The Misty Isles Adventures Formerly Known As Love Goes Horribly Wrong.

[Sir Kendrik]

I guess this story hour thing is an addiction and I am back to continue the life and times of Sir Kendrik and his buddies in the Misty Isles.

My previous story hour was called "Love goes horribly wrong" so if you want to catch up on the other episodes please check it out. Here is the link to it



In this first post I will post bios on all the main players in the campaign so check this post every so often.

I love getting feedback on my weekly updates so your comments and suggestions on how I can improve the story hour will be greatly appreciated.

Here is the next exciting instalment in the adventures of the Misty Isles Guardians of Good.

After some good advice from the legendary Piratecat I have edit the posts down to more palatable sized potions. I will continue in this format from now on.

When we left last time, the outlaw Deckard had been captured once more by Sir Kendrik with help from some followers, but not after having to defeat a demon, sent by an Old Ways Queen called Magda. Baron Aldred was most pleased with Sir Kendrik and asked what he would like as a reward for a job well done. After a bit of gentle pushing from his ladylove Lady Elanor, Sir Kendrik asked the Baron for her hand in marriage. Finally something went right for the young knight.

Solday 18 Storing 1353

The weather was threatening over the village of Axbridge, and there was a slight chill in the air as the recently returned Lord of the Manor, Sir Kendrik, walked out the gate of his home and down the main road. Sir Kendrik nodded and greeted passing villagers as he headed down to the village green. In the six months that Sir Kendrik had been back in his home village he had been busy learning what it was to be Lord of the Manor. He wants his village to prosper and had done his best to build the foundations for this. He strode down the road confidently, showing to the world the image of a man who was in charge and focused, but it fact it was all an act. Underneath the visage of confidence hid a nervous young man; desperate to make sure that everything was right, for today his betrothed, Lady Elanor, would arrive for their wedding.

Sir Kendrik stopped when he met Goodwife Roslyn, the village wise woman. If anyone would be able to calm the knight’s nerves, it would be her. Sir Kendrik greeted Roslyn and they chatted for some time about the weather and the upcoming wedding. She did her best to put his mind to rest on the nuptials and Sir Kendrik informed her that he must move on as there were a thousand things still to do.

Arriving at the village green, Sir Kendrik next spoke to the town harper, Lucan. Lucan had known Sir Kendrik from when he was a baby and had been his teacher as Sir Kendrik had grown from childhood to the age of apprenticeship. Lucan was sitting quietly tuning his harp on his usual stone bench, the children he would normally be teaching off helping the adults getting the stores ready for the coming winter. Sir Kendrik sat next to Lucan, took a deep breath and broached the main topics of discussion in the village, the coming of Lady Elanor and the wedding set for tomorrow. Lucan, as with Roslyn, must have seen the anxiety building in his young lord, and with his usual charm helped settle Kendrik’s nerves, telling him that everything was proceeding as planned, and giving his lord some advice. He asked Sir Kendrik if he had planned anything for Lady Elanor’s arrival. Immediately Sir Kendrik replied that he was on his way to the constable to arrange an honour guard to line the route from the bridge that the village got it’s name, to the manor in which she would live as his wife. Sir Kendrik bid his leave for he had but a few hours but a million things to do before his ladylove would arrive.

Lonnaday 16 Storing 1353

Two days earlier…

The long and slow journey from Clyster Keep to Axbridge has been an arduous one. When the entourage left some 14 days earlier, Baron Aldred himself with twenty of his household knights had escorted them. But when the Baron left the entourage at the turn off for Heron Castle, his winter residence, there were are total of 11 knights remaining. Four travelling as the personal entourage of Baron Althor, Lady Elanor’s reclusive father, six of Baron Aldred’s household knights and leading the entourage the Baron’s champion himself, Sir Brand. Riding in a carriage were Lady Elanor, her best friend and confidant, Lady Sharra, Lady Elanor’s young handmaiden Lady Tianna and Br Arton, now wearing the black robes that come with the bearing of an Inquisitorial Seal. The entourage’s numbers were made up with Sir Kendrik’s best friend, Callin Toper and a companion of Br Arton, Friar Leopold Merriweather, a halfling member of the Friars Arcane.

Inside the carriage Lady Elanor had pulled back the curtain and looked uncertainly out of the window.

“You recognise the scenery too, My Lady?” Br Arton asked “This place has unfortunate memories for both of us”

The entourage was travelling through the Fairwood, the scene of the ambush by the halfling bandits where Sir Kendrik’s rash actions nearly cost Lady Elanor’s life.

“Yes Brother, the sooner we arrive in Igham for the night the better” the clearly nervous Lady replied. “Brother, tell me again what lies waiting for me in Axbridge?”

“What lies awaiting My Lady, is a no doubt a warm welcome and doting husband” Br Arton explained “The people of Axbridge will no doubt accept you with open arms as their new Lady of the Manor”.

“But I do not wish to appear aloof Brother” Elanor continued “I want to show them that I am very approachable. What can I do to show that?”

“The only way to show that you are not aloof is to not be aloof” said Br Arton “The villagers will not expect you to have any knowledge or interest in say, milking cows, but it might help to show an interest in learning how to”

“Brother Arton you are truly wise beyond your years!” exclaimed Lady Elanor.

All of a sudden the progress of the entourage came to an abrupt stop. A tree had fallen across the road, blocking the path. Sir Brand ordered his knights to dismount as he moved to examine the tree. Callin, who was riding next to the Champion, told Sir Brand that he would go and investigate the fallen tree. Callin hopped off his light warhorse, Shadow, and gave a good look around the tree. The rogue came to the conclusion that it had just fallen as the roots were exposed and rotting, however at the base of the tree was a small standing stone. These stones litter this part of the Misty Isles, denoted by the three interlocking circles that they were placed by the Old Ways followers and it was their symbol and noted a place that was sacred to them. Callin reported back to Sir Brand what he had found and Sir Brand ordered his men to help him remove the tree from the road.

Back at the carriage, Br Arton had stuck his head out of the carriage to see what had stopped the entourage. At this time Lady Elanor’s father, Baron Althor had rode up to the carriage to find out what the delay was. Word got back to both of the men that it was a fallen tree. This, of course, made Br Arton very wary of an ambush, but he didn’t allow his concern to show less it upset the ladies.

Sir Brand and the knights in his charge surrounded the tree and prepared to lift it out of the way. Just as Sir Brand was counting out before the knights lifted the tree, Callin spied out of the corner of his eye, something that justified his suspicions that they had stumbled into an ambush. With an eerie mist swelling up in the woods about 50 feet from the road, a chilling sight appeared. A dark knight, with shining dark blue and black armour, a full pot helm with antlers bearing at least 14 points each appeared out of the mist like a long forgotten ghost. The imposing figure sat astride a jet-black horse that had glowing red eyes and small wisps of flame wreathed from it’s nostrils. Surrounding the dark knight was a small army of ten goblins and three hobgoblins.

“TO ARMS”, yelled out Callin, before letting go three arrows at the goblin nearest him, killing it instantly.

Br Arton responded immediately to Callin’s call and with a blinding flash of flame the brother channelled forth the divine power of Pelor in the form of a flame strike directly at the dark knight. This impressive spell cut down the goblin army down leaving only three goblins and killing all the hobgoblins. Br Arton quickly turned his head and told the ladies to keep low. The remaining goblins stopped dead in their tracks fearing what the cleric would do next. The Dark Knight then ordered the goblins to retreat behind him and blew his impressive hunting horn. Soon after the sound of baying hounds could be heard coming closer.

Callin turned his attention to the Dark Knight and let loose another 3 arrows from his shortbow at the chest of the evil knight, unfortunately only one connected properly, with the other two bouncing off the knights shield. Clearly the knight’s armour was of special design. Brother Arton again called upon Pelor’s divine might and smite the Dark knight. Although the knight appeared to be unaffected, smoke rose from his armour, and his steed was staggered. The smite attack also killed another goblin.

Baron Aldred’s knights dropped the tree as one and drew their swords.

“Foul knight, I challenge thee!!” bellowed Sir Brand as he drew his longsword and moved towards the Dark Knight.

As Sir Brand did this, five hounds appeared from the mists like apparitions. With blood red eyes, ears, tails and teeth, they charged at Callin, Sir Brand and Br Arton. Callin and Arton faced two of the fey hounds each. On seeing the three heroes getting attacked, the other knights moved in, some heading to battle while the others positioned themselves to defend the carriage and Baron Althor.

Callin took a step back and let fly three arrows at one of the attacking hounds, which hit it between the eyes, felling it. Br Arton readied himself for battle by calling down upon himself the divine power of Pelor and readied to take on the hounds and whatever else the dark knight unleashed upon them.

Sir Brand, with one blow from his blessed longsword, dropped the hound that was attacking him. Once more, Baron Aldred’s Champion challenged the dark knight, questioning its honour. Suddenly the two remaining goblins raised their arms in unison and muttered something. Two bats dropped from the trees near the road and flew into the faces of Br Arton and Friar Leopold. The dark knight again ignored Sir Brand’s challenge, and instead malevolently pointed his sword at the carriage saying nothing.

Friar Leopold, with the bat flapping in his face, fought to concentrate and with all his will brought his outstretched hands together directly in front of him, thumbs touching and his fingers fanned. He muttered a few arcane words and a fan of flame burst forth from his fingers, charring the hounds threatening himself and Br Arton.

The hounds continued their attack on Br Arton and Callin, but they were unable to penetrate either of the heroes’ defenses with their attacks. Br Arton slammed his mace into the bat, sending it flying into a tree, then moved closer to Callin to help him deal with the hounds attacking him.

“About time you got here,” The rogue said before attacking one of the dogs.

“You were doing such a good job on your own Callin, I didn’t think you needed any help.” Replied Br Arton.

One of the hounds turned snarling on Baron Althor, and prepared to pounce, however one of the Baron’s loyal knights was able to dispatch the fey beast before it could truly threaten his liege.

Leopold suddenly free of the distracting bat proceeded muttered more arcane words and from his outstretched finger flew three bolts of arcane bolts, striking dark knight and his infernal horse, making the horse stagger slightly from the blow.

Once more the brave champion Sir Brand called to the dark knight, issuing his challenge as he moved in closer, but one of the goblins raised it’s hand and pointed directly at Sir Brand. The brave knight placed his left foot on the bracken and felt a sharp shooting pain, causing him to stumble.

The dark knight slowly resheathed his sword and drew his bow. Drawing an arrow he aimed it at the carriage holding the ladies and let loose. Sure and true, the arrow screeched through the air and imbedded itself into the side of the transport. His mission apparently complete, the dark knight shouldered his bow and turned his horse, slowly walking back into the enveloping mist.

Callin still had a hound to deal with, which attacked him sinking its blood red teeth through his studded leather armour into his leg. Callin, annoyed at being bitten, plunged his shortsword into the fey beast, which dropped dead at the rogue’s feet. To Callin’s amazement the hound melted into the mist, disappearing completely as if it had never been

Sir Brand, in obvious discomfort, limped towards to goblin intent on dispatching it to the abyss from whence it came. The fact that Sir Brand was moving slowly gave the goblin its chance to escape and it disappeared into the mist also. Callin, now that the threat appeared to have departed, scanned the area for any further attack. Not seeing anything, Callin informed Br Arton that he would scout ahead in the woods to ascertain if the dark knight had indeed departed.

Deeper in the woods, near where the dark knight had appeared, Callin spied a large mound. Callin moved towards the mound and on closer observation found it was ringed by several standing stones. Eerily, the mist that had enshrouded the area was no longer there, but wisps of the fog still lingered, embracing the standing stones like lovers. On closer inspection, Callin discovered the tell-tale spirals of the Old Ways, confirming his suspicions.

While Callin was investigating the mound Br Arton walked over to Sir Brand to see what was the matter with the wounded champion.

“My Lord, you appear to be hurt. May I can be of assistance?” asked Br Arton

“I appear to have injured my left foot,” replied Sir Brand, self-consciously.

Br Arton helped Sir Brand remove the armour from his left leg and the brother examined Sir Brand’s foot. The knight’s foot was indeed very tender as if he had stood on a spike or some other trap. Sir Brand winced when his foot was touched but did not allow himself to cry out in pain. To the cleric’s amazement there did not appear to be any puncture wound or any bruising that he would have expected to see with such an injury.

Br Arton called on the healing might of Pelor and a wave of healing blue light radiated from his hands to Sir Brand’s foot.

“That should fix it, My Lord” uttered Br Arton.

The brother yet again examined the foot but once again the brave knight winced in obvious pain. Clearly the damage was still there. This puzzled the cleric who immediately thought that some foul magic was afoot. Br Arton called on Pelor to reveal if any dark magicks where affecting Sir Brand’s foot and lo and behold the foot glowed with magic. After some study of the magic Br Arton was able to deduce that it was some kind of curse. He informed Sir Brand of this further saying that he unfortunately did not have that particular gift at his disposal, but he would ask Pelor for the boon to heal Sir Brand first thing the next morn.

Callin arrived at the rock Sir Brand had perched himself upon and proceeded to inform Sir Brand and Br Arton of what he had found. Friar Leopold, on hearing this, moved in to find out more. The heroes then discussed the mound and what to do with it. Br Arton and Friar Leopold agreed to return to the mound for some further investigation after the wedding.

Baron Althor asked when the entourage would be moving again. Sir Brand informed him that they would be continuing on their way after the tree was removed. Callin, after seeing that the ladies were safe proceeded to pull the arrow out of the carriage and found a scroll rapt around it. It read’

“A handfasting gift

Magda”

Callin rolled up the scroll and said that we will have to show this to his lordship when they arrived.

To be Continued................................

 

[Sir Kendrik]

The Saga continues

Solday 18 Storing 1353

Back in the present…

The entourage was but an hour or so out of the village of Axbridge when Br Arton called Callin over to the carriage.

“Callin ride ahead to Axbridge and inform Sir Kendrik of our impending arrival”

Callin nodded and took off on his trusty light war horse ‘Shadow’

After a short ride Callin crossed the old stone bridge with stone great axes at each corner that gave the village its name. Callin rode up to the Manor past the slowly assembling honour guard. He glanced around at his old hometown as he rode, recognising the people he grew up with. Pulling his horse up at the manor gates, he slowly rode into the courtyard. Callin spied the young stable boy Derek, a rough and tumble cheeky little boy, not unlike Callin as a child. Callin ordered Derek to stable his horse, flicking him a copper piece, which Derek grabbed with a big smile on his face. Callin strode towards the entrance of the manor, but was stopped by a soldier who promptly asked who he was and what was his business. The soldier was young Laren who was now, along with Gerath and Themas employed by Sir Kendrik.

“Could you tell Sir Kendrik that Narsis is here to see him” said Callin with a smug look on his face, pleased that Laren did not recognise him.

The soldier went to alert Sir Kendrik and reappeared a moment later and asked Callin to follow him.

“I knew it was you!” exclaimed Sir Kendrik pointing a finger at his best friend before he let out a hearty laugh once the young rogue arrived in the great hall.
.
“My Lord, I thought you had worked that out when I last saw you.” Replied Callin with a smile on his face.

“So Callin, how are you exactly?” continued Sir Kendrik

“I am fine my lord. I have come here to let you know that Lady Elanor and the rest of the entourage will be here within the hour,” Callin stated. “But first I must tell you that there was an incident on the way”

“Please tell me that Lady Elanor is safe!” The young knight pleaded. “And what of the others? What exactly happened, Callin?”

“Sir Kendrik, Lady Elanor is safe. No harm came to her, but Sir Brand was cursed by a goblin. Fortunately, Br Arton was able to remove it.”
Callin continued retelling the ambush but Sir Kendrik was just pleased to hear that all were safe and sound and on their way.

“My Lord, may I suggest you get yourself ready Lady Elanor is but 30 minutes away. The way you smell and look would not be suitable for her welcoming! You really smell foul today Sir Kendrik, and your beard is so messy, as are your clothes!” teased the rogue, knowing that his gullible friend would believe every word.

Sir Kendrik just looked puzzled as he had only bathed that morn and couldn’t work out how his new clothes could have become unclean.

“If you say so Callin. I will have Lucinda draw me a bath. I wish to look my best for My Lady” said Sir Kendrik heading towards the stairs “Laren, show Callin the way out. See you in 30 minutes Callin” as Sir Kendrik scooted up the stairs to get ready.

Laren directed Callin to the exit but Callin told him that he already knew the way out. Laren ignored Callin making sure that he followed his lord instructions fully.

When the Entourage finally crossed over the bridge the honour guard that Sir Kendrik had organised had been joined by many of the villagers who waved at their new Lady and her entourage as it made its way up toward her new home. Young Relen rushed to Sir Kendrik and told him that the entourage had arrived. In an instant, Sir Kendrik who was pacing in front of the Great Hall fireplace, rushed to the manor gate to welcome his bride.

The carriage pulled up to the gate just as Gerath opened it to allow his lord clear passage. Sir Kendrik quickly dropped to one knee and bowed his head. With Sir Kendrik and his household staff bowing and curtsying in respect for the honoured guests, Baron Althor dismounted from his grey destrier and walked to the carriage door, opened it and helped his daughter out of the carriage. She took his hand and stood next to her father. Next to be escorted out was Baron Aldred’s daughter, Lady Sharra, followed by Lady Elanor’s young handmaiden Lady Tianna. Last to alight from the carriage was a man dressed from head to foot in black with the holy symbol of Pelor on the hood that covered his face, the man only being able to see out of eye-slits. Kendrik with his head still bowed strained to see who had come out and was concerned at seeing a person wearing the attire of a member of the Holy Inquisition standing next to Lady Tianna.

“It is a great honour to have you all here at my humble home” Sir Kendrik declared, head still bowed, giving those assembled due respect. “I have longed for this day to see you again, My Lady. I trust that the journey was not too taxing for you?”

“My Lord, thank you for your kind welcome, it was most pleasant” replied Lady Elanor “Yes, it was a very gruelling trip, it has taken much out of me”

“My Lady, I will arrange for Tonya to draw a bath for you so you can refresh yourself?” Sir Kendrik said beckoning the bailiff’s wife to escort Lady Elanor inside “Lady Sharra, Lady Tianna, I will arrange for Relen and Lucinda to escort you so you can freshen up also”

The two young ladies nodded and thanked Sir Kendrik for his kind offer and the young daughters of the bailiff showed the ladies inside.

“My Lord,” Kendrik turned his attentions to the Baron “I can have a bath drawn for you also if you desire it?”

“A warm fire and something to drink will suffice, Sir Kendrik” replied Baron Althor.

“Let us retire to the Great hall then, My Lord.” Sir Kendrik ushered the men assembled inside where Sir Kendrik made his guests welcome and comfortable, catching up on the goings on in Clyster and of course chatting about the impending nuptials. Sir Kendrik ordered the bailiff, Notker Donnellson, to arrange for a welcome feast for that evening.

Once everyone was refreshed and relaxed the feast began. Sir Kendrik, eager to show his new found skills as a host and Lord of the Manor, had made sure that those present were seated in order of the respect their position held. At the high table, which seated 12, Sir Kendrik had arranged the seating as follows. In the middle of the high table was Sir Kendrik, to his left, his betrothed Lady Elanor, to his right, Baron Althor, to Lady Elanor’s left was her best friend and confidant, Lady Sharra, looking radiant as ever. To the left of Baron Althor was Sir Kendrik’s father, the local blacksmith, Lars Korricsen. Lars is a broad shouldered, muscularly built man like his son Sir Kendrik, but not as tall, he is balding with a bushy salt and pepper moustache, which joins with his sideburns. To the left of Lady Sharra was her suitor, Sir Brand, a tall man with an impressive athletic build, the pride of all Borderlund. To the right of Kendrik’s father was Callin, dressed in his best for the occasion. To Sir Brand’s left was Br Arton, looking a little less threatening with his hood down. Placed next to Callin was Kendrik’s maternal grandfather, Masterharper Keenan Callaghan. Keenan is in his mid sixties but is very spritely for his age. He keeps his hair long, maybe a bit too long for someone of his age and speaks in a strong Airelysh brogue. Friar Leo was sitting next to Br Arton. Leo is a halfling who seems preoccupied with his own thoughts, most of the time. If the subject matter has anything to do with magic he is almost worked into a frenzy. Next to Leopold at the end was Marban, the tall Airelysh tracker who had befriended Sir Kendrik and done some work for the young knight.

All of the town elders were invited and sat at the lower tables along with the household knights that had travelled with the entourage. Much to Kendrik’s brother Froderik’s disgust he was banished to the low tables along with his wife Lucinda, and through the course of the evening shot menacing glances at Sir Kendrik for his obvious snub.

The feast was a substantial one with roast lamb and duck served with a myriad of roasted vegetables. There was plenty of merry making as the food was served and capped off with a delicious dessert of sweet cakes made from the finest apples in all of Penlyhn. Once Sir Kendrik had his fill, the food was removed and the harpers struck up their instruments. Sir Kendrik took his Lady’s hand and led her to the dance floor where they danced to a spritely jig, one no doubt created by Keenan himself. Keenan is one of the most renowned composers in the Misty Isles, something he is very modest about. Soon, the rest of the feasters joined the betrothed on the dancefloor.

While the dancing continued Br Arton took Sir Kendrik aside for a moment and asked if he could get the others together for a discussion after the feast ended, Sir Kendrik nodded and returned to the festivities. Br Arton then went over to his mentor, Fr Bretwald, the parish priest in Axbridge. Br Arton had noticed how old and frail Fr Bretwald had become since Br Arton left Axbridge.

“Father, you do not look well.” Stated Br Arton with a concerned tone.

“Yes Br Arton I am finding it harder to keep up with what is needed these days” replied the frail father “And the church is unlikely to send me any relief any time soon”

“Surely Br Otto can help. He will take over soon?” asked Br Arton

“He is not ready, Brother. Nor is he likely to be ready any time soon.” said a resigned Fr Bretwald. “Axbridge is showing signs of prospering with the ground work young Sir Kendrik has started. However the harvest wasn’t as large as hoped and we will have to see how the village copes with the regular raids in the winter.” Fr Bretwald sighed, “I fear that our young lord is still too much like the son of the blacksmith I saw grow up”

“Father, I pray that he will never loses those qualities.” Replied Br Arton. “Sir Kendrik will do much good for Axbridge. Father I will not take up anymore of your time, I shall see you tomorrow.”

Br Arton quietly left the feast and headed for the church. The church was dark but for the odd lit candle. Br Arton was looking for his fellow brother, Otto. The two clerics chatted for a while with a bitter Br Otto accusing Br Arton of taking his chance at a life. Br Otto blamed Arton for his miserable life in a forgotten village. When Br Arton asked if he wanted to replace Fr Bretwald, Br Otto replied that he will not shirk his responsibilities. Br Arton began to realise that he was getting nowhere left Br Otto and returned to the manor for the meeting.

When the last of the revellers retired for the evening the remaining heroes gathered around the fireplace that warmed the great hall and began to talk about several issues. Sir Kendrik was sitting in his favourite chair with his friends, Br Arton, Callin, Marban and the newcomer Friar Leopold gathered around. As they sipped on mulled wine Br Arton instructed Callin to hand Sir Kendrik the scroll that the dark knight had delivered for Sir Kendrik at the ambush. Sir Kendrik unrolled the scroll and began to read it

“But what does it mean Brother?” quizzed the young knight “What does Magda mean by handfasting? Is it some kind of curse?”

“No, My Lord. It is an Old Ways tradition where a couple agree to live as man and wife for a year and a day before deciding whether to marry or not” replied Br Arton.

“Oh, I see.” Said Sir Kendrik

“My Lord, I fear that both yourself and Lady Elanor have become targets for Magda’s wrath. She is clearly not pleased that we have delayed her plans”

“Tell me more about these plans and who this Magda is?” ordered the young knight.

Br Arton went on to out line what he had discovered during his journey to Covanant and what he had read in the great library there. He told of the Legion gods, especially Virakas, and informed his friends of some dire news. Brother Arton cleared his throat and then recited;

Beyond the Walls of Mist,
At the End of the World,
The blood-soaked god awaits dreaming,
In his prison of frozen reflections.

His freedom locked hidden,
By the children of the martyred god,
In the fist of true death.

With darkness crawling,
The key is revealed,
And the blood-soaked god dreams no more.

This prophecy unsettled the heroes. Sir Kendrik said that he didn’t understand it but they must stop this from happening. Br Arton then went on to say that he believes that through the clues that the key mentioned referred to Perdita Mortua. Br Arton believed that Varakis is kept in his prison in the frozen north of the Misty Isles and more than likely Perdita Mortua has been taken there to help unlock him.

Callin chimed in and said that the group had more important and immediate things to worry about than that.

“What about Sir Bron and Magda’s plans to have him marry Lady Sharra and become King.” Said the rogue, “Surely that is a more immediate threat”

“I am not sure of that Callin” retorted Br Arton “I am not sure I would like the idea of Varakis, the god of murder and bloodshed walking this land, killing and butchering as he goes”

Sir Kendrik was torn between the two arguments, seeing the import in both. “What else does anyone know about the plans of Sir Bron and Magda?” asked Sir Kendrik.

Callin and Br Arton filled the young knight in as best they could on what they had found out. Magda wishes to have the church of Pelor banished from the Misty Isles and return the Old Ways to prominence. The way Magda has planned this is to have Sir Bron claim the throne and marry Lady Sharra. It was found that Sir Bron could trace his ancestry back on his mother’s side to High King Vallandar’s half brother Morgrid, while Lady Sharra could trace hers back also on her mother’s side to Queen Arianrod, High King Vallandar’s widow. Magda believes that if she could organise this union an issue would have the right to be crowned the one True King. The child would be too young to rule itself, so Sir Bron would be able to act as regent and do Magda’s bidding.

“Looks like you chose the wrong bride, Sir Kendrik” chortled Marban as his slapped the young knight on the back.

“Marban, I have married for love not position!” Snapped Sir Kendrik, casting a steely stare and showing his disapproval of the comment.

“But you could be King if you married Lady Sharra” added Marban

“Sir Kendrik could never be King, Marban” spoke Br Arton “Lady Sharra does not have the only claim to the throne”

“Why doesn’t Baron Aldred claim the throne?” Marban added

“Baron Aldred has no line to the throne himself, so will not claim it”. Sir Kendrik mentioned “His brother-in-law Duke Carnasse does however, and if need be the Baron would support that claim.”

The conversation dragged on for sometime with a kind of agreement made that the Br Arton, Callin and Friar Leo escort the Lady Sharra back to Heron Castle. Then they would return to the mound they had found in the Fairwood and investigate it further. Once they did that they would return to Axbridge to plan the retrieval of Perdita Mortua. The time spent returning Lady Sharra and the investigation of the mound would give the newly weds a chance to have some time together before Sir Kendrik would leave for the quest.

It was very late now and Callin, tired of all the talk and planning, wished his good nights to all and was escorted away by one of the soldiers. The others followed soon after as the next day would be long.

 

[Sir Kendrik]

19 Storing 1353

The day broke upon the village of Axbridge bright, sunny and unusually warm for the time of the year. There was not a cloud in the sky when Sir Kendrik awoke at 5th bell. It would be a very busy day for the young Lord of the Manor. As usual he had his daily bath and had one of the manor servants cut his hair and trim his impressive bushy handlebar moustache and neat beard. The fact that Lucinda had done this yesterday before the guests had arrived was immaterial to Sir Kendrik. It was keeping him occupied and stopping him from wearing a bigger trench in front of the fireplace than there already was from his nervous pacing.

He need not have worried, as he was visited by all his friends, wishing their best for the big event. He was also visited by his grandfather who in his usual charming and humorous way gave the young knight some advice on what to do on the wedding night! Sir Kendrik listened intently as his grandfather was the source of Sir Kendrik’s strong moral code and good nature. Keenan would sit and talk for hours to his favourite grandchild filling his mind with stories of just knights, saving damsels and righting wrongs. It was Grandpa Keenan that had given Sir Kendrik the courage to follow his dreams, and today one of them would come true. Sir Kendrik was about to marry his true love.

The village green was a hive of activity with Bailiff Notker and the Reeve Jodek supervising the digging of fire pits and the setting up of tables, chairs and benches for the wedding feast. Men brought food, and lots of it, to be cooked for all who would be attending, and that was everyone! Tonya and her daughters were organising the cooking and the decorating of the green with autumn flowers and leaves everywhere; it was a riot of colour and movement.

At close to lunchtime the church was beginning to fill with those who were wishing to see the service. At the front of the church stood a very nervous but well dressed Sir Kendrik, shuffling his feet in anticipation of what was to occur. Sir Kendrik had never look more the part of the dashing young knight than this moment. He was wearing a white long sleeve under tunic. On the loose sleeves are green and gold Celtic knotwork, the gold actually being gold thread. The short sleeved over tunic was the blue of Sir Kendrik’s livery with the crossed sword and hammer of his livery bordering the sleeves and the wide yoke. Covering that was Sir Kendrik’s tabard and his cloak. He was wearing brand new white trews that had blue knot work going down each leg tucked into new black boots. Sir Kendrik held tightly in his big hand the ring that he would exchange with Lady Elanor. This was a very special ring and Sir Kendrik guarded it ever since it had been finished. He had travelled to Clyster to commission its making. It was a simple gold band, engraved with intricate Celtic knotwork, the knots signified stylised dolphins, the animal on Lady Elanor’s family livery. After it was crafted Sir Kendrik went to a cleric, who through the grace of Pelor, was able to place a protective blessing on the ring and whomever wore it. This of course cost a large part of the young lord’s fortune, but to Sir Kendrik it was gold marks well spent.

The pews were quickly filling with people. Either side of the first row was reserved for the family, where on one side Lars sat looking somewhat proud alongside his oldest son Froderik and his young wife Lucinda. Unfortunately Sir Kendrik’s beloved sister Betaine was not able to attend, as she was busy training at the Harper Hall. Grandpa Keenan also sat in the front row.

After what seemed like forever to Sir Kendrik, Fr Bretwald made his appearance and stood in front of Sir Kendrik. The church went silent as the beautiful Lady Sharra in an equally beautiful dress slowly marched up the central aisle of the church dropping petals and leaves behind her as she went. She stopped at the front and sat in the front row. A few moments later, Baron Althor led his oldest daughter Elanor up the aisle. She was wearing a long blue underdress, with heavily embroidered cuffs in silver thread. Over this she wore a beautiful green overdress that reached to just below her knees, with three-quarter sleeves. This too was heavily embroidered with silver thread. Over her hair and face, she wore a sheer, blue veil, held in place by a simple silver circlet, signifying her rank. When the bride had been brought to the altar, Baron Althor stepped back and took his seat next to Lady Sharra. Lady Elanor placed her delicate hand on top of Sir Kendrik’s hand and Fr Bretwald began the service. It was a full Pelorist Church service and lasted for over an hour. When the vows were made Sir Kendrik was close to tears of joy but he held them back well and sounded very commanding in delivery of his vows.

Finally the moment everyone who was present had waited to hear;

“With Pelor’s divine grace, I declare you to be husband and wife,” proclaimed Fr Bretwald

With that blessing Sir Kendrik proceeded to lift the veil from Lady Elanor’s face and kissed her on her rosy lips, the congregation erupted in cheers and clapping. The married couple arm in arm walked down the aisle as the clapping continued; Sir Kendrik had the biggest smile of his life on his face. The couple then led the congregation to the village green to the wedding feast.

What a feast it was too! There was an incredible array of meats; beef, pork, chicken, lamb, goat, and roasted vegetables of every variety. Surely this lavish feast would have eaten heavily into the winter stores. It seemed that everyone in the surrounding area had come to join Sir Kendrik and Lady Elanor on this most important day for them both. The feasting went on for several hours and was capped off with the wedding cake, or cakes to be more correct. At the end of the feasting the cakes, sticky fruit filled ones, were brought out. They were stacked on top of each other to create a tower of cake. The crowd slowly clapped as Sir Kendrik and Lady Elanor attempted to kiss while leaning over the towering cakes. If they kissed and the tower stayed upright, good luck and prosperity would be theirs throughout their marriage. The couple were very careful and kissed without incident and a rousing cheer rang out.

Now that the eating was out of the way, room was made in the middle of the village green and the harpers started up their instruments. Sir Kendrik led his wife out to the middle of the green and bowed to Lady Elanor before the bridal dance started. Those who knew the young lord well could tell that he had been practising for this as he had never danced as well as he did now. The couple were joined by what appeared to be half the village and the revelries ensued.

When the sun had set, torches were lit giving the village green an unearthly glow. Many of the older men now had quite some ale into them and were filling the ears of all who cared to listen of their tall stories. Callin couldn’t resist and joined the storytellers letting everyone know about the amazing exploits of Sir Kendrik.

The party was interrupted by a cloaked figure jogging into the village green, striding in purposefully before kneeling before Sir Kendrik.

“My Lord, I am sorry for interrupting this joyous occasion but I have some dire news” said Forestmaster Jenkins, one of the King’s Rangers “The clerics of Varakis have returned to the caves”

End Session
What do you think everyone?
What do you think is happening?
Who was the dark knight? Was it a ghost?
What does Magda have planned for Kendrik and Elanor?
Why are the evil Legion clerics back?

Your comments and observations would be most appreciated

 

[Sir Kendrik]

Here is the next chapter in this saga


When we left the story last time, the wedding feast of Lord Kendrik and Lady Elanor had been interrupted by one of the King’s Rangers, Forestmaster Jenkins with some dire news.

19 Storing 1353

“I must admit Forestmaster, your timing could have been much better, but this indeed is dire news,” Said Sir Kendrik. “Meet me in the manor in a few minutes and we will discuss this with the others.”

Sir Kendrik directed with a hand movement for Laren to escort Jenkins to the manor.

“My Lady, I will make sure that this doesn’t take long.” Kendrik said, taking his wife’s hands in his.

“I understand My Lord. It comes with the duties of being Lord.” Replied Lady Elanor

“I know, I just wish it hadn’t have happened today” added Sir Kendrik before his wife placed her finger on his lips. Sir Kendrik had learnt that was his wife’s way of telling him he was talking too much and motioned to the rest of the heroes to join him in the manor, collecting Sir Brand as well, believing that the Baron’s Champion needed to be informed so he could forward the news to Baron Aldred.

After settling around the fire in the great hall, Sir Kendrik turned to Jenkins.

“So Forestmaster, tell me all that you can on this matter?” The knight asked.

“My Lord, several days ago three rangers spotted three heavily cloaked figures, escorted by six gnolls travelling the road between Igham and Axbridge. The rangers followed discreetly behind them. After some time they parted from the road and travelled cross country in the direction of the colourfully named Caves of Chaos,” Jenkins reported “The Rangers stopped following them when they entered the valley that led to the caves. They reported what they knew to me and I got here as soon as I could”

“Thank you and your men for your good work,” replied Sir Kendrik “It looks as though we will have to go and investigate”

The heroes discussed what to do with this news and it was decided that they would head off the next morning to the Caves of Chaos. That decided the heroes rose from their seats and returned to the wedding festivities.

The party had continued as if the interruption had never occurred, the sounds of music and dancing rang out from the village green as did the sound of laughter. Sir Kendrik rejoined his wife and scanned the gathering to see who was there, in particular to see if his father, Lars, and his Grandfather, Keenan, were getting on. The coldness the two elders cast towards each other was obvious to the young lord, however he was pleased that they hadn’t come to blows, as there was quite some history of animosity between the two. Another person Sir Kendrik was looking out for was his missing friend, the wizard Serena. Sir Kendrik had asked Serena’s foster mother Goodwife Roslyn that if she was in contact with her daughter, to mention that Kendrik was getting married and that he would like to see her there. Sir Kendrik could very easily have married Serena but for the fateful day that he saw Lady Elanor for the first time. Serena, one day about 9 months ago, just disappeared leaving a note at the keep for Sir Kendrik saying that something had come up, and she would meet the party at their intended destination. She never arrived and has not been seen since. Her non-appearance at the wedding was a slight down note for the young lord.

Br Arton had returned to where Fr Bretwald was sitting, the old priest watching proceedings,

“Father” said Br Arton “I must confess, I do have another reason to have returned to Axbridge.”

“Oh,” Replied Fr Bretwald.

“Yes,” Continued Br Arton, “I realize that this is rather rushed, but it would be great honour if you could ordain me tomorrow? I have special dispensation from the Holy Patriarch.”

“Why brother, the honour would be mine,” replied Fr Bretwald with a tear in his eye. “I will make all the preparations and the ceremony can be performed at sunrise on the morrow. Brother, return to my chambers and there you will find a chest. In the bottom of the chest you will find my ordination vestment. It is old, but I would be very pleased if you wore it in the ceremony. But,” Continued the father “If you will excuse me, I am getting tired and tomorrow will be a big day”

The young rogue Callin, stepped forward and pulled Fr Bretwald aside to speak to him

“Father, I was wondering if you could hear my concession” asked Callin

“Certainly my son” Father Bretwald replied “Come see me tomorrow and I will be glad to hear it”

Fr Bretwald and Brothers Arton and Otto left for St Cuthbert’s church. Br Arton then spent the night in pray and preparation, getting himself spiritually and mentally prepared for the ceremony ahead. Br Arton, aware that he would tire later in the day while en route to the caves, asked Pelor for the boon of endurance to help him do his creator’s good work.

The newly weds eventually left the party and this signalled an end to the biggest and most enjoyable day in the history of the Village of Axbridge. Sir Kendrik and his bride retired to the guests quarters as they had offered the lord’s chamber to Lady Elanor’s father. Once alone, Sir Kendrik took his beloved’s hands, stood in the middle of the room for a moment before pulling her gently and held her close before sharing a long passionate kiss, the young knight holding his lady in his strong arms. After a while the couple squeezed into the small guest bed, Lady Elanor eventually fell asleep in her brave husband’s arms.

20 Storing 1353

The morning broke chilly and overcast in Axbridge. The church, as usual, was quite full but many of the congregation knew little of the auspicious occasion they were about to witness. Boosting the numbers were the visiting nobles who sat at the front of the church. Br Arton came out in a simple and very old looking white vestment and Fr Bretwald went through the solemn ceremony of Holy Ordainment. When the service was over, Fr Arton was congratulated by all of his friends on his ordination.

Soon after, the heroes made preparations for their departure to the caves.

“My Lady” said Sir Kendrik to his beautiful wife. “I wish that I didn’t have to leave so soon after our wedding day. I promise you I will return to you as soon as possible”

“My Lord, I too wish it had not happened so soon,” answered Lady Elanor. “But I understand the duties you must complete in your role as Lord. Just promise me you will not make me a widow too soon”

“My Lady, that I promise you. I will return to you soon,” Replied Sir Kendrik “I have come to understand my duties well and gladly accept them.” The young lord kissed his wife goodbye.

Lady Elanor turned to Fr Arton

“Father, I truly hope that you will return to Axbridge and stay as a guest of my husband and I,” the young lady said.

“Certainly, My Lady. It would truly be an honour to do so.” Said Fr Arton politely.

Sir Kendrik then went to each of the visiting nobles and thanked them for witnessing his wedding, and apologising for not being able to see them off on the morrow. The nobles understood and wished the young lord well on his quest.

“Gerath! Laren!” Sir Kendrik spoke to his soldiers with some command in his voice “Make sure that Lady Elanor his kept safe while I am gone”

“Yes My Lord” said the soldiers in unison.

TO BE CONTINUED...................................

 

[Piratecat]

And I thought a wedding would have garnered a heap of interest and comment, it does on television.

you may want to split each post up into 3-4 shorter posts. I learned the hard way that short-to-medium length posts get you a wider readership. A lot of folks drop by, see really long entries, and flee without reading them.

And don't forget to provide an actual link to your old story hour! That'll make it a lot easier for people to find, since Search is off.

 

[Sir Kendrik]

Thanks for the advice Piratecat I will start doing that from the next post. I will also add a link in the first post.

Just out of curiosity what do you think of the story so far?

 

[Piratecat]

Just out of curiosity what do you think of the story so far?

I don't know - it's too daunting to fully read! I like it. But if I were you, I'd go back and split the first three posts into ten or so separate entries. The first few especially; those are the ones that grab people and keep 'em.

Feel free to ignore my advice, but I thought I'd offer it; I'd hate to see such fun go unread!

 

[Sir Kendrik]

The quest through the Halfax Wood continues..........

The trip out of Axbridge was quite uneventful with Callin and Sir Kendrik taking the lead, Fr Arton in the middle and Marban and Friar Leo bringing up the rear as they rode through Sir Kendrik’s lands. The gentle rolling hills of the young lord’s demesne making way for the more wooded terrain of the king’s forest, the Halfax Wood.

After a few hours of riding through the Halfax, the routine journey was interrupted by a soil and turf being violently flung upwards, startling the horses. A gigantic insect, came lumbering out of it’s burrow, and snatched Marban’s hound in its great, acid dripping mandibles, attempting to crush the life out of it. Callin, the first companion to regain his wits, let loose a volley of arrows at the insect, drawing blood and angering it more. With the trees of the Halfax preventing a charge on his steed, Valiant, Sir Kendrik leaped off the warhorse and drew his longsword. The insect flung aside the hound, and made an attack at Sir Kendrik, grabbing his shield in its jaws and attempted to unsuccessfully rip it out of his hands. Fr Arton, Friar Leo and Marban followed the knight’s lead and dismounted, and prepared to enter the fray. Fr Arton drawing on the power of Pelor raised his holy symbol and a blast to of pure light shot out at the creature. Friar Leo raised his hands and wove an arcane spell, but no effect was evident upon the creature. The sight of the gigantic insect moving towards them was enough to spook Marban and Friar Leo’s horses which bolted into the forest.

Callin moved forward, tumbling by the creature, but the gigantic insect snatched him in his mandibles, dealing horrific damage to the rogue. Father Arton moved forward and took hold of Marban’s dog and dragged him out of the combatant’s way as Marban flew into a rage and attacked the insect, landing a telling blow. Sir Kendrik followed up Marban’s blow with one of his own, and the creature reared back in pain, and proceeded to retreat back down it’s burrow with Callin in its’ mouth. Callin called out for help as he struggled, but was unable to extricate himself from the creature’s jaws. Fearing his best friend was about to be killed, Sir Kendrik followed the creature into its forsaken hole.

“Unhand him you unholy aberration.” Sir Kendrik yelled, a note of desperation in his voice, driving his longsword deep into the insect’s side. Fr Arton determined not to see Callin become the creatures meal called upon Pelor’s aid and felt the creator’s might flow through him and out towards the beast as a pure and searing light again hit the creature, but still it did not release the rogue from it’s clutches.

Marban grabbing his longspear, his eyes almost rolling back is his head in anger charged the insect driving the spear into its upper body. With this thrust the creature flung Callin away as it collapsed in its death throws. Fr Arton rushed to Callin and tended to his serious wounds. Once Callin was made safe the young priest healed Marban’s dog. Marban suggested to Sir Kendrik that Friar Leo and he go after their horses. The young lord agreed that it would a good idea and they departed. Callin, through the grace of Pelor, was healed and decided to investigate the insect’s lair, just in case the insect had laid eggs, however he found nothing.

The remaining three heroes, realised it was close to lunch and decided that the location of the combat was a good a place as any to stop. Over an hour passed, and the heroes were tending to their horses when all three of the now concerned heroes spotted some movement within the trees near Callin. Callin, always watchful, had his shortbow ready for use, but didn’t fire till he could identify who it was, wary that it might have been Marban and Friar Leo returning with their horses. However it was not one of their companions, but a gnoll, stealthily making its way through the trees towards the party. The gnoll was unusual in that its armour and weapons, appeared to be of high quality, and strange design, unlike that of gnolls the party had faced before with their patchwork armour, cobbled together roughly from the armour of their defeated foes. This gnoll was wearing a very strange suit of armour, which consisted of a well made breastplate, a skirt of armoured plates and well made sandals. To the three heroes this armour was nothing new as they had seen a similar design worn by Caligulus, professed son of the evil legion god, Virakus.

Thinking this gnoll would be easy prey, Callin let fly with three arrows but as he did this, four similarly dressed gnolls attacked his Sir Kendrik and Father Arton from behind.

Angered and surprised at the gnolls dishonourable tactics, Sir Kendrik yelled out as he sliced at the gnoll to his right with his trusty longsword, which bit deep. Pulling his sword out from the gnolls side he slashed again, once more hurting the gnoll gravely. Also turning to face his attackers Fr Arton, his mace in his hands, slammed the weapon into one of the other gnolls.

The gnoll that had been first seen charged in to attack Callin, but the rogue was too quick, and dodged the gnoll’s blows. Callin answered the attack with his shortsword, causing the beast to stagger slightly from its wounds. The other gnolls continued to attack the heroes, but could not penetrate their defenses. Sir Kendrik spitted a gnoll on his blade, and barely noticed it slide off his blade and drop to his feet as he focused his attentions to the second gnoll. With the skills learnt through countless hours of practice he was able to attack the second gnoll without breaking his stride. The blows staggered the gnoll and it collapsed, with the knight finishing it off with a sword plunge into its skull.

Fr Arton, his mace swinging, connected with the gnoll’s head twice, and it dropped. Callin checked the area to see if there were any more gnolls in the area, moving stealthily through the forest. Sir Kendrik moved toward Fr Arton to help him dispatch the last of the gnolls, but the priest did not need his aid as he dispatched the final gnoll without trouble.

Callin returned from his scouting, having seen no further sign of gnolls or other threats. The three heroes stripped the dead gnolls of their armour and weapons for evidence of Legion activity and threw the bodies in the insect’s hole. Once that was completed they returned to waiting for Marban and Friar Leo to return. Sir Kendrik was getting anxious about the missing heroes but thought better of going after them. Soon the sound of movement came from the trees to the right of the camp. The heroes yet again readied themselves for an attack, however this time it was friends not foes that came toward them as Marban and the friar led their now settled horses back to the camp. Once they had all eaten their lunch the party moved on toward the base camp that the Axbridge born heroes had used on their previous forays to the Caves of Chaos. The trip to the base camp was without further incident and the heroes set up camp for the night.

21 Storing 1353

The morn dawned fine but cold and the heroes quickly prepared to move on to the Caves of Chaos. The gentle rolling hills returned as they approached the unnamed foothills that hid the gorge in which the caves are located. After several hours ride the heroes reached the Goblinwash Creek, which has the caves as its source. Creek was probably a bit too ambitious a term as it was barely more than a tiny trickle that had cut its way through the fertile soil of the area.

After a decent ride hugging the trail the followed the creek the heroes reached the outcropping of rocks where they had discovered in the past was a safe place to leave their horses. Sir Kendrik ordered Valiant to guard and protect the other horses at the protected outcrop and the heroes, now on foot, continued on their way to the cave complex. Along the way they came would pass near the area they remembered as the place they buried the evil necromancer. Much to their dismay the heroes saw that the gravesite had been disturbed. Approaching the grave, a more grisly sight could not have awaited them. Propped up next to the dug up grave was the rotting disfigured corpse of the necromancer, the front of him sliced open and drawn back exposing his innards. Both Marban’s hound and Friar Leo’s pet weasel cowered and refused to approach the body, the weasel digging its claws into Friar Leo in fear. Sir Kendrik in particular, made signs against evil and along with the others fought back their lunch as they discussed what this all meant and what to do next. Marban and Sir Kendrik were going to rebury the body, wary of touching the rotting corpse, they could not find anything suitable to move the body back into its resting-place. Fr Arton was not happy to deal with this evil character and asked Pelor to reveal if any evil auras were present in the area. Much to the priest’s dismay, the corpse and the area gave off an incredibly palpable presence of evil, unnerving him. Fr Arton suggested moving on and dealing with the corpse later. The others didn’t argue as they wanted to get as much distance as they could from the grave.

 

[Sir Kendrik]

The heroes decided that they would head for the barrow entrance to the caves around the other side of the hill, not the multiple cave entrances in the gorge. The area surrounding the creek had overgrown in the time since the heroes were here last some nine months earlier. The heroes fought their way though the brambles receiving many cuts and scratches for their trouble regardless of their heavy armour.

After about an hour of fighting through the terrain the heroes made it to the barrow entrance that Fr Arton had sealed by using his clerical gift of melding stone. The huge stone boulder that Fr Arton had sealed up now had an opening in the middle as if someone had parted curtains. Fr Arton and Sir Kendrik discussed the party’s next course of action and it was decided that Callin would investigate, using the helm of darkvision that Fr Arton carried and protected by an invisibility to undead spell cast by the priest. Callin would sneak in and see what was new in the caves before reporting back to the rest of the party. Friar Leo cast a silence spell on a small stone to make Callin impossible to detect. If he needed he could throw the stone away to communicate. For security, Friar Leo got his trusty familiar to climb in Callin’s backpack, the friar then being able to be kept informed by the weasel. That seen to Friar Leo started to concentrate, quietly uttering arcane words focusing on whether there were any gnolls nearby.

Callin crept into the small opening that was just large enough to allow a human to enter. Once in the cave, Callin noticed that the area next to the opening had not changed at all. Moving in further he noticed that where the passage met up with a t-junction, the passage to the left with the sign pointing to Quesqueton, once collapsed and impassable, had been worked in a similar way to the opening, with the rock peeled back as if made liquid and then solidified once more. Again there seemed to be only room for one to pass.

Callin placing the stone on a barrel near the barrow entrance and walked over to his friends to report. It was decided that they would all travel behind Callin into the short passageway. Callin would continue to investigate the newly reopened passage.

Callin passed through the opening in the passageway, stone in hand. To his alarm he saw a shocking sight. The chimera, which the heroes had dispatched when they had last visited the caves, had been reanimated and was crouched low, blocking the passageway. It was a bloody mess with rotting strips of flesh hanging off its bones. Maggots writhed in the holes where its eyes were on each head and flies buzzed continuously around its putrid body. Its three heads, which Sir Kendrik had sliced off in a mighty blow of his longsword had been crudely reattached. The chimera appeared to be guarding the entrance as it crouched in wait. Retreating hastily, Callin returned to the companions with this new development. Quickly, the heroes devised a plan in which they would attack the undead chimera. Fr Arton asked Pelor to bless the heroes with a veil of cover from undead, and Callin returned to the passageway. Remaining some distance from the entranceway, Callin attacked the chimera with a volley of arrows. The undead beast, now able to see the rogue, charged towards the gap, intent on killing the rogue lodging itself in the small gap. Fr Arton seized the opportunity and raised his holy symbol and cried out in the name of Pelor for the beast to be gone. In an instant a bright light emitted from it burning off some of the rotting flesh that loosely hung from the beasts frame. The priest had hoped to send the beast back to the abyss but it stood it’s ground, its dragon head opening its mouth and exhaling as if to breathe flame upon the heroes, but nothing ensued.

With the attempt to release the undead creature failing Fr Arton raised his symbol once more and called forth Pelor’s searing light which dowsed the beast, inflicting yet more damage. Callin in the meantime had moved to guard the other passageway, still wearing the darkvision helm. Sir Kendrik moved in to fight the beast up close slashing at it in a flurry of telling blows. Marban, wielding his longspear, drove it into the chest of the beast from behind Kendrik. Again Sir Kendrik attacked the beast with his longsword, pieces of rotting chimera flying in every direction. As Sir Kendrik attacked he called out for the others to step back, Sir Kendrik wished to bullrush the chimera giving himself a better chance of dispatching the beast in the wider part of the cave behind it. After the other heroes had cleared a path for the young lord he crouched and charged at the huge beast, unfortunately for Sir Kendrik the chimera was too heavy for even he to budge and found himself up against the chimera’s chest.

The chimera, sensing its opportunity, grabbed at the knight’s head with its dragonhead jaws. Sir Kendrik, knowing he had to act quickly dropped his longsword and with an uppercut slammed his gauntleted fist into the lower jaw of the chimera. Like a sack of bones, the undead beast dropped to the floor, the force that animated it fleeing back to the abyss from whence it came. Sir Kendrik did what he had to and sliced the beast’s heads off once again.

Once past the slain chimera the heroes discussed what further action they were to take. Both Fr Arton and Friar Leo expressed their concerns over the reanimated chimera, stating that they were unaware that beasts could be reanimated. The teachings of Pelor indicated that only those that had souls could be re-animated. The heroes finally decided to follow the newly uncovered passageway, deciding that the chimera must have been placed there to guard something. The passageway was crudely hewn but wide enough to walk with ease. They walked for quite some distance beginning to wonder if they had unknowingly walked past a hidden doorway. Sir Kendrik drove the party to travel some more and soon they started to feel a breeze coming from ahead. They continued on their path and came across a strong breeze, the walls disappearing into darkness. After a little while the heroes had worked out they were at the end of the tunnel and were in another cave, this one open to the night air outside. They could hear the faint sounds of insects and frogs, and Callin was sent out to scout ahead. After a short while, Callin returned with the news that the cave was at the summit of a hill, and the seemed to be surrounded by marshes. During the time that Callin was away, the party had prepared to set up camp, the whole time being eaten alive by midges that were coming into the cave from the entrance. Not wanting to travel during the night, the heroes remained in the cave and set watches, with nothing untoward disturbing the companions except for the incessant midges, and a short rain shower outside.

22 Storing 1353

The rain had stopped during the night, long before the heroes rose. After breaking their fast the heroes left the cave entrance to see if they could locate where they were. Indeed they were on top of a hill looking over a vast marsh. Sir Kendrik, suggested that this would most likely be the Coronach Marsh which were some distance from the caves. The Coronach Marsh has a fearsome reputation for foul beasts and Sir Kendrik warned the others to be on the lookout for such trouble. As the sound of frogs and other wet land creatures filled the air Callin spied in the marsh valley a structure in the distance. Marban handed Callin his spyglass to get a better look,

"What kind of magic is this you use?" quizzed the young knight

The others laughed as they explained to Sir Kendrik that the spy glass was a useful piece of technology. They passed the spyglass around, so all could get a good look at the ruins. The structure appeared to be a ruined fortress or keep of some sort that none of the character's knew existed. The party decided that their only course of action was to investigate the ruin and proceeded to march through the marsh.

End Session

What do you think everyone?
Any comments on what happened or what the party did or didn’t do?

As always your comments and suggestions are greatly appreciated

 

[Sir Kendrik]

Here is the next instalment in the adventures of the Misty Isles.

When last we caught up with our brave heroes they had reached the Caves of Chaos, found the exhumed and defiled body of the evil necromancer and defeated, once more, the reanimated chimera. After following the previously blocked passageway the heroes had found themselves in a marsh. In the distance a ruin lay waiting for the party to investigate.

23 Storing 1353

A short walk down from the cave where the heroes spent the night brought the party down into the valley floor, but also caused the heroes to lose sight of the ruins. Sir Kendrik got his trusty tracker Marban to use his excellent wilderness skills and plot a course for the ruins.

The journey through the Coronach Marsh was hard going at first, the terrain and the inhabitants doing their best to slow the heroes down. After a short distance, Father Arton stopped and called upon Pelor’s divine assistance. The heroes found that they were travelling just above the soggy marsh, their feet no longer touching the surface, and the mosquitoes and other insects that had almost driven the heroes to distraction now seemed repelled by the heroes’ presence.

Suddenly, coming from directly ahead of the party was the sound of combat. Callin moved in silently to find out what the commotion was. He spied a group of gnolls attacking some strange lizard like folk. Throughout the region rumours of lizard folk in the Coronach Marsh have made the rounds but Callin had never ever seen one. He returned to Sir Kendrik, and the young lord, knowing that gnolls are considered evil, ordered his party to move in and assist the lizard folk in defeating them. He reasoned that the lizard folk might be able to assist the heroes with information on the ruins.

There were five surviving gnolls and four remaining lizard folk in a pitched battle. The gnolls though, were not like the gnolls the heroes had encountered the previous day. These gnolls were wielding rusty battleaxes and wearing patchwork armour, as is the norm in the gnoll packs of the Misty Isles. The lizard folk were wearing scale mail amour made out of a combination of shale and shells. They were wielding crude clubs embedded with jagged pieces of shale.

Callin was first to react to Sir Kendrik’s order and charged in, the gnoll he attacked didn’t know what killed it as Callin ran his short sword deep into its back. The lizard man looked at Callin, its reptilian eyes slitting, impossible to read its expression as it backed away slightly. Sir Kendrik was next to enter the fray as he charged in slashing with his longsword, mortally wounding the gnoll in front of him. The lizard man being attacked by that gnoll stepped back warily from its rescuer. Marban joined the battle and attacked another of the gnolls with his longsword. Fr Arton also attacked another gnoll with his mace, dropping the humanoid at his feet with a telling blow. Friar Leo hung back and muttered some arcane words, and weaving arcane symbols with his hands.

Callin quickly moved around to flank one of the remaining gnolls that had turned his attentions to Sir Kendrik. The gnoll growled as it attacked Sir Kendrik, but couldn’t penetrate the knight’s defences. Callin ran this gnoll through and killed it instantly. The gnoll Marban was attacking backed and ran but this did not deter the barbarian and with a roar he chased down his foe, and dispatched it. Callin quickly started checking the bodies for clues.

Now that the gnoll menace had been dealt with, Sir Kendrik took a leap of faith and sheathed his weapon in a sign of friendship to the lizard folk. Two of the lizard men near Sir Kendrik hissed in a strange language, indecipherable to all but the young halfling friar, unfortunately Leo was out of earshot. Seeing that the battle was over Friar Leo moved in and was able to hear the lizard folk discussing, in a strange draconic dialect what was happening. The Lizard folk could not understand why these strangers would aid them so.

Leo, seeing that the lizard folk were unsure if the heroes would attack them, attempted to reassure them of their peaceful intentions. One of the lizard folk asked why they were there. Leo replied that gnolls were a common enemy. The lizard man continued with its questioning and asked where the heroes were heading. Leo informed the lizard man that the heroes were heading to the old ruin. The lizard man told Leo that the ruins lay on their lands and that the heroes must leave immediately. Leo tried to reason with the lizard man saying that bad gnolls were there and that the heroes were going to remove them. The Lizard man replied that the ‘Ancient One’ lived in the ruins and that the heroes would find that out. Leo asked if the heroes could pass back through these lands on the way back home but the lizard man ominously told them that they wouldn’t be returning once they met the Ancient One. That having been said the lizard folk backed away from the heroes and disappeared into the foliage.

The heroes, unperturbed by the lizard man’s warning, continued on their way to the ruins. After another two hours of uneventful travelling the heroes reached the clearing that surrounded the ruins. Up close, the ruins had the now familiar design of legion architecture, but at some stage it had been reworked to look more Penlysh. Before approaching the ruins the heroes took turns using the spyglass to check the ruins out for habitation and to see what it was. The ruins were most likely a legion manor, not the fortress that they were expecting, and was in a messy state. The bell tower of the manor had collapsed almost completely, the main hall was intact but parts had crumbled away, its upper level looking badly damaged. The structures were surrounded by a moat filled with sluggishly moving, dark water surrounded by reeds and filled with other water plants.

Finally it was decided that the heroes should head into the ruins to find out if it was indeed the priests of Virakus’ destination. When the heroes had gotten within 50 feet of the moat, the rogue Callin spied something floating in a stagnant pool of water. It looked like a cloak, and after Callin informed Sir Kendrik, the party moved over to the edge of the pool for a closer inspection. Marban decided to try and retrieve the dark cloak with his longspear, proceeded toward the edge of the water. Unfortunately the tracker lost his footing on the slippery banks, sliding down stopping just above the surface of the moat, the gift given to Fr Arton still protecting the heroes from sinking into anything wet or muddy. Startled, Marban jumped to his feet, exclaiming his surprise in terms not fit to be heard by a lady. Marban enlisted the help of Callin to try and retrieve the cloak, but the cloak was waterlogged and apparently snagged on something underwater. The two heroes pulled a few times and suddenly it budged, suddenly rolling and revealed a shocking sight. A corpse, bloated and putrid, dressed in the robes of a cleric of Virakus, its body gashed with claw marks. But it was the clerics face that had the heroes most revolted. His lower jaw had been ripped off as if smashed by a blow from an incredibly strong creature.

No one else seemed willing, or indeed able, to retrieve the body from the pool, so Sir Kendrik reached down and collected the unfortunate cleric’s body, using all his strength to do so. Once the dead cleric was on dry land, Father Arton paused and concentrated, calling on the power of Pelor to detect any evil emanating from the cleric. After a few moments, Fr Arton could feel the power of Pelor enter his body as he waved his hands over the dead cleric of Virakus. Soon after a feint glow emanated from the dead cleric, with a more powerful glow coming from the symbol hanging from his neck.

Marban was ordered to search for tracks around the area and the tracker found that the footprints of several humanoids headed back and forwards from the lowered drawbridge. The drawbridge was in a very run down state, the planks warped and close to rotten. Whoever had been using the bridge though, had re-enforced it by placing down some new wooden planks to walk over. Sir Kendrik ordered that the party head over the bridge, and one by one the heroes gingerly crossed the bridge. Marban was first, the bridge creaked and groaned in protest at the load that it was forced to bear. This commotion continued as each of the other heroes crossed till it was Sir Kendrik’s turn. The sheer weight of the solidly built knight and his full plate armour almost had the bridge cry enough, however the knight carefully shifting his weight with each step till he too made it to the other side.

Now in the ruins proper, the heroes came across the remains of a large garden, overrun with swamp vegetation. Those who had been to a monastery or abbey before could make out what appeared to be the rotted away framework of a cloister. Marban continued in his attempts to follow the clerics and gnolls tracks, but the rain from the previous night made this task somewhat harder. After some searching of the grounds Marban was able to track the villains footsteps to and up a set of steps up to and into the great hall. The heroes could not help but notice the smeared trail of dried blood that went up the steps and along the courtyard.

Sir Kendrik arranged a marching order to investigate the ruined building. Callin with his excellent trap detecting skills took the lead with Marban, Sir Kendrik and Fr Arton close behind and little friar Leo in the rear. Once the heroes reached the top of the steps, they entered through large double doors, the hall was in bad repair with the large, once ornate windows broken and letting the light outside stream in. On the floor lay two cloaked bodies, which Callin moved ahead to investigate. The first body he checked what that of a male cleric of Virakus, his unholy vestments torn and shredded and the body showed signs of being something’s meal, on its side was a large pouch that had not been disturbed. Callin was very careful not to touch the body with his bare hands and pulled out his trusty rogue’s tools to assist him. Callin found that the cleric was wearing a symbol of Virakus around his neck, the chain broken and lying on his chest.

TO BE CONTINUED.........................