FIRESTORM:CAMPAIGN

Three riders on horseback are making their way down a wet road. It is pouring the rain. The young woman coughs a couple of times. "Are you okay back there?", Aegis asks. "I'm fine, thanks, I guess making it snow yesterday wasn't such a good idea huh?" she responds to him. "No it wasn't." he replies back. "There is a small town a few miles up. We will be there before dark. Talon, go and check it out, will ya?" The large human in chainmail nods to Aegis and begins to pull ahead. Over his shoulder he responds, "I have a hot bowl of soup waiting on her and a mug or two of ale for us." Talon spurs his horse and takes off at a canter, leaving the two alone.

"Aegis, I have been thinking. When are we going to go see everyone? You promised that we go this year. You said that it has been a long time since you saw Tegra, You said that we could go and see the court. I want.."

"Listen here Emma, I have said a lot of things, made a lot of promises." The young woman's face looks to the ground. Her bottom lip starts to come out.

"How do I get myself into these things?" Aegis thinks to himself. "Yes Emma, we will go before it snows for real. Is that good enough?" He finally says.

"Yes, yes, that will work just fine." she replies, her mood immediately turned.

Talon has made a couple of miles when he slows his horse down to just a walk. After a few moments the horses muscles tense all at once. "Easy, there boy, I see them. We have some highway robbers I think. I count four of them, two on each side, is that right?" The horse lays his ears back. "Yeah that's what I thought also, let them make their move first."

It doesnt take long for the "would be" bandits to make their move. Two on the left side of the woods come charging out with swords drawn. Talon brings out his great two-handed sword and before he can spur his horse on, the animal anticipates him and takes off. Talon lets go of the reins, but the horse never breaks stride. The two bandits try to flank Talon, but the trained war horse knows how to counter such a move and runs right over the little quarter horse, knocking the rider to the ground. The other bandit tries to bring his sword to block the sword of Talon, thinking that the force of horse hitting horse would make Talon fall, but the bandit does not realize until he is split in half that this is not your average warrior. This is Sir Talon, the head knight of Tempest. Too bad he is dead when he makes this realization.

Talon grabs the reins and spins his horse on a dime, expecting the other bandits to be on his back. They are. They both come charging in, only to see their commrades go down without even a nick to the man in chainmail. They both turn and bolt for the woods. "Hey, not so fast! You are the ones that wanted to play! Get back here!" Talon yells out. "Well, what are you waiting for? Lets go!" The horse once again leaps into action, rearing up and whinnying. The chase is great, around trees, over creeks, and through the thickets. Then all at once, a man in red robes appears. There is a shimmer of light and the man in robes and the two bandits are gone. Talon reins in his horse. "Well, that was something. I wonder .... who... that..... SMOKE! Aegis!"

The energy that comes from the horse is immense. "We've got to get back!"

Aegis and Emma, traveling down the muddy road. "I can't wait to get to that inn. To have a nice meal, a dry bed, and few ales."

"Yes, you're right Aegis. I feel the ..." Emma feels an overwhelming magic suddenly in the air, it's dark undertones of evil pulsing through her. She yells. "Aegis...?!?!" He answers her, "I know...", drawing one of his swords, looking around.

Coming out of the woods from the righthand side of the road are 10 figures, all on horseback. Seven of them are wearing black platemail, carrying bastard swords and battleaxes. The other three are in hooded red cloaks. The seven warriors charge.

Aegis spins his horse and heads toward the leftside of the road into the woods, Emma hard on his heels, trying to put as much distance between them and the figures as quickly as possible.

Reaching the cover of the woods, Aegis and Emma quickly dismount, sending their horses on through the woods, which luckily leads a few of the figures on a merry chase. Using his centuries-old bard abilities, Aegis takes on the remaining warriors. The camoflauge of the trees covers his efforts as he stealthly divides and conquers among the warriors. But these fellows are good, and it seems that everytime the upperhand is his, they counter it. The three robed figures are fighting as well, throwing magic into the fray, which Emma is fighting off in her own way. This causes confusion and outright dismay among the robed figures, as the slight figure of a woman is too young to be as well versed in the arts as it seems she must be, for her counters are negating their spells at every turn. The seven warriors left begin outflanking Aegis and Emma, leaving Aegis no choice but to make a stand against the odds they are caught in.

The mud must be slinging up at least ten feet into the air, with the step of each hoof sliding into the muddy road. Talon's sword, still bloody from its last confrontation, has never made it back into it's sheath. He knows that he must be getting close to where Aegis and Emma were, reining in Smoke as he slows. But Smoke, knowing Talon's intentions and knowing the smell of Aegis and Emma, takes the bit in his teeth and veers sharply right into the woods, not slowing a bit. Talon, trusting his steed, eases on the reins and begins looking for his friend of many years.

Aegis and Emma realize they are trapped in the area they are, the only way out blocked by the hooded figures and warriors. Their only option is the ridge behind them. The sun is shooting light shafts over their heads, it's colors slowly fading as the giant orb slowly sinks behind the ridge. The trees surrounding this area appear two-toned, from their bottoms to halfway up their trunks in shadow, the upper areas ablaze with the last light of the disappearing sun. Aegis drops his two longswords, pulling out his two stilletos. "Bytor, we have traveled many years together, we have fought many battles. I knew this day would come." He looks over at Emma. "No matter what happens, you get to the castle. Do you understand?" Emma's concentration is severe as she scans the would-be assassins. She looks briefly at Aegis with a tear rolling down her cheek, only nodding her head in response. The sound of hoofbeats can be heard in the not-so-far distance.

The crackle of magic warns that something is about to happen, but only for an instant. The three red-robed figures cast simultaneously, throwing two lightening bolts and a fireball at Aegis and Emma. Emma steps directly in front of Aegis. The first lightening bolt and fireball come directly at them, then seem to hit an invisible wall or globe around them, the energy sparking along this invisible plane as it almost seems to be slowly absorbed by it. The second lightening bolt, hitting such a magically charged area, actually bounces back, hitting the three robed figures from whence it came.

Three of the warriors immediately begin to attack Aegis. The two that seem to have the most ability he is parrying with, concentrating his attacks on the third who seems the weakest in the art of the sword. It is hard to believe the age of this elf when someone sees his agility and fighting prowess. The move is subtle yet spectactular. He blocks two blows coming from two different warriors, then uses their bodies to literally climb up their bodies, flipping in the air and dropping down behind them. In an instant, his stilletos find their mark, hitting the weaker one directly below the back of the breastplate, landing both stilletos into his kidneys, killing him. The remaining four warriors charge Aegis and Emma as soon as the one drops.

Emma produces her quarterstaff, and begins defending herself against two of them. The other four break off and attack Aegis. The three robed figures finally begin to get off of the ground, and begin to once again, weave their powerful magic through the forest air. As they begin to release their spells, one of them is decapitated as Talon and Smoke ride by. The other two, however, are able to release their spells. Both lightening bolts strike not only a couple of the warriors, but Aegis also, sending the old elf flying. Talon leaps from his horse, running to the aid of Emma, making sure that his old friend does get up in the meantime. Which he does.

Now that the battle is more to an even keel, Talon, Aegis and Emma continue to fight and battle with the figures. There are finally only two warriors and the two robed figures left. The two warriors get in their attacks, injuring Aegis and even Talon one too many times for comfort, but the fight continues as they hold their own against the higher numbers.

Emma feels the powerful magical aura forming again as it did out on the road, the undertones twice as strongly evil as it was earlier. Before anyone can see anything, Emma recognizes and announces it with one word. "Zarbor..." The once-human paladin appears with ten more warriors.

The two warriors and two robed figures that were fighting Aegis and Talon suddenly disappear. Aegis sees him. "I knew I should have let Zydrek burn your head when he had the chance. So what are you doing Zarbor? Taking back a little personal satisfaction?"

"You could say that Aegis." Zarbor replies in a hollow gravely voice. "I have two agendas actually. One is that somebody wants that orb she's carrying, and I plan to get it for them. The other is quite personal. I plan to rid this world of any seed that has the name Firestorm. And know this before you die ancient one! That before the next full moon, not only Tegra, but her child, will die."

Aegis loses all semblence of self-control, running screaming at Zarbor in full attack. He screams "Emma, get the hell out of here!" as he cuts loose with both blades. Talon immediately rushes to his friend's side, seeing Emma fleeing up the side of the ridge as instructed.

Emma pushes her way up the ridge, trying to control the tears streaking down her face as she pushes her young body to its extreme. Racing through the woods clinging to the side of the ridge, branches seem to reach out, catching her clothing, scratching her arms and face as she scrambles up to the top. Her feet stop of their own accord, unable to go any further, her energy gone as she can't help but turn and look down into the smallish ravine they were all standing in. She sinks slowly to her knees as she watches in horror at the scene below. Aegis and Talon, fighting a losing battle against such opponents, are back to back, attempting to fight off the ten deathknights as they always have, protecting each other's blindside. Zarbor's giant sword snakes in and out of the fray, laying open fresh wounds to the pair everywhere that Emma looks. The ground has become muddy in the small cove as it was out on the road, but Emma's stomach churns as she sees it is darker, slicker than mud could ever be. Knowing that the only blood spilled in this battle will be that of her protectors, she places her head in her hands, trying not to watch, but unable to look away. Zarbor's scream of outrage brings her head up eagerly, hoping against hope that somehow, someway, they can bring about the miracle victory as they have so many times before.

Zarbor has stepped back for a moment, his skeletal hand up to what once was called a face. The black streak across his left cheek is visible even from her vantage point. Aegis' eyes seem to gleam through the blood covering his face as he laughs at him, shouting, "There's a match for the one Ryloth gave you so long ago you unholy bastard!" Talon joins him, still taking out a few more of the deathknights as they stand against them. They briefly are touched by the last shaft of sunlight as it disappears behind the ridge, then are put into shadow. The remaining deathknights and Zarbor then seem to swarm over them like a covering of beetles over a carcass. All sight of them is lost....

Back in a different forest, where Twit left the body of Black Rose, there is some small scurrying about her form. Little heads begin to pop up all over. For you see, brownies are very curious by nature. The morning frost has not yet set on Black Rose's body, for it is still a tad warm. Different brownies begin to wander into her clothes and pockets, as if on a great cave expedition. A couple of them come out of one of her pouches, carrying a small vial, and begin walking along her chest, checking out any other pockets. Intent as they are on their search, they don't notice the shadow above them.

"Caaw, caaw!" the crow lets out just as he gets to the two brownies on her chest, neatly snagging them and beginning to carry them off. They struggle mightily, letting go of all their treasures in the effort to get loose from the crow. The vial travels through the air as it was let go, landing with a soft thump against the chin of Black Rose, shattering on impact, the liquid within spraying across her neck and a small amount managing to even trickle down her throat. A few long moments later, one eye opens slowly on the still form...

Zydrek and Scarlet Fox are on a hunting trip, since Zydrek has come in for one of his many walkabouts to Waterdeep, sitting by the campfire and talking of old times. Fox is telling about how he tried to tell the Captain of Waterdeep that none of his men had ANYTHING to do with that murder. Their attention and conversation is caught as a lone white wolf and a lone black wolf seem to materialize directly outside the circle of light formed by their campfire. The wolves look at them intently, then throw back their heads and begin to howl...

Tegra and Ryloth are at their home in their village, relaxing for the evening themselves and enjoying some well-deserved peace and quiet after the days hectic pace of handling judicial matters within their small group. They are suddenly startled by the appearance of two wolves almost on their doorstep, one blindingly white, the other dark as night. They look at each other, trying to understand how they didn't hear them come so close, when the howling from both begins, raising the hairs on the back of their necks...

Shandassar's head jerks from the magical text he's writing, spilling ink all over the last pages.... "Azuth Almighty! What is that?" The howling is strange, melancholy as all howling is, but his soul seems to wretch in his chest at the sound, somehow so familiar to him. Looking down out of his tower, two wolves stand at the edge of the forest, one seeming to disappear into the darkness as it is so black, the other glowing whitely in the dusk...

When the howling begins with the pairs of wolves that have appeared to so many, there is an involuntary image that comes to each mind that takes you back many years. It takes you back to a time when Dragons Inc. was known to walk the lands. Of when each of you was given an emblem...the emblem of a howling wolf.

Zydrek:
You betcha...let's party

Ryloth:
Good to see you again Fox. It's been quite sometime. How goes it with you?

Zydrek:
Ah, Ryloth is here also. It is very nice to see you again. It has been a very long time my friend. Have either of you seen the others? I just know that they were called also. It was very strange, seeing the two wolves wasn't it Fox? Ryloth, what about you?

ScarletFox:
"Hail old friends, it is well met. Ryloth I haven't been doing much, Been taking care of my keep. And doing a little hunting with Zydrek, it was a surprize to see the wolves but it was well needed. The white one reminded me of some old friends of mine from the past, The Company of the Wolf. The black one I recall I've seen once before and I beleive it was with Agesis. But that was some time ago. So Zydrek how was your trek to Waterdeep? Did you see O'Riliey's Pub, how is it? I have strong ties there I like to keep it safe from the shadows. How is your wife Tegra, Ryloth? I wonder when the others will arrive."

Tegra:
"He's become a wise old man Fox! See how he prudently doesn't say a word when asked how I am, instead of answering that I'm driving him insane?" She bats her eyelashes at Ryloth for a second, obviously teasing him horribly, then her eyes light up as she spies another. "Zydrek! How are you, you old rascal!?! Gods it's been too long!" She nods in agreement with the others, then her mood sobers tremendously. "Yes, the wolves brought back many memories, but they also mean something else. Whenever we've seen a wolf like that, it's been a member of the Company of the Wolf. A dead one."

Ryloth:
Ahh, Zydrek! What say we leave off with the blade-work this time. It becomes a dangerous way to say hello. Ahh yes, my loving wife. Truly told, its not she drives me crazy, but only in standard means that a man reacts to a woman ::wink::

Over all I can't say that life's treated me too badly. I finally got to give up the blade work, and practice the druidry that I was originally trained in. It is a relief to be able to be a giver of life instead of death. However, the stars have shown me, that the time for blood and blades will be coming again on swift wings.

NARRATION (04/29/01):
It's about mid-morning and you all are talking at the table of Ryloth's and Tegra's home. It comes without warning and you just about jump out of your skin. There is a knock at the door.

Zydrek:
Yes Fox, my trek to Waterdeep was indeed, most rewarding. I learned much in my travels there over time. I did stop in O'Riliey's Pub for an ale or two, or was it three or... oh never mind, I never did keep track. Of course, the wenches there did have mighty loud words for me to leave a time or two. And thank you Tegra, I am very well this day. It is a time of rejoicing that we are all gathered again together, albeit for disconcerning circumstances that we have gathered, for indeed the call of the wolf has meant that one of our company has died. I am sure that we will find out who and under what circumstances very soon. I agree Ryloth, we shant take up weapons training this time out. I can only laugh at the last time we first met and tried to outdo each other in sword play. It must have been a very laughable thing to watch from the others standpoint I must say. It is good seeing you old friend. Many days and nights have gone by since we last laid eyes on each other. We have much to talk about I am sure. As the knock on the door takes my thoughts away from our reunion, I put my hand on the hilt of my sword, only a reaction of training, for I know not who could be there and watch in anticipation to see if it is another of my old friends that come to Ryloth and Tegra's home...

Alaister/On-Shi:
Before the party they an aging human gentlemen (similar to Sean Conery in Medicine Man and Highlander). Dressed in a combination of Scottish and Oriental type clothing, (picture will be up later), holding a staff and a small Box.

Waiting a moment, then opening the door. I scan the room looking for the one called Tegra, noticing everyone not recognizing me, especially the one with their hand on the hilt of a weapon. "Well met Strangers, whom among you is Tegra & Ryloth?"

Tegra:
Tegra looks appraisingly at the stranger up and down slowly (oops, sorry, better get back into character [grin]. Did ya hafta make it Sean?!?!?)

Her manner is at ease, surprisingly so, considering someone just came into her home. One hand settles lightly on Ryloth's (knowing his usual reaction, this should stay him momentarily) and she raises a quizzical brow to the stranger in the doorway. Her other hand brushes the mass of dark red hair falling across her eyes out of the way, and in that quick instant, you feel as if you've been measured, weighed, and tested as thoroughly as if you'd been turned inside out on the edge of a blade.

With a smile, she answers evenly, "I am Tegra. Who seeks me?"

Ryloth:
Ryloth, knowing his wife loves to talk, sits silently with a knowing grin upon his face. He wasn't particularly worried, trusting in the wards which he had cast around his home wouldn't have let a threat in here.

Alaister/On-Shi:
Looking at the group, noticing the striking woman, and also noticing her comanion/s. I nod," I am Alaister, I have a package for you from a friend. May I enter your humble abode?"

Tegra:
Tegra can't help it anymore, she throws a bearhug around Ryloth's neck that nearly knocks him out of his chair, whispering something quickly in his ear. She then winks at him, says "Can't let them feel left out, can I?" and proceeds to tackle Zydrek and Fox the same way. "It's so GREAT to have you guys BACK!!!"

Considering the show Alaister just was a spectator to, she acts completely obvlivious to it, and immediately changes the subject back to him, her smile nearly lighting the room. "Alaister you say? A package from a friend? You have a package? Who's it from? When did you get it? What's it for?" She pauses a split second. "Well, don't just stand there Alaister, come in, come in! Bring your carcass to the table, sit down with some wine, introduce yourself. Where is this package you speak of?"

Alaister:
Again checking the feeling of the room, begin to enter. (assuming this is a traditional style forest house, with small doorways), stooping to enter, stepping forward, then standing at full height (6'11" & 280 lbs).

"Yes, Tegra a friend did send me to bring a gift for you, (opening the box, taking out the fig & Gem) here is a gem for you, I believe you say the word 'sparkly', also something about using the WOLF. You are also supposed to put the box on a table. I sure you may know already, but there is a joint union of Red Wizards & Zhents agents, trying to attack and conquer the Sea of Fallen Stars area." Scaning the room for reactions, I slowly make my way towards the table, also leaning my staff on the wall, and removing my cloak, I then place the box on the table, and open it.

NARRATION (05/01/01):
The instant the box is placed on the table, the magical aura of Shandassar slams into Ryloth's consciousness, it's familiarness wrapping about him like a friendly shroud. There is no feeling of ill effect about it, just the knowing that this box is definitely from his hand. Tegra takes out her amulet, cocks her head slightly, then hesitatingly places it in the box.

A small curl of smoke begins to pour from the open lid, forming straight back down to the table, and you see it beginning to swirl, patterns of the smoke slowly turning into a small human figure. As it becomes more defined, you recognize it as the image of Shandassar.

"Azuth! Well met my friends! Know that my eyes are filled with tears, my heart is filled with joy! For though you only see this poor image, I can see you during this time! My hand reaches out to each of you... At this time, I am in a distant land. I am near the Sea of Fallen Stars. This kind gentleman hails from not too far in this area. I am on a search! There seems to be another Orb. The exact opposite of the one that Emma carries. From what I have gathered, the Red Wizards and the Zhenterium have joined forces and are searching for the same thing." He pauses for a moment or two, and it is strange to see this little projected image talking, all the old mannerisms evident in his hand gestures as he speaks. He bows his head, and it is obvious when he looks back up that he is crying and doing a lousy job of hiding it. "I am also the bearer of bad news. A moon ago, I was visited late one night by two wolves, one white, one black. What they gave me that night was the hardest thing I have ever recieved in my life." He holds up a dagger that is Tegra's twin replica of the dagger she had made with Aegis's carving on it. This has Tegra's image on it. His other hand comes forward, and in it is Talon's sword, the Holy Avenger with the dragon carved down the blade. "Aegis and Talon are no longer with us. Zarbor killed them. I do not know where Emma is, but I do know she is alive. I know of one place where she could possibly be. She may have headed for the castle. Tegra, I hope your parents are still there. They'll be the only ones other than our group to recognize her, as she's a young woman now, no longer a girl. If she's not there, there is an island off the Sword Coast that Aegis and Talon made a keep. She may be there instead. Find her! If that Orb falls into Zarbor's hands

Shandassar's image spins around quickly, cutting off his words as he seems to look behind him. He says, "NO!" and you see a lightening bolt come from one hand and a fireball from the other. You can't see anything else, but you hear a different voice, a hated voice that Ryloth recognizes instantly, you others recognize a moment later as Zarbor. It says demandingly, "WHERE IS SHE?!?" The image disappears.

ScarletFox:
As we are all setting around swaping stories. And with the knock I look to the door with hope of which of our friends it is. With the sight of the tall man and not ever seeing him before. Them Tegra hugs Ryloth, then Zydrek "Now take it easy I'm get oollldd" As I'm next. Then as I'm getting my breath back I've just hear what the man has to say. I listen very closely to what Shand is saying, still tring to figure out how they fell. And hopeing they Emma is safe, then as Shand explains she is but where. As I see the attack on Shand, every muscle tightens for an instant. Once the image disappears, I get up and walk over to where my duffle is. I open the flap and pull out the hilts of Dove and Crow. "Well old friends it is time again to avenge old freinds, by Tyr's will." I then let out a wolf howl for a fallen member.

Ryloth:
Ryloth lightly kissed his wife behind the ear when she whispered at him. Following the arrival of Alaister, and the death of Shandassar at the hands of Zarbor, Ryloth bears his teeth as tears streak his face. Standing he walks to the back of his small house, punching a wall along the way. Long moments pass, and all that is seen of Ryloth for many moments is the blood that he left on a now splintered wall. Several crashes may be heard from the back room. Eventually he comes back to the front room, his elven chain hanging over his old body, and his sword belts over his right shoulder. He heads immediately for the door, then suddenly, almost as an after thought, he stops and turns around. Looking at Alaister pointedly with a hand on a sword hilt he growls, "Who the hell are you, and who do I have to kill now, aside from Zarbor?"

Zydrek:
As Alaister comes into the room, I slightly relax my hand on the hilt of my sword. As I do this, Tegra assaults me with her bear hug. Why thank you Tegra, I missed you too. When Alaister tells us of a "Sparkly" I immediately think of Twit and wonder at his whereabouts. I watch as Tegra slowly puts her amultet on top of the box that Alister has set on the table. When Shand appears in the mist of smoke and relates what has happened, I can only wonder how Aegis and Talon met with their demise as they were champions at fighting. There must have been certain circumstances that made them unable to fight or they were so outnumbered with an army of men against them. When Shand tells us where he is near the Sea of Fallen Stars and tells us that someone is after the Orb that Emma carries, I do believe that we must find her and protect her from Zarbor. We must go to this Island off the Sword Coast to help Emma. We can easily find these Red Wizards and the Zhenterium and rid the world of them so that they would not be a danger to anyone else. I can tell that Shand is visibly upset and crying. When I see Shand spin around and yell "NO", I know that there is someone there with him, more powerfull than he is and then all goes quiet. When Zarbor speaks, I wonder if he has killed Shand. As Ryloth has said, "Who else must be killed besides Zarbor?" Death indeed will follow this mistake that Zarbor has made, for the cry of the wolf shall howl this night and many nights to come untill he is dead and no more of this just burning the head. The whole body shall be destroyed also. Set will indeed be joyfull in the days and nights to come. I am ready Ryloth. What say the rest of you?

Tegra:
Tegra flinches slightly at the sound of the fist going through various walls, though she doesn't seem alarmed by them. She gingerly picks up her amulet, placing it back over her head and closes her silver eyes for a moment concentrating. As Ryloth comes back through wearing his war-wear, she begins to say something, but stops as he questions Alaister, then Zydrek also comments. She watches Alaister's face closely, noting whatever reaction he had also to Shandassar's vision.

She begins in a gentle voice, "Ryloth, Shand is not dead. In fact, he is very much alive. You know that through our amulets we can check the well-being of any member of the Company of the Wolf, and I just checked his. He is not dead. He most likely cut off the communication himself, so as not to allow a trace to our home and to turn his full attention to his enemy." She smiles slightly for a moment. "And I can almost feel sorry for an enemy who has Shand's full concentration, for he is no longer that shy unworldly young mage we found wandering the forest."

She looks for a moment almost proudly at Ryloth, her eyes twinkling. "Though I must say you still cut a fine figure in that elven chainmail, and there's just something about a sword in your hand..."

She leaves the thought hanging for Ryloth to contemplate, and continues to the rest of the group, including Alaister in her gaze. "Remember also, we can teleport immediately to any member with the amulets if we wish it. The question is, do we go to Shandassar for our piece of mind and protection first, then find Emma, or do we take faith for Shand and go to protect Emma directly." Either way, as she finishes speaking, she also goes toward the back rooms, emerging in a golden elvenmail that seems almost to blend with the gossamer white of her short vest and skirt. A light leather belt and scabbard narrow her waist to a handswidth, an ornate sword hanging heavily at her hip. "What say you of this choice?"

Alaister:
Addressing everyone, " I am sorry to see Shand in need, but after spending some mutal training time with him, I know that he can take care of himself. I agree with Tegra, we should go and see Emma. As for your question, Ryloth, as well as everyone else; I have been recruited by Shand to help, you will learn more about me as time goes on, I will gladly discuss my background with all of you (casting a concerned look at the priest of set), I can assure you I am of no threat to you, unless provoked of course.

ScarletFox:
Listening to Tegra, I to concentrate. Looking at Tegra I nod to her for she is right. "I agree with Tegra and Alaister, Shand is a big boy now and can take care of himself. Emma is the one that needs us as much as we need her. For if she has one orb, I think that orb can lead us to the other one. I am ready."

NARRATION (05/09/01):
As the group is getting ready to leave the sound of a sigle horse can be heard. "Whoa horse! WHOOAA Horse!" Then there is a loud crash in the trees. "When I say whoa horse I mean whoa." When you get outside you see a unicorn head first in a pile of bushes and something scambling around the ground. "Buh buh jess I spent all that time getting my scales right for them then you just mess everything up. Boy I thought Ryloth was the big dumb one. You know he can be such a hard headed wild elf. If I heard one more time..." Twit comes out of the bushes and see everyone standing there. "Ryloth you great big hard working nature loving elf you." Twit flies over to him grabs his ears and gives him a great big kiss right on the lips. "WWhhaatsss Uuuuppp!" He then flies over to Tegra. In a deep voice. "Hey baby if you have the time I got the tree. Fox, Zydrek, you guy are looking really fit. Now where is she hiding? Tegra where is she? I have got to meet her."

Scarlet Fox:
"Well met Twit, You really should stick to flying" I say as I start to chuckle. Still chuckling "Who are you refering to, sir knight." Burst out laughing.

Zydrek:
Twit (Smirk), is that really you? (Chuckle)I thought you had learned a few things in your old age. Sorry, HAHAHAHAAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAHAH. OK, now that the amenities are through, how have you been old friend and who is this someone we are supposed to meet, eh?

Ryloth:
Ryloth stands in the midst of all this looking both perturbed and annoyed as dragon spit drips down his face. Quite literally, speechless.

Alaister:
I collect my staff and cloak, watching the reunion. "Well met Twit. (addressing everyone) How should we travel to help Emma?"

Ryloth:
Catching himself, Ryloth pulls forth his wolf Symbol and says, "Unless you've got one of these I imagine that we're going to be walking. Not that I truly mind."

Tegra:
Ryloth isn't the only one speechless, but she manages to not go off in gales of laughter at Twit's "kiss" to Ryloth, just giggling slightly instead. "Twit, she's over in the square, undoubtedly haggling with someone over some item she's decided she has to have or she'll die." She grabs the nearest urchin (any child probably lurking about with all the commotion), catching him neatly by the cuff. "Go tell Erin to come here, and when she argues with you, tell her either come or I'll come get her."

ScarletFox:
"Well Ryloth if I remember right that everybody doesn't have to have one. We can join hands and all will be ported, cause I have mine. So when we are ready we should be able to port if we can get through."

Alaister:
Looking at Ryloth and touching my Holy Symbol (Tymora)," It is OK to travel Magically, I can keep up with you guys."

DM (06/04/01):
(OOC) Alright guys here we go. I am going back out on the road it looks like. So I am going to put a stop to Druid Lands for now. We will contiune with Firestrom. If things go right I can be here every weekend. I might miss a few depeending on how much money the load will bring. There shouldn't be any problems though. So remember stop Druid lands, contiune Firestorm.

(IC) Twit looks at the amulet that Aliastar holds out. "Hey Tegra that one looks like yours. But no there big guy that thing won't get you where we need to go. Neither will yours Ryloth. We are talking about going to an island were Aegis lived. Do you realy think that something like that would get us there. Remember we are talking about the ancient one." Just then Ryloth (still holding out the amulet) sees it start to glow along with everyone else's. "Mom, Dad, hey look at who I found." The voice is very famliuar to Ryloth and Tegra its thier girl. As you turn and look there is a wolf that is walking with her. Its is the largest timber wolf that you have ever seen. When Tegra walks over to the child the wolf steps in between them and starts to wine. When Tegra gets even closer the wlof begins to bark and raise its hackles. Then a voice comes from the woods as a elf appears. "That enough Regi she is her mother." The elf looks like you have seen him before but something is different. He walks up to Ryloth. "It is an honor to me you Ryloth as it is to me all of you. Your names are part of us ans much as we are apart of you. You look like you are seeing a ghost. My name is Getty. My older brother fought by your side at waterdeep when Ice tried to bring back Tiamat. Aegis said that my bother died a warriors death. We are that same family. I am part of the Firestorm clan. My brothers and sisters are here to take keep of your daughter while you are gone." There are about 35 other elfs that come out of the woods. We ask you but one thing in return. When you kill the man that killed our father you bring his body to us. We will see to it that it never does any harm again." He hands out a small blue acorn. "when you are ready break this and you will come to us." Now say your good byes and we will be gone. Regi will be her personal body guard when You Tegra gives the word no one will be able to come near your daughter untill you give the word again. If you never come back then she will be with her untill one of them dies. They will learn to love each other for Regi is a mother too."

ScarletFox:
"Tegra do not worry, for I had to put my trust into a wolf myself. For when I had to leave, a cub of of an old friend became my families guardian. And he is still with them, but he is now more than just a guardian, he's family. So we must go to Emma now, before the orbs are brought together." I then get ready to travel.

Ryloth:
Ryloth quietly bows his head in reverence and thanks for the protection of his daughter. While doing this he slips his swords over to Zydrek whispering, "I give you permission to hold them" (ooc: So that the swords won't fry him)

One gets the impression that he doesn't want his daughter to see him with such things, and that probably he doesn't approve of her seeing any of this.

Zydrek will probably instantly notice a thin layer of dust upon the scabards disturbed only today.

"Sweet one, I believe that you and I need to go inside for a moment."

Tegra:
Tegra looks doubtfully at Fox for a second, then looks hard at Erin. "If I agree, you will stay hidden with these elves, and allow no one near you, even if it appears to be us? I've played THAT particular game before, and I wouldn't be surprised if it's played again." She looks fondly at the girl, though she can tell she'll be looking up to her soon, as she's inherited Ryloth's height. The long raven locks are definitely from her father, but shot through with her own deep red whereever the sun catches it.

Tegra grins toward Ryloth. "Yes, from the way things are looking around here, you need to get this battle over with, because you're going to be pretty busy around here in a few years." With that she bends down to the wolf, speaking quietly for a few moments as she puts her palm out for the wolf to catch her scent. When she's done, she points to Ryloth as well, allowing the wolf time to do the same with him as well. "Only these two scents, no matter the appearance Regi. I honor you with her life, and charge you with her protection while we are gone." When Ryloth speaks, Tegra automatically turns her head toward him, looking quizzically for a moment as to whether he was speaking to her or Erin.

Zydrek:
I watch as Ryloth and Tegra prepare to leave. I can feel the love they will miss as we go on our journey. I know that we will be gone for some time and that the children may be somewhat older when we return from wherever we go and whatever we do. This does not seem to be just a short journey to do what we have to do. I can see that we are going to be in for some rough and lengthy battles. There is a lot we must prepare for that lay ahead of us. I am more than ready when the others are, to proceed to the island where Aegis was last seen... And to help with finding the second orb...A task that is probably to take us to far reaches of our own strength and will. But we have been there before, eh my friends? Let us be on our way...

Zydrek:
I take Ryloth's swords from him gently and yes, I do notice the dust on the scabbard. These have not been used in quite a while. I hold them until he finishes talking to his daughter. I look around us as we all prepare to leave and see that there is a quietness among us. We must all be thinking of the journey that lay ahead. I know I am and looking forward to slaying the filth that has taken the lives of our friends...As I stated before, the head will not be the only thing that is burned this time...

Allaister:
Standing quietly watching everyone. I check to see my things are secured. Strapping my staff to my back, and taking out my shield and war hammer, " I am ready to help you in this mission."

Zydrek:
As the others prepare to leave, I start practicing, as usual, with my swords, to keep my proficiency with my weapons at their maximum usefulness. We must be ready for the times that lay ahead and whatever we may encounter. I, of course, do move away from those that may come in contact with the blades, as I surely would not want to accidentally confuse them with someone intentionally intended for their use. I await the others in leaving... NARRATION (06/11/01):
The wolf comes up and smells Tegra's hand. He then walks ove to Ryloth and does the same. when ryloth tkaes Erin in the house the wolf is right beside her, brushing her just enough for her to know that he is there, Erin hand is laying on he shoulder. The elf that brought the wolf looks at Tegra, "Do not worry my lady she it find no harm, I swear it!" As you look back at the wolf and Erin you notice a slight blue glow around the two of them. Twit Say's "Hmmmm That is one special wolf, no Tegra I don't think that even a god would want to take on that wolf."

The traveling is quiet and the road is hot. The horses that the elves gave you are very nice and equipped well. There is everything that you need. (make a list of what you want and e-mail me). After about a week and a half you begin to smell the ocean and feel the cool breezes. You come up on a small village with one ship at the docks. The ship is a two mast sailing ship. It is old. You think to yourself that its a wonder that this ship even floats. As you come up on the warf you see a man standing on a gang plank. He is an old human with one peg leg, smoking a pipe. "Well met travelers. You look like you need a boat." You thought for sure that when he was going to speak it would be a grating sound, the sound of an old sea dog that has done too much smoking in his life, but it's not. It is very clear, almost as if he singing. He says hello to each of you in YOUR own native tounge. He tells you that his is ready to leave, for his ship is loaded. He is going to the Sea of Fallen Stars and as long as it is on the way, he has no problem in dropping you off where you need to go. Ryloth tells him that you need to go through the Sword Coast to be dropped off on an island. The captain asks which one and Twit speaks before anyone else can, telling him that you will let him know when.

After about three day of sailing through the islands, late one night as you are eating with the captian (which you have been doing the whole trip), somthing strange happens. The emblems of the Company of the Wolf begin to glow. Twit looks up with his eyes closed. "Captain, it's time to stop." You all go up to the deck and look out, but all you see is water. The captain looks at Ryloth, "Do you really want to stop here?" Ryloth looks at Twit, then back at the captain. "If he says stop, then stop." The ship makes anchor and comes to slow stop. "Well, there is nothing we can do until morning. I'm going to bed." Twit announces. All is quiet, almost too quiet the rest of the night. With morning, Twit comes in and wakes all of you up. When you get out on the deck you see that only the captain is up with you. "That bird there locked everyone down in the hold. He can be very persuasive when he wants to be. Where did that red dragon go to anyways? That Twit fellow?" Twit just shruggs his shoulders, never looking up.

As you look out you start to see that the sun is rising. On the ocean it looks like a mirror on the calm water. Slowly, as the sun breaks the edge of the water, you see it. An island that was not there before. First its just something on the water. The more the sun comes up the more you see of it. It's a small island. There is a small castle on a hill in the center of the island. "Lets go", Tiwt says, "it won't last long." The captain lets down a plank at Twit's request, looking skeptically at the water. "All this thing is going to do is just fall in the water." It does not, it hits bottom and Twit looks at the captain just smilling. You all leave the ship (still with your horses) and make your way to the castle. The Captain yells back at you as the ship is sailing off. "What is this place, who lives here and most of all, WHO ARE YOU FOLKS?"

ScarletFox:
Well for me it's a quiet jounery. I keep to myself, preparing for what is to come mentally. As we stop in the early morning, it only seems right, the way it happens. As we disembark the ship I hear the captains words. As I look back I say, "VENGEANCE" as I draw the hood of my cloak about my head for the darkness ahead.

Allaister:
Checking my equipment, looking around the new landscape, saying a quiet prayer, checking on my companions mood (scanning the faces, from a distant). "Tegra, may I ask, Where are we?"