Forum Replies Created
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Mike; bit of both really. Moebius being able to wield the power of a Moonstone (very powerful magic). Has used that magic to build his device.
DSG; I can’t deny that certain shows have been an inspiration. I needed a way of transporting my characters quickly. I always try and add/use things that people can relate to. My story for example, although complex is inspired heavily on the computer game Soul Reaver. That’s what I like about table top wargaming. So much flexibility, you can mould and twist your game to fit anything you want.
Pawns and Messiahs
“Edric and the Knights of Olde. Redeemers and destroyers, pawns and messiahs. Welcome…time spans so….welcome to your destinies………Where am I? Is the usual question. In all your case. When? Might be more apt. But I mean you all no harm. Sorry if I have alarmed you all by pulling you all out of the transport stream”. Says Lord Moebius, suddenly appearing.
“Moebius, you old snake. You can drop the benevolent facade. We know who and what you are. I should kill you where you stand”. Snaps Grelak, unwilling to make good his threat. He knows Moebius is the last guardian and capable of wielding the power of a Moonstone. They also know that Moebius is corrupt and not be be trusted.
“Maybe you should, but you don’t. As seeing and death guardian allows me a certain level of omissions. No you don’t kill me, that honour belongs to your enemy, Bevardis, some time from now”.
“Ah, you two are a pair, your more fatalistic then what he is. Been meddling with the timeline again?” Comes Laffdrey’s sour reply.
“Death comes for us all and it greaves me to see how cruelly Bevardis has treated you all”.
“Oh please” comes a comment for the back of the ranks.
“Are we still within the stronghold of King Aldiun’s priesthood?” Asks Edric
“Yes, the the glory days of King Aldiun as long since pasted I’m afraid. This is more cynical and indecorous age. Me and my mercenary army now inhabit this stronghold and continue the fight against the Darkmere with our own humble crusade”. Says Moebius
“You said the Black Knight is called Bevardis, you know him?” Asks Laffdrey
“Yes, an agent of darkness the scourge of Grangough. After Aerial the balance guardian’s death. He then murdered my fellow guardians in this very room. All to seize power for himself. He will cling to his seat of power and with no guardians to stop him the spirals and all of Grangough will fall into ruin”.
“And you somehow survived this massacre?”
“Yes, the circle was devastated, I was the only survivor”.
“How convenient. You’ll forgive me if I don’t naively digest every scrape of information you toss us. You have a reputation for deceit.” Says Grelak
“And who slanders me so? Your malefactor Bevardis, our common enemy. The one who destroyed your encampment with fire. The one who’s defiled King Aldiun’s crypt. The one who has risen the undead on this very doorstep……Consider the source before you judge me too harshly. We’ll forget about rekindling our old friendship then. But consider an alliance….We both want Bevardis dead. I can help you do it……”
“You don’t want to go meddling in this old man. We all know about your sordid little schemes. You’re simply out of your deapth on this one.” Says Laffdrey
“You underestimate me. Come and look into the viewing portal. At this very moment Bevardis is lingering at the temple of balance. Unaware that I have snatched you all out of the transportation stream. Foolishly confidant that he has alluded your grasp”.
“The temple of balance? That’s near the spirals isn’t it?” Says Edric with interest.
“Yes, they are the embodiment of the divine force which preserves the life of this world. We who serve the spirals maintain their delicate balance. Bevardis is the fulcrum on which that balance turns. His very existence is a cancer on this world. Let me have your sword. Kindred Spirit, one of the most Devine blades in all of Grangough. I will imbue it with wraith afterlife. You can then destroy Bevardis for good”.
Laffdrey hesitates for a moment if not sure whether to trust him, then gives the sword to Moebius. As the Knights talk amongst themselves Moebius prepares the spell to enhance the sword. When he knows nobody is looking he imbues the sword with what they think is wraith afterlife. He then hands the sword back to Captain Laffdrey.
Now you can strike Bevardis down with this sword for good. Go to him and end this, but first you to need to find your way back to the transportation portal chamber and in this, I can not help you. The undead are rampant down here. They will try and kill you, but do as you must.
As the Knights leave Moebius grins and rubs his hands together. The stage is set, he thinks to himself.
Laffdrey looks suspiciously at Kindred Spirit as he sheaths the sword. Unaware that he and all the others have been completely manipulated.
The device.
The Knights enter a large chamber with a strange looking device. Grelak informs them all that it’s one of Lord Moebius’ devices.
“This one appears to be some sort of transportation device. Capable of transporting people over long distances in an blink of the eye”
“A way out of here then?” Says Laffdrey
“Not quite, I’m not sure I know how to operate it” replies Grelak.
Then as the Knights take a closer look a voice startles them.
“At last, l must say that I’m disappointed you your progress I thought you all would be here sooner. Tell me……Did it trouble you all to get through the oubliette?” Says Bevardis, peeping around the corner and making his way over to the device controls.
“Did it trouble you when you cast a fire elemental on us?” Replies Grelak as the Knights all take up defensive positions.
“Haha. Fate is relentless. When I first ascended to this position I did not fathom the true power Moonstones and the guardianship that went with it. To know the future, to see its paths streaming out into the infinite. As a man I could not contain such forbidden truths. Now we are so much more then we once were. As such, are we not indivisible? As long as one of us stands, we are Legion. Our futures are pre destine, we each play out the parts fate has written for us. Free will is an illusion.” He says as he sets the device.
“We’ve found the raided crypt of King Alduin. How could you profane a divine King by resurrecting him into an agent of darkness!?” Says Laffdrey angrily.
“How could I not, one must keep his friends close and his enemies even closer. Who better to serve me than those who passions surpass all notions of good and evil”. Continues Bevardis, now activating the device. The portal opens.
“King Alduin’s empire stood against the corruption which the Darkmere represents. My eyes are open, there’s no nobility in the defilement which you forced upon his crypt.” Says Laffdrey, he couldn’t contain it all longer and attacks Bevardis.
Bevardis parried the attack and now held Laffdrey by his throat. The Knights moved to defend their captain just as Bevardis cast a kinetic energy spell. The invisible wave hit them sending them all into a pile of arms and legs. Bevardis seemed to enjoyed their entanglement.
“You may of uncovered some of the past. But you know nothing of it. You think King Alduin was noble? Altruistic?…..hahah…don’t be so simple they had the same addenda as us” Before the Knights could sort themselves out Bevardis continues.
“You almost had me then…fate demands more twists and turns before this drama unfolds.”
Then he enters the portal stream and disappears.
The Knights have no idea where the portal stream would take them. At first they thought that it would be an ambush set up by Bevardis. They soon realise that they have little choice. They entered the stream after Bevardis.
Bevardis and his defiance – The Spectral Realm somewhere in the castle’s oubliette.
The large eye looked up and down at the Black Knight which kneeled motionless hunched over the floor.
“Surrender Bevardis, abandon this petty rebellion. It was I who made you; your life had played out and in my grace I spared you. You are my servant, you have no other calling. Remain here and reap souls for me, you have no higher destiny, only this”.
“No”
“What do you profit from this defiance? Let go of these vain aspirations of trying to change your destiny Bevardis”.
“There’s some grim satisfaction infuriating you!”
“My patience is eternal, how many eons can you bare to languish here? The wheel of fate must turn. All must be cleansed in the agony of birth, death and rebirth. This is the engine of life, the purifying rhythm of the universe. Where all souls are irresistibly drawn. Yours is a necessary and noble function Bevardis……”
“Enough of your sermonising! Are you trying to bore my into submission? We both know what you are. A greedy parasite cloaking its ferocious appetite in a shroud of righteousness!………..I refuse to do your will”.
“I can see into your heart, Bevardis. It’s not defiance that keeps you here. It’s cowardice”.
“How so?”
“You know what fate awaits you when you leave the underworld. The sword is waiting for you somewhere and you tarry as not to meet it.”
I could not deny it, as long as I lingered here defianing my captor I can put off what I know will be my certain doom. But this is no worse than the stalemate I now endure. Better to face ones density then cower from it.
“Yes, yes…..I submit. You want this chamber cleared of its underworld wraith vermin?”
“If you are to leave here.”
“The wheel must turn.”
“Ah, now you understand. Very good Bevardis. You will find that although just defiance has its punishments. Obeisance has its rewards.”
Bevardis begins casting black magic on the ghostly wraiths who inhabit the underworld. Sending them into negative states in which his master seems to enjoy. And submission isnt always what it seems. With this Bevardis continues through the underworld now looking for a conduit to take him into the material world. Only here can he change his destiny.
Can’t believe it’s nearly been a week. Well I must say the stew was a success, even better the following day. I put this down to only having one wass of gline. Otherwise it would of been me feeling dreamy and been a recipe for disaster, with artillery instead of peas.
Unfortunately, I haven’t quite finished the models. The up and coming game, to my disappointment isn’t happening just yet
. Still, the stew cheered me up!And If you have no 2p pieces, ask me nicely when you place the order and I will pop some in with the model.
Oh, if I order one can I have a £2 pound coin with it instead?
Will have to have a good think. I defo have some good uses for it. Just don’t know what.
Yes sir! Had this little package from Greece come this morning!
I feel an update in the new year coming to my 6mm goodness thread.
Edric wastes no time, he draws an arrow and releases it. At such a close range he could hardly miss. Unfortunately, although the arrow hit the monk in the chest it did little to stop him.
“No, he’s the living dead. We need fire to stop him”. Shouts Grelak, who knows that he hasn’t got time to prepare a spell. So, instead he grabs the chair and uses it to pin the rotting monk against the wall. Edric, sees that Grelak has brought some time. Grabs a night arrow from his quiver and sticks it into the fire. As soon as the fire lights the arrow he draws it back and releases it. Straight into the monk, no sooner had it struck the monk starts to burn. Grelak holds the monk at arms length with the chair as long as he could bare the flames then drops the chair. The monk crumbles to the floor smouldering and burning. They were just about to exit the room when another rotting monk enters.
“Oh, not another one” curses Edric. “No time for a night arrow”.
“Help me with this table” Says Grelak.
They both grab one end of the table and using it as a shield they ram it into the monk. Knocking him on his back they then bring down the table hard on top of him. Wasting no time they exit the room and run back down the corridor.
“Come on, Edric we need to warn the others. We are all in great danger”
Meanwhile……..Brothers Gultar and Tedwin were standing bored in the graveyard as the dark begins to surround them and the others.
“What are we doing, skulking around here in the middle of the night” comments Brother Gultar
“Yeah, the only thing we are going to get out of this quest is gravestones above our own heads”. Relies Brother Tedwin
“What was that?”
“Nothing its just the wind”
“No, there’s something moving under the ground”
“No it’s just……..oh my god! It’s coming out of the ground!”
Just then, Brother Edward who was a few feet away gives a yell and a shriek.
“They’re coming out of the graves!” He Shouts, poking a head back into the ground with his spear.
Edric and Grelak continue down the steps and back towards the crypt. Shouting alarm as they go. Laffdrey, who hears all the commotion. Calls to arms and orders a shield wall. Soon, all the Knights have formed up and locked shields. Despite the failing light, Laffdrey could see that they were surrounded…………..
“We can’t make it back the way we came”. He Shouts, just as an arrow thuds into Brother Tedwin’s shield.
“They have archers”
Knowing that they can’t maintain their shield wall. Laffdrey, orders them to retreat into the walled courtyard of the crypt. Hoping that it would provide more protection.
“Grelak, we can’t hold them. There are coming over the walls. Break the magic seal to the crypt. It’s our only chance” He Shouts. Jibbing his axe at the nearest undead skeleton. The weapons makes contact and knocks its jaw off. The skeleton doesn’t seem to notice and carries on stabbing with its spear.
Suddenly, Brother Osmould gives a cry and falls to the ground with an arrow in him. Before Brother Gultar can drag him back he’s stabbed viciously in the chest. Grelak gets the crypt door open and the Knight’s begin to retreat into the crypt. Bartrem manages to swing SkullCrusher, smashing a shield and half of the skeleton behind it.
“Get into the crypt” he screams to the last Knights.
But just as the last few pull back, Brother Gilbert goes down. The spear penetrating his padded armour. Then as he tries to crawl away from the fury of the melee. A skeleton with a menacing look steps forward with a huge scythe. He swings it and cuts the knight nearly in half! Bartrem grabs the last knight and pulls him through the door. Both men struggle to keep the door close as more and more of the undead pour into the crypt’s courtyard. Then Grelak casts the necessary magic spell, sealing the door to the crypt.
Bartrem breathes a sigh of massive relief as the darkness engulfs him.
“Any chance of some light here?” He comments.
Soon, the Knights begin filtering down the staircase into the crypt. What they saw shocked them to the core. The crypt of King Alduin the Just had been raided and the body missing! An unspeakable act of defilement. For a while nobody spoke, some did the sign of the cross. Then Grelak broke the silence.
“I know the hand that rocked this cradle. That Black Knight will pay for this!”
“Indeed he deserves to be destroyed. But first we need to get out of here. We can’t stay in here. Fighting our way back outside will be near impossible”. Replies Laffdrey.
“Where does this trapdoor lead too?” Says Bartrem, talking to one body in particular.
“The bowels of the castle. The forgotten place….The oubliette” Says Grelak.
“But I wouldn’t trust that way….it’s forsaken”
“We don’t have any other choice”
With that….one by one…..the knights enter the depths of the oubliette………..
quote quote=102434]Really cool! Bevardis cracks me up, being so insolent to a god, whose patience is probably not infinite… I would say this is very Cthuluesque were the god a heck of a lot less intelligible! How long will it take Bevardis to return? Does he have to posses a child and grow up again, or can he take over an adult body?[/quote]
Glad you’re enjoying it! Good questions, I shall answer them in the story. Look out for the bold.
Unholy Light
After many hours marching the Knights of Olde start to see the silhouette of Barthmont castle. They reach King Alduin’s crypt just before sunset. Laffdrey orders a rest bite while they discuss what to do.
“Well, this is the location which the seeing stone shows” Says Laffdrey, looking at the small blue stone as he held it in his palm.
“What’s the significance, we need to open this door” says Bartrem
“It’s sealed with magic” Says Grelak, but before he could comment further. Bartrem steps forward wielding his Herculaneum steel war hammer. Named “SkullCracker”. The hammer, despite being huge was as light a mace. But delivered a blow ten times more powerful.
“What are we waiting for” He Shouts. He slams the hammer against the door with full might. But rather then the door caving in as he was expecting. He was knocked back off his feet with a thud.
“The door, Bartrem. Is sealed with magic and can’t be forced with any means we here possess”. Says Grelak, clearly unhappy with Bartem’s over zealous behaviour.
“May I remind you that desecration of a Divine King’s resting place is blasphemy. I will go up to the monastery and talk to Brother Melak. It’s getting dark, maybe we can get a bed and a meal for tonight if we are lucky. We can then resume in the morning”. Says Grelak
“But…” Bartrem was about to say something, then Grelak cuts him short.
“The crypt has been there three hundred years, it can wait until the morning. Edric, why don’t you come with me lad? The rest of you stay here. I’m sure Brother Malek doesn’t want a load of Knights trampling over his monastery”
With that Grelak and Edric disappears up towards the foreboding silhouette of castle Barthmont. The monastery seems deserted as they walk through the passageway. They enter a small study and can’t help but get intrigued by the books.
“Who was that Black Knight at the encampment? The one I put an arrow through.” Asks Edric, as he takes a book and starts reading it.
“I not sure, an agent of the Darkmere though and a spirit walker. He would of been mortal once. Somehow, uniquely resurrected just after his death. He has a corporeal body, that has limited energy to manifest here in the material world. The unique part is that he can enter the spectral realm as a corporeal being, probably when he chooses. Very rare indeed and that is the part I don’t understand. Would take very powerful magic to do it?”relies Grelak
“How long will it take him to return? Does he have to posses a child and grow up again, or can he take over an adult body?”
“Time has no meaning in the spectral realm as it does in the physical world. So, theoretically he could time travel. Exiting the spectral realm back into the material realm at a different point in time and location then when he first left. But only within his own lifetime”. Grelak continues. “No, he doesn’t posses bodies, he keeps his own. His sole is trapped in his corporeal body. If you were to die for example, your physical body would remain here. Your spirit would enter the spectral realm. This realm has many conduits and fissures, which link it with the material realm. So, wielding the right magic I could haul your spirit back out of the spirit realm through one of the conduits and back into your body. Thus, you would be resurrected”.
Edric thought about what Grelak just said. He remember what Master Godfrey said back on his farm. That he was being pursued by a Knight on foot. He remembered that Godfrey couldn’t understand how a Knight on foot could keep up with someone on a horse. Now it made sense, the Black Knight, who ever he was; was traveling trough the spectral realm then re-entering the physical world. That meant that the Black Knight would of be anticipating where Godfrey was going, very clever Edric thought.
Both men carried on looking casually at the books, when the door opened and Brother Malek entered. His yellow robes dragging on the floor. Finally thought Grelak
“The curtsey of your monastery is some what lacking” He says as he turns around. Only to see that Brother Malek isn’t quite himself. The monk’s eyes appear to be vacant and his skin seems rotten to the core. Then Grelak takes in the sight of the blade in his hand………….
The Ancient God of Life and Death
As Bevardis re-enters the spirit realm his creator, the so called ancient God of life and death. Sits, waiting for him.
“Ah my wayward child returns”
“My ancient benefactor, I thought we had parted ways for good. Your silence was refreshing while it lasted. No doubt you have an convenient inexpressible reason for your presence here?”
“Don’t be insolent Bevardis, I am eternally present here and everywhere. Now and always, I’m the still centre of the turning wheel, the hub of this worlds destiny. The purifying rhythm of life, where all soles are irresistibly drawn”
“But perhaps not as omnipotent as you would have me believe. Your hold on me seems tenuous, I no longer seem to need you. But I guessing you still need me!”
“This impertinence is unworthy of you Bevardis. Remember you were murdered by the Knights of Olde”
”So you say, that part of my history seems conveniently shrouded from me. To which I have no memory.”
“All you need to know is after serving to protect the spirals. It was them that wiped out the Darkmere without a flicker of remorse and now I have spared you from total desolation”
“Spared me! I am destroyed”
“You are reborn. The birth of one of humanity’s abominations traps the essence of life. It is this sole that animates the corpse you lived in. That is the demise of Grangough, unknown forces have corrupted the flow of life. Soles remain trapped, I can’t spin them in the wheel of fate. They can’t complete their destinies. Redeem yourself, or if you prefer revenge yourself. Settle your dispute with humanity, restore the balance and destroy the Knights of Olde. Remember you have a task to fulfil here and are indebted to me Bevardis”
“Indebted to you! You would have me show gratitude for something I did not ask to be bestowed on me”
“I restored you to yourself after you perished. It was the Knights of Olde that destroyed you. The very enemy you just let slip through your grasp. Do not fail me my servant”
“I serve nobody, not you, not Moebius”
“Moebius is my good servant, I have many”
“And if I told Moebius that he’s worshipping a giant one eyed blob. Do you think he’s faith will falter?”
“Beware, to embrace a serpent is to invite poison into your heart. The Knights of Olde are sinus beasts, they will deceive you. Don’t let those degenerates deter your resolve. Remain steadfast Bevardis.”
With that Bevardis continues his journey through the spectral realm. He looks forward to finding Moebius and continuing their discussion……………..
I haven’t bought a huge amount of Pendraken. But always found Leon good to deal with. Plus, some of their 10mm range works quite well for 15mm
Yeah, the Pendraken stuff works quite well for 15mm. The dungeon stuff can work out a bit expensive though if you’re buying a fair bit of it.
The three plains of existence……
The material or physical realm. This is the plain all living beings in Grangough are in. This is the tangible world around us that we all inhabit.
The spirit or spectral realm, also known as the underworld. This is the mirror image of the material realm. Inhabited by ghosts, ghouls, wraiths and lost spirits. This is where all soles are irresistibly drawn to. The laws of physics don’t apply. Water, for example has neither heft nor lift and is as thin as air in the spirit world. Any corporeal item from the material realm can’t enter the spirit realm. However, this might be possible with the most powerful magic which few have. It is more then possible for spirits to leave this realm and enter the material realm though.
The third is the demon realm. Long ago the demons were prevented from entering both the spirit and material realms. So far, remained sealed off from these realms.
Moebius and Bevardis
Bevardis makes his way into the fortress of his malefactor. Now, mostly a ruin it was still deemed impossible for any man to penetrate. But Bevardis wasn’t any man. Deep within these walls his prey waited. Lord Moebius, manipulator and deceiver. Using living beings as his pawns. It was time for Moebius to answer a few truths.
“Yes, yes I understand it will be done. The stage is set. We will keep him in the shadows, keep him ignorant of his destiny. He knows he’s the scion of balance. But while he’s a spirit walker he will never be able to fulfil his role. We must keep it that way, stop him from entering the sword. Keep him ignorant from knowing his true identity and finding his other self.” Mutters Moebius “You need not linger in the shadows Bevardis, I know why you’re here”.
“No banter Moebius, time for you to die will come. Then the equilibrium can be restored to Grangough. The corruption will end and the Spirals restored. But first….tell me, did it trouble you to witness the murder of Ariel the balance guardian and do nothing”.
“Does it trouble you to come here grovelling for answers. How humiliating it must be for you to come begging on my door step. We both serve the same god and not even you would risk striking down god’s own attendant”.
“Are you so sure about that Moebius, now enough wordplay…..Ahhhrrrrr”.
“You see, I have the upper hand. You forget, I can wield the power of a Moonstone. Foresight is a useful tool and already had this little spell of incapacitation prepared for you. Even for someone who is neither living nor dead”.
“Arrrhh”.
“Still so arrogant, thinking that you’ve devised some brilliant plan. You may well of discovered more about me but in Infact you know nothing. You’ve read the signs but missed their meaning. You think that your the scion of balance which the old prophecies refer to. And that the Knights of Olde hold the key to fulfilling your destiny. But your messianic delusions have blinded you. Your vainity has made you witless Bevardis”.
“Arrrh”
As Bevardis struggles, Moebius walks over to him and kneels down beside him. Feeling quite smug with himself.
“You have been reborn to serve our god. You have no other purpose. Soon your strength will fail and you’ll be cast back into the spectral realm. That’s right, I know what you are and when your strength returns. Allowing you to menifest back here in the material realm. I’ll be gone and you’ll have more important things to worry about then pursuing me”…..Moebius moves back to his souceress’s table and continues reading. “Next time we meet, hopefully you would have learned a little humility”. He says, looking back over his should at the struggling Black Knight.
That wasn’t one of Moebius’ better efforts at stopping me. The next time we meet it’ll be me who will offer a few surprises. If he thinks I’m worried about our beloved benefactor. Then Moebius has underestimated me”. Thinks Bevardis to himself, then he felt his energy leave him. It was no longer possible for him to maintain his corporeal self. Then he was cast back into the spectral realm and as always there waiting was his maker…………….
The Spirals of Grangough.
The Spirals are a sacred symbol that represents the journey and change of life as it unfolds; taking a labyrinth-like passage that leads to the source. The spirals symbolise the consciousness of nature beginning from its center of the earth and expanding outwardly. Huge twisting columns that spiral out of the ground and reach high into the sky. But are much more then tangible symbols of life.
The circle serve the spirals, protectorates of the strange power the emanates from the land. The five protectorates that can wield the power of a Moonstone have sworn to use their power to protect the lands, to protect all of Grangough. For if the Spirals and their guardians were to fall. Then all of Grangough would be in peril.
The spiral of the mind and nature, protected by the mentalist and droid Nutrapter
The spiral of conflict and states, protected by the Palladian and Alchemist Azimuth
The spiral of energy and dimensions, protected by the Energist and planer Joule
The spiral of time and death, protected by the time streamer and necromancer Moebius
The spiral of balance, once protected by Ariel, the spirals choose their own.
At the unlikely death of a member the circle remains broken for a time. Until the spirals can cull a worthy successor.
King Alduin’s Crypt and the Oubliette
Having confirmed the information which he sort at the Knights of Olde encampment. The Black Knight, known as “Bevardis” stops at the door of King Alduin’s crypt. The defilement of a Devine King’s final resting place will be cursed upon by some. But some deeds, no matter how abhorrent has to be done. He breaks the magic seal to the door and enters the crypt after being sealed for more than 300 hundred years……….
The crypt of King Alduin the Just. Then with a sense of gravity and trepidation Bevardis set about putting his plan in action.
……..Soon he had done what he came for and steps out of the crypt. Resealing the door with magic behind him. He enters the graveyard and looks up at the foreboding silhouette of castle Barthmont. Now he needs to find Moebius, his gaze is attracted to a small light. The castle’s small monastery on the north corner. He starts to walk towards the steps leading up to it. Then stops and gazes into the gloom of the graveyard as something gets his attention.
“Um, these creatures seem to manifest from the very shadows. There seems to be some form of caliginous force at work here”.
Brother Malek, a short and noble man shuffles through the corridor, his distinctive yellow robes dragging on the floor. He enters the altar room to prepare for the evening prayers after a small, humble meal of bread and cheese. He was surprised to see that no other Brothers where here yet. He keels down to start the prayers then he hears the door open and footsteps. This must be them now, he thinks. But the footsteps are not of monks. He looks over this shoulder and sees the foreboding figure of the Black Knight standing over him. Suddenly he’s gripped with fear and dread. The Black Knight leans forward and grabs the terrified man by the scruff. Lifting the monk off this feet bringing his face level with his.
“Where’s that insidious snake Moebius?” He says, shaking the poor man.
“Lorrr….Lor….Lord Mo..Lord Moebius is…is…re…re…reading” he whimpers
“Don’t play games with me monk. I asked you where he is not what he’s doing”
“Errrh…he….he…he’s innnn……his study chamber”
Satisfied with the answer he drops the monk to the floor. Brother Malek lands in a heap and crawls away. Pressing himself up against the altar.
“Plea….plea…please…ha..ha…ha..have mercy” grovels the poor monk.
The Black Knight moves closer, as if to torment the monk.
“God…is…is my witness. He will protect me”. Says Malek, shaking uncontrollably with fear, his hands out in front of him.
“You seem to be trembling, has your god abandoned you? Is that where all your courage comes from? A misplaced belief in a factious god”. Mocks the Black Knight.
“Maybe I should release you to the wheel of fate” smirks the Black Knight as he walks to the door.
After getting what he wanted from the monk. Bevardis steps out into the passageway and begins to make his way into the stronghold to find Lord Moebius. So far his plan is moving along nicely. However, one can only match move for move the machinations of fate………..
Scorched Earth
Laffdrey stands by the large brazier warming his hands when he noticed that the flames start to die. He starts walking away, back the south side of the camp to get more oil. Then turned as he heard a whooshing noise and saw the flames unexpectedly grown at and astonishing rate. Then, as he studied the fire a sense of dread comes over him. Soon a huge column of fire rose from the brazier. A fire elemental!
He turns to the Closest Knight, who was star struck with awe.
“Call out the guard! Call out the guard!” Shouts Laffdrey.
Instantly the sound of the horn fills the air and the whole camp erupts into chaos. Men start running about everywhere. Scrambling out of tents and trying to get away from the scorching heat. Half the encampment descends upon the well all at once.
“Water! Water!” Come the calls
Someone manages to throw a bucket of water at the elemental but it was a meagre attempt. A few arrows were loosed from the rampart and someone threw a spear. Which just went straight through and emerged the other side with a flaming shaft. Piecing a tent and setting it alight.
Grelak quickly grabs his spell book and starts to summon a water elemental from the well. The water rose from the well, then fell back with a splash. Not enough water thinks Gerlak. We have been meaning to dig another well he thinks.
There’s only one other way to stop a fire elemental. Luckily they are very slow moving and despite the chaos Grelak manages to make his way over to Laffdrey.
“Find who is casting the spell and kill them. They must be close by” Says Grelak.
Laffdrey peeps over wall into the gloom and sees a figure standing right out in the open. He grabs a bow and arrow from the defences, pulls back on the 150lbs draw weight bow and looses the arrow. Watches as it falls short and wonders if only he practiced more archery and less swordsmanship. He pulls back again, feeling the effort needed to pull a 150lb bow, then realises the heat on his back. The fire elemental changes direction and starts to bare down on him. He releases the arrow and again it falls short. He knows he only has one more chance before the heat becomes unbearable. He starts to draw back and before he has chance to loose. An arrow strikes the Black Knight and he crumples to the floor. Instantly the spell brakes and the fire elemental reduces to nothing more then a few smouldering embers.
Laffdrey looks across from the rampart wall and sees Edric standing there with a bow in his hands. The boy is full of surprises he thinks to himself.
……Soon the flames and the burning camp comes under control. While the Knight’s put out the last flames. Grelak, Laffdrey and Edric approach the fallen knight.
“Where did you learn to use a bow?” Asks Laffdrey as they walk over to the the body.
“I wasn’t always a farmer, you know” replies Edric with a smile.
“Is he dead?” Asks Edric
“No you can’t kill them.” Says Grelak, he continues.
“He is a Black Knight, an agent of the Darkmere and a spirit walker. Right now his spirt is in the spirit realm trying, no doubt to manifest itself back here”.
“I thought the Darkmere were all but gone.” Says Laffdrey
“I did too, but it looks like the accent order has awoken” replies Grelak. “I don’t know what his story is but it takes great power, the wielding of a Moonstone or nearly god powers to become a spirit walker”.
“There must be a way to kill him Grelak” comments Laffdrey
“There is…..but……it’s not easy. Only a wraith blade can harm a spirit. Kindred Spirit, Master Godfrey’s sword forged from Herculaneum steel. If it were imbued with wraith afterlife then the sword could destroy a spirit walker. But only the highest of priests could wield this kind of magic”. Says Grelak
“We will address that later” Says Laffdrey as he watches Brother Edwards approach him.
After ordering a guard to be placed on the body of the Black Knight. Laffdrey listens hard as Brother Edward gives his report.
“Nearly three quarters of the camp is destroyed. Including most of the kitchen and food supplies. All tents, horses, except one and a supply cart are lost. Also the east side palisade wall is gone. Five Brothers are dead and nine more badly burned. The chapel is untouched and so is the armoury.”
Laffdrey sighs…before giving his orders.
“Put the wounded in the chapel. Send out a runner to summon aid from the nearest village. Leave a skeleton crew to look after the wounded. Summon the rest of our strength. Will take the supply cart and leave for Barthmont Castle”.
Laffdrey turned to Edric.
“Want to come on an adventure lad. I could do with a good archer”.
Edric smiles to express his eagerness. Laffdrey then turns to Grelak.
“You have the seeing stone?” Grelak nods.
“I will work on decoding the message on the way. My spell and research books have survived the fire”.
Soon the remaining Brothers leave the camp for Barthmont Castle and the castle’s Master, Lord Moebius.
The adventure and their destinies await…….
Maybe have steps leading up instead of a slope.
That would look cool, but would that not stop horses and carts etc getting up?
Bugger, didn’t think of that. Yes horses and what not will ideally need access.
However, next month or so I’m redecorating and refurbishing the place. Part of all that is maybe a new round dining room table could be on the addenda. This will be my main table for gaming as well. And I’ve just made a piece of corner scenery!
So…….I might have steps leading up to a keep and on the flat have the rest of the encampment. This is where the tents, field kitchen and horses will go. Kind of like a Norman Motte and Bailey.
And I thought I had finished.
Thanks peeps, been slow going but here we are and keeping with the damp north theme I have finally done the camp. All in all I’m quite pleased, should prove fine for a reasonable piece of scenery. Although the foam has warped a bit so doesn’t sit flat. So, let’s continue with part one.
Chapter One – Fire and Water
Eastling Encampment
Eastling is one of Knights of Olde fortified camps that sits on the main regional trade route. The purpose of this fortified camp is to guard against bandits and provide a safe site for travellers, pilgrims and merchants alike. That might want a safe bed for the night or simply a spot to take rest bite. In return they give a tribute.
The guard peers over the wall at the approaching rider. He waits for him to reach the encampment gate before challenging him.
“I seek Laffdrey” Shouts Edric.
“OPEN THE GATES!” comes the response.
Laffdrey stands in his Council tent and looks down at Godfrey’s sword as he lays it on the table.
“He gave you his sword and told you to give it to me?” Asks Laffdrey, throwing an uncertain look at Edric.
“Yes, he said you’ll know what to do”. Replies Edric
“You have done well, the Brotherhood thanks you. These men will escort you back to your farm.” Says Laffdrey making a gesture towards the knights standing near the tent’s entrance.
“Take what men you need. Go with Edric back to his farm and bring back Master Godfrey” orders Laffdrey to Lieutenant Bartrem
With that Edric and the men were gone leaving Laffdrey alone with brother Grelak, the Elder Priest. He stepped forward looking down at the sword.
“He said you’ll know what to do. Well, what are you going to do?” Asks Grelak.
Laffdrey gives him an uncertain look.
“I don’t know”……..
……..Sometime later Laffdrey returned to the council tent. He picked up Kindred Spirit and stared at it, trying to solve the riddle. Then, using one hand he wielded the blade. It was indeed a fine weapon but seemed very slightly unbalanced, very strange. He checks the sword by running his hand over the pommel. Then he pushed with his thumb and the pommel opened. To reveal a small blue stone inside. He called for Brother Grelak…….
After studying the mysterious blue stone, Grelak vanished to his chapel then returned with a special holy lantern. He inserted the stone into, what seemed a purposely made inlay set into the lantern. Then to both of the men’s amazement a blue picture shone on the side of the tent like a projection.
“What is this? Oh wait…..it’s a message….and this seems to be showing a location too. It’s written in Olde and I can’t decipher it yet. If there is more to this then I have yet to discover it”. Says Grelak.
“The riders have returned, come Brother Grelak, Master Godfrey should be with them” Says Laffdrey, as he hurried out the tent. Closely followed by Grelak.
Laffdrey was surprised at seeing Edric return with them. But more importantly there was no Godfrey. Lieutenant Bartrem explains that they found the farm burnt to the ground and Master Godfrey and Edric’s wife missing.
“There is nothing there for me now” replies Edric, looking sadly down at the ground.
“Me and Grelak have discovered something that might shed some light on all this” Says Laffdrey gesturing towards the council tent.
“I know where this is, Barthmont hill. A mighty castle once stood there. I think” . Says Edric looking up at the projection on the tent wall.
“Yes, Barthmont castle, stood for over 700 years against the Darkmere. The last King to rule there was King Alduin”. Explains Grelak.
“Barthmont indeed was mighty, said to of been impenetrable. Folklore has it 300 years ago the Darkmere poisoned the King’s mind. Undermined his authority, the King went insane. Killed his entire family then committed suicide. He’s buried in a crypt in the castle grounds. Soon after the King’s demise, Barthmont castle fell into darkness and ruin”. Says Grelak
“Barthmont castle, despite being a glimmer of it’s former self. Is controlled by Lord Moebius, a treacherous and viperious man. He, along with a small army reside in the more intact parts of the castle”. comments Laffdrey.
“Yes and there is a small monastery there too. Run by a very noble and altruistic friend of mine, brother Malek”. Adds Grelak.
“Yes, yes but what is the significance of all this?” Asks Bartrem. Pointing to the lantern.
“We ride in the morning for Barthmont Hill. See if Lord Moebius is in a forthcoming mood to answer some questions. Then maybe we can find out the significance of all this. If not, maybe brother Malek could enlighten us. We have to be careful though. We won’t be the only ones that seek answers”. Says Laffdrey.
“Indeed, it is possible that the Darkmere has awoken. Master Godfrey was being pursued and if his pursuer was an agent of Darkness we have to be careful. For a Knight of Darkness can wield more than just black Magic”. Says Grelak.
Meanwhile……outside in the camp the guards start their night shift. Brother Edward’s mouth starts watering as he walks past the hog roast.
“It’s not ready yet, be patient” comes the response from one of the kitchen staff. Being in a camp which sits on a main trade route. Means there’s no shortage of supplies. Not only do they have access to quality meats. They also stock up on exotic fruits and spices. However, recently there has been a strange drop in quantity and quality of goods.
The guard grumbles and continues to the rampart wall. He stares out at the sea of blackness and wonders how much longer the pig is going to take to cook. Unknown to him something larks in the darkness.
The Black Knight moves closer, then he feels a rat close by. Quickly he snatches it up and begins to chant a seeing spell! The rat is soon possessed and moves quickly, under the gate, passed the guards. Across the kitchen and into the council tent. The rat stops and looks up. The Black Knight could see men at a table and there! The blue projection on the tent wall for all to see. Now he’s got the information he came for. His masters will be most pleased with this. But first he needs to take care of this camp. Every good movement requires a few martyrs. He breaks the seeing spell, then begins to chant another spell, a fire spell!
To be continued………
