|
Editor: Blister Wiseguy Contents: 1) A few words from the editor Well, despite the LoC breathing down our neck, one thing they can't regulate is the Spectator! We're risking our lives to bring you the most news, most secrets, and most all-around juicy gossip. Please continue to vote for Top Fives, so we can continue publishing them. As you can see we're bringing out more features, and alternating some of them each issue. We have so much this week, we had to go into a second page, so read that, too! This issue we have a new column for the Gladiator folk out there. If only the Gladiators could read...
I was with Halfaloaf as his life came to an end. We met in the TSC bank and he said, I need to give you something, come with me. We went on to the Market Square branch of the Bank, and he took his Holy Grail of Milk from his safety deposit box. I had always teased him about the Grail, and then I see him offer it to me with a look in his eye I have never seen in all of my days. He had this look of resolve mixed with the longing of his Khat'sara that he had missed for so long. After he was finished his business in the bank, Halfaloaf said, "Take me to Sa." We went along to the temple and then and there Halfaloaf dropped to his knees and in a strong voice called out, "Sa, please except me as your follower!". His body shook for a moment, and I quickly took his pain from him. When I looked upon the face of my dear friend again, I saw that he bore the mark of Sa. He stood weakly and said, "I have come full Circle, all is now right..My heart never really left Sa after all." We went on to TSC, and as we walked, he said that he felt his heart yearning for his Khat'sara more and more every moment. As we arrived in TSC, there were several Leuians there, and the conversation turned to their native tongue, so I cannot speak as to what was said there. However, I could see that as each second passed, Halfaloaf was more gone on to the place where he could join that beloved one that he had been separated from for far too long. As he made his last good-bye to me, and hugged me, I knew that he would never been seen again by my eyes, for he was on to be with his heart's desire, the Khat'sara that he had lost so very long ago.
Blister, please put this in your paper: That I am chosen to Yad and I feel he is definetely the one. Thanks :
) Comments, suggestions, death threats? We get your story wrong? Want to set us straight? Write in here! Various rebellions have formed throughout Spur against the CL government. The rebellions are rumored to consist of Spurians of all classes, and religions. Various LoC Patrolmen corpses have scattered Spur, it is rumored the rebellion is the cause of many. We were able to over hear some of the LoC Patrolmen gabbing away during their post. One of them mentioned that Meetpoint was recently attacked from the center of the town. Both gates and several of the small businesses were guarded. The only deaths were the group of army commanders and the others camped inside the town. We also hear the LoC is trying to keep this one quiet for some reason, perhaps they don't want to show any weaknesses? Not long after, the docks, a highly guarded area was attacked by the rebels. They destroyed several units, and left no survivors. The rebels were gone before reinforcements had arrived, leaving only revenge in their wake. A San officer arrived in TSC a short time later and spoke of this matter. The Mudvillage, where a large compliment of troops, including well over 100 hands of chaos, some wersids, night mares, and other creatures were camped was raided, none of them survived. No more then two days ago some destroyed supply carts were spotted southwest of Meetpoint. The supply carts were obviously being used to transport food, and general supplies to CL forces. Who is this group? No one knows and those that do haven't said a word of it. Some believe its a Taathian task force from Rathan, or maybe just some Spurian Taathian fanatics. Others like to believe it consists of some of the Spurians here, not fighting for their Gods, but for their city, Spur. That all on LoC? No..far from it. Our reporter, Flash spotted the drunkard Guaire once again blabbering like an idiot. I think he topped it this time with screaming at Kagee, "Taath Always and Evoloch is a big fat weenie!" Well, speaking of Guaire, and likewise speaking of idiots, the Leuian Cleric was seen kissing his arse. Its rumored she is helping the Lords of Chaos, she was pulling Taathians out of town and helping Guaire. Why? Because he offered her a Knight title of course. Maybe skeletons will stop carrying around those worthless daggers and start carrying "Buy one, get one free: Knight title" coupons. By Set, we've dug up more dirt than a dog on Guaire! Just the other day, the Go-blin-al Venzki was in Town Square Central, claiming that Guaire and Cyrmion are having a love affair. The Chaos Lords are better at starting trends then Rehas! Narcissus Blossomkiller, former, Bard of Set (And often a critical 'loyal' follower) has converted to Evoloch. This conversion has brought out a rather crabby, and unpredictable mood in Narc. Like family friends, Karma and Changeman were turned to hated enemies after Narc tried to kill Karma. His key phrase has been, "Embrace the change!" Maybe you could embrace sanity for a change, hmm? Changeman Shadowlurk, a man of many secrets was selling one this week. Apparently, he has proof of it, too. The Muatana-al Merlin were told, was playing all of us the whole time. Us meaning the LoC and Spurians. Merlin was in control of our government the whole time, even the governor before Perin. We still do not know of the old governor's assassin, but we suspect he got tired of his puppet master. Soon after, the Puppet-master made Perin (Was sent to execution, which he undoubtedly escaped) his pawn. Why did Merlin do this? We're not sure, but he wanted this war to happen, and our sources tell us he wanted revenge against the Chaos Lords, and has had a rivalry with Lord Maloveous for some time. Lord Merlin was also seen in town a week ago, claiming that the attacking force was, and still is, Lord Maloveous's armies. At any rate, the Lords' main forces are diverted battling shadow forces in Saldaea. The Candlelight vigil was a relatively peaceful night, and remained unbothered by the Chaos enforcers. That is, until the Taathian San Foom gave her speech, and in conclusion threw her fruit at Kagee. A single redfruit to the face dripped down Kagee's cheek, when several other Taathians joined in. Throughout the whole moment, Secians sighed in defeat, and others snickered in the back, while Kagee remained cool with an aloof look on her face. Afterwards, Foom managed to escape assassinations from Kagee's troops. Enough about LoC. Again in the spotlight, Changeman announced his new spot on the Dragons' Council. He has been in Town Square flaunting his new Dragon Council ring. Coincidentally, an angry Methos is looking for his ring.. A yellow mummified Secian is floating through Spur. The Thugian, Fitzchivalry was first seen hugging it like a teddy bear. Somewhere along the line, it came into the hands of Kento the Secian. The mummy's identity and origin is unknown. The Thugian Wing slapped the Secian Kymberlee after she said publicly to Serrina, "You made your bed, now lie in it. I'm sure you could find room with you, Wing AND Phannah in it." Sordum Corinth, a well respected Spurian and psion left the Order of Psi after recent actions from 'Sir' Alkazar, and the Order as a whole. Some of these actions include fighting in the war against the LoC, a very obtrusive and interfering thing for Psycians to do. Not only that, but Alkazar was partly responsible for many deaths. The Druidess of Elindale, Ambertiger is rumored to be having an affair with Pride member and High Priest of Elindale, Cleric. If it's true, she would have violated the sacred Khat'sara bond with her mate, Pacer. When confronted by respected Pride members, Amber did not deny it. The Fir Elf, Grath and the Anthian, Sillo just purchased a lockpick, and a sash for 200 gold each item. Those are some bargaining skills, Drag-als watch out..
1) Kymberlee The Secians dominated this one, as they've always proven themselves to be selflessly dedicated to their deity and to the healing of those of Spur. High Priestess of Set, Reason Valencia also managed to sneak in past those Secians.
1) Borus Novices, newts, and kiddies of Spur these are the big bad bullies to watch out for! Taathian Borus came in first, often beings the one to 'smash' for the fun of it, and usually the antagonist of Spur. In his defense, he's too stupid to know better. Another Taathian fanatic, Guzzle came in 2nd. You say something bad about Taath, and he won't think twice about running you through. Methos has taken out his aggression on the new thieves and weaker of Spur for years, personally, I think he feels bad about his weight. Strange contrast when it comes to bullies, Remath the Flerian? He's mean, lean, and a miniature kicking machine! He even tried to kill me because I talked too much! Lucky for him, I had bruised hurt my wrist previous to that day and was in no condition to fight.
1) Kyrinne Our most peaceful Spurian was the Secian Kyrinne Woodmist, High Priestess of Sa. Faithful and peaceful Clerics like these keep the Spurians safe, and are usually seeking to resolve these conflicts without harm. Next up came Sordum Corinth! We're not sure if he has any enemies, in fact many were willing to still be his friend even after he murdered them all with that whole possessive ankh incident..
1) Guzzle What can we say about these people? They're the ones who get under your skin, drive you mad, or just need to stifle! Guzzle came in first...again, he seems to be a popular among Top Fives lately, although mostly in the not so flattering topics. Cleric followed close behind, traitorous to everyone and devoted to those who have 'power'. Next was Sweetie, well she has a big mouth. Our majority of San voters, voted in Callik for most annoying, and Serrina the peaceful psion at daytime, AGC staff in the nighttime.
1) Vekkattraka Matron Vekkattraka the Arachnian has shown herself as the most evil villain of them all! She has a short temper for 'filthy two-leggers', and runeweavers, so watch out..take it from me. Evolochian Kagee uses her army to take over the city, take over the government, and kill rebels at her whim, need I say more? Changeman Shadowlurk came in one vote behind Kagee, a strong opponent on his own terms. Change seems to have secrets about everyone and uses them as blackmail. We've even see him twist a Knight to his will! Rise of the Classes Our recently inert and inactive Bard's guild seems to be showing signs of life! With Narcisuss and Lia trying to remove everyone's favorite singing Drag-al from the Guild Mistress spot. Maybe it's time for that drunken Drag-al to put away her singing broadsword and put her scales to work! 1. Marigold Lyrian the Drag-al Despite the recent invasion of the LoC forces Tasem's Tuesday night gladiator games went on as scheduled. Though the crowd was a bit more subdued than usual perhaps due to the lack of an appearance by perennial favorite Bodkin. The first match for the evening was a regular team game. Captains were the Secians Demeralda, Rixinon, Verbaniah and the Psycian Allie. The two newer captains struggled with picking their gladiators from the pool of talent with quite a few questionable selections. The veterans Demeralda and Verbaniah took advantage and loaded up with talent. Demeralda's team was packed with talent like Borus, Nixtalis, Jedaka, Thundax, and Cleric among others while Verbaniah had stars like Danetus, Vorach, Caldron and Armonius. Asked about the apparently unbalanced teams Borus said, "That's what ya get fur pickin bugs as captains." Following one of the true superstars of the arena, Borus, Demeralda's team coasted to an easy victory as the Secian pimptress and her cohorts got bogged down in small fights losing a couple of key contributors before center was called. The second event of the evening was a best of five game of Champions, or as Vorach said and Cleric repeated ad nauseam the bingo fights. The lack of whining about the length of game was unusual. When asked about this the Drunk Hith exclaimed "Screw 'em if they don't like the schedule." Demeralda was once again a captain joined by two Leuians, Ambertiger and Thundax. All experienced captains as Tasem requested. In the end Ambertiger's team won 3 matches to Team Deme's 1 and Team Thundax's zero. With the exception of one of the matches all were close and well fought battles. Several gladiators distinguished themselves in the battle. When asked about Gruber who held off and killed several opponents in a losing effort for Team Thundax. Morgaze one of his team members said, "Gruber was a madman out there, he gives his all for his team every time out." The last event of the evening was a six team Killfest. Captains were Frith, Cleric, Ambertiger, Caldron, Shalafi and Tulipe. Things started to get feisty during the selection process as Shalafi and Frith began exchanging words. No surprise to this author that the big Thugian came out looking stupid. Both captains however were also-rans when it came to the actual fighting. Team Caldron was the big winner with its captain as its MVP. Team member Salavdore said "about time webbers got credit for their kills". Team Ambertiger with a strong performance from Guzzle took second. Tasem's games are expected to continue with the LoC's blessing. When asked for comment High Priestess Kagee said, "Yes of course the games will go on. We said the games will go on. We have done everything we promised." So I guess that means they will go on until the LoC promises something else. Interview with Commander Aubrei
Rashakae After the candlelight vigil, I had an opportunity on behalf of the Spurian Spectator, to interview Aubrei Rashakae, a Commander in Evoloch's Aviatory Forces. I must admit, I was not sure if Commander Aubrei or anything he could say would amuse me as much as seeing Kagee covered in very ripe redfruit. Truly it was a sight, to see the shocked expressions and even funnier still to hear one Secian ask, "And this is what those of Spur who seek Peace want?" Shame on us evil food throwing Taathians! I went east to wait as he had some business to attend to, so while I had the time I prepared my questions. A short while later he walked up and promptly sat down. It was late so neither one of us wasted anytime getting started.... Leyara says to Aubrei, "Please start at the beginning." Aubrei says, "I started my young life as a Fighter, it was easy, the pay was good, and I didn't feel like thinking about much. Not to say that I have less than perfect respect for Fighters, I just didn't have any of the decisions to make that I have now. I followed the Unknown, the only one of the pantheon that I still have a great amount of respect for. Most of that, I'm sure has to do with Armonius, who, along with Panick, are two of the most dedicated clerics, besides Kagee and Sorvan of course, that I've ever met." Aubrei says, "One day, after a series of jokes in our mail office, I CO-founded the Agents of S.A.N., with Commissioner Shortly, also known as Michael'a's Bondmate. There have been all sorts of Agents, including Michael'a and others." Aubrei says, "This is where you go, I thought Pepperi was Michael'a's Bondmate." At this time, Narcisuss walked past us, turned around, walked past us again, then turned around a third time and came back. He sure was acting lost and confused for one wearing the mark of Evoloch, but that is another interview in itself... Leyara asks Aubrei, "Enlighten me..what does S.A.N. stand for?" Aubrei says, "S.A.N. is a play on the name of the elves of the same, it stands for Smiles Are Nice. Which shows you, that for the most part, I'm not an evil person." Aubrei says, "Anyway, I followed the Unknown, nothing special. Started the Agents of S.A.N. had some fun, but again, nothing special, no way to leave a mark, be remembered, or anything that is important to me." Leyara asks Aubrei, "And what were the goals of this S.A.N." Aubrei says, "We promoted happiness throughout the spur through our attitudes and a series of stories that you can find in old DFC's, written by me, they're kinda funny, at least I think so." Aubrei says, "So I went along my merry way, and I met three people that changed my life. One who's name myself nor Jaz can remember at the moment. " Aubrei says, "Magdelyn was the Hithual female's name, her husband I'm trying to remember, and Jazbo, who always joked that he was their adopted son, and of course their friend Buzzthekiller. They took me under their wing, though I was the flighted one. Mag and her husband, they were Clerics of the Unknown they helped me learn that path, and that it wasn't right for me." Aubrei says, "Jazbo, well, what can I say about Jazbo..Jaz has always been an older brother kind of thing for me, first he was a friend, then a mentor, then my knight..." Aubrei says, "That's right, good ole' Commander Aubrei was a squire for a knight of Spur." Leyara asks Aubrei, "When did you decide to not be a fighter anymore and why? Aubrei says, "A long, long time on a boat, going to Saldaea, that went no where at all. That was my first knowledge of the LoC, I saw their power and how they could effect all of those on the boat. The LoC was able to show us what we wanted, what could be... if we followed them, at least, that's how I remember it." Leyara asks Aubrei, "By making people think they were going nowhere?" Aubrei says, "Oh, no we were going somewhere, but we didn't end up there because our wills were not strong enough to keep our spirits up. Then, back to Spur. One morning, I woke up, grabbed for my Master-Sword, and it wasn't there, I reached for my armor, and it wasn't there. I looked around and saw everyone, naked except for scraps of clothes, looking for something to survive on. I fell into a deep sleep. Anyway, when I awoke, I found a small dagger and began to hunt, looking to rebuild myself." Aubrei says, "For the life of me, I couldn't hit a skeleton. I became angrier and angrier, and finally, just screamed in dismay at my lack of power, the skeleton crumpled. Somewhat confused, I replayed the events with the next undead who challenged me. I realized that it wasn't the scream, it was the anguish and pain that came along with it, the mental command for the skeleton to disappear, to be destroyed. I had gained powers of the mind, powers I never had heard of outside of Sordum before." Aubrei says, "I sought out the best teachers, joined the Psions guild under an assumed name that still remains, and began to study. For a while, I thought that the powers had to do with S.A.N., that it was something to help me on my missions. You can check the name, by the by, Aubrei Rashakae's not on the list, Aub Sugoi is. I couldn't, as an Agent of S.A.N., be listed in a guild, so I got an assumed name" Aubrei says, "Anyway, I had these powers, and no reason for having them...I was somewhat, well, confused. I talked with Kagee, who I knew through her husband, who used to be my guild leader. Kbar was at terms, not having seen the Lords for being his creators, but Kagee and Tzar were more than convincing of the true path. Aubrei says, "Kbar found the way, and went away, as did Tzar. Kagee became the high priestess, and through her and Evoloch's speaking to me, I realized that he was the source of my powers" Leyara asks Aubrei, "And what exactly did Evoloch have to say about your powers?" Aubrei says, "He made it clear, through a series of visions, that my Psi power was a result of his intervention. Strangely enough, he never asked for my help or assistance, just that it was His doing. So, I followed my sense of honor, and ended up getting this...." For a brief second he seemed a million miles away as he absentmindedly touched Evoloch's mark upon his forehead, then straightened his commanders tunic. Aubrei says, "My post, my job, my religion, my Duty" Aubrei says, "I enjoy my post, I love my job, my religion is my Faith, as Kyrinne said, but sometimes my Duty bothers me, when it forces me to deal with my friends who were exiled, or being exiled myself. Kagee informed me immediately upon my entrance into the fold that the Lords were returning to their rightful place." Leyara asks Aubrei, "And how did you feel when Kagee told you this?" Aubrei says, "I was glad that the kind citizens of Spur would get a chance to worship new and exciting gods, I was worried that we might be taken poorly by some, I had no idea..." Aubrei says, "I've always seen Spur as a melting pot, for new ideas and beliefs, and ours are hardly new, older in fact than the gods that are being worshipped here now. I assumed, incorrectly it seems, that we would be able to create at least peace, if not a perfect worshipping environment, based at least on what I expected Spurians to react with." Leyara asks Aubrei, "Not long ago wasn't there a place for the Chaos Lord followers to gather? In some massive cavern?" Aubrei asks, "There still is, our temples, you refer to?, it was, in Spur. Before and after your God's followers destroyed it. It remains there, though now open to the public, not you, mind you, but the public. It was rebuilt immediately after it's destruction. Aubrei says, "The password now changes whenever we feel threatened, which is more than necessary. Though with the stairs, it doesn't matter." Then as if getting interrupted by Narcisuss earlier wasn't enough, this time a Fir Elf named Grath walked up...Aubrei nodded at him, he walked away...came back, then walked away again....Hrm maybe Narcisuss and Grath need to work a bit on their stealthing abilities, at least their ability to hide better... Aubrei says, "Ah, Grath, a better spy there never was. Of course, were we not exiled, Spies we wouldn't need. He isn't here, nor will he be." Aubrei says, "I am still in charge. Not of everyone, but at least him." Leyara says to Aubrei, "OK, so begin again and tell me how you became a Commander." Aubrei says, "Kagee and Tzar needed someone to help command her Aviatory forces, I was, well, knowledgeable of the skies, and with my fighter back ground, I was aware of some tactics. My Psionics let me keep a good handle on what's going on, and so I was fit for the job." Leyara asks Aubrei, "So the Chaos Lords army is getting closer and closer..they are near Meetpoint...what are you doing at this time?" Aubrei says, "Preparing for their arrival, doing surveillance when I can, for the most part respecting the exile. Speaking at length with Stanrar and some others. Anyway, I spent my time talking with friends via mind that the exile kept me from, and preparing for war if Spur didn't cede to our wishes. As you know, they didn't." Aubrei says, "All I wish is the freedom to do everything that I should be allowed to. So I retired to the back of my armies, and began working on a war-machine that has yet to be revealed." Aubrei says, "My flying fortresses, my Zeppelin's, in time you will see." Leyara asks Aubrei, "So is it safe to say all along that the LoC and its members knew that everyone would get slaughtered regardless? Aubrei says, "We knew that if we needed to advance into Spur, it was better to do it with a larger force than a smaller force. Safety in numbers, if you would." Leyara says to Aubrei, "To use brute force and kill anything and everyone to get what they wanted" Aubrei says, "No, to use a brute SHOW of force, backed up by the knowledge that said force was there if necessary. And, if you Taathians follow the exile, and no one fire darts our officers, such force will not be necessary and us Spurians will be holding Elections soon enough." Leyara says to Aubrei, "OK one last question." Leyara says to Aubrei, "What do you want to say to end this interview and let all of Spur know that your word is a true one?" Aubrei says, "It has been a long conflict. Everyone has suffered in one way or another, and I wish nothing less than for the suffering to end. It has been made clear what needs to happen for the suffering to end, and what will happen when it does." Aubrei says, "I have been torn from those I care for, both physically and emotionally, I've had those I trusted completely blast me into oblivion for a mark on my forehead. I can only hope that the good place I know Spur to be can cease the foolishness and win the true battle, the one for peace." He stood up, saluted to me, and walked away. The interview was officially over. After seeing Narcisuss and Grath pacing around like caged animals, I truly wondered who the prisoners of this war really were. (Note for the Readers: As you can see "Sagely Wonderings" has changed
to "Sagely Wanderings". At first, I decided not to change it, figuring
that I'd soon stop writing it, letting it go into oblivion. But, recently,
I've discovered that I enjoy writing it, so I figured I'd correct my little
mistake. After all "wonderings" doesn't really match the events that go
on in the story, whereas "wanderings" matches it way more. Besides...don't
even think "wonderings" is a word! ;P Also, since the DFC is not in publication
at this time, I've decided to send my story here to Blister and The Spurian
Spectator. A bird's nest rested on a branch on an oak tree. Young birds awoke as the morning sun rose over the horizon. They chirped happily and stood up on their little feet. Their Mom flew down from above, with the young birds last free meal. The young birds gobbled the grub down hungrily and then stretched their wings. They began to hop up and down, like a child, seemingly without purpose. Then, one by one, each of the three birds hopped off the nest, hurtling towards the ground. They stretched out their wings, letting the thermal air catch them. One by one, the young birds gained altitude, forever leaving their home nest. The Mom looked on sadly as her child flew off. Onlig awoke yet again, freezing and numb. His fur was soaked and muttled with blood. He looked around and saw Triam still unconscious on the other side of the room. He sighed and looked wearily down the cave. He could hear the roaring ocean, and the cries of the gulls, no doubt looking for food. He heard a crash of water against rock and could almost sense the water rushing into the cave, ready to bite their jaws of cold and death into him and Triam. The gush of water came upon him and pounded him with intense force, right into a rock. The water slowly flowed outwards, back to the ocean. He began wondering how many times he had hit the rock, and how often the water had nipped at him. He looked at Triam. Triam was in bad shape. His forearm and chest were bloody, and his leg was twisted in an unnatural way. Not that it mattered. They'd both be dead sooner or later. Five minutes passed, and he heard the waves hit the rock again and he knew that in a few seconds, they would hit him as well. He waited, and waited. Yet, no wave came. He wondered if he had imagined it, but that thought was eliminated when the young Frontacian girl walked in. "Wh...who...who are you...?" asked Onlig. "I'm Aristhma." said the Frontacian girl. "What do you want?" asked Onlig. "I've come to get you two out of here. Father says you're demons from Naltucket or something like that, but I don't think you are. Triam seemed real nice, and Father found you both together, so I'm assuming you're an okay Leuian." said Aristhma. Onlig grinned slightly, then frowned. "What's the price?" asked Onlig. "I don't want money...all I ask is that you take me with you to the Spur. I've always wanted to see it, but Father forbids it. This island is so boring. I know every nook and cranny of this place. I need something new to explore." said Aristhma. "I don't think we were planning to leave for the Spur right away." said Onlig. "Oh, that's okay! Sea voyages would be really fun too! It's not that big of a request. I help save your lives, and you help me get off this island." said Aristhma. "I can't guarantee anything, but maybe." said Onlig. "That's good enough for me! Now." said Aristhma, raising her hand, and letting some runes form in her hand. Onlig stared at Aristhma. Aristhma grinned, and let loose her healing runes upon Onlig. Onlig moaned and slowly got up. "Thank you." He said. "Anytime. They're not exactly up to Secian standards, but they work for minor wounds. Scrapes, cuts, and stuff," said Aristhma, "Now here's the plan. You grab Triam while I put up a magick shield. The shield will protect us from the waves when they come in. After that, we have to make a dash forward about 2 meters. Once we get there, there's a hole about 3 feet above us that leads out. It's a tough climb, but we'd never be able to make it to the path outside in time." "Why can't you just use the shield until we reach the path?" asked Onlig. "The force of waves get stronger as you near the cave opening. My shield can't last under that amount of pressure. I'm only 16. I don't have very powerful magick like Father does yet. Sadly, my shield fails about a yard from the hole, so I can't use the shield to protect our entry in there." said Aristhma. Onlig nodded, slowly stood up and grabbed Triam, throwing him over his shoulder. "You sure you're well enough to do this?" asked Aristhma. Onlig nodded. "We'll have about 5 minutes after the waves crashes into us before the next wave hits. In fact, the next one will be here any minute." said Aristhma, as several runes gathered around her hand. She let them go towards the cave, and smiled as a light blue shield formed at the cave. Onlig waited for the waves to come. He again heard them crash into the rocks of the cliff, and then felt them surge through the cave at crushing speed. They crashed into the shield seconds later, making it shudder slightly. When the waves were gone, the shield vanished, and Aristhma dashed ahead. Onlig followed her, carrying Triam over his shoulder. A minute late, they had reached the hole. "You go first! Get Triam out!" said Aristhma. Onlig nodded, hopped onto a rock nearby and looked up into the hole. In the hole, there was a series of ledges jutting out of the soil, like stairs, up to the top, where he could see a pinpoint of light. He knew it'd be a long climb, but he leapt for the nearest ledge, grabbed hold and after letting Triam onto the ledge, hoisted himself up. He grabbed Triam and was about to jump to the next ledge when he heard Aristhma scream. He dropped Triam and looked down. Aristhma had fallen. He jumped down and tried to help Aristhma. Her foot was caught in the ground. He got in free, and then heard the crashing of water against rock. He prayed to Odarous silently and jumped to the ledge. He grabbed on and let Aristhma climb onto the ledge. Then, the surge of waves crashed into his lower body, sending tremendous pain throughout his body. He roared in pain, but managed to keep his hold on the ledge. When the waves faded, he lifted himself up. His legs and thighs were torn and cut, and the fur was clumped together with blood. "Thanks...you saved me." said Aristhma. Onlig nodded slowly. Aristhma began gathering runes in her hand. Onlig sighed and looked up. It's be a LONG climb. ************ Two hours later, Onlig grabbed the ground above him and felt grass and mud. He hoisted himself up, then reached down and grabbed Triam, who was still unconscious. Aristhma came up shortly after. Onlig set Triam down on the ground and laid back, panting. Aristhma sat down near the hole. "Ughnnn." moaned Triam. Onlig and Aristhma looked at him. Aristhma released some healing runes on Triam, helping him come out of unconsciousness. Triam opened his eyes and slowly sat up. "Are you okay, Tri?" asked Onlig. "I...I...I guess...where are we? Are we dead?" asked Triam. "No. Aristhma helped save us." said Onlig. Triam looked over at Aristhma and smiled. "Thank you." He said. "Anytime!" exclaimed Aristhma. She looked at Onlig. Onlig nodded. "Tri...Aristhma here wants to come with us on our journey. I told she might be able to. She says it'd be an equal trade." said Onlig. "I don't see why not. But, it may be awhile. We'll need to build another ship." said Triam. Aristhma giggled. "Don't worry! I got that covered!" said Aristhma. ************ "You ready, Aristhma?" yelled Triam from the ship. Aristhma finished placing a bottle with a letter inside into the sand. "Am now!" she yelled and ran to the ship. "It was awfully nice of your Father to rebuild our ship." said Onlig. Aristhma giggled. "Who? Father? Nah!! He wouldn't even think of letting you guys off the island. The ship is magickal. I made it. I found a spell that could make a magickal ship appear from the local foliage around the area, and I decided I'd cast it. Father doesn't know I'm leaving yet. Catch is, I leave, the ship vanishes." Aristhma said, letting a mischievous grin form on her lips. Triam grinned. "Clever girl." Onlig said. Triam nodded. "I feel guilty taking you with us if your Father doesn't know." said Triam. "Don't worry! He'll find out sooner or later. Please don't tell him!" said Aristhma. Triam thought about it for a moment, then nodded. "Thank you!!!" exclaimed Aristhma, hugging Triam. Triam smiled. "Care to hoist the anchor, Onlig?" asked Triam. "My pleasure, Tri." said Onlig. The ship slowly edged away from the beach, heading southwest. Thats all for this issue! Thanks for the continuing support, the more feedback we get the more motivated we are! -Blister and staff |