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The Gate Pass Irregulars: A War of the Burning Sky Campaign
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<blockquote data-quote="Cafu" data-source="post: 5997075" data-attributes="member: 6692807"><p>This pattern was repeated for the next several days. Longhelim and the others said that they had gone to Simeon to see if there was anything urgent that was suited to our particular talents but were told that considering our most recent achievements, we should enjoy our rest. We “rested” by undertaking all the tasks that I mentioned previously. </p><p></p><p>I indulged in the luxury of the Lyceum magical library. I doubted that I would get such a chance again and I wanted to seize as much knowledge as possible with both hands. I used all of the magical inks I had been generously granted by Simeon and then spent most of the funds I had accumulated to purchase some more. In a rather embarrassing situation, I found myself devoid of money.</p><p></p><p>It was as I realised this that I was told that this was the evening of the great gala invitation to the dignitaries of Seaquen and the Lyceum to attend the Wayfarer’s Theatre. I had actually been planning to stay and continue my research as I had little interest in the legendary adventures of a half orc druid; however, I had run out of both money and ink and I was very curious about the magic being used in the performance which everyone had mentioned. So, changing my mind, I put my best robes on and joined the others on the way to the performance. Everyone else was also looking their best. It was unusual to see Victor, Longhelim and Felix without their armour. John of course never wore visible armour, and Drudge was in armour that was not out of place in a theatrical performance. His leather shone magnificently. Everyone was armed of course. It would have been a step too far for the Wayfarers to ask everyone not to bring their weapons but the warriors were making an attempt to be discreet with cloaks or clothing hiding pommels and scabbards where possible. </p><p></p><p>Katrina was also with us, attired glamorously in a very revealing dress, blue this time. I am not sure if she was nervous or just tense, but she did seem to be talking a lot tonight, even by her standards; or maybe I had just forgotten what it was like travelling with her. Anyway, she decided to stay with us as we boarded the small boat which rowed us to the large ship, the Wayfarer’s Theater. As usual, it was quite windy, with the row over the harbour waters being fairly rough and wet. </p><p></p><p>Once aboard the ship, the pitching had abated noticeably and we were dried off by that little cantrip that was also being used in the Lyceum. Then we were led downstairs into the Theatre proper. As had been mentioned previously it was an impressive piece of extra planar magic. It was one thing to be told about it, and another to actually experience it. The seats were beautifully upholstered and very comfortable. The floor was carpeted and the walls were painted with scenes which I assumed were from myths and legends. They certainly looked like it. I presumed that there were cunningly hidden magical lights there, as well as sound emitters. </p><p></p><p>It seemed that we were one of the last to arrive as the play began almost as soon as we sat down. We were sitting at the back and I watched the story unfold. It was quite preposterous and my attention was quickly distracted by a very interesting commentary that Katarina was making about the performance we were seeing. Her interpretation was very good and it likened the play to the current political situation; with Ragesia, mighty and powerful, facing a lone hero who defies her for centuries and finally triumphs. Not everyone seemed to agree with Katarina’s interpretation though, as I saw several people turn and either look at her pointedly or even audibly tell her to keep quiet. </p><p></p><p>Then I became distracted by the various magical effects that were being used to enhance the play; the lighting, the sounds and the various illusions. Again, these were of a masterly standard. I tried to point this out to Drudge sitting next to me, but he told me to keep quiet as he was watching the play. He sounded quite grumpy. One had to hand it to these Wayfarers, even if they couldn’t use their planar magic any more, they were still great actors. I was trying to work out how it was all put together, twisting and turning in my seat, when the first act finished. Drudge quickly asked Victor if they could swap seats for some reason. </p><p></p><p>During the break, there was a slight altercation. Apparently a few people really did have a problem with Katarina’s commentary and in no uncertain terms were telling her that she was being objectionable. Katarina being Katarina was giving as good as she got and maintained that the true meaning behind the play was just as important as the overt version; and that she was sure that more people appreciated her version; and that as soon as they realised how accurate her interpretation was, that the people objecting to her commentary would also be grateful for her words.</p><p></p><p>Before more could be said, the lights dimmed again and the curtain went up. Defiantly, Katarina continued with her version. The second act of the play continued much like the first; then the lights went up again and as we relaxed, John stiffened and looked behind us. I followed his gaze and saw a figure step stealthily from the wall and go up the stairs, the exit nearest to us. As he turned, I caught a glimpse of his face and a flash of red on his clothing; I had seen enough in the past to realize that that was blood. The face belonged to Giorgio, the leading man and second in command of the Wayfarers. </p><p></p><p>“Quick, let’s follow him!”a loud whisper from Katrina. </p><p></p><p>We all followed her lead, up the stairs.</p><p></p><p>Almost immediately, I heard shouts and the clash of swords from above. I couldn’t see what was going on; the stairs were spiraling and I could only see Drudge and John in front of me. They were not moving, obviously blocked by the shouting and clashing swords above. Drudge and John finally moved but then suddenly, the stairs just disappeared. Everyone else was gone; I was just preparing to follow them when I found myself with nothing to ascend; most frustrating.</p><p></p><p>The shouts and sounds of combat had attracted more of the audience as well as the presence of a truly beautiful woman. She was moving towards me with stately grace when the stairs disappeared. The grace went out the window and a full fledged sprint replaced it. She looked at the absence of stairs in disbelief:</p><p></p><p>“What? No one should be able to do that!”</p><p></p><p>I presumed this was Guildmaster Sheena Larkins. </p><p></p><p>She made several magical passes and cast several spells in quick succession. I studied what she did but a great deal was very much beyond me. </p><p></p><p>Other parts of the audience were becoming very restless as they suddenly realised that they were trapped. Those stairs were the only way out. </p><p></p><p>“Oy, woman! What kind of messed up play are you running here! What’s happened? Where have the stairs gone?” Votberd’s distinctive voice rang out in the hall. </p><p></p><p>By this point, I couldn’t hear anything from above because there was so much noise from down here. Several people seemed to be conferring with Sheena and finally she nodded. </p><p></p><p>“Ladies and gentlemen,” she began, “my apologies for this impromptu interruption in the performance. Please give me a little time and I am sure I will be able to restore both the exit and the performance shortly.”</p><p></p><p>After that, she began to perform a long, powerful and complicated ritual. I watched her closely. I could only catch a part of it before I lost track of her magic but despite this, I was able to follow bits here and there; it was magic of a very high order. I was to the side and saw Simeon watching her and once or twice make a small hand motion, as if prompting her. </p><p></p><p>After some time, the stairs appeared again and there was a rush upstairs. </p><p></p><p>I finally managed to get up there and saw……a mess. Victor, Longhelim and Felix were a mess, with torn, bloody clothing and the corpse of a half orc next to them. It must be said that they looked little better than corpses themselves. Katarina was an unconscious figure next to them, with a huge bump on her head.</p><p></p><p>Victor was the first person I saw: “What happened?”</p><p></p><p>Victor, being Victor, said: “They had full plate armour; we didn’t.”</p><p></p><p>Seeing that Simeon and Sheena Larkins had both approached as well, Longhelim stepped up: </p><p></p><p>“We emerged on deck to see Giorgio doing something in the cabin over there.” He motioned to a cabin behind him.</p><p></p><p> Sheena, paled and involuntarily uttered: “No” as she lurched forward. </p><p></p><p>“Don’t worry,” continued Longhelim, “John stopped whatever it was he was doing there. We assumed he was setting up the ship to teleport and fry us all.”</p><p></p><p>“Anyway, Giorgio had several friends; a big barbarian, a cleric wearing full armour and a gnome. There was a fight and they crucified us. Victor and I both came very close to death. The only reason why we won was because we outnumbered them quite badly. If it wasn’t for that, we would now be finding out what happens to us when the ship teleports. Oh, by the way, he also disappeared in a flash of flame, much like our friend Mr. Beard from the Fire Forest. I don’t know if Giorgio was a “child of Hell” as Katrina would say but he certainly acted very similar to one. Oh yes, there is also a small boat tied down there. I am not sure what is in it but there are several shapes tied in canvas sacks down there. Now, I would like to leave this damn boat as quickly as possible.”</p><p></p><p>Sheena looked stricken. She also looked very worried. I was not surprised. If she had that sort of treachery happening under her nose and had no suspicions, well, she was not much of a Guildmaster. The full leadership of Seaquen had almost perished because her second in command was a traitor; and she obviously had had no idea, as she would have been one of the victims. </p><p></p><p>I was still looking around, when I noticed that everyone was making their way to the small boats at great speed; the ship was also pitching much more than previously. Oddly, I had not noticed it because I was not feeling the pull of the wind; at all. No doubt about it; the wind had definitely picked up but it was not making any difference to me; I was impervious to it. So were Drudge, John, Longhelim, Victor and Felix; in other words, this seemed to be part of the changes that we had felt since our exit from the Forest. </p><p></p><p>Nevertheless, like everyone else, we left the Wayfarers Theatre and rapidly returned to the Lyceum. </p><p></p><p>Once there, all of us were quickly shunted into a room where several healers were sent to deal with the injuries suffered by everyone; and all the others were very banged up, none more so than Katarina. Apparently, she had been shunted over the deck rail and fell down to the small boat tendered next to the ship. </p><p></p><p>All this healing, by wand, potion and spell took a little time and then everyone went to the library, waiting for any news. A little time later, Simeon and Kiernan both came in, looking serious; in fact Simeon looked shocked. Kiernan just looked as if he wanted to crush rocks. </p><p></p><p>“I don’t know where to start,” he said. The slowly, as if ordering his thoughts he began. Just as he did so, I noticed Torrent entering. </p><p></p><p>“From what we can piece together, Giorgio’s plan was to teleport the ship with all of us aboard. If it hadn’t been for Katarina and yourselves noticing……. well, I don’t think I need to elaborate.</p><p></p><p>The small boat tendered to the Wayfarer’s ship was full of dead elven bodies. Except that they weren’t elves; they were humans, who had been changed. We think we know where.”</p><p></p><p>I blurted out: “That shop….what is it called; down in South Harbour. The one that changes people for money?”</p><p></p><p>“Yes indeed, Faden. Majestic Creations is responsible, we believe. I understand the scheme was to teleport the ship and then everyone would find the a boat full of dead elves floating where the ship had been, immediately casting suspicion on the Shining Lands of Shahalesti; as it is, rumours are already gathering that the elves are responsible for trying to kill us all and everyone is shouting for retribution against them. Considering that the Shahalesti are in a fleet on the high seas, I am not sure just what they will do but never let the facts stand in the way of a good riot. However, I do have people working to dampen this speculation down already. Also, the weather seems to be getting worse, much worse.”</p><p></p><p>Longhelim cleared his throat: “Very wise. The last thing we all need at the moment is conflict with Shahalesti. Ragesia is the real enemy; the fact that the Shahalesti were set up for this tells us a lot as to who is most likely responsible.”</p><p></p><p>“Indeed” said Simeon and then he hesitated. “This brings me to my next point. I don’t know how to say this. There is no easy way. I worked with the man for years; we all did. I cannot understand what made him do it.” He shook his head. “I am getting ahead of myself.”</p><p></p><p>“We performed several spells on the poor wretches who had been changed into elves. They are human. With the help of our priestly colleagues, we were able to speak with the corpses; the man who was responsible for this whole plot was Lee Sidoneth!”</p><p></p><p>I stared at him, stunned. If it was true then it was catastrophic. Lee had been privy to the War Council; as harbour master, he had been powerful and highly placed in the bureaucracy of Seaquen but it wasn’t just that. It was also all the information that he would have picked up while living here; the layout of the Lyceum; its leaders and students; their names, families; the strengths and weaknesses of the mages; of Kiernan and Simeon. The general knowledge he would have been able to pick up in the town. The information that would be flowing through Seaquen would have provided priceless material for whichever intelligence service was his master; I assumed it was the Ragesians. Everything, and I mean everything of any sensitivity that had been discussed in the Lyceum and Seaquen would now have to be considered as compromised. </p><p></p><p>By looking at their faces, I could see that both Simeon and Kiernan had both realised this. Another aspect was that if Lee had made his move, assuming that this was the attempt to assassinate the leadership of Seaquen, then all of his plans had to be in place; which meant he would have most likely already reported everything and he would have been given instructions or permission to enact this plan. </p><p></p><p>Kiernan and Simeon were probably remembering nearly every sensitive piece of information or potentially indiscreet comment they may have made to Lee over the years. It must have been horrible. </p><p></p><p>It was betrayal of the worst kind.</p><p></p><p>On a more personal note, no doubt descriptions, names and details would have been relayed to his masters about the abilities and powers of the representatives of the Resistance of Gate Pass. I remembered the length of the narrative given to him by Torrent detailing our adventures during the journey from Gate Pass. Then I suddenly remembered, Torrent had been sent to Gate Pass to make contact with the Resistance there. She would have given him all the information she had gathered about them within the city; no doubt, this information was on its way to General Deneva at this very moment, if it wasn’t already with him. </p><p></p><p>What a disaster!</p><p></p><p>Torrent sagged: “No! That can’t be! He sent me to Gate Pass to muster the Resistance! I don’t understand! Are you sure?” Tears began to stream out of her eyes; she looked devastated. No doubt she was just beginning to realize the enormity of this just as I was. </p><p></p><p>“The dead cannot lie. Not all of them, all the time. Think of his advice as Harbour Master as well. Ships should not be tethered in harbour just in case they need to make a quick getaway? And now, the grandmother of all storms is brewing up out there? A second point; think about it; what is the best way of getting to know who is in The Resistance in Gate Pass? Basically, he sent you to muster it to find out who was in it; and we all fell hook, line and sinker for his schemes. </p><p></p><p>At the very least, we should bring him in to answer questions. Would you be willing to do that? Kieran and two of his students are planning to go.”</p><p></p><p>Longhelim answered: “Of course we will go.”</p><p></p><p>“As will I,” said Torrent. “I have to get to the truth of this.”</p><p></p><p>I thought quickly about this. “The first place to look is his house but if he is there, it will be a fortress; and he has got that nasty squid. I bet he has let it loose. Does everyone remember how to get to his house? Over a rickety wooden walkway above the sea? Imagine if you are a warrior in plate armour and that thing grabs you with one of its tentacles and pulls you over; in full armour. That will not be pleasant. “</p><p></p><p>John frowned: “I see that. It is a nasty approach and he could also have trapped it.”</p><p></p><p>I turned to Simeon: “Felix has this very useful spell that allowed us to walk on water; but he has no spells left after that fight on the Wayfarer’s ship. That could at least neutralize the biggest danger from that damn squid. Could you let us have two scrolls of that?”</p><p></p><p>Simeon nodded. </p><p></p><p>“Right, if so, then we will get ready to go.”</p><p></p><p>So, an expedition consisting of Torrent, Kiernan and his two students as well as our group set out. It was immediately apparent that the storm had markedly increased in intensity. There were still a few people out but they were running for shelter and the winds were whipping up any loose materials. Many of the ships in the harbour looked to be in great danger. </p><p></p><p>It was also immediately apparent that no one of our group or Torrent were affected by the winds, something which was of great curiosity to Kiernan. </p><p></p><p>However, we had business first. Approaching Lee’s house, we cast what few spells we had. I also watched Kiernan cast his defensive spells and was awed at the magic he demonstrated. Some of it I recognized but there were also spells which were beyond me, far, far beyond me; but they did give me ideas…….</p><p></p><p>Thus bolstered, cautiously and slowly, we walked over the walkway, John at the front, checking for any nasty surprises, especially squid tentacles rising out of the sea. </p><p></p><p>Nothing happened. </p><p></p><p>Reaching the house, it was immediately apparent that it was deserted. A detailed search was performed which revealed nothing. Drudge pointed at a bit of ground and as usual, I just saw wet earth, but he assured us that he could see Lee’s trail. It led to a path leading to a small cove on his island and ultimately into the water. We knew that Lee, as a druid, could change shape so frankly, it was obvious that he could be anywhere. Especially, since by his reckoning, Drudge said that it was some time since he abandoned the island. </p><p></p><p>We returned to the Lyceum. The storm had grown stronger, very quickly. By this stage, we had become suspicious. I cast a spell and realised that this storm was magical. It looked as if Lee also had an alternate plan. </p><p></p><p>We reported to the Lyceum where Simeon told us that he was already aware that the storm was magical. He advised us to cram our spells. </p><p></p><p>“This isn’t over yet” was his mutter as he walked out the door.</p><p></p><p>We feverishly learned our spells. As usual, it felt as if I was stuffing wool into my eyes and ears but it was necessary. We could ill afford to go after a powerful druid without defenses. </p><p></p><p>Sometime later, Simeon returned, looking grim but satisfied: </p><p></p><p>“Well, we tried to scry him but as you can imagine, that didn’t work. There are lots of ways to shield yourself against that and he knows most of them. However, we then tried to think differently and we have come up with a plan by which we can magically guide one of you to go to the centre of the storm. If this storm is so magical then Lee has to near there somewhere. Look, it’s now too dangerous for any of us to go out there because of the storm; you are not affected by the winds. I have no idea how you are managing that and I would love to find out once you return but first, please go out and get that………person, please?”</p><p></p><p>Victor and Longhelim just nodded and the rest of us wearily rose and began to trudge into the storm. </p><p></p><p>The guiding magic was put on Victor. </p><p></p><p>Once out, we were in a full, furious storm of such magnitude that even large chunks of stone were flying in the air. Much of the work we had done on the permanent shelters had been undone and I winced at what was happening to the refugee shelters. It was too late for them. The casualties were going to be extensive and bloody. </p><p></p><p>As Victor led us, we wound our way into the ruins until we came to the old street system. The warrior led us right to the shore until we came to a rusty gate. Eerily, the weather here was clear and calm; we had reached the epicenter of the storm. We could see through the gate. It led to a dilapidated court yard, one side of which was bordered by the sea. Ghastly gargoyles leered at us from a semi ruined roof and a set of stairs led into the water. </p><p></p><p>I groaned: “Not the bloody stairs…..”</p><p></p><p>Victor nodded: “I’m afraid so”.</p><p></p><p>“Well, we had better cast what spells we can now because we won’t be casting anything after we go down there. I hate going under the water.”</p><p></p><p>So, various spells were cast, including the one that allowed us to breathe underwater. After that, with torches in hand, gingerly we stepped into the water. Initially, it didn’t cover us and it became obvious that we had entered into the remains of a substantial house that had partly slid into the sea. The water was already up to my neck, which meant it was up to everyone’s else’s waist. </p><p></p><p>Cautiously, Victor, in the front, entered into a room when he stopped and shouted: “Ware enemy!”</p></blockquote><p></p>
[QUOTE="Cafu, post: 5997075, member: 6692807"] This pattern was repeated for the next several days. Longhelim and the others said that they had gone to Simeon to see if there was anything urgent that was suited to our particular talents but were told that considering our most recent achievements, we should enjoy our rest. We “rested” by undertaking all the tasks that I mentioned previously. I indulged in the luxury of the Lyceum magical library. I doubted that I would get such a chance again and I wanted to seize as much knowledge as possible with both hands. I used all of the magical inks I had been generously granted by Simeon and then spent most of the funds I had accumulated to purchase some more. In a rather embarrassing situation, I found myself devoid of money. It was as I realised this that I was told that this was the evening of the great gala invitation to the dignitaries of Seaquen and the Lyceum to attend the Wayfarer’s Theatre. I had actually been planning to stay and continue my research as I had little interest in the legendary adventures of a half orc druid; however, I had run out of both money and ink and I was very curious about the magic being used in the performance which everyone had mentioned. So, changing my mind, I put my best robes on and joined the others on the way to the performance. Everyone else was also looking their best. It was unusual to see Victor, Longhelim and Felix without their armour. John of course never wore visible armour, and Drudge was in armour that was not out of place in a theatrical performance. His leather shone magnificently. Everyone was armed of course. It would have been a step too far for the Wayfarers to ask everyone not to bring their weapons but the warriors were making an attempt to be discreet with cloaks or clothing hiding pommels and scabbards where possible. Katrina was also with us, attired glamorously in a very revealing dress, blue this time. I am not sure if she was nervous or just tense, but she did seem to be talking a lot tonight, even by her standards; or maybe I had just forgotten what it was like travelling with her. Anyway, she decided to stay with us as we boarded the small boat which rowed us to the large ship, the Wayfarer’s Theater. As usual, it was quite windy, with the row over the harbour waters being fairly rough and wet. Once aboard the ship, the pitching had abated noticeably and we were dried off by that little cantrip that was also being used in the Lyceum. Then we were led downstairs into the Theatre proper. As had been mentioned previously it was an impressive piece of extra planar magic. It was one thing to be told about it, and another to actually experience it. The seats were beautifully upholstered and very comfortable. The floor was carpeted and the walls were painted with scenes which I assumed were from myths and legends. They certainly looked like it. I presumed that there were cunningly hidden magical lights there, as well as sound emitters. It seemed that we were one of the last to arrive as the play began almost as soon as we sat down. We were sitting at the back and I watched the story unfold. It was quite preposterous and my attention was quickly distracted by a very interesting commentary that Katarina was making about the performance we were seeing. Her interpretation was very good and it likened the play to the current political situation; with Ragesia, mighty and powerful, facing a lone hero who defies her for centuries and finally triumphs. Not everyone seemed to agree with Katarina’s interpretation though, as I saw several people turn and either look at her pointedly or even audibly tell her to keep quiet. Then I became distracted by the various magical effects that were being used to enhance the play; the lighting, the sounds and the various illusions. Again, these were of a masterly standard. I tried to point this out to Drudge sitting next to me, but he told me to keep quiet as he was watching the play. He sounded quite grumpy. One had to hand it to these Wayfarers, even if they couldn’t use their planar magic any more, they were still great actors. I was trying to work out how it was all put together, twisting and turning in my seat, when the first act finished. Drudge quickly asked Victor if they could swap seats for some reason. During the break, there was a slight altercation. Apparently a few people really did have a problem with Katarina’s commentary and in no uncertain terms were telling her that she was being objectionable. Katarina being Katarina was giving as good as she got and maintained that the true meaning behind the play was just as important as the overt version; and that she was sure that more people appreciated her version; and that as soon as they realised how accurate her interpretation was, that the people objecting to her commentary would also be grateful for her words. Before more could be said, the lights dimmed again and the curtain went up. Defiantly, Katarina continued with her version. The second act of the play continued much like the first; then the lights went up again and as we relaxed, John stiffened and looked behind us. I followed his gaze and saw a figure step stealthily from the wall and go up the stairs, the exit nearest to us. As he turned, I caught a glimpse of his face and a flash of red on his clothing; I had seen enough in the past to realize that that was blood. The face belonged to Giorgio, the leading man and second in command of the Wayfarers. “Quick, let’s follow him!”a loud whisper from Katrina. We all followed her lead, up the stairs. Almost immediately, I heard shouts and the clash of swords from above. I couldn’t see what was going on; the stairs were spiraling and I could only see Drudge and John in front of me. They were not moving, obviously blocked by the shouting and clashing swords above. Drudge and John finally moved but then suddenly, the stairs just disappeared. Everyone else was gone; I was just preparing to follow them when I found myself with nothing to ascend; most frustrating. The shouts and sounds of combat had attracted more of the audience as well as the presence of a truly beautiful woman. She was moving towards me with stately grace when the stairs disappeared. The grace went out the window and a full fledged sprint replaced it. She looked at the absence of stairs in disbelief: “What? No one should be able to do that!” I presumed this was Guildmaster Sheena Larkins. She made several magical passes and cast several spells in quick succession. I studied what she did but a great deal was very much beyond me. Other parts of the audience were becoming very restless as they suddenly realised that they were trapped. Those stairs were the only way out. “Oy, woman! What kind of messed up play are you running here! What’s happened? Where have the stairs gone?” Votberd’s distinctive voice rang out in the hall. By this point, I couldn’t hear anything from above because there was so much noise from down here. Several people seemed to be conferring with Sheena and finally she nodded. “Ladies and gentlemen,” she began, “my apologies for this impromptu interruption in the performance. Please give me a little time and I am sure I will be able to restore both the exit and the performance shortly.” After that, she began to perform a long, powerful and complicated ritual. I watched her closely. I could only catch a part of it before I lost track of her magic but despite this, I was able to follow bits here and there; it was magic of a very high order. I was to the side and saw Simeon watching her and once or twice make a small hand motion, as if prompting her. After some time, the stairs appeared again and there was a rush upstairs. I finally managed to get up there and saw……a mess. Victor, Longhelim and Felix were a mess, with torn, bloody clothing and the corpse of a half orc next to them. It must be said that they looked little better than corpses themselves. Katarina was an unconscious figure next to them, with a huge bump on her head. Victor was the first person I saw: “What happened?” Victor, being Victor, said: “They had full plate armour; we didn’t.” Seeing that Simeon and Sheena Larkins had both approached as well, Longhelim stepped up: “We emerged on deck to see Giorgio doing something in the cabin over there.” He motioned to a cabin behind him. Sheena, paled and involuntarily uttered: “No” as she lurched forward. “Don’t worry,” continued Longhelim, “John stopped whatever it was he was doing there. We assumed he was setting up the ship to teleport and fry us all.” “Anyway, Giorgio had several friends; a big barbarian, a cleric wearing full armour and a gnome. There was a fight and they crucified us. Victor and I both came very close to death. The only reason why we won was because we outnumbered them quite badly. If it wasn’t for that, we would now be finding out what happens to us when the ship teleports. Oh, by the way, he also disappeared in a flash of flame, much like our friend Mr. Beard from the Fire Forest. I don’t know if Giorgio was a “child of Hell” as Katrina would say but he certainly acted very similar to one. Oh yes, there is also a small boat tied down there. I am not sure what is in it but there are several shapes tied in canvas sacks down there. Now, I would like to leave this damn boat as quickly as possible.” Sheena looked stricken. She also looked very worried. I was not surprised. If she had that sort of treachery happening under her nose and had no suspicions, well, she was not much of a Guildmaster. The full leadership of Seaquen had almost perished because her second in command was a traitor; and she obviously had had no idea, as she would have been one of the victims. I was still looking around, when I noticed that everyone was making their way to the small boats at great speed; the ship was also pitching much more than previously. Oddly, I had not noticed it because I was not feeling the pull of the wind; at all. No doubt about it; the wind had definitely picked up but it was not making any difference to me; I was impervious to it. So were Drudge, John, Longhelim, Victor and Felix; in other words, this seemed to be part of the changes that we had felt since our exit from the Forest. Nevertheless, like everyone else, we left the Wayfarers Theatre and rapidly returned to the Lyceum. Once there, all of us were quickly shunted into a room where several healers were sent to deal with the injuries suffered by everyone; and all the others were very banged up, none more so than Katarina. Apparently, she had been shunted over the deck rail and fell down to the small boat tendered next to the ship. All this healing, by wand, potion and spell took a little time and then everyone went to the library, waiting for any news. A little time later, Simeon and Kiernan both came in, looking serious; in fact Simeon looked shocked. Kiernan just looked as if he wanted to crush rocks. “I don’t know where to start,” he said. The slowly, as if ordering his thoughts he began. Just as he did so, I noticed Torrent entering. “From what we can piece together, Giorgio’s plan was to teleport the ship with all of us aboard. If it hadn’t been for Katarina and yourselves noticing……. well, I don’t think I need to elaborate. The small boat tendered to the Wayfarer’s ship was full of dead elven bodies. Except that they weren’t elves; they were humans, who had been changed. We think we know where.” I blurted out: “That shop….what is it called; down in South Harbour. The one that changes people for money?” “Yes indeed, Faden. Majestic Creations is responsible, we believe. I understand the scheme was to teleport the ship and then everyone would find the a boat full of dead elves floating where the ship had been, immediately casting suspicion on the Shining Lands of Shahalesti; as it is, rumours are already gathering that the elves are responsible for trying to kill us all and everyone is shouting for retribution against them. Considering that the Shahalesti are in a fleet on the high seas, I am not sure just what they will do but never let the facts stand in the way of a good riot. However, I do have people working to dampen this speculation down already. Also, the weather seems to be getting worse, much worse.” Longhelim cleared his throat: “Very wise. The last thing we all need at the moment is conflict with Shahalesti. Ragesia is the real enemy; the fact that the Shahalesti were set up for this tells us a lot as to who is most likely responsible.” “Indeed” said Simeon and then he hesitated. “This brings me to my next point. I don’t know how to say this. There is no easy way. I worked with the man for years; we all did. I cannot understand what made him do it.” He shook his head. “I am getting ahead of myself.” “We performed several spells on the poor wretches who had been changed into elves. They are human. With the help of our priestly colleagues, we were able to speak with the corpses; the man who was responsible for this whole plot was Lee Sidoneth!” I stared at him, stunned. If it was true then it was catastrophic. Lee had been privy to the War Council; as harbour master, he had been powerful and highly placed in the bureaucracy of Seaquen but it wasn’t just that. It was also all the information that he would have picked up while living here; the layout of the Lyceum; its leaders and students; their names, families; the strengths and weaknesses of the mages; of Kiernan and Simeon. The general knowledge he would have been able to pick up in the town. The information that would be flowing through Seaquen would have provided priceless material for whichever intelligence service was his master; I assumed it was the Ragesians. Everything, and I mean everything of any sensitivity that had been discussed in the Lyceum and Seaquen would now have to be considered as compromised. By looking at their faces, I could see that both Simeon and Kiernan had both realised this. Another aspect was that if Lee had made his move, assuming that this was the attempt to assassinate the leadership of Seaquen, then all of his plans had to be in place; which meant he would have most likely already reported everything and he would have been given instructions or permission to enact this plan. Kiernan and Simeon were probably remembering nearly every sensitive piece of information or potentially indiscreet comment they may have made to Lee over the years. It must have been horrible. It was betrayal of the worst kind. On a more personal note, no doubt descriptions, names and details would have been relayed to his masters about the abilities and powers of the representatives of the Resistance of Gate Pass. I remembered the length of the narrative given to him by Torrent detailing our adventures during the journey from Gate Pass. Then I suddenly remembered, Torrent had been sent to Gate Pass to make contact with the Resistance there. She would have given him all the information she had gathered about them within the city; no doubt, this information was on its way to General Deneva at this very moment, if it wasn’t already with him. What a disaster! Torrent sagged: “No! That can’t be! He sent me to Gate Pass to muster the Resistance! I don’t understand! Are you sure?” Tears began to stream out of her eyes; she looked devastated. No doubt she was just beginning to realize the enormity of this just as I was. “The dead cannot lie. Not all of them, all the time. Think of his advice as Harbour Master as well. Ships should not be tethered in harbour just in case they need to make a quick getaway? And now, the grandmother of all storms is brewing up out there? A second point; think about it; what is the best way of getting to know who is in The Resistance in Gate Pass? Basically, he sent you to muster it to find out who was in it; and we all fell hook, line and sinker for his schemes. At the very least, we should bring him in to answer questions. Would you be willing to do that? Kieran and two of his students are planning to go.” Longhelim answered: “Of course we will go.” “As will I,” said Torrent. “I have to get to the truth of this.” I thought quickly about this. “The first place to look is his house but if he is there, it will be a fortress; and he has got that nasty squid. I bet he has let it loose. Does everyone remember how to get to his house? Over a rickety wooden walkway above the sea? Imagine if you are a warrior in plate armour and that thing grabs you with one of its tentacles and pulls you over; in full armour. That will not be pleasant. “ John frowned: “I see that. It is a nasty approach and he could also have trapped it.” I turned to Simeon: “Felix has this very useful spell that allowed us to walk on water; but he has no spells left after that fight on the Wayfarer’s ship. That could at least neutralize the biggest danger from that damn squid. Could you let us have two scrolls of that?” Simeon nodded. “Right, if so, then we will get ready to go.” So, an expedition consisting of Torrent, Kiernan and his two students as well as our group set out. It was immediately apparent that the storm had markedly increased in intensity. There were still a few people out but they were running for shelter and the winds were whipping up any loose materials. Many of the ships in the harbour looked to be in great danger. It was also immediately apparent that no one of our group or Torrent were affected by the winds, something which was of great curiosity to Kiernan. However, we had business first. Approaching Lee’s house, we cast what few spells we had. I also watched Kiernan cast his defensive spells and was awed at the magic he demonstrated. Some of it I recognized but there were also spells which were beyond me, far, far beyond me; but they did give me ideas……. Thus bolstered, cautiously and slowly, we walked over the walkway, John at the front, checking for any nasty surprises, especially squid tentacles rising out of the sea. Nothing happened. Reaching the house, it was immediately apparent that it was deserted. A detailed search was performed which revealed nothing. Drudge pointed at a bit of ground and as usual, I just saw wet earth, but he assured us that he could see Lee’s trail. It led to a path leading to a small cove on his island and ultimately into the water. We knew that Lee, as a druid, could change shape so frankly, it was obvious that he could be anywhere. Especially, since by his reckoning, Drudge said that it was some time since he abandoned the island. We returned to the Lyceum. The storm had grown stronger, very quickly. By this stage, we had become suspicious. I cast a spell and realised that this storm was magical. It looked as if Lee also had an alternate plan. We reported to the Lyceum where Simeon told us that he was already aware that the storm was magical. He advised us to cram our spells. “This isn’t over yet” was his mutter as he walked out the door. We feverishly learned our spells. As usual, it felt as if I was stuffing wool into my eyes and ears but it was necessary. We could ill afford to go after a powerful druid without defenses. Sometime later, Simeon returned, looking grim but satisfied: “Well, we tried to scry him but as you can imagine, that didn’t work. There are lots of ways to shield yourself against that and he knows most of them. However, we then tried to think differently and we have come up with a plan by which we can magically guide one of you to go to the centre of the storm. If this storm is so magical then Lee has to near there somewhere. Look, it’s now too dangerous for any of us to go out there because of the storm; you are not affected by the winds. I have no idea how you are managing that and I would love to find out once you return but first, please go out and get that………person, please?” Victor and Longhelim just nodded and the rest of us wearily rose and began to trudge into the storm. The guiding magic was put on Victor. Once out, we were in a full, furious storm of such magnitude that even large chunks of stone were flying in the air. Much of the work we had done on the permanent shelters had been undone and I winced at what was happening to the refugee shelters. It was too late for them. The casualties were going to be extensive and bloody. As Victor led us, we wound our way into the ruins until we came to the old street system. The warrior led us right to the shore until we came to a rusty gate. Eerily, the weather here was clear and calm; we had reached the epicenter of the storm. We could see through the gate. It led to a dilapidated court yard, one side of which was bordered by the sea. Ghastly gargoyles leered at us from a semi ruined roof and a set of stairs led into the water. I groaned: “Not the bloody stairs…..” Victor nodded: “I’m afraid so”. “Well, we had better cast what spells we can now because we won’t be casting anything after we go down there. I hate going under the water.” So, various spells were cast, including the one that allowed us to breathe underwater. After that, with torches in hand, gingerly we stepped into the water. Initially, it didn’t cover us and it became obvious that we had entered into the remains of a substantial house that had partly slid into the sea. The water was already up to my neck, which meant it was up to everyone’s else’s waist. Cautiously, Victor, in the front, entered into a room when he stopped and shouted: “Ware enemy!” [/QUOTE]
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The Gate Pass Irregulars: A War of the Burning Sky Campaign
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