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Post by Sir Nichtmar on Mar 29, 2007 5:47:45 GMT -5
Nichtmar rushed towards Elestirne and Olore. He placed a hand on Olore and looked up to Elestirne.
“Qu…Queen what has happened?”
He offers her a hand down.
“You’ve been gone to long in these lands. Evil lurks I told you!”
Frustrated, though he keeps a firm wall for his exterior, his caring for people is his weakness, makes him predictable and on the edge. Since coming to the mainland he understands how people see ogres, and he uses that pre-built façade to hide his true self. As commander he must seem like stone to his brothers.
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Post by Zaron on Mar 29, 2007 7:23:10 GMT -5
Zaron hears the call from the parctice yard as he works on this swordplay. Immediatly he rushes out all thoughts of further practice forgotton.
As he comes to Lady Elestirne seeing her wounded, he stops, a grave look coming into his eyes saying, "M'lady, what has transpired?"
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Mar 29, 2007 9:23:37 GMT -5
Elestirne looked up as Nichtmar and Zaron came up to her,both asking what had happened. Olore snorted as Nichtmar put a hand on him,but permitted the contact-too worried about his lady to care for the moment. He shifted on his hooves and whickered with concern;continueing to favor his foreleg as Nichtmar offered his free hand to help Elestirne.
Elestirne accepted the hand and carefully dismounted. Once on the ground,she put a hand on Olore's neck to steady herself as she met Zaron's and Nichtmar's eyes. Nichtmar's statement sparked,for a moment,a flash of fire in the young elven-queen's grey eyes and she straightened herself to her full height. "I have been in these lands barely more than two days good ogre,and my ride did not take me but a few hours from your city. Yes,evil lurks in your land,but how close to your city may surprise you,when I tell you of my ride and what I encountered on it." Her eyes flashed from side to side warily now. All of her senses were on high alert after her encounter. "But not here... I must speak with you twain alone,somewhere private where we cannot be overheard. Storm may come with if he wishes,but we cannot delay. What I have to say you must hear immedientally and every moment lost,I feel,will increase your danger."
She paused now,one hand to her wounds,one on Olore's neck. She noted his injured leg with concern. It was obviously causing him pain. Have you been much hurt,my faithful friend?
The silver stallion shook his head;luxurius mane rising then settling along his arched neck. Do not worry about me lady. It is painful,but not too serious. I have had worse. Tenderly,he bent his noble head to touch his muzzle to her cheek;nuzzling her. One thing concerns me though. The magic that touched me and tried to grab me when Telemachus's cloak brushed me leg? It is gone now,when Nichtmar touched me. I fear whatever spell it was was meant for him. I can still sense it,but not as much. Its dark taint still lingers though-that I can sense clearly. But we can worry about that and tend our wounds later Lady. Zaron and Nichtmar must learn what has happened. We cannot delay.
Elestirne nodded-not allowing her worry for her friend to be seen by the three men-then turned back to Zaron, Nichtmar and Storm. "Come,we must speak now. Let us go where we can be alone,but where Olore can be near. I would feel better to have him close by,for I am uneasy." Olore snorted softly. Do not fear lady. I do not think anything will be tried today. Tomorrow I can not speak for,for it is a new day and new chances.
The stallion pointedly but gently nudged Zaron and Nichtmar ahead a few steps and adressed his next words to them,though they could not understand. Come! Enough of this. My lady has grave news to tell and you delay the hearing of it though she and I both are injured and weary. Mortals..always delaying..I don't see how you can be so patient with them lady.
Sometimes my friend, I do not understand why I am either, Elestirne answered;starting forward as Zaron and Nichtmar moved off. Perhaps I am so patient because I know it is not their fault to delay and be impatient. Or perhaps it is because I am naturally patient. Whatever the case,it is always good to have patience in dealing with mortals. Sooner or later,they get around to doing,or saying,what they need to.
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Post by Sir Nichtmar on Mar 30, 2007 7:47:07 GMT -5
“Come, let’s go.”
Nichtmar lead them behind the main hall, the wooden perimeter wall on their other side creating about a five foot wide alley. On the way Nichtmar gave Kazzel a nod to follow. Kazzel matches their stride and Nichtmar leans in to whisper.
“Kazzel be sure to share this information with Isen.”
They huddle in the alley way.
“Lady Elestirne, please tell us of what you know.”
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Post by Zaron on Mar 30, 2007 7:53:12 GMT -5
Zaron falls in step beside them as he calls for someone to get the stable master and healer ready for Lady Elestirne and Olore when they return.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Mar 30, 2007 14:58:03 GMT -5
As she followed Nichtmar,Elestirne's keen eyes caught a person she did not know falling into step with them. Nichtmar spoke to this person and her ears caught the words 'Isen' and 'tell'. If Nichtmar knew this one and had asked him to tell Isen of what she told them, he must be trustworthy. When they came to the alley Elestirne looked around uneasily. She disliked confined spaces, but there was nothing to be done for it. She took a breath to steady herself and focus her thoughts; glad for Olore's strong presence at her side. It was a long moment before she spoke but her voice was calm and level when she did. "Our ride was mostly uneventful, but for the end. Olore's run brought us out of a forest to a open space. Not long after we came across a strange figure, dark and tall. There was an ominous air about him He was hooded and cloaked; his face shadowed even when he stood in the light. He had a raspy,harsh voice and gave his name as Telemachus. There were orcs with him,hidden in the bushes. He knew my name. "This Telemachus warned me against staying in this land and spoke of an impending battle and of one who would betray his own. When this did not serve to frighten me he resorted instead to flattery and guile; trying to lure me to his side and pursuade me to join him and his master-promising me joint rulership of and power over Mittelmarch if I would but accept his offer and lend my abilities to his cause. His master he named as Grish-nak. During our exchange,he increased his efforts to get me to accept;shifting from flattering Olore and I to being on the verge of insulting and mocking us. He seemed strangely interested in Olore and I-Olore especially..." Elestirne's eyes clouded;a troubled look coming into them. "He continually tried to get closer but Olore managed to keep distance between us and prevent him from actually touching either of us-though his cloak managed to wrap around Olore's leg briefly." Her gaze flickered to her stallion. "Olore said that there was a spell involved in that touch,tainted magic.
"By this time, Telemachus's orcs had come out from hiding and tension was mounting. Once again the dark one tried to subvert me and failed. I called bright light that stunned the orcs as they moved torwards us. Olore and I attacked, killed four of the orcs and escaped-but not unscathed as you can see. Telemachus and the last orc slipped away-presumably back to Grish'nak. I wonder why he did not waylay or attempt to engage us- for he seemed very interested in recruiting me to his cause. For good,or ill now, it seems I have been been caught unwillingly in this conflict between you and Grish'nak and if that is so,then I choose to fight with Mittelmarch." Her eyes burned briefly with silver fires,then calmed. "I do not think anything will happen this day,bu nor do I not think Telemachus is finished with me. I think he will try again to win me to his evil cause but I will have no part of it. That is all I have to tell."
Suddenly weary,and hurting from her wounds Elestirne leaned against Olore slightly with an arm over his withers and hand on his neck;waiting for the reactions,and perhaps,questions, that would follow her news.
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Post by Zaron on Apr 3, 2007 6:51:39 GMT -5
Zaron's face turned dark as he considered her words. Grish'nak we know of, but this new player I fear boads ill for us. I feel we must discover all we can of him quickly before he is able to cause too much trouble. Unfortunatly magic is not my strong suit, I'm more capable with the blade. What think you Nichtmar?
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Apr 3, 2007 11:25:05 GMT -5
"I told you all I knew or learned. I wish that I could help more." Elestirne's fair face darkened. "There is one other thing,that may or may not be of help. During our exchange I was able to-briefly-gain a glimpse of Telemachus beyond the mask of his magic. I saw a being which, long ago, had been one of my kind,but who had long since fallen and turned from the light to the dark;severing all ties to that he once was. I sensed great power and age in him,and malice and ambitition in almost equal measure. His magic is dark and tainted. He will be a difficult opponent. And if he is allied with Grish'nak and Grish'nak is as formidable as you have indicated..then I fear a hard battle is in for you. And whether I will it or no,I am now a part of it. I will help you all I can,as will Olore of course. And I fear you will have need of me against Telemachus. Besides..."here her eyes glittered a little,despite her weariness. "I am certain he is not finished with me,and it has a certain symmetry that I should be the one to confront him,if it comes to that." Her clear grey eyes clouded more,face becoming troubled. "I think you might have need of me-and Olore-before all is done."
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Post by Sir Nichtmar on Apr 4, 2007 5:33:46 GMT -5
Nichtmar listens to everything, his blood boils with every word and without a bit of understanding of his actions he punches a wood plank of the wall and splinters flutter to the ground. He lowers his hand without a look to see if he injured it and looks to Elestirne with calmness.
A shaky voice that begins to relax, "I am sorry you had to be a part of this, but I won't ask you to stay and put yourself at risk."
He looks to Kazzel and then Zaron, "this news is troublesome...nor do I know anything of magic, I wish Taos was here, he may at least understand Telemachus's weaknesses."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Apr 4, 2007 8:55:48 GMT -5
Elestirne's expression was kind, but resolved. There was a faint trace of sorrow in her eyes and she shook her head slightly. "Nay Nichtmar. For good or ill I am caught in this. My encounter with Telemachus has only assured it. Olore and I were brought here for a reason and I believe that it is to help you and Mittelmarch. You might be glad of my help before all is over." Her face grew thoughtful and solemn. "I council you though, to send for aid soon. You cannot know when Grish'nak and Telemachus will attack and you will need as much help as you can get. I would that I could summon my warriors to add to your numbers,but it cannot be done. At least,you should send word to Oron and ask his aid."
At Nichtmar's statement about magic,her eyes glittered faintly again. "In that aspect I can help. I may not be a mage,nor have nearly as much years or experience as does Telemachus,but I have magic of my own, and power and abilities that he could not begin to guess. I can stand against him,and Olore. I am the Starbrow. Ill done-and often perilous-it is to underestimate me,as it is to underestimate any of my kind."
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B-Shizzle
Meat Shield
Commander of the Legion
Posts: 213
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Post by B-Shizzle on Apr 4, 2007 23:35:50 GMT -5
Walking into the room where Nichtmar and Zaron seemed to be listening to the Lady, I lay down the body of the orc I carried in.
"I don't know what he is doing down here, and how even right now, but this can't be good."
Zaron and Nichtmar to look at what just interrupted their meeting to see me standing there, they see the corpse and tell me of the more pressing news. I listen to what happened and the talk of Telemachus and things were starting to make sense.
"I knew he had to be down here," I kick the body to roll it over revealing a scar on the back of the orc's neck...Telemachus's brand, " He has been content for years traveling and wreaking havoc in the north but never much down here. When Grish'nak was in power, they never fully allied. But with the orc power scattered he has a chance to come in and be a contender now. If he gains more sway in the orc ranks he could be a huge problem. Before the powers of his magic were great but he rarely appeared, letting the orcs do the dying."
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Post by Sir Nichtmar on Apr 6, 2007 8:10:49 GMT -5
OOC FYI Current Time frame is just before the wooden walls were burnt down and Grish'nak is still alive
Nichtmar kneels and takes a closer look at the brand, his thoughts fill with blood and action. He rises to give Bishop a firm handshake.
Nichtmar laughs, "My friend, only one. Good to see you back Warlord."
He releases his hand and looks to Zaron.
"Lady Elestirne makes a good point, perhaps we should send a messenger to Oron for aid. Shall I go take care of that?"
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Apr 9, 2007 23:10:11 GMT -5
"Olore and I could go,"said Elestirne. "Any of your people might be needed here,should Telemachus and Grish'nak decide to attack and test your strength. I am not of your land,nor tied/loyal to it. I could be spared. And Olore is swifter than any of your mounts;fleet and sure of foot. We would make good time,once shown the way." She turned to Olore now;running a concerned eye over his leg. Time now that I should see to that for you friend.
The silver stallion snorted,but shifted his weight slightly to allow his lady to lift his foreleg. Do not overtax yourself lady-you are hurt as well,and weary. You need your strength. Elestirne nodded very slightly,but did not respond. A silver-blue glow was already shimmering into being between her hands,and she closed her eyes to concentrate better. The glow spread out and enveloped Olore's leg briefly. It lingered a moment,then faded;leaving the stallion's leg whole and untouched. Elestirne straightened and turned to the others "What do you think?"
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Post by Zaron on Apr 10, 2007 7:09:18 GMT -5
Zaron looks at Nichtmar with concern as he punches the wall, so out of character for the usually in control ogre, but pushes that thought to the back of his mind as there are more pressing concerns.
Zaron sighs but gives a slight smile as Bishop enters. Good to see you Warlord. I fear we will have need of all the Dragoons soon.
Listening to Lady Elestirne's generous offer Zaron seems lost in thought before replying. Lady, the journy to the black gate to reach Oron's land is a dangerous one, and once you've reached that you must still pass the dangers of Rivendale and his own land to reach him. I would not ask you to make this journy alone, at the very least I would ask you to take a small escort to see you safe. There are things on the way that it may not be possible to outrun.
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Post by Sir Nichtmar on Apr 10, 2007 7:38:28 GMT -5
“True it is a dangerous path, but…but we would be grateful and of course a small detachment will be yours.”
Nichtmar’s head begins to ache with incredible pain. He hears a voice in his head. “Kill them all,” echoes in his thoughts, trumping his own perception. He putts a hand on the wall, leaning to hold himself up. He shakes it off.
“I’m not feeling well, I believe I will retire. Zaron, sorry sir, do you mind getting her the men?”
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Post by Zaron on Apr 10, 2007 9:32:37 GMT -5
Looks at Nichtmar with concern, but again presses it to the back of his mind as he has more pressing concerns. Go rest, don't worry, I'll see to get her an appropriate escort.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Apr 10, 2007 23:25:55 GMT -5
Elestirne also looked concerned for Nichtmar's behaviour,and looked at the ogre keenly. She could tell something was not right,but could not say what it was. A tiny frown creased her brow,but then she turned to answer Zaron;about to protest against the mentioned escort. Olore nudged her slightly. Lady,it might be a good idea. We do not know these lands and there might well be dangers the two of us cannot handle ourselves-though we are formdiable warriors. Orcs are one thing,but there may be more dangerous things along the journey.
Elestirne nodded slightly,though a little reluctantly. She was a queen,but that did not mean that she was used to or enjoyed all that the role entailed,the need for an escort being one of them. She was used to being independant and Olore had always been all the escort she'd cared for or needed. But,if it would ease their concern...
"Olore and I are well accustomed to danger my lords,and I am accustomed to traveling alone. Moreover I have journyed to Oron's lands before. But if it will ease your concern, then I will accept the escort-but there will need to be one or more among them who know the way to Oron from here." Her eyes grew serious. "But,ere I leave,you should tell all whom you think need to know of what I just told you about Telemachus. Or should I be the one to tell it?." She winced slightly,putting her hand to her wounds-which she had neglected to heal while tending to Olore. I can see to them later... She leaned against Olore slightly;patting the shining neck gratefully as he supported her.
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Taos
Grunt
Airstrikes for Everyone!
High Born, High Elf...Need I Say More
Posts: 358
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Post by Taos on Apr 11, 2007 9:32:19 GMT -5
Taos stepped around the corner.
"I'll volunteer to make the ride...I hear a pair of orc clans have moved down from the mountains and I've been wanting to check on Grishnak's troop movements in the East as it is."
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Apr 11, 2007 15:26:22 GMT -5
Elestirne nodded slightly to Taos as he appeared. "You are welcome to come with if you wish,though I ask no one to accompany us. And Olore is correct-neither of us know the lands about yours and we may well run into something the two of us cannot easily handle or deal with." Her eyes flickered to Nichtmar briefly;noting,for an instant,a strange look in his eyes. Then it was gone. Olore,beside her,tensed a little. She put a hand on his neck. You saw it too?
And sensed,the silver stallion answered with a slight nod. Something is not right with Nichtmar but I cannot place what-though I can sense that tainted magic lingering on him. He is more than what he seems.
It might just be weariness friend.
Olore shook his head slightly. Perhaps,but I think not. But we shall wonder on that later. You need rest,and food and healing, and the escort needs be gathered and organized-ere we can set out on our way to Oron's.
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Post by Sir Nichtmar on Apr 12, 2007 6:44:12 GMT -5
Nichtmar gathers himself for one last moment.
"Then it is settled, Taos shall have point on this convoy. Milady, though formidable as you may be..."
He thinks to himself, why do elves have to protect their reputation so.
"... I ask that you follow his command. I must go, I'll see you all off in the morning."
Nichtmar heads to his room in the tavern and his head begins to spin again and he crashes to his bed.
(OOC: If anyone wants to join Elestirne and Taos's journey let them know asap. The Plot will be following them.)
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Post by Sir Storm Brightblade on Apr 12, 2007 19:53:13 GMT -5
Storm steps forward as well and salutes. "I too shall accompany the lady to request the aid of Sir Oron. I have seen many good cities fall to vile creatures and wish not this one fall."
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Taos
Grunt
Airstrikes for Everyone!
High Born, High Elf...Need I Say More
Posts: 358
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Post by Taos on Apr 16, 2007 6:11:06 GMT -5
Taos looked Storm up and down.
"You'll do, then...try not to bring every orc in 50 leagues down us with your crashing about, and we'll be fine. Time is of the essence, so we will leave now. Anyone else who may wish to join us will undoubtedly meet us on the way to the stables."
He briskly turned and headed out the door, on his way to the stables to mount up.
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Baethor
High Council
Duk'Rik of the Bri'Ak Duraz.
That which does not kill me, has made a tactical error
Posts: 2,234
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Post by Baethor on Apr 16, 2007 22:29:31 GMT -5
Taos and the escort, along with lady elestirne, make there way out the the stables. Baethor Walks out of his hut armed to the teeth, his twin axes on his hips, his waraxe and shield strapped to his back, a long dagger attached to his boot using his greataxe as a walking stick.
"Ey elf! Heards ye were lookin fer bodies for protection! Heh, well ye'll find noone better friend!"
With a hearty laugh the dwarf moved with surprising ease under his armaments and armour barely clinking along as he moved to meet them at the stables.
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Post by Lady Elestirne on Apr 16, 2007 23:49:06 GMT -5
Elestirne walked alongside Olore as they followed Taos back to the stables after being met by Baethor. As she waited for Taos and Storm to ready their mounts,and also for the small escort to organize and get ready,she went over Olore's gear and made sure that she had everything. Then,she found a quiet spot,sat,and called her healing magic up. Once more,the magic shimmered into being between her hands,but the silver-blue glow was a little faint. The young elf-queen closed her eyes;focusing intently as the glow deepened,the magic strengthening. After a minute the magic spread out from her hands to encase her in healing light. Olore stayed close by,standing over her watchfully.
For a few minutes,she stayed like this then,gradually,the light faded and disappeared. Elestirne remained sitting a moment,then gracefully rose to her feet;Olore moving back to give her room. She put a hand to where her wounds had been. No evidence remained of them,but the areas were tender to the touch. Her weariness was gone though,and the pain of the wounds-for she had woven strength into the healing magic. She put a hand on Olore's neck and the silver stallion snorted and nuzzled her. Are you fit to journey Lady? You seem weary still
I'm hale enough Olore. The weariness will fade-it is but an effect from the magic taking some of my own strength in the healing. I will be fine friend. She turned now to Taos directly. "When you are ready Taos." In one fluid movement,she was astride Olore,and making sure her weapons and other gear was securely in place.
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Post by Zaron on Apr 17, 2007 7:19:08 GMT -5
Zaron nods to Nichtmar as he turns to Lady Elestirne. Don't worry m'lady, I will make sure those that need to know do. With a slight bow he turns saying to Taos, now I must be off to make sure you have enough of an escort. With that he walks off, mentioning to Beathor along the way to arm himself and be ready.
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