The invisible silver-masked swordsman spoke, "So how come you didn't just knock this Vanion character's temple down when you were the Celestial thingy here? You should have been powerful enough, right?"
"A couple of reasons. The first being that to do it right, the blast would have created a nice new lake where these houses are now. The local populace wouldn't have appreciated that. The second being that I believe they used a ceremony similar to what Billy Bob used to raise his tower with, so barring completely cratering the area, I'd probably have to cleanse the unholiness first to keep it from growing back. The time it would take to do that would have just made me a nice target for these knights or any of the other beings that lurk in the shadows here."
"So what are you going to do now?"
"I'm not sure. If I was still Archmage, I could planar gate in the castle so we could blast the thing with the cannons from the air."
"No. With your luck, you'd miss the gate target and it'd take us a year to find our way back home. I'm not risking taking the castle out of commission for that long."
No comment from the invisible tattooed mage.
"Anyway, we're making a small dent in their forces, and we've managed to gate some of these people to safety. We haven't got to do this much religious counter insurgency fighting since dealing with the Orthodox Church's SS or with the whole Billy Bob mess. It's fun, but not fun enough to make me want to move here and do it full time again. After tonight, I'm back off to home."
"I understand. I appreciate your help tonight, Q."
"No thanks necessary, Will. You know that."
"It looks like the shrews have satiated themselves on this bunch. What say I create a pack or two of fresh hungry ones as a screen force and we focus more on getting these people to safety?"
"Let's do it."
Genocide and War in the Old Temple District
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Karen Wilder
- Expert Adventurer
- Knight Templar
- Posts: 676
- Joined: Mon Apr 05, 2004 5:20 am
- Location: Headquarters of the Knights Templar
Karen's troop arrived at the First Bridge and were halted by the Watch personell there. "State your name and purpose here!" said the liutenant in charge.
"In God's Name, stand aside!" Shouted Karen. "I be Commander Karen Wilder, Baroness o' Seaside an' Field Commander o' th' Knights Templar!" Wheeling her horse around, she moved closer to the young Watch officer. "Our people are dyin' in there, and ye do nothing!"
The young liutenant scowled and started to speak, but Karen cut him off with a shout of her own. "Ye men there... We go tae save th' people o' this city! Ride wit' us, 'er stand aside!"
Karen then wheeled her horse around again, pushing the young liutenant out of her way. "At a gallop.... forward!" Her arm came down and the troop began charging across the bridge. Most of men of the Watch moved aside, but some few joined up alongside the footsoldiers who jogged along behind.
"Look there!" cried Dinah, pointing to the sky ahead.
The sight of the leathery-winged beasts flying over the city brought hope to no one in that troop... save for one. And even her hope was tempered by experiences to the contrary.
"Wit' any luck, thet's Tass an' some o' his Dragon-kin." Karen grumbled. "But we cain't count on luck taenight..."
"In God's Name, stand aside!" Shouted Karen. "I be Commander Karen Wilder, Baroness o' Seaside an' Field Commander o' th' Knights Templar!" Wheeling her horse around, she moved closer to the young Watch officer. "Our people are dyin' in there, and ye do nothing!"
The young liutenant scowled and started to speak, but Karen cut him off with a shout of her own. "Ye men there... We go tae save th' people o' this city! Ride wit' us, 'er stand aside!"
Karen then wheeled her horse around again, pushing the young liutenant out of her way. "At a gallop.... forward!" Her arm came down and the troop began charging across the bridge. Most of men of the Watch moved aside, but some few joined up alongside the footsoldiers who jogged along behind.
"Look there!" cried Dinah, pointing to the sky ahead.
The sight of the leathery-winged beasts flying over the city brought hope to no one in that troop... save for one. And even her hope was tempered by experiences to the contrary.
"Wit' any luck, thet's Tass an' some o' his Dragon-kin." Karen grumbled. "But we cain't count on luck taenight..."
The elvish army had met up with the Catholic defenders. "Knights dig in here. We will hold here until we are relieved by Commander Wilder." The elves began to spread out, The Wyverns screeched and layed down in the middle. Looking around Nervously, smelling the air every few seconds.
Dimitri walked around shaking hands with every few soldiers. Speaking with them. "Half of the cavalry dismount and you are now going to be infantry...Cavalry is too vulnerable in the city...Galliendan where are you?"
An elf ran up to him and bowed "here sir."
Dimitri looked at him "good go back to Azilla we are gping to need more men. At least half the entire army. Go take a Wyvern they are faster."
The elves around him had blocked off three of the six streets, that ran into their position with large stone walls.
-------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------- While back at the Chapter House Elrohir stood inside very still waiting for Karen Wilder. But insied his will to join his comrades was almost pulling him away. Then after a what felt like an eternity Elrohir ran outside to the last Wyvern waiting. He mounted it and flew into the sky. He looked down at the city. Elrohir saw Karen Wilder and flew in her direction.
Dimitri walked around shaking hands with every few soldiers. Speaking with them. "Half of the cavalry dismount and you are now going to be infantry...Cavalry is too vulnerable in the city...Galliendan where are you?"
An elf ran up to him and bowed "here sir."
Dimitri looked at him "good go back to Azilla we are gping to need more men. At least half the entire army. Go take a Wyvern they are faster."
The elves around him had blocked off three of the six streets, that ran into their position with large stone walls.
-------------------------------------------------- ----------------------------------- While back at the Chapter House Elrohir stood inside very still waiting for Karen Wilder. But insied his will to join his comrades was almost pulling him away. Then after a what felt like an eternity Elrohir ran outside to the last Wyvern waiting. He mounted it and flew into the sky. He looked down at the city. Elrohir saw Karen Wilder and flew in her direction.
Dimitri Locherin. Azillian guard, former Commander of the Huor Ar-Feiniel Battalion.
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Godric Morganwulf
- Junior Adventurer
- Posts: 5
- Joined: Tue Feb 20, 2007 10:31 pm
- Location: Temple of Myr'Khul
As the battle continued, Morganwulf was able to follow the progress of the other forces of Myr'Khul with the holographic scrying capabilities of his helm.
The giant shrews were an amusing surprise, but once the initial shock wore off they proved a relatively minor nuisance. Their neuro-toxin was useless against the undead. Once their primary threat was neutralized, the shrews were easily dealt with.
The wyverns were a more pressing concern. Those that arrived before dawn were out-matched by the vampires. Lacking the fire-breathing of their cousin dragons, the wyverns had little offensive threat against vampires that could fly and turn to mist. Several wyverns were torn apart by the vampires before the sun rose and forced them to retreat.
Minus the vampires, dealing with the wyverns was more difficult. Fortunately, because of their size, wings, and lack of four legs, they had difficulty moving freely on the ground, especially in narrow alleys and inside buildings. Forces attacked by the wyverns quickly retreated into close confines where they could chop the wyverns apart.
The vermillion-cloaked warrior had proved a nasty obstacle for those units in the western part of the district. Morganwulf passed some suggestions to his fellow commander through a spell his sorcerer called the "Whispers of Myr'Khul". A variant on another spell, one that allowed messages to be passed on the wind, this one encrypted the message in the language of Myr'Khul, which made the message understandable only by those who followed the way of Myr'Khul. Any eavesdroppers who somehow managed to intercept the message would gain nothing more than an intense headache.
While the vermillion-cloaked warrior might be strong, he was just one. And in order to be effective, he had to have opponents to attack. No opponents, no damage. Instead of facing him head on, the forces of Myr'Khul dispersed. One or two might die, but the rest of the unit would simply retreat, attacking elsewhere. And when the vermillion-cloaked warrior moved to their new location, the forces of Myr'Khul could flow back into the previous space. Much like water is undeterred by the stone. It simply flows around it. When the stone is moved, the water reclaims the space once taken by it.
Numbers mattered. As the sun rose, and the vampires went to ground, the forces opposing them continued to mount. The wyverns, the elven cavalry, the Templars, the other agents operating within the city to oppose them, were beginning to slow their advance. At least the Phoenix Guard had not moved yet. Fortunately much of their night's work was already accomplished, but momentum was being lost. The tide might even turn against them.
Even as Morganwulf could see other units struggling against harder and harder odds, his own men were facing more challenging opponents. First squad was busy working to lure a wyvern into the confines of a ruined storefront. Second squad was engaged with a unit of armed men of similar strength and size. Morganwulf debated which squad needed his assistance more immediately.
A courier arrived then with a bundle of weapons. "Swords, Guardian Morganwulf, to arm your men with."
Morganwulf was not impressed. "We've been sent replacement swords?" He was preparing a more scathing response, but his sorcerer interjected.
"I sense these are special weapons, Guardian Morganwulf." The black-robed figure stepped forward and uncovered one of the bundles and moved a hand over the blades, but stopped short of touching. "Oh yes. I think these will meet with your satisfaction, Guardian."
The sorcerer hovered over the bundle and then carefully pulled one of the blades free by its hilt. This one glowed with an unholy light that was far stronger than its fellows. He handed it to Morganwulf. "Feel its hunger."
Morganwulf sheathed his own blade and took up the new one. Even as his fingers closed about the hilt he could feel it. The hunger of the sword was powerful, even through the gauntlet he wore.
Morganwulf smiled. This changes things. This changes things indeed.
"Have the swords distributed among the men. Quickly. Let's see how these weapons like the taste of wyvern."
The giant shrews were an amusing surprise, but once the initial shock wore off they proved a relatively minor nuisance. Their neuro-toxin was useless against the undead. Once their primary threat was neutralized, the shrews were easily dealt with.
The wyverns were a more pressing concern. Those that arrived before dawn were out-matched by the vampires. Lacking the fire-breathing of their cousin dragons, the wyverns had little offensive threat against vampires that could fly and turn to mist. Several wyverns were torn apart by the vampires before the sun rose and forced them to retreat.
Minus the vampires, dealing with the wyverns was more difficult. Fortunately, because of their size, wings, and lack of four legs, they had difficulty moving freely on the ground, especially in narrow alleys and inside buildings. Forces attacked by the wyverns quickly retreated into close confines where they could chop the wyverns apart.
The vermillion-cloaked warrior had proved a nasty obstacle for those units in the western part of the district. Morganwulf passed some suggestions to his fellow commander through a spell his sorcerer called the "Whispers of Myr'Khul". A variant on another spell, one that allowed messages to be passed on the wind, this one encrypted the message in the language of Myr'Khul, which made the message understandable only by those who followed the way of Myr'Khul. Any eavesdroppers who somehow managed to intercept the message would gain nothing more than an intense headache.
While the vermillion-cloaked warrior might be strong, he was just one. And in order to be effective, he had to have opponents to attack. No opponents, no damage. Instead of facing him head on, the forces of Myr'Khul dispersed. One or two might die, but the rest of the unit would simply retreat, attacking elsewhere. And when the vermillion-cloaked warrior moved to their new location, the forces of Myr'Khul could flow back into the previous space. Much like water is undeterred by the stone. It simply flows around it. When the stone is moved, the water reclaims the space once taken by it.
Numbers mattered. As the sun rose, and the vampires went to ground, the forces opposing them continued to mount. The wyverns, the elven cavalry, the Templars, the other agents operating within the city to oppose them, were beginning to slow their advance. At least the Phoenix Guard had not moved yet. Fortunately much of their night's work was already accomplished, but momentum was being lost. The tide might even turn against them.
Even as Morganwulf could see other units struggling against harder and harder odds, his own men were facing more challenging opponents. First squad was busy working to lure a wyvern into the confines of a ruined storefront. Second squad was engaged with a unit of armed men of similar strength and size. Morganwulf debated which squad needed his assistance more immediately.
A courier arrived then with a bundle of weapons. "Swords, Guardian Morganwulf, to arm your men with."
Morganwulf was not impressed. "We've been sent replacement swords?" He was preparing a more scathing response, but his sorcerer interjected.
"I sense these are special weapons, Guardian Morganwulf." The black-robed figure stepped forward and uncovered one of the bundles and moved a hand over the blades, but stopped short of touching. "Oh yes. I think these will meet with your satisfaction, Guardian."
The sorcerer hovered over the bundle and then carefully pulled one of the blades free by its hilt. This one glowed with an unholy light that was far stronger than its fellows. He handed it to Morganwulf. "Feel its hunger."
Morganwulf sheathed his own blade and took up the new one. Even as his fingers closed about the hilt he could feel it. The hunger of the sword was powerful, even through the gauntlet he wore.
Morganwulf smiled. This changes things. This changes things indeed.
"Have the swords distributed among the men. Quickly. Let's see how these weapons like the taste of wyvern."
Last edited by Godric Morganwulf on Sat Feb 24, 2007 8:51 pm, edited 1 time in total.
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Scorched Druid
- Adventurer
- Professional Grouch
- Posts: 92
- Joined: Thu Aug 24, 2006 9:07 pm
- Location: Currently either in a room above the Outback or his hut.
"Such bloodshed, tis a useless waste of what could be servants. But this isn't about any of that. Where's the twist?"
I cast my eyes about the shadows as fire spread among the houses and more vile monstrocities gathered in the streets. Each of them racing time itself. Something did not feel right, the bloodshed looked chaotic, but I could sense a form of coordination among the Myr'Khul forces. At least to me it seemed a coordination. Just need a moment to locate the "General".
Shuffled steps carry me from house to house at a leisurely pace, no point in rushing after all. I didn't care about the humans being slain. This whole night just reminded me of all the cleansing I once partook of to separate the sinners from the saved. It was far from difficult to ignore the men and women screaming for help. In fact it was really simple.
"They are relying on faith too much. Yes he'll give those that were "good" in life passage through the gates, but he won't intervene to miraculously save them. Oh no, the Lord will twist this to appear as a test to the faithful. He always does."
Into yet another house my steps carried me to see the similar scene just as the other houses to this point. The parents dead or dying, and the children up next on the chopping block. So much repetition for one night only went so far. I was starting to get bored.
"Hey ugly!"
Before the creature turned I had it engulfed in my dragonfire, the white blaze consuming the minion of shadows. Watching it run around screaming and swinging wildly became strangely amusing. So I did what anyone would do. I laughed, the sound throaty and rich. But things like that are only amusing for a moment, and I have enough of those. More than my share at times.
Encasing the vampire in another telekinetic web I threw it from the house as another burning body into the see overrunning the streets. Only a few charges left on my staff too, time to hurry this up. Kneeling by the only child that still drew breath I drew a slow breath before seeing him to my home with the other dozen or more children I came across. At this rate I'd be in charge of my own orphanage.
I cast my eyes about the shadows as fire spread among the houses and more vile monstrocities gathered in the streets. Each of them racing time itself. Something did not feel right, the bloodshed looked chaotic, but I could sense a form of coordination among the Myr'Khul forces. At least to me it seemed a coordination. Just need a moment to locate the "General".
Shuffled steps carry me from house to house at a leisurely pace, no point in rushing after all. I didn't care about the humans being slain. This whole night just reminded me of all the cleansing I once partook of to separate the sinners from the saved. It was far from difficult to ignore the men and women screaming for help. In fact it was really simple.
"They are relying on faith too much. Yes he'll give those that were "good" in life passage through the gates, but he won't intervene to miraculously save them. Oh no, the Lord will twist this to appear as a test to the faithful. He always does."
Into yet another house my steps carried me to see the similar scene just as the other houses to this point. The parents dead or dying, and the children up next on the chopping block. So much repetition for one night only went so far. I was starting to get bored.
"Hey ugly!"
Before the creature turned I had it engulfed in my dragonfire, the white blaze consuming the minion of shadows. Watching it run around screaming and swinging wildly became strangely amusing. So I did what anyone would do. I laughed, the sound throaty and rich. But things like that are only amusing for a moment, and I have enough of those. More than my share at times.
Encasing the vampire in another telekinetic web I threw it from the house as another burning body into the see overrunning the streets. Only a few charges left on my staff too, time to hurry this up. Kneeling by the only child that still drew breath I drew a slow breath before seeing him to my home with the other dozen or more children I came across. At this rate I'd be in charge of my own orphanage.
Life is 10% luck, 20% skill, 15% concentrated power of will. 5% pleasure, 50% pain. That's 100% reason to remember the name.
In a chamber, deep beneath the surface streets of Rhy'Din, in the true heart of Badside, a council met. Most of those present were concealed in some manner. Even amongst themselves, many identities remained unknown.
A human servant groveled in the center of the circle, reporting the happenings in Old Temple district. The movements of the followers of Myr'Khul. The responses from the Templars, the Watch, the Divine Lighters, the arrival of wyverns and elven cavalry. All was reported to those assembled.
When his report was finished, the human remained on his knees, not daring to look up or move until ordered to do so.
The chamber remained silent for many moments.
At last a disembodied voice spoke. It appeared to emanate from, or near to, a glittering golden mask. "Do we care what happens to the followers of the Catholic church?"
Another responded with a grunt. The figure was one of the few that attended without concealing spells or avatars. He was a massive orc, who sat upon a wrought iron chair. One of the few pieces of furniture that occupied the chamber. "Their Templars have interfered with us often enough."
A puppet-like manikin danced slowly in place not far from the orc. "We do not care. As long as the trade is good, we do not care."
Another voice responded. "Agreed. As long as the gold continues to flow, it matters very little to us if the Myr'Khulites choose to make war upon the Catholics. Let them kill each other as they will."
The golden mask spoke again. "And the followers of Myr'Khul? What do they truly conspire to do? What is the purpose behind their war? What do they gain?"
"We have heard things. And the things we hear do not displease us. If the Myr'Khulites are successful, Badside stands to prosper." The voice came from a grotesque mask. The mask's jeweled eyes, eight of them, glittered brightly. About the mask a shadowy shape hovered, one that appeared to have legs like that of a spider. "If their quest fails, we are no worse off. The Catholics and the Watch will be focused upon the Temple of Myr'Khul for some time, and our affairs will remain undisturbed."
"Then we are agreed?"
"We are agreed. The temple's activities represent no threat to our activities, and may even prove a boon to us."
"Then let them have their war. And we will continue to watch."
"Agreed."
"We agree."
One after another those present, or present by proxy, gave their concurrence and then they dispersed, each returning to their own enterprises.
A human servant groveled in the center of the circle, reporting the happenings in Old Temple district. The movements of the followers of Myr'Khul. The responses from the Templars, the Watch, the Divine Lighters, the arrival of wyverns and elven cavalry. All was reported to those assembled.
When his report was finished, the human remained on his knees, not daring to look up or move until ordered to do so.
The chamber remained silent for many moments.
At last a disembodied voice spoke. It appeared to emanate from, or near to, a glittering golden mask. "Do we care what happens to the followers of the Catholic church?"
Another responded with a grunt. The figure was one of the few that attended without concealing spells or avatars. He was a massive orc, who sat upon a wrought iron chair. One of the few pieces of furniture that occupied the chamber. "Their Templars have interfered with us often enough."
A puppet-like manikin danced slowly in place not far from the orc. "We do not care. As long as the trade is good, we do not care."
Another voice responded. "Agreed. As long as the gold continues to flow, it matters very little to us if the Myr'Khulites choose to make war upon the Catholics. Let them kill each other as they will."
The golden mask spoke again. "And the followers of Myr'Khul? What do they truly conspire to do? What is the purpose behind their war? What do they gain?"
"We have heard things. And the things we hear do not displease us. If the Myr'Khulites are successful, Badside stands to prosper." The voice came from a grotesque mask. The mask's jeweled eyes, eight of them, glittered brightly. About the mask a shadowy shape hovered, one that appeared to have legs like that of a spider. "If their quest fails, we are no worse off. The Catholics and the Watch will be focused upon the Temple of Myr'Khul for some time, and our affairs will remain undisturbed."
"Then we are agreed?"
"We are agreed. The temple's activities represent no threat to our activities, and may even prove a boon to us."
"Then let them have their war. And we will continue to watch."
"Agreed."
"We agree."
One after another those present, or present by proxy, gave their concurrence and then they dispersed, each returning to their own enterprises.
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Lothar Blacklance
- Adventurer
- Posts: 16
- Joined: Wed Mar 02, 2005 11:23 pm
- Location: Looking for work
The presence of Brother Vincent at the orphanage was a surprise, but not one that had changed Lothar's directions to the men. Spread out to cover the entrances, the Phoenix Guard stayed at the ready, waiting for whatever trouble might come their way.
When trouble did come, it was in the form of a mass of heavily armed death knights wearing the markings of Myr'Khul. Lothar tightened his grip upon his blade and made ready for battle. He signaled his men to prepare for action. Many of the death knights held torches and appeared ready to assault the orphanage.
Among them Lothar spotted a figure that might be their captain. Those that were near him appeared to defer to him, or perhaps even avoid him. From the distance Lothar could tell something was wrong with his arm. It appeared to move in a boneless manner.
Jago, still standing nearby, spoke quietly, "what are they waiting for?"
"I don't know. The one there," and Lothar gestured with his sword, "appears to be saying something to them."
A wave of something--disappointment?--seemed to sweep though the death knights. "Stand ready!" Lothar hissed to his men.
And then, much to Lothar's amazement, the death knights turned northward and moved away, disappearing into the shadows.
"What happened?" The surprise in Jago's voice was mirrored in Lothar.
What did happen? Why did they turn away? Was it a trick?
It seemed unlikely they had turned back just because they saw the Phoenix Guard. The death knights had outnumbered them based on Lothar's quick assessment.
"Spread the word. The enemy turned away, but the men are to stay at their posts. We don't know why they left, and we don't know if they will return. Our mission stays the same." Lothar looked back at Jago. "Find the runner. Send him..." Lothar paused. He was about to send the runner to the temple to report what had happened to Osberic. Lothar had another idea instead. "Send him to find Brother Vincent. Let him know what happened if he didn't see. If he really is in multiple places as he said, then he can spread the word more quickly than we could."
"Should we go after them?" One of the men inquired. The hesitance in his voice was obvious.
"No. We were given our orders. Until we get orders otherwise, our mission continues to be protecting the orphanage."
Not all of the men were content with that answer, and grumbled. Lothar could empathize with them. Standing guard while chaos erupted within the city around them felt...wrong. A need for action was within them.
Lothar assured his men that their chance would come, then tightened his grip on his sword and peered out into the troubled district and wondered if what he said was true.
Crossposted in Temple of Divine Light
When trouble did come, it was in the form of a mass of heavily armed death knights wearing the markings of Myr'Khul. Lothar tightened his grip upon his blade and made ready for battle. He signaled his men to prepare for action. Many of the death knights held torches and appeared ready to assault the orphanage.
Among them Lothar spotted a figure that might be their captain. Those that were near him appeared to defer to him, or perhaps even avoid him. From the distance Lothar could tell something was wrong with his arm. It appeared to move in a boneless manner.
Jago, still standing nearby, spoke quietly, "what are they waiting for?"
"I don't know. The one there," and Lothar gestured with his sword, "appears to be saying something to them."
A wave of something--disappointment?--seemed to sweep though the death knights. "Stand ready!" Lothar hissed to his men.
And then, much to Lothar's amazement, the death knights turned northward and moved away, disappearing into the shadows.
"What happened?" The surprise in Jago's voice was mirrored in Lothar.
What did happen? Why did they turn away? Was it a trick?
It seemed unlikely they had turned back just because they saw the Phoenix Guard. The death knights had outnumbered them based on Lothar's quick assessment.
"Spread the word. The enemy turned away, but the men are to stay at their posts. We don't know why they left, and we don't know if they will return. Our mission stays the same." Lothar looked back at Jago. "Find the runner. Send him..." Lothar paused. He was about to send the runner to the temple to report what had happened to Osberic. Lothar had another idea instead. "Send him to find Brother Vincent. Let him know what happened if he didn't see. If he really is in multiple places as he said, then he can spread the word more quickly than we could."
"Should we go after them?" One of the men inquired. The hesitance in his voice was obvious.
"No. We were given our orders. Until we get orders otherwise, our mission continues to be protecting the orphanage."
Not all of the men were content with that answer, and grumbled. Lothar could empathize with them. Standing guard while chaos erupted within the city around them felt...wrong. A need for action was within them.
Lothar assured his men that their chance would come, then tightened his grip on his sword and peered out into the troubled district and wondered if what he said was true.
Crossposted in Temple of Divine Light
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Karen Wilder
- Expert Adventurer
- Knight Templar
- Posts: 676
- Joined: Mon Apr 05, 2004 5:20 am
- Location: Headquarters of the Knights Templar
The allies:
In the West, Andre was met with frustration... His armour could turn even bespelled blades, and any wound he took healed in seconds. The mask of his helm protected him from the bequiling gaze of the Vampires. The Black Blade could cut through steel or flesh as easily as water. But now, precious few opponents could be found. He was not fool enough to believe that he had defeated them or even driven them off... Somehow, word had been spread. Spread even faster than he would have thought... word that they were to avoid him. Only the truly foolhardy or the truly unlucky came within range of his sword now... and he knew that wasn't going to be enough.
-----------------------------
Maetel was no longer Maetel... The sight of the dead, especially the children, had triggered the change programmed into her mind by her creators at the Kitsune Foundation. Now there was only the Assassin. Strength, Speed, Stealth... all augmented by the Assassin's concious control of her psychokinetic powers. A preturnatural killer, nearly undetectable. Photokinesis bent the light around her. Cryokinesis masked her heat signature. Telekinesis bolstered her fur, her skin, her muscles, her claws... even the very air around her. But... she was without direction, without orders. The Assassin was highly trained in the ways of killing, but it had no orders... save the remnents of Maetel's desire to stop those that killed the children, the ones who smelled dead. And so the Assassin moved through the District and slew those it found... and headed for the Orphanage.
------------------------------------
Near the Dancing Dragon Cantina, Mary May Avino was having little luck convincing The Watch to move in. "These people need your help!" she cried. "It's nearly dawn!"
"We have our orders, Miss." replied the lieutenant in charge. "Hold the bridge and contain the threat."
"Who gave you those orders?" Mary asked.
"I'm afraid I can't tell you, Miss."
-------------------------
As the Templar's First Division Infantry approached the South Gate, men spotted a large force moving north from the Orphanage. "Could that be the Phoenix Guard, sir?" asked one of the Sargents.
"Doubtful." replied Division-Commander Fredricks. "They're not marching with torches, or any other lightsource." The Templars themselves carried lightstones... enchanted to shed heatless light for a few hours and given to random soldiers in the unit, they provided light for the men that could be easily dropped... to prevent those men from being targetted by the enemy.
Fredricks raised his voice. We may have to face the possibility that the Orphanage was razed. Steel your hearts, men... and forward!"
The infantry increased their pace, dreading what might be awaiting them as they came into view of the Orphanage.
------------------------------------
Lucien and Caladyn harried the forces of Myr'Khul in the area surrounding the Library. The Mage was careful to underplay his magickal prowess, and the apparent youth of the pair helped to increase their appearance of vulnerability. Soon, they found themselves nearly surrounded. "I do believe that we have gotten their attention, Lucien." said Caladyn, nervously eyeing the slowly encroaching enemies.
"Then I guess we'd better run." replied Lucien with a grin.
The two young men ran east, heading directly for the Temple of Divine Light, barely visible over the rooftops of the nearby buildings. Suddenly, a Vampire appeared in their path, it's fangs and claws covered in blood and gore.
"Hand!" yelled Lucien, quickly grabbing out for Caladyn. Then, the Vampire struck, grasping Lucien's shoulder. Just then, Caladyn grasped Lucien's hand... and Lucien's terrible power took hold. Days, Months, Years... time and age were wrenched from the Vampire and coursed into Lucien. And from him, those years poured into the shard of the Dragon's Soul inside Caladyn.
"What is this?!?" cried the Vampire, feeling it's power draining away. "What are you?!?"
Lucien grinned a terrible grin at the Vampire. "Je suis la Propre Main du Roi de Mort." he said, and suddenly he released his foe. "And now you are prey."
The once-Vampire cried out in fear... once more a mortal man.
Pushing him aside, Lucien and Caladyn resumed their run for the Temple of Divine Light, pursued by the forces of Myr'Khul.
In the West, Andre was met with frustration... His armour could turn even bespelled blades, and any wound he took healed in seconds. The mask of his helm protected him from the bequiling gaze of the Vampires. The Black Blade could cut through steel or flesh as easily as water. But now, precious few opponents could be found. He was not fool enough to believe that he had defeated them or even driven them off... Somehow, word had been spread. Spread even faster than he would have thought... word that they were to avoid him. Only the truly foolhardy or the truly unlucky came within range of his sword now... and he knew that wasn't going to be enough.
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Maetel was no longer Maetel... The sight of the dead, especially the children, had triggered the change programmed into her mind by her creators at the Kitsune Foundation. Now there was only the Assassin. Strength, Speed, Stealth... all augmented by the Assassin's concious control of her psychokinetic powers. A preturnatural killer, nearly undetectable. Photokinesis bent the light around her. Cryokinesis masked her heat signature. Telekinesis bolstered her fur, her skin, her muscles, her claws... even the very air around her. But... she was without direction, without orders. The Assassin was highly trained in the ways of killing, but it had no orders... save the remnents of Maetel's desire to stop those that killed the children, the ones who smelled dead. And so the Assassin moved through the District and slew those it found... and headed for the Orphanage.
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Near the Dancing Dragon Cantina, Mary May Avino was having little luck convincing The Watch to move in. "These people need your help!" she cried. "It's nearly dawn!"
"We have our orders, Miss." replied the lieutenant in charge. "Hold the bridge and contain the threat."
"Who gave you those orders?" Mary asked.
"I'm afraid I can't tell you, Miss."
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As the Templar's First Division Infantry approached the South Gate, men spotted a large force moving north from the Orphanage. "Could that be the Phoenix Guard, sir?" asked one of the Sargents.
"Doubtful." replied Division-Commander Fredricks. "They're not marching with torches, or any other lightsource." The Templars themselves carried lightstones... enchanted to shed heatless light for a few hours and given to random soldiers in the unit, they provided light for the men that could be easily dropped... to prevent those men from being targetted by the enemy.
Fredricks raised his voice. We may have to face the possibility that the Orphanage was razed. Steel your hearts, men... and forward!"
The infantry increased their pace, dreading what might be awaiting them as they came into view of the Orphanage.
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Lucien and Caladyn harried the forces of Myr'Khul in the area surrounding the Library. The Mage was careful to underplay his magickal prowess, and the apparent youth of the pair helped to increase their appearance of vulnerability. Soon, they found themselves nearly surrounded. "I do believe that we have gotten their attention, Lucien." said Caladyn, nervously eyeing the slowly encroaching enemies.
"Then I guess we'd better run." replied Lucien with a grin.
The two young men ran east, heading directly for the Temple of Divine Light, barely visible over the rooftops of the nearby buildings. Suddenly, a Vampire appeared in their path, it's fangs and claws covered in blood and gore.
"Hand!" yelled Lucien, quickly grabbing out for Caladyn. Then, the Vampire struck, grasping Lucien's shoulder. Just then, Caladyn grasped Lucien's hand... and Lucien's terrible power took hold. Days, Months, Years... time and age were wrenched from the Vampire and coursed into Lucien. And from him, those years poured into the shard of the Dragon's Soul inside Caladyn.
"What is this?!?" cried the Vampire, feeling it's power draining away. "What are you?!?"
Lucien grinned a terrible grin at the Vampire. "Je suis la Propre Main du Roi de Mort." he said, and suddenly he released his foe. "And now you are prey."
The once-Vampire cried out in fear... once more a mortal man.
Pushing him aside, Lucien and Caladyn resumed their run for the Temple of Divine Light, pursued by the forces of Myr'Khul.
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Karen Wilder
- Expert Adventurer
- Knight Templar
- Posts: 676
- Joined: Mon Apr 05, 2004 5:20 am
- Location: Headquarters of the Knights Templar
As Karen's troops left the bridge behind, a black cat lept from a building and landed in Dinah's lap. Before the young squire could react, it transformed into a black-leather clad woman. "I have news for you, Commander." she yelled over to Karen.
"Lianna... what news?" replied Karen.
"The Red Man is to West, but the enemy has learned to give him a wide berth. The Defender was with him, but I've lost track of her. There's signs she's moving past the Momus Athenaeum."
"What of Lucien, and of the Templars?" asked Karen urgently.
"Many soldiers of your Order have just reached the Orphanage. I don't know what their plan is. Some patrols are moving about, rescuing those they can and taking them back to your Chapterhouse. The Spymaster and the Boy are working on some plan to get the Pheonix Guard and the Hospitalatiers more involved."
"You mean the Hospitalatiers haven't come out?!?" cried Karen, outraged.
Before Lianna could reply, Dinah pointed forward and up again. "Incoming!"
Lianna looked up and then smiled. "It's alright, they're allies!" she yelled, hoping to keep the Templars from firing arrows at the Wyvern.
Karen drew the Shining Sword of Saint Micheal and held it aloft, then pointed it towards the corner of the open park surrounding the Rhy'Din Museum they were rapidly approaching.
When they were close enough, Karen called out to the Wyvern's rider. "Who dae ye represent, an' what news have ye?" she asked, the sword still in her hand glowing dimly from the sheer number of undead it could sense in the area.
"Lianna... what news?" replied Karen.
"The Red Man is to West, but the enemy has learned to give him a wide berth. The Defender was with him, but I've lost track of her. There's signs she's moving past the Momus Athenaeum."
"What of Lucien, and of the Templars?" asked Karen urgently.
"Many soldiers of your Order have just reached the Orphanage. I don't know what their plan is. Some patrols are moving about, rescuing those they can and taking them back to your Chapterhouse. The Spymaster and the Boy are working on some plan to get the Pheonix Guard and the Hospitalatiers more involved."
"You mean the Hospitalatiers haven't come out?!?" cried Karen, outraged.
Before Lianna could reply, Dinah pointed forward and up again. "Incoming!"
Lianna looked up and then smiled. "It's alright, they're allies!" she yelled, hoping to keep the Templars from firing arrows at the Wyvern.
Karen drew the Shining Sword of Saint Micheal and held it aloft, then pointed it towards the corner of the open park surrounding the Rhy'Din Museum they were rapidly approaching.
When they were close enough, Karen called out to the Wyvern's rider. "Who dae ye represent, an' what news have ye?" she asked, the sword still in her hand glowing dimly from the sheer number of undead it could sense in the area.
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Brother Zed
- Adventurer
- Posts: 19
- Joined: Mon Apr 04, 2005 1:16 am
It was evident now that it was the Catholics that had been targeted by the followers of Myr'Khul.
Brother Zed watched as those seeking refuge trickled in. Some were Catholic. Some were not. Of the Catholics, some perhaps sought shelter here because they felt their own church would be under attack. Others perhaps chose the temple because it was closer to their homes.
Regardless of their reasons, the followers of the White Lady allowed them entrance and escorted them into the Hall of Initiates (disarmed, of course). Warm blankets and bowls of hot soup were distributed among them by the Initiates who tended to them. The Accepted organized the details, keeping things calm and under control.
Despite the warnings, at least one refugee had attempted to leave the Hall of Initiates and explore the temple grounds. The guard eventually discovered his body and reported the incident to Brother Osberic, who had reported it to him. A reminder was passed to the Accepted to be watchful and to stress that their guests should not stray from the safety of the hall.
The guard remained vigilant, watching the streets for trouble. Thus far, no armed forces had approached the temple. Based upon the reports from the orphanage, no attacks had transpired there as well, although there was the report about the forces of Myr'Khul approaching the orphanage and then turning away.
Brother Zed sipped at his tea and watched the early morning skies as the wyverns arrived.
Cross-posted in the Temple of Divine Light
Brother Zed watched as those seeking refuge trickled in. Some were Catholic. Some were not. Of the Catholics, some perhaps sought shelter here because they felt their own church would be under attack. Others perhaps chose the temple because it was closer to their homes.
Regardless of their reasons, the followers of the White Lady allowed them entrance and escorted them into the Hall of Initiates (disarmed, of course). Warm blankets and bowls of hot soup were distributed among them by the Initiates who tended to them. The Accepted organized the details, keeping things calm and under control.
Despite the warnings, at least one refugee had attempted to leave the Hall of Initiates and explore the temple grounds. The guard eventually discovered his body and reported the incident to Brother Osberic, who had reported it to him. A reminder was passed to the Accepted to be watchful and to stress that their guests should not stray from the safety of the hall.
The guard remained vigilant, watching the streets for trouble. Thus far, no armed forces had approached the temple. Based upon the reports from the orphanage, no attacks had transpired there as well, although there was the report about the forces of Myr'Khul approaching the orphanage and then turning away.
Brother Zed sipped at his tea and watched the early morning skies as the wyverns arrived.
Cross-posted in the Temple of Divine Light
Elrohir landed in the park and lept off the Wyvern and walked toward Karen Wilder.
"My name is Elrohir of the Azillian Knights. Dimitri Locherin has brought 300 elvish cavalry and 25 Wyverns...he has also moved that force to the north because of a message that said they needed help. He has also sent a messenger back to Azilla to have more soldiers to come to your aid. We are at your command Commander." The elf bowed and looked at her waiting for new orders.
To the north the elvish army was dug in well but was getting restless from the random attacks on the line. Dimitri was sending out patrols of four. On average 3 of the 4 would come back. Wyvern riders were not returning from flights. Dimitri needed to move this army from defense to offense. Dimitri knew something was wrong a dark presence was heading his way.
The ground beneath Dimitri rose into the air and Dimitri saw the figure. Jono, Dimitri smiled.
"Come and get me Jono!"
The ground then sunk back down "Prepare for battle! elves!"
"My name is Elrohir of the Azillian Knights. Dimitri Locherin has brought 300 elvish cavalry and 25 Wyverns...he has also moved that force to the north because of a message that said they needed help. He has also sent a messenger back to Azilla to have more soldiers to come to your aid. We are at your command Commander." The elf bowed and looked at her waiting for new orders.
To the north the elvish army was dug in well but was getting restless from the random attacks on the line. Dimitri was sending out patrols of four. On average 3 of the 4 would come back. Wyvern riders were not returning from flights. Dimitri needed to move this army from defense to offense. Dimitri knew something was wrong a dark presence was heading his way.
The ground beneath Dimitri rose into the air and Dimitri saw the figure. Jono, Dimitri smiled.
"Come and get me Jono!"
The ground then sunk back down "Prepare for battle! elves!"
Dimitri Locherin. Azillian guard, former Commander of the Huor Ar-Feiniel Battalion.
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Vinny
- Seasoned Adventurer
- Bender of physics
- Posts: 342
- Joined: Mon Apr 05, 2004 11:01 am
- Location: Wherever he needs to be.
The messenger made his way to Brother Vincent with great haste, but before he could deliver his message, Vincent put up a hand to warn him not to speak. "Yes, I noticed that the orphanage was spared from the assaults. The message has been forwarded to all who need to know. Tell Lothar that he's doing fine."
He resumed his silent vigil, keeping track of the goings on. While most things were as he expected, there were some odd things that worried him. Things that just didn't feel right. If he had the time and mental capacity at the moment, he would go over them in detail. But for now, he was forced to put those thoughts aside to peruse when things settled down a little.
He resumed his silent vigil, keeping track of the goings on. While most things were as he expected, there were some odd things that worried him. Things that just didn't feel right. If he had the time and mental capacity at the moment, he would go over them in detail. But for now, he was forced to put those thoughts aside to peruse when things settled down a little.
Who would have thought that becoming God would prove to be such a hollow victory? -Thanos of Titan
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Karen Wilder
- Expert Adventurer
- Knight Templar
- Posts: 676
- Joined: Mon Apr 05, 2004 5:20 am
- Location: Headquarters of the Knights Templar
As Lucien and Caladyn approached the Temple of Divine Light, the young mage cast a spell. "What is that spell, again?" asked Lucien.
"It's a spell of Insignificance. It makes people overlook us in favor of more important things." Caladyn replied.
"And it won't affect the guys chasing us?" pressed Lucien, as the Temple came into view at the end of the street.
"Of course not. I've attuned the spell so that it doesn't effect the undead. Besides, with all the Anger spells I've been casting at them, I'm not sure I could lose them with so minor a spell."
When they were only a few dozen feet away, prepared two more spells. "This is it..." he cast the first and eerie blue flames erupted from the cobblestones all along the street. Then he and Lucien quickly turned aside to a narrow inlet between the last two buildings along the street. Just as they squeezed in, he cast his second spell upon a cobblestone just outside the gates of the Temple of Divine Light.
"I hope this works..." whispered Lucien, as he put on a pair of delicate-seeming white gloves.
"Of course it will work... I'm a master as this sort of thing." replied Caladyn in a smug whisper.
The flames died down quickly, having served their purpose in both attracting attention to the street and distracting anyone from noticing Lucien and Caladyn. The second spell was an illusion only visible to the undead... an image of the two young men calling out for a counterattack by the soldiers inside the Temple.
The entire trap wouldn't last very long, but Lucien hoped that by the time the Undead knew what had happened that the people in the Temple would think themselves under attack... and counter-attack for real.
"It's a spell of Insignificance. It makes people overlook us in favor of more important things." Caladyn replied.
"And it won't affect the guys chasing us?" pressed Lucien, as the Temple came into view at the end of the street.
"Of course not. I've attuned the spell so that it doesn't effect the undead. Besides, with all the Anger spells I've been casting at them, I'm not sure I could lose them with so minor a spell."
When they were only a few dozen feet away, prepared two more spells. "This is it..." he cast the first and eerie blue flames erupted from the cobblestones all along the street. Then he and Lucien quickly turned aside to a narrow inlet between the last two buildings along the street. Just as they squeezed in, he cast his second spell upon a cobblestone just outside the gates of the Temple of Divine Light.
"I hope this works..." whispered Lucien, as he put on a pair of delicate-seeming white gloves.
"Of course it will work... I'm a master as this sort of thing." replied Caladyn in a smug whisper.
The flames died down quickly, having served their purpose in both attracting attention to the street and distracting anyone from noticing Lucien and Caladyn. The second spell was an illusion only visible to the undead... an image of the two young men calling out for a counterattack by the soldiers inside the Temple.
The entire trap wouldn't last very long, but Lucien hoped that by the time the Undead knew what had happened that the people in the Temple would think themselves under attack... and counter-attack for real.
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Karen Wilder
- Expert Adventurer
- Knight Templar
- Posts: 676
- Joined: Mon Apr 05, 2004 5:20 am
- Location: Headquarters of the Knights Templar
"We are at your command Commander." The elf bowed and looked at her waiting for new orders.
Karen considered this news... Cavalry and Wyverns. 'Not exactly the best troops for urban combat, but better than nothing,' she thought. "A'right, th' North's a good spot tae start. 'ave Dimitri head his people South 'long th' Wall in three waves." She gestured ahead along the road her troops awaited. "When yer reinforcements arrive, their tae take o'er holdin' th' South Gate. She then pointed at his Wyvern. "Keep yer beasties in th' air... snatch an' drop targets o' opportunity. They're tae big tae do much more'n thet in th' city."
Karen started back towards her troop. "We're headed fer th' Templar Compound, then tae sweep this road 'ere. I'll 'ave more fer ye later. Watch fer me signal..." she added a grin. "Ye'll know it when ye see it."
Then Karen raised her hand. "Forward!" snapping her arm down, she lead her troops down the road towards the east.
Karen considered this news... Cavalry and Wyverns. 'Not exactly the best troops for urban combat, but better than nothing,' she thought. "A'right, th' North's a good spot tae start. 'ave Dimitri head his people South 'long th' Wall in three waves." She gestured ahead along the road her troops awaited. "When yer reinforcements arrive, their tae take o'er holdin' th' South Gate. She then pointed at his Wyvern. "Keep yer beasties in th' air... snatch an' drop targets o' opportunity. They're tae big tae do much more'n thet in th' city."
Karen started back towards her troop. "We're headed fer th' Templar Compound, then tae sweep this road 'ere. I'll 'ave more fer ye later. Watch fer me signal..." she added a grin. "Ye'll know it when ye see it."
Then Karen raised her hand. "Forward!" snapping her arm down, she lead her troops down the road towards the east.
Reinforcements
Elrohir nodded and lept onto the back of the wyvern and took off to the north with the orders. After only a few seconds he landed and told the orders to Dimitri.
Dimitri grinned "Wyverns in the air now! scoop and drop mission till I tell you to stop!"
A few elves jumped up and the remaining wyverns took to the skies every few seconds they would dive and arc back up.
Dimitri turned "alright cavalry mount up we are heading south along this wall here. Kill all enemies you see. First wave on me Second wave with Elrohir. Third wave will come when we need. Lets move first wave!"
Dimitri and his wave started to head south, his ears twitched as he hard the earth along the other side of the wall moving. "Elves reinforcements less then an hour away. Earth marching!"
On the other side of the wall the ground wide enough to move three Divisions of infantry was moving as if it was a conveyor belt.
Dimitri grinned "Wyverns in the air now! scoop and drop mission till I tell you to stop!"
A few elves jumped up and the remaining wyverns took to the skies every few seconds they would dive and arc back up.
Dimitri turned "alright cavalry mount up we are heading south along this wall here. Kill all enemies you see. First wave on me Second wave with Elrohir. Third wave will come when we need. Lets move first wave!"
Dimitri and his wave started to head south, his ears twitched as he hard the earth along the other side of the wall moving. "Elves reinforcements less then an hour away. Earth marching!"
On the other side of the wall the ground wide enough to move three Divisions of infantry was moving as if it was a conveyor belt.
Dimitri Locherin. Azillian guard, former Commander of the Huor Ar-Feiniel Battalion.
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