Into not so bad a fire...

Are we finally going to get into the House of the Beast? 

We came back to the magma area and found a cave filled with a large pool of the stuff. Some rock fell from the ceiling, causing a small bit to splash on to, and burn my beautiful Spring. But she's fine now.

It was also were we located the final two Salamanders. We had a short but nasty fight where we slew the leader, my blade "Tempest", with its frosting magic really coming into its own as it cleaved the creature in twain. 

At that, the other that had agreed to help us made an appearance and caused the final one to submit to its will. And then it used its magic to open the very stone itself to allow us entrance into the area we need to access.

After securing unfettered use of these caves to pass into and out of while we explore the House of the Beast, we moved back to the surface to rest before entering the, hopefully unguarded, back door into this place.

What new dangers await?

o0o

From the frying pan...

Damn, but its hot down here! 

These Salamanders think that this place is too cold, which is actually a good thing as we have found one that wants to help us. Of course its betraying its own kind, so that tells me that we can't trust it farther than the point that we have mutual goals. But it's something.

And it sounds like there is but two more besides this one to worry about. Well that and most likely some more of these fire snakes, but it doesn't sound like too many more of them either. 

Then we should be able to move on to the House of the Beast. And what a welcoming name that is... But coming through this way, I expect that we should initially be an unwelcome surprise. I don't expect that to last long, but a tactical surprise should always be exploited while it's available. It will act as a force multiplier, and as the numbers clearly seem to be against us, that is to desired.

So far we have been able to rest and heal ourselves between encounters, and while unpleasant, we have been able to overcome the foes we have come across. But I don't expect that our further progress will remain so... agreeable. So again, surprising them, Hell Yeah!

o0o

Don't Blink or you might miss the Dogs...

I've met some Blink Dogs. I can honestly hope that I made some friends here with them. Jess told me many stories about them. Their intelligence first and foremost. And it's clear that they are very intelligent indeed.  They led me to a hidden cave, which is leading all of us, I hope, into a back way to the House of the Beast.

It isn't unoccupied, this cave. Or caves.We've engaged a couple of these creatures now, and it's clear that my blade, Tempest, is especially harmful to them. My style of hard hitting, constantly moving combat combined with Tempest, well, they didn't have much of a chance to do more than die. If I must fight, and its quite clear that with these beings, I must, I much prefer to get them out of our way as quickly as possible. Of course that does beg the question of just how many more there are. The first two went down quickly, but I suspect that that was more of a fluke do to their surprise upon seeing us. Will it remain so? While I can hope so, I certainly won't plan on it. No, that is to invite disaster.And this place is disbelievingly hot.Who knew that I would long for the coolness of the cloudless desert at high noon?

But the Earth Mephit and Salamanders we come across as we gp deeper into the mountain clearly aren't Gnolls. They may be allies, but I somehow doubt it. I just don't see hairy humanoid hyena's being any use to fire loving Salamanders except as short lived flaming entertainment.

 o0o

Messy, messy messy...

Forgive me, my notes are a frightful mess - I've somehow managed to dump a vessel of oil on top of them. I've tried to recreate what was left...

We step right into it. (I'm not sure what we stepped into I don't remember anyone with particularly dirty sandals.)

As we wake and start our day, Connie pulls that ridiculously expensive contraption called a spy glass. I guess it's not so darned ridiculous at that, as she spotted two winged creatures flying our way.

They landed with a terrible clatter of rolling rocks and mini-sandstorm.

"Get out. You do not belong here." (I think, or something to that effect.)

My beloved, not fearing, (or if he was he didn't show it), stepped forward and actually made friends with the two ferocious HUGE eagles. They may come in handy later. They left us and we noticed a band of Gnolls headed our way.

Dang that was fun, even if I did have to be reminded to put on my Mage Armour, again; I really am not a forgetful person... Sure was fun spinning into four. Don't think it fazed the Gnolls at all, but ooOOoooo the night under the tent flaps? Anyway, after taking care of the stinky Gnolls, we sauntered up and heard some yips and yaps of these dog-like creatures.

Blaze, flying high, spied them on the other side of the mountain, and he did detect a creature rambling toward us. Our original idea was to ambush the creature, but after fifteen minutes of inactivity in the warming heat we quickly abandoned that thought and another formed.

Asking Blaze to fly in a path we could walk, could he tell us how far away the creature was? Calculations and thought concluded the creature was yet an hour along, we continued, hoping to catch it unawares.

It caught US unaware! Dropping a large boulder from a good ten feet or more above us, Connie and Kiril barely flattened against the wall, Kiril's hand missing mine as the bolder tore along my arm. Connie, too, missed yanking Val back; the boulder bruising his body as well.

The odd-Gnoll then leaped down, its enormous size nearly dwarfing the canyon it stood in. Roaring, like some prey-stalking lioness, it faced us, the toothless grin green and foul.

Val got much too close and couldn't retreat I panicked and threw a web on top of them hoping to protect Val and slow the creature (which worked), while Connie and Kiril jabbed, parried, thrust and countered until the beast went down heavily.

A thorough search of the body gave up no clues except the collar and chain he wore, and they were not clues, or were they? Kiril pushed the creature to the side, frying his corpse crispy...

From here my notes fade as the oil has soaked too deeply into the parchment, mixing with the pigment and making some rather lovely single colour paintings; they make useless notes. I shall have to ask my beloved if I may borrow his notes to keep my journals complete...

o0o

Flight of the Eagles...

Wow, Giant Eagles! A pair of them dropped out of the sky to check us out. I was able to convince them that we weren't a threat to them. These noble creatures shouldn't be our enemies, ever.

It turns out that the Gnolls are hunting their eggs. If I can ever be of assistance to them, my sword is at their service.

Jess had told me many tales of these intelligent Lords of the skies. I have the utmost respect for them. One of the pair showed naught but disdain at the hint that our assistance was needed. Pride. I can understand I suppose, but aid is aid. And mine is freely offered. The other didn't brush off my offer, but neither did it acknowledge it. As I understand from my teachings in the lore of them, that is actually a positive sign. 

I wonder if they are watching us from beyond our sight? Well if they did, they saw us slay a roaming band of five Gnolls that very same day. And then on the following day, we came across some aberrant form of one. A veritable giant of a Gnoll. It stank of foulness, and fought with talons instead of weapons. It's prodigious strength made it very dangerous indeed. But my verne' (wife) thought quickly and ensnared it in a vast web, trapping it in place. Then She, Connie and I attacked it out of its range of a counterattack. Val was attacked by it from the outset and was also caught in the grasp of the sticky tendrils of the web. Though he took a wound, the creature was unable to do further damage to him while embraced by the web. It was dispatched soon thereafter.

Not liking the look of the abomination, fearing that whatever unnatural magics that were used to transform this creature into its present form may be able to cause further mischief, I poured oil over it and burned the carcass.

We also heard the yips of at least one Gnoll clear across the mountain. Melamin (My love) asked her familiar, Blaze, to scout out the source of the sound, and that's what he discovered. Is that what we heard clear back to our town. I know that sound can carry far in the desert, but that is far from normal if that is the case. 

And we have yet to meet the gathering Gnoll forces. Our travails are just beginning.

o0o

Gnolls be Dumb...

 Actually thinking that our camp was unguarded. I mean, really!

The two Gnolls that came across our campsite obviously thought that we were that foolish, but appearances were deceiving. After a short melee, the Gnolls lifeless bodies put to rest any notions that we were unaware. Of course that knowledge will no longer be of benefit to them.

I will say this though, these particular Gnolls are much stronger and hardier than any I have previously crossed blades with. If all of the gathering Gnolls that are answering the summons of this Carrion King that we are sent to investigate are of similar ilk, we are in for a steep challenge. After all, there are but the four of us, one of which is my beloved. No, these new Gnolls have me greatly worried.

Will we be able to thread the needle as it were, penetrating the army of these beasts that cover the mountainside? Which is also the way to the House of Beasts that is reported to be where this so-called Carrion King resides? Well, we shall shortly find out.

o0o

Zayifid, of SpaOhm

Enjoying the pleasant, cooler Autumn air, (you know, when the desert drops from 50 to 40 degrees) Kiril, Connie and I were nearing the end of our turn on watch when a loud horn sounded from up in the north district.

Grateful for the horses, we spurred them to a fast trot and arrived a scant quarter-hour later, in front of a squalid little pub, well known for the interesting clientele it already boasted. Handing the reins to the boys out front, warning them to watch the mounts well if they expected anything when we returned, we entered the thriving place, the object of our interest a massive giant, two fingers taller than Kiril, and he was sittin' down! hailed us, and waved us over.

He proudly and fearfully explained his presence and piously belaboured his trials as he crossed the desert heat after the frozen mountain passes to bring us the tale of a Carrion King, a creature amassing a vicious gnoll army, ready to strike at Kalmarane.

We took his word to Almah, who, with a few wise words of her own, blessed us to discover the location of this army and if the rumours of an imminent attack carried merit. "After all, what do we know of this man, Zayifid?"

Now, a week into our trek into the Pale Mountains, in search of the Carrion King and his minions, we can report that it indeed appears that there is unrest, evil and Gnoll activity. We shall continue forward, seeking the army we have been informed of, while hoping the barely-trained sentries we left to guard the city are worthy of the battle they may see in the weeks ahead, and if they are prepared to sacrifice their lives.

We hope we can keep the battle from reaching the streets of the newly re-built city. I look to my love, my husband of but a few short months, my worry clear, I do not want him to fall as much as he does not want me to fall, but we will both attend to our jobs, and protect the city as best we can - if this means giving our lives, we must be prepared to do so… The sun warming my back I can only shrug the feeling of unease aside and pay attention to the present besides, I am itching to try out my new spell, the one that took me nearly a year to perfect! Scouring Sand, I may have created it to make it simpler to clean the cooking pots, but that test against the drunks a few weeks ago show it has a lot of promise to confuse and injure...

o0o

I knew it...

I knew it! I just knew my parents would love her.

My father had joined me the morning before the wedding while I was checking the water wheel to verify its alignment. As I breathe a sigh of relief, as well as satisfaction, he waded out to stand next to me.

“Kiril, my son,” he said seriously, “you have made your mother and I so very proud. You have done a great thing in aiding to liberate this city. I, we, always expected you to have an impact in the world. It is nice to see the results with our own eyes. And Son, your chosen, all I can say is, well done! Spring is charming, beautiful, and obviously intelligent. After all she said yes to your proposal,” he says with a silly grin. “No, seriously Son, you chose well. And your mother couldn't be happier, either. Not that you need it, but you have our whole heartfelt approval. I do hope that your lives become somewhat calmer though. All of those new scars you've managed to acquire speak all to plainly on just how dangerous your life has become.”

“Oh, and I had sent word on to Jessaril abour what you have done here, and about your impending nuptials.”

“You did?” I say. “Was there any word from her?”

“Yes. She also is proud of you, as well as happy that you have found someone to love. I am to express her sadness at her inability to travel here at this time, but to tell you that she hopes to see you once again, and that she would love to greet your 'verme'. Bu the way. What is a 'verme'?”

A smiling Kiril says. “Wife. It's Elvish for wife. It's too bad she couldn't make it. I would have loved to see her again, and even more for her to meet Spring.

His father looks at Kiril a moment before responding. “Son, would that be so very wise? I never asked, but I think that you and Jess got pretty, uhm, close there at the end. Am I right? And if I am, wouldn't that be a potential problem?”

I look him straight in the eyes and then nod. “Yes father, we became lovers. But remember that she is an Elf. There world view is totally different from ours. I would never be more than a brief interlude in her life. I was aware before it happened, and she took great pains to reinforce this as it happened. I will always have love for Jess in my heart. She was my teacher. Mentor; friend, and briefly my lover. She, in a very real way, finished what you and Mother started; making me into the man I find myself as today. And I have told Spring everything about Jess. I have no secrets from her. And Father, there is truly no comparing my feelings for Jessarill with the love I have for Spring. Now, would Spring still have an issue with a former lover of mine? My only other lover I might add. I don't know. Perhaps. I would hope not, but I don't know. I would hope that my love for her is clear enough for her to realize that I would never, could never, stray. And that she has regained enough of her Elvish heritage to know that Jess would never attempt to lure me away even if she was so inclined. It just isn't part of her culture to intrude between lifemates. But there would never be a choice. Spring is where my heart, my future reside. She is the only choice, and, in a day, we marry!"

The next day, the entire city turned out to see Spring and Kiril, two of the heroes of the
city, marry.The third and final hero and liberator, their good friend Connie performed the ceremony. Connie even performed a, mostly, Elven Wedding ritual - in High Elven at that - with translators throughout the crowd for their benefit. That last bit was taken care of by the thoughtfulness of Almah.

All in all, a grand day was had by all.

And so, Kiril was wed to Spring. Kiril's parents stayed on an additional fortnight, but reluctantly left to return home.

And now, here it is about a year after we defeated that foul demon that was trapped under the, now fully reconsecrated and restored church, of Serranrae. My life with Spring is as wonderful as I could ever have wished for. But can things stay this way? There are more, ever more, reports of Gnoll activity in the mountains. I fear that this idyllic time was but an interlude from our lives of violence. I do so pray that I am wrong in that regard. Yes, I pray I'm wrong.

o0o

Well Earned Rest...

Now, that was one journey I do not wish to make again.

My heart coiled ready to tear this creature apart with my bare hands. Watching the pincers pierce Penladan was awful. As if in slow motion. Having to ignore his lifeless body as we struck the evil daemon repeatedly, leant strength to my castings, Dan’s spirit guiding my simple jabs deeper.

It has been only a few days and still I shake as I recall the horror. Penladan’s final gasp bringing tears to my eyes, my gut souring.

When the exoskelton turned on my beloved I have never felt more helpless. Too far away to do anything more than watch and pray as Kiril tumbled and fell – the terror that gripped my throat choked the air from me as the daemon scorpion bloodied and left him for dead.

Begging Kiril to retreat even as I taunted Xuloth(?), my explosive fury and wrath – calling up all that had been resting, waiting for its chance to emerge – and blasted the beast repeatedly, weakening it, justifiably allowing my champion to thrust the final, painful rent into the creature’s hide.

The joyful tears as I held him afterward, briefly squeezing so tightly Kiril complained, soon turned to mournful ones as Connie shook her head, “He’s too far into the afterlife, my potions will not bring him back.” Tears fell, too, from her eyes as she closed Penladan’s sightless eyes. I felt Kiril’s guilt, that he had used that last of Connie’s healing potions. I hugged him tightly thinking that could have been him as well.

The journey to speak with Almah was heavy and she was moved by the sacrifices we had made, two members, Valrose and now Penladan. Two good men, cut down in their prime. It was/is kind of her to place a statue commemorating his bravery and selfless forfeiture of his life so that the town may grow and prosper.

And grow and prosper it is! Caravans filled with any and everything one could imagine arriving daily – hourly! The long and arduous journey from Katapesh, and even further, not daunting sellers of goods, their stories of Gnoll invasions and other horrors reaching us as they enter through the gates, as we make a point to greet each caravan’s head-master and arrange for them to speak to the correct diplomat. Almah has had to hire many of these newcomers as the town grows, the once simple task of tallying a day’s sales becoming too much for her scribes and accountants to take care of.

Our daily, and nightly excursions along the borders and through the streets themselves, we have found very little trouble, most of the folks just happy that this great Mecca of trade and meeting is open again! This is good, as it has allowed us to pursue other interests.

One of which is the wedding. I cannot believe how calm and at peace I am. I certainly hope Haleen will return for it, but I understand if she doesn’t. It will be nice to meet Kiril’s parents, although I admit to having more than a few butterflies in my stomach over that.

 

I have ordered the material for the dress. The ladies at the new shop were thrilled they would be

making the gown, as, they assured us when we went to pay and they refused to accept even so much as a Drachma, they would earn much renown for creating the gown of the one who helped reopen the city for business! I had to smile, but who am I to argue?

I can’t believe how much learning can be found in just talking to the priests and fiddling about in the alchemist’s shop; Connie has banned me from her neatly ordered vials and liquids. Grateful too that I have good teachers; else that wedding might have been another funeral pyre. I have figured out how to make a simple healing potion. I can’t use it on myself, as it contains a chemical to which I appear to be immune, but I have tested it on Kiril, and a few of the workers who injured themselves while helping Kiril build the water wheel – an amazing act of perseverance and ingenuity, if you ask me. Indoor plumbing? Unheard of before! A hot bath, or, more often an nice cool one, without having to lug buckets of water? What a luxury! – and the potion appears to heal everything, including a broken bone! I am still testing its abilities, but am hopeful that when, (for I also feel the wanderlust for adventure stirring in my bones), we find a new challenge to defeat, this potion will keep my love alive. It does have some shelf-life issues, lasting only forty-eight hours before becoming inert, and I’ve not found a way yet to re-stabilise it.

I also, after a few weeks of practising, honing and fine tuning, worked out a spell that could serve us in the future. Or should I say, nearly worked out. The last time I tried it, the new Monk came running out of his house, formerly Penladan’s, (he isn’t sure he will remain, or if he’ll chose a better suited one), the words a Monk knows these days! Still, lesson learned; maybe a little less wrist twist and a little more control of my staff. Even I thought the explosion a little too exuberant!

I do enjoy the peaceful idyllic life, getting up as the sun’s rays poke holes in my carefully sewn drapes; practising the ancient oriental arts with Kiril, before seeking a hot bath, sometimes with, sometimes without, Kiril, then meditating for an hour or so before bothering the city with my questions; I think they sent for the librarian, insisting he arrive post-haste! Helping unpack, dust and catalogue the massive tomes, before shelving them acquainted me well with the librarian who in turn, showed me ancient manuscripts, stories and legends – there is an entire section depicting ancient spells and weavings!

My dress was exactly as I planned, and then some. Without my knowledge, Kiril ordered some pearls, which he then asked the seamstresses to stitch into the bodice of the elegant gown, surprising me as I was fitted for the first time. Their lustrous gleam glowed softly under a full moon with the sun setting and the moon rising as we recited our vows in front of the many who gathered to share in our joy.

I could not have been happier with Kiril’s folks. Kind and sweet, I almost envy him, except that now I can call them mother- and father-by-law. Haleen was unable to return, but I am not saddened by that, she has her adventures to seek.

The party after our wedding, well, I hope it didn’t wake the dead, but the whole town turned out! Or, at least it felt like it! We danced and drank and ate until we could stand no more! Our slipping away to our quiet little home by the river did not go unnoticed, and we were cheered all the way until we closed the door.

Then with chuckles and ribald comments we were left to our night as husband and wife. I shall savour the precious moment of that evening for a lifetime... The way Kiril softly touched me, as if I were the most precious and fragile thing on earth; as if we were coming together for the first time.

His hands caressed down my form, even I had to giggle when we couldn’t figure out how to undo the bodice and, in our eagerness, we lifted the skirts and joined with tulle, silk and satin chafing our skin! We did figure the fasteners out and the dress was removed, and for some reason, I suddenly felt shy – it only lasted a brief moment, but I know Kiril noticed as he held me close for a long time, just kissing me. His lips soft.

I reached between us and stroked his manhood; he’d had no impediments to divesting himself of his breeches. My hand stroked the length of his granite-hard shaft before slipping to my knees, my eyes watching my lover’s, my tongue washing across his slick mushroom shaped head, before drawing it deeply into my mouth, no longer fearing that the seed within would harm him, merely knowing that this is a loving way to handle a man. Before we go too far I rise and stretch on top of his form as it reclines on our soft, fur-lined pallet, my thighs falling to either side of his hips as I rise and slide down, our joining loving, gentle, unhurried. We slept and woke through the night, our hands seeking each other in our sub-conscious sleep, as if this was our first night together. My head on his shoulder as dawn cursed its light through the undraped window, “Ci velethron nin, gi melin, melamin.”

Connie, precious cleric that she is, has managed to gain the private ear of Almah and has a great relationship with the overseers and other officials; she is well respected and looked up to, but she still won’t let me touch her vials and potions. As she, kindly and patiently, says, “One explosion was enough.”

I’ve not had much contact with the new Monk, he has been a bit of a recluse, still the few times we’ve spoken or passed in the street, he has seemed nice enough. Kiril refuses to allow me to share a watch with him yet, but I’m sure as he gets to know him, this will change, Connie hasn’t mentioned that he’s been difficult or anything.

Now, as this day comes to a close, and Kiril is out on watch, I believe I am going to fill the tub, lie back and await his return... I think I’ll even try some of that new oil the chemist’s was selling, it’s said to make your skin soft and protect from the drying effects of the sand and wind. I could sure use some softening up...

 o0o

With heavy hearts...

The creature that was trapped under Serranrae's old temple, a demon by the bame of Xulthos I think, has been defeated.

But not without a cost. A terrible cost, as our comrade Penladan fell. I almost did as well, but I was able to get a timely healing spell from Connie. The demon fell to my blade instead, but the monster, a demonic version of a extremely large scorpion would without a doubt have killed me instead had I missed my strike.

So, with heavy hearts we carried our fallen friend out of the battleground. The city did honor him by commissioning a statue in his likeness. I sang at his funeral pyre a song of remembrance;

First in Elvish

A! Tollen gûr na Penladan Nu goll dhúath e nathron dhonn Onethelais panna i nôr Gelaidh gelaid go linnod an Nestad. Ai nae úamdir dâr.

Then in common

O! Come is death to Pemladan Under shadowy cloak of the dark weaver. Yavanna fills the place of the Trees of Light with a chant for Healing. Ah alas, no hope remains.

He is made a champion of the city, he who gave his life so that the city may be free. It was a fine tribute. We will miss him. May he find peace among the stars.

But now we, Connie, Spring and I will move on. Connie has assumed the role of the Captain of the cities patrol. Spring has immersed herself in studying the old texts and other bits of information that was uncovered from the monastery as well as in the city while we were cleansing the area in preparation of its resettlement. And I, well I have been studying my sword Tempest, and have discovered something amazing. Not only is the sword becoming more powerful the more I use it, but now I can manifest the blade out of nothing but mold dust. There are two limitations to this though. The first being that I can't be within 30' of the actual blade and the second, the manifested blade only lasts for 3 hours in any one day. But all in all, it is truly amazing!

And we have a wedding to take care of. Connie is performing the ceremony that will unite Spring and I forever more. Unbeknownst to my beloved, I have sent for a half hundred small pearls to have sewn into her dress. My bride will shimmer and shine as great as any Princess, ever!

My parents have been sent for and will arrive in plenty of time for the wedding. They are so going to love my Spring. I expect them to be just as enchanted with her as I!

And on a side note, I have finished the large waterwheel and have running water available not only to our home, but the manor house as well. I have also set up a business where others pay a monthly fee for the privilege of water being run into their homes as well.

Now I wonder what surprises the future holds for us, as I am sure more adventures, hardships and terrors await to offset the joy and happiness that Spring and I will find in each others arms.

o0o

Breaking the seal...

As he climbs the stairs, Kiril prays that Spring has recovered. Some scorpions are more venomous than others, and it was unfortunate that she had to run into one of the nasty ones. He himself, has endured many stings, but he has done so purposely. It's not a fun thing to do, but if one is to build up the ability to resist their toxins, there really isn't a better way. And as scorpions are a ever present problem here in the desert, he would much rather be ready to shrug off the effects, than being laid low at a inopportune time.

But not for his mela! She should not have to go through such. So when he enters their room, and sees her sitting on the bed, he takes long strides and scoops her up into his arms. "You look better... and beautiful!" he says as she laughs. Her laugh that so delights him to hear. He kisses her soundly, not wanting her to have any doubts as to whether she was missed or not.

He then relays to her the events that she missed.

Later, having Spring now caught up on what occurred during the previous day and evening, we meet up with our erstwhile companions. And now the four of us have decided to attend to the problem of the sealed room under the old church. The key that Almah gave into my keeping worked to open the massive sealed door, flaring into light upon contact. When the light died, most likely so did any magical wards that further helped seal whatever malevolent force that is contained within.

We found other magics still working here. Upon crossing the doors threshold, torches mounted on the wall of the corridor we had just entered burst into life.

We came to a way that was sealed, and the only mechanism that allow us to access it being a gong. So reluctantly, we used it. The note lasted a long, longer than it seems it should've sounded. Indeed, the sound released three fire elemental's. Engaging in combat, they were slain. Penladen and Connie taking wounds along the way, which Connie calling upon the Divine power of Iomedae quickly cured.

Passing some niches where dead were entombed, we, wisely, I believe, left any treasures to those that were laid to rest with them. This was a church sanctified to Serranrae. A force of good. I can only think that to despoil these graves would be an act that would come back to haunt us. We also found a niche that was empty. There was a name plate above it. It was for Halruun, a cleric that had been turned into an undead abomination and we had defeated days ago when we cleared the grounds of the church. I felt that he should be laid to rest in his allotted space, so I ran up above and brought his body down. When I put him in the niche, a sigh was heard. I think his spirit found peace. And I discovered a reddish orange colored gem in my pocket, where there had not previously been one. I believe I may have been thanked for my thoughtfulness. It wasn't needed, after all it is but what I would have wanted if I was in his place.

More items that while might have been valuable, we all easily left alone. We did take the time to replace the scattered items back where we believed they belonged. And all of feel like our spirits have been lifted up, so perhaps it was a wise choice that we made. None of us want to incur the possible, more like probable wrath of the Goddess.

We also found our way blocked by an old badly rusted iron portcullis. It's lifting mechanism was broken, and on the other side in any event. Connie and myself were able to manhandle (womanhandle I suppose in Connie's case) the impediment out of our way.

Later, we passed more niches, but this area was dank and moist. Here the dead were restless, and three attacked us. We defeated these coffer corpses, as both Spring and Connie announced them to be. Though we did need to wait for Connie to return to us, after being given a fright when one of the “slain” creatures rose back to its feet. But while it is something that she may get teased about, it was in fact a magical effect that it caused to her. Any of us could have succumbed to it, it just happened to be her her turn to have poor luck this rime, But no harm done.

Then another sealed door. Stopping to listen through the apparently heavy and solid door before opening it, I heard what sounded like the Djinni, Kardswaan. But Kardswaan is dead. I know this as it was my arrow that brought him down as he attempted to flee from our battle of just a couple of days ago. No, this must be, has to be an illusion. I would wager that the illusion instead disguises that which had taken control of the real, now quite deceased Djinni.

Using the key again once we were ready, the door flared the same as the first sealed door did. And as we enter, we indeed see Kardswaan. Of course er know that this can't be him, but still it is somewhat unnerving.

Now it is time to find out who or what this Xulthos is. At least I think that is the name. As the coffer corpses were saying it as we slew them.

To my comrades, and to my Love, Spring, I say to Arms!

o0o

24hr - Bug...

Awakening after twenty-four hours of slumber certainly has its disadvantages! 

Spring looks about the room. She is alone, although evidence that someone, Kiril, she assumes, has been in to check on her recently. A nearly fresh candle burns in the holder on the night table next to a still steaming cup of, tea, if the scent is faithful.

Sitting up she sips the liquid slowly, letting it moisten her parched throat. She finishes, set the mug on the rough wood and slips from the comfortable pallet, stretching her stiff muscles, hearing them pop as if she were an old lady.

"Well, I suppose I need some exercise!"

Deftly she shrugs and stretches more deeply, performing many of the exercises Kiril has shown her over the preceding days.

Making her way down the stairs and to the outhouse, she completes her business and returns to the upper room,, the makeshift curtain billowing in the slight breeze.

"I guess they are on patrol," she sighs, sitting at the end of the bed.

As she sits, she meditates, releasing her mind and shaking off the mild illness that caught her in its grip as they completed the task of dealing with Daski.

Well aware of the fright she probably gave Kiril when she simply fainted, it was good that the healer was familiar with the insect sting's poison and assured Kiril I would be fine, just needing to sleep the effects away after being forced to swallow a vile concoction that she would have very definitely preferred to still have been unconscious rather than taste.

She hears them returning as she finishes her meditation and decides to await Kiril to come to her; she is certain he will...

o0o

Burning Monks?...

Connie, Penledan and myself (Spring not feeling  as she was on the receiving end of a particularly poisonous scorpion's stinger, so she was left back  to recover), started making rounds. Nothing if major importance with the exception of a report that someone was vandalizing the old church of Serranrae. Upon investigation, there was signs that someone or something had been trying to enter the sealed room. Almah wants us to try and clear this problem out as soon as possible she informed us when this was reported to her.

Later, something about a boarded up home, quiet and dark when everything around it was a hive of activity, bothered Connie enough to cause her to have us check it out. And added to this was Penladan remembering that the home had been claimed by persons that claimed to be the Order of Burning Monks, Something none of us has ever heard of. So we knocked.

After repeated requests to meet and greet the newcomers, we found ourselves face to face with four heavily cloaked individuals. Well face to face was not really accurate. The hooded cloaks made seeing their faces impossible and not a bit of flesh was visible through the cloaks or robes. Anyway, something was “off”. We warned them away from the area of the old church on safety concerns.

That evening, the three of us then went to hide ourselves within the church basement to watch for any further break-in attempts. So imagine our surprise when someone was seen to enter the basement, the same four someones we has recently warned away.

Now we had told them to avoid this area, and their presence here with the earlier warning confirmed their culpability , so we attempted to stop them. This resulted in combat where three of them were slain, and the remaining one led us on a merry chase, eventually eluding us. We also, upon examining the bodies, found them to be some sort of humanoid insect, bee-like in overall appearance.

So now we will get some rest. Spring, my lovely bride to be is feeling better, or just as likely was bored out of her mind, and will accompany us when we are all roused and ready to use the key, and meet whatever menace is sealed within the chamber beneath the church.

o0o

Patrol Duty...

I thought fighting the Djinni was hard. Patrolling the city is a job we take very seriously. As there are only four of us, we do need to be everywhere at once. It is possible we will need to train some of the eager young men from among Almah’s crew to contain the whole city, why only this evening a trader’s caravan arrived on an invitation from Almah.

             

We questioned the driver and, a friendly fellow he appears to be, sharing a fine bottle of desert spirits with us. A very strong spirit is was, too. The hangovers will be remembered.

             

I feel for Almah. She certainly seemed upset about Daski. I don’t understand why – a fouler fellow there could not be. Now I worry he may not be deceased as we originally suspect. It’s always possible that silver-tongued devil wormed his way out, coercing the Gnolls, and their leader, Gronk, into believing it is we who have deceived them. I for one intend to keep an eye out for trouble from that quarter.

             

And, married! Kiril hinted a few weeks ago and now, now it has come to fruition – he has asked me to marry him! Such a quaint custom among humans. I cannot wait to call Kiril my husband, a finer, more noble, more trustworthy man I could not hope to find. I do anticipate some of the incoming merchants will carry cloth, silks and laces; it would be nice to have a gown to wear for the wedding, still, I don’t suppose the clothes will matter, it is our love that’s important. The cloth will come in handy to cover the window openings with as well, until a Glaser comes to town, at any rate.

             

And, how wonderful to have a home as a gift, I must thank Almah for her generosity properly. Still, they did take a lot of work to clean, and still more to do. It is tedious, the wood seems to be rotten, crawling with termites. I guess that’s why things are made of compacted sand and dirt.

             

I am tired. I suppose a night’s rest and then a trip back to see those gnolls is in order. Or, rather, a trip to NOT see those gnolls. I guess we will need to divide our patrols as well. Possibly two of us taking night duty and two day. One more question to run passed the group.

             

I certainly am thankful there are four of us, I wish Haleen could have stayed longer, still, I am delighted I found her and she is okay. I can stop worrying about her.

             

Okay, time to sleep, this candle is gutting now as it is. I peer over at my melamin, lying on the pallets of soft blankets we have obtained from Almah as we begin to organise articles for our new home. He is snoring softly, his face at peace. I am glad. It was hard for him when face-to-face with Daski. I could feel the hatred pouring from him, souring his stomach.

His is so peaceful, preferring diplomatic reasoning over killing. I smile down at him as I slide next to him on the pallet, his arms opening, even in his sleep, welcoming me in close. I brush his lips with mine, ‘No, he will not lose control without reason,’ I sigh, snuggling close and resting my head on his chest, his even breathing lulling me to sleep easily. My last thoughts are those of the pleasure I will get out of moving into our own home. We have decided not to move in until we have it in order and are married. My arms tighten about Kiril. Then it will be truly ours. I hope Connie won’t mind us using the top floor until then, although, she seems pretty-well set up on the second level...

o0o

A contract fulfilled...

“So, the contract is fulfilled. I am so relieved, yet nervous as well” I think to myself as I listen to Almah tell us to see the paymaster to receive our contracted pay. “Of course, the sealed crypt is still waiting its turn, but Almah doesn't feel we are seasoned enough. It seems she knows more about what awaits than she is telling.”

But then another thought enters my mind, one that both exhilarates and terrifies me. “Now that the contract is done, I can ask Spring to marry me. But what if she says no? I don't think she will, but until the question is put to her, there is no way to be sure.” Then I realize it was easier facing the Demon that slew Valeros or fighting Kardswann the Djinni, than facing the uncertainty of her answer. Much, much easier.

But I do, dropping to my knees in front of her, with Connie there to bear witness. “Spring, will you do me the honor of being my wife? Ni *mestathog? (Will you marry me?)” I ask her, and the immediate stream of tears, the look of joy tells him her answer before the words, “Yes, Kiril, yes melamin! Uma, Gi *mestathon! (Yes, I will marry you!)” are said. A passer by heard and went running through the people, spreading the word. Soon Almah was back, congratulating us. I didn't know she cared, but it was nice to hear just the same.

But more importantly, Spring said yes! I am going to get married! To the most beautiful, warm-hearted, sensual, and wonderful woman in the world. Not sure just when, but the sooner the better. I think she mentioned something about having a dress made. I'll take her to Katepesh itself if that's what she wants.

But in the meantime, we, the four of us, have been granted the old 3-story manor building that sits beside the river that runs through the city, the very one that I thought would be nice for us when we came across it several days ago. And we also have been told to choose a home from among the numerous abandoned ones, which we have done. Spring and I now have a very nice 4 room home, very close to the Manor and the river. I am also determined to have water piped in to the home, possibly the manor as well. It won't be difficult, with the exception of getting the clay pipes. Building a waterwheel, sluice gates and water runs is simple enough. After all, I've done it before, first helping my father, then on my own.There is plenty of wood to be found in homes too ruined to be worth rebuilding.

We, the four of us, have accepted jobs as the city's guardians. And as such we went out to patrol the hills a day's walk, or less than a half-day by camel. Which is what we used. But as we exited, an out of breath Daski came running up to stop us. He went so far as to grab the bridle of the camel I was riding, never knowing how close he came to losing his hand in the process. He said to just send them away. While he wasn't really forthcoming with just who “they” were, it wasn't hard to discern that he meant Gnolls. I, besides my personal disgust of him, have never really trusted him. Yes, I defended him on the first day we entered Almah's encampment, not due to any fondness of the dirty, slovenly man, but because the charges were not proven, and it soon became apparent that he had not been responsible for the death and burning of the fortune teller and his wagon.

Hours later, during our patrol, Gnolls were found, and then, by a ruse of using Daski's name, we discovered that Daski, (or Hairless, as the Gnolls referred to him) was actually supposed to be getting rid of Almah and her people. We knew at last of his perfidy. And when the leader of this band of Gnolls, Gronk, found out that Daski had not done anything to drive Almah away, he made us a bargain. We bring Daski back to him, and they would leave, no more deaths need occur.

So back we went. The information and deal was laid out before Almah. She was saddened, though I don't know if it was more because of Daski's treachery, or because she was duped by him. But, while not happy, she agreed that we could take him back to the Gnolls, but she wanted him unharmed, by us at least. We tried, but Daski pulled weapons and tried to flee when confronted. He was subdued, trundled up, and delivered to Gronk.

Now, Almah is still unhappy, but Daski, the treacherous dog, is gone from among us. I doubt that he survived his reunion with his adoptive “family”, and, truth be told, I care not. Now, on the morrow, we intend to return to the hills to verify that the Gnolls did indeed honor their bargain, and have left the area. If they did, well and good, but if they didn't, then more Gnoll blood will be shed.

o0o

To shed some light...

Waking early, as is my habit, I find Spring nestled snugly in my arms. Not wanting to disturb her, I relax and enjoy holding on to this most precious of people, the woman I love. Whispering in her ear, I say, “Mela 'en coiamin, Lle naa vanima. Esta, melamin, esta. Kaima eithel! (Love of my life, you are beautiful. Rest, my love, rest. Sleep well!) I gently, softly kiss her head, reveling in the feel of her hair as my lips brush over it.

I take time to ponder our actions. I am pretty sure that we saw everything in the ruined city, but it's always possible that someone or something slipped in behind us, so a last sweep sounds like a good idea. But I wonder if Almah would be content to wait another day? Doubtful, as impatient as she has become with us, but it would be a sound plan to propose. 

Then we can find out if we have finished here or not. If we have, then I will see if this beautiful, wondrous young woman will consent to being my wife. What we will do after, well, I suppose time will tell. We are young, and we have the world to see. Who knows, perhaps what we have done here will cause us to be known, and thus bring us more opportunities. 

And our companions, will they want to go their own way when the contract has been fulfilled, or will they want to stay together? We have been effective as a team. Perhaps this day will shed some light, chasing away the questions.

o0o

Jinn? Djinn? Genie? - is toast...

Watching this genie I knew I wanted to try to capture him, it. Trickery was the only thought that entered my brain and, though forced to attack by his own words, I still held out hope I could end the day without more bloodshed.

Alas, whatever controls the scampish genie, must have sensed my motives and refused to

bend – the evil glare he seared me with nearly made me stumble backward in its hatred. Staring back, I nodded a salute, canting softly, “Cranky shifty poised in flight, gouging swiftly from great height,” a shot of crackling bluish-violet energy bursts from my fingertips, snapping into three needle-like shards, piercing his soft fleshy, sagging, jowls, spurting foul blood. A tear glistens at the corner of my eye as we, in turn, destroy this creature much to the shock and gripping fear of those who have stayed to wager on the outcome.

My heart leapt into my throat as the genie breathed his last and I heard Kiril’s sobs, deep and heavy. I could not reach him fast enough, my fear so great.

I fell at his side wrapping my arms around his frame, holding him. Tears streamed down my cheeks as I rocked him, sensing intuitively, he was not injured. No injury would cause him this much anguish – this was grief something that I didn’t understand the source, but I knew the signs. “Boe di leithiad, melamin. Hush, odulen an.” (It was necessary, my love. Hush, I am here.)

Over as fast as it erupted he hugged me as I wiped his tears oblivious to the world around us, save the chatter of a certain hawk.

We had done it! We defeated the Jinn? Djinn? Genie? (Jinn, jann, djinn, jinnī, djinni, genie, al-jinn, al-jinnī???) Our names were etched in the minds of those below and it struck me that we now had the full two thousand gold coins to give to Haleen! A bitter sweet day indeed. A restful night well earned.

Now, as I lay, my head down, Kiril’s arms snugging me close to him, my back pressing his chest, my eyes heavy, I recall that Alma has still to open the door under the church, and I wonder if this is part of the original contract, or if we should negotiate a higher fee for continuing their cleanse...? I also recall a certain young man’s promise when we finished this task... I smile into the dim moonlight as I slowly drift into a deep slumber my hand squeezing his loosely...

o0o

The Djinni's defeat...

Kardswann is defeated. But I feel so very sad about it. He was apparently under a compulsion of some sort. He fought it enough to allow us just enough time to lay him low. He was also known to Vardishal, as it seems that his shade spoke through me, which is what allowed Kardswann to be able to hold himself free of the compulsions sway long enough so that we could defeat him. He did not fight us. I fear that if he had, we might not have prevailed. Kardswann was potentially a mighty foe, most likely our most dire threat to date, who did not even try to protect himself, instead knowingly allowing us time to to destroy him.

I do not know what it was, or whom it was that controlled him, but I have a suspicion that the sealed room below the ruined church may hold the answers. At least I am unaware of any place else in this city that we have yet to explore, and thus have not cleansed. Of course the answer may not be in the city environs, but for myself, I feel this to be unlikely. 

We found a large cache of coins, which we promptly split out the promised victor's share to Haleen. There was still a tidy sum split among the four of us. 

Now to return to Almah, and let her know, that with the exception of the sealed room, the city is free to be resettled. Are we then done? Or is the mysterious room required to be checked first. And if so. How do we breach the seals?

But regardless, once more we, the four of is, have managed to persevere, indeed to triumph over a formidable foe. And Spring, my beautiful Spring is alive and well. She will be totally healed. I believe, by the time we awake from our rest. 

If we are done, then I will ask her to be my wife. I have already hinted to her that I would be asking this of her when we have finished our contracted responsibilities to Almah. And Spring is intelligent, understanding what it is I mean to ask. And she is giving every indication of being receptive to this. I wonder if Connie would perform the ceremony? That is if Spring has no qualms of being married under the auspices of Iomedae. One thing we haven't really discussed in detail are our individual beliefs in higher powers. I don't expect there to be any major problems in that regard, but I do want to discuss it with her. 

But I am still saddened that we couldn't find a way to have rescued the Djinni from his predicament. I will say prayers for this fallen being. I don't have full awareness of him, but the flashes I did get from Vardishal's memories, tells me that he was once a mighty warrior and boon companion of his, like unto a brother. Yes, I am sad and disappointed that we, that I, wasn't clever enough, powerful enough to have effected Kardswann's rehabilitation. But I wasn't, and he is no more. May the powers that be forgive me this.

Though I now see a reason to gather more knowledge and might to myself. Besides providing a worthy companion and protector for my beloved that is. Though that is more than a worthy enough goal in and of itself. But surely there are others like Kardswann, a lost or trapped soul that needs someone to help them as he needed help. I want to succeed in doing that the next time a similar situation arises. While I am not able to change what happened this day, It may yet be possible to atone. Perhaps no one else will see this day's outcome as I do, but I can, in the end, only judge myself as I believe I should.

o0o

The cleansing is almost done, almost...

Kiril looks at Haleen and thinks, "So, taking on a Ogre in single combat... and winning! Admirable. And that certainly explains the... fieriness of my Spring. Then glancing at 'she who is always dominating his thoughts', he smiles warmly at her. "Melamin, Lle naa vanima! (You are beautiful!) Gi melin!"

But then he notices "that" look in her eyes. She's up to something. He wonders what? Well, I just hope I can figure it out in time to support her. Life was simpler before he went and fell in love, but he is ever so grateful for the change. Now, knowing her, he would have it no other way.

Glancing back to Haleen. A formidable addition to our little band. "Good! We," he suspects, "will need every bit of help we can get. A Jinn is no small opponent." He only knows the lore he was taught, but he certainly knows it will be far more difficult than the fairy tales say of them. 'Magic lamp or bottle indeed. If only it were as simple as finding one, and thus controlling the creature. If only.'

"Ah well," he sighs to himself. 'No, this is going to be a bloody and vicious battle, and he himself may very well not survive. Did he ever tell Spring of his home. His parents? He thinks he did. Yes, he's sure of it. If he perishes, she would be welcome there. His parents will love her. Her spirit, intelligence, and curiosity will delight them. And they will readily see what I see, why I love her. Yes, she will have a home with them if I don't make it through this encounter.

And even if we all do, is the city truly cleansed if we finish with Kardswann. For there is still that mysterious sealed door under the old church to deal with. Well, I can hope that this is the end of it. I do tire of the bloodshed. I may be good at shedding it, but I world far rather not, but our world is not a peaceful one.

o0o

Haleen?

Haleen! Can it really be! A debt? Why wouldn’t she tell me? I could have been some help. I think back to how naive and sheltered my life really was compared to how things changed once I was travelling, relying on my wits once again – so very different than when I was three.

I hope she will give me a few minutes of her time – I’ve been worried sick and searching endlessly for her – now, here she is! Fighting for a purse of all things! I haven’t got enough money to pay her debt, but, if she is being honest with me, I have half. She is welcome to it!

I wonder if she will share what kind of debt she bears? I hope she likes Kiril. It wouldn’t do for the two people who mean the world to me to dislike each other.

My head turns to look at the woman I called mama Haleen until I was old enough to drop the mama. Who wouldn’t love Haleen? My heart thumps a wee bit faster as I clench Kiril’s hand tightly. They have to like each other, I fret.

I can’t stay worried too long, as my mind again shifts to how happy I am that Haleen is alive! Safe and well! I am so fortunate to have obtained passage on this journey! I frown again as I think of Alma and her impatience. I dare say we will engage her entire guard before we risk our necks foolishly.

I glance in the direction of the genie. How are we going to trick this creature into his bottle? My mind begins to concentrate on an idea... it’s clever and it just might work... if we can all catch on quickly enough...

o0o