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<blockquote data-quote="pogre" data-source="post: 1058037" data-attributes="member: 6588"><p>Episode 12</p><p>Too Many Elves</p><p></p><p>The following is based on the Gaslight Press adventure <em>The Gryphon’s Legacy</em> by Wolfgang Baur.</p><p></p><p>The man wore the livery of the Lord Noble Helmall and was unwavering in his efforts to block Gerhardt.</p><p></p><p>“Look here,” Gerhardt snarled. “Ye’ got two choices, get out of my way or pull your weapon and get ready to get stuck.”</p><p></p><p>“My master has insisted that you attend to him immediately,” the servant remained stolid.</p><p></p><p>“We just saved his whelp,” Gerhardt knew this was not entirely true. “Tell your lord we will see him tomorrow morning. Err, make that afternoon.”</p><p></p><p>“Your help was much appreciated,” the servant replied diplomatically. </p><p></p><p>Gjord approached, “What’s the problem Gerhardt? Is this fellow trying to collect a tab from you?”</p><p></p><p>“I am here on orders from Lord Noble Helmall. Lord Noble Helmall requests an immediate meeting,” the servant replied.</p><p></p><p>“That is bloody inconvenient,” Gjord remarked. “We better go hear him out. Has someone been sent to get the sisters?”</p><p></p><p>“They are already at the Lord Noble’s manor,” the servant answered.</p><p></p><p>“Well, I hope your lord has a keg of ale and will allow me a roll with one of his maid servants. That is the least recompense I demand,” Gerhardt turned to leave the Tabard Inn’s entryway.</p><p></p><p>The servant opened his mouth to reply. Quarion winked at him, “Don’t bother getting indignant. You will just encourage him.”</p><p></p><p>…..</p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.compet-edge.com/story_hour_2/0501_meeting_Helmall_elves.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.compet-edge.com/story_hour_2/0501_meeting_Helmall_elves_th.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></a></p><p></p><p>The three were led into the audience chamber where the two sisters, Lord Helmall and two elves were waiting for them.</p><p></p><p>“Oh look Quarion,” Gerhardt laughed. “A couple more tree-huggers. Maybe the three of you could run out and have a good frolic with the Fey in the woods or something.”</p><p></p><p>“Gerhardt, be still,” Hilde demanded. “Lord Helmall was informing us of a matter of some import, one which could be potentially lucrative for all involved.”</p><p></p><p>“If that means money, I’m all ears,” Gerhardt pointed to his ears. “Course you three tree-huggers are always that way, eh?” he nudged Quarion, who rolled his eyes.</p><p></p><p>Quarion nodded to the two elves in a slight greeting no one else but the elves in the chamber noticed. He recognized one of them, Ranin, a ranger from the northern woods who was a master with the bow. He had won a few archery contests when Quarion was back home, even upsetting Til’Hedar in the western cup match. The other was unfamiliar to him.</p><p></p><p>“These two elves have brought me troubling news,” Helmall began. “For some time there has been a pause in the trade routes to the north. It was well known that bandits were to blame. Now Ranin and E’lisarr tell me that the problem is much worse than we assumed. A bandit king of some sort has set up residence at Griffon Rock, an old Northern Kingdom castle.”</p><p></p><p>“It is well known that Griffon Rock is used as wintering quarters for bandits. The Odyssean* ruins reputed to be below the castle tend to discourage permanent settlement,” Inga added.</p><p></p><p>“This is much more serious,” Helmall interjected. “These bandits are demanding fealty from the surrounding villages and have completely choked off trade. Further, they ride mysterious skeletal horses and have glowing armor. The locals have taken to calling them ghost riders.”</p><p></p><p>Lord Noble Helmall turned to E’lisarr who spoke up, “Lord Noble Helmall has asked us to lead you to Griffon Rock. We are to infiltrate the stronghold and destroy the bandits.”</p><p></p><p>Helmall smiled, “Of course that would be ideal, but if it is not possible get as much information about the situation as possible. Norgate will simply not tolerate another political entity springing up so close in the north. Especially one that would be a bandit kingdom.”</p><p></p><p>“The resumption of trade is the top priority?” Hilde asked.</p><p></p><p>“Yes,” Helmall confirmed. “The villages of the north are of no concern to Norgate, only the trade.”</p><p></p><p>“Is the rest of the ruling table in accord with you?” Gerhardt asked.</p><p></p><p>The room went completely quiet. The outrageous brashness of Gerhardt’s question made them all hold their breath, aside from Gerhardt who remained oblivious or uncaring.</p><p></p><p>Helmall chortled, “I did not realize you were an observer of high politics Gerhardt. However, your curiosity is honest if nothing else. And yes, this is a matter the High Table** is in full agreement upon.”</p><p></p><p>“When do we leave?” Gjord asked.</p><p></p><p>“I have horses prepared,” Ranin answered. “Once you have checked your gear we should set off immediately. Griffon Rock is a five day ride.”</p><p></p><p>“Now hold on,” Gerhardt began. “I want to know…”</p><p></p><p>“Gerhardt, be still,” Hilde commanded. “Know your place. The Lord Noble has assured us we will be richly rewarded if we are successful and has offered us the use of mounts. That is all we need.”</p><p></p><p>Gerhardt grumped, but said nothing more.</p><p></p><p>“I will tell the grooms to make ready,” Lord Helmall stated leaving the chamber followed by a liveried servant.</p><p></p><p>…..</p><p></p><p>The group thundered north and pushed into the darkness before the elves pulled in their reigns. A camp was quickly established and little conversation passed between the adventurers. The first three days passed much like this, a hard day’s riding followed by a quick camp set-up. There was very little traffic on the northern trade roads.</p><p></p><p>The fourth day the group approached a large contingent of people moving south. The ragtag group stretched out for several hundred yards and moved slowly. Two men rode out ahead and greeted the party. They informed the adventurers that they were refugees from Moordit and were heading south for a better life.</p><p></p><p>“You flee the bandits then?” Gjord asked.</p><p></p><p>“They were demanding more than we could pay,” the villager answered. “When they raided our village nine months ago we thought that was the end. They kept coming though. They stole our livestock, our seed, and even some of our women. Now they demand regular taxes. We have had enough. We are leaving.”</p><p></p><p>“How many are there?” Inga asked.</p><p></p><p>“I do not know,” the villager answered. “At least a dozen, maybe two-dozen. They ride skeletal horses and have glowing armor. But, we only faced one of their raids. They required a village elder to go to Griffon Rock every moon. They then told the elder what was demanded.”</p><p></p><p>“What race are they?” Inga asked.</p><p></p><p>“I do not know. They are humanoid. Probably humans, but no one has seen their faces,” he answered.</p><p></p><p>…..</p><p></p><p>The elves informed the group they were approaching Feldar. One of the few villages untouched by the bandits. No sooner had they made this assertion than a column of smoke was seen rising in the distance. They spurred their horses.</p><p></p><p>Feldar was smoldering. Corpses were face down in the muddy green. Pigs were running lose and children were crying. Hilde finally found an old man who explained the village had been sacked by the raiders. The men had organized a militia to resist and to this point they had not been touched. Last night the raiders came and killed all of the men. There were only a few women and children remaining and they were trying to decide what to do next.</p><p></p><p>Gjord also learned that there was a druid in the forest that sometimes came to the town. His name was Vostark and he could occasionally be found in the druidic circle to the west of the village. The group decided to seek out the druid and gain all the information they could.</p><p></p><p>…..</p><p></p><p>The druidic circle was found in short order and nightfall came quickly thereafter. The group decided to set-up camp just outside of the circle. Quarion spotted something on his dawn watch – it was enormous – a bear at least eight-feet tall at the shoulder. He quickly woke the rest of the group.</p><p></p><p>Quarion notched an arrow and took aim at the massive bruin. Gjord knocked the elf aside, and the arrow flopped into the air harmlessly. “We’re near a druidic circle,” Gjord whispered harshly. “It is probably a friend of the druid’s or possibly the druid himself.”</p><p></p><p>Almost on cue the bear shape-shifted into a human.</p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.compet-edge.com/story_hour_2/0502_druid_vostark.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.compet-edge.com/story_hour_2/0502_druid_vostark_th.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></a></p><p></p><p>“I am Vostark,” the druid announced. The group introduced themselves. “Have you come to worship or seek advice?”</p><p></p><p>“The latter,” Hilde answered. “The village of Feldar was sacked last night.”</p><p></p><p>“Yes, I could feel the undeath in the area,” Vostark patted a stone surrounding the circle. “How does this affect you? You hardly appear to be shepherds or farmers.”</p><p></p><p>“Lord Noble Helmall sent us to destroy the bandits’ base,” Hilde answered.</p><p></p><p>“Oh that is well for the balance,” Vostark stated.</p><p></p><p>“What do you know of these raiders?” E’lisarr asked.</p><p></p><p>“There are about a dozen. They ride undead mounts and wear a strange armor. They are using undead to guard Griffon Rock,” Vostark tapped his head for a moment. “It is good you are here to challenge them.”</p><p></p><p>“Are you interested in accompanying us?” Inga asked.</p><p></p><p>“No,” the druid said slowly. “But, I am willing to help. If you find yourselves in dire straits go west from Griffon Rock. You will find a deep canyon; within there is a circle of the Old Faith. You cannot see it, but I will mark it with a stag skull to make it obvious. If you come there I will know and will come to you.”</p><p></p><p>“That is very kind,” Hilde bowed. “Is there any thing we can do for you?”</p><p></p><p>“You are already going to perform a great service from my view,” Vostark answered.</p><p></p><p>“Do you know of any secret way or less traveled way into Griffon Rock?” Ranin asked.</p><p></p><p>“There are some foul dire badgers that have excavated a home near the castle. Perhaps you can use their burrow,” Vostark offered.</p><p></p><p>“Thank you kindly,” Hilde bowed again. “We shall leave you in peace fair Vostark.”</p><p></p><p>“One more thing,” the druid added. “There is a young griffon on the road to Griffon Rock. It will undoubtedly confront you. It is trying to establish a territory.”</p><p></p><p>“We can kill it, don’t worry,” Gerhardt stated.</p><p></p><p>“I think it can be dissuaded without killing it,” Vostark responded tersely.</p><p></p><p>“Of course,” Hilde replied. “We will be most careful.”</p><p></p><p>…..</p><p></p><p>The elves leading the party north hesitated in the road ahead. “What’s wrong?” Inga asked. The elves pointed up.</p><p></p><p><a href="http://www.compet-edge.com/story_hour_2/0503_young_griffon.jpg" target="_blank"><img src="http://www.compet-edge.com/story_hour_2/0503_young_griffon_th.jpg" alt="" class="fr-fic fr-dii fr-draggable " style="" /></a></p><p></p><p>to be continued…</p><p></p><p>*A little Olde Realm history – the Odysseans were an ancient people that dominated the area known as the Olde Realm at least several hundred years ago. Their civilization was wiped out by volcanic explosions that buried their capitol. The capitol was the hub of political, military, and economic activity, when it disappeared the rest of the empire eventually died away like branches with no trunk. The current city of Derlon is reputed to be built on the ruins of the ancient capitol.</p><p></p><p>**The High Table is a council of six nobles descended from Northern Kings who rule Norgate.</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="pogre, post: 1058037, member: 6588"] Episode 12 Too Many Elves The following is based on the Gaslight Press adventure [I]The Gryphon’s Legacy[/I] by Wolfgang Baur. The man wore the livery of the Lord Noble Helmall and was unwavering in his efforts to block Gerhardt. “Look here,” Gerhardt snarled. “Ye’ got two choices, get out of my way or pull your weapon and get ready to get stuck.” “My master has insisted that you attend to him immediately,” the servant remained stolid. “We just saved his whelp,” Gerhardt knew this was not entirely true. “Tell your lord we will see him tomorrow morning. Err, make that afternoon.” “Your help was much appreciated,” the servant replied diplomatically. Gjord approached, “What’s the problem Gerhardt? Is this fellow trying to collect a tab from you?” “I am here on orders from Lord Noble Helmall. Lord Noble Helmall requests an immediate meeting,” the servant replied. “That is bloody inconvenient,” Gjord remarked. “We better go hear him out. Has someone been sent to get the sisters?” “They are already at the Lord Noble’s manor,” the servant answered. “Well, I hope your lord has a keg of ale and will allow me a roll with one of his maid servants. That is the least recompense I demand,” Gerhardt turned to leave the Tabard Inn’s entryway. The servant opened his mouth to reply. Quarion winked at him, “Don’t bother getting indignant. You will just encourage him.” ….. [URL=http://www.compet-edge.com/story_hour_2/0501_meeting_Helmall_elves.jpg][IMG]http://www.compet-edge.com/story_hour_2/0501_meeting_Helmall_elves_th.jpg[/IMG][/URL] The three were led into the audience chamber where the two sisters, Lord Helmall and two elves were waiting for them. “Oh look Quarion,” Gerhardt laughed. “A couple more tree-huggers. Maybe the three of you could run out and have a good frolic with the Fey in the woods or something.” “Gerhardt, be still,” Hilde demanded. “Lord Helmall was informing us of a matter of some import, one which could be potentially lucrative for all involved.” “If that means money, I’m all ears,” Gerhardt pointed to his ears. “Course you three tree-huggers are always that way, eh?” he nudged Quarion, who rolled his eyes. Quarion nodded to the two elves in a slight greeting no one else but the elves in the chamber noticed. He recognized one of them, Ranin, a ranger from the northern woods who was a master with the bow. He had won a few archery contests when Quarion was back home, even upsetting Til’Hedar in the western cup match. The other was unfamiliar to him. “These two elves have brought me troubling news,” Helmall began. “For some time there has been a pause in the trade routes to the north. It was well known that bandits were to blame. Now Ranin and E’lisarr tell me that the problem is much worse than we assumed. A bandit king of some sort has set up residence at Griffon Rock, an old Northern Kingdom castle.” “It is well known that Griffon Rock is used as wintering quarters for bandits. The Odyssean* ruins reputed to be below the castle tend to discourage permanent settlement,” Inga added. “This is much more serious,” Helmall interjected. “These bandits are demanding fealty from the surrounding villages and have completely choked off trade. Further, they ride mysterious skeletal horses and have glowing armor. The locals have taken to calling them ghost riders.” Lord Noble Helmall turned to E’lisarr who spoke up, “Lord Noble Helmall has asked us to lead you to Griffon Rock. We are to infiltrate the stronghold and destroy the bandits.” Helmall smiled, “Of course that would be ideal, but if it is not possible get as much information about the situation as possible. Norgate will simply not tolerate another political entity springing up so close in the north. Especially one that would be a bandit kingdom.” “The resumption of trade is the top priority?” Hilde asked. “Yes,” Helmall confirmed. “The villages of the north are of no concern to Norgate, only the trade.” “Is the rest of the ruling table in accord with you?” Gerhardt asked. The room went completely quiet. The outrageous brashness of Gerhardt’s question made them all hold their breath, aside from Gerhardt who remained oblivious or uncaring. Helmall chortled, “I did not realize you were an observer of high politics Gerhardt. However, your curiosity is honest if nothing else. And yes, this is a matter the High Table** is in full agreement upon.” “When do we leave?” Gjord asked. “I have horses prepared,” Ranin answered. “Once you have checked your gear we should set off immediately. Griffon Rock is a five day ride.” “Now hold on,” Gerhardt began. “I want to know…” “Gerhardt, be still,” Hilde commanded. “Know your place. The Lord Noble has assured us we will be richly rewarded if we are successful and has offered us the use of mounts. That is all we need.” Gerhardt grumped, but said nothing more. “I will tell the grooms to make ready,” Lord Helmall stated leaving the chamber followed by a liveried servant. ….. The group thundered north and pushed into the darkness before the elves pulled in their reigns. A camp was quickly established and little conversation passed between the adventurers. The first three days passed much like this, a hard day’s riding followed by a quick camp set-up. There was very little traffic on the northern trade roads. The fourth day the group approached a large contingent of people moving south. The ragtag group stretched out for several hundred yards and moved slowly. Two men rode out ahead and greeted the party. They informed the adventurers that they were refugees from Moordit and were heading south for a better life. “You flee the bandits then?” Gjord asked. “They were demanding more than we could pay,” the villager answered. “When they raided our village nine months ago we thought that was the end. They kept coming though. They stole our livestock, our seed, and even some of our women. Now they demand regular taxes. We have had enough. We are leaving.” “How many are there?” Inga asked. “I do not know,” the villager answered. “At least a dozen, maybe two-dozen. They ride skeletal horses and have glowing armor. But, we only faced one of their raids. They required a village elder to go to Griffon Rock every moon. They then told the elder what was demanded.” “What race are they?” Inga asked. “I do not know. They are humanoid. Probably humans, but no one has seen their faces,” he answered. ….. The elves informed the group they were approaching Feldar. One of the few villages untouched by the bandits. No sooner had they made this assertion than a column of smoke was seen rising in the distance. They spurred their horses. Feldar was smoldering. Corpses were face down in the muddy green. Pigs were running lose and children were crying. Hilde finally found an old man who explained the village had been sacked by the raiders. The men had organized a militia to resist and to this point they had not been touched. Last night the raiders came and killed all of the men. There were only a few women and children remaining and they were trying to decide what to do next. Gjord also learned that there was a druid in the forest that sometimes came to the town. His name was Vostark and he could occasionally be found in the druidic circle to the west of the village. The group decided to seek out the druid and gain all the information they could. ….. The druidic circle was found in short order and nightfall came quickly thereafter. The group decided to set-up camp just outside of the circle. Quarion spotted something on his dawn watch – it was enormous – a bear at least eight-feet tall at the shoulder. He quickly woke the rest of the group. Quarion notched an arrow and took aim at the massive bruin. Gjord knocked the elf aside, and the arrow flopped into the air harmlessly. “We’re near a druidic circle,” Gjord whispered harshly. “It is probably a friend of the druid’s or possibly the druid himself.” Almost on cue the bear shape-shifted into a human. [URL=http://www.compet-edge.com/story_hour_2/0502_druid_vostark.jpg][IMG]http://www.compet-edge.com/story_hour_2/0502_druid_vostark_th.jpg[/IMG][/URL] “I am Vostark,” the druid announced. The group introduced themselves. “Have you come to worship or seek advice?” “The latter,” Hilde answered. “The village of Feldar was sacked last night.” “Yes, I could feel the undeath in the area,” Vostark patted a stone surrounding the circle. “How does this affect you? You hardly appear to be shepherds or farmers.” “Lord Noble Helmall sent us to destroy the bandits’ base,” Hilde answered. “Oh that is well for the balance,” Vostark stated. “What do you know of these raiders?” E’lisarr asked. “There are about a dozen. They ride undead mounts and wear a strange armor. They are using undead to guard Griffon Rock,” Vostark tapped his head for a moment. “It is good you are here to challenge them.” “Are you interested in accompanying us?” Inga asked. “No,” the druid said slowly. “But, I am willing to help. If you find yourselves in dire straits go west from Griffon Rock. You will find a deep canyon; within there is a circle of the Old Faith. You cannot see it, but I will mark it with a stag skull to make it obvious. If you come there I will know and will come to you.” “That is very kind,” Hilde bowed. “Is there any thing we can do for you?” “You are already going to perform a great service from my view,” Vostark answered. “Do you know of any secret way or less traveled way into Griffon Rock?” Ranin asked. “There are some foul dire badgers that have excavated a home near the castle. Perhaps you can use their burrow,” Vostark offered. “Thank you kindly,” Hilde bowed again. “We shall leave you in peace fair Vostark.” “One more thing,” the druid added. “There is a young griffon on the road to Griffon Rock. It will undoubtedly confront you. It is trying to establish a territory.” “We can kill it, don’t worry,” Gerhardt stated. “I think it can be dissuaded without killing it,” Vostark responded tersely. “Of course,” Hilde replied. “We will be most careful.” ….. The elves leading the party north hesitated in the road ahead. “What’s wrong?” Inga asked. The elves pointed up. [URL=http://www.compet-edge.com/story_hour_2/0503_young_griffon.jpg][IMG]http://www.compet-edge.com/story_hour_2/0503_young_griffon_th.jpg[/IMG][/URL] to be continued… *A little Olde Realm history – the Odysseans were an ancient people that dominated the area known as the Olde Realm at least several hundred years ago. Their civilization was wiped out by volcanic explosions that buried their capitol. The capitol was the hub of political, military, and economic activity, when it disappeared the rest of the empire eventually died away like branches with no trunk. The current city of Derlon is reputed to be built on the ruins of the ancient capitol. **The High Table is a council of six nobles descended from Northern Kings who rule Norgate. [/QUOTE]
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