The squad they left behind was in shock. 1/2 of their patrol was dead, Hakon slain, and Samuel was apparently a traitor. The remaining squad leader began to protest, but an angry glare from Ymir silenced him. She wasn't part of the army, but her unit had great clout with them.
The dead were buried in a small cemetery behind the tower. Trip carved an elaborate head stone for Branndr, it read Branndr Snakeslayer . Everyone was impressed by the courage, resilience, and strength the big knight showed during the battle.
Clovis apparently lost much of the equipment he needed to lay the foundation of his new forge. He dismissed it as a temporary setback. The materials could be easily replaced. The real rare components would come later he said. He invited everyone to his manor outside of McDunnalds after their patrol was done. The master merchant seemed to enjoy the company of his old companions. They all looked as they had during their last meeting , except Clovis. He was a middle aged man now, with a slight paunch. He seemed the most successful though. He wore elaborate gold rings and jewelry, and his clothes were of the finest materials.
Clovis rented the small tavern outside the Lake Tower, and a small reunion celebration took place. Trip, Brita and her children were invited but Surry declined. She still couldn't come to terms with Brita's return and the revelations of her father and her past. Trip and Agni seemed out of place in this gathering of the wealthy, famous, and powerful but they seemed appreciative of the chance to rub shoulders with such personalities.
"To Branndr ! May he push his way into the front of the line in Rawk's halls and party till Armageddon!", Frank toasted. It was an odd toast, even inappropriate, but the companions had a few too many drinks and merrily toasted anyways.
Brita and Tyris talked about the last 9 months. Tyris told some anecdotes of Mammoth keep , of the mysterious master bard Rydia, and the various cities that she visited on the long travel down to McDunnalds. Brita told of the sights along the Karlston highlands, of the fashions and styles in Nazag Narg and Eagleclaw barony. They seem to deliberately leave out the battles they had fought getting there and of the events earlier that day.
Ymir and Clovis were engaged in discussions on their next move. Should they attempt to build the forge at Ymir's thaig or was it safe to construct it at McDunnalds. Clovis also talked about his shrew of an ex wife. Apparently he had married 3x since last they met. Each marriage starting in bliss and ending in ruin . Clovis's second marriage was declared a holiday in Karlston and it lasted the longest, an impressive 10 years. Fetch was only married to Tyris for 2 years, and they weren't really married. He couldn't imagine anyone in his life other then Tyris, but wondered if that was naivety on his part speaking. 10 years of marriage seemed like a trivial and an impossible thing at once to him. He drank another ale and shifted his thoughts elsewhere.
Fetch thought Agni was normally quite a confident person, he never had trouble talking or joking around with him in the past. However, upon discovering their relationship, he seemed rather apprehensive. Frank solved the problem by getting the pair a couple of Khazag Coalwaters. They tasted awful, but it seemed to work. Agni asked about Fetch's adventures, about the north, about how his grandfather, and about his mother. Agni and Surry knew very little about their mother. They always assumed she was just a simple sell sword who got drunk one night with a lonely adventurer. Then fled home in shame. That's what their guardians told them. Their mother was apparently quite humble and never told them much about her vows and her deeds . She also almost never told them about their grandfather. Fetch could understand why. Fetch saw the nobility in the man, but he had heard the stories too. Fetch told him the truth, at least as much as he could remember.
Near the end of the party, Clovis wanted to talk to Fetch alone. Clovis was the one person that Fetch could depend on the most when they adventured together. He wasn't a great mage and certainly not a great fighter, he survived on his wits and preparation. Frank was a great friend but wasn't always dependable. Ymir was like a sister, but she was unpredictable. Tyris...well Tyris was still a great unknown. But Fetch knew that Clovis would always have his back.
"Its good to see you, if I haven't said that yet.", said Clovis sipping his dwarven brandy.
"You've said it like a dozen times already," chuckled Fetch.
"Its been half a lifetime for me, but it seems like yesterday that we parted paths. You know, I never questioned that decision, but there was always a part of me that yearned to continue to adventure. The friendships, the belief you were making the making the world a better place, the thrills!, and especially the profits!", he said smiling staring off in the distance.
"Let me get to the point Fetch, you're gonna find yourself making some serious decisions soon. It looks like you've already made them, but you can still change.", Clovis said with a serious tone.
Fetch wasn't sure what he was talking about , and motioned for him to continue.
"The Empire or Republic of Grom , whatever you want to call it, is a farce. Its nothing but a collection of city states, held together by self serving "royal adventurers". I blame small minded governors and weak generals, for the current system of city states we have. Travel between cities is almost impossible except by heavily armed caravans. The country side is rife with monsters , bandits, and violent tribes of humanoids. However, since the mists have left , a large contingent of the 3rd army led by your friend Olive has returned. Along with several thousand knights they represent a potential game changer to the political climate. Sure, there's been a resettlement phase for the additional troops, but only a fool would think Olive would disband her army. She will use it to unite the north, and possibly central and south Grom. "
"Isn't that a good thing?", said Fetch growing more intrigued.
"I believe so, imagine the trade, commerce and peace if she managed to bring the city states into line. A new age of peace and prosperity. However, there will be those that will lose a lot if such a thing came to pass. Satraps, stewards, city governors, and independent military commanders. ", Clovis continued grimly.
"Powerful merchant princes too I'm assuming.", said Fetch with uncommon acumen.
"Yes, I would be affected as well. Mercenary commanders like Ymir will be as well. Though they would probably get a lot of work at the beginning. In the end, they will have to downsize or relocate. Any powerful central government won't tolerate the large mercenary armies like we have today. You've allied yourself with Olive already, if you were a minor officer that wouldn't be a problem. I'm sure she didn't realize it when she recruited you, but like it or not you're an important player. Due to your past victories and accolades, people will assume , rightly or wrongly , that you have a lot of influence. "
"Like I said , people don't like change. Some people will do violent and unsavory things to prevent change. ", Clovis said...he began to speak again, but thought better of it.
"Should I take that as a threat?", Fetch asked , unsure of what to make of Clovis's speech.
Clovis laughed, " No..No.. I haven't seen you in 40 years, but you're still a friend. We fought and bled together. You even saved me again the other day. The world is too cold and uncaring to cast away friends like that... I won't make a move against you if you decide to support the New Republic. I'm just giving you a warning of what to expect. "
"Besides I didn't become a master merchant without knowing how to adapt. I'm sure there will be new opportunities and new ex wives waiting for me if the north is unified.", Clovis said raising his drink for a toast," To new ventures and new wives"
Fetch smiled and raised his drink .
Their patrol was relieved by a small task force from Nazag Narg , nearly 40 heavily armed dwarves came in response to reports of a war between Grommers and Snakemen. A dwarven royal adventurer was in charge of the group. Sir Bazlin demanded explanations. Half the training patrol was killed including the respected Sgt Hakon. Frank explained it easy, as he poured out the heads of close to 50 snakemen, Including 3 monstrous skulls out before Bazlin from his magical bag. He even fished out a small red dragon skull for effect.
Bazlin sorted out the paperwork for Fetch and his surviving patrol. As much as they wanted to stay , the companions parted once again. Ymir escorted the remaining pieces of the forge, to her stronghold . Clovis and Brita went to accompany her to see to the initial stages of construction and secure the area. Bazlin assigned several of the patrol to accompany them,Bazlin thought since the army had a minor stake in the project, it would be good to keep an eye on it. Also he felt additional protection would be warranted, after hearing the tales of the battle. Agni ,Trip and the others were assigned to that task. Fetch and Frank were sent back to McDunnalds to report and be reassigned. Clovis insisted they visit his mansion, he told them a letter of introduction would not be necessary just tell them what happened . Ymir chuckled and agreed with his assessment.
"So, we just walk into your house and say Clovis says its cool, and we get the run of the house? No letter, no seal , no nuthin? Do you talk to them magically or something?", asked Frank.
Clovis thought about Franks statement and scribbled some notes, " That's an interesting idea,...but no, nothing magical in that sense. Communication by crystal balls and messenger spells is not that reliable anyways , especially in areas of high magic. "
Brita and Tyris said their goodbyes. Besides himself, Brita seemed to be the only person Tyris opened up to. Maybe they both walked the fine line of being a mortal and being a demigod. Or maybe they both shared the bed of the same man, he mused.
Trip saluted , bowed and waved good bye. "I will never forget that I served under the The great Warmaster , and briefly held the blade of dragon flames. I thank you for the honor and privileged. " Fetch was gonna miss the little guy.
Ymir gave hugs to everyone, even Frank. "Lets get together soon, and lets not wait 40 years next time!"
With that , the companions dispersed once again.
The travel back to McDunnalds was relatively peaceful. The only thing that broke up the idyllic trip was Frank would occasionally pull out his heavy crossbow and shoot at a canary he claimed was following them.
They met some travelers coming from McDunnalds and Karlston. Apparently the third army were engaged in a fierce campaign vs the Darkriver Horde. From their descriptions they appeared to be the same group that ambushed Master Ivan's caravan . Many that were leaving , weren't confident in the army's ability to protect them. So they packed up and literally headed for the hills.
While the group was nearing the end of their trip, Frank awoke them in the middle of the night. Fetch awoke and saw Frank had his blade pressed against the neck of a tall cloaked figure.
"Look what I caught, sneaking around our camp.", Frank said proud of himself.
"Surry?" ,Fetch said. The figure nodded. Frank's eyes focused his eyes and her identity was confirmed, he sighed and sheathed his sword.
The woman , relaxed a little, and backed up a bit. She seemed to be thinking of taking that opportunity to stay or flee. Tyris appeared behind and surprised her , and then directed the half elf to sit down.
"What are you doing here? Why aren't you with the others?", asked Fetch half asleep.
Surry felt uncomfortable being ordered around by Fetch. He was younger then her in both age and appearance. The fact that he was her father made it really awkward. "I signed up for the army, but its impossible for them to ask me to follow a woman I despise. "
Fetch shook his head, he knew she still had major issues with her mother. He understood her anger, but he wouldn't tolerate insults directed to Brita.
Surry sensed that and choose her words carefully. "I told the others before I left, I know its deserting, but I was hoping you'd put a word in for me. It took a while to catch up to you guys, you travel fairly fast. I know you have special orders for your next assignment directly from General Olive herself. I...I was hoping if I could come along."
Fetch started to object, but he saw Tyris behind her motion for him to stop and listen.
"Mother followed her father in the north before , or so I was told. From what everyone has told me he was a great , famous man. Please allow me that opportunity. I know we just met...",she said in a shaky non confident voice.
Tyris nodded her head in agreement.
"Hey if my vote counts, I say yes. Too many dicks not enough chicks in this group. Even plain looking broads count I guess. " said Frank.
Fetch knew he was outvoted, but he also had the final say. " It will probably be dangerous, seems we find danger where ever we go. Even when we aren't looking for it."
"Do we ever look for it? ", laughed Frank.
"I can handle myself, I've been a mercenary for almost as long as you've lived.", she said plainly without disrespect.
Fetch agreed with her observation. She acquitted herself well in the battle with the yuan ti and would have probably been more effective if her gear was better. He cautioned her," I accept , but know that if you seek apprenticeship to improve your skills, you probably chose the wrong people. None of us know arcane magic . Also don't expect free gear, we distribute fairly but everyone earns their stuff here and finally we aren't glory hounds here , don't expect to get famous hanging around us. "
Surry head slumped " I do not seek a master wizard ...gear... or fame, It would be impossible for me to serve with my mother...Please allow me to serve under you". Fetch nodded, and she took over guard duties from Frank.
Fetch wondered if he made the right choice , he wondered if he even had the authority to make such decisions. He laid on his blanket and stared at the stars. He blinked and Tyris was next to him. Her presence came unexpected and silent as usual , he stared at her amber eyes and sighed. He was getting use to her suddenly appearing out of thin air.
She whispered to him, " I think your words were poorly chosen Fetch, I do not believe she is following you to learn your skills, your art, or bask in your "fame". "
Fetch replied ," I don't have to be nice, she deserted her unit and disobeyed orders. Her excuse was she didn't like her mother. If its not skill, fame or fortune what else could be."
Tyris shook her head," Have you ever considered you're her father and shes your daughter?"
The group arrived at McDunnalds and reported to the third army's offices with Sir Bazlin's papers. Fetch was informed that Olive was with the main army. His transfer to Lower Lueders would be temporarily delayed. For now he was given a commission as a captain to a reserve company to back up the campaign against the Darkriver horde. He wasn't surprised at his orders, just the timing. A bit of him thought , he would be finally off to Lower Lueders. He asked to see his unit, but found out they haven't fully formed yet. Apparently they were recruiting from mercenaries , militia, and glory seeking knights from the north. The duty officer couldn't even tell him what the exact role of his company was.
Fetch tried in frustration to see what troops he currently had under his command, but the officer told him to return in 2 days. The cleric threw his hands up in frustration. Even the great host was more organized then this. He began making notes of things he would change. Surry proved to be quite useful in that regard, her wizard training made her an excellent scribe. Fetch thought it was a waste of her talents to be a scribe, but she gladly accepted any role that made her useful.
Frank began suggesting possible roles and positions she could assume to make herself useful . Surry in return , dismissed him icily and simply stated she didn't have affairs with boys half her age.
Tyris went to the estate that Olive let her stay in, and they reported that there was no sign of Goldanna. Frank inquired around the local country side as well, but there was no sign of her. It was as if the mute woman had vanished . Fetch wanted to relax and regroup for the next 2 days, but Frank insisted they check out Clovis's place. Apparently he already raided the villas wine racks.
The mansion was extraordinary from the outside . Fetch had never seen such opulence. Even the "mansions" in Karlston paled before this building. It was built inside the town, and had sturdy 20 foot tall decorated walls. Beyond the walls were gardens, groves, fountains and statues. Clovis even had a real satyr and dryad prance and dance in the garden . The mansion itself was a white and grey castle with steeped towers . It was like a castle from a fairy tale thought Fetch. The guards at the gate escorted them to the mansion , only because they were wearing their new uniforms. The guards didn't seem too impressed with his rank though , but smiled when he claimed he had was given permission by Master Clovis.
The guard knocked on the door, and a mouth appeared on the door. "What is it? I'm busy preparing a shipment of dragon powder. ", said a familiar voice.
"I have a captain from the army claiming that master Clovis had granted him and his friends permission to stay in the estate.", said the guard incredulously.
"Oh really? Master Clovis said that ? They are to be given free reign around the mansion? This I have to hear myself. ", said the voice not impressed.
Fetch felt kind of stupid, he knew that Clovis should have given him a letter. He gave an angry stare at Frank. This was his fault, they should have stayed in Olives estate, now hes gonna look stupid the first day on the job. He was pretty sure that word of this would get around. He didn't normally care that much about his reputation, but he didn't want to be considered a fool.
The door opened, and the companions were shocked when they saw who it was that greeted him. It was Clovis! At least a younger version of Clovis. Older then when he left the north but a lot younger when they saw him a few days ago. Clovis was surprised at seeing them too. "Fetch! Frank! ..Tyris! my god! come in!"
"Wait , whats going on here? Are you Clovis's son or something?", asked Fetch as he entered the opulent mansion.
"Hah! I see you've met Master Clovis. Its difficult to explain... ", said the slightly embarrassed duplicate.
"He's a simulacrum. A magical construct imbued with the same personality ,memories and skills of the original. A rare spell, but not surprising from the Master Artificer Clovis. ", said Surry calmly.
He greeted the strange woman with a smile and they politely introduced themselves.
"Ahh...you have someone of talent with you I see. She's correct I am a simulacrum of Master Clovis. He doesn't trust his main business to just anyone so he created me 30 years ago. While Master Clovis gallivants around the country side to make new deals and set up businesses , I labor tirelessly in this hovel to make ends meet and support his many unappreciative ex wives . ", he said with a feigned frown. "but seriously, its a good life. I was created at a time in his life where he was at the height of his creative drive. I do the mundane parts of the business and enjoy the fruits of his fortune , while he travels abroad and lives in caravans and inns. Please ! Tell me your tale , you obviously must have met Master Clovis recently. Please tell me how you made your way to McDunnalds and why you three haven't seem to age . I guess you aren't simulacrums like myself."
Fetch was tired, so he and Frank took turns explaining. Clovis's reactions were similar to Master Clovis's a few days before. Their entire conversation seemed to closely mimic the one they had a few days ago as well. Clovis could sense their fatigue , and decided to satisfy his curiosity at another time. He requested his servants to prepare guests rooms for his friends. Surry seemed uncomfortable at such treatment, especially since she hardly knew Clovis, but he insisted that a companion of his friends was welcome in his home. He was impressed at her knowledge of constructs and magic in general and used it as an excuse to flirt with her . Fetch wasn't sure if he should mention she was his daughter. He wondered if he should be feeling mad or overprotective , but the whole situation was still surreal to him.
Fetch was tired, when he thought about it , the last time he relaxed was when he took a day off from his journey in Karlston. That was a wonderful day, he and Tyris had a romantic day exploring the picturesque city , had supper at a cozy restaurant and enjoyed each others company in their room at the inn. That was over 2 months ago, since then, hes marched to McDunnalds, signed up for the army, took 5 weeks training and marching, battled snakemen, and marched back to McDunnalds. He was hoping to get a relaxing night sleep.
When he entered the room Clovis's servants had prepared for him, all thoughts of sleep vanished from his mind.
Only one candle illuminated the room. The magical chandeliers and lights were off. On the bed, he could see Tyris wearing nothing, but her leather, boots, gloves, bra, and panties. It was a game they played when intimate, he would try to take them off without using his hands. Her hair was loose, and it scattered around her face. Through the darkness he could still see her mesmerizing yellow eyes and her inviting smile. She seldom smiled, but it melted his heart when she did. She had a tall thin muscular frame and her body was covered with slight scars, even in this state she looked more a warrior then a courtesan or temptress, but seeing her like this all thoughts of the war, his new found children, snakemen and immortals vanished from his mind.
Fetch only had limited experience with women. With Nara, she was confident, and was like knowledgeable teacher. The one time he was with Brita, she was shy and tentative, Fetch felt like a hunter seeking a hare or a fawn. With Tyris, it was always chaotic and unpredictable. Sometimes it was slow sometimes fast. Sometimes soft, other times hard. Certain times she was submissive, others dominating. Fetch had trouble keeping up , and he wasn't ashamed he used magics to match her endurance and stamina. If he was to describe her in one word, it would be hungry.
Fetch eagerly climbed in bed. It was hard to talk to Tyris, most of the time he didn't know what she was thinking. Often he was wracked with doubt over their relationship. However there were 2 times when he knew they both had each others complete trust and love. One is when they are in battle, even the few times she almost killed him, he still had trust in her. The other is when they are throes of passion. Nothing felt more right to Fetch. He briefly wondered if their relationship could survive just on their lust, but he pushed all the doubts from his mind when he embraced her. 2 months without her hungry embrace was more then he could take.
After the 3rd time they joined together , Fetch stared into the yellow eyes of his wife. He thought when he built or bought his next house, it should have a bedroom like this. Not like that shack he had at mammoth keep. Tyris's eyes suddenly narrowed and for a second they appeared catlike. Fetch thought "did she just read my mind?" She violently shoved him off the bed.
*Thwanng*
Fetch's shoulder was on fire as he hit the floor. He looked at his shoulder and it bled profusely. A quick look on the bed showed a crossbow bolt, where his head was a few seconds ago. Fetch looked around and saw the door was closed, his eyes narrowed and he could see movement from the rafters. Tyris had already vaulted up to the roof, only the glint of steel in her teeth gave her position away.
"Assassin!" , Fetch instinctively yelled as he intoned a prayer on his injured shoulder. He glanced at the bolt, and noticed it was barbed, and oozing with a dark liquid. He intoned a prayer of poison neutralizing on the wound just in case.
A clang of metal against metal erupted above him. He grabbed a short sword he had handy under the bed. He learned along time ago to always have a weapon handy. The short sword was given to him as a gift from an elector count of the Ice Griffons. It had the unusual property of being disguised and camouflaged to all but its owner. It was handy to have , but Fetch never had to wield it in battle till now. He drew the blade, and it felt balanced and light.
A high pitched yelp, and a small figure fell from the rafters. Fetch pounced on the small figure and held his sword to his head.
"Trip?", Fetch said as he pinned the warforged scout to the ground.
The bedroom door flew open as Frank and a few servants came scrambling in. Tyris descended from the roof, wearing only her boots and wielding a dagger. Surry and Clovis were the last to come, they had weapons but were only partially dressed.
"What? Am I the only one not getting action tonight?", commented Frank as Clovis and Surry entered embarrassed. He turned his attention to Fetch and Tyris and smiled, "Well , looks like you 2 got me beat when it comes to bedroom games. I thought some ropes and a gag was inventive. But blades, and miniature warforges, thats a little too fetishy for me!"
Trip blurted out,"Forgive me ! I don't know what came over me! I beg for mercy! ", as the servants began securing the small wood and metal man.
Fetch put a blanket over Tyris's shoulders . He examined his shoulder, the prayer had healed it, but he shuddered at thinking how close he was to death. Even if Clovis had some means of reviving him, such methods were not always reliable.
"We need to talk...now.", said a familiar elven voice.
The servants prepared drinks and a late night snack for the companions. They even provided robes for the undressed members. On the middle of the table layed a silver shard with a chain attached to it.
"What is it?" , whispered Surry to Clovis.
"I'm not sure, but the voice is familiar, If I were to hazard a guess that would be a shard from the sacred Elven Blade Galatea.", said an intrigued Clovis.
"Why is it a shard? and why does Frank have it?", Surry continued to whisper fascinated by the broken but still beautiful piece of metal.
"I'm right here you know. I can hear, even read your surface thoughts.", sniffed the sword indignantly." To answer your questions Fetch Spawn, I am indeed the Sacred Blade Galatea. The scourge of Demons. I was shattered in an epic battle where your Grandfather, the redeemed Sir Hildraxel wielded me to slay the demon lord Yeenoghu. It was a glorious battle, but even the eldritch magics that created me were not able to prevent me from shattering . I am here before you , because Seigeer Frank has a habit of taking trophies."
"That means victorious javelin by the way.", winked Frank." I'll gladly demonstrate if any ladies are curious..."
Galatea interrupted Frank by raising her voice to a commanding tone, "The reason I called you , is to let you know the fears I have are apparently real and dangerous. I suspect you know vaguely what I speak of but have ignored or evade them till now. A week ago I glimpsed the Dragonsflame being wielded by Tyris. Dragonsflame is an ancient artifact similar to myself. Where I was created from the soul of a beautiful and radiant Eladrin princess, Dragonsflame was created from the darkheart of an ancient and terrible dragon. An artifact is not merely a powerful magic item, it is a nigh indestructible conduit to immortality. It can only be created by the greatest of magicans or by intervention from deities or demigods. My own creation was for the destruction of demons in the great Eladrin and Tanarii wars, but if I so wished I could set a worthy possessor on the first steps on his path to immortality. My arch enemy ..the Blackblade of Kalidor was created for the sole purpose of elevating the Polymath to immortality. The Dragonsflame is a special artifact , its creation preceded the creation of the legendary vorpal blades. It is a destructive weapon, with all the anger, bitterness, cruelty of a red dragon, multiplied by its imprisonment in a sword. Unlike the "noble " paths of immortality it seeks the path of entropy. It seeks massive destruction upon the land. The type that sinks continent and make entire cultures and people extinct. "
Fetch interrupted,"Wait a minute...umm I was told the sword was a catalyst for the epic hero."
"Who told you this?", demanded Galatea.
Fetch thought about his answer ," ummm a prospector I met, he was a caravan guard once, he mentioned he did janitor work occasionally."
The shard of metal glowed angrily at him and Fetch shrank back in his seat." Dragonsflame can't be wielded by just anyone. It is more stringent then myself on who can wield it. It probably searched millennium till it found a suitable host. If it was separated from its host it would do whatever it could to reunite with her. Your poor friend Trip, was most likely defeated in an ego duel , and forced to do its bidding. It probably sees Fetch as an obstacle in its path, and ordered Trip to eliminate him. "
The shards attention seemed to shift to Tyris, "I bow my head to you. For being a person deemed worthy to be wielded by Dragonsflame and more importantly to resist the temptation it represents. You may have already known the dangers , but I doubt everyone here knew them. I present this to you all as a warning .
"So Trip couldn't handle an ego duel? and went all batty and tried to kill Fetch here? What a wuss...I would ...cluck..cluck..cluck...cluck...", the group stared in amazement as Frank started to strut around clucking like a chicken," ..cluck..cluck...never lose my mind to a sword."
Galatea continued,"As you can see , an ego duel with an artificat is not so easily won, and the power it can exert over the loser is great indeed. I am sorry Tyris, I can surmise that you sought to keep this knowledge hidden, but its danger is too great to those around you .
Tyris shrank in her chair, "I didn't know...I swear I didn't know...I sometimes hear voices, but I thought I was just slightly crazy...I didn't know I was the harbinger of doom or anything like that."
Fetch grasped her hand "I'm sorry. I was told about your "circumstance" but I didn't truly believe it or knew the extent of it. I didn't mean to ..."
Tyris shook her head, "you did nothing wrong. I ..I .. this is too much to take in. I thought I just lost control in battle ...but now your telling me the next time I lose control it could mean the death of everyone."
Galatea sighed ," Achieving immortality is a difficult path, even if you lost control and continued on your path , you would most likely fail. However you would no doubt bring a great deal of pain and misery on the world. Your plight is not completely hopeless though, you could try to seal the blade, if you knew the exact method of its creation you could even attempt to destroy it , although such an endeavor would most likely be as epic as achieving immortality. You could even try to abandon it, but if anyone finds it they would most likely be warped like poor Trip. I get that feeling that your current situation is due to the fact you rejected the temptation of the blade awhile ago. That's a good sign. "
Clovis seemed intrigued , "Where is this blade? and how do we seal it? A cold iron case similar to the one we found you in Galatea? Cast into a pit of demons? It didn't take long for us to recover you. "
Galatea remained silent for a moment ," I would suggest the construction of a deadly vault or a dungeon. Or an area desolate and warded from magic. "
Tyris stuttered..."I remember...bits and pieces...Roland and I attempted to reach the great plateau many times, to place the blade there, but were never able to. I thought the mists prevented our journey, but you're telling me it might have been the blade. Roland was a high priest of Rawk , but we were still separated for years ."
Fetch knew it was the blades doing. The blade separated her and Roland, and even attempted to have him killed. He wondered what his next course of action would be.
Surry finally spoke. "I'm not sure if I'm understanding whats happening. But you seek a place that's powerfully warded, that no one can enter. I know of such a spot. I'm sure you all regard it as myth, but the Great Vault of Grom...I met a man once that swore it was real. If any one place is safe, the magic stores of the Royal Adventures would be."
Clovis chuckled,"I personally know that the vault is real and is most likely the safest spot available , but as you know to place a magic item there, it requires it being handled by Royal Adventurers, would not the blade take control of the fool and continue its vengeance. I highly doubt we can hand such a powerful weapon to those greedy bastards in the first place and tell them not to touch it, or else one of them might risk turning immortal and destroying the world."
"...I mean where do you even keep that thing? I've only seen it once. Um, do you have a secret feminine hiding spot or something? Is that how you placate it? ", asked a very curious Frank.
Tyris ignored the lewd portion of his question, Galatea didn't appear to be pleased, and Frank continued his clucking and scratching around the room. " I'm not sure where It is. Sometimes it just hides in plain sight, other times I just know its near . I can bring it forth , draw it from its hiding spot though. . I would show you , but I fear the consequences it might bring now. I don't want to be a monster... I just want to make people happy with my songs.", she said in a hollow voice.
Fetch held her hand firmly, "Its just a sword, if it wants me killed then it knows its in trouble. We'll figure something out." , he said in a firm voice.
Clovis shook his head " That's either admirable confidence or pitiful naivety. Sorry my friend, but I think we need more concrete measures . It seems most fortunate for you all that you came to my residence. Might I make a suggestion. Master Clovis and I have been working on various containment methods . The forge we seek to create requires the capture and containment of several unique ingredients. A balor's heart, A brijidine's laugh, a pitfiend's brain, and a phoenix's feather . All are creatures linked with intense fire, I'm guessing a dragonsword would could also be contained by such a device. I have a working prototype. I am willing to part with it ..."
"For a price right?", said Fetch sighing. He didn't blame Clovis, it was probably a part of his commands as a construct to never part with anything valuable without suitable compensation. Even if it was the real Clovis here, he doubted he would part with his invention lightly.
"Yes, I am sorry, but even for friends such a device is costly to construct. I do not seek monetary compensation, but I need aid in retrieving very rare and powerful components. I've already requested Ymir to be of assistance, but I doubt even she or her mercenaries could secure the above components. If you were to promise me to aid me in retrieving just one of the above I would willing part with this device.", said Clovis.
Fetch thought that was fair. He didn't recognize any of the names except the balor and phoenix, he assumed a pitfiend was a similarly powerful demon as well, and he had no clue what a brijjillii was , but it couldn't be that hard to make it laugh would it? His friends fought a balor once , the fight was deadly but he was sure he could gather a powerful enough team to repeat that feat. Brita, Hero, Ymir...maybe Earl.
"I have a balor's heart ," said Frank. The table sat in stunned silence. Frank reached into his pack and probed it with his arm for awhile , finally he pulled a hideously black heart out ...it slowly beated in his hand. "Don't worry I use it as a punching bag every few days with my righteous brawler gloves. Its perfectly safe ..I think"
Clovis drew a small case, and retrieved a pair of glasses from it. He muttered a few arcane words and stared at the heart. His head snapped back and he almost fell from his chair, as Surry barely caught him. "Yes! it is indeed a balors heart! Where did you get it!"
"Well, you see I have a habit of collecting trophies of anything I kill . It impresses the chicks and sometimes gets me a bounty. ", smiled Frank.
The night was filled with frenzied activity. Fetch held a depressed and sulken Tyris for most of it. Most people would be overjoyed to find out they were chosen to become an immortal and possessor of an ancient artificat, but Tyris seemed to already know the consequences of such a path. Fetch thought she must have buried the memories and now they came back to haunt her. She didn't blame Galatea , she did the right thing in bringing it to light. He blamed himself for not having the courage to confront his wife. He feared angry denials or even worse alternatives, she might have fled. The thought of her slaying him or getting someone else to kill him never crossed his mind till now.
Clovis was tireless and with Surry's arcane help, managed to finish construction on a metal sphere . It was similar to the iron case that held Galatea , but smaller and spherical. He told Tyris to place whatever magical means she kept the sword into the sphere, he would then lock it, and dip it in a thin coat of adamant and a mysterious substance known as quintessence. Then he would seal the gears of the lock and render it almost impervious to scrying by all but the most powerful magics .
She appeared to reach into the air, but she stopped. Fetch could see tears and sweat pour down her eyes and brow. He wanted to support her, but Surry held him back. Fetch looked at his daughter in surprise, and she returned with a sorrowful shake of her head. "Its her battle now, if she can't do this willingly , she will be driven slowly mad for her desire of the blade." Fetch was surprised at how knowledgeable her daughter was on such matters. But it shouldn't have surprised her, she was a wizard, and wizards were known for being knowledgeable about all forms of magic.
Tyris , slowly seemed to grasp an invisible object and tightened her grip on it. She stayed motionless for a few tense seconds and breathed heavily and slowly. She then drew the blade. It appeared to be an inert rune covered sword, not at all like the engine of destruction Galatea described. She then relaxed a bit and placed it back into its invisible sheath , and walked to the waiting sphere. She placed the invisible object into the sphere. Clovis nodded, and uttered some words , his glasses glowed and he inspected the contents of the sphere. He filled the sphere with a strange grey liquid he called quintessence. Confident that the task was done, he shut the sphere, and moved and shifted a series of complex locks and tumblers. When he was done, he lowered the sphere into a small pot of dark liquid. After a few seconds he raised the sphere up , and a small dark sphere was the result. Tyris seem to breath a deep sigh of relief.
Clovis seemed pleased, "Its done, whatever magical compulsion it had upon you or Trip is broken now. The only thing that would force you to retrieve it would be your own desires. Do not take such temptations lightly, its still your key to "ultimate power", and I guess since you've handled it before you know its power and lure. I would store it in a safe place as well. You could store it here, or even attempt to secret it in a pit or throw it the ocean, but I suggest something more complex, perhaps an area of anti magic , a dangerous dungeon or an impregnable vault. You might want to keep it on your person. You wont be able to get at it, not without extreme measures, but being cut off from such a powerful source of power will probably be a shock to the system, it might be reassuring to have it around , till you are confident of its disposal."
Fetch was concerned,"This is all happening so quickly, what do you mean source of power? Will she change?", Fetch was concerned Tyris's unique abilities in combat might be affected or she might age rapidly. He never discussed it , but he suspected she was far older then she appeared.
Clovis shrugged," I don't know , but whatever powers the sword had on her, has been cut off, even a diety would have troubles projecting his power through that prison." Tyris nodded at his statement. Unsure how this would affect her.
Clovis seemed pleased with himself, "One more thing, Lady Galatea?"
The shard on Franks neck shimmered "Yes? How can I be of assistance to the esteemed construct artificer?"
Clovis smiled, " No , it is I that can be of assistance to you, I humbly ask to be the one to reforge your shard. "
"Oh , you think your skill is a match for the greatest of eladrin smiths?", stated the shard haughtily.
Clovis began to boast, "Please, Please...if the greatest dwarfs ,bladelings or even fiendish smiths forged you. I would gladly admit I am no match for their skills. However you were created by the greatest eladrin smiths, that's like saying you were made by the greatest orc smiths in my opinions. Eladrin magic is mighty, but their smithing techniques have much to be desired. Please do not take my confidence as insulting, but I was constructed when my master was at the height of his craft, before he moved onto more mercantile pursuits. My arcane specialty is specifically the creation of magic items, and I assure you , my skill is second to none. Perhaps the legendary Demon King of Grom or the the dark Lord of Baradur might be my equal, but no mortal in Grom save Master Clovis can equal my craft. It would be my honor and privileged to reforge you . " m
"For a price of course!", Clovis injected before an answer was reached.
"Ummm...I have some demon lord fur...and a red dragon skull the size of 4 dog skulls", said Frank.