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Leo_Lion
Honorable
Supreme Hero
The 5th Element & 6th Sense!
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posted August 09, 2005 08:32 AM |
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As the implications of what was taking place around him sunk in, Artemus couldn’t help but shake his head in disbelief and snicker out loud. Although he was upset over Mordikai’s initial insulting response to his genuine plea for fraternity and shocked by Gorm’s news of an amassing army under Dean’s command, he was mostly awed by the circumstances that had brought so many random elements together for a single purpose. It was exactly as Lyon had predicted many hours ago on his stone balcony, but the situation was more important and had more significant consequences than either of them had expected.
As Artemus grew excited at the prospect of returning to his Fort in order to report on the successful negotiations between the forces of Chaos and Order, it immediately dawned on him that he would also have to inform Lyon of the main reason why there would be no hostilities between the two opposite factions. It was not incredible diplomatic acrobatics that had assured Mordikai’s cooperation and more importantly, Chaos’ alliance; it had been a series of incredible coincidences and a great looming threat. Although he would never quite understand Lyon’s belief in pre-determined destinies, Artemus could not deny that these recent developments seemed very convenient and almost orchestrated. He could see how all of the pieces to some great puzzle were falling into place on their own, but he failed to grasp why or how this was happening.
The only thing that comforted him at this point was his faith in Lyon’s ability to see a way through this mess and find the best course of action for the forces of Order. Artemus thought to himself: “If anyone can solve a problem with various troublesome elements, it’s Lyon!”
***
Even though he had a major clue as to identity of his parents and their life stories, Lyon realized that if he didn’t survive his encounter with this infernal bubble, it would all be for naught. So, now that he had regained his mental awareness and grip on reality, he slowly began taking in his surroundings by reactivating his individual senses. The jumble of dangerous stimulations that had nearly shattered his mind seemed to have been replaced by an eerie stillness. He couldn’t see, hear, smell, taste, nor feel anything. His body, mind, and soul were all that he could distinguish in this unknown void.
Before the sphere could try another violent method to eradicate him, Lyon decided that he had had enough with this strange prison and that he was getting out. “Set me free, you wretched ball of death!” he yelled. “Why do you even seek to destroy me? What possible purpose could any of this serve? Release me, damn you! Let me go!!!”
As the air around him seemed to absorb his words and cast them out into the enveloping darkness, Lyon doubted if there would be any sort of way for him to escape this mysterious sphere. Then suddenly, a single point of light appeared before him. At first, he thought that it might simply be candlelight from his bedroom, but when the point expanded in size and floated closer to his eye level, he knew that he was dealing with something within the dark globe itself.
“Why do you resist us?” A droning voice uttered from the throbbing light.
“Resist you? I am simply trying to stay alive and sane! Besides I don’t even know who you are or what you want?” stated Lyon in a stern tone of voice that he had mastered during many hours of practice with his personal guards.
“We are simply trying to set things right with the world. We simply want to be at peace.” replied the foreign source of illumination.
“And you think that you will accomplish these things by turning humans and material objects into slime?” barked Lyon in disgust at the very idea.
“The humans are actually absorbed into our collective being, while raw materials are broken down into the basic elements from which they were created. As was done to us long ago, we are now doing the same thing to those responsible for our situation. You would have suffered the same fate, but we seem unable to transform you.” explained the floating light.
“You’ll have to tell me how I am involved in your pain, since I cannot comprehend how I might possibly be responsible for something of which I know nothing. I am still at a loss as to who you are and why I would be to blame for what happened to you.” affirmed Lyon.
“Since you will not be joining with our collective, it seems that we will have to explain this to you in a way that your mind can understand. Until recently, we were the inhabitants of the territories to the West of these lands. We lived in peace for many generations and enjoyed a simple yet joyful existence. Things began changing around us, however, in ways that we could not explain.”
As the entity before him continued to speak, Lyon listened attentively to the sad tale of an entire population consumed by warped magical forces. It seems that the powerful energy that was unleashed during the Forsaken Wars and other various battles between the forces of Order and Chaos, had unforeseen side-effects on the world. While the lands to the West had remained free of all enchantment and the mainland was overloaded with the mystical energy, nature had been forced to establish a balance. So, the excess magic had flooded over the Shroomerish Forest, the Rav'ul Mountains, and the Eternal Swamp.
In doing so, the Western territories and its people slowly started to mutate under the influence of the new and twisted power. As this continued unabated, floating bubbles began appearing at random and transformed anything that they touched into slime. In the end, the entire Western landscape had been warped by the toxic energy and the strange spheres had swallowed all of its inhabitants.
Instead of dying at the hands of the mystical orbs, however, the people found that they continued to exist as part of a shared-consciousness within them. Over time, they not only learned how to communicate with one another and even to control their enchanted vessels, but the people also discovered that the spheres had formed as nullifiers to the excessive power that flowed from the mainland to the West. In essence, the floating balls were sponges that absorbed and consumed all mystical elements from anything they came into contact with.
“So, these dark orbs swallowed you all because you had been tainted by the distorted energy that flooded your lands, correct?” said Lyon.
“Yes.” replied the shinning light. “And since magical residue had soaked into everything around our homeland, much of it was cleansed by the spheres before we learned to control them. Most of the trees, bushes, animals, rocks, and etc. were turned into slime and eventually hardened into dirt. One day, though, life will spring from the ground and begin a new cycle…free from the destructive powers of magic. That is why we have come here, to give our sacrifice meaning and to prevent this disaster from occurring again.”
Now that he had a better understanding of what he was dealing with, Lyon glimpsed at what these people intended to do and were capable of doing. If mystical energy had saturated everything in the West, it had surely done so across the lands of Order and Chaos as well. This meant that these spheres could easily absorb the magic out of anyone or anything around them, leaving nothing but a slimy discharge in their wake. Lyon couldn’t help but shudder in fear when he realized the horrifying reality that these spheres could destroy everything that he knew and held dear.
____________
*The end to no beginning...
*Take care, Leo
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Shadowcaster
Honorable
Supreme Hero
Shaded Scribe
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posted August 09, 2005 10:40 AM |
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"Are you trying to tell me how to run my army? Do not speak of that which you do not know!" The shadow mage could not tolerate know-it-alls, especially those that actually did know it all. Yet somehow he had to keep the alliance intact until the rogue and angel had led him to Dean, but first he would have to take a little detour to the Tower of the ruined Supreme Magi. Surely they wouldn't mind parting with a few old relics.
Gorm looked quizically at the shadow mage, then turned away, muttering "stubborn fool" under his breath as he walked over toward Artemus. If Mordikai wanted to die, then he wouldn't get in the way.
Of course Mordikai trusted his men, but it was true that little uniformity consisted amongst the troops. If Somar was willing, the shadow mage would put him to the task of better training the soldiers of Chaos. Edwin would also prove useful, his quick mind could serve to devise the tactics in attacking Dean. If all went as planned, the shadow mage would play no part in planning the war and would find the time to head northeast as his troops prepared.
The sun set on the horizon, and Mordikai turned to Artemus. "I think that you'd better go tell your men what has happened. We will meet in the center of the forest, just south of the old tavern, in two months. That should be plenty of time to prepare and whatnot."
And I'll take care of the latter, he thought.
____________
>_>
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2XtremeToTake
Promising
Supreme Hero
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posted August 12, 2005 12:07 AM |
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The Unholy One, unable to locate the surge of energy coming from one of the crystals, gave up on his pursuit. He decided the order they would die, would be the order that they crossed his path. And first was that Time mage, RSF was what he was called. His first name was not known to the Unholy One.
I know this RSF you speak of.
"Do you now?"
Yes i do
"Tell me more, Elf"
No, i refuse to help you in any way. How naive can you be?
"Fine, I'll retreive the information the hard way"
Huh? Wait..What are you doing! NO! ARGHHHH!!!! FINE!!! ILL TELL YOU! QUIT!
The unholy one quit probing into the Elf's mind.
His name is Rinaldo. I do not know of his last name. I do know he has taken a elven wife. Thats all i know.
Not replying, he begins to hunt for a group of elves. He would have to find them and trick them into leading him directly to Rinaldo. Once he was found...the death would be quick. He didn't have to look far, as he quickly saw an elven scouting party. He ran up to them and spoke to them, sheathing his desire to murder them all ruthelessly.
"Hello brother, i was wondering if you knew a Mage by the name of Rinaldo. I am an old friend of his, and I would much like to see him again."
Suspecting nothing, the elves agree and take The Unholy One into a small village. Pointing to a house, they tell him that is where he lives. Nodding, the Unholy one departed and walked towards the house. His excitement began to overcome him. He would finally taste revenge, it was seconds away. When he got to the house, he took a deep breath and knocked.
He waited for what seemed like forever when a half-elven woman answered the door.
"Yes, may I help you?"
Puzzled, The Unholy One remembered about Rinaldo's wife.
"Hello, I am an old friend of your husband, Rinaldo. Is he around?"
"No, I'm afraid he isn't. Come inside and I'll tell you about the crisis he's managed to get into this month"
The Unholy One fumed with anger. He had come so close to having his revenge, and it was yet so far. He stepped inside, taking note the woman was pregnant. He quickly began to devise a new scheme.
"I don't know much about what's going on now. He mentioned something about a crisis in the west, and meeting a man named Mordakai. Thats all I know for now.
The Unholy One managed a false grin and spoke, "Ah. Figures, knowing Rinaldo, always off to save the world..."
"Oh, but he has done so already. I met him several years ago, but a few years before we met, him and several other of his friends managed to defeat the Forsaken Ones, who were somehow reincarnated. If it wasn't for Rinaldo, the world today would be a dark and desolate places."
The Unholy One began to speak more sinisterly now. "Oh..is that so...Say, is that Rinaldo's son your carrying?"
This is when the woman began to suspect something..."Yes..it is, I think you should be leaving now, I have things to do."
The Unholy One stood up grinning. He placed his hand on the hilt of his blade. "I think not!"
"HE-"
The woman began to scream for help, but in an instant she was rendered unconscious by the blunt end of the sword. Since Rinaldo was not here in person, He would take something from him that would ensure he would have his revenge. He ripped off the Woman's shirt and stared at the expanded stomach. He placed both of his hands on her stomach and stood there for a minute.
No...Don't even think about it! Don't do it!
"Shut up Elf!"
Without another word, he drove his powerful hands directly into the stomach of the Pregnant woman, peircing the skin. Blood began to gush everywhere in torrents. Nothing would be sweeter revenge than stealing his unborn son and killing his wife.
In the name of everything holy! You sicken me! I can't watch this atrocity! I hope you get whats coming to you, you infernal creature!
He wrapped his hand around the partially developed fetus and found the Umbilical cord, he yanked it out of the stomach and ripped the baby directly out of the stomach. It was alive. He would use his dark influence to keep it alive. He placed his hand on the heart of the half-developed infant. A peice of his own spirit flowed into the heart of the Half-elven child.
He looked down and saw the stomach began to heal itself..elven magicks. He raised his sword high for the kill when he heard a knock on the door.
"Milady, news from your husba- OH GOD! HELP! GUARDS! HELP!"
The Unholy one had no time, he stuffed the baby into his cloak, and leapt out the window. Arrows flew past his head and he was under pursuit. They chased him till he could run no further. It came to an end at a cliff. He stopped and turned around.
He spoke to the elves
"You want this?"
And pulled the rapidly developing baby out of his cloak. It had somehow aged several months, to the stage of an average 3 month old. Its eyes were pitch black.
"You evil being! What demon has possessed you?"
"One much greater than anything you have encountered."
And with that word he leapt off the cliff.
____________
I almost had a psychic girlfriend but she left me before we met.
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Deimos
Known Hero
LHW Paladin
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posted August 13, 2005 05:00 AM |
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Mordikai walked up to Somar.
Somar: Yes?
Mordikai: Somar, could you train my army?
Somar: I am a Paladin, not a lion tamer. I will not train wild unholy beasts.
____________
Let's Have War=Best thread on HC.
By the way, my name is Deimos, not Diemos.
Some people don't have a life. Others spend it on HC- Lord Woock.
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Shadowcaster
Honorable
Supreme Hero
Shaded Scribe
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posted August 13, 2005 06:01 AM |
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He should have seen this coming, but Mordikai was already at odds with the paladin. Those holy types were always too arrogant for his tastes, especially since they thrived upon thinking they were insurmountably right about everything.
"Very well, go with Artemus then. I'm sure Edwin wouldn't mind staying with me and preparing the troops." Edwin nodded.
He was surprised he hadn't simply chosen this path in the first place. Chaos and Order would be better off as separate entities, thus preserving their identities while allied to one another. Yet he still feared that some unspoken competition would arise amongst the men.
Mordikai nodded his farewells to Artemus, Gorm, and Somar, then turned to deliver the news to his men. This would take some doing. He and Edwin arrived at the fort at sunset, leaving the denizens of Order to return to their fort so that they might prepare as well. They had two months.
Earlier talks amongst the new allies had set a time and place for the armies of Order and Chaos to converge for the first time, and they had decided to meet at the lone tavern within the forest that separated the two forts. Past wars had not affected the tavern's existence, and it would undoubtedly survive this meeting as well. Somehow it always did.
Mordikai returned and immediately navigated to the recently added upper levels of the labyrinth. Here he would announce to the armies of Chaos that they were to join with their bitterest enemies, from the balcony high above the soldier's quarters known only as the General's Balcony. Most of the soldiers had already gathered in the courtyard, knowing full well some announcement was to be made. Curiosity drove them to do so.
The curious nature was also a driving force, along with revenge and search for purpose, within the ranks of Chaos. The unknown was too fascinating to pass up, so they always tested their boundaries and explored new territories that Order would never dare enter. This was one of the many fundamental differences that would make this alliance difficult to maintain, yet it also facilitated the acceptance of such an alliance in the first place.
The crowds grew silent as Mordikai stepped out onto the balcony.
"Brothers!" he began, "Many of you already know that I spoke with Artemus before the gates of our beloved fort this morning, and I bring you new of this encounter!" He paused, these next words would shape his, and possibly the world's, future.
"To the south there exists an army greater than any that has come before it, and it grows every day. Demons fester within its ranks, and their leader is none other than the defected Supreme Mage, Dean, who seeks to wipe the earth clean of all life. We cannot defeat him alone, but luckily, we don't have to try. We have allies in the west!"
From so high up, the shadow mage could not make out the soldiers' faces, but he could sense the realization spreading across the troops like a wave of dread.
"For the first time ever, the armies of Chaos and Order will fight together. We must, for the sake of survival. I know that I ask a lot of you, but now is not the time to hold onto grudges that could cost us our lives. Will you follow me to battle?"
He took a deep breath.
A dull roar began to rise from the crowds as the shadow mage watched on from above, wondering whether his speech had affected them as he hoped. Only time could answer that question.
He descended down into the masses.
____________
>_>
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RedSoxFan3
Admirable
Legendary Hero
Fan of Red Sox
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posted August 13, 2005 05:40 PM |
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The rogue approached Mordikai before he made his way down to the crowd below putting a hand on his shoulder.
"By nightfall I want you to send me whom you think are your most trusted and loyal men. Whether they be a soldier of the lowest level or an officer of any rank. Abilities do not matter. Bring me your most loyal thirty men and I will put them through training."
Edwin disappeared returning to the backgrounds to observe carefully the events that were about to transpire.
____________
Go Red Sox!
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2XtremeToTake
Promising
Supreme Hero
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posted August 13, 2005 06:03 PM |
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Down, The Unholy one went, he dived through the air straight down. The wind lashed at his face sharply, and after a while it went numb. The infant wrapped in his cloak was silent; not dead, but silent. Then the wind stopped lashing at his face, and instead it felt colder, and wet. He was slowing down, and then he came to a stop, and simply floated to the top of the river. After catching his breath, he swam to the shoreline and sat down on a log. He removed the infant from his cloak and set it on the sand.
You are a pathetic individual, you know that?
"Shut up Elf, I'm not in a good mood."
Not in a good mood? You just stole something precious from one of your hated enemys, that will ensure him coming after you.
"But I didn't finish the job."
You make me sick. I can't wait until the day when you are finally defeated. And I will be there first hand, to witness it.
"Are you really that naive? If I die, you die with me. Any pain I experience, you experience with me. Now shut up, I have more important matters to attend to."
Something was nagging at the back of the Unholy One's head. It was a certain feeling, one he could not identify. He did not like it either. He sat there and stared at the infant, who was now at the age of twelve months. The feeling grew stronger, and he still could not identify it.
Remorse...I don't believe it
"What do you mean? I feel no remorse for nothing living."
But as he spoke, he seemed to be trying to re-enforce that idea to himself. After a while of staring into space, he shrugged it off and picked the infant up roughly and started to walk, till he found an old road. Any day now Rinaldo would hear of the abduction, and come to valiantly try to save his child, when he doesn't know it is too late. The infant is beyond redemption now. And that left a good feeling.
____________
I almost had a psychic girlfriend but she left me before we met.
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RedSoxFan3
Admirable
Legendary Hero
Fan of Red Sox
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posted August 13, 2005 11:10 PM |
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The time mage had finally exited the forest and found himself in a place he had not seen in years. It had been so long since he'd left the elven lands and visited the lands he used to call home. It felt so long ago almost as if it was a past life, but he knew it was a mere five years into the past.
As the time mage walked along the plains he looked up at the night sky and gazed up at the stars lighting up the heavens. The path was straight taking him directly east. It would pass just by the Chaos Fort, on to The Tavern at the Crossroads, and past the Order Fort. Those were three places he decided he would stop to visit for a short time. But he knew there was little to see as they had been long since abandoned for nearly five years.
Up over the crest of a small hill, he stood catching his first glance at old memories. He smiled and then cringed with mixed feelings over the memories of old. Onward he walked deciding that he wouldn’t stop after all. There were other more important matters in which to attend, to find Shadowcaster and to meet one of these refugees that had come from the far west, beyond the Shroomerish Forest, and beyond the rest of the Land of the Dragons.
However something soon captured the attention of Rinaldo, something he didn’t believe at first. They were the sounds of people, crying out, cheering, and coming from the Chaos Fort. Had the armies truly been revived? He quickened his pace and soon his question was answered. The cheers boomed out across the plains. That had to be not just hundreds of people residing there, but thousands. And the cheers were deep. Not women nor children could make a ruckus of such a low rumble. Those thousands were all men. The armies had been revived, but by who? He had not been told of this by Sha’Rah. But nonetheless armies walking the landscapes.
Rinaldo approached the gate and several men called out to him asking of his name and his place of business.
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Leo_Lion
Honorable
Supreme Hero
The 5th Element & 6th Sense!
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posted August 15, 2005 08:45 AM |
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Lyon felt as though his mind was once again being assailed by strange stimuli from the floating orb. Not only had he been overwhelmed by the tragic origin of the peculiar bubbles and their deadly plans to eradicate all magic from the lands, thus destroying everything in the process, but he still had not made sense of the fact the he possessed his parents memories. He was sad, scared, confused, happy, and mystified all at once. Fortunately, this was not a specific attack behind launched against his psyche, so he only had to resolve each issue one at a time...but where to start?
“My mentor always told me that leading people requires great personal sacrifice. But, he also said that significant benefits come from the knowledge that you have put the needs of others before your own. That is why I must now beg you not to harm my people. I do not understand why I was targeted for transformation on this night, but I implore you not to take any actions against the simple citizens of this domain or the land itself. Do with me what you will, but please leave everything else alone.” pleaded Lyon to the bright point of light before him.
As the pulsating spec of illumination danced before him...as if contemplating his appeal, Lyon resolved that his priority in this situation was to his subjects. His own life was nothing compared to the abundance of people that would perish if these destructive globes were unleashed upon the territory of Order, not to mention that of Chaos as well. Besides, the ball didn’t seem to have the ability to absorb the magic from his body and consequently change him into slime. So, Lyon decided that throwing himself at the mercy of these ghostly Westerners was not only a good way of keeping the dialogue open, but also a safe gamble.
“We respect the noble offer of exchanging your life for that of all others from these lands, but we cannot accept these terms.” replied the throbbing light. “As we learned from the disaster that befell us, all magic energy must be cleansed from the environment in order to avoid the hideous mutations and painful deaths that plagued us before the spheres consumed everyone. We came here tonight in order to transform you because we need you to explain this process to the one named Artemus. But, since your body seems to contain no traces of magical energy whatsoever, you will not be affected by our bubbles.” explained the droning voice, to Lyon’s surprise.
In response to such strange information, Lyon asked himself: “If magical residue soaks into every person and object nearby, why are there no signs of it within my body…especially since I spend so much time around Artemus, who’s mystical aura is impossible to ignore?” Since he knew that finding the answer to such a question was not a priority at this time, Lyon decided to catalogue this revelation and continue listening to the monotonous speaker.
“Had we been able to add you to our collective,” said the small yet brilliant light, “you could have acted as an intermediate between us and Artemus…once he was transformed. Then, as we began actively absorbing the people from this region, he could have welcomed them and eased their transition into our collective. Since we are all joined within these anti-magic bubbles, we found that it is easier for new-comers to have someone familiar explain the process to them, rather than simply throwing them into the unknown. We plan on doing the same with the one named Mordikai and his people in the east.”
Hearing all of this, Lyon knew that unless he found a way to save Artemus, or at least delay his demise, everything would be lost. As he probed his mind and used his special sense to determine the best course of action, a great idea suddenly occurred to him. “Since you are unable to absorb me into your collective, I think that it would be in our mutual best interest if I were permitted to physically speak with Artemus before he were transformed. That way, I could explain your origins, purpose, and methods to him; and even convince him to cooperate with you.”
Realizing that this avenue presented more positive results than adding Artemus to their shared-consciousness unprepared, the floating light agreed to postpone their conversion of Order-occupied territories for two more days. At the appointed time, a sphere would return and claim the former Supreme Magi, whether he was willing to cooperate or not. Lyon was very pleased with this arrangement as it would give him time to properly analyze all possible options to save Artemus and everyone else, and maybe even allow him to go over his parents’ memories.
With the bargain finalized, the dark orb released a naked Lyon onto the floor of his bedroom. Many guards stood around the chamber with swords in their hands and bewildered looks on their faces. Although they had most likely heard of their comrade’s deadly encounter with the mysterious ball, they all rushed forward without hesitation to pull their young charge to safety. Thus was their devotion to him and to their duty.
As silently as it had entered his room hours before, the floating bubble slowly made its way back out of Lyon’s bedroom window. And as he had been doing before its arrival, Lyon fell into a deep sleep…exhausted by the ordeal that still needed to be resolved.
____________
*The end to no beginning...
*Take care, Leo
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gorman
Promising
Legendary Hero
Been around since before 2003
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posted August 19, 2005 07:39 AM |
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*taking the distractions to slink away from watching eyes, I snuck off into the forest and ran quite a ways. Then flying up to a tall tree, I waited, concealed in the branches to see if anyone was following me. After waiting a few hours....I found a sunny spot where I took off from and flew into the deep south of the desert. Flying around in the hot sun until I finally noticed a dark spot on the sand. Floating downwards I recognized the tent and the Nomads around the outside of it. Dropping to the ground I disregarded them and called for the sole purpose of my return*
Gorman: Dean! I have news for you....
____________
When all else fails... Take notes.... ALL the time... ESPECIALLY when playing D&D.... or Pokemon in my case
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RedSoxFan3
Admirable
Legendary Hero
Fan of Red Sox
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posted August 19, 2005 10:36 AM |
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Severya sat quietly in her chambers staring out the window at nothing in particular.
"Come in," she called to the men who'd been knocking on her door for close to a minute. As they entered they walked through and stood outside her door, but she didn't reply. The awkwardness of their presence did not subside, however the impatience set in and after inquiring if they could come into her room without reply, they assumed that no objections to the notion meant that it was okay to do so.
"Lady, Severya. The elf escaped by jumping off a cliff. We are sure that our dear friend, Garolas, was not the one doing these trecherous actions. This man left a trail of corrupted magic unlike any we have encountered before for many thousands of years. We believe that he is possessed by an ancient being from the Lands of the Motherdark."
Severya finally turned to look at the two men standing before her. Her physical wounds had completely healed. There was not even a scar remaining from the incident.
"Very well then," she said in a deep flat tone, The first order of business we must attend is inform my husband.
"But Lady Severya, the elders have forbidden that Brother Rinaldo was not to be disturbed on his journey."
"Are you telling me that my husband is not to know of the robbery of his unborn son?" Severya raised her voice showing her temper, her human half. She curbed her temper and continued speaking in a normal volume, but with intensity that made the two elven men take a step back. "You don't want to be the ones to tell me what I can and cannot do. So please answer my question. Are you telling me that my husband is not to know of the robbery of his unborn son?"
"No, Lady Severya."
"Good. I'm glad to hear that." she sneered. "Inform the elders that Lord Sha'Rah has sent me on a journey to seek out the one who has stolen my unborn son and to return him before he is corrupted."
Severya turned away from the two men and continued staring out the window as she had for the past several hours. She could care less what the others thought at this point. How dare they tell her that she couldn't mourn with the one she loved. How dare they keep such important information from her beloved Rinaldo. If they would show such disrespect to him as well as to her, then why give them any respect at all? She was going to tell Rinaldo herself. And if she had to lie about her having a mission given from Sha'Rah to do what was right, then so be it. They wouldn't know any different anyway.
____________
Go Red Sox!
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Asmodean
Responsible
Supreme Hero
Heroine at the weekend.
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posted August 20, 2005 09:19 PM |
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Grasping the Ice Mace in one hand I exited the tent to the Angel's cries.
'So. The Fallen Angel returns. And he brings news..... Now what news could you possibly bring me that is of value?'
'That the armies -'
'-of Chaos and Order may enter into an uneasy truce to quell the threat of my army? That the one called Mordikai is and old foe that we fought four years ago, whatever name he goes by?'
I could see him try and mask his shock, but obviously I had surprised him. I had to keep that surprise, make it work to my advantage.
'How do you-'
'-Know what I know? I could tell you a little imp told me, but I don't like to lie to old friends.
That's if we are still friends of course.....?'
'What do you-'
'When you left here just over a month ago, you scorned my offer. I assume you have attached yourself in some way to the Shadow Mage, otherwise you would not be here....trying to sell your information.
But the question is asked.....
What price could an angel be satisfied with? At home in the realm of the mundane and the divine? What could I possibly offer such a being?
Speak your price....and we shall.....negotiate'.
____________
To err is human, to arr is pirate.
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gorman
Promising
Legendary Hero
Been around since before 2003
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posted August 21, 2005 04:23 AM |
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*Dean seemed to still know everything. Typical of him*
Gorman: Perhaps I should ask what sort of spies do you have within their ranks that even I did not know about? Did you know as well that the leader of the Order's army is Artemus? The head of the Order of Supreme Magi that you destroyed years ago? Yet.....I believe they have aid from a higher power. Someone behind the scenes.
Dean: Why have you come back?
Gorman: Why not?
*Dean seemed amused at this so I pressed on*
Why would I not want to see bloodshed? I'm looking forward to a good fight. It's been far too long since my sword has punctured the flesh of another. Perhaps the question is not what you can do for me in return for my services, but what I can do for you. You're quest for power shall be fulfilled. If you desire world conquest it shall be yours. I am in your service, I simply ask that you trust me....
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When all else fails... Take notes.... ALL the time... ESPECIALLY when playing D&D.... or Pokemon in my case
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Asmodean
Responsible
Supreme Hero
Heroine at the weekend.
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posted August 21, 2005 04:52 AM |
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'Trust you....' I rolled the words in my mouth as if tasting them. They tasted bitter enough.
'No, I dont't think I'll trust you just yet Gorman. We have too much istory between us for me to be that naive.
But you can earn my trust'.
'How?' he asked, obviously not pleased that I hadn't fallen for such an obvious ruse.
'Simple. You will report back to me any plans you hear. And sabotage whatver you can without being caught or suspected.
My....eyes and ears will be watching you, and will know if you hold information back, or lie'.
'I do not have to take this from you. I come at risk to myself to offer my services and this is how I am repaid? I must earn your trust? So be it.
My sword hungers for blood Dean....see it doesn't taste yours due to arrogance!'
I reached out and grabbed his wrist, opening my mind to the nether....
Gorman screamed in pain, huge bellows that echoed throughout the sand dunes causing all manner of creatures to run for their burrows.
'I have learned things Gorman. My time with the demons has taught me much about your kind. The power of hell burns in me now. I could burn you to a cinder as we stand here, but instead....I will be generous.
I will allow you to earn my trust'.
As I let go of his wrist, and his massive body slumoed to the ground, painful shudders still wracking him.
With a cry he flung himself at me, arms outstretched to envelop me in a crushing hug, but he was too slow.
Throwing up a barrier of solid air, he rebounded.
'When you have calmed down, we will talk more. Do not make me restrain you'.
Knowng it was futile he stood glowering at me, the image of pride.
'As I said, you will report everything you hear. But most importantly, you are to find out who is pulling Artemus' strings. He was ever an incompetent fool, and I doubt the years have improved it.
And find out what this.....higher power is'.
'And what do I get out of it?' he asked defiantly, his bloodlust stayed by his want for the mass slaughter to come.
'This', I said, reaching into my robe pocket.
I pulled out a vial of dark red liquid, almost black.
'This, my angelic friend is a sample of blood from Baroness Kevechnik Kreega, Mistress of the third gate of Hell.
When drunk it will make you imune to fire, double your strength and speed and raise you to a perfect berserking rage.
When sprinkled on the ground it will call forth the servants of the Baroness to aid you for a time, until the blood dries up.
Use it in extreme emergency, there are 2 doses in this bottle. You will not receive any more'.
He looked at me in stunned shock.
'You have been to the Third Gate of Hell and returned?'
I laughed.
'The third gate? I have been to the inner Sanctum of the Prime Evil, I have bathed in the ecstasy of his aura, I have felt the agony of his love, I have felt the brand of his touch as he marked me as one of his own!'
Realising I was shouting I lowered my voice.
'But that is a tale for another day, you have work to do in the North. Do not fail me Gorman'.
He looked at me with shrewd eyes.
'Are you even human any more Dean?'
Again I laughed.
'Mostly....but I have been promised more'.
'Until then........Let's Have War!'
I was still laughing as he flew north.
____________
To err is human, to arr is pirate.
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2XtremeToTake
Promising
Supreme Hero
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posted August 21, 2005 05:04 AM |
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Several weeks had passed since the abduction of the infant, who is still unnamed. He had been walking nonstop for several days now, heading somewhere he did not know. A certain power had drawing him towards it. The infant had now reached the age of four, in a matter of weeks, and was old enough to walk. It had not yet spoken a word. He would teach it to speak at a later time. But he was compelled towards a certain power. One he had felt before, under a different circumstance though.
I know what draws you
"Will you shut up? You know everything, Don't you"
As a matter of fact, yes. The power that compels you comes from an ancient artifact, known as the Ice Mace. You know of which i speak
An image an old 'friend' comes to mind. Asmodean was his name. So, he still possessed the Ice Mace. And undoubtedly, with Asmodean, would be the one whom had betrayed him; the angelboy. The mage whom he had let escape once before, and the magog, Deimos. If he could claim possession of the Ice mace, he would be that much closer to regaining his former strength. The only problem would be is fooling Asmodean.
He arrived apon a camp, and the power of the Ice Mace grew larger every step he took. So, Rinaldo would not be his first victim.
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I almost had a psychic girlfriend but she left me before we met.
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Leo_Lion
Honorable
Supreme Hero
The 5th Element & 6th Sense!
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posted August 21, 2005 08:23 AM |
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Having arranged a truce with Mordikai, as Lyon had commanded him to do, Artemus considered his mission a resounding success because he had went a step further and formed an alliance with the forces of Chaos. After bidding Mordikai farewell, he turned to address his escort party: “Now that we have concluded our business here, we should return to our Fort as soon as possible.”
As Artemus went to ask Gorm and the powerful-looking Paladin, Somar, to come back and prepare for the impending battle with his forces, he was unable to spot the winged creature anywhere. And after unsuccessfully inquiring with his men as to Gorm’s whereabouts, Artemus felt sad at not having had an opportunity to thank the impressive being for his pivotal role in the recent negotiations. Nonetheless, Artemus had a feeling that fate would bring Gorm and him face to face once again.
Focusing solely on the Paladin in resplendent armour, Artemus said: “Somar! Despite your prejudice against me, due to my previous employ, I would be honoured if you would travel with us and share a few things about yourself. Once we arrive at the Fort of Order, you can spend some time getting to know us better in exchange. Then, if you feel like your destiny lies with us, we would be more than happy to welcome a noble Paladin into our righteous organisation.”
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*The end to no beginning...
*Take care, Leo
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Deimos
Known Hero
LHW Paladin
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posted August 21, 2005 02:40 PM |
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Somar: You are unholy, mage. You do not get your strength from the gods. Yet... if your task is to defeat Dean, I shall need all the help I can get. I accept.
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Let's Have War=Best thread on HC.
By the way, my name is Deimos, not Diemos.
Some people don't have a life. Others spend it on HC- Lord Woock.
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gorman
Promising
Legendary Hero
Been around since before 2003
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posted August 21, 2005 08:03 PM |
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*Flying slowly back to the North, biding my time. I looked down at my wrist and grimaced at the ugly site of burnt flesh. Pain was but a figmentation of one's mine, and as the pain died I thought to myself of that vial of blood af the Baronesses. If rumors from what I heard in the past were correct, the blood would make a man insane. Yet...for a Seraphim such as myself to be put in pain such as that....I never thought it possible. A god to be harmed from the power's of hell. Perhaps Artemus, unknowing ally that he could be, could help me out with perhaps a demonic tunic or some such thing. Then....if Dean were to grab me in such a way again...he might get a suprise of a different kind when his hold has no affect. I rarely worry of any wizards magic, not after that forsaken war years ago when my old god blessed my armor to resist it. Looking down I noticed the Forts where up ahead so I lowered my altitude and pondered over a way to hide the burn marks. Holding my cloak well over my right hand and keeping it hidden I landed roughly a hundred yards in front of Artemus' group as they were heading back towards the Order Fort. Artemus jumped a little and seemed surprised to see me*
Artemus: Where have you been? I sent out men to search for you.
Gorman: My must humble apologies. I thought I saw an imp....a possible spy from Dean in the treetops watching our conversation. I thought it to be in OUR best interest to investigate and to slay any of his spies that we might come across. What are your plans now?
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When all else fails... Take notes.... ALL the time... ESPECIALLY when playing D&D.... or Pokemon in my case
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Leo_Lion
Honorable
Supreme Hero
The 5th Element & 6th Sense!
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posted August 22, 2005 07:10 AM |
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“My first course of action will be to arrange some living-quarters for Somar, who has decided to join us in the upcoming battle against Dean’s evil forces.” said Artemus with hint of fatigue in his voice. “And then, I hope that you will all join me for a delicious meal in the Banquet Hall, before I retire for some much needed rest.”
After having travelled to and from the Chaos Fort in a single day, Artemus not only needed to advise Lyon of the recent developments, but he also needed to clear the fog in his mind with some food, wine, and sleep. He assumed that his new travelling companions might feel the same way and he hoped that nothing out of the ordinary would derail his plans for a quiet evening of conversation. So, not wanting to delay any longer or pursue questioning the archangel’s weakly explained absence, Artemus led his enlarged escort party through the imposing steel gate and into the heart of the Fort of Order.
As they were bringing their horses to the stables, an aid rushed up beside Artemus and spoke in fragmented sentences, as though he was either trying to catch his breath or spit out some fearful news. “Lord Artemus! Your apprentice, Lyon, needs to see you right away in his bedchamber.” As he listened to these words, the former Supreme Magi began noticing that there was a much larger military presence in the Fort than he had expected. He knew that there should have been more soldiers here than usual, because he had asked the army Captains to recall their reserves; but instead of being spread out across Order-occupied lands, as he had commanded, there seemed to be a high concentration of these forces in the Fort itself.
Without showing the concern that screamed inside his heart, Artemus bid his men goodnight and directed the aid to accommodate Somar and Gorm’s needs. As he told the frazzled man to occupy his new companions with a standard tour of the renovated Fort, Artemus also made swift hand gestures that only the aid could see. “Lodge them away from important buildings and arrange to have guards escort them around under the guise of assistants. They must earn our trust.”
Having understood both messages, the aid bowed deeply and signalled for the archangel and the Paladin to follow him. Confident that he would have at least an hour until the banquet would begin; Artemus turned and made his way to Lyon’s room with obvious haste.
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*The end to no beginning...
*Take care, Leo
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Shadowcaster
Honorable
Supreme Hero
Shaded Scribe
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posted August 26, 2005 01:31 AM |
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The gates to the courtyard opened, which would surely herald either an attack upon the shadow mage or a celebration because of his actions, the Chaos general thought to himself. As the crowd came into view, Mordikai noticed that each member of the Chaos army was turned not upon him, but upon each other. Oh no, thought the shadow mage, a third option: dissention.
The soldiers of Chaos were not fighting amongst themselves, however, for only a small group had disagreed. The shadow mage's apprehensions quelled as he realized that no blood had been shed, but tensions still ran high regardless of what had or hadn't been spilt. The dissenters stood at arms in the middle of a large group of soldiers that had surrounded them soon after the alliance was announced. Time seemed to stand still as the two sides faced off.
"STOP!" the shadow mage shouted to the crowd, his words nearly lost in the myriad of voices that rang out even after he had shouted his command. Those nearest to him, they who had not yet decided, remained silent, but those beyond his reach were the ones he needed to appease. Mordikai glanced to the west.
Just a few more minutes...
He wove his way through the masses of soldiers and eventually reached the edge of the ring of edgy supporters of his cause. Now it was necessary to shove, but the shadow mage eventually reached the center of conflict. He bellowed his command again.
"Quiet!"
A dagger flew at him from behind. Mordikai, sharp as always, turned and caught it between his fingers by the blade.
"If this was meant for any soldier of Chaos, someone will pay dearly." He glared toward the small band of dissenters.
The time mage raised his hands and walked toward the gate, showing that he meant no harm. "I merely wish to speak to an old friend."
"Oh, well isn't that nice?" the guard shot back. "Sorry, but it's not the best time." The gruff sarcasm in his voice indicated that he wasn't sorry in the least.
"I do not wish to stay long. Is Mordikai Schattier stationed here?"
The guard rolled his eyes. It had obviously been a very long shift. "Where've ya been? He's the one in charge."
"Should have known," the time mage whispered to himself. "Could you tell him that Rinaldo is looking for him? I am sure he would not mind."
Just then, the "cheering", which had turned out to be shouting, stopped abruptly. Both men glanced toward the courtyard. The guard's gaze turned back toward Rinaldo, who met his eyes again.
"Yeah, sure...I'll ask 'im," he said, and disappeared from the gate. Rinaldo knew that the guard was just curious to know what had happened, but he didn't question his turn of luck. Although elves never called it that. They knew where luck came from, though it was their secret alone.
Somehow Mordikai knew it would come to this, but he had agreed anyway. Something inside him had snapped when the dagger had been flung at him, and from behind, no less. These men were supposed to be brothers, united under a single banner for the sake of their comrades. Too many from the Old Order had assumed that Chaos could not be paired with honor, but that opinion was misguided. People fear that which they do not know, but not Mordikai. He had been to Hell and back.
Yet now, one of his own had turned. He was nearly assassinated. Mordikai would not stand for that.
The crowd was dead silent, and one of the men stepped forward boldly and took the dagger from the shadow mage's hands. In one swift motion, he flipped the blade around and lunged again at his leader. This man was a traitor, and they were given no quarter with Chaos forces. The would-be assassin fell to the ground, motionless.
Mordikai stooped down and removed his dagger from the man's heart, which struggled hopelessly to sustain itself and remain beating. He looked somberly at his dagger and wiped it clean. "It's been so long since I've had to use this," he said almost silently, locked in his own world. The crowd watched on silent, one more within their ranks. Eventually, the guard cleared his throat and broke the silence.
"Sir, there's a Rinaldo at the gates for you. Said you knew 'im."
After what seemed an eternity, the shadow mage looked up at the guard, then back down at the dagger. He spoke softly, but deliberately, and it echoed throughout the courtyard.
"Let these men go free." He stood and sheathed his dagger, staring at the group he had just ejected from Chaos' ranks. "But you are no longer welcome here."
The crowd began to quietly converse among itself. Everyone had always been welcomed here.
"I will personally show you the door." He motioned for a group of soldiers to surround them. "Unless of course you wish to stay and fight for me now."
Silence erupted throughout the courtyard, and the shadow mage lowered his head. "Then let's go."
He had failed as a general. His armies were crumbling beneath him, and the trust that bound the remaining men to the shadow mage had wavered. Chaos was renowned for its universal acceptance of anyone and everyone, and he had now broken that unspoken oath. Besides, if the traitors were to leave, then Mordikai would have to go as well. This was a delicate challenge, one the shadow mage knew he had to repair before he left the army in the rogue's hands. If he were to leave now, he would likely be unable to return. The decision weighed itself on Mordikai's mind as they walked to the gate.
The soldiers arrived at the gate and the turncoats filed out peacefully, a surprise to all involved. Who knew what they were planning.
Then the time mage stepped out into the light and looked quizzically at the leaving party. The shadow mage blinked in disbelief, but it was Rinaldo in the flesh. His curse had, apparently been broken. Both men had much explaining to do, and the shadow mage hoped Rinaldo had some advice for him.
He invited his old friend inside just as the sun was setting.
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>_>
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This thread is pages long: 
