Palskane's Quest I - by Haruchai on 17:47 01 Aug 2002
Gerard questions Cyrus, the bear's great head swiveling and snuffling. Gerard knows what is being relayed, though the grunts and snuffling are lost on Palskane. Soon Gerard looks up. "Fenris is not alone. Cyrus says that he has at least four other wolves with him, though not nearly as large as Fenris himself."
Palskane sighs and casts his eyes about the forest. There is nowhere, really, to run. All they can do is keep moving and hope that this Fenris doesn't notice them or come looking for a fight. He glances at Case, who shuffles nervously from foot to foot. He beckons for the Bhaalite to come over, and the cloaked man does. "What spells do you have at your disposal today, Case?" Palskane asks, though he is sure the answer is not one he will approve of. The Bhaalite pauses for only a moment before saying, "Mostly some cure spells. A few spells of defense for myself, and two or three offensive spells. Not much to help you in a fight, I planned more to heal you if you needed it." Case's words ring true, and Palskane wonders if the man simply dislikes fighting, or is a coward. No matter. The cure spells will surely come in handy.
Palskane's attention is drawn to the side, where Cyrus has raised his head, and is sniffing the air. He whuffles once, twice, and Gerard's face darkens a bit. "Fenris is coming this way." the woodsman says, "And fast."
Gerard questions Cyrus, the bear's great head swiveling and snuffling. Gerard knows what is being relayed, though the grunts and snuffling are lost on Palskane. Soon Gerard looks up. "Fenris is not alone. Cyrus says that he has at least four other wolves with him, though not nearly as large as Fenris himself."
Palskane sighs and casts his eyes about the forest. There is nowhere, really, to run. All they can do is keep moving and hope that this Fenris doesn't notice them or come looking for a fight. He glances at Case, who shuffles nervously from foot to foot. He beckons for the Bhaalite to come over, and the cloaked man does. "What spells do you have at your disposal today, Case?" Palskane asks, though he is sure the answer is not one he will approve of. The Bhaalite pauses for only a moment before saying, "Mostly some cure spells. A few spells of defense for myself, and two or three offensive spells. Not much to help you in a fight, I planned more to heal you if you needed it." Case's words ring true, and Palskane wonders if the man simply dislikes fighting, or is a coward. No matter. The cure spells will surely come in handy.
Palskane's attention is drawn to the side, where Cyrus has raised his head, and is sniffing the air. He whuffles once, twice, and Gerard's face darkens a bit. "Fenris is coming this way." the woodsman says, "And fast."
Palskane's Quest I - by Arislyn on 09:21 02 Aug 2002
Reaching out, Gerard quickly gives Cyrus' head a rub. It is a gesture that has been with them since they first met, so long ago. A gesture that quickly conveys to the great bear that his companion wishes for him to take care of himself, flee or fight as need be. It is a short, affectionate gesture that carries the weight of the ranger's concern for Cyrus combined with the need to act quickly. Softly, Gerard pushes at Cyrus' shoulder and says, "Go on. We'll catch up with you."
His lips pressed together in a firm line, he turns to the knight and cleric. "We're not going to be able to outrun them, so I suggest you prepare yourselves." His gaze snaps away from the two as he begins to survey the surrounding trees, looking for one that has good, stout limbs that can easily hold him yet are high enough that a dire wolf would have a hard time jumping to reach. While Gerard is capable with his staff, he is a far better shot with the bow. It was the first weapon he ever learned to use, and is his favorite to this day. There is nothing quite like the feeling, the sound, of an arrow that flies true. He can almost feel it in his bones when it is right. Thus, the ranger plans to use his abilities to the best advantage possible, sniping the wolves from on high.
Reaching out, Gerard quickly gives Cyrus' head a rub. It is a gesture that has been with them since they first met, so long ago. A gesture that quickly conveys to the great bear that his companion wishes for him to take care of himself, flee or fight as need be. It is a short, affectionate gesture that carries the weight of the ranger's concern for Cyrus combined with the need to act quickly. Softly, Gerard pushes at Cyrus' shoulder and says, "Go on. We'll catch up with you."
His lips pressed together in a firm line, he turns to the knight and cleric. "We're not going to be able to outrun them, so I suggest you prepare yourselves." His gaze snaps away from the two as he begins to survey the surrounding trees, looking for one that has good, stout limbs that can easily hold him yet are high enough that a dire wolf would have a hard time jumping to reach. While Gerard is capable with his staff, he is a far better shot with the bow. It was the first weapon he ever learned to use, and is his favorite to this day. There is nothing quite like the feeling, the sound, of an arrow that flies true. He can almost feel it in his bones when it is right. Thus, the ranger plans to use his abilities to the best advantage possible, sniping the wolves from on high.
Palskane's Quest I - by Haruchai on 01:47 06 Aug 2002
Palskane notes the look that Gerard gives his bear, and he sends a mental message to Dante of "You'd best prepare yourself, friend. Trouble is coming." The big steed tosses his head and stomps as if to say, "I'm not scared.", and remains where he is. The woodsman begins casting his gaze about, and it soon settles on a rather large and sturdy walnut tree. Gerard clambers into the branches easily enough, the thick limbs supporting his weight. Soon, he is a good thirty feet off the forest floor, and Palskane can see him string his bow and nock an arrow.
Case sighs and motions, the shadows from several of the larger trees in the area seeming to gravitate towards him, shadowing him further. However, to Palskane, his magics are more obvious as the darkness itself seems to form a protective layer about the man.
Cyrus moves away from the small band of humans, and casts one last look at them before lumbering off into the underbrush. Palskane watches the big animal go, and feels just a bit less at ease with the woods without his presence. Dante snorts, and everyone's attention moves to the horse. Just to the left of the horse, some small movements through the brush can be seen. Palskane unsheathes his greatsword, though he cannot see as well as Gerard can.
From his vantage point above the forest floor, Gerard can see several large canine forms moving swiftly and silently through the trees and coming in their general direction. In the lead, a jet black wolf of enormous size has its head to the ground. He can feel his heart leap into his throat at the sight of Fenris, the wolf seeming larger than he'd imagined. His eyes move towards the sky, noting the position of the sun. The wolf is smart, maybe too smart. Heading towards evening, the sun is setting in the western sky.... the direction from which the great wolf and his pack approaches.... the sun at their back. And soon in the eyes of the defenders. Gerard can already see the small haze that always seems to accompany the sunset in the woods, and he realizes that at this time of dusk, depth perception and fading light will work against them. He sighs. Not only that, but once the sun has set, the wolves have the added advantage of keener senses.
All they can do now is wait.
Palskane notes the look that Gerard gives his bear, and he sends a mental message to Dante of "You'd best prepare yourself, friend. Trouble is coming." The big steed tosses his head and stomps as if to say, "I'm not scared.", and remains where he is. The woodsman begins casting his gaze about, and it soon settles on a rather large and sturdy walnut tree. Gerard clambers into the branches easily enough, the thick limbs supporting his weight. Soon, he is a good thirty feet off the forest floor, and Palskane can see him string his bow and nock an arrow.
Case sighs and motions, the shadows from several of the larger trees in the area seeming to gravitate towards him, shadowing him further. However, to Palskane, his magics are more obvious as the darkness itself seems to form a protective layer about the man.
Cyrus moves away from the small band of humans, and casts one last look at them before lumbering off into the underbrush. Palskane watches the big animal go, and feels just a bit less at ease with the woods without his presence. Dante snorts, and everyone's attention moves to the horse. Just to the left of the horse, some small movements through the brush can be seen. Palskane unsheathes his greatsword, though he cannot see as well as Gerard can.
From his vantage point above the forest floor, Gerard can see several large canine forms moving swiftly and silently through the trees and coming in their general direction. In the lead, a jet black wolf of enormous size has its head to the ground. He can feel his heart leap into his throat at the sight of Fenris, the wolf seeming larger than he'd imagined. His eyes move towards the sky, noting the position of the sun. The wolf is smart, maybe too smart. Heading towards evening, the sun is setting in the western sky.... the direction from which the great wolf and his pack approaches.... the sun at their back. And soon in the eyes of the defenders. Gerard can already see the small haze that always seems to accompany the sunset in the woods, and he realizes that at this time of dusk, depth perception and fading light will work against them. He sighs. Not only that, but once the sun has set, the wolves have the added advantage of keener senses.
All they can do now is wait.
Palskane's Quest I - by Haruchai on 14:30 07 Aug 2002
Gerard sees the wolves stop, milling about nearly a hundred yards from where they are. The trees give ample cover to the big animals, and he can only keep track of them by the size of Fenris. Suddenly, the dusk seems more encraoching as a howl splits the air. A long, high-pitched howl of challenge. Then, a small white form seems to separate itself from the rest of the wolves and make its way swiftly towards where the group awaits.
Palskane sets the tip of Ellendryn on the ground. He does not relish this battle. Fenris himself may be evil, but more than likely the other wolves are following out of fear. Fenris is certainly the strongest. Ellendryn's voice can be heard then, whispering. "One of them has broken from the pack, Scion. It is headed our way." Palskane nods, and readies himself for what is to come.
Gerard watches the white form move towards them, and as it nears he is more than a bit startled by what he sees. A white wolf approaches, collared! And upon the collar is strapped a small scroll of paper. "How odd." he thinks, and quickly descends, his feet soon back on the forest floor. He can see Palskane a little ways away, and it appears that the paladin has not heard his descent. The white wolf soon comes into view from the ground, and as it approaches, it also slows. Dante snorts and rears, and the wolf moves back, tail between its legs. It looks at Gerard and Palskane, and approaches slowly, belly to the ground, tail tucked. It whines and scrapes, rolling onto its back as it nears Palskane.
Gerard scratches his chin, and gestures to Case. The Bhaalite comes over, trailing darkness. The wolf whines and cries as he approaches, obviously sensing the unnatural aura about the man. With a look from Palskane, the cleric ends his spell, and the wolf seems to visibly become less distressed. Gerard, not wanting to startle the animal speaks in low tones to the cleric. "Can you see if this animal is enchanted in some way? It seems out of place that it would approach thus, and also seems to be bearing a message of some sort." The cleric nods, and his hands move as he says a few divine words of a spell. He examines the animal and says, "The wolf itself seems... unnatural. There is definitely an aura of magic about it, though the wolf itself is certainly not under the effects of a spell. The note upon it seems to be separate yet.... part of it." The Bhaalite shrugs. "I'm really not sure what to make of it."
Palskane bends, and the wolf whines and flips to its belly, inching towards him. He extends a hand, to which Gerard makes a noise of caution. The woodsman's eyes rove about, having lost track of the pack once out of his tree. He watches the trees around them, expecting an attack from the pack.
The wolf nuzzles Palskane's hand, and allows the paladin to grasp the scroll. It easily comes away from the collar, and the animal licks the Scion's hand as he opens it. Gerard moves swiftly back to his tree, and clambers into the branches, gaining sight once more of Fenris and the pack. They have not moved, and seem to be holding their ground just where they were. He glances back over to the knight, who reads the parchment.
Palskane reads the letter and sighs, shaking his head. He pats the head of the wolf, and with a small gesture, beckons for Gerard to come back down. "What does it say?" Case asks. Gerard is soon back at the side of the paladin, and the knight hands Case the parchment. The Bhaalite reads aloud:
"As accorded your position, you have cordially been invited to join the Hunt. The Sleeping Forest is now awakened, and angry. To the south our prey lies, a blight upon the forest that must be cut out.
This offer stands until the sun sets. Once night has fallen you are either with the Hunt or part of the Hunted. The decision is yours."
Signed,
Master of the Hunt
Gerard looks at the sun, setting quickly. "I'd say we have about 5 minutes to make up our minds." he says. Palskane nods and sighs, looking to the others to get their opinions.
Gerard sees the wolves stop, milling about nearly a hundred yards from where they are. The trees give ample cover to the big animals, and he can only keep track of them by the size of Fenris. Suddenly, the dusk seems more encraoching as a howl splits the air. A long, high-pitched howl of challenge. Then, a small white form seems to separate itself from the rest of the wolves and make its way swiftly towards where the group awaits.
Palskane sets the tip of Ellendryn on the ground. He does not relish this battle. Fenris himself may be evil, but more than likely the other wolves are following out of fear. Fenris is certainly the strongest. Ellendryn's voice can be heard then, whispering. "One of them has broken from the pack, Scion. It is headed our way." Palskane nods, and readies himself for what is to come.
Gerard watches the white form move towards them, and as it nears he is more than a bit startled by what he sees. A white wolf approaches, collared! And upon the collar is strapped a small scroll of paper. "How odd." he thinks, and quickly descends, his feet soon back on the forest floor. He can see Palskane a little ways away, and it appears that the paladin has not heard his descent. The white wolf soon comes into view from the ground, and as it approaches, it also slows. Dante snorts and rears, and the wolf moves back, tail between its legs. It looks at Gerard and Palskane, and approaches slowly, belly to the ground, tail tucked. It whines and scrapes, rolling onto its back as it nears Palskane.
Gerard scratches his chin, and gestures to Case. The Bhaalite comes over, trailing darkness. The wolf whines and cries as he approaches, obviously sensing the unnatural aura about the man. With a look from Palskane, the cleric ends his spell, and the wolf seems to visibly become less distressed. Gerard, not wanting to startle the animal speaks in low tones to the cleric. "Can you see if this animal is enchanted in some way? It seems out of place that it would approach thus, and also seems to be bearing a message of some sort." The cleric nods, and his hands move as he says a few divine words of a spell. He examines the animal and says, "The wolf itself seems... unnatural. There is definitely an aura of magic about it, though the wolf itself is certainly not under the effects of a spell. The note upon it seems to be separate yet.... part of it." The Bhaalite shrugs. "I'm really not sure what to make of it."
Palskane bends, and the wolf whines and flips to its belly, inching towards him. He extends a hand, to which Gerard makes a noise of caution. The woodsman's eyes rove about, having lost track of the pack once out of his tree. He watches the trees around them, expecting an attack from the pack.
The wolf nuzzles Palskane's hand, and allows the paladin to grasp the scroll. It easily comes away from the collar, and the animal licks the Scion's hand as he opens it. Gerard moves swiftly back to his tree, and clambers into the branches, gaining sight once more of Fenris and the pack. They have not moved, and seem to be holding their ground just where they were. He glances back over to the knight, who reads the parchment.
Palskane reads the letter and sighs, shaking his head. He pats the head of the wolf, and with a small gesture, beckons for Gerard to come back down. "What does it say?" Case asks. Gerard is soon back at the side of the paladin, and the knight hands Case the parchment. The Bhaalite reads aloud:
"As accorded your position, you have cordially been invited to join the Hunt. The Sleeping Forest is now awakened, and angry. To the south our prey lies, a blight upon the forest that must be cut out.
This offer stands until the sun sets. Once night has fallen you are either with the Hunt or part of the Hunted. The decision is yours."
Signed,
Master of the Hunt
Gerard looks at the sun, setting quickly. "I'd say we have about 5 minutes to make up our minds." he says. Palskane nods and sighs, looking to the others to get their opinions.
Palskane's Quest I - by Haruchai on 01:13 08 Aug 2002
Palskane follows Gerard's gaze towards the horizon and nods his agreement. The woodsman sighs and says, "I'll tell you what I can, quickly, of the Hunt."
"The Hunt always comes into being when a great evil is upon the Land. Normally, the Hunt is headed by the Master and consists of that mysterious figure and his hounds. It appears, however, that the Master of the Hunt has taken Fenris and his pack instead. There can only be one Hunt in the Landon any given night, Palskane. It is said that the magic of the Hunt will catch up and sweep along any who encounter it, whether they be willing or not, so this invitation to you is most certainly unique. It is said that those who are part of the Hunt have no will of their own, and must follow the Hunt to its conclusion. Whatever prey is specified by the Hunt is engaged in mortal combat as soon as it is encountered." Gerard pauses and then continues. "There have been instances, though few, of the Hunt itself being defeated. Epic battles have taken place, with the Master and his pack defeated, only to be seen the next night someplace else. The Hunt seems to be eternal."
The woodsman stops and says, "As for the Sleeping Forest, well, that is where we travel at the moment, my friend. Though if it is to be believed, it is now awake...." A howl splits the air, and the attention of the men is drawn once more to the setting sun, about half of the bright orb below the horizon. Palskane sighs and kneels once more, reaching his hand out to the wolf. The magnificent animal whines and licks his hand, and Gerard can hear the paladin say, "We will join your Hunt. Go. Tell him." The wolf blinks, as if in understanding, then turns tail and runs.
"Well, at the very least, this should be interesting." Gerard says. Case sighs.
Palskane follows Gerard's gaze towards the horizon and nods his agreement. The woodsman sighs and says, "I'll tell you what I can, quickly, of the Hunt."
"The Hunt always comes into being when a great evil is upon the Land. Normally, the Hunt is headed by the Master and consists of that mysterious figure and his hounds. It appears, however, that the Master of the Hunt has taken Fenris and his pack instead. There can only be one Hunt in the Landon any given night, Palskane. It is said that the magic of the Hunt will catch up and sweep along any who encounter it, whether they be willing or not, so this invitation to you is most certainly unique. It is said that those who are part of the Hunt have no will of their own, and must follow the Hunt to its conclusion. Whatever prey is specified by the Hunt is engaged in mortal combat as soon as it is encountered." Gerard pauses and then continues. "There have been instances, though few, of the Hunt itself being defeated. Epic battles have taken place, with the Master and his pack defeated, only to be seen the next night someplace else. The Hunt seems to be eternal."
The woodsman stops and says, "As for the Sleeping Forest, well, that is where we travel at the moment, my friend. Though if it is to be believed, it is now awake...." A howl splits the air, and the attention of the men is drawn once more to the setting sun, about half of the bright orb below the horizon. Palskane sighs and kneels once more, reaching his hand out to the wolf. The magnificent animal whines and licks his hand, and Gerard can hear the paladin say, "We will join your Hunt. Go. Tell him." The wolf blinks, as if in understanding, then turns tail and runs.
"Well, at the very least, this should be interesting." Gerard says. Case sighs.
Palskane's Quest I - by Haruchai on 23:46 14 Aug 2002
As the white wolf disappears into the forest brush, Palskane turns to Gerard and Case. "If what you know of the Hunt is rue, Gerard," Palskane says, "then we will be doing the Land a service by joining. We shall soon see."
The last sliver of sun dips below the horizon, casting the forest in the pale afterglow of daylight. A mournful howl is heard from not far off, and several shapes can be seen moving through the brush. Palskane, Gerard, and Case can all feel something stir inside them. Deep inside them, something primordial, something that stirs the very base of man.... survival. The wind seems more crisp, sounds seem more vivid, as do smells. Gerard breathes deeply, the forest coming alive in a whole new dimension that he has only ever dreamed about. Then, the wolves are there....
A pack of a dozen or so, milling about the legs of the men, sniffing, taking stock. Yellow and green eyes take them in, noses sniff, and bodies rub against the two-legged creatures. All save one. A wolf of immense size, its shoulder nearly as tall as Gerard's own, and pitch-black in color, stands to the side. It eyes Gerard, that emerald orb holding neither contempt nor admiration. A low guttural growl, though not menacing, issues for the from the huge beast, and all the men can feel that thrumming in their bones.
As one, the wolves move to the south, and pause momentarily as a dark humanoid figure steps from the shadows of a great pine.
The figure appears to be a man, maybe a giant, for his stature towers over all present. Palskane himself, taller than both Case and Gerard, only manages to come to the shoulder of the being. The next thing that all notice of the figure is the jet-black skin. So unnatural as to make one question their own eyes. The gazes of the three men move upwards along a somewhat lean but well-muscled frame, towards the face of the man. Two bright greenish-yellow eyes peer forth in the growing darkness, though much like the eyes of Fenris they convey neither respect or admonishment. They merely are. The features of the being's face are covered by a draped mask of hide, with eyeholes cut to see through. Though the large rack of antlers that protrude from the sides of the being's head are certainly real. The antlers are as those of a stag, and the being tosses his head before speaking. "I am the Master of the Hunt. Never before has a Master hunted with the Chosen of the gods. A glorious night of redemption lies before the Land."
With that, the Master tosses his head, the antlers rapping loudly upon the pine before he steps off towards the south. The wolves follow.
As the white wolf disappears into the forest brush, Palskane turns to Gerard and Case. "If what you know of the Hunt is rue, Gerard," Palskane says, "then we will be doing the Land a service by joining. We shall soon see."
The last sliver of sun dips below the horizon, casting the forest in the pale afterglow of daylight. A mournful howl is heard from not far off, and several shapes can be seen moving through the brush. Palskane, Gerard, and Case can all feel something stir inside them. Deep inside them, something primordial, something that stirs the very base of man.... survival. The wind seems more crisp, sounds seem more vivid, as do smells. Gerard breathes deeply, the forest coming alive in a whole new dimension that he has only ever dreamed about. Then, the wolves are there....
A pack of a dozen or so, milling about the legs of the men, sniffing, taking stock. Yellow and green eyes take them in, noses sniff, and bodies rub against the two-legged creatures. All save one. A wolf of immense size, its shoulder nearly as tall as Gerard's own, and pitch-black in color, stands to the side. It eyes Gerard, that emerald orb holding neither contempt nor admiration. A low guttural growl, though not menacing, issues for the from the huge beast, and all the men can feel that thrumming in their bones.
As one, the wolves move to the south, and pause momentarily as a dark humanoid figure steps from the shadows of a great pine.
The figure appears to be a man, maybe a giant, for his stature towers over all present. Palskane himself, taller than both Case and Gerard, only manages to come to the shoulder of the being. The next thing that all notice of the figure is the jet-black skin. So unnatural as to make one question their own eyes. The gazes of the three men move upwards along a somewhat lean but well-muscled frame, towards the face of the man. Two bright greenish-yellow eyes peer forth in the growing darkness, though much like the eyes of Fenris they convey neither respect or admonishment. They merely are. The features of the being's face are covered by a draped mask of hide, with eyeholes cut to see through. Though the large rack of antlers that protrude from the sides of the being's head are certainly real. The antlers are as those of a stag, and the being tosses his head before speaking. "I am the Master of the Hunt. Never before has a Master hunted with the Chosen of the gods. A glorious night of redemption lies before the Land."
With that, the Master tosses his head, the antlers rapping loudly upon the pine before he steps off towards the south. The wolves follow.
Palskane's Quest I - by Haruchai on 13:45 20 Aug 2002
Gerard closes his eyes and breathes deep once more as the Master heads deeper into the forest. When he opens his eyes again, he knows, he feels, the nature of the pack. With a new vision he looks at his surroundings, placing each member of the pack and their importance. The Master and Palskane, both equally important... alpha males. Next in line appears to be Fenris and.... himself. Inwardly he finds some surprise at this, though he feels exhilarated by the knowledge. He can see the Master and Palskane just ahead, moving swiftly through the forest, almost as if the Awakened Forest lets them pass unhindered. A hard rub against his leg makes him look downwards, to see a light brown wolf almost grinning up at him. His hand reaches down instinctively to pat, and the wolf catches that hand gently in it's jaws. Gerard almost laughs.
Case finds himself surrounded by wolves, and his companions seem to fit right on. But he feels... exposed. Several wolves urge him along, gently, but firmly, and he follows. The deeper they travel into the forest, their route ever southard, Case feels the taint. He is sure that the Master feels it as well, though both Gerard and Palskane seem oblivious and blindly following. He isn't able to pinpoint the cause of the taint yet, but whatever it is... it's powerful. It's.... Case's eyes go wide, and though he struggles against the pull of the Hunt, he has been ensnared.
Palskane follows the Master, finding that the small branches and brush of the forest move from his path. His armor hinders him not, and the forest seems to reach out at times, vines and branches running across the metal encasing him. Argenoies Tegere does not scrape along the wood, and seems to give a little under the touch of the forest. Though to Palskane this seems natural, at the moment.
Ever southward they travel, and Palskane is amazed by the amount of ground they cover. Though his mind is sure that they are sped along in some enhanced way, his other senses take in all that this new vision grant. He can hear the breathing of the woves behind him, all exulting in this new hunt, this new experience. Even Fenris, the huge wolf that Gerard spoke of, has joined the group collective. There seems to be no animosity or trickery in the animals.
Case can feel the taint stronger now, and though he is part of the Hunt, he recoils from it. How could they, even the whole of them, hope to stand against such a thing? Still, they move ever onward.
Gerard closes his eyes and breathes deep once more as the Master heads deeper into the forest. When he opens his eyes again, he knows, he feels, the nature of the pack. With a new vision he looks at his surroundings, placing each member of the pack and their importance. The Master and Palskane, both equally important... alpha males. Next in line appears to be Fenris and.... himself. Inwardly he finds some surprise at this, though he feels exhilarated by the knowledge. He can see the Master and Palskane just ahead, moving swiftly through the forest, almost as if the Awakened Forest lets them pass unhindered. A hard rub against his leg makes him look downwards, to see a light brown wolf almost grinning up at him. His hand reaches down instinctively to pat, and the wolf catches that hand gently in it's jaws. Gerard almost laughs.
Case finds himself surrounded by wolves, and his companions seem to fit right on. But he feels... exposed. Several wolves urge him along, gently, but firmly, and he follows. The deeper they travel into the forest, their route ever southard, Case feels the taint. He is sure that the Master feels it as well, though both Gerard and Palskane seem oblivious and blindly following. He isn't able to pinpoint the cause of the taint yet, but whatever it is... it's powerful. It's.... Case's eyes go wide, and though he struggles against the pull of the Hunt, he has been ensnared.
Palskane follows the Master, finding that the small branches and brush of the forest move from his path. His armor hinders him not, and the forest seems to reach out at times, vines and branches running across the metal encasing him. Argenoies Tegere does not scrape along the wood, and seems to give a little under the touch of the forest. Though to Palskane this seems natural, at the moment.
Ever southward they travel, and Palskane is amazed by the amount of ground they cover. Though his mind is sure that they are sped along in some enhanced way, his other senses take in all that this new vision grant. He can hear the breathing of the woves behind him, all exulting in this new hunt, this new experience. Even Fenris, the huge wolf that Gerard spoke of, has joined the group collective. There seems to be no animosity or trickery in the animals.
Case can feel the taint stronger now, and though he is part of the Hunt, he recoils from it. How could they, even the whole of them, hope to stand against such a thing? Still, they move ever onward.
Palskane's Quest I - by Haruchai on 00:34 22 Aug 2002
Onward they travel, covering, Gerard would guess, about three to four miles an hour. Not bad time for the assorted group. Almost four hours into the trek, Gerard can feel the unnatural taint that the forest has to it. It makes him nauseous, and he gags several times, seeing the wolves about him do the same. It is the unmistakable stench of death and decay. Gerard chides himself for not having sensed this atrocity sooner, but that only steels his resolve more, now that he is in the Hunt, to put an end to it. The taint doesn't seem to affect the Master or Palskane, though he can see Case's pale face and looming dread. Soon, they start to run across wilted and ruined vegetation. Brown, sickly plants become the norm, and even if the forest would want to hold them back from what they may find, Gerard does not believe that it would have the strength to do so here.
Palskane, caught up in the hunt, is still well aware of this blight upon the Land. Silently at his side, Ellendryn is aware as well, and starts to weep. The holy tears slide along the length of the bone blade, and drop silently to the forest floor, sizzling where it lands. Fenris moves to investigate one of the sizzling patches, and moves over as gerard comes to see as well. Where the holy drop landed, the plants are still dead, but have not the sickly color of the true decay that they had shown moments before. These have the pallor of a more natural death, a forest death... not that of some.... Gerard cannot place the word he is looking for, but he and Fenris share a knowing look.
Another hour passes, the terrain becoming more broken and savaged, and Gerard can barely breathe the humid, dank air. It is thick now with the smell of decay, and even the soil itself seems to be corrupted. Then, the Master stops. "It is not far now. Prepare yourselves for battle, my children, for the redemption of the Land is nigh."
Onward they travel, covering, Gerard would guess, about three to four miles an hour. Not bad time for the assorted group. Almost four hours into the trek, Gerard can feel the unnatural taint that the forest has to it. It makes him nauseous, and he gags several times, seeing the wolves about him do the same. It is the unmistakable stench of death and decay. Gerard chides himself for not having sensed this atrocity sooner, but that only steels his resolve more, now that he is in the Hunt, to put an end to it. The taint doesn't seem to affect the Master or Palskane, though he can see Case's pale face and looming dread. Soon, they start to run across wilted and ruined vegetation. Brown, sickly plants become the norm, and even if the forest would want to hold them back from what they may find, Gerard does not believe that it would have the strength to do so here.
Palskane, caught up in the hunt, is still well aware of this blight upon the Land. Silently at his side, Ellendryn is aware as well, and starts to weep. The holy tears slide along the length of the bone blade, and drop silently to the forest floor, sizzling where it lands. Fenris moves to investigate one of the sizzling patches, and moves over as gerard comes to see as well. Where the holy drop landed, the plants are still dead, but have not the sickly color of the true decay that they had shown moments before. These have the pallor of a more natural death, a forest death... not that of some.... Gerard cannot place the word he is looking for, but he and Fenris share a knowing look.
Another hour passes, the terrain becoming more broken and savaged, and Gerard can barely breathe the humid, dank air. It is thick now with the smell of decay, and even the soil itself seems to be corrupted. Then, the Master stops. "It is not far now. Prepare yourselves for battle, my children, for the redemption of the Land is nigh."
Palskane's Quest I - by Haruchai on 01:30 23 Aug 2002
The words of the Master cut into every present beings consciousness, and though he is a part of the Hunt, Gerard prepares his bow. Palskane draws Ellendryn, and Case recites the words of a spell. The wolves growl softly, and gather round the Master. The large, horned being, moonlight softly playing along his ebony skin, gestures to the south. "Just beyond the next rise lies our foe. Brace yourself, for his purpose is as yet unknown, and unpredictability is not the way of the forest."
With that, the Master sets off at a trot, the wolves and the three men keeping pace. Over the small hill they go, all of them making nary as sound as they travel. Even spurred onward as they are by the Master, each man can feel his breath catch as the sight beyond the ridge comes into view.
The hill rolls gently downwards, the ruined vegetation still prevalent and the smell still clinging to the nostrils. A clearing down below almost seems to absorb the pale light from the moon, the plants blackened and unnatural. A large tree nearby, wilted and rotting, almost seems to let out a ragged gasp. Gerard jumps slightly, and focuses upon the rotting giant. There, amongst the now gnarled and bare wood he can see.... a face. Weary eyes look over the assmebled group, and another ragged breath seems to shake the fallen giant. The master has moved over to it, a black hand resting gently upon a thick branch. "Your suffering will soon be over, great Tree Brother. We go to put a stop to this, and we have the Scion among our number." The great tree seems to let out a sigh of relief, and it speaks, its voice rumbling and slow and tired. "Let...me...speak...with...the...Chosen...One...". It says. The Master nods, and gestures for Palskane to come closer. The paladin moves closer, sheathing his bladed weapon in the presence of the awakened tree. Once more the wizened wood speaks, it's voice quieter now.
"You...must...make...reparations...Scion. Your...past...is...come...and...will...not...rest...until...you...remember. Search...your...heart. You...must...remember..." A great gasp escapes the dying tree, and it shudders. Gerard and the wolves can feel its dying through the forest floor, standing upon the dying ground almost painful to their feet. "Something...forgotten....Scion. Something...to...remind...you...that...you...were...not...always...what...you...are...now.
.." The eyes close, great pieces of wood rasping downwards to cover what would normally appear to be knots. "Take...out...my...eye...Scion. Make...my...visage...like...that...of...the...Just...One...and...my...lord...will......als
o.........be..........with.............you........" And with a great sigh, the treant is no more.
A shuddering beneath their feet marks the passing of the life of the treant, and the Master places a hand upon Palskane's shoulder. "Normally I would frown upon the disfigurement of one of the awakened, Scion. But his purpose for you is clear." With that, the Master gently scoops out the eye of the dead tree, and hands it to Palskane. The paladin looks at the visage of the old treant now, missing one eye. He sighs, and takes the piece of wood from the Master. He stands there for a moment, looking at the eye, and the Master hands him a small piece of vine. Draping the vine about his neck, a natural eyelet in the wood allows it to be hung easily about his neck. Though he never knew the treant, or even this forest, before a day ago, he can feel the corruption of this land. Gripping the hilt of his sword, Ellendryn, Palskane looks down into the darkness at the bottom of the hill.
"Let's go." he says, and sets off.
The words of the Master cut into every present beings consciousness, and though he is a part of the Hunt, Gerard prepares his bow. Palskane draws Ellendryn, and Case recites the words of a spell. The wolves growl softly, and gather round the Master. The large, horned being, moonlight softly playing along his ebony skin, gestures to the south. "Just beyond the next rise lies our foe. Brace yourself, for his purpose is as yet unknown, and unpredictability is not the way of the forest."
With that, the Master sets off at a trot, the wolves and the three men keeping pace. Over the small hill they go, all of them making nary as sound as they travel. Even spurred onward as they are by the Master, each man can feel his breath catch as the sight beyond the ridge comes into view.
The hill rolls gently downwards, the ruined vegetation still prevalent and the smell still clinging to the nostrils. A clearing down below almost seems to absorb the pale light from the moon, the plants blackened and unnatural. A large tree nearby, wilted and rotting, almost seems to let out a ragged gasp. Gerard jumps slightly, and focuses upon the rotting giant. There, amongst the now gnarled and bare wood he can see.... a face. Weary eyes look over the assmebled group, and another ragged breath seems to shake the fallen giant. The master has moved over to it, a black hand resting gently upon a thick branch. "Your suffering will soon be over, great Tree Brother. We go to put a stop to this, and we have the Scion among our number." The great tree seems to let out a sigh of relief, and it speaks, its voice rumbling and slow and tired. "Let...me...speak...with...the...Chosen...One...". It says. The Master nods, and gestures for Palskane to come closer. The paladin moves closer, sheathing his bladed weapon in the presence of the awakened tree. Once more the wizened wood speaks, it's voice quieter now.
"You...must...make...reparations...Scion. Your...past...is...come...and...will...not...rest...until...you...remember. Search...your...heart. You...must...remember..." A great gasp escapes the dying tree, and it shudders. Gerard and the wolves can feel its dying through the forest floor, standing upon the dying ground almost painful to their feet. "Something...forgotten....Scion. Something...to...remind...you...that...you...were...not...always...what...you...are...now.
.." The eyes close, great pieces of wood rasping downwards to cover what would normally appear to be knots. "Take...out...my...eye...Scion. Make...my...visage...like...that...of...the...Just...One...and...my...lord...will......als
o.........be..........with.............you........" And with a great sigh, the treant is no more.
A shuddering beneath their feet marks the passing of the life of the treant, and the Master places a hand upon Palskane's shoulder. "Normally I would frown upon the disfigurement of one of the awakened, Scion. But his purpose for you is clear." With that, the Master gently scoops out the eye of the dead tree, and hands it to Palskane. The paladin looks at the visage of the old treant now, missing one eye. He sighs, and takes the piece of wood from the Master. He stands there for a moment, looking at the eye, and the Master hands him a small piece of vine. Draping the vine about his neck, a natural eyelet in the wood allows it to be hung easily about his neck. Though he never knew the treant, or even this forest, before a day ago, he can feel the corruption of this land. Gripping the hilt of his sword, Ellendryn, Palskane looks down into the darkness at the bottom of the hill.
"Let's go." he says, and sets off.
Palskane's Quest I - by Haruchai on 12:30 24 Aug 2002
Palskane begins to move down the hill, flanked by the giant, ebon-skinned Master, and a pack of wolves. Gerard's senses brim with information from the forest, and his bow feels good in his hands. As good as it has ever felt. In all the years he has spent in the forest, he had never been privileged enough to meet one of the tree brothers. Much less hear one speak to his ilk. The elation in his spirit drives himforward, into the preternatural darkness at the bottom of what now almost seems a ravine. The rotted vegetation makes his nose itch, and the light brown wolf from earlier nuzzles his hand with her nose.
Upon feeling the ground level somewhat, Palskane looks about. If it were not for the way the ground feels under his feet, he'd not know that the descent was over, for the darkness permeates everything. As he thinks that, wishing that he could use his eyes, he feels a massive hand upon his shoulder. The Master's touch sends a bright light through his eyes, and he finds that he can see... somewhat. Though still bathed in shades of black and gray, he finds that he can see enough to navigate by, maybe five to ten feet. He glances to his sides, and can see Case, barely, wrapped in his own cloak of darkness. The Bhaalite is in the midst of casting a spell, though he makes no sound. When he has finished, a bright ball of light appears over his head, casting the area, or some of it, into a soft glow. What they see makes both men gasp.
As the light comes into being, several shadowy shapes move swiftly out of the area. Thin and spindly, they move with an unnatural speed, though they were surely there just moments before.
Gerard sees the shadows, and though they are gone in an instant, his bow is at the ready. The hackles of the light brown wolf at his side rise and he can hear the low growl from it. He can feel the hairs on the nape of his neck stand on end, and he casts his eyes about for Fenris. He sees the big wolf, nearby Case, poised and ready to strike, though in obvious defense of the Bhaalite.
Once the shadows have moved beyond their range of vision, Palskane draws Ellendryn. During the descent into the darkness he had gripped the hilt of the sword, and now he bares the blade. "We are not alone." he can hear Ellendryn say in his mind, and Palskane nods. The assemblage is startled as a voice addresses them out of the darkness.
"Welcome, Master of the Hunt. And welcome as well to you, Victor Palskane. I have been expecting you."
Palskane begins to move down the hill, flanked by the giant, ebon-skinned Master, and a pack of wolves. Gerard's senses brim with information from the forest, and his bow feels good in his hands. As good as it has ever felt. In all the years he has spent in the forest, he had never been privileged enough to meet one of the tree brothers. Much less hear one speak to his ilk. The elation in his spirit drives himforward, into the preternatural darkness at the bottom of what now almost seems a ravine. The rotted vegetation makes his nose itch, and the light brown wolf from earlier nuzzles his hand with her nose.
Upon feeling the ground level somewhat, Palskane looks about. If it were not for the way the ground feels under his feet, he'd not know that the descent was over, for the darkness permeates everything. As he thinks that, wishing that he could use his eyes, he feels a massive hand upon his shoulder. The Master's touch sends a bright light through his eyes, and he finds that he can see... somewhat. Though still bathed in shades of black and gray, he finds that he can see enough to navigate by, maybe five to ten feet. He glances to his sides, and can see Case, barely, wrapped in his own cloak of darkness. The Bhaalite is in the midst of casting a spell, though he makes no sound. When he has finished, a bright ball of light appears over his head, casting the area, or some of it, into a soft glow. What they see makes both men gasp.
As the light comes into being, several shadowy shapes move swiftly out of the area. Thin and spindly, they move with an unnatural speed, though they were surely there just moments before.
Gerard sees the shadows, and though they are gone in an instant, his bow is at the ready. The hackles of the light brown wolf at his side rise and he can hear the low growl from it. He can feel the hairs on the nape of his neck stand on end, and he casts his eyes about for Fenris. He sees the big wolf, nearby Case, poised and ready to strike, though in obvious defense of the Bhaalite.
Once the shadows have moved beyond their range of vision, Palskane draws Ellendryn. During the descent into the darkness he had gripped the hilt of the sword, and now he bares the blade. "We are not alone." he can hear Ellendryn say in his mind, and Palskane nods. The assemblage is startled as a voice addresses them out of the darkness.
"Welcome, Master of the Hunt. And welcome as well to you, Victor Palskane. I have been expecting you."
Palskane's Quest I - by Haruchai on 14:57 24 Aug 2002
The voice is raspy and disconcerting, seeming to come from many directions at once. "I...I can't sense anyone." Ellendryn informs Palskane, the sword emitting a soft glow. The Master has stopped in his tracks, head swiveling slowly from side to side. The wolves stand their ground and growl, though they face different directions. A few of them sniff the air and whine a bit, urinating on themselves as if from fear or excitement. Gerard finds himself moving slowly closer to case, his bow at the ready and ears and eyes alert. Case seems to be concentrating, his eyes closed. Then something strikes Gerard as very odd. All of the dead and dying vegetation they have seen... there have been no insects, no birds, nothing. Just dead plants.
"Who are you?" Palskane asks, "What are you?" His questions seem to be swallowed by the darkness, and only the smell of rotting and dead vegetation greets him. A raspy laugh emanates from the shadow....
"Who am I? What am I?... How quickly you forget, Victor. After all, you made me." An angry hiss and a sigh reach their ears before the voice continues. "All I wanted was acceptance, you know. Just a small bit of respect."
Palskane shakes his head, "What are you talking about? A bit of respect?" The Scion is now completely lost, and his gaze turns towards the Master. The ebon-skinned giant of a man seems tense, on-guard.
The small ball of light that was brought into being by Case moves about, casting its pale glow over unlit portions of the forest. As it moves, shadows shuffle and scurry from its path, some vaguely humanoid and others unable to be recognized. The Master's head snaps upwards, and startles Palskane, who follows his movement.
There, gliding silently down into the light, is a pitch-black owl. Bright yellow orbs reflect the light from the glowing ball, and it alights upon the ground still within the light of the globe. Its head cocks to one side, seeming to regard them with intelligent eyes as it opens its beak, its head swiveling.
Gerard sees Case's eyes snap open, and the Bhaalite screams, "Look out!"
The voice is raspy and disconcerting, seeming to come from many directions at once. "I...I can't sense anyone." Ellendryn informs Palskane, the sword emitting a soft glow. The Master has stopped in his tracks, head swiveling slowly from side to side. The wolves stand their ground and growl, though they face different directions. A few of them sniff the air and whine a bit, urinating on themselves as if from fear or excitement. Gerard finds himself moving slowly closer to case, his bow at the ready and ears and eyes alert. Case seems to be concentrating, his eyes closed. Then something strikes Gerard as very odd. All of the dead and dying vegetation they have seen... there have been no insects, no birds, nothing. Just dead plants.
"Who are you?" Palskane asks, "What are you?" His questions seem to be swallowed by the darkness, and only the smell of rotting and dead vegetation greets him. A raspy laugh emanates from the shadow....
"Who am I? What am I?... How quickly you forget, Victor. After all, you made me." An angry hiss and a sigh reach their ears before the voice continues. "All I wanted was acceptance, you know. Just a small bit of respect."
Palskane shakes his head, "What are you talking about? A bit of respect?" The Scion is now completely lost, and his gaze turns towards the Master. The ebon-skinned giant of a man seems tense, on-guard.
The small ball of light that was brought into being by Case moves about, casting its pale glow over unlit portions of the forest. As it moves, shadows shuffle and scurry from its path, some vaguely humanoid and others unable to be recognized. The Master's head snaps upwards, and startles Palskane, who follows his movement.
There, gliding silently down into the light, is a pitch-black owl. Bright yellow orbs reflect the light from the glowing ball, and it alights upon the ground still within the light of the globe. Its head cocks to one side, seeming to regard them with intelligent eyes as it opens its beak, its head swiveling.
Gerard sees Case's eyes snap open, and the Bhaalite screams, "Look out!"
Palskane's Quest I - by Haruchai on 00:56 25 Aug 2002
The yellow orbs of the owl settle upon Case, the Bhaalite moving forward. But, it is too late. In a swirl of feathers, talons, and beak, the owl grows and shifts, becoming a more humanoid form. Case stops in his tracks, the still yellow eyes of the figure before them, transfixed upon him.
The figure is cloaked in shadow, much as Case himself is, though with a more malicious look. The shadows scintillate about the figure, seeming to caress it. Only the two bright yellow eyes can be seen clearly.
Palskane's brow furrows as he looks upon the figure before them. Smaller than he and Gerard, even Case, the figure's eyes are definitely human. And... familiar. Those orbs turn from Case to stare hard at Palskane. "Do you still not remember me, Victor? Has it been so long that you have forgotten what you'd done?"
Ellendryn quietly talks to Palskane, "This one is not human, Scion. He reeks of darkness and shadow and corruption." Palskane is about to reply when the Master speaks. "You are the one responsible for what has happened here? The shadows figure seems to shrink a bit and then grow taller, though the eyes stay the same. "I do believe I am.", it replies. The Master hisses and, like a cat, Palskane sees claws come into view from the Master's hands.
Before the Master can move, spiny tendrils of shadow wind about his arms and legs, holding him fast. He struggles, but the shadows hold him tight. The wolves immediately spring into action, going to the aid of the Master. Fenris leaps towards the shadowed figure, and Palskane seems to be the only one to balk.
The yellow orbs of the owl settle upon Case, the Bhaalite moving forward. But, it is too late. In a swirl of feathers, talons, and beak, the owl grows and shifts, becoming a more humanoid form. Case stops in his tracks, the still yellow eyes of the figure before them, transfixed upon him.
The figure is cloaked in shadow, much as Case himself is, though with a more malicious look. The shadows scintillate about the figure, seeming to caress it. Only the two bright yellow eyes can be seen clearly.
Palskane's brow furrows as he looks upon the figure before them. Smaller than he and Gerard, even Case, the figure's eyes are definitely human. And... familiar. Those orbs turn from Case to stare hard at Palskane. "Do you still not remember me, Victor? Has it been so long that you have forgotten what you'd done?"
Ellendryn quietly talks to Palskane, "This one is not human, Scion. He reeks of darkness and shadow and corruption." Palskane is about to reply when the Master speaks. "You are the one responsible for what has happened here? The shadows figure seems to shrink a bit and then grow taller, though the eyes stay the same. "I do believe I am.", it replies. The Master hisses and, like a cat, Palskane sees claws come into view from the Master's hands.
Before the Master can move, spiny tendrils of shadow wind about his arms and legs, holding him fast. He struggles, but the shadows hold him tight. The wolves immediately spring into action, going to the aid of the Master. Fenris leaps towards the shadowed figure, and Palskane seems to be the only one to balk.
Palskane's Quest I - by Haruchai on 15:51 26 Aug 2002
The figure in the shdows takes a step forward, coming partly out of the shadows as Fenris leaps at him. He turns slightly, and the huge wolf's jaws pass harmlessly through him, as if he were as insubstantial as smoke. Those piercing yellow eyes turns once more to Palskane as Fenris lands, legs stiff to stop his momentum as he slides into the darkness. For just a moment, the figure comes into view, and Gerard brings his bow to bear. Case stops and begins to cast, his voice loud and clear in the night.
"Energy of the earth, answer my call and scorch mine enemies!" Casting his hands forward, Case brings the power of the Flame Strike to bear. A pillar of fire lights the clearing as the spell takes affect. The huge burst of light makes the true scene of the darkness visible for just a moment. Large canines, their breath smoking and their eyes as embers, appear to be advancing slowly in the darkness, three of them closing with Fenris. Two other shapes, unrecognizable and spindly, slide along the ground, fleeing the light. The tendrils of darkness wriggle free of the Master, freeing him. He immediately leaps at the now lit figure, who seems wholly unaffected by the divine fire.
Palskane knows what will happen before the Master strikes, and his suspicion is confirmed as the claws of the Master pass harmlessly through the Melcharech. Ellendryn springs to light, holy tears running his length.
The view of the man, for that instant out of the shadows, is one of some dark figure of power. Short in height, the man, if you can call him that, stands just over five feet tall. Robes of scintillating shadows swirl about his form, though the hem has a slight goldish hue in the sudden light. His pallor is pale, his hands thin and tipped with sharpened nails. Each hand wears a plain golden ring. A black belt encircles his waist, a wand of dark metal tucked neatly in its place. His face is covered by a strange mask, shaped as a skull and a pale white color that does not shine in the light... like bone. Palskane also glimpses a pale green stone circling his head, but then the light is gone, leaving only the man's strangely glowing yellow eyes.
Gerard lets fly an arrow, "Sthp!" and another, "Sthp!". They fly into the dark, though his aim was guided by the flash of light. No sound reaches his ears, and the woodsman is not sure of his arrows accuracy. "Bhaal's Eyes!" Case cries, as the failure of his spell becomes apparent. "Leave him to the Scion! We cannot harm him!" Gerard hears the words of the Bhaalite, his bow already sending arrows into the dark in a hail of steel-tipped death. He has nothing to aim by except the red-glowing eyes of the shadowed abyssal hounds, and he has lost complete track of the spindly shadows....
"Tyr's Hand!" The cry pierces the night, Argenoies Tegere gleaming brightly in the soft light of the globe as Palskane hefts Ellendryn and charges the skull-faced Melcharech. The sword sings, and arcs downwards, slicing along the front of the man's black robes. The Melcharech hisses in pain and dances back, hands already moving in a spell, voice gathering arcane power. "Feeble joy and shuffling feet! Dance!" His hands thrust outwards and down, at Palskane's feet. Palskane grits his teeth as the compulsion to dance overwhelms him. Despite his will, he begins to dance, gritting his teeth and fighting every step of the way. He finds it impossible to wield Ellendryn properly, and also impossible to let him go.
He watches as the Melcharech laughs and casts again, "Light of Darkness, hide me from my enemies!" With that an impenetrable globe of darkness springs into being about the Melcharech, hiding him from view. The clearing is almost plunged into unnatural darkness once more, but Case's initial spell hangs on tenaciously, still casting a pale glow. At least enough for Gerard to see by.
The sounds of growling and fighting wolves is all about them, and Gerard and Case can see the scuffles happening just on the edges of the light. Fenris' deeper growls are unmistakable in the dark, though the abyssal hounds seem to emit no sound as they battle, even when wounded. Gerard looks for the red eyes in the dark, finding a pair, and pulls his shot as they disappear and the furred back of a wolf comes into view, hackles raised and biting. Case intones another spell, "Sight within the dark, lift the veil of hiding!" Gerard feels the hand of Case upon his shoulder, a hand that he would normally think would be somewhat timid, but in this time is strong as the oak. His sight clears somewhat, and the abyssal hound and wolf battle comes into better view as the True Seeing spell takes affect. The black auras about the hounds hints at their corrupted spirits. He turns his gaze about the clearing, finding the Master locked in battle with two hounds, and fending off a third with his antlers. Palskane bright aura shines in his new vision, and the skull-faced man is barely visible, though his aura makes Gerard's stomach churn. He can see that Palskane prances and shuffles his feet, looking quite silly, all things considered. But, Gerard recognizes the danger he is in, and turns his bow towards the blurry Melcharech....
The figure in the shdows takes a step forward, coming partly out of the shadows as Fenris leaps at him. He turns slightly, and the huge wolf's jaws pass harmlessly through him, as if he were as insubstantial as smoke. Those piercing yellow eyes turns once more to Palskane as Fenris lands, legs stiff to stop his momentum as he slides into the darkness. For just a moment, the figure comes into view, and Gerard brings his bow to bear. Case stops and begins to cast, his voice loud and clear in the night.
"Energy of the earth, answer my call and scorch mine enemies!" Casting his hands forward, Case brings the power of the Flame Strike to bear. A pillar of fire lights the clearing as the spell takes affect. The huge burst of light makes the true scene of the darkness visible for just a moment. Large canines, their breath smoking and their eyes as embers, appear to be advancing slowly in the darkness, three of them closing with Fenris. Two other shapes, unrecognizable and spindly, slide along the ground, fleeing the light. The tendrils of darkness wriggle free of the Master, freeing him. He immediately leaps at the now lit figure, who seems wholly unaffected by the divine fire.
Palskane knows what will happen before the Master strikes, and his suspicion is confirmed as the claws of the Master pass harmlessly through the Melcharech. Ellendryn springs to light, holy tears running his length.
The view of the man, for that instant out of the shadows, is one of some dark figure of power. Short in height, the man, if you can call him that, stands just over five feet tall. Robes of scintillating shadows swirl about his form, though the hem has a slight goldish hue in the sudden light. His pallor is pale, his hands thin and tipped with sharpened nails. Each hand wears a plain golden ring. A black belt encircles his waist, a wand of dark metal tucked neatly in its place. His face is covered by a strange mask, shaped as a skull and a pale white color that does not shine in the light... like bone. Palskane also glimpses a pale green stone circling his head, but then the light is gone, leaving only the man's strangely glowing yellow eyes.
Gerard lets fly an arrow, "Sthp!" and another, "Sthp!". They fly into the dark, though his aim was guided by the flash of light. No sound reaches his ears, and the woodsman is not sure of his arrows accuracy. "Bhaal's Eyes!" Case cries, as the failure of his spell becomes apparent. "Leave him to the Scion! We cannot harm him!" Gerard hears the words of the Bhaalite, his bow already sending arrows into the dark in a hail of steel-tipped death. He has nothing to aim by except the red-glowing eyes of the shadowed abyssal hounds, and he has lost complete track of the spindly shadows....
"Tyr's Hand!" The cry pierces the night, Argenoies Tegere gleaming brightly in the soft light of the globe as Palskane hefts Ellendryn and charges the skull-faced Melcharech. The sword sings, and arcs downwards, slicing along the front of the man's black robes. The Melcharech hisses in pain and dances back, hands already moving in a spell, voice gathering arcane power. "Feeble joy and shuffling feet! Dance!" His hands thrust outwards and down, at Palskane's feet. Palskane grits his teeth as the compulsion to dance overwhelms him. Despite his will, he begins to dance, gritting his teeth and fighting every step of the way. He finds it impossible to wield Ellendryn properly, and also impossible to let him go.
He watches as the Melcharech laughs and casts again, "Light of Darkness, hide me from my enemies!" With that an impenetrable globe of darkness springs into being about the Melcharech, hiding him from view. The clearing is almost plunged into unnatural darkness once more, but Case's initial spell hangs on tenaciously, still casting a pale glow. At least enough for Gerard to see by.
The sounds of growling and fighting wolves is all about them, and Gerard and Case can see the scuffles happening just on the edges of the light. Fenris' deeper growls are unmistakable in the dark, though the abyssal hounds seem to emit no sound as they battle, even when wounded. Gerard looks for the red eyes in the dark, finding a pair, and pulls his shot as they disappear and the furred back of a wolf comes into view, hackles raised and biting. Case intones another spell, "Sight within the dark, lift the veil of hiding!" Gerard feels the hand of Case upon his shoulder, a hand that he would normally think would be somewhat timid, but in this time is strong as the oak. His sight clears somewhat, and the abyssal hound and wolf battle comes into better view as the True Seeing spell takes affect. The black auras about the hounds hints at their corrupted spirits. He turns his gaze about the clearing, finding the Master locked in battle with two hounds, and fending off a third with his antlers. Palskane bright aura shines in his new vision, and the skull-faced man is barely visible, though his aura makes Gerard's stomach churn. He can see that Palskane prances and shuffles his feet, looking quite silly, all things considered. But, Gerard recognizes the danger he is in, and turns his bow towards the blurry Melcharech....