Sophia's Choice...

[Etherian 76]

The crowd is cheering.

 

I remain,

 

p.s.~ perhaps at the end we could talk about publishing the text. No need to be humble. You are amongst friends. Seriously!

[Omnicide 26]

So far the story is coming along wonderfully, wolfie. I really like when Smitty kept asking "What's a Dragon?" -that had me smiling the whole time.

 

There was also a part where Sophia was concerned about the evening cook giving her his meal, but he gladly did it anyway. Honestly, I wouldn't have a problem giving up a nasty bowl of porridge for a hot looking Seraphim, especially the Queen, ha ha! It also made me envision Sophia eating Captain Crunch cereal for some odd reason, lol...

 

Good mystery involved, also, especially with the helmet. I still haven't actually played through all of Sacred 2 yet (I'm a bad boy), so I'm sure I don't know as much as some of the others here about everything in your story. I'm definitely gonna stop horsing around and complete Sacred 2 (I'll probably forget all the trivial quests and just get on with the main quest for now) so I can see how things tie in with your story.

 

I agree with Etherian that this story should somehow be published.

 

I also think it'd be a great idea for an Admin to sticky this story, as I feel it is an important piece of lore for newcomers to Sacred 1 & 2.

 

 

[wolfie2kX 528]

Thanks... but before you get too excited, there are some planned elements I will be weaving into this tale further along that some people will likely consider blasphemy or even heresy when it comes to Sacred and Sacred 2 lore and cannon.. That helmet being one of those elements that some would consider... questionable. Especially later on in the story. It, FWIW, doesn't tie into the games at all. The design and look - I did borrow from the game itself. Specifically the part where you go visit Sophia at the Tower on Seraphim Island. Mind you, if you've been inside the tower, it doesn't really look much at all like the descriptions I've given. The game, while it has great detail, is still missing a LOT of things you'd think would be standard issue. Bathrooms, showers, etc... NO wonder Ancarians are all so damn cranky.. You'd be cranky too if you had NO pot to relieve yourself in and no place to take a shower...

 

Actually.. I was having a fairly nasty bowl of oatmeal at the time I wrote the porridge scene. GREAT visual aid..

 

If you've played thru Sacred 1 and Sacred 2, there are elements that you WILL be familiar with. But beyond the elements - characters and locations mostly - the story is independent of the game and such there are some elements that are purely my views. We haven't gotten to the most "blasphemous" or "heretical" stuff yet. We'll see if anyone wants to burn me at the stake when we do get to those parts..

 

At any rate, I'm still working on the next bit - so a bit of patience will be required.

[Omnicide 26]

Thanks... but before you get too excited, there are some planned elements I will be weaving into this tale further along that some people will likely consider blasphemy or even heresy when it comes to Sacred and Sacred 2 lore and cannon.. That helmet being one of those elements that some would consider... questionable. Especially later on in the story. It, FWIW, doesn't tie into the games at all. The design and look - I did borrow from the game itself. Specifically the part where you go visit Sophia at the Tower on Seraphim Island. Mind you, if you've been inside the tower, it doesn't really look much at all like the descriptions I've given. The game, while it has great detail, is still missing a LOT of things you'd think would be standard issue. Bathrooms, showers, etc... NO wonder Ancarians are all so damn cranky.. You'd be cranky too if you had NO pot to relieve yourself in and no place to take a shower...

 

Actually.. I was having a fairly nasty bowl of oatmeal at the time I wrote the porridge scene. GREAT visual aid..

 

If you've played thru Sacred 1 and Sacred 2, there are elements that you WILL be familiar with. But beyond the elements - characters and locations mostly - the story is independent of the game and such there are some elements that are purely my views. We haven't gotten to the most "blasphemous" or "heretical" stuff yet. We'll see if anyone wants to burn me at the stake when we do get to those parts..

 

At any rate, I'm still working on the next bit - so a bit of patience will be required.

No problem; movies that are based on novels switch stuff around all the time. Besides, since you're the one writing the story, that makes you the boss.

And when it comes to patience, I'm only impatient while waiting for green lights at a traffic stop. So you're doing fine, brother wolfie.

[wolfie2kX 528]

True enough - however, I do know a guy who wanted a voodoo doll of Peter Jackson back when the LOTR movies came out. He was QUITE upset about the liberties he took with the trilogy... Scary stuff. I got enough aches and pains without adding any more.

 

And then there are a couple of people who took exception to some of my "theories" with regards to Sacred and Sacred 2 lore back when we were discussing the Ancient Secrets quest and the tomes that come with it. They were NOT amused by some of the stuff I put forth. Some of my thoughts will be incorporated in the stuff coming soon. We'll see how well they fly...

 

The point is, some people take these things VERY seriously... It's almost like a religion in a way. Deviating from the accepted cannon by leaps and bounds is grounds for all manner of jihad.. Just look at Salman Rushdie and his book The Satanic Verses...

[Omnicide 26]

Well, luckily I'm not well-versed in Sacred/Sacred 2 lore, so I guess as long as the story is entertaining that's all that matters to me personally. But I do understand how folks who worship this game might get a little offended if you change certain aspects of it to fit your story. But that's just the way it goes in the controversial world of art. I don't mind changing stuff as long as it's a good change, however.

Edited February 8, 2013 by Omnicide

[Omnicide 26]

Are you still working on the rest of the story?

[wolfie2kX 528]

Yup... Still working on the next chapter.. It's a bit long but there will be plenty of good stuff going on.

 

Time to work on it has been a bit elusive of late too.

 

Stay tuned.. I should be done with it soon.

[Etherian 76]

I learned long ago not to push an artist or writer.

 

Take your time. The end result will be that much sweeter.

 

I remain,

[wolfie2kX 528]

OK Folks.. Sorry for the delay - but the last few days have been kind of busy. But still, I managed to cobble together the next installment.

 

In this chapter of our story, we find Sophia and company greeting visitors to the island as they arrive for the big funeral and wake... We're going to meet some very familiar names that should be familiar to anyone who's played Sacred and Sacred 2...

 

Hold onto your spleens everyone, it's gonna be an interesting ride...

 

---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
The Visitors

 

Shortly afterwards, Sophia arrived back at the portal, just as it shimmered as the first of the guests arrived. It was an Elven delegation. There were three members of the ruling class in the group as well as six rather muscular guards.

 

“Greetings, kind Elves,” Sophia said.

 

“Greetings,” the youngest of the three replied and with a commanding voice continued, “You will now escort his lordship, my father as well as my uncle and myself to the funerary site.”

 

“I’m sorry,” Sophia replied with as much sweetness as she could muster in her voice, “there seems to be some misunderstanding. I am Queen Sophia and I welcome you to Seraphim Island. Please have your guards surrender your weapons. They can pick them up when you leave after the ceremony. You may then follow the path here to the ceremony site. The path has been clearly marked for you to get there safely.”

 

“My apologies. We had assumed you would be wearing... more appropriate attire,” the youngest member countered. “As for our weapons, I think not.”

 

Sophia sighed inwardly. Today was going to be a long day. “Yes, well, the Master Blacksmith and Archmage and I had what could be called a failure to communicate. Thus, my armor was delayed. And everyone today will have to do without their weapons. Today is Maria’s day and I insist that everyone behave, just this once, without question.”

 

The youngster and his two older relatives did a brief huddle. The eldest nodded briefly to the youngest who then turned to the guards and motioned to them to surrender their weapons. “I assume that you will guarantee our safety.”

 

“Of course I do. I have my finest warriors standing by along the path to the tower to keep the wild animals at bay. There are more standing by in the reception area where the funeral will take place. No nonsense will be tolerated today,” Sophia replied.

 

The eldest of the trio broke his silence, “A fitting tribute indeed. Given how hard Maria worked on ending the ‘nonsense’ as you call it between the races of Ancaria.” The old man bowed briefly to Sophia and the party made their way toward the tower.

 

After they had gotten some distance from the portal area, Sophia looked over at Loromir/Doran who merely smiled at Sophia, indicating there wasn’t anything to be worried about.

 

A few moments later, the portal shimmered again, and a party of Orcs came through the portal.

 

“Greetings” Sophia greeted again.

 

“Greetings! SOPHIA! BLOODSISTER!” one of the Orcs excitedly replied as he ran up to Sophia to give her a big hug.

 

“Drod! You old scallywag!” Sophia responded, by picking up the Orc in a bear hug. “How long has it been? Ten or has it been twelve years?”

 

“It’s been closer to fifteen!” Drod replied. “I see the years have been kind to you. You haven’t changed a bit – except for the title, of course.”

 

A quick glance toward Loromir/Doran who was still smiling, indicated the all clear for the Orcs.

 

“You’re still doing well, yourself! Last I heard you were made chief of your clan!”

 

“Yes, I was – and I owe it all to you for teaching me the way of honor!” Drod replied with a measure of pride in his voice.

 

“Drod, my friend, I do have one thing to ask of you. Today is a solemn day in remembrance of Maria, and as such, I am asking you to put aside any ill will you may have toward anyone else today and leave your weapons here near the portal. You and your people can pick them up as you leave.”

 

“Sophia, comrade, of course! We will be happy to comply so long as everyone else does the same.” Drod replied.

 

“You’re only the second party to arrive – and the Elves who got here before you already left their weapons behind.” Sophia said, pointing to the bag the Elf weapons were stored in.

 

“In that case, I hope you have a big enough bag for everything!” Drod joked. “Put your weapons in the sack,” he ordered his men, “ALL of it!” as the Orcs began to disarm themselves.

 

“If I know you as well as I think I do, we’ll need one of those bags just for what you’re wearing!” Sophia joked back.

 

“Sophia, you know me far too well!” Drod laughed with a typically gravelly Orcish voice as he pulled yet another dagger from a hiding place.

Soon, the Orc party was moving up the trail toward the tower.

 

Moments later, the portal shimmered again and six immense, blue skinned beings came through the portal. Everyone on Ancaria knew them. They were, of course, the Volunteer Squad: Testa, Lumen, Kybele, Forens, Kuan and Ker.

 

“Greetings!” Sophia announced, “I am Queen Sophia and I welcome you all to Seraphim Island!”

 

“Greetings!” Testa replied. “We are all sorry for your loss. We are here to pay our respects.”

 

“We are honored by your presence!” Sophia replied. “We are asking that all visitors to Seraphim Island temporarily surrender their arms to maintain the peace and make today truly Maria’s day.”

 

“By all means, though, you do realize that we are all living weapons.” Testa said in a logical tone.

 

“Yes, I am well aware,” Sophia smiled, ”however, I am asking everyone else to leave their weapons here under guard. It would hardly be fair to our other guests if we made an exception.”

 

“A wise point, my queen, we will comply.” Testa replied.

 

“I speak on behalf of all Seraphim; we thank you for your service.”

 

Moments later, as the Volunteer Squad were disarming themselves, the portal shimmered again, and a pair of humans emerged.

 

Suddenly, Loromir/Doran, who had been doing his best to be lay low while the Volunteers were in the vicinity, perked up. There was something about the two who just emerged that caught his attention. One of the two was clearly human, the other was clearly not. The other was something more. The human was tainted like those in Ciria Delith. The other, he couldn’t put a finger on it. There was something different about him. Unfortunately, Sophia’s attention was directed away from him at the moment. Loromir/Doran decided to wait for a more opportune moment – after the Volunteers had gone up the trail.

 

“Greetings! I am Queen Sophia and I welcome you to Seraphim Island. Are there others in your party who are delayed?” Sophia inquired.

 

“Greetings! I am Vlad DeMordrey, Esquire. And no, this is my entire party.”

 

“I see. Very well, in honor of our departed Queen Maria, we are asking all who come to pay their respects to leave their weapons behind. You may pick them up as you return home.” Sophia said. There was something she didn’t like about this DeMordrey person though she couldn’t quite put her finger on anything specific.

 

Meanwhile, Ker who had been passively standing with her comrades took an interest in DeMordrey’s companion. She started licking her lips in a most disturbing fashion. DeMordrey’s companion stiffened when he saw that. Fortunately, Testa grabbed her by an arm and moved her up the path to the tower.

Loromir/Doran finally figured out what DeMordrey’s companion was. He was, like himself, a transformed dragon. Loromir/Doran thought fast. He had to alert Sophia who had her back to him currently – preferably without attracting too much attention to himself. It wouldn’t be good to alert the enemy to his identity quite yet.

 

Sophia turned toward the area where Loromir/Doran, Lurinda and Sumi were waiting for the humans to turn in their weapons. She saw the expression on Loromir/Doran’s face. He wasn’t smiling as he was with the previous parties. Something was wrong. She took a deep breath and prepared for the worst.

 

Loromir opened a large bag and offered it to DeMordrey’s companion. The companion stuck his sword, his shield and a boot knife into the bag.

 

Sophia watched as the humans divested themselves of their arms when Loromir/Doran suddenly moved very quickly, far faster than even her battle honed eyes could follow clearly. In one very swift motion, Loromir/Doran dropped the bag, moved his right foot behind the companion’s right foot, put both of his hands on the man’s shoulders and threw him onto the ground and landed on top of him. His hands moved from the man’s shoulders directly toward his throat. Sophia reacted swiftly, grabbing DeMordrey and twisting his left arm behind his back.

 

DeMordrey, meanwhile was quite distressed by everything and after yelping in protest said, “This is an OUTRAGE! How dare you assault me and my companion?”

 

“I’m very certain there’s a good reason for why this is happening,” Sophia replied.

 

Loromir, meanwhile looked up at Sophia and said, “Good, you’ve got him under control! Now we need to get him out of here. I’ll explain momentarily.”

 

“Sumi, can you take him to the detention area?” Sophia said. “We will need to question him. Search him and make sure he doesn’t have any surprises on him. We’ll deal with the other one.”

 

“Certainly, my queen! I’ll take him right away,” Sumi replied and relieved Sophia by taking hold of the same arm and marched him up away.

 

As soon as Sumi and DeMordrey were out of earshot, Loromir said, “Sophia, grab a sharp knife, preferably one that isn’t covered in poison.”

Sophia had a feeling she knew what was happening. She looked around but had no idea which blades were safe to use. None of the previous visitors’ possessions could be trusted to be poison free. She then remembered her armor had a sharp edge where an enemy’s blade almost cut her life short. She never got around to fixing the rupture in her armor – and fortunately Smitty decided not to do any work on it.

 

She moved her fingertip over the sharp edge until she cut herself slightly. A drop of white blood welled up from the wound.

 

“Got some blood here,” Sophia announced.

 

“Good! Drip it into his mouth! Quickly!” Loromir/Doran said. “I won’t be able to hold him for very long!”

 

Karem moved to help him prise the bodyguard’s mouth open. Sophia moved in and stuck her cut finger above his lips. A single white droplet dripped out and landed squarely on the man’s tongue.

 

The bodyguard’s body began to writhe for a moment or two, and then suddenly he stopped struggling all together. Karem stood up and moved back.

 

Sophia stuck her cut finger into her mouth.

 

“Brother!” Loromir exclaimed, “Are you all right?”

 

“I – I think so,” the bodyguard replied. “Where am I?

 

“You’re among friends! We are on Seraphim Island! Your memory will clear soon enough.”

 

“I take it we’ve just liberated another dragon,” Sophia said.

 

“Yes! We most certainly have!” Loromir/Doran beamed. He stood up and offered a hand to the bodyguard to help him up.

 

Sophia stiffened. She suddenly realized she never told Loromir anything about the effects of Seraphim blood. She then realized that dragons weren’t stupid and he figured it out on his own. She would have to make sure he kept the secret.

 

The bodyguard stood up but had a hard time finding his balance. Loromir/Doran steered him toward a bench near the pile of weapons.

 

Just then, the portal shimmered again, and an entourage of ten mixed beings emerged – a pair of Dwarves, three Humans and five Elves.

Sophia turned to greet the new arrivals.

 

“Greetings!” Sophia said, “I am Queen Sophia and I welcome you to Seraphim Island on this solemn occasion.”

 

“Greetings!” The taller Elf replied. “This is Archmage Silus Deylen of the Temple of the Creator in Ciria Delith,” he said, indicating the most ornate Elf in his bright red robes. “And this is Master Blacksmith Groderic of the Smith Academy, leader of the Smith guild,” he continued, indicating the elder of the two Dwarves.

 

Loromir/Doran’s ears perked up when he heard the names being announced. He turned his attention away from the bodyguard and focused his attention to the new group.

 

The tall elf continued, “The Master Blacksmith and Archmage apologize for not being available yesterday. They were called away on urgent business. There was clearly a misunderstanding with regards to the message your runner was given.”

 

Loromir/Doran’s senses reached out to sense the group’s auras. It was as if they didn’t have one – but no, that would be quite impossible. Every living thing had an aura of some sort.

 

“They have, however, managed to cobble together this gift, with hopes that this would make up for the wasted trip you made to come visit them,” the tall Elf continued as he motioned to the three humans – slaves actually – to come forward. Each was carrying a wooden crate.

 

“I thank you both for your generosity,” Sophia replied,

 

The tall Elf motioned to the three slaves to put the packages down and open the crates. The first box, the largest of the trio, was opened to reveal a gleaming gold armor chest plate and an ornate set of equally dazzling golden wings.

 

The second box, a longish box about the length of an adult leg, contained gilded boots, knee high and a pair of golden bracers.

 

The final container, a cube that was slightly wider than the one containing the chest plate and wings contained yet more armor – a dazzling set of greaves and a set of matching golden gauntlets.

 

Loromir/Doran finally figured out what he was sensing. The group’s auras were dark – far darker than he’d ever seen previously in his entire, very lengthy lifetime.

 

“I thank you very kindly for your gift,” Sophia said with sincerity, “I will try them on - later. Unfortunately, there are still many guests that haven’t arrived as yet and my duties require that I remain here. If it wouldn’t be too much trouble, can you have the armor taken up to my quarters?”

 

The Master Blacksmith and Archmage looked somewhat disappointed. Loromir/Doran was merely relieved Sophia didn’t give into the temptation to try on the armor. He was quite certain that there was something sinister afoot.

 

The tall Elf stammered, “Um, Why certainly.” He motioned to the slaves to put everything back into the boxes they came in and to take them up to the tower.

 

Sophia sensed she caught the Elf off guard. “Fear not, noble elf, I am a Seraphim. I’ve lived many years and have fought a great many battles. I am neither ashamed of who I am nor what I’ve done. This armor will do for the moment. Today is Maria’s day to shine, not mine.”

 

“Why, yes, of course,” the tall Elf conceded.

 

“And speaking of which, we are asking everyone to leave their weapons here by the portal for the duration of your stay on the island in order to honor Maria and her dream of peaceful coexistence of all of Ancaria’s many races.”

 

Sophia didn’t have to be a dragon to see the Archmage and Master Blacksmith’s anger seething under their thin veneer of civility. Never the less, they complied, filling up two large bags. After which, they made their way to the tower.

 

Loromir/Doran took the opportunity to go talk to Sophia briefly before the next visitors arrived.

 

“Is it just me,” Sophia began, “or is there something really odd going on with the Master Blacksmith, the Archmage and the rest of their group?”

 

“No, it’s not just you. Their auras... Let’s just say the auras surrounding that group were dark - far darker than I’ve ever seen. Imagine being in the darkest cave you’ve ever been in, without as much as a pinprick of light.”

“That would be pretty dark.” Sophia replied.

 

“Now imagine it being 100 times darker,” Loromir said grimly.

 

“Is it the Carnach’s doing?” Sophia asked

 

“Highly likely,” Loromir/Doran replied. “I sincerely hope you’re not planning on trying on that armor.”

 

“Of course not,” Sophia replied. “I’m neither stupid nor suicidal! So... What do we do about them?”

 

“At the moment, I’m not certain. We can try the same technique we just used to liberate my brother.”

 

“Speaking of which, how’s he doing?”

 

“I am fine,” DeMordrey’s bodyguard said, “By the way, my name is Orphas and I thank you for breaking the Carnach’s grip on me.”

 

“ORPHAS! My teacher! It’s been a very long time!” Loromir/Doran gushed, “It’s me, Loromir! Sophia, this is most wonderful news! Orphas was one of the teachers. He is a master of dragon magic! The Archmage has now become utterly unnecessary!”

 

Orphas smiled, “I’m glad to see you are well! Now then, can someone fill me in on what’s going on? My memory is still quite fuzzy. The last thing I clearly recall was some being known as the Carnach invading our realm,”

 

“Indeed, however, I think its best not to discuss such matters at the moment,” Loromir/Doran replied. “We have more guests to greet.”

 

The portal shimmered again and a group of five lizardmen emerged.

 

“Greetings! I am Queen Sophia of the Seraphim. Welcome to Seraphim Island! In honor of Maria, I humbly ask that all weapons be left here at the portal. Today is the day to remember Maria.”

 

“Greetingssss! I am Patriarch Gebzidar of the family Grikk and this is Patriarch Frodark of the family Grakk. We ssshall comply with your request. You are most wise, young Queen. Today ssshould be remembered for all that Maria did for everyone!”

 

“I thank you for your cooperation!” Sophia said and bowed slightly toward the group.

 

“You honor usss!” Frodark said and returned the bow along with the rest of the group.

 

“As do you honor us with your presence!” Sophia replied with a big smile on her face.

 

Sophia turned toward where Loromir/Doran and Orphas were waiting and noticed Loromir/Doran had his smile back indicating the all clear.

 

The procession of visitors continued without further incident. Thirty-seven more groups came to pay their respects to Maria the departed queen of the Seraphim.

[Omnicide 26]

Nice work, wolfie; keep'em coming!

 

Just out of curiosity, how long does it usually take you to write each installment of the story barring any interruptions?

Edited February 8, 2013 by Omnicide

[wolfie2kX 528]

Thanks!

 

Without interruptions? Surely you jest...! There's NO such thing in my life...

 

I can say that it took me about the better part of 3 weeks - give or take a day - to get the first 8 odd chapters done.

 

It all depends on if the "muse" is with me or not. There are times when I can spit out quite a lot of stuff, and then there are times when I wind up staring at the last line, trying to figure out what should come next...

 

The last line in the last chapter took at least an hour to sort out. Had to figure out how to end the chapter as it was getting longer than I had planned.

 

The one I'm working on now may take a bit to sort out as well. Got a few ideas rattling about that I need to figure out how to make them work.

[Omnicide 26]

Well so far it's quite an enjoyable read, if that's any consolation to you.

 

I seriously need to get off my butt and write something. I've got a few ideas of my own that have been roaming around in my brain for quite some time now; I just need to commit myself.

[Etherian 76]

Begone with thee writers block. Let the "muse" flow once again!

 

Behold, the next few chapters.

 

I remain,

[wolfie2kX 528]

Another thought came to me - as far as speed of progress goes...

 

There have been a few times where not having the Sacred Wiki available has slowed me down. It's a bit of a pain to have to look stuff up the hard way by cracking open the game (Sacred or Sacred 2) and finding just the right saved game that has the info I need.

 

Case in point - I posted (in another thread) a request for names of dragons - and unfortunately, no one knew any off the tops of their heads.

[Ysne58 236]

I missed it but

TyrLysia

Atamark

Orc Region

Seraphim/dragon island

Swamp

Desert

Jungle

Wasteland

[wolfie2kX 528]

Thanks. Not exactly sure what you thought I was asking about - but I was looking for the names of Dragons.. Besides these, that is:

 

Loromir - all around good guy dragon in Sacred 1 and 2

Mer-Kil - Oldest of them all

Orphas - Teacher of Dragon Mages

Xanthiar - Dragon you have to beat in Dragonsea Island cave to get to the humans

Orcudacil (sp) - I forget exactly where he fits in - but he's part of the Shadow Campaign and he's gotta go.

 

I know there's also D'Cay - the Undead Dragon from south of Khorad Nur in Sacred 1. I think but I'm not sure, the dragon guarding the fire element in Sacred 1 also might have a name. If I recall correctly, the other 7 in the game are nameless.

 

Thinking if I do go through the contortions of liberating them in my story, the least I can do is refer to them by name - that is if they have one...

[wolfie2kX 528]

Ok folks... Things are starting to get a bit on the intense side in Ancaria... Tonight's installment is a double header - since the next chapter is really short and mostly uneventful. The 2nd part of tonight's installment on the other hand shows the proper use of an Inquisitor's CA... Something not so easily seen if you've ever tried Mortifying Pillory in game.

 

---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----

The Funeral

 

After the last of the visitors arrived, Sophia and her entourage made their way up to the tower, leaving some guards in case anyone else should happen to arrive late. Loromir/Doran was quietly talking with Orphas – trying to help him remember things. Karem and Sumi walked quietly behind Sophia who was mentally rehearsing what she would say.

 

How does one summarize a lifetime of achievements without droning on and on, endlessly, especially when Maria’s lifetime was as long as it was – longer than every single non-Seraphim visitors’ lifetimes added together and multiplied by ten, no - one hundred?

The group arrived at the tower and the assembled group of visitors from every corner of Ancaria turned their collective attention towards Sophia.

Sophia made her way through the crowd to the casket containing Maria’s corpse.

“Greetings again, my fellow Ancarians. Today we are gathered today to remember the passing of Maria, our queen. I could stand here and regale you with her deeds for hours on end. However, I thought it would be best if I turned over the floor to you, the people whose lives she affected the most. Would anyone care to start?”

The eldest Elf from the first arrival of the day stood up and made his way forward.

“I am Terias, I and my family are landholders in Bengaresh. We have been honored by Maria’s blessings over the years. She and the Seraphim have bought our crops and have protected us and our neighbors whenever they’ve been attacked. We owe our livelihood to Maria and the Seraphim.”

The old man stepped down. “Thank you Lord Terias,” Sophia said. “Who’s next?”

An elderly human stood up and stepped forward. “My name is Kalas. I am a merchant who lives near Artamark’s Gate. Maria and her Seraphim have saved my business from numerous bandits over the years. I owe everything I have to Maria and the Seraphim.”

An Orc stood up next, “I am Groghammer. Maria and her Seraphim helped us avoid a ‘misunderstanding’ between my clan and some Humans over some land. My clan was ill with black fever at the time and could scarcely defend ourselves. Maria and her Seraphim not only drove off the invaders, but also got us the cure for the black fever. We owe our lives to Maria and the Seraphim!”

The accolades flowed forth as everyone had a chance to recollect how Maria (and of course, the Seraphim) helped them or their clan out.

When the last person finished, Sophia stepped forward and asked, “Does anyone have anything more they would like to add?”

Silence.

“Very well then,” Sophia said, “Maria was our queen for a very, very long time. She has done much for the people of Ancaria but now, it is time to bid her farewell.”

Five other Seraphim gathered around the pallet bearing Maria, while Sophia took the sixth position. They lifted the stretcher and made their way outside. A funerary pyre had been constructed in the courtyard. The pall bearers gently placed Maria and her pallet on top.

The other five withdrew while Sophia stepped back slightly. Lurinda stepped forth from the crowd with a lit torch. She handed the torch to Sophia who raised it over head and then slowly lowered the torch to the pyre. The fire caught and spread quickly and engulfed Maria’s body. She tossed the torch onto the pyre.

The fire burned brightly, even in the early afternoon sun. After a short while, Sophia said, “My fellow Ancarians, I invite you all inside. We have refreshments for everyone so we may properly toast Maria farewell.” She gestured to everyone to go into the main hall.

---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----

The Wake

As people gathered inside, Lurinda pulled Sophia aside for a quick conference. “I didn’t find anything in our archives here about the era you were asking about. But I have an idea as to where we may find what you’re looking for. We’ll have to go to the Seraphim Library on the Eastern continent. If the information exists anywhere, it will be there.”

“This is good news, Tomorrow; we’ll have to make a trip there - bright and early. But for now we’ve got guests to entertain.”

 

“Of course. By the way, what is up with the Archmage? He’s been looking at you strangely.”

“Doran thinks he’s been affected by whatever’s going on in Ciria Delith,” Sophia replied, aware there were some others in earshot.

“Speaking of which, where did he go? And who’s his new friend?” Lurinda asked.

 

“I’m not sure; they were around here moments ago. And his new friend is his ‘brother’...”

“I see,” Lurinda said.

“The Archmage and Master Blacksmith were up to something when they arrived today. They brought me a new set of armor.”

“No kidding?”

 

“Nope. They wanted me to change into it right then and there. But I managed to get around that. I told them I had other duties – namely greeting our visitors.”

“It seems innocent enough. They did work on it and put it together at the last minute. Maybe they felt a bit guilty for running out on you the other day?”

“Yes, I suppose that’s possible - except for one thing. Doran sensed something was very wrong with them. And to be honest, I didn’t need his senses to feel it. There was something decidedly off about the lot of them.”

“So what do we do with them?” Lurinda asked.

“Keep an eye on them, most certainly. Unless they do something offensive, I say let them be for now.” Sophia replied. “I did say that I wanted today to be Maria’s – not for some other incident.”

“As is fitting,” Lurinda agreed.

Sophia and Lurinda then moved off into the crowd to mingle with their guests. Most of the guests wanted to express their condolences. Some wanted reassurance that Sophia would continue with Maria’s policies.

Sophia concluded one such chat with a lizardman named Crot of the family Grikk. As she turned away, she almost ran into Archmage Deylen who had a most unhappy look on his face.

“I’m sorry, Archmage,” Sophia said as she stopped herself from running into him.

“As well you should be!” said Deylen in a voice loud enough to catch everyone else’s attention.

“Excuse me?” Sophia replied.

“Indeed you should! You dare insult myself and the Master Blacksmith by not wearing the armor he and I worked long and hard to finish.”

There was a marked increase in the tension in the room.

“And I told you and your party that I would not be wearing that armor in so far as my duties are otherwise occupied. I am, after all the hostess. I also told you and your party that today is to be remembered as Maria’s day. Not for anything else!” Sophia countered.

The tension eased slightly.

“But that’s the least of your transgressions!” Deylen started anew. “I’ve heard reports you have been consorting with the enemy!”

The tension rose.

“Exactly which ‘enemy’ would that be?” Sophia asked, her face, the mask of composure.

“The flying beasts – the ones called Dragons!” The Archmage replied. “In fact, I have it on very good authority that you have been consorting with the very beast that killed your own queen!”

A collective gasp went out amongst the crowd. The tension soared to new heights.

Sophia laughed, “Archmage Deylen, you sound as if you’ve been dipping a bit too much into the sacramental wine.”

The tension dove.

“Far from it! I do not indulge in such things! And my source is impeccable!” said Deylen, the veins bulging in his neck.

“And just who is this ‘source’?” Sophia asked.

“Ker!” Deylen replied with a note of triumph in his voice.

The tension rose again.

“You don’t say. It’s been my understanding that Volunteer Ker hasn’t said much of anything to anyone in the past ten years since her transformation. Exactly how did she communicate this information to you?”

“Ker has her ways!” Deylen replied the veins on his neck throbbing.

“I can vouch for what Queen Sophia said,” Testa said. “Ker hasn’t said a word since her transformation. In fact, her transformation was a blending of herself and an Ancarian flea. She no longer has voice box to speak with.”

The tension dropped somewhat again.

Just then, a guard Sophia left at the portal came into the room, carrying a runner. She was breathing heavily under the added load. “Help! There’s been a dragon sighting – three of them... They’ve been hovering over the farmland east of Sloeford! The runner they sent was seriously injured but was able to at least tell me that much.”

“MANDA!” Sophia yelled.

Manda popped up from a conversation she was having with Kybele, another Elf, a Lizardman and a Human. She broke away from the trio and ran to where the guard was supporting the runner.

“See what you can do for him,” she said to Manda, “In the mean time, I need a squad of five Seraphim. Let’s go! Duty calls!”

Testa and some of his band of Volunteers likewise broke off their conversations and began to follow Sophia out of the building. Kuan was drunker than a sailor – and as such wasn’t going to be of much use as he was almost passed out. Kybele stopped momentarily to bestow a healing pulse on the injured runner before following Testa outside. Forens and Lumen were on their feet and following, leading Ker toward the door.

Deylen wasn’t too thrilled with the fact that his quarry was successfully evading his somewhat unsuccessful pillory. There wasn’t much he could do about it. He rejoined the Master Blacksmith at his table.

Sophia ran to her quarters and grabbed her favorite pair of blades. She then ran out, toward the portal. Lurinda caught up with her as she left her quarters. “Well, that was most fortunate,” she said.

“Indeed. We will need to do something about that man when I get back,” Sophia replied. “In the mean time, have you seen Doran and his brother?”

“No, not since the funeral. They were in the shadows earlier during the wake.”

“Good. It’s probably for the best. Ker troubles me. I know she has a penchant for killing dragons by sucking their blood dry. I wouldn’t want to let her loose on our allies just because she got hungry. But what troubles me even more is how Deylen knew what was going on.”

“Do you think there’s anything to what he said about Ker?” Lurinda asked.

“I don’t know, maybe I can find out. In the meantime, stay here.”

“Come back safe, Sophia!” Lurinda said.

Sophia had just about caught up with the Volunteers and her troops were already at the portal, waiting. The Volunteers got their gear from the bag they put them in. Seeing everyone was armed and ready, Sophia said, “Activate the portal and let’s go!”

Edited February 9, 2013 by wolfie2kX

[Etherian 76]

What a naughty Ker. Shame, Shame, we know your name...

 

I remain,

[wolfie2kX 528]

Actually.. Ker isn't entirely to blame - as we'll find out in today's installment. Speaking of which... Today we visit a familiar location and visit a figure who should be familiar to anyone who's played Sacred 2... We also get to know Testa a bit better - and it seems he's what we would call a nerd...

 

---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----
Sloeford

 

Moments later, Sophia, her Seraphim and the Volunteers emerged on the hilltop beside Sloeford village. The sun was waning toward the west. Sophia’s squad armed themselves with BeeEffGee weapons while Sophia kept her pair of swords. She signaled to her squad to keep an eye on the sky.

 

Testa walked over to Sophia and said, “I realize this isn’t the best time, but is there any truth to Deylen’s accusations?”

 

Sophia was a bit perturbed by the question, but decided it would be best to come clean with the blue giant. “Some of what he said is true.”

 

“Only some of it?” Testa prodded.

 

“Yes. Only some of it. The dragon who attacked Maria is no longer our enemy,” Sophia replied.

 

“Ah... The Seraphim blood thing.”

 

“WHA?” Sophia stopped short.

 

“I’m sorry. Did I offend you by telling you I knew about this?”

 

“No, It’s just that bit of information is supposed to be a secret not even the Seraphim in general know about. It’s not the sort of information we want known about us.”

 

“Yes, I suppose that could be a very bad thing - people hunting Seraphim to use their blood to solve their problems would not be a good thing.”

 

“Exactly! How exactly did you come about that information?” Sophia demanded.

 

“It was a simple deduction. I’ve been in battle with a great many of your kind in the past decade and I’ve seen things.” Testa replied with a matter of fact tone. “It’s not hard to put two and two together and come up with four.”

 

“I see. I suppose that makes sense. However, I seriously hope you keep that information to yourself.”

 

“Not a problem. I haven’t any intention of selling out my allies.”

 

“There is maybe one piece of the puzzle that I do not understand.” Sophia said, “How did Deylen find out about the dragons?”

 

“Ah... That’s easy. He already told you how he found out.” Testa chuckled.

 

“Ker? But she can’t speak.”

 

“No, she can’t speak, per se, but she does have some distinctive habits she only exhibits when she’s in the presence of her favorite snack – dragons. I saw her licking her lips earlier at the funeral and at the wake. That would imply there was at least one dragon in our midst. And given the Seraphim Blood thing, it was a simple matter to deduce that at least one dragon had been converted. Ergo, given the wounds Maria suffered, it would be logical to deduce that the dragon that bit her was the one converted. I’m certain there’s a 98.5% probability that Deylen figured out as much on his own.”

 

“I see... And the remaining percentage?” Sophia asked.

 

“That much is uncertain. So, how would you like to proceed? Shall we rescue another dragon or three?”

 

“Wouldn’t that mean keeping Ker in check?” Sophia replied.

 

“A better question would be – Is it worth the effort to save them?” Testa asked.

 

“Given my experiences for the past few days, I’d have to say ‘most definitely, yes!’ He’s been a valued source of information on the real enemy – the Carnach. He’s also spotted a rather unusual ‘taint’ as he called it in the auras surrounding the people of Ciria Delith. He’s also said that the Master Blacksmith, Archmage and the rest of their party were also tainted – but far darker than the rest of the people there.”

 

“We’ve heard the name Carnach before, but we haven’t, as yet, found out much more about the subject. I take it this dark ‘taint’ is the reason why you’ve been reluctant to wear the armor the Archmage and Master Blacksmith brought you.”

 

“Exactly right and the Archmage’s histrionics before we were interrupted makes me even less likely to want to try it on.”

 

“Quite understandable. I don’t believe it would be a good for you to try it on either,” Testa said, “however I do have one other question with regards to your new friends – given their history over the past decade, how they’ve terrorized the people of Ancaria and may I say, killed and eaten many of them, how do you plan on selling those same people on the fact that they’re no longer a menace - and factoring in the added complexity that you can’t tell them about the means you’ve tamed them?”

 

“You know, I haven’t quite worked out all of the details on that just yet. Ask me again next week. I’ve only been on the job for a few days.” Sophia replied wryly.

 

“I’m not trying to change your mind on the course you’re undertaking. In fact, I wholeheartedly endorse the project. It would seem that you’ve managed to make more progress in solving the problem in the few days you’ve been in power than the six of us have made in the past ten years. I’m merely looking ahead to the issues you will face after the war is won.”

 

“It’s a bridge I’ll have to cross once I get there. I never assumed it would be easy. But before that happens, we need to find a way to actually rescue them easily.”

 

“Indeed. It wouldn’t pay to sacrifice a Seraphim to convert each one of them. There should be an easier way,” Testa agreed.

 

“We’ve had one success so far – by holding the dragon on his back and dripping a drop of blood in his mouth.”

 

Testa’s jaw dropped slightly. “You managed to hold a dragon down on his back long enough to drip blood in his mouth?”

 

“Well... not exactly. The dragon was disguised as a Human. And the one doing the holding was our own dragon.” Sophia replied.

 

“That could be a bit of a problem. I just don’t see any of us asking them to transform into a Human or Elf and getting them to comply. I imagine they would laugh in our faces.” Testa said skeptically. “And I doubt we could slay them with laughter.”

 

“True. Maybe Ker could only weaken them a bit to bring them down to the ground level?”

 

“Good luck with that. Sadly, Ker isn’t exactly the model of self control. Ker’s mind was a casualty of her transformation. While she mostly looks like an Elf with six arms, most of her seems to be an adaptation of the flea that merged with her. Her mind, what little there is left of it, can’t be reasoned with. Her forte is chaos itself. Once she’s latched on she doesn’t let go of her victim until it’s nothing more than a dried hulk.”

 

“In that case, it would probably be best if we kept her well back until we absolutely positively have a need for her um – services.” Sophia replied.

 

Testa motioned to Forens and Lumen to stop. Testa and Sophia went to speak with them.

“Hold here for the time being. We are going to try to take one of them alive.” Testa said. “But stay sharp. We may yet need Ker’s assistance if things do not go well.”

 

“Alive?” Lumen asked. “Are you certain that’s wise?”

 

“Yes. It seems the dragons are quite intelligent and cunning and likely have information we can use to end this war once and for all.”

 

“That would be a blessing indeed,” Forens chimed in. “Little did I know when I volunteered for this, that I would be spending the next decade fighting this war. I’ve grown quite weary of the endless fighting, the death, the pain and suffering brought on by this insanity.”

 

“Indeed,” Lumen added, “By all that is sacred and holy! I too have grown weary of it all as well! We will support you if it means ending this endless violence.”

 

“Very good, comrades! Keep us in your prayers,” Testa replied. “So... My queen, what did you have in mind?”

 

“Let’s make sure our quarry is still in the area first,” Sophia replied.

 

By this time, the party had arrived at the farm to the east of Sloeford. There wasn’t much activity around the farmstead itself. If the dragons were here, they had already gotten what they wanted and left.

 

Sophia sent two of her squad to the farmhouse to see if the farmer and his family were all right but no one appeared to be home.

 

“May I suggest we travel to the east a bit from here? There is a shrine just down the road and we may be able to get some information from there.” Testa suggested.

 

“Let’s go, there doesn’t seem to be much of anything going on here.” Sophia agreed.

 

The party continued along the path, without any troubles.

 

“Ah, there’s the one we are looking for now,” Testa said, “One of my third generation guardians.”

 

“I’ve heard of these, but have yet to meet one,” Sophia replied.

 

“Halt!” the mechanical voice of the Guardian said. It was approximately the height of a typical Elf or Human; however, the head was clearly canine in origin. It stood upright like most intelligent species on Ancaria; its right arm was also like an Elf or Human, but it’s left was replaced by what appeared to be some sort of weapon.

 

Testa and the party stopped and he said, “Recognition code: Alpha, One, One, Three, One, Mark!”

 

“Recognition code acknowledged!” the mechanical voice droned, “How may I be of service, Master?”

 

“Recognize all members of my group as ‘friend’.”

 

“Scanning... All members successfully recognized as ‘friend’.”

 

“Give me your designation.”

 

“I am unit K9-415.”

 

“K9-415, report on any life forms, other than our own that have been within two kiloms of this location within the past half day.”

 

“There have been fourteen life forms classified ‘Elf’ that have come by here, twelve of which came to the shrine to leave offerings to the Creator. The other two went toward the beach due south of here, presumably to copulate. There was a family of creatures, classified as ‘wolf’ that came by. They were stalking a deer. There were twenty-three creatures classified as ‘bird’ that flew past. They were on a heading southwest, presumably toward the Dryad colony. There are one million, three hundred seventy nine thousand, eight hundred fifty nine creatures classified as ‘ant’ currently present. Additionally, there are four hundred and ten fleas in the immediate vicinity, looking for prey to feed on.”

 

“Thank you K9-415. Were there any other creatures in the area?”

 

“There were a few other minor species I did not count. Their threat level was below the threshold of acknowledgement.”

 

“Very well, K9-415,” Testa replied, satisfied by the response.

 

“But what about the dragons?” Sophia asked.

 

“There were no creatures classified as ‘dragon’ within sensor range.”

 

“This is troubling.” Testa said. “He should have seen them if they had indeed been in the area.”

 

“I have a bad feeling about this,” Sophia said.

 

“What do you mean?” Testa asked.

 

“Think about it! We’ve been called away from Seraphim Island, and while the interruption was welcome, this is nothing more than a fool’s errand. We need to head back to the portal, double time!”

 

“K9-415, resume previous operating mode!” Testa commanded.

 

“Acknowledged, master!” said the Temple Guardian.

 

“Let’s go then!” Testa concurred.

 

The group ran back to the portal, collecting Ker and the other Volunteers along the way. Sophia set the portal for Seraphim Island and the group stepped through to the other side.

Edited February 12, 2013 by wolfie2kX

[Etherian 76]

Testa reminds me of a Microsoft Executive.

 

Just so long as K9-415 doesnt run on Vista, the third generation guardian will have a long existance farming data.

 

Regarding the "fool's errand". I caught onto the diversion late into "The Wake" installment. TPTB need the queen and her volunteer group away offsite to further their agenda.

 

Divide & Concure. One of the oldest concepts known in war.

 

I remain,

[Ysne58 236]

I am looking forward to the next installment.

[wolfie2kX 528]

Testa reminds me of a Microsoft Executive.

 

Just so long as K9-415 doesnt run on Vista, the third generation guardian will have a long existance farming data.

 

Regarding the "fool's errand". I caught onto the diversion late into "The Wake" installment. TPTB need the queen and her volunteer group away offsite to further their agenda.

 

Divide & Concure. One of the oldest concepts known in war.

 

I remain,

 

Hmm. Really? I was going more for Doctor Who's pet K9 as far as the dialog went...

 

 

And fear not, the next installment is coming soon..

Edited February 13, 2013 by wolfie2kX

[Ysne58 236]

Tom Baker is one of my all time favorites. I did get that connection. All my TGs are named K9.

[wolfie2kX 528]

Regarding the "fool's errand". I caught onto the diversion late into "The Wake" installment. TPTB need the queen and her volunteer group away offsite to further their agenda.

 

Divide & Concure. One of the oldest concepts known in war.

 

I remain,

 

Yeah.. Just when you thought it was safe to make an assumption - along comes a curveball to really mess things up - as we find out in today's installment.

 

Tom Baker is one of my all time favorites. I did get that connection. All my TGs are named K9.

 

Yeah... They really broke the mold with him. I seriously hope Baker gets off his high horse and takes part in the 50th anniversary special - the one they're planning for November that's supposed to feature all 11 of the Doctors. Should be interesting. Especially when it comes time to conjour up the ones who have died over the years.

 

But.. In the mean time we got more story to get through.

 

By the by.. Has anyone noticed the name of the Archmage..?

 

---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----

False Alarm?

 

The group emerged from the portal on Seraphim Island a few moments later and after checking in and leaving their weapons in the appropriate bag, made their way back to the tower.

 

On the way, Testa asked, “So what do you think this diversion was all about?”

 

“I’m not sure. But I’m sure we’ll find out soon enough.” Sophia replied.

 

The group arrived at the tower just as the wake was winding down and the visitors were leaving.

 

Lurinda emerged from the crowd and came over to Sophia. “So, what news have you from Sloeford?”

 

“Nothing.” Sophia replied. “There were no dragons in evidence when we got there. Not so much as a bonfire. What happened after we left?”

 

“Not too much. Deylen sat down with his group at his table and behaved as if nothing happened. Then a few moments ago, they got up and left. They made their way down to the portal and left the island, presumably to go home. The look on their faces was, unpleasant. Other groups have since decided to leave as well.” Lurinda reported.

 

“I see. What about the Elf who interrupted things? The one who sent us on this wild goose chase...”

 

“Last I saw, Manda was tending him, but he seemed to be doing well enough. But come to think of it, I haven’t seen him or Manda in a while.”

 

“First thing’s first. We need to find Manda and the elf.” Sophia ordered her squad and dismissed them.

 

“Yes my Queen!” the senior member of the squad said – and she and the rest of her team went looking.

 

“Then we need to check on certain – assets. Lurinda, please go find out about the status of the brothers. I’m going to the armory to check there.”

 

“Yes my Queen!” said Lurinda and she went off toward the underground lair.

 

Sophia took stock of the situation. Testa and the rest of the Volunteers were gathering Kuan together who was passed out cold. They were, like the rest of the crowd, preparing to leave.

 

“Testa, if I may have a word before you leave?” Sophia interrupted.

 

“Certainly! Don’t mind Kuan, he’s such a pain in the back when he gets like this. It’s getting to the point where we can’t bring him to any sort of celebration without him getting drunk. Though, fortunately, today he only got drunk and not disorderly.”

 

“I was hoping that we could talk a bit more about our situation at a later, more convenient time. I think it would help to consult Ancaria’s number one genius on the matters we discussed previously.”

 

“You flatter me, my Queen. And I’ll see what I can do to make some time to visit again soon. I can’t guarantee anything, of course, given there’s a war on and we can be called to arms at any time.” Testa replied.

 

“Very well. In the meantime, see what you can do to come up with a solution to the problem we discussed.”

 

“I’ll be sure to put my mind to it – after we get Kuan back to our base.”

 

“In the meantime, I need to get a move on and check on a few things on the island.”

 

“Farewell Sophia!” Testa said and turned his attention back to his drunken compatriot.

 

“Farewell,” Sophia said and turned toward the exit. She headed toward her quarters first, thinking she would leave her swords behind – after all, she was home on Seraphim Island but then changed her mind. The island had been host to a large contingent of strangers this past day – and given the false alarm earlier in the evening, she didn’t feel quite so comfortable. She therefore headed directly to the Armory.

 

As she was leaving the Tower, one of her squad came running up to her. She stopped and said, “We found Manda, my Queen! She is in the hospice, checking on her patients.”

 

“Very good - as long as she’s all right! Did you happen to see the Elf she was tending earlier tonight?” Sophia inquired.

 

“No, ma’am, Come to think of it, I did not,” the soldier replied.

 

“In that case, go back and ask Manda what happened to him. I need to have a chat with him. It’s bad enough when the Master Blacksmith and Archmage think they can pull one over on me, but it’s quite another when mere peasants think they can do this and get away with it.”

 

“On my way!” the soldier replied as she ran off toward the medical building while Sophia continued toward the armory.

 

---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ---- ----

 

Sophia arrived at the armory a short time later. All seemed well enough. It was quiet, but given the time of day, and that most people were still at the wake, it should have been. Sophia went to the door and knocked.

 

No answer. Maybe Smitty was already asleep, she wondered. After all, he did stay up all night working hard on her armor. She knocked again, this time a bit louder.

 

Still nothing. She tried the knob. The door opened with ease. She pushed the door open wide and stepped inside. The lights came on automatically – the building inside looked quite different from the last time she was here. First of all, the jury-rigged benches, stairs and other items that Smitty used to make things more accessible were missing. The tools of the smith trade were all neatly hung on their pegs or were laid out with care. The room even smelled different – almost like a tropical fruit stand on the Dryad colony. And of course, the armor Smitty had gone through the trouble to forge the day before was missing as well.

 

Sophia wasn’t one to panic, but she came very close. She realized she actually was looking forward to putting on that new armor that Smitty had slaved over and now the armor and its creator were missing. She was wondering if she had somehow mortally insulted the little man and he left in some sort of huff. But no, there wouldn’t be a reason for him to clean up so thoroughly after himself. Something else was afoot.

 

Just then, a large Human arrived at the door of the armory – one Sophia did not recognize.

 

“Come with me, Sophia,” he said, “Everything is under control.”

 

“Excuse me, do I know you?” Sophia replied, her hands on the hilts of her blades.

 

“Oh... Sorry, I’m Orphas, we met earlier today.”

 

Sophia relaxed.

 

“It isn’t safe here. And you shouldn’t be seen here right now,” he continued, “Those slaves that came with the Archmage and Blacksmith – they didn’t leave with them.”

 

“I take it you don’t know where they went then.” Sophia said.

 

“No.”

 

In that case, lead on.” Sophia said.

 

Orphas then turned and left the building. He led Sophia north and east along the rim of the island to a point where a bridge crossed over to another, smaller island. The bridge itself made little sense as the island was barren and had nothing on it besides rocks. All in all, Sophia thought to herself, this would be a good place to hide out as no one would think to look there.

 

As they reached the other side, Orphas led Sophia to the east side of the island, and down a path that lead to a large cavern. Sophia saw some light emerging from the mouth of the cave and recognized the place – it was the place she had originally thought to take Loromir when she first met him.

 

“Sophia! Good to see you’re in one piece!” Loromir greeted her with great enthusiasm. “I take it today went well enough?”

 

“Of course they did. Right up until the Archmage decided to vent his frustrations.”

 

“Yes, we caught the beginning of that.” Loromir replied. “Did he finally pop his cork?”

 

“No such luck, I’m afraid,” Sophia replied. “The strangest thing happened. An Elf appeared out of nowhere, claiming to be from Sloeford and that three of your relations were wreaking havoc on a farm near there. But when we got there, there were no signs of any Dragon activity in the area.”

 

Loromir laughed heartily as only a he could. “That was no Elf!”

 

“Excuse me?” Sophia said, momentarily confused.

 

“That was me!” Loromir explained. “We felt it wouldn’t be quite the right time to let the world in on our little secret just yet. So we hatched a plan (pardon the pun) to interrupt that little tirade before the tide of opinion was turned against you.”

 

Orphas meanwhile was in the process of getting naked. Sophia couldn’t help but watch – not so much as she was interested in his human attributes, but to watch as he transformed into the mighty Dragon he actually was.

 

“Sophia...” Loromir said, trying to break her concentration.

 

“Uh... Yes? Sorry. I don’t know if I’ll ever quite get used to watching your transformations.” Sophia replied as Orphas stretched out and unfurled his huge wings.

 

“No, I imagine you won’t.” Loromir chuckled.

 

“Smitty!” What happened to him?” Sophia said, suddenly reminded of the Dwarf.

 

“Relax. He is over there, near the hearth we built, fast asleep. He finally ran out of energy just about the time we set the last stone.

 

Your new armor is here as well. Orphas noticed the Archmage giving his slaves some orders after you and the blue people left. They did not follow the rest of his party to the portal and off of the island.

 

“I figured they would be likely looking around, trying to find proof of what the Archmage was accusing you of. So the three of us grabbed everything incriminating from the armory and moved it here.” Loromir explained. “We did our best to make things look normal at the armory.”

 

“I’ll have to hand it to you – it looks neat – probably neater than they should be. But at this point, there’s no point in worrying about it. I’ll have to remember to tell Karem where to find him. She will be close to a panic attack if she loses Smitty’s services.”

 

The helmet chimed in, “Reminder set.”

 

Sophia was slightly startled by that, but then she remembered Lurinda did say something about this feature. Was it really only a few days ago?

 

“There was one thing I did learn on our little side trip to Sloeford. Our big blue friend, Testa was able to figure things out. He knows the Seraphim’s secret.”

 

“I wouldn’t worry too much about him,” Loromir said.

 

“I’m beginning to wonder if the whole of Ancaria knows it already,” Sophia sighed.

 

“Fear not. You’d have to be very smart and observant to be able to figure it out and this Testa appears to be both.”

 

“Yes and he’s agreed to think of a way to easily and safely deliver Seraphim blood into the mouths of the Dragons still under the Carnach’s control.

 

“Good.” Loromir said.

 

“I am planning an excursion to the Seraphim Library tomorrow morning. I need to do some research. I will need to dig through the archives to find out some information that I can’t find here on the Island. Do you two feel up to a little trip?”

 

“Maybe. Will there be food?” Orphas asked.

 

“I’m sure we can squeeze in a little hunt!” Sophia smiled.

 

“In that case, count me in.” Orphas said, enthusiastically.

 

“Where exactly is this Library?” Loromir asked.

 

“It’s on the northern end of the Eastern Continent. There’s a portal nearby as well so our exposure should be minimal.”

 

“Very well, count me in as well.” Loromir said.

 

“In that case, I think I’m going to head back to the tower and get some rest. Today has been a rather long day.” Sophia said.

She stood up and walked back toward the way she came.

 

“Not that way!” Loromir objected, “This way.” He pointed in another direction – toward a cave entrance deeper in the back of the cave. “It’s much shorter than going the other way, not to mention there are likely some prying eyes lurking up there.”

 

Sophia turned around and grabbed a torch and made her way down the tunnel leading back to her home in the tower.

Edited February 13, 2013 by wolfie2kX