Chapter two: Penance of duty
"WHAT! Do you wish old man?" Sarevok queried in a threatening tone.
"I just came out to get some air," Keldorn answered while trying to regain his balance, and massaging his now swelling knee.
"You are a liar, Knight. More than likely you came to see if I was chording villagers instead of wood," spat Sarevok.
With a mighty swing he cleaved another block of wood, and the force was such that the axe handle snapped at the head. "Bah! Useless junk," he threw the handle into the near by woods, and turned his attention back to Keldorn. "You still have not answered me old knight, and my patience wears thin!"
"Alright then, I came out here to find out why the mighty Sarevok, not to mention the foul being that you are, is so upset by the current circumstances."
"I... " Sarevok began to retort, however, Keldorn cut him off.
"AND, moreover why you are even here now? Why have you not taken your share and left? You have done nothing but express distain for every one of us, including your brother who has given you a second lease on life." Keldorn could see Sarevok's large silhouette slump somewhat in the surrounding darkness. "So, that is it then you have been affected by him..," it was now Sarevok's turn to interrupt.
"Do not presume. Vollintus and I had many a conversation the rest of you are not aware of...," Sarevok paused for a few moments, and looked to the starlit sky. He then returned his gaze to the form of the old paladin, and started to speak with far less venom. "I ... He...," Keldorn could feel Sarevok's foulness fade for a moment, and spoke. "I will be your ear then, if that is your wish."
Sarevok's presence returned in full force, "DO NOT INTURRUPT ME," He boomed!
Settling once more Sarevok continued, "You know the story as well as any other. My thirst for power, conquest, to rule, and lord over others, this was once everything to me. But, Vollintus asked me once.., He asked me if I wanted to end up back in the abyss when I died this time. This question has weighed heavily upon me since it's asking. You have seen it for yourself, and I am not thrilled at the prospect of returning there. I barely avoided drafting into the Blood War my first time through, and I doubt that I could escape a second time." His words faltered at this, and Keldorn asked Sarevok if he might interject. "Go ahead then," replied Sarevok.
Keldorn took a moment then began, "Your brother is an amazing and insightful man for one so young. He has every right to hate you, yet he chooses not too.. He has welcomed you, traveled with you, and bled with you.. One could say it was because your sword and ability are incredible powers to behold, and that he used you to accomplish his goals. However, that would be the real lie here would it not; the lie that sent you screaming back to the abyss that you dread. It is also one that is very easy to believe. I think he fears it for you as much as you fear it yourself. He risked much to return you, but that is his way, is it not? Never caring too much about what others decry him for. And, now you must ask yourself, and I am certain you have to some degree already; what will you do if he does not recover? Also, what will you do if he does? He has spoken to me of your proposal, and that he did not give you a clear answer. What will you do, that is the measure of it."
After a brief pause Keldorn spoke again. I will leave you to your thoughts then. I am too old to be standing in the night air like this. The bones do not appreciate it." Keldorn turned to go back inside.
"Hah! I never thought I would live to see the day when you and I actually held a conversation that did not end with the threat of death," laughed Sarevok. "Well, there is always tomorrow, and I figured I owed at least this much to our young friend. Come, there is a warm fire inside, and you have insured that we have plenty of wood for the burning." The old knight chortled.
"Robillard, what are ya doin," gasped Imoen!? "Someone has to inventory this group's holdings, and I certainly don't have anything better to do," he sneered. "Yeah, but if ya dump that bag in here we won't be able ta move," she cried! "Oh, I suppose you are right, though it pains me to make such a declaration. Do you have a better idea," he asked?
"Umm...we could haul this stuff over ta Valgar's cabin, and flood his place," she chimed.
"I think not. I have no desire to watch you drool over that brooding elf. I will go to the inn with our bags, and do my counting there." *uan'ost po'ten taz,'* and with a flash of light Robillard was gone. Imoen couldn't help but giggle.
The old inn had not changed since his last visit. The common room was nearly empty as usual. The odor of the unwashed and the scent of stale beer hung about the place, as a drunk slept near the hearth.
"Vincenzo, your finest room my good man," Robillard piped!
"Ahhh, welcome back me lord! It has been quite awhile since you have passed this way."
The mage studied his host for a moment. Yes, it has he thought. It was obvious to him that the innkeeper had packed on a few more pounds. Certainly he had not gained that much in just two months time.
"Boy! Get yer fat arse out here and fetch these bags," bellowed Vincenzo! "Oyi! Oyi! Fat ye say, well if that ain't the pot calling the kettle black, and a rainbow too boot," the barn snipe shot back at the rotund inn keep. "Ye sure ye wants to stay 'ere me Lord? Vince ain't got rid o' the rats yet."
The inn keeper thundered in response to the boy's comment. "There be no foulsome rodents at my inn save you! Now get those bags to his lordship's room b'fore I tan yer hide, and for the last time the name's Vincenzo!"
Once inside Robillard locked, and warded the door. Though the room was small it would suit his needs, for it contained the three things he currently desired most; a desk, a bed, and most importantly quiet. Two hours later he had finished counting, and inventorying the weapons. The Purifier, The Axe of the Unyielding, a staff of elemental mastery, The Ravager in it's full glory these were just a few of the weapons that the group had amassed in it's travels. He marveled at the sight before him, and had to wonder if there had been a collection of both holy and unholy relics this large since the days of the Mythal-cities. With a shrug he thought, "Well, time to start on the armor I guess." Then he heard something. Something was in the room with him he was sure of it, but where?
Robillard cursed himself a fool for coming to the inn by himself. Still, no matter, whatever it was would pay dearly for its intrusion. He quickly donned the burial mask of King Strohm knowing that its power would reveal any hidden lurkers. Then he noticed a flap on one of the packs closest to him start to move. It shuffled back and forth, and he could see a small claw start to emerge from within.
"Well, Well. It seems the boy was right after all. Vince has not taken care of his rodent problem since my last visit. I will have to discuss this matter with him in the morning. Now, to the business of collecting my evidence for a refund," thought the mage.
Pinkish glowing orbs, no larger then a pebble, streaked from Robillard's finger tips striking the creature as it clawed its way from the pack; about a mile away Vollintus shuddered violently.
"Aiyee!" It screamed in pain as it withdrew to the depths of the bundle. A look of shock and horror quickly overcame Robillard's face. Grasping his staff he flipped open the pack to see what had retreated inside. A tiny face peered up at him from the folds of the sack, and said, "Err.Hello?"
In a scolding the creature said, "Why are yous hurting poor Cespenar? Did I not telleded yous I can not dies as long as the Great One lives? Geez! You mortals remembers nothing! Attention spans of gnats yous have!" Cespenar then staggered from the ruck and collapsed at Robillard's feet.
"Oh! Bother," puffed Robillard, "As if I do not have enough to do without looking after Vollintus's rat." Upon the mention of Vollintus, Cespenar returned to his feet. With his opaque little orbs he stared at Robillard unblinking.
"Well, what are you looking at me for," Robillard queried. "Umm. where is the Great One? He is too big for yous to be hidings him in here. Unless yous stuffeded him unders the bed. Let, me, see!" Cespenar immediately launched himself toward the edge of the bed in search of his master.
"Sune's patience," cursed Robillard, "As if I do not have enough to worry about right now. Come here little thing." Cespenar climbed out from under the bed "Well, where is he?" With a snarling edge to his voice the little imp questioned Robillard, "What have yous done to the Master?" Robillard raised an eyebrow and snorted at the imp's tone. He then motioned for Cespenar to sit on the desk.
Tentatively Cespenar made his way to the spot that Robillard had indicated. After the imp had found a perch Robillard began to explain what had transpired since the collapse of the throne. "Yous must be takings mes to him! Yous must! Needing Cespenar he is! Neeediinngggg," the little imp wailed.
"Quiet down you will wake the whole inn," hissed the mage. "I must finish this inventory first, and then I, unlike you, need some rest."
Cespenar thought for a moment "If it be gettings me to the Master quickers I be helping yous I will!" Before Robillard could object Cespenar flapped his way over to one of the bags of holding, and jumped inside.
Viconia could not sleep. Try as she may rest would not come. "Is this what they all feel, the others, the darthiir, the harglukkin, the sakphul, the yingilin, and the rivvin," she wondered. This horrible pain that she dared to think surpassed even the tortures of the spider pits. She had sworn to Vollintus on more than one occasion not expect her to become a weeping spineless jellyfish, and that is exactly how she felt now. Tears of anticipation, frustration, and doom streamed down her face, her eyes were swollen, and her nasal passages felt raw. Yet she remembered Yeslick's encouragements not to wall herself off again.
In her two hundred and some-odd years of existence she had never dreamed of things being the way they were now. She had fantasies of the possibilities; that what surfacers had was real. Dreams of marriage beyond that of convenience or service, family, true friends, and a life without the constant threat of a dagger in ones back, all of these things seemed so possible over the last few months. But still, what would any of these things matter to her if he died.
She had watched Vollintus fall before her in the clearing without any explanation as to why, and since then the only sounds he had made were unintelligible mutterings, and the occasional cry of pain. He had not even opened his eyes, fevers wracked him, and he shook constantly; twitching like an earthworm pierced by a fisherman's hook.
Her healing skills appeared to have little or no affect on him. "I feel so useless, what a wasted cow I have become," She smiled wryly at the thought.
"I now know the truth in what he spoke to me not long ago. When he claimed to love me, not a drow, for I am a drow no longer." With this thought in mind she finally drifted into uneasy sleep.
*sigh* "Seven thousand four hundred two, seven thousand four hundred three, seven thousand four hundred four. "Oh! This is so tedious" thought Robillard. "At least the rat has proven useful in inspection of armor that will certainly shave off a couple hours work." resuming his counting. "Seven thousand four hundred four." Hearing the repeated count Cespenar leapt from the pile of bags he was rummaging through onto the desk scattering stacks of coins in his wake.
"Argh, You little cretin! Look what you have done!" The imp ignored the arch-mage's outburst, and wagged a clawed finger in Robillard's face.
"Yous just make job harder yous do!" The imp declared in an accusatory manner. "Me askeded yous the first times, dos you wants me to be countings the golds or cleanings the armors? But yous sayed noooooooooooo's you dids, and now yous messeded it up yous has," the little creature exclaimed.
Raising an eyebrow, and dramatically surveying the scattered coins that now littered the floor of the suite Robillard snapped at the imp "You just ruined at least an hours worth of counting, and you dare accuse me of making a mess of things?!?" The imp looked at the floor for a second then back to the mage that was glaring at him with steaming eyes.
"Err.. Well.. yous sayed four two times yous did. I hearded yous, and there bees no room for mistakes when countings gold." With an indignant snort, and a flourishing wave of his arms the wizard shot back.
"And this, this is your answer make a complete and utter mess of things. A simple you lost count, or hey why did you say the same number twice just now would have sufficed, but no. your answer is destroy all of my work!"
Placing his talons on his little hips. "Phftt! Yous acts like gold countings is hard. Easy it is! Me dos that in me's sleep I do!" The mage began to relax a bit at the imp's statement. "Now that you mention it little one I do seem to recall you having an uncanny ability to count gold among other things."
The mage smiled tiredly, and said, "Have at it then." Cespenar closed his eyes for a few seconds then triumphantly declared his total. "One hundreds, forty-sevens thousands, six-hundreds, fifty twos, minus the sixs that aren'ts real golds."
"Truly amazing little one how do you do that" asked the invoker?
"Ermm.Cespenar nots sure, me thinks he coulds be autistic. You gots candy maybe? Me hungry now." Robillard spoke a minor incantation, and a pile of chocolates accompanied by various other sweets appeared in front of the tiny imp. "Oooooo! Thankings you I's do. Me finishes the cleanings, and when I's done we goes to see the Master." chimed Cespenar.
*sigh* "Very well, Cespenar. However, I need to rest first. This day has been long, and trying to say the least."
Two men sat in near darkness talking.
"Are you certain," Kiven asked.
"Aye, I may not keep current on all events taking place in the region, but I do know the date my friend."
"Valgar, I do not doubt what you say."
"But?"
"I just don't understand how we could have vanished for six months"
"I am no sage Kivan, but I know the planes to be strange places. Time passes in many directions friend. What is the worst that can come from this anyway? It has only been six months, and you don't appear to be any worse- for-wear. Still, one thing does bother me in very thing you have told me."
"Well, spit it out then."
"Are you going to let him live?"
"I..I..... do not know how to respond right now, Valgar"
"Come then Kivan enough brooding for one night, it will be dawn soon and from what you have told me there are plenty of mouths to feed, best to get out with the deer still moving."
"True enough, and thank you my friend."
"Bah! You would offer no less."
The rangers slipped from the darkened cabin into the dawning light in search of their prey.
Keldorn gently shook the old dwarf to consciousness. "Wa... wat," Yeslick muttered as he awoke. "Easy my friend, tis morning, I will watch him for a time. Go, and get some proper rest. You have been here all night.. Has there been any change?"
"Aye, E started ta quiet a bit a couple o' 'ours o' go, 'en the fever seems ta 'ave passed as well. 'Is breatin.. well, it ain't rigt yet it's too weak it be. 'Ave ye seen Vic?"
"Aye, she's been curled up by the fire all night. It does not appear that she has rested well. She tossed, and turned for the first couple of hours she lay there."
"Twould be wat I expected, ye seem surprised Keldorn. Wy so," asked the dwarf?
"I have seen many a wonder and miracle in my time my friend. However, I do not know if I can recall even hearing of the kind of transformation that she appears to have under gone."
"Look, I know ye served against em' in some damned bloody campaigns wen ye was a young'n. But, ye can't be let'n that cloud ye now. The lass loves dat boy I's seen it, 'en ye 'az too. She ain't no evil sort no more, 'en moreover ye gots a sense fer dez tings. I know ye care for da lad like a son, and I dare ta say E looks on ye like a father o' sorts. May'ap when E comes roun' you 'en E should do som talkin on da matter.. Well, I be needen ta fin me kip now me frien, so ye watch the lad den, 'en I'll go rest a spell." Yeslick stood up, smiled at Keldorn, turned, and left the cabin.
"Come on now young one, wake," thought the old knight. The dwarf's words spoke true if he had sired a son this is the kind of man he would have liked to see him grow into, and seeing Vollintus like this was killing Keldorn. "What of Imoen how must she feel? She has known him far longer then I, and she has been uncharacteristically quiet." Keldorn could hear Imoen starting to wake in the next room. She gave a small yawn, and blurrily made her way into the chamber.
"Good morning young lady," Keldorn said while trying to manage a weary smile.
"Is he any better," she asked. "Aye, Yeslick said as much. Though he did not seem to think he is out of the woods just yet."
Imoen started to cry, "It just ain't right ya know. He was always helpin people, and he risked so much just for me; for what, this? What kind of justice is this Keldorn? The Gods be damned if they let him die!" Her bottom lip started to quiver, and tears streamed down her face.
Keldorn gave Imoen a supportive hug, and said, "Imoen, I just said he was getting better, and you might want to think twice before cursing those that ultimately hold his balance right now."
"I know.. I .. he is my only real family left. What of your family Keldorn? Shouldn't you at least let them know you are okay?" Her words cut him like a knife, and she could see the pain register in his face. "I am sorry I didn't mean to.. " Keldorn gently placed a finger on her lips before she could say more.
"Do not worry young lady you have not offended. The last few weeks have been very chaotic, and the last day seemed to have increased the chaos by tenfold. Yes, I would very much like to tell my beloved that I am well, and in Amn. I shall draft a letter then, and see about finding a currier to take it to Atkathla for me this very morn."
Wiping the tears from her eyes, and grinning Imoen said. "Why do it the hard way? Ya write your letter, and we will send it through 'The Imoen Express Delivery System' sounds kinda neat, Huh?" Keldorn's spirit rose slightly at her offer.
"You can do this," he asked.
With a giggle in her reply, and using her best business voice she said, "Here at IEDS we guarantee safe, delivery of your letters, efficiently, and immediately. Whether it be, day or night, cool or fight, your correspondence shall get through!" With a wide smile Keldorn stated, "I shall begin writing then."
It was almost noon before she awoke. Viconia had been unconscious for nearly twelve hours. The strain of so many prayers the previous day had drained her, and even after having slept for so long she did not feel refreshed. The cabin was nearly deserted. Only Keldorn sat at the long table diligently crafting common to the page that lay before him. "Where are the others," she asked?
Keldorn jumped slightly from the sound of her voice, "Outside roasting venison I believe. Valgar, and Kivan were kind enough to secure us some food this morn."
Hesitantly she made her way to the bed chamber in the rear of the cabin. He lay there looking like death to her. So pale and alone, unreachable, her heart ached, and her soul felt like it was starting to unravel. She wanted to scream, to strike him, to make him move somehow, to curse him for making her feel this way. But, she could not. She sank to the floor in the door way on the verge of tears again. "No," she thought. "I will not be overcome by such weaknesses again, I will not allow it! This ends here, and now!" Steel came to her eyes, and she knew what must be done.
Keldorn had been watching her since she spoke. He could now see what the dwarf was trying to tell him earlier. Quietly he rose from his place, and approached her. Softly he spoke, "Viconia?"
Abruptly standing Viconia whirled to face him. "What do you want Keldorn?" she asked haughtily, and then without warning an unseen force left her finger tips. Keldorn tried to speak, however, his words would purchase no sound.
Everything was quiet suddenly, too quiet. He could see bluish-silver pulses filling Viconia's eyes, and preparing to release. Instinctively the old paladin dove for the table behind him. He managed to pull the Corsymr free from its sheath just as the first charge fired from her eyes. It struck weapon soundlessly, and the holy blade flared a bright gold as it dissipated the energy that had been unleashed against him. Keldorn pulled himself to his feet quickly knowing that she would not miss again.
She loosed a second bolt, striking the inquisitor. While the force of the bolt would have been enough to stagger an ordinary man, Keldorn's faith had shielded him. He advanced straight for her. In the span of a second he was within killing range. Viconia released another bolt, this one struck floor beside Keldorn. His feet received a numbing shock that quickly extended upward though his legs. It did not matter for his strike would be true. His sword went to bearing across at her neck.
To his horror he could see clearly what was taking place. She just stood there, eyes closed, her face an emotionless mask prepared to receive his blow. Quickly he shifted the blade planting it into the wooden frame of the doorway just millimeters above her head, and spraying the area with splinters. Viconia opened her eyes after a few seconds to see Keldorn staring at her in disbelief. "Why," she could see him mouth, "Why?"
Keldorn willed the silence away. Grabbing her by the shoulders, and shaking her vigorously he demanded, "Why would you try to do something like this to me? To...to have me murder you?"
Viconia looked at him with pleading eyes, "I shall leave, and not return." She pulled away from him.
"OH! NO! YOU WILL NOT DROW," he shouted. Now that I have found my breath again, you will talk. I am no fool Viconia. I realize what you just tried to accomplish, and the why of it. However, I think you need to say it."
"Leave me be rivvil," She shrieked. Viconia was crying now, "I wish to leave, nothing more." She tore herself from his grasp, but he blocked her path not allowing her to exit the cabin.
"And what shall I tell our young lord when he recovers, Hmm.. " She looked at the floor for a moment, trying to speak but could not.
"Viconia I will not pretend to hold you in any special regard, but that boy means a lot to the both of us, and I will not permit you to gut him to save yourself an ounce of pain! If you wish to leave after he has recovered then do so, but not before.. One more thing, as I have already stated, you need to speak" Gently he placed his hands on her shoulders, and made her look him in the eye, "I will be here if you wish to talk, and for both your sakes I hope you embrace my offer."
Viconia walked over to the table, and sat down before speaking, "We should probably clean this place up. The others would no doubt injure themselves wondering as to what happened should they find it like this."
Keldorn nodded in agreement, "Aye, that would be a good place to start."
*cough* *cough* Robillard shifted. *choke* Robillard sat straight up in bed trying to catch his breath. "What in the nine hells are you doing?!?" screamed the wizard.
"Me's just trying to wake yous up." replied Cespenar.
"By suffocating me?" roared the mage. "I pincheded yous nose is all."
Batting Cespenar away, "I have to get away from this little beast before he claims my sanity." Robillard reluctantly pulled himself from the bed.
A quick survey of the area revealed that the creature had been true to its word. All of the bags were neatly packed, and ready for transport. "Well Cespenar are you ready to go?" he asked.
"Oh! Yes!" exclaimed the little imp. "I's be ready for hours I am, just listening to yous snore. I finded it to be quites boring." Rollibard could take no more. Without a word he grabbed the imp, and stuffed him into one of the many sacks that were lying about. *uan'ost po'ten taz'*
Viconia and Keldorn were somewhat startled by Robillard's sudden appearance. Robillard screamed, "Find the beast, and get it the hell away from me before I find away to destroy it!" Hearing the wizard's wailing Imoen and Kivan burst into the cabin sword drawn, and spell ready for release.
"What are you going on about man," asked Keldorn.
"Vollintus's imp stowed away in one of our packs, and the beast spent the better portion of the night tormenting me," declared the highly agitated wizard.
Imoen's eyes lit up at this news. "Where is he," she asked.
"Somewhere in one of those bundles there, I am leaving for awhile. Hopefully, now I will be able to get some rest without fear of torture." In a flash the huffy wizard was gone.
Imoen tore into the first bundle she could grasp, then the next, and so on. "Come out Cespenar!" she called. Ten minutes, and several packages later she still had not found him. "Where are ya little guy," she thought aloud? "Errhm..what do you be's lookings for? Helping yous find its I shall!"
Imoen turned to her right to find the imp sitting atop a bag next to her. "Oh! Cespenar! I missed you," she exclaimed while grappling the imp in big hug.
"Cespenar misses yous too, and the Master! Not well is he. No. No. No. Helpings him I must!" Imoen pick up the little imp, and immediately carried him into the back room where Vollintus lay. Viconia and Keldorn followed behind them.
Cespenar leapt from Imoen's arms on to the bed. First he inspected Vollintus's lower body. "Nope, nope, has all dez parts he does." Next the imp carefully checked his master's arms, and torso inspecting very closely.
"Do you think the creature can actually do something," Keldorn whispered to Viconia?
Cespenar climbed onto Vollintus's chest, and opened his master's mouth. Peering inside he exclaimed "Nope. Nothings missings dere!"
Sarevok, who had slipped in unnoticed asked, "What is the creature doing?" Keldorn replied, "We are unsure. Just watch."
The imp moved so to examine one of Vollintus's ears and in a deep voice breathed into it "Hellloooooooooooo....." At this Keldorn had witnessed enough. "Imoen please remove him," He asked.
"Waits I has one mores place to sees if he is hidings," cried Cespenar! The little imp reposition himself climbing back onto Vollintus's chest. Very slowly and carefully he lifted his master's left eye lid. "Umm.this nots right. The master has blue eyes not black." declared the imp.
"Wh..What did you say," asked Viconia?
"The master eyes are supposeded to be blue, nots black." As if to extenuate his point Cespenar eyes started to pulse between various shades of blue and black, alternating in their sockets. Everyone moved forward to investigate the imp's claim.
Simultaneous gasps of repulsion resounded throughout the small room. Vollintus's eyes were indeed black! The entire surface of them appeared to be as onyx.
"See, I tolded yous," said Cespenar while looking up at the gathered. Unintentionally, one of his talons struck Vollintus's eye as Cespenar looked away.
"By Torm!", "By the Goddess!", "What the.." cries of horror echoed throughout the cabin. His eyes had begun to bleed!
************************************************************************ Author's notes:
Darthiir= Surface Elves Harglukkin= Dwarfs Sakphen = Halflings Yingilin=Gnomes Rivvin=Humans
Request to all viewers: If have any of the races names mixed up here please notify me, thank you.
"WHAT! Do you wish old man?" Sarevok queried in a threatening tone.
"I just came out to get some air," Keldorn answered while trying to regain his balance, and massaging his now swelling knee.
"You are a liar, Knight. More than likely you came to see if I was chording villagers instead of wood," spat Sarevok.
With a mighty swing he cleaved another block of wood, and the force was such that the axe handle snapped at the head. "Bah! Useless junk," he threw the handle into the near by woods, and turned his attention back to Keldorn. "You still have not answered me old knight, and my patience wears thin!"
"Alright then, I came out here to find out why the mighty Sarevok, not to mention the foul being that you are, is so upset by the current circumstances."
"I... " Sarevok began to retort, however, Keldorn cut him off.
"AND, moreover why you are even here now? Why have you not taken your share and left? You have done nothing but express distain for every one of us, including your brother who has given you a second lease on life." Keldorn could see Sarevok's large silhouette slump somewhat in the surrounding darkness. "So, that is it then you have been affected by him..," it was now Sarevok's turn to interrupt.
"Do not presume. Vollintus and I had many a conversation the rest of you are not aware of...," Sarevok paused for a few moments, and looked to the starlit sky. He then returned his gaze to the form of the old paladin, and started to speak with far less venom. "I ... He...," Keldorn could feel Sarevok's foulness fade for a moment, and spoke. "I will be your ear then, if that is your wish."
Sarevok's presence returned in full force, "DO NOT INTURRUPT ME," He boomed!
Settling once more Sarevok continued, "You know the story as well as any other. My thirst for power, conquest, to rule, and lord over others, this was once everything to me. But, Vollintus asked me once.., He asked me if I wanted to end up back in the abyss when I died this time. This question has weighed heavily upon me since it's asking. You have seen it for yourself, and I am not thrilled at the prospect of returning there. I barely avoided drafting into the Blood War my first time through, and I doubt that I could escape a second time." His words faltered at this, and Keldorn asked Sarevok if he might interject. "Go ahead then," replied Sarevok.
Keldorn took a moment then began, "Your brother is an amazing and insightful man for one so young. He has every right to hate you, yet he chooses not too.. He has welcomed you, traveled with you, and bled with you.. One could say it was because your sword and ability are incredible powers to behold, and that he used you to accomplish his goals. However, that would be the real lie here would it not; the lie that sent you screaming back to the abyss that you dread. It is also one that is very easy to believe. I think he fears it for you as much as you fear it yourself. He risked much to return you, but that is his way, is it not? Never caring too much about what others decry him for. And, now you must ask yourself, and I am certain you have to some degree already; what will you do if he does not recover? Also, what will you do if he does? He has spoken to me of your proposal, and that he did not give you a clear answer. What will you do, that is the measure of it."
After a brief pause Keldorn spoke again. I will leave you to your thoughts then. I am too old to be standing in the night air like this. The bones do not appreciate it." Keldorn turned to go back inside.
"Hah! I never thought I would live to see the day when you and I actually held a conversation that did not end with the threat of death," laughed Sarevok. "Well, there is always tomorrow, and I figured I owed at least this much to our young friend. Come, there is a warm fire inside, and you have insured that we have plenty of wood for the burning." The old knight chortled.
"Robillard, what are ya doin," gasped Imoen!? "Someone has to inventory this group's holdings, and I certainly don't have anything better to do," he sneered. "Yeah, but if ya dump that bag in here we won't be able ta move," she cried! "Oh, I suppose you are right, though it pains me to make such a declaration. Do you have a better idea," he asked?
"Umm...we could haul this stuff over ta Valgar's cabin, and flood his place," she chimed.
"I think not. I have no desire to watch you drool over that brooding elf. I will go to the inn with our bags, and do my counting there." *uan'ost po'ten taz,'* and with a flash of light Robillard was gone. Imoen couldn't help but giggle.
The old inn had not changed since his last visit. The common room was nearly empty as usual. The odor of the unwashed and the scent of stale beer hung about the place, as a drunk slept near the hearth.
"Vincenzo, your finest room my good man," Robillard piped!
"Ahhh, welcome back me lord! It has been quite awhile since you have passed this way."
The mage studied his host for a moment. Yes, it has he thought. It was obvious to him that the innkeeper had packed on a few more pounds. Certainly he had not gained that much in just two months time.
"Boy! Get yer fat arse out here and fetch these bags," bellowed Vincenzo! "Oyi! Oyi! Fat ye say, well if that ain't the pot calling the kettle black, and a rainbow too boot," the barn snipe shot back at the rotund inn keep. "Ye sure ye wants to stay 'ere me Lord? Vince ain't got rid o' the rats yet."
The inn keeper thundered in response to the boy's comment. "There be no foulsome rodents at my inn save you! Now get those bags to his lordship's room b'fore I tan yer hide, and for the last time the name's Vincenzo!"
Once inside Robillard locked, and warded the door. Though the room was small it would suit his needs, for it contained the three things he currently desired most; a desk, a bed, and most importantly quiet. Two hours later he had finished counting, and inventorying the weapons. The Purifier, The Axe of the Unyielding, a staff of elemental mastery, The Ravager in it's full glory these were just a few of the weapons that the group had amassed in it's travels. He marveled at the sight before him, and had to wonder if there had been a collection of both holy and unholy relics this large since the days of the Mythal-cities. With a shrug he thought, "Well, time to start on the armor I guess." Then he heard something. Something was in the room with him he was sure of it, but where?
Robillard cursed himself a fool for coming to the inn by himself. Still, no matter, whatever it was would pay dearly for its intrusion. He quickly donned the burial mask of King Strohm knowing that its power would reveal any hidden lurkers. Then he noticed a flap on one of the packs closest to him start to move. It shuffled back and forth, and he could see a small claw start to emerge from within.
"Well, Well. It seems the boy was right after all. Vince has not taken care of his rodent problem since my last visit. I will have to discuss this matter with him in the morning. Now, to the business of collecting my evidence for a refund," thought the mage.
Pinkish glowing orbs, no larger then a pebble, streaked from Robillard's finger tips striking the creature as it clawed its way from the pack; about a mile away Vollintus shuddered violently.
"Aiyee!" It screamed in pain as it withdrew to the depths of the bundle. A look of shock and horror quickly overcame Robillard's face. Grasping his staff he flipped open the pack to see what had retreated inside. A tiny face peered up at him from the folds of the sack, and said, "Err.Hello?"
In a scolding the creature said, "Why are yous hurting poor Cespenar? Did I not telleded yous I can not dies as long as the Great One lives? Geez! You mortals remembers nothing! Attention spans of gnats yous have!" Cespenar then staggered from the ruck and collapsed at Robillard's feet.
"Oh! Bother," puffed Robillard, "As if I do not have enough to do without looking after Vollintus's rat." Upon the mention of Vollintus, Cespenar returned to his feet. With his opaque little orbs he stared at Robillard unblinking.
"Well, what are you looking at me for," Robillard queried. "Umm. where is the Great One? He is too big for yous to be hidings him in here. Unless yous stuffeded him unders the bed. Let, me, see!" Cespenar immediately launched himself toward the edge of the bed in search of his master.
"Sune's patience," cursed Robillard, "As if I do not have enough to worry about right now. Come here little thing." Cespenar climbed out from under the bed "Well, where is he?" With a snarling edge to his voice the little imp questioned Robillard, "What have yous done to the Master?" Robillard raised an eyebrow and snorted at the imp's tone. He then motioned for Cespenar to sit on the desk.
Tentatively Cespenar made his way to the spot that Robillard had indicated. After the imp had found a perch Robillard began to explain what had transpired since the collapse of the throne. "Yous must be takings mes to him! Yous must! Needing Cespenar he is! Neeediinngggg," the little imp wailed.
"Quiet down you will wake the whole inn," hissed the mage. "I must finish this inventory first, and then I, unlike you, need some rest."
Cespenar thought for a moment "If it be gettings me to the Master quickers I be helping yous I will!" Before Robillard could object Cespenar flapped his way over to one of the bags of holding, and jumped inside.
Viconia could not sleep. Try as she may rest would not come. "Is this what they all feel, the others, the darthiir, the harglukkin, the sakphul, the yingilin, and the rivvin," she wondered. This horrible pain that she dared to think surpassed even the tortures of the spider pits. She had sworn to Vollintus on more than one occasion not expect her to become a weeping spineless jellyfish, and that is exactly how she felt now. Tears of anticipation, frustration, and doom streamed down her face, her eyes were swollen, and her nasal passages felt raw. Yet she remembered Yeslick's encouragements not to wall herself off again.
In her two hundred and some-odd years of existence she had never dreamed of things being the way they were now. She had fantasies of the possibilities; that what surfacers had was real. Dreams of marriage beyond that of convenience or service, family, true friends, and a life without the constant threat of a dagger in ones back, all of these things seemed so possible over the last few months. But still, what would any of these things matter to her if he died.
She had watched Vollintus fall before her in the clearing without any explanation as to why, and since then the only sounds he had made were unintelligible mutterings, and the occasional cry of pain. He had not even opened his eyes, fevers wracked him, and he shook constantly; twitching like an earthworm pierced by a fisherman's hook.
Her healing skills appeared to have little or no affect on him. "I feel so useless, what a wasted cow I have become," She smiled wryly at the thought.
"I now know the truth in what he spoke to me not long ago. When he claimed to love me, not a drow, for I am a drow no longer." With this thought in mind she finally drifted into uneasy sleep.
*sigh* "Seven thousand four hundred two, seven thousand four hundred three, seven thousand four hundred four. "Oh! This is so tedious" thought Robillard. "At least the rat has proven useful in inspection of armor that will certainly shave off a couple hours work." resuming his counting. "Seven thousand four hundred four." Hearing the repeated count Cespenar leapt from the pile of bags he was rummaging through onto the desk scattering stacks of coins in his wake.
"Argh, You little cretin! Look what you have done!" The imp ignored the arch-mage's outburst, and wagged a clawed finger in Robillard's face.
"Yous just make job harder yous do!" The imp declared in an accusatory manner. "Me askeded yous the first times, dos you wants me to be countings the golds or cleanings the armors? But yous sayed noooooooooooo's you dids, and now yous messeded it up yous has," the little creature exclaimed.
Raising an eyebrow, and dramatically surveying the scattered coins that now littered the floor of the suite Robillard snapped at the imp "You just ruined at least an hours worth of counting, and you dare accuse me of making a mess of things?!?" The imp looked at the floor for a second then back to the mage that was glaring at him with steaming eyes.
"Err.. Well.. yous sayed four two times yous did. I hearded yous, and there bees no room for mistakes when countings gold." With an indignant snort, and a flourishing wave of his arms the wizard shot back.
"And this, this is your answer make a complete and utter mess of things. A simple you lost count, or hey why did you say the same number twice just now would have sufficed, but no. your answer is destroy all of my work!"
Placing his talons on his little hips. "Phftt! Yous acts like gold countings is hard. Easy it is! Me dos that in me's sleep I do!" The mage began to relax a bit at the imp's statement. "Now that you mention it little one I do seem to recall you having an uncanny ability to count gold among other things."
The mage smiled tiredly, and said, "Have at it then." Cespenar closed his eyes for a few seconds then triumphantly declared his total. "One hundreds, forty-sevens thousands, six-hundreds, fifty twos, minus the sixs that aren'ts real golds."
"Truly amazing little one how do you do that" asked the invoker?
"Ermm.Cespenar nots sure, me thinks he coulds be autistic. You gots candy maybe? Me hungry now." Robillard spoke a minor incantation, and a pile of chocolates accompanied by various other sweets appeared in front of the tiny imp. "Oooooo! Thankings you I's do. Me finishes the cleanings, and when I's done we goes to see the Master." chimed Cespenar.
*sigh* "Very well, Cespenar. However, I need to rest first. This day has been long, and trying to say the least."
Two men sat in near darkness talking.
"Are you certain," Kiven asked.
"Aye, I may not keep current on all events taking place in the region, but I do know the date my friend."
"Valgar, I do not doubt what you say."
"But?"
"I just don't understand how we could have vanished for six months"
"I am no sage Kivan, but I know the planes to be strange places. Time passes in many directions friend. What is the worst that can come from this anyway? It has only been six months, and you don't appear to be any worse- for-wear. Still, one thing does bother me in very thing you have told me."
"Well, spit it out then."
"Are you going to let him live?"
"I..I..... do not know how to respond right now, Valgar"
"Come then Kivan enough brooding for one night, it will be dawn soon and from what you have told me there are plenty of mouths to feed, best to get out with the deer still moving."
"True enough, and thank you my friend."
"Bah! You would offer no less."
The rangers slipped from the darkened cabin into the dawning light in search of their prey.
Keldorn gently shook the old dwarf to consciousness. "Wa... wat," Yeslick muttered as he awoke. "Easy my friend, tis morning, I will watch him for a time. Go, and get some proper rest. You have been here all night.. Has there been any change?"
"Aye, E started ta quiet a bit a couple o' 'ours o' go, 'en the fever seems ta 'ave passed as well. 'Is breatin.. well, it ain't rigt yet it's too weak it be. 'Ave ye seen Vic?"
"Aye, she's been curled up by the fire all night. It does not appear that she has rested well. She tossed, and turned for the first couple of hours she lay there."
"Twould be wat I expected, ye seem surprised Keldorn. Wy so," asked the dwarf?
"I have seen many a wonder and miracle in my time my friend. However, I do not know if I can recall even hearing of the kind of transformation that she appears to have under gone."
"Look, I know ye served against em' in some damned bloody campaigns wen ye was a young'n. But, ye can't be let'n that cloud ye now. The lass loves dat boy I's seen it, 'en ye 'az too. She ain't no evil sort no more, 'en moreover ye gots a sense fer dez tings. I know ye care for da lad like a son, and I dare ta say E looks on ye like a father o' sorts. May'ap when E comes roun' you 'en E should do som talkin on da matter.. Well, I be needen ta fin me kip now me frien, so ye watch the lad den, 'en I'll go rest a spell." Yeslick stood up, smiled at Keldorn, turned, and left the cabin.
"Come on now young one, wake," thought the old knight. The dwarf's words spoke true if he had sired a son this is the kind of man he would have liked to see him grow into, and seeing Vollintus like this was killing Keldorn. "What of Imoen how must she feel? She has known him far longer then I, and she has been uncharacteristically quiet." Keldorn could hear Imoen starting to wake in the next room. She gave a small yawn, and blurrily made her way into the chamber.
"Good morning young lady," Keldorn said while trying to manage a weary smile.
"Is he any better," she asked. "Aye, Yeslick said as much. Though he did not seem to think he is out of the woods just yet."
Imoen started to cry, "It just ain't right ya know. He was always helpin people, and he risked so much just for me; for what, this? What kind of justice is this Keldorn? The Gods be damned if they let him die!" Her bottom lip started to quiver, and tears streamed down her face.
Keldorn gave Imoen a supportive hug, and said, "Imoen, I just said he was getting better, and you might want to think twice before cursing those that ultimately hold his balance right now."
"I know.. I .. he is my only real family left. What of your family Keldorn? Shouldn't you at least let them know you are okay?" Her words cut him like a knife, and she could see the pain register in his face. "I am sorry I didn't mean to.. " Keldorn gently placed a finger on her lips before she could say more.
"Do not worry young lady you have not offended. The last few weeks have been very chaotic, and the last day seemed to have increased the chaos by tenfold. Yes, I would very much like to tell my beloved that I am well, and in Amn. I shall draft a letter then, and see about finding a currier to take it to Atkathla for me this very morn."
Wiping the tears from her eyes, and grinning Imoen said. "Why do it the hard way? Ya write your letter, and we will send it through 'The Imoen Express Delivery System' sounds kinda neat, Huh?" Keldorn's spirit rose slightly at her offer.
"You can do this," he asked.
With a giggle in her reply, and using her best business voice she said, "Here at IEDS we guarantee safe, delivery of your letters, efficiently, and immediately. Whether it be, day or night, cool or fight, your correspondence shall get through!" With a wide smile Keldorn stated, "I shall begin writing then."
It was almost noon before she awoke. Viconia had been unconscious for nearly twelve hours. The strain of so many prayers the previous day had drained her, and even after having slept for so long she did not feel refreshed. The cabin was nearly deserted. Only Keldorn sat at the long table diligently crafting common to the page that lay before him. "Where are the others," she asked?
Keldorn jumped slightly from the sound of her voice, "Outside roasting venison I believe. Valgar, and Kivan were kind enough to secure us some food this morn."
Hesitantly she made her way to the bed chamber in the rear of the cabin. He lay there looking like death to her. So pale and alone, unreachable, her heart ached, and her soul felt like it was starting to unravel. She wanted to scream, to strike him, to make him move somehow, to curse him for making her feel this way. But, she could not. She sank to the floor in the door way on the verge of tears again. "No," she thought. "I will not be overcome by such weaknesses again, I will not allow it! This ends here, and now!" Steel came to her eyes, and she knew what must be done.
Keldorn had been watching her since she spoke. He could now see what the dwarf was trying to tell him earlier. Quietly he rose from his place, and approached her. Softly he spoke, "Viconia?"
Abruptly standing Viconia whirled to face him. "What do you want Keldorn?" she asked haughtily, and then without warning an unseen force left her finger tips. Keldorn tried to speak, however, his words would purchase no sound.
Everything was quiet suddenly, too quiet. He could see bluish-silver pulses filling Viconia's eyes, and preparing to release. Instinctively the old paladin dove for the table behind him. He managed to pull the Corsymr free from its sheath just as the first charge fired from her eyes. It struck weapon soundlessly, and the holy blade flared a bright gold as it dissipated the energy that had been unleashed against him. Keldorn pulled himself to his feet quickly knowing that she would not miss again.
She loosed a second bolt, striking the inquisitor. While the force of the bolt would have been enough to stagger an ordinary man, Keldorn's faith had shielded him. He advanced straight for her. In the span of a second he was within killing range. Viconia released another bolt, this one struck floor beside Keldorn. His feet received a numbing shock that quickly extended upward though his legs. It did not matter for his strike would be true. His sword went to bearing across at her neck.
To his horror he could see clearly what was taking place. She just stood there, eyes closed, her face an emotionless mask prepared to receive his blow. Quickly he shifted the blade planting it into the wooden frame of the doorway just millimeters above her head, and spraying the area with splinters. Viconia opened her eyes after a few seconds to see Keldorn staring at her in disbelief. "Why," she could see him mouth, "Why?"
Keldorn willed the silence away. Grabbing her by the shoulders, and shaking her vigorously he demanded, "Why would you try to do something like this to me? To...to have me murder you?"
Viconia looked at him with pleading eyes, "I shall leave, and not return." She pulled away from him.
"OH! NO! YOU WILL NOT DROW," he shouted. Now that I have found my breath again, you will talk. I am no fool Viconia. I realize what you just tried to accomplish, and the why of it. However, I think you need to say it."
"Leave me be rivvil," She shrieked. Viconia was crying now, "I wish to leave, nothing more." She tore herself from his grasp, but he blocked her path not allowing her to exit the cabin.
"And what shall I tell our young lord when he recovers, Hmm.. " She looked at the floor for a moment, trying to speak but could not.
"Viconia I will not pretend to hold you in any special regard, but that boy means a lot to the both of us, and I will not permit you to gut him to save yourself an ounce of pain! If you wish to leave after he has recovered then do so, but not before.. One more thing, as I have already stated, you need to speak" Gently he placed his hands on her shoulders, and made her look him in the eye, "I will be here if you wish to talk, and for both your sakes I hope you embrace my offer."
Viconia walked over to the table, and sat down before speaking, "We should probably clean this place up. The others would no doubt injure themselves wondering as to what happened should they find it like this."
Keldorn nodded in agreement, "Aye, that would be a good place to start."
*cough* *cough* Robillard shifted. *choke* Robillard sat straight up in bed trying to catch his breath. "What in the nine hells are you doing?!?" screamed the wizard.
"Me's just trying to wake yous up." replied Cespenar.
"By suffocating me?" roared the mage. "I pincheded yous nose is all."
Batting Cespenar away, "I have to get away from this little beast before he claims my sanity." Robillard reluctantly pulled himself from the bed.
A quick survey of the area revealed that the creature had been true to its word. All of the bags were neatly packed, and ready for transport. "Well Cespenar are you ready to go?" he asked.
"Oh! Yes!" exclaimed the little imp. "I's be ready for hours I am, just listening to yous snore. I finded it to be quites boring." Rollibard could take no more. Without a word he grabbed the imp, and stuffed him into one of the many sacks that were lying about. *uan'ost po'ten taz'*
Viconia and Keldorn were somewhat startled by Robillard's sudden appearance. Robillard screamed, "Find the beast, and get it the hell away from me before I find away to destroy it!" Hearing the wizard's wailing Imoen and Kivan burst into the cabin sword drawn, and spell ready for release.
"What are you going on about man," asked Keldorn.
"Vollintus's imp stowed away in one of our packs, and the beast spent the better portion of the night tormenting me," declared the highly agitated wizard.
Imoen's eyes lit up at this news. "Where is he," she asked.
"Somewhere in one of those bundles there, I am leaving for awhile. Hopefully, now I will be able to get some rest without fear of torture." In a flash the huffy wizard was gone.
Imoen tore into the first bundle she could grasp, then the next, and so on. "Come out Cespenar!" she called. Ten minutes, and several packages later she still had not found him. "Where are ya little guy," she thought aloud? "Errhm..what do you be's lookings for? Helping yous find its I shall!"
Imoen turned to her right to find the imp sitting atop a bag next to her. "Oh! Cespenar! I missed you," she exclaimed while grappling the imp in big hug.
"Cespenar misses yous too, and the Master! Not well is he. No. No. No. Helpings him I must!" Imoen pick up the little imp, and immediately carried him into the back room where Vollintus lay. Viconia and Keldorn followed behind them.
Cespenar leapt from Imoen's arms on to the bed. First he inspected Vollintus's lower body. "Nope, nope, has all dez parts he does." Next the imp carefully checked his master's arms, and torso inspecting very closely.
"Do you think the creature can actually do something," Keldorn whispered to Viconia?
Cespenar climbed onto Vollintus's chest, and opened his master's mouth. Peering inside he exclaimed "Nope. Nothings missings dere!"
Sarevok, who had slipped in unnoticed asked, "What is the creature doing?" Keldorn replied, "We are unsure. Just watch."
The imp moved so to examine one of Vollintus's ears and in a deep voice breathed into it "Hellloooooooooooo....." At this Keldorn had witnessed enough. "Imoen please remove him," He asked.
"Waits I has one mores place to sees if he is hidings," cried Cespenar! The little imp reposition himself climbing back onto Vollintus's chest. Very slowly and carefully he lifted his master's left eye lid. "Umm.this nots right. The master has blue eyes not black." declared the imp.
"Wh..What did you say," asked Viconia?
"The master eyes are supposeded to be blue, nots black." As if to extenuate his point Cespenar eyes started to pulse between various shades of blue and black, alternating in their sockets. Everyone moved forward to investigate the imp's claim.
Simultaneous gasps of repulsion resounded throughout the small room. Vollintus's eyes were indeed black! The entire surface of them appeared to be as onyx.
"See, I tolded yous," said Cespenar while looking up at the gathered. Unintentionally, one of his talons struck Vollintus's eye as Cespenar looked away.
"By Torm!", "By the Goddess!", "What the.." cries of horror echoed throughout the cabin. His eyes had begun to bleed!
************************************************************************ Author's notes:
Darthiir= Surface Elves Harglukkin= Dwarfs Sakphen = Halflings Yingilin=Gnomes Rivvin=Humans
Request to all viewers: If have any of the races names mixed up here please notify me, thank you.