3. Mystic River

Mystic River


  • A WITCH'S LAIR

    I catch my breath… We’re just coming to the misty pond after a fairly successful dance with the goblin shamans and assassins when he asks me.. “You want to head west?” Judging from his gaze he has already decided that’s what’s next.

    “Ah, well let me just rest for a moment and we will continue.” I reply.

    We walk past the west side the lake. Goblins lay scattered on the ground all twisted, limbs loose and heads turned, necks broken and guts spilled into a goblin stew. This is all the doings of Aranwe. I have watched him for over a year now, closely, and he so loves to sneak up on them and slit their throats. Not even a breath escapes as they fall on the ground. Carefully I have been holding back, giving of myself to see him excel. By now he is free to fly on his own, he hardly needs my presence. He can do it all on his own…

    We head up the slope of the bear cave and as we do I stumble upon some rocks and roots. The roof of the bear’s lair is weak and I carefully watch my steps as I climb. Aranwe is, of course, already up there setting up a campfire. I smile at him. He is still young. I bite my lip as the thought passes my consciousness; he is simply adorable in a so very determined way.

    What has become of me? For years I mocked my sister’s and Iathouz’s love for each other. I called it an abomination, a sickness, a short lived passion with nothing but pain in the end. I did everything to pull them apart.

    Maybe I was jealous after all, but Aranwe is nothing like Iathouz. They share the skills that is it, but while Iathouz was a notorious assassin under service of the necromancer Higgins, Aranwe is a faithful of Corellon. I find it ironic. The flash of images comes before me: on the isle a white stag’s head on a pole… the poisoned waters… the hawks fallen feathers… Corellon’s grove severely violated and the black knight’s blood soaked blade, red eyes grinning with lust for more… That time I had escaped, I had quickly vanished …

    I glance at Aranwe, he is carefully watching every step I take…

    I take a few strides up, jumping over some twisted tree roots. I’m finally up there, but the ground under me suddenly gives way. I reach for Aranwe’s hand but the force and speed of the fall pulls him down as well, and we both plummet. I feel weightless in the air as he pulls me close and twists his body to shield me from the impact at the bottom. I land on him heavily and bounce to the side. I hear him groan loudly in pain, then half drag half roll himself into the darkness. Then everything goes still.

    It’s pitch dark and silent. I try at first to orientate my bearings but I fail. Reaching inside myself, I draw on my powers, speaking the spell softly, making a light hover above us. I quickly scan the small den. It’s dry for the most part, save the moist dirt from the roof that collapsed under us. Earthen walls, scattered twigs and branches, and a few tufts of hair are matted to the floor. Aranwe is crouched up against the wall holding his side. There are some cuts and nicks on his face… he seem to be alright. I move closer to him to check his injuries better. Another whisper and a second light clings to the earthy smelling air around us. The wound to his side is not that bad, but he is heavily bruised. A cracked rib perhaps. A drop of blood falls from my eyebrow. I realize I’ve got a few cuts and bruises as well.

    There is a look of surprise on his face, maybe even a bit of shock. The situation hits me suddenly and I burst out in laughter. “This is typical isn’t it?” I say with a playful tone. “You and me stuck in a small den of… heavens know what creature”

    There are leaves on the ground, roughly piled like some sort of bed. Too small for a bear… A badgers lair? Possibly, but one not used for quite some time. The leaves are untouched, soft and dry, they almost look inviting…

    I look up. I can barely see the sky above through the hole with all the roots hanging down. With the last few rays of the dying sun filtering through, it almost looks like a weird druidic chandelier. I can picture the cave lined with shelves of exotic ingredients with a large cauldron boiling on a smoky fire in the center, almost like a witch‘s lair or hedgemage‘s den. For a moment, the place takes on a wickedly sinister feel… like there is something forbidden here.

    I turn back to Aranwe. The way he’s sitting, he could almost be a bound victim. I shake off the vision. “We can climb that, no worries just let’s tend to our wounds and rest up.”

    I am no priest but I am good at nursing wounds. I learned that long ago… a skill much needed even for a blood mage, and it simply serves me well.

    In the flickering light from above us, I study Aranwe’s face to determine his mood. The shock is fading and the immediate tension seems to ebb out, there is no present threat and he is now busy looking over his wounds. As he does, I gather our packs scattered around us, looking for herbs and bandages, anything useful to clean us up. I drag them close to him. The cavern is warm and well isolated. The earthy smell tickles my nose again.

    “It is not that bad” I say holding my laughter back.. “I been through much worse than being stuck in a badger’s den.” I unclasp his cloak and gently remove it from his shoulders and then my own and spread them on the leafy pile. I line up the necessities… herbs, bandages, ah.. bottle of spirits… No water unfortunately… “I should need a bottle of wine,” I whisper to myself amusedly.

    With a clicking sound, I let loose Athame from my belt then turn to Aranwe. I crawl up close to him so I can release the clasps of his chain armor. This I have liked to do for a long time… His side is aching a bit, and I have to use the knife to bend a twisted buckle to relieve some pressure, then slowly pull it off of him, revealing the soft shirt he wears underneath.

    He is silent and I have no idea what he is thinking, but knowing him, he is more focused on getting out of this trap than anything else. I hand him the bottle of spirits.

    “You better drink some of this. Tending to those cuts and bruises and a possible broken rib is going to hurt.”

    He takes the bottle and nicely does as I say, spitting and hissing as he does, but he drinks it.

    “Easy now.. save some for your wounds. It’s the only thing we have to keep them clean.” He takes another quick slug and passes the bottle back to me.

    “I need to wrap those ribs.” He nods in agreement but is still too focused on our current predicament. “Take your shirt off.”

    “Oh, yes, of course.”

    He struggles a bit raising his arms over his head, but the shirt comes off revealing his toned skin and compact muscles. He has the sinewy strength of a young man who works with his hands and spends a lot of time in the outdoors. I drape his shirt over my shoulder, then pour some spirits on a cloth and start at his shoulders working my way down, cleaning off the sweat and grime as I go. I can feel how solid he is, and the warmth coming off of him. He shivers for a moment as the alcohol dries off his skin and a ripple passes through his frame.

    “That’s cold,” he murmurs.

    I hand him the bottle. “Drink some more, that will keep you warm.” I take the roll of bandages from my pack and kneel behind him to begin wrapping this ribs. I have to press myself up against him to reach around. I whisper in his ear as I pass the bandage from one hand to the other. “You know this has to be tight to work.”

    He takes another swig from the bottle. “Try to be gentle.” he whispers back. Gentle is not what I have in mind.

    I reach around him a second time and pull the bandage as tight as I can get it. His sharp groaning intake of breath sounds like pain or the start of something more interesting. After a third and forth time around I tuck the loose end in and pin it in place, grazing him enough with the pin to give him a sense of danger. He stiffens for a moment, then stays tense as I run the backs of my nails up his spine. I work the tips of my fingers into the tops of his shoulders relaxing the taunt muscles at the base of his neck. The effect is almost instant. I lean in close again to whisper in his ear as I run my hands down over his chest to take final check on the bandage torso.

    “Feeling warmer yet?”

    “Much. You know I think I can climb those roots and lower a rope down to you.”

    It takes everything I have not to claw deep furrows in his chest.

    There are times when Aranwe is far too focused on the wrong things. He is responsible and reliable despite being very young by elven standards, but there are times he just doesn’t get it.

    “It can wait. It’s safe in here, and we need some rest. Why don’t you lay down on the cloaks for a moment?”

    “I’m fine.” He stands, but between the pain and the spirits, he’s less then steady on his feet. “I feel a little lightheaded. Maybe I should lay down for a few minutes.”

    I guide him to the makeshift bed where he stretches out. When he looks at me, I make sure I wince like something is hurting me.

    “Are you all right Mystic?” He tries to sit up again, but I push him gently back down with my hand. The bewildered look on his face is priceless.

    “I think I might have injured my ribs as well.”

    His shirt is still draped over my shoulder. I take it and hold it out at arm’s length to the side, letting him get a good look at it, then let it drop to the earthy floor. He looks at the shirt, then back to my face. I lean in a little and his eyes drop to the row of buttons down my front. Now he gets it.

    “…oh.”

    I can feel his concern give rise to excitement…


  • Mystical Gloves of Fencing

    The flickering light from the small cedar fire under the cauldron cast shadows on the wall of the darkened chamber that seemed to dance and cavort as if they had a life of their own. I take a small handful of powdered cayenne pepper and toss it into the fire. A small plume of smoke rolls up past the cauldron and assails my nose with a sharp acrid scent that brings my mind into sharp focus. I check the simmering fennel oil once again. It was time.

    The lump of bee’s wax melts and spreads out into the oil, softening the scent. It contains the gift of protection for home and community. I stirr it in with a thin glass rod.

    I use my Athame to dice then crush ginseng root, scraping it from the cutting board and into the mixture. Long recommended to increase energy, it also helped respiration and recovery for exertion, aiding the user’s physical and mental prowess.

    Parsley in two whole unblemished sprigs goes in next. Ancient gladiators knew the herb would grant them strength, cunning, and agility, so it was often chewed before battles to assure victory. I turn the parsley in the oil with a copper spoon, gently infusing its aromatics into the mixture.

    Stunningly blue flowers and pungent leaves of rosemary I chop finely and add, the familiar scent reminds me how hungry I am after fasting in preparation for the enchantment. Used often for cooking, rosemary is prized among herbalists as a tonic for bringing energy and increasing blood flow to tired muscles. It also sharpened the mind’s ability to react quickly to danger, and to remember details when in stressful situations.

    I spread the cedar coals beneath the cauldron, letting the potion steep over a low heat, inviting the ingredients to release their powers and join together to increase their potency.

    Patience is the key…

    The gloves are finely crafted double banded leather, cut from the supplest of leathers and stitched with precision. Into the palm of one of the gloves I place a spell crystal imbued by a wizard with the cat’s grace spell. It hums lightly with the magical energies contained inside of it, seemingly eager to be released. I then place the gloves into the potion, using the copper spoon to ladle the herbs and oils onto them liberally. The gloves soak it in greedily almost as if they were parched from a long workout.

    I awakened the gloves to the weave coursing through the tower by casting Resistance on them, then I watch with satisfaction as they start to draw energies to themselves with a puff of smoke. Into the inflowing stream of magic I add Shield, that the gloves might guide the hand inside to greater protection. The gloves takes on a shimmer as the magic bind to the potion infused in the gloves. I touch the gloves with the gemstone inside and whispers a command word, releasing the spell from its crystal prison. It trys to escape into the ether, but is snared by the energies enwrapping the gauntlets and is pulled down into them, forming a writhing and pulsating tangle of magic’s.

    I close my eyes and take a moment to focus my energies drawing power from the weave and the core of my being, moulding it, shaping it, and sharpening it. The Bull Strength spell formed on my lips. My eyes open and with a snarl I drive the spell through the gloves like a spear, pinning the other spells in place, binding them permanently to the gloves. They were complete

    As the gloves lay smoking in the cauldron, exhaustion is overtaking me… but he will be satisfied for sure... my companion.


  • FORGING A MONSTER

    It’s a crisply cool evening in Norwick as Iathouz and I pass through the south gate. Several people are casually lounging about the campfire exchanging the idlest of conversation. Maria’s eyes lock on me the moment I get near. She calls to me, her voice edged with a sternness.

    “Yes Maria?”

    Her voice is marred by her speech impediment or weird accent, but I understand her well enough for my ears to filter it out.

    “You are aware apprentice that the one you travel with has been thrown out of the keep.”

    Iathouz next to me chuckles in an playful manner. “It’s been a very long time since I’ve been thrown out of a keep.” He tosses me a grin, as Maria ignores him, save for a dark look.

    “Oh, you mean Kyan.” I respond with casual innocence. “I was just greeting him as he was right outside the gate. I thought it to be polite. I greet everyone. Am I to blame if our paths happen to cross?”

    She responds but I’m lost in my thoughts as Iathouz and I sit down under the shelter of the watch platform. Of all the elven, I am amused to have him at my side as for many years the two of us have been like cats and dogs. He seems to be in a good mood tonight, and has that long lost mischievous air about him, much like he had in the days we first met. He gives me a sly grin before engaging Maria in conversation.

    “You’ve taken a new apprentice? I’m curious, what does a hermetic mage think they can teach to a blood mage?”

    Maria launches into a lengthy lecture on the nature of spells and the similarities of effects and uses. Iathouz works his way through the conversation with a few comments and minor questions, and then deftly shifts it to a discussion on the similarities between divine spells and necromancy. Maria derides the dark school, but Iathouz pressures her using her own argument for teaching blood mages. One of the clerics or maybe a knight sitting at the fire comes to Maria’s rescue pointing out that clerical casters answer to a higher power and therefore have a divine right to cast spells of life and death, whereas mages do not. Maria takes exception, and an argument ensues between the two as Iathouz drops out of the conversation unnoticed. He sits back and watches, an amused grin on his face as Maria defends Necromancy without even being aware that she’s doing it.

    Iathouz leans close to me and whispers softly in my ear. “Far too easy.”

    Not many know, but for years Iathouz was a forge apprentice to a notorious necromancer named Higgins. It’s easy to see the influence on him, if you know what to look for.

    I sit quietly thinking to myself how easy it is for an individual to be molded and forged into something by others just because they want it to be so. I can’t help but think about what they did to Kyan…

    Kyan is a necromancer! He killed Yng! He is thrown out of Spellweaver Keep!

    A year ago, and then some, I was riding my horse, coming from Norwick to the great wall that encircles Peltarch. A group of horses were halted a distance from the wall and I slowed as I approached. I could see Kyan standing up on the wall, below him was Yng, Meb, and Eli. Another person stumbled into the scene, and I would later come to know the young man as Trevor Lionsbane.

    The three Elven were calling out Kyan, saying he was a necromancer and needed to be brought down. They were provoking him in all manner of ways. He stood his ground on the wall, trying to respond to all their accusations, clearly not wanting to commence a fight, even though he most certainly knew it would end to his favor.

    I found the whole situation out of place. Kyan had been friends to many, and even close to some in the Legion, and now this drama was playing out in front of Trevor and myself. We would both be witnesses.

    I kicked my heels to the side of my horse, thinking that I would not take part in this, as it would not end well for anyone. I rode through the gate, but stopped as soon as I was inside the wall. I found my feet carrying me up the stairs…

    How can the elves continue like this I thought. If anything, Kyan needed a proper interrogation in regards to his intents and the powers he was using… if he was using them. It seemed like this gang of elven justices wanted to take matters into their own hands, render judgment, and carry out their own swift punishment.

    Much to my sadness, I could see Kyan had reached his limits. He walked resolutely down the stairs, casting wards and protections on himself as he went. He stood in front of them, tall, proud, determined. The first arrow struck with a whistle. Yng stood with an empty bow in his hand, the string still vibrating as he reached for his quiver… Other arrows came sailing in… Then it was over in a matter of seconds. The only one of the elves left standing was Meb, and she was grievously wounded, trying to drag the twisted bodies of Yng and Eli to the temple. Kyan had vanished almost before the fight had ended. Where he went, or what condition he was in, I could only guess.

    I could have helped, but all I could feel was disgust and sorrow. This did not need to happen. Over time, the man I know has performed his part well for “them,” satisfying the wishes of those who desperately need someone to hunt. In my eyes they created him. They forged him into the shape they wanted. They created the monster.

    Is this the same man that for hours upon hours watches, guards, and protects me as I wander the chambers and caverns underground? The same man who lifted my fallen body off the troll blood soaked ground and leaving the rest of our group behind, rushed off to find a way to bring me back? Why? He doesn’t have any obligation to me. Is this the act of evil? Even then he returned to rescue the body of another in our group that had fallen. Without him, the whole party would have been lost. He saved us all, and at great risk to himself in the doing.

    Of course I cannot deny anything of what they charge him, even if I do not agree with it all. I know only that which I see. I only know what I feel. I do not fear him. If he wanted me dead I would have been long ago. Instead we share many things together in silence. I have spent so much time with him now that words are not needed. There is a mutual understanding between us that I have come to appreciate.


  • The Key

    I sit quietly listening to the soft whisper of my breath echo in the cavernous chamber, meditating on the sounds around me. I’ve found that if I steel my concentration and narrow my focus it’s like I once again find my way back to the Isle.

    In my hand is a vial containing the blood of a cockatrice. The good mister Theron Goss had killed the beast, albeit I have to admit with great deal of luck, at the south gate. I had acted quickly and carefully to fill the vial, not spilling an ounce of it’s precious blood.

    …Drip

    …Drop

    …Drip

    The sounds of water on stone, running in tiny rivulets down the walls, falling into small pools about the floor, mixing with the echoes of the previous drops. My eyes are closed. I listen to the timing of the drops, steady, consistent. The world I know spins and turns in upon itself, drawing me with it to another place, one that only exists now in my distant memories. The sounds of water fade…

    In a sudden instant of clarity I see him standing before me, my dark mage Wrastlyn. Confidence radiates from him in waves. Grinning, he passes me a vial of cockatrice blood. He asks me to pour it into the water basin of Valor’s castle. The Order of Valor stands as the unbending true justice of the isle, stalwart guardians of the city of Morian. He’s asking me to poison the good of the land, turning them to stone, like the great statues of themselves that reside at the base of their keep, if even for a brief time. Time enough for the Black Knight’s tsunami of darkness to roll across the land and overrun the city, choking off every light upon the isle…

    The air gets sucked from my lungs and I struggle to breath. My concentration fails and I open my eyes, once again back to the dripping chamber. I look around and I can see the guards staring at me, impertinent leers on their faces as they look at me with a peculiar anticipation.

    I’m struck blind as the darkness suddenly fills the chamber. The cavern dissolves into nothingness. It is swift, and alarming as it is sudden. I call out, “Show yourself!”

    The darkness fades and uncloaks a woman standing before me. I glance at the guards and see them suddenly heave to attention, their casual attitude and disrespectful leers turn to a more rigid and disciplined stance. I am quick to follow, bowing my head in respect, almost as if asking for forgiveness…

    She slips a silver chain that bears a heavy key over my head and around my neck before turning away. Her voice is casual but commanding, “Follow me.”


  • The last rays of the setting sun slipped past Spellweaver Keep as I started my final preparations. I doused the lights in the chamber, leaving only the dimmest portions of lantern wicks smouldering by which to see.

    The small copper cauldron suited my needs. I filled it half way with oil pressed from fennel seeds, then placed a small pile of cedar shavings beneath it to start the fire that would keep it heated throughout the evening.

    As the flames sprang up, I added larger strips of cedar that I had carefully rubbed with fennel oil to bring to fire to a gentle heat. I let the oil above it warm while I meditated.

    I broke a small piece off of a cinnamon stick and added a sliver of fresh cut ginger to it before chewing it. The first bite brought the sharp flavours to my tongue in a rush that suddenly cleared all the other thoughts from my mind, bringing me into focus and letting me feel the ebb and flow of the magical weave that surrounded me. I soaked in the energies and the visions that came with them. The words came to my lips in draconic, tumbling out into chamber to mix with the crackle of the fire:

    A pledge my Mistress to point the way
    For magic to manifest this day.
    My intentions clear and thoughts refined
    my directions set by plan divine.
    From East, South, West, and North
    What I manifest now comes forth.

    To the cauldron I added slices of ginger, and the spicy scent filling the room, flavouring the air with a warming fragrance that stimulates the mind and focus the senses. Myrrh gum added a liquorice edge, and finely chopped tobacco sweetened the air, leaving an aroma that was almost intoxicating when breathed deeply. Lastly, to the infusion, I added a lump of beeswax because bees are well known for protecting their community and home. As the wax melted, it added a warm and comforting odour, reminiscent of a sun drenched summer afternoon, when the bees are hard at work gathering nectar and building their hive.

    The ritual oil simmered gently as I added more wood to the fire to keep it going. The oil reached it’s potency, not only as a ward against magical and spiritual attack, but also as a tribute to honour all spirits that serve in the role of protector. I took a ladle and poured some on my arms, rubbing it into my skin, breathing heavily of its fragrance and soaking in it’s warmth. I filled several vials, leaving about half of the infusion in the cauldron.

    Increasing the size of the fire, I added water taken from a cold east running mountain stream and moved on to the rest of my preparations.

    Peppercorns, crushed; for building protection, confidence, and inventiveness. Pepper brought strength and alertness to a warrior as well as guarding against physical and magical attacks. I tossed a few peppercorns into the fire as well, producing smoke that made my eyes water.

    Fennel seeds, whole. Throughout the centuries soldiers chewed fennel seeds before battles, it was said to build confidence and strength. Farmers rubbed mixed it with soap and salt and applied it to their plow blades to strengthen the land to encourage better harvests. It was often hung over doorways to ward against evil, or packed into keyholes to keep out ghosts. It added to the earthiness of the gingers, and enhanced their effects.

    Dark blue juniper berries, lightly bruised. Another spicy warm scent, one that purified auras, clarified thought and protected from negativity. Often associated with the moon, it stained the mixture a beautifully dark colour in the dim light.

    I stirred the cauldron with my dagger Athame, still stained with the blood I had taken from the receiver Mr Goss the one night before. A warrior’s protection needed a warrior’s blood. It was an old magic…

    The mixture seemed to take on a life of its own as I added the meticulously crafted gloves, turning them over and over again as the potion soaked into them, clarifying the leather to take the enchantments to follow.

    At last, when the moment was right, I channelled the energies of my being into my magics and extended them into the gloves, feeling a little piece of me go with them, draining my body and soul through the effort.

    Resistance. The cauldron flashed green and spat smoke as the spell washed over it.

    Mage Armor. A vibration shook the cauldron, as a low, threatening humming sound hung in the air. The magic’s twisted among them, and I could see the lines of force tying and untying themselves about the gloves.

    One last spell, a lynchpin to hold them together, to bind them to the gauntlets… I reached into myself, pulling out the last of my energies, channelling them through Athame. The Bull Strength spell shot out like an arrow, piercing the gloves and pulling the other enchantments to it. I forced my will upon them all, sustaining them, cajoling them, welding them to the leather, watching as the spells and the potion were drawn into them until nothing remained but the slight wisp of smoke curling up from the gloves.

    I snuffed the fire and collapsed to the floor, spent and exhausted


  • ROOM # 5

    Our group made its way back from the crypts exhausted. It seemed like we had spent an eternity or more down there, so we decided a stop at the Inn would be in order. Much to my regret, Ael’Que, the smelly dwarf Mud, and a new face to me, Xilo, chose to leave us when we passed the gate. Since we had the good fortune of a successful venture without carrying back any casualties, we resolved to celebrate over dinner and a few drinks.

    At the Inn, my guard Somali joined us at the table. While it was regrettable that he wasn’t along with us, I was glad to see him none the less. I presented him with a gift I had acquired for him: a belt that I thought would suit his needs, nothing but the best for my guard. It brought me great joy to see the silly grin that crossed his face. Now, while there are many things that can be said about the half orc, his devotion and eagerness to please have exceeded my most fervent expectations. He will, in time, become the best shield a mage could ever hope for.

    The conversation at the party was lively and enjoyable. Good company is a boon even in the best of times, better still when the food is agreeable and the wine flows steadily. One of the guests for the evening piqued my interest. He is well behaved, and always generous.

    In the midst of my savouring a well prepared chicken and imbibing in the modest pleasure of cheap wine, the man gets up from the table and excuses himself. He has decided to retire for the evening. Much to my amusement, he quickly makes sure everyone knows that if he’s needed for any reason, he can be found in room number five.

    “Sleep well and sweet dreams,” I say.

    “I will dream of celestials tonight,” he returns with a flourish.

    My thoughts were elsewhere for the rest of dinner. I carry my sister’s curse of being too curious, despite knowing full well how that can end. We’ve all felt the consequences, in one way or another.

    As I leave the table for the evening, I can’t help whispering to Buurbie, “ I wonder what’s behind door number five.”

    I slip the Athame into my hand, whispers softly a few words, and fall into the shadows, travelling with them up the stairs.

    "He can dream of celestials all he wants, I certainly don’t mind."


  • COLD STONE

    The massive iron bound door groans as it opens in front of me, the dust gathered on it falling away in hazy cloud as it tries to keep up with the motion. A few mildly interested guards look me over as I pass by them.

    Dimly glowing lights flicker lifelessly as I pass through the hallway, dust devils swirling at my feet as I walk. I pause briefly at the entrance, considering what awaits me in the chamber.

    I call out, but the only answer is my own echo, twisted into a voice that sounds unlike mine. Hollow, cold… hungry. Only four other people even hear it, some half sleeping guards and a woman being consumed by a bookshelf. No matter. They are not the reason I’m here.

    I turn to my right and head for the altar I see there. A brief tingle runs the length of my body as I approach, lingering slightly in a way that makes me gasp. The stone top is a bit cracked and gives the impression that it’s been a long time since used. I caress the surface, feeling the coolness that seems to intensify near it’s imperfections. I close my eyes and I can feel desire wash over me. I expect to feel a touch on my shoulders, a whisper in my ear, giving way to… In my anticipation, I’ve leaned forward, my cheek coming gently to rest on the altar. My arms have encircled it without my even being aware. I feel drawn in, and yet I wait in silence for something that doesn’t happen. The stone is cold, dead, and emotionless.

    I slowly raise myself to standing, withdrawing Athame from its sheath, my senses aquiver as it comes free. I grip the blade in my left hand, the flat edge against my fingers. I can feel the danger of the razor edge against my palm. A burning sharpness, unfulfilled. Would it feel much different against a throat? With a swift pull I slash my palm, blood flowing between my fingers even before the blade clears my flesh. Grimacing at the pain, I form my savaged hand into a fist, holding it over the surface of the altar, watching my blood drench its surface. To my amazement, it forms into rivulets and streams to the crack before being sucked down into the thirsty stone, leaving the exterior clean. I feel spent, and my body goes limp. For a moment I forget my bleeding hand and a small puddle of blood forms at my feet. I quickly sheath my dagger, and then pull a cloth from my pack, wrapping it around my injured palm.

    I back cautiously away from the altar and on the way out I turn to one of the wide eyed guard frozen along the wall, casually appraising him for a moment.

    “I’ll come back … ”

    I cast a few protective spells and head back out the corridor..


  • ENTERTAINMENT

    Judging by the steady stream of toughs walking through the door, the Pissing Goat ale hall was hosting a party for a local gang boss. Although it wasn’t my usual hang out, I had heard a few whispers about the soirée while passing through the docks earlier, and my boredom lead me to it.

    From my position at the bar, I could see who came in and out, and catch just enough of a glimpse of the back room to watch the festivities. Casual observation led me to believe most of the regular patrons had found someplace else to imbibe for the evening, which held the promise of the party being loud and raucous. Gods know, the service was awful, due to most of the bar maids tending to the debaucherous mob in the back room.

    I barely had time to cover my ears before a thunderstone exploded with a sharp crack. A group of serving wenches came running in, curious at the loud bang. Unable to find anything aside from a rising ring of smoke, they returned to their duties at the loud calls for more ale from the back room.

    Trays covered with crusty bread and large bowls of steamy stew headed into the back in perfect timing with the pitchers of beer. I found myself setting my own drink on the bar. The trouble started a few moments later.

    A loud voice bellowed from the back room. “What in the hells!” The unmistakable sound or retching swiftly followed. It started a wholesale round of more vomiting.

    There was a sizzle in the air, followed by a soft thump. The back hall was lost in a rolling ball of acrid black smoke… A rapid series of pops that sounded like tangle foot bags, followed by breaking glass and wheezing coughs and the jingling noise of caltrops hitting the floor… Screams of anger and pain… More so when the goblin grenades went off...

    I decided it was time for me to leave myself, before anyone came looking for witnesses. I made a hasty exit escaping the fire and mayhem


  • The tranquil sound of gurgling emanates from the fountain as she lies back on the cushions worn soft by years of use. It is close enough that she can feel coolness as the falling water pushes the faintest of breezes past her, stirring her golden locks as her eyes follow the great stone columns as they stretch to the ceiling, arching into a vaulted dome of intricate and clever construction.

    Turning to her stomach, she makes a few playful splashes, listening as the echoes cavort around the chamber. She whispers the incantation quietly and swiftly, drawing seamless glyphs that appear to burn in the air. The light mote instantly formed, hovering above the water, twitching ever so slightly in glaringly bright anticipation of it’s master’s command. With a sudden flick of her wrist, the glowing orb plunges into the depths of the fountain, casting brilliant bands of dancing colour about the walls, book stacks, and dusty corners of the library, as if the fountain has become a giant shifting prism. She laughs as it amuses her.

    She pushes herself from the comfort of the cushions, flashing her long bare legs as she strides towards the door, the staccato reports of her heels on smooth stone floor breaking the quiet revere of the library. Her long heavy locks bounce in the air.

    “I’m bored!” she whispers

    As she leaves complete darkness descends in the hall, choking out the prismatic lights.


  • “Have you missed me?”

    I’m feeling playful, but the sullen guards at Peltarch south gate are in a something less then a stellar mood. I get nothing more then a low grumble in return. It makes me laugh as I continue on my way. I don’t make it past the stable when a voice calls my name.

    “Miss River.”

    It is the Traveler, and it looks like he‘s waiting for me. I brush the golden locks from my face and flash him an inviting smile. He is not unaffected.

    “Hello!”

    “I am sorry I have been away, I had wished to speak to you.”

    So formal. I’m both puzzled and amused as I close the distance between us. He has information I want, and just maybe if I play along with him a little, I can get it out of him. I feign ignorance.

    “Oh?”

    “Yes, please if you can, I’ll walk with you, or better yet, perhaps we can find our way to the Inn.”

    No sooner does he get the words out then the mage Maria passes by. He greets her formally and informs her that her scroll is done and payment is due in accordance to their agreement. It has the look of a long conversation, so I edge my way towards the Inn. I can hear the hint of irritation in his voice as he moves his conversation to a close. Maria mounts her horse and heads south and he hurries to catch up with me.

    We walk to the back of the inn. I head for the couch while he takes a moment to stop at the bar. I fold my cloak and purposely set it on the edge of the couch, then sit towards the other side, leaving barely enough room for him to sit between it and myself. I pull my legs up casually and wait.

    He returns with an open bottle and two long stemmed glasses.

    “Wine perhaps?”

    I nod and pat the seat next to me. He pours the wine, holding the glasses in one hand, then offering one to me before asking, “Is it all right if I sit with you?”

    An inviting smile is all the permission I need to give him, as he squeezes in next to me. He asks me if I have the dagger with me, and I giggle softly to myself as I tactically lean across him to retrieve my cloak and the dagger hidden within it, so close my hair brushes against his face. I linger long enough that he can’t help but take a deep breath….

    I show him the hidden pocket in my cloak as I withdraw the dagger from it’s concealed velvet wrapped sheath. My finger plays along the edge of the hilt, tracing the ornate dragon crest cunningly worked into it. He suddenly grabs my wrist and turns it as if to show me something. I can see him close his eyes, as if feeling some exotic sensation from the blade.

    He whispers. “Have you used it recently?” His eyes open suddenly, staring straight into mine.

    “I’ve had a chance to channel with it, but I do not fully understand it yet.”

    “It should be ready to use it at all times, not hidden away.”

    “I can’t carry around a tool of this power without knowing how to use it completely. It would be unwise and even dangerous to do so.” I sheathe it and wrap it back in it’s velvet covering before returning it to the hidden pocket.

    Our conversation continues. He asks about my past, the work I’d done with Wrastlyn, and what use I will put my skills to. I’m not sure what he’s after, so I answer his questions without revealing too much. He persists, and finally I tell him that if he wants to learn more, perhaps he should speak with Pherdur, Iathouz, or my sister. I know my bluff carries some risk with it, but my friends and my sister are bright enough to be careful what they say, after all they are not completely free from sins themselves, except maybe Pherdur. He is a blessed soul after all.

    I can tell he doesn’t approve of my history. He calls my apprenticeship under a wizard an “abuse.” I don’t explain the whole situation to him, but I let him understand that at the time, there was no one else that could have provided me with more. I excelled then. There was no time for self-fulfillment or journey within. Those were times of war, and any and all of the energies I could mold were given to the benefit of winning that war.

    He wanted to show me an illusion he used at a creative session in the arcane school, but I mocked him for having an excess of time to explore his talents at entertainment. Mine has always been a more practical, if not formal, line of study. He needs to learn that I’m not some wet behind the ears apprentice. I might have lost my powers, I might be struggling to get them back, but I still have years of experience behind me.

    There were so many questions. In a bold moment, he asked me about a current relationship. Honestly, that surprised me.


  • It took time. Time and determination. The dagger draws my energies to it, enhances them, feeds them back to me. I can feel it. I don’t always understand my powers, and at times they can surprise me. They come from the core of my being. My emotion, my desire, my consciousness, all woven together in a complex tapestry. My energies are an extension of myself, and when I realized that, I was able to extend myself into the blade. The runes took shape for me, forming into words that before I couldn’t possibly have read. It was so simple…

    To see the Truth being revealed

    … but what did they mean?

    More time with the Dark Mage. He continues to care for me, be it by answering my myriad of questions, or by providing the gold to keep me entertained with the things that I fancy. He does not expect any services in return. He does not wish it, or perhaps he has the discipline to resist. One expects such things from a determined scholar. I have, up until now, been an amusing distraction to him, but I think he’s started to realize there is something deeper. I find it odd that he’s never asked me any questions until today.

    After a walk from the spider woods, we took a our rest in the commons, watching people about their business pass by as one normally does while chatting. I felt a sudden twinge at my side that caused me to shift awkwardly to avoid it. I had the sensation of slipping from my body and the world lost its color, distorting to blacks and whites and all shades of grey.

    At first it was just a movement out of the corner of my eye. The kind of thing one can only see when not looking directly at something. As my vision settled I could see them. Dark shadows moving on their own, close to a chatting couple, drifting along behind a passing merchant, hiding amongst the tree branches.

    To see the Truth

    “Do you see it?” I whispered to the Dark Mage. He only stared at me with a puzzled look on his face.

    “What?” I wonder if he pretends not to see them to avoid telling me. Perhaps he sees nothing at all.

    “Oh… Nevermind.”

    Something tugs at the edge of my memory. A lesson long ago from Wrastlyn, one I barely recall. I was more interested in other things at the time…

    It was about the planes of existence, Inner and Outer. We exist on the Prime Material he had said. Our plane is touched at opposite ends by two others, the Positive Material, the source of light, and the Negative Material, the source of darkness. The interaction of the two creates the plane of shadows, which co-exists with the Prime Material. It had seemed like such nonsense at the time, but now…

    Another twinge, stronger this time. I know the dagger is speaking to me, but I wish it wouldn’t. I don’t want to reveal it to him. Not yet.

    The Dark mage leaned in closer to me, almost as his way of protecting me. His eyes turned black and I knew he could see them now. More seemed to be gathering. He was not afraid, only cautious, and intrigued. The people in the commons went about their business, completely unaware of what lies within their midst. Perhaps it was better that they didn’t.

    The twinge took on an urgency, and as quickly and stealthily as I could, I reached for the dagger hidden in a concealed pocket on the inside of my cloak. The shadows sudden stopped their wandering, turning their attention to me. I could sense they have a hunger. A chill ran down my spine as the rest of the runes took on new meaning.

    To see Truth, being revealed

    I understand now. I can see things as they are, but in doing so, they can also see me.

    The Dark Mage wasn’t frightened by the shadow’s sudden attention. He is too clever to act rash. He was watching them, and me. The shadows moved closer, weaving between the people in the commons, almost as if mocking them in a theatrical way, drawn in by the dagger and my sudden appearance to them. They wanted something from me. I glanced at the Dark Mage and found him now focused intently on the dagger. I could see the desire for it burning in his eyes.

    I instinctively hissed the words I don’t understand, that suddenly came into my head as I stroked the dragon crest and runes on the dagger. A sudden jolt ran through me and the shadows vanished. Vibrant color returned to the world.

    The Mage pushed himself up from the bench casually, then took my hand. “I want to show you something.” He lead me down to the docks. I smiled to myself, I was once again going to see one of his skills and I was thrilled.


  • The silver blade took on the dull reddish hue of the glowing embers of the fire at the Inn as I held it in front of me looking at the arcane symbols that had been pattern welded into it during it’s forging. I could feel a coolness about the dagger, and it seemed to draw my energies to it, enhancing them in a subtle way I could only guess at. I turned it over in my hand, marveling at the ornate dragon crest that was worked into the hilt in a subtle and modest manner.

    The traveler who passed me the blade stood close to me. Close enough I could feel the heat of him . He speaks, but I don’t hear it with my ears. The voice in my head is in a language that I don’t fully understand, but is familiar to me in a strange and almost intimate sort of way. It is a soft hiss, punctuated by deep warbling growls and sudden piercing shrieks. I know it, and yet I don’t. I can feel it’s meaning. I haven’t heard it in years, not since the Isle. Draconic.

    He wishes to guide me. Discover the powers contained in the silver trinket. Learn that which is inside me that my passions command. I whisper softly in his ear, questioning why, but we are interrupted in our repose by the arrival of another…


  • Again I find myself with him. The dark mage who reminds me so much of Wrastlyn. He is powerful, very powerful, and I can see the elation he gets from demonstrating it to me. I find it alluring myself, like those old days with Wrastlyn. He could almost take his place. Maybe.

    I follow him to the kobolds because I’m bored and it intrigues me. A great axe rests on his shoulder, so heavy it makes him wobble as he walks. As he closes for battle, a transformation takes hold of him, almost as if he is evolving into something more than human, a beast, a juggernaut of destruction, unstoppable. He laughs, full of potency, vigor, and domination.

    Something stirs inside of me. Something primal. Something wanton.


  • (OOC the above 2nd post was not a Pally I have got some questions about that 'grins', how bizarre wouldnt that be 😃 Below a response to Iathouz journal)

    The end of another day I felt like taking a walk in the fading sunlight of the late afternoon, and while going no place particular, my feet took me to the quiet little park just off the Peltarch commons. It looked like it’s was going to be a pleasant evening. The sky had just starting to change from azure to crimson, when I discovered a comfortable little spot under one of the trees where I could watch the sun set.

    I hadn’t heard his approach. The elf has always been light on his feet, too light sometimes. I find myself wondering if he followed me here, or if he just happened to be taking a walk in the park by himself tonight. There were several people I would have liked to see walk up the path, but he is low on my list. Still, I didn’t mind the chance of a little company on what I was sure would turn into a chilly evening.

    “Iathouz, it’s been a long time since I’ve seen you or Pherdur.” I gestured for him to take the space along side of me. “Come sit with me.”

    “Hello Mystic”

    He unslings his heavy blade and leans it against the tree before sitting down a respectful distance away. I don’t want distance tonight. I give him one of my stern looks, but he’s not looking at me.

    “I haven’t seen Pherdur in a while either” He continues to prattle on about some encounter with the knight of Torm. I‘m surprised really. Usually he would have mentioned my sister by now. Perhaps the rumors about him that I’ve been hearing lately are true.

    I pat the ground next to me again, wondering why he can’t take a hint either. “Closer” It’s a command, not a request.

    He obeys like a good little elf. He is far to easy to tease, so I reach out and take his hand because I know it bothers him when I get this friendly. Perhaps he’s worried he can’t control himself when I’m around.

    “So what is this all about?” I don’t need to ask. He’s all too predictable. It’ll be about her no doubt. It’s always about her.

    “Moon and I had an argument about something.”

    Right on schedule. I restrained some but not all of my laughter. I’ve made no secret of it over the years; I’ve never approved of their relationship.

    “Don’t you always?”

    “Not like this. It… didn’t end well this time.”

    Didn’t end well this time? He says that now? When has it ever ended well? He once tried to kill Pherdur right in front of me. That didn’t end well. He ran afoul of a Guild of Shadows assassin who left him for dead locked in storage room at an inn. That didn’t end well. Prison, a trial for murder and treason. That ended better for him then I thought, but still nothing one would consider well. The war he fought in on the losing side… What happened to my sister. None of it ended well… and here he is back in our lives again.

    “Oh? Now how is that?”

    “We broke up over it.” He says it in a way that’s strangely lacking in emotion. I’ve heard rumors about him turning back to his dark goddess. Frankly, I doubt he ever turned away to begin with.

    I can’t control my laughter this time. “Now Iathouz, broke up? I never pictured you two together. You knew it couldn’t last.”

    “Why is that Mystic?” How dumb can he really be? The biggest problem should be obvious to even him by now.

    “You’re an elf and she’s human. When you’re done with her, you’ll discard her and move on to the next one. It isn’t fair to her. She gave up her best years to you, and for what? She isn’t young anymore. You’ll outlive her by centuries. Will you even remember her when it’s all done? She’s my sister, she deserves better.”

    His response is pure elven mysticism and folk lore. Bonded souls. Ha! What is it about this elf that drives my sister’s passion? What could be so special about him? She could have her choice of any man out there. She’s never lacked for suitors. This one seems to thinks she’s worth giving up most of his life for. I just don’t get it.

    “Spare me.”

    Nobody is as devoted as the elf likes to claim he is. I know his act. I can prove it.

    “Tell me Iathouz, how do you show her you love her?”

    I watched as the color drained from his face. No answer. I waited, watching the stricken look in his eyes. He knows I have him figured out. A part of me is disappointed. I’m not sure why.

    “I thought so. What about the rumors I hear about you returning to your dark mistress?”

    “I don’t have a Mistress.” The denial is firm, but in a way lacking.

    I can see the tension flood him. It just screams guilty. I lean in close to him and whisper seductively in his ear.

    “Of course you do… I know you do. I find it…intriguing…”

    What has he been offered for his return? Knowledge? Power? He’s gaining something, and if I can work him right, I might just get something out of it as well. He can be used.

    “You just hope I do.”

    I’ll break him. “I know you. I’ve watched you for years.”

    He shifted uncomfortably, I could see this was a road he didn’t want to go down. I knew about him long before anyone else. I traveled to the Enclave where the Forge was located. His disguises weren’t enough to fool me. I saw what he was up to, that my sister was nothing more then a piece in his chess game. I only needed a little evidence, then I would have leverage on him to get what I wanted, except he confessed to Moon himself first. All part of his plan.

    “We’ve been over this so many times Iathouz, even back then. Do you think you were the only one hiding in the shadows?

    He turns his head away. I catch the slightest glint of red in his eyes, a reflection of the lamps now lighting the early evening. I missed seeing the sun set, not that I cared.

    “Do you think I spent all my time in the Inn brushing my golden locks?”

    “I know better.” He turned back to look at me, staring into my eyes for the first time.

    “Do you?”

    “You think I don’t know about the time you spent with Santrix’s pet mage?”

    How in the hells did he know that? Wrastlyn was one of the founding members of the alliance of Banites and Knights of Tiamat known as The Black Rose. His immense talent was the true power behind the scenes. He was also my first act of rebellion. What is it about a man who is feared that is so alluring? I needed to gain mastery over my own skills, and his ability to bring them out in me was intoxicating. It’s my heart and passions that bring out my strength as a sorceress. He had an insatiable lust for power and other things, and I had a burning desire to advance myself. He was all the teacher a woman could want. I went through great lengths to hide what I was up to. He was the reason I had taken to traveling the underdark to begin with. Wrastlyn was… he was none of the elf’s damn business, that‘s what he was.

    I slid closer to Iathouz and wrapped my arms around his neck. “I was only observing.”

    The elf gently removed my arms. We both know this is just a game between us, although there have been a few times I’ve thought he might give in. What’s one more dark secret?

    “What are you trying to accomplish here, Mystic?”

    “I’m trying to set things right for once.”

    “Are you?…”

    “I believe I can.” I’ll just turn it back to him. He’s the guilty one.

    “…or is it something else? Jealousy?”

    Doesn’t he wish! Maybe if I was jealous then he’d look at me the way he looks at her. Wouldn‘t he like that. Swoop in and sweep poor little Mystic off her feet. The ego he must have. He thinks he has a hard time with Moon. I’d ruin him.

    “You think highly of yourself Iathouz.”

    “Not for me, but of Moon.”

    I could run the little bastard through myself right now. He can just stop, but he doesn’t.

    “She attracts a lot of attention, far more then you think she should. …It’s like you’re standing in her shadow. Why not you Mystic? You’re attractive enough. Capable too. Just like she is.”

    How little he really understands. I learned at an early age that I can get away with a lot more if Moon thinks I’m jealous of her. It’s been my act for years. The poor innocent little sister that everyone takes pity on. My powers have grown stronger. I love my sister, but even she is going to change the way she looks at me. I’ll play the game again today, let him think he’s knows me. Let him think he’s come out of this ahead. It takes a lot to hide my amusement.

    “I do not want anything.” I lie.

    “You expect me to believe that?”

    I get up and walk away because it plays well. He has one great fear, and I’ll leave him alone with it.

    “I just want what’s best for my sister, and you’re not it.


  • Another evening leaves me wandering around Norwick looking for something that catches my interest. It seems a casual stroll down to the south gate is in order. Perhaps the evening might not be as quiet as it appears.

    A lone man waits near the gate, standing like a solitary sentry against the night. The moonlight gives him a pale ghostly look, while the frostiness that hangs in the air sharpens my awareness. He sees me approaching.

    “Lady Mystic? How have things been?” His voice is bright cheerful and inviting. I flash him a quick smile.

    “All is well.” I return.

    “Are you injured at all?”

    I look at him with questionable eyes. His inquiry is oddly out of place. “As you can see I am in perfectly good health.” I wonder what he’s after. Well, I have a pretty good idea really.

    He blinks slightly. “Ah… I have been working quite a long shift” He lets out a mighty yawn as if for emphasis. “I pray you never fly the night, or Lathander himself might envy your radiance.”

    It is silly, sweet talk, but it pushes back the chill in the air. “Ah, you have your way with words it makes me jealous.”

    “Jealous milady?”

    I feign a shy giggle. “I wish I could express myself the way you do it would be all to my favor a deadly combination… well not deadly but…” I let the words hang in the air, giving him a good chance to be charming.

    “I would probably concede and fall to your feet. Good thing I have a good balance…” He does a little jig. I can’t help but laugh at his prancing. “Care to do something at all?”

    I make a show of looking around, despite knowing we are completely alone. “You mentioned you were tired I don’t suggest we do anything with that heavy yawn. I could almost see what you had to dinner.”

    “I have gone days without sleep really, perhaps some rest would be in order.” He delivers a charming smile, before continuing none too shyly, “Care to tuck me in?”

    Of course I knew it would come to this. My eyes sparkle brightly in the moonlight. This could be interesting, so I play along, offering him a timid but encouraging smile. “I would love to, but you should be careful what you wish for.”

    “Some rewards are worth taking risk for.” He responds, his voice hushed in an intimate way.

    “Now that reward isn’t that risky.” This is all too easy.

    “Oh what reward were you planning?”

    “To tuck you in?” I make it sound so innocent.

    “Sounds fun” He removes one of his gauntlets and takes my hand.

    “I can read you a bed time story too.” I say to him as we casually stroll towards the Inn.

    “I am quite fond of stories. I am curious of what you have to tell me…”

    I gazed into his eyes, a seductive grin lighting my face. “I haven’t decided yet.”

    I have never been to the Norwick Inn and I am pleasantly surprised by its simple comfort and war, cozy atmosphere. The rooms are so much better than in Peltarch. I hop up on a dresser, with the air of nonchalance.

    “I have never been here. This is very nice.”

    He leans against the bureau and smiles at me fondly. “Well I am a bit of a neat freak as you may have noticed. It’s a bit messy with the cushions on that bed though.” He removes his armor and moves closer. Stepping forward, he relocates his hand to the small of my back and draws me in closer. I giggle for him, like he’s expecting.

    “Careful now, or I zap you with my charm…”

    “To late for that. You cast your spell upon me a good while back. Besides, you’re much brighter than that.” He’s getting over confident.

    I wrap my legs around him as his eyes look at me intimately. He leans in kisses me while his hands runs up and down my back. I arch in response and laugh to myself, closing my eyes as my dark inner thoughts quicken… He has little idea that I am not thinking about swooning him with a seductive smile… I break way and as our lips part. He continues to gaze dreamily into my eyes.

    “After that, a tuck in doesn’t sound bad at all.”

    I tilt my head casually to the side, breaking his stare. The tone of my voice shifts dangerously away from intimacy. “It is certainly not my intention to act like a harlot” I suddenly hop down from the chest of drawers. The dreamy look vanishes from his face, replaced by a hint of sudden panic.

    “A harlot lacks of sophistication milady. You are a woman with magnificent presence and it is my greatest fear that this would just be some dream and I wake up I would be all alone.”

    A nice try, but I have to bite my lip to control my laughter. I say nothing and he fills the void.

    “There is no need to rush, the nectar of your lips was…”

    I place a lone finger on his lips, silencing him. “You need to learn when to stop talking.” I throw a playful smile at him. “Why don’t you take your much needed rest..”

    His arms are still around me despite the sound of defeat in his voice. “Fair enough then… You play a fanciful game.” He breaks away and returns to the bed.

    “I always do.” I reply, smiling to myself as I walk out the door.

    I hear him shout at me as I descend the stairs. “You promised to tuck me in. This is unforgivable!”

    "Men" .. and I laugh