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------------- Chapter 23: Legends are told around a Fire -------------
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And so we come to the campfire discussions that some of the party had
been looking forward to for a long time. A chance to hear true bardish
tales and learn something of history.

The party members meet up as they arranged for a leisurely talk around
a fire at the Tavern. Both Arlon and Tatiana were there before any of
the others, and they nod to each of the others as they arrive.

(Tatiana:)
She looked very attractive as the flickering light fire shimmered off
her Black tresses.  Her green emerald eyes sparkled and went well with
her new forest green skirt and blouse.  She was getting use to the
heat of the Dark continent and her clothing was getting less revealing
but were still complimentary.

(Falrun:)
After dinner, Falrun enters the tavern where he finds some of the
group already relaxing around the fire.  It's not long until the rest
of the group wander in and settle down comfortably by the large fire
going in the big hearth.  After the ordeal in the caves it seems so
nice to relax and talk with those people who he's been through so much
with in such a short period of time.

Falrun has finished all of his business for the day and now you see
him dressed in a long sleeve cotton shirt (still stained from the
Daemons), breeches and he now wears two new swords by his side.  You
can also spot metal armbands underneath the sleeves of his shirt.  He
sits relaxed, or as relaxed as you've seen him until now, by the fire
sipping a tall wine glass of white wine.

(Arlon:)
"I see you have a couple of new swords Falrun.  Do either have a
magical benefit ? I could help with the purchase of one if not."

(Falrun:)
"Thank you for your offer, Arlon, but both of my new weapons have
magical properties.  These new purchases have left my funds rather
drained but I should be able to get by until we perform our next job.

(Silver:)
When Silver enters, she sees Falrun and Arlon sitting down. Nodding to
Arlon in greeting, she looks at Falrun sipping from his wine glass and
says "Haven't you had time to wash that shirt yet, Falrun ?" with a
wry smile. Silver herself is dressed in a new silken robe which
shimmers in pastel colours as she walks, the fire causing strange hues
to appear.  Her hair is part loose and part plaited, and she is
wearing the cloak she normally wears, with the hood down.

After greeting those in already in the Tavern, Silver gets a glass of
the chilled wine she is starting to acquire a taste for, and then
settles down in a chair next to Tatiana.

Taking a sip of the drink, she leans over and says in a soft voice
"You're looking good, 'Ana. Nice skirt - the colour suits you. You
seem a little ... preoccupied tonight ?" She cocks her head on one
side. With an pensive tone, but still a low voice, she asks "Is ...
erm ... everything ok ?"

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana smiled and blushed with embarrassment.  "Thank you Silver.  No
nothing is wrong, nothing at all.  It couldn't be better really." She
seemed to be talking a little too fast and she had a sincere smile
that wouldn't fade despite being embarrassed.

OOC: Your woman's intuition will tell you Tatiana has a thing for Arlon
     and that something special might be happening.

(Silver:)
Silver smiles in a gentle, amused way when Tatiana replies. When
Tatiana smiles as well, Silver touches Tatiana's cheek and says, in a
serious sort of way "Trust to your heart, 'Ana. Above all else."

Silver then reaches over and hugs Tatiana closely. Releasing her, she
looks up, and says "You know, this mood suits you, 'Ana" with a slight
chuckle.

(Arlon:)
As Silver and Tatiana talk, Arlon looks over at them and smiles.

(Silver:)
Silver continues, in a casual tone, "'Ana, just in passing, Arlon and
I were talking about Mages who have fallen into evil ways, and I
mentioned that I had never heard of any Druids who had gone the same
way. Do you have any tales of this ?"

(Tatiana:)
"Why yes I do know of a Druid turned against nature. Ask me again
later when we are all present, and I'll tell you then, for I'm sure
all would like to hear the tale."


Dithion enters, and joins the party ....

(Tatiana:)
When Dithion walked into the Tavern, Tatiana's smile faded to an
expressionless face.  A curt nod was all she gave to the man she felt
had ridiculed her beliefs without a proper apology.

(Falrun:)
Turning to Arlon, he says "I don't know who you've told yet but I
certainly am interested in hearing anything that you may have to say
about the core wars.  I'm particularly interested in hearing about the
enemies that were fought and what happened to them.  If there are any
left on this continent, I would like to know something of them when we
run into them again."

(Arlon:)
Arlon's eyes will flare with excitement as he recalls the history.  He
will not really look at anyone, generally looking into the fire or up
into the sky and making hand gestures at various times to help
illustrate something.  Arlon enjoys storytelling and he is dramatic
when doing so.  He will however look somber at the end of his story.

"I'll be glad to tell something about the core wars era; it was a bad
time however.  Tatiana could probably give us stories about the
heroes."

"About 2500 years ago the human empire reached it's boundary in the
realms.  The mountains and forests were the only havens left for the
dwarves and elves.  Because the empire had no real outside enemy,
internal factions started to form.  Unfortunately, as the provinces
became more and more independent, several dwarven and elven kings -
that feared the empire may try to eliminate them - started to
influence some of the provinces."

"Provinces started to declare independence, with support from these
dwarven and elven kings.  The emperor didn't take kindly to this and
started to raise large armies.  Other provinces were happy to help the
emperor in hopes of getting greater autonomy themselves.  This kept
going on for centuries until finally total war broke out; with Mages
playing a key role in the destruction.  Most cities were leveled and
almost 90% of the population died in the 6 decades that followed.  At
this time, anyone who had a following of warriors declared themselves
king of all they surveyed."

"Many mages died in the battles and those who survived were targets of
assassination - since they were feared by the warlords and temple
priests that felt threatened by the arcane spells.  Only unknown
apprentices seem to had been spared the carnage and this is why much
of the magical knowledge has been lost."

"Bandits started to rule as feudal lords and exploited the people.
Not all bandits were evil however and these were what we call the
Heroes.  These heroes protected the people from the other feudal lords.
Even so, it took many generations for the realms to revitalize.  New
nations started to form from alliances between the feudal lords.  This
continued into what we know today."

"In the end the dwarven and elven nations were not spared the
destruction; as often happens when fear and greed are the motivators.
If this continent had any similar history, it would appear the evil
lords had won out."

Arlon is quiet for a couple of moments and then says to Tatiana with a
smile.  "Well, I guess it's your turn; what about these Heroes!"

(Silver:)
When Arlon begins his tale of the Core Wars, Silver listens intently,
eyes wide. When he finishes, she turns with an expectant expression,
waiting for Tatiana to tell the stories of the Heroes.

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana sat back with an interested look on her face.  She had been
listening carefully to the tale told by Arlon.  Several minutes of
silence followed as she collected her thoughts.


While Tatiana prepares herself to tell her tale, Shade walks in ....

(Arlon:)
As Tatiana collects herself and gets ready to tell her tale about the
Heroes, Arlon gets his little earthen mug and bottle and fills the mug
from the bottle.  He then looks around "Does anyone want to try any of
my ale, I call it Arl - my own special recipe" he smiles.

(Silver:)
"Thank you, but no - this chilled wine is fine at the moment. But if
you have some left tomorrow ?"

(Shade:)
"Many thanks for the offer, Arlon" - Shade's voice comes from the door
as he comes in - "but I have a debt with the heavens to never drink
alcohol."  Then he smiles "Hi to everyone friends" and he finds a free
chair to sit on.

At first glance the bard's equipment looks unchanged, but with a
little more attention anyone can spot the entertainer (the shortsword)
has changed and the damaged clothes have been substituted with new
ones.

(Silver:)
"Hi Shade," smiles Silver warmly. "Come sit here" she says as, still
sitting, she turns and pulls a chair from outside the current group to
a position close next to her. "'Ana is just about to tell of the Heroes
of the Core Wars"

(Shade:)
"It's always good to listen to such a great bard as 'Ana is, and the
topic is intriguing too."

(Silver:)
As Shade sits, she inquires softly, so as not to break Tatiana's
composure as she prepares her tale "What made you make that deal with
those above never to drink alcohol ? I have always though of wine as a
blessing, not a thing to avoid."

(Shade:)
"It's not such a long story, Silver, but will anyway prevent us from
participating in the chattering for a while: do you still want me to
tell you?"

(Silver:)
"Yes, I would be very interested in hearing it. Tatiana will let us
know when she's ready to start."

(Dithion:)
Dithion pipes in, "Aye, tell us Shade, I would love to hear it."

(Arlon:)
"Yes, I would be interested in that story also - you're missing
something special here."  he smiles "it must have been a serious
thing!" he says sympathetically.

(Falrun:)
"Oh, I don't know about that, Arlon." Falrun says as he sips his tea.
"I don't see what is missed by getting drunk and obnoxious just to
wake up with a splitting headache that the gods themselves can't cure.
I'd rather be attacked by a dozen smelly orcs.  At least that way,
when it's all over, you may have accomplished something worthwhile,
and if not, then at least you don't have a hangover to worry about."

(Arlon - smiling:)
"I would say you are right Falrun, I've been drunk once and been
attacked by a dozen smelly orcs and I'd take the orcs.  I don't go for
the getting drunk part; but it is nice to relax with it especially
when it is warmed up."

He smiles even wider now "Of course I've known tea to give headaches
when you can't get to sleep because of it."

(Silver:)
As various of the friends also prompt Shade for his story, Silver
looks around at each as they say their piece. When the last has
finished, Silver turns back to Shade and looks at him encouragingly.
She checks his face to make sure he is not embarrassed, ready to make
some delaying comment if he does seem shy about this story. She leans
towards him, keeping her hand on top of his, and awaits his tale.




Just as Shade seems ready to tell his tale, Tatiana has also prepared
herself, and attention turns to her ....

(Tatiana:)
She picked up her glass of wine and sipped it slowly. Next to her
flute was a new long sword with runes etched into the blade.

The inattention she was giving Dithion was soon forgotten as she told
her tale of the Core Wars and the others chatted.

She cleared her throat and began.

"It's interesting how the history of the Core Wars is different yet
the same depending on who tells it.  I've never thought of what the
Core Wars were like for the Elves and Dwarves before.  It was
interesting to hear that point of view"

"The perspective I learned it from though, tells more of internal
strife that brought the downfall of the Great Empire."

"For those of you who don't know, the Great Empire controlled all of
the world in it's time.  The Capitol is believed to lie in Mulrohand
somewhere.  That is where the God-Kings rule now and little is known
of them, for they are just south of Thay, and we all know how well
most countries get along with them."

"The God Emperor Salish-Khutam was in reign when it fell.  At the time
the Great Empire had successfully defeated the last of it's external
enemies.  The Elves and Dwarves had taken refuge in the mountains and
forests and the goblinoid races had left for lands the Empire didn't
care about."

"The large armies that the Empire had amassed had nothing to do and
internal bickering started up among the separate armies loyal to
different generals .  The ranks were divided into basically 5
different camps each loyal to one General.  But the problems were
small until the God Emperor was assassinated."

"The ensuing bid for the succession to the throne got heated and war
broke out.  With Five armies all backing their respective General to
become the next God Emperor, you can imagine the Chaos that must have
been generated.  The bickering continued for years and then stretched
into decades."

"The goblinoid races had recovered and were soon harassing the
Empire's borders.  The need for a single God-Emperor escalated, and
great magics were called upon to settle the bickering."

"Great Demons and hordes were summoned.  Cities disappeared in a
single night and magicians were assassinated as the struggle for
domination spiraled out of control.  Massive destruction was seen all
over the Empire and the result was basically a holocaust.  The Empire
had fallen overnight in the massive destruction."

"A few Heroes were left to protect what was left of the civilized
lands.  Tyrants rose in the aftermath, and Bandits ruled the roads.
Some of the heroes lead their followers to better lands to restore
their lost civilization.  Most were never heard from again."

"That is basically the facts that I know.  I know of a few stories
that can't be substantiated, but will pause here in case there are any
questions."

(Silver:)
Mixed emotions went through Silver as she listened to Tatiana recount
the fall of the Empire. Horror at the thought of power enough to
destroy a city overnight, to sadness at the selfishness which meant
death to so many.

"I cannot comprehend the motives which drive men to destroy themselves
so wantonly. Oh yes, on a grander scale, the cycles of power are
always present, and the natural rise and fall of Empires is like the
seasons."

"But for people to be so enmeshed in the webs of their own selfishness
is beyond my experience." She pauses in thought for a moment or two,
then she sighs in a resigned way "But then, perhaps, I can understand
it after all." and looks into the flames, with a far away look in her
eyes.


Each of the party contemplated Tatiana's story for a while ....

(Silver:)
"Shade, do the Drow have any tales from the Core Wars ? Or had they no
contact with those above ground at that time ?"

(Shade:)
Shade grimaces "In the tales of our people there is no clue on the
reasons of the struggle, they just say how good it was having the
chance of slaying our hated surface cousins with the help of the
humans... and then to slay the humans too."

(Silver:)
Silver nods in an understanding way, rests her hand on top of Shade's,
and sighs sadly.


The silence among other party members becomes drawn out, until ....

(Dithion:)
Dithion sits back and smiles.  Then he sits back up suddenly as if
remembering something, looks to Tatiana and says, "I suppose we should
resolve our little problem before we venture out again...  although I
have no hope of convincing you of anything and even less hope that I
will be convinced of anything, we should, at least, talk it out to its
conclusion.  What say you?"

(Arlon:)
Arlon is paying attention to this and he appears a little tense as
Dithion speaks to Tatiana; but Arlon awaits Tatiana's reply.

(Falrun:)
Falrun also takes noticeable interest in this conversation and sets
down his cup of tea to hear what kind of reply may be given.

(Silver:)
Silver looks from Dithion to Tatiana and back again, her head cocked
on one side, trying to gauge their reactions. She seems a little
confused, and glances briefly at Arlon, who is also looking at Dithion
and Tatiana and so does not apparently notice her. She senses a slight
tension in the air.

(Tatiana:)
When Dithion spoke, he brought back the memory of his insults and her
cheerful attitude cooled to a cold defensive look.

A long silence seemed to hold the room as Tatiana prepared her words.
"Convince one or the other is not what I consider the problem.  A
certain level of respect for the others beliefs is all I ask for.
I'll give you the benefit of the doubt that you have rational reasons
why you feel the way you do."

"What I won't do is ridicule you for those thoughts, the way I feel
you did in the cavern.  I still don't feel I got an honest apology for
the way you treated me.  Until I see some evidence that you are
regretful for the way you made me feel, I'll have nothing more to say
to you". She thinks for a moment and before anyone can say anything
...

* Whoah! are you a heavy! *

* What do you mean? *

* The guy just tried to talk to you.  Which means he recognizes there
  is a problem.  Maybe he doesn't think he insulted you.  At least
  maybe he didn't intend it that way.  Kinda stupid to get offended
  when an insult wasn't really meant.  Huh? *

* Hmm you mean like when we were in desert countries and the menfolk
  insisted I stand two feet back and one feet to the left of the man
  in charge? *

* Exactly, No insult was intended, It's just the way they do things *

* But I told Dithion I was insulted by his behaviour. and then he
  excused it *

* Hmm, as I recall he said he was sorry if you thought he insulted
  you.  Then he explained why he said what he said.  You as I recall
  called that rationalizing and excuse for his poor behaviour *

* Did I?  That does sound like me *

* He said he'd like to talk, why don't you start fresh *

"Hmm, Maybe I should relax a bit and consider your willingness to talk
a sign that no insult was really intended.  But be warned do not
belittle by beliefs again.  Question them and argue with me, but don't
insult."

(Dithion:)
OOC: Can we hear these things?  I doubt it, but I love the fact you
     put them in!!  They are great.  :')

(Tatiana:)
OOC: Not unless you got ESP :) you might notice lapses in
     concentration when the conversations with Tuft occur.  But
     communicating in a manner like Tatiana does with Tuft is very
     fast.  Sorta like your thoughts wandering.  It's amazing how many
     things run through you mind when you talk with someone else. Or
     maybe that's just me :)

(Silver:)
OOC: Keep the stuff with Tuft in your posts, Joe, it's great !

(Dithion:)
Dithion breaks in, "I wish you would take my willingness to talk as a
sign that I did not intend to insult you.  I was just stating my
beliefs as you did yours....and I respect that.  In fact, it is the
way of Des to respect any belief for it is just another road that has
been taken by someone else."

(Silver:)
Silver listens to the exchange between Tatiana and Dithion, without
making any comment.  She did not want to fuel any problems between
them with a misplaced word on her part. When Dithion mentioned about
the "way of Des" she nods in agreement.

(Dithion:)
"Tatiana, I respect the fact that you and I differ in our opinions,
and that we do not agree.  However, I want to assure you that I mean
no insult."

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana looked at Dithion skeptically then nodded accepting what he
said.  Her look seemed to soften a bit.

* See I told you! *

* Shut up. *

(Dithion:)
"Often I have this problem with people for I speak my mind freely, and
I am often misinterpreted.  Although I suppose I am making
excuses...to the nub of it, I meant no insult and would not
intentionally insult any here for their beliefs."  He sits back and
says, "Ah, I hate these types of talks, I am afraid I am better at
bashing things with my club than talking ...."

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana started to a squeak of a smile when Dithion made this comment.

(Silver:)
When Dithion mentions preferring using his club to talking, she
chuckles a little.

(Dithion:)
".... but if we are to work together well, we should bring to light
any foul feelings between us, or any member of this group.  Our very
lives may depend on it one day."
 
(Tatiana:)
Again she nodded this time her face more relaxed, the slight hint of a
smile still on her face. "So do you want to talk more here, or would
you like to step outside?"

(Silver:)
When Tatiana asks if Dithion wants to step outside, Silver looks
nervously over at Arlon to see his reaction.

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "Well, this is fine with me, but whatever you prefer is
fine."

(Tatiana:)
"Well, I've already aired my complaints really.  And you address them
to my satisfaction.  Unless you have something you want to get off
your chest?  And we can do it here."

(Arlon:)
OOC: After Tatiana speaks, Arlon's tension falls away and a small
     tight smile forms.  He then gives a wink to Tatiana.

(Dithion:)
Dithion smiles and seems to relax a good bit.  "Nay, I am satisfied if
you are.  I am glad that this is settled for it rested heavily upon my
mind."

(Arlon:)
"Excellent!  This is one fine evening."


While Tatiana and Dithion were resolving their differences, Silver
watched anxiously, sat next to Shade ....

(Silver:)
All the while Shade has sat next to Silver in the Tavern, Silver's
hand has lingered on top of Shade's. He will obviously notice this.

(Shade:)
At first the bard seems to be distracted by the general storytelling,
then he suddenly realizes where his hand is. He blushes.


Back with Tatiana and Dithion, who have the attention of the rest of
the group ....

(Dithion:)
He sits back and says, "In celebration, I would like to purchase the
next round of drinks."

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana face finally relaxed into a full smile.  Looking to her empty
wine glass, "What was this again Arlon?  It's quite good!"

(Arlon:)
"I call it Arl, I've been trying to perfect it for the past few months."



Just at the time people are replying to Dithion's offer of buying
everyone a drink ....

(Shade:)
Blushing after realizing Silver's hand has been touching his for some
time, he fondly squeezes her hand and smiles, looking straight in her
eyes. "I really like you, Silver, you know? You make me feel better
each time I look into your eyes."  He entwines fingers with Silver and
looks at their hands "Nobody ever told me Silver is better than gold,
but this is the truth."

(Silver:)
OOC: Wow ! Smooth talking or what !

Silver looks at Shade and her expression softens into one of gentle
amazement. She smiles and her eyes widen slightly as she says "Shade,
that's _so_ nice. I don't know what to ...  I just ... I ..." and,
lost for words, she leans towards him, eyes sparkling in the
firelight, and kisses him.

(Shade:)
The bard blushes even more (his dark skin looks like pink marble ;)
then, with a blissful smile on depicted on his face slowly slip down
the chair and under the table. ;)

(Silver:)
OOC: I suspect some of the others might notice this .... ;-}

(Shade:)
OOC: Anyone with eyes will notice ...

(Silver:)
Silver laughs delightfully at the drow as he slips to the floor.  She
looks around at the rest of the group, sees some of them looking at
the scene with a puzzled expression, and laughs all the more.

After a moment more, still laughing, she will attempt to help Shade
back to his seat, saying "Well well, my magnificent hero ! Felled with
a single blow !"

(Arlon:)
As Shade begins to slip beneath the table, Arlon chuckles as he speaks
"I know how you feel Shade, shall I call you 'your Majesty' now."

OOC: Arlon is referring to the first time Tatiana kissed him (Arlon)
     and Shade's subsequent remark - that's going back a while.


When the drinks that Dithion orders arrive .....

(Silver:)
Silver turns to Dithion, and asks "Dithion, is now an appropriate time
to investigate Tier's staff ? I know somewhat of it's powers, but not
how much 'life' it currently has, nor how to recharge it. Also, would
anything dire happen if it were to be completely drained of power ? Or
would you prefer somewhere ...  quieter to investigate ?"

(Dithion:)
Dithion says to Silver, "Aye, this is fine, may I have the staff?"  He
holds his hand out for the staff, which he takes gingerly.  He looks
up and down it, looks around, and then says, "Well, I will invoke a
couple of spells and a ceremony or two...I hope the tavern goers don't
mind, although it won't be too obvious."  He seems to go into a
trance.

(DM:)
As far as Silver's new staff - Dithion can only tell that it works
like a combined staff of curing/striking - there is a little more to
it than that but he cannot tell what that is, no info on charges
either.

(Silver:)
"Well, thanks for trying, Dithion, but I knew that already. I hope it
didn't stress you too much trying to find out things about it. It's a
shame there's no way to find out even how many charges are left in it,
though" she says, looking round at the others in the group.

Silver changes the subject, saying "'Ana, how about telling the tale
of the fallen Druid you mentioned ? That really would be something to
hear." and she sits forward, eagerly awaiting the new tale.

(Tatiana:)
"Well, I don't reckon now is the right time for it. Tell you what,
I'll get it ready for next time we're all around a campfire."



Later ....

(Silver:)
Silver catches Arlon's eye. She puts her hands together as if mimicking
a bird in flight, and with a questioning look nods in the direction of
Shade, Dithion and Falrun.

OOC: Hopefully she manages this without too many people noticing, but
     you can all decide whether your character sees any of it.

(Arlon:)
Arlon will give a slightly puzzled look and then shrugs his shoulders.
With a slight pointing of the finger at Silver and a questioning look
at her as if to say, 'What do you think?'.

OOC: Arlon is not exactly sure of the question; but he mainly thinks
     it has something to do with our upcoming trip.

(Silver:)
Silver shrugs with a sort of helpless look at Arlon, and then settles
back in her chair, frowning slightly. She glances over at Keilan to
see if he has noticed this ...

(Keilan:)
Keilan is tipped back in his chair with a half-empty mug resting on
his chest.  Since he arrived late he's spoken next to nothing except
to order his single drink.  When Silver looks at him, she sees only
the tiniest shift of his head to one side.  Maybe it was just
imagined.

(Silver:)
Silver continues frowning, and is quiet and pensive for a long while.
Eventually, her expression brightens a little, and she asks "Shade,
how about a little music to dance by?"

(Arlon:)
After Keilan's ever so slight gesture and then Silver asking Shade to
play a tune - Arlon will then look at Silver, look slightly up in the
air and then shake his head from side to side and run his hand through
his air as if to get it out of his face.

(Silver:)
Silver will notice this, and, making sure Arlon notices, will show a
really helpless expression on her face, shrug her shoulders
eloquently, mouthing "Well ?"

OOC: Us Humans, eh ? ;-)

(Arlon:)
Mouthing "No."

OOC: Yes, you Humans - what a race ;)

(Dithion:)
Dithion sighs and says, "By Des, why don't your speak your wishes?
Why in the name of Hades are you gesturing so much?  Or if you have
needs of secret communications, go outside."

(Silver:)
Silver jumps slightly like a naughty child caught at something she
shouldn't be doing, looks over at Dithion and says "I'm sorry,
Dithion, that was ... umm ..." her voice trailing off.

Suddenly, her face brightens, and she changes the subject completely,
adding "Dithion, a few days ago, you mentioned you were a sergeant in
some army or other." She looks at Dithion carefully to see if he is
being caused any embarrassment by this.

(Dithion:)
He smiles and says, "Ah, yes, that was true.  I was in the army of
Cafan for a time."
 
(Silver:)
Assuming he reacts ok, she continues "How about telling us all how a
faithful follower of Des could end up in such a profession, where you
must travel where you are told to, and not where your heart leads you
?" She seems very eager indeed to hear Dithion's tale ...

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "Well, those that follow Des have a tendency to roam,
and so I was doing just that.  I came to a new land, at least new to
me.  It had been settled for thousands of years, but it was still
mostly wilderness.  Through this wilderness were several city states
that had managed to eek out an existence.  Let's see...there was
Delith, Maranta, Calator, Cafan, Savron, Tabor, and Urith.  There were
a couple others, but by the time I had left that area, they were
gone."  He sits back and takes a sip from his drink.  "I arrived in
Delith by ship from Laelyre.  It was a beautiful city, although small.
I found out later that it was the largest city within thousands of
miles, at least that any there knew of at that time.  I stayed there,
and after a while, I headed East toward Cafan.  It was while I was
within Cafan that war broke out...not a war between cities, but a war
between those that dwell on the surface, and race of trolls that lived
below the surface.  I learned later that the trolls, black trolls that
is or dark trolls, had come three other times through the history of
this land.  Occasionally, their populations reached such proportions
that they would surface in order to expand.  Perhaps they were seeking
only a new place to live.  They came in waves, and those cities
furthest out on the frontier fell first...they were overwhelmed.  Some
say that no one survived...none."  He seems to get a distant look in
his eyes.  "And savage they were, indeed."  Again, he grows quiet, and
then looks up as if he forgot to go on with his story, "Ah, to make a
long story short, I was drafted.  I would have stayed anyway, I think.
They needed help.  I served there for two years until.....until I
left."  he sits back, and says, "Well, then."  he waves the barmaid
over and says, "I will have another ale."

(Silver:)
Silver has been paying great attention as Dithion relates his role in
the Troll Wars. As he finishes, she asks "But were they defeated ? Did
they threaten the cities no longer ?"

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "Their advance was stopped...they were not defeated, and
when I last knew, nor were the people of Cafan."

(Silver:)
"It's strange, you know. These wars you talk of, when the Dark Trolls
emerge to try and expand their lands ... I can see how tragic they
must have been at the time. Yet from what Arlon and Tatiana have told
us, I can see that without such a threat, civilized cities, like
bloated leeches, would grow more and more lethargic and
inward-looking, until they crumbled and fell through their own
decadence."

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "I have never thought of war that way, although it may
be true, I know not."

(Silver:)
"It is all part of the great Cycles, the Pattern which must be weaved.
And yet, it is the individual tragedies that happen within those
scenarios that are highlighted and made more poignant as a result."

She seems to study Dithion's face very closely as she says "Yes, I
find that for me, it is the individual tragedies that transcend the
horrors of war."

(Dithion:)
Dithion smiles and says, "Aye!"  He slaps the table and says, "I will
drink to that."  and he does.

(Silver:)
Silver seems taken aback and confused by Dithion's reaction. She did
not expect him to react as he did. She soon recovers and chuckles to
herself "Always full of surprises"

(Falrun:)
"Don't you think you should slow down on those ales, my good man?
With the amount that you are drinking you will most certainly be in a
coma until next week."  Falrun gives Dithion a good natured slap on
the back and orders a dark ale for himself.

(Dithion:)
Dithion listens to Falrun, his eyes narrowing briefly into slits and
his brow furrowed, and then he says, "Don't worry Falrun."  His voice
is not the usual pleasant tone, but seems harder.  He seems very tense
for a moment, and then all at once he relaxes back into his seat.  He
says easily, "We don't have any plans till next week do we?"  He
smiles, although his eyes do not reflect any happiness.

(Silver:)
Silver tenses involuntarily, and with wide eyes, looks over to Arlon.

(Arlon:)
Arlon looks back at Silver and then moves his eyes up into his head a
little.

Smiling at Dithion, he says "Quite right Dithion, no plans until next
week - we have been through two tough battles in almost as many days,
we should relax a while."  Still smiling, he says "Hey Falrun, isn't
ale a bit stronger than tea ?"

(Falrun:)
"Quite right, Arlon, but I never said that I *didn't* drink.  I just
said that it wasn't anything to be terribly missed.  I do, on
occasion, like to settle down and relax with a good drink."

"I also believe in moderation and not drinking so much that you can no
longer deal with any particular situation, should it arise.  I've
known many men who took a dagger in the back because they were
'unaware' of their surroundings."

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "That is a terrible thing...I have had a dagger in my
back before, not a pleasant experience."  He obviously doesn't get the
point.

(Falrun:)
OOC: Oh, but I think he did... ;)

(Dithion:)
OOC: Very good.  :)  I guess he did get the point.  

(Arlon:)
He smiles, speaking first in Elvish "Spoken like a true Elf, Falrun,
we'll just have to make sure those incidents don't happen."

And then in the common tongue he says "You do have a great awareness
of your surroundings Falrun."  he smiles and winks at Falrun



The conversation dwindles, and after a period of relative quiet ....

(Arlon:)
"Does anyone feel that this 'New' Continent is anything less than you
thought ?  It sure has been surprising to me!"

(Silver:)
Silver laughs "I would have thought you Elves were beyond surprise
with the years you live ! How _do_ you manage to put up with us
fleeting humans and our hasty lives ?"

(Arlon:)
"I don't know about the rest of you but I like to relax with a riddle:

    There are two boxes, one holds death the other a great treasure;
    there are two dwarves, one always lies the other always tells the
    truth. You don't know which box or dwarf is which; but you get to
    ask only one question to only one dwarf.  What question do you ask
    to find the box with the treasure?"

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana smiled "I know an answer that will work, but I'll let the
others try for a while"

(Silver:)
Silver smiles at Arlon. "Oh yes, very good. The problem with riddles
is that once disclosed, they hold no value. Like secrets, perhaps ?"
She then realizes what she has said, and glances over at Falrun,
biting her lower lip nervously.

(Shade:)
"Well Arlon" replies Shade "just one question? Hmm, let's see, there
must be a way to find out the truth.... or the opposite of the
truth..."  he smiles "yesss here I am: I'll ask one dwarf what the
other will reply if I asked where the treasure is. As the answer will
be in any case filtered by a liar I'll have an incorrect answer. So
the treasure is the other chest."

(Arlon:)
"Excellent Shade, I have posed this riddle to other 'learned' folk and
few have replied with the speed you did."

(Silver:)
Pausing, she says "Well, dwarves and boxes may fool some, but what
about another riddle ?  A dear old friend of mine told me this one,
but when I asked him for the answer, he said nothing at all. Here goes
...

    The wisest man and most knowledgeable elf are sure of it; and
    even the fool knows it; the rich man desires it; the greatest
    of heroes fears it; yet the lowest of cowards would die for it

(Dithion:)
Dithion smiles at the riddles, and says, "What is it Silver?  Did you
ever learn the answer?"

(Keilan:)
"Now why go and give away the answer with the riddle?  It's simple
enough without your help!"

(Silver:)
Silver looks at Keilan and frowns. "Sorry ? Give away the answer ?"
Before anyone can respond ...

(Arlon:)
"Hmmm, that is a very interesting one Silver.  There could be some
things that could fit each part; but to fit all parts, I would have to
say - Nothing."

(Silver:)
Silver turns back to Keilan and says "You see ? Even Arlon says ..."
Slowly her expression changes as she mutters "hero fears ... rich man
desires ... fool knows ...".  Suddenly a light dawns in her eyes.

She slaps her head and laughs. "Why that sly old ..." Still laughing,
she explains "I pondered on that for years !" As if imparting a
secret, she added "I even considered calling upon the gift of Augury.
But I suppose I would have got absolutely no reply at all !" And she
laughs merrily again.

Occasionally she mutters "Nothing ..." to herself and chuckles.




After a while, Falrun gets a little restless, then ....

(Falrun:)
After finishing his ale, Falrun puts his mug down on the table and
gets to his feet.  He takes a long stretch, flexes his muscles and
asks, "Is there anyone who is still interested in a fencing
competition? Or has everyone already proved themselves in the caves?"

He gets a mischievous gleam in his eye as he looks around at the
party.  "Tatiana...  Shade... Keilan...", he says as he looks at each
in turn.  "Or maybe Dithion, if you can still swing your club, that
is."

(Tatiana:)
"Nah, I'm not really in the mood to fence, besides I got a long day
tomorrow.  I'm just gonna turn in for the night."

OOC: This is rather early for Tatiana to be going to bed!  She
     normally doesn't get up until noon and goes to bed around 3 to 5
     at night.

(Shade:)
"I'll happily do it, Falrun" - says Shade, smiling - "with you, or
anyone else except Silver" - he looks at her and winks - "it won't be
fair, because, as she already said, she can fell me with a single
blow." - He stretches to kiss Silver and mutters in her ear "Straight
through the heart, dear."

(Silver:)
Silver murmurs back in a low tone, for Shade's ears alone, "Then the
one blow pierced two hearts, my Ebuchrim." She then glances quickly
around the group.

(Shade:)
OOC: Uh? I understand the general meaning ;), but in what language and
     what's the exact meaning?

Shade looks at Silver with a questioning look "Ebuchrim ?"

(Silver:)
OOC: Sorry, Mauro. This is meant to be a word you don't understand as
     a drow. It is in a language you wouldn't know, even as a bard.
     You reckon it sounds like a language of the Faerie creatures who
     live on the surface. The closest you might be able to get (in my
     opinion) is some sort of living thing. Let me know the languages
     Shade knows, and I'll possibly give you a better translation.
     But, assuming that you don't ....

Silver looks back, and says "I will explain later, when it is more
appropriate. When we have more time." and smiles gently.

(Arlon:)
Arlon will have a look of slight surprise on his face and then look at
Silver, point at Shade and mouth 'Him?'. Silver does not notice the
silent question. He will then laugh out loud and say (a good natured
laugh) "Yes, this land is full of surprises." still chuckling a bit.

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana elbowed Arlon in the ribs. "No silly, They're just playing around"

(Arlon:)
He then leans over to Tatiana and whispers in her ear "At one point I
thought she might have meant it was Tuft."

(Tatiana:)
Arlon leaned in to whisper in her ear, and her eyes went wide with
surprise.  Slightly shocked she blurted out "It isn't? He'll be
crushed!"

(Shade:)
A concerned look in his eyes, the drow slightly turns to look at
Tatiana.  He raises one eyebrow "Uh, sorry Tatiana, - he murmurs -
crushed? Me? Why?"

(Tatiana:)
Tatiana cocked her head towards Shade and gave him a "Duh" look.  The
looked basically said "You dummy". She tsked disappointedly "My Mentor
always told me if you can't eavesdrop drop right, you shouldn't
eavesdrop at all" she said jokingly.  "I wasn't talking about you.  I
was talking about Tuft!"

* Huh? What? Did you call me * the mental communication came groggily
as Tuft was sleeping late tonight.

* Nothing, just telling stories about you when you were a chick * she
lied

* I hate those! * and the mental communication was cut rather quickly.
She could force herself through if she need to communicate with Tuft,
but she didn't want to talk about the situation with him right now.

(Arlon:)
He then lifts his mug at Shade and gives a slight nod of his head.

(Falrun:)
"Hmm, I do not think it would be fair to compete with you right now,
Shade.  It looks to me like you have been beaten once already
tonight", he says with a good natured grin.  "Besides, you don't look
as if you would be able to concentrate on fencing very much."

(Shade:)
The bard smiles "To stick to the bare truth, Falrun, I do not think I
can be your peer in pure fencing" - in a more serious tone - "neither
tonight nor anytime else. You are the true fighter, I'm just a bard. A
deadly one, I daresay, but a showman in the soul." He bows to his
friends.  Then grinning broadly "BUT, but... as I do think I do not
need to worry about saving my skin, sword dancing with you tonight" -
he winks crossing fingers - "it should be a teaching experience for me
and a good show for everyone else."

(Silver:)
Commenting to Falrun on his idea of a fencing competition, she says
"Now there is a wonderful idea, Falrun. I have heard tell of the
intense concentration that one skilled with weapons can reach when in
practice, the harmony that is generated. I would surely prove myself
inadequate, but I might learn by watching ..."

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "I will practice with you Falrun."  He gets up
unsteadily, and looks over at Shade, "You can join him if you wish...I
will fight you both, I do better fighting more than one."  He gets up,
glances at Shade and Silver and says, "This courtship stuff is making
me feel a bit ill, maybe it is the ale...anyway, a little fresh air
and exercise will help."

(Silver:)
Silver turns her head toward Dithion at this remark, and makes as if
to reply to Dithion, but thinks better of it, and gently shakes her
head as he walks out the door. She seems quite concerned and
thoughtful at what Dithion said.

OOC: About how tall/heavy _is_ Dithion ?
     In my mind, I would see Dithion as a little under 6ft tall (but
     not much) but very well built. Can move quickly, which surprises
     people who see him for the first time.  Over 200 pounds, but not
     fat.  Am I close ?

(Dithion:)
OOC: In answer to Dithion's height and weight...he is...
     Well, what do the others think?  I have some numbers on my
     character sheet, but after role playing him for so long, they
     don't mesh with my mental picture of Dithion.  What about the
     rest of you?  How do you picture him?  (how tall, how heavy?)

(Tatiana:)
OOC: Actually I always thought of Dithion as a Gentle Ben kind of guy.
     Big, Burly and gentle

(Dithion:)
OOC: Dithion is, according to my character sheet, almost six feet tall
     and 175 pounds.  This would put him toward skinny.  However,
     after playing him in this game, I envision him as being about
     that tall (maybe a bit taller), and a bit more burly (maybe with
     a fair sized gut).  I just bring this up because it is
     interesting to me how role playing has changed my view of the
     character physically.
     
He walks slowly toward the door, dragging his club as he goes.

(Falrun:)
Falrun watches Dithion as he shuffles past.  "I don't think it would
be fair of us to gang up on you when you are in such a condition, my
friend.  But perhaps Shade will finally be able to take you down after
you have trounced me."  With a smile on his face, he lightly follows
Dithion to the door.

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "Mayhaps, we shall see."  Once outside, he swings his
club about in the air, warming up.

(Silver:)
Silver rises gracefully and looking at the others, heads out after the
two men.

(Arlon:)
As the 'dancers' go outside, Arlon gets up as if startled by
something. "Damn, I almost forgot - Tatiana, we should go out and
watch.  I need to talk to Falrun."  almost yelling "Falrun! A word
with you if you don't mind."


And outside, some of the party gather to watch the display of skill ....

(Arlon:)
"Uh, Falrun , are you sure this is a good idea - I know you are a
skilled and agile swordsman; but Dithion quite probably has some kind
of giant strength.  If he hits you once, we may have to scrape you off
some wall."

(Falrun:)
"Thank you for your word of caution, Arlon.  But isn't that what sport
is all about?  Taking chances and that kind of thing?  Besides, this
is only a sparring match, nothing serious and if he beats me too
badly, he can heal me with his curing arts", Falrun answers in a light
hearted voice. You get the impression that he is a little too flippant
and confident for his own good.

(Arlon:)
"Maybe so; but when does the chance cross the line from sport to a
fight for your life - as you have said he may not be in full control."
Seeing there is probably no way to stop Falrun, he continues "Well,
good luck my friend."  He pats Falrun on the shoulder.

(Dithion:)
Dithion laughs, and shakes his head, this in turn causes him to
stumble back a bit.  He says, "I think that tea has gone to ye're
head."

(Silver:)
OOC: How is this fencing thing going to be handled ?  There's bound to
     be different ideas on this - is it the subduing rules, and if so
     what is the chance of actual damage ?

(Falrun:)
OOC: My idea was to either use non-lethal combat, where only 1/4
     damage is actually taken, or to just use 'imaginary' damage where
     the combatants would understand how much they've been beaten and
     give up when they've had enough.

(Shade:)
OOC: Yep, of course NON_lethal. How about sheathed blades?

(Dithion:)
OOC: That sounds good to me.

(Falrun:)
Falrun breathes in the brisk fresh air of the evening and says, "By
what house rules would you care to compete?  Seeing as you only have
one weapon, I shall use but one sword.  Of course, this is but a
sparring match so let's keep the bloodshed to a minimum."

(Dithion:)
Dithion says, "Hmm, I hadn't considered rules.  Shall we use the flat
of our weapons?  That way no blood."

(Falrun:)
"Anything else, Dithion?"

(Dithion:)
"Nope."  He raises his club and says, "Ready?"

(Falrun:)
Falrun stands about ten feet in front of Dithion, takes out his sword
and salutes him with it.  "Good sparring then. Shall we begin?"

(Dithion:)
Dithion hiccups and says, "Aye."  he swings his club around a couple
of times and starts to lumber forward a bit off balanced.

Falrun steps quickly to the side, slamming Dithion along the ribs with
the flat of his blade.  Dithion turns once again toward Falrun and
raises his club high above his head for a tremendous downward stroke.

Falrun, seeing his chance, steps forward and delivers another blow to
Dithions chest.  He then tries to step past Dithion as the club
descends, but somehow, Dithion turns the swing to the side toward
Falrun.  His club lands with a loud thump against Falrun's back.

(Falrun:)
Falrun skips a few feet forward, and twirls about, his sword held low
before him.  A slight smile appears on his face.

(Dithion:)
Dithion on the other hand, stumbles back a couple of feet, his face
red.  He stops for a moment, leaning his club against his side, and
rubs his ribs.  "I won't be able to take another like that."  He grips
his club with both hands, and charges Falrun!

(Falrun:)
"I think the Bear's bark is worse than his bite.  Maybe you should go
back to the bar where you are less likely to get hurt", he taunts.

(Dithion:)
Dithion doesn't halt his charge as he says, "We will see whose bark is
worse than his bite!"

(Falrun:)
Falrun raises his sword to block the swing of the large club but he is
surprised by the momentum of the large man as Dithion catches him in
the chest with his shoulder.  The blow sends both combatants skidding
across the ground, Falrun taking the worst of it being trapped under
Dithion.

Squirming his way out from under Dithion, who is slowed slightly from
the alcohol, he lands a neat blow to Dithion's head, not enough to
hurt him but just enough to finish the trip into unconsciousness that
was started earlier that night in the tavern.  A peaceful look crosses
Dithion's face as a slightly audible whisper escapes his lips, "I told
you I could beat you...".

(Silver:)
With Dithion down, and Falrun resting, Silver moves over to where
Dithion lies, and checks his eyes and neck. She has a sharp intake of
breath when she examines the lump rapidly growing on his head.

(Falrun:)
Falrun gets up with a small look of relief, brushes himself off and
puts away his sword.  "If there are no other takers, I'll drag this
poor man back to the commons and put him to bed."

(Arlon:)
Arlon nods his head and says "You got out of that much better than I
thought you would."

(Falrun:)
"Yes, I got out of that much better than I also would have thought,
however, I believe I have Dithion's love of ale to thank for that.
Besides, do you have so little faith in your kindred?" :)

(Arlon:)
"In your skill I have little doubt; but I understand the force of a
giant's blow." :)

(Silver:)
Shaking her head, she says "Keep an eye on him tonight, Falrun.  Make
sure he doesn't start throwing up."

(Falrun:)
Falrun stands next to the unconscious body of Dithion.  His shirt is
nothing more than a tattered rag after their little scrape.  A clay
ball hangs from a leather thong around his neck and his swords hang
limply at his side.

"Yes, Silver, I will make sure he doesn't have any problems tonight as
he sleeps."  He bends over and, in a rolling motion, picks up Dithion
on his shoulder.  He then lumbers off to the Commons for the evening.

(Silver:)
Silver will follow Falrun to the Commons, keeping an eye on both him
and Dithion. When they reach the Commons, Silver will mention to
Falrun "Thanks for what you said earlier, Falrun" and then eyeing his
state of dress adds with a wink "You don't seem to have much luck in
keeping your shirts neat ..."

(Falrun:)
Looking down at his shirt and then back at Silver, "That's ok, I was
planning on getting new shirt tomorrow anyway. ;) Although in all of
the commotion, I can't put my finger on what you are referring to that
I said earlier, or are you referring to our conversation that we had
with each other? "

(Silver:)
"Yes, of course I am. It is still difficult to talk through with
people - you are the only one I have told in our group, and I would
prefer to keep it that way for a while at least.  However, it does
give me a little comfort that you know. Nothing changes it or the way
I feel about it, but ... thanks."




After the fencing competition has completed ....

(Silver:)
Silver returns directly to the Tavern. Settling down in her chair next
to Shade, she seems ever so relaxed and happy. At one point near the
end of the evening, however, she will seem to be quite distracted, and
then will noticeably frown.

(Shade:)
The bard's face slightly darkens, preoccupation depicted on his
features "What's wrong, Silver, may I help you?"

(Silver:)
"Shade, I think I need to talk to you, but I won't have the words
tonight." She seems charged with emotion, and there is a certain
urgency in her voice.

(Shade:)
"Words are too often inadequate to give expression to a gentle heart's
feelings" - he smiles warmly - "eyes are better suited, sometime."

(Silver:)
"I will meet you tomorrow, and we can talk then."

(Shade:)
"My time is yours, dear."

(Silver:)
As they part that evening, she hugs Shade and whispers "Mielikki bless
you, my Ebuchrim."  Touching his cheek, her large dark eyes seem to
glisten in the light of the fire.

(Shade:)
The bard fondly caresses her hair and lets her go.