FIRESTORM:CAMPAIGN

NARRATION (10/18/01):
(OOC) Hi guys lets get this going again. I was waiting on Ed to get set up at his new place but I can catch him up real easy. Responed has soon as you can so we can keep moving. I will be back very soon.
(IC) Tegra riding her horse doesn't look back at Fox. "I have never been here but I heard Aeigs was given this by a wizard that he helped once the only ones that even know of this place is us now." There is not really a trail that you can take but you can see the keep at all times so it is easy to get to. The thing that skrikes you most is the feeling of peace that comes over you. The horses are even playing a bit as you ride and Twit is changing colors so fast that to look at him for long would give you a headache. There is a gentle breeze that blows and there are animals that can be seen all over. Deer run around you like playing a game of tag. As you go near fruit trees, their branches lean out so that you can get something to eat.

When you get to the keep there is a central building that has three parts to it, all surronded by a small wall. Off to the left side of the keep is a small garden that has more weeds than anything else, beside that is a stable with six stalls. There is fresh hay and a couple of bags of grain.

After getting the horses' settled, you make your way to the keep. Something happens that none of you were ready for. As you get closer, an emblem begins to glow on a wall, It is like a fireball but is longer than one might be. But that is just part of it. The same emblem begins to appear on Tegra's hand. "Don't be alarmed Tegra, it has been there since the day you were born, you all have it. It's the mark of the clan Firestorm" Twit says. As she gets closer a door appears and opens. When you get in the door you see that it is a small room. There are benches on either side, a door in front of you, and hooks along the walls. There are gardening tools and cloaks on two of the hooks. When you walk through the next door you enter a long hallway. There are pictures along both walls. Not tapestries but pictures etched into the walls filled with gold. Looking at them you can tell that they are different members of the clan Firestorm. When you turn the corner, the hall opens into a large sitting room. There is a deck with a chair and papers sitting on top in no apperant order. There is also a small fireplace, large pillows on the floor, a couch and some large chairs. On the walls in this room are pictures of Aegis and Blackrose growing up on a farm in some distant place and time. One picture catches your eye. It is a time when they must have been close, fighting a group of bugbears. They are back to back, both guarding each other as brother and sister. There is a person on their knees crying in front of this picture. They have their back to you. Two long gashes are torn through their black clothes. Two scimitars are laying on the floor next to this person. The person stands up. placing a hand on Aegis' part of the picture and turns. At first everyone reaches for their weapons. The person walks up to Tegra, leaving the swords behind. She falls to the floor on her knees, still crying, and looks up at Tegra. "Do with me what was done to my brother." Blackrose makes no movement and bows her head. "Please..." is all she says.

Tegra:
"Holy shit..." Tegra whispers to herself, no other reaction so obviously showing the inner conflict going on within her. The pity on her face wars with the white-knuckled grip on both of her swords.

Ryloth:
There comes a time in a man's life where all is perfectly clear, and completely turbid simultaneously. Where one is both still and violent....And at those times, the most astonishingly stupid decisions are made...

Ryloth draws his blades immediately with speed like unto a lightning storm in the desert. The minds of Dragons Inc. undoubtedly spin towards the epic duels that Ryloth and Black Rose have had over the years. From the battle on the ship, to the Moonshaes, to the High Forest, no two have danced so bloodily and frequently...And so, there can be no doubt that the party can be nothing but astonished when he wheels about warding his party away from the crouched figure of his mortal nemesis bearing his back to her.

"The will be no blood shed here. Not today." A feral grimace writhes on his face and tears well in his eyes.

ScarletFox:
Looking in awe at the landscape, I remember my house. Once reaching the house, it is the house of Firestorm. I look at the pictures and remember them as well. Upon seeing the figure crying I can't help to wonder who it is. Then seeing the weapons on the floor, I remember the blades of a long time ago, "Rose" I say. I watch her action and the reactions of my friends. I see Rolyth and his actions and words and smile. I walk forward to Rose and Ryloth, "Rose stand, like Ryloth says, no blood will be shed today. For our battle was over long ago, even before you Ryloth." as I stand beside Rylyth. "Well done brother."

Zydrek:
As we walk through the halls, I look at all the pictures etched into them, remembering a time long ago. When we get to the large room with the furniture all around and the creature in front of the fireplace turns around, I draw my broadsword in order to back up Ryloth. But when he says that there will be no blood drawn here today, I ask him, Ryloth, how can you not! For all we have been through with her, should you not rid us of her presence. You know it will come back to haunt you later. I am most surprised at your action or should I say, nonaction. I thought that if you ever saw her again for any reason that her head would come off in an instant. Well, I will abide by your decision for now, but I will most assuredly watch your back as well as the others...

Ryloth:
Ryloth's eyes continue to dart amongst the party as Zydrek speaks, and relaxes a bit at Zydrek's conclusion. "True there is quarrel between us and her, but even enemies may come together to remember and mourn the fallen. And are not our debts settled anyways? When in the last 50 years has a black rose been found on your door step? We have lost a father, and she a brother. Is it not said that the enemy of my enemy is my friend?"
Then Ryloth speaks over his shoulder, "But if you do counterfeit, be prepared to reap the wrath of 50 years. I am a man of peace now, but this may well be business from 50 years past, and thus I remember the use of a blade."

Tegra:
Tegra grimaces slightly at Ryloth's words, though she doesn't make a move to thrust her sword through Rose's heart. Rolling her shoulders slightly, she glances at Ryloth and nods at Zydrek. "Some of us remember her counterfeit each time we move Ryloth. And heed the fact that there need be no weapon in her hand for her to be armed."

NARRATION (10/28/01):
At Tegra's comments, Black Rose looks up at her and winks. She stands up, regaining her composure and dons her two swords. When she does that, she opens up her vest, revealing several rows of daggers and takes out a black rose and a hairpin, placing them on the picture she was kneeling in front of.
After examining the rest of the room, there is nothing else of interest here. There is a little hallway that leads out of this room, with another door. Rose opens the door, and it reveals a room that is quite a bit larger on the inside than it appears it would be from the looks of the keep outside. This room is a library. There are three desks. Above each desk is a pendant lamp hanging from the ceiling. On Rose's and Tegra's hands, the insignia of Firestorm glows brightly. Twit just says, "Wooooowwwwww!!!" There are numerous (and I do mean numerous) books that glow in this room. There is one section in the library that seems like an autobiographical area. One book called "Clan of Firestorm", three books called "Company of the Wolf", one book labeled "Dragons Inc", another called "Weapons of the Sapphire Rose"....

Scarlet Fox:
As I walk into the room I again glance around. I then walk over to the books about "The Company of the Wolf". I take the 2nd book down and walk to the table. I start thumbing through the book.

Ryloth:
Severely wishing that Shandassar was here, Ryloth picks up the Saphire Rose book and begins reading while he mumbles, I guess it's time for research.

Zydrek:
I, along with Fox, go to the "Company Of The Wolf" books and look them over very well. If I find any traps, tricks or any other such thing I leave them alone. If not, then I chose one of them and sit down also to find out more of our heritage...
I also choose the "Dragons Inc." book and take it with also to spin through while we are here.

Tegra:
Tegra wanders around through the room, looking over the shoulders of the others as they peruse the books, until she's positioned between Rose and the others, though her comment as she leans over Ryloth of "...me thinks your head needs examining" is audible and delivered with a ghost of a smile. Once between Rose and the party, she leans her butt up against one of the tables while remaining standing and rather obviously watches Rose like a hawk. A raised brow at the other female is a none-too-subtle question basically translated as "What the hell are you doing here?"

NARRATION (10/31/01):
Tegra finally says what's on her mind. "Just what the hell are you doing here? You have no right in this place, you gave up the right when you did everything you could to smear the name across the world. You've spent all these years trying to kill him, now it's finally done, and you come here weeping? Puleez, that's rich."

Rose responds. "Have you ever heard the old saying 'I can fight my brother but you can't'? If anyone was going to take his life, it was going to be me. It is one thing to kill an individual, it's another thing entirely to kill a bloodline. And besides, I have two marks on my back. No one gets away with that. No one." As Tegra is talking to her, she shifts her weight slightly, causing the desk to slide backwards. A center section in the bookcase opens up, revealing a hidden room as the desk moves. The magic radiating within the room is beyond powerful, and of a very old type.

Walking into the hidden passage, you find a small room, maybe 20 feet square. The only thing in here is a 10-ft diameter circle in the center of the floor made of gold. In the center of the circle done in platinum is the mark of the clan Firestorm. Tegra looks intently at the mark of the clan, casting a glance back at Rose, "Then blood runs true Rose, for the marks in my back aren't forgotten as well, and that will be taken care of in time." Rose looks back at her. "Fine, I have time now if you wish to take this any further." Tegra steps to the circle, standing directly on the clan mark. The sound of swords drawn is distinct in the small room. Tegra smiles, "Then lets dance." Tegra disappears. Rose reaches her hand out toward her as the disappears completely, belatedly saying, "Wait!"

Zydrek:
I look up from reading the book I am indulged in when Tegra starts talking to Rose. When the door opens to the room and Tegra goes in with Rose behind her, I get up and follow them in also. I stand at the door when the challenge comes from Rose to take Tegra on right now. When the sound of swords come together, I automatically put my hand on the hilt of my broadsword, for no one and I mean NO ONE is going to take Tegra out. Not if I have anything to do about it. When all of a sudden Tegra disappears I pull my sword, even before Rose yells "No, wait". I call the others quickly to come in...

Ryloth:
Ryloth, completely bewildered, looks awestruck for a bit. After regaining his composure, he casts a spell. Energy seems to radiate from around him. Fury flickers in the 'eye' of Veangance, as Ryloth says with a tone of hostility, "You'd best hope that you lose that duel, because if you don't, you WILL lose the next one."

Alaister:
Scanning the faces of my party and listening to the words, it is obvious that this fued runs very deep. I watch for any traps or setups. I look around the room where the books are, quietly casting a spell divination, what is the key in this room of knowledge. Walking around the room looking at the different books, trying to see what stands out...Hearing the table shift, and the bookcase opening, I pause and look. Watching the two women walk into the room, and begin to challenge each other, then seeing Tegra vanish, I raise my staff into combat stance..

NARRATION (12/04/01):
Almost as suddenly as she disappeared, Tegra reappears within the circle, a slight shimmering announcing her arrival. She is unhurt, but clearly shaken, and stranger still, her swords are sheathed. At her appearance, Rose turns to Ryloth's last words, "I am not afraid of you, so do not threaten me again." Though her words are clearly strong, she is sheathing her own swords as she speaks them.

Tegra steps out of the circle, more thoughtful than ginger and turns to look at it again for a moment, then each of the party in turn who are now around it, finally resting for the longest time on Rose. Her expression is unreadable. With a shake of her head, and a light hand on Ryloth's elbow as she passes, she heads back to the library, muttering something about needing a drink...it is obvious that she expects everyone to follow. Which you probably will, as she hasn't said more than that since she reappeared.

Rummaging through the cabinets in the room with another muttered comment that Aegis would have some wine stashed here and she knows it, she finds a particular type of sealed decanter and smiles to herself. She's been around him long enough to know what his best stuff looks like, and here in the private libary is where it would be. Triumphantly carrying the decanter and some glasses, she sets them down on the table, with a wave of her hand motioning for everyone else to do so also. No, she still hasn't said a word, obviously intent on accomplishing this one simple task before continuing. Pouring a full glass, she catches a look from Ryloth and says, "Believe me, you'll all want one before I'm done. Save yourselves the trouble and take a full glass now."

Taking a long sip, she sets her glass down and looks again at Rose. There is no humor in her voice when she speaks. "I met an old friend of yours, someone I know you'd like to see again. Preferably in a dark alley with his back to you." She turns her gaze to Ryloth, "You as well I'm sure. You'd forget completely about the peaceful life you've led and go hellbent for leather after him if given the chance." She takes another sip of her wine and smiles for the first time to the other members of the party. "All of you probably can guess who at this point, and Allaister, you've heard of him if you've been around Shand. Probably alot about him."

Taking a deep breath, Tegra steadies her hands on her glass. "I'll start from the beginning, but forgive me, it's kind of scary knowing I should be dead right now." She pauses a moment, looking again at Rose. "And I did hear you, and thank you for, trying at least, to stop me."

Turning back to everyone, she continues. "I don't know how all of it works, but I've figured some out, and maybe you can figure out what else I've missed or see where I may be wrong. That circle seems to act on your emotion in a strange way. I was thinking of revenge and hate when I stepped into it, and it brought me to...Zarbor. It's like it pulls you to the being that most represents the emotion you're feeling. I may be wrong on that, and possibly Rose can clear it up, I don't know. But what I found was a dark place, like one of the hells. Zarbor was very pleased when I showed up, saying something to the effect of the pieces all falling together just as he wanted them. I was apparently one of the pieces that I had just saved him the trouble of having to go get. Anyway, he has Emma and the orb. He also was holding the counterpart to the orb we know, one that looks just like it, but it's as dark as the other is light. Pure black. Emma's alive, but in chains there with him. Our orb is on a pedestal in front of this lovely throne he's set up for himself, because of course, he can't touch it. There were a few guards, but the ones that worry me were the fellows flanking him in red robes with a black dragon standard." She looks around at all of them. "I'm not familiar with the group, but I've seen something on them somewhere, called the Order of the Dragon or some such...I can't remember. They looked to be wizards, the lot of them. I was standing there trying to figure out what to do (OOC: shit or go blind basically), when he said he wanted to have some fun with me and teach me a lesson, and that he had someone he wanted me to fight. From his right, something or someone who looked like Aegis came out, swords drawn. If I didn't know he was dead, and that he'd never do it, I'd swear it was Aegis, but it sounds just like one of Zarbor's little games, so there's no telling exactly what it actually was. I was trying to figure out how I could avoid getting killed and knock our orb off the pedestal in the direction of Emma. I started to defend myself against this Aegis thing, when I glanced at Zarbor and he'd gone as pale as a deathknight can accomplish. A voice behind me said, "It is not yet time." and it was as if Zarbor and his buddies went into a standstill. I jerked around, not knowing what had come up behind me so quietly, and I am eternally grateful for fast reflexes and an even faster brain, because I recognized the voice as I turned with my sword arm and managed not to take Chauntea's head off in the process. She wouldn't explain anything, but said again that it was not yet time for this confrontation. Then it was like she flashed the image of Rose and I squaring off in the room and said, "And all is not always at it appears." Tegra can't help a grin at that comment, directing it at Rose of all people, "You've had THAT down to an art for a while." She returns to the story. "But she didn't seem to be talking about what was going on with that, it was like she was talking about being careful in this of kneejerk reactions." Tegra finishes off a good portion of her wine. "The really bad part for us is this. We all know our weapons are not the same as they once were. Once the evil was eradicated that we were up against, the power of the orb left them, and the gods we've always known took it back to be hidden so that it couldn't be misused. We've also always known that our weapons are still our weapons, and that if the need ever arose, the power is still out there. I've always felt that the power of the orb would just flow back to the weapons, since they've always reacted against great evil. Not regular evil, as we have that in everyday life, but great evil as were up against before. But I was in that room, surrounded by it, facing one who epitomizes it, and nothing happened. You all remember how they would glow when evil was around? Well, nothing. That scared me. And then it hit me. I know where the power of our weapons is. And that's the other reason it's always been so important to keep it safe and hidden. The power of the orb went back to the orb. It's stored there. And Zarbor's got it. He apparently hasn't figured out how to use it, and I don't know what he's up to, but that black orb must be the exact opposite of ours, it's yin to it's yang. And I'd like to get roaring drunk if you don't mind. Zydrek, will you pour?

Zydrek:
Of course I will pour M'Lady. Any time for you. (Oh, don't get so uppity and jealous Ryloth). As I stand there and listem to Tegra tell her journey's story, I think back to the times we all had and how the power in our weapons came to us almost as if when we thought we needed it. Now, we must use our own proficiencies all the time now. That is, until we regain the power for our weapons again. You do sound quite upset by meeting Zarbor, Tegra. I think maybe you should sit down for awhile and try to think if there is anything else that happened that you may have forgotten. It does sound like we must journey to this place though and try to get the power back to our weapons. We must free Emma and get the Orb (Maybe both of them) back from Zarbor. I do not think though, that I want to have to bring my emotions to bear to find out what Tegra is talking about. There must be another way to get there other than the circle. And this fun that Zarbor says he wants to have with us does not sound like much fun to me at all. As long as Zarbor continues not to know how to use the Orbs, then we have a chance. I think that we should try to get them from him somenow. Now, anyone else want me to pour for them while I have it in my hand? I take a sip of the wine myself...

Ryloth:Seeming to ignore the wine, Ryloth begins to pace about the room. Mumbling to himself, as he has been prone to do for the past few years, he appears to be working out a plan. He then walks over to the book shelf and begins pulling out books, apparently looking for a secret passage. One or two books he places in his pack. "Surely Aegis foresaw this occurrance, and if not, he must have retained the spoils of his adventures somewhere. We should be able to equip ourselves from the stores here for the time being. Alaister, look over these books, and tell me what's ancient, rare, and valuable."

Holding a book in his hand he turns about, and states, "What we are lacking here is information. We don't know how to re-charge our weapons, we don't know where Zarbor is, we don't know about the true nature of the orbs. South of Waterdeep, there is a sanctuary of Sages where books are kept called Candlekeep. Admittance is only permitted if you present a particularly ancient or rare text as a gift. We may be able to learn something there."

Ryloth strides over to the table, picks up the bottle of wine and takes a swig. Quickly replacing it, he goes over to another book shelf checking several texts. "In anycase, if we are unable to restore our weapons, I may be able to create new magical weapons and armors. My goddess has blessed me greatly in my life, and I have seldom called in any favors since our last adventure. If I must fabricate new implements of warfare, it will be better done in the High Forest or in the Thunder Peaks of Cormyr. Mielikki's presence in strong there."

Turning about, and gesturing with a book, "We must travel in-cog-nito. Attempt to obscure any distinguishing characteristics you have. We will travel by mundane means as frequently as possible. Magical travel always causes big alarms to go off for important folks of both good and evil persuasion."

Ryloth begins to walk down a hallway looking for exotic ingredients for the creation of arms and armor, and texts dealing with that subject. "If you have any questions concerning disguise, ask Zydrek. Rose, if I could speak with you alone please?"

Running back into the room, as an after thought, Ryloth hurriedly states, "If anyone else has any ideas, I'm open to alternative options. Incidentally, I should have two eyes by tomorrow." With that he leaves again in search of aid from Aegis' castle.

Tegra:
The sound of the wineglass shattering in Tegra's hand is punctuated by a very unladylike oath that she's obviously learned from Zydrek, followed with "You're going to have WHAT by tomorrow? Why? Why do you wish to change that which has shaped who you are?" Almost as an afterthought, while waiting for Ryloth's response, she adds, "It all sounds like good ideas to me, and I have none of my own right now to add it, except..." and here the slight twinkle in her eye is hard to read, "If you think to dye my hair for this disguise, you better come up with better persuasion than 'because I said so'."

Zydrek:
Why, thank you M'Lady. It is a great pleasure to be with all of you again. Yes, even you Ryloth. I listen intently to Ryloth as he spells out what he wants to do and where he wants to go and how he wants to get there. I too, am caught unaware when Ryloth tells us that he will soon have sight in both eyes. When Tegra breaks her goblet, I reach for another and again fill it. Tegra, please be more careful. We would not want to see you too bloodied before we even leave this place. I know it was a surprise to hear that he will have his sight renewed, and I believe that it will help us in our efforts. Yes, he has grown character with that damned eyepatch all these past years, but his full sight returning could be a blessing we may need in the future.

If there are any among you that cannot come up with a disguise, then I will be most happy to help you. I cannot see anyone here though who should not be able to complete a disgues. It is of no consequence to come up with one. I will be where you can find me. I go to also look for some help in understanding what we should do about this little problem we have of Zarbor and the like...

Ryloth:
Smirking, Ryloth says, "My eye has not shaped who I am. Rather it was an attempt by my uncle to shape who I am. In truth, I will be regenerating not as a help to my vision so much as an eye-patch has become a call-sign for me. It would be easy to look for a one-eyed half elf, but as we are travelling in disguise I will be altering my appearance to go un-noticed. It won't fool the Death Knight, but it may allow us to pass un-noticed among his agents." "Incidentally, you are known by your red hair and scimitars, Zydrek by his inherent love of violence. Fox was with us only a short period of time during our original campaign, but has enemies of his own that may recognize him by something other than what we recognize him by. Bereft of our weapons we must seize every advantage possible."

"We must also remember that we endanger the commonfolk as well as the allies that we will travel with by our presence. As my magical prowess has grown, I have gained a greater understanding of how our enemies may discover us. For the time being, let us not refer to our enemies by name, only by epithets or signals. Zydrek, perhaps you can procure for us some underworld assistance once we return to the mainland. Alaister, you will need to be cooking up some means to obscure our auras and our locations. I may be able to assist in this. As for now, I do need to speak with Rose. Excuse my absence."

Ryloth continues down the hallway.

Tegra:
Tegra simulates a slight pout at Ryloth's retreating back, then sighs heavily, looking back and forth at Zydrek and Fox, "I guess the honeymoon is DEFINITELY over, wouldn't you say? Not even a patronizing smile from him..." She spies the new and refilled wineglass. "Thank you Zydrek, I'll need that about now...and I promise to not leave too large a trail of blood before we depart these premises. Fox, you were with him a long time, where do you think Aegis might have a good hiding place for his more important papers? Or would he hide them in plain sight(eyeing the books more carefullY)? She abruptly looks up at Alaister, "Having a hard time getting a word in edgewise? Good luck with this crew. But we usually brainstorm rather well, so it's useful, if a bit overwhelming to someone not used to it." She leans back in her chair a bit, "Well, since I seem to have lost my 'more beautiful than the moon reflection cast upon moonwells' status, I might as well get to work. Let's see whats in the books you stashed in your pack, Zydrek?"

Zydrek:
Listening to Tegra and Ryloth, I can remember when he would do anything to get next to Tegra, so Tegra, I guess your honeymoon really is over. Ah well, the life of marriage, eh? Well, let us see what these books I have say. I pull them out of my rucksack and show them to Tegra. Maybe you can make heads or tails of them. Sorry Alaister, we do talk a little bit, do we not? I think I will look around while Tegra looks at the books...

NARRATION (12/07/01):
While Tegra, Ryloth and Zydrek are conversing, Alaister throws a spell. Two things happen: the first one is that you see a bright blue silhouette appear on the table. Apparently, Twit went invisible a short while ago, found an invisible wineglass, and poured himself a drink too. He has finished off most of the glass at this point, so that his entire body is now inside the glass. When he suddenly finds himself glowing an electric blue, he has been caught happily lapping up the last of the wine. He stares innocently out of the side of the glass. "What? What?!?" When he sees that he is glowing from a spell he knows, he follows the questioning with "Uh oh...."
Second thing: A small bookcase glows behind the tapestry of different gods. There is a single book that is creating the glow, with the letters "M T V B D C T E" on the cover (it is facing you instead of being shelved like the regular books). The letters are arranged in a circle, with an actual double circle around them on the cover. Each letter is also glowing a different color (red, black, white, blue, green) and the "M" rotates between showing all the colors.
At Ryloth's request, Rose gives him a bland look. "Follow you? What you wish to say, can be said here, so nothing can be misconstrued." During Ryloth's various attempted excursions out in the hallway, he notices three doors.

Ryloth:
Apparently becoming frustrated, Ryloth spins on his heel to face the group. "Fine. Rose, you are an assassain, a sneak, a liar, a thief, and virtually every other sort of untrustworthy and hazardous characteristic we could surround ourselves with. In that way you're pretty much like Zydrek, except that he's only tried to kill me once and you've turned it into an art form."
"What this comes down to is, I can deal with just about anyone as long as I know where we stand. And while it must pleasure you to no end to be able to put me on edge after all these years, I'm also certain that you're just as frightened as I am that Zarbor has succeeded where you have failed so many times. So its time to get down to brass tacks and make hay while the sun shines. Just let me know where you stand, and how you're standing there."
Now looking at the glowing book. "Well, no need to go up the hall now." Then he shoots a wink over at Tegra (which I guess for a one-eyed man is more like a blink...)

Tegra:
"Don't think for a minute that wink will be enough to get you anywhere Ryloth." She scoops Twit out of the wineglass as she goes and cradles him, all the while looking the book and muttering herself while she scratches behind his wings, "Dragons are those colors, many colors is Tiamat, M isn't Tiamat, but Mogwa is...let's see, Mogwa, Treva, Vengance, Bytor, Dove..." She stops herself. "Alaister, don't touch that book." Looking at Twit, "Are you alright?" THen in a more schoolmarmish voice, "and are you going to tell us why you glowed from someone else's spell, or do I have to tickle it out of you?"

Zydrek:
When Alaister throws his spell, I watch to see what happens and when the silhouette appears on the table, I ask him what it means and who the silhouette is. I look at the book in the book shelf, which is facing us instead of sideways in the shelf as the other books are and watch as the letters glow different colors on the front of the book. And listening to Tegra mutter the names of our weapons, the conclusion could be that in the book we would find out how to get the strength and magic back into our weapons. The letters on the front of the book could be the first letters in our weapons names. The "M" could be blinking a different color because "Mogwa" may have the answer to some of our questions, although we may have difficulties in finding this out. Tegra, wouldn't you think that if we look in the book that we may find the answers to some of our questions? And Ryloth, the three doors that are in the hallway could house answers to some of our questions also.
Ryloth, won't you ever forget that I tried to kill you once? You have such a memory. That seems like such a long time ago. Actually, it was a long time ago wasn't it? Oh well, I think that we should discuss if opening the book and going to the three rooms that Ryloth has seen will help us...
As I wait for the answer of what we will do at the moment, my mind wanders back to a time long ago of a battlefield in our last encounter. I have been thinking ever since our reunion a few days past, did I not cut off the head of Rose in that battle? Did I not see her fall to the ground dead? Rose, how is it that you are here now? What kind of magic do you possess that makes it as if you can come through any battle unscathed? I would like the answers to this to preserve my own life and the lives of all who accompany me here.
Tegra, have you found anything in those books? The Company of the Wolf and Dragon's Inc.? Maybe I should go through them with you to see if there may be something else that I may have missed or not seen.

Alaister:
Walking around the room, looking at the book, also keeping an eye on Twit. All the while smiling at Tegra, Ryloth, and Zydrek, gesturing for a glass of wine. "Do not worry for me, a wise man once taught me to have patience, watch for clues, examine the surroundings, or problem before reacting. I am just observing my allies as well as our problem. Sometimes, the answer is also given in the question or dilemma. I am not sure of this place you went to Tegra, but if this is a way to our enemy, maybe we can all go there at once." Pausing for a moment, closely examing the book (walking up to it, and looking at ti from as close to it as possible, inches from it). "I don't think it is the chromatic dragons because there are too many letters. Yes the colors are there, but it does not specify what letter is what color, except that M is in the center showing all colors, which could be oscillating the different colors, or could be the black. What I find interesting is that the book was behind a tapestry of different gods, what gods are in the picture. Maybe the letters represent different planes. I don't believe that they the schools of magic nor do I believe that they are from the schools of the bard." Pulling out my spell book, I begin to look through it, searching for a spell that might help, sipping at my wine.

Scarlet Fox:
With the blue flashes of light snap me out of the book I was reading. Brings me back to the present and out of the past. I listen to what is being said and smile at the words of Alaister, I too have met that wise man. I listen to Ryloth, "Rose stands where she has always stood, at the right hand of death. But I do give her credit I've had more respect for her than some of the people I called friend. And sometimes an enemy of my enemy is my friend. But by no means do I trust her, our past preludes your birth. She is not a cowardly assassion." With a pause to get a drink. "I was with Blackstaff and Elminster in Waterdeep the last time Tiamat was banished. Tiamat is like a demon, perhaps we may have to form a pentagram around her to bet her. The letters form a circle just put (think of a clock) M&T at the top (12), V at the 1.5, B at the 4.5, D&C at the 6, T at the 7.5, and e at the 10.5. Then take and draw a line between E,V,and D&C then between M&T, T, and B you get a pentagram. But the thing we have to solve is how to use the power to banish her." I take another drink and see what the group thinks.

NARRATION (12/16/01):
Tegra listens to Fox's idea. "I'll have to think that one over, but it does make sense." In the meantime, she grabs the book in question, hefting it in her hands, as it is larger than normal, like a spellbook, (her perception telling her that this book is like the weapons, and will not harm her) and sits down at the table to read it over. When she first opens the book, there is nothing on the pages, but gradually, words begin to appear in a very archaic and ancient script. Calling the others over, between all of them, they can slowly begin to interpret what it says.
"After the Army of Darkness took over the city and we all fled, it was several years later when I decided to come back. The weapons have been properly hid in various locations and I had wrote information as to how to use them and what the different weapons were for. I decided that it might be a good idea for a place they could call home. So I enabled each one with the gift of returning back to the place from whence they were originally created. Seeing as how the Army did not locate my cave in the great city, I figured this would be the most logical place to put them. Of course, that would be after their task was done. So, I will leave this book here instead of taking it with me, and I will go back to the land of Cormanthyr and to the great city of Myth Drannor, where I will find my cave and see my last sunrise and know at last that me and my children are all home."
The book then slowly becomes translucent and disappears completely. Twit is slowly shaking his dead back and forth, holding his hands up and rubbing what would be his temples, going under his breath, "Myth Drannor, oh why Myth Drannor...."

Ryloth:
MYTH DRANNOR?.........Right then, I guess we'd best begin planning travel arrangements.....
Ryloth mumbles, "Myth Drannor...."

DM (12/28/01):
After Tegra reads the book and you find out what you must do to get your weapons powers back you decide to look at the rest of the keep so walking down the the short hallway you come to three doors one on the left one on the right and one right in front of you.

Zydrek:
Well Ryloth, I would suggest the door directly in front of us. May as well get that one out of the way. What do you say?

Alaister:
I walk with Zydrek, holding my War Hammer. "Zydrek, knowing that we will check all doors, this one would be fine to start with." Looking at the rest of the party, "who would like to have the honors of opening the door?"

Scarlet Fox:
Myth Drannor..........Then seeing everyone start to walk off. I catch up as they are walking. "Well that door is as good as the rest, just be ready the other two doors flanks us. I'll get the door." Walking up to the door I check it "no telling what was left to guard this place." F/R traps 95%, then if clear open the door.

NARRATION (12/29/01):
Nothing you can do, not even seemingly the power of a god, could open this door. One door to the left, one door to the right...take your pick.

Scarlet Fox:
Well if that door want open I'll try the one on the left.

NARRATION (12/31/01):
Fox goes to the door on the left. It's a plain wooden door. When he opens it and looks in, it appears to be nothing more than a broom closet. But remembering the library room, and walking back around the short little hallway, it would seem to be the same room that Tegra teleported at.

This leaves only one door, the door to the right. This door is also made of wood, but is better built. In the center of the door is an etching of what appears to be vapors rising. When you open this one, this room is stunning. The walls, floor and ceiling are highly polished marble. In the middle of the room the floor steps down about 4 feet all around, to what appears to be a square hot spring (think of a built in hot tub). Straight across from you, against the other wall, appears to be a dressing room with curtains open. You can see white robes hanging on pegs in each booth. There is a slight shimmering of light and an effeminate male human appears. He is quite a sight, considering he is wearing an extremely ornamented full doublet and short full pants such as those found at court. He even has the matching hose which end in polished leather shoes complete with blindingly shiny metal buckles. His velvet scarlet shirt is pintucked to reveal white satin stripes, as are the pants. His ensemble is completed by a cloak done in the same style but reversed in color, with red feathers trimming all possible areas you could possibly trim. The final complement is a scarlet and white cap that seems too large for his head, as it seems to pooch over to one side (think Mick Jagger in drag with a beret).

Upon seeing the lot you, his hands fly to each side of his face. "Oh....My....Gawd!" His eyes quickly peruse each of you as he comes over, looking each of you over in utter and complete dismay. "What part of the Calimere swamp have you been tramping through? And what person dared send you out in... (at this point he has gingerly picked up one edge of Tegra's tunic, letting it drop as if he's been contaminated by the simple cloth) ...THIS!?!?" He goes around each of you, various sighs, inhaled breaths and clucks of his tongue letting you know under no uncertain terms that this will not do at all."My goodness, I can not BELIEVE people will be seen in PUBLIC like this...This won't do, you have to THINK about these things..." His quick ramblings continue, almost reminding you of Twit when he's in a talkative mood, and he's definately flitting about enough. He pauses suddenly at Zydrek, his eyes widening appreciatively, "My, aren't we the well-built one of the lot!" Before it manages to hit each of you what he's said, he's already on to the next one, still muttering over your disgraceful appearance. With a final, "No this won't do at all!" he claps his hands. "Well, let's get started, you'll not be doing anything or going anywhere in THIS house till you're presentable. Now, ladies first, you boys just wait right outside the door and I'll be to you in a moment..." He casts a sidelong smile at Alaister. "This is not like some countries, we don't do the communal bath thing here, much as I'd enjoy it." He begins pacing back and forth in front of you, muttering. "I've got just the thing for you, and the purple will bring out your eyes marvelously, oh yes, there's hope yet..." He spins around again, "What, move people, move! Get those dirty things dropped in the corner, everything on you comes off, we start from the skin out! It'll take half my soap stores just to get the soil from your skins!" He looks momentarily overwhelmed, his hand going to his forehead as though he'll faint as he groans, "Oh this will be SUCH a job..." He then seems to gather himself together, steeling himself to the task. "But I am the best, and therefore, it shall be done!"

Having barely gathered your wits from all this, you realize that you have slowly but surely been stripped of everything you were carrying, your weapons, your possessions, everything has been piled in a heap. "Don't touch that, it's filthy and unfit for anything but an orc's den! You'll not lay a finger on any of it until it's properly taken care of and looking as it should. Buyaa! Come here!" A portal appears immediately and the complete opposite of what this fellow looks like comes through. He's a stereotypical dwarf, grumbling and mumbling under his breath. Except, you notice, for his chainmail and short sword, which are the finest and most meticulously wrought you've ever seen. He immediately goes to the pile of weapons and begins checking them over, obviously upset upon the inspection. He looks at each of you, growling, "Whatchu been 'ittin these fine weapons aginst, rocks?! He shakes his head sadly, turning one of the swords over in his hands. "People don' respect ya, lettin' ya bang an' scrape about such as this..." In the space of about 3 minutes you have been thoroughly shamed as if by an old schoolmaster. He picks up the entire pile, still talking to the weapons as he steps back through the portal disappearing. "I'll hav' ya back ter yer glory beauties..tis alright know..." The skinny guy leans conspiratorily toward you, shaking his head dejectedly, "I've tried, I really have, but there's not a THING I can do with him..with a bit of gel and a few good outfits he could be SO much more." He breaks off his comments and focuses his attention back on the party. "You must bathe and goodness knows how long that will take considering you've got dirt in places I don't even want to THINK about. Oh no, you must be taken care of immediately!" Though there is absolutely nothing threatening about the fellow (flaming, yes, threatening, no), you all know only one person who might know anything about this, so you glance at Rose, who appears as taken aback as the rest of you. But she just shrugs her shoulders, "That's my brother..." and complies with the little man's orders. Now that everyone is basically down to just their shoes, tunics and leggings, the guy begins shooing the men out of the room. "Go on, I'll get you as soon as I'm done with these two. Don't any of you STEP FOOT past the outside of this door, you WILL NOT traipse about the house in this condition. C'mon girls, we've got work to do!" He's managed to maneauver all the gentlemen to the doorway and with a flick of his wrist, slams the door in their faces with a shouted, "Sit! Stay!"

Zydrek:
Now, I do not know about the rest of ye, but, As I sniff my underarms, I really do not understand what the little man is talking about. I am fairly fresh and as we all know, and the little man has said so unsurprisingly, I am the best looking one here even for my age, which is not really that old. Of course, standing our here in the hall barely clothed and without my weapons does seem very strange. I just hope this is no trick just to releive us of our weapons and to put in the mindset of believing that we are perfectly safe in this house. I do not like standing here without the knowledge that I can protect myself from whatever may come along. And that little man, being as Rose said, her brother? Instead of taking on a relaxed feeling, I keep my eyes open for anything that may seem out of place. What the hell am I talking about, what may seem out of place. This whole scene is out of place...

Scarlet Fox:
Standing in awh. I think about asking him if he's Twits brother. As we get ushered out the door I tell him "Scarlet's my color" "Zydrek don't take it the wrong way but you need a bath, remember in the forest how hard it was to hunt game, well AHAHAHAH. But you did great at flushing out game." still laughing. Setting down across the hall and waiting my turn.

Zydrek:
And I thought it was so easy to get game because I was attracted to the animals and they liked me. Now you tell me that I need a bath. So, you're telling me that I shouldn't try to gain access to the womenfolk this day, eh? Oh well, no wonder everyone is staying their distance. Hahahah. I guess I might as well wait a little farther down the hall then. I clamber around Fox and sit next to the wall also...

Scarlet Fox:
"Well you might as well sit here. If you go in with the women, one is married with him." Pointing to Roylth. "And the other is and assassion.....hey so are you. A match made in the crypt. Go for it lover boy, I got 5 gold on the Rose.LOL"

Ryloth:
After regaining his senses, he goes back up to the door and yells (gulp!) "If I find that you've had you're hands anywhere but on the clothes, I'll make a loin-cloth out of your hide and have Zydrek get me drunk! See if I won't!"

Tegra:
Luxuriating in bubbles, Tegra laughs and calls back, "I don't think I'm his type Ryloth!" The "girls" are currently enjoying a long soak in the hot spa, while the strange little man hovers about, taking turns completing manicures, conditioning treatments piled on their heads, and getting various oils ready for their departure from the water. The only vaguely dangerous moment is when Tegra's butt slips on the marble in the tub during her pedicure, which promptly sends her under. The guys can hear the little fellow shriek, then Tegra sputtering as she comes back up, laughing and hiccuping bubbles. A short while later, the various sounds of movement and exclamations from the fellow inside lets you know that the soak is done and hairstyles are being tried. Murmured comments can be heard from Rose and Tegra, the clearest being, "Did Aegis always have treatment like this in his home?" which is responded to by Rose with "Like I said, that was my brother...when he relaxed, he relaxed." The rest of time is passed with intermittent shrieks of joy from the male inside, followed by various comments of "Girlfriend, that is just you! Now let's just curl this one this way, and that one that way..."

Zydrek:
I yell after Ryloth and say "Yes, whatever Ryloth says and then I will burn your whole body and not just your head". Hey, that doesn't sound too bad. The drinking I mean and grinning at Ryloth and Fox. And Fox, I have already killed Rose once, I don't think I want to take her on again, at least not right now. There must be some ale around here while we wait our turns. I look around the hall and in the room we came out of for the ale...