Mordor (Tex - quest) - Thursday, June 01, 2006, 9:14 PM

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A Worn Path (Druadan Forest)
  The worn path continues to lead through Druadan Forest.  Many different
kinds of animals and insects call the Druadan Forest home.  Some animals
are hunters and search the area for prey.  Others live off the land like
the leaves or flowers growing here.  The path continues to the north and
south and a small nook lies east.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A young Wos is patrolling the forest.
A young Wos is patrolling the forest.
A green and brown snake slithers on the path.


Noni smiles.

you are patrolling the Druadan forest, tracking an unusualy animal

the tracks have grown very fresh, when you hear the grunt of the animal ahead of you

you become extra quiet, and sneak into the brush for a look at the animal, when suddenly . . . . . 

You feel a sudden jerk, and your surroundings blur.

The Torture Chamber
  Ack!  You've wound up in the Torture Chamber!  You are surely doomed
now... For there is no escape.  And with a pale face and a beating heart, you
watch as the big, burly jailer grab you and begin to take you towards one of
his sickening devices.  
     A body lies here with a dagger in its chest. [excellent]
An evil looking wraith hovers threateningly.

Noni arrives from a puff of smoke.

You land with a *thud* on a table filled with objects.  

A hard piece of something pokes you in the thigh, and papers and books go everywhere.

As you collect yourself, you realize that you are in a terrifying room filled with smoke and screaming.

The smoke prevents you from seeing the source of the screaming, but you do see a tall figure before you.

It is a large wraith.  He appears to be the one who has brought you here.

He speaks to you in a hoarse whisper.

'Greetings mortal' the wraith says.  'I am Agragag, and YOU will obey me.'

Agragag is about 7 feet tall, made of a ghostly smoky substance with 
eyes like coals of fire

Agragag says 'Let us discuss your mission.'

Agragag says 'There is a certain item that I require.  You will retrieve it for me.'

Agragag says 'It is a small dagger.  You will know it by the green rune on the hilt, like this.'

Agragag draws a green symbol in the air with his finger: $

Agragag says 'You will find it somewhere in the eastern hills of Emyn Muil.'

Agragag says 'Once you have the dagger, use this scroll to notify me.'

Agragag gives A runed scroll of notify to Noni.

Agragag says 'If you return with the dagger, you will be . . . rewarded.'

There is something ominous about his tone.

Noni says 'And if I do not?'

Agragag says 'But, if you return without it, your doom will be terrible indeed.'

Agragag pauses, and touches the corpse on the floor while uttering an incantation in a strange language.

The corpse explodes with fire, showering you with burning, rotted flesh.

Noni flinches away.

Agragag says 'You have one week, if you fail to return before then, your life is over.'

Agragag says 'now GO!'

Noni vanishes!

Deep Waters of the Bay (Ethir Anduin)
  You become quite alarmed when you see a gray dorsal fin cutting through
the waters here!  Relax, it's just a dolphin.  It gives a chuckle and a
squeak and suddenly a whole school of them arrive!  They seem to be quite
enamoured of you and happily try to play tag.  They entertain you for a
while, until one of them unwisely splashes seawater directly into your
eyes!  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A large gull drifts gracefully on the air currents.
A dolphin playfully splashes about in the water!
A dolphin playfully splashes about in the water!
A dolphin playfully splashes about in the water!

The blurring of your surroundings are no more pleasant than the first time, and you land hard on the ground.

You feel the sharp pain in your side, worse this time, as if something in your cloak is poking you.

Noni groans and slowly rises to her feet, feeling for whatever is poking at her.

there is an oddly shaped piece of crystal stuck in your cloak

Noni examines the crystal, wondering where it came from.

it is made of plain quartz

you don't recognize it, and have no idea where it came from.

Noni looks around to figure out where she is.

Noni thinks to herself 'Emyn Muil. Should i do this task? Is it worth the risk? If this dagger is to be used for greater e
vil, it would be worth my life to not fetch it. But he could always send another...'

Noni stands straighter, mind made up. 'I do not know what this thing is for, but I cannot unless I find it. If it proves t
oo dangerous, I can try to dispose of it myself.'

Noni drops (Rang) a whirlwind of twigs and leaves and steps into it.

Ithil Road (Anduin River)
  You are now standing in the captured province of Ithilien, now firmly
under the control of Sauron and his Nazgul servants.  The road continues
west to the Ithil crossroads and returns east to the desolate valley of
Morgul Vale.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni walks west.
Ithilien Crossroads (Anduin River)
  Two great roads cross here, the Ithil Road which leads from Minas
Morgul to the banks of the Anduin and the Harad Road which leads down over
the Poros into the lands of the Haradrim.  The road to the south also leads
to the Ruins of Osgiliath.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni walks west.
Ithil Road (Anduin River)
  You stand in the captured province of Ithilien, now firmly under the
control of Sauron and his Nazgul servants. The road continues east to the
Ithil crossroads and west to the Anduin crossing into Gondor.
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni walks west.
White Bridge (Anduin River)
  A magnificent white bridge marks the crossing of the Andiun from
Ithilien into the lands of Gondor.  A line of Forts protects Minas Tirith,
so it is only possible to follow the great river.  You can head upstream
into the Anduin Vales or down-stream towards the Pelargir crossing.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni walks north.
Anduin River (Anduin River)
  The river flows swiftly, passing grassy plains on both banks.  Here and
there the sound of the current is broken by the splash of a fish raiding
the to snack on an insect or two.  The river continues to the north and
south.  A small bank lies to the west.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni walks north.
Anduin River (Anduin River)
  Still swift, the river now pass forest on the west bank, with more of the
Ithilien plains to the east. Here and there the sound of the current is broken 
by the splash of a fish raiding the surface to  snack on a insect or two.  The 
river continues to the north and south.
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni walks north.
Foam on the Anduin (Anduin River)
  The Anduin splits for a few miles as it sweeps round Cair Andros, a
large fortified island in the middle of the river.  As you pass by a number
of the Gondorian Archers here let fly with an arrow or two!  Lucky for you
the Anduin is so swift here.  All around foam and small whirlpools are
through together turning the river into swift rapids.  The river continues
north and south.  It is possible to land on Cair Andros to the west.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni walks north.
Anduin River (Anduin River)
  The river continues to flow swiftly, passing a forest on the Anorien
side and through dark rolling hills on the Ithilien bank.  The only sounds
are the noise of the thundering current and the occasional trumpet blast
from the south.  To the north a high waterfall is becoming visible, the
Fall of Rauros.  The river course runs north and south, while to the west
lies Ered Nimrais.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni walks north.
Anduin River (Anduin River)
  The river continues to flow swiftly, merging with the flow of the
Entwash to the west.  Dark rolling hills pass by on the Ithilien bank.  The
only sounds are the noise of the thundering current and the occasional
trumpet blast from the south.  To the north a high waterfall has become
visible, the Fall of Rauros.  The river continues to the north and south,
and west into the Entwash.  To the east a road leads to the Dead Marshes.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni walks north.
Below the Falls of Rauros (Anduin River)
  The mighty roar of the Falls of Rauros thunders all around you.  The
splash and foam from the backwash nearly swamps your little boat.  As you
become more accustomed to the spray and noise of the fall, you begin to see
a canal with a lock system on the east bank.  It seems to be in good enough
repair to take you easily through the thunderous falls.  A small footpath
leading to a wide forest lies north of here.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni walks north.
A Footpath into the Hills (Emyn Muil)
      =======================================
                      Emyn Muil
      =======================================
      This area is for VERY HIGH players only
                 Please use Caution!!!
 
The hills on the eastern side of the Anduin lay up ahead in the
distance.  The rushing of the river, along with the crash of the Falls of
Rauros makes it very noisy.  A dense forest can be seen beyond the hills.
A small footpath leads north into the hills.
     A very ancient looking helm of iron lies on its side. [GH][excellent]
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
The sliced-off leg of the Queen fire ant is floating here.

Noni walks north.
A Footpath into the Hills (Emyn Muil)
  The path is starting to narrow as the hills roll off further to the
north.  The sound of a strong river can be heard from a distance.  Far
away to the west, the Anduin can be seen.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni walks north.
A Footpath into the Hills (Emyn Muil)
  The path narrows slightly here, to squeeze in between two large mounds. 
The hills are just to the north now, rolling off into the distance.  The
river is still quite loud and still inaccessible from this point.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni walks north.
In the Eastern Hills (Emyn Muil)
  The hills roll out to the north and west.  Their rounded green peaks
bring a sense of quiet and peace in a time of such discomfort and war. 
Animals can be seen scurrying about the hills and down towards the river. 
A path can be seen leading west towards the Anduin.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A white coyote is here, looking for prey.
A white coyote roars furiously and jumps at you!


In the Eastern Hills (Emyn Muil)
  Continuing along the hills, this point is one of the highest among the
other hills.  A coyote is here, looking for any animals grazing on the
grass.  The hills continue east, west and north.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A white coyote is here, looking for prey.

The Eastern Forest (Emyn Muil) 
  The forest casts an eerie glow upon the surroundings.  The green trees
here prevent much sunlight from shining through them.  As a result, very
little grass grows at the base of most of the tress.  A clearing can be
seen to the north, while the forest continues west.  

Noni makes her way toward Emyn Muil. Once there, she hesitates, unsure of where to begin her hunt.

Noni puts some things in something.

Noni decides that picking a direction and starting there is better than thinking about it all day, and she heads off.

In the Eastern Hills (Emyn Muil)
  The eastern hills are covered in emerald green grass.  The occasional
tree can be seen growing on the hills, offering some shade from the hot
sun.  Forest creatures run about here, without a care in the world.  The
hills continue north and east, while a trail can be seen to the west.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A silent fox is looking for food.

Noni looks all around.

A Misty Trail (Emyn Muil)
  The hills turn to a small dirt trail which leads down towards the falls.
A light mist rises from the falls and covers the trail and the
surroundings.  The trail continues below while the hills lie back to the
east.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A wary adventurer is here, treading softly.


Noni looks at a wary adventurer.

A Misty Trail (Emyn Muil)
  Continuing along the trail, more mist pours off of the falls.  The mist
forms a blanket on the surroundings making it difficult to see the trail at
your feet.  The trail continues below and above.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni looks all around.

A Misty Trail (Emyn Muil)
  Mist from the falls shades the surroundings and not even objects more
than a feet away can be seen.  The path continues to the west towards the
falls, while above lies the path back to the hills.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A wary adventurer is here, treading softly.
A wary adventurer is here, treading softly.

A Misty Trail (Emyn Muil)
  The trail continues here, which leads towards the banks of the Anduin
River.  The mist that pours off from the great falls is immense and hides
the surrounding landscape.  The trail continues west to the banks or east
towards the hills.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A wary adventurer is here, treading softly.
A wary adventurer is here, treading softly.


Noni looks all around.

Noni falls silent as she meditates.
Noni utters the words, 'gaiqhjabral'.

Noni falls silent as she meditates.
Noni utters the words, 'gaiqhjabral'.
Noni is surrounded by a white aura.

On the Banks (Emyn Muil)
  The banks of the Anduin River are soft and muddy.  The water rushes
against the side of the banks, which causes the mud to lose its texture. 
The great Anduin River flows to the west, while a trail lies to the east.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni looks all around.

A Misty Trail (Emyn Muil)
  The trail continues here, which leads towards the banks of the Anduin
River.  The mist that pours off from the great falls is immense and hides
the surrounding landscape.  The trail continues west to the banks or east
towards the hills.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A wary adventurer is here, treading softly.
A wary adventurer is here, treading softly.

A Misty Trail (Emyn Muil)
  Mist from the falls shades the surroundings and not even objects more
than a feet away can be seen.  The path continues to the west towards the
falls, while above lies the path back to the hills.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A wary adventurer is here, treading softly.
A wary adventurer is here, treading softly.

A Misty Trail (Emyn Muil)
  Continuing along the trail, more mist pours off of the falls.  The mist
forms a blanket on the surroundings making it difficult to see the trail at
your feet.  The trail continues below and above.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

A Misty Trail (Emyn Muil)
  The hills turn to a small dirt trail which leads down towards the falls.
A light mist rises from the falls and covers the trail and the
surroundings.  The trail continues below while the hills lie back to the
east.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A wary adventurer is here, treading softly.

In the Eastern Hills (Emyn Muil)
  The eastern hills are covered in emerald green grass.  The occasional
tree can be seen growing on the hills, offering some shade from the hot
sun.  Forest creatures run about here, without a care in the world.  The
hills continue north and east, while a trail can be seen to the west.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A silent fox is looking for food.

In the Eastern Hills (Emyn Muil)
  The green hills of Emyn Muil continue here.  A pack of wolves is
crouching in the tall grass, scanning the horizon for any prey or
predators.  The hills continue towards the north, east and south.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
[.H...........] A white wolf is here, ready to attack.
[.H...........] A white wolf is here, ready to attack.

In the Eastern Hills (Emyn Muil)
  Now on the eastern side of the Anduin, tall hills, covered in lush green
grass stand before you.  A deer can be seen grazing on the grass as well as
the occasional bird, busily singing a melody.  The hills continue south and
east.  A large forest is to the north.  
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A bird is here, singing a merry tune.
A deer is here, grazing on the grass.

The Eastern Forest (Emyn Muil) 
  The forest casts an eerie glow upon the surroundings.  The green trees
here prevent much sunlight from shining through them.  As a result, very
little grass grows at the base of most of the tress.  A clearing can be
seen to the north, while the forest continues west.  
     A body lies here with a dagger in its chest. [excellent]
[..........S.W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

the body of a man lies on the forest floor.

There is a dagger in his chest, and both his hands are wrapped around the hilt.

Noni approaches slowly, trying to examine the corpse and dagger without touching either.

its hard to see the dagger, his hands cover the hilt and his chest covers the blade.

Noni reaches out and tries to remove the body's hands from the dagger, and the dagger from it's chest.

the hands are stiff and cold

Noni pries the hands off the hilt with some effort.

Noni gets A Runed Dagger from A corpse.

the dagger slides out easily.

the hilt of the dagger is a single large ruby, with a green rune : $

Noni turns the dagger over in her hands, examining it.

the blady is black onyx, covered in blood.

you notice an oddly shaped slot between the blade and the hilt, it looks somehow familiar . . .

Noni takes the crystal out of her pocket, holding it next to the slot to see if they match.

They are a perfect match!

Noni glances at the body once more, seeing a journal.  She puts the crystal back in her pocket and reaches toward the book
, still holding the dagger in hand.

Noni gets A journal from A corpse.

Noni thinks to herself, Putting this odd crystal and the odder still dagger together may not be a good idea. I do not know
 what it will do or what they are for. Perhaps this journal will shed some light on this situation.'

Noni takes the journal from the body, looking at it closely to make sure nothing magical will happen if she opens it.

it looks like an ordinary book, but thick.

you page through the journal, reading bits here and there:

(journal) While I possess the dagger I am safe, but he never leaves me alone.  He hates the dagger, yet he is drawn
 to it.

(journal) He slays those around me, I cannot protect them.  I flee to save them, or they drive me away, and always 
he follows.

This page of the journal contains a detailed drawing of the dagger, showing the ruby hilt and the onyx blade.

In the diagram the blade is labeled power, the hilt is labeled bane.

(journal) He would have me destroy the dagger in his hatred of it, but destroying the object of his desire would dr
ive him insane.  He would slay me in his anger.

(journal) There is power in the blade to destroy him, yet while the hilt is there he will never approach.  There is
 no solution.

the journal entries have become more and more scrawled, this last entry is almost impossible to read:

(journal) Doom, doom take us both but he will not go.  I must break it but it is one.  I must break us before we ar
e one.

Noni murmurs 'A cursed blade...' She looks with curiosity and not a little fear at the dagger once again.

Noni turns back to the page with the drawing, looking to see if the crystal is drawn as a part of the dagger.

Unfortunately, the joint between the blade and the dagger is smudged.  The crystal is not visible on the page.

Noni chews on her lip with frustration.

Noni thinks to herself of her next move. 'I need to know what I am up against. Who exactly is this Aragag? And what is thi
s dagger? If there are legends about them, maybe they can help me decide what to do..'

Noni decides to ask the one person who has always been there to give advice, whether wanted or not. 'If anyone would have 
any information on the subject, or knows who would, it would be Tuel."

Noni takes another moment to study the corpse, so it's image is fresh enough in her mind to be able to describe and recogn
ize it.

Noni then starts back toward her home.


Noni prays, 'RECALL!'
Noni disappears.

The Hall of Healing (Northern Rangers) 
  The trees surrounding you are closed tightly, forming a natural wall. 
An aura confined within the room invades your nostrils, pervading your body
and providing a refreshment which you have never before felt.  The hammocks
strung about the room tempt you with comfort to further relieve you of your
weariness, but you calmly retain your composure.  
( 2) A hammock is here, suspended between two trees. [excellent]
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
Tuel the Healer is here, weaving spells of curative power in the forest.

Tuel says 'welcome back noni!'

Noni smiles widely at Tuel.

Noni says 'It is good to be back. Though' she hesitates a bit 'I must admit I have a bit of a situation.'

Tuel says 'hmmm, trouble in the forest?  anything I can do to help?'

Tuel Is a tall man with a fair face stands before you.  He is clothed in a long,
white robe.  The slightest movement causes his robe to shimmer with a
brilliant, benevolent light.  His eyes glow with youth and energy.  

Noni says 'Not exactly in the forest.'

Tuel raises an eyebrow.

Noni says 'Does the name Agragag mean anything to you?'

Tuel says 'hmmmm, now there's a name i've not heard in a long time.'

Noni perks up. 'So you *have* heard it?'

Tuel says 'Agragag was a powerful mage of old.  he is long dead now i suppose, but in his day he was quiet strong.'

Noni drinks milk from (Rang) a waterskin filled with rainwater.

Tuel says 'where did you hear of agragag, have you been spending time in the library instead of the woods?'

Noni sits on the edge of a hammock, sighing and biting at her lip.

Tuel rests in a hammock.

Noni says 'Not the library, my friend. I saw him. Aragag, I mean.'

Tuel says 'What?  You must be mistaken, he lived over a thousand years ago.'

Noni looks up at Tuel intently. 'That is why I need to know as much about him as I can. He sent me to do something, and I 
need to know if I should.'

Tuel says 'he lives?  no mage is powerful enough to stave of death for that long . .'

Noni shrugs and says 'That is the name he gave me. Whether they are the same or not, I do not know.'

Noni says 'And I do not know if I would call him 'alive'.'

Noni says 'The one who gave me that name was a wraith.'

Noni says 'Or so it seemed to me.'

Tuel pales slightly.

Tuel says 'oh my, your path has taken a dark turn indeed.'

Noni leans toward him, worriedly. 'What do you mean?'


Noni says 'Who is - was he?'

Tuel says 'a mage as powerful as Agragag would gain even more power in an undead state.  I would advise you to stay away f
rom him if at all possible.'

Noni says sadly 'I do not know if that is possible. It was by no choice of mine that we met. And we will no doubt meet aga
in, and only on whose terms will be up to me.'

Noni cocks her head. 'What happened to him?'

Tuel says 'the legends portray him as a powerful mage, they say nothing of his death.  Apparently his death was less than 
complete.'

Tuel says 'how did your first meeting with him end?'

Grey Clouds fill the sky.

Noni chews her lip and stares past the trees. 'He told me to fetch a dagger for him. He said I would be well rewarded for 
it if I complied...and doomed if I did not.' She blinks, and pulls the dagger out of her cloak, holding it between them. '
This is what he sought.'

Noni says 'I do not know if handing it over to him is wise, however.'

Tuel says 'hmmm, let me see that.'

Noni hands the dagger to Tuel.


Noni says 'I found it on - or rather *in* - a corpse. Along with this journal.'

Noni takes out the journal, handing it to him as well.

Tuel examines it, paying special attention to the rune on the hilt and the slot.

Tuel pages through the journal, frowning at the smudge on the page with the diagram

Tuel says 'well.  That clears some things up I think.'

Noni say 'Oh!'and pulls out the crystal from her pocket. 'I found this on me before i set out.'

Tuel pounces on the crystal and compares it to the slot.

Noni says 'I did not want to put on, in case it was magical in nature.'

Tuel seems quite pleased to see that they match.

Tuel stands up.

Noni follows him with her eyes as he stands.

Tuel begins to pace back and forth as he explains.

Noni says 'Do you know the dagger?'

Tuel says 'Agragag forged the blade to this dagger.  it was originally mounted in a wooden hilt, bound with iron.'

Tuel says 'he poured a great deal of his power into the blade, and used it well.'

Tuel says 'i know not the story of how this hilt was attached, but i can see that it was made by a different mage.'

Tuel shows you the digram page in the journal, with the blade labeled power and hilt labeled bain.

Noni says 'So...'

Tuel says 'in his undead state, agragag is drawn to his own power than he can sense in the blade.'

Tuel says 'however, the hilt was spelled specifically to be anathema to him.  It cannot kill him, but he cannot approach t
o closely to it.'

Noni says 'To make sure he would not weild the blades power again?'

Tuel says 'Most likely.  The hilt and blade are bound together with powerful magic.'

Tuel says 'They are almost impossible to seperate, without the propey key.'

Noni glances at the crystal. 'Could it be..?'

Tuel holds up the bit of crystal, then pops it into the slot on the dagger.

the blade slides neatly out of the hilt and falls to the floor.

Noni gasps in alarm.

Tuel says 'what?  its ok.'


Tuel slides the hilt back onto the blade, and the crystal pops neatly out into his hand.

Tuel says 'see?'

Noni had jumped to her feet startled, but relaxed at his assuring words.

Noni says 'I   see.'

Tuel says 'Agragag's own power in the blade may be the only means to destroy him.'

Noni chews on her lip. 'He would do much for this blade to be removed, wouldn't he?' She looks up at Tuel with wide eyes.

Tuel says 'indeed, his drive to possess it would be unimaginable, he seeks it as you would seek your right eye.'

Tuel says 'The former owner of this journal apparently found out how strong that drive was . . . it looks like he was hunt
ed relentlessly.'

Tuel says 'i don't understand what he means about Agragag wanting him to destroy it.  The destruction of this blade would 
undoubtably destroy whatever sanity still remains to Agragag.'

Noni says 'Perhaps...perhaps it is what is keeping him in this world. But no, that does not make sense. The journal says h
e would be angry and kill whoever destroyed the blade.'

Noni chews her lip thoughtfully.

Tuel says 'Heh, angry is not the word, he would be insane.'

Noni nods slightly.

Tuel says 'perhaps with the might of the entire alliance we might be able to defeat this wraith . . .'

Noni looks uncertain. 'The wraith seemed very powerful. I do not think we would be able to find enough Rangers and get the
m together long enough to destroy him. I would rather not risk my kin.'

Noni says 'And there would surely be casualties regardless. I cannot do that.'

Tuel says 'Indeed.  Even if we defeated him, doubtless many of us would die.'

Noni says 'That is unacceptable.'

Noni says 'No, even if I must die destroying this blade to rid us of the Wraith, it would be better than any of the other 
Rangers dying.'

Tuel says 'Hmmm, that would be sad.  I don't know what to do.'

Noni says 'Nor do I.'

Noni sighs. 'I may need to speak again with this wraith. He cannot be in possession of the dagger whilst the hilt is joine
d to the blade. If I leave the Crystal Key in your keeping, he would not be able to get it off of me.'

Noni says 'And even were something to happen to me, you and Billy could hold him off and keep from the Hall. That is assum
ing he even knows of the Key.'

Tuel says 'Hmmm, he could not harm you personally, but remember the journal.  he would strike at you through those around 
you.'

Noni's face falls.

Noni says 'That is true.'

Noni says 'I still think it would be best for me not to have the crystal. If the blade will make him more powerful, it is 
best to leave all temptation of removing it behind.'

Tuel says 'If only we knew more about the spells on the hilt and the blade.  There is only one place that might have it.'

Noni says 'Where?'

Tuel says 'The library at Isengard.'

Noni says 'Isengard.'

Noni says 'Then to Isengard I must go.'

Tuel says 'beware, it is overrun with evil these days.  Tready lightly.'

Noni says 'I always do.'

Noni dazzles Tuel with a smile.

Tuel says 'do you know where the library is in Isengard?'

Noni says 'It has been long since I have travelled in those parts.'

Noni says 'Perhaps you could refresh my memory?'

Tuel says 'It is in the tower, on the first floor, west side.'

Noni drinks milk from (Rang) a waterskin filled with rainwater.

Tuel says 'seek out the volume called "A history of Emyn Beraid".  You should find information about the hilt, and 
hopefully something helpful.'

Noni says 'Then I shall go immediately. There is not much time left to spend.'

Tuel says 'take all the pieces for now, in case you need to compare them to the text'

Tuel returns the dagger and the piece of crystal to Noni.

Tuel hugs Noni, how SweeT!

Tuel waves goodbye to Noni.

Tuel says 'May your dark path lead you to peace.'

Noni smiles.

Noni drops (Rang) a whirlwind of twigs and leaves and steps into it.

East*West Crossroads (Minas Morgul)
  This is where the various traders of Middle-earth gathered in ancient
times.  Now they gather in Market Square to sell their goods to any travel
willing to spend thier money.  Below the tower, and north of the Guild
Square, you see the enormous East*West road expand in all its glory, for
this is a beginning -- an outlet to Middle-earth.  Please read the note
'look note'.  
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Crossroads East*West (Minas Morgul)
  As the street nears the squares in the middle of Minas Morgul the crush
seems to get worse.  Off to one side of the road a pair of urchins seem to
be fighting over a small creature that looks like it may have been run over
by a cart.  Do you think they want to eat it or rescue it?
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Crossroads East*West (Minas Morgul)
  You find it hard work trying to force your way through the crowds of
people on the city's main through road.  What with visitors making their way
east into the center and adventurous types heading west into the wilds, it's
amazing anybody gets anywhere.  
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Inside the West Gate (Minas Morgul)
  Standing inside the city it amazes you how busy it is.  Day or night
there is always somebody wanting to leave or enter.  Only in times of war
are the huge gates shut, and then nobody comes or goes without an arrow to
lead their way.  
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Outside the West Gate (Minas Morgul)
  You are standing on the outskirts of Minas Morgul, on the outside of the
west gate leading into town.  Now you are ready to travel the dangerous
roads that may hold your death.  Be wary and remember don't trust anyone.  
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Morgul Vale (Anduin River)
  You stand in the captured province of Ithilien, now firmly under the
control of Sauron and his Nazgul servants.  Already the land is showing
signs of their presence, with piles of slag and debris lining the vale
edges.  The desolation will surely continue until all of Middle-Earth is
under their rule.  A road leads west into the Ithilien Plains and to the
east is the Great Gate of Minas Morgul.  
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Ithil Road (Anduin River)
  You are now standing in the captured province of Ithilien, now firmly
under the control of Sauron and his Nazgul servants.  The road continues
west to the Ithil crossroads and returns east to the desolate valley of
Morgul Vale.  
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Ithilien Crossroads (Anduin River)
  Two great roads cross here, the Ithil Road which leads from Minas
Morgul to the banks of the Anduin and the Harad Road which leads down over
the Poros into the lands of the Haradrim.  The road to the south also leads
to the Ruins of Osgiliath.  
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Ithil Road (Anduin River)
  You stand in the captured province of Ithilien, now firmly under the
control of Sauron and his Nazgul servants. The road continues east to the
Ithil crossroads and west to the Anduin crossing into Gondor.
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White Bridge (Anduin River)
  A magnificent white bridge marks the crossing of the Andiun from
Ithilien into the lands of Gondor.  A line of Forts protects Minas Tirith,
so it is only possible to follow the great river.  You can head upstream
into the Anduin Vales or down-stream towards the Pelargir crossing.  
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Anduin River (Anduin River)
  The river flows swiftly, passing grassy plains on both banks.  Here and
there the sound of the current is broken by the splash of a fish raiding
the to snack on an insect or two.  The river continues to the north and
south.  A small bank lies to the west.  
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Anduin River (Anduin River)
  Still swift, the river now pass forest on the west bank, with more of the
Ithilien plains to the east. Here and there the sound of the current is broken 
by the splash of a fish raiding the surface to  snack on a insect or two.  The 
river continues to the north and south.
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Foam on the Anduin (Anduin River)
  The Anduin splits for a few miles as it sweeps round Cair Andros, a
large fortified island in the middle of the river.  As you pass by a number
of the Gondorian Archers here let fly with an arrow or two!  Lucky for you
the Anduin is so swift here.  All around foam and small whirlpools are
through together turning the river into swift rapids.  The river continues
north and south.  It is possible to land on Cair Andros to the west.  
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Anduin River (Anduin River)
  The river continues to flow swiftly, passing a forest on the Anorien
side and through dark rolling hills on the Ithilien bank.  The only sounds
are the noise of the thundering current and the occasional trumpet blast
from the south.  To the north a high waterfall is becoming visible, the
Fall of Rauros.  The river course runs north and south, while to the west
lies Ered Nimrais.  
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Anduin River (Anduin River)
  The river continues to flow swiftly, merging with the flow of the
Entwash to the west.  Dark rolling hills pass by on the Ithilien bank.  The
only sounds are the noise of the thundering current and the occasional
trumpet blast from the south.  To the north a high waterfall has become
visible, the Fall of Rauros.  The river continues to the north and south,
and west into the Entwash.  To the east a road leads to the Dead Marshes.  
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Mouth of the Entwash
  A myriad of water courses cut through this swampy delta. All around
fish and water fowl play and fish in the soft flow.  The thundering
noise to the east must be its junction with the Anduin.  To the south
are the plains of northern Gondor, where the Rohan now roam. The
quiet waters of the Entwash continue east.
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Along the Entwash 
  The soft gentle waters of the Entwash sweep pass the many towns
of Rohan. Here and there on the water a bird sweeps down to snare
a fish from the water. The late summer heat drains you of energy
and you just sit back in the boat and joy the sweet music of the river. 
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Path to the Dwimorberg
  You are walking on a path that sees little use, rocks, weeds and logs
are everywhere making it hard to keep good footing.  As you look up a dark
and evil looking mountain looms above you, the path leads further south. 
To the east lies Edoras.  
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Path to the Dwimorberg
  Traveling on the path further you start to get an uneasy feeling, for
the first time you notice complete silence.  No birds chirping, leaves
rustling or water running, you start to wonder if the tales are true about
the "haunted mountain".  
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

A Winding Trail through South Nan Curnuir
  The trail drifts off to the West.  The eerie silence makes your skin
crawl with fear and anticipation.  Nothing is moving.  Nothing is breathing,
not even you!  Throwing caution to the wind you travel onward.  
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

A Winding Trail through South Nan Curnuir
  The trail makes a slow turn to the North.  Peering into the distance you
can see the shadows of a Walled City.  A brilliant Spire spikes into the
clouds.  An aura of Evil surrounds you as Isengard beckons.  The road to
the west leads on to the Fords and the Gap of Rohan.  
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Before Isengard (Isengard)
  You stand before the magnificent city of Isengard.  The large city walls
tower above you.  Your gaze moves toward the large Tower in the middle of
the city.  Its height is astounding, and you feel dizzy looking up at it. 
North is the gate leading into the city streets.  
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The lumbering guard standing here looks as bad as he smells.

Main Street (Isengard)
  Streets continue in every direction.  You see small buildings to the
northwest and northeast.  City guards roam the streets, as if expecting an
invasion.  Exits lead north, south, east, and west.  
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
The lumbering guard standing here looks as bad as he smells.

Southern Street (Isengard)
  The Tower of Isengard lies north of here, while to the east and west are
two small buildings.  Uruk-hai guards accompanied by great white wolves are
everywhere, so the only safe place to go is south, back out of the city. 
Exits lead north, east, south, and west.  
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Town Square (Isengard)
  You are standing just south of the Great Tower of Isengard.  Its
pristine beauty holds you captivated.  Peering north you can see a flight
of stairs that must lead up into the mighty tower.  The Town Square runs
east and west.  
     A Black Marble Fountain bubbles milk from the bowels of the Earth. [excellent]
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
The lumbering guard standing here looks as bad as he smells.
A Corporal walks the streets of Isengard.

Steps up the Tower (Isengard)
  You gaze up in wonder at the steps before you.  Black marble stones
connect together to make the tower and steps.  You know this was the work
of the finest dwarven craftsmanship.  You take your first steps up and feel
the evil eye of Sauron's wizard from above.  
     A large piece of a quest prize lies here. [GF][excellent]
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
The Captain watches his troops.

Steps up the Tower (Isengard)
  A massive iron door lies to the west leading to the first floor of the
tower.  Steps leading up to the lofty heights of the Tower Peak can be
seen.  A shudder runs through your body as you sense the awesome Evil that
prevails inside the Tower.  
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni opens the door.

First floor (Isengard)
  You have found your way into the first floor.  There are books lined up
against the wall.  If you stayed here for a year you would not be able to
read them all.  Glancing around the room you notice and assortment of
tables and chairs arranged to allow access to the best light for reading.  
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A student of the Black Arts is working quietly in the corner.
A student of the Black Arts is working quietly in the corner.
A student of the Black Arts is working quietly in the corner.

Noni smiles.

First floor (Isengard)
  A large comfortable Reading Room has been provided for the studious or
curious.  Large padded sofas offer the perfect place to rest, relax and
read.  Even the most humble servants of the Tower find time to read.  
     The large sofa looks just right for a short nap or a good book. [excellent]
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

First floor (Isengard)
  This room contains books, books, and more books.  Two bookshelves stand
against the walls.  Additional bookcases fill the room with even more
books.  An old librarian shushes you as you walk by.  
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.
A plainly dressed woman with thick glasses is busy sorting books here.

Noni looks all around.

First floor (Isengard)
  A large comfortable Reading Room has been provided for the studious or
curious.  Large padded sofas offer the perfect place to rest, relax and
read.  Even the most humble servants of the Tower find time to read.  
     The large sofa looks just right for a short nap or a good book. [excellent]
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

Noni searches the library for the book Tuel mentioned, making sure to keep out of sight of the residents of the Tower.

after poring over the stacks of books for some time, you find what you are seeking.

Noni pulls the tome off the shelf and finds a secluded corner where she most likely will not be seen. Settling herself dow
n, she opens the book and pores through it, looking for anyhing yhat might look useful.

the book says 'The Ruby hilt was created and joined to the blade by Agragag's enemy, 

a rival mage named Smook.  He stole the blade, and joined it to the hilt to prevent Agragag from ever regaining the
 power he poured into the hilt.

No ones knows the fate of the two mages, it is rumored that they went into the wilderness to settle there differenc
es, and neither returned.

You skim ahead to the details of the spells used on the hilt.

"Smook enchanted the hilt with a powerful and specific spell, that will repel only Agragag.  The spell will termina
te when Agragag meets his end, or when the hilt itself is destroyed.

"the hilt is protected by powerful enchantments however, and a means to destroy it is unknown.

"however, many have theorized that if enough heat were apllied it would overload the spell, and release the powerf 
of the spell in a single powerful burst"

Noni pauses to think on that a moment before continuing her reading.

the effects of releasing this much power at once are unkown, but since the original spell only affects Agragag, rel
easing it is likely to affect him unpleasantly as well.

The only information about the blade in the book is what you already know, that it was forged by Agragag and contai
ns much of his power, most likely enough to destroy him.

Noni sighs.

Noni sneaks the book back to its righful place after determining she can get no more information from it.

Noni decides there is likely no more information available to her, so with a deep breath, she takes Nelestu in hand and ac
tivates the scroll.

First floor (Isengard)
  A large comfortable Reading Room has been provided for the studious or
curious.  Large padded sofas offer the perfect place to rest, relax and
read.  Even the most humble servants of the Tower find time to read.  
     The large sofa looks just right for a short nap or a good book. [excellent]
[............W] Noni Just Married!!!! is here.

you hear Agragag's voice 'Do you have the dagger?'

others around you here the voice as well, you hear surprised exclamations nearby.

Noni looks around warily, alarmed that she might be seen in the Tower of the Enemies.

Noni softly as possible, she answers 'Yes, I have it.'

the voice says 'EXCELLENT!'

Noni winces at the volume of the voice in the otherwise quiet of the library.

you hear pounding feet heading towards you

A Barrage of Lava (Mount Doom)
  The lava leaps out of the mountain, attacking everything around it.  No
part of the mountain for a large radius around the source is uncovered. 
Survival at this point seems bleak.  Nothing escapes the wrath of the Fire
Mountain.  
     Red hot lava covers the ground. [F][excellent]
[......F...S..] The fire of Mount Doom leaps forth and surrounds you.


Noni arrives from a puff of smoke.

Agragag arrives from a puff of smoke.

Agragag says 'I sense it's presence.  Well done, your "reward" is near.'

Agragag is acting oddly, edging closer to you, then jumping back again, but always staying several yards away from 
you.

Agragag says 'Th-T-Throw it into the lava.'

Noni narrows her eyes. 'And what would you do if I did?'

Noni says 'Would that not destroy your treasure?'

Noni looks all around.

Agragag says 'why, i would give you your reward of course.  This is why i brought you here.'

Noni 's lip twitches into an ironic smile. 'And what reward would that be?' She sheathes Nelestu and draws his Dagger, her
 other hand slowly reaching for the crystal.

Agragag frowns.

The sun slowly falls behind the horizon to the west.

Agragag says 'Its is difficult for me to concentrate on your reward while the dagger is near.  Destroy it and I'm sure we 
can come to a reasonable agreement.'

when you draw the dagger, his eyes are fixed permanently fixed on the blade, and his agitation increases

Noni crouches, ready to move. 'Very well.' With a flick of her wrist she slams the crystal into the dagger.

as the dagger seperates, Agragag's eyes go wide and he starts to ask 'how?'

Noni gives him no time to ask, however, before she flings the hilt into the lava, hoping she read the book correctly in wh
at the heat will do.

Agragag 's eyes seem to glaze over, and his arms fall to his side.  He begins to drift towards the blade as though pulled 
by a leash.

Noni springs toward the Aragag with his blade in hand.

Agragag 's head turns to follow the blade, but other than that he does not react to you.

Noni aims the weapon to kill as swiftly as possible, not sure how long the magic will keep him still.

Noni aims instictively at his throat, calling upon her years of training to strike true.

Agragag releases a gurgling shriek of pain and covers his neck with his hands, as fire and black blood pours from t
he wound.

The tear in the wraith's essence grows longer and deeper, until in a flash of light, he is gone.

Noni stays where she landed, half-crouched and panting, looking around warily in case he is not really gone.

the blade in your hand melts away in the black wraiths blood.