The adventure begins anew...
Chapter 1: Escape
Stepping back into a side alley Draelith sat in silence as a garrison of soldiers ran past him. His heart beating as fast as their footsteps. Glancing down at his arm his eyes rolled back. The fresh wound was not pleasant to look upon. Tearing away at his shirt he tied a small section around the wound. Grimacing as the makeshift bandage pressed against the wound.
That arrowhead is still in there, he thought. His mind raced and suddenly filled with thoughts of his capture. Lord Ralakos would not be forgiving to such a thief as he. Especially after killing one of his guards. Ralakos will definitely be after my head now. I've got to get to Entar's place. He will be able to remove this thing from my arm and get me the supplies I need, he thought.
The sound of guards was not to be heard. Glancing up the street, Draelith rose to his feet and proceeded to make a hurried run between the many houses. The darkness aided his dash up the street and before long he was close by to Entar's place. He could hear the music play loudly, the ruckus roar erupting from within. Siding in a nearby alley he looked up at the large sign - The Silver Mule. There could be someone in there waiting for me. Probably best to use a side entrance and avoid the tavern patrons, he thought.
Making an alternate path to the Silver Mule was not as easy as one would expect however. Two of Ralakos' guards were positioned across from the alley leading into the side entrance. Cursing his misfortune Draelith sat in wait in the hopes that perhaps they were only there temporarily. As time drew on, Draelith's hopes began to fade. It was getting more evident that these two were positioned permanently here for the night. In his weakened state, Draelith was no match for the two of them in their plate mail and long swords.
Beginning to think that lady luck was against him, his hopes were suddenly uplifted as a common came crashing out of the Silver Mule. Entar standing at the doorway waving his fist angrily and shouting "THIEF!!!" Within moments the two guards were running after him. Smiling to himself at his great fortune he quickly proceeded down the back alley and was at the side entrance within moments.
The door was not locked. Entar always keeps it that way, he had his own reasons for this. Standing next to the large grill in the kitchen was one of those reasons. His name was Fellick and he was the biggest damn Half-Orc chef you'd ever seen. He was a great burglar deterrent and a great friend of Draelith's. Seeing a battered Draelith enter the door, Fellick quickly went to aid him.
"Draelith you sorry excuse for a human! By God it'd be good to see you!" he said warmly as he picked him up.
"Easy there old pal. The arms a little sore and the ego's a little bruised." Draelith responded.
"What has happened to you? Last I was told you were on Sentinant's list of being a permanent resident!" said Fellick with some questioning in his voice.
"Sentinant. That hellhole! Heh, you know how I dislike Hellholes Fellick!" exclaimed Draelith.
"Couldn't well have expected me to stay there now can you?" he continued.
"HA HA HA! I guess not!" chuffed Fellick. "It good to be seeing you anyway! You want me to get Entar for you?" he continued.
"You read my mind Fellick! I'd like to get this arrow-head out of my arm and get some things... there’s a lot that needs to be done." Draelith said. His seriousness of his face becoming more and more as he went on.
Nodding in acceptance, Fellick disappeared through the large kitchen doors into the main tavern area. Returning moments later with Entar in stride.
"Draelith you Sorry sight!" exclaimed Entar.
"Yes Entar, if it's all the same, can we skip the pleasantries for now. Besides, I already got this speech from Fellick.
"What be wrong with ye lad?" said Entar with a puzzled look. "Ye got the looks of a worried man if I'd ever seen one." he continued.
"Well for starters, my arm. A lucky shot by one of Ralakos' archers. I managed to break off most of it, but that arrow-head's lodged in there pretty well." he said as he slowly unwound the bandage.
"Oh yes, yes indeed, this looks nasty." said Entar as he surveyed the wound with his eyes.
"Ok, well it's going to have to come out. Let's see what I can do then." he continued.
Chanting rhythmically, Entar gathered energy and drew his hands over the wound. Within moments the metal arrowhead slid from the wound and the blue energy focused upon the opened flesh, sealing it and repairing the torn muscle and flesh.
Draelith looked over at his arm before becoming somewhat light headed and fatigued, collapsing on the floor.
"Fellick, take him up to the noble suite. He can rest there for the night and fill us in on whatever he's up to in the morning." said Entar.
"What makes you think he's up to something, Entar?" asked Fellick.
Entar looked over at Fellick and smiled before they both erupted into laughter.
"He's always up to something!" exclaimed Entar.
--- End Chapter 1.
The Return of The Stone of Mythos
The Return of The Stone of Mythos
Cartoon Law III
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
CHAPTER 2: Old friends renewed
Draelith slept uneasily. The night air grew dense with darkness, but visions of Ralakos taunted Draelith relentlessly with haunting images from his past. At every turn, when misfortune fell upon Draelith, Ralakos was always there. Like a perpetual dagger hanging above him, Draelith never felt truly free. Drifting into sleep visions of his past slowly filter into his head.
The village where he grew up was the first of many images that came flooding into thought. As if reliving his past he saw himself through his own eyes. He was nine. The images of his mother and father in a burning village caused him to wake up suddenly. A chill had enveloped his body with sweat dripping from his forehead. Breathing unevenly he sat up in bed. Rivian. he thought. A name synonymous with his haunted past. Rivian will have the answers I need. He must know. he continued.
The sun crept into the room through the window shutters. Wiping the sleep from his eyes Draelith looked over at his healed arm. That’s two I owe you know Entar he thought to himself. Dressing himself with the clothes left on the end of his bed, he admired his new appearance in the mirror. Not really what I had in mind, Entar, but it will have to do.
Making his way downstairs Draelith was greeted warmly by Fellick who was even happier to see him now than the night before.
“A good morn to ya Draelith. I be getting a morning meal for ya in a few, I trust you slept well?” asked Fellick while preparing some sultry feast on the hotplate.
Draelith looked over at his happy companion and decided not to trouble him. “Like a rock.” He remarked.
“Ah, that be a good thing to hear!” chuffed back Entar who was standing in the doorway behind him. “How’s the arm feeling?” he continued.
Turning around to face Entar, Draelith smiled and nodded, “Good as new.” He said.
“I hope ya don’t mind Draelith, but I took the liberty of disposing of your old ‘attire’ and getting you some new clothes.” Said Entar as he made his way over to the spice shelf. “You know, being all torn up as they were.” He continued.
“They’ll do fine Entar, but you know, purple was never really my colour.” Draelith said smiling as he glanced upwards at Entar.
“Aye, but it’d be all I have, and you be lucky you got that” Replied Entar in haste. The happy tone of before disappearing from his voice.
“Relax old Friend, I’ve a great appreciation for all you’ve done.” Draelith said. “But I’m afraid it doesn’t end there. I need a few things more from you.” He continued, as he looked straight over to Entar.
Fellick placed a plate of food in front of Draelith before remarking, “Eat up! Can’t have ya being week in the stomach now can we?”
“Thanks Fellick.” Said Draelith as he took a deep breath. “Smell’s great!” he continued.
Entar came over to the table and placed the salt down in front of Draelith. “What more do you be needin’?” he asked in a flat tone.
Draelith put down the fork and looked back over to Entar. Contemplating whether or not to stretch his welcome here he thought for a moment, but was faced with little alternative. “Elysium. I need to find a way to Elysium.” He said as he watched the expression change upon Entar’s face.
Standing abruptly, Entar walked back a few steps, “Elysium!” he exclaimed. “Are you a bleedin idiot! What for you be needin’ to go to Elysium?” he continued with obvious discomfort in his voice.
“Rivian is there,” said Draelith.
“I know he’s there ya bleedin’ idiot! You’ve only escaped from one hellhole and your heading back to another! Are you truly mad man?” he asked as he sat back down, rubbing his hand over his now tired face before resting it on his chin.
Draelith looked at Fellick who had now stopped his cooking, the smoke of the burning meat now filling the room. Fellick quickly removed the burning meat and fanned the smoke away.
Looking back over to Entar, Draelith said at length, “It’s the only way, Entar. It’s the only way I’ll ever truly be free from Ralakos’ grasp. It’s gone on for too long now and you’ve said it yourself, he’s a mad man who won’t stop until he’s got what he wants.”
“When did I say that?” exclaimed Entar quizzically.
“You’ve said it, you know you have. The Salger Keep, you said it then!” he fired back at Entar.
The three of them sat there. Silently and with an occasional shaking of the head from Entar.
“You know you’re a bleedin’ fool for wanting to go back there.” He said as he held his head in his hands.
“So does that mean you’ll help me?” Draelith said as he smiled back at Entar.
“I suppose it bleedin well does!” he chuffed back as he slapped Draelith across the shoulder. “I suppose it does at that.” He continued.
Fellick grabbed the two of them and squeezed them together, lifting them up into the air. “Just like old times!” he exclaimed happily.
Just like old times alright Draelith thought to himself, looking over at Entar.
--- End Chapter 2.
Draelith slept uneasily. The night air grew dense with darkness, but visions of Ralakos taunted Draelith relentlessly with haunting images from his past. At every turn, when misfortune fell upon Draelith, Ralakos was always there. Like a perpetual dagger hanging above him, Draelith never felt truly free. Drifting into sleep visions of his past slowly filter into his head.
The village where he grew up was the first of many images that came flooding into thought. As if reliving his past he saw himself through his own eyes. He was nine. The images of his mother and father in a burning village caused him to wake up suddenly. A chill had enveloped his body with sweat dripping from his forehead. Breathing unevenly he sat up in bed. Rivian. he thought. A name synonymous with his haunted past. Rivian will have the answers I need. He must know. he continued.
The sun crept into the room through the window shutters. Wiping the sleep from his eyes Draelith looked over at his healed arm. That’s two I owe you know Entar he thought to himself. Dressing himself with the clothes left on the end of his bed, he admired his new appearance in the mirror. Not really what I had in mind, Entar, but it will have to do.
Making his way downstairs Draelith was greeted warmly by Fellick who was even happier to see him now than the night before.
“A good morn to ya Draelith. I be getting a morning meal for ya in a few, I trust you slept well?” asked Fellick while preparing some sultry feast on the hotplate.
Draelith looked over at his happy companion and decided not to trouble him. “Like a rock.” He remarked.
“Ah, that be a good thing to hear!” chuffed back Entar who was standing in the doorway behind him. “How’s the arm feeling?” he continued.
Turning around to face Entar, Draelith smiled and nodded, “Good as new.” He said.
“I hope ya don’t mind Draelith, but I took the liberty of disposing of your old ‘attire’ and getting you some new clothes.” Said Entar as he made his way over to the spice shelf. “You know, being all torn up as they were.” He continued.
“They’ll do fine Entar, but you know, purple was never really my colour.” Draelith said smiling as he glanced upwards at Entar.
“Aye, but it’d be all I have, and you be lucky you got that” Replied Entar in haste. The happy tone of before disappearing from his voice.
“Relax old Friend, I’ve a great appreciation for all you’ve done.” Draelith said. “But I’m afraid it doesn’t end there. I need a few things more from you.” He continued, as he looked straight over to Entar.
Fellick placed a plate of food in front of Draelith before remarking, “Eat up! Can’t have ya being week in the stomach now can we?”
“Thanks Fellick.” Said Draelith as he took a deep breath. “Smell’s great!” he continued.
Entar came over to the table and placed the salt down in front of Draelith. “What more do you be needin’?” he asked in a flat tone.
Draelith put down the fork and looked back over to Entar. Contemplating whether or not to stretch his welcome here he thought for a moment, but was faced with little alternative. “Elysium. I need to find a way to Elysium.” He said as he watched the expression change upon Entar’s face.
Standing abruptly, Entar walked back a few steps, “Elysium!” he exclaimed. “Are you a bleedin idiot! What for you be needin’ to go to Elysium?” he continued with obvious discomfort in his voice.
“Rivian is there,” said Draelith.
“I know he’s there ya bleedin’ idiot! You’ve only escaped from one hellhole and your heading back to another! Are you truly mad man?” he asked as he sat back down, rubbing his hand over his now tired face before resting it on his chin.
Draelith looked at Fellick who had now stopped his cooking, the smoke of the burning meat now filling the room. Fellick quickly removed the burning meat and fanned the smoke away.
Looking back over to Entar, Draelith said at length, “It’s the only way, Entar. It’s the only way I’ll ever truly be free from Ralakos’ grasp. It’s gone on for too long now and you’ve said it yourself, he’s a mad man who won’t stop until he’s got what he wants.”
“When did I say that?” exclaimed Entar quizzically.
“You’ve said it, you know you have. The Salger Keep, you said it then!” he fired back at Entar.
The three of them sat there. Silently and with an occasional shaking of the head from Entar.
“You know you’re a bleedin’ fool for wanting to go back there.” He said as he held his head in his hands.
“So does that mean you’ll help me?” Draelith said as he smiled back at Entar.
“I suppose it bleedin well does!” he chuffed back as he slapped Draelith across the shoulder. “I suppose it does at that.” He continued.
Fellick grabbed the two of them and squeezed them together, lifting them up into the air. “Just like old times!” he exclaimed happily.
Just like old times alright Draelith thought to himself, looking over at Entar.
--- End Chapter 2.
Cartoon Law III
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
CHAPTER 3: Every journey has a first step
“I guess this means you have some sort of plan then?” asked Entar quizzically.
“Entar old buddy, have I ever been unprepared?” laughed Draelith.
“Ah great!” says Entar, “Once again it’s up to good ol’ Entar to come up with the goods is it?” he continued.
Draelith’s expression became more serious for a moment. “Don’t worry Entar, I’ve got a plan this time, but it’s going to require a few things.
Putting Entar and Draelith back down, Fellick looked over to Draelith. “What about me, Draelith? What do you need?” he asked.
“Fellick, I’ve got a special task for you. He said as he looked over towards the big Half-Orc. Fellick’s face brightened as the thought of the days of adventuring long gone suddenly flood back into mind.
Draelith sat back down at the table. Fellick and Entar doing the same, looking intently at him. Entar’s expression still echoed his uncertainty but Draelith knew too well that Entar would always be the same old Entar he knew him to be. Fellick’s face was still showing his obvious excitement.
“Fellick,” started Draelith as he looked over at the big guy. “I’m going to need you to find Sersa and Sentar.” He continued.
“Sersa and Sentar?” Fellick asked as his face started to show some uncertainty. “But I haven’t seen the twins for some time now Draelith” he quipped back.
“I know they’re here, old friend, it’s not going to be an easy task, but I know they’re definitely in town.” Said Draelith.
Entar looked at Draelith with disbelief. “How lad? How do you know they’re here?” he asked. “It’s been quite some time since we saw the likes of those two here in Alvarien. Last I heard they were working with some mage over Ballest way.” He continued.
“They’re here. Trust me.” Said Draelith, his tone deepening somewhat as he said it.
Draelith’s mind wandered for a moment, the thoughts of the old days with Entar, Fellick, the twins, and Raeline. His mind paused as the thought of her name crossed through his head. Raeline, where are you? he thought to himself. His face becoming distraught as a sudden image of her sadly waving goodbye to him from the shadows as he was taken by Ralakos’ guards those many months before.
“Draelith?” quipped Entar as he waved his hand in front of Draelith’s face a couple of times.
“What?” he asked back, half expecting no answer.
“What’s wrong with ya lad? You’ve got the look of a man with a lot on his mind.” Continued Entar, shaking his head while looking over to Fellick.
Draelith took the fork from the plate of food in front of him and began eating. “Entar, I need you to find a way for me to get to Elysium.” He asked as he shovelled a piece of meat into his mouth.
“No you don’t.” snapped Entar, “You’ll be needen’ me to find a way to get the lot of us to Elysium.” He continued.
Swallowing the mouthful, Draelith looked over to Fellick who was nodding his head in agreement. “You don’t have to Entar, you’ve got a place to run here with Fellick. I can’t ask you to do that.” He continued.
“Don’t be daft man! Of course we’ll bleedin’ well help ya!” exclaimed Entar. “We nary be missing one of your harebrained schemes now can we?” he continued.
Fellick smiling and still nodding in agreement. Draelith got the sudden impression that these two were hungry for adventure. Draelith could feel it too. Although he ate his food happily, the thrill of adventure was more than a meal that Draelith had been longing for.
Finishing up his breakfast, Draelith nodded to Fellick in appreciation. “That, my friend, was the greatest breakfast I’ve had in a long, long time!” Said Draelith as he rubbed his full belly contently.
Entar smiled as he looked over at Draelith. “There’s some perks to having the big loaf around that be for sure” he chuffed.
Fellick, being a little slow on the uptake stood there for a moment before saying, “Glad ya liked it Draelith, haven’t made your favourite in too long.”
Draelith thought for a moment. Since when was meat and eggs my favourite? Looking back at Fellick, Draelith smiled “Uh, yea, that’s my favourite all right, Fellick! Can’t believe you still remembered all these years” he continued, as he looked over to Entar who instinctively rolled his eyes.
“So what are you going to do?” asked Entar as he nodded to Draelith.
“Well, I hear Jelock is still the local smith, I’m going to see if I can get some supplies.” Said Draelith. “It just doesn’t feel the same without a piece of studded leather armour over my skin.” He continued, raising an eyebrow at Entar.
“Forget the armour lad, just grab some weapons. I still be using the hammer and Fellick still be preferring the two handed sword.” Said Entar as he walked over to a cupboard in the corner of the room.
Draelith watched intently. His eyes lighting up as he saw his old studded leather that was enchanted by Gragole Jeltan, a honourable mage and trusted friend. It’s dark black appearance filling Draelith with more memories of the days of yonder.
“I believe you two have met before,” said Entar coyly as he handed the studded leather to Draelith. Slipping it over his head and securing it in place, Draelith smiled back at Entar, “Yes, I do believe I’ve had the pleasure” he said. “What about you two? Still have your plate metal?” he continued.
Fellick scrounged under the cupboards below and taking out his old Plate, nodding back over at Draelith. Entar did the same, plate metal at his feet.
“You know, if I didn’t know any better” started Draelith “I’d say you guys were actually looking forward to this!” he continued.
“Well, today’s going to be a big day. I’ll see you both back here at 8:00pm tonight?” he continued, looking over at both Entar and Fellick for agreement.
“8:00pm it is Draelith.” Replied Fellick.
“We’ll be here lad, just take care of that arm of yours, I nary be wanting to fix it again.” Said Entar as he watched Draelith grin and walk out the side entrance.
Looking over at Fellick, Entar couldn’t help but wonder what he’s gotten himself into once more…
--- End Chapter 3.
“I guess this means you have some sort of plan then?” asked Entar quizzically.
“Entar old buddy, have I ever been unprepared?” laughed Draelith.
“Ah great!” says Entar, “Once again it’s up to good ol’ Entar to come up with the goods is it?” he continued.
Draelith’s expression became more serious for a moment. “Don’t worry Entar, I’ve got a plan this time, but it’s going to require a few things.
Putting Entar and Draelith back down, Fellick looked over to Draelith. “What about me, Draelith? What do you need?” he asked.
“Fellick, I’ve got a special task for you. He said as he looked over towards the big Half-Orc. Fellick’s face brightened as the thought of the days of adventuring long gone suddenly flood back into mind.
Draelith sat back down at the table. Fellick and Entar doing the same, looking intently at him. Entar’s expression still echoed his uncertainty but Draelith knew too well that Entar would always be the same old Entar he knew him to be. Fellick’s face was still showing his obvious excitement.
“Fellick,” started Draelith as he looked over at the big guy. “I’m going to need you to find Sersa and Sentar.” He continued.
“Sersa and Sentar?” Fellick asked as his face started to show some uncertainty. “But I haven’t seen the twins for some time now Draelith” he quipped back.
“I know they’re here, old friend, it’s not going to be an easy task, but I know they’re definitely in town.” Said Draelith.
Entar looked at Draelith with disbelief. “How lad? How do you know they’re here?” he asked. “It’s been quite some time since we saw the likes of those two here in Alvarien. Last I heard they were working with some mage over Ballest way.” He continued.
“They’re here. Trust me.” Said Draelith, his tone deepening somewhat as he said it.
Draelith’s mind wandered for a moment, the thoughts of the old days with Entar, Fellick, the twins, and Raeline. His mind paused as the thought of her name crossed through his head. Raeline, where are you? he thought to himself. His face becoming distraught as a sudden image of her sadly waving goodbye to him from the shadows as he was taken by Ralakos’ guards those many months before.
“Draelith?” quipped Entar as he waved his hand in front of Draelith’s face a couple of times.
“What?” he asked back, half expecting no answer.
“What’s wrong with ya lad? You’ve got the look of a man with a lot on his mind.” Continued Entar, shaking his head while looking over to Fellick.
Draelith took the fork from the plate of food in front of him and began eating. “Entar, I need you to find a way for me to get to Elysium.” He asked as he shovelled a piece of meat into his mouth.
“No you don’t.” snapped Entar, “You’ll be needen’ me to find a way to get the lot of us to Elysium.” He continued.
Swallowing the mouthful, Draelith looked over to Fellick who was nodding his head in agreement. “You don’t have to Entar, you’ve got a place to run here with Fellick. I can’t ask you to do that.” He continued.
“Don’t be daft man! Of course we’ll bleedin’ well help ya!” exclaimed Entar. “We nary be missing one of your harebrained schemes now can we?” he continued.
Fellick smiling and still nodding in agreement. Draelith got the sudden impression that these two were hungry for adventure. Draelith could feel it too. Although he ate his food happily, the thrill of adventure was more than a meal that Draelith had been longing for.
Finishing up his breakfast, Draelith nodded to Fellick in appreciation. “That, my friend, was the greatest breakfast I’ve had in a long, long time!” Said Draelith as he rubbed his full belly contently.
Entar smiled as he looked over at Draelith. “There’s some perks to having the big loaf around that be for sure” he chuffed.
Fellick, being a little slow on the uptake stood there for a moment before saying, “Glad ya liked it Draelith, haven’t made your favourite in too long.”
Draelith thought for a moment. Since when was meat and eggs my favourite? Looking back at Fellick, Draelith smiled “Uh, yea, that’s my favourite all right, Fellick! Can’t believe you still remembered all these years” he continued, as he looked over to Entar who instinctively rolled his eyes.
“So what are you going to do?” asked Entar as he nodded to Draelith.
“Well, I hear Jelock is still the local smith, I’m going to see if I can get some supplies.” Said Draelith. “It just doesn’t feel the same without a piece of studded leather armour over my skin.” He continued, raising an eyebrow at Entar.
“Forget the armour lad, just grab some weapons. I still be using the hammer and Fellick still be preferring the two handed sword.” Said Entar as he walked over to a cupboard in the corner of the room.
Draelith watched intently. His eyes lighting up as he saw his old studded leather that was enchanted by Gragole Jeltan, a honourable mage and trusted friend. It’s dark black appearance filling Draelith with more memories of the days of yonder.
“I believe you two have met before,” said Entar coyly as he handed the studded leather to Draelith. Slipping it over his head and securing it in place, Draelith smiled back at Entar, “Yes, I do believe I’ve had the pleasure” he said. “What about you two? Still have your plate metal?” he continued.
Fellick scrounged under the cupboards below and taking out his old Plate, nodding back over at Draelith. Entar did the same, plate metal at his feet.
“You know, if I didn’t know any better” started Draelith “I’d say you guys were actually looking forward to this!” he continued.
“Well, today’s going to be a big day. I’ll see you both back here at 8:00pm tonight?” he continued, looking over at both Entar and Fellick for agreement.
“8:00pm it is Draelith.” Replied Fellick.
“We’ll be here lad, just take care of that arm of yours, I nary be wanting to fix it again.” Said Entar as he watched Draelith grin and walk out the side entrance.
Looking over at Fellick, Entar couldn’t help but wonder what he’s gotten himself into once more…
--- End Chapter 3.
Cartoon Law III
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
CHAPTER 4: Gathering Resources
Draelith headed out the alley onto the main street. The markets were already filled with people, which made it easier for Draelith to blend in with the crowd and avoid detection. The compactness of the crowd also allowed Draelith to pickpocket many an unprepared market goer and in no time at all, Draelith had a bag full of gold coins. Slipping into a side alley, he checked his loot. There’s easily two hundred gold in here, as well as a couple of nice gems. he thought to himself.
“Your money or your life” came a voice from close by. Draelith looked over at a small dwarven fellow holding a short sword. This should prove interesting thought Draelith as he held his hand outstretched to the dwarf. The dwarf smiled graciously and reached for the gold bag. Tossing it into the air, the dwarf was momentarily distracted. Catching the bag of gold, the dwarf looked about. Draelith was nary to be seen anywhere. Turning around, he was greeted by a large strike to the face, sending him hurtling into the wall. Slightly dazed and a little confused, the dwarf looked up at Draelith who now held the sword in one hand, and the bag of gold coins in the other.
“You know, you’re not a very good thief.” Remarked Draelith casually as he drew the sword close to the dwarf. “You’re looking a little lost for words, I must say” he continued, looking down at the dwarf who was now quite agitated and showing signs of fear.
“Look, I, it wasn’t… I mean,” the dwarf stuttered.
“Just get out of here,” Draelith said, cutting the dwarf off in mid sentence. “And I don’t think you want to be seeing me again. For your sake.” He continued, as a wicked smile formed across his face. As if being granted a kings favour, the dwarf gathered himself up off the cold alleyway floor and ran off down into the darkness. Smiling to himself, Draelith decided it was time to see Jelock the local smith.
Making his way to Jelock’s Armoury, Draelith’s mind was once again flooded with memories of the past. Opening the door the small bell above the door rang out. Jelock sitting behind the workbench hammering at a long sword as it came out of the furnace didn’t look up.
“I’ll be with ya in a minute” he said as he continued to shape the sword.
Draelith looked about. This place sure hasn’t changed a bit. Still got that old metal burn smell to the air. he thought to himself.
“Looks like you’ve got another winner with that one Jelock” Draelith said calmly as he admired a silver short sword hanging in a rack on the wall.
Jelock stopped hammering. “I know that voice.” He said as he turned around to see who it was. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say that I’d either be seeing a ghost or these metal fumes have finally taken their toll.” He continued as he placed the hammer down on the table next to the newly moulded sword.
Draelith picked up the silver short sword off the wall. “This is good work, I can’t remember you ever making something this good.” He said as he ran his hand up the blade, feeling the smooth texture as it glided against his skin. He turned around to face Jelock, smiling as he moved the sword gracefully through the air.
“You always did like the short sword.” Started Jelock as took the silver short sword from Draelith, cleaning it with a cloth from his pocket. “God only knows I always tried to encourage you to use the bow and become an archer like your good uncle Ilthos.” He continued, giving the silver short sword back to Draelith.
“Come on Dad, you and I both know I could never stay back when it came to a battle” Draelith said bluntly as he slotted the sword back in the rack.
Jelock leant up against his workbench, folded his arms and nodded his head as he said half-heartedly, “So what have you been doing with yourself?” looking over at Draelith. “Your mother has been worried sick. You could have at least gotten a message to us both.” He continued, with the evident concern in his voice.
Draelith sat down next to his father. “In a word, Ralakos.” He said.
Shaking his head Jelock sat in silence as the words of his son filtered through his ears.
“He’s found out about the Stone of Mythos. No one else knows this but me, that’s why he sent me to Sentinant and that’s why he’s been hunting me down ever since I escaped a few weeks ago.” Draelith said as his father’s face grew more strained.
“Entar, Fellick and I are going to get the twins and then head off to Elysium. Rivian is the key to finding the stone.” He continued.
Standing up and walking to the weapon rack, Jelock took the silver short sword from the rack. Walking back to Draelith and placing it in his hands, Jelock’s face showed the seriousness of his actions.
“I made this two weeks ago. I had a feeling you’d be back, so I started working on it. Finished it late last night. Finest sword I’ve ever made, Draelith.” He said as he smiled at his son. “That metal, it’s pure refined Corfaliger. Sharp as a Nevarian Dagger it is.” He continued, his eyes lighting up as the words ran through his lips.
“Ooh, almost forgot, you’ll need the sheath for it. It’s just as sturdy.” He continued.
Placing the sheath on his belt, Draelith took the silver short sword and placed it in its sheath. The satisfying sound as the metal glided in, making Draelith feel a sense of pride and admiration.
“I’ll also need…” Draelith started.
“A large sword and a hammer.” Jelock interjected, cutting Draelith off in mid sentence.
Draelith looked puzzled at Jelock. “Yea, how did you know?”
“Just a feeling” Quipped Jelock as he took out a golden Hammer and Large war sword. The polished steel shining brightly as Draelith took the weapons. Placing the Large sword into the separate sheath hanging over his shoulders and down his back, and taking the war hammer in hand, Draelith laughed at the thought of lugging this stuff back to the Silver Mule.
“You take care, Son” Jelock said in a serious tone.
Looking over at his Father, Draelith smiled. “You know how I like to live dangerously.” He said as outstretched his arms.
Hugging his father, Draelith reinforced his belief that Ralakos mustn’t be allowed to get to the stone of Mythos. Too many people would be hurt if Ralakos got to it.
“Say hello to mum for me,” he said as he smiled over at Jelock.
Jelock just nodded. “Now get outta here, you’ve got work to do.” He said as he gently pushed him out the door.
As the door closed behind him, the bel rang out as it brushed the door, and Draelith couldn’t help but feel that it might be the last time he spoke to his father. Gathering his gear, Draelith headed back to the Silver Mule. Entar and Fellick would have some new toys to play with...
Draelith headed out the alley onto the main street. The markets were already filled with people, which made it easier for Draelith to blend in with the crowd and avoid detection. The compactness of the crowd also allowed Draelith to pickpocket many an unprepared market goer and in no time at all, Draelith had a bag full of gold coins. Slipping into a side alley, he checked his loot. There’s easily two hundred gold in here, as well as a couple of nice gems. he thought to himself.
“Your money or your life” came a voice from close by. Draelith looked over at a small dwarven fellow holding a short sword. This should prove interesting thought Draelith as he held his hand outstretched to the dwarf. The dwarf smiled graciously and reached for the gold bag. Tossing it into the air, the dwarf was momentarily distracted. Catching the bag of gold, the dwarf looked about. Draelith was nary to be seen anywhere. Turning around, he was greeted by a large strike to the face, sending him hurtling into the wall. Slightly dazed and a little confused, the dwarf looked up at Draelith who now held the sword in one hand, and the bag of gold coins in the other.
“You know, you’re not a very good thief.” Remarked Draelith casually as he drew the sword close to the dwarf. “You’re looking a little lost for words, I must say” he continued, looking down at the dwarf who was now quite agitated and showing signs of fear.
“Look, I, it wasn’t… I mean,” the dwarf stuttered.
“Just get out of here,” Draelith said, cutting the dwarf off in mid sentence. “And I don’t think you want to be seeing me again. For your sake.” He continued, as a wicked smile formed across his face. As if being granted a kings favour, the dwarf gathered himself up off the cold alleyway floor and ran off down into the darkness. Smiling to himself, Draelith decided it was time to see Jelock the local smith.
Making his way to Jelock’s Armoury, Draelith’s mind was once again flooded with memories of the past. Opening the door the small bell above the door rang out. Jelock sitting behind the workbench hammering at a long sword as it came out of the furnace didn’t look up.
“I’ll be with ya in a minute” he said as he continued to shape the sword.
Draelith looked about. This place sure hasn’t changed a bit. Still got that old metal burn smell to the air. he thought to himself.
“Looks like you’ve got another winner with that one Jelock” Draelith said calmly as he admired a silver short sword hanging in a rack on the wall.
Jelock stopped hammering. “I know that voice.” He said as he turned around to see who it was. “If I didn’t know any better, I’d say that I’d either be seeing a ghost or these metal fumes have finally taken their toll.” He continued as he placed the hammer down on the table next to the newly moulded sword.
Draelith picked up the silver short sword off the wall. “This is good work, I can’t remember you ever making something this good.” He said as he ran his hand up the blade, feeling the smooth texture as it glided against his skin. He turned around to face Jelock, smiling as he moved the sword gracefully through the air.
“You always did like the short sword.” Started Jelock as took the silver short sword from Draelith, cleaning it with a cloth from his pocket. “God only knows I always tried to encourage you to use the bow and become an archer like your good uncle Ilthos.” He continued, giving the silver short sword back to Draelith.
“Come on Dad, you and I both know I could never stay back when it came to a battle” Draelith said bluntly as he slotted the sword back in the rack.
Jelock leant up against his workbench, folded his arms and nodded his head as he said half-heartedly, “So what have you been doing with yourself?” looking over at Draelith. “Your mother has been worried sick. You could have at least gotten a message to us both.” He continued, with the evident concern in his voice.
Draelith sat down next to his father. “In a word, Ralakos.” He said.
Shaking his head Jelock sat in silence as the words of his son filtered through his ears.
“He’s found out about the Stone of Mythos. No one else knows this but me, that’s why he sent me to Sentinant and that’s why he’s been hunting me down ever since I escaped a few weeks ago.” Draelith said as his father’s face grew more strained.
“Entar, Fellick and I are going to get the twins and then head off to Elysium. Rivian is the key to finding the stone.” He continued.
Standing up and walking to the weapon rack, Jelock took the silver short sword from the rack. Walking back to Draelith and placing it in his hands, Jelock’s face showed the seriousness of his actions.
“I made this two weeks ago. I had a feeling you’d be back, so I started working on it. Finished it late last night. Finest sword I’ve ever made, Draelith.” He said as he smiled at his son. “That metal, it’s pure refined Corfaliger. Sharp as a Nevarian Dagger it is.” He continued, his eyes lighting up as the words ran through his lips.
“Ooh, almost forgot, you’ll need the sheath for it. It’s just as sturdy.” He continued.
Placing the sheath on his belt, Draelith took the silver short sword and placed it in its sheath. The satisfying sound as the metal glided in, making Draelith feel a sense of pride and admiration.
“I’ll also need…” Draelith started.
“A large sword and a hammer.” Jelock interjected, cutting Draelith off in mid sentence.
Draelith looked puzzled at Jelock. “Yea, how did you know?”
“Just a feeling” Quipped Jelock as he took out a golden Hammer and Large war sword. The polished steel shining brightly as Draelith took the weapons. Placing the Large sword into the separate sheath hanging over his shoulders and down his back, and taking the war hammer in hand, Draelith laughed at the thought of lugging this stuff back to the Silver Mule.
“You take care, Son” Jelock said in a serious tone.
Looking over at his Father, Draelith smiled. “You know how I like to live dangerously.” He said as outstretched his arms.
Hugging his father, Draelith reinforced his belief that Ralakos mustn’t be allowed to get to the stone of Mythos. Too many people would be hurt if Ralakos got to it.
“Say hello to mum for me,” he said as he smiled over at Jelock.
Jelock just nodded. “Now get outta here, you’ve got work to do.” He said as he gently pushed him out the door.
As the door closed behind him, the bel rang out as it brushed the door, and Draelith couldn’t help but feel that it might be the last time he spoke to his father. Gathering his gear, Draelith headed back to the Silver Mule. Entar and Fellick would have some new toys to play with...
Cartoon Law III
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
CHAPTER 5: Consequences
The sky darkened and rain soon erupted from the overhanging clouds. The parade of people in the stores below quickly disappeared to their homes. The street merchants quickly closed their shops and packed away their goods off the street. Within moments the market area was silent. Heavy rain falling from the sky washed out the silence. The town centre was eerily dark for mid afternoon. Draelith looked over the empty square, an uneasy feeling crept over him as he descended the steps and stepped out into the rain.
Falling heavily, it drenched Draelith within moments. The thought of getting wet was inconsequential to him however as he pressed on. The occasional person scampering by in a quick dash to get to cover accompanied the pattering of the rain upon the ground and rooftops. Draelith furrowed his brow as he tried to remember a time when a storm was as quick to come as this one. His memory failed him though, for no such similarities existed between the quickness of this storm and any other he had encountered. The stone. The stone is being tampered with; it’s the only explanation Draelith thought to himself. The thought of someone already having the stone made Draelith feel queasy. He pressed on, knowing that time was not a luxury any more.
Draelith’s feet suddenly became fastened to the ground, as he stood steadfast in his tracks. Looking up ahead, four shadowing figures loomed. A human male, a large brutish one at that, a wizard, a small dwarven fellow, bearing some resemblance to the thief he had encountered earlier, and a tallish female holding a dagger in her left hand. The small dwarven fellow stepped forward. It was indeed the thief from before. A smug grin was now etched over his stoutish face.
“I’ve a score to settle with you, and I’ve some friends here that have been eagerly awaiting to make your acquaintance.” The dwarf said as he motioned for his friends to step forward.
Draelith looked at them as they stepped forward. The large brutish human fellow was indeed a fighter as he drew his large two-handed sword from over his shoulders. The wizard just looked on as he unfolded his arms, and the female looked slightly restless as she eagerly tossed the dagger between both her hands, catching it quite skilfully.
“I’m sorry, the I’m not the circus master, and last I heard he was in the next town across and heard he carries a whip.” Draelith said smugly. “If you hurry over, I’m sure you’ll all get a chance to audition, you look quite talented, really.” He continued, the evident sarcasm rising in his voice. The small dwarven fellow looked agitated. Hasty words erupted from his lips as he motioned for the other to attack.
“Get him you fools! I want his head!” he screamed as the others readied themselves for the brawl.
The wizard started chanting, and the fighter roared his battle cry as he ran at Draelith with his sword held high into the air. Making a quick decision, Draelith leapt to the side, a fireball hurtled towards him as he frantically leapt into the air to avoid it too. Falling to the ground metres away, the wave of fire erupted, the blast wave finishing only inches from his feet. Counting his blessing would have to be done another time as the fighter was once again charging at him, toting his blade and yelling like a mad man as he swung feverishly at Draelith. Missing and striking a wall, it only seemed to enrage the fellow more as he howled and summoned his berserker ability forth. Great, all I need, a berserker with a really big sword and a temper of a small child Draelith thought to himself as he desperately dodged swing after swing. Moments later a bolt of lightning came hurtling towards him. Dropping to the ground, Draelith kicked at the big guy as he ran towards him, pushing him into the oncoming bolt. It surged through him, but didn’t stop him for long. Shaking his head and collecting his thoughts together, the fighter was back on his feet and once again, staring down Draelith. His mind raced as he heard the slight shuffle of feat behind him. Instinctively ducking quickly and rolling to the side, the dagger-wielding female swung her blade and caught his armour with the edge of her blade. She quickly leapt towards Draelith with her dagger held high and was greeted by an unpleasant feeling as Draelith silver short sword pierced her armour and slid easily into her soft skin. A sickly feeling erupted over her face as she looked down. Falling uneasily to the floor, she clutched at her chest as Draelith quickly removed the blade to counter the swing by the fighter.
The dwarven fellow’s expression mirrored the girls to some degree, but more of a look of surprise etched its way across his stout face. Draelith sprung to his feet and took the fight back to the fighter. The silver short sword held up nicely as he matched strike for strike. The fighter soon got restless and made a hasty swing, leaving himself open as Draelith quickly dodged the strike and planted the sword through the breastplate of the fighters armour. The silver sheen of the sword could barely be seen as it pierced its way through the back-plate too. The fighter collapsed on the street. His grip loosening as the sword fell from his hands, the echoing clank filtering through the empty streets as the wizard and dwarf now looked on. Chanting quickly, the wizard began to glow as he fired off a magnitude of magic missiles in Draelith’s direction. The dwarf with his throwing hammer in hand swung repeatedly, each time missing Draelith, and each time, the hammer returning to his hand. Leaping into a side alley, Draelith quickly hid in the shadows and made his way around the back of the building. The dwarf was in quick pursuit, but stopped short at the entrance of the dark alley. His heart beating anxiously in his chest as he looked into the darkness.
A scream echoed out into the streets and the dwarf suddenly lurched back, turning around and looking back at his wizard friend. The scream echoed from him as he felt the silver blade erupt through his chest from behind. The wizard slumped down to the floor. A blank look rose across his face as he lay on the floor, his last moments of life upon him. Draelith stood behind him. The hard pressing rain pelting down upon him. Washing the soiled blood from the blade, the silver sheen could be seen once more. A wash of fear erupted over the dwarf as he stood there helplessly in the rain. He looked down at his feet, the blood from his fighter friend washing into a nearby drain pushed him over the edge as he started to run screaming in the other direction. Two paces onwards he felt a sharp twinge in his back which carried him to the floor with a thud. Reaching around he felt around and took out a dagger. He furrowed his brow as he recognised the dagger as being that of the girl. He rolled over on the wet street. The blood from the wound in his back washing out onto the street just as the others. The Dwarf looked up and was greeted by the stern face of Draelith. The silver sheen of Draelith’s silver short sword was the last thing he saw.
Draelith stood there over the lifeless body of the dwarf. Looking up at the dark clouds above, the rain washed over his face. Standing in the rain, Draelith felt uneasy. Somewhat surprised at the coldness of his actions he sheathed his silver blade back into his belt and took the throwing hammer from the motionless dwarf. Searching the body revealed a small bag of gems and a sturdy looking belt. Taking the dagger too, he made his way over to the fighter’s corpse and took the large sword. Comparing it to the one he already had, he dumped it back on the ground and checked the wizard. The search of the wizard revealed a scroll case, which Draelith quickly pocketed.
Looking back over the scene, Draelith bowed his head to the floor for a brief moment before turning around and walking onwards to the Silver Mule.
--- End Chapter 5
The sky darkened and rain soon erupted from the overhanging clouds. The parade of people in the stores below quickly disappeared to their homes. The street merchants quickly closed their shops and packed away their goods off the street. Within moments the market area was silent. Heavy rain falling from the sky washed out the silence. The town centre was eerily dark for mid afternoon. Draelith looked over the empty square, an uneasy feeling crept over him as he descended the steps and stepped out into the rain.
Falling heavily, it drenched Draelith within moments. The thought of getting wet was inconsequential to him however as he pressed on. The occasional person scampering by in a quick dash to get to cover accompanied the pattering of the rain upon the ground and rooftops. Draelith furrowed his brow as he tried to remember a time when a storm was as quick to come as this one. His memory failed him though, for no such similarities existed between the quickness of this storm and any other he had encountered. The stone. The stone is being tampered with; it’s the only explanation Draelith thought to himself. The thought of someone already having the stone made Draelith feel queasy. He pressed on, knowing that time was not a luxury any more.
Draelith’s feet suddenly became fastened to the ground, as he stood steadfast in his tracks. Looking up ahead, four shadowing figures loomed. A human male, a large brutish one at that, a wizard, a small dwarven fellow, bearing some resemblance to the thief he had encountered earlier, and a tallish female holding a dagger in her left hand. The small dwarven fellow stepped forward. It was indeed the thief from before. A smug grin was now etched over his stoutish face.
“I’ve a score to settle with you, and I’ve some friends here that have been eagerly awaiting to make your acquaintance.” The dwarf said as he motioned for his friends to step forward.
Draelith looked at them as they stepped forward. The large brutish human fellow was indeed a fighter as he drew his large two-handed sword from over his shoulders. The wizard just looked on as he unfolded his arms, and the female looked slightly restless as she eagerly tossed the dagger between both her hands, catching it quite skilfully.
“I’m sorry, the I’m not the circus master, and last I heard he was in the next town across and heard he carries a whip.” Draelith said smugly. “If you hurry over, I’m sure you’ll all get a chance to audition, you look quite talented, really.” He continued, the evident sarcasm rising in his voice. The small dwarven fellow looked agitated. Hasty words erupted from his lips as he motioned for the other to attack.
“Get him you fools! I want his head!” he screamed as the others readied themselves for the brawl.
The wizard started chanting, and the fighter roared his battle cry as he ran at Draelith with his sword held high into the air. Making a quick decision, Draelith leapt to the side, a fireball hurtled towards him as he frantically leapt into the air to avoid it too. Falling to the ground metres away, the wave of fire erupted, the blast wave finishing only inches from his feet. Counting his blessing would have to be done another time as the fighter was once again charging at him, toting his blade and yelling like a mad man as he swung feverishly at Draelith. Missing and striking a wall, it only seemed to enrage the fellow more as he howled and summoned his berserker ability forth. Great, all I need, a berserker with a really big sword and a temper of a small child Draelith thought to himself as he desperately dodged swing after swing. Moments later a bolt of lightning came hurtling towards him. Dropping to the ground, Draelith kicked at the big guy as he ran towards him, pushing him into the oncoming bolt. It surged through him, but didn’t stop him for long. Shaking his head and collecting his thoughts together, the fighter was back on his feet and once again, staring down Draelith. His mind raced as he heard the slight shuffle of feat behind him. Instinctively ducking quickly and rolling to the side, the dagger-wielding female swung her blade and caught his armour with the edge of her blade. She quickly leapt towards Draelith with her dagger held high and was greeted by an unpleasant feeling as Draelith silver short sword pierced her armour and slid easily into her soft skin. A sickly feeling erupted over her face as she looked down. Falling uneasily to the floor, she clutched at her chest as Draelith quickly removed the blade to counter the swing by the fighter.
The dwarven fellow’s expression mirrored the girls to some degree, but more of a look of surprise etched its way across his stout face. Draelith sprung to his feet and took the fight back to the fighter. The silver short sword held up nicely as he matched strike for strike. The fighter soon got restless and made a hasty swing, leaving himself open as Draelith quickly dodged the strike and planted the sword through the breastplate of the fighters armour. The silver sheen of the sword could barely be seen as it pierced its way through the back-plate too. The fighter collapsed on the street. His grip loosening as the sword fell from his hands, the echoing clank filtering through the empty streets as the wizard and dwarf now looked on. Chanting quickly, the wizard began to glow as he fired off a magnitude of magic missiles in Draelith’s direction. The dwarf with his throwing hammer in hand swung repeatedly, each time missing Draelith, and each time, the hammer returning to his hand. Leaping into a side alley, Draelith quickly hid in the shadows and made his way around the back of the building. The dwarf was in quick pursuit, but stopped short at the entrance of the dark alley. His heart beating anxiously in his chest as he looked into the darkness.
A scream echoed out into the streets and the dwarf suddenly lurched back, turning around and looking back at his wizard friend. The scream echoed from him as he felt the silver blade erupt through his chest from behind. The wizard slumped down to the floor. A blank look rose across his face as he lay on the floor, his last moments of life upon him. Draelith stood behind him. The hard pressing rain pelting down upon him. Washing the soiled blood from the blade, the silver sheen could be seen once more. A wash of fear erupted over the dwarf as he stood there helplessly in the rain. He looked down at his feet, the blood from his fighter friend washing into a nearby drain pushed him over the edge as he started to run screaming in the other direction. Two paces onwards he felt a sharp twinge in his back which carried him to the floor with a thud. Reaching around he felt around and took out a dagger. He furrowed his brow as he recognised the dagger as being that of the girl. He rolled over on the wet street. The blood from the wound in his back washing out onto the street just as the others. The Dwarf looked up and was greeted by the stern face of Draelith. The silver sheen of Draelith’s silver short sword was the last thing he saw.
Draelith stood there over the lifeless body of the dwarf. Looking up at the dark clouds above, the rain washed over his face. Standing in the rain, Draelith felt uneasy. Somewhat surprised at the coldness of his actions he sheathed his silver blade back into his belt and took the throwing hammer from the motionless dwarf. Searching the body revealed a small bag of gems and a sturdy looking belt. Taking the dagger too, he made his way over to the fighter’s corpse and took the large sword. Comparing it to the one he already had, he dumped it back on the ground and checked the wizard. The search of the wizard revealed a scroll case, which Draelith quickly pocketed.
Looking back over the scene, Draelith bowed his head to the floor for a brief moment before turning around and walking onwards to the Silver Mule.
--- End Chapter 5
Cartoon Law III
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
CHAPTER 6: Journeying onwards
The rain hadn’t let up for the last couple of hours. Its same dreary continuous downpour persisted since the early afternoon. It was getting late. The lights from the nearby houses lit the path on which Draelith walked. It was close to eight pm and he still had a fair way to go. His mind was overflowing with thoughts, much like the street was flooded with the rain. The weight of the equipment he was carrying was starting to wear at him. A small covered courtyard caught his eye and he took a much-needed break from the rain.
Unloading his equipment off his aching shoulders he sat on the dry bench that overlooked the flowerbeds and solitary water fountain in the middle. His damp clothes stuck against his now cold skin. Warmth was a primary concern now as he had been walking since late afternoon in the dreary conditions. A house across from where he sat glowed with the flickering lights from within. Deciding to try his luck he knocked on the door. An elderly lady appeared from behind the sturdy oak door. Her frail smile greeted Draelith warmly as she asked, “Do you need a place to stay, boy?”
Draelith smiled back at her and waved off her invitation, but instead asked politely if he could borrow a dry cloth and a warm lantern. She eagerly went off and returned shortly with the materials he asked for and smiled to him as she bid him good night and closed the door.
Draelith stood puzzled. The kindness of the old lady truly not what he had expected. After two months in Sentinant, Draelith had grown accustomed to the bickering and hatred that filled that evil place and had lost contact with the warmness of the outside world. What a world, attacked by thieves and then comforted by the warmth of an elderly citizen. What a weird place this world has become he thought as he returned to the open courtyard. Drying his soaking clothes as best he could with the small fire he created by using the lantern, the thoughts that had plagued him for the last weeks rippled through his head. The haunting images of Rivian standing atop his evil keep seemed to dominate the thoughts however. Rivian must have it already. he thought as he looked into the fire. No, Rivian can’t have it. If Rivian had the stone, Ralakos would be there, and he’s still in Caldor. Or is he? he continued. Furrowing his brow as he tried desperately to grasp who could possibly have the stone.
In his intense thought, Draelith had not noticed that the continuous downpour of rain had ceased. The sound of the drops leaking from the gutters was all that could be heard. Making the best of the situation, Draelith packed up his gear, and returned across the street, placing the lamp and drying cloth on the doorstep, as well as a bag of gold coins taken from the thief he intercepted earlier. Knocking briskly on the door, Draelith hurriedly ran off into the street and up the road, not waiting for the little old lady to open the door. The thought of her smile would be the reward enough he needed.
The Silver mule was finally up ahead. The loud tavern music and bellows of laughter could be heard for some distance. Making his way to the back entrance, he opened the door and entered into the kitchen area. Entar and Fellick at the table, rising to their feet when the door opened. When Draelith appeared, they both sighed relief.
“It’s gone past nine pm now Lad!” Entar exclaimed as Draelith sat down next to them.
“Sorry, Entar, but I was a little distracted earlier this afternoon.” He replied assuredly as he slapped his equipment down upon the table.
“Well haven’t you been a busy one.” Entar said as he looked over the equipment. Taking the throwing hammer in grasp, he looked over at Draelith.
“Where did you get this?” he asked quizzically. Looking over at the slash on Draelith’s armour, he shook his head, “Never mind, I don’t think I want to know do I?” he continued, smiling coyly.
Fellick took the large sword in hand. His face lighting up as the quality of the sword becoming apparent as he swung it briskly through the air to get a feel for it.
Entar admired the other war hammer and took it in hand, running through the motions, much like Fellick. Having a mock battle, the two briskly duelled as they tested out their new weapons. Being the better fighter, Fellick had quickly pinned Entar to the ground and laughed heartedly.
“Ok you two, plenty of time for fun and games later.” Draelith said in a serious yet assuring tone.
Helping Entar off the floor, Fellick looked over at Draelith intently. Standing to his feet, Entar looked over at Draelith, “A boat leaves for Elysium on the sixteenth.” Said Entar. Draelith looked down at the table in front of him and nodded his head to show he heard. Five days. I hope it’s soon enough he thought.
“The twins are in Delphi mountain Pass. Two days west of here.” Fellick interjected. “They were here in town a couple of days ago, but left quite quickly.” He continued.
Draelith looked up at Fellick who was using his sword as a leaning post.
“The Broca docks are just a days more travel from there, so we might as well travel through there anyway.” Remarked Entar who was still admiring the silver sheen from his war-hammer.
Draelith sorted through the new information in his head. A lucky break had finally come his way. They would leave for the Delphi Mountains tomorrow and could be at Broca docks as early as four days time. The three ate a hearty dinner and retired early in the night. Tomorrow would be a long walk, and the most difficult. Rested minds and bodies would be a definite requirement.
--- End Chapter 6
The rain hadn’t let up for the last couple of hours. Its same dreary continuous downpour persisted since the early afternoon. It was getting late. The lights from the nearby houses lit the path on which Draelith walked. It was close to eight pm and he still had a fair way to go. His mind was overflowing with thoughts, much like the street was flooded with the rain. The weight of the equipment he was carrying was starting to wear at him. A small covered courtyard caught his eye and he took a much-needed break from the rain.
Unloading his equipment off his aching shoulders he sat on the dry bench that overlooked the flowerbeds and solitary water fountain in the middle. His damp clothes stuck against his now cold skin. Warmth was a primary concern now as he had been walking since late afternoon in the dreary conditions. A house across from where he sat glowed with the flickering lights from within. Deciding to try his luck he knocked on the door. An elderly lady appeared from behind the sturdy oak door. Her frail smile greeted Draelith warmly as she asked, “Do you need a place to stay, boy?”
Draelith smiled back at her and waved off her invitation, but instead asked politely if he could borrow a dry cloth and a warm lantern. She eagerly went off and returned shortly with the materials he asked for and smiled to him as she bid him good night and closed the door.
Draelith stood puzzled. The kindness of the old lady truly not what he had expected. After two months in Sentinant, Draelith had grown accustomed to the bickering and hatred that filled that evil place and had lost contact with the warmness of the outside world. What a world, attacked by thieves and then comforted by the warmth of an elderly citizen. What a weird place this world has become he thought as he returned to the open courtyard. Drying his soaking clothes as best he could with the small fire he created by using the lantern, the thoughts that had plagued him for the last weeks rippled through his head. The haunting images of Rivian standing atop his evil keep seemed to dominate the thoughts however. Rivian must have it already. he thought as he looked into the fire. No, Rivian can’t have it. If Rivian had the stone, Ralakos would be there, and he’s still in Caldor. Or is he? he continued. Furrowing his brow as he tried desperately to grasp who could possibly have the stone.
In his intense thought, Draelith had not noticed that the continuous downpour of rain had ceased. The sound of the drops leaking from the gutters was all that could be heard. Making the best of the situation, Draelith packed up his gear, and returned across the street, placing the lamp and drying cloth on the doorstep, as well as a bag of gold coins taken from the thief he intercepted earlier. Knocking briskly on the door, Draelith hurriedly ran off into the street and up the road, not waiting for the little old lady to open the door. The thought of her smile would be the reward enough he needed.
The Silver mule was finally up ahead. The loud tavern music and bellows of laughter could be heard for some distance. Making his way to the back entrance, he opened the door and entered into the kitchen area. Entar and Fellick at the table, rising to their feet when the door opened. When Draelith appeared, they both sighed relief.
“It’s gone past nine pm now Lad!” Entar exclaimed as Draelith sat down next to them.
“Sorry, Entar, but I was a little distracted earlier this afternoon.” He replied assuredly as he slapped his equipment down upon the table.
“Well haven’t you been a busy one.” Entar said as he looked over the equipment. Taking the throwing hammer in grasp, he looked over at Draelith.
“Where did you get this?” he asked quizzically. Looking over at the slash on Draelith’s armour, he shook his head, “Never mind, I don’t think I want to know do I?” he continued, smiling coyly.
Fellick took the large sword in hand. His face lighting up as the quality of the sword becoming apparent as he swung it briskly through the air to get a feel for it.
Entar admired the other war hammer and took it in hand, running through the motions, much like Fellick. Having a mock battle, the two briskly duelled as they tested out their new weapons. Being the better fighter, Fellick had quickly pinned Entar to the ground and laughed heartedly.
“Ok you two, plenty of time for fun and games later.” Draelith said in a serious yet assuring tone.
Helping Entar off the floor, Fellick looked over at Draelith intently. Standing to his feet, Entar looked over at Draelith, “A boat leaves for Elysium on the sixteenth.” Said Entar. Draelith looked down at the table in front of him and nodded his head to show he heard. Five days. I hope it’s soon enough he thought.
“The twins are in Delphi mountain Pass. Two days west of here.” Fellick interjected. “They were here in town a couple of days ago, but left quite quickly.” He continued.
Draelith looked up at Fellick who was using his sword as a leaning post.
“The Broca docks are just a days more travel from there, so we might as well travel through there anyway.” Remarked Entar who was still admiring the silver sheen from his war-hammer.
Draelith sorted through the new information in his head. A lucky break had finally come his way. They would leave for the Delphi Mountains tomorrow and could be at Broca docks as early as four days time. The three ate a hearty dinner and retired early in the night. Tomorrow would be a long walk, and the most difficult. Rested minds and bodies would be a definite requirement.
--- End Chapter 6
Cartoon Law III
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
Chapter 7, dedicated to Chrissy 
CHAPTER 7: Delphi Pass
The trio had been walking since early morning. Draelith, Entar and Fellick had left the Silver Mule tavern and the town to which it resided long ago. The journey progressed through the Tamorian forest without incident. The forest was horrendous for its scores of brigands and bandits that hid there and would ambush passing caravans as they would make trade into the towns. The three passed with ease though, which was unsettling enough on its own. It made Draelith particularly uneasy as he had passed through the forest several nights before when he was first on his way to the Silver Mule. A camp had been established with at least twenty bandits residing there. The whereabouts of them now was a riddle, with no apparent answer in sight.
Regardless of the sudden disappearance or relocation of the bandits, the three were at the base of the Delphi pass by early evening. The lack of travellers on the road was another concern that wasn’t adding up in Draelith’s mind. Could the bandit gang actually be in the Delphi pass and cutting off all travellers as they come out of Broca? he thought. Whatever the situation, something was happening in those mountains and it didn’t sit right with Draelith.
“You’re a little quiet lad” spoke Entar as he walked beside Draelith.
Catching him a little off guard, Draelith was buried in thought and consequently didn’t catch all that was said.
“Sorry, what did you say?” he asked as he turned to face Entar, with his typical quizzical look stretched upon his face.
“A lot on your mind eh?” Entar redirected as a half smile crept upon his face.
Draelith sighed. “Three nights ago I came through the Tamorian forest and did my best to elude the residents of the bandit camp that dwelled there.” He started, pausing briefly as he gathered his thoughts once more, “now there isn’t even a trace of them and we haven’t even seen a single traveller along this path. It just doesn’t add up.” He continued. Entar furrowed his brow as if trying to recall the events of the days travel.
“Your right lad, it does seem a wee bit suspicious when you think about it like that.” He quipped as he raised both eyebrows at Draelith in a look of uncertainty.
“We should set up camp here.” Draelith said assuredly. Fellick apparently agreed with the idea as he let out a great sigh of relief before muttering quietly, if only to himself, “Thank god! Thought we’d never stop walking!”
Entar couldn’t help but laugh as he felt the strain somewhat himself. “I was beginning to wonder when we were going to stop myself, lad.” He chuckled heartedly as he smiled at the still thought ridden Draelith. Entar’s face was soon salted with concern and peppered with uncertainty as he continued to stare at the distant Draelith setting down his gear. Ralakos had plagued him throughout his life and perhaps it was now getting too much. But knowing Draelith, he would never admit to any of this. Entar stowed his gear and helped the others prepare the campsite for the night, holding onto his concern for the moment.
The sun fell quickly over the mountains and darkness was soon upon them. The gentle and somewhat chaotic flickering of the fire was all that lit the area around them. Draelith had left to scout the surrounding area a little while ago and Fellick was busily preparing the rabbit that he had caught earlier. Entar had been busily polishing his war hammer and his mind had wandered several times to the future, and to the past, as it often did. Seizing the opportunity Entar leant down upon his knee and used his hammer for support in front of him. Looking up at the jewels of the sky, the stars shone back most brilliantly. Entar hadn’t communed with his god for some time. The running of the Silver Mule didn’t require much help from higher up, but the call of the adventurer surely depended upon a bit of luck and guidance from the gods. Entar began to chant the words of his prayer as his eyes focused upon a particular star high in the heavens. He began talking with his god, asking for guidance and safety for his group and especially for an understanding for Draelith. Help him face his doubts, and most importantly, help him see the strength within his heart.
Fellick looked on. Entar’s spiritual connection had always interested him but he never could grasp it when it came down to it all. Fellick was built for the role of a fighter. His large, muscular body had its advantages and he was always able to overpower even the strongest of opponents. Often Entar would remark that Fellick’s lesser intellect was a blessing. Fellick never thought about that too much, in a way, proving Entar’s point.
Entar returned to the thoughts that had plagued him earlier. Draelith’s apparent disconcertion was worrying and unlike anything he had seen or experienced in the copious number of adventures before. Looking up, he noticed a lack of Draelith in the general area. “Ah heck, what’s that lad up to now?” he muttered.
Draelith walked onwards under a dark sky. With all the stars shining elegantly above him, he felt alone. His heart longed for her touch. Raeline. The solitary name that bounded about his head like a dwarven archy ball. No matter how hard he tried, the memory of her gentle hands and soulful eyes kept hammering away at his heart one piece at a time.
His thoughts were suddenly cut short as the sound of voices pierced the silence. His suspicions were confirmed, the bandit camp had relocated, and in a not too welcome location.
CHAPTER 7: Delphi Pass
The trio had been walking since early morning. Draelith, Entar and Fellick had left the Silver Mule tavern and the town to which it resided long ago. The journey progressed through the Tamorian forest without incident. The forest was horrendous for its scores of brigands and bandits that hid there and would ambush passing caravans as they would make trade into the towns. The three passed with ease though, which was unsettling enough on its own. It made Draelith particularly uneasy as he had passed through the forest several nights before when he was first on his way to the Silver Mule. A camp had been established with at least twenty bandits residing there. The whereabouts of them now was a riddle, with no apparent answer in sight.
Regardless of the sudden disappearance or relocation of the bandits, the three were at the base of the Delphi pass by early evening. The lack of travellers on the road was another concern that wasn’t adding up in Draelith’s mind. Could the bandit gang actually be in the Delphi pass and cutting off all travellers as they come out of Broca? he thought. Whatever the situation, something was happening in those mountains and it didn’t sit right with Draelith.
“You’re a little quiet lad” spoke Entar as he walked beside Draelith.
Catching him a little off guard, Draelith was buried in thought and consequently didn’t catch all that was said.
“Sorry, what did you say?” he asked as he turned to face Entar, with his typical quizzical look stretched upon his face.
“A lot on your mind eh?” Entar redirected as a half smile crept upon his face.
Draelith sighed. “Three nights ago I came through the Tamorian forest and did my best to elude the residents of the bandit camp that dwelled there.” He started, pausing briefly as he gathered his thoughts once more, “now there isn’t even a trace of them and we haven’t even seen a single traveller along this path. It just doesn’t add up.” He continued. Entar furrowed his brow as if trying to recall the events of the days travel.
“Your right lad, it does seem a wee bit suspicious when you think about it like that.” He quipped as he raised both eyebrows at Draelith in a look of uncertainty.
“We should set up camp here.” Draelith said assuredly. Fellick apparently agreed with the idea as he let out a great sigh of relief before muttering quietly, if only to himself, “Thank god! Thought we’d never stop walking!”
Entar couldn’t help but laugh as he felt the strain somewhat himself. “I was beginning to wonder when we were going to stop myself, lad.” He chuckled heartedly as he smiled at the still thought ridden Draelith. Entar’s face was soon salted with concern and peppered with uncertainty as he continued to stare at the distant Draelith setting down his gear. Ralakos had plagued him throughout his life and perhaps it was now getting too much. But knowing Draelith, he would never admit to any of this. Entar stowed his gear and helped the others prepare the campsite for the night, holding onto his concern for the moment.
The sun fell quickly over the mountains and darkness was soon upon them. The gentle and somewhat chaotic flickering of the fire was all that lit the area around them. Draelith had left to scout the surrounding area a little while ago and Fellick was busily preparing the rabbit that he had caught earlier. Entar had been busily polishing his war hammer and his mind had wandered several times to the future, and to the past, as it often did. Seizing the opportunity Entar leant down upon his knee and used his hammer for support in front of him. Looking up at the jewels of the sky, the stars shone back most brilliantly. Entar hadn’t communed with his god for some time. The running of the Silver Mule didn’t require much help from higher up, but the call of the adventurer surely depended upon a bit of luck and guidance from the gods. Entar began to chant the words of his prayer as his eyes focused upon a particular star high in the heavens. He began talking with his god, asking for guidance and safety for his group and especially for an understanding for Draelith. Help him face his doubts, and most importantly, help him see the strength within his heart.
Fellick looked on. Entar’s spiritual connection had always interested him but he never could grasp it when it came down to it all. Fellick was built for the role of a fighter. His large, muscular body had its advantages and he was always able to overpower even the strongest of opponents. Often Entar would remark that Fellick’s lesser intellect was a blessing. Fellick never thought about that too much, in a way, proving Entar’s point.
Entar returned to the thoughts that had plagued him earlier. Draelith’s apparent disconcertion was worrying and unlike anything he had seen or experienced in the copious number of adventures before. Looking up, he noticed a lack of Draelith in the general area. “Ah heck, what’s that lad up to now?” he muttered.
Draelith walked onwards under a dark sky. With all the stars shining elegantly above him, he felt alone. His heart longed for her touch. Raeline. The solitary name that bounded about his head like a dwarven archy ball. No matter how hard he tried, the memory of her gentle hands and soulful eyes kept hammering away at his heart one piece at a time.
His thoughts were suddenly cut short as the sound of voices pierced the silence. His suspicions were confirmed, the bandit camp had relocated, and in a not too welcome location.
Cartoon Law III
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.
Any body passing through solid matter will leave a perforation conforming to its perimeter. Also called the silhouette of passage, this phenomenon is the speciality of victims of directed-pressure explosions and of reckless cowards who are so eager to escape that they exit directly through the wall of a house, leaving a cookie-cutout-perfect hole. The threat of skunks or matrimony often catalyzes this reaction.