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Dana's tale
Posted: 28 May 2006 11:12 PM |
((I have been meaning to post a diary of Dana's activities for some time, and have only now decided to do something about it. Many of you weren't playing Vives when she arrived, so this first part is a brief recap of what happened leading up to the more recent events))
Dana had changed, it had taken her this long to realise.
It was as she stood here in the shadows cast by the old Shabby Inn in Paws, her presence concealed behind a wall of magic, that the reality hit her with all the force of an ettins club.
She remembered well her first day away from M'Gok Tukar in Port Royale, the culture shock she had experienced, and the realisation that these people, while predominantly human, were as unlike her as she could imagine.
In the months that had followed she had altered her plans for the future many times. Events dictated that she should.
The first thing to change was her relationship with those of elven blood. She had never had trouble with their kind before, never liking, nor disliking them. Then on a trip to Ferien she had been taken with her usual hunger pangs, and spotting a couple of deer had felled them for a meal.
How was she supposed to know these white creatures were not the same as the ones she had seen around Port and the outskirts of the hated Midor?
Before she had bent to skin the first creature, four elven women approached and cast much magic upon her, bringing the very sky itself down upon her head.
She now regarded elven folk with slightly higher regard than those evil Midorans.
Secondly, her ideas of finding an orcish mate had been shelved, firstly through her inability to locate a suitable specimin, and secondly, after realising she was a more attractive proposition to the male humans.
Her first dalyance into the world of relationships had not gone very well.
The man Markus had proved to be less than she had expected, the result of that particular affair almost resulting in her becoming a snake. Quick work on the cure to halt that particular condition by her father and the wizard Lucius had saved her life, of this she was certain.
Thankfully, Cora had pointed out the dangers of that particular partnering, and she had closed her life to it forthwith.
She wondered what had become of Markus, she had not seen him for many weeks, had not even told him that she no longer wanted him in her life.
He had not, to the best of her knowledge, taken the cure prepared for him by her father, and knowing what she did from Lucius, it now seemed likely Markus was either a servant of the snakewomen, or had become one of their kin himself by now. Time had been of the essence, regarding a cure, time that had, for Markus, long since elapsed.
Then there had been peoples dislike of her daily habits.Things that for twenty four years she had taken as normal, perfectly natural things to do.
They objected to her diet, so she had changed that when she found herself in port or around them, they objected to her ritualistic gathering of trophies, so for the most part she had cut back on that too.
She had also encountered paladins, evil Midoran paladins. It had shocked her at first to see with how much freedom they moved about in a part of the land where they were despised and distrusted, however, the people of port seemed willing enough to allow them. Dana, relying on her instincts and her knowledge of Midor was altogether more suspicious of their presence, and their motives. Many times she had confronted them in verbal exchanges, bordering on violence, and on almost every occasion the people of port had regarded her as the one who should adjust her attitude, rather than these hateful people.
Her newfound relationship with Lucius had led her to grudgingly accepting one of them, Cedrych, as some kind of ally.
It had not all been bad, though. She had learned much of this strange human culture too. Many of the things regarded as normal in M'Gok Tukar were reviled in Port. She was happy to say that most of these things swung seriously in her favour.
She realised now, that in human settlements a woman was not a possesion. They expected to be spoken to as equals rather than being ordered about by their menfolk, and they had equal rights.
It had taken a serious amount of effort on Dana's part to realise what other women already knew. Men were easily manipulated. She was still struggling with the concept, but with time and effort she was sure she could use this to her advantage. She had already experimented with using her sexuality to achieve what she wanted, and had been quite pleased with the results.
She also had made a lot of friends in Port since her arrival, notably Iris, Alis, Tomi, Sam, Garrak, Oragastus, Fell, Cal and Aimee, Jessup (who seemed unsure of her) and most notably Lucius.
Lucius, she still didn't know what exactly he had awoken in her, but she liked it. She was feeling things for the first time. At first he had seemed like a thoughroughly nondiscript man. A friend who on occasion had been of assistance. They had a falling out, a disagreement over nothing. She had been in the wrong, she admitted that now. For some time they had chosen to ignore each other, avoiding contact whenever they could. Then one fateful day on a trip into the mountains something strange had happened to her. Lucius, after a fall, had badly broken his leg, she had reset it for him, having seen this done many times before in M'Gok Tukar.
Right after the leg had been relocated in to something resembling its normal shape she had looked up, their eyes met, and ........ what? Something had happened. A warmth never before felt swept across her, a dizzying feeling. At the time she had not mentioned it, fearing herself ill with something.
Soon after this they had drifted together, then apart, then together again. A relationship best described as fiery. However, feelings ran deeply on her side, and she wasn't about to let the warmth she now felt slip away from her again.
They argued often, usually about Midor, and the paladins that Lucius accepted as readily as the remainder of the population. Lucius had accused her of being full of hatred, and where that accursed city was concerned she admitted that she was.
Lucius would try and convince her that not everyone from Midor was bad, and that the paladins who now hung around the port were in some way trying to bring about change for the better in the white city. However, all she ever saw them do was talk a lot, and criticise her.
And them from Midor. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 29 May 2006 10:15 AM |
((information included in all these posts would be known only to those either (1) directly involved, or (2) told of them personally by Dana))
The Poisoning
A Fictrix production
The tangled mess of bedsheets on the floor stirred slightly, and a pile of tousled flame red hair poked its way into the new day, closely followed by the remainder of a sleepy Dana. She made her bed on the floor, never having got used to the feel of a soft matress beneath her after the many years spent sleeping on the cold stone of a cave in M'Gok Tukar.
She lifted the sheets, Lucius was still buried in their depths. She allowed herself a smile. He rarely rose before her.
Gathering a few things together she pulled on a heavy robe and crossed the landing to the bathroom. Despite her often blood covered appearance, and peoples belief that she was dirty, Dana prided herself on being clean, often taking a wash or bath several times a day. After no more than ten minutes she had washed and dried herself, and she exited the bathroom just as Tomi came out his room to use the facilites.
A brief polite greeting, and she ducked back into her own room. Lucius was still somewhere in the tangle on the floor, his foot poking from the bottom, a single forearm from the top. She would not disturb him, she was painfully aware of the work he was putting in trying to piece together the fragments of information he had regarding those accursed lizard women, and the new information she had learned from the snake haired woman in the mines in port just the day before.
Quite why he spent so much time working on what Dana considered to be 'other peoples problems' was beyond her comprehension, but he seemed to genuinely enjoy the challenge and she was not about to say anything to him about it.
What he intended doing with this mess of information once he had pieced it all together was known to him alone. Dana found the whole thing tiresome, far less fun than being face to face with some creature in a battle of life over death in some murky cave somewhere. That was where she got her thrills. However, the news that the snake haired woman had imparted had in some small part amused Dana. The Midorans were the descendants of a bunch of hapless losers, former slaves to a bunch of snakeskinned women.
She would relish telling that tin whore Rosen who she really was. Nothing more than the spawn of an escaped slave.
Mutterings from the bedsheets, the ankle protruding from the bottom moved, the forearm at the top simultaneously. He was waking. Her cue to go and get his breakfast from Margeret. By the time she returned he would be washed, perhaps even dressed. Ready to start another day of research. She would accompany him this time, they had spent hardly any time alone together in some days.
It seemed they were destined for interuptions every occasion they found themselves alone.
She welcomed him into the day, then hurried through to Margeret for his breakfast. He would eat it alone, just like every other morning. Her stomach still craved raw meat, but for appearances sake she would eat human foods when in port. However, this early in the day, she knew she would not be able to stomach it.
She returned with laden tray, passing the bathroom as Tomi finished his mornings scrub up. On entering their room she could tell from his demeanour that he was feeling awkward about something. Placing his tray on his lap she waited, saying nothing. knowing he would approach whatever subject troubled him in his own time. Lucius was not the most direct of people.
Finally, some minutes later, the subject was broached. He had become stuck on a name, Brakus, and he thought the only person that could be of assistance to him was Ced, the Midoran had made mention of the name on occasion before.
Inwardly she was fuming, outwardly she gave him a smile, and agreed to accompany him to meet with Ced. Along the route they took she found it increasingly hard to keep her tongue still, and by the time they were halfway to their destination words had been said on both sides. Neither was in good spirits.
Had she known at this time the consequences of the day she would have trekked off alone to destroy some creature.
They made their way to Buckshire, to Doc's tavern, where Lucius believed he may find Ced. As the door swung open and they entered the dimly lit main room, her attention was drawn instantly to the only other customers. There, with her back to the door was the tin whore Rosen, sitting opposite her a man Dana did not recognise.
Lucius, who appeared to recognise the man, said that he must speak with them, and he made his way to their table. Dana went ot the opposite end of the room, choosing a large table still adorned with the remnants of the last customers meal. She sat heavily, dragging the chair heavily across the floor. If Rosen was aware of her she made no mention of the fact, nor did she in any way acknowledge that Dana had entered.
Very soon Lucius was speaking with these two people in hushed tones, while she, Dana, sat alone and fuming, her temper becoming worse by the minute. Had he known, maybe Lucius would have hurried his business along. He seemed intent on asking every question in as long a way as he could. A point that irritated not only herself, but the man to whom he spoke also.
Finally, after an hour of this torture, she decided that enough was enough. Having convinced herself the tin whore was laughing at her sitting there alone, she snapped. A decision had been made. She left the tavern, she left Lucius, without a word.
Rushing to Jusin across from the tavern she threw herself into the ox cart and paid her ten coins for passage to the port. Jusin sensing her mood spoke little on the journey, and for this she was grateful.
Upon arrival in port she told Jusin to wait for her, she would be returning to Buckshire within the hour.
She knew exactly where to go. The P&J's tour shop was both convenient to her needs, and certainly less likely to mention any transactions that were of a less desirable nature.
Throwing open the door she made directly for Calbert. She hurried to the counter, lowered her voice to the level of normal conversation, and asked Calbert if she could see the items he kept for 'special' customers. the items he kept -under- the counter.
Calbert asked what exactly it was she sought to buy. Thinking quickly, something she could do much better then people gave her credit for, she asked for poison, strong poison, for a headlice problem she was having.
Calbert said he would see what he could find, and he disappeared into the cellar. There was a some bumping and knocking from below the floor, then Calbert emerged, a small green bottle clutched in his hand. He showed it to her, she read the label. Oh this was good, this was very, very good. A deadly poison.
She indicated that it would suffice, and asked the price. Seven hundred gold coins later and she had her poison.
Next stop, poison in bag, was to Gariert, from whom she purchased a bottle of ale.
Then it was back on the ox cart to Buckshire.
Upon arrival she jumped lightly from the cart, and hurried to a place where she could not be observed. There she carefully opened the ale, decanted the poison into it, carefully replaced the top of the bottle and gently lowered it into her bag, laying it on its side, with the label uppermost. She then destroyed the empty bottle that had previously had the poison in.
With a smile that could have frozen water she made her way back to Doc's.
As she entered she painted a smile upon her features, and showed a face that lied to the world the true tensions and hatred that bubbled just below the surface. As casually as she could she approached the bar, smiled, asked Doc in her most casual voice for two bottles of ale. Lucius, who was himself at this point well on his way to stupour, leapt up, thinking the ales were for her.
She assured him, smiling, that this was not the case, the ales she had bought were for him and his friends.
She handed him one of the bottles she had ordered from Doc, casually placing the other in her bag, next to the poisoned one. This one she placed on its side, label facing down. She approached Rosen, her mind a writhing mass of hate. Immense effort kept her voice level and pleasant, as she offered the tin whore a bottle of ale. Horrors. The reply came back that she didn't drink ale, she preffered to drink tea, but on this 'special' occasion of new found bonhommie, she would accept.
With no small relief Dana handed her the bottle with the label uppermost, then she moved to the man, handing him the third bottle. This was crucial, would anyone spot that she had ordered two bottles of ale, and handed out three?
It appeared not. All seemed not to have noticed. Lucius probably couldn't have noticed had his life depended on it.
Now all she could do was wait. Their tedious conversation droned on and on. The man seemed to grow more impatient with Lucius and his roundabout questions.
As time wore on, she found herself also becoming impatient.
Lucius drank his ale, the other man, and Rosen, did not seem so keen to drink theirs.
Then, disaster.
Rosen took up her bottle and offered it to this other man, he declined at first, then said that rather than see it wasted, he would relieve her of it.
Dana watched horrorstruck as the bottle passed across the table. Then the man seemed to have a change of heart, Lucius had spilt one of his own bottles and it looked as if the man was going to offer the poisoned one to Lucius.
But instead the tin whore spoke up, saying that maybe she would take the ale after all, but she would drink it later. Dana watched with no small relief as the bottle was passed back to Rosen.
Then it appeared everyone wanted that bottle of ale, it seemed to Dana that if it changed hands once, it must have changed hands a dozen times. She watched. emotions swinging from relief to terror as the bottle moved first one way, then the other, between hands.
The man finally ended up with the bottle, and he dropped it in his bag.
By now Dana was of a frame of mind that she might not get her desired target, but she would at least get herself a Midoran.
Rosen could wait for another day.
Finally, the man, who nobody had bothered to introduce Dana to, said they should be on their way. He and Rosen stood to leave. Dana for her part, couldn't wait to be out of that place. The cool air of Buckshire dried the sweat on her face almost as soon as they made their exit. Lucius seemed far to absorbed in his latest snippets of information to notice the somewhat ashen colour of her skin.
She decided, that was probably a good thing. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 31 May 2006 07:16 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Kal's finger
((this story is in two parts, the first part precedes The Poisoning, the second part follows it))
Part One - The Hunt For Dragons
Dana and Lucius fell into Enders tent, the heat of the desert thankfully no longer beating on them. They were on their way home to port, having just attempted unsuccessfully to glean information from those strange women on the Kobai coast, the Kraken.
Their mood was good, the sun was not intolerably hot, just hot, and they were still discovering each other.
Upon entering they found quite the crowd within. All faces they knew and liked.
Joining Enders and his wives were Ophelia, Kal, Tarn, Caddo and Jakad ((if memory serves me right, if those involved are not mentioned let me know I will rectify it))
They made their 'Hello's' to all the familiar faces, before seating themselves close together on the cushions scattered inside the door. Holding each other close they joined in with the idle banter.
The usual discussions were the order of the day. Who had been where, what they had seen. What they had added to their list of slayable nasties.
The general mood was upbeat.
As is so often the case, the topic of planning an adventure rose to the fore. Ideas were produced, dismissed outright as too dangerous or considered on their merits.
Kal, who Dana knew to be a wildsman of some kind, seemed to have one place only in mind, and was doing his very best to persuade the others to accompany him. Local knowledge spoke of a nearby cave inhabited by three or more dragons, blue in colour.
At first the idea was rejected, the idea of taking on three dragons less than appealing to most. But somehow, slowly, Kal convinced the remainder of them it would provide excellent sport and training.
Finally it was decided, the dragons it would be.
Provisions were tended by Enders ever willing tradesman, and in short order everyone was ready for the off. Blades had been checked, spells read and re-read, armour donned by those who felt such protection neccesary, and packs slung.
The band of them emerged into the sun once more. Evening was approaching, the air slightly cooler.
They began the short walk to where the cave was known to be.
Whether it was overexposure to the sun that day, or something she had eaten, she knew not. But as they marched across the sand Dana began to feel distinctly unwell, her stomach churned, she was less than steady on her feet.
She confided to Lucius that she thought it unwise for her to enter the cavern in such a sorry condition, to which he agreed.
When they arrived in the area known locally as the Backbone, Dana announced her intention not to enter the fray with the rest of them. She would however grant such magical protections as she could in her weakened condition.
This announcement met with mutterings. For some reason the overiding thought amongst the group was that with one less member their chances were drastically reduced. However, Kal's enthusiasm for the adventure pushed them on. Without further ado the protective magics were cast upon those that needed them.
Almost as soon as she had finished Dana dropped onto the sand in a state of exhaustion. Lucius came to her, spoke words of caring. She made a brave attempt to appear well, and with a quick kiss bade him a safe return.
The group made one last check of themselves, and with each giving Dana a cheery wave they plunged into the cavern.
Dana found a small rock to rest herself against and enjoyed the cool evening air. Her acute ears picked out the sounds of various wild cats in the nearby jungles, she amused herself wondering what they were saying to each other.
After about ten minutes of this respite, her strength gradually rekindling itself, the peace was broken. No, not broken, smashed into a thousand pieces as Ophelia stormed out of the caves entrance screaming to Dana to come and assist the party.
Lucius. That was the only word that formed in her mind. She had to save Lucius.
She rose to her feet hurriedly, wobbled, regained her balance.
Hastily she cast a few protections on herself, enough to keep herself moderately safe. Still feeling to weak to lift her massive blade she called forth the reliable ally she had named Sparky. An elemental creature shrouded in fire.
She rushed past the still shocked Ophelia, and into the entrance to the cave. The evenings lack of light made accustoming her eyes to the caves impenetrable darkness a little easier. Almost immediately she spotted one of the dragons. The thing was practically lodged in the entrance to the cave. Of the party of friends there was no sign, although she was aware of movement to her rear.
Without further ado she dealt with the dragon, its massive bulk crashing down on top of Sparky, almost extinguishing the creatures fire. Panicked eyes searched for the remaining dragons, she caught no sign.
Where was Lucius?
She called his name, loudly, several times. No reply came.
She stumbled over something on the rock floor. The body of one of her friends, she knew nor cared who. Then a sight of a familiar robe, prone. Lucius.
Ignoring all others she ran to him.
Not a breath came that she could detect.
Her world died in that moment. All her dreams dissappeared and for the first time in her life she felt her eyes stinging, water was running down her cheeks. Tears. Angrily she wiped them away, all the time calling out for Lucius to wake, to open his eyes, breath, anything.
Behind her, Ophelia and one other survivor were moving about checking on the other fallen comrades.
The only thought in her mind was to get Lucius out of there, get him well if such was possible.
Her ears closed to the pitiful calls of Ophelia. Poor Ophelia, feeling guilty not to have fallen it sounded like.
She was totally focussed on Lucius. Enders had a healer, she would take him there. The rest of them ........ they could feed the crows for all she cared.
Hurriedly she opened her bag, removed several magical pieces that she had accumulated over her travels. A belt, gloves, two rings, all designed to increase her strength many times over.
As she donned the items she was aware of Ophelia trying to lift one of the others, struggling slightly to accomplish the task. Dana knew the girl had the strength of the half-orc, knew she would manage it.
Feeling the magical power of the newly worn clothes and rings she bent and with still a little difficulty managed to manouver Lucius onto her shoulder.
Quietly speaking words to him she knew he couldn't hear she managed to make her way out of the cave, and back to the sands of Kobai. Ophelia was close behind, carrying two?? of the fallen. In the dim light Dana could not be sure. Ophelia's great strength probably meant she was.
After some time they reached the tent they had not so long since departed from.
With immense reverence Dana laid the lifeless form of Lucius on the cushions, the cushions they had shared hours before.
With pleading evident in her eyes she hurried to Enders, implored of him to help.
Enders called one of his wives, for it appeared she was the healer. She cast an eye over each of the fallen in turn and pronounced solemnly that she could do nothing for them. Their only hope lay back in the port, or with the Sisters.
Despite her ragged state, her total and utter despair, Dana still had enough of her usual venom left to make the decision to go to port. She never had, nor likely ever would, trust those virgin slags who rejoiced in the name of the Sisters of Mercy, while emptying the purses of the fallen while they were not in any condition to protest.
Once more she hefted Lucius on to her shoulders, left before Ophelia and Jakad (the other survivor) had made their preperations.
Upon leaving the tent her attention was drawn to two oxen she had not noticed previously. She hurried back inside. Asked Enders if the animals were his. He replied that indeed they were. She offered him a large purse in return for one of the animals to ferry the inert Lucius back to port.
Enders asked if she would require both animals, she had said she would not, only one of the fallen mattered.
She returned to the oxen and managed after a struggle to get Lucius body across the animals back. Enders must have had a fit of generosity, for she noticed Ophelia and Jakad loading the remaining ox with the bodies of the others.
With all due haste they made their way back to port. Making use of Jusin's tethering post she quickly, and gently, lifted Lucius down, then into the temple.
Dana hurried to the temple healer, a severe looking girl with a staff. With as much tenderness as one would treat a baby she laid Lucius on the marble floor before the woman.
Her eyes now red and puffy from these alien tears, her nose swollen, she implored the woman for help. The woman seemed distracted, the movemant behind her as Ophelia and Jakad dragged the remaining bodies into the temple.
The healer walked amongst the fallen, noting the severity of the wounds, the overall condition of the bodies.
Finally, after what seemed an eternity, she turned to Dana and pronounced that she could indeed help them, all of them, but it would be costly. Dana told her that cost was not an issue, she wanted Lucius back.
The woman paused briefly. How much, she asked, would Dana be willing to pay to have Lucius back. Dana thought of the biggest number she knew, fifteen. The healer thought a moment longer.
She agreed. The price would be fifteen thousand coins for each life saved.
Fifteen, fifteen thousand, to Dana it was all immaterial.
Dana had her gold already sorted into quantities, so with the healers help she counted out fifteen thousand gold coins. The healer looked at her, asked where was the gold to raise the others.
Dana looked at them all. All of them she called friend, but only one mattered.
Just him, Lucius.
Then she noticed Caddo, a member of her tribe of M'Gok Tukar. She pointed to Caddo and told the woman she would pay for two to be raised.
Obviously the woman was in benevolent mood, for she said that for the sum Dana had paid that she would be inclined to raise every one of the fallen.
Dana was pleased to see she made her way directly to Lucius. She bit her lip hard as the magics were cast over the lifeless form. Tensed as he drew his first painful breath. Cried openly as he opened his eyes.
She had him back, her life was not over.
She held onto him, tightly. Never would she release this grip, her happiness expressed itself in her tear filled eyes
While she held Lucius she had half an eye on the healer, the others slowly coming back to their senses.
Her eyes were drawn to Kal.
He had made the plan for this trip, he had cajoled and coerced them into going into that cave. He was responsible for taking the life of the man who filled her life, made her feel things she had never felt before.
Even as she cuddled a still confused Lucius, she made plans for Kal.
He would pay. He would pay dearly for this. She swore this to herself.
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Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 31 May 2006 08:08 PM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Kal's finger
Part Two - An Opportunity Taken
A dreary day in a rainy port.
Lucius in her room asleep, herself listless and unable to settle.
She paced the docks out of boredom, looking for something, anything, to do.
A morning spent in the tombs of Kobai had produced some fairly decent gifts for her friends. One she had already marked down for Tomi, the other she was undecided.
She pondered who should receive it, the thing was of much value and highly sought after by folks of all proffessions. This one would go somewhere special.
It was while she sat on the very edge of the dock, between two mooring bollards, toying with this problem, that a noise disturbed her.
Coming her way, obviously the worst for drink, the wildsman, Kal.
She groaned inwardly. Not twelve hours earlier had she carried Lucius to her bed in a similar state having left the tavern in Buckshire. She had sought Jusin's assistance in lifting him into, and out of, the ox-cart, slipping the dwarf a small reward of coins for his help. The last thing she needed at this moment in time was another drunk.
Why did people drink the stuff if it made them behave in such a way?
Kal was weaving about, barely keeping his footing, and generally making a nuisance of himself.
Now he appeared to have fallen, collapsed under Betty's stand, she tried not to pay him any attention, but it proved harder to do than she had imagined.
She looked south, across the sea. Her finger pressed on her lower lip as she once again attempted to decide who was deserving of her latest acquisition.
A shuffling, a retching. Kal was out from under Betty's stall and trying to stand. Then he vomitted. Then he vomitted some more. She wondered, amused, who would step in it first. Kal, or the Midoran, Cedrych who was approaching the scene even as she watched.
Kal lurched and stumbled his way into the drain, fell over, face down. She toyed with the idea of placing a foot on the back of his head and watching him drown slowly. But a swift scan of the dockside revealed Cedrych to be much too close, and Gariert also was watching the antics of the drunkard.
Cedrych, realising a life was in danger sprinted over to Kal and somehow lifted, part dragged, the inert form from the drain.
Kal regained conciousness just long enough to vomit directly into Cedrychs face, then again down the front of his armour. Dana allowed herself a small smile. Kal had some redeeming qualities it seemed.
She watched as the paladin attempted to keep Kal from returning to the drain, something he seemed intent on doing. She made no move to assist.
What was that? Kal was muttering something, she could catch only snatchies of it. Something about 'innocents'.
So the fool had led more people to an untimely end it would seem. She seethed at the memories of that fateful trip to the cave of the dragons. It had been some weeks now, Lucius seemed to have forgiven and forgotton.
She would not be so generous.
After a goodly while, Cedrych announced he could do no more for Kal, saying he had business elsewhere.
She could hardly blame him for trying to escape. To her memory Kal had now vomitted on Cedrych some seven times.
He now lay, spreadeagled in a pool of his own filth, muttering and gurgling.
Oh, now he was trying to stand, had drawn a blade. She wondered briefly if he was going to try and rob Gariert, but instead he tumbled down again.
A movement, very vague. She looked closer. A shadowy form had detached itself from Betty's stall. The hidden shape of a halfling man. She watched, fascinated and amused, as the shadow approached the limp form and carefully cut the purse from Kal's belt. From the way the purse was stretched a sizeable sum must be in there. Mentally she wished the little man good fortune.
She watched as Kal once more got to his feet. He spied her. She stood, ready to throw the fool into the dock should he be ill over her. She moved away from the bollards to give herself a little more avoidance room, and just as well. The closer he got, the worse he smelt and looked. His clothes ........ caked in what had been inside him not long since. Even Dana, who had a stronger stomach than most, felt her own insides turning over.
He lurched, fell upon her, catching her by suprise. Before she could regain her footing .......... a KISS.
She felt seriously, and suddenly ill.
Had she been given a choice at that moment, she would have bent and kissed a Slaads backside first, kissed Rosen ......... no, even her shocked brain realised that was going too far. But the Slaad, definitely.
That kiss sealed Kal's fate, as far as Dana was concerned.
She moved away to a safe distance, watched the fool fall, stand, and fall again.
She would have his lungs for this. Eat them in front of him.
Kal had again fallen. It was time. She had determined to do something, and Dana never went back on a decision taken in such a way.
She drew from her bag a dagger, newly acquired. Fingered it.
She approached the still form
Halted. Kal had fallen in such a place as to be plainly visible by Gariert, Betty and Berens. Dana would bide her time.
She moved away, making sure nobody was watching her, she cast upon herself a spell of invisibility.
She returned to a place where she could observe, without risk of anyone bumping into her hidden body.
Kal was on the move, coming closer to her. Oh, this was good, this was very good. He stumbled, fell. How he had not managed to impale himself upon his own blade was, in Dana's eyes, something of a miracle.
She checked his new position. Looked in all directions. She was invisible to the eye, Gariert had his back turned, Betty was nowhere to be seen, Jusin and Berens were too far away to see, even if they chose to look. Across the dock nobody moved, deserted.
She made her move. She hurried to the collapsed figure. Took his left wrist firmly in her hand, pressed his palm down onto the cobbles so that the fingers of his hand were splayed out, then in one stroke she severed the pinky finger at the point where it met the hand.
She slipped away as quickly as she had come.
She moved a short distance down the dock, leant over the side, washed the finger in the murky water.
She sat cross legged looking towards Kal's still unmoving body, watching the blood flow freely from the wound on his hand.
Sat watching, and sucked the flesh from the bones she had stolen from him. Not for a long while had anything tasted so satisfying.
As she finished her repast, the idea of going back for more crossed her mind, but a movement to her right revealed a short man, gnomish, coming towards Kal at quite a speed. The man bent over the wildsman, tried to waken him.
Finally Kal stirred, the gnomes efforts were rewarded with getting his clothes splashed as Kal vomitted again. Then Kal noticed what the gnome had noticed seconds earlier, the missing finger.
She picked some flesh from between her teeth, tossed the skeletal remains of her snack into the harbour and decided it was time she made an appearance.
Rising slowly, she straightened her skirt and made her way to the tour shop where she dispelled the invisibility surrounding herself.
She emerged back onto the dock, to find a shocked looking Kal, crying and staring at his hand, the gnome bent over him trying to administer aid. She approached. Asked what the problem seemed to be.
Kal held up his hand, gibbering wordlessly. the gnome explained that Kal had somehow, lost a finger.
She planted an idea.
She mentioned, almost as an aside, that she had witnessed Kal in a heavily drunken state, staggering and falling, with not one but two blades in his hand. What did he expect would happen if he carried on in such a reckless fashion? Gariert would, if so asked, give her story credence.
This hastily cobbled together explanation seemed to satisfy the gnome and the distraught wildsman. Dana made a half-hearted search of the dockside before announcing that either Kal had lost the finger in the water, or a rat had run off with it.
The wildsman was quite inconsolable. She suggested they take him to the temple, see if he healers there could do anything for him.
Between the two of them they helped him to his feet, the gnome had bandaged the hand a little, but it was still bleeding quite heavily.
They got him into the temple, where, as expected, the healer said she could stop the bleeding, seal the wound, but the replacement of the finger was beyond her skills. Had she a finger to re-attach .... that would be different. But as it was either lost to the harbour, or a rat, that was the limit of her powers.
Kal sat upon the floor, and howled his anguish. He mourned the loss of the finger like a mother would a child. How, he asked, could he make his music, continue his crafting?
Dana looked him in the eye and shrugged. For now, at least, she would appear a freind, would assist Kal where she could, to keep up appearances. But in reality ...........
She neither knew .......... nor cared. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 01 Jun 2006 11:29 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Whack Whack
A Kitten production
The wind bit into her like a knife
Many years of living in M'Gok Tukar had toughened Dana to some of the harshest weather imaginable. Yet today, in Icy Vale, it was bitter. She had travelled here to collect the skins of polar bears to take back to M'Gok Tukar for the beds of the younger tribe members.
She had rested briefly at the tavern, resupplied her pack and was just setting out from the store when she came upon Garrak.
They chatted briefly, and she had some fun flirting outrageously with him, she always did. After spending some months living in human settlements Dana was starting to discover her sexuality.
Starting to realise what a potent weapon it could be if used correctly.
She knew to flirt with Garrak was not going to lead anywhere, it never did. Apparently he had some sappy woman in tow already, and had made it clear on more than one occasion that he was perfectly happy to keep it that way.
She enquired of him where he was headed, to which he replied he had not really got a destination in mind. With more than a hint of suggestiveness she asked if he would like to accompany her, to which he readily agreed.
With an exaggerated hip wiggle she led the way outside.
Not more than a dozen paces had been covered when they met Tomi coming down the road from the direction they were headed. Tomi and Garrak knew each other already, apparently Garrak's woman was Tomi's best friend, and conversation once again sprung up.
Tomi said he was headed back towards port, but he would accompany them if they would allow. Neither of them had any doubts about Tomi so it was quickly agreed he should join them.
They made their way to the gates that led out of the Vale. It was common knowledge that some of Dana's less reputable brethren, namely snow orcs, would often ambush unwary travellers as they left the Vale.
Preperations were made, protective magics were cast, and they were ready to move out. Before she swung the huge gates open Dana asked them, as she did all her travelling companions, to not attack the orcs. They were, in the eyes of M'Gok Tukar, bad brothers, but to Dana they were, nonetheless, brothers. To ensure their safe passage she cast a spell of invisibility upon each of them in turn.
The heavy gates creaked open, cold air flowed freely around their bodies, they set foot out of the Vale. Just outside the gates a burning cart signified the presence of the mountain orcs, with trepidation they moved on.
Then, up above, she saw one. He appeared not to have seen them, a good sign, they would pass unseen.
Forwards, then with alarm she heard Tomi give a whoop, and he was running straight towards the orc. She shouted at him to stop, but he either didn't hear her, or he chose not to. Then she saw Garrak also running that way. Tomi struck down the first orc, again she called to her companions to cease. For a moment Garrak hesitated, or did he just miss his footing? Whichever it was he resumed his charge.
She could not bear to watch this madness, and with a rapidly rising temper she turned on her heel and returned to the Vale.
Upon entering the gates she dispelled the magics protecting her, refastened her sword in its custom made sling on her shoulder and stormed through the settlement.
Was her foul mood apparent in her face she wondered. As she approached each of the militia, who's task it was to keep the Vale secure, they met her gaze,then quickly looked away.
Not even taking the time to appreciate her body as they normally would.
She knew where she would go, there could only be one place, her home, M'Gok Tukar.
Anger warmed her body, and instead of stopping at the hot springs to bathe, as was her normal routine, she made her way to the only place on Vives she felt secure.
She stormed across the bridge, not once pausing, as was her habit, to touch those massive ropes that supported it. The same ropes Tukar had used that memorable day he had single handedly defeated the army of the evil Midorans, and in so doing, taken his own life.
Barely a glance skywards at the huge statue of the man, arms uplifted in victory.
Without a word of greeting she passed the guards positioned at the cavelike entrance to the settlement, straight past the cave the shamans and her father used for their daily tasks.
She had but one purpose at this moment, she needed more than anyhing to unleash some anger before she struck out at, and probably killed, some innocent passer-by.
The pillar, the vaunted 'Whack whack pillar'
Nobody knew the origins of this enchanted stone, obviously it had supported some structure, possibly a temple, in the days before M'Gok Tukar sprung up at this place.
For countless years the orclun that lived in M'Gok Tukar had battered this pillar with every kind of weapon imaginable, never once had it taken so mauch as a scratch.
It was perfect for her needs.
She approached the pillar, drew forth the massive sword that was almost the same size as she. Out of habit, more than intention, she cast a spell of flame upon the blade. Laying the great weapon down she tightened the leather straps she wore about her hand to prevent blistering when the sword was used for prolonged periods.
She flexed her fingers, picked the sword up from where it lay, and with a roar that drew the attention of everyone in the basin she set to attacking the pillar.
Five minutes of this relentless pounding and she was starting to weaken, but her anger was passing too, the sweat poured out of her hair and ran in rivulets down her back, between the shoulder blades. The leather she wore chafed, made her sore, but it was good, it was positive, it was low pain, but it was pain, a distraction.
As her anger died down she recalled the charge her two freinds had made to mind. Once more the anger flowed, albeit to a lesser degree. With renewed vigour she struck the stone, ten times, a hundred, she knew not.
Then, as she began to tire once more, a particularly heavy blow, one that suprised even she, landed upon the stone. A stinging in her shin, a trickle of blood. She stopped her attack, looked down.
At her feet a piece of stone, small, triangular, a different colour from the ones that were the regular surface.
She knew not why, but she picked it up, it was, after all, just a stone.Then she sensed it, a feeling of magical energies were flowing in this shard.
Slowly she raised her eyes to the pillar. Could it be?
She ruled the idea out immediately. How could it possibly be.
Despite herself, she began scanning the surface of the stone. Scrutinising it. Then she saw it. At about her waist height, slightly to the right of center, a chip mark.
With trembling fingers she tried the shard against the mark on the pillar. It was a colour match, but the shape was not the same.
She laughed to herself, quietly. How could she be so stupid as to think .............. wait.
If she turned the shard ........ this way, angled it slightly ........she faltered. This could not be. A pefect match.
With her heart pounding in her breast she looked about quickly, was anyone watching? Had they seen?
She knew without doubt that what she had done was momentous, but what would be the reaction of the tribe. A human girl had managed to perform an act no orclun had achieved.
She dropped her sword, ran as fast as her legs would carry her across the loose shingle to the shamans cave, and her father.
Breathless, sweaty, dirty and confused she ran to the man she knew as father.
Barely able to make herself understood she gibbered to him what she had done. He insisted on seeing for himself the mark on the pillar. He had no reason to doubt his adoptive daughter, but he wanted to be sure of his facts before he notified the chief.
Together they sprinted back to the 'Whack whack' and she pointed out the mark to him. He ran his fingers over it, told his daughter to place the shard back into the mark so there could be no doubt.
Trembling fingers made the positioning of the shard difficult. More than once she had to turn it, slide it, shift it slightly, until it fitted snugly back in place.
The old orcs face lit up, a grin reached from one cheek to the other. He embraced his daughter in such a fashion as to temporarily cause her to stop breathing.
She asked him if he was proud of her. The old orc could not bring himself to words, with glazed eyes he nodded.
Some minutes later, after he had regained his composure, he instructed her to take the shard to chief Borogask Gukharhog. To tell him of this wonderful news.
She asked that he accompany her, share the glory his daughter would have heaped upon her, but the big orc simply shook his head. This was her moment, she should enjoy it.
She hurried to the halls. Chief Borogask Gukharhog was sitting in his huge thronelike chair, speaking to Gub Guk. She approached, stood respectfully until the menfolk had concluded their talk.
Chief Borogask, noticing her there, bade her come forwards. Making sure to keep her head lowered she did as he asked.
Once again she related her story, showed the shard to him. Once again, as had her father, Borogask insisted he be shown the pillar, and the place the shard had been struck from.
This she duly did, looking to the chiefs face for reaction. But reaction was something this elder of elders was well learned in disguising.
He turned to her, and in a voice that carried no emotion whatsoever he congratulated her. She searched deeply into his eyes for a response, anything.
Yes, there it was. Hidden, but there. A light of happiness shone through.
There would be feasting, there would be dancing, there would be much joy. These words said more as instructions than as an affirmation of his emotions.
She asked what should she do with the shard. It belonged to the tribe.
The old chief said the shard was surely hers and hers alone. That she should have the shard mounted into a ring, that its magic might protect her with a skin as strong as the 'Whack whack' pillar itself.
As he walked away, back to the halls she saw Ungugla by the fire.
She had always envied Ungugla her strength, her fine features, her wonderful orclun female body, made for the creation of orclun young, envied her the pretty nose she had.
She curled her fingers around the shard of stone.
Ungugla had never accomplished -THIS-
Dana, her temper forgotton, skipped down the shingley hillside, straight towards Ungugla.
She reasoned that after the chief, after her father, -SOMEBODY- had to be the first person she told.
Who better .......... than Ungugla |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 02 Jun 2006 10:32 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Taking Action
A Fictrix/Shadow production
Another wet day in port. Was there any other type?
Dana splashed her way up the cobbled approach to the Broken Mask tavern. She entered and made her way to the bar. Her rental was due payment and she had no desire to lose the roof over her head.
She made her greetings to Margeret, and a brief nod to the girl seated a few feet away, at the end of the bar.
She handed over the payment due, the room was hers for a while longer now.
As Margeret took the gold coins from her she thanked Dana, calling her by her name, as was the norm.
Dana was vaguely aware that the mention of her name stirred something in the girl seated a few feet from her. A slight tilt of the head, a glance. Dana could not tell, but the girls interest had without doubt,been piqued.
The girl was, on closer examination, stunningly beautiful. Her hair was the most eye-catching feature. It was incredibly long, and fiery red. Seated as she was, it was not easy to guess the length, but it hung to below the seat of the stool she was perched upon almost to the floor. At the girls hip hung a pair of short bladed lightweight swords.
Immediately suspicious of this attention, Dana readied herself, her right hand almost imperceptively moving to the right side of her body, the side that was away from the girl.
The girl cast a quick glance to Margeret, a look was exchanged between them, she turned slightly on the stool to face Dana and spoke.
"You are Dana?" it could have been a question, or a statement.
She nodded a response and said that indeed she was.
The girl smiled at her, warm but unsure. She seemed unduly nervous, considering the only patrons in the bar were herself, Dana and Esteban.
"We have heard of you, have wanted to meet with you for some time"
The 'We' was not lost on Dana, and she expressed curiousity.
No explanation was offered, this Dana accepted. Many people in port had good reason not to disclose their trade, or their acquaintnaces.
The girl thrust out a hand, introduced herself as Natarsha, not giving her birthname, nor where she was from.
Dana had learned this custom of shaking hands just the day before, from Cedrych, she grasped Natarsha's hand a little to firmly and shook it vigourously.
Natarsha motioned that they move to one of the more private side tables, which they duly did. On standing, Dana noticed that the girls hair came down almost to her knees.
Seating themselves at the table Natarsha quickly came to the point. She, and some friends of hers, had heard about Dana's reputation as a hater of all things Midoran, and were keen to see if she was prepared to do somthing that would be of aid.
Dana's interest was immediate and avid.
Natarsha went on to explain a bit more about their goals, their dreams, for the future of Midor. Dana listened intently, hanging on every word.
Suddenly, without warning Natarsha stood and sugegsted they take a walk to another tavern she knew of.
Dana said she would be happy to.
Together they set off from port.
They exited the main gates, crossed the moat and made a path towards the Four Winds.
Not long into their journey, just below the infirmary run by the sisters, Natarsha stopped, lowered her voice, checked they had not been followed, and in hushed tones began to speak.
She told Dana of a caravan, a Midoran military caravan carrying supplies of metal from Mineath to the white city.
The group that Natarsha represented wanted that caravan destroyed, but, none of the guards must die. Instead they were to made scared and allowed to return to Midor to spread fear and discord with the stories they would tell.
Dana hesitated, told Natarsha that she could easily destroy the caravan, but how was she to scare the guards?
Natarsha assured her that they would come up with something.
She told Dana to meet 'them' in the Sunix woods, one week from this day. To approach with caution, and to watch out for a pre-arranged signal, which she demonstrated, that would indicate a trap or problem, meaning Dana should not come close to them.
For the following seven days Dana dreamt up ideas, some good, some not so good, and some which were downright ridiculous.
Eventually she decided that to capture the red guards escorting the caravan she would use one of the flying hand spells, then, once caught, she had a scroll that would summon forth a demon as big as a house. That, she thought, would scare them pretty badly.
However, little did she realise just how creative her new friends could be.
For Dana, the week following the meeting with Natarsha could not pass quickly enough. She longed for the opportunity to hit Midor, and hit it hard.
For the last few months, ever since her arrival in port, she had listened to boring people, in boring taverns, drinking boring ale, talk endlessly about the problems with Midor. They all agreed on one thing, something needed to be done.
But did they ever get off their fat idle arses and do anything? NO, they sat and talked, and they drank ale, and Dana got more and more frustrated about Midor, Vidus and most of all about the fools who talked.
Her adoptive father used a human expression to describe such inneffectual behaviour. They 'talked a good fight'
Well Dana had never been one for talking, she was going to do something.
A few days before the 'job', as she liked to call it, took place, she tentatively asked Lucius if he would write some scrolls for her that she needed for her plan. He had said that he would be happy to, until she asked for ten of them.
Naturally enough his interest was aroused, and she found that she was going to have to tell him of the task facing her if she was going to get those scrolls written.
She explained to him vaguelly what the task entailed, for she herself had very little idea. He wanted to know about her newfound friends. She told him she knew little of them, which was the truth, she had only met Natarsha the one time, and none of the others, however many of them there was.
He made noises of displeasure at her, but agreed to write the scrolls, and for that she was grateful.
However, a dispute between herself and Lucius led to a temporay split in their relations, and the scrolls were never written.
She sent word to Natarsha that she would need to meet with her. Dana's fervent wish was for this job to be a success. She hoped Natarsha's friends could supply the scrolls.
The meetng was quickly arranged, they met once again in the Broken Mask, this time three of them came. A curiously silent girl, who sat some distance away, and a man who Natarsha introduced as Dorson. He was possibly the most nondescript person Dana had ever laid eyes upon.
Dana took an instant dislike to Dorson, but kept her feelings well hidden.
Dorson, it appeared, would be responsible for the writing of the scrolls. Dana explained to him what it was she needed. He seemed to have doubts he could produce them, but said he would do what he could.
Natarsha was interested to hear the plan Dana had come up with, and with much enthusiasm she related to them what she had decided.
It was quickly apparent that Dana's masterstroke was met with a less than lukewarm reception.
Without dismissing it out of hand Natarsha said that she had envisaged something grander. Dana leaned forward to hear what the girl had in mind.
One word. Roc's
Dana was suprised at the revalation, she had seen these creatures before up in the mountains, indeed, poor Lucius had been felled by one on the trip to acquire dragons blood for her father.
How, she enquired of Natarsha, was she supposed to bring forth a Roc?
Natarsha seemed genuinely supriesed. One? That would be no use, they wanted many such creatures.
Dana dropped back in her chair. She had no idea how this feat was to be achieved, all her careful planning was tossed aside
Natarsha assured her not to worry, that the job could indeed be done, and to leave much of the worrying to her friends.
For this at least, Dana was pleased.
The meeting was broken up, and the group left as silently as they had come.
Finally the day arrived. Dana had slept little that night. Lucius had been restless, but anticipation and excitement were the main factors in her lack of rest.
Despite this she rose early, earlier than usual. Washed, dressed herself, and paced the port for several hours before she had to leave for the forest.
Travelling by ox cart, then horse, courtesy of Shira, then another ox cart, she arrived in good time at the great plains.
Casting magics of seeing she ensured she was not being followed, keeping ever vigilant she made her way through the Midoran farmlands, past the outpost to the Sunix woods.
There she sat on the damp ground and waited.
Not long after she was disturbed by footsteps behind her. Turning she saw Natarsha and Dorson. She still didn't like him.
A quick look at Natarsha revealed that the sign of trouble they had agreed on was not in evidence, things were going to happen.
They made their greetings to each other, the usual smalltalk, then it was straight down to business.
Natarsha revealed to Dana the plan they had come up with. No mention was made of a caravan. Instead, it appeared, the plan was to terrorise Midor itself. A large group of Roc's would be sent to fly the city and wreak terror in their wake.
Dana liked the plan, liked it very much.
She still was no wiser as to how these terrible creatures were to be captured, then controlled
Natarsha turned to Dorson and asked if he had the scrolls that Dana had requested. He replied that indeed he had, and set about searching his person for them. Dana watched with ill concealed contempt.
Finally, he unearthed then from one of his many pockets. She took them, but doubted they would be used. Her plan had been for a caravan, the flying hand scrolls were for the guards, to hold them without harm.
She took the scrolls from Dorson, but she thanked Natarsha.
Natarsha began to outline the plan.
Dana and Dorson would go to the place these Roc's could be found in large numbers.
There Dana, with Dorsons help, would use magics to take the creatures minds and bend them to her command.
Dana interjected that she did not know such magics. She could hold a creature to the spot, but she had never tried to dominate their minds.
The bland Dorson stepped forward with more scrolls for her. Now, he explained, she could.
Taking the strange scrolls she placed them in a handy pocket for ease of use.
Her attention once more to Natarsha.
The remainder of the plan was laid out. The Roc's would be commanded to fly to Midor, and do what Roc's did best.
With the conclusion of the plan made the meeting was at an end. Natarsha made her excuses, and left, leaving Dana and Dorson staring awkwardly at each other. To an observer it would be a difficult task indeed to try and spot which of the pair had the most contempt for the other.
Finally Dorson broke the silence, saying they had best be on their way.
Speaking only when she absolutely had to Dana led the way.
She asked Dorson if he had a woman waiting for him, to which he rather unsuprisingly replied in the negative. Dana bit on her tongue, words longing to spring forth.
She led them back through the outpost, across the plains, through the tunnels of Mineath into the cold chill of the pass, through the Vale. She cast magics of invisibilty upon them both and asked Dorson, as she did all her travelling companions, not to harm the orcs the other side of the gates. He agreed without question.
They exited the Vale, crossed the ice, avoiding the orcs, and entered the tunnels that led to the mountainous area where the Roc's could be found.
Before they left the cover of the tunnels she cast more magics of protection upon them both, Dorson took care of some of his own.
Once ready they stepped outside the cave.
Almost immediately a Roc appeared before them. She was ready. A holding spell for this one kept it from them. Dorson, to his credit, cast the spell of domination. The Roc was sent to a nearby area to await its brothers.
Swiftly they made their way up the mount, Dorson controlling some of the Rocs, Dana the rest. The whole job took only a half hour, Dana got knocked onto her rump more than once, and at one point Dorson was impaled on a beak, very nearly costing him his life. Some hurried bandaging, a couple of miracle potions, and he was shaken, but alive.
Just as they were about to conclude and leave they spotted another Roc, this one bigger, different in colour, to the others. It was in a place that was unreachable for them, try as they might. A cave spotted further up the mount seemed to offer a platform from which a better line to cast could be taken. With not a little effort, in fact a great deal of effort, the platform was attained, still however the elusive creature teased them.
Dana went inside the cave, Dorson close behind.
The last time she had come here the cave had been occupied by a group of strangely coloured dwarves who had refused to acknowledge her presence.
Suprise wrote itself across her face as they entered, no longer were there dwarves, instead a band of humans, all dressed alike. As with the dwarves these humans refused to speak.to Dana, they also refused to speak to Dorson.
Then Dorson dropped his voice to a whisper, they were at this time standing a little distance from the group
Dorson half whispered, half hissed to her to notice the clothes they wore, she looked over, took in the clothes. They meant nothing to her whatever.
Dorson pointed out certain features of the clothing, the colours, the symbols. These were Aristi
It was agreed they should leave, and did so forthwith.
The Roc above the cave still eluded their best efforts at control, but they decided they had enough to send.
The massive creatures were sent on their way, and Dorson made his excuses and left Dana, saying he had business to attend. She was not sorry to see him go.
Casting a magic of speed upon her feet she ran back to the Midor famlands, the closest she had ever been to the white city. Casting a spell of invisibility upon herself she found a place to sit and watch the show. She could not see the panic that ensued inside the walls, she would hear of that later, but she could see the enormous flying terrors swoop and glide above the walls.
Never before had she felt such a sense of achievement, a sense of satisfaction.
She watched as a stray Roc came her side of the walls, swooping down with devastating effect upon a bunch of soldiers.
Despite her efforts at hiding herself, remaining unseen she laughed. She laughed and she laughed until she truly believed her ribs would crack.
How she wished she could bring those pathetic specimines who spoke a good fight out here now, show them that THIS was how it was done. Not by sitting on their huge backsides talking all day.
She, Dana, was doing something |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 02 Jun 2006 08:53 PM |
Taking Action: An Epilogue
They met after the bombardment somewhere beneath the Sunix Woods, taking whatever precautions were available to them to ensure that they were not followed. Quia had noted that something small, green and glowing had been hovering around during the meeting, but it seemed that it was not spying on them: the pixie followed Dana all throughout the day, so she assumed that it was her Familiar.
It worked perfectly, Natarsha signed, her long and slender finger moving animatedly. If anyone died of it, I seriously doubt they'll stay dead for long. Midoran's efficiency works against him now. He or his priests— an emphatic jab, —will HAVE to act immediately to recover any casualties to save face. In the ensuing diversion... we make our move.
Lance nodded, gesturing back. I doubt Midoran will deign to use his power to fix the property damage, meaning that—on top of the supply attacks we've been running—the war will continue on the economical front. By now, the nobles of Midor probably have forty or more merchants clamouring for compensation, and that number will double by next week. Before long, the nobles are going to turn to the Church and complain—if they haven't already.
They'd been careful in the selection of their targets. Nothing that would disadvantage the common folk. Nothing that would bring the government directly down on top of their heads. Just the private supply lines of the upper class—the extraneous luxuries and exotic artworks that only bored nobles with too much money and no sense of noblesse oblige would purchase.
The witch worries me. She has no scruples and a great deal of hatred for Midor, Natarsha told him. There were nods of assent from Dorson and Quia.
If she uses her own initiative and attacks Midor, Midor will move against her. I very much doubt she will be able to move subtly enough to avoid their notice. She'll want to attack them directly. Her reaction to the Mineath plan gives us enough of a psychological reading to go by, Lance pointed out.
And if Midor doesn't or can't defend itself against her? Cherita asked.
Lance flashed an ironic smile. Then we'll have to save Midor, won't we? |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 04 Jun 2006 09:46 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Taking Action, part two
She was closer to Midor than she liked to be. The woods near to Paws offered some cover, but she was still very nervous.
The events of the day before had given her an idea, and she was curious to see if she could accomplish the task.
She pulled from her bag a helm, it was a frightful looking thing, but a gift from her father and enchanted many times. She rarely wore it, finding the metallic interior to be both claustrophobic and hot. However, should things not go her way she did not want to take the chance of anyone seeing her face.
She cast upon herself many protections. Sufficient for any situation. Once happy with her preparations she took a deep breath, and stepping from the undergrowth emerged into the village of Paws unseen.
She wandered the area, keeping away from the road that served the various buildings scattered around this poor settlement. She slipped from bush to barrel to tree, always trying to remain as difficult to spot as possible. She had cast the magics of invisibilty to hide herself, normally this was enough, but she knew some people had the gift of keen eyes that could see through such protections. Indeed, she had the ability herself.
For about an hour she watched the patrolling red gaurds of Midor, made mental note of how often they crossed paths, where the fewest gathered, and the time they spent unseen by others of their kind.
Eventually she found the spot she sought. The village had an exit to the rear of the old broken down tavern, the back yard of the tavern was littered with hiding places suitable for her needs.
She observed that a red gaurd would patrol the area, shortly after he would be joined by another, and one of those women carrying a mages staff. The three would head to the entrance that led to the sea, then they would turn, head back towards the village. One of the red guards and the woman mage would keep going to the village centre, but the remaining guard would head to the exit she favoured, stand there briefly, unseen by his brother guards, before repaeting the same patrol pattern.
She had a plan.
She moved to the back yard of the tavern, she found herself more nervous than she had expected. Possibly this was because she was so heavily outnumbered, possibly because she doubted her abilities. She had come this far, to turn back now would show cowardice.
Dana's upbringing as a warrior meant that she would not tolerate cowardice. Especially in herself.
She lodged herself between two crates and the railed fence. For some good time she sat there, checking and rechecking that her previous observations had been correct.
Movement to her right, here he was, her target. She watched him as he passed her position, moved to her left, she checked the road to her right. Here were the other red guard and the woman. Her target moved back the way he had come, met the others at the point the road formed a 'T' and together they walked towards the coast. They stopped, turned and came back, as they always did. At the 'T' they broke up, the two left the one, she started counting. From the moment the guard was no longer in the sight of his fellows, to the moment he arrived at the gate to the woods it was fifteen seconds. He turned, walked back to the village. From the gate to the point where his fellow guards regained sight of him it was another seven seconds. It was not long, but she didn't need long.
Two more times she watched him pass, and return, the times she had taken the first time remained fairly consistant with each pass. A second shorter on one occasion, four seconds longer on another.
The next pass would be the one, she decided.
She watched and waited.
As he drew level with her hiding place she stood, using all her concentration she cast a spell at the man, at the same time she focused her substantial will upon him.
Nothing seemed to happen, he carried on walking. With a silent curse she sat again. The guard seemed not to have noticed anything, barely breaking his pace.
She would try one more time, if she did not succeed she would leave.
Here he came, she waited, sweat ran unchecked down her helmetted face. He drew level, she stood, hurriedly checked the road, and repeated the procedure.
To her delight and suprise he stopped.
She watched, he seemed to be stunned, she had little time. She broke her cover, ran to his side, and as quietly as she could told him to follow her, she cast a spell of sight, so he could see her. She ran to the gate that led to the woods, looking back she saw the man was indeed following her.
She entered the woods, looked back, he was coming.
No sign of his returning colleagues, she estimated it would be a few more seconds yet before they reached the rendezvous point.
She hissed at him to hurry, he broke into a run, joined her.
Looking about, then rechecking the way they had come to ensure they were not being followed she again instructed him to follow her, but at a short distance.
She ran through the woods, past the shoreline where numerous small ships had been wrecked, through the mountainous regions where a tribe of her brethren had homes. Once they made the plains she stopped, cast a spell upon him to make him unseen, then she ran across the plains, through the caverns they called Mineath, through the Vale. She knew where this man would meet his end already.
She led him out of the Vale, past the bad brothers who watched the top gate, and into the caves, the very ones she had entered with Dorson.
At the point where she and Dorson had taken a fork to the right she went left, not far beyond, she knew, there was a tribe of particularly vicious dwarven folk, they could often be found gathered in the tunnels passing time.
She bade the man follow her, led him unseen into the very midst of them. Using the power of her mind she made him stop, a few of the dwarves actually brushed against them as they stood there unseen.
She manouvered herself out of the throng carefully, took a position where she could observe. Using her will, and much mental effort, she used the power of her mind again. This time she instructed the man to attack the dwarves, which he duly set about doing.
At his first strike the dwarves became aware of him, and reacted just as she knew they would. Many times she herself had faced these small men, knew them to be extremely tough. She had to admit, grudgingly, that the red guard handled himself rather well, laying low many of his foes, but she could see he was getting grevious wounds himself.
She watched the show avidly. For some minutes the guard lashed out at the dwarves who completely surrounded him.
She laughed to herself as his blood ran freely, not from the many punctures in his armour, but from between the places where plate met plate. Loss of blood, the weight of his sword and armour, and overwhelming numbers finally dropped him to his knees, where with a triumphant shout one of the dwarves impaled him upon a blade.
The red guard groaned, a peculiar sound, his sword and shield fell from his lifeless fingers, and with a crash of metal on rock he fell face down onto the stone floor.
The dwarves gathered around him, they spoke for a few minutes in tongue she did not know, then entered the lower cavern, presumably to report what had happened.
She stepped forward once they had left
The blood covered remains of the guard lifeless beneath her, four dead dwarves around him. She bent over him, removed the helm from his head.
She rolled him onto his back, dead lifeless eyes stared into hers. Such a pretty face. She wondered if some Midoran bitch would be sleeping alone this night fearing her man a deserter.
She could see now that his shield arm was almost severed right through, she dipped her finger into his blood, lifted the front of her helm, tasted him.
The sound of footsteps returning from the lower levels. Had she time to take a trophy? She decided she probably had not.
Reluctantly she stood, passed her eyes once more over this mess of humanity, turned her back and walked from the cave.
One down, just a few thousand more to go. Safely out of earshot of the dwarves she roared laughter.
Dana was doing something |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 06 Jun 2006 02:18 PM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Into Maldovia
A Fictrix production
((some liberties taken here with the order of events, to include them all would have made this installment far to long))
The day began badly, she awoke alone, he had slept elsewhere this night.
For Dana, waking was never a problem. She was one of those people who can leap from their bed and be fresh and ready to embrace a new day heartily.
She pushed the bedsheets away and stood, stretched, yawned once and set to her daily baths. It was on bending to collect her clothes, discarded on the floor as usual, that she saw the note.
It had been pushed under her door some time during the night.
Instantly she recognised the style, it was from Lucius.
Obviously he was still mad at her, or he would have had the decency to explain the contents to her himself. The note meant little to her, something of a trip to Maldovia to speak to someone called Corona.
Baffled, she was already aware of the trip, she tucked the note away. The note mentioned Corona, who that was exactly she did not know, the note indicated that Lucius would probably not be accompanying her.
She determined to make the trip at once.
Hastily finishing dressing she made her way to the main part of the tavern, gave Margeret her usual greeting, and made tracks to the door to the street.
Seated at the last table, the one nearest the door, Sam. No matter her mood, the sight of Sam never failed to lift her spirits..
He had never betrayed her, had always been supportive, and, when it mattered, he'd always been prepared to stand at her side against often overwhelming foes.
She smiled warmly to him as she approached, and without waiting for an inviatation, seated herself by him at the table.
At first the conversation was of trivialities, they enquired after the health of each other and caught up on the latest escapades they had indulged themselves in.
Finally she mentioned that she was taking a trip to Maldovia, alone, to meet someone called Corona. She handed Sam the note she had recieved that morning and he read it through quickly. He told her that he had journeyed to Maldovia many times, but did not know this Corona person.
However, as she had expected, Sam said he would be pleased to accompany her.
As if on cue the door to the street opened and in marched Lucius. His mood seemed still to be cool.
He approached the two of them at the table, but made no attempt to sit.
He got straight to the point, the reason he was there. The note needed further explanation.
With that, he began.
The woman, Corona, was to examine Dana for signs that she may still carry some kind of mark on herself, placed by the snake women. It appeared that Lucius had spoken to some woman called Zadia Scarfell, and the chances that Dana had not been completely cured by her fathers potion was a distinct possibility. Whilst her physical state was good, there could be damage to her mind.
She recieved this latest with some alarm, although her expression remained unchanged by concious effort.
Lucius said that she was to seek out this Corona, and tell her that he had spoken to Zadia Scarfell, and to ask for an examination.
Sam listened in, and added his own remarks on occasion.
It quickly became apparent that Sam's memory for names was almost as bad as Dana's inability to pronounce them.
Many times Lucius explained to them what needed doing, names and places to mention.
Just as many times Dana and Sam got either the names of the people or the places he mentioned confused.
Showing remarkable patience, Lucius finally got his message across to them, then he departed with hardly a farewell to her.
Sam looked at Dana, after Lucius left, and she looked at Sam. Already Dana's head was swimming with mixed up names. She hoped Sam was fairing better than she.
Sam remarked that they should start to prepare for their journey, take only the essentials. Dana went to collect her 'snack-bag', Sam headed to Miggens pie-shop.
The two of them met outside Aramani's, made their way to the Pearl and thence to the undercity where they caught the boat to Maldovia.
They disembarked and readied themselves.
The journey to the sunbringers, the place Lucius said the woman Corona could be found, was eventful, but no more so than usual ((journey omitted to prevent spoilers))
As they walked they reminded each other of the facts Lucius had given them so their would be no confusion when they arrived. Unfortunately, like the game of whispers, the story became slightly twisted, the more it was told.
They enetered the rather palatial building, made their way to the place they thought they would find their contact.
One last time they went over the facts. They didn't want to look foolish. They agreed, they were looking for a woman called Claudia Truffle, Lucius had met someone called Corona in some woods somewhere. And Dana was possibly sick in the head.
Certain they had everything correct they approached a woman who sold supplies to travelling groups.
They made tentative introductions, and to their suprise the woman began to lecture them on the hazards of killing the nasties that inhabited the Bloodwood and Maldovia. The two of them exchanged looks, then decided to let the woman have her say. She continued to harry them with her arguements for some minutes before they asked if she could direct them to Claudia Truffle, who was to examine Dana's head ........... or something.
Understandably the woman seemed not to understand. They tried again.
They explained to her that Lucius had spoken to someone called Corona in some woods, and this Corona said that Dana should see another woman called Claudia ..
Sam intejected. "ZADIA", he exclaimed.
Dana nodded, that was the name Zadia Truffle.
Still the woman looked perplexed, she hazarded to them that perhaps -her- name might be Corona.
Sam and Dana stood silently looking at her before Sam asked if she was called Corona. The woman said that indeed she was.
Again our hapless adventurers exchanged looks.
"We've come ta tha wrong place" Sam finally exclaimed.
Dana's heart sank. If this was not the right place, where should they be?
The woman asked that they explain calmly what exactly it was they sought.
Wasn't that what they had already done?
So, once more, with some helpful hints from the woman Corona, the story was finally re-assembled into a likeness of its original form.
It turned out the woman Lucius had spoken to was called Scarfel. Sam and Dana wondered where he had got 'Truffle' from, but they deigned to let that one go.
Corona finally coerced the full story out of them, and she agreed to take a look at Dana, bidding her sit on the nearby cushions.
She sat as was requested, Corona stood over her, arms upraised.
Not sure what to expect Dana closed her eyes tightly. She heard the words of magics being spoken felt the strange sensations as the magics felt their way through her head. She dared to open one eye, then seeing she was unhurt and not in any immediate danger, the other one.
She felt the power of Corona's mind probing hers, felt the magics seeking unknown presences.
After what seemed an age, Corona relaxed her body, Dana felt the link that had joined their minds weakening then parting.
Corona looked down at her.
"I can sense nothing, if there is anything inside you, it is so deeply buried that I am unable to detect it"
Dana asked if that indicated she had nothing to fear
Corona shook her head, saying that although she could detect nothing that was not a reason to rejoice.
She suggested Dana and Sam go speak to the young man seated in the corner. Lex
So quiet was this individual that until this point Dana had been unaware of his presence.
They thanked Corona for her time, made their way across to speak to Lex.
Lex was a strange person indeed, apart from his odd way of speaking, he had no flesh on his arm below the elbow of his left arm. She found her eyes drawn to his right arm, found her mouth watering.
Lex pondered the problem Dana posed him. Could he probe her mind deeper than Corona could.
He replied he could not, but he thought there was possibly a way it could be done.
His idea was to use Illythid. Probing the mind was their speciality. However, for reasons Dana could not fathom, he said they would have to use the creatures in an undead form.
He assured her that there would be a slight chance of success using this technique. Success at detecting a possible invasion of her mind, but no mention was made of a cure.
Dana was sure Sam was as unconvinced as she.
Lex requested they bring him two or more of the creatures, dead. He would do the rest.
They agreed to this, and with no further words Lex retook his seat and seemed to have become unaware of their presence.
Sam and Dana exchanged looks again, then without another word they left.
They were confused by what had just taken place. Confused, bewildered, and no nearer understanding what they had gone there for than when they had entered.
They would do what Lex asked, not because they trusted him or his methods, but because thats the sort of people they were. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 07 Jun 2006 08:16 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Kows, kegs and Karkus
An Exile production
For some long time now, Dana, and many of the residents of Vives, both 'creature' and those who had an affinity to them, had felt strange urges. Longings. Desires.
Unlike some of the less well informed, Dana knew why.
The Bloodmoon approached, a time of celebration and excess in M'Gok Tukar
Preparations had been underway for some good time, she herself had hunted Kows with Zadush and Caddo. The ale kegs were topped, the invitations to the honoured guests long since sent.
Now the day had arrived.
It had been several days now since Lucius had decided to throw her away again, but this time she had been speaking to people, trying to convey with her limited vocabulary how her heart was torn, her belly feeling always empty. Love, for indeed that is what it was, had been a new experience for Dana. Emotions she never expected to have rose to the surface in a torrent, suprising herself, and, it would seem, Lucius. At first she had thought herself to be ill, but since speaking with other women she now recognised it for what it was.
She was coming to terms with this latest crisis of the heart far better than she had the previous time. The general opinion of those she spoke to was that it was unfair of Lucius to pick her up and put her down like a pet, every time he had a tantrum about something.
Obviously her love was not reciprocated, if he found it so easy to dismiss her from his life with barely a wave of his hand.
She had taken some convincing, but eventually she had bowed to the more worldly views of those she spoke to. Seemingly they had all been in a similar situation at one time of their lives or another.
So, this time she ignored the screams from her heart, although this proved harder to do than she at first imagined, and concentrated on living her life. She still felt those emotions bubbling under the surface whenever she laid eyes on him, but nobody would have known.
Times like now. She alighted the ox cart in Brandibuck, her travelling companion was Alis, one of Dana's greatest friends. No sooner had she jumped down, straightened her skirt, pushed back the tangled mess that passed for hair, than she noticed the familiar stride coming towards her. Lucius.
He approached them, asked where they were headed.
As much as possible she avoided his eyes, her attention taken by a tree, a rock, anything but to look into those eyes.
She replied absently, while speaking to a spot some few feet in front of her, that they were headed to M'Gok Tukar for the Bloodmoon feast, many were that day, for word had spread fast.
Lucius said he would accompany them the rest of the way. She said he was welcome to join them, but her legs trembled.
The journey between Brandibuck and the the plains was a silent affair, poor Alis sitting squeezed between the two of them, a most unfortunate position. The only sounds came from the hooves of the ox, the creaking, rattling of the cart as it bumped its way along the dirt tracks, the occasional roar of distant bears.
It was with some relief they arrived at the plains, Dana jumped down first, helped Alis to alight, watched Lucius jump down.
Then they set off, through the Mineath, the Vale, into Gladden and on to M'Gok Tukar. The sun was low in the sky, the moon a deep red by the time they reached the bridge that spanned the watery grave of those many Midorans
As always, the moment she stepped out of the approach tunnel, and into the familiar surroundings of her home, her heart lifted. Tonight though, it swelled as it had never swelled before.
The mood was electric. The atmosphere in the small basin that formed the greater part of M'Gok Tukar almost tangible.
A glance around showed her that she and her companions were some of the later arrivals. The honoured guests, chiefs from nearby tribes, had already assembled and were enjoying the hospitality of chief Borogask
To the left of the entrance was the food and the ales.
Eleven kows had been slain for this nights festivities, and one lay unbutchered on its side, the massive bulk of the creature dwarfing all the revellers bar one.
Standing by the felled kow, towering over it, Karkus, the king of the mountain giants.
Orsk and Ophelia had travelled ahead, they couldn't have arrived more than a few minutes before Dana, and it appeared that the giant king was more than slightly interested in her (Ophelia) already.
He stood feeding her meat and when the rain began to fall he used his massive hands to shelter her from the worst of it.
Ophelia, for her part, seemed somewhat over-awed by the attention.
There was much drinking of ale, Dana was feeling primal, and she eyed the many bottles that called to her with barely supressed temptation. She knew what the possible consequences would be should she so much as lift one of them to her lips.
She fought the temptation away, reaching instead for a skein of water.
She searched faces. She noticed some were absent. Salt she had invited, Oragastus and Garrak too, all were absent.
As she seated herself on one of the log seats that surrounded the always roaring fire, chief Borogask made his entrance.
Raising his mighty voice he called for silence. Everyone fell silent, everyone that is, except Lucius and his wizard friends who were arguing animatedly about that pathetic stick he insisted on carrying with him, and which now lay next to her, well wrapped, tied to her pack. Lucius was unaware she still had the cursed thing.
The chief made his short speech, then bade everyone make merry. There was much howling from those assembled, Dana fought down the urge to join in, preffering instead to watch. This was Dana's first Bloodmoon and she wanted to enjoy it as both participant and observer.
Dana had in her bag some small gifts she had acquired in readiness for the feast, and it was at this point she chose to place them. She had made from the skins of polar bears three sets of very warm leather armour, she also had the freshly skinned pelts of ten more of these bears, intended for the beds of the younger orcluns. These she deposited in the hall, then she made her way to her fathers place.
She greeted him, asked him why he was not outside with everyone else. He replied his work kept him, but he was almost done and would join the fun very soon. She gave him the gifts that were valued the highest. Thirteen vials of blood. Dragons blood.
He smiled toothily at her, thanked her deeply, then bid her return to the festivities.
She needed no second bidding. As she emerged outside once again it appeared she had just missed some kind of arguement or disagreement between some of those assembled. She paid it no mind. High spirits, the Bloodmoon, ale, all the ingredients were here for an explosive situation.
Then chief Borogask called for quiet, and when he had it, introduced Ungugla. She would, he said, tell the story behind the Bloodmoon. Without further ado Ungugla launched into the tale of the hunt that led to a mighty battle of the gods between Gruin and Tarik. Dana had heard the story at this very fireside many times before, but to many there it was new, and the crowd was silent, except for three wizards, talking all the way through.
She made her way to the food, Lucius sidled up to her and spoke in hushed tones, as if anyone was going to hear anything over the ruckus that was happening.
At first she was not sure she had heard right. Here, in M'Gok Tukar, on the most important night there had been in her life, he was asking if she still had that cursed staff. Anger boiled in her, she controlled herself, turning to him instead and telling him in a voice that dripped venom that she had burned the thing.
He went back to his wizard friends to tell them the news. She went and sat back on her log, glaring at the trio with contempt.
Not ten minutes had passed and he came over to her again. Looking meek he asked if she would tell him where she had destroyed his ridiculous toy. He took the seat next to her.
She rose, unstrapped the heavily padded thing from her pack, and thrust it into his chest, forcefully.
Lowering her voice to be no more than an angry hiss she told him to take the thing, and, to remember just where exactly he was, and what this night meant, and told him to -try- and enjoy himself.
Had Dana been one who understood and used expletives many would have issued from her mouth at that moment.
Him and that stick ......... she fumed.
He happily trotted back to his wizard friends, and they resumed talking about .......... sticks, probably.
Her black mood was lifted minutes later. Her father appeared at her side, she stood to honour him.
He lifted his hands in a signal for those around to silence their tongues, then, while trying to remain solemn, but with a broad grin etched deeply into his face, he informed her that she had been chosen to perform for the feast.
An honour indeed. She shot a quick glance to Ungugla, who seemed not to be concerned, or was masking her feelings extremely well, not a thing Ungugla was good at.
She hurried away to prepare, emerging again some minutes later carrying two battleaxes.
With more than a little nervousness she went through the less than graceful dance of the hunt. She was aware that only those who had seen this dance performed before would have more than an inkling of where it was going, but she was proud as proud can be to be doing it, her self-conciousness lifted and she threw herself into the routine.
The dance was not very long, and once finished she lowered her head in honour to the guests, laid the axes upon the ground, and retook her seat.
She told Alis in a slightly lower voice than was her usual that she would explain the dance to her later.
Whilst she was speaking to Alis the giant king, Karkus, had moved across the basin, and was now bent low in conversation with chief Borogask. Their tone was low, and she was painfully aware that she seemed to be the point of their attention.
Finally Karkus raised himself back up to his full height and smiled in a most satisfied way.
That smile worried Dana.
Chief Borogask approached her, addressed her, she stood to face him and lowered her head to show servitude.
Chief Borogask informed her that the giant king, Karkus, had selected her for a bride. He also mentioned that to be chosen was a great priviledge, and in turn heaped honour upon M'Gok Tukar.
She was speechless, before remembering who it was that addressed her. She shook herself back to reality and nervously thanked the chief, saying it was her honour to have been picked. One look at Karkus though, was enough to throw a million doubts into her head.
Why had he picked her, when all the eve he had showered affection upon Ophelia?
She would not try and answer that question just yet.
Reaction to the news was varied. The orclun of M'Gok Tukar were delighted, most the guests seemed pleased, the humans looked confused, Alis looked horrified, Lucius ..... he was standing.
Then, without warning, a crackle of arcane energy. a flash, and stood before Dana was a woman she was sure she had seen somewhere before.
The woman pointed a bony finger at Dana, screamed hatred at her, saying the king of giants was already her husband, and for Dana to forget plans about a wedding. With that she, and Karkus, vanished in another fizzle of arcane energy.
Dana tried to hide her relief. At th moment people began to regain their powers of speech there was a lightning strike, very close to where Dana stood, the womans voice could be heard calling on the wind, another strike. Dana jumped out the way, almost barrelling Alis off her feet.
Then it came, pain. Pain like she had never endured before. Inside her head. Her hands clasped her temples, pressed in to try and relieve it. Her head was splitting open, surely.
It could not get worse, she was sure, yet it did. The intensity of the pain grew and grew until she could no longer support herself, and she fell screaming to her knees, then face down in the dust.
Then, as suddenly as it had come, it passed, the relief from the pressures in her skull so immense that it felt like angels fingers were massaging her scalp.
But, as Dana's pain passed, she was aware that everyone around her seemed to be listening to something. She looked around, yes, everyone. They could all hear something that she could not.
Had she been struck deaf by the pain?
No, she could still hear the fire roar, trees rustling, birds singing. The other guests were focusing on something else.
She asked what it was they could hear.
Voices, was the reply. Snakelike voices, hissing.
She was puzzled that she could not hear somthing that was so obvious to all others, but the lack of pain in her head made her dwell less on this point than she might normally have done.
Finally, things began to return to normal.
Now Lucius was approaching the chief, hushed discussions about challenges ........ was she hearing right? Lucius was going to challenge Karkus for the right to marry her?
The chief dismissed much of what everyone, Lucius included, said after that, saying he needed to have a council meeting.
So, he and the other leaders left for the halls to discuss this latest developement.
Realisation that the night had almost passed, dawn was approaching, the Bloodmoon was over.
Slowly the guests departed. Dana and Alis decided the journey back to port was too long, so they threw a couple of the polar bear skins over themselves and slept the day away.
It had been quite a night. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 09 Jun 2006 08:41 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Talking with the beast
After a day of mining and smelting gold for her friend Alis she returned to the port, rested, bathed and ate.
She retired to her room for a couple of hours sleep, woke refreshed and dressed herself.
The small room she rented at the Broken Mask seemed vast with him not there to share it.
Since he left, almost a week ago, she was coming to terms with another human condition that she had previously never experienced. Loneliness.
Certainly she had her friends, many of them, and they had rallied round her in a way she was both suprised and delighted with.
But her desires ran deeper than mere company could supply.
She checked the contents of her chest before she left the tavern for the day. She had reports of things going astray, a lightfingered member of staff perhaps. Everything seemed to be in its place.
Laying atop her posessions her proudest trinket, if indeed it could be described as such. The huge axe of her tribe.
It saddened her that she had never mastered the weapon to her satisfaction, she had used it many times before she had discovered the massive sword that now stood leaning against the wall of her room.
Whilst the axe had many fine qualities, and had served her well, the sword seemed to fit her better. Certainly she found it less cumbersome to swing, she also seemed to place a blow where it was intended more often.
The huge axe, however, was a part of her life, a part of the history of M'Gok Tukar, never would she part with it.
With a sad smile she caressed the cold metal before covering the axe in its oiled cloth and returning it to its rightful place, on top of her other things.
Turning back she went to the sword, it stood almost as high as she.
With no small amount of difficulty she manouvered it into the custom made strap harness that kept it in its place when she travelled.
She made her way from the tavern, into the street, and across the square to where Jusin stood waiting by his cart.
She exchanged ten coins for a ride to Buckshire. Jusin spoke proudly of his five children as they bumped along. Five children, how she envied him. Dana wanted a child badly, very badly. She felt she was failing her father by not producing one before now.
His express wish, the day she left M'Gok Tukar, was for her to find a mate, and to bring home at least one child.
As they clattered to a halt outside the Watering Hole she made her farewells to Jusin, then crossed the small hamlet to the trading post. For some days now her supply of bandages had been low, and maybe because of her state of mind, or just because she was previously occupied, had failed to replenish them.
She bought a dozen from Harold the unlikely orclun brother, then made her way to the guildhouse.
Outside the guildhouse she came across Noah and Ophelia engaged in some bartering of goods, she made her way to them and called a welcome.
Both bade her a welcome, and she joined in the idle chatter with them.
Soon, Noah who always seemed to struggle to stay upright, announced he needed rest, and departed, leaving Dana and Ophelia alone.
For some good time they talked, mostly in their native tongue.
Ophelia seemed greatly concerned about some things that had been told to her by others. Things about Dana.
Dana listened with much interest, asked Ophelia who had been spreading these rumours. Ophelia was quite forthcoming, and gave her a list of names of those who spoke before they thought of the consequences.
She mentally filed the names, she would deal with them later.
She did her best to persuade Ophelia that everything she had heard was untrue. Happily the girl accepted Dana's word without question.
Dana made another mental note.
A gift, a -very- expensive gift for Ophelia in the next few days. That should keep the flapping tongues of others from penetrating the girls head, and even less chance, should they succeed, of her believing any of it.
The sound of heavy footfalls approaching made them both turn.
Dana's heart dropped.
Cedrych, the Midoran paladin.
She had warmed to the man since Lucius had asked her to try and be nicer to him, had even begun to grudgingly admit that she liked him, just a little.
However, in recent days her attitude had hardened.
Maybe it was a kick aimed at the absent Lucius, maybe it was just because he (Ced) seemed always to be in company of those two virgin knights lately. Whatever the cause, she was less than happy to see him.
Ophelia, on the other hand, seemed genuinely to like him, and made no attempt to encourage him to move along.
From the other direction Noah happened along again, supposedly rested, but still constantly yawning.
He was, at least, a distraction from Cedrych, who stood there as large around the middle, and just as immovable, as an oak tree.
Talk turned to adventure, although Dana stayed out of that as much as she could, and in particular to the problems caused by the snake women out in the deserts.
Plans were made for an expedition, Dana was asked to accompany them, happily she noted that her lack of a reply seemed to have gone unoticed. Before she drew her sword this day she wanted to see if the Midoran would be accompanying the group, He, like her, had not replied to the request, it was assumed both of them would be going.
As the group readied themselves for departure another came, the girl Zubeida.
She also expressed an interest in going on the adventure.
Whilst everyone prepared with much fuss and clattering of armours, Zubeida asked of Dana if she could accompany her to M'Gok Tukar. It was her wish to speak with Dana's father.
She explained that she had questions she needed answering. Questions that he, and he alone, could answer.
Dana said she would be happy to take her in the very near future.
Finally the group was ready to leave, they turned to go. Ophelia noted Dana did not stand, asked her whether she would be accompanying them.
Dana noted Cedrych was ready to travel, she asked the group in general, except Cedrych himself, if the Midoran was going along, it became clear he was, ha said he was. Dana for her part announced she would not travel with him, and bade them all a farewell and good luck.
Cedrychs reaction, and his muttered answer, did not go unnoticed by Dana.
Then a strange thing. Ophelia turned to Dana and asked in their native tongue for Dana's forgiveness that she was travelling with Cedrych.
Dana, puzzled, said there was nothing to forgive.
Zubeida, noticing Dana was to remain behind, then said she also would not be going, asking instead that Dana take her to M'Gok Tukar to meet her (Dana's) father.
Dana said she would be happy too, and stood to leave.
The two women travelled first by horse from outside the Four Winds.
As usual, Dana, who was not the finest rider in Vives, slipped and fell off in mid-desert. As she stood, covered in sand, she saw that as usual nobody had noticed and they were fast disappearing into the distance.
She resigned herself to a long walk.
Some hours later, in a less than pleasant mood, a dust covered and weary Dana entered Brandibuck.
Zubeida was pacing about near to where the horses were tied, throwing occasional glances up the road in the direction she guessed Dana would appear from.
Happily, for Shira, the groom was absent, no doubt filling her belly in the nearby tavern.
With few words Dana and Zubeida made their way to see Kusin and hired him to transport them to the great plains.
On arrival, in the shadow of the large keep, they jumped from the cart and made their way up the short incline that led to Mineath, thence through the Vale and on to M'Gok Tukar.
As they walked Zubeida proffessed an interest in the events of the Bloodmoon feast. Dana happily related the events, concluding with the proposal of a coupling with Dana and the mountain giant king, Karkus.
Zubeida expressed alarm at this news, seemingly incapable of believing women could be ordered to make a marriage at the whim of tribal elders.
She spoke at length of the days when women were the superiors and were both worshipped and revered by men. She stated how such things would be unheard of in her tribe.
Dana reminded her that she was not of Zubeida's tribe, she was of tribe M'Gok Tukar.
They continued along, agreeing to disagree.
The journey had been long and tiring.
More than anything Dana wanted a wash.
But she hesitated to delay Zubeida any more than she had to. With the briefest of greetings to the guards and Gub Guk they made their way into the cavern used by the tribal shamans.
Upon entering the darkness overwhelmed them, their eyes taking some seconds to become accustomed.
As always Dana made her way to the stone cross just inside the door, stood respectfully before it, dipped her head in a gesture of servitude.
She observed that Zubeida did not follow her example.
They pushed their way through the throng of fire beetles that occupied the cavern, to the very rear and the healing sulphurous steam.
Standing in his favourite spot, in a calm meditative mood, her father.
This was the man who had rescued her when she was in her second summer, had raised her against the wishes of many in the tribe as his own, had nurtured her magical abilities, encouraged her at every step in her short life to do what she believed was right.
He had also given her something else, something Dana would hold dear to her dying day. A sense of belonging, a sense of her history, a sense of family and all the trappings associated with such.
This was the one man in Dana's life who would never fail her, never abandon her.
She was proud to call him Father.
Dana approached him, waited for his attention to return to the present.
Upon laying eyes on his 'daughter' the old shaman broke into a toothy smile.
Dana bowed her head in a show of both respect and servitude. She was pleased to notice that Zubeida lowered herself also.
Lifting her head to make his eye, Dana made her greetings, introduced Zubeida, and explained the reason for the girls presence.
Her father seemed more interested to find out if Dana had spoken to Karkus yet. She replied that she had not, and the shaman said they would speak more on this matter later.
The old orc looked to Zubeida, asked that she make her questions.
Dana sat on the stone floor and arranged her skirt.
Zubeida firstly made a more formal introduction of herself, then reached into her bag to take from it a sizeable chunk of meat. Elephant, she said it was.
The old shaman took the meat with some delight, saying in his place he was pleased to accept such a fine gift.
Zubeida then made her questions of him.
She explained firstly of her tribe, their known history, and that she was here to acquire information about the Mazadhi.
Dana for her part was frankly stunned. She had not asked Zubeida any questions on the road here, but the subject matter was still unexpected.
Quite what she -had- expected she herself was unsure of. Her head for most the journey had been filled with ideas of foods she would be able to eat in comfort, and without criticism, for once.
Zubeida finally finished asking her questions to be met by a long silence from the old orc.
Dana knew him well enough to know he was not pleased to be questioned thus, the topic also seemed to have touched on a nerve.
Instead of answering Zubeida's questions, her father posed some. Firstly explaining that the information Zubeida sought was not given freely to anyone, least of all to 'outsiders'.
He went on that Zubeida should leave the cave now as a human, and return to him as an orclun, then maybe, just maybe, he would give her the answers she sought.
Zubeida, unflustered, asked of him what that would entail.
The shaman spoke in a loud voice that echoed around the cave.
She must embrace Gruin, welcome the beast into her life, unleash the beast, let him run free.
He did Dana the great honour of citing her as an example to be followed.
Zubeida, still unflustered, said that she already embraced her animal nature, and would, should he require it, provide an example.
The shaman nodded to her, saying a demonsration would be appreciated.
Zubeida stepped back a few paces, her feet were on the very edge of the sulphurous pit. Dana wondered briefly if she would jump in, but it appeared she was in deep concentration.
Then Zubeida's form began to alter, she dropped onto all fours, became bulkier and ............. hair began to grow on her.
Zubeida disappeared, to be replaced by a panther.
Dana was on her feet in seconds, her sword drawn. Standing between her father and the panther she prepared to do battle.
She focussed, then felt the old shamans hands upon her shoulders, he was laughing.
Realising how stupid she suddenly looked she lowered her sword.
Her father spoke to her in their language. He was pleased, this one (Zubeida) would be easy to teach, for the beast was strong within.
As Zubeida's transfomation began to undo itself the shaman expressed delight, telling the girl that all she had to do now was learn the ways of M'Gok Tukar.
Turning to his daughter he announced that she would be the one to show Zubeida the ways of the orclun.
Speaking agian in the tongue of the tribe he told Dana that he believed the task not to be too hard.
She remembered the discussion they had on the way to M'Gok Tukar, explained, still in her native tongue, that she may have some few problems convincing Zubeida of their customs. Her father said that he believed his daughter was up to the task, and that if Zubeida did not return to him as an orclun he would never divulge the answers she sought.
With this, it bacame apparent, the meeting was over.
Zubeida was now Dana's pupil.
They left the cave, Dana grateful that her father had either overlooked further talk of Karkus, or he had intended their talk to be on some other day. The latter, she thought, he was not a remiss man.
The two girls made their way to the fireside, and Zubeida recieved her first lesson.
Rather, she recieved part of her first lesson.
The exhausted girls both fell sound asleep before it had really begun. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 10 Jun 2006 03:20 PM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
The sublime and the Ludicrous
Starring: Unknown DM
It had been just another day for Dana.
Finding herself bored, and Lucius still abed, she walked the roads around Buckshire.
Dismounting from Jusin's cart on the Northern highway she came upon a small group, three of whom she recognised.
The insane Frobozz, who today seemed to be 'X', the halfling girl Cora and Noah.
With them was another halfling she had not met before.
She had no intention of stopping with the lunatic wizard there, so she strode purposefully ahead. However, he seemed willing to speak to her, calling out a greeting. She stopped, turned, offered a sickly sweet smile and in her own tongue called him a 'tedious bastard' before continuing on to the fortified Alliance building that stood on the rise.
As she did most days, she went to the back of the building and collected fresh deer droppings.
She was interupted by the girl Cora, who was curious as to why she had collected the smelly mass she now cradled in her arms. She bade the girl watch her. She took the droppings and stuffed them into the mailbox of the Alliance building, which seemed to amuse the girl immensely, she then concentrated her thoughts on the mailbox, after a few seconds it erupted into fire.
Cora asked her why she had done this, who lived in the building. Dana explained to her that the building belonged to bad people, just as Cora (the other one) had described them to Dana.
Then she set off down the hill and the girl skipped over to the group still standing by the tavern.
Dana was going to head to the trading post, but the voice of the Frobozz/'X' thing stopped her.
Some remark about her being a bad person.
Reluctantly she found herself drawn into an arguement with the wizard. He kept making references to Karkus, if for no other reason than to stop her answering his accusations.
During this dispute, joy of joys, an elf. Could this day get worse?
Yes, it could, and would.
Finally, the wizard seemed to lose interest in her, or maybe he lost patince, she knew nor cared not.
He strode off in the direction of the port, no doubt to seek out some other unfortunate he could bore.
The talk turned to elves, and her hatred of them, and she once more told the story of the day she had been attacked while walking in Ferien.She ommitted to mention the reason for the attack, she realised now that it lessened the degree of sympathy she got from her listeners.
The elf Kaltar expressed his sympathy, and said that if he could do anything that would win her friendship he would endeavour to make it so.
Dana handed him a fine dagger and told him that he could win her friendship by taking his own life.
He took the dagger from her, she almost believed he was going to go through with it, however the fool had no concept of this simplest of weapons and managed to do nothing more entertaining than drop the knife to the ground.
While he scabbled about picking it up she happily noticed Lucius approaching from the direction of the port.
Finally something positive was happening to her day.
He came and stood by her side, hugged her, made his hello's to those gathered.
A little idle banter was exchanged for some minutes, then Lucius told her he was making the trip to plant the cohosh in Frobozz mines, bade the others there to come too, offered a substantial reward to them for their help.
Some few things needed to be gathered, soil, water and spades.
The group disbanded and headed off to collect these items, leaving she and Lucius alone for a short while.
They made the most of the time they had to catch up with what each of them had been doing. Lucius, she was none to pleased to hear, had gone adventuring with Cedrych. The outcome had been unfortunate, Lucius had taken a bad knock. She didn't enquire after the health of Cedrych.
Lucius, wisely, did not offer to inform her.
Finally the group returned bearing the things that Lucius had sent them for.
With no more ado they went to negotiate passage with Shira as far as Brandibuck. Unusually, Dana made the journey without falling off.
Happy with herself she leapt from the horse, fell flat on her face with one foot still caught in a stirrup.
Quickly she stood and arranged her skirt, thankfully nobody had seen, they were still busy dismounting themselves.
Passage was then sought via Kusin, they squeezed into the tiny cart and made fair time to the great plains.
The remainder of the journey was made on foot, through forests and across windswept mountaintops. They slashed their way through groups of screaming Harpies, thence to the fabled 'Bridge of Syn' though a more apt name would be the 'Broken bridge of Syn'. Still in its state of disrepair they had to leap across the gaps, each time they would land amidst groups of undead creatures. Dana was more than happy to put them to rest once again.
Everyone made it across, even the elf Kaltar.
Before they entered Frobozz isle itself Lucius stopped the group and warned them of what lay ahead.
With no more delay they set forth. The huge gates were swung open and they trod the soil of the isle.
A brief flurry of badger killing, a quick run through a tunnel and they were at the entrance to the mines themselves.
((this next bit has been kept brief, it was far more detailed and very well RP'd, but time does not allow a full description))
As her eyes became accustomed to the gloom of the interior she was alarmed to see the Frobozz/'X' thing standing there awaiting them.
He greeted Lucius, and the roots were handed over.
She slunk off to the side of the cave and sat down. It was Lucius he wished to speak to, and she knew that if she said a word to him she would get caught up in some meaningless arguement or Lucius would get cross with her again.
The first of these she really could not be bothered with, the second she did not dare risk.
Lucius and the mad wizard spoke at length about things Dana did not understand, nor it seemed did the others.
She remained silent.
The mad wizard then got very agitated about the fact Lucius was not carrying that accursed staff. Lucius withdrew it from its bindings to assuage him, thorns scattered everywhere.
The wizard seemed not to be pleased the staff had made such a late appearance. He told Lucius that there would be a paradox, whatever one of those was.
Lucius, she saw, was not feeling comfortable, so she drew a dagger, stood and went to Lucius side.
She asked Lucius if he wanted her to kill the wizard. For an instant she almost believed he was going to say yes.
He turned and told her to stay her blade. She kept the weapon drawn, but she did as he told her.
This conversation between the two men was becoming tiresome. She wanted to leave.
But the madman kept on about this paradox thing, finally telling Lucius he would send him somewhere to think things over.
With a hand movement Lucius faded from sight before her very eyes.
She reached out and touched the place where he had been standing, nothing, it was no illusion. He really had sent Lucius away.
From the corner of her eye she saw a new movement, entering the cave was the gnome Nico, she had not seen the little man for some weeks, months even. So, this is where he now resided. Served a new master too.
She demanded to know where Lucius had gone, the Frobozz thing spoke much, told her nothing, made more references to Karkus.
She was left standing angrily watching as the scene degenerated into lunacy.
The Frobozz thing and Nico spoke about things she did not understand, Nico made endless pointless notes in his book, then the rest of her group began a banal question and answer session. She had to pinch her thigh to make sure she was not dreaming.
Her lover had just been magically removed, to who knew where, and they were asking ridiculous questions about where Nico got his hat.
She was on the point of leaving when the Frobozz thing announced that Frobozz was arriving.
Immediately the ground shook, fire fell from the ceiling, three huge demons appeared.
She quickly cast a spell to stop the clocks, sent one of the flying hands to grab one of the demons, the other two faded, sent magical energy bursts to the demon, struck it down.
Slowly the fire stopped raining down.
Standing in the smoke and dust were herself and the two Frobozz. All her group had fallen, as had Nico.
The new Frobozz went amongst the fallen waving his hands and re-animating their corpses.
All Dana could do was watch.
Finally as the last of the fallen rose to their feet more insanity ensued.
These madmen seemed to speak in riddles, her anger was growing more intense, she could get no sense from any of them about where Lucius had gone.
She again listened in disbelief at the questions that were being bandied round. She began to wonder if maybe it was her that was insane.
Eventually she decided enough was enough.
Her mood was foul, she knew she must leave or do something she or Lucius would regret.
Alone she left the isle, she told none of the group who had accompanied her she was leaving, she just left.
She fought the urge to run, walked all the way to M'Gok Tukar where she spoke at length with her father and sought his guidance.
After they had spoken she felt slightly better, but her anger filled her.
Drawing her huge sword she approached the 'Whack whack' pillar and spent her anger.
For an hour she swung the huge blade against the stone.
When finally she finished she could barely stand from energy loss, she was covered form head to toe in sweat and the grime the wind carried onto her body.
Slowly, very slowly, she made her way up to the defences at the top of the wall, the huge sword dragging along the ground behind her.
At the top of the wall she cast her jumping spell, leaping up to the platform where the statue of Tukar stood.
Dana had two heroes, her father and Tukar.
One of them she had already spoken her mind to, now it was the turn of the second. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 14 Jun 2006 11:57 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Just like the old days
She'd not seen him now for several days, she was worried.
Worry was another human trait she had discovered. She was not entirely sure she was enjoying the experience.
In the last few days and weeks she had found love, probably the most alien thing for her to comprehend, loneliness, she did not enjoy that much, vanity, she could live with that, and now worry.
To someone like Dana, for whom learning anything was a trial, these different things all coming so close on the tail of each other was more than a little overwhelming.
However, she was getting to grips with each as they surfaced in its turn, except love. That one still puzzled her.
Her worry, for Lucius, she dealt with privately.
Nobody could suspect the turmoil that lay beneath the surface, writhing in her belly like a snake.
Outwardly unconcerned, making occasional reference to Lucius in the vain hope he had been seen, all the time her eyes searching new faces as they hove into view.
If that Frobozz had damaged so much as a single hair upon Lucius head she would surely see him dead. Had she not already promised him as much?
A pleasant suprise in the form of Red (Jenavive) and her husband Sinon had started Dana's day off well.
She had gifted Sinon with an amulet of great rarity that she had found just the previous day.
An invitation to dine with them on rare pork was accepted, and the repast began. Dana barely noticed she ate alone, the couple prefering to watch their voracious guest gorge herself at their expense.
Sinon had paperwork to be getting his head round, so Dana and Red had decided to go tomb robbing. They made their way to the post for Red to resupply her bags, Dana waited outside.
So it was she found herself, shortly afterwards, in the trading post in the company of Red, Zubeida and Ophelia.
She had made her usual casual reference to Lucius whereabouts,and had been met with the same negative response. Ophelia had not seen him nor had Zubeida.
It was obvious, even to one as unobservant as Dana, that all was not well with Ophelia. She looked dreadful, seemed to seek shelter from the sun whenever possible, and was coughing very much.
Ophelia had assured Dana that she was quite well, and that whatever it was that afflicted her would soon pass.
Dana made mental note to retrieve the very costly present she had got for Ophelia should the girl die.
Ophelia asked that Dana make arrangement for a meeting with her (Dana's) father, to which Dana had replied that Ophelia was an orclun of M'Gok Tukar, and therefore had no need of an appointment, she would be most welcome to just turn up.
Ophelia, polite as always, or was it nerves, expressed her gratitude.
Prior to Ophelia's arrival, Dana had been giving Zubeida more teachings in the ways and customs of M'Gok Tukar, it also emerged that Ophelia had been teaching the girl some words in between the lessons Dana gave.
This pleased Dana greatly, although Ophelia seemed to think this might anger her in some way.
They settled down to continue the lesson when a familiar walk caught Dana's eye.
Could it be?
YES. LUCIUS
She bounded over to him, threw herself at him from some feet away, circling his neck with her arms, his waist with her legs, she proceded to smother him in kisses, quite how the man kept his balance was quite the feat.
Finally, she released her hold on him and slid back down to the ground, adjusting her skirt that had ridden up to her stomach as she did so.
She had so many questions, where had the Frobozz sent him, how long had he been back, what was it the mad wizard wanted? So many questions, but they would all have to wait until later.
For now she was just delighted to see him back safe.
She gripped his hand tightly, fearful he might not really be there and it was all a dream, and if he was there, tightly enough that he could not be taken from her again.
It quickly became apparent that Lucius wanted to spend time alone with her, his attitude and body language dictated his mood.
Not wishing to appear rude, however, he made pleasantries with all those there, talked at length about various topics and when it emerged that he too was taking lessons in orcish from Dana he readily agreed to share the tutoring that Dana gave.
Their lesson had barely begun when a man appeared behind Ophelia and stood some feet away watching the small group.
He approached, a flicker of recognition crossed Lucius eyes.
The man stood behind Ophelia, stated that although they had not met he knew of her.
Ophelia seemed at first taken aback, then flattered.
The man asked that Ophelia join him in private conversation, and the two of them left.
Zubeida seemed ill at ease about this, and made move to follow. She cast a magic of invisibility upon herself and left Lucius and Dana sitting alone.
Their solitude was to be short lived though, before they could begin to speak the area began to fill. Lucius was not pleased at these interuptions, and truth be known neither was Dana. Another of those human things was creeping up on her un-noticed. The need for privacy, and to talk freely as a couple.
Before much longer Lucius had been taken from her side by that tiresome Talion man. She said nothing offensive to him, as she had promised to Lucius short days since.
The two of them departed to talk business, Ophelia returned. If it was possible to look worse than when she left with the mysterious man, she had achieved it.
Zubeida also made her re-appearance, a bard named Wil also decided to set up shop in the vicinity, hoping no doubt for a bit of gold. Vakal arrived somewhat later than the others.
Upon his return with Talion, Lucius shot her a look of total despair which she returned with a shrug.
Would they ever get to have some time alone?
Slowly the group broke up, going their different ways, their business concluded, until just Vakal remained speaking in low tones to Lucius.
Finally Lucius told Vakal that he would very much like to spend some time alone with Dana. Vakal made his goodbyes.
Finaly they had the time they needed so badly for each other.
Lucius suggested they head out somewhere to avoid any more interuptions.
She readily agreed.
Dana had felt the urge to kill, to rend, destroy, for some many hours now.
Hand in hand they departed, Lucius suggested a romp in th Gladden area, and that is where they headed.
Earlier, soon after Talion had arrived, Lucius had made mention to her of linking to this new Magistry. She had listened without comment, hiding the suprise she felt, knowing Lucius was so very against this particular organisation.
The topic was not bought up once on the long trip across Vives, Lucius happy to just share her company, and she to share his.
Instead they were content to enjoy the closeness of the other. Their often long silences speaking volumes to them both.
The knots in her belly were slowly starting to unwind themselves.
They had formed the day he had told her he no longer wanted her, now her trust and faith in him was returning.
As they arrived on the great plains and leapt down from Kusin's cart she realised that she could smell the plantlife, feel the freshness of the wind on her cheeks once more.
She felt young, she felt carefree. She wanted to laugh and ............ sing!!
Dana had never sung a note in her life. However, she refrained from inflicting that particular form of torture on Lucius.
The things in her life that vexed her so, the Aristi, Midor, the exiled paladins, the elves, her next meal, all these things faded into what they really were, insignificancies.
All that mattered was here and now.
He had promised her adventure, and he delivered it in bucketloads.
Their trip took them through the Gladden hills, the mines, into a crypt up high above the quarry, thence on to the Latonel forests, then into the very realms of Tarik. This last was of Lucius choice, he wanted to wreak some havoc in this particular gods domain, Dana needed no incitement to slay elves.
The elves were sadly lacking, either elsewhere or not interested.
The lack of action towards the end of their journey did little to lower her spirits.
He was home, he was with her, they were out smashing things.
She was extatically happy.
It was the return
It was just like the old days |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 15 Jun 2006 10:26 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
A trip, a fall
Dana and Lucius were in good spirits.
The trip into the realms of Tarik had gone extremely well and more importantly they had finally found time to be together, alone.
So it was with high hopes and expectations they were resupplying their packs in port.
Lucius had expressed a desire to travel to the tower of Se'eth, hopefully to gain an audience with the famed bearer of that name, in hopes that possibly he could assist Lucius in the task of making the Frobozz things stick glow blue.
Dana, for her part, had very little faith in the plan, she doubted from the things she had heard, that the creature was the type to speak, much less lend help
However, she had on many occasions travelled up the tower seeking rare scrolls, but had never had the courage to step into that portal that glowed so invitingly on the floor.
Curiousity, another of her newly learned human traits, had often pushed her to stand with her toes inside the lights, not daring to make that final step.
Today would be that day.
Just as they concluded their purchases from Gariert the familiar form of Sam appeared. Such luck.
Knowing Sam to be both an excellent fighter and ally they had no doubts about asking him to accompany them.
They need not have waited for an answer, both she and Lucius knew the stalwart dwarf would not hesitate to go with them.
For a short while it seemed that Nidoran had plans to join with them, Lucius made the invitation, Sam and Dana remained silent. Dana had misgivings every time she travelled for the first time with a new face.
Sam was silent for reasons of his own, although she did notice his eyes were drawn to a tray of particularly fresh looking pears.
Nidoran finally decided against the venture, to her relief.
Sam and Lucius were plenty, in her opinion, to undertake the trip. She felt both valued and protected amongst their company.
They made their way to the tower, easily despatching the Centuars that had once again gathered at the gates.
They entered. Made their way to the first staircase that headed upwards, Lucius had already acquired a key on a previous trip.
Upwards they went, and upwards again.
The tower guardians that Se'eth saw fit to place in their way fell with ease, while Sam took care of the many traps that littered the floors.
In barely any time at all they had arrived at the top room to the tower, she checked the bookcases for any rare writings. As was becoming more frequent, lately, they yielded nothing of interest. A few golden coins lurked in the back of one shelf. She didn't need them, but she pocketed them nonetheless.
Then with a little trepidation, and curiousity of the unknown, they gathered at the portal.
She peered down into the swirling lights. As with every other portal she had done this with, which was every one, she learned nothing. Despite this, she knew the next portal she came across she would do it again.
Having ascertained that all were prepared for what lay ahead, Sam having made this journey before had described much to them, the moment of entry arrived.
Sam stepped in first, closely followed by herself and finally Lucius.
The other end of the portal deposited them into a darkly lit, but capacious series of wide tunnels.
Her eyes adjusted to the dimness, her senses raised themselves to their highest level as she prepared to do battle.
Her eyes saw nothing, but Sam spotted and removed a series of traps. All around her in the gloom she could hear the heavy footfalls of the constructs she had been told patrolled the place.
A metallic sound.
Many times before she had faced such creatures, no longer did they scare her.
When the first one appeared she rushed at it, howling her hatred, and her love of battle.
Quickly the metal construct fell to their sustained attack, as did all of its clanking, squeaking brothers.
The floor was cleared without any problems, she recieved a couple of very nasty cuts that she displayed with pride to Sam, seconds before her beloved Lucius rushed forwards with bandages and covered them.
Only slightly annoyed she thanked him for his consideration.
The floor cleared they approached a staircase leading up, Sam gave them a quick outline of the rooms they would be entering, saying that if the wizard/Lich was at home he would most probably be in his laboratory located in the centre of the floor.
So, armed with this new information they surged up the stairs, all the protections of magics they knew were cast before they started up, they were as safe as was possible to be.
Once clear of the stairs they were faced with a monstrous creature, it was extremely strong and kept howling its indignation at their intrusion. Dana was sure that without their magical aura's of protection their ears would have burst at the very least, indeed she could imagine such a noise killing weaker beings.
After a battle supreme the thing fell lifeless, on top of her.
Muttering her curses, and with some help from Lucius, the huge carcass was lifted clear and she slipped out from under it
Once her composure was regained they set forth again.
Rounding the next corner they were faced with another of these monstrosities. Again it howled, loud as a typhoon. If the wizard was home the noise would surely bring him to investigate, of this she was certain.
Another skirmish ensued, the creature defending itself well took some considerable effort to overcome, but eventually the foregone conclusion came to pass, and like its twin it crashed heavily to the floor.
Dana, this time, sidestepping the collosal mass.
A door, three doors.
Sam went to the one in the westernmost corner, opened it. They all entered a tiny room.
To Dana's untrained eye it appeared to be some sort of tiny chapel. The walls bare, the floor stone, and against one wall an altar with some kind of emblem upon it. It appeared to be a hand, holding a red sphere that glowed with an energy of its own.
Having seen all she wanted she moved to the next door, a portal within this also tiny room. Not being able to help herself she peered into it, and of course it told her nothing.
Across the corridor another tiny room with yet another portal.
Lucius asked Sam where the portals led to.
Sam replied that one went back to the top room of the tower they had just left, the other he could not remember.
Lucius ventured that maybe it led to the isle they had heard so much talk of.
Sam still couldn't be sure.
Between these small rooms a corridor, Sam, in low voice, informed them that the wizards laboratory lay behind the door at the end.
They decided a short break to make their battle plans was in order.
Taking from her bag a large mirror she placed it on the floor. Making sure Lucius and Sam were otherwise engaged she quickly inspected herself, swept sweaty hair from her face.
Then with a collection of hand movements and a gutteral command she activated the mirrors magical function.
The glass became as water, and she could step into the frame. Sam and Lucius copied her example and they found themselves within a safe haven, a secret room that could not possibly exist, yet did.
They sat, gathered their energies, and came up with a plan they thought would work.
Once finished in the room they stepped out, emerging back into the dark corridors of the wizards inner sanctum.
Mirror and room both vanished in the blink of an eye.
It had been agreed that Sam would place down some traps of not inconsiderable power into the corridor leading to the laboratory.
While she and Lucius made final preparations, and decided which of them would cast first, Sam placed his traps.
Once the dwarf had accomplished his task he returned and informed them all was set.
He also made mention that the remainder of the job rested solely with Lucius and herself, freely admitting that his particular skill with blade would be of little effect against their quarry.
So, with Sam ensconsed around the corner of the corridor, she and Lucius stepped into it. They approached the door slowly fully expecting it to swing open at any moment before they were in position.
It remained closed. She took position to the left of the door, Lucius took position to the right.
They hoped fervently the wizard was in a mood to talk, however, if he was not they were as prepared as they could be.
A final glance behind told her that Sam was safely tucked away. One eye, half a nose and beard were all she could see of him as he watched the proceedings from his position of relative safety.
Lucius grasped the doorknob, they exchanged a hurried glance, she read the fear in his eyes just as he probably read the fear in hers.
Lucius turned the knob quickly, shoved the door open wide. Standing before them, a look of alarm and suprise on his face, Se'eth
Before Lucius could get a word to form on his tongue the wizards hostility became apparent, he raised his arms above his head in a typical pose of the caster. Lucius was quicker, casting a spell to stop the clocks.
The wizard was stopped in mid-cast, Dana was of little use at this moment, Lucius' spell worked on friends and enemies alike.
Lucius busied himself with casting energy missiles at the motionless form in front of them.
Whilst they made contact they seemd to do little damage.
As soon as she could move she commenced to cast also, the wizard, now freed from his bondage in time went to counter, but again Lucius was quicker, stopping the clocks a second time.
Still more magics flew through the air.
Lucius elemental seemed to have more effect upon the wizard than the missiles.
Once more free to move Dana began to cast her own magics. Quickly it became apparent that despite her skill at the art of casting, and Lucius' also, not only were they troubling the wizard little, but it seemed he had the upper hand.
A shout from Sam behind them. Withdraw.
Sound words.
Before things became beyond their control both she and Lucius ran full tilt down the corridor leaving their two elemental creatures to delay the wizards pursuit of them. They ducked into one of the small rooms housing a portal, Sam was within. The door was slammed shut tightly behind them, magics of invisibility cast upon their persons in double quick time.
For now, at least, they appeared safe.
Dana found her eyes drawn to the doorhandle on their side, expecting to see it turning at any moment.
So rapt was she that she could not even draw her eyes to look upon Sam or Lucius.
She wondered for a fleeting moment if they also had their attention transfixed.
The portal at her feet glowed its welcome, it was a way out for them, an escape.
Lucius, it appeared, had got the bloodlust that normally flowed within her. He was prepared to have another rest and try again. Dana and Sam were less keen, wishing instead to leave.
Mention was made of the isle, Lucius asked Sam if the portal in the tiny chamber they found themselves crammed into, led there. Sam seemed fairly certain it led to the tower, so they assumed the portal in the other identical room must therefore lead to the isle.
Lucius expressed a desire to see the isle, and she and Sam agreed to this.
They decided that if they ran quickly, and they moved under the magics of invisibility, they could make it to the other portal undetected by Se'eth. His view down the corridor was at best limited, and they would cross it so quickly that he would barely register the movement.
They made ready, magics of speed cast upon their feet.
At an agreed signal the door was flung open, without checking the main passageway they ran headlong toward the other tiny room.
As she passed the corridor leading to the wizard, Dana could not resist the urge to take a look, she imagined the others did too. No sign of Se'eth, he seemingly had retired deeper into his laboratory, she did notice, however, a movement of some kind in the left of the room. She was certain it was not the wizard, but probably some minion he had bought forth to assist him.
All three arrived at the portal at the same moment, and without the usual trepidation they all leapt into it
The fear of what may lie ahead of them on the isle less than the fear of what may pursue them in the wizards lair.
The strange, yet exhilerating, experience of travelling by portal lasted scant seconds. Her feet made contact with stone. Instantly she was ready for battle, her massive sword already partly drawn from its strapping.
One of the biggest drawbacks of portal travel was that you were never entirely sure where you would be deposited, and what may be there at the other end, waiting for you.
On this occasion she had nothing to fear.
Quickly she took in the room she had arrived in.
The tower, the top room they had begun their journey from.
Disappointment at first, then elation at the realization they were for now moderately safe, she relaxed. Flopped down to sit on a couch.
She listened with half an ear to what Lucius and Sam were discussing.
((At this point a very lengthy conversation took place. I expect Robber Baron has more than adequately, and far more eloquently, covered it in a post of his own, therefore I shall leave it out))
The conversation having reached its conclussion they began the descent of the tower.
The guardians had already been replaced.
Se'eth knowing he had intruders had not been remiss in getting reinforcements on the scene.
These new creatures posed no more trouble for the trio than their previous encounters, and hastily they made their way to the lower floors.
It was as they emerged from the doorway of the ground floor level that it happened. Lucius had been first to enter the room.
Before he could react, before Dana could run to his aid, before Sam could finish his muffin, the golem struck. Struck hard.
Her beloved, barely making a sound other then the thud of his body hitting the stonework, fell lifeless at her feet.
Horrified, she could do nothing to react to the danger of the golems.
Sam took care of them while she crouched over Lucius, cradled his head in her arms, held him to her breast and whimperd like a wounded animal.
The opposition disposed of, Sam fidgetted awkwardly while Dana poured out her anguish and hurt in tears that ran unchecked down her cheek.
Finally, after some time had passed, and she had moved from bereft to merely being shellshocked, Sam ventured that if they moved quickly the sisters could possibly be of some aid to her man.
Dana tried to lift him, but battle wearied as she was, found even the weight of a single arm too much for her.
Sam stepped in, pushed her aside and with no little effort managed to get Lucius onto his shoulders.
They left the tower, she found the venom in her blood to call upon a bloodrage, hacking a path through the Centuars that gathered to observe the sorry prosession.
The difference in height meant that Lucius head made regular contact with various obstacles along the way. The ground most frequently, but doorposts, bushes, trees and even a waterwell found their mark.
On arrival at the Sisters it looked like poor Lucius had been pulled through a mangle. His hair and face even more of a mess than the golems had left it.
The sisters assured her they could help him, and she stepped aside to allow them room.
Dana watched as they worked, as did Sam, seated, muffin in hand.
Finally, after what seemed an age, his eyelids twitched, fluttered open briefly.
Then they closed, a small smile played on his lips, he fell back into sleep.
Her heart soared higher than any bird on Vives ((about 6 feet))
The sister told her to return on the morrow, right now Lucius needed rest more than anything she could offer.
Reluctantly, with a single glance back into the small room. she left. Sam at her side.
As they emerged into the brightness of day, her lungs filled with fresh air, she was struck by a thought.
Why was it they continued to punish themselves this way. Daily risking life and limb for rewards that often were eclipsed by risk.
She made a decision.
When she saw Lucius she would suggest, no, not suggest, demand, that they buy a smallholding somewhere and live a simple life.
She was certain such a path would lead to happiness and fulfilment.
She strode away from the Sisters confident of her decision, happy to be doing the 'right' thing.
Little did she know what would befall her before the following morning.
((Another lengthy piece with Ophelia in the port has been omitted as I think DSM-IV may wish to cover this)) |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 16 Jun 2006 09:47 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
From the ashes of disaster .........
A Barnas production
She woke, reached over for him. Her hand found nothing but the cool sheets, where he had lain.
Unusual, he rarely rose before her. She assumed he must have woken and been unable to find sleep again.
He had been troubled lately, much had happened to him in this last week or so.
She stood up on her 'bed', she still insisted on it being a collection of sheets on the floor, stretched, and regarded herself in the long mirror.
She frowned, she was developing a pronounced stomach. This life of doing little was taking its toll.
What she needed was adventure, something taxing.
Certainly, adventure was still aplenty, but the nature of the foes she took combat with had become of a different genre.
Ever since she had taken up with Lucius they had sought mightier and stronger adverseries, she was becoming dependant on her magical abilities, rather than her prowess with a blade.
She promised herself that would have to change. She did not want to lose the one she adored through her appearance.
She also made a promise to herself to visit her father very soon. It had been three days since she had set a foot inside M'Gok Tukar, she was failing in her duties as a daughter.
She would hunt the white bears. The heavy skins gave outstanding protection from the cold serving two purposes. She made very high quality armours from them, and the skins that did not come away from the animal cleanly served as bedding for the younger members of the community of M'Gok Tukar.
Also, she could hunt by sword. She smiled and patted her naked stomach. That would soon be gone.
Covering herself she hurried across the hall to the comunal bathroom. A quick but thourough wash down and she was ready to face the day.
Back in her room she took up her war-dress. She had noticed lately that it was starting to become worn and tattered from too many blows from sword and claw.
Soon it would need replacing.
But not today.
Despite her recently acquired vanity she found the buying of clothes something totally alien to her. She had entered the shops that lined their walls with fine materials, but just could not get enthusiastic about any.
After all her months in port she had just two outfits, the war-dress she had come from M'Gok Tukar in, and an outfit designed for her by her good friend Jenavive.
Having thrown the war-dress over herself, raked her hair with her fingers, she was ready.
She made her way out to the port.
A quick scan of the streets, no sign of him, she checked the herbalists, no sign.
Crossing the square she made a track to Jusin, from his position he could see much of the port area, and knew most people who frequented the place.
She asked if he had seen Lucius that morning, and Jusin replied that indeed he had.
Jusin stated that Master Lucius had used his service just two hours hence, he had been in good spirits and had ridden as far as the Shire, where Jusin noted he had then walked in the direction of the trading post.
Handing Jusin ten coins she requested he take her also to the Shire.
The morning sun burned down making the rather cramped interior of the cart a hot and unpleasant place.
She was relieved when they left the port area and rattled their way along the coastal track that led to the shire, the sea breeze making things far more tolerable for her.
Being Jusin's only customer allowed her to stretch her legs out, discreetly lift her skirt a few inches and enjoy what little cool air she could find.
The ride to the Shire passed quickly enough, and upon arrival she jumped lightly down to the ground.
Arranging her crumpled clothes, and with a wave to Jusin, she started out towards the trading post.
She considered it a fair bet that despite Lucius leaving two hours before her, had he encountered an acquaintance, which was probable, he would most likely still be there.
The reason behind her thinking was Lucius ability to talk. Once in a conversation whole hours could fly by, and frequently did.
Sometimes she found the topic either boring or beyond her comprehension, sometimes she found his choice of companion did not suit her.
Generally though, she found them to be of interest, and enjoyed them and the company he kept.
A quick circuit of the area, and sure enough, there he was. Standing by the track that led out to the marshes he was deep in conversation with the Vilyavian priest, Alton.
She walked over and took her usual place at his side, as close as she could get.
He turned to face her, he seemed unworried, genuinely pleased to see her. She tippy-toed for a kiss, and he slid an arm around her waist as he returned his attention to Alton.
This small show of affection seemed to trouble Alton. She could not tell if they had embarressed him, shocked him or simply suprised him by their open display.
Whichever it was, she was unconcerned.
She was at his side, the place she hoped to be until her dying day.
Lately, although she was not aware of it herself, she had been overattentive to him.
Deep seated fears that he may once more push her out of his life had made her a lot more obliging than was in her usual nature.
Although she would likely not admit it to herself, Lucius could have asked her to travel to Midor, alone, with a plaque around her neck proclaiming Vidus to be false, and she would probably have done it, if it had meant she could find just one more way of getting his approval of her.
She tuned into the conversation he was having with Alton, it appeared they were discussing the consequences of the fateful trip to the Kobai tomb made by Lucius and Cedrych.
This was not a topic she felt comfortable with, firstly she found the subject matter distressing, for it seemed the one thing of importance in her life could be snatched away, and secondly, she really was no expert on these things.
She could kill Lich's, some of them with ease, but she knew little of where they appeared from, their primary function their reason for being.
She opted for listening, and cuddling. Two things she was capable of doing.
Presently, Lucius made mention to Alton of their disasterous trip to the tower to try and gain audience with Se'eth.
Alton hardly seemed suprised at their inability to perform this feat.
Lucius mentioned that his next course of action was to try and speak to the one they called Malakai, another fearsome wizard who lived out in the wilderness.
Alton seemed to think their chances of success slim at best.
Lucius suggested they, the three of them, make the trip there this very hour, and, whle they were out that way, they could collect the two dead brain eaters that Lex required of Dana to assist in the mending of her mind, if indeed it needed mending.
Alton referred to the brain eaters as 'The Gathering', he gave no reason why.
Approval from all sides, preparations were made.
Once everyone was ready they set out, crossing the swamp, then the peculiar bridge that twisted and turned for, what seemed to Dana, no apparent reason.
The slaads they encountered were brushed aside with ease.
Once they reached the bridge that crossed into the area where they knew the short folk known as Quicklings had their home, further precautions were taken. Dana and Alton were prepared to cast magics upon themselves and sneak through, but Lucius seemed keen to try his hand.
A hand went to her midriff, to the small bulge that she wore. It would provide her with some exhertions, and it would make Lucius happy. She readily agreed to his proposal.
And so, they entered.
The two summoned creatures, Sparky and Spanky, who Alton ahd a dislike for,were first into the fray. Standing just yards away as they stepped onto the bridge was one of the larger Quicklings.
The fight with this creature was tough, very tough ((details omitted, I don't want to spoil the fun for anyone who hasn't faced one yet))
This creature swept aside, they continued on, choosing to sneak their way through the remainder of the area, rather than fight.
Eventually they came upon the entrance to the place the brain eaters could be found.
Spells of protection were made, particular attention made to the warding of mind bending spells that could, and would, be made upon them.
They entered.
Like the lair of Se'eth the place was dark and gloomy, passageways twisted and turned.
Despite the fears travellers had of these brain eating creatures Dana had always found them to be easy prey. And so it was this day. She laid about herself with gusto, the blade of her massive sword soon covered in the remains of these despicable creatures.
She put in much effort, her heart pounded in her chest as she felt the bloodlust and the exhertions take their toll on her slender form. That belly would be gone in no time.
They hacked their way past huge beetle-like creatures, little brain eaters that resembled skeletal dogs, and of course the brain eaters themselves. Midway through they stopped to gather a couple of corpses for Lex. However, many of them were mangled beyond use due to Dana's judicious use of her blade, and the spellcasting and arrow firing of her companions.
They did manage to retrieve one that they considered usable.
Dana was amazed at how light the creature was. Underneath that long gown there really was very little of them.
She rammed the corpse into her cavernous magical bag, the things she managed to keep in this one small bag would fill a room.
They continued on.
They reached the room at the very end of the twisting corridor, the gated entrance was closed.
Peering through the bars Dana made out the shapes of more giant beetles, several brain eaters and, if her eyes did not decieve her, one of the brain eaters powerful spellcasters.
That was her first target, that would do the most damage.
The door was flung open, she roared and ran past several suprised brain eaters.
Quickly she found a place where she could clearly see the mage, there would be no swords for this one, it must be taken out fast.
Focusing on it she bought forth a hail of energy missiles. At the moment she made her cast she saw the mage was also making one, however it appeared to be a spell of protections, nothing deadly winged its way towards her.
Her own missile arched through the air, finding their mark. She watched in glee as the foul creature took them in the chest, in seconds its legs buckled and it fell dead. Very few things could stand against one of her energy bursts, it served her well.
Despite her veins thrumming with more magical energy she took up her sword, she had that belly to deal with, and set about despatching anything in reach. Lucius was close by, casting energies of his own into the mass of evil that faced them. Alton, she believed, was by the door, bow in hand taking shots at anything he could.
In a suprisingly short time the room was cleared, Dana was about to lower her sword when movement caught her eye.
Was that a sword she could see? Yes. Coming toward her. She readied herself.
Then she realised the weilder of the sword was unseen. Probably, she assumed, hiding behind a magical screen of invisibility.
Then she remembered. She had cast her own spell, the one that made her eyes exceptionally keen. She should be able to see her assailant, but no, just his sword.
No more time for thinking, the sword had closed on her.
She balanced herself, took a swing at it.
The sword evaded her strike, she was too slow to parry, she felt the searing pain as both blade and heat entered her own body.
((Dana died at this point, but much happened that obviously she was not aware of. I am hoping RB or WA will cover the details in a seperate post))
Cold, she felt cold.
She realised as her senses returned that she was laying on the stone floor of the large room where she remembered fighting something. Something she could not see.
Lifting her head she saw Alton, then was aware of Lucius sitting on the floor beside her.
Alton was obviously pained, but smiling.
Lucius looked as confused as she.
As she pushed herself upright many small pains racked her body.
She looked down at herself.
Startled she realised two things very quickly, her entire body was covered in scars. But no ordinary scars. A scar upon her thigh would start on one side, and end on the other, a scar on her torso would be the same, begining on the right hand side and going all the way across to the other. Many of them, dozens.
The second thing she realised, she was sitting there buck naked. The few pieces of her war-dress that remained were cut into tiny pieces and now lay upon the floor around her. Strangely, for the amount of wounds she displayed, no blood on the floor. No blood matted her hair. No blood stained her pale skin.
To weak to complain she sat there for some time.
Lucius, seeing her undressed state, took a spare robe from his bag, came to her and covered her in it. She welcomed the warmth and the privacy the rough material afforded her.
Alton spoke, told her briefly of what had happened.
What she heard she found hard to comprehend.
Some sort of magical demon sword had slain her, then it had plunged itself into her body and drained all the blood from her. Not content with that, she had been sliced into small pieces, much the way a cook would slice an apple. That, at least, explained the scars that criss-crossed her body, and the totally destroyed battle-dress. Though quite how she had come to be re-assembled ........ she didn't even ask.
Alton had managed to re-unite her body and her soul.
It appeared that Lucius too had been slain, the same sword being responsible. He also had been drained, but not sliced the way she had.
Alton had spoken to the being who claimed ownership of the sword, one of the brain eaters Dana had obviously missed.
Alton said that the mage she had concentrated on slaying was the swords main controller.
The brain eater Alton spoke with, said that it was expected the mage could regenerate himself within two weeks, and after that time the sword would be sent out to once more do to her, and presumably Lucius, what it had done this day.
A long silence as this information was absorbed.
It was decided they leave this place as quickly as possible, and concealed by magics they made a hasty exit.
Not stopping they made directly for the comparative safety of the trading post.
Once there, and having regained some of her strength, discussion turned to the inevitable topic. What to do about the demon sword.
Many ideas were suggested, many of them good ones, a couple of them, hers, bad ones.
The discussion lasted a goodly while.
Eventually it was decided that they must try and bargain with this 'Gathering', but how to do it.
Almost as if on cue she heard it. A voice. She was certain it came from within, but she scaned the area to see if she had missed someone, something.
Nothing.
She asked the others if they had heard anything, they both replied they had not. Asked of her what she had heard.
She described the voice. Its message. Three words.
"We are listening"
All three quickly worked out that the voice she heard had been somehow projected into her head by the 'Gathering'
How to answer, she knew not.
Lucius said she should ask them for a deal, make a bargain.
She knew not how to speak to them so she raised her voice to full volume and spoke/shouted facing the sky
Feeling completely ridiculous she looked to the others.
They asked her if she heard anything more.
Just as she said to them that she heard nothing the voice came again.
The voice indicated a willingness to make a bargain.
She informed the others.
A hasty discussion later and she found herself once more bellowing at the sky that they had much gold they would pay.
Her face red with the embarressment she felt at screaming to the heavens in such a public place, she turned to Lucius and Alton and was just telling them there was no answer when the sound of not one voice, but hundreds, came to her. Gold, it was apparent, was not something they needed.
They wanted the thorny stick thing that Frobozz had given to Lucius. The one he was trying to make glow blue.
She told him, expecting him to stubbornly refuse such a demand.
She was amazed when he readily agreed to their request. Asked Dana to tell them.
Feeling like a total idiot still from her last scream she told Lucius that he could tell them, which he duly did, in a level talking voice ........
Something began to happen, a hand materialised in the air before them, Lucius took from his pack the hated staff, placed it into the open palm of the disembodied hand.
Both hand, and staff, vanished from sight.
No more was heard.
Lucius expressed a desire to rest, unsuprisingly the day had left him feeling exhausted.
The two of them made their farewells to Alton, leaving him in the trading post.
Lucius was ready to sleep, as indeed was Dana.
But she had something pressing to do.
Like it or not she was in need of a new battle-dress. The robe Lucius had lent her gave no protection whatever, and was both cumbersome and long, she tripped on the hem regularly. Hardly a good thing for the heat of battle.
She took the boat to Ka'azim, perused their selection of clothes.
She found something that suited, it covered more of her body than her old one, but it was comfortable, easy to move about in, and it was black.
Lucius favourite colour.
On the boat-ride back to port she reflected on the day.
Still resting in her bag was the body of the brain eater, one rather than two, but it was a start.
They had avoided being chased for eternity by a demon sword.
The hated staff was finally out of their lives.
She had a new war-dress.
Her protruding belly had gone.
They had truly pulled success from the ashes of disaster.
She wondered if Lucius would be awake when she got in. She was feeling decidedly primal.
She decided that her luck for the day was probably spent up. And .............. she was tired too. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 17 Jun 2006 03:35 PM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Of blood and vampyres
Dana made ready for travel, Lucius was going to be busy with potions at the herbalists and the day was hers to fill.
She checked her bags for bandages and food. Then her snack-bag.
Horrors, empty.
Her first call of the day must be to fill it.
She left the gates of the port headed out to the coast road. She saw Nidoran talking with a hin girl and Orsk.
She stopped briefly to speak with them.
Orsk made mention of an attack to be made on Midor in the near future.
Switching to their native language she enquired more and offered her assistance.
Good, finally something positive was going to be done about that evil place.
She made her farewells to the group and wandered off.
The evening was drawing in, the woods were dark enough by daylight, she would need to make haste.
Dana's latest delicacy, one she had discovered more by chance than by design, was the Grig creatures that inhabited the Nebwood, and so it was to this place she made her way.
Throwing a few protections upon herself she entered the woodlands, the rangers who stationed themselves just inside the treeline nodded at her passing, they did not speak.
She released the massive sword from its strap harness.
Made for her by her father it really was quite an ingenious design. The huge weapon was not slung at her back, the way so many adventurers preferred, but rather it was more to her side, behind her right shoulder. The strap used to hold it in position was not of a sheath design, the blade swung bare at all times. The buckle he had fashioned that released the sword quickly was of novel design, ease of use and the abilty to support the huge weapons weight being of paramount importance.
The sword itself fitted into the harness at the point where the blade ended, and the grip began. Which was also of great importance. The sword was actually a couple of inches taller than Dana when stood on its point, the harness had to secure it so that it did not drag upon the ground.
The same harness could be used for either the sword, or if she wanted, the huge tribe axe she occasionally used.
As always, the moment the huge weapon was released she gave thanks to her father.
She wondered what he would make of her latest fad in foodstuffs. She doubted he would view such creatures as a meal.
She shouldered the sword, and made good progress through the woods. A magic of sharp eyes she cast upon herself allowed her to see the Grig even when they hid themselves.
Soon she spotted three, quickly ended their lives and dropped them into her bag. The pathetic spells they offered in return tried to bind her boots to the ground, but she had anticipated this and come prepared.
Movement behind her, she turned and ran towards the sound, spotted two Grigs in company of a bear. The three were quickly dealt with, the Grigs joining their cousins in her bag.
She heard a thump. like a log falling, turned to look.
Standing not a few feet from her in the darkness, was a girl in simple clothes.
As Dana watched the girl called a spell, cast it upon Dana. Her protections shielded her from the blast without harm.
Raising the sword high she ran at the girl, brought it crashing down upon the girls unprotected head, scything her skull into two.
Quite who the girl was she had no idea, nor why she should attack Dana.
Dana saw a Grig nearby, forgetting the girl briefly she ran at it, tripped on something and fell heavily, knocking the wind from her chest.
Cursing she stood and brushed herself down, looked to see what it was that had tripped her, expecting to see a tree root.
Instead she found herself gazing upon the elven features of a man, dead.
Two dead bodies now, one to her left, one to her right.
She looked closer at the girl, it was the witch who made her home at the rear of the woods. She was a long way from there, so Dana assumed she had been chasing the elven man.
The witch was of little interest to Dana, she searched her body, found a potion of some kind and a few golden coins.
The man, on the other hand, was of great interest.
With a low chuckle she bent over his lifeless body, took from her belt one of two identical daggers she kept there.
Grasping the front of his robe she cut into it, tearing it open from chest to navel.
She took the two edges of the material and pulled them apart revealing the elfs skin.
She touched it gently, still warm. She shuddered with delight.
Taking the dagger she pricked the skin, his lifeless heart pumped no blood and all that came forth was a small droplet of blood. She wiped it up with the tip of her finger.
Tasted him.
Approved.
She made another cut, slightly longer, next to the first one.
She clamped her mouth tightly over the two small cuts and began to suck.
The blood of the elf came slowly, she sucked harder, filling her throat.
She swallowed.
Lowering her head back to his chest she heard something, unmistakably the sound of feet pushing through fallen leaves.
Hastily she tucked the knife back into her belt, looked up just as Nidoran drew close.
Had he seen anything?
No, she doubted that in the reduced light, and through the swirl of protections she had around her, he had seen anything at all.
Hurriedly she stood, explained to Nidoran that the witch had killed the elf and that despite her best efforts the man was quite dead.
Nidoran seemed to be suspicious though, casting strange looks Dana's way.
However, he accepted her story and it was decided they should carry the elf back to the Sisters.
Inwardly she cursed her luck. Such good fortune as to find an elf so far from others, only to have it snatched away from her.
Nidoran was in the woods looking to see that Dana had not come to any harm, it transpired.
The journey to the Sisters passed without hazards, and the dead man was laid upon a cot.
One of the Sisters busied herself with potion and bandage until, after some short while, life returned to the elfs body.
The task complete she left the Sisters with Nidoran.
They strolled down to the road and met Alton who happened to be passing.
The three of them talked of things for some while, before Alton looked to the east and gasped.
Dana looked, saw nothing.
Then it came into her sight
That sword she had faced in the place of the 'Gathering'
Flying down the road, towards the three it came.
Having no desire to test her skills against this abomination she ran, allowing the sword to chase Alton and Nidoran.
She made no move to assist, certainly they were friends, but they were not special to her.
Instead she made use of the time they bought to cast spells of protection, and most importantly, invisibility upon herself.
Feet, running, breath, panting, she heard Alton before she saw him, running headlong to the post, the demon sword close behind.
Then Nidoran passed, all three disappeared form her view, but she hesitated to move, just yet.
A strange thing happened.
Dana was certain she had seen the sword head to the post in pursuit of Alton.
Now, she was aware of someone, some thing, behind her.
Turning slowly she saw a girl, pale of complexion, next to her, that sword
How ........?
The girl was caressing the blade, talking soft words to it, almost as a lover would.
The girl reached out, grasped the thing and .......... seemed to cuddle it, as far as Dana could make out.
Dana spoke no words, just observed and made ready to run should the sword take a mind to taste her blood again.
Alton and Nidoran came back, they approached slowly
Alton,it seemed, knew the girl, referred to her by name.
Natika, he called her, spoke to Dana as if she also should know the name.
In soft tones Alton explained to her that Natika was a vampyre, a very powerful vampyre.
As she observed Alton and Natika speak she decided she liked Natika.
Certainly the girl had some strange ideas about demon swords, but her overall demeanour impressed Dana considerably.
The girl knew no fear, Dana began to envy her.
Natika spoke of death and life as matter-of-factly as Dana herself would.
During the short talk that the two had, Dana noticed the sword acting in a strange way, if such a thing were possible, given that a floating demon sword that contained essence of demon as a lifeforce was not strange enough.
The thing made pitiful noises like those of an animal in distress, at one point the red glow that surrounded the blade faded and went out.
More arrived, that pale elf and the girl Cora turned up.
Instead of passing by they made it their business to question the girl about the sword, and about being a vampyre.
Dana watched with baited breath, hoping against hope the sword would turn on the elf, or Cora.
The girl annoyed Dana intensely.
One of those peculiar conversations took place between Natika and Alton.
One where no threats were made, no conclusions reached, nothing.
Finally Nakita spoke to the sword, said something about having a talk with it, and left, taking the sword with her.
Dana was more than a little perplexed, but accepted the outcome.
She was alive and in one piece.
So that was good.
Yes. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 17 Jun 2006 03:36 PM |
| ((post deleted, somehow I posted it twice. Read the one above)) |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 20 Jun 2006 12:32 PM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Plots and promises
Dana was doing what made her happiest, smashing things.
Intent that she would not develop the paunched belly again she had ensured she got plenty of physical activity.
She had taken less to calling her fiery ally, Sparky, preferring to do all the melee combat herself.
She made her way from Brandibuck, through the Bloodwood, then the desert areas happily cleaving in two anything that got in her way, and even a few that didn't.
The bloodrage flowed unchecked through her veins, every sense honed towards detecting and destroying anything with a pulse that she encountered.
This was what Dana was made to do.
Since being very small she had been trained to fight with axe and flail.
It pained her that the unbalanced weapons suited her style less well than the huge sword, perhaps a little more training with axe was called for.
The training sessions in M'Gok Tukar were often bloody affairs. Frequently life changing injuries were inflicted.
Scars were worn with pride by the orclun, often the gashes that were recieved were patched in the most rudimentary ways, no attempt being made to make tidy repairs that would fade with time.
Strangely, Dana never did develop permanent scars. Something about her body always made them fade and disappear quickly.
Even being carved into many pieces by that demon sword had left no trace, she still had trouble coming to terms with the fact that had ever happened to her, but Alton assured her it was so.
Dana's only scar was a small affair that ran from under her left ear to her jawline, a thin white thing that hardly noticed against her pale skin.
She had collected that one at the hands of those lizard women on the fateful trip with Markus. Strange indeed that it had never chosen to go the way of all her other deeper more serious wounds.
Out of the desert, she plunged into the ruins that lay close to Buckshire, a few small creatures and a bear fancied their chances and were quickly despatched, Dana pausing long enough to take the skin of the bear. It would keep one of M'Gok Tukar's younger members warm at night.
Her clothes, skin and hair were completely covered in the gore and debris of her victims, her nose filled with the pungent tang of their blood as it dried upon her.
And so it was that this apparition happily emerged from the treeline in Buckshire.
She was exhausted, exhilerated and sated, for now.
She knew that bathing was her first task, and ignoring Jusin's protestations, and slipping him an extra twenty coins, she rode to the port.
Casting upon herself a spell of concealment, and made her way to her room, stripped and hurried across the hall to the public bathing room.
A quick, but thorough, wash later and she was once more presentable.
She made her way back to Jusin, found the dwarf scrubbing the seat of his cart, attempting to remove all traces of her last trip.
She waited for him to complete the task, then rode back with him to Buckshire.
Upon arrival she spotted the elf she had found laying dead in the Nebwood a few days previous, the creature appeared to be enjoying rude health, for an instant she remembered his taste. Such a shame she had been interuppted before she had really begun. She ignored him and went her way.
Voices to her right drew her attention.
An elf girl, the halfling Cora (Brightsmile) and Orsk were talking of some triviality.
Dana sauntered over, made her feelings towards the elven girl felt, drew Orsk's attention.
He seemed most keen to speak with her, somewhere private.
They left the others and walked to the small boarding house situated near the coast road.
Dana cast upon herself a magic of keen eyes and checked the interior, it was empty.
Orsk chose a large couch to seat himself upon, Dana chose to sit by the fire on the floor.
Orsk began immediately.
The 'plot' he had mentioned to her on their previous meeting had been altered slightly
Orsk explained.
Apparently the new Guards Captain in Midor, a low-life by the name of Danner, had been in the locale, had spoken freely of the newer ideas that Midor propogated.
It was the intention of the evil place to spread its deseased wings across the whole of Vives.
Orsk went on to explain that this Danner had spoken at length of plans to take over the Aristi building, Dana assumed the one near Four winds, and use it as some kind of forward base. ((that is how I interpreted it, therefore Dana did too))
Orsk explained that 'they' were drawing up a plan of action aimed at the said building, once the Midorans had taken up residence.
Dana asked who 'they' were, and was slightly alarmed to find out the group consisted of Orsk himself and the halfling Fen.
Hardly enough, she considered.
Once again she gave Orsk her pledge that she would assist in any way she could. Anything that hurt Midor was, in her opinion, a good thing.
He promised he would keep her informed of any developments.
Dana asked after Ophelia's health.
Orsk explained that she was in a bad way. That she had taken to hiding herself to escape the recent encounters she had experienced with Gabriel.
It appeared this Gabriel, who Dana had not yet met, was stalking Ophelia. Reason unknown.
Orsk asked Dana that she spend time with Ophelia, and if this Gabriel should happen to appear Dana should attempt a capture, bring him to Orsk.
The huge orc's atitude and mannerisms left little doubt in Dana's mind of the fate Orsk had planned for this antagonist.
Dana was hugely pleased to hear that Orsk did not object to Gabriel arriving in more than one piece.
Dana was just about to tell Orsk of her own plans for Midor, when the man suddenly stood, and making his goodbye quickly hurried from the building.
She shrugged to herself.
It would wait.
Dana made a mental list of things to be done.
Firstly she must locate Ophelia, the girl was of M'Gok Tukar, and she would need to keep Orsk on-side. His daughters safety seemed of paramount importance to him.
Second, she had a delivery to make to Midor. Ever since the demon sword arrived on the scene, the ones she had hoped might take action against the white city had suddenly found a single girl and her toy of greater importance.
Third, she would like very much to seek out this Nakita, if the girl was indeed as powerful as everyone said then a combining of thier talents could maybe be benefiacial. She must ask Alton of how she could contact her.
Fourthly, she must find someone willing to retrieve another corpse from the brain eaters.
She and Lucius had decided after their last attempt that a return trip was probably going to be pushing their luck a little too far. The demon sword seemed to be concentrating its efforts on the more desolate parts of Vives, but she had a bad feeling that should she and Lucius return to the place of the Gathering they would be bound to find the sword there waiting.
There was bound to be other things that needed her attention. Lesser things.
She stood from the fire, adjusted her skirt.
As she made her way to the door she bacame aware of another thing that needed her attention.
She hurried back to Jusin and bought passage to the port.
Lucius would be back soon, she hoped he wasn't feeling too tired. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 22 Jun 2006 08:56 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
The voyage, the giant and the halfling
A Barnas production
She emerged from the gates into the opening opposite Doc's in the Shire. It had been a trying, yet ultimately satisfying day.
Her day had begun in the Vale, her intention to find a fearsome creature, her goal, to take the said creature to wreak havoc amongst the hated red knights of Midor.
She had firstly elected to use one of the most feared creatures she had encountered, the kow (Grizzly Mastadon)
Using magics and the power of her mind she had easily selected one and removed it from its herd.
One thing she had overlooked, however, was to get the creature from the icy tundra to the red knights.
Between tundra and knights lay Icy Vale, and she was not aware of any route she could take that would bypass the hamlet.
She considered using a magic of invisibility, then rejected it. The risks that the creature could break free of its unseen bondage and wreak havoc in the Vale was not one she was willing to take.
She broke the mind link between herself and the beast at the gates to the Vale, and slew it. There was no point wasting valuable meat.
The meat she took to her home, M'Gok Tukar, and spent a few relaxing hours amongst old friends, rethinking her plans.
She decided somewhere closer to the target was desirable, so she made her way to the great plains.
She scanned her memory for a place she recalled engaging powerful beasts, the ettins, way to weak, the ogres, that went against her principles, as did the giants from the mountains.
Quickly it became apparent she was going to find nothing suitable.
A quick trip through the mountains, across the Bridge of Syn (still not complete) she vainly attempted to charm one of the dreaded creepers, only to discover they had no minds to speak of.
None that her probings could locate.
They were after all, plants.
Becoming more dejected with each passing hour she finally realised that her options were pushing her towards the port.
Nothing the deserts could offer looked promising, she took one of the feared Zizers to Bloodwood where it was quickly overcome by a handful of ettins.
She considered taking something from a tomb, a Lich might be in residence.
An hour later that idea was also scrapped when said Lich was caught backfooted by the Zezirs.
Too busy casting protections upon itself it never saw the impending danger, then when it did, it tried to dispel magics they did not use. The thing was consumed by fire and hacked down by claw.
Becoming desperate she found herself nearing the Shire.
Dragons had obviously crossed her mind, and more than a lingering glance was spared in the direction of the backbone.
She doubted the power of her mind was capable of overcoming that of one so old and wise, so left them in peace.
She entered the Shire, looked at the gates guarded by Hicks and his men.
Giants, how she hated the idea of using one of her distant cousins.
Hydra. The realisation bought a glimmer of hope to her eyes.
She prepared herself, entered their cave.
The darkness folded around her, slitherings ahead, those strange snakes that chose to live amongst the multi headed dragon like creatures.
She located her Hydra. Crashed into the thing in the dark, truth be known.
It seemed not to notice.
Stepping back a few paces she concentrated her mind on the task. Being so close to dragons in appearance she wondered if success would be hers, and, suprisingly, it was.
Once the melding of minds was complete the Hydra set about the snakes killing them all.
She commanded the thing to follow her out of the cave, her intention was to remove it invisibly from the area peacefully, but the link was not strong enough, the Hydra had other ideas. It set off after a handful of the mountain giants that had gathered nearby.
They in their turn rounded upon the giant lizard and pounded it into a bloody pulp inside a few seconds.
Dana knew from personal experience the giants were not very fearsome, unless in groups.
The bridge to the Firkrag mountains beckoned, she knew there was a family of particularly ferocious Roc lived at the very top, she had defeated them a few times, but each conflict left her seriously drained of her magical abilities. She stopped to consider the possible problems.
The main one was distance. The red knights were many, many miles away, she also had the problem of maintaining control of the thing while she scrabbled down the treacherous surfaces of the mountain.
One more option removed.
Still standing amongst the mountain giants she got to thinking about their stronger brethren, the ones they called Gargantua.
They were strong, experience had shown her. Very strong indeed.
A name drifted into her head, that of Karkus, king of the giants, and, if chief Borogask had his way, her future husband.
Would Karkus mind, if what he regarded as his future wife, was to take one of his subjects and use it for such a noble purpose? She doubted he would. He would never find out anyway.
With renewed enthusiasm she headed down to the cave system where the Gargantua made their home. Before she went any further she had to ascertain whether her mind could control that of a Gargantua.
She approached the first she saw, concentrated hard.
The huge mans head was incredibly easy to penetrate. She doubted he could have resisted her even had he known she was there doing it.
Happily she left the caves.
She had her weapon, now she had to secure a speedy means of transport to take the giant to the red knights in a time she could maintian control over it.
Dana sauntered from Buckshire along the coast road feeling extremely pleased with herself.
Her destination was a solitary dock near to Port Royale, she quickened her pace a little.
The road was quiet, the only other traffic she saw was Jusin clattering his way towards Buckshire, a couple of passengers bouncing along in the back, as every rut in the well worn track vibrated into the back of the cart via the solid wooden wheels and axles.
As she approached the dock she noted happily that Captain Highliner was at his customary station, axe in hand.
Getting closer she loosened a large purse of gold from her belt and held it tightly in her hand.
Walking up the gangplank towards the orcish sailor she announced herself in the tongue of her people, hoping that might swing his decision in her favour.
Happily, Highliner was glad to accept her, and her cargo, or maybe it was just the rather substantial purse she handed him. Twenty five thousand coins to go, the same on her safe return.
It was arranged they would sail on the dawn.
She made the short walk back to port in fine time, the spring that had been in her step at the beginning of this arduous day returned once more.
She had decided at the time of dreaming up this venture that she would need another to travel with her. Someone who could walk ahead and ensure their mighty charge remained unseen.
She immediately ruled out Lucius. She knew without even suggesting the idea that he would fight her on it. She was not going to surrender the most important thng in her life over this venture, and she was sure he would jettison her again, should he become aware.
She decided to call on Tomi or Sam, both were loyal friends with a deep seated hatred of Midor.
A knock at Tomi's door produced no answer, and questions asked in port revealed no knowledge of Sam's whereabouts either.
Just as she had decided this would have to be a trip made alone she came across Fen walking the dockside.
Her talks with Orsk had assured her in her mind that the halfling was of the right persuassion. She hesitated to ask, but was fairly certain his skills in concealing himself were probably good too.
A quick chat in the nearby tavern, and it was arranged.
As they parted she realised just how close to the dawn sailing it was, if she was to sleep this night it would be brief.
She hurried to her room, slid in beside Lucius, hoped fervently, as she cuddled close to him, that she would still be around the following night to repeat the act.
She rose with the dawn, as was usual, dressed and left the still sleeping Lucius, closing the door gently behind her.
She met Fennigan close by Jusin's pitch in the square, they hurried to the Shire.
For quickness she left Fennigan on one of the upper levels, using the spell of jumping to lower herself down to the entrance to the caves she would find the Gargantua. the alternative was a long and circuitous route, one that she, and the giant, would have to make on the return trip.
Well protected by her magics she approached the huge giant, he was an impressive specimin, even by the standards of his kin.
She prepared herself, channelled her thoughts, easily bought it under her control.
She cast protections upon it, making sure not to forget the spell of invisbility.
Using her will she instructed the giant he was to follow her, and not, under any circumstance, attack the wandering giants outside the caves, of which there was many.
A look into its eyes hardly filled her with hope. If the mental projection had been recieved the giant showed no signs of it.
She would have to take her chances.
The second she and the giant left the shelter of the cave system her worst fears were recognised.
Thunderous footsteps passed close by to her right, the hulking thing went straight after his mountain giant kin, laying about himself with those massive arms.
If she was to draw any consolation from this it was to observe the creature she controlled laid waste to many of his brothers and took very little in the way of wounds himself.
Time and again she projected her thoughts to her charge, who time and again flatly refused to take any notice.
She broke into a run, aware of Fennigan pacing her along the ridge high above. She plunged into the cave system that was home to the Hydra's, and also the only way out of the valley she had been in. Turning she was happy to see the huge form had finally decided to do as he was told and was now standing obediently behind her.
Once more she ran. Dana didn't like to run, especially in dark caves where a missed footing could plunge the unwary over the side of a sheer drop.
Again, to her dismay, the stupid creature decided to lay about anything in the cave that moved.
Each conflict opened a new wound, she wondered if she would have to go back and snatch another of his kind.
After what seemed an age she emerged into the light of dawn, ran to where Fennigan was, and then the three of them, herself, giant and halfling, ran to the gates.
A quick inspection of the giant revealed some fairly horrendous wounds, but she was prepared.
Many bandages were wrapped around the huge limbs, ointments applied.
Eventually the giant was approaching fitness.
She cast upon him the magic of concealment one more time, it would be enough to hide him from the eyes of Hicks and his men, she hoped fervently the clumsy brute didn't tread on any of them.
She need not have worried, as they emerged from the gates the small contingent of guards under Hicks command were standing some distance away, talking.
The three of them ran through the Shire, their pace did not slacken even once they reached the coast road.
They encountered nobody at this early time of day, and with relief they all piled aboard the small coaster of Captain Highliner.
She was late, and he was ready to make sail.
The ropes were cast off, the boat got underway.
Dana was not a good sailor, she would get sick from even the smallest of swells, and this trip was no different.
They arrived on the Eastern coastline of Paws in good time, Dana wearing most of the food from the last twenty four hours down the front of her new battledress.
Not far away she saw the lights of Paws burning in their windows.
They approached cautiously.
Two days previous she had left notes with many of the residents of Paws instructing them to remain indoors this morn, despite attempting to peer through the dense undergrowth she could not tell if they had taken the warning seriously. She fervently hoped they had.
She bade Fennigan enter the hamlet in a well concealed state while she and the giant remained outside.
Fennigan was gone only minutes, but to Dana, standing in the woods, the hot breath of a huge giant on her neck, it seemed like an eternity.
Footsteps coming her way. Fennigan, at last.
He reported that the hamlet had a larger than usual compliment of red knights, but that they were not so numerous as to cause a great problem.
Dana told Fennigan to remain in the woods, and be ready to make a fast run back to the boat of Captain Highliner.
He melted into the foliage to await her return.
She checked the magical protections of herself and the giant, took a deep breath and burst forth from the treeline.
The instant she emerged she came face to face with a lot of red knights, she didn't bother to count them, she just saw a lot of them.
She ran through the gathered men, commanding the giant to follow her, which to its commendation it actually did.
The huge creature knocked several suprised knights to the side as it passed, but before they could recover their wits she had the giant at what she thought to be a good place for it to begin its wholesale slaughter.
She turned, ducked back through the throng of men, at the same time ordering the giant to attack.
How she would have liked to stop and watch, lent the creature a hand even, but self preservation dictated she leave the place as quickly as possible.
She canonned back into the woods, calling to Fennigan to make haste back to Highliners boat.
They tumbled back on deck, Highliner, coming from good pirate stock was ready and the boat was offshore very quickly.
A look back, nobody it seemed had followed them.
With a sigh of relief she slumped against the wooden sides of the boat.
Maybe it was fatigue and she was simply to exhausted, maybe it was the adrenalin in her blood, she would never know, but Dana made the trip home without once feeling the need to be sick.
((This was an amazing day on Vives, and much more happened, however, this post is long enough already, so the other encounters will be posted tomorrow)) |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 22 Jun 2006 09:32 PM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
The play, the dragon and the paladin
Part two of the above story
Immediately after the trip to Paws, Dana and Fennigan went their seperate ways.
How she yearned to know the outcome of the encounter between giant and the foul red knights of Midor.
Word would eventually bleed through to her, it always did, but she was impatient to know.
As she trudged past the tiresome Berens selling his newspapers her eyes lit upon Lucius coming towards her from the direction of the tavern.
Instantly her spirits rose.
Right now what she needed more than anything was a bit of tenderness. Another of those peculiar human traits she had adopted.
After a successful trip in her days at M'Gok Tukar there would be a breaking open of kegs, singing and unruly behaviour. She had enjoyed those times, and no doubt she would again, but it was at times like these she realised how much influence living around humans had on her.
They enjoyed an embrace, a public affair made in the streets, neither caring who saw, or whether they held objections to such displays.
The tickling sensations she used to experience in her belly tried to make a return.
They had fled her the day Lucius told her that he no longer wanted her to be a part of his life.
One day they would be hers again, she knew it, one day.
Her joy at thier reunion was to be short lived however.
The detestable Talion, friend and ally of Midoran paladins, hove into sight. It was obvious what he wanted, Lucius.
Coincidentally, the bard girl Karlena approached at the same time.
In her exhuberant way she she made her entrance, stage left.
Life to Karlena, it seemed, was one long performance.
Seeing that Karlena wished to speak with Dana, Lucius made good his escape with Talion, no doubt they had business to talk and gold to share out. Girl talk, as Karlena had announced was to be the topic, obviously not their thing.
Dana wasn't sure it was her thing either. She had no recollection of ever speaking of clothes, menfolk and those other things that seemed to keep human females enthralled for hours upon end.
However, Karlena was of another mind.
She insisted that she simply -had- to speak to Dana, and hauled her off to a side table.
Both girls made themselves comfortable, and without further ado Karlena launched into her role.
With much tossing of hair, pouting, and other curious acts Dana never indulged in, Karlena explained that Jessup had commisioned her to produce a play about Midor, and that she, Dana, was to be portrayed as the heroinne of this piece, the part to be taken by Karlena no less.
Halfway through her explanation of the plot, Karlena broke off long enough to suggest Dana wear her hair in braids and underwent something of a makeover.
All of this Dana listened to in a state of bemusement, trying to keep up with the various directions the conversation took.
Again, suddenly, Karlena stopped in mid-topic to thank Dana for the present she had made her some days ago.
Dana told her it was nothing, she made many such gifts to friends, and she considered Karlena a friend. Mention of the present reminded Dana that she had about her baggage a set of pipes that Karlena could possibly find a use for.
She eventually found them, handed them to Karlena who seemed delighted by them.
Straight away, much to Dana's suprise, she placed them in her mouth and begun to produce notes from them.
Dana had been trying to play them with her nose.
Karlena seemed less than enthralled to be given this news so soon after having them in her mouth.
The topic returned to the play, Karlena wanting to know all about Markus. It seemed he was to be portrayed as the one who lost out, and somehow he represented Midor.
Dana did her best to keep up, nodding and smiling her approvals, interjecting information where it was asked for and making small comments where she thought the story had been mis-told.
Dana struggled to recall the occasion that was to act as the plays opening. Running with Markus from a bunch of undead creations, or goblins, played by stagehands.
However, she was happy to allow Karlena to ramble on even if she had no idea what it was they were discussing.
Karlena reached the end of this epic performance just as Lucius made his return.
Dana was relieved.
She liked Karlena, liked her very much, but the girls mind moved in so many directions, so quickly, Dana was becoming dizzy.
Dana's mind, by comparison, had the attention and concentration span of a goldfish, roughly seven seconds.
Lucius approached and asked if he would be intruding on them. Both girls said that he would not be.
Karlena announced that for the time being she was through with questions for Dana, and that she must be about her business.
With great aplomb and flourish she made her departure, leaving the two of them alone, a rarely tasted treat for the couple.
For a while they enjoyed each other, idle banter and a lot of closeness.
It was Lucius who suggested they take a trip, he needed almonds for his potions and suggested they gather them from the Undreath.
Dana happily agreed to the journey, it would be more time alone with him, and provide physical activity. She was still watching her belly on a daily basis.
The paunch had so far not shown signs of returning.
They left immediately, making their way directly to the Undreath woods.
A few Centuars took their chances, and never lived to regret it.
Lucius gathered his almonds and they made tracks towards the deeper woodland.
As usual, the place was alive with grotesquely oversized spiders. They hacked their way easily through them, entered the cave where the spiders had their nest. More slashing, spider legs became detatched and the pair were soon both covered in the slime that flew from their blades.
The area cleaned they headed downwards, faced more spiders, some as tall as houses. Dana was enjoying herself immensely. Lucius seemed to be also.
They crossed a bridge, found some elven men upon the opposite side, these were no recruits, these men were strong and well practised in their art. More slashing. At one point Dana found herself surrounded by them, many of their thrusts made contact upon her, she wounded, bled freely, she did not notice, such was the bloodlust upon her.
Standing knee deep in a pile of elven corpses she only realised the severity of her wounds when Lucius rushed over to her with a handful of bandages, which he expertly and hastily applied to prevent severe blood loss.
Unperturbed the pair went lower.
A huge underground cavern, seemingly deserted. They walked around the perimeter all the time watchful, nothing stirred. Dana was certain she had been to this place before, seemed to remember a huge creature appearing in the natural bowl that formed the centre of the cavern. However, on this occasion nothing.
Lucius spotted a cave entrance in one of the walls that was to their right, he suggested they take a look inside. Dana, still in the giddy throes of her killing spree, readily agreed.
They entered the cave, it was lit somehow by a mysterious blue light.
Dana would have said that the way the light shimmered from what appeared to be crystaline surfaces was beautiful, had such a word been in her vocabulary.
However, Dana had not time to say anything, a movement in the distance, she reacted instinctively with a magic of energy, the creature fell.
Coming towards them was something much, much bigger. It appeared to be an animated dragons skeleton, and it had seen them. She cast a couple of innefectual spells upon it, then realising the folly of this she turned on her heel and ran, she was pleased to see Lucius running too.
The cave entrance seemed to recede as she ran towards it, in her mind it was moving away from her. Reaching that opening was of paramount importance. Her practiced eye calculated the dragon skeleton, or whatever it was, would be unable to pursue them beyond it. The thing was just too big to pass such a small hole.
Dana ran, lungs bursting, finally reaching the opening
Dana never made it to the other side.
Her next recollection was of a stone floor, voices, female.
She forced her eyes to open, kneeling at her side, deep in prayer, Lucius, around her three women she vaguely recognised.
She was safe, she was back in port, in the temple.
All too quickly she realised what had happened, what this strange gathering represented.
Her fall had been worse than any other she had ever had.
Pains coursed through parts of her body she didn't even know she had, but she was alive, wasn't she?
The women had gone to much trouble to drag her soul back into the broken husk of her body, and then made more efforts to straighten twisted and broken limbs and bones back into their rightful places.
Lucius had made a supreme effort too, braving the dragon skeleton thing for a second time he had somehow hauled her lifeless corpse back to the port single handedly.
She would show her appreciation to him, she vowed.
The healers job finished, Lucius helped her stand on legs unwilling to support her.
With his help she wobbled her way out to the street.
Lucius realised with alarm that he was overdue a meeting with Jessup, and with much apologising he hurried away, leaving Dana with Ophelia.
They spoke of many things, but Ophelia had become obsessed with getting her hands on some Midoran armour.
She also seemed intent on facing the Midoran pig Sanner in a contest.
Dana was not about to try and dissuade the girl. He had threatened M'Gok Tukar, and Dana had only been prevented from making a challenge to him by Ophelia's quicker reaction in making her own.
Ophelia was still talking endlessly of armours when an ashen faced Lucius re-appeared form the doorway to P&J's office.
She struggled to stand, her legs still protesting, and got to his side as quickly as she could.
She asked of him what was wrong.
On his reply she felt anger growing, her heart quickened inside her breast.
It appeared that the demon sword, and all its problems, had been unleashed by Lucius. She had been there, she had seen. Nobody released the blade, it had materialised from thin air, and if one of them was responsible for this it had been accidental.
What made her angrier, was Lucius acceptance of this ludicrous fact.
Jessup had told Lucius it was his fault, and Lucius had chosen to accept the blame, take responsibility for all the deaths that followed. She fumed.
Now the task of cleaning up was to be his, Lucius'
That was going to mean she would see less of him, that she would be the one who would bear the brunt of his moods and his guilt.
Those who should be doing something, those who had the resources to do something, would idly sit by, watch ,and criticise.
Some weeks, months ago, she had gifted Jessup armours with a street value of near half a million gold coins, all she asked in return was that Lucius be left alone. That he be allowed to take up his new life at her side.
This was how she was repaid.
Words would be spoken to Jessup, of that she was certain.
Others may walk in fear of him, but Dana certainly did not.
For maybe an hour she talked to him, tried to convince him that things were not his fault, nor were they his problem, Holace had also added his voice.
More than once it was pointed out that not one, but two other teams were already working on the problem, but their words fell on deaf ears.
Lucius, it seemed, was happy to blithely agree to whatever he was told by Jessup, and ignore the words of his freinds and his lover.
Already the signs of depression were showing.
More than once her angry eyes scanned the frontage of P&J's in hope of catching a sight of Jessup. He was not to be seen.
Holace departed, and Lucius expressed an interest in gather roots for potions.
Dana, still not feeling up to much, readily agreed, it would take his mind off the sword, temporarily at least.
They quickly made ready and set forth, talking about many things.
They stopped briefly on the Buckshire trail, took time to enjoy the closeness of one another.
A discreet cough.
She broke the kiss they had been enjoying, looked over Lucius shoulder, there stood Cedrych.
Determined to do the right thing she made herself pleasant to Cedrych, and whilst she spoke little the few words she did make were civil and lacked her usual venom.
If this suprised Cedrych he made no sign.
Cedrych was invited to join them on their journey, and he accepted.
Dana had to admit her hatred of Cedrych had been diminishing fast for some good while now.
Whilst she did not relish his intrusion into their space she did not resent it either.
They travelled through jungles and woods, Lucius collected his roots, the outing was pleasant, but not convivial.
Upon their arrival at the shoreline base that was manned (womaned) by the Kraken, tiredness caught up with them and it was agreed they spend the night there.
Dana and Lucius found a large tent that was unused, ducked inside. Cedrych remained by the small campfire where he endevoured to sleep.
The next morning she rose, slipped slowly and carefully from between the sheets as not to waken Lucius. She tugged on her clothes and emerged into bright sunlight.
Cedrych lay on his back, mouth wide open, snoring loudly.
Not a few days ago she would have sought something unsavoury to drop into that mouth, today she just bent over him and gently shook him awake.
Explaining that Lucius was asleep still, the two of them sat, and talked of many things.
Dana, after much consideration, decided to make a gift to Cedrych, and handed him the bags she carried all her more select items in, for his perusal.
After much consideration, and a couple of strangely worded questions, Cedrych returned the bags to her explaining that while he appreciated the gesture he still was not able to accept any token from her.
That, she said, was his perogative.
The longer they spoke the more she found herself opening up to him.
She told him of the new found emotions that were blossoming in her. They spoke of envy, jealousy and even love.
Many topics were covered, some Cedrych claimed to have as little understanding of, as she herself did.
By the time Cedrych rose from the ground to leave she admitted to herself that she had perhaps got him wrong, that maybe he wasn't such a terrible person as she had originally thought.
Admitted to herself that maybe she actually liked him.
Well, just a little.
Her eyes were drawn to the front of the tent she had shared with Lucius, the flaps hanging open.
She approached, peered in. His breathing was lighter now, soon he would be waking.
She backed herself into the tent, drew the ties that fastened the two flaps together, slipped her clothes off and crept back into bed. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 24 Jun 2006 10:40 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Jessup, Nakita and the Mithril
Featuring Barnas
Dana's day had been unusual, to say the least.
It had begun normally enough, gone downhill rapidly, then ended on an unbelievable high.
She had risen at her normal early hour, performed her daily rituals of bathing and eating, then ventured out into the rainsoaked port.
A short walk through deserted streets to Johe's, to unload some things she had found the previous day, but been too tired to dispose of.
Zig was fair in his trading as usual. The items she sold were desirable, but not worthy of a place in one of the four bags she carried that contained gifts for her friends.
She emerged once more into the rain a few minutes later, her purse swollen by some twelve thousand extra coins.
She disliked carrying so much gold about her person, so she caught the boat to Ka'azim to convert metal into paper.
An hour later, her purse now much slimmer, she was back in the main port area.
Standing by the tailors shop was Tomi, she elected to go and join him.
She asked after his endeavours to find the items that Nakita sought in return for her help in the removal of the demon sword.
Tomi said that they had got the dress that was required, the remaining things were still outstanding.
He showed her the dress, and even one as unfashionable as Dana could see that it had been created by a master tailor, the cut exceptional, the style impeccable, if a little revealing.
Shortly after they were joined by others, and the talk chopped and changed from topic to topic.
Barely listening to what was being said, for her stomach was speaking its displeasure louder, she was aware of the door to the P&J's office opening.
Mister Jessup stepped out in a fine white robe.
The instant Dana laid eyes upon him she felt her anger rising,
She had very great respect for this man, she had once even nurtured a secret desire for him.
She had respect, but not fear.
Now, as she watched him close the shop door, all she could think about was the shabby way that Lucius had been treated.
Mister Jessup had crossed the line.
Her ears and eyes were closed to everything except the vision of the half-orc.
She stormed away from the group, made straight for him.
She had intended being civil, but the rage that closed in on her disallowed that.
Dana's voice was at best of times, loud. The volume with which she bellowed at Jessup, ordering him to follow her, suprised even herself.
It must have suprised Jessup too.
A glance over her shoulder as she strode away from him, showed him to be following her, his mood obviously was not good.
She marched him to the very end of the dock, away from the ears of others.
Despite her rage she still had enough respect left for him that she would not place him in a scene that would embarress him.
Speaking loudly and firmly in their native language she demanded of him an explanation of why he blamed Lucius for the whole demon sword incident, and what, she demanded, gave him the power to demand that Lucius repair what had been done.
The previous day she had asked the same questions of Lucius, who seemed determined to blame himself for the whole sorry saga.
Now she listened, incredulous, to the exact same answers that Lucius had given, being fed to her by Jessup.
The only difference, this time, was that Jessup aportioned an equal blame upon her.
She demanded to know where he got his information from, that he could go about accusing all and sundry of such things.
The reply she got was evasive, but it took no genius to realise that a lot of what Jessup said had come from Lucius himself.
The day of the swords first appearance there had been three people present. Herself, Lucius and Alton.
She knew that she had said nothing of it to anyone, Alton had not supplied the information, by Jessups own admission, that only left Lucius.
He said that they should have spoken to the Gathering, requested they sacrifice two individuals from their number, to meet the needs of Lex.
Dana reacted to that with derision.
The very thought of such a thing was laughable.
Jessup had called it business, indicated that their actions had placed his organisation in danger. He did not elaborate.
Hearing Lucius words repeated back to her 'parrot-fashion' angered her more.
Jessup had taken the threads of Lucius's self inflicted guilt, and weaved from it a cloak of responsibility, which he had then handed back to Lucius, who elected to wear it.
Despite her flaring anger Dana was suprised when mister Jessup began levelling personal insults upon her, calling her a coward and saying that she had great power that she abused, and could not control.
For a few seconds she found herself speechless.
Any respect she had for the man disitegrated at that moment, she had expected better.
He shouted, almost screamed at her, that the apology he had publicly promised to make to Nakita was no longer going to be forthcoming.
It was at this point that another voice, softer but speaking in the orcish tongue, interrupted them.
Dana looked over to the face of Nakita, Jessup still had his back to her.
Dana gestured to Jessup to turn, which he did, and upon seeing the girl he bowed low.
As she spoke to Jessup, in conversational tone, Dana could not help but be struck by her as she had before.
She found herself once again taking a liking to her, regarding this vampyress with awe. She knew it was wrong to admire such a creature, she simply could not help herself.
The girl was making an offer, it appeared, to remove the demon sword from where it could threaten innocent people, and deposit it once again with the Gathering.
She suggested that instantaneous action was needed and set off down the dock with Jessup following.
Over his shoulder he made a remark in orcish, once again casting doubts on Dana's courage.
She followed the pair more out of curiousity than a desire to assist.
The trio of them, with Dana trailing a little behind, approached a group of people, adventurers, She spied in their midst Lucius, her heart told her that he would feel duty bound to assist with the capture of the sword.
Dana would have to go too. She must ensure Lucius safety.
Amongst the others she noticed Tomi and Alis, both seemed prepared to join, she also saw Talion. She chose to ignore him.
The group headed out of port, along the coast road, she was pleased to note, as they passed Captain Highliner, that while he showed curiousity in them as a whole, he averted his eyes from looking directly at her. She obliged by returning the favour, averting her eyes to the nearby clifftop as she passed him.
As they neared Buckshire the group emerged from a small copse of trees.
A bolt of magical energy seared past Dana, struck Tomi, another, striking Jessup.
She turned to face the threat, her eyes seeking Lucius as much as they sought the antagonist.
Lucius, she happily noted, was unhurt, then she noticed the sword. It moved fast striking Tomi, then Jessup. In an instant both fell to the ground, their bodies appeared lifeless.
Nakita acted quickly, rushing forward and grasping the demon thing. As before, she took to stroking the blade, almost as would a lover.
She looked upon Jessup who had fallen at her feet, a twinge of sympathy flitted through her, but no guilt.
Tomi, laying a few feet away, was already being administered to by Nidorran and Alis.
Alis called down the power of her god, and breathed life once more into Tomi's body.
Then she moved to Jessup. Despite the raising of Tomi draining the woman she got on with the task of repeating the process on Jessup.
Bandages were applied, healing balms administered, and soon both were in an upright position.
The attention of the group focussed on Nakita once more.
She explained that she would return the sword to the gathering, where it would once again be contained.
She left in some style, Dana was captivated once more by her.
For some short while the group spoke of what had happened, before they finally made their different paths, leaving Lucius and Dana alone together.
Lucius was troubled again, this time because Jessup, upon hs departure, had told Lucius he required a meeting with him, very soon.
For some time the two spoke of many things, until it came time for Lucius to go have his meeting with Jessup.
Dana said she would see him afterwards, and set off to busy herself to pass time.
She spent some time with Holace, she had a soft spot for him and enjoyed his company. He asked her help in a task he had undertaken to do, the cleansing of an archealogical dig in the desert.
She readily agreed, and between the two of them they accomplished the task infairly short order.
Once the job was done she accompanied Holace back to port, by happy coincidence Lucius meeting had recently concluded and she found jim in conversation with Fen in the square.
Fen, it turned out, was next to meet with Jessup, and soon after Dana's arrival he hurried away to it.
She was immensely pleased to see that Lucius was less pensive than she expected, although he told her Jessup had given him a warning to act more responsibly.
She told Lucius that was a pretty rich remark to come from a man who paid Sam's wages, and they shared a laugh together.
Lucius expressed a desire to go on a trip somewhere, Dana who was in need of some action herself readily agreed.
((Okay, the entire trip, encounters, and all that happened have been left out for obvious reasons, we join out hero and heroinne at the climax))
As the last of the creatures fell they proceeded further in.
The area yielded no obvious treasures, a hole in the floor drew Lucius attention and he went to investigate.
Dana wandered the other side, the place smelt bad.
As she passed a point in the wall her eyes were drawn to something that shone in the reflection of her light.
Curiousity getting the better of her she moved in to take a look, expecting to find a ring or even a discarded weapon as the sounce.
No, it was in the wall itself. She crouched lower, looked closer. The metal was not one she had mined before, duller than a vein of silver.
The colour seemed familiar, she wracked her brain to think where she had seen it before.
Realisation hit her.
Lucius had a dagger of a similar sheen. A Mithril dagger.
Somewhere, in her trembling body, she found the energy she needed to shout to Lucius.
And what a shout. It echoed and reverberated around the walls threatening to bring every nasty from here to Midor to them.
Startled, thinking her to be in peril, he ran to her.
With a trembling finger she pointed to the metallic glint on the wall.
His expert eye quickly told him what hers had only suspected.
They had found a Mithril mine. Probably the most sought after material in the world.
They had found the Holy Grail, Nu'men's Codpiece, Frobozz moustache.
Barely could they contain themselves, they hugged each other, jumped for joy, skipped about like children, broke wind.
They swore a pact to each other, the place was their secret, nobody would be told about it, they would bring nobody here.
They had found the place, if other people wanted to come here they could find it too.
Lucius was keen to mine some right away.
Dana could barely contain her glee at their good fortune.
Then Lucius realised he had not packed his mining axe.
The pair left the place to seek the nearest supplier of mining equipment. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 28 Jun 2006 10:09 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
The suprise, the shock and the soulmate
The Suprise
Dana made her weary way back to the port, her only concern a bath, and her bed.
She sold a few less desirable items to Gariert, pulled the strings on her purse, turned towards the tavern.
As she crossed the small bridge that spanned the drainage stream a voice pulled her up.
Leanne.
She had been so tired she had walked by her without so much as a hello.
Dana stopped to speak, and was alarmed at Leanne's opening line.
Speaking in a voice easily heard by those nearby, Leanne asked her how many Midorans she had killed.
A quick scan of the faces of Betty, Jusin and Gariert showed Dana they had all overheard the question and were trying to appear nonchalant whilst awaiting the reply.
Dana answered hastily, maybe too hastily, in a loud voice, said that she had never killed a single one.
She hoped the look she shot at Leanne would get across the message that she was less than pleased at such things being levelled at her in such a public forum.
Unperturbed, Leanne continued that she was disappointed to hear such.
Sensing this topic was not about to be dropped anytime soon, Dana ushered Leanne to accompany her to the room she rented, the one with the bed that called to her, in the tavern.
Leanne followed her.
Once inside, and with Leanne seated, Dana felt slightly more relaxed.
She asked Leanne why the interest, and was more than a little suprised to hear Leanne saying how she hated Midorans, and wanted to see many die.
The quiet, timid girl that Dana had always believed Leanne to be, had a deeper side.
She gauged the girl for sincerity. Decided that she could take a risk here. Besides, it would be the word of one girl against the other should things be made known outside this room.
Dana confided that she had indeed killed Midorans.
Leanne then wanted to know how many, had she beaten the record set by Jessup.
Dana replied honestly that she had no idea how many. She could acount for six, but she had no knowledge about numbers that fell when she delivered the Gargantua to Paws, nor did she have numbers of how many perished at the Roc attacks.
Suddenly enlivened, Leanne wanted to hear stories of the kills, but Dana was both too tired, and too unwilling to say more.
Leanne confessed to Dana that she had killed a Midoran red knight, sort of.
On Dana's questioning it appeared Leanne had applied magical protections to a man who had slain some Midorans, thereby playing a part in the murders.
Dana pressed her for the mans name.
Leanne leapt in. Talion.
Dana was dumbstruck.
Talion? Friend of the Midorans Talion? This just could not be.
Dana voiced her thoughts, and Leanne quickly backtracked, saying she could not be sure it had been he.
Dana was unconvinced. Could it be that she had an unlikely ally in Talion?
Oh, but this was too delicious.
Leanne requested that Dana take her on her next adventure to slay Midorans, she wanted to watch first hand.
Dana said that not only could Leanne accompany her, but that she would disable a red knight enough for Leanne to claim a life of her own.
A gentle knock on the door, Dana opened it to find an equally tired Lucius standing there.
His eyes were also on the bed.
Dana politely ushered Leanne out.
She closed the door, turned and stood with her back pressed against it.
Lucius was too tired to notice her expression.
She watched him undress. For once her mind was not focused on him.
Two names went around in her head.
Leanne ......... Talion ...
What a pleasant suprise to end the day on.
The Shock
The next day, in port, Dana was standing daydreaming as she often did.
It was raining, as usual. And, as usual, Dana seemed to be unaware of the fact.
The droplets streamed from her hair unchecked down her face, thence onwards into her clothes.
A large figure was hurrying across the docks from the position Captain Dandy moored his boat.
As the figure drew closer, she noticed it was that of Jessup.
For a few seconds the two stood and stared at each other.
Dana sensed no animosity from him, despite their last encounter.
She made a halfhearted greeting, to which he gave a halfhearted reply.
He approached her. Spoke.
He sought Lucius.
No doubt the ports underlord had another odious task for him to perform.
Dana was about to fly into another rage when Jessup said he wished to speak to them both, together.
Slightly passified, but now more curious, she told Jessup she would pass the message on to Lucius when he woke.
At least she would be there to ensure Lucius was not press-ganged into anything.
Lucius woke some hours later, and she gave him the message from Jessup.
Lucius expressed a desire to visit the Undercity markets before they met.
He hurried off to his trading, Dana wandered the port.
She encountered Talion briefly, found herself regarding him in a new light.
Could he be an ally?
How should she approach this?
Others were present, and they spoke as a group about many things.
She watched Talion, tried to glean some small piece of usable information that might confirm what was already a strong suspicion in her mind.
Finally Lucius re-appeared, took her hand and pulled her towards the P&J office.
Unusual behaviour for him, especially in such a public place.
She wondered if he was in some way angered, and if so, was it anything she had done or said.
She allowed herself to be pulled, unprotesting, to the P&J, where upon their arrival, she fell over a gnome who was just leaving.
Jessup was in the door bidding the gnome a farewell.
The gnome turned out to be a most charming man, laying flattery upon Dana in a manner she was not accustomed to.
Possibly it was a little more of her human side coming to the fore, she knew not what, but the words spoken to her gave her a warm feeling deep inside.
She felt her face redden with girlish coyness.
She admitted to herself, somewhat reluctantly, it felt good. It felt very good.
As the gnome went about his business, Jessup ushered the pair inside his premises.
He led them through to the main reception area.
The last time Dana had set foot here was the day she presented Jessup with six suits of extremely rare armours, in return for him leaving Lucius alone.
She reflected with a small smile that Jessup had taken her hand and placed upon the back of it, a small kiss.
Jessup bade them sit, they did as he asked.
He got straight to the point of the meeting.
Their encounters with the demon sword, which now had a name, Blood drinker, were not yet over.
It now seemed that unless Jessup intervened the sword would be sent to hunt herself, Lucius and Alton in the very near future.
He made mention that he was willing to intervene in this matter.
Dana and Lucius asked, almost as one voice, what he expected from them in return, and he went on to explain to them his terms.
The job he outlined didn't sound to be too alarming. But she knew that people should not be taken at face value anymore.
He wanted them to provide an escort, to a place of great secrecy.
They must never make mention of the place after the trip, or they would be beyond the help of Jessups organisation.
Both listened intently to what he had to say.
Once more, grudgingly, Dana felt some respect for the half orc returning.
So much so, that when he had finished talking, and questions had been answered, upon leaving her seat she bobbed down in a clumsy excuse of a curtsie to him.
The task at hand was not what they had expected to be given, indeed upon entering the shop they had no idea why they had been summoned there.
Dana and Lucius left the meeting shocked, but much relieved.
The Soulmate
Outside the shop they stopped, spoke briefly to Fennigan.
Dana sensed that Lucius needed to be alone with her almost as much as she needed to be alone with him.
A strange feeling of closeness to him swept over her.
She knew things had to be said, but these were to be good things.
Again, she just knew this to be the case.
Once Fennigan had made his departure and they had waved a goodbye it seemed the flood gates to emotion burst open.
From both of them.
She pledged her love for him, not for the first time, and sought assurances that they would remain together for always.
Dana knew and accepted that she was not as good with words as he, she hoped the sincerity in her eyes told him all he yearned to know.
In reply, and much more poetically, Lucius made assurances that although they had argued in the past, parted briefly, she was the most important thing in his life.
When he next spoke, he struggled to find the correct words. Slowly they came
As would a parched Kobai traveller, she drank every word up, her heart soared, her head spun.
Then she became aware of it.
It had returned to her, finally.
The feeling in her belly, the tickling fluttering feeling.
The one that had fled her body the day Lucius had pushed her away, no longer wishing her to be his.
She took his hand, placed it upon her stomach, asked if he could feel it too, which of course he couldn't, but he expressed his delight at her obvious joy.
And there they stood, for some few minutes. She with his hand in hers, his palms pressed against her belly.
They spoke little in these minutes, prefering to look into the eyes of the other, just enjoying the closeness of the other.
As the day drew to a close it found them still huddled wordlessly together on the dockside.
They watched the sun dip below the horizon, and as she started to feel the chill of the evening pinching her skin he wrapped her in his spare robe and they made their way back to the tavern.
They smiled at each other a lot, very few words were spoken.
Very few words were needed.
((Can I please add, Dana is -NOT- pregnant, just in case the last few lines indicated that she might be)) |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 30 Jun 2006 11:15 AM |
((please note, anyone who was mislead by the previous post, and I hear a few of you were, Dana is -NOT- pregnant))
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Meetings, mining and emotions
Dana was taking her daily excercise, determined to keep the flat stomach she now proudly displayed.
One of the things that had both suprised and shocked her, on her arrival into human lands, was the fascination of the male of the species with the physical attributes of the female.
Indeed, she had even heard tales of men who would pay gold to women to remove their skirts.
She suspected the girl they called Candy was one who indulged in this practise quite often.
She was not blind to the influx of pretty young human women recently arrived in port, and was endevouring to keep Lucius interest in her keen.
So, she excercised.
This involved a lengthy trek, taking some hours, from Port Royale to M'Gok Tukar, where she would tell her father of her exploits before making the return trip.
It was as she left the hamlet of Brandibuck on her return leg, that she came across him. Talion.
Formal but polite greetings were exchanged. He seemed suprised.
Gathering up her pride she asked him if he would spare some time to meet with her, expecting a refusal or some date in the distant future.
However, to her suprise he not only agreed to the meeting, but suggested they take it right there and then.
Fearing they may be overheard she led him out into the Bloodwood, an area beset by fearsome two-headed giants, and there she sat herself.
Talion seemed a little uncertain of this unusual venue to begin with, but finally he relaxed, and she began.
She opened by re-telling the story that had been told her by Leanne. Asked of him if indeed he had been the warrior who had slain the Midoran guard.
He replied evasively, finally admitting that he had done the act, but also pleading that he had no choice in the matter.
She pressed him further.
What she needed to hear him say was that he wanted, nay yearned, to kill Midoran guards.
Throughout the talk she fed him leading questions, pushed constantly to hear those words, but they never came.
Deciding, finally, that she had been mistaken about him she stood, collected her bag, and announced the meeting over.
Talion seemed somewhat suprised at the hasty closure.
She assured him that all he had said to her would go no further.
As she walked away from him it seemed he had a sudden change of heart, calling out and stopping her.
Her back turned to him she allowed herself a smile, by the time she faced him all trace of it was gone.
Suddenly he wanted to tell her of a plan he was working on to confront a Midoran knight.
Somewhat dissappointed at the low number she nonetheless encouraged him to continue.
He mentioned the one knight may well be three, a slight improvement, and expressed his worries that some of them might escape him to tell their story in Midor.
He didn't ask for her help, but she knew without doubt that is what he sought.
She enjoyed herself, playing cat and mouse with him for a few minutes, before agreeing to accompany him and assist.
It was at this point that a disturbance in the woods, the sounds of fighting, disturbed them.
It was Ophelia, engaged in a battle with a large two-headed giant.
Dana and Talion watched without interference. Ophelia, happily, was the victor.
She had what she wanted from him, an admission, and a pledge to kill again.
Their meeting was over.
She indulged in some general chat with the two of them, then made her farewells and left.
The following day Dana found herself in port, her excercise taken, wandering, bored.
Today was to be the day that she and Lucius assisted Jessup with his mysterious trip.
She was curious about it, but not scared.
Dana and Lucius made a fearsome team, little could stand against them and she had faith in both her own, and her mans abilities.
As the hour of their departure neared she returned to her room in the tavern, woke the still sleeping Lucius, and spent a pleasant few minutes with him before they had to leave and meet up with Jessup.
The half-orc seemed impatient to be off, and without further ado they made their way to the docks.
To Captain Dandy's vessel.
Upon boarding they made themselves comfortable while the crew busied themselves with sail and rope.
Jessup made reference to a scandalous piece of writing that had appeared in the local papers, a report of Lucius having relations with the bard Karli.
The level of conversation soon dipped to a level where most human women would have felt uncomfortable, to say the least.
Dana, however, still learning her human side, was spared any blushes. Choosing instead to remain silent.
As the coastline drew smaller the talk ceased, lookouts placed.
Soon enough their first sea monsters appeared, thrashing the water into a foam as they sought purchase upon the soft bodies of the boats crew and passengers.
Using their magical abilities Dana and Lucius fought the beasts away, possibly even killing one of them.
The ships compliment was reduced by some numbers after the attacks, a matter that seemed to bother the Captain little.
The battered vessel put ashore at its destination, and upon Jessups word Dana and Lucius commenced their protective casts.
Once complete they followed Jessup up a small rise to an old temple, seemingly no longer in use, but strangely, guarded by two curious ghost-like beings.
Getting no response from either they carried on along the path.
This led them to a small dwelling, partialy hidden in the earth. Jessup opened the door and entered.
A shop.
No danger other than sea monsters had as yet presented itself, but Dana and Lucius remained alert.
Jessup strode up to the keeper of the establishment and began bargaining.
The tools, benches and furnaces around the shop, and the intense heated created by the latter, gave no doubt this was an armourers.
Hoping to possibly upgrade her sword Dana cast an eye over his wares. Finely made, possibly the finest weapons she had laid eyes upon, but all made for a hand more used to nimble thrusting
than her more brutal approach.
Her eyes alighted upon the helms, two took her eye, more for the magical auras they buzzed with, than their appearance, for they were truly hideous to behold.
Checking her purse she noted that whilst these helms were exceedingly expensive both were well within her budget.
Once Jessup had finished she set bargaining herself.
A few minutes later and the better of the two helms was nestling in her bag.
Jessup said it was time for them to move, and they left this curious trader alone once again.
Once more, with care, they made their way back to the boat.
No dangers were encountered, they boarded and enjoyed an uneventful sail home to port.
Lucius had made many purchases of his own, both were well pleased with themselves, and thanked Jessup for the job he had entrusted to them before he departed in something of a rush.
Lucius told her, as they prepared for bed, that he was free for the next two days, and they could spend a lot of time together, she fell to sleep almost immediately, smiling.
The following day an opportunity arose that Lucius wanted to take advantage of.
Rumours abounded that a vein of adamantium had been located, and he was keen to discover its whereabouts.
Realising the quiet day together she had visualised was fast slipping away she requested that she may accompany him.
Lucius seemed suprised she should ask, for he had assumed that she would be there, at his side.
Feeling slightly more upbeat she busied herself making ready.
Talion was to accompany them, it seemed, but after the talk they had shared in Brandibuck two days prior, Dana saw this as no obstacle.
They met up with him in the Four Winds, Lucius disappeared up to his room to drop off a few things, and then they were ready.
Shira offered them rides as far as Brandibuck, Lucius missed the look of dislike that passed between the two women.
Dana knew not why Shira took such a view of her, but every trip that was made by horse she knew that Shira would give her the liveliest animal of the bunch,
Today was no exception.
Dana not being the best horsewoman on Vives, probably one of the worst, fell from her steed mid desert.
Shira ensured to keep Lucius occupied with trivialities and he did not notice her fall, did not notice her abscence until he reached Brandibuck.
Once he did notice, he turned back on foot with Talion to seek her. He found her, blood smeared, her hair ful of twigs and covered in sand in the Bloodwood.
Dana's mood was not good.
However, Kusin cheered her with his talk of his five children as they bounced out of Brandibuck towards the plains.
She took time to watch Lucius as they rode and talked.
His spellbook open on his lap he was oblivious to the talk of children, or at least he seemed to be. She wondered if he knew how much she longed for children of her own. They had spoken of them many times, but she was fairly certain he had no knowledge of the depth of her yearnings.
Dismounting from Kusins cart they made their way through the Mineath cave system, into the Vale where a short break was taken, and they made the acquaintance of a dwarf taking refreshment there. ((sorry, the name eludes me at time of writing))
The four of them seemed to get along well, and an invitation was made to the dwarf to accompany them. He did not even think about his answer, the lure of adamantium to a dwarf was as alluring as a good ale.
They left the tavern as four, and made their way up into the frozen hills.
Under a magic of hiding they crept past the orcs that watched the gates to the Vale, and into a cave system.
Dana had mined gold here for her good friend Alis on many occasions, so was well aware of every twist and turn the passage made.
A massive bear blocked the route at one point, Dana wanted to use a magic of mind control upon the beast, but Talion slew it before Lucius had decided to allow her.
Then they reached their goal, the narrow passage wound its way downwards.
Soon enough they encountered the grey dwarfs they had heard were occupying the mines where the adamantium was rumoured to be.
Without breaking a sweat these creatures were despatched, and it was down, down, down, deeper into the mine.
The resistance of the grey dwarves was quite fierce in the lower levels, but they all came through more or less unscathed, Dana took quite a beating from a couple of their swordsmen while she was occupied with casting upon a dwarven mage.
Then they were through, and Lucius suggested a rest. He produced one of the mirrors found in Ka'azim, activated its magics and they all entered the safe haven to be found the other side.
Almost at once Dana saw something shine on the floor, a bluish tinge. She went closer, picked up a small insignificant looking gem that drew her somehow. Once she had it she was reluctant to mention it to any of the others. However, she considered it probably belonged to Lucius, and handed it to him.
He certainly seemed to have more than an inkling as to what it was, although he was hesitant to make mention in the presence of Talion and the dwarf.
Lucius pocketed the gem, and they prepared to face more of the grey ones.
They carried along the only path there was, and finally came upon an underground town.
Once more, stiff resistance, once more they all came through unhurt.
Then into more tunnels, until finaly they came to a place where the tunnels became a cavern.
Intense heat again, the cavern was equipped with the accoutriments of the smith, forges lined the wall.
Leading off from this cavern small tunnels.
A quick investigation and they found not one, but four veins of adamantium.
It was decided that the dwarf and Talion would mine two seperate areas, while Lucius and Dana took guard.
Once sufficient ore had been taken it was to the forges, where Dana and Talion worked their craft.
Both of them produced maximum yields with no wastage.
Then it was the long climb back to the surface.
Small groups of the grey dwarves had organised themselves into ambushes along the way, but they presented little challenge.
Once clear of the caves, and safe, the ingots were divided.
Between them there had been twenty ingots, five for each. Not much, but the metal was so rare, so precious, that five ingots represented a kings ransom.
Here the group split up.
Talions mood was not good, and he strode off, the dwarf choosing to say his farewells also, set off on his own path.
They found themselves alone.
Straight away Lucius began telling Dana of the blue gem, what he knew of it.
The more she heard, the less she liked the thing.
Lucius wanted to trade it, make some money from it or achieve a reward.
Dana saw his death in it.
When he asked her what she thought should be done with the gem she, being perfectly serious, suggested they throw it away.
Either Lucius thought she was joking, or he regarded the idea as so foolish as not to warrant any consideration. He carried on with his musings almost as if she had not spoken.
Lucius suggested they speak to Jessup about the gem, his knowledge of things unusual was beyond compare.
Dana agreed to his proposal, despite having serious reservations.
So it was they made their way back to port.
Lucius wanted to see Jessup immediately.
Dana would far sooner have crept into bed with him, but, ever willing to please her man, she agreed to his request, and they made their way across a soggy port to the P&J shop.
Lucius stopped her midway there, and turned to face her.
He asked, requested, that she do the talking to Jessup. No mention was to be made of the gem that now nestled in his pack.
He explained that her debating skills were so much better than his, which she interpretted as meaning she could tell a better lie.
This displeased her greatly, but she agreed to do the talking, allowed Lucius to ensure she looked her very best, and wore some of her finest jewellery.
They continued to the door of P&J's
They entered, and were immediately aware that Jessup had company.
From the room down the hall two voices, those of Jessup and of Fennigan.
She peeped around the doorframe, Lucius stood in it and got himself noticed by Jessup, who bade them wait a few minutes as he and Fennigan were almost through with their business.
True to his word the meeting was wrapped up and they were invited in.
Jessup offered them seats, Lucius took the one closest to Jessup meaning that Dana's position at the table was a more comfortable line of sight for Jessup.
Lucius sat down and looked at her expectantly.
Forcing her reservations about the gem to the back of her mind she began to question Jessup about the gem, he was quite forthcoming and she found it easy to spin a believable tale about why she should be so interested in something she did not possess.
She got the feeling that while Jessup listened and believed, he had noticed her unease at being placed in this situation.
Jessup spoke at length about possible powers the gem might have, and who would desire it.
Dana made mention of the level of their voices, the possibility of being overheard, and it was this remark she would be regretting for some time.
Jessup proudly announced that certain 'precautions' were in place at the P&J and that nothing outside could penetrate the walls.
On hearing this Lucius enquired about magical penetrations,and Jessup assured him that absolutely nothing could gain access.
Upon hearing this, and to Dana's horror, Lucius then produced the gem and set it on the table before Jessup.
Remembering all the things she had said, the lies she had just made, Dana experienced yet another sensation that showed her human side with its messy emotions, was breaking through.
A detestable feeling. Beyond description. Sickening and terrifying.
Dana experienced shame. Intense shame.
Unable to do or say anything she rose from the table, her legs carried her to the one opposite, and she collapsed into a chair where she sat with her face buried in her hands for what seemed an age.
Lucius carried on speaking to Jessup about the gem, discussing how best to trade it.
Whether, at that point, he was aware that his woman was sitting alone in a devastated condition not ten feet away, she knew not, but the gem seemed to be his main pre-occupation.
Now she regretted handing it to him.
She should have slipped the thing into her bag unseen and then thrown it into the nearest trashcan.
The gem had Lucius death written in blood on its shiny aqua faces, of this much she was certain.
Jessup also had his doubts, he told Lucius that whilst he and the gem, were safe in the shop, and the port, once outside he would be in grave peril.
He offered them rooms at the shop, until such time as the deal was made. Lucius readily accepted.
Dana lifted her face from her hands long enough to answer Lucius when he asked her if she was amenable to the idea.
She agreed, and Jessup hurried off to make the arrangements with the staff.
Lucius made awkward apologies for placing her in this situation, while Jessup was gone, smoothed her frayed nerves and whispered his love.
Once more she began to feel like herself, and by the time Jessup returned she had regained enough of her dignity to look him in the eye and make a full apology for lying to him.
Jessup seemed to think it unimportant, she wished she could.
Jessup returned some time later, and took them up to the room they would be calling home for the foreseeable future.
It was nice, if a little elven in style, large and airey.
Jessup made his goodbyes, leaving the two of them alone.
Both were quite exhausted by this time, the day had been long and arduous.
The pair of them collapsed onto the bed and fell to sleep quickly.
Tomorrow was another day. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 02 Jul 2006 02:46 PM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Sslissayath - Dana confronts her fears
Today, the second day she could share with him, they woke late.
Dana took a few seconds to realise where she was. The unfamiliar room, the strange new smells.
They were in the room lent to them by Jessup until this latest scheme of Lucius was resolved.
The large bed that dominated the far end of the room had proven too much for Dana, accustomed as she was to hard surfaces when she slept, and so they had moved all the blankets onto the floor.
Lucius had woken a short time before her and was reading one of the many tomes that filled the bookcase in the room.
She rose from the 'bed' and wandered over to him, planted a kiss on his lips then dressed.
For a couple of hours they made use of the facilities the P&J had to offer, but very quickly boredom set in. Neither of them was accustomed to being cooped up inside for very long.
There was no reason that Dana could not leave, Lucius had that gem, not she, but she remained at his side, her rightful place.
Finally they could stand it no more, and Lucius suggested a short trip was in order to alleviate their monotony.
Dana readily agreed, and a walk to the jungles was decided upon. Lucius could gather roots for his potions, and Dana could kill beasts. A near perfect solution.
However, extreme caution was to be the order of the day. Jessups warning had not gone unheeded by either of them.
Very little needed preparing, and soon they were ready to venture out.
They left the P&J store, and, keeping a wary eye open for danger, they left the port in the back of Jusun's wagon.
As they rode Lucius opened his big book of magics and studied, Dana talked about children to Jusin. It was as pleasant a trip as was possible in such an archaic vehicle on such a hot day.
Creaking to a halt in a sun kissed Buckshire the two of them dismounted and rechecked their provisions.
Dana noted, with no little annoyance, that her snack-bag was beginning to empty again. The Grigs were a tasty treat, she was consuming them at a great rate.
Subconciously she glanced down at her belly, it was still nice and flat. No need to be worrying about that, at least. She doubted there'd be much opportunity for her daily excercise in the coming days.
The remainder of the journey was made on foot, through the ruins and once out of the treeline they were into the blistering heat that was Kobai.
They made their way to the area known locally as the backbone, a twisting rocky path with sheer drops on either side, and on to the jungles.
Up to this point they had encountered little resistance, but both knew well the dangers that lurked beyond. Snakes, very large, very powerful snakes.
Bringing forth a fiery elemental companion each they traversed the area with comparative ease.
Ahead of them yawned the cave of the Sslissayath, and Dana shuddered involuntarily.
She had been unable to step foot in that cave for many months now.
It had begun with the trip she had taken with Markus so very long ago.
Neither she, nor Markus, remembered much of the ending to that fateful day.
All they could be sure of was the strange scars each of them wore on their left cheeks.
Dana's healing abilities were phenomenal, scars healed in days rather than years, but the small white line on her cheek persisted to this day.
It was soon after this that a bunch of the residents of the port, herself and Markus included, had tried to assist the authorities with cleaning the sewers of some unspeakable evil.
The culmination of this night had been to deliver one of the ancient Hydra's, from the caves near the Shire, to the Sslissayath.
Upon arriving at the cave, that now faced them, both she and Markus had been unable to enter. Dana had an overwhelming desire to protect the Sslissayath, and requested of the others in the party that they try not to harm any.
As it happened no blood was spilt, the Hydra delivered the party returned to port.
A few weeks after this event Dana and Lucius had started to exhibit strange mannerisms. Once these were noticed by others an investigation began into what was causing them.
Expert opinion pointed to the women with the snakes skin.
Lucius had done a great deal to assist in Dana's recovery, her father providing the final cure.
However, she had still been unable to enter the cave. Maybe it was some deep rooted fear of what had happened, or maybe, as had been suggested to Lucius by a witch, Dana was not fully cured.
The man called Lex was supposed to be delivering the final verdict on that question. The trip to collect the two brain eaters for him had gone sour, only one being secured.
It crossed her mind that if she could enter the cave, and slay some of her former masters, she must be cured, if she could not, then she was still under their influence.
She wondered if one of Lucius many skills was the reading of minds, for no sooner had she had these thoughts than he turned to her and asked if she had ventured into the cave recently.
She told him that she had not, and he tentatively suggested they take a look, as they were so close.
He explained that since her last visit the Sslissayath had become stronger, that he had almost met his end on a recent visit.
Dana considered for a minute, doubt clouded her head, the cave mouth mocked her.
Eventually, a desire to hit back at anything that threatened her man over-rode eveything else,and she said she would try and enter.
A nearby cabin offered a refuge where they might rest breifly before they continued.
Dana entered first and found the cabin already occupied, by a woman with snakes in her hair, and several of their type upon the floor.
Thankfully her reactions were well honed, and with Lucius at her side they laid waste to all who had stood before them.
Whilst she rested she watched Lucius fondly as he pored over his books again in deep concentration.
After a short while they decided they were ready to continue, they made their protective magics inside the cabin and emerged once more into the greenery.
The short walk to the cave seemed to Dana to be endless, and she was sure that the huge mouth was laughing at her.
Her resolve stiffened, and if Lucius noticed the slight trembling in her short frame he made no mention of it.
Then they were on the threshold, her heart beat fast and loud as an M'Gok Tukar drum in her breast.
Cool air rushed out at them from the caves interior, Lucius looked to her to see if she was ready, she nodded that she was and the two of them stepped inside together.
The darkness closed in on them quickly as they moved away from the entrance, Dana felt no urge to turn and run back out.
She had entered the place, now it was time to see if she could confront her former antagonists.
In front of them a path wound down to a lower level, a quick search of the level they now stood upon revealed there to be none of the Sslissayath present, just a small camp that seemed to have been left rather hastily.
As they followed the path downwards familiar smells assailed Dana's sensitive nostrils.
She remembered there was much water below, and the air that rushed up to them had a chill to it, or was it her fear that made her shiver, she wondered.
They emerged from the winding path to find themselves upon a small rocky platform.
Lucius said they should call their fiery friends to their sides, and this they did.
They cast what protections they could upon the flaming pair. It was Lucius plan that the elementals should bear the brunt of the assault, the two of them would become involved at a point they considered to be of least risk.
Stretching away from them was a stone causeway, and to their left they could vaguely make out another platform similar to the one they stood upon.
Proceeding slowly they made their way along the causeway. The elementals detected movement on the platform they had spied and the pair of them set off to do battle. Dana and Lucius remained on the causeway and awaited their return.
Some minutes later both elementals did indeed return, seemingly undamaged.
Dana could hear the hissing voices of the Sslissayath ahead now. She recalled that before her fathers cure she could make sense of these curious sounds, today, however, they meant nothing to her.
She took this to be encouraging.
The causeway now took a sharp left turn, and as they moved along a great deal of movement could be heard coming from another much larger platform to their right.
Then they saw them, the Sslissayath.
The two elementals broke into a run, and hurried to engage the creatures. Dana and Lucius contented themselves with watching.
Quickly it bacame apparent to Dana that Lucius had been right. These creatures were far, far stronger than anything she had seen down here on the visits she made prior to her sickness.
The elementals were struggling, Dana decided it was time to add her weight to the arguement.
She cast many spells upon the creatures, some seemed to hurt them, while others just bounced off. She was grateful that the two elementals were there to impede the Sslissayath.
She made to cast again, and was aware, as she did so, of something green and large hurtling her way. A flying hand, a magic she used often herself.
Unable to escape it she found herself caught, her arms pinned to her side, the huge sword useless to her.
She tried a cast, found she was still able to make her magics.
She tried to ignore the approaching Sslissayath fighters coming towards her, concentrated on making her own strikes.
One of the Sslissayath now stood before her, making futile stabs at her with a short sword, Dana concentrated on the magic users further behind. Lucius was somewhere nehind her casting. She could not turn to see him, but the energy bolts that appeared from behind her and arched towards the Sslissayath reassured her he was in no danger.
Finally the huge green hand dissipated itself, and Dana ran headlong at the two spell-users who seemed invulnerable to magic.
As she drew close the magic-users cast some spell Dana did not know, and both the elementals were sent back to where they were called from.
Thankfully, these Sslissayath were powerful users of magics, but their melee skills were as inneffective as their armour. Both fell to her blade from a single strike upon each of them.
Then silence, nothing more than the sound of her own heavy breathing and that of Lucius behind her.
She realised her legs were wobbling, threatening to buckle under her.
She had been scared.
No, she had been terrified.
Normally after a victory of such epic proportions she would have laughed, cheered wildly or have felt some kind of rush.
She stood now, quivering, too weak to make any gesture of triumph.
Lucius was not in a much better state himself.
He stood silently looking at her, she at him.
She had confronted her fears, and overcome them.
Her ability to fight the Sslissayath had proven to her that she was no longer controlled by them in any way, which was also cause for celebration.
He reached out his hand to her, she took it.
In silence they made their way back to the jungles, and home. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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Re: Dana's tale
Posted: 06 Jul 2006 11:34 AM |
((disclaimer, as with all the posts on this thread, this information is known only to those who have been (1) affected by it, and (2) told about it by Dana herself))
Zubeida, the witch, the eunuch and the Lich
Featuring Barnas
She returned to Port from her daily outing to see her father at M'Gok Tukar, her head swimming with the things he had told her.
Much had been said about Zubeida and the training she recieved from Dana.
Her father was happy with the progress she was making, however, he had certain reservations, and had told Dana of a few rather drastic changes that needed to be made.
Dana knew that Zubeida was going to find the next few days and weeks very trying times, and was herself unsure about how she should broach these changes.
But she had faith in herself, in her father, and in Zubeida. She felt certain that one way or another everything would turn out for the best.
She wandered into the P&J store, she was hot, tired and incredibly hungry.
All she wanted was to get herself cleaned up, cooled down, and to slide into bed beside Lucius, despite the hour being early.
Her stomach growled with an ungodly volume, she had not eaten for three days now, purposefully leaving her cherished snack-bag in their room.
The effects of this behaviour were twofold.
She found it harder to fight for sustained periods, her strength quickly draining, but her belly was flatter and firmer than ever before it had been.
She must not lose him to a more pretty girl, that was all that mattered.
She must do whatever it took to keep a hold of Lucius, he had become the foundation of her very existence, of equal importance in her life as her father and M'Gok Tukar.
Hanging on to the ballustrade she pulled herself up the last few steps to the upper floor.
Immediately she knew something was amiss.
Nothing seemed out of place, no furniture upturned, no signs of a fight, no raised voices.
Apart from a couple of sheep roaming the seating area that made up the main part of this floor, everything appeared to be in order.
A sixth sense made her hurry to their room, the door swung open to her touch to reveal no sign of Lucius within.
This by itself was unextraordinary. There was no reason she should expect him to be locked in their room at four o'clock in the afternoon.
But she knew he would not stray far from the sanctuary offered by Jessup.
She returned to the landing, made her way back to the central area.
As she passed a door, the door that Jessup said must never be opened, she heard a sound. Muffled, indistinct, human.
She tried the handle, locked, so she knocked.
After a few seconds the door was opened by the witch Fri'el, and right behind her, a huge monument of a thing, some sort of metal construct, similar to the creature Lucius would become when he needed the strength off a dozen men.
Somewhat taken aback Dana found herself rooted to the spot, the witch slipped past her, the metal thing ducked its head to exit the room.
Fri'el quickly slammed the door closed behind the two of them, but not before Dana had spotted another form in the darkened room. She could not see the features, but of one thing she was certain, it was Lucius.
As the door locked, shutting him in, and her out, Dana's anger flared.
She rounded on the witch Fri'el and demanded to know if the person remaining inside was indeed Lucius.
She replied that it was indeed Lucius, and there he would remain until he gave up, or destroyed, that accursed blue gem.
Dana was not in the slightest bit suprised that once again Lucius had not seen the dangers he placed himself in.
As so many times before she had tried to suggest ways he could remove himself from the troubles that hurtled towards him like an express train, an express train everyone but he could see, and once again she had been overlooked for reasons of his own.
She told Fri'el that she had suggested to Lucius that he destroy the gem, and he had decided not to.
Fri'el still refused to allow Lucius out of the locked room, despite Dana's remonstrations.
Dana decided it was probably not going to aid Lucius case if she came on to Fri'el in an aggresive or heavy handed manner.
At this point Ophelia joined them, seemed content to listen and say little.
After some minutes Fri'el decided it was probably good if Lucius was allowed out, and she told the construct to open the door. The huge hands fumbled clumsily with the key before Fri'el finally lost her patience and told the thing to make itself small.
To Dana's shock the construct became the eunuch Balthor.
He opened the door and an abashed Lucius stood before her.
Fri'el said to Lucius that she, Dana, wanted to have the gem, to dispose of it in some kind of vague hope that Lucius might give to his mate that which he would not give to her.
If she expected Dana to join in with her charade she was sadly mistaken. Dana maintained a stoney silence, just looking into Lucius red eyes.
Why, she wondered, were they red? Had he been making tears? Was he tired? She could not tell.
Lucius fidgetted, made excuses about why he should not give the gem up.
Dana asked the witch on who's authority she could stride into the P&J and demand people do as she desired, and had she treated Xaranthir in this discgraceful way, and obtained the gem he too carried.
Dana said she would inform Jessup of this outrage, this invasion.
Fri'el seemed unconcerned, stating that Jessup would do as she, Fri'el, told him to.
Dana was perplexed by this remark, but pursued it no further.
She joined Lucius at his side, she was determined that he, and the two invaders, would see exactly where her loyalties laid.
The pangs in her stomach were getting worse, and weakness in her legs threatened to topple her, but she knew she must remain strong, for him.
Finally, after much coercing and persuasion, Lucius agreed to have the gem destroyed, the eunuch, Balthor, said he would do the deed.
Lucius, moving with the speed of a sloth, went to the opposite end of the hall and placed the gem, very slowly, on the floor, then he stepped away from it.
Dana noticed his eyes lingering on the gem, he seemed unwilling to tear his gaze away.
Sometimes he looked upon her in the same way.
Her hand went involuntarily to her hard, flat stomach.
Once Lucius was a safe distance away Balthor cast a powerful magic upon the gem, there was a fizzle and crackling, then a pop, and the gem had vanished as completely as was possible.
Dana did not wait to see what would be said.
With a toss of her fiery mane she headed up the corridor to collect the few posessions that she and Lucius had bought to the P&J with them.
The gem was gone, no longer was sanctuary needed, they were going home.
To Dana's mind it was a hollow victory for common sense, not for her, but a victory, nonetheless.
Upon her return to the main room she found Sam had joined them.
Balthor had left, the witch Fri'el sat upon one of the low benches, Ophelia and Sam remained standing.
Dana moved again to Lucius side, his face was unreadable, emotionless.
She knew he wold be feeling low, so she endeavoured to brighten his mood with small intimate touches.
Someone must make him feel as though he had worth, it was a mantle she gladly would don whensoever it was required.
Dana made it plain to all that she was wanting to be away from the P&J.
The witch was starting to annoy her gravely with the glances she would cast Dana's way, Ophelia seemed intent to do the same with the quips she would add to the talk periodically, Lucius was in foul mood, barely speaking, even Sam was beginning to abrade upon her. His usual cheerful nature seemed forced and his topic, food, irrelevant.
Could they not just get out of here? NOW!!
After what seemed an eternity the witch left, closely followed by Sam.
Ophelia expressed a desire to adventure, Lucius seemed to be in general agreement, only Dana wanted to remain in port.
Her stomach was hurting her terribly, she was barely able to lift her sword with fatigue.
They met with Holace in the square, and it was decided a trip to Netharu was in order, Dana reluctantly agreed to go too.
The trip passed without mishap, and the band of them returned home late that night.
Dana needed no help sleeping.
The following morning Dana was awoken by her stomach, terrible cramps coursed through her middle area. Unable to remain abed she stood, admired her firm flat stomach, from the side view, in the full length mirror in her room, then dressed.
She noticed the skirt was now several sizes too big for her, meaning she had to constantly keep hitching it up when she walked.
A small price, she considered, to keep his interest in her.
Lucius had things of his own to do this day, so she woke him, got him breakfasted and away, before enjoying a leisurely bathe, and then making her way to the market to stock up on things they had used on the previous days outing.
At Gariert's stall she met with Fennigan, a halfling who she was becoming increasingly fond of.
They spoke for a while and it appeared that, like herself, Fennigan found himself at a loose end with the day stretching before him.
She enquired if he needed any help with unfinished tasks, and he replied that the captain of the guards in Buckshire had asked him some while ago to investigate a problem that the village was having with Karkus and his kin.
Fen explained that he had been unable to complete the job up to this point. Dana offered her assistance.
The two set out with Jusin to the shire, then made their way past Hicks and his troop, through the gates and out into the realms of Karkus.
Dana covered them in magical protections, and cautiously they proceeded up the hill to where the giant men could be found.
All appeared in order, so they headed into a nearby cave that Dana knew to be inhabited by large dragon-like creatures called Hydra's.
She suggested to Fen the Hydra could be the reason behind the recent behaviour of the giants.
He was in agreement, and soon it became apparent this was the case. The giants kept a respectful distance from the cave, preferring to stay in the gorges. Only one giant seemed at all willing to stray near to the cave entrance, and Dana considered that even by the standards of giants this one looked considerably more stupid than the rest.
They turned to return to the shire and report their findings. It was Fe n suggested they take a trophy, a bit of proof, with them.
Returning to the cave a Hydra was quickly slain, Fen removing one of the massive heads of the beast.
Upon returning to the shire they depositied their grizzly cargo with the captain and Fen claimed his reward for a job well done.
The days excitement had created in both of them a need for more, and so they put their heads together to decide a place to go.
There were two places Fen had not been, and had a desire to visit, the jungles and the tomb in the valley of death.
Dana was very aware of the recent happenings involving Lucius and the said valley, and she expressed a preference for the jungles.
Somehow, and she wasn't quite sure how, they decided finally to go to the valley.
They crossed the desert without incident, and before very long stood at the door to the tombs.
They entered and were immediately beset by undead creatures with the ability to make a statue of the unwary traveller.
Thankfully they were prepared, the two were quickly dealt with.
An annexxe provided by a door was investigated.
Some rudimentary traps were ably dealt with by Fen's nimble hands, the door squeked open.
More of these dust breathing creatures. They went the same way of their undead cousins.
Downwards they went, they entered a big chamber that in its turn opened up to a labrinth of smaller passageways.
The pair went on a killing spree of undead horrors. Some Lich of lesser power than Dana were encounterd and easily disposed of, albeit temporarily.
Dana had been to this place before so she knew the route of the passageways formed a large square, eventually you returned to the place you began.
Room after room they cleared, this unlikely pair, both providing their specialist knowledge when it was most needed.
Eventually they came to a door, the door Lucius had spoken of. Dana knew something of this door and what laid behind, she told Fen under no circumstances was he to ever try and open it.
He was curious as to why he should not.
Dana began to tell Fen the story that Sam had related to her, of the powerful Lich that was entombed behind the door. She had found the story as told by Sam to be both enthralling and educational, she hoped she could do it justice.
However, it was not to be.
Dana had barely finished the first line of the tale when there came a grinding of stone upon stone.
She looked at Fen, who was standing by the door, her face a mask of horror.
The door was slowly opening, sinking into the ground.
She tried to comprehend what was happening.
Fen had opened the door, despite her warnings.
She screamed his name.
He, realising what was happening beside him, shouted back almost as loudly, that he hadn't done it.
She shouted him to run, to run for his very soul.
She turned a shoulder to the door, stopped its downward progress.
Gradually it began to close again, she pushed until it was back in its closed position.
Fen, by this time, was in the next hall. He looked round the corner at her, again insisted he had done nothing. Touched nothing.
Dana was just going to tell him once again to run for his life when the grinding began again behind her, the door was being opened from the inside.
She fled, ran as fast as her legs would carry her, which in her weakened state was not terribly fast.
Fen streaked ahead, she was glad to observe.
Neither stopped running, nor looked back, until they reached the large chamber.
Fen leapt into the passageway that led back to the upper levels, a few seconds later Dana did the same.
As she entered the ante-chamber she crashed into a stone object blocking the doorway, she shoved past it and into the path of four of the foul creatures they had encountered on the way down.
She dealt with them and turned to join Fen outside, until with mounting horror she realised the statue in the doorway that she had run into was the halfling.
Panic took over. She had seen adventurers chip the stone off one of their friends when this sort of thing happened, so without a seconds thought she swung her massive blade at the stone Fen.
Stone chips flew from her first try, her second swing missed its intended target completely.
Movement in the door behind Fen, a ghastly man-like thing was coming through the door behind him.
Dana ran, leaving the stoney hin to his fate. She ran, and didn't stop running, until she reached the comparative safety Enders camp.
Enders seemed preoccupied, she thought fast.
A lot of people who she considered friends were not that important to her, and she would have left them to their fate without a second thought.
Some, like Alis, Tomi, Oragastus, Sam or Holace, she would never leave behind. And of course there was Lucius. For him she would endure an eternity of pain and suffering should the need arise.
Fen was becoming one of the people who she would add to that list, she decided he was worth trying to save.
She took a few minutes to regain some strength, her legs were shaky from the run across the desert, or was it fear.
Hastily she cast as many protections upon herself as she could.
Then with the aid of the running magic she returned to the tomb.
As she entered the cool confines of the tomb everything was quiet.
Very, very slowly, she made her way to the annexe, entered, and pressing herself against the wall she slowly, and very quietly, made her way back to where she had last seen Fen.
The door to the ante-chamber was still open, and as she approached she could hear voices, one of them, she was sure, was Fen.
Thanks be, he lived.
It appeared she was so far unnoticed, by both Fen and the thing that spoke to him.
At the doorway to the ante-chamber she stopped, made a plan, and acted.
Stepping into the doorframe, in full sight of the creature, she concentrated her mind, visualised a clockface, saw the hands of the clock slowing, slowing, stopping.
She opened her eyes.
A quick check, the creature was inanimate, as was Fen, she knew she had little time. The magic of speed got her across the ante-chamber in short order, she grabbed the hin, glad of his small size and weight, turned and ran from the chamber as if her very life depended on it, which it probably did.
Not knowing Fen's condition she did not stop to let hem down, ran on with him under her arm until she reached the shoreline where the women of the Kraken made their base.
Then and only then, did she let him go. He was limp, but alive.
She checked him over, no apparent wounds. What of his mind, she wondered.
Slowly the him began to regain himself, and sat on the sand.
Just as he began to relate to her what had gone on in the chanber Dana felt a strangeness about herself, she could not move, but she could see.
Fen also seemed unable to move.
Then she saw it, to her left, no more than ten feet from her. A floating head.
Had she eaten anything that day she knew her bowel would have emptied.
Then it spoke, this head that defied gravity.
Berated her for taking Fen from it, while all it wanted to do, it said, was give Fen a message to relay to Kal and Ophelia.
The head repeated the message for the benefit of them both, then as quickly as it had appeared it vanished.
For some minutes after, Dana and Fen sat on the sand unspeaking.
Dana's head swam with thoughts of what could have been, sent words of thanks to Gruin for smiling upon her this day.
She imagined Fen was probably doing the same.
Finally they had gathered their wits enough to speak of what had happened.
They discussed the message they were charged with delivering.
Dana told Fen he must deliver both messages, nobody but him must ever know of the events of the previous few hours of Dana's life.
She knew that once a single person found out about this, then everyone would know.
If everyone knew, Lucius would find out.
More than anything, that must never happen.
Fen swore silence, said he would deliver both messages, and never would he mention Dana's involvement.
Satisfied to accept his word, Dana relaxed.
Fen left soon after, Dana remained in a state of shock, sitting on the sand for some hours later.
Could she keep this from Lucius, after all that had happened to him?
She decided that for the sake of their relationship, for the sake of her heart, she could, and she would, keep this days events unspoken.
She trusted Fen implicitely.
The hin would say nothing, of that she was certain.
She kept reminding herself of that, all the way back to the shire. |
Nos laetus epulor is quisnam mos onero nos: Dana's family motto, if she had one
(Translation) We gladly feast on he who will oppress us |
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