Ron Dangledongledot identified one of the one of the scrolls, as a scroll of raise. As in able to bring back one from the dead. He, though could not use it, and between Lim, Alloriah, and myself dare not use it, for fear of botching it. Lim entrusted the scroll to the Captain of our group of soldiers, who's armour gleamed, now released from the illusion.

Our next course of action was for the men to hold the Monastery and continue searching for the amulet, while we go back to the Countess' manor. Lim surprised us all by insisting the bodies be properly put to rest before we leave. The night was bright with a fire and the crackling that accompanied it. 

I thought deeply on the archer's skills I was shown today. I need practice.

A Cold Breeze

We set of steadily toward Ja' Du. About halfway there Alloriah announced that she would not set foot inside the town, after they had shunned her for her hide armour. Lim insisted that she should go in with him, but she balked. Quite impressively I might add. She said she would climb up a tree and stay there. That got a small snicker from me, aside for the healing and Demeterious she would be more than welcome to stay up a tree, for all time. I proposed that Lim go in, and I would shadow him with Alloriah, out of the towns folks' attention. I was rewarded with a interested look from her, and she readily agreed.

For the remainder of the walk to this small town I was questioned, about the flower. Knowing what type it was, even when Alloriah didn't, its climate, and finally where I was from. Having traveled for weeks with these two, I began gathering information about them from the first day. For example, Lim is from the Citadel had a...what he called girlfriend...and is deep into debt with many people. This girlfriend among them. He became a 'investigator' as a scheme in order to make gold. Alloriah, and her family, were from a small village outside the Citadel, her father worked for the clergy, and her mother stayed at home with her. Her father was attacked while Alloriah was playing in the woods, she came back during the attack, Demeterious appeared, and she blasted the attackers with sand. Her father died a few days later, her mother horrified stayed out of Alloriah's way, she died also, a short time later. Alloriah made a living cultivating flowers for the clergy, keeping her distance from the other villagers. She left after the Citadel closed its gates. She had the option to be inside.

It was almost sad to see that now, only now, after weeks, they were questioning my origins. I answered truthfully enough. It was a flower found in the Northlands, used for grievance, and I was from a small village that direction. They stopped questioning. Just like that. I did not know whether to be insulted or relieved. While I pondered it, we arrived just outside the town. I took Alloriah by the arm and led her around in the shadows, and behind buildings.

Shadowing Lim as not a difficult task, as long as I could hear. He first went inside the local inn, and after a short time of fairly unfriendliness from the people he was sent out. A chill breeze swept through the town. Lim stood in the center of the street, looking around before setting determinedly toward a porch that housed a elderly man smoking on a pipe. This first meeting seemed to be going better for Lim. The elderly man talked with out much care of 'consequences', as he put it, he was too 'old', and had seen 'more than enough in the world to know right from wrong'. Alloriah couldn't hear the conversation very well, but that was of little consequence, I could hear just fine. I must say that Lim showed more respect to this man than anyone I've seen so far. When the questioning began the elderly man raised his voice and called out to Alloriah and myself to come over, to save Lim having to repeat the story for us.

I was a bit startled at being seen, but as I walked up onto the porch with Alloriah, he told me not to worry, he knew what to look for. Calling out to what ended up being his wife we soon received hot cider and quite a tale.

The township of Ja'Du was once prosperous, with logging, and mining, the Countess had a large household of servants and pets. Exotic pets, from all over the world. She would receive shipments via wagon. Men from Ja'Du were always hired as guards. Some people though, disagreed with the Countess' demand for rare and exotic pets. There was a plan. There was a attack on a wagon pulling in a new pet. The attack occurred, but a tragedy happened as well. This new 'pet' was with child, and fought ferociously. Men died, and those whom were involved became cowards and hid behind stories of men dressed as beasts. The pet escaped, and the Countess became livid.

No longer were the mines opened, no longer were trees to be felled, nor the soil tilled for food, no beasts were to be slain for meat or fur. The town would survive on turnips, that's all that seemed to grow here with out help. Standing, sitting, and leaning we listened attentively to this elderly man. I could hardly believe what I heard from his lips. When questioned why no one else in Ja'Du would not speak to Alloriah or Lim, he answered that they still have lives to live, and no one seems to be able to leave Ja'Du and remain breathing. He on the other hand had lived his life and made his peace with himself. His point was emphasized with a hacking cough that reached down deep inside him.

 

I leaned against the porch rail listening in near disbelief eyes focused on nothing, his cough jarred my attention. His cough and footsteps across snow, that is. Some of the townsfolk, a small mob of them, mayhaps fifteen men calling out, to well...Lim mainly. Cries of not being welcome, to leave, blasphemer. Feeling very exposed I clutched the hilt of my dagger taking comfort in the cold medal, knowing that it would soon warm with blood if things became too out of hand. Lim stepped forward and an argument resulted.

 One particularly brave man stepped forward and threatened Lim directly. The elder stood from his rocker and shamed down the mob, all but this one, who seemed to have it in his head that a fight would solve everything. By this time the elders wife had come out of the house and joined us. Lim stepped forward toward the man and moved his hands. This man stepped forward fists raised, and landed flat on his back. Murmurs went around the group of 'magic and sorcery'. The man tried to get up again still full of steam, and was rewarded for his effort with another resounding thud. Jeers from the mob seemed to diffuse the man's fire, and he crawled away for a foot or two before he tried to stand again. The crowed dispersed with calls for us to leave. Oddly enough I felt that the calls were more directed toward Lim and Alloriah than to myself. It may have helped that I tried to stay out of sight. 

It may have helped a lot.

I was wary of drawing attention to myself, especially after the incident in the Citadel. The elderly man put his hand on my arm and offered me a few comforting words. A few more questions about where exactingly on the road this attack happened, fifteen years ago, and we decided to examine the area. Not expecting to find any physical clues but for more of a understanding. I assisted the elderly man back into his rocker after Lim and Alloriah said their thanks and farewell's. While they began walking I lingered on the porch going through my sidebag to a smaller set of bags and pouches, finding the correct one I handed it to his wife with instructions to make a tea. They started to ask a few questions but stopped and nodded to me. I took off catching up to the others. Lim questioned what I gave them, and I replied, "Something to keep the man alive a bit longer, we might need him." He nodded. 

We might just need him indeed. 

 ~~~ 

I felt much more relaxed leaving the village and stepping back into the woods. The people of Ja'Du are unhappy and looking for a focus that they could lash out at. For a time I thought that Lim would become that focus. The silence and relative peace of the woods was as a salve to me. Looking around I noticed how deep the snow still was. This time of year in the Homelands spring is beginning and the snow is starting to melt. But here...on this continent it still seems as if winter is just starting, but it has been going on for more months than it should be now. I, it seems was not the only one. Alloriah began speaking of the snows, and a storm that she felt rolling in. I looked up through the trees into the sky. It was clear and blue, not a cloud, and besides an occasional breeze a very calm day. Trepidation filled my stomach, and wrapped around me like a cloak. I have learned druids are often not incorrect in dealing with the weather. Still, I questioned her, by this time we were nearly at the attack site, my questions were pushed aside by Lim for the moment. 

Whatever clues there might be from fifteen years ago had to be found before the snow storm.We found a few deep claw marks in a tree, made by something huge. I shuddered to think again on the beast-bones that arose. Fanning out we searched for clues. Hours went by, nothing was found, nothing of much worth. The claw mark on a tree, healed from the past years...a paw print on the snow. Alloriah examined the paw print and said it was from a wolf. 

The sun had begun setting to the east. We, in turn, began to head back toward the town when the storm unleashed. It started off as just strong wind but literally twisted to a snowstorm within moments. The howls of wolves echoed through the trees. If we didn't reach shelter soon we would freeze and become food. We followed Alloriah's lead through the forest. The sound of paws on snow followed us, accompanied with the occasional howl. We ran for minutes, Lim slipping on the snow once or twice, looking behind our shoulders. Seeing nothing, but hearing much. Then she stopped, a cave loomed before us. Shelter a place to harbor warmth, and mayhaps a standing point against hungry wolves. I slowly turned around to look behind us. Nothing, not a sound of paws not a howl, not panting breath. 

"I think we lost them." Alloriah's voice put me on edge. More so. 

Lim agreed, and after I looked about for a moment, I agreed as well but I couldn't shake a feeling that we had been herded here though. We entered the cave and lit a fire. It turned out to be a old mining shaft that had seen better years of use. After we warmed up, I went off to explore a tunnel, to see if there was another way out, I explained to the others. But really it was to see if something could find another way in.

A half hour of searching turned up naught, and I headed back. In my time away Alloriah had done some exploring herself. With the weather. Mildly impressed that she actually remembered on her own, my spirits dipped when she told us that the weather was being magically controlled. She couldn't tell from where but she knew someone was controlling it, someone to the north.We settled down for the night after Alloriah found enough wood to keep up the fire. Sleeping in our accustomed shifts. I settled against the stone and went in to meditation. Howls ran through my blood and jolted me back into full consciousness. Sitting up I watched Alloriah run to Lim and shake him awake, she then looked at me. Seeing that I was awake already she went back to her watching position. 

"They found us. They are right outside!" 

"Well, can't you do something to block the entrance?" 

She gave me a sidelong look of disgust. I couldn't care less, she's a magic user, she has things she can do to help protect us, she has Demeterious, she has a staff. I have a dagger, and a short bow. You do the mathematics. If I had even a quarter of the magical abilities that she does at least I'd use those powers to there utmost instead of being frugal and worried about 'saving magic'. Please. What good is 'saved magic' when your corpse lies prostate on the floor? Chanting came from Alloriah, when she threw up her arms vines and plant life came to life creeping and twisting itself as a barrier covering the entrance. Well, that's something. Demeterious appeared a moment later as well. I was actually beginning to feel better about this. Until five sets of eyes reflected at us by the firelight, that is. Alloriah tried to speak with them. At least I hope that's what the yipping and growling coming out of her was. But to no avail. 

The wolves threw themselves at the vine covered entrance, three were caught fast, the other two remained outside. The plants turned and twisted and caught the wolves in mid-leap. Pulling a arrow into my short bow I moved back until stone brushed against my legs. Alloriah sent Demeterious against one of the wolves. Lim had taken out his half-spear and engaged with another. Alloriah picked up her staff and began swinging at yet another one. Within mere moments Demeterious made short work of two of the wolves. The other two leaped in to take their places. Another few moments and five wolves lie dead tangled in the vines.

Alloriah put her hand atop Demeterious's shoulder and murmured something along the words of 'Good job.' She then went outside with him and examined the area for signs of more wolves. Lim went to work upon a corpse and began slicing out strips of meat and setting them on the fire to cook. I crouched back against the wall, observing. Allroiah came back in and announced there we should be safe for the rest of the night at least. She said nothing to what Lim was doing and only said "No.", when he offered her some of the meat. No disgust, no remorse, she seemed...proud of herself.

 

We settled back down and prepared to sleep again. I volunteered to take watch this time. The others readily complied. As they lay sleeping I put my hand once again into my sidebag. Wondering whether or not I should be worried about Alloriah's reaction to what just happened. Everything I knew about Druids seems to hold most untrue with Allroiah. Yet she is still graced by the Guardians with their magic. My own morals be damned. My hands run warm with the flow of human blood, though it has never been with out reason, yet. Yet...should not this human who's very existence cries out for life with all things, should she not have been bothered at what just happened? Just a small amount? 

I let my hand once again grasp the smooth ivory fang. Confusion filled my mind. Trepidation seems a better description. I was brought up with the belief, 'All Life is Sacred.' I know this to be true, when I kill, it does not please me, but it is something that must be done. I do it. But where am I when one who's existence to uphold the very life I will inevitably take, cares not for the death she has caused? 

The ivory felt very cold under my fingertips.

Dead bones elude to tales untold...

Crossing my arms I, rather gingerly, leaned against the wall, and let out a breath that I didn't know I had been holding. My attention turned to Lim. He was babbling, again, about the bell. Motioning to me, he asked me to come over and help. I lowered my arms and walked over to it. Massive. I looked at him, lifted both hands up to it and pushed. It didn't move. Although he did half flinch as my skin touched medal. It was the first time any of us had touched it.

"There, I helped. It didn't work. Now what?"


"Now we try to tip it over!" 

I know my eyebrow raised. He wasn't even fazed. Truly, I have no grasp of human sarcasm. This human man, is still hell bent on the bell. Leveraging it to tip. He scuttled outside to find a board long enough to use.While the others followed him I stood there for a moment amazed, and a bit annoyed, before I moved outside to follow them. I glanced toward the monument stone, and nearly stopped dead in my tracks. The flower that had been sitting there for the past two days was gone and another replaced it. I tried called out to the others, but other than Vernin, who just looked up at me, no heed was paid.

Within ten minutes a board and a stone had been found, and brought inside. With some of Alloriah's magic and Lim's determination a more thought out plan was set into motion. Giving into the unbending I assisted as well. For, the sooner we looked under the bell the sooner, I could examine the monument stone and new flower uninterrupted. Pieces in place We stood two on opposite sides of the bell, and began to push or pull. It went on for a few minutes not getting very far, then suddenly we heard a loud crack. Stopping quickly we examined the ground, and found a crack in the stone floor. After a moment of discussion we decided to continue on, the floor should be solid, it was the stone itself that cracked. Continue we did, at times looking back on this incident I can see how naive we were.

CRACK! CRASH!

The stone floor was not as solid as we had thought. The floor opened, the bell fell through, and I tumbled down with it. Taking a moment to look around, I realized that I had fallen nearly six feet, and the space was not a random hole. It was a room. Squarish in shape, other than rubble lying all over, and now a bell there was not much else of note, save a sarcophagus. Lim called down asking if I was alright, I answered an affirmative, then called up and told them about the sarcophagus. Lim said he was coming down. I waited a moment, enjoying watching Lim and Alloriah clamber around trying to figure out how to get down safely. As they started arguing I took out my grappling hook and tied my rope to it. With a well placed throw, it was set ready to assist Lim's decent. Vernin had to stop the building argument and point out that I set a rope. 

After Lim made his way down, he and I went to the sarcophagus, and began to clear off the lesser rubble on top of it. It was elaborate. Carvings on the side, and on top was a raised rendition of a knight holding a sword down his chest. Part of the sarcophagus was cracked open by the flooring that had fallen on it. Lettering was chiseled at the head. Lim and I shared a look, then simultaneously, we worked to move the remaining rubble. Stone clattered on the floor where we tossed them, a few moments and I stopped moving. Cocking my head to the left to listen behind me, stone was still falling to the floor, and Lim was only in mid throw. I reached out put my hand on his wrist, then he heard it also. We turned around just in time to see the bell, which had been lying in the rubble on its side, tip over with a resounding GONG, and a huge set of bones rise up from under it. 

I admit, I let out a yelp, and cried for the other to help us. Lim began his chanting and withdrew his half spear. I unsheathed my dagger and backed up. As the bones rose I noticed something shaped like a crescent moon on the floor near my feet. I scooped it up. By that time the bones had fully risen. Ten feet tall easily it had claws, tail, and a feline face with one large fang. Looking at the crescent in my hand I realized that it was the other fang. Lovely. 

Letting out a unearthly howl it swiped at me. Jumping backwards I slammed into the sarcophagus. By this time Alloriah and Vernin had run back to the ledge and was looking down at us. It started attacking me, mainly, and I fought back defensively, Lim took shots with a few spells, but mainly his half spear. Alloriah though, Alloriah called out repeatedly; 'I don't know what to do, what can I do?'. I had a few choice thoughts to what she could do. We called out, and told her to hit it, cast spells, do something a Druid would do. After taking a few hits I shouted out, frantically for her to bring out Demeterious. She did not. Lim Dul took a few hits then, and he screamed for her to call him out. After a few moments of ludicrous argument, and us dodging claws, she finally relented. 

Then the oddest thing happened. This beast skeleton reached down to me and took a hold of the fang I was still holding. The tug of war that ensued was, looking back on it, comical. Though while it was happening, it was terrifying. Oddly enough I won that tug of war. Another unearthly howl sent a shiver down my spine. Then Demeterious was upon it. Vernin and Alloriah attacked it with poles. Working together one leg was taken out and puffed into dust, literally. After a few more moments of battle the skeleton collapsed with a groan. 

Letting out a string of grumbling curses Lim set about pounding every bone into dust. He seemed frantic, panicked even. I considered for a moment to let him have the fang in my hand also. Something in my soul told me not to, and I slipped it into my sidebag inside the folds of a extra shirt. I climbed up the rope at Alloriah's request and she caste a healing spell on me. With a nod of thanks, and a pat on Demeterious' head I slid back down. Lim had finished with the remains of the beast skeleton, and we resumed examining the sarcophagus. 

Twenty minutes of clearing away stone floor, new rubble from the battle, and now bone dust, we were rewarded: 

Captian Darcrow 

Loyal to the end, father and friend, may your soul always be at peace.
 

I reached into the sarcophagus and gingerly felt around the bones and cloth, for parchment, a signet ring, something of value that could be identified, and more importantly a amulet. Nothing was found. Nothing but a name, and proof to our eyes that these men dressed as beasts might actually be beastmen. We discussed what had happened, and I again brought up the fact that a new flower had been placed on the memorial stone. This time they listened. We had no other options but to return to the Countess, and speak to the people of Ja Du. Master Ron Dangledongledot returned, as promised in the afternoon, and he agreed that we should return to the town, and Countess as well. With one exception, Vernin would stay here with him and hold our position, the men were two days out. 

We set out right away, this time I took the flower and tucked it into a carry bag. To the sad little town of Ja Du we walked toward first. Lim Dul is assured of himself that the townsfolk will speak to him. Lim Dul is assured of himself of many things. Many many things.

Reaching into my sidebag I felt the smooth ivory of the fang. 

I am not so sure.

Behind every story...

The next morning. All of us, including Vernin, made sure our traps were set, then left down the hill. Through to the road that we looked upon only a two day ago. We made our way on the road, and with sidelong looks at each other began our trek up it, away from the town. I moved away from the others into the shadows, after twenty minutes of hearing Alloriah and Lim moan about me, I was seriously considering how much trouble I would get in if I removed their tongues. Vernin kept quiet listening and watching them, I knew he was remembering what they were saying. Twenty-thirty minutes up the road I came upon two towers set on either side of the road with a large gate, that lay open. A quick check reveled nothing living inside either tower, so I headed back down the road where the others were. Quickly I let them know what we were coming up upon.

As we reached that point a momentary reprieve took place. Lim and Alloriah explored both towers, as I examined the gate. Massive in size but open. There were no walls on either side of the guard towers. Inside was cleaned, if a little dusty. No sign of use in any recent time. It was unnerving. The road showed no recent use, the Monastery abandoned, and now this guard tower. I began to wonder if the Countess' abode woulds be similarly vacant.

Another fifteen minutes journey brought us into the shadow of a large manor. Large may be a understatement. I shall just say that the structure was set back with a ravine between the road and her gate. Which was in the upward position. The walls of the manor are tall, three mayhaps four stories with windows flittering along. What I could see of the portcullis was large ten feet tall, I'd guess about ten feet wide as well. All seeming in good condition. The sound of wildlife was a symphony that had steadily increased as we had approached. Looking down over the edge of the ravine I could not even begin to guess how deep it ran.

As we stood there Lim hissed to me something along the lines of 'Here's your chance, get someone to finally listen to you.' Amused I was not. This Human man whom incessantly goes on and on about himself and how great he is, how he is our self proclaimed leader, wants me to announce whom we are and try to get someones attention. I pointed out if not a bit sarcastically, that he is more than eloquent in this situation. My sarcasm fell short, and was taken as a complement. I must work on that it seems.

I squared my shoulders and called out what I hoped would translate to a non threatening greeting. Whom I was, that we wanted to seek a audience with the Countess, that we mean no harm. It is odd hearing my voice echo out into the common human language along the rock and stone. A few minutes and the drawbridge began to lower, and we backed up a few paces to give it room. When it settled we started forward. The portcullis was still closed. Halfway across something literally lifted the portcullis up with a single hand.

A man? Larger than any man I had ever laid eyes upon, armoured fully, its shape was a solid block with legs, arms, and a relatively small helm covering its head. As a group we faltered in our steps for a moment, but continued on. I leading, Lim and Alloriah in the middle, and Vernin taking up the rear. When we reached the portcullis it took one step sideways and allowed us to pass. I did with a 'Thank you.' and a inclination of my head. the others took my lead and repeated my action. After we all passed inside it lowered the portcullis, and took up a position in front of it.

Inside the courtyard was a fountain decorated by creatures some would call fantastical, a unicorn, mermaid, griffin, many others all intertwined. the courtyard itself was fairly simply elegant, cobble stone, plants hugging the walls and walkways. Cats along with a few litters of kittens slept, hunted, and played in the courtyard as well. A man stood impassively in front of one of the door. Tall, of thin build, not much else could be discerned form looks alone. He was dressed...well exotic, if not simply cotton clothing doing well to hide anything, and his face from the nose down was covered by a cloth. Approaching I introduced myself, and the others asking for a audience with the countess. He simply raised one hand in a waiting motion and walked through the door behind him, nearly silently.

Taking the momentary rest I went over to the fountain and studied it intently, it looked almost as if the carvings could come alive. It was done so well. a kitten playing along the fountain's edge caught my attention. I spent some time playing with it, and the few others that came out, while studying the courtyard. Nothing that I could make use of, at the moment. After perhaps twenty minutes the man returned, with not a sound he motioned for us to follow him. We did, and were lead into a entry room I can not aptly describe it, simply elegant, a few paintings of landscapes, a sitting couch, a few potted plants, white marble floor cracked with black, and a staircase winding upward.

The man led us to the foot of the staircase and stopped. A sight rustling caught my attention, looking up a woman descending the stairs. Dressed in a low cut gown that covered her feet, she nearly floated. She was dark haired and light completion, her face composed in a impassive look that lingered on boredom. Behind her padded the largest tiger I had ever laid eyes upon, pure white, with a intelligent gleam in his eyes. She stopped three stairs up from where we waited at the bottom, and looked down upon us.

"Yes?", her cultured voice spoke out.

I looked her in the eye and opened my mouth to speak, when Lim Dul pushed forward and started to speak. I looked over at him and witnessed a dumbfounded expression on his face. It was similar to the expression he had on his face the first time he saw Alloriah. I cringed as his words flowed out. He was the sorcerer Lim Dul Karavack, he had heard rumors of beast men in the area, heard tale of the monastery, and is seeking out more information of these beast men. As he spoke the Countess' expression grew clouded but she expertly pushed it away after a moment, as if it had never been. She said it had been quite some time since she had received visitors, then asked with a edge of disgust on her voice if we were adventurers. Lim continued on, when he was done, she took a moment before informing us, venomously that these stories of beast men were just that, stories. The attack on her delivery came from men dressed in the skins of beasts, a mockery of her passions. That these men were still free. Anger marred her voice only sightly. Lim then took it upon himself to tell her that we would be more than happy to investigate these men dressed like beasts on her behalf.

She calmly replied that if we found anything to come back and bring it to her attention, her servant, Garlic would inform her when we returned. As she turned to ascend the stairs again I spoke up and asked her if there was anywhere in this area that could support the White Tear flower. She turned and looked me straight in the face and said 'No.', then started up again. We watched her until she disappeared around a corner. Garlic then motioned for us to follow him. As we stepped back outside to the courtyard I quietly pointed out that the flower came from somewhere, that I feel as if we weren't getting the whole story. Alloriah and Lim nodded, Vernin, as was becoming the norm, stayed quiet, but caught my eye. We thanked Garlic, who responded with a bow, and headed to the portcullis. The giant man again lifted it with one hand and stepped to the side to allow us to pass. We thanked him as well, then crossed the drawbridge.

Once outside, we discussed how we could possibly find out more information on these men dressed as beasts. The only viable option we could think of was going to the town of Ja' Du. Mayhaps the towns folk would know something of the attack as well. Vernin wanted to return to the monastery, he said he's wait for us there. We agreed and walked with him down the road to a parting point. We would meet back with him before sunset. He threw a grin over his shoulder and started running. Impressive. He quite flew over the ground.

Continuing down the road another twenty minutes, we discussed that Alloriah would enter the town while Lim and myself followed. Apparently the villagers whom saw Alloriah in her hide armour went into quite a little frenzy. From what she could gather they were not allowed to kill animals for their meat or hides. By this time eventide was fast approaching, and Alloriah, upset and a bit angry left the village. She was unable to gain any real information about anyone, or thing. We agreed that it was time for us to return to the Monastery for the day, and to come back here in a day or so, with someone else doing the talking.

We made it back in time to see Vernin preparing dinner. I quickly looked around the Monastery to assure that we were the only ones here. When I rejoined the others they were preparing to eat, Alloriah had called out Demetrious, whom was lying next to her. With a quick pat on his head, I again launched into ghost stories. The firelight cast a glow upon the huge bell, which in turn cast a amber haze upon the decrepit Monastery. Taking pleasure from the uneasiness of Lim and Alloriah, and slightly regretting the apprehension Vernin's face beheld. I reminded myself to talk to Vernin privately when we shared watch tonight. After the meal was done and cleaned up, we climbed up into the bell tower again. I spoke up for first watch, knowing Vernin would get no rest any time soon, and I need no truly long sleep. As the other two bundled in the blankets and their breathing relaxed into a slow steady rhythm, I put my hand onto Vernin's shoulder, the moon was out enough to see his face, not wanting to wake the others I knelt next to him, and whispered to him.


"I am only telling stories, it was not my intention to fill you with fear. These are stories..."

Movement caught my attention and pulled the words from my mouth. My had griped his shoulder tightly for a moment, as I pulled it away I drew my bow forth, an arrow notched. Vernin knowing his job, woke the other silently as he could. Lim started to speak when drum beats drowned out his words, we were surrounded, if the sounds were correct. I told them as much. Demetrious was once again brought to Allriah's side, growling lowly. Lim and Alloriah descended to the ground floor, as was our plan of attack. Then I saw them. In the moonlight, men, mayhaps men, no normal arms they had. Bear, boar, wolf...

Yelling down to the others of their approach, I fired an arrow. One went down, but the others surged forward. Calling to the others of our attackers progress, and shooting, I looked on in growing apprehension. Vernin stayed at my side, switching out my empty quiver for a new one. I told him to grab one of my daggers and be ready. BANG! They ascended onto the Monastery, claws scratched the wood boards. TWANG! One of my rope traps outside went off. I heard blasts from downstairs, Lim's magic, I assumed. We stood no chance against this number. It was clear to me our planning, our traps, our fortifications, failed.

"Hold the line men! Don't let them escape!"

A man appeared before us. Literally appeared out of nothing, and stood before us. I yelped and fell backwards, hard, onto my rear, joining Vernin who started whimpering. Truly, I do have to be more cautious about whom I share stories with. Although at this moment, I can not fault his fear. The ghost turned to us.

"I apologize, but come now, we fight!"

He offered his hand to me, which I reached out and took, it seemed solid enough, even though he himself was slightly opaque, and helped me back up. He did the same for Vernin. The Monastery seemed to explode in a menagerie of sounds. Alloriah's and Lim Dul's cries among them. Steel upon steel, claws scraping, howls, shouts from men, many men, screams. I sent Vernin downstairs to aid the others, which he did almost out of relief, while I kept shooting those climbing upon the roof now. The fight went on for several minutes. Cries from downstairs, and the man, err, ghost beside me revealed that they had fought or were preparing to fight this battle. I soon descended the stairs as well, my targets unreachable.



I was greeted by the sight of Alloriah, Lim, Vernin, and Demtrious fighting along side of a militia of ghosts. Cries in the form of questions were unleashed to a Captain Darcrow. Where the enemy was, getting the women and children downstairs, it went on and on. As the battle went on I came to realize the Captain Darcrow was the ghost that appeared in front of me. whom was now fighting along side us. 

"Those ain't mine!" 

A small, accented, Gnomish voice called out from behind me. The beast creatures disappeared. I spun around on my heel, dagger out, to see a Gnome standing in the middle of the main hall. Two and a half, mayhaps three feet in height, looking honestly bewildered. It took him a moment to realize that there were four people and one large panther poised to attack him. 

"The Crow sent me! This was a test, just a test! Dun attack!"

"Prove it." I growled out. Magic user or no, its better to be safe than not living. 

"Yer ordered to secure this Monistary, until backup arrives. I'm a'part o' the backup." 

Lim opened his mouth about to speak when Captain Darcrow rushed forward forward outside the great dilapidated doors calling out. We followed him to see what was the cause.

"Donivan, where is Donivan!? They took him..they took my son..."

He fell to the ground, ghosts, his men filtered around him, and inside the building.

"You must bring him back to me, my son, you must! I have to see him again, please! Find him, find Donivan."

I knelt down beside him, and swore that I would find his son, Lim and Alloriah did the same, standing though. With a anguished sight he disappeared, the other ghosts along with him. I looked up at the others, who were giving me questioning looks. I told them that it probably wasn't a good idea denying a ghost's last wish, and hadn't they paid any mind to the stories I had been reciting? Vernin gave a strangled laugh. 

"Well now, that was a'bit strange, wasn't it?" 

As a whole we turned and looked upon the Gnome, he backed up a half step, before breaking into a merry smile. We decided to go inside, and over some hot tea we learned a bit more about or new visitor. His name is Master Ron Dangledongledot. I smiled upon hearing it, knowing that most humans were too lazy to actually recite a whole Gnomish name, or that the name often times proved quite a challenge, resulting in failure. He was a fairly attractive, as Gnomes go, with eyes that seemed to twinkle on their own, and a hearty smile. He was dressed fairly nondescriptly, and the only thing of note was a pouch hanging off his belt. Master Crow sent him to test us in our defense of this Monastery, so logically for Master Ron Dangledongledot, he conjured up illusions of the famed beastmen attack that happened here. When the ghosts appeared and fought along our side he was shaken and taken quite aback not knowing that he would disturb the rest of so many spirits. 

We relaid the little information that we had gathered about the beastmen and their attack. What we had done to secure the Monastery. Our plans to go back into the township of Ja'Du and learn what the locals might know. Master Ron Dangledongledot nodded at that and agreed that it might be best, no trace of the amulet yet? We shook our heads, then Lim, ever thoughtful Lim, said that we would look under the bell, the next morning no less. Master Ron Dangledongledot seemed pleased at that, and pointed out what a irony it would be if the amulet was just lying under the bell. He would stay with us for the night, in the morning check on the progress men Master Crow was sent, and he would rejoin us later the next night. Tea was finished and cleaned up, Master Ron Dangledongledot reached into his pouch and pulled out something which he tossed in front of him. It expanded into a door. Now he had our undivided attention, and I do mean all of us. 

"Tonight we will all be safe and be able to rest easy. No keeping watch I've set up a'alarm. Now, pick yerself a room and sleep!" 

He opened the door and had us file in, it went into a hall with more doors. Alloriah opened one and a bedroom was reveled. Master Ron Dangledongledot's merry smile grew wider. We thanked him and each took a door, in turn taking a room. I settled sitting on the bed in the room, meditating. It would be a relief to be able to meditate for more than four hours at one time. Morning came inevitably, and I left the room, walking down the hall another door was opened, looking in revealed a table laden out with food enough for ten. Not surprisingly Lim was sitting at the table alongside Master Ron Dangledongledot, stuffing food into his face. As if he hadn't eaten in weeks. I joined then and after being invited to, helped myself to some fruit, waiting for Alloriah and Vernin, whom of which joined us shortly. After they ate we were ushered out, back into the Monastery. Master Ron Dangledongledot said his farewell to us and he was off. 

We were left facing a huge bell, softly glowing with the morning light. Kolos protect us, I have a great feeling of trepidation, I should learn to silence Lim Dul and his rather large mouth.

Ghost Stories

We started forward, on forethought I pulled my cloak closed. "I'm scouting ahead, you three walk slowly." I started forward swiftly and pulled my hood up. Free of my burden I was able to look inside of the small dilapidated buildings leading up to the fallen Monastery. They were full of rubble, a corner of the ceiling fallen in here, part of a wall missing there. Four building in all, two on each side. Each building looked as if it was once a lecture room. Broken benches in rows, battered bookshelves along side the same respective walls. There were pillars outside, destroyed, some writing still survived, but useless to me, a few lone letters. Nothing that could be pieced together. There was one oddity on a pillar. It looked like claw marks. As if a giant claw tore through and slashed this pillar. 

Stepping back I turned my head toward the Monastery, looking for something, anything to give further clues. It was at that moment I saw something. Pure whiteness on a green stem, resting on a cut slab of stone. I quickly checked for movement, and sound other than the approaching incessant chatter of Lim and Alloriah, sensing nothing I ran to the slab of stone, and the whiteness.

I knelt down and stared. What was this flower doing here? Freshly cut, and very hard to find, in a climate such as this it must be cultivated carefully. It is only known to grow around graves as well. Mayhaps another clue to what has happened here? 

There was an inscription on the stone was well. Battered by the weather, and covered with grime it was nearly impossible to read. I tried though, very hard. Without cleaning it was not possible. With a sigh I looked around the ground searching for a trace of a footprint, or for all I cared a paw print. Nothing, and I had already mauled a portion of the ground with my own boots. Silently chastising myself I arose. These were the kind of mistakes Master Crow spoke of.

I made my way back toward the group as they were coming to the crest of the hill. Walking alongside Lim for a moment I listened to him, apparently I was sneaking around leaving them open for attack. I suppose I should be flattered at his opinion of me in a fight. Though I feel the true meaning behind his words. Taking off my hood I told them of what I found, and warned them not to touch the flower. It was a private pleasure in watching Lim jump sideways, and the others startle back.

We made our way to the Monastery, and inside. The outside was horrendous, but inside; inside was worse. It was also full of despair. Rubble filled every corner, there were stairs leading up to the bell tower, they seemed sturdy enough. There were also rooms off shooting to the left and right. Looking around the main area it was apparent where an alter once stood, no more...pews, some of them still stood,while most were crumbled. Windows lined the walls devoid of glass. But most obvious of all, a huge bell lie on the floor directly under its tower, a fine crack running up its side. Larger than even Lim's massive size it drew our reverent attention for some time.

But reverence can only go so far. It can not protect us from what might be lurking in the shadows. I pointed that out to them, and we continued our exploration inside. One side led to a smaller private prayer room, also in ruins, nothing of use to be found. The other side seemed to be similarly devoid of clues, a teaching room though, with plant life taking over. Upon closer inspection there was a door hidden behind a bookcase. Warding were scraped into the wood.

Alloriah and Lim were able to ascertain that they were protective, something about keeping spirits in, but nothing more than that. We decided to open and explore inside, but not before Alloriah summoned Demeterious by her side first. I checked the door for traps, and upon finding none, nodded toward Lim to open it. It did not swing open but fell off its hinges. Another slab of wood was placed behind where the door once stood closed. Demetreious growled as Lim lifted the door and placed it to the side.

Taking a moment to discuss if we were all ready, and still willing to go down, we agreed. Demeterious was to stay at the top of the stairs for he was unwilling to ascend with us. Lim would move the wooden slab, and I was to take point. Alloriah and Vernin would be in the middle with torches. Upon reflection it may have been wiser to have payed more attention to Demeterious' reaction than explored further in.

Lim lifted the wooden slab, which turned out to be a table. Scratch marks raked the underside of it, hundreds of scratch marks. Looking back at the others, trepidation began to knot my stomach. Stairs led down. As I started down a gust of air rushed up to meet me. It felt of death, old death. The walls on both side of the stairs were gouged with scratch marks, much more than on the underside of the table. Taking a moment to examine them, they were made by someone, or many someones going down these stairs. I told the others, and continued down. It took only moments but soon the stairs ended and a room opened.

In the torch light there were skeletons literally encasing the walls of the room. Hand raised to my mouth, and I uttered a small prayer. Alloriah let out a cry, and Vernin's torch began to shake, Lim let out a low whistle. The center of the floor seemed to be dirt. Looking over my shoulder I told Vernin to go back upstairs with Demeterious, he handed the torch and literally fled the scene. Alloriah and Lim refused to enter further, seeing that there was nothing to be gained from standing here looking in, I took the torch from Alloriah, and stepped down onto the dirt.

Fully expecting something to reach up and grab my ankle, I stepped lightly as possible. Hand on the hilt of my dagger, and walked closer to the bones. Most of them were in a sitting position. Children of every size were once here, as well as a few adult skeletons. Fifty children, easily, were here. Five, ten adult bones, mayhaps they were only older children brought down to tend to the smaller ones. the walls here were smooth, not a scratch mark. As I stood in the center of the room I closed my eyes for a moment. Where I come from fifty children could be the entire new generation born in over a century.

I moved further in toward the bones, it was easier to think of them, to remember them, as just some bones. Looking for anything, jewelry, parchment, a journal. Anything to shed light on why this had happened. Nothing. I searched for a entire half hour, with nothing to learn from it. Disgusted with the lack of information. I told the others that there was nothing to be found here. Lim was becoming nervous, as was Alloriah. I conceded, and followed them back up the stairs. Walking up the stairs I looked down and saw a fingernail lying on one of them, a shiver went down my spine. It became apparent just what made all the scratch marks now. Shaking my head, I continued up. Once outside, the table was replaced, and the door was set back over it. Alloriah said a prayer for the souls inside.

I turned my back to the door trying to calm my rising emotions.

After she was done, Lim brought up the fact that we were here to fortify this place. I nodded to him, agreeing. Vernin seemed calmed at the thought also. After some discussion, and examining the whole Monastery, we had a rough plan. Cover for the front windows could be made from boards found around the backside. Broken pottery with growth would be placed around the inside. I would set up caltrops inside the front windows and in a semicircle thirty feet outside the entrance. A rope trap would be set inside the entrance way as well. Lim also got it into his head that pointed sticks inside the windows behind the slates was a good idea. Time consuming, and he was left to it alone.

It was soon made clear to us that the boards were far too heavy to move by hand, mayhaps dragged with some animal help, but by ourselves it wouldn't happen. After a brief discussion Alloriah and I went off back down the hill into the woods where we last saw the herd of horses. A short search led us face to face with the herd. Alloriah enlisted the aid of the stallion. I looked him over for a owner mark, and found one. I assumed that it belonged to the Countess. Alloriah was worried about using her horse, but I assured her that after we were done with his assistance he would be set back to the herd. My assurance worked, and she rode him swiftly back to the Monastery, leaving me to sprint on my own two legs. Lim greeted us at the entrance with warnings of angering the Countess.

"You stole one of her horses?!? You can be arrested and put to death."

Alloriah laughter and happiness immediately left. She looked to the ground, silent, as usual.

"No. We did not steal anything, nor shall we steal from the Countess, Lim. We are borrowing the use of her horse. Alloriah asked his help and he apparently agreed. After we're done he's to go back to his herd."

"You can die if she accuses you of stealing. Hell, you can die if the horse gets hurt!"

Aloriah voice whispered in, "But we're not stealing Lim."

A few more minutes discussion left Lim throwing his hands up, and a grin passing between Alloriah and myself. I made a harness for the stallion and with his massive assistance in a few hours the boards were in place and the sun was moving across the sky turning it a fierce auburn. Untying the rope harness I checked the stallion for wounds, with none found I gave him a firm pat on the shoulder. Alloriah spoke to him again and he was gone with a whinny.

We set up camp that night in the center of the Monastery a small fire flickering. Over dinner and shortly into the night I began to tell ghost stories. Feeling it was only fitting in such a area. Also, mayhaps unnerving Lim would shake him from waggling his tongue. It is only fair to mention the stories I spoke were ones I found fascinating as a young child.

Sleeping in shifts keeping watch at the top of the bell tower the night went on. Morning came to pass and we continued fortifying the Monastery. I took some time to scrub off the grime. And eventually the words came to life again. It was a inscription about a battle here, forgiveness about a misunderstanding, and honouring of a man by the name of Darkcrow. The flower left here still caught my attention. Where did it come from, whom brought it, and how soon would they be back? By noontime our meager fortifications were complete. After some discussion over our meal we decided to pay a visit to the Countess. For mayhaps she would be able to tell us some more information on what had happened here.

Out of the nest and into the world.

In the morning we gathered around a table for breakfast. Lim was talking...about what I can not recall. Lim talks frequently, and in circles. Alloriah chirping in every now and then. I, I was eating, and looking around the dining hall. Contemplating on what as to come, and how little we knew about this Monastery. I do not care to dive headlong in to the unknown, on blind faith.

After breakfast a messenger came to us and requested we reconvene in the meeting hall in a few hours. I got up and told the others I had business to attend to before our meeting. Walking outside I watched the men and women here working. Wandering inside the smithy I was pleasantly surprised to find Darren lifting boxes and doing, whatever they do in there when one is not hammering away at the anvil. I stood and watched him for a few moments. He seemed contented. Stepping forward out of a shadow and into his sight I was greeted by a large floppy smile. I told him that I would be leaving with the other two sometime this morning, and that I wanted to say my farewells to him. I was assaulted with two large, very large, very well muscled arms encasing me and being lifted well off the ground in a hug. I was told, also to take care of myself. I had a feeling that he sincerely meant it as well. The "Or else I'll have to come looking for you" clenched the feeling.

Walking away toward the left side of the complex I spotted a young man working in a garden. I stayed in the shadows of a nearby building watching him for a bit. He seemed content enough working, not complaining or stopping. Young for a human, mayhaps sixteen. I approached him and offered a trade. Knowledge for care. He would care for my herbs, and in exchange I would teach him uses of them. He looked me up and down and accepted my offer. I brought him inside my room, and told him what to do for each pot, I then told him the key would be available for him to pick up after I left from one of the guards. Our agreement made, he left hurriedly.

I gathered my pack, and a package of more personal things, and left for the meeting room. I was the second to arrive this time, literally right behind Master Crow. He took his respective chair at the head of the table, I approached him, package in hand. I asked him to keep this in a safe place for my return, and upon not returning to make arrangements to have it sent back to my homeland. He nodded gravely and accepted the package. I then took a seat to his left hand side and awaited the others arrival.

Shortly Lim, Alloriah, and Vernin filed in and sat down. Then it began. The Monastery we were being sent to was said to be abandoned. On the lands belonging to a Countess Della Hanna. A great battle was fought there some time ago. There was rumored to be a amulet of power left somewhere within. We were to find and retrieve it, before another fraction arrived. Firstly though we were to secure the Monastery for our group. There would be men sent to rendezvous with us at the Monastery, after we secured it. As for the other fraction not too much was known about them, save for they wanted the amulet as well. Stories of men dressed like beasts, attacks...in short fantasy tales. But, behind every story...

Well enough. After asking a few question that had unknown answers we were ready to leave. Packs were waiting at the gate. Vernin easily hefted the largest of them upon his back. Each of us took a smaller one. We nodded to each other and headed out. I let the other walk in front of me, and was last. Looking back over my shoulder, I saw Darren rushing up and pushing through the crowd. He stopped short at the gate. Letting out a tremendous smile he lifted a well muscled arm and waved farewell. I smiled momentarily, and lifted a arm up on response before turning back to the group and catching up. I did not allow myself to look back again.

Four, five, six days we traveled. Camp was made and watch was set each night in turns. Our travel passed with out incident. After the first few days Vernin carried my small pack as well. Scouting ahead with the pack was too noisy and cumbersome. Lim's eyes narrowed at Vernin's offer, but I ignored it, and offered the boy a sincere smile. As well as my pack. Through out our journey we chatted, often ending the conversation with; "Just one clean cut Lim, that all it will take.", and Alloriah giggling. As for Vernin he was pretty quiet, offering his opinion here and there. He liked to run. Also, he cooked fairly decently.

Finally we found ourselves on a road stretching left to right. It was overgrown, not overtly so, yet no one had traveled upon it for some time. To one side was a town called Ja'Du, to the other was the Countess' manor. We turned toward the Countess' side. If what we were told is accurate, traveling this way for half a day then turning off the road we would reach the Monastery but early afternoon. Traveling through forest did not prove difficult, there was a clearing, a small one, when we stepped into it, a herd of horses broke out into a gallop. Its stallion leading them away. I could almost imagine I was back home.

Almost.

Shortly after, well, shortly the way I measure time. Mayhaps another half of a hour. We reached the bottom of a rather large hill. Making our way up the hill we laid our eyes upon the Monastery. It was ruined, and in ruins. A dilapidated structure that looked like it was hit by a war. There was a few smaller buildings set before the main one, but it was all in ruins. The others seemed to have the same reaction that I was having. Confusion, apprehension, and disgust.

An Exchange

Freshly bathed, clothes pockets cleaned out, and given to the washers. I made sure I was suitable to leave my room. Late into the night it was, and as soon as I opened my door, surely enough there was a messenger requesting I see Master Crow. Immediately. Looking back into my room, there is a table in front of the only window. There sits my herbs, happily nestled into their respective pots. At that moment I wished I had a pot to happily nestle in.

This meeting would not go well. Too many things had fallen out of place in the Citadel.

Entering the meeting room once again, I saw Jax deep in conversation with Master Crow, at the far end. Lim and Alloriah were sitting at the table in the center of the room. Darren though, was apparently waiting for me. He walked up in front of me and looked down. A smile lighting up his face. 
 

"Your looking much better, smell better too."

I looked up and gave him a smile, halfheartedly. Then my attention snapped to Master Crow who walked briskly up to the table, and lied the wand in front of him. Darren followed my attention, patted my shoulder, and joined the others. I walked toward the table, but instead of sitting I leaned up against a wall. The coolness of the stones through my shirt felt nice. It might have been the only nice thing that happened that evening.
 

Jax had told Master Crow everything. We messed up. Why were our faces now known? Guards are still searching for us, and will be for who knows how long? the Clergy now knows about us. The list went on and on. As he spoke and named off every error, I cringed, and sank deeper into a shadowed corner. Lim piped in whenever he had a chance. Jax stood behind Master Crow looking darkly satisfied. Darren sat looking solemn, and offering a few good words when the time merited. Alloriah just sat there though, sniffling every now and then. Not crying, just sniffling, making the noise whenever she was mentioned. Disgusting.

In the end the wand was put in a iron box and given to Jax for research. He took it and spirited out of the room. Darren's gaze followed him, and his expression fell. Master Crow then told Darren he was to stay around and help with the Nest. Darren nodded, stood, and offered us a smile before he too walked out of the room. Then Master Crow's attention turned on us. If I could have sunk into the wall at that moment I would have. His eyes glittered dangerously.

"I heard what happened. Your bickering. Your arguments. Your threats to cut out someones tongue." Those eyes focused on me for a moment. I sighed quietly. "You were told to keep a low profile. You were TOLD to stay out of their sight, and now descriptions of you are circulating around the ENTIRE Citadel. Now. Now I have to keep you out of it. What use is that to me? How does that help our goals?"

He sighed and sat down. "I need you to stay away from the Citadel until this blows over. I need you away from here for some time also. There is a Monastery a week's journey from here, it is rumored that there was an amulet left in there. You three are going to retrieve it for me. Maybe, you three will learn how to work together. Your going to need to."
He stood up, and motioned to the door. A slim youth stepped in, light haired, and if I miss my mark, lightly muscled. "Also, Vernin will be going with you. He's going to help carry your supplies, and keep a eye on you. Go. Get some rest, you'll be leaving tomorrow."
Vernin, Lim, and Alloriah filed out. I followed, just upon reaching the door, Master crow's voice called softly. I turned around to face him, pulling the door shut behind me. He walked up not even a foot away from me.

"I expected better from you."

"Mayhaps, then you should have sent me inside alone."

"You would have been dead. I expect better from you from now on. Don't disappoint me. I don't care if you like them. Work with them anyway. You should know better."

Clenching my teeth together, I nodded. Then reached into my sack and pulled out a pouch. I held it up in front of him. After a moment he took it, and opened it. Inside glittered, ranking pins from each guard I killed, or their station sigina. Whichever they had worn. I offered a half grin
.
"That many less you have to worry about now. And the pins themselves..."

"Quite useful." He nodded. "Ann...watch over my nephew."

"I will at that. In return, I no not how long we will be away. Someone must watch over my plants."

A brief smile flittered through his serious face. "I think that can be arranged. Find someone tomorrow, before you leave."

I bowed, in the manner of my kind to him, then took my leave. Quickly I skimmed in the shadows back to my room, not wanting to be bothered by anyone. Once inside I looked again to my plants, then set about packing and resorting my gear. Thinking on all he had said, knowing Vernin's life would be worth more than any treasure I could ever find.

Tomorrow would come soon enough.

A dusty, bloody, fiery, smelly way out.

Coming to, I saw wooden beams above my head slanting downward. To my left Darren loomed, his face splitting into one of the largest most sincere grins I had ever witnessed. The sound of rain dancing overhead beating its steady melody upon the beams is forever etched into my mind. The smell of dust was thick, and looking around I could see it coating the floorboards. Lim and Alloriah were on the other side of this rather small yet long room. Jax alone was absent. 

Questioning the absence of Jax, I sat up, none too worse for the wear, my wounds wonderfully healed. I was told that we were in the attic of an abandoned house. And that Jax went out. Everyone seemed to be alright, but we were to keep our talking in whispers. Asking Alloriah about the lion, she told me that he was set free. I raised a eyebrow in the shadows, but took her word for it. I would think it would take more than a few moments to set the lion free back to its mountains, but then again I am no Druid.


After some time Jax, returned, crawling through a small window, the rain had eased up to a drizzle, and small drops glistened off his clothing and hair. He told us that our descriptions were being circulated, guards were looking for us, and in short we needed to get out of here, quickly. Into my pack I rustled for but a moment, and out I pulled a small box. I offered to augment every one's looks until we were outside of the damnable walls. My offer was heartily taken up and the next few hours put my skills to the test. Using Jax's information on our descriptions I went to work. 

First Lim Dul'Karavack's thick black tresses were shaved off, fully. and his skin colour, lightened. Jax and Darren's skin colour changed as well. There was little else I could do for them. Alloriah though I changed her hair as to make it appear short, but cut it I did not, and I dulled her features. For myself I dyed my hair a non-discript colour, and braided it. When my work was done we did look differently enough so a given description wouldn't match us. We then left our attic hiding hole, in groups of twos, and I alone checking ahead of us. With my cloak closed and hood pulled up I could sneak ahead with little fear. We were to split up and go different ways to ultimately rendezvous at the Inn.

Dodging patrol groups, with out any incident this time, I finally made it back to the Inn, and watched from a close alley way. I let them trickle in, then slipped farther around to the alley and made a bit of a change with my own clothing. Inside I went. At a corner table they were sitting and I slipped next to Darren to join. The Innkeeper had signaled it was not time to leave yet. Ordering some drinks, we sat there for a relatively short amount of time, mayhaps a half of a hour. We were getting ready to leave, eventide was nigh. 

The door to the Inn burst open and guards marched in. I wrapped my arms around Darren and flaunted over him, resting my head on his muscular shoulder. His hand slipped around my waist, while I felt his other inching towards his weapon. Lim engaged himself in conversation with Jax, and Alloriah looked on with interest. Five minutes at least, the Captain of this unit looked us over. When finally he turned to leave, in stepped the Cleric.
  The very Cleric we left unconscious. I almost regretted not killing him when I had the chance. Alas, the penalty for his death would not mesh well with my plans, if ever I was caught. 

He looked around for but a moment. 

"That's them, they broke into my home and took a valuable book." 

The guards moved to us, Lim unleashed a spell, Darren busted forward toppled the table, I slipped behind him. Alloriah, well, I do not know what she did. Jax caught my eye, I knew what he meant to do, and nodded. He slipped away in the confusion. I only hoped he got outside safely, and that he had some light to lead him through the underground. After a few moments of scuffling, and shouting Lim, Alloriah, and myself were subdued. Whileas Darren was holding his own with three of the guards.

Seeing the danger rising around him, and knowing the outcome of three more guards joining the fray, I yelled for Darren to cease. He gave me a confused look. And I shouted for him to lay down his weapon, this battle was over, to allow himself to be taken. It seemed to take him a moment to let the scene around him to sink in, but finally he yielded, grudgingly. Guards rushed over, took his weapon, and shackled his hands behind his back. To my eyes, it was as if someone had captured a wild stallion. Shameful.

All the while the Cleric stood watching, like a amused spectator. As we were shackled he walked up to each of us, and studied our faces. 

"Did you really think you could get away? My book is very valuable." 

"We didn't steal any book!" Alloriah finally seemed to find a voice. 

"There's one missing. Where is he?" The Cleric came up to me and lowered his face.

Looking up at him calmly. "I have no idea what your talking about. We just came here for a meal. I don't know what book you could mean." 

He sneered. "Take them to the prison, they can be questioned there." Turning on his heel he walked away, a small group of guard waiting outside rejoined him, and escorted him up the road. Babble broke forth from Lim and Alloriah, what they said I do not know, I was contemplating too deeply to pay attention. How to escape...with the rest of them in tow...surely they couldn't keep a closed mouth under interrogation.....the Nest would fall due to the storm that would come about. 

The Captain ordered for us to be taken outside, a small group of three guards were to stay at the Inn. Two carts pulled by oxen were waiting in the evening dimness, to carry us away. Darren was being corralled up, in the first cart, and Alloriah was bring lifted up into the second one. Turning to the Captain I spoke calmly. 

"You can leave the Innkeeper alone, she did nothing. She knows nothing." 

A slap greeted my face. Mercifully un-gauntleted, stinging none the less. 

"Bring me a gag!" It was done and I was gagged."You need to learn your place. Make sure she doesn't talk!" He yanked me around. "You had her shackles too loose!" Lifting me up and apparently shaking me he unlocked my shackles! "There, now do your jobs properly next time, foolishness will get you nowhere." Watching Lim and myself being loaded in the first and second cart, satisfied he ordered the carts off. I watched him turn to attend to the poor Innkeeper, and that mess we caused. The Crow's feathers drop at interesting places. 

The cart lurched down the cobbled street, two guards walking ahead, one on each cart, and two walking behind. In the evening light there was not much to do, mayhaps only be thankful that citizens did not crowd the street, and gawk. I knew the area, and there was only one chance. My dagger and short bow lie next to the guard, along with Darren's sword, Alloriah's staff, and Lim half spear. I moved closer to Alloriah, back to back, and undid her shackles. There was a tunnel coming up that we were to pass through. With any more luck we would be free. The guard watching us looked behind him, forward to the first cart, and I quickly slipped my dagger out of the pile and under my legs. Alloriah was watching me, and I just shrugged my shoulders. As the tunnel came and we entered through it was dark, so very dark, no torches had been lit here yet. Perfect. 

I slipped off of the cart, and dropped back behind the two guards following. Slipping the keys off one's belt loop proved no challenge. My dagger easily found its way between one's ribs, and he crumpled like wet paper. I moved and slipped the keys into Alloriah's hands, then moved off toward the wall of the tunnel. The other unable to see well, called out to see what happened. Amazingly enough I could see perfectly. Of course, that's one of the advantages to not being human. I felt fur brush across myself, looking very hard I could see the shape of a large, very large feline. Blacker than the blackest night. Nearly impossible to discern from the darkness. I reached out and touched its shoulder. Not being attacked, I grinned. It might be handy having a Druid around. Now, the guard that was sitting on my cart was up, weapon drawn, ready. My grinned turned into a smile, he isn't ready enough. 

Weaving through the ox I made my way to the guard, and struck. Injuring a man apparently makes him cry out in pain. Such a shame it was not another instantly silenced injury. Yells exploded from the guards remaining. I grabbed Darren's sword and dropped it on his cart. For it suddenly lurched forward. Moving to intercept one of the guards coming from the front, I yelled for Alloriah to do something. Lim and Darren jumped into motion as well, thankfully. Sometimes...well, that's neither here or now. Fighting ensued. Lim got a spell or two off, Darren is impressive to watch even with his hand shackled, for he somehow got them in front of him. I think Alloriah actually cured one or two of us. And the feline helped us as well. During the battle, I think Alloriah undid Lim's shackles, while I worked on Darren's from inside his arms, as he was fighting. Soon all but one of the guards were down. As the last one ran off, I rushed over to my bow and quickly drew a arrow from a quiver and fired. 

It missed. 

Cursing under my breath I looked around. Lim and Darren were kneeling at Alloriah's side, apparently she went down during the fight. Running over to her body, I checked her vitals. She would live. I then went over to the wall of the tunnel, and drew out my lock picks. A door to the sewers was set here, and this would be our only way out. Setting to work I heard yells coming from down the street and a bell began to clang. Lim must learn someday, that speaking to me during such a impeccable time is not the best of decisions.

Much less telling me to hurry. 

With a minute the lock clicked open and Darren pushed the much unused door open. Inside he went, followed by Lim carrying Alloriah's body. I followed and looked around making sure no one had seen us. Once inside the door was quickly closed behind me and the lock reset. I informed them that Alloriah will be fine and she was mearly unconscious at the moment. Lim let out a wicked grin that took up his entire face. He then swooped a finger into the sewage that was running below us. Promptly putting said finger under Alloriah's nose. 

Never before have I seen someone awake so promptly, and disgustedly.

Laughing softly to myself at what just occurred. Alloriah created a ball of magical light. For fire in such a area would be a prompt end to our lives. I stepped forward to lead them out and slipped on a bit of sewage that Lim had caused to drip in the walkway. Let me just say that the rest of our journey back to the Nest was uneventful, and upon arriving I spirited myself away to the bath house before rejoining the other in a meeting with Master Crow. 

To get the stench of the Citadel off of me.