You are so excited.  A friend has recommended a Dungeon and Dragon type PC game called Darkstone.  She said in this game you are an adventurer that must travel through a series of dungeons, seaching the pieces of a magical crystal.  In the game there are 8 pieces of the crystal  thus 8 dungeons to master.  A great wizard will appear who will meld the 8 crystals into the Time Orb.  With the Time Orb you can stop Lord Dracus from revitalizing himself, thus defeating him.  Lord Dracus is a great wizard who has gone bad, very bad, and has released an army of animal like minions who are terrorizing the villagers.  There are rumors that he is able to tranform himself into a dragon!
   You have read the basic manual that came with the game.  It merely stated the general outline of the story.  So you must wing it throughout the game, figuring it out as you go.  You put the CD-rom into the pc.  The game opens with a boom of thunder and a flash of light.  The flash of light is so bright it seems actually real.   You experience a sense of vertigo.
    Wow, the special effects must be awesome, you think, as the images on the screen seem to magnify.
   You find yourself at the gate of a fortified medieval town.  You feel as if you could reach out and rub your hands on the wooden posts.  In fact, you do, thinking you'll just touch the smooth screen of the monitor.  You yelp as you feel the prick of a splinter.  You put your finger to your mouth, tasting blood.
   Wow, great special effects, you think.
   There are 2 guards standing at the gate of the town.  They are brandishing tall lances.  They seem to be conversing among themselves.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:29, Fri 30 Dec 2005.

I examine my wound, scrutinizing it, checking it over in my head to see if its some phantom or delusion. When satisfied that it feels like every other splinter thats bedeviled my finger, I reach out, and carefully break off a small sliver of the gate.

I weigh it in my hands, bounce it up and down several times.  Look over it, and frown.

This has all the characteristics of reality. Indeed, my dreams are in now way so detailed, and I'm not sure I've ever experienced true pain in a dream.  I stand up, tapping the ground with my foot to see if it does anything odd like fade away into mist.

Hmm. Hmm.

I bow my head a notch, and whisper a quick prayer.

"Not sure what I've gotten myself into, God, but I wouldn't mind a little wisdom and protection from my stupidity about now."  Feeling calmer, I step up to the guards, noting their well-made, and well-used armor. Its better stuff than most SCAers, and thats saying something.

"Um, excuse me. I know this may be a silly question, but what town is this?"

PT

  The guard laughs and gives you a hearty clap on the back.  "you are a jester as always old friend.  Why this is your home village of Thros in the land of Ardyl.  Or have you forgotten, while away searching for wealth and glory across the Sea of Mist.  Ah, I wish I could have traveled with you, but I had just gotten married and I don't think my wife would have appreciated a short honeymoon." he laughs.
  Then he looks somber, "ah but it's dark times my old friend.  You must remember Lord Dracus, the great and mighty wizard.  Well, it's as the Monks of Worl always say, absolute power corrupts absolutely. He has gone dark.  There is rumors that he can now change himself to a dragon.  He has summoned all the dark minions from the bowels of the earth to his command.  All the villagers in all the lands are afraid to venture from the safety of the fortified walls, day or night."
   Then he brightens, "but you are home now!  Lord Drakus has always feared you, for you have trained under the Fathers of Might in the arts of war and have found favor with the Witch Gandor.  I am sure now that you are home, things will brighten  as the word of your return spreads to the villages of this land!  For only those of your family can weild the Time Orb."
  Then he smacks himself on the head, "but you don't know!  Lord Dracus has smashed the Time Orb.  It is the only magical object Lord Dracus  fears, for it has the power to drain any wizard of his or her power.  It is rumored he has scattered the 8 pieces all over the land.  I've heard of many warriors venturing out to retrieve them and return them to the Monks of Worl in the land of Serkesh, but I haven't heard if they have succeeded.  This will be just the thing for such an adventurer as you!  I'd like to tag alone though," he says with a sigh, "but I have just become a father and must stay at home."
    "ah, but I"m rambling.  I'm sure you must be tired after your journey.  You'll find everything in the village hasn't changed since you've left.  Even the old innkeeper, Gron, is still plying his trade. And of course old Grem, the apothecary, is still hanging around.  Sam's son Stan is now running the blacksmith shop."
   He gives you another hearty clap on the back. "again, welcome back old friend.  And if you decide to find the 8 shards of the Time Orb, good luck.  I know if anybody can succeed you can."

Pasting a pleasant smile on my face, I listen to the fellow (a skill I've always been good at, looking like I understand someone when I don't).

"Of course, of course. You've got me. Is any other of my family about? And would it be too much to ask for you to take me over their way?  I'm in a bit of a rush, and on about an important mission."

Step One: Find resources.
Step Two: Experiment. I tell myself, and then wonder where to put in Step X--don't get locked up in a dungeon in.

It does seem as if the computer game was some sort of "Invitational" like that video game in Last Starfighter.  Of course, I'm not a quick-twitch reflex artist like the hero there.  But I do have a modern worldview, a knowledge of history, and it seems I've 'found favor with the Witch Gandor' which is probably their way of telling me I have magic talents or something.  I don't feel like I've gained any fighting skills, and I can't test that here either...need privacy and a sword.

I have to assume that I'm in either A)a supertech future with disguised magic B)alternate dimension with possible magic which opens up some interesting possibilities. c)Pre-Flood supertech society...I'm sure there are other possibilities.

I seem to have a role here. I need to find the parameters of my role...perhaps faking amnesia would be the ticket while I do....

But Time Orb..Time Orb getting cracked. Sucked through some sort of time hole by the cracking of said orb, which dumps me here, perhaps putting Hero Boy back in my world, and me in his place, and rewriting time so that everyone just accepts it.

PT

   While you stand there, collecting your thoughts, a young man comes up to you and gives you a big bear hug, which is very embarrassing, to say the least.
    "why cousin! you are back! I'd love to hear all about your journey, but I must go to the blacksmith and collect my horse and head home before dark.  I left Judy all alone, with just the kids.  And you know how dangerous it is out there these days.  I know you must be tired and all, but I'd really appreciate it, after you've rested that is, if you'd go to Stros in the east and see why my sister hasn't posted me.  I"m very worried about her, she sends a courier every week.  But I haven't heard from her in 2 weeks, which is so unlike her.  I fear, what with these hideous beasts on the loose, that she may have  been kidnapped or murdered.  You wouldn't have to come back, if you didn't want to, just hand her this scroll and give her my love, and tell her to please, please post me back posthaste."
   You are barely taking in all this when there is a hubbub at the gate.  An emancipated man has stumbled into town, screaming for help.  You can barely make out above the murmers of the villagers his cracked voice saying, "you must help us!  The village of Pentar in the west is starving!"  then the man crumbles.
   Your "cousin" shakes his head.  "oh that is sad.  Pentar is in a land that has very poor soil.  their mayor is in possession of a magical cornecopia, from which he feeds the entire village.  Those horrid beasts of Dracus must have stolen it."
    He turns back to you, "but you'll go and deliver my message to my sister, won't you?  I know you, being a  heroic big shot, you'll be itching to save that village too, you've rescued so many before.  But see about my sister first."
   Then he whacks himself on the head (must be a local thing, as the guard did the same thing)  "I'm so insensitive.  You must be befuddled and confused and tired.  I forgot that adventurers who come back from across the Sea of Mist usually are.  Feel free to ask me whatever you like, I'll answer you truthfully"
This message was last edited by the GM at 01:14, Sat 31 Dec 2005.

"How about you show me to my house, let me get some food and drink in me, and pick up some spare weapons, and then we can plot out the quickest way to get this message to your sister?"  I say calmly.

I look back at the poor man. I'd like to help him, but I need to gather resources first.  First rule of unarmed combat--get a weapon.  Then a shield, and some chain mail would be nice too.

After that, money, and magic.  Friends wouldn't hurt either.  This guy qualifies as a friend.  Then I can start doing some scouting and figuring out how to stomp Lord Dracus into the dirt. Maybe make some serious allies along the way...these people of Pentar would count, also the Witch.

"So cousin, how about it?"  I clap around the shoulders with my arm, and keep my arm there.

BTW, how do I compare in height and mass to the people here. I'm 6'1, 240 lbs.

PT

  "ah, you have no house, seeing as you are always on the go.  But you do have a permanent room here at the inn.  The innkeeper keeps the key to your room for you, and the key to your trunk.  You'll find clothing there as well," replies your "cousin".   "I notice that you have a scroll in your breast coat pocket.  I'm assuming it's your new assignment from the king.  He doesn't waste a moment, our king.  By the way, how is your old buddy, Gral, who is also a member of the Royal Adventurers?  Were you able to retrieve the magical artifacts from across the Sea of Mist?  That is your job, you know.  I like to tease you and your team members, I call you guys "go-fers", all you do is fetch magical artifacts for the king and retrieve magical items that are stolen from time to time from the villages around here.  That's why I assumed you'd jump at the opportunity to retrieve the magical cornecopia for the villagers of Pentar.  But you must rest, I know you must be weary from your travels, and from the confusion that traveling across the Sea of Mist causes."
    As he is rambling on, he is leading you to the inn, which is bustling with activity.  He first introduces you to Gron, the innkeeper, who gladly gives you the key to your room.
    "Welcome back old friend," Gron exclaims.  "I have watched over the contents of your room like a hawk.  You'll find everything as you left, of course nicely dusted.  Drinks are on me today, since you've just arrived after your 5 year journey.  Some day soon, when we are less busy, you'll have to fill me in on your adventures."
    You then follow your "cousin" to a table, where the ale is refreshing.  Your cousin is a rambler, who loves to hear himself talk.
    "my wife, Judy, tells me all the time, 'Cecil,' she says, 'you must become a cattle rancher instead of a sheep herder, there is more gold to be had as  a cattle rancher'", then Cecil winks, "but she doesn't know that I love being a sheep herder above all else, even if the pay ain't as good."
    He continues his ramble, as he drinks his ale.  "you've been a Royal Adventurer since you were a teenager, are you ever gonna settle down?  I've heard tell that the lady among your team, Aradell, has taken a fancy to you.  You'd do well to marry her and retire from your duties as a Royal Adventurer."
    Then he turns somber, "I'm sure that scroll you have in your breast coat pocket is a new commission from the king.  I'm sure he'll want you to take on the task of finding the shards of the Time Orb.  I've heard tales that the others in your team has tried and failed.  But you, though, you are a mighty warrior.  Where others in your team have failed, you have succeeded, on your own, much to the delight of the king."
   Then he glances at a golden watch in his pocket. "I'd love to stay and hear all about your travels, but Judy will be anxious.  I know I talk too much and haven't given you pause to butt in.  So before I leave, are there any more things you'd like to know?  Resting  and relaxation usually clears the head after traveling across the Sea of Mist, but if you are still befuddled, now is the time to query me, for I must head home soon.   and don't forget to take that message to my sister. you can either return here with her reply or have her to send me a message herself."

"Yes, cousin, directions to your sister's house would be nice." I say dryly, just barely sipping my ale. I'm practically a teetotaller, but I'm well aware that in earlier days, the only source of safe drinking liquids was something with alcohol in it to kill Typhoid and all the other nasty bacteria that plagued Humanity.  I may have to change my habits.

Upon hearing that I'm a mighty warrior, I bury my face in my mug, trying not to bust out laughing.

If there is anything like a mirror, a shiny plate of silver perhaps, or even a barrel of undisturbed water, I take the opportunity to excuse myself from the table, and go over and examine myself in it.  Do I look like myself, y'know, almost 6'2, 240 pounds, bearded, brown eyed, dirty blonde hair, or do I look like some other fellow?  And what clothes am I wearing?

I try to be somewhat subtle, but I don't really care too much if someone sees me doing this. I'm a person used to being able to tell other people to mind their own business.  I'm not as big as my 'little brother' who has been known to laugh at people who challenged him who then suddenly reconsidered the notion of punching him (reasoning that 1)He is a friendly guy 2)If I force him to get up, he's going to pick me up, and use my head to piledrive me through the floor), but when I glare at people, they do tend to leave well enough alone.

"Well cousin, it may well be that the piece of paper is as you say, or it may be my shopping list. However, I shall not be opening it in public to satisfy your curiousity, m'kay?"

My voice is even, calm, and unyielding.

PT

  Your cousin Cecil tells you briefly that the village of Stros lies to the east.   Just take the East Road he says.  Once you arrive in Stros, find the blacksmith shop, she is married to the blacksmith.  Her name is Dorothy. Then he excuses himself, saying he must go and see about Judy.
   Finding yourself alone you venture up to "your" room.  There you take a glance at yourself in the mirror where you get a nasty shock.  The person looking back at you is a stranger, a burly man, of about your height, but with shoulder length blonde hair and blue eyes.  A nasty scar mars the handsome face, slashing across the cheek.  This stranger in whose body you now reside is wearing a short sleeved jacket-like garment, with that scroll from the king poking out of a breast pocket.  You are now also wearing  leather pants and boots that come to your knees, kinda like pirate boots.  A sword hangs from a sheath at your waist, and now that you notice it, there is a knapsack hanging from your back.  Although it a stranger's body you reside in, you don't feel the prescence of anybody else in your mind.  Your mind is your own.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:58, Mon 02 Jan 2006.

I sag to the bed in shock, feeling the wound on my face.  In ways, I had known, but to see it is something else entirely.

A sudden notion possesses me, and I check to see if the face is makeup, or one of those Mission Impossible face masks.  But its all too real.

"I wonder, does this make me a demon? No, I serve the Lord Christ. But it may make me a disembodied spirit.  Not good, not good."

I chew on my fingernail a bit, which is not something I usually do.

"On the other hand, its not a bad body.  And I should be able to get back...I hope.  And it does lend credence to the idea that I'm a master swordsmen."

I stand up, and try to relax, and let my body pull the sword out, and do some sort of maneuver with the sword to see if the skill has passed to me.

Once thats done, I remember the sheet of paper, my 'cousin' what a chatterbox, had been so curious about.  I pull it out, wondering if I'm going to be able to read the local language.

PT

  When you take out the sword, you weild it with the same expertise that you had when you entered this world.  It confirms the sense you got.  Your mind is indeed your own, but you are in a new body, as if you had  just put on a mask or a new suit of clothes, thus changing your exterior appearance, but the person inside is still the same.
    The scroll in your pocket is written in English.  It reads:
    Waltherandor, my most trusted and esteemed Adventurer.
    It is to you I entrust the most important mission of your career.  My wizard and advisor, whom I have looked to for so many years, has turned dark.  Yes, Lord Dracus, has turned against us.  He has stolen the Time Orb and has broken it into 8 shards.  He then scattered the shards all over the country.  My spies have informed me that there are 2 shards in the land of Ardyl, your homeland, 2 in the land of Marghor, 2 in the land of Omar, and 2 in the land of Serkesh.  It is in Serkesh that he is building his fortress.  I have also gotten reports that in the land of Ardyl, outside of the village Pentar, he has taken over the garrison and has stolen the magical cornecopia that feeds the village.  You must retrieve this magical object and the shard that is guarded in the garrison.  Your fiance, Aradell, had retrieved that shard and the other that was hidden in the caverns outside of the village of Stros.  But as she was returning them to me she was ambushed by mountain trolls.  She returned to us battered and bruised.  But don't worry, the healers have taken care of her and she is fine.  I've sent the rest of the Adventurers to recover the shards, but I've not heard from them in weeks.  I fear they have met the same fate as Aradell.  It is you, then, that must take on this task.  You have always succeeded where the others have failed.  I have the upmost faith and confidence in you.
      When you have gotten the shards at Pentar and Stros, move north to the land of Marghor.  There go to the sanctuary of the monk, Shadire, in the east.  He will tell you where the next 2 shards are hidden.  There is a village near the sanctuary,  the village of Gor, where you can rest and recoop.  If you succeed at Marghor, you'll have to travel further north to the land of Omar.  Find the monk Atenus at the Temple of Medusa, which is in the west.  He will instruct you further.  After you have found the shards in the land of Omar, travel further north to the land of Serkesh.  There find the Sanctuary of Groll in the west.  The monks can instruct you.  Once you have collected all the shards, take them back to the monks at the Sanctuary.  They can restore the Time Orb to its original form.  It is only with the Time Orb that you can defeat Lord Dracus.  For the Time Orb has the ability to drain a wizard of his or her powers.  After his power is drained, he will mortal and you can defeat him.  But be warned, it is rumored that he now has the ability to transform into a dragon.
   Good luck and God speed
   King Mortica

Okay, I'm looking like Mr. Bad to the Bone with none of his skills. Hmmh. On the other hand, I do have my abilities which are not inconsiderable.

I may have to introduce Lord Dracus to the Western Way of War, or to the Steam Shovel.

I look about the room for any thing else that may be of use here, such as spare weapons, or even love letters or what have you.

A map of the countryside would be nice, but I'm aware medievals did not go for maps per se.  More like lists of landmarks.  Of course, 'cuz' had a pocket watch too which is pretty anachronistic.

PT

  You notice a trunk in the corner of the room.  There is also a free standing wardrobe.  Against the trunk are two shields, one a small round shield, the other a large shield.  You also have Waltherandor's knapsack on your back.  Under the mirror is a small washstand with a bowl and a pitcher of water.  A towel hangs by the washstand.  The bed is large, with a small step to assist in climbing into it.  Heavy brocade curtains hang from the four posters of the bed.  A window looks out onto the courtyard below.  There is another door in the room, besides the exit.

Since I don't have anything of my own, I will take freely of Walther's stuff.  I figure he's doing likewise to my stuff in my world.

He sounds like a good guy.

I'll pick up the large shield, and check to see how it feels on my arm. From my modest experience as a boffer fighter, I can verify how useful shields are, especially a large shield.

Its not at all like most movies and game systems, a large shield is like a portable wall.

I draw my sword, and holding it low and parallel to my leg, open the door, and look around.

PT

  First things first, the knapsack.  You sling it off your shoulder and find inside:
  3 more suits of clothing similiar to what you are already wearing
  bag of coins, with the profile of a lovely lady on one side, the profile of a handsome man on the other, the coins have numbers from 1, 5, 10, 20 100 and 50...(20) 1 worth coins, (20) 5 worth coins, (20) 10 worth coins, (10) 50 worth coins, (4) 20 worth coins, and (6) 100 worth coins, in total 1500 worth of coins.
   2 small keys
   a rectangle, wooden kit with a red cross etched on its top, inside are 4 red vials that smell coppery, like blood
   a round jar (like a cold cream jar) with the words "aloe healing balm" on its lid
   another rectangle, wooden kit with a striking cobra etched on its top, inside are 4 vials of  a clear liquid
   packet of letters wrapped in red ribbon that smells of sweet perfume
   a parchment scroll

Hmmh. Well I have money, I'd say.  Thats one problem down. I also have a base of operations, and allies, or people who think they are my allies, let us say.

I close up the knapsack, and put it back on, and then I slip into the next room with my blade out, and my large shield on my left arm.  Yes, its almost certainly excessive, but I still didn't know the basic way of the culture here, or what someone could do to me that didn't like me, and I frankly didn't care if I was excessive.

PT

  As you stand there, you get the sense that you've forgotten something.

I enter the door, aware that I've left unfinished business, but wanting to check out the biggest hiding spots for threats first.

PT

  The room you have entered off the bedchamber is a small bathroom, really just an indoor outhouse.  Out of synch with the rest of the medieval atmosphere is an 19th century commode, one with a seat and a long pipe reaching up to the ceiling, at the top of which is a square box that houses the water supply.  A chain dangles from this box, handily by the seat of the commode.  A magazine rack is also handy beside the commode.  You notice such titles as:  Hearth and Home, Better Farms and Gardens, Farmer's Almanac, Popular Blacksmithing, and a local newspaper.  The magazine pages are made of parchment, the writing on them is similiar to calligraphy, and there aren't many pictures, just some black and white illustrations.  The date on the Hearth and Home magazine reads: Third Month of the 15th year of King Mortica's Reign.  The newspaper is a scroll, also in calligraphy.  The date on the newspaper reads: the 15th day of the 3rd month of the 15th year of King Mortica's Reign.  On the other side of the commode is a roll of modern day toilet paper, no corn cobs.

Weirder and weirder. I go back, and check the wardrobe first, especially for hidden assailants, and then under the bed, and then the trunk.

This world is a very peculiar mix of modern and old. Which makes sense if its inside a video game.  Maybe, I had what happened to the guy in Tron, happen to me?

PT

   In the wardrobe you find a set of clothing that looks very sleek and regal, made of lace and velvet, suitable for balls and royal social occassions.  There is also a very battered and well used leather cloak.  Three pairs of boots are lined up under the clothing.
   In the trunk are several surprises.  2 swords in their sheaths, one with a wooden handle, one with a handle studded with rubies and diamonds.  There is also 4 daggers, one with a thin blade, one with a wide blade, one that shimmers red, one that shimmers green.  Also in the trunk is a bow and a quiver of arrows.  As you pick up the quiver you accidentally drop it, spilling the arrows.  But as you begin to pick them up you find that the quiver has magically refilled itself.  A shirt of chain mail is rolled up in one side of the trunk and in the other side is a leather shirt with chain mail woven in its fabric.  Lying with the armor is a pair of guantlets and a pair of leg coverings made of steel.  There is a pair of light, supple leather boots that come up to the knees, that when poked with a blade bears no mark, they won't tear or be penetrated.  Also a wicked looking battle ax lies in the trunk, with a serrated blade.  In the bottom of the trunk is Waltherandor's savings, 10 bags of gold coins, a small bag of diamonds, a small bag of gemstones, and a small bag of pearls.  A book full of parchment chronicles all of Waltherandor's adventures.
   Under the bed you find some dust bunnies the maid must have missed.
   Further examination of the room finds a kerosene lamp on the table by the bed, but from the ceiling hangs a gas lantern.
This message was last edited by the GM at 14:36, Fri 06 Jan 2006.

I sit down on the trunk, and open up the book of Walther's adventures.  This time through I am looking for any clues on how to do magic, or any speculation on where Lord Dracos would be hiding.

After that, I get out the cloak, and go looking for a stables, and see if a horse can be borrowed or if I have one here.

PT

  Near the beginning of the journal are notes, apparantly taken during Waltherandor's magical training:
  "To do magic, you must first invision the goal," he writes. "For instance, if I want to create a ball of fire, I must invision the fire. Think of things hot, such as flames, lava. The better I can picture it in my mind, the stronger and more potent the spell.  Then invision that heat source spiraling into an orb.  Picture that orb in my hand.  The stronger I can see it in my mind, the more force it will have.   After I have the spell invisioned, then I speak the magical incantation that goes with that particular spell.  The spell will then commence."
   After this general instruction there  are a list of spells, with diagrams of what they do.
    There is an illustration of a bomb, a plus sign, then a trunk.  A person is looking at the trunk.  Lines are eminating from the person's eyes to the trunk.  In the next diagram the trunk is glowing blue.  The incantation that goes with this spell is "Detectus Trappe"
    Along with this spell is another diagram, of the person waving his hands, then the lid of the trunk opens, the bomb explodes.  the incantation with this diagram is "Offen"
    A third spell is "retrouver". The diagram with it depicts an object surrounded by a moat, the person is waving his hand, the object floats to his hand.
   A fourth spell depicts the person holding an orb of fire, a bubble from his mouth says "fyren projectus"
   Beside an image of a fire demon is the words "vocare lava daimon" with a notation by Waltherandor, "the demon will only stand and fight  while there are enemies present. Once the enemies are defeated, the fire demon will dematerialize.  The demon does not discriminate between me and the foes,they are all the same to him.  If he is provoked he will turn tail and attack.  Don't hit him accidentally, stand away and let him fight his fight."
   There is also a depiction of an ice demon, with the words "vocare glacies daimon"
    There is a depiction of a person surrounded by a green cloud. Around him are several enemies laying on the ground with a skull and crossbones over their heads.   The words for this spell is "puison vapeur".  Waltherandor notes,  "after invoking this spell, hold  your breath or you'll breath in the poisonous vapors yourself.  Then you'll have to use an anti-venom vial to recuperate."
    An illustration of a stone statue is followed by the words "facere petra" with a note saying, "it only lasts 10 minutes.  If you don't want to fight you'd better run while they are petrified."
    An illustration of a person with a wall of fire before him.  The words with this  spell is "fyren barriere".  There is also a note, "set up the fire barrier then run like heck.  The barrier lasts 5 minutes but is only 3 feet wide, they can easily walk around it if there is nothing on both sides to box them in."
    And the best of all, according to a notation by Waltherandor, is invisibility.  He notes, "it only lasts a minute, but a lot can happen in a minute."  The words for this spell is "invisibilis"
  Waltherandor notes, "I have invoked other spells besides the ones given to me by my instructors.  I only have to invision what I wish to happen, concentrate on how the spell will play out, picture the result, then wave my hand, without speaking an incantation."
   "Once," he writes, "I emitted an electrical charge from my fingertips, but could never repeat it.  If I knew the words to say  I might could have repeated it .  but   it could have been just me, perhaps my imagination wasn't strong enough, or my concentration was weak.  Other spells I have invisioned seem to work fine second time around."

After I find a horse and saddle, I head out toward the sister's place.  Along the way, I pause frequently to rest my muscles because I'm not a horse rider, and I want to ease myself into this, and because I want to practise some magic.

With the horse rein stopped, that is, his reins thrown to the ground, and him eating daises on the side of the path, I stand about fifteen feet away in the path, and begin to visualize fire.

A rage fills me, and my face darkens.  I recall fires, roaring volcanoes, and the heat of a large campfire almost burning my hand as I burnt marshmellows and hot dogs.  In my mind's eye, I can see a ball of fire floating above the palm of my hand.  I close my eyes to visualize it better, and begin breathing more strenously as I focus further.

And then I speak ...

PT

  An orb of swirling flames appears in your hand.  You are surprised that it feels cool to the touch.  You pitch it in your favorite baseball pitch, aiming at a convenient bush.  The bush bursts into a ball of flames which is quickly reduced to ashes, then the flame is snuffed out.  The grass around the bush is not even singed.
  Satisfied with the result of the spell, you continue eastward.  Towards the end of the day you arrive at Stros.  It is eerily quiet.  No guards stand at the gate.  You enter and find scattered about the village several stone statues of young ladies.  At the feet of one a young man sits, weeping.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:36, Sun 08 Jan 2006.

I walk up to him, and stop about ten feet away.

"Excuse me, sir, can I help you? What seems to be the matter?"

I figure I already know...his wife has been stoned, and not on marijuana.  This doesn't look good for the sister either.

There was a temporary petrification spell in the book, but nothing about undoing a permanent, if this is such (I have to assume its been a while, although I'll need to check that as well), change to stone.  And while I'm willing to experiment with magic, it would be best to experiment with something that is not alive first.

PT

  "this is my fiance," he weeps, "we were to be married today.  But the Witch Menor, our village's benefactor, has grown angry that the young men have not fulfilled their end of the agreement between her and the mayor of the village."  he sighs, then continues, "the witch Menor gives us bountiful crops, healthy livestock, many children, and in return we must supply her water from the fountain of youth  whenever the effects wear off, which is every 100 years or so.  But alas, what with Lord Dracus minions running around, the young men can't get to the fountain of youth this time.  There is something else in the caverns that the vile creatures are guarding and we can't seem to get past them.  I would go and try myself, but I fear to leave my fiance's frozen side, for Lord Dracus minions are also gathering stones to build his fortress, and they wouldn't hesitate to grab a few statues to use for stone or for beautification.  Already a few have disappeared," he sighs again.  "the witch Menor has promised that she will restore the women of the village, but only when she has another vial of water from the fountain of youth."

"Well, friend, lets say, I try to help out. First, why don't you tell me where this witch can be found. I'd like to have a talk to her."  I catch myself caressing the hilt of my sword, and deliberately force myself to stop.

I'm going to be calm and deliberate I tell myself.  But a sudden bolt of rage over people losing their family...its followed by a chilling sense of fear.  But a prayer, and I feel my cowardice sliding away, and my face sets firm.

After he tells me how to find this witch, I set out, in my mind, I practise how to summon the magic, doing it with holding my hand behind my back.  I do everything but actually do the magic.  In my left hand, I hold a tiny bit of sand and minute bits of gravel.

PT

  You set out toward the south, following the foot path through the forest.  After about 2 hours you see a small hut in the center of a meadow.  The door hangs open.  You step in and see an old hag sitting at the table, meditating over a copper pot.
   She looks up at you, "what do you want?  can't you see I'm busy.  Have you brought me back my vial from the fountain of youth?  I will only restore the villagers when you bring me back my vial."

"Menes, menes, tekel..." I pause.  "Tell me witch, do you want me to finish the saying? Let me ask you a question, and see that you give me an honest answer. Are you a loyal subject of King Mortica, or are you a rebel?"

I hold my hands behind my back, with one palm up, and start thinking of fire....

PT

  "I am loyal to the king," she replies.  Then she sighs a deep, mournful sigh.  A tear glistens on her cheek.  "I am so sorry for my rash decision against the villagers of Stros.  They've been like my children to me.  But I'm impatient and quick tempered.  When the champion of the village failed to bring me my vial of water from the fountain of youth, I retaliated and punished the villagers." she sighs deeply. "then I saw in my crystal ball that Lord Dracus had turned dark.  Then I realized that I had dealt unfairly.  My children hadn't deserted me.  But I couldn't undo what I had done.  My powers have grown too weak.  I need another vial from the fountain of youth to restore my power so I can undo what I have done."  then she lowers her head, shaking with suppressed sobs.

Sigh. If one killed people for being idiots there would be a radical level of depopulation.

"Witch, I'm going to need directions, and any help you can give me. In return, I'll get you the water, and then you can unspell the villagers.  However, you're actions have already resulted in statues being toted away, and possibly broken up.  I'd like you to think real hard about a way to fix that, or you're going to have to go and explain your actions to the King's Justice.  I don't think Mortica really approves of his villagers being made into foundation stones. I know I don't."

I leave her weeping further, and after she gives me directions, I head on out.

PT

  "You need not worry about the missing villagers," she says.  "when I saw they were being stolen I sent out my own servants, loyal orcs, to attack the perpetrators and bring me back the stolen statues.  They are safe in my back yard, guarded by my crows.  I have a marginal amount of powers left, so can continue to guard against further thefts.  If you return with the vial for me, I shall give you a good supply of restorative and healing potions that you'll find very useful.  I shall also give you a supply of antivenom, good against scorpion, snake and spider bites.  I will now give you a meger blessing, a 6th sense, for when you enter the caverns you'll find many of Lord Dracus' minions lying in wait.  I should have done so for the men of the village, if I had realized what was going on, I would have.  If the wounded come to me, I shall heal them."
   Then she jots down on a piece of parchment these directions:
    take the path to the northeast, towards the Char Range.  You'll find a cavern at the end of the path.  After entering the cavern, and traveling inward, you'll see a fork.  Take the right hand opening.  Continue deeper and you'll see another fork.  Take the left.  On deeper you'll see yet another fork, at this one take the left.  Then you'll come to a small room in which are 3 openings, one being the smallest.  You'll have to duck down to get through the opening.  You'll be in a big cavern with many stalactites in the floor, creating a maze.  Stay close to the wall on the right.  You'll see a triangular shaped opening on the right hand wall.  Take it and you'll find another chamber.  Go through this chamber and down another passage and you'll find the Fountain of Youth.
  So after getting her blessing and her directions, you head out, through the forest.  You have only gone a short distance when you realize you are getting hungry.  It's been awhile since you've eaten.  And the day is getting old.  A bubbling brook cuts across the path, bridged by a log.

I instruct her to explain this to the villagers since they are still in fear, and then leave on her quest.

I wonder how this body reacts to lack of food.  My original body did not react that well, what with low blood sugar.  I check through my food supplies, and make a small campfire first by trying to light one with a spell, and then if that fails I look for flint and steel in my backpack.  I'm hoping to boil some water, and eat some food, and drink the water (although tea would be nice too...)

I make my small camp slightly uphill of the path, and with my back to a large tree.

PT

  You find in your knapsack some dried vegetables and meat, which you had not noticed before.  There is also a small pot and  a fire kit with some flint and steel.  So you quickly make your fire and get a pot of stew going.  Then you wish you had some tea.  That would go good with stew.  Maybe you missed the tea pot.  So, rummaging further in the knapsack, you notice a small coffepot which had somehow escaped your notice before.  Beside the coffee pot is a small packet of tea.  So now you have stew and tea.  Then you wish you had some sugar.  You dive into the knapsack, and lo and behold, a packet of sugar rises to the surface.  Something is starting to be fishy about this knapsack.
   Puzzling over the mysterious knapsack you settle against the tree, feeling much better since eating.  You doze off, only to be awakened when strong hands grab you and begin to throttle you.

I'm leaning against a tree, so I have to assume the attacker is in front of me.  I slam my leg upwards between the attacker's legs, being totally unsportsmanlike, and claw for the sword at my waist.  If I get it out, I start pincushioning my foe, and if not, I continue to try to get it out, while jabbing my fingers into my foe's eyes.

During this whole thing, I'll be trying to get to my feet with my legs and my back against the tree, not using my hands.

Precision? Schmision...I attack on all fronts.

PT

  The creature that is attacking you looks like a man-sized rat.  Your knee thrust to its midsection knocks the wind out of it, it doubles over with a rat- like squeal.  While it's dazed and confused, you manage to get your sword out of its sheath and give the rat a downward jab into its back.  It now straightens back up, a new pain to deal with, scrambling with its claw-like hands to find the wound in its back, I guess it's wishing it'll go away.  You swing you sword again and manage to take off the rat's head.  The body sways backward while the head rolls to your feet.  Your sword drips with blood.  A small bag at the rat's waist jingles as if it's filled with gold.  After picking it up you find about 1000 worth of gold.
   Dawn comes and finds you rested, unmolested, and eager to get to the cave unhindered.
   You arrive at the mouth of the cave and enter in. The entrance passage is a downward slope of loose rocks.  At its bottom is an open chamber.  The walls are lined with some sort of glowing algae.  It gives the cavern an eerie bluish tint.  You can see in this weird light.
   Continuing deeper you arrive at the fork.  Guarding each opening is a three foot tall creature with large feet, pointed ears, and jagged teeth.  Each creature has a small dagger.  Neither seems too inclined to venture forth, but they are blocking your path further.

I look around for some stones, ideally baseball sized, and jagged, and a number of them.  I'm willing to go back a little bit, and quickly gather some, but not take more than a couple of minutes.  Whether I find stones or not, I ...

Then I draw my sword, and offer them the chance to live.

"Surrender, and I shall turn you over to the King's Justice.  He is most merciful."

I don't expect them to, but ...

PT

  The creature guarding the left hand corridor squeals in terror and bolts down the corridor it was guarding.  These creatures must be cowards.  But the one guarding the right hand opening, the one the witch had told you to take, stands its ground.  It growls at you, mumbles something that sounds like,"die dog", but it's not clear because it has trouble talking around those jagged teeth.  Then it throws its dagger at you (I guess being only 3 feet tall, close combat is out of the question).  The dagger impales your left upper arm, almost to the bone.  Blood oozes out from around the point of impact.  The creature is now weaponless.

I jerk the blade out of my arm, and letting it clank to the floor, I charge up to the creature, and smash it across the face with the hilt of my sword.  My objective is to knock it down, and disable it before it can run away.

If that doesn't get it to stop, I'll smack it again.

"Don't move, if you want to live."

I growl.

PT

  Your assault manages to knock a few teeth out of its mouth.  Maybe now it can speak a wee bit better.  Blood issues from its mouth.  It claps its hands over its maw, ducks its head and joins its comrade down the left hand corridor.  Cowards.

I shrug. I might have run its place.  Then I clobber it before it gets to far, and if necessary, grab it about its ankle, and hoist it into the air upside down.

I want a prisoner to interrogate.

PT

   The creature, held upside down by its ankle, swipes futilely at your face and body, then stills, mumbling under its breath awesome obscenities that I won't dare to utter here.  It's now docile, unhappy, but docile.

I take it out of the cave.

And then I tie its arms behind its back.

"Now, my prisoner, we are going to have a little talk. After which, you will be turned over to the King's Justice.  Be helpful, and I will recommend mercy. Don't, and I'm pretty sure King Mortica will be happy to give his executioner a chance to 'axe' you a question, hmmmh?"

I begin to quiz him about the nature of the defenses in teh cave, and then on to more information about Lord Dracus and such.  I'm willing to smack him around a bit too to 'help his memory'.

PT

   The creature squeals pitifully.  "I knows nothing about nothings," it says.  "I's just dragged out of my nice cozy hidey hole by that vile Goblin King and told to guard the right hand passage.  My brother was told to guard the left.  I's just trying to figure out how to sneak back out when you arrived.  I didn't want to fight, because I knew if I did, you'd fight back, and that would hurt.  But I knew if I didn't try the Goblin King would have my hide,"  then it wails, "I knows nothing about nothing!!  All I's knows is that if you go down the left corridor you'll run into the Goblin King's lair where he has 20 bodyguards and if you go down the right corridor you'll go deeper into the caves."  Then it wails pitifully.

"I see." I narrow my eyes in thought.  Obviously this creature is not a great threat, but at the same time, he is working for a criminal, and is thus an enemy of my king. I think for a bit.

"I am going to cast a spell on you.  A geas.  If you disobey my word, you will begin to feel sick at the stomach, and then sweats will break out on your forehead, and then pains will appear in your body, and if you keep on, why then you WILL EXPLODE!"

I draw out some mummery, not intending a spell, and then send him to the witch with a message scroll.

*Have entered the caves.  Put this enemy prisoner to some useful work. Don't let him get into mischief."

I then press the scroll very firmly into the goblin's hand, and release him, giving him directions as to where to go.

After he is well out of sight, and I listen to make sure, I draw my sword, and head down the tunnel toward the Goblin King.  I draw the cloak about myself, and slip as silently as I may down the passageway.

PT

  You realize your arm is still bleeding, and it's throbbing.   The wound went to the bone.  You remember in your pack you saw a kit with a red cross on it, with red vials inside.  Also in your pack was a cold cream sized jar labeled aloe healing balm.  And another kit, with the symbol of a cobra etched in the wood, with green vials inside.
This message was last edited by the GM at 22:33, Fri 20 Jan 2006.

I'll rub a little of the cold cream jar stuff on it, and see what effect it has.  If I'm restored enough to be effective, and no longer bleeding, I'll go back to plan A.  If not, I'll take one of the red vials, and taste it.  If not bad, I'll wait, and then finish it off.  If restored, back to Plan A.

If not, I'll slice off a part of my shirt, and wrap up my wound.

PT

   You dab out a small glob of the aloe healing balm and rub it into the wound.  Almost instantly you feel a sensation as if the balm is sucking out the blood in the wound.  You can see that some of the flesh near the bone is being drawn together, slowly.  This substance will work, but will take some time.  So you try to cover the wound as best as possible, one handed, by tearing off a piece of your undershirt and cinching it around the wound.  You'll have to be careful not to reopen the wound while it is healing, although the healing balm does seem to be hurrying that result along a bit.
   So now you are off to the see the Goblin King.  You make your way down the left corridor and soon emerge in a large cavern with stalactites hanging from the ceiling.  You see a tall man sitting on a stone "throne", that is actually a large boulder naturally fashioned into a seat.  He's wearing tight leggings, knee high boots,  a vest that is open at the neck, and black leather gloves.  He has pointed ears, like the smaller goblins, but not as many jagged teeth, in fact just a pair of fang like incisors that protude from his upper lip. One eye is blue, the other is green, you notice.   His hair is snow white and cropped close to his head, save for a few tendrils that hang around his shoulders.  There are 4 goblins sitting at his feet.  There are 5 on your left standing around a stone slab that they are using as a table, on which is a roasted pig.  On your right are 6 more, feeding scraps of meat to some dog like creatures that are as big as wolves.  These beasts have a metal covering around their chest.  5 more goblins are snoring behind the "throne", lying on the stone floor of the cavern.  The Goblin King snarls at you as you emerge into the cavern, but waits for your next move.

"Well Goblin King, there's a question for you.  Are you loyal to King Mortica, or are you a traitor who needs to be beheaded on his chopping block?  I understand his executioner is getting bored, but I'd like him to stay that way.  Nasty fellow, although very good at cards.  Always knows just how to " I slap my hand into my other hand making a rifle crack. "Cut...the deck. So, are we loyal subjects of King Mortica, or are you my prisoner?"

PT

  The Goblin King laughs.  "Puny human, I am the Goblin King. I hold allegiance to no one.  These are my caverns where my underlings work and serve me.  Many centuries ago my kind settled in these caverns and here they've stayed.  We were entrusted by a gentle creature who lives in the bowels of this cavern to guard her precious waters, the Waters Of Life.  Now vermin have crawled into my caverns, loathsome creatures who threaten my underlings and she whom I have promised to protect.  If you are itching for a fight, go and clear out those vermin.  Surely you'll find plenty to do."

"I see."  I pause and think, my eyes coldly studying the Goblin King. Every once in a while, I spare a thought to listen for someone sneaking up behind me.

"Thank you for clarifying that. I have a few questions for you, your majesty.  One, in the conflict between King Mortica and the evil wizard Draco, whose side are you on? Two, what do you offer me in exchange for my doing you the favor of clearing out these vermin?  Three, once these vermin are cleared, a matter of time and your payment, are you going to prevent the human villagers from getting the water for the Witch?"

I then lean back and smile slightly waiting for his reply.

PT

  "Puny human," he answers.  "I have told you already I hold allegiance to no man.  I let humans fight their battles amongst themselves, only defending my underlings when they are threatened.  We goblins are content to stay in the bowels of the earth, only emerging when hunger forces us out to forage.  Right now I am preparing my goblins to clear out the vermin  that has inflitrated our caverns.  If you assist us in this endeavor you are welcome to whatever treasures they may have hoarded.  We goblins do not bother ourselves with material wealth, we are content with whatever Mother Earth hands to us.  I will, however, offer you one of my wolf beasts, Wayerns I call them, if you desire one.  They are as loyal as any common dog and as fierce as a wild wolf.  You need only feed them regularly, so they know the difference between master and prey.  Continue on your quest for Menor the Witch, watch out for the human-sized rats, the Rodentica, and human sized crocodiles, the Cracus, that are now in the caverns.  Return with the heads of the ones you have destroyed and with the vial of water for the witch Menor and I shall give you one of my wolf beasts.  As for the villagers, I only send out my goblins to impede their quests so that the villagers can have a challenge and an opportunity to improve their battle arts.  My goblins are cowards by nature, but as loyal as my Wayerns, they do as they are commanded."
  "so," he concludes, "have you any more questions?  Or are you ready to continue your quest?"

I nod thoughtfully.  It did make a kind of sense.

"I understand about mutual training in battle arts.  But I want your pledge that during this time of trouble you will not engage in such training.  I think it is quite certain the humans are getting more than enough training already.  After Draco's head is on a pike, then you may resume with no quarrel from me.  And I will take you up on your offer."

After I talk with him a bit further, I set out again.

PT

  "wait a second, young warrior," the Goblin King interrupts, "I have one more thing that will aid you."
   He reaches behind his throne and pulls out a wicked looking executioner's ax.
   "for lopping off heads," he laughs maliciously.  Then he reaches around to the other side of his throne and pulls out a bag.  "happy hunting," he says.
    You return to the intersection and this time take the right hand corridor.  You follow the winding pathway for a long distance, going deeper and deeper into the bowels of the cavern.
    You finally emerge into a small chamber.  You see 2 openings, one on your left, one on your right.  Guarding each opening are 2 Rodentica.  They indeed look like rats with long snouts, whiskers, beady black eyes, thin arms, long claws and a tail.  But they are standing upright and are as tall as you are.  They are brandishing clubs with spikes around the head of the clubs.  They turn their heads towards one another and squeak to each other.  Then they turn back to you and advance.

I draw my sword, and drop into a fencer's stance with my knees flexed, and my body turned so that most of it is further from them.

"Now, you can surrender, and be taken to justice, or you can be killed here."

If they rush me, I'll run the closest through with a half-lunge, and then back up, trying to knock the other's weapon aside, and pin it.  If they advance slowly, I'll offer to take their surrenders again, and if that fails...lunge.

I hope to run one through the chest in a trice.

PT

   They advance, you attempt your lunge, managing to catch the one on your right off guard, impaling it in the abdomen.  It squeals as you withdraw your sword, causing blood to spurt out from the wound, some splattering, wet and hot, on your face.  The wounded Rodentica crumbles to its knees, holding its abdomen, blood continuing to spurt from its claws.  However, the one on the left, catching you off guard, swings its club, hitting your raised shield with such a resounding blow that you can feel it vibrating up your arm, into your shoulder, and it seems, to cause a ringing in your left ear.

Shaking my head to try to clear it, I eschew cleverness, and shield rush him.  Hopefully knocking him to the ground, and then start jabbing with my sword, as fast as I can.

Lets call it the Sewing Needle Attack.

PT

  You swipe into its left arm, it blocks with its right (the one weilding the club).  You then duck low and try an upward jab, this one connects, slicing at its abdomen.  It shrieks, trys another blow with its club, which connects on your right, at your chest.  The chain mail takes most of the blow, but it does bruise and does hurt.  You swing the sword low, slicing at the knees.  The Rodentica crumbles, shrieking.  It drops its club.  You take advantage of the situation and swipe at its neck, severing the jugular.  Blood spurts out, splashing hot on your face.  The Rodentica collapses.  The wounded one, the one you gut cut, shrieks in rage, swipes at your feet with its club.  You manage a short jump back, a swipe with your sword and manage to slash its chest.  It squeals and swipes at your knees.  The club connects with your right knee, sending you down.  But as you fall, you manage one more swipe, which connects with its neck, another jugular cut.  Now both Rodentica are down and out, but you have a bruised chest, a busted knee, and your old wound on your left arm is bleeding again.  The cavern reeks of blood, feces and urine, for as the Rodentica died they lost all muscular control.  You are covered with blood, shivering as the adrenline rush ebbs out.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:45, Sun 29 Jan 2006.

I take out more of the aloe vera cream, and apply it to any open wounds.  My arms shivering so that its hard to open the canister, and I keep just wanting to lay down.

After the cream, I take one of the red vials, and taste it.  If nothing ill, happens, I gulp it down, and wince, hoping I didn't do something irremediably stupid.

Then I try to drag myself into something of a defensible position, and lean against the wall, waiting a bit, my shield laying over my body, and my sword in my hand, laying on the ground.

PT

  You drink from the red vial, it's got a coppery taste which reminds you of blood.  You feel a warmth coursing down through  to your stomach, then it radiates out, soothing your bruised chest.  Then this warmth travels to your arm, where you feel a sensation similiar to a doctor pulling at flesh as he applies stiches.  You look down at the wound and find it completely closed, all that remains is a scar.  Then the warmth travels south, into that banged up knee.   You sigh with relief as the pain goes away.  In mere minutes you are refreshed and ready to go, although you are a wee bit hungry.  You have 3 more vials of this liquid left.

I step away, and get a bite to eat from my backpack.  A ham sandwhich, and a glass of milk sounds nice.

Then fortified, I grimace, and get out the axe.  I line it up, and Thump! Bring it down.  The first strike almost takes the first head off, and another tentative strike doesn't do it, and finally a third.

The other head. Two solid strikes.

I look around for something, perhaps a scarf on the rodentia, to cover my hands with as I pick up the heads by the hair and slip them into the bag.

Now, a bit queasy, I push that aside, and head on downward, my sword out, and my ears listening.

PT

   You emerge in a cavern with 3 openings, the smallest on your left, one in the middle and one on the right.  You recall that the witch suggested that you take the one on the left, the smallest.  It appears to be half your height, meaning you'll have to either crawl or squat/walk to make it through the passage.  But before you can even decide whether to take the passage, or explore one of the other 2, you must first contend with 3 Cracus, the man-sized crocodiles.  They are each guarding an entrance.  They are weilding battle axes.  They have long snouts like crocodiles, hard scales on their backs and softer scales on their chest and abdomen.  A long tail winds around their claw like feet.  They look to each other and "speak" in a rasping whisper, it sounds like gibberish to you, but the Cracus must understand it because they each nods their heads, then the one on your left advances.  Apparantly they intend to take you on one at a time, or either they think you aren't gonna be much a challenge and one of them should be able to take you out.

I switch my sword to my shield hand, holding both awkwardly, and put my right hand behind my back as I slowly step backwards.  Then I begin to envision heat...

"I'd advise you to yield in the name of King Mortica, but I doubt you'd listen."

When he charges, I whip my hand out, and toss the fire on him.  And then I sidestep his attack.

PT

  Your ball of fire hits it square in the chest.  Like a living thing, it spreads across the chest, up to the head, down its tail, smoldering and scorching as it spreads.  The Cracus howls in pain and rage as it slowly burns.  Soon it is a pile of ash, a wisp of smoke issuing from the ash.  I'm sorry to say, you won't be able to save the head.  The Goblin King will just have to do without that one.  But he should be pleased all the same that there is one less Cracus in his caverns.
   The other two Cracus howl in rage and fury and advance, waving their battle ax maliciously.

I drop my shield, and back up into the tunnel holding out my sword defensively.  If they follow me into the narrow tunnel, it will hopefully limit their ability to flank me.

Meanwhile, I conjure up another fire ball, and use it promptly.  If they don't follow me, I try to conjure two, one for each hand...

PT

   You manage to back into the opening.  It is indeed just wide enough for you, forcing the second Cracus to back off behind the lead Cracus.  Your first fireball hits the lead Cracus in the head.  It flails with its hands, trying to throw off the flames, which rise from its head like a strange hat.  Then it throws its hands down and begins to shake them, for now they've burst into flames.  Then it pivots backwards, spiraling in circles, its tail wrapping around its legs.  It falls to its face, which no longer exists, then, poof, it is a pile of ash, or rather a long line of ash, which smolders and smokes.  Again, you've destroyed a second Cracus, but have no head to show for it.  You'll have to tell the tale in vivid detail for the Goblin King.  Meanwhile the last Cracus has witnessed the demise of its comrade and has decided it doesn't want to turn to dust, er, ash.  It turns tail and flees down the third passage, a wide opening, wide enough for a small car.  You hear a loud roar from deep within this passage, then a squeal of pain, then silence.  Your second fireball now stands ready in your hand.  You can either lob it off, or hang onto it for a wee bit.  (It will ebb away in about 3 minutes if not used.)

I retreat back up the hall about fifty feet.  It sounds like something extremely nasty is in there.

I arrange my sword and shield so they are ready to hand.

Then I try to summon another fireball, in the other hand, so I can have two going at the same time.

I disperse the balls.

Then I get out the notebook from the backpack,a nd look up the hero's description of magic.  I test out one of the more destructive sounding spells, trying to avoid caving in the area I am standing in.

Whatever that thing is in there, I wouldn't mind opening up with some serious fireworks.

PT

  Your initial bursts of fireballs go into the large opening.  Whatever is in there howls in pain and rage, then you can hear  a rumble as something massive approaches.
   You quickly riffle through the spell book, your hands trembling and your knees knocking.  Then you see the spell that would summon up a fire demon.  You think, "perhaps he'll give me aid."
   So you say the magical words "Vocare Lava Daimon!"
   As soon as the words are uttered from your mouth a glow emits from the cavern floor before you.  You watch in amazement as first a fiery head with horns aglow, then a shoulder, then 2 massive arms, then legs emerge.  You are standing looking at a 8 foot tall fire demon that kinda reminds you of the fire demon that attacked Gandor and friends on the Lord of the Rings.
   The demon gives you a fiery stare, but you remember to stand still.  It hears the roars and bellows from the corridor behind it.  It sniffs the air, then turns, emitting a bellow.
   As it turns a massive creature emerges from the corridor.  It's a bear, lumbering along on four paws the size of hubcaps.  As the bear emerges and sees the fire demon, it rears on its back legs.  It stands at least 9 foot tall.  Your demon has a challenge on its hands.  You can see scorch marks on the bear's fur which are still smoldering.  Under the scorch marks you see something that looks like metal.
    The two combatants charge at one another, each bellowing so loudly the stalactites rattle.  Then they collide, arms around each other, the bear trying to sink its claws into the fire demon's back, the fire demon returning the embrace with its own molten limbs.  The bear roars in pain and rage as it's back begins to smolder.  The fur falls off to reveal more metal plating.
  Then the bear releases the fire demon and begins to swat at it with its massive paws.  The fire demons lashes back, blow for blow.  The fur from the paws are singed off, revealing robot fingers.
   Then the metal starts to turn orange, then red as the heat from the fire demon blows begin to heat it up.  The bears bellows of rage and pain are now taking on a garbled sound, as if cogs and circuits are beginning to fry.
   Then, with a final mighty roar, the bear crumbles to its knees.  The fire demon strikes a final blow at the bear's head, severing it from its body.  The head rolls towards you, red eyes facing you.  Wires are hanging from the head.
   The fire demon turns, sniffs, pushes the body with its feet, then turns again to face you.  You remember to stand very still.
    The fire demon snorts, then dissolves into the ground in a pool of lava.

I wait until its gone. It was very effective, I try to tell myself, but the guilt of summoning a demon, and the fear of what it may TRY to require from me later is too strong.

Soon I find tears trickling down my cheeks as I apologize to God for letting my panic get ahold of me, and doing something which is evil.

Later, it occurs to me that perhaps this 'demon' is not a fallen angel, but something else.  Perhaps I have not actually done wrong...but then again, I didn't know that before I did it, and therefore it is wrong. Except...well if I was experimenting to establish its identity...but then I wasn't...

I spend more than a few minutes running the moral implications back and forth through my head.  In the end, I draw a light pencil "X" over that spell to remind myself not to use it without further research into the nature of demons here.

And then I wonder...if I can summon 'demons', what about praying for ...I run a few possibilities through my head, and then settle on the tale of Brother Andrew smuggling Bibles into Soviet Russia with the guards not noticing them despite them being in almost plain sight.

I begin to pray to have the eyes of the monsters who oppose my mission to be made blind to my passage, blind and deaf that is.

PT
OOC: This is Pseudo-invisibility. The 'you don't notice him' thing.

   You decide to check the old journal once again, to see if Waltherandor might have some notes concerning the demon summoning spell.  Finally, after much perusing, you find this passage:
   "I have journeyed deep into the bowels of the Volcano Walth.  My instructor is faithful and by my side, guiding me along my way.  We reach the lair of the Fire Demon Warse.  My instructor summons the demon with the spell he wishes to teach me.
    Then my instructor speaks to the demon, 'mighty and powerful and noble Warse.  It is I, Menthor, who calls Thee forth.  I have fulfilled my pact with Thee.   I have travassed the mighty globe and found the ones who have bound Thee to this cauldron.  Here be their heads, here be their spellbooks.  Thou art free now to traverse the globe Thyself.  But I beg of Thee, before Thou partest, to grant Thy noble servant a favor.  Will Thou come to my pupil's aid should he call for Thee?'
    Then, to my amazement, the demon complies.  'I was once a mighty angel in the army of the Lord.  But I was deceived by the Devil himself and succumbed to His wiles.  I fell to the earth, tormented and tormenting.  Then the cult of Marns bound me.  You, Menthor, read of my plight in the annals of time and had compassion on me.  You were able to do what I could not, forgive me and release me.  I agree to you request.  It will be my penance for my sins. I shall come when your pupil summons me.'
   After reading this passage, you now have food for moral thought.
   Then you begin experimenting with your  Psudo-invisibility spell.  Since it is your mind in Waltherandor's body, and since Waltherandor has the ability to conjure up an Invisibility spell himself, you can feel yourself wavering and tingling.  You decide to give the spell a trial run, first chance you get.
    You turn to the task at hand, 3 passages before you.  The witch suggested the smallest passage, which you must crawl or duck/walk through.  You recall that she did warn you that she perceived a possible ambush as you emerge.  But there is the medium sized middle passage and the huge passage the bear came through.  The wires from the bear's head has been sizzling and popping as you read and experimented.  The smell of singed fur and smoke still fills your nostrils.

I put the shield on my back, and put the sword up for I have a dagger.

Then I slip down the smallest passageway, on my hands and knees, which definitely don't appreciate the ill treatment, and keep an eye and ear out for an ambush.

If I get to the other end of the tunnel without trouble, I breathe lightly, and very slowly push myself out the tunnel.  With my neck swivelling madly looking for the possible ambush, I remind myself to not fear for I am invisible.

PT

   As you emerge from the passage you see two more Cracus on either side of the exit.  They have their paws on the hilts of their swords, which are fastened at their waist.   As you emerge small stones hit the ground.  The Cracus look towards the opening, sniffing the air, then they snarl as they look about, apparantly looking for something that they feel should be there, but which they can't see.  Then they snarl at one another, then step behind you and poke their heads into the opening.
   As you decide what do to about these Cracus, you quickly scan about the massive cavern and see that the cavern is indeed full of stalactites, some spaced close together, too close to walk through, some spaced further apart.  You recall that the witch adviced you to pick an opening that was on the right hand side of the cavern, nearest the right hand wall.
    As you quickly scan the cavern the Cracus continue their search for the source of the slight noise you made and the odor they are smelling.
This message was last edited by the GM at 17:09, Thu 09 Feb 2006.

I'm tempted to go for two quick strikes to their backs, but it might alert others who see their dead bodies.  Of course, the fire spell eliminates evidence nicely, but again, someone might wonder where they are.

I slip off as quietly as I can toward the right side of the cavern looking for an opening to take.

PT

  You pick your way through the stalactites, sometimes veering to your left, sometimes to your right, but always staying close to the wall.  You are just beginning to let your guard down when a Rodentica jumps out from behind a rock column.  It brandishes a sword at you as it blocks your path.

I rush it with shield first to meet its blade, and then try to run it through with my sword.  If that doesn't work, I knock it over with my shield, and then try to gut it on the way down.

PT

   The Rodentica's blade clangs on your shield.  It pulls the blade back as you attempt your thrust, then swings forward, so that the blades clash, with a clang of steel on steel.  It is an accomplished sword fighter and you are both evenly matched.  With each thrust you attempt, it counters and parries.  It is a matter of wearing one or the other down.  The conflict seems to take forever.  Your arms are starting to feel like glue, sweat drips from your brow.  But the Rodentica too is getting tired and finally makes a fatal mistake.  As you attempt a chest aimed blow, it fails to block the blow and receives a fatal wound.  It crumbles, exhausted and in pain.  You manage a final thrust and the Rodentica is dead.  Then you crumble to your knees, arms shaking, exhausted and hungry.

"Requiescat in Pace. Requiescat in Pace. You fought well."  I murmur, leaning on my sword, and then using it as a cane to rise to my feet.  From there, I push myself forward to a place of seclusion, a niche in the rock where I can view who would come toward me, and  then I look into the knapsack for food and drink.

I eat in small bites, not wanting to upset my stomach, but without slowing much either.

Once my strength is back, and I have tested it by swinging my sword about, I press onward.

PT

   You finally see the triangular opening the witch told you to look for.  You tentatively step in.  You emerge in a large chamber.  In the center is a natural rock formation that looks kinda like a dias.  On this formation is a crystal shard about as large as your hand.  Guarding the shard is a minotaur, standing 7 feet tall with wicked looking blood stained horns.  It is standing on its hind feet and its cloven "hands" do appear to be split into finger-like digits.  It has a golden ring in its nose.
   You hear a moan.  You look to your right and lying there is a man with a massive wound to the abdomen.  It appears he's been gored.  Blood is oozing from his fingers, and you notice with a sick feeling, what appears to be intestines.  You hear another moan to your left.  Lying there is another man with a badly broken arm.  The bone is protuding from the skin.
   But before you can aid the fallen you hear a roar as the minotaur charges, head down, blood stained horns heading right at you.

I have to make this quick, and then maybe I can save one or both of these guys.

I charge the Minotaur waving my sword violently about so as to try to distract it (my sword being in some sense my matador's cape for this trick...), and then at the next to the last moment, I dive to my right since my shield is on my left.

My goal is to get past fast, and with my shield sorta up, and come skidding to a landing on my stomach in the dust.  Then I jump up, and attack it as it straightens itself out...or so I hope anyway.

And since SQ is gone on a trip, this is an excellent place for a cliffhanger...Will our hero survive the dreaded Minotaur?

PT

  You skid across the cavern floor, skinning your elbows a wee bit on the gravel.  But as you rise to strike with your sword, the minotaur impales you, one horn lodging into your shield, the other horn grazing your chain-mailed protected chest.  As it impales you it flings its head back.   Since its horn is stuck in your shield, your shield arm is twisted painfully.  Then as you begin to soar back over its head, the shield is wrenched free from its binding, thus freeing you.  Problem is, now you are flying across the room, landing with a thud on your rump and lower back, sending a jolt into your kidneys and up your spine.  Somewheres along your flight you've managed to drop your sword.  The shield dangles from the minotaur's horn.  It shakes its head, trying to fling it off, buying you some time to stage your next attack.  Your head is still spinning from your flight.    Your arm is sore, but thankfully not broken.  And your kidneys and lower back are screaming.

It is definitely time for magic.  With my back aching, even to move my arms, I cup my hand in front of me, and begin to pour images of fire desperately into my hand.

Burning stoves, and campfires, and conflagrations follow each other, and then volcanoes, and preceding spellfires, and matches, and houses burning, and in my mind a bloom of fire forms and stabilizes...

And I call it forth, and send it...my concentration so total that I don't even see the minotaur until its time to fire...

PT
OOC: Thats if I survive...I might get interrupted by a horn in the chest.

  By the time your fireball has been created, the minotaur has been able to shake off the shield and is just turning back to you.   The fireball goes high, at a skewed angle since you are on the floor.  But in a strange twist of fate, it hits true.  The minotaur gets it square in the eye.  It bellows in pain and rage as its eyeball bursts into flame, oozing out of the socket.  The fur singes around the oriface.  It puts its paws up on the wound and shakes its head, bellowing.
  Then it turns back to you, malice raging in its good eye.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:17, Sat 25 Feb 2006.

I rush to get the next fireball on line, and ready to go.  I'm also trying to be ready to dodge aside at the last moment, although without much hope.

A peace fills me, even as I get frantic.  I may die here, but it will be okay.  My efforts speed up even more as fear slips away, leaving only determination.

But, I don't expect to make it.  Oh well, I was enjoying this new life.

PT

  Your second fireball hits the minotaur square in the chest.  It bellows in pain, rage and fear as the fire spreads across its chest and around its back.  It spirals in a swirl of smoke and fire.  The smell of singed fur fills the air.  But the flame doesn't penetrate into its chest as it did for the smaller creatures.  It again turns towards you, no malice in its good eye now, only pain.  It makes a final lunge towards you, horns down, trying one last time to rid itself of the nuisance that's plaguing it.

I scrabble for my dagger in my hip scabbard, with a sense of fatalism, and jerk it out to try to ward off the Minotaur.


PT

   Quelling in fear, dagger out, hand trembling, you turn your head, not wanting to see your own fate.  You hear a loud roar, then deathly silence.   Opening one eye and peeking around you see the minotaur flat on its back, a hole in the center of its chest, which is still smoldering.
    "ah, I got him," you hear behind you.
    Turning around you see the man who had the broken arm smile in pride.  "I heard the incantation you used for your fireball spell and thought I'd give it a try.  I had practiced it in my youth but had forgotten the words.  If I had known the incantation I could have used fire against the minotaur also.  But all I had was my father's sword, which alas, wasn't enough."
   The injured man turns to his fallen comrade, "I see Horace is still hanging on by a thread.  You'd best attend to him, I think he may have some last words.  Then if you'll be so kind, if you have a spare potion, give me some to heal my broken arm."

"I'm ..." laugh. "Alive."  I jump up to dance around, and then quickly stop from the ache in my back.  And that recalls the wounded man, and I go fetch my gear, and try to rescue the man from death.  After that, I go and heal the man with the broken arm.

"You saved my life, friend. Thank you."  I say this with what I imagine is the signs of deep sincerity, staring into his eyes, and shaking his now healed hand.  But at the same time, I mean it too.  I owe this guy a debt.

I dose myself then.

PT

   You turn to Horace, who is holding his abdomen.  You notice with a sickening feeling that his intestines are oozing out between his fingers, which are red with blood.   He speaks, his voice sounding as if he's talking underwater.
    "I have but moments left," he moans.  "please deliver a message to my fiance, Gwen.  Tell her not to mourn for me.  Marry my brother.  I have always known it was my brother she loved more, but my brother knew I loved her back, more deeply than my brother ever will."  he hacks, coughing up more blood.  "tell her to marry my brother and honor my memory by naming one of their sons after me..." then he sighs, slumps over and is gone.
     Turning back to the man with the wounded arm, you quickly access the damage.  The arm is twisted in an unnatural angle, the bone is protuding from the skin.
   The  man speaks, "if you can spare me a potion I'll be right as rain.  Just save a wee bit for yourself.  That was a nasty tumble you took.   I'm glad you landed on your rump and not your head," he laughs, then winces in pain.
   After attending to his needs and then to your own you turn to the crystal.  You pick it up, weighing it in the palm of your hand.   It is light, you barely even know it is there, although the shard fills the palm of your hand.  It shimmers with an iridescent glow.
   You place it in your knapsack and turn towards the opening to the next chamber.   You enter in and see a large fountain bubbling from the cavern floor.  At the edge of the fountain is a mermaid, her voluptuous breasts discretely covered by her golden green hair.  She is sitting on a rock at the edge of the pool, her grey tail flipping playfully in the pool.
   "hello travelers," she speaks with a melodious voice.  "what can I do for you today?"

"I will, Horace, I will. I promise you the message will get there."  I put my hand softly on his as he dies.

Then as I'm fixing up the other guy, I speak to him.

"I figure our debts of honor are cancelled out, I guess we are battle comrades.  But I would feel better if you were to take Horace's message to Gwen.  You seemed to know him better than I do, and that way I won't fear to have an obligation unmet."

I let him make up his mind, and then pick up the crystal.

Upon seeing the mermaid, I'm reminding myself...you're married, dude. Married.  Aargh. Must keep eyes on face...

So my attitude is more like Al Gore the Robotman than someone smooth and suave...

"Is this the fountain of life? If it is, the witch sent me to get some."

PT

  Your comrade, before entering the chamber of course, agrees to carrying the message to Gwen.  It appears they were old school chums after all.
   So now you are in the chamber looking at the voluptuous mermaid  (or at least, discretely looking away) who sweetly replies to your query, "yes indeed this is the Fountain of Youth.  I am Sherai.  I do remember  this witch you speak of.  She came to me many centuries ago.  What she has done with the gift I bestowed upon her is of no concern to me.  She is just honoring the rules I have applied to my gift.   A person is only allowed one vial of this precious water.  He or she may not return for another.  If they wish another dosage, they must send somebody they trust for it.  I say somebody they trust because whomever gets the vial is free to use it on themselves if they wish, rather than returning it to the witch or to whomever else may be needing another dosage.  My waters give the drinker youth and vitality for 100 years.  Then at the end of this period they begin to age.  In a month's time they will have aged those 100 years.  Do you gentlemen wish a vial each?  What you do with the vial is your own business.  Just remember, you cannot return for another even if you don't use it yourself."

I think about it a bit, but I decide this is the mission I am set on, and besides, there is likely to be another way to gain immortality later, and besides its not even my body...hero guy might have his own chance to get it.

I take the vial offered, and thank her, and then stow it safely on my person.

Then I take out a notebook, the one with the spells in it, and I write down my decision, and my logic behind it as a personal note to the true owner of the body.

"Hey guy, this is from the person who used your body for a while.  I'm sorry about that, but I didn't have much choice, or any choice.  Just got dumped in it, not that its a bad body or anything.  Just not mine.  Anyways, while I was trying to fix some problems for some people, I got the vial of life water from this mermaid for the witch, and ...." So on and so forth...and I sign it with my real name.

I figure I should leave a log of the major decisions and actions I have taken with this guy's body while he was gone.  So he won't be totally blindsided or soemmthign when he gets back.

PT

   Your new companion watches as you make the log entry in your journal, then turns to the mermaid.  "I think I'll pass on my own vial, ma'am.  I don't wish to stay young and watch my beloved age before my eyes.  And I know she couldn't face the dangers in this cave to come get her own vial.  If my new friend wishes, he can have my vial."

I thank him, and take it.  And then as we leave, I tell him if he changes his mind, its his, at least until I find a use for it.

It occurs to me, that an immortality potion might be a most excellent part of a preternaturally strong poison....

If I can, I get back to the witch, after stopping over at the Goblin King first.

"Your majesty. I believe I have destroyed a number of your enemies."  I then list them, and show the heads for those that I have.  "There are still others, but I leave that problem for your majesties' great strength and wisdom to handle."

PT

   When your companion realizes that you plan to see the Goblin King before returning to the witch, he states, "I don't wish to anger the Goblin King.  It is rumored that he is easily offended.  I shall deliver Horace's message.   But I won't go to the witch.  She will be disappointed with me and might punish me.  It is best if you take the vial to her and leave me out of the picture.  Or at least apologize for me for my failure.  I just wish to go home to my beloved.  I am weary of being a hero.  I wish you good fortune on your quest. Perhaps if you have time you can visit me and tell me the importance of that crystal the minotaur was guarding.  Until then, farewell."
    After he departs, you follow after him, picking your way through the corridors until you arrive back at the Goblin King's lair.  The quietness of the caverns unnerve you, making you wonder where everybody took of to.  But those worries are forgotten as you make your audience to the King.
   "ah you have returned!," he says, "you must join me in a feast and tell me all about your battles.  I shall hang the heads on my wall as trophies of your honor.  And as I have promised, I shall give you one of my wayerns as your companion on your journeys.  Feed it well and it will know you are its master.  It will fight viciously anything that you command it to, as long as it's well matched in size and strength.  If the foe is too large or more fierce than he, he will cringe by your side and be useless.  Treat it well and it will be an asset to your battles.  I see you have lost your sword along the way.  Go through my arsenal and acquire another.  Now stay and feast a while.  Tell me all about the battles you have fought.  Then you may go your way to the witch's lair."

I understand my comrade's point, and clap his shoulder.

"Send me an invite to the wedding.  I shall certainly try to make it to such a wondrous thing.  In the meantime, go,and take care of her for these are dangerous days."

I thank the Goblin King for his hospitality, and take him up on his sword, although I don't draw it yet in test, being a little afraid he might be giving me a cursed blade.

At the feast, I comply, by entertaining them with wild gestures, and sudden thrusts with a candlestick to demonstrate the fights, and with jokes on myself when I can.  I don't wish to appear a clown, but I do clown around a bit to help show I don't take myself too seriously.

And at the end, I ask the Goblin King...

"Shall I take a proposed treaty of friendship binding you and the Human King together?  It is dark days.  and you have shown me friendship,a nd aided me, and I think the reverse is true as well."

PT

   The Goblin King replies to your entreaty, "I have always stayed aloof to the quarrels of men.  But, if you should desire aid, take this magic whistle.  Blow it and one of my underlings will appear in a trice to aide you in battle.  The whistle can used at any place, for the goblin aide will materialize at your side and disappear just as swiftly when the battle is over.  My goblin hoard is sometimes cowardly, as you have discovered.  But this whistle will call forward one of my elite guard who is well trained in battle and who is quite clever with the dagger.  But I am keeping you.  The witch will grow impatient and I know you are anxious as well to retrieve the other crystal shards.  And perhaps you have other business as well in town that must be attended to.  So go, and may you always fare well in battle."

I bow as graciously as I can, and then leave.  Once on the surface, I head toward the witch's hut, with my hand on my sword, trying to be alert for ambushers and brigands.

The success of my mission hurries my feet.

Once there, I give the vial to the   witch, and then wait for her to make good on her promise to unstone-ify the villagers.

PT

   Again the forest is eerily quiet, making you wonder where everybody took off to.  Maybe there is a big battle going on elsewhere.  Or maybe word had spread that there was  a fierce warrior in the area.  Regardless you arrive at the witch's hut safe and sound.
   "ah, thank you for delivering this vial to me.  I was beginning to wonder if you would return, the last 2 chaps didn't.  Perhaps they chose to use the vials themselves, rather than return them to me.  Ah, no matter, they just won't be rewarded.  I am still feeling guilty about my rash decision to punish the women for the men's lack of attention to my needs.  You'd think after centuries of experience I'd learn to control my temper,"  she sighs.
   "ah, no matter.  I have the vial and won't need another for 100 years.  The village will prosper once again as my strength returns.  As for the women of the village, they should be right as rain.  The ones I rescued from Lord Drake's men are outside and I"m sure are eager to return home.  I trust you'll escort them safely to the village,"  she says.
    Then she turns to her cupboard and pulls out a square box.  "inside you'll find the promised 10 vials of healing potion.  Use them wisely."
   Then she pulls out another wooden box.  "inside this box are 4 jars of healing aloe balm.  These will come in handy for superficial wounds."
    Then she takes up the vial and drinks it.  You watch in awe as the wrinkles smooth from her face, her sagging breasts firm up, her gnarled fingers straighten.  Standing before you now is a lovely lady of about 20, with red hair and green eyes.
   She smiles sweetly at you, "I thank you so much.  Now you must go, the ladies outside are anxious to get home."

She is beautiful, and so I want to be nice to her, but then she's also a threat, and an irresponsible person who caused great harm.  I hope she's learned from this experience.

I coldly stare at her until her smile wilts.

"The King is gracious, and my Lord in Heaven forgives, but mess up again like this, and we'll find a keeper for you and a leash if needed to keep you from harming anyone else under the King's protection."

I glare at her.  And then I step out.

I do my best to summon a smile for the innocent ladies, but its a poor attempt, and they look uncertainly at each other as I lead them back to the village.  But when they see their husbands and brothers and younger kin, they turn happy, and bubbling with joy, they run to meet them.

I lean back and survey the scene with genunine pleasure.  A job well done, indeed.

"Thank you Lord, for giving me this chance to help them out."  I whisper, and then slip back into the woods to circle about the town.

PT

  As you leave the village you recall that it was rumored that the village Pentar in the west hadn't been heard from in a week.  You seem to recall a messenger  reporting that the village's magical object, the horn of plenty had been stolen.
   As this knowledge comes to your mind, you come upon a crossroads.  One road heads west, another heads north.

"Go west, young man, go west." I quote to myself in a murmur, as I check my weapons, and head west.  Whenever I take a break, I sit down under a tree, and try out a new one of my spells.

PT

   Mulling over the spellbook you see the spell labeled Telekinisis.   You focus on a pine cone, speak the word "retrouver" and the pine cone comes sailing at you.
   Then you try the poison cloud spell on an ant bed.  You speak the incantation "puison vapeur" and a cloud of green smoke rises and  settles on the ant bed.  All the little ants curl up and die.
   Satisfied that 2 more spells are useful you continue to the village.  Several people are milling about but they look haggard and thin.  You recall that the messenger mentioned the horn of plenty had seen stolen.  You wonder where it could have been stashed.
    Stopping a passing villager you query him about the horn of plenty.  He replies that he last saw it being taken by a hoard of Rodentica towards the cave at the base of the mountain further to the west.

Excellent!

I thank the villager later, and check in with a few others for verification, and for more information about the cave.

Satisfied that I'm on the right track, I head toward the cave.  I try to pay attention to sounds so as to hear an enemy up front, and scurry off into the forest aside the path.

PT

   The cavern entrance sets at the base of the hill, barely visible behind a thicket of briars.  Venturing in you see 3 Rodentica standing guard, the corridor leading into the bowels of the cavern behind them.  They snarl as you enter the mouth of the cave.  They have shields and swords at the ready.  Your new companion, the Wayern, growls and raises its hackles.

I turn to my new companion.

"Time to party, ya' think?"  He snarls back his readiness.

I draw my sword, and ready my shield.

"Oh Lord in Heaven, make strong my arm, and quick my feet. Give courage to my heart, and fury to mind."

Then I raise my sword, and charge shouting ...

"An Ashley is Upon You!"

Which sounds goofy to me even as I say it, but in another less cultured part of my soul agrees with the sentiment with a wolf-baring fangs grin.

PT

    The Wayern jumps at the Rodentica on your right.    It tries to raise its shield in defence, but the wolf-like creature lands squarely on the shield, knocking the Rodentica on its back.  You watch in disgust as the Wayern goes straight for the jugular.  With a snarl and a vicious twist of its head it rips into the Rodentica's throat.  Blood gushes everywhere.  Then comes the even more disgusting sounds of chewing and slurping as your Wayern feasts.
  Meanwhile, the remaining 2 Rodentica continue to advance on you, apparently oblivious of their comrades fate.  One stands to your right, one stands to your left, they are flanking you, swords bared.  The one on your right squeals as it lunges forward, ready to strike.  The one on your left holds back a second, as if to see if its companion will succeed before it begins its attack.

I rush forward, and at the last moment shift to attack the one holding back, and whale down on him a powerful blow.  Then I spin to my left, and try to run the other one through while he is startled.

I continue smashing at them, trying to utilize my greater strength, and to stun them with ferocity and surprise.

PT

   Your surprise attack on the one holding back lands it a stunning blow on its shield hand, cutting it, but it manages to hold onto its blade.  Squealing in pain and rage it draws back the wounded sword hand and gives you a resounding blow to the shoulder.  Your chain mail absorbs most of it, however the blade does nick you.  As you circle about you slice at the one advancing on your right, but it blocks your advance with its shield.  There is the clang of sword onto shield.  You duck and spin, trying an upward jab towards the one on the left, he with wounded hand.  It manages to block the thrust and swings with its sword, catching you across the back.  Again the chain mail absorbs most of the blow, although the force of the blow bruises your back. Your swing comes full circle and manages to swipe the one on the right across the abdomen.  It squeals in pain as blood gushes from the cut.  Its not a deep cut, however, and it has more fight left in it.
   Now your Wayern comes to join the fray.  It has blood on its maw.   It hurtles at the one on your right, he with the abdomen wound, knocking it off its feet, causing it to lose its sword.  They roll in mortal combat, sword lying useless at the Rodentica's side.  But you don't have time to watch your beast's battle.  The remaining Rodentica comes at you, rage in its heart.

I'm bigger than him. So I meet his charge with a shield rush.  I try to use my shield, and speed, and mass to knock him flying.

If that works, I go after him, and chop into his body with overhand flails.  If not, I spin in place trying to cover myself with my shield, and engage in some lunges over the top of my shield, even as I keep my knees bent so I won't get cut across the legs.

PT

   You fly into the Rodentica.  Your shields clash, then your forward momentum knocks the creature off its feet.  You are now on top of it, pinning it down.  It flails with its sword, nicking you on your arms and face.  You pound on its sword hand with the handle of your sword until it finally relents and drops its sword.  Somehow you manage to get the shields out of the picture, casting them aside.  Now it's down to fists and claw.  You wrestle, you punch, you jab, it retaliates.  You gain a bloody nose, a black eye, a resounding punch into the chest, many scratches.  But the Rodentica is also battered  and bruised.  Then you land a massive blow  to the side of its head.  You hear a bone shattering crunch as the nasal cavity is breached.  The Rodentica flails, then lies still.  Your Weyern comes to investigate, senses that there is some life left, and immediately snuffs it out.
    The cavern reeks with blood and sweat.  You have a bloody nose, a black eye, multiple scratches and cuts, multiple bruises, and your stomach is growling.  There is an opening that leads deeper into the cavern.

Time to as follows:
1)Drag the bodies aside.
2)Loot the bodies.
3)Hide the bodies.
4)Find a sheltered area back from the cave.
5)Clean up us both, and use what medicines I need for both of us.
6)Get some chow for both of us.
7)Pray for strength, skill, and wisdom.
8)Thank the wyvern for doing such an excellent job.  Scratch behind its ears.

PT

   You drag the bodies off to one side of the cavern, finding some natural, low rock formations to shield them from being seen from the entrance.  All the Rodentica have on them are their swords and their shields, aside for a loincloth for decency.  There is lots of blood on the stony ground, but not much loose gravel or sand to cover it.
   Your wyvern is satiated and is content to lie by your side as you rummage through your magical backback, emerging with a thick, meaty sandwich and an apple.
    A few daubs of healing balm takes care of the bumps and bruises nicely and your wyvern seems to be able to attend to himself, as he's already licking his wounds as it digests its meal.
   You've just barely gotten rested when you hear a ruckus deeper in the cavern.

I make ready the poison gas spell, and get ready to unleash it.

PT

  Emerging from the opening are six Rodentica.  As the opening is only big enough for 2, they enter 2 at a time.  As soon as you see the whites of their eyes you release your spell.  A cloud of green gas issues from your lips, flows over to the Rodentica and envelops them.  They immediately reach for their throats, gasping and hacking.  Then their eyes begin to bulge from their sockets, their tongues loll from their jaws.   They fall to the ground, twitching and jerking, squealing in pain.   Then they are still.  An eerie quiet hangs over the chamber.  You hear no more noises from deep within the cavern.

I drag their bodies out of sight, and search them for any information (maps, orders, wanted posters...).

I also look for anything that seems like it might be magical (large rings, wands, spellbooks.)  Those I take.

Then I venture into the caverns.

PT

   You find on the body of one of the Rodentica a scroll, orders from a high command to capture a person named Riken.  You find a small  bag with 3 rings inside, one a black opal, the second a stone that shimmers like fire, and the third a stone that looks cold as ice.
   Upon entering the chamber you see a gentleman tied and bound, huddled on the floor.  He appears to be barely conscious, his face a bloody mess.  He looks up at you, his left eye swollen shut, the right bloodshot.  He moans, then hangs his head.

I stow the items thoughtfully, wishing for silk to wrap them in, and then check my backpack to see if I can find a silk scarf.  Silk is supposed by some people to neutralize magic.  Then I enter the cave.

I cut him free while holding my hand over his mouth.

"Easy there, fellow, I'm here to rescue you. Stay calm, no need to attract attention."  I murmur (instead of whispering which carries further).

Once free, I help him out of the cave, and then once in a hidden position off the road, I minister to his wounds with my healing potions.

"Would your name happen to be Riken?"

PT

   Your magical backback, sensing your desire for a silk scarf, supplies you with a lovely rose colored scarf.   You wrap the rings in this garment, then attend to the gentleman's needs.
   After being attended to, the gentleman sighs and replies, "I am Riken, the village sorceror.  I had in my possession 3 rings and 2 crystals.  My opal ring is my ring of power, my fire ring controlled a fire demon and my ice ring controlled an ice demon.  My crystals contained the demons.  The Rodentica stole these items from me to give to their sorceror.   With these items he can control the demons and unlease them on the village.  I beg of you to find these artifacts and return them to me before the village can come to further woe.  I heard the Rodentica saying that their sorceror was sealing himself into a chamber deep within the caverns.  From this chamber he could safely release the demons and control them from afar.  The Rodentica didn't realize the power of the cloak I am wearing, for if they did they would have taken it as well.  This is the Cloak of Clouds.  With it you can pass through walls, given that there is a chamber on the other side.  Use it to get to that sorceror and stop him before he can harm anybody."

I marvel again at the backpack.  Most helpful it is.

Then I take the rings I just got out, and show them to the wizard Riken to see if they belong to him.

If not, I ask them how they work, if he knows, and then I take the Cloak of Clouds and head into the cave.

PT

   Riken laughs when he sees the rings.  "Ho ho, won't the Rodentica's sorceror be surprised when he tries to unlease the demons from their crystals.  He won't be able to control them.  When you get to the sorceror's chamber and when he tries to unlease the demons on you, all you have to do is show the demon the rings and the demon will submit to you.  Command the demon to return to the crystal from whence it came.  Then defeat the sorceror, retrieve my crystals for me, the Horn of Plenty and the shard of the Time Orb.  Return to me at the village and I shall reward you."
   With that, Riken rises, wincing as he is still stiff and sore from his beatings.  You watch him exit the cavern, then turn towards the bowels of the cave.
   You emerge into a chamber filled with bats.  They bombard you as you try to move, nipping at your face and arms.  Contrary to popular belief, these bats are not just after the insects that swarm around your head.  These bats are after blood.

I sprint about ten feet to the left, trying to outrace them, and whirl back, and try to swack a bat or two, and then sprint back to the right, and whirl back, and then sprint forward, and whirl and whack...

I keep this up as long as I have oxygen for this high-intensity workout.

PT

  Your Wyvern follows your "dance", snapping up bats left and right as they fall to the ground.  Just when you think your legs will collapse, the last bat falls and the cavern is silent again.
   After getting your breath, you continue down the corridor.  As you round a corner you come across 3 Rodentica hunched around a rock, devouring a small animal.  They look up with a snarl as you approach.

"Yield, swear loyalty to the King, and live. Rebel, and die."

I assume they go for Choice B, and so I draw my sword, and ready my shield before they answer.

I then advance, trying to pin one of them uselessly against the wall by his comrades bodies, and attack two of them with wide flashy slashes to distract, and sudden jabs to seriously wound.  I try to avoid being encircled.

PT

   You manage to pin one against the wall, while you Wynern distracts a second.  A swift jab to the chest dispatches the one you have pinned, but while you are thrusting at him his comrade stabs you in the back.  The wound catches you below the rib cage.  Your Wynern swiftly dispatches the one it has selected as its target, but leaves you to fend for yourself as it feasts on Rodentica meat.

I stagger backwards after twisting about, trying to fend the fellow off, and at least win me some breathing space.  There's nothing for it, I unhook my shield, and throw it at him, hoping to slow him up enough that I can envision fire in the palm of my left hand.

PT

   Your shield knocks his sword from his hand.  As he stumbles to pick it up, your fireball materializes.  Before he can even defend himself he is toast.
    Examining your wound you find that it is as deep as your hand, very painful and bleeding heavily.

Groaning, I stagger to my knees, and get out the healing ointment, and use it to stop the bleeding.  Then I take a swig of one of the red vials.  And hope, no pray that it kicks in, and that it does so soon, because I'm wobbling back and forth, and not able to stop it.

With utter weariness on my face, I wait...

If I survive this, I'm going back to the village, and getting a meal, and a nap, and a bath...I can do this cave tommorrow.

PT

   You awake refreshed, the wound having closed itself.  You backtrack out of the cave, vowing to return when your spirits are revived.  Your Wyvern pads along, its belly full.
    It takes an uneventful day to make it to the village.  The people milling about seem listless and lethargic, some more gaunt and hungry-looking than others.  You see several Rodentica milling about amongst the townsfolk, hissing at them and frightening them, but otherwise not doing much harm.
   There is a sign above one establishment that reads KnockDead Inn.
    Beyond that is another building, Apothecrary.
   And further down the street, Notions and Bobs.
   You hear the ring of the smithy's hammer off to your right and can hear the rushing of water from the town's mill's waterwheel off to your left.

Grimacing, I go into the KnockDead Inn, and get a room.  I check the bedding thoroughly for lice and bedbugs, and if I find them, I growl to myself, and leave.

And then go find a nice tree to sleep under.  I need some rest.  And some food.

Tommorrow, I will essay the cave again.

PT

    You step into the KnockDead Inn and are pleasantly surprised to see it bright and cheerful.  Several villagers are here, although they don't seem to have much food and drink before them.  But there is hearty chatter, as if the townsfolks have decided, at least within these walls, they will be merry.
   A young woman greets you as you enter and leads you to your room, which is as bright and cheerful as the inn.  The bedtick is full of straw which appears to be fresh. There is also a  rare luxury, according the your hostess, a shower.  It's basically just a bucket that's attached to a chain, but the hostess fills the bucket with hot water, which feels good cascading down your sore, stiff body.  (the hostess discretely leaves after filling the bucket)
   When you emerge from the refreshing shower, and after changing to fresh clothes, you find your filthy ones have been taken away, apparantly to be cleaned.
   Back at the dining room the hostess serves you a bowl of rice with gravy, apologizing that there isn't much more, "everybody is on rations until the horn of plenty is returned," she explains. Then softly to your ear, "and the Rodentica is driven away."
    Dawn finds you refreshed, your clothes clean, and ready to do battle.  Breakfast is simply eggs and toast.  With the dawn comes a decision, should you stay and run off the Rodentica in town?  or tackle the Rodentica in the caverns in order to retrieve the village's lost artifacts?

I look around for my hostess of the night before, hopefully she is about.

If I see her, I'll try to talk to her in private, under the guise of taking her up to the room, and pointing out a 'potential weak spot' in the floor.  Which she can reassure me publically is not a problem...which makes me seem like a worry-wart, and therefore not a threat.

Once in private, I reveal to her that I am a servant of the King, and ask her advice on how to approach the problem.  Clean the town out first, or the cave, or other ideas?

If, I don't see her, I will wander about town like an amiable doofus, and casually do the tourist thing, while noting how many Rodentica seem to be about, and their HQ, and then make my way back to the Inn for lunch, and another go at talking to my hostess.

PT

  Your luck holds firm.  Your hostess is just finishing a round of room cleaning.  Taking her aside she informs you, "the Rodentica come into town from the caverns.  They mill about, but don't do much mischief.  There aren't usually more than a dozen in town at one time, and they usually just travel in pairs.  If you fancy a wee bit of sport, I can contact my brother and his buddies, arrange a meeting spot, then a distraction to draw the Rodentica in.  then you can destroy them."

Lets go for a bit of sport, I say with a smile.

PT

  The hostess takes you to a house on the outskirts of town, where you meet a burly lad of about 24, who introduces himself as Kroll.
   "we'll go and round up the gang," he says with apparent glee, "and wipe out those cursed Rodentica from our village.  My buddies and I have been itching to get at those fiends, but lacked a leader."
   He then leads you from the house and guides you to several other establishments all over the area.  By the end of the day you are weary, but you have a nice gang of 7 burly guys, the brother plus his 6 best buds.
   They return to the brother's house where they scrounge up a meager meal of meat and bread.
   After eating, Kroll lays out the groundwork, "I think we'll set up a diversion, get those Rodentica into the smithy's corral, then slaughter them like rats!"
   It is determined that at mid-morning 2 of Kroll's buddies will meet at the corral and start a ruckus.  Then the rest of the gang will dash about town, trying to enlist the Rodentica to settle the fight, since the Rodentica are posing as "peace" officers.  Kroll suggests that you position yourself at the corral, acting as if you are trying to stop the fight.  When the Rodentica start arriving at the corral, they'll be locked in and destroyed.  Kroll points out that it will get messy because there is no way to get all the Rodentica in at the same time, there will be stragglers.  But he sees no other way to get them in at the same time, will have to play it all by ear.
   He then asks you for any advice, any suggestions that might make the battle run more smoothly, ie, do you see any way to get all the Rodentica together at the same time, rather than 3 or 4 at a time, as the rest of the gang rounds them up.  Or battling them a few at a time, maybe, might be a better strategy anyway.

I nod listening to the plan. Its a good one.

First, I write a note.

"This young man is a person who could go far in the king's service.  My advice is to get him a sword, armor, and some training."  And I sign my supposed name to this.

I hand the letter to him, but sealed with wax.

"If you wish a place in the greater fight, take this to the king's men at the castle after the lesser fight."

Then I ask around for healers.  If there are any, I make a visit, and pay what I explain is a 'retainer' to have them get ready, and even possibly be nearby if that works with their particular talents.  This is not for the Rodentica, but for my troops.

I check their weapons, and that they all have weapons, and make sure at least four of them have long spears.  If need be, we go visit the woods, cut some staves, and using a fire make some crude wooden spears.  These are to be used to stab inside the corral from outside the corral.  Unsporting, but effective.

I also arrange to have the early dead bodies of the Rodentica dragged away into the smithy, by some of them, and sand to be tossed over blood, so that we can keep running this trick for as long as possible.

I then evaluate the escape routes, and the regroup point where we will merge together again to hunt down any remaining stragglers.

And then we launch the attack after I pray with them, and I pray quietly to myself that before any of them are slain, let me be slain...in fact, I take a quick moment to give them the Roman's Road of Salvation.  I would not want such brave lads to die without hope.

PT

  The village has 2 healers, who stand by in the smithy's shop, awaiting the arrival of wounded.  The brave young men have an assortment of swords and bows, most family heirlooms, but tended with care and reverance.  A quick trip to the woods gives your group  the staves needed, but time does not allow for steel points, so the ends of the staves are sharpened and honed to a wicked point.  These staves are then placed strategically around the corral.  The corral, thankfully, is only accessible one way, so once the Rodentica are in, they are toast.
  Dawn finds you ready for action, a little tired from the nighttime preparation, but the adrenalin is pumping.  You are stationed at the corral with Kroll, swords at the ready.  Inside the corral are 2 young men that are doing a rowdy playacting fight.
  Before you can get antsy, 2 of the gang arrive with 4 Rodentica in tow.  They are gesturing and talking animatedly about the ruckus in the corral.  The Rodentica see the situation and quickly rush in, brandishing cutlasses, eager to break up the fight.
    As soon as they enter  the corral Kroll and you dash in, swords raised.  The two "fighters" quickly turn from their brawl and attack the Rodentica.  The Rodentica are stunned and caught off guard.  In a few short minutes the 4 are slain.
   After the melee, the 2 messengers announce  that there is a small squadron of Rodentica coming in from the caverns, intent on acquiring more food.  There are about 12 in the squadron.  There is also still about 8 or 9 in town, they should be arriving shortly with the rest of the gang.  So, quickly, the bodies are dragged away and the stage set.
   You barely have time to get ready when 2 more messengers come with 5 Rodentica in tow.  These 5 seem more wary than the first group.  They are cautious about entering the corral.  Thus when the tables are turned on them, they are more eager to fight.  One seems to decide that you are a perfect target and rushes headlong at you, a cutlass waving in the air.  The other 4 Rodentica are engaged with your small army.

I charge the one in front of me, shield-bashing him to the ground if I can, and zoom right on past him.  I aim to chop at the neck or back of one of the others who is not facing my way, and lessen the pressure on my army, and maybe even break the resistance of the others.

And then I spin around, ready to have another go at my Rodentica which has probably clambered to his feet by now.  If I can, I swing a wide slice meant to drive him back, or chop him in half.

PT

  You charge at the advancing Rodentica, a war cry emitting from your lips.  Your sword clangs against his, as you bring your shield around, hitting him squarely in the side.   With a whooph he stumbles as your forward momentum brings you to the thick of the fight.  You manage a fierce swipe, that takes out one of the Rodentica, slicing it in the back.  Then you twirl, to find the one that had been attacking you was back on its feet and coming right for you.  You manage a low sweep of your sword, slashing at its upper thighs.  With a squeal of pain and anger it falls to its knees.  Another downward thrust and the head is severed, rolling to the ground, blood gushing everywhere.
    A silence hangs over the corral as the other Rodentica fall.
   Counting heads it seems there are at least 6 more Rodentica still out there, and another squadron of twelve on its way.

"New plan, new plan!" I yell.

"Get all the bodies out of here, but that one." I point out the most chopped up body.

Then I tell the others to wait in the smithy, and get healed as they can.  Meanwhile, I stand and wait in the corral on the other side of the dead body, with my shield resting against my knee, and my palm closed behind my back as I hold in my memory the spell for the poison gas.

It is all completed in my mind, but the very last bit.

When the Rodentica come around the corner, I wave my sword at them challengingly, like I'm a madman, and hope they charge en masse.

If they do, its gas cloud the whole corral once most are inside, and a wild dive over the corral wall, leaving my shield behind, and tossing my sword over first, and well away so I don't come down on it in my wild tumble.

PT

   You wait in the corral for the remaining Rodentica to arrive.  Soon you see them approaching, the rest of your army guiding them in.
   The Rodentica see their fallen comrade and rush in to find out why you had killed it.  This action was their downfall.  As soon as they entered the corral you unleash your poison cloud, then dropping your shield, you hastily retreat.
   The Rodentica squeal in pain and agony as they gasp and choke, clawing at their throats.
   You stand outside the corral with your army and wait while they die.
    After all movement ceases you can dispose of the bodies and prepare for the arrival of the squadron.

I'm trembling and exhausted, but triumphant.  Although seeing the twitching bodies makes me want to just quit, and walk away, but I can't as I look at the fine young men who have aided me.

I picture in my mind them being executed if I don't buck up, as a goad to myself.  Nodding, I push away the awful sight of the dying Rodentica, and call for water to drink.

"Get the squadron in here if you can boys.  If not them, the remaining ones in town.  If not that, send a messenger, and we'll meet at the regroup point."

I take my postion, and wait.

"Lets re-run the same plan."  My face turns hard and cold.  And the worries about the Rodentica seem silly now.

"The wicked will not go unpunished.  O make it so, Lord of Heaven, but be merciful unto me, your poor servant."  After I pray, I wait calmly, ready to slaughter once again.

PT

  Kroll senses your adversion to the violence of the last hour, and takes it upon himself to send out two of his best buddies to great the squadron.  "tell them there is a feast laid out for them behind the smithy's stable.  tell them we figured they'd enjoy fresh air and sunshine, rather than a gloomy inn, after being in the caverns."
   Then Kroll comes and gives you words of comfort, telling your stories his father told him of the first battles he had ever fought in.  Come to find out, this is Kroll's first battle as well.  Some of the other guys had killed wolves and hunted deer, but Kroll had never killed anything in his life.  He points out that when his father's blade pierced his first Rodentica, he felt the tip of the blade go right through his heart.    He points out that when the time comes again to kill, he will do so for honor and country.  But each life he takes, he says, takes a piece of his heart from him as well.
   Then you hear the sound of jubilant shouting.  The Rodentica are coming for their feast.

I nod a bit shakily, and clap Kroll on the shoulder.  As much to comfort him as for myself.

"I'll be fine, my friend."  I say, and my voice turns cold.  "I'll be fine."  Its a job not for quiet of mind, but for controlled fury.

"Come and get it."  I mutter as Kroll hurries away.  And my mouth quirks into a cruel grin.  It has to be done, so lets do it..

The Rodentica come on, and I find myself chuckling softly, as I flex my hand on my blade, and ready my spell.  Part of me wants to charge them, go berserk, wade in blood, but the more rational part is willing to accept the poison gas attack.

PT

   You try to hold back your spell until most of the Rodentica are upon you, but the squadron's jubilation is stopped abruptly when they sense a trap.  Just as you are about to release your spell the Rodentica rush the men leading them into the corral.  Your spell only hits four of the Rodentica, those who have rushed forward from the rest.   The other 8 are fiercely attacking your comrades in arms.  Those four you hit squirm and gasp on the ground, as the sound of steel on steel fills the air.

I yield to the berserk fury, and charge in there with hardly a care, slashing and stabbing.  I'm not totally aware of it, but I'm laughing a bit.

PT

   You charge into the melee, laughing manically, your sanity on the verge of slipping.  You stumble over the four that you had gassed, then plow into one of the Rodentica.  Its sword clashes with your sword, blow for blow.  These Rodentica are expert fighters.  You get nicked several times before you strike a death blow.  Then you turn your attention to a second Rodentica that has one of your comrades to his knees, his arm bloody.  You stab this one in the back.  It sqeals in pain and terror as it arches its back, then crumbles in death.
   Suddenly there is silence.  The other Rodentica have been eliminated.  Your comrades are bloody, breathing heavily from the force of the battle.  But all are triumphant, the Rodentica are dead.

I sit down, and collapse.  And then duty calls, and I wearily rise, my muscles like spaghetti strings, fully cooked.  With tears on my face, but a clear if off voice, mixed with inappropriate chuckles, I get the crew to move all the bodies into the building.

"Anymore?" I say wearily, once I'm inside.  I fall to the ground again, and let the healers fix me up.  And before I know it, I'm asleep.

PT

   You awake refreshed to find Riken administering to your needs.
   "ah, young man, that was a valiant fight you lead.  The Rodentica have been cleared out of this province, for the time being.  Let's hope that Lord Dracus is slow to send reinforcements.  I think I shall accompany you back to the caverns to retrieve my kidnapped demons.  Then you can focus on defeating the Rodentica's sorceror.  Once we have completed these tasks we can return the Horn of Plenty to the village and have a feast unlike any you've ever seen before."

"Lets go get that Horn because I'm starving." I say, clapping him on the shoulder as I rise to my feet.  I feel okay, if a bit tired and shaky.  The fury is gone, leaving me blandly calm.

After I check out my weapons to make sure they are in working order, and then check on everyone else, I disperse them with a short speech.

"You guys did very well.  You have much to be proud of.  I will endeavor to make sure the King hears of your bravery, tenacity, and devotion.  I want you to go and finish up, and then clean up the mess we made, adn yourselves, so as no evidence remains, and then go and rest.  But remember, eternal vigilance is the price of liberty.  You will have to keep an eye out for the return of the Rodentica, or other threats."

I shake hands all around, and head out with Riken to the caves.

PT

   The journey to the caves is uneventful.  You arrive there to find things eerily quiet.  Have all the Rodentica been cleared out already?

It is time to sneak in, cloak gathered up to my chin and encircling my body, and my sword held down at my side.  The shield will be on my back for greater stealth.

I make a point of being sure to avoid the edges of things which I can slip past, but my sword or shield might clang of off.  However, its not a skill I'm that good at...

PT

   You slip into the first chamber to find it empty.  The carcasses of the Rodentica you had killed earlier are starting to stink and you notice  slight movement disturb some vultures which had been feeding on them.
   Riken steps up behind you, "I sense much silence here.  I think the Rodentica have left the caverns, for now.  But the Rodentica's sorceror is still here, I can feel his prescence.  I believe we'll find him in the lowest cavern."
   So taking Riken's advice, you proceed slowly deeper into the caverns  until you come to a solid wall.
  "Now we need to share my Cloak of Clouds to pass through this wall," Riken comments.
   It's a tight fit, but somehow you are able to cover both of you with the cloak.   As you step through the stone it feels as if you are passing through water.  You can even see the crystals in the rock as you pass through.  Then you find yourself in a cavern.  A sorceror stands in the center, flanked with Riken's Ice Demon and Fire Demon.
  "I shall attempt to reclaim my demons while you defeat the sorceror," Riken says.  "be wary of him, he is cunning and devious."
   The sorceror, anticipating a challenge, steps forward, brandishing a long staff.

"Surrender to the justice and mercy of the rightful king, or die where you stand."  I say, with my hands behind my back as I envision a fire in my left hand.  My right is already holding my sword.

"You cannot hope to stand against me.  Your Rodentica are slain.  Ask yourself how this happened, and if you want to join them."

If he attacks, I intend to dive to the side, and sling my fire, and then recover my feet, and charge with my sword.

PT

  The sorceror laughs in an evil manner at your challenge.  "I am Morn, and you are no threat to me!"
   So you lob your fireball at him, to prove to him that you are indeed a threat.  He waves his staff and an invisible barrier blocks your fireball, at the point of collision the fireball splatters.
   You whip out your sword as he brings his staff forward, emitting an electrical charge at you.

I toss the sword into the charge to divert it with my sword mostly vertical.  Hopefully the charge will run down the easy path, and jump from it to the ground.

I lunge at the sorcerer with my bare hands, trying to tackle him, and land on top of him.

PT

  Your sword acts as a natural lightning rod and absorbs the bolt from the sorceror's staff.  Your swift lunge catches him off guard, knocking him to his feet.
  But the sorceror is cunning and executes a manueveur that thrusts you from him, knocking you down.
   Then you hear a growl.  Your faithful Wyvern, forgotten by all, lunges to your aid, grasping the sorceror by the neck.  The sorceror screams as the beast tears at the jugular.
   Silence hangs over the chamber.

I pet my wyvern gently, telling him that he's a very good boy indeed.  And he gets a steak tonight, yes, he does.

We then make sure everything is cleared up, and that the sorcerer's items are inventoried, and I take his body back with me as a gift to the town council.

"Riken, now what, old bean?"

PT

   Riken responds, "I have captured my demons successfully and I see that the Horn of Plenty is safe, so we return to the village and have a grand feast.  I see also that there is a crystal lying beside the Horn of Plenty.  Could it be a shard of the Time Orb?"
   Having collected all the stolen artifacts you return to the village where the village elder proceeds to lay out the feast.  You watch in amazement as he places his hand within the mouth of the cornecopia, which is only as big around as a basketball, and pulls out whole roast suckling pigs, roast turkey, legs of lamb, beef roasts, vegetables and fruits of all shapes and colors, and breads.  As he pulls out each food item, fully cooked and ready to enjoy, he hands them over to the ladies of the village who places them on tables.  Soon the feast begins in earnest, with much merriment and music.

I'm a bit withdrawn, although not adverse to an occasional comment.  Stil, just worn down from the adventures, and a little tired.

I make a point of getting the wyvern a large steak for his very own to eat.

"You did well today, you deserve this." I say to him as I place the plate of food on the floor next to me.

Still, I enjoy listening to the happy people, and the juggler is very clever with his routine of tossing walnuts into the air.  And I break out laughing when a clownish goofball tries to follow him, but instead tries to unsuccessfully juggle cooked carrots.

The laughter of the room at these two local entertainers, and the smiles of the children who are digging deep into their apple pie desserts makes me finally relax, and I find myself falling asleep with a full stomach after the third plate of food...

PT

   You awake in a pleasant room in what you assume to be the inn.  Your Wyvern lies at the foot of the bed.  Sunlight streams through the window.  Your clothes are hanging at the foot of the bed in a large wardrobe.  They appear to have been pressed and cleaned.

I bathe, dress, and get some food for the both of us.  Then I head back to the King's castle.  I wish to give him a report of my actions so far, and turn over the shard from the Time Crystal for his safe-keeping (putting it in his deepest, most secure vault).

PT

   The king greets you heartily, "ah, you have done well young man.  I knew I could depend on you.  You have retrieved 2 shards, have cleared out a horde of Rodentica from the caverns by the village of Pentar, and have restored the villagers of Stros to their former state.  Yes indeed you have done well. But now you must journey north to the land of Marghor.  My spies have reported that the village of Gor has been destroyed by a gang of lizard men.  You can get valuable supplies and information from the monks at the sanctuary east of the burned out village.  Good luck and God speed."

"My liege, I must commend the brave warriors of the village.  Their leader, Kroll, and..."  I fill in everyone's names.  "Also Riken the Sorcerer, and even the common folk were all loyal and resourceful. My liege, you would not go amiss if you rewarded them with a visit from a recruiter, and formed a war force there.  It would serve you well indeed.  Perhaps a proclamation for the town as well.  Also, the Goblin King, against his inclinations decided to give some small support to a human conflict. I would send him thanks."

I bow again.

"But no doubt, I am the young warrior telling the great captain how to sharpen a sword blade.  I will leave as you say to get on with this noble mission you have given me."

I bow again.

And after re-provisioning in the market, I head out as the king commands.
pt

   You find the road to village of Gor well marked.   The land changes from forest, to meadow, to cultivated fields as you journey towards Gor.  You come to a crossroads.  A sign indicates that to the east is the Sanctuary of Shadire.  To the north is the village of Gor.  You can see smoke rising from the north.

Fretfully, I walk down the road to the Sanctuary.  Every once in a while, I stop to look back. After a couple of minutes of this, I give myself a lecture on not second-guessing oneself, and compensate by trying to speed up.

When I can, I run.

PT

   You arrive at the sanctuary to find it swarming with man-sized lizards.  They have green scaly limbs, a long tail like a lizard, and snouts like lizards.   But they are talking to one another like people.  Their weapons consist of swords and shields.  You can see an encampment on the right hand side of the sanctuary.  There are about a dozen of these creatures milling about the 4 tents.  There are 2 guarding the doorway to the sanctuary.  Those at the camp and in the doorway have taken no notice of you yet, for you have just emerged from a small stand of trees.

I slip back into the trees, breathing a bit heavy from my running and from the fearful news I just received via way of my eye gate.  Crouching over, behind a bush, I dither a bit, and recover my breath.  What I'm about to do is nothing one wants to do on half a lung, anyways.

A quick prayer for peace of soul, and comfort, and blessing.  And I begin to slip through the woods towards the tents.  My focus is on stealth, not speed now.

How close can I get to the tents before I would have to break cover?

PT

  You are lucky, the lizard men must not have much military training.  They have placed their tents right along the tree line.  The openings of the tents are facing the road leading to the sanctuary, but the backs of the tents are against the tree line.   The tents are placed in  a semi-circle, with a camp fire in front.  There are 6 lizard men sitting around the campfire, 2 are sitting by the mouth of the first tent and through the opening of the tent you can see a table.  Standing in front of the table are 2 more, listening to a third who is sitting on a chair.
   You are getting close enough you can hear their conversation.  They are discussing the recent raid on Gor and are tallying up their spoils.

I try to take a position behind some thick scrub brush, where I can yet toss the poison gas spell.  If I can't find such a place, I opt for something more clear where I can still toss the spell.

I aim for the middle of the campfire to take out the six.

And then as rapidly as possible, indeed before the first is landed (after I take a half-second to be sure I released it well, I then envision another one and hopefully get it on the smaller group while everyone is still gawking about.

PT

   Your first poisonous gas cloud lands squarely in the center of the circle of lizard men.  They begin to hack and cough as they writhe upon the ground.  One falls into the campfire, where it immediately jumps up, then falls back down, rolling in agony as its skins scorches.
   The ones standing at the table turn towards the commotion only to get a whiff of your second gaseous cloud.  They reach for their throats as their eyes begin to bulge.  The one behind the table rises from his chair and retreats to the back of the tent, where it is relatively safe from the gas.  Those standing at the mouth of the tent, again, aren't so lucky, they get a double whammy, from the cloud around the campfire and the cloud directed at the tent.  They fall to the ground dead instantly.
   As the cloud dissipates, you see the one remaining lizard men reach for its sword, ready to take on whatever challenge awaits.

Gas cloud him as well. Granted, its overkill, but the gas cloud is less visible than a ball of fire, and so I may not be noticed.  It might be a fruitless gesture, but I'll try anyways.

PT

  The remaining lizard man drops his sword and gasps for air as the cloud of gas rises under the back of the tent, sneaking up on him, catching him unawares.  It stumbles to its knees, then falls over dead.

So far, so good.

Did I have an invisibility cloak?

In any case, I circle about the gas, giving it a wide berth since poison gas sounds extremely unpleasant to me.

I envision flame in the hand behind my back, and walk toward the two guards.  When they start noticing me, I start sprinting at them, and when close enough, I fling the fire.

After that, its draw my sword, and charge like a wild Celtic berserker, although without the bloodcurdling scream.

PT

   A little voice in the back of your head reminds you that Waltherandor had a spell for invisibility, one which you hadn't practiced much.  So, since that option was uncertain, you confidently perform your fireball spell.  The two guards at the entrance are toast.
   Keeping your sword at ready you enter the sanctuary.  You are standing in a great hall, a stairwell leads to the upper floors.  Huddled in a corner are 4 monks, tied and bound.  A solitary lizardman is standing guard over them.  It turns as you approach, raising its sword.

"Freedom is here, brave monks." I say softly as I lower the point of my blade, and raise my shield.  If I see a wide opening, I will suddenly do a fencer's lunge across the room.  If not, I will cut at his legs after faking for his face.

PT

  Your brave forward thrust is blocked by the lizardman's arm, which you are shock to find is covered with scales as hard as armor.
   So you attempt your feint for the face, as it raises its arm to shield its face you swipe at its legs, only to find the scales on the legs are just as armored.
   The creature hisses evilly at your attempts and counters with a thrust from its blade, the thrust aiming for your chest.

Muttering to myself in dismay, I back up a little bit, and go on the defensive trying to figure out a plan for dealing with this creature.  I go with my first thought.

I stay defensive, and try to smack his sword arm hard enough to cut through his armour.  Even if I don't get him all at once, I intend to keep on battering his arm until even if its not cut through, it feels like its been tenderized by a sledgehammer.

Hopefully, he won't run me through before that happens.

PT

  The creature hisses in rage as you batter at its arm.  Then it lowers its head and lunges for you, attempting to ram you in your stomach.  It has made no attempts at your limbs, just your chest and stomach area.  Your sword is getting badly knicked, by the way.

I stagger back as it crashes into my shield, and suddenly Beowulf comes to mind.  I drop my sword with a loud clang hoping to get the creature's attention, and at the same time, try to slide around the back of it with my shield still protecting my vitals.

Then I lunge for its neck even as it starts its next attack, hoping I can scramble and scrabble my arms to a chokehold about its neck.  Time to play 'sleeper' with Mr. Invulnerable.

It occurs to me that this may be a really bad strategy; my next strategy involves ah, strategic withdrawal....

PT

  You give the creature your strongest "bear hug", trying to pull it to the ground.   But the creature is stronger than you and flings you back, up, over and onto the ground with a resounding thud.  It snarls as it turns and comes at you.
  One of the monks cowering in the corner calls out, "go for its heart!"
   The creature turns to the monks, snorts, and runs for the poor men.  Apparantly it didn't care for comments from the peanut gallery :)

I whirl around on my back as fast as I can, and try to grab its ankles to trip or at least drag it to the ground.  Regardless of the success or failure of this, I grab my sword, and lunge to my feet with my stomach nauseaous from the fall, and world at a distance like through a plain of glass.

I'm screaming something which probably wouldn't bear repeating in polite company even as I'm not aware of it being focused on killing this thing.

PT

  Giddy from the fall, your kidneys throbbing, your subconscious mind takes over and registers what the monks are trying to tell you.  You lunge at the creature's abdomen and manage to sink your sword into its belly.  A soft spot!  But still not enough on the first jab to kill it.  Just enrage it all the more.  It reaches down, pulls the sword from its belly and tosses it aside.  Blood oozes between the scales.  It roars in rage.

I charge forward with my shield up, screaming myself, and trying to make my sword imitate a sewing needle in a sewing machine.

Jab. Jab. Jab. Jab.  As methodical as a sewing machine, and quick, and forceful.  If I connect, I drive through, and then withdraw the sword and try again.

I'm aware that this is somewhat how the Roman legionairres fought.  Of course, they had people on their right and left to protect them....

PT

   The Cracus howls in rage and pain as your jabs penetrate its softer belly armor again and again.  It slashes at your face and arms with its claws, generating many deep gouges.  One swipe gets mighty close to your eyes.
    Then you finally penetrate deep enough that you can feel the softer flesh of muscle and organs.  A great spurt of blood gushes from the wound, showering you.  The Cracus gives one final roar, then crumbles to its feet.
  A chorus of cheers erupts from the monks.

Shaking, I jab it a couple more times just to make sure its dead.  Then I force myself over the monks, and with panting breath, and deliberate motion begin sawing the monks free with my sword.

One of the monks points out my knife, and I shake my head for a second at my own wandering mind.  Blood spatters from my face on the nearest monk, and he winces.

I cut them free with my knife, and we all help each other out to safety in the nearby town after using what medicines I have to heal myself and them.

PT

   When the monks realize you are trying to lead them out of the sanctuary, they protest, "we cannot leave these hallowed halls, we must protect what lies within."
   They then assist you in healing your many wounds and refresh you with food and drink, all the while explaining to you what your next task should be.
    "I am Shadire," begins their leader.  "the Cracus have invaded this area and have torched the neighboring village. They have taken over this sanctuary and have turned the second floor dormitories into a nursery.  You must destroy these eggs before they can hatch into a new army.  The only way you can destroy the eggs is with the Celestial Sword."
  "no," speaks another, "it is too dangerous."
   Shadire waves at the speaker, "I know, but it is the only way.  You must be wary when weilding this sword, for it can bestow great power to the bearer.  But at a price, madness.  It is not for mortal man to weild the power of the gods."
  "absolute power corrupts absolutely," muses one monk.
  "this inhuman place breeds human monsters," interjects another, then mumbles to himself, "does that quote fit here?  maybe it should be, this inhuman object,"  then he continues to mumble to himself as he ponders the conundrum.
  Shadire frowns at him, then continues, "you must use this emblem," he then pulls a circular medalion out from under his garment, "to retrieve the Celestial Sword from the stone that houses it.  You will find the stone in the sanctuary, in the east side of the monestary.  As I warned you before, it will try to entice you with promises of great power.  I beg you, be strong, do not give in.  To do so would only mean destruction.   After you have retrieved the sword, take it upstairs and destroy all the eggs.  Then return it to the stone where it will be safe.  Bring me make the medallion.  After you complete this task, then you can go to the dungeons beneath the monestary and retrieve the crystal shard we are guarding."
   He reaches into a fold of his garment and pulls out a dagger.  "this dagger will disable the protective device we have set up to guard the shard.  we have rigged a new type of magic, that projects an image of the shard on two pedestals.  one shard is true, one is false.  you must impale the dagger into the plate on the wall, to disable the magic, then the true crystal will appear."
   "but," he continues, "be on your guard.  this monestary is no longer a haven of peace since the Cracus have taken over."
  "do you have any questions young man, before you take on these tasks?"  Shadire queries.

I shake my head "no", and proceed at a slow pace praying for strength to go on, as I head into the sanctuary.  My hand is near my sword, but not actually on it.

PT

  You see the stone before you, the sword jutting out from betwixt the crack.  The handle is elaborate and heavily gilded.  Curious, there doesn't seem to be any guards.  You notice on the side of the stone a marking that mirrors the celestial symbol the monk gave you.

Impale the dagger into the marking to disable the magic, and then once I'm sure I have the true sword, take it up.

PT

   The sword slips easily from its holder into your hands.  Suddenly you hear a sound, like music.   A song seems to fill your mind, a melody without words, but yet the meaning is clear.  Power, immense power.  Then you get a sensation, as if you are flying, up, out, past this world, past the moon, beyond the planets, beyond the galaxy.  You see the universe about you, spinning into infinity.  You dive into a new galaxy and see worlds in abundance.
   A voice speaks into your ear.  "these can all be yours.  you can be as a god.  take up the sword and join me."

"Right now, I'm trying to kill some monsters. So you need to let my awareness go back to my body, or I'm going to trip and fall and break my neck."  I pause, and wait to see if it complies.  "While I'm doing that, you can fill me in on who you are, and why you want my help, okay?"

If I can, I take the sword upstairs, and begin to destro the monsters in waiting.

PT

    The voice in your ear laughs, a sound filled with evil, at your query to join forces with it.  You see a vision of animal like humuniods herding humans to a factory, where they shackled into slave labor.  The women are sent to a hospital like facility where they are subjected to horrendous experiments, forced to give birth to other animal like humuniods.
   You hear a voice whisper in your other ear.  "this is what Lord Dracus wishes for the world.  surely you don't want that?"
    Your kinder nature, your sense of justice wins out and you yell, "never!!!! I shall defeat your hordes of filth and then shall come for you."
    You hear the sword sing a jubilant song as you return to your body.  Carrying the sword you  recall that the monks instructed you to head to part of the monestary where the lizard men's nursery is housed.
   You see several eggs, 3 foot tall, and coated with slime.  Slithering amongst the eggs are serpents of all sizes and types.  You recall that the monks had said the celestial sword can destroy the eggs, but first you must rid the rooms of those serpents.  Unless you'd rather just plow right through.

I try to call forth fire from the sword, and fill the room with it to burn everything in the room.

Might not work, might.  I'll just give it a try and see.

Meanwhile, I'm considering whether I can open a gate to Heaven, and drop this sword off at the gates thereof.  I'm pretty sure the Host could find some way to break this sword into little bitty pieces even if I'm not strong enough too.

PT

  The sword sings as it gleefully replies.  A wave of heat shimmers from the sword, that expands, kinda like a flame thrower.  The snakes hiss and spit as they begin to singe.  The smell of smoldering snake flesh fill the air.
    As the smoke dissipates you again see the eggs that must be destroyed.  Recalling that the monks adviced you to use the sword on the eggs you advance on them and give them a mighty swing.
   The sword sings triumphantly as the blade slices through the papery shell.  Liquid oozes from the egg and as the egg crumbles you see the unborn Cracus within, dying without the protective embryonic fluid.
   Soon all the eggs are destroyed.
    The sword sings in triumph, then whispers, "return me to my stone, for it is there and only there that I am safe."

I give considerable thought to trying to get rid of the weapon, and waver back and forth as to whether I should try, or whether I should just take the easy course.

Finally, I decide to try.

I bend to one knee, and reverse the sword facing me, and maintain a good grip on it.

"O Lord in Heaven can you take this curse from this world?  Take it and shatter it so that it won't trouble us humans ever again?"

PT

   The sword laughs, a gleeful childish laugh.  "silly human, I was left here by the gods to aid mankind if wielded by a true heart, to harm mankind if wielded by a black heart.  It is the task of the monks of Shadire to protect me and make sure I am wielded only by those who will do good.  To return me would be to insult the gods who graciously gave me to be used.  To destroy me would be to the ruin of the future for it would anger the gods.  Please I beg you, return me to my holder, give back the celestial symbol to the monks and let me rest for my next task."