Disclaimer: See first chapter.
AN:
Some of the dialog in this chapter is drawn straight from the Everquest II game and modified to suit the story needs. I'm not always satisfied with the way it flows but oh well.
Beta:
Me, Myself, and I still. There are bound to be mistakes, especially dropped final letters and suffixes.
[Great Shelf, Erollis Isle]
After reuniting Splorpy with his father, they spoke with the leaders of the local population and discovered this was where at least some of the Orcs they had previously encountered had come from. Setting up their camp near the less than spacious quarters of the coldain dwarves, the team spent several weeks assisting the coldain in their efforts to repel the invading Ry'Gorr Orcs. Blorpisa had also turned up and the team once again aided him with his sometimes successful, sometimes not, schemes to aid the coldain. They also provided assistance to the spirit of the slain Battlepriest Herga, in her efforts to drive off the Ry'Gorr.
A full night's sleep was never certain as the invaders were prone to attack at all hours. While the Orcs never came close to the team's camp and the tent looked like a pile of snow, the group responded to attacks when they came to assist the defenders.
As bad as the Ry'Gorr invaders were, they were worse when they were reanimated as skeletons and sent to attack the coldain. Although some of the slain defenders returned as spirits to fight the enemy undead, it was depressing to kill an Orc only to have it rise up hours later and resume attacking. Finally, the coldain scouts found hints that the Orcish necromancers were on a nearby chunk of ice called the Ossuary of Ice. The team was sent to investigate and returned to report to one of the coldain leaders, Dolur Axebeard.
"Friends, ye've managed to pinpoint the heart of the Ry'Gorr's operations. This is a most fortunate turn of events. Armed with this information, we stand a chance to take back Erollis Isle from the Orcs for good. But before we start celebrating...", Dolur began.
"We need to find and slay their leader.", Ranma interjected.
"And that means heading back to the Ossuary of Ice. But this time, ye'll be on the lookout for their leader and whatever tools he's using to power the totems the Orcs use to reanimate their dead.", Dolur instructed the team.
"How will we know when we've found the leader?", Harry asked.
"I've had this recurring vision, and now it makes sense. In my dreams, I see an unholy crystal, jutting out of the ice like a festering claw. The Ry'Gorr necromancers stand around the crystal.", Dolur said.
"What are they doing?", Hermione wanted to know.
"They worship it, day and night. From that dark crystal have they enchanted their dark totems, for dark purposes.", Dolur explained.
"And you think their leader can be found near the crystal?", Harry asked.
"Aye. Now that ye've found the crystal, he needs to protect it. He stands over it, tirelessly. He never sleeps. I can see his reflection in the crystal. His eyes burn with purpose.", Dolur said.
"He must be driven.", Daphne observed.
"He must be eliminated. Only by dealing with their fearless leader will we see any reprieve out here on the battlefield. Ye've seen firsthand that other tactics are ultimately ineffective.", Dolur said with determination.
"While we are there, we should destroy that crystal, as well. It feels like something we need to do.", Luna said with a slightly dreamy voice.
"Yes. After ye've dealt with the source of their leadership, ye'll want to destroy the source of those totems. Break the crystal.", Dolur agreed.
"What do you think the crystal is made of?", Hermione asked.
"I'm not certain, but if I had to guess... I'd say it's a piece of the sky that came raining down upon us that fateful day that we were separated from the rest of Velious. I'd say it's a piece of Luclin.", Dolur said considering the matter.
"Whatever it is, it must be destroyed.", Ranma stated firmly.
"There is no time like the present to get started!", Harry said. "Let's be on our way, team!"
"Best of luck to ye, friends.", Dolur said.
"We be back as soon as we can.", Kasumi said.
As they reached the shore closest to the named ice floe, Ranma stuck his toe in the water and promptly changed into Ranko (1).
"You'd think these people would have heard of rowboats or something!", Ranko growled.
Harry slapped his forehead and, using his wand, transformed a nearby log into a longboat. He then levitated it into the water and got in.
"I forgot I could do that.", he said sheepishly. Ranko just grumbled and got in. The girls followed, giggling. Harry directed the magically driven craft toward the Ossuary of Ice. Despite Ranko's occasional grumbling about forgetful mages, Harry and Ranko discussed how they should proceed with the attack on the Orcs around the cave. Disembarking on the ice floe, the team fought their way to where the cave containing the dark crystal. Harry called a halt before they entered the cave.
"Ranko and I have discussed how we need to proceed with this.", Harry informed the team. "Here is the plan we came up with. When we enter the cave, Kasumi and Luna, hang back so you can provide healing and shields when needed. Also, cast any spells you have that will hinder the enemy. Remember to keep an eye behind you in case more enemies enter the cave behind us. Nabiki and Ukyo, target any enemies that have conjured pets so they are taken out of the battle quickly. Ranko and Shampoo will move forward and form a battle line, aided by Nabiki, Ukyo, and myself, if necessary. Hermione, Daphne, Winky, and myself will start with Area Effect spell and follow up attacks on those that seem be weakest or causing us problems. Any questions or objections?"
When he got negatives from everyone, he continued, "Just remember one thing...No battle plan survives contact with the enemy. Stay sharp everybody!" (2)
As they entered the cave, Luna whispered, "This is really a Cave of Illboding Dark!". Coming around a slight bend in the cave, they spotted their targets. Harry looked around to see that everyone was ready. Seeing them aiming at their targets, he signaled GO and began casting Storm of Lightning. Nabiki and Ukyo's first shots struck their targets and the enemy was momentarily in chaos. Ranko and Shampoo moved forward to position themselves between the enemy and the rest of the team. The AE spells began landing amongst the Orcs, killing a few and wounding all of them.
The Orcs quickly shook off their surprise and began to return the attack.
A Ry'Gorr necromancer yells, "Crush!" and slashes at Shampoo but misses. Her counter strikes do not and he falls dead. A shattered Ry'Gorr's Raging Blow next to him hits Ranko doing some minor damage but it is quickly distroyed by Ranko's return blow and a blast from Winky.
"You will all die!, a Ry'Gorr spiritcaster growls as he swings a mace at Ukyo, who has moved up to stand beside Ranko. Ukyo parries the blow and follows through with a double slashing attack leaving the Orc on the ground dieing.
An ornately dressed Orc at the rear of the cave shouts, "You dare to meddle with Orug Deathmaker? You will all fall here!" and begins casting an ancient spell of smiting. Ukyo throws a shuriken using her Arctic Talon technique, disrupting his casting. A Ry'Gorr spiritcaster tries to crush Ukyo, but she parries. Nabiki nails him with a Flaming Arrow and he is down.
The teams mages cast another round of AE spells and destroy the remainder of the reanimated skeletons leaving only Orug and two necromancers still standing. Orug casts a Dissolve spell at Harry which hits causing moderate damage to his arm. Harry fires his blasting spell back at him, knocking Orug back a bit. Hermione, Daphne, and Winky concentrate on one of the remaining necromancer taking him out of the fight while Shampoo and Ranko quickly dispatch the other one.
Nabiki pours arrows into Orug Deathmaker but he seems to almost not feel them. Orug Deathmaker cast a spell which covers the team in a Suffocating Cloud making breathing and spell casting difficult. Shampoo, Ukyo, and Ranko move to engage him directly while Kasumi and Luna work to dispel the negative effects. "This guy is too too tough!", Shampoo said as her sword strike was parried.
"Yeah, but we can take him!", Ranko replied.
Orug attempted to slash Ranko, but missed when she dodged. Ukyo managed to do a lot of damage to Orug with her Lucky Gambit technique. Blasts from all the mages and strikes from Ranko, Shampoo, Ukyo, and Nabiki finally brought Orug down. Kasumi and Luna spent the next several minutes healing the battle damage to the group. Damage to armor and weapons would have to wait until they returned to the settlement at the Great Shelf. (4)
"Well done, team.", Harry congratulated them. "He was tougher than we expected but then we will get better with experience." He walked over to the dark crystal, which was giving off an aura of evil. "Anybody have an idea how to destroy this thing?"
"I would suggest hitting it with a mace or hammer." Luna said. "It is a crystal after all." Harry looked at Kasumi and smiled. "Be my guest!" As she was the only one carrying a mace at that point, Kasumi walked over and, using both hands, brought the mace down hard on the crystal. With an ear piercing sound, the crystal quivered for a moment and then fell into dust.
"I can no longer detect evil magic from the crystal.", Winky informed them.
"Well, I believe we are done here. Let's head back and report to Dolur.", Harry said.
Arriving back in the coldain stronghold, the team met with Dolur Axebeard and his co-leader, Belka Thunderheart.
"Ye've done so much for the coldain, my friends. We can finally, albeit reluctantly, bear to part with ye. There's others that need yer assistance now more than we do, now that all we have left is a little cleanup.", Belka said with some sadness.
"We are happy to do our part.", Harry smiled.
"The Ry'Gorr have taken their offensive elsewhere. We've received word that they've begun a surge upon the southern coast, and they've laid siege to the Cragged Spine. It's likely that they could use yer help out there, Harry.", Dolur said.
"Will the pilgrims be safe?", Ranko asked.
"So long as they stay here. We'll keep an eye on 'em until the offensive at Cragged Spine is over. In the meantime, you should head there, and quickly!", Belka stressed.
"We'll be on our way as soon as possible.", Harry replied.
"Yer actions have given us all hope out here, my friends, and ye've personally rescued me from the depths of despair. We will miss having ye around. Brell be with ye.", Belka stated.
[Cragged Spine, Erollis Isle]
On the morning of the third day after leaving the Great Shelf, the group arrived at the defender's encampment at Cragged Spine. While they had traveled as quickly as possible, they had used the two nights to recover a bit from the exhaustion of the past few weeks of battle.
As an old dwarf approached them, Luna said in dreamy tone,"It is good that we are here. There is something we must do for our mission."
As the old dwarf reached them, Harry greeted him, "Hello, good sir. We were asked to report here to assist in defending this site."
"Oi! It's about time we got some fresh blood to help stave off the Ry'Gorr offensive. We're in a heap of trouble.", the dwarf replied. "I'm Tad Ironstein by th' way, aide to the site commander, Thirin Veliumdelver."
"Well Mr. Ironstein, we are reporting for duty!", Harry assured him and introduced the team.
"Jus' call me Tad. I've heard good things about ye folk. Cop a squat and let me fill ye in on the details of our predicament.", Tad said.
"Go ahead. We're listening.", Harry prompted.
"Thirin has three officers, each with different problems. Hillfred Kinlock is the lass to talk to for your next assignment in tackling the Ry'Gorr that have been assaulting our camp.", Tad continured. "We're under siege from not just Orcs, but blasted imps as well. I understand Knut Orcbane is lookin' for adventurers willing to deal with the mischievous monsters. He's looking for his sanity as well, so maybe ye can help him find that too. Odon Scourgeson thinks he's come up with a way to shroud the beach front in a whorl of mist to confuse the Ry'Gorr. Sounds crazy to me, but I've always been a fan of the more direct hands-on approach. Lastly, Thirin is worried about the current state of our equipment, and I don't blame him. Our gear is falling apart from extended use, so there's real reason to be worried."
"Alright. Anything else?", Harry asked.
"That'll do, for starters. Glad to have ye aboard.", Tad answered.
"Glad to be here.", Harry assured him.
Harry turned to the group and began giving out instructions. "Daphne, would you check with Ms. Kinlock to find out what she needs done? Winky, find out what Knut Orcbane needs accomplished. Nabiki, please talk to Odon Scourgeson about his plans. I'll talk to Commander Veliumdelver. The rest of us should get camp set up. We'll meet in the tent as soon as we find out what tasks we need to do so we can figure out who needs to what."
[Harry]
"Commander Veliumdelver?", Harry inquired as he approached a coldain dwarf standing atop an outcropping of ice overlooking the battlefield.
"What do ye want, whelp? Can't you see I'm a bit busy with defending the Cragged Spine!?", Thirin snarled.
"Would you happen to be Thirin Veliumdelver? I heard you might need help here.", Harry asked politely.
"Oh, you want to help, do ye? Want to be some great hero now, huh? Well isn't that just grand.", Thirin almost spat.
"Do you have work for me or not?", Harry said with some exasperation.
"Fine, fine, I can come up with something for ye to help with.", Thirin growled.
"Good, just tell me what needs to be done.", Harry said.
"Well, we've been holding the Cragged Spine for some time now. So long in fact our equipment is starting to wear, rust or break.", Thirin explained with irritation. "Broken bows, snapped swords, destroyed chainmail, it's getting worse by the hour."
"So you need weapons and armor from The Great Shelf ?", Harry asked.
"No, you won't be returning. That would take too long. We will be taking the armor off the backs of those we've slain. It sounds crude, but it will be effective. I hate to have my men wearing Orcish armor, but no battle was ever won by looking fancy.", Thirin said.
"Alright, Thirin. We will get the armor for you.", Harry promised.
"Good. The Orcs are attacking from the south beach, so seek them out there. Do some good around here and I may think of you as more than useless.", Thirin growled again.
"Did you say useless?", Harry said a bit irritated himself.
[Tent Living Room, a bit later]
Harry, Daphne, Winky, and Nabiki had joined the rest of the team to go over what the locals needed of them.
Winky began with her report. "Knut Orcbane is a bit crazy but that may be 'cause of the animal spirit he wears on his head. He needs us to put a stop to the imps that is attacking with rocks and stealing supplies. They is on the ledge to the north. We should bring back any stolen supplies we find. That is all he needs for now."
"Odon ask us to use a potion he calls Draught of Whirling Ice at sites he has marked with arrows.", Nabiki reported. "It shouldn't be a big deal except for having to fight off Orcs.
"Hillfred just wants us to kill the Orcs on the south beach.", Daphne said. "Nothing complicated."
"And Thirin wants armor and weapons recovered from those same Orcs.", Harry stated.
"Sounds like most of the stuff we need to do for now is on the beach and involves killing Orcs.", Ranma noted. "Only the problems with the imps is someplace else."
"Agreed!", Harry said. "Ukyo, why don't you go with Winky to deal with the imps? Let us know if you need more help. The rest of us will hit the beach and deal with the Ry'Gorr invaders. First though, let's grab a quick bite to eat. It sounds like we will have a busy afternoon!"
[Ukyo and Winky]
"These imps worse than doxies back home.", Winky commented as her earthen avatar, named Stoney, crushed the life out of one.
"Doxies?, Ukyo inquired as her sword strike killed another.
"Pest wizardly peoples get in they houses. They have a nasty bite.", Winky explained.
Suddenly, they heard a screech behind them. "You no take Twiggle the Defiled's treasure. Twiggle stole it fair and square.", the larger than normal imp screamed at them and attacked.
Stoney moved to block and Ukyo and Winky dodged out of the way. Winky cast a spell and Ukyo threw a shuriken, both hitting the target. Twiggle cast some kind of blasting spell at them followed by a smothering cloud. Winky dispelled the cloud and cast another spell while Ukyo moved to attack with her swords. The imp was quickly put down and Stoney returned to Winky.
"You ok, Winky?", Ukyo asked as she began to loot the fallen imp.
"Winky, er, I'm fine. Just a few scratches.", Winky replied. "Nothing that even needs bandage. How about you?"
"About the same as you.", Ukyo stated. "Well what do we have here?" She held up a few pieces of jewelry and a bit of coin. "Something to add to our equipment or treasury. It's sure that ol' Twiggle won't need it. Well, let's gather up the rest of these crates."
[The rest of the Team]
The battle for the beach was going well with the aid of the potion Nabiki had applied to the marked locations. The resulting whirlwinds at least disoriented the Orcs if they weren't killed outright. It was a bit of a problem looting the dead Orcs but with some of the team providing cover it was manageable.
Suddenly Harry 'heard' a cry. "Help!" He whirled around looking for the problem and spotted Luna on the other side of the beach surrounded by a dozen or more Ry'Gorr invaders. "LUNA!", he yelled and sped across the beach, casting as he went. Shampoo saw the situation and followed behind him. His Storm of Lighting burst among the attackers, knocking them back a bit before he and Shampoo plowed into them, swords flashing. Nabiki joined the fight, loosing arrows into the enemy as fast as she could. Seeing the battle turn in favor of the team, the rest continued with the slaughter and looting.
After some hours, the invading Orcs were reduced to a mere trickle which the coldain archers could easily handle. The team went to report into the various officers.
[Harry]
"Reporting back, Commander Veliumdelver!", Harry said.
"Ah, you've succeeded. Perhaps ye're not all that useless after all, adventurer. These will do nicely. I'll have one of my men take a look at these, fix them up, and have them distributed among the forces.", Thirin told Harry.
"I'm glad we could be of some use.", Harry said with a slight smirk.
"Watching those Orcs realize we are using their equipment in our defenses will be entertaining. For that I thank ye adventurer. With my troops now reinforced I can turn my eyes to the larger threat. The Ry'Gorr, as they call themselves, have been attacking from the Jagged Daggers Isle, across the waves to the south. I fear their re-enforcements will arrive swiftly and with renewed purpose.", Thirin noted.
"Surely you can hold them here, now that you are better equipped.", Harry queried.
"I think not. What we've seen thus far is only a small part of their forces. They underestimated us, but now they know to send more Orcs if they are to take the beach. No, in this situation there is only one thing we can do. Take the fight to them. Come, we leave at once for the Jagged Daggers Isle. I'm tired of sitting about in waiting. I was never one for defense.", Thirin ordered.
"Thirin, your troops need you here. Morale is often frail, supported by a strong foundation. You are that foundation.", Harry countered.
"Hmm, well said, adventurer. Very well, I shall send you in my stead, as you've proven you can be somewhat dependable. Travel to the Jagged Daggers Isle, across the waves to the south and show them we are not to be underestimated. Destroy what forces and equipment you can and keep an eye out for their war shamans. They have the ability to scry our encampment. If you happen to destroy them, it will help conceal our positioning.", Thirin instructed.
"We need to prepare a bit but we will leave before dawn for the isle. I won't let them take the beach.", Harry assured him.
"Good. Brell be with you on your quest, adventurer.", Thirin said. (5)
"And you, Thirin.", Harry replied.
[Later, Tent Living Room]
As soon as everybody on the team was back and they had been checked over by Kasumi and Luna, Harry called them together in the Living Room.
"Everybody did a great job today except for me letting Luna get surrounded like that. I still don't see how I heard her on the other side of the beach, but I'm very glad Shampoo and I got to her in time.", Harry said.
"You did not 'hear' me, Harry.", Luna said without moving her lips.
"Huh! Of course, I did! That's how I knew you were in trouble.", Harry said with a puzzled expression. Ranma and his part of the team looked a bit puzzled as well.
"What Luna means is that our bond is now strong enough that we can speak mind to mind, since I 'heard' her just now.", Hermione explained. "Daphne and Winky, did you hear as well?" Both nodded. "Can any of Ranma's team hear each other without speaking out loud?"
"Ranma, can you hear me?", Kasumi asked silently.
"Kasumi?", Ranma said surprised.
"Oh, my! I guess that means he can 'hear' me.", Kasumi said out loud.
"Nabiki? Ukyo?, Shampoo? Can you hear me?", Ranma asked.
"Yes, Ranma." "Sure thing, Sugar!" "I hear husband just fine."
"We all seem to be linked as well.", Ranma replied to Hermione.
Harry, after mentally checking with each of his ladies, said, "This could be very useful. Too bad we can't talk between the teams."
"Just make sure that when we split up for things, each sub-team can talk to someone on another sub-team.", Ranma suggested.
"Good idea!", Harry agreed. "Now tomorrow, just before dawn, we are going to attack the Orc stronghold on Jagged Daggers Isle that we saw across from the beach to the south. We need to destroy weapons, food, tents, and as many Orcs as we can. We go in invisible to take them by surprise."
"Do we get a boat this time?", Ranma wanted to know.
"Sheesh, just because I forgot before. Yeah, we'll have a boat and we will even ward it against splashes. Ok?", Harry grinned. "Now this is what I think we...".
[Next morning, well before dawn, approaching Jagged Daggers Isle]
"Move quietly as we get out of the boat.", Harry instructed. "The silence charm only covers the boat itself. I'll drop the disillusionment charm when we launch our attack so we won't accidentally hit each other. Also, it looks like a fresh snowfall from here so our footsteps will show up, so try to step where the wind has blown it clear or the enemy has trod it down."
Harry beached the boat on an ice shelf that extended out into the water. The team carefully climbed ashore and moved a little inland. They spotted a few Orcs to the east along the shore but the main encampment seemed to be to the southwest. Between the team and the encampment, there were a number of enemy loitering around. There also seemed to be some Orcs assigned to patrol duties.
"Hit the closest group on three.", Harry commanded. "One...two...THREE!"
The group launched their ranged attacks and AE spells as Harry dropped the disillusionment. Orcs began running toward the fight. Hermione used her AE Mesmerize to stun groups of them so the fight remained manageable. Shampoo, Ukyo, and Ranma moved forward to block the enemy troops from getting closed to the spellcasters. Nabiki targeted enemy shamans to prevent them from healing their troops. Kasumi and Luna kept an eye on the team's health while casting wards and buffs on them. The two healers also launched offensive spells and debuffs at the Orcs. Daphne assisted Hermione with crowd control while directing the Orc she had charmed to aid the team fighters.
After dispatching the twenty or so Orcs that had joined the fight, the team moved into the camp and began to destroy tents, cached weapons, and stockpiled food. The Orcs they encountered were not pleased about this but were quickly killed. That is until they encountered a rather large Orc near the back of the camp. They had found the camp's commander.
"Everybody, keep on with the plan!", Ranma shouted. "I got this one!"
"So puny human, you think you can defeat Grokk, Rear Commander of the Ry'Gorr clan?!", Grokk snarled as he swung a large greatsword, which Ranma jumped over.
"Ya, you don't look a that tough. 'Sides, your slower than an old woman!", Ranma said as he flipped over Grokk, kicking him in the back of the neck. He quickly followed through with a strike to the kidney. Grokk spun around in an attempt to slice Ranma in half which he avoided by going almost flat to the ground.
"Ranma, be careful! Don't get too cocky!", Kasumi thought to him.
"I won't, Kasumi. Just getting him riled up so he'll make mistakes!", Ranma returned as he kicked the large Orc in the side of the knee. Grokk turned even greener with the blow and tried to bash Ranma with the hilt of his sword. Ranma did a back flip, unfortunately landing in a puddle of melt water and changing into Ranko. "Oh great!"
"What magic is this!?", roared Grokk. "Where did puny male go!?"
"You are so pathetic I changed to a girl to make it more interesting!", Ranko taunted, using her Chestnuts Roasting technique to deliver a few hundred blows to Grokk's midsection. Grokk staggered but roared and attempted to cleave Ranko from top to bottom. She dodged between his legs and hit him with the Lightning Palm followed quickly by the Charging Tiger strike, which knocked him down. As he struggled to get up, she hit him with a Striking Cobra followed by a Rising Dragon flying kick.
Grokk staggered to his feet and bellowed, "I will destroy you, puny human! I will gnaw your bones for my supper tonight!". He swung his sword in a slashing backhand which Ranko jumped on, using it as a platform to deliver a Rising Phoenix kick to his head. Grokk wobbled unsteadily.
"Ranko, if you are done with your playmate, the rest of us are finished!", Nabiki commented.
"Ok, just be a sec!", Ranko replied. She hit her opponent with a Frozen Palm strike followed by a Roundhouse Kick to the neck. Grokk slumped to the ground with a broken neck, dead.
"You just couldn't stay dry, could you?", Daphne laughed as she conjured some hot water and cast a drying spell.
"Hey, that puddle was almost invisible!", Ranma protested. "Did we find anything interesting?"
"Just some assorted equipment and jewelry we can use along with some coin. Also a few technique scrolls and one recipe book.", Hermione informed him.
"I found what appears to be a scrying eye.", Luna said. "One of the shamans had it."
Harry looked around at the destroyed camp and said, "Well, we have this wrapped up so let's head back and report in."
[Cragged Spine Defender's Camp]
[Harry]
"Greetings, Commander Veliumdelver.", Harry said.
"You return. What news? Were yer skirmishes with the enemy successful?", Thirin demanded.
"Yes, very! Also, we found this scrying eye on of one of the war shamans. Our shaman thought it might be useful.", Harry replied.
"A scrying eye you say. So that's what they use to spy on our forces. I can't believe you were able to get one. Let me have a look. If we're lucky it will have already been imbued with their scrying magics.", Thirin said eagerly.
"There you are, I hope it will be useful.", Harry said handing it over.
"Hmm. We are in luck adventurer. This has already been imbued with the magics that allow the Ry'Gorr to spy on us. Meaning we can use it against them and maybe learn something new to aid us. All ye need do is find a Ry'Gorr to use the eye on and you'll be able to see what he sees. That's how it works, you see? It allows you to see through the eyes of another, just by pressing the eye against the skin.", Thirin explained.
"It's good we are in possession of this then. I am sure my team can find a Ry'Gorr to use this on.", Harry observed.
"Your value grows, adventurer. You won't be able to use this on Jagged Daggers Isle since you destroyed their camp, but I have heard reports say there are a few Ry'gorr on the iceberg to the east of the Jagged Daggers Isle. See what you find there, perhaps an opportunity to use the eye will present itself." Thirin said. "Meanwhile, I'll send some o' my men to occupy Jagged Daggers to prevent the Ry'gorr from reinfesting it."
"I'll let you know what we learn.", Harry assured him.
[Winky]
"Winky greets you, Knut Orcbane."
"Griz says you smell of Orc and sea water. Where have you been, Winky?" Knut asked.
"Thirin Veliumdelver had us hunting Orcs on Jagged Daggers Isle.", Winky told him.
"Ah! They have started to inhabit that island now, too?" Knut inquired.
"Not any more. They still are doing something on the chunk of ice next to it, though.", Winky replied.
"You know this for certain?" Knut wanted to know.
"Thirin's scouts said as much.", Winky informed him.
"Whoa, no need to yell!", Knut exclaimed.
"I didn't.", Winky said puzzled.
"Not you, Winky, Griz. I nearly went deaf with that one. And how would you like it if I did? Then who would listen to you?", Knut said. "Winky, we need to find out what scheme they are hatching over there on the iceberg. Think your team can get there?"
"We can.", Winky assured him.
"I knew my confidence was not misplaced in you! Go over to the iceberg and see what you can find out. Kill any Ry'Gorr you encounter, but more importantly, see what items you can find that may tell us what they are up to.", Knut instructed her.
"I'll let Harry Potter know!", Winky promised him.
[Later, on the Small Iceberg with the entire team]
When the team climbed on to the chunk of ice, there were only about a dozen Orcs to be found although, based on the mining pick scattered around, there had been more. The alert ones were quickly put down. However, there was one that was drunk or very tired that didn't budge, even with the sounds of fighting close to him.
"Looks like we found our guinea pig.", Harry said. "Luna, why don't you and Shampoo hold the eye and touch him with it? That way maybe we can all see what you see."
'It is worth trying.", Luna said.
Luna and Shampoo carefully grasp the eye and touched it to the sleeping Orc's forehead. Suddenly, it was like the whole team had entered a pensive. From the hands, they could tell they were looking through the eyes of an Orc who was swimming toward the main island. He then dove under water, going down down, down until he entered a water filled cave. He followed the passage upwards until his head broke free of the water and he climbed out onto a small beach. At that point, the vision faded and the team returned to themselves.
"Ok, that was interesting.", Nabiki said drolly.
[Cragged Spine Defender's Camp]
"We have news, Commander Veliumdelver!", Harry said as the team approached the coldain.
"You've survived? I had heard reports that some adventurers fell to the Ry'Gorr not long ago. I'm glad to see you survived. Were you successful in using the eye?", Thirin asked.
"We were. We saw through an the eyes of an Orc who swam beneath the waves. He entered an underwater tunnel leading to the center of Erollis. Beyond that I do not know. It seems the spell is restricted by distance.", Harry informed him.
"They are below us? This is quite unexpected. What are they doing down there? What are they planning?" Thirin fired the questions off in rapid succession.
"I haven't a clue, but we intend to find out.", Harry said. "We will be back as soon as we can!"
"Brell protect ye, now. You're going to need it!", Thirin said with a grim tone.
"We will be safe, Thirin Veliumdelver.", Luna assured him.
[Tent Living Room]
Having decide not to do a deep water dive in the dark and it being a long day, the team returned to their tent to relax and rest up for the morning's mission. Kasumi had found a supply of seeds in the storage area so she, Winky, Hermione, and Daphne decided to activate the greenhouse to try and grow some food stuffs and potion ingredients, including local plants if they could get them to grow. Nabiki, Shampoo, and Ukyo were going over their weapons looking for nicks or other damage and doing what they could to fix them up. Harry, Ranma, and Luna were going over some of scrolls they had recovered to see if the team could use any of them.
Luna suddenly sat up straight. "I can have a pet! A nice spirit wolf doggy!" She cast Summon Spirit Wolf and a large, ghostly wolf appeared. "I am going to name her Snowball! Hmm, she is a little big for the tent so...Ah ha! There you go, Snowball!" She cast a shrink pet charm and Snowball shrank to the size of a border collie.
"Are you sure Snowball is a she?", Harry asked with a smile.
"Yes, Harry! Although if you do not know the difference between girls and boys by now, there is no hope for you!", Luna smirked as she leaned over and gave him a kiss on the lips.
"Well, I hope Snowball is housebroken!", Ranma said with a smile.
"Somehow, I do not think spirit poo poo will be a problem.", Luna giggled.
"Her regular size looks big enough to ride.", Harry observed. "Are you going to try to ride her?"
"No silly, you do not ride spirits.", Luna giggled again. "Besides, we will soon have horses!"
"We will?", Ranma asked. "How do you know?"
"Trust me, it will be very soon.", Luna with a smile. Ranma looked at Harry.
Harry shrugged and said, "Luna just knows things." They all went back to their research while Snowball curled up at Luna's feet.
[Next morning, Cragged Spires shore]
The team was gathered ready to go into the water as soon as Kasumi and Luna cast their spells to allow them to breathe underwater.
Ranma grumbled, "We would have to go swimming in ice cold water. Somehow the warming charms don't make a difference to the curse."
Shampoo laughed, "It could be worse, husband. You could turn into a cat-girl and cats hate getting wet."
The team had briefly tried to come up with a for Shampoo's cat-girl form but her reaction when somebody suggested 'Kitty Pu' was not good so the team wisely let it drop.
After Kasumi and Luna finished casting, the team entered the water. Ranko and Shampoo lead the way as they looked for landmarks they had seen in the vision the day before. Before too long, they saw the underwater passage and swam down to it. Just as they entered it, a few Orcs were swimming out and had to be dealt with. Proceeding up the tunnel, they soon came to the small beach they had seen in the vision.
"Nabiki and Ukyo,", Harry began. "You two take a stealthy look around and see what you can find out. Everybody else stay out of sight but be ready in case the scouts need help."
"Yeah, right. That will be the day.", Nabiki said as she and Ukyo faded into the shadows.
About twenty minutes later, the girls had returned. "There is lots of digging going on but it does not look like mining. More like expanding the tunnels", Nabiki reported to the group.
"Yeah.", Ukyo agreed. "But there is this one place there has been a cave in that looks like it was done deliberately."
"We better get this information to Thirin and the others. Let's head back up.", Harry directed.
[Cragged Spires Defenders Camp]
[Harry]
"What have ye found? What are they doing below my lands?", Thirin said anxiously.
"They have dug a series of mining tunnels throughout the interior of Erollis, many in the direction of New Halas. We think they mean to attack from below.", Harry informed him.
"Confound it! This is what I was afraid of. There may not be enough time to warn the city before they attack, we're going to have to go down there and stop the Ry'Gorr ourselves.", Thirin declared.
"Before we travel below, know Ukyo have found some sort of cave-in. It looks to have been recently caused by the Orcs, though I know not for what purpose. It's very strange.", Harry told Thirin.
"A cave-in you say? I'll take a look once I've reached the inside. This time I go; my men will be able to handle things here, thanks to ye. Meet me at the cave's entrance, adventurer. I'll have inspected this cave-in ye speak of by then.", Thirin said.
"See you below then.", Harry said as he turned to gather the group.
[Winky]
"Winky greets Knut Orcbane, sir!"
"Speak to us, Winky. Is it true that you found the Orcs below this island?", Knut wanted to know.
"Yes. They is attempting to dig out some tunnels below the city of New Halas.", Winky told him.
"Mithaniel's fury! I hope you cut them down!", Knut growled.
"We dids some but there be more. We is going back to finish with Thirin sir.", Winky let him know.
"Winky, Griz could sense an old magic approaching, and was quite alarmed, but it was just you. What have you been doing?"
"I has just been in the tunnels the Orc mens are digging.", Winky said.
"Yes, Griz. There must be old magic that lingers on you now.", Knut said.
"Should I be worried?", Winky asked.
"No. It will dissipate in time.", Knut replied with a placation gesture.
"That's good.", Winky sighed in relief.
"But maybe we could use that magic in our ongoing fight with the Ry'Gorr. Griz that is a sound idea!", Knut exclaimed.
"How are we going to get it?", Winky inquired.
Knut Orcbane says to you, "Take Griz with you and he will lead you to the source of the old magic.", Knut said removing his bear skin head gear and handing it to Winky.
"I'll sees what I can do, Knut Orcbane sir.", Winky promised.
[Near the water's edge, Orc Tunnels]
"Greetings, Commander", Harry said as they approached Thirin.
"This is most impressive. I never knew the Ry'Gorr could be so devious.", Thirin said in awe.
"Agreed. We must act quickly.", Harry said.
"Aye. I saw this wall ye spoke of. Whoever caused this cave-in did not do so thoughtfully. Meaning it was done with haste. It seems as though it was meant to keep something trapped. What could scare the Ry'Gorr so much they would risk such a dangerous explosion?", Thirin wondered.
"I would agree. This wall is an unnecessary risk, even for them.", Harry stated.
"Whatever they are hiding or keeping imprisoned may be used to give us an advantage. Whatever they fear would surely give us an upper hand in stopping their impending invasion.", Thirin said considering the situation.
"You intend to re-open the tunnel entrance then?", Ranko asked.
"I do, though we have no mining equipment on hand. However, these Orcs could not have made so much progress in so a little a time without some help. I imagine there are some explosive barrels about, if ye just follow yer nose. Look around where they are currently mining, they should leave them lying around. Once you've got the explosives use it on the cave-in. Find out what the Ry'Gorr were trying to imprison.", Thirin directed.
"Sounds like a blast. We're in.", Harry agreed.
"I'll be expecting a good show, adventurer. Don't let me down.", Thirin said with a smile.
"We won't, Commander.", Harry replied.
"Wait a minute, Harry.", Ranko called. "We don't need explosives. Shampoo's tribe has a technique that can blast solid rock. She could probably get the job done long before we could find the explosives."
"This method would do the job?", Harry wanted to know.
"Yeah, I'll seen her blast through solid stone walls way too many times.", Ranko replied. "She might need some shielding from rock fragments but probably not. The technique makes her pretty tough."
"Let's err on the side of caution.", Harry decided. "Shampoo, you can do what Ranko says?" At her nod, he continued, "Daphne, go with her to shield her and banish the broken stone. Kasumi, you go with them as well just in case."
"Winky, Knut had a job for you?", Harry asked and she nodded. "Ok, take Ukyo and Luna with you. Stay safe. Take some of the green ice that Hillfred gave Nabiki and put in any fires you pass. The rest of us will take out Orcs so that without outside reinforcements, they won't be able to attack. Ranko, you take Hermione and go right. I'll take Nabiki and go left."
[Shampoo, Daphne, and Kasumi]
After talking to Shampoo, Daphne cast a shield in front of her that left a hole for her to strike through. After considering the cave-in for a moment, Shampoo jabbed a point with her finger and the rock exploded! Lots of small rock fragments bounced off Daphne's shield but none came near any of the girls. Daphne used her wand to vanish the broken rock and clear the revealed tunnel mouth. The girls then moved a short way down the passage.
Suddenly the were set upon by a velinoid elemental. Shampoo parried the attack and slashed at it with her swords. Daphne sent her pet of the moment, an Orc, to attack it and began blasting it with her spells. Kasumi added her offensive spells the the mix and the elemental was soon destroyed.
After healing some minor injuries that Shampoo had, Kasumi said, "I think we should return to the Commander and let him know what we have found." The other girls just nodded.
"Hello, Commander Veliumdelver", Shampoo said.
"That was a magnificent display of destruction on your part, adventurer. Did ye find anything? What are those scoundrels hiding?", Thirin asked eagerly.
"You were right, they were keeping something imprisoned beyond the cave-in, though I fear what I've found will be of no use to us.", Shampoo informed him.
"What are ye talking about? What was there?", Thirin demanded.
"We found a race of beings that look as though they were birthed from the velium itself. There were Orcish bodies among them as well. We were able to escape, but I don't believe they will side with us. We are all in danger.", Shampoo replied.
"This means there were caverns here before the Orcs? They themselves must have discovered them. I know not what these creatures are, but if what ye say is true they may be more of a threat than those blasted Ry'Gorr. Is there any chance we can quickly re-build the wall, as the Orcs did? Can we protect ourselves from these, what should they be called? Velinoids?", Thirin wanted to know.
"I cannot tell, but the blast has severely damaged the surrounding walls. I could transform some stone into a wall but it would eventually fail as transformations do not last. I do not believe that a third blast will do any good in one area underground.", Daphne informed him.
"Blast! I fear we've made a grave mistake, adventurers, one we must rectify immediately.", Thirin scowled. "It is time we informed my good friend, Torli Blackbow. However, I intend to return with as much intelligence as possible. I would like you three to investigate the area."
"You can count on us, Commander.", Kasumi said.
"I am learning that with each passing hour. Be safe, my friends.", Thirin said.
"We will, Commander.", Kasumi assured him. "Ranko, we are going deeper into the caves to investigate. Nabiki, let Harry know."
"You need any help, Kasumi?", Ranko thought back.
"I don't believe so, Ranko.", Kasumi replied. "We will 'shout' if we need any."
The trio began to explore the newly reopened caves. They discovered two large rooms that contained several kinds of the velinoid elementals, all of which were very aggressive. After battling their way to the very back of the caverns, they encountered a very large, very angry looking elemental. They quickly retreated before being noticed and returned to Thirin.
"We have returned, Commander!", Kasumi said in greeting.
"What did you discover? Are there more dangers here?", Thirin wanted to know.
"We have discovered a large ice and velium elemental. A monstrous creature.", Shampoo told him.
"Monstrous? I see. Tell me of this creature you speak of.", Thirin said urgently.
"We know very little, other than it appears to be very old and quite angry. We don't believe it enjoys visitors.", Daphne informed him.
"This is most troubling, my friends. We are not prepared for this. I was rash and quick to judge the situation. I regret venturing into these blasted caverns. What have we awakened? We must speak with Torli, she will know what to do. Adventurers, what are yer names? You've done so much and I never had the time to ask.", Thirin wanted to know.
"Our leaders are Harry, the messy haired one, and Ranma, the one that changes into a girl.", Kasumi told him. She then named the rest of the group.
"Those are good names. My friends, I ask one more favor. I need you to deliver the news of this creature to Torli Blackbow. I need to be with my men or I would go myself. You can find her East of the Cragged Spine, in the White Lodge. She is an old friend and will know how to handle this creature.", Thirin said.
"We will do this for you.". Shampoo said.
"Thank you, my friends. Brell be with you, always.", Thirin said as he left for the surface.
"You too, Thirin. You too.", Kasumi said.
"Ranko, who is our fastest person.", Kasumi asked.
"That would be Nabiki or Ukyo. Why?", Ranko wanted to know.
"We need a runner to the White Lodge east of here to take a message for the Commander.", Kasumi told him and explained why.
"We can free up Nabiki as Ukyo is still with Winky and Luna. Nabiki, let Harry know what's going on and then get with Kasumi.", Ranko directed.
"On my way!", Nabiki replied.
[Winky, Ukyo, and Luna]
"I guess I needs to put animal spirit on my head.", Winky stated and did so.
"No smell prey near by.", Winky said in a gravelly voice.
"That is weird!", Ukyo exclaimed. "Your talking but it doesn't sound like you."
"We'll keep looking.", Winky said in her own voice.
"Prey is within striking distance!", Winky growled.
"Thank you, Griz.", Winky said.
"I smell our prey here. It spent much time bedded down at this location.", Winky said in her Griz voice.
"But it not in the sack any more.", Winky said, puzzled.
"It has moved on. But we are on its trail.", Winky said with a rumble.
After a brief fight with a few Orcs, Windy asked, "Where to next, Griz?"
"Deeper.", Winky growled.
"How insightful.", Winky said sarcastically.
"Smell of prey near by!", Winky growled again.
"I is relieved to hear that.", Winky said.
"Prey is close.", Winky rumbled.
"That's good to know!", Winky said with a sigh.
"This is it! Strike our prey!", Winky growled harshly.
"This black crystal shard?", Ukyo asked.
"Grrrrrrrrrrrr. I said strike! Claw it to bits! Tear it open, and spill its guts upon the ice!", Winky growled with menace.
"All right, we are doing it!", Luna said and smashed the shard with her club. The shard vibrated and fell into dust.
A sound behind them caused them to whirl around. A huge Orc rushed them yelling, "Puny invaders will feel wrath of Mastermind Mon'Tagorr. I will crush your bones!"
"I don't think he wants to invite us to tea!", Ukyo commented as she parried and slashed back. Stoney moved to attack the oversized Orc and Winky began blasting him. Luna cast Plague followed by Wrath and Velium Winds. Ukyo kicked his knee and stabbed him in the side. Winky summoned her water spirits and vampire bats to add to the fray. Soon, Mon'Tagorr lay dead on the floor.
"Well, that was fun.", Ukyo said with a smirk. "Have we done what we need to?"
"Destroying the crystal shard was part of out main mission, so yes.", Luna told them.
"Take Griz back to Knut.", Winky growled.
"I bet he is missing you.", Luna said to Griz.
"Well we got our confirmation, so let's rejoin the others.", Ukyo suggested.
[Nabiki]
"I'm looking for Torli Blackbow!", Nabiki announced as she entered the White Lodge.
A small woman toward the back said, "That would be me. Who have we here?"
"My name is Nabiki Tendo. I was sent by Thirin Veliumdelver.", Nabiki informed her.
"Veliumdelver? That stubborn stone's stationed at Cragged Spine. Why would he send ye to me?", Torli wanted to know.
"We found a large ice and velium elemental living below New Halas!", Nabiki said.
"Brell damn it! If the ongoing struggle with the brutal Ry'Gorr wasn't enough. I am glad ye told me. I just wish I knew what to do.", Torli said with a frown.
"Me too.", Nabiki agreed.
"Speak with Gerla Meltwater.", Torli said finally. "She is our wisest spellweaver. You'll find her in Glacierbane's Vault, in New Halas."
"Glacierbane's Vault?", Nabiki said asking for more information.
"It is our house of arcane knowledge and library to the Spear of the Spellweavers, our battle hardened mages. She'll know what to do.", Torli informed her.
"I'll speak with her.", Nabiki said as she rushed out the door.
Upon entering Glacierbane's Vault, Nabiki asked Gerla's location of the vendor near the door and was pointed to a woman in the back.
Nabiki approached the woman and asked, "Gerla Meltwater? I'm Nabiki Tendo."
"Hail, Nabiki. What boulder weighs so upon your shoulders?"
"Torli Blackbow thought you could help. There is a large ice and velium elemental living below New Halas!", Nabiki said urgently.
"Aye. And as long as it slumbers we have nothing to fear.", Gerla told her.
"That's just it. It's not!", Nabiki exclaimed.
"Beasts of the deep! It has awoken?! It slumbered for years under our feet. What could have woken it now?", Gerla asked in a worried tone.
"The Ry'Gorr were digging tunnels below the city.", Nabiki informed her.
"Another reason to smite each and every one of the vile creatures! Now to return the elemental back to its dormancy.", Gerla said with determination.
"Why is that so important?", Nabiki queried.
"Long before Mithaniel blessed this carved bit of Velious, we floated. Long and far, through moderate and warm waters we sailed. Yet frozen the bulk remained.", Gerla explained.
"That's amazing."
"I discovered the ancient elemental while probing the terrain with some spells. It was during one of our campaigns to remove the Ry'Gorr. Ever since then I have theorized that it may have been the cause of our eternal freeze.", Gerla continued.
"And now that it's awake?"
"We must induce slumber, once more! Take this satchel back to Torli Blackbow.", Gerla instructed Nabiki.
"Right away, Gerla."
"Torli, I'm back!"
"Ye return, Nabiki! Tell me, what did Spellweaver Meltwater advise?", Torli inquired.
"She sent me back with this satchel for you."
"Hmm. Once more it seems we must lean on your group.", Torli said with a sigh.
"What do you mean?"
"Gerla's satchel contained a potion and a note.", Torli told Nabiki. "It says we must induce slumber, once more! Cast this spell upon the elemental, but first ye must be sure to tire it out. Inflict upon it great harm thus making it susceptible to the potion's magic."
"We can do that!"
"I never doubted ye for a moment, Nabiki! Take this and go with Brell's blessings upon ye!", Torli stated.
"We will not fail.", Nabiki said as she headed back to Cragged Spires.
[Cragged Spires]
[Winky]
Knut Orcbane saw Winky approaching and called out to her. "Did you find the item of old magic, Winky? Was Griz able to help you find it?", he asked.
"Yes, we did. And we destroyed it.", Winky told him.
"What? I thought he wanted to find it and use it?", asked Knut, shocked.
"He told me to destroy it. It was a black crystal shard, like the ones that was being used to raise Ry'Gorr skeletons.", Winky informed him.
"Ah, then it is best to destroy it. They must have wanted to plant it below New Halas in order to bring forth an army of undead within the city.", Knut concluded.
"Good thing we found it.", Winky said.
"Now, take these horses for your group, as you have earned it, Winky. And return to me my friend, Griz.", Knut eagerly.
"Certainly. Uh, horses?"
"Oh, you've not owned a horse before? Just blow on the whistle and the horse is called from stasis.", Knut explained. "When you dismiss your horse, it goes back to into stasis. There is a special part of your adventurer's belt to store the whistles."
[Tent Living Room]
The group had returned to the tent to await Nabiki's return. When she arrived, she filled in the details that they had not already picked up on through their link. When she finished, Harry and Ranma decided that the whole group, minus Nabiki as she needed to rest, would return to the caves to put the elemental to sleep. With that as the plan and without a great deal of difficulty, they did just that.
[New Halas]
Two days later, the group, mounted on their new horses, rode into New Halas.
TBC
Author Notes:
(1) Ranma has often used Ranko as his name when in his girl form, especially when hiding his curse from his mother. It will be used in this story whenever Ranma is in his girl form.
(2) Harry has become the group leader with Ranma/Ranko as his lieutenant. They still look to the girls for opinions, advice, and ideas but in battle there can be only one leader.
(3) Speech in languages other than Common that the team understands will be underlined. I haven't decided if I will show speech they don't understand yet. At this point, they only understand Orcish and Common. Telepathy will be in italics.
(4) In the Everquest II game armor and weapons are only damaged if you die. In the real world, equipment is damaged in battle whether or not you are injured. I chose to go with the real world approach in this story, even if it never comes up again. Also, I'm not allowing them to use their wands to repair their equipment because it might damage the enhancements placed on it.
(5) Brell is the god worshiped by most dwarves. He is a neutral god, as opposed to good or evil. Although the dwarves are a good race, some of the races that worship him are decidedly not.
(6) This is the last chapter that I will rely heavily on dialog directly from the game.