Children of Bhaal
Children of Bhaal - Part 3
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Second
Interlude: A son of Bhaal, a daughter of Bhaal and a monk from Candlekeep
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>It all somehow looked famili
little south of Beregost.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Hey, you remember? Has been quite some time,
since we’ve been here…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yeah, ya’re right,
always liked it.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>It was a green and fertile country, soft hills
covered by dense forest flanked the road. It ran straight northw
an hour to reach the little village.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Beregost was full of life, of comings and
goings. The crisis of the iron-shortage had passed and trade once again
flourished. And with the trade, also Beregost did.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>A little before we entered the village, we
caught up with a man, clothed in a green cloak, his hood drawn over his head
and holding a wooden staff in his hands.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Good day to you!” I greeted him.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He turned
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Thou
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I smiled a little uncomfortably.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Well, you’re right. But I really don’t like
when people bow and such things, so please just treat me like a normal human
being. Hell, not long ago I have in fact been one…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Forgive, my Lord, I didn’t know…” he said
quickly.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“And what might your name be?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The monk, for he cle
closed it and opened it again. Finally he managed to reply.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Ar… Arkul Sazz
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I and Imoen laughed.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Art thou the holy companion of his divine
Lordship?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Ah, stop talkin’
like that, ol’ D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Thy wish shall be my command, my Lady!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Now I ro
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Just pretend that we
the road, alright?” I suggested.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The monk st
nodded.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Very well, now perhaps you might be able to
tell us some of the news. What’s going on
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Ehm, well, the Cult
of the Eradicators of Bhaal’s Spawn has been very active lately… They’re
rounding up all the remaining Bhaalspawn and kill them. I’d advise you to keep
a low profile.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Well, thanks for the advice; I’ll keep it in
mind.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I wasn’t much worried about myself, though. Not
only had I one of the most powerful swords existing, I also had my fire
probably only he
I would never be able to forgive myself.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>So I went closer to her and whispered into her
e
Bhaalspawn…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Hey, don’t worry, D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>She smiled and stroked my hair. I took her hand
and squeezed it a little, as if to draw strength from it.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>In Beregost we went to Feldepost Inn, the best
inn in town. Arkul opened the door and we stepped in. I quickly glanced over
the room. Most guests looked h
people with leather
guests.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>One of them, he wore a chain-mail and had d
me. His gl
recognition in his eyes: He knew who I was.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You’re the Abomination!” he cried through the
room. The whole room immediately dropped silent.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Slowly he walked over to us, the others from
his group following him.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You’re the Abomination and finally you have
come right to us. Finally we will be able to complete our tasks by killing the
one whom we have sought for so long.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>They drew their weapons; I stood in front of
Imoen, wanting to protect her. Imoen took her bow and readied it. Arkul quickly
glanced at the approaching Bhaalspawn-Killers and then made himself
ready for combat, by taking up an attack position, holding his staff.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I drew my own sword, but then I quickly changed
it to my left hand, drawing my fire-spiter and
pointing it directly at the leader of the Cultists.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You know what this is? Probably he
took over Amn… It’s a fire-spiter and your magic is
no use against it, the bullet gets through all magical defenses. So I suggest
you back away, or I’ll pull the trigger.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The Cultist hesitated, but then made a step tow
Cultist right of the leader and pulled the trigger. A thundering, deafening
sound could be he
where suddenly blood appe
the ground.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Now I pointed the fire-spiter
directly at the head of the leader.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Back away right now or you’ll be the next who
dies!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>We stepped away from the door and I motioned
the Cultists to leave the place. They grabbed the body of their fellow Cultist
and hurried out, but before they left their leader turned to me.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“My name is Oss
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The other guests looked at me, fe
and stepped over to the innkeeper.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Is there a room where we can rest?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Ah… well, of course, sir, whatever you want.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>So we rented a room and went upw
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Imoen looked at my fire-spiter
and shook her head.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I never liked those weapons,
an’ her Shadow Thieves did with ‘em.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I shrugged my shoulders.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“They’re weapons, Im, and all weapons
life, I don’t really c
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>She looked long into my eyes, as if she was
trying to read my mind.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“So this’ worrying ya,
eh? Ya afraid I might die? Ya’ve
become a w
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I just nodded.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>She hugged me and kissed me on the cheek.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Hey, ya don’t
know there’s someun lookin’
after me, heh. So I say, let’s just look out for each
other, eh?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I smiled, feeling w
understood each other better than anyone else could understand us. Nothing
would ever divide us, not even death. I would make sure of that.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='font-size:26.0pt;mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>P
D
Shadow Master
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Aran Linvail was not an impressive figure. And
that was probably the reason why he was in fact impressive. He was rather small,
about my height, had thick black hair and olive skin, a thin nose and thin
lips, his eyes were small and pitch black. But Shadow Master Linvail was the
living proof that appe
perhaps even on the whole
being ordin
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“D
acquaintance. Many very fascinating tales have reached my e
companions. I can see Minsc. How’s your hamster Boo? Well, I hope. Ah, and there’s
Lord Anomen Delryn. Terribly sorry about what happened to your sister, but
business is business, right? Sir Keldorn Firecam, how nice to finally meet you!
I do not often meet members of the noblest Order of the Radiant He
is good that you have finally decided to work for us.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Then he turned to Aerie, took her hand gently
and kissed it.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
acquaintance.
there’s anything I can do to help your uncle Quayle, just say the word.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Aerie blushed at this and smiled. This Linvail
was really quite a surprise. He was certainly not the kind of person I would
have imagined to be the Shadow Master.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Now, let’s move on to business. First I want
to express my deepest regrets concerning the kidnapping of your de
ordered the Shadow Thieves to invade Irenicus’ dungeon in order to free you and
your companions. Alas, we came too late and couldn’t stop the tragedy occurring
on Waukeen’s Promenade.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I am willing to lend a helping hand in the
rescuing of Imoen. In order to make certain
Bayle handed to me. However, there is another problem which must be taken c
some assistance.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He walked over to the richly decorated table
and took a c
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Do you want some? Really
good vintage.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I nodded and he filled another glass, which he
handed to me.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“As I was saying, there’s another problem. You
probably he
come in. Lately my shipments have been disappe
over the latest shipment and I would really appreciate it, if you could help
her out. Those losses really hinder my organization, if we can stop the
shipments from disappe
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Well, if you think that it will help, I’ll do
it…” I answered.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Excellent. It is now evening; I suggest you
immediately go over to the docks.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Mook was already waiting for us at the docks.
She was a good-looking young woman with beautiful black hair, but there was a
menacing air
was made even cle
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Ah, yah’re D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>There were several crates assembled on the
docks, but I couldn’t tell what was in them.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I’ve been heer all
day lon’. There’s a guy who’s been
shipment from af
face. But I didn’t like dah looks o’ ‘
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“If he wants to steal the shipment, he will do
so at night. We’ll have to wait until it gets d
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Hm,
about this whole matter, somethin’s not right. I’ve
he
guild, yah know…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>We spent the time until it grew d
something like a daughter for Linvail, he had found
her as a five ye
raised her. That was before he had become Shadow Master. He had taught her the
ways of the Shadow Thieves and was proud of her as if she was his real daughter.
The whole matter of this new guild troubled him deeply, though, and he didn’t
want anyone else than her to take c
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>We were just talking about the Renal Bloodscalp
(she was good friends with him), when a hooded figure came down the stairs.
Minsc drew Lilacor (“Oh, we’re going to kill something,
followed his example. In front of me the figure halted. I couldn’t see much but
two red glowing eyes.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Ah, D
cold, deep voice.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“What do you want, stranger?” I asked him.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Oh, the Mistress will take c
Mook this night. The Mistress has taken some interest in her, being the adopted
daughter of Linvail himself. She wants her at her side.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Mook shuddered at those words, probably imaging
what the figure meant with “being at her side”.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“What kind o’ creature
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Oh, I’m a creature out of your worst nightm
there’s no point in resisting us, eternity awaits you.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He drew off his hood, revealing a white face
with long black hair and sh
creature who lived of the blood of humanoids, turning them into vampires in the
process.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He sn
at Mook, who gave a shriek and drew her short sword. With one of his claws, the
creature hit her right hand; she let her sword fall to the ground. Then he
advanced, she backed away, until she was no longer able to because of some
crates. He opened his mouth, hissing and prep
his eyes, when we finally reacted.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Minsc attacked, howling in rage at this
creature of evil, Lilacor encouraging him loudly. The vampire turned
but against the new Lilacor he stood no chance, the sword penetrated him and
spilled his blood all over Minsc. Wailing, a mist left the destroyed body of
the vampire, the body itself fell lifeless to the ground.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Mook still leaned against the crate, motionless
from shock, her body trembling. Minsc sheathed Lilacor and went over to her,
hugging her and telling her that it was over. It was a side in Minsc I had
never seen before. I had always suspected that he had a soft, c
with Aerie (they were now always together, talking to each other and Minsc
always looked out for her, never letting anyone ne
one would kill her like Dynaheir).
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Aerie also came over to the shocked young woman
and looked if everything was alright with her. It seemed as if the vampire
hadn’t h
of course, but Aerie used one of her healing spells on the hand and the wound
closed.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Finally Mook managed to speak: “This… thin’,
it… it tried t’ bite me! What was this thin’?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I think it was a vampire and it wanted to turn
you into one of its own kind.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>She looked at me in total horror.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You have been very fortunate, young woman.
Without Minsc you would be now a creature of evil” Keldorn said.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Well, thank yah, Minsc. I’ll never forget
this, I promise.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Aran Linvail was glad we brought his “daughter”
back in one piece, especially when he he
“father” needed our help with something else: Two Shadow Thieves wanted to
switch sides, perhaps we could find out from them, where the enemy’s headqu
probably being a little emb
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The two thieves would meet their contact in the
“Five Flagons”-inn in the bridge district. We found them on the upper floor of
the inn, sitting at a table. I went into the room alone; my companions hid
themselves in the shadows of the corridor.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Hey, what
here?” one of them asked us.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I was sent by the side you wish to join. You
must be Jaylo and Caeha. Although I should be cautious, I must make sure first.
If you really
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>They both looked a little puzzled at each
other, but then the one who had spoken first said: “Well, yah’re
name’s Gracen.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I smiled encouragingly.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“That’s right. Now, about our business…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Suddenly the door opened and someone entered. I
looked
man we
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Who dah
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“My name’s Gracen…” I st
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Not possible, ‘cause
I’m Gracen. Whoever yah
fuckin’ good for yah. Boys, kill ‘im!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Gracen and the two thieves drew their weapons
and attacked. I signaled my companions to come in and drew my own sword. Mook
was the first to enter; she attacked one of the thieves and killed him with a
quick stroke at his throat.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I was attacked by Gracen, p
shield into his chest, what sent him stumbling backw
thrust my sword forw
stroke again, this time low, so I had to jump. While jumping I thrust my sword
low and caught Gracen in the side. He moaned, but didn’t let down his gu
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>This time I was more prep
attacks, which he also p
into his he
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“That’s for mee
father, fuckin’ vampire-slave!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Gracen gurgled and dropped dead. Mook bent down
and se
scroll.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Ah, that’s interestin’.
So they ‘ave their headqu
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Linvail was pleased at the news and immediately
began planning an attack. Mook wanted to lead it, together with me. After the
incident on the docks she seemed to have developed quite a hate against the
vampires, understandably.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Now, what do we need? Dowels, of course…
Anything else coming to your mind, D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>There were lots of things which came to my mind
and I began explaining them to Linvail: “Well, look at this. I call it the
fire-spiter. And then I have those here. Their balls
which explode on contact, I call them “exploders”. Could come quite in handy,
don’t you think?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Linvail looked at my sketches and nodded.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Very well, I’ll tell our smiths to craft those
weapons. I will send you a messenger when all prep
Imoen:
Psychological experiments
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Water was dripping onto my forehead. First I
hadn’t bothered with it, even laughed at Irenicus.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Can’t ya come up
with somethin’ better?” I had shouted at him.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>But now I was thinking that perhaps it hadn’t
been such a bad idea after all. It just kept on dripping on my head, it never
stopped, it went on and on and on…
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Suddenly I screamed, screamed without being
able to stop, I just wanted the water to stop dripping on me, I couldn’t stand
it anymore, it drove me insane! No one came, though; I was alone, all alone
with the water. My screams became more and more silent, until I no longer had
the strength to continue, until I was just a sorry, whimpering bundle.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>It was then that Irenicus stepped into the
room, gl
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Had enough already? You
thought. Alright, let’s continue with the next experiment.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He cut my bonds and commanded some of his drueg
the room I had been in before, the room with the table, the cage and the
knives. But now there was a difference: it was full of those huge, gruesome
rats. And they st
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I am in control of them. See this button, the
red one in my hand? If I press it, a command will be given the rats and they
will attack you and kill you. Now, let us continue to the business on hand.
Look at the table.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I stepped over to it and gasped in horror: a
man was laying on it, bound to it, several knives next to it.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Take up one of the knives, which one doesn’t
matter, whatever suits you. I gave you some lessons in anatomy. Cut open his
abdomen first.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I shook my head; I wouldn’t do this, never!
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He just pointed at the button in his hand.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I he
and painful process” he explained.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Slowly I stepped over to the man, when I
realized that he was still awake, st
small table next to the one he was laying on and took up one of the knives,
shaking.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I’m sorry, but I’ve no choice” I whispered.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Please, don’t!” the man begged me.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I wouldn’t be eaten by rats, no way! I gripped
the knife firmer and stepped over to him, began to cut him open, trying to not
heed his screams.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Excellent, now cut off his leg and
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>So I took the bone saw and began the gruesome
work, sawing on and on, while the man screamed in pain. Finally the leg came
off and I immediately took a piece of cloth and ligated
the leg.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>My skin had turned pale and I felt sick, but I
tried to think of the rats. I wouldn’t end as rat food, I needed to go on.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Very well, now cut his appendix off!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I grabbed one of the scalpels and bent over the
man, trying to find the appendix in him, pushing away his intestines, his
stomach, his liver, all those slimy, gruesome things inside of a body. Finally
I found it and began cutting. I guess I didn’t really do it right, probably cut
also p
see it with all the blood and that ugly juice coming out of it.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>After that I began to choke, wanting to vomit,
but somehow I was able to swallow it again.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Now, if you would cut out his left eye…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>My hand was now shaking violently and I moved
the scalpel tow
and finally rammed the scalpel into the skin next to his eye, cutting and
thrusting, until it came free from the skin and I could cut off the nerve,
blood covering his whole face by now.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>When the man’s scream reached a climax,
something snapped in me. I could no longer be
and wails, the blood all over me and him, I wanted him to stop, it drove me insane!
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Shut the fuck up, shut up!” I screamed at him,
taking a huge butcher’s knife.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>And then I raised it and thrust it deep into
him, again and again I stabbed, while he screamed and blood splashed onto my
hands, my face, my body. I continued until the screams had stopped and the man
was dead, a bloody bundle, b
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I just collapsed next to the table and vomited
on the floor and then began to sob, my body shaking violently, my hand still
clutching the knife.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You did well, Imoen, it is over. Now watch!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>From under a veil of te
to the button. Terror took hold of me, as I st
the button, nothing happened.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Oh no, oh no, no, no…” I whimpered.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yes, Imoen, yes, you killed the man, you
slaughtered him needlessly. Meet the d
You
the murdering instinct inside of you!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“We shall see, Imoen, we shall see.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>His drueg
cells. Before they threw me into it, Irenicus told them to drop me to the
ground.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Listen c
locked in this room with an innocent child, a little girl. You will not receive
water or food. And there is only one way out: You must take the key and unlock
the door. The key is inside the little girl, in her stomach, to be precise.
Inside you will also find a knife. Use it and free yourself. Or die of thirst,
I do not c
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>And with this I was thrown in and the door
locked behind me. He had been right; there was a little girl in there, a
black-haired, pretty little girl, looking sc
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Who’re yah?” It asked me.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I don’t know, Tiana.
I’m sorry. I’m a prisoner like ya.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>She came over to me and sat on my knees,
putting her
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I wanna get out o’
here” she whispered, crying.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Sh, don’t worry,
we’ll find a way.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>It was then that I saw the knife lying in the
other corner.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Oh no, please, no…” I whispered.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>But the knife was there and it wouldn’t leave.
With a shock I realized that I would have to murder this innocent, little girl
in order to survive. I tried to drive the thought from my head; I would rather
die than killing her!
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>How long I sat in there, I don’t know. A long
time, for I remember sleeping at least twice. In the beginning I felt nothing,
but then I began feeling thirst and it grew and grew, accompanied by hunger.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I was probably already in a delirium, when I
took up the knife and went over to the sleeping girl. I would kill her and take
out the key, I would survive, I would find water and
survive, to hell with the girl!
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>So I raised the knife and stabbed the girl,
trying to hit her he
pulled the knife out again and stabbed anew, and again and again, until she
stopped moving. Feverishly I began cutting open her skin; I took out her
stomach and cut it also open, trying to find the key. Finally I found it,
somehow well preserved from the acid inside, and stumbled over to the door,
unlocking it.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>A bowl of water was outside and I grabbed it,
sipping the water like a dog. Suddenly I noticed Irenicus st
corpse.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I grabbed the piece of old bread and ate it. It
was then that realization struck me: I had just murdered an innocent child, who
had never done anything to me!
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Letting the bread drop to the ground, I took my
head between my hands and began to sob and scream.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You have the murdering instinct inside of you,
face it and accept it! You
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I… I… don’t want it, I want t’ die, leave me
alone!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>But he didn’t and the experiments continued.
Would there ever be an end to it?
D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>We went back to the Copper Coronet to get a
well-e
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Again dreams came to me this night.
Imoen standing next to me.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Feelin’ dreamy,
smiled, not being able to talk.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Well, there’s somethin’
I wanna show ya. But
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The scene changed, Candlekeep became alive. In
front of the gates, I stood and Imoen next to me. We had different clothes, though.
I was we
brown-checkered trousers. Imoen wore a gray shirt and trousers in the same
color. We both had backpacks and walking sticks. My hair was a little shorter
and I my be
Gorion’s murder.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Beautiful day, I must say” my younger self
mentioned.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yeah, ya’re right,
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Well, let’s get moving then!” my younger self
said.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I remembered. In our later ye
went hiking in the hills ne
was one of the best hiking tours we had ever made.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The scene changed and I was now deep in the
hills in front of a bridge leading across a deep gorge. The bridge didn’t look
that stable, there were many holes in it. My younger self cle
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Be c
might break ap
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>But the younger Imoen didn’t head the w
much caution. My younger self looked critically at the bridge and followed a
little slower.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Suddenly a plank broke in front of Imoen; she
desperately tried to regain her balance. My younger self looked horror-stricken
at the scene.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Im, no!” he cried in dismay and rushed to
Imoen, dragging her away from the hole.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Heh, just
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You gave me quite a shock there, Im. For a
moment I thought… I thought that…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Ya thought I would
fall down an’ die. Heh, don’t worry, was just
worry.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>An angry look crossed my younger self’s face,
but was immediately replaced by concern.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Im, please, don’t do that again, ever. I just
can’t stand the thought of losing you, I mean it…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Imoen smiled and gently stroke my younger
self’s hair.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Ya’re really sweet,
worry, nothin’ll happen to
me, I’ll all be a’right.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Again the scene changed. My younger self and
Imoen were standing on a hilltop higher than the other ones
Candlekeep, towering over the cliffs at the sea. The sun sunk down into the sea
in the west, giving the water the look of blood.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“We made it, let’s camp here!” the younger Im
suggested.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yeah, good place here. Trees
and everything.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>They both unpacked
their bedrolls, made a fire and ate some bread and cheese. Then they lay down
and slept. Soon everything was quiet and still, the st
sleepers.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Suddenly Imoen began to moan and shake. My
younger self awoke from the noise and st
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Im, what’s going on?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Imoen began to talk, still dreaming: “No, get
away from me, leave me! Please, don’t, please… D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>She screamed in total horror and awoke, her
body shaking and sweating. My younger self went over to her and hugged her
closely, stroking her hair gently.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“It’s over, it was just a dream” he tried to
comfort Imoen.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Imoen began to sob and tried to say something,
but couldn’t. My younger self continued to stroke her gently and patted her on
the back.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“He wants t’ take somethin’
from me, but I dunno what! He hurts me, he hurts me,
but I dunno why! Don’t let ‘im
take me, D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Hey, as long as it is in my power, nothing
will happen to you, I swe
hell, promise!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Suddenly Imoen looked with a shocked expression
at my younger self.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“He wants ya too,
get ya!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Nobody will get me and nobody will get you. It
was just a dream, Imoen, nothing more.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>My younger self held Imoen in his
breathing slowed and soon she was asleep again, so he gently put her back onto
her bedroll, pulling her blanket over her.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I remembered this and I remembered the dream.
And suddenly I realized that it hadn’t just been a dream, it had been a vision.
Irenicus, you bast
have to watch my back; this Irenicus wouldn’t get me that easily!
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Suddenly our younger selves disappe
again standing there.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Ya remember, I know.
It all came true, ya know. Ya
swore it to me, D
it! Now fulfill it, D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>She had stepped closer to me while speaking and
finally was standing right in front of me, leaning her head against me. She
began to cry silently and I gently embraced her, tried to comfort her with the
w
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“It’s too much, I can’t stand it any longer,
I’ll just lie down and die, lettin’ all the
wake up, ‘cause I know what waits out there. Please, D
whispered, the last words in a desperate voice.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I so wanted to tell her that I loved her and
that I would soon come, but I couldn’t say a word. So I just cried, without
saying anything at all. She saw it and finally smiled a little, but said
nothing. We stayed like this for a long time and somehow I must have dozed off,
if this is possible in a dream. It’s just that I woke up and it was morning,
but I didn’t remember any change of scene like in the last dreams. Strangely,
my blanket was wet where my face had been. It seemed as if at least the te
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>We left the Copper Coronet in order to look
after the advancement of our weapon’s construction, when we were intercepted by
a knight of the Order of the Radiant He
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Lord Anomen Delryn, the time of your judgment
has come. You
order. May Helm watch over you always!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Anomen’s eyes shone with anticipation, what he
had long waited for to happen, finally seemed to be happening.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Of course we immediately went to the order.
Anomen was ordered to kneel in front of the leaders of the order.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Anomen Delryn, it is your wish to become a
member of this noble order. Are you ready to receive your judgment?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I am, Lord. May my judgment be just in the
eyes of Helm!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Then so be it. By the authority given us by
Torm we hereby knight you.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The speaker stepped forw
one of the knights and then touched both shoulders of Anomen.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Rise a knight and be recognized, Sir Anomen!
May Torm be with you and Helm watch over you!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Anomen rose and bowed before the leaders of the
order. Then the knights present, including Keldorn, stepped forw
both cheeks. Anomen was now recognized as knight of the noblest Order of the
Radiant He
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>His father had also come to the ceremony,
although he had stayed in the shadows. When we wanted to left, he stepped forw
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I… I want to ask you to forgive me. Some
things I have done, some things I have said… You have proven me wrong, son. By
bringing your sister’s murderers to justice and now even becoming a knight you
have proven your worth. Please, forgive me.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Anomen hugged his father as response.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I forgive you, father. Let us forget what is
past and try to build a relationship in the future.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>His father nodded and I saw te
changed person, having finally realized the mistakes of his past.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Father, I miss her…” Anomen whispered, now
also crying.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>His father gave a loud sob.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“It is my fault, son, all is my fault. If it
wouldn’t be for my stupid rivalry with F
could still live, Anomen!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Don’t say that, father, it wasn’t your fault,
it was F
you.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Anomen, can you stay with me? Our house is so
empty now that’s she’s gone…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I will father, after I have helped D
promise, I will come home as often as possible, as often as the order allows
it.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Thank you, my son, thank you…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>When we stepped out of the building, Keldorn
turned to me.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“D
It isn’t f
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Hey, no problem, just lead the way.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Keldorn’s house was indeed not f
district. When we entered his house, we were greeted by a servant, who
immediately went to fetch Lady M
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I saw that she was happy to see him, but she
tried to conceal it with a look of anger.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“So, you finally show your face again. Do you know
how long it has been? Six whole months!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“But M
we m
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>M
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“My de
think if this would be enough for me. I miss you, I really do, but you’re never
home and I have needs of my own, which you don’t seem to be able to satisfy…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Keldorn st
him.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You… you have taken a lover? Tell me his
name!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Please, Keldorn, don’t hurt him!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Tell me his name, M
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I thought that it was time to have a word with
the two.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Keldorn, please, calm down and listen to me” I
said, putting my hand on his shoulder.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He first wanted to shout at me, but then
nodded.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Look, your wife got a point; you should c
family means that you have to let go of certain other things.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>M
his name is Sir William of Thorpe. You’ll find him in the Mithrest Inn.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>But Keldorn’s face didn’t change to the better;
it was now a grimace of deep pain and grief.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Don’t you see, D
duel to regain my honor or I bring him and my wife before the judges and let
them be condemned for adultery. My wife will go to prison. What should I, D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Keldorn, there is a third possibility.
Confront Thorpe, but not by challenging him to a duel. Understand why your wife
did what she did. You
Talk to Thorpe and tell him that you wish to resolve this matter peacefully and
that you wish to now be the husband M
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>M
finally asked him: “Keldorn, do you still love me? For I do, even after you
have disappointed me. Promise me to be a real husband and I will promise to
never leave you. Think about the kids, Keldorn, they need a father!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Slowly Keldorn nodded.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yes, M
that things will change. Now let’s go and find Thorpe!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>We found Thorpe where M
Keldorn immediately went up to him and confronted him.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Sir William Thorpe, I am here concerning your
relationship with my wife!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Thorpe looked critically at Keldorn.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“So, you finally found out. Now what, do you
challenge me to a duel?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“No, I do not wish to shed any blood over this
matter. Just swe
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Thorpe frowned and replied: “Don’t you
understand, Sir Keldorn? Your wife is lonely and I have given her what she
never got from you: love and c
accomplishments as a knight of the order, you
insist that I swe
matter of your life, even more important than the order! Swe
family properly!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Keldorn remained long silent; I could see that
Thorpe’s words hurt him deeply. But I had to agree with Thorpe, his words may
have seemed to be h
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Finally Keldorn answered: “I swe
family, love my wife and c
that no other matter will be more important than them!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>A smile crossed Thorpe’s face.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Then all is well and I also swe
relationship with your wife immediately. I hope that you two will be happy
together. If not, I will come and remind you of your oath, Sir Keldorn!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>They both shook hands and I could see that they
both were relieved. Keldorn’s face didn’t seem to be sinister anymore, he
actually smiled and his eyes shone with happiness.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>M
Keldorn told her about everything, she even kissed him and said that she would
never again cheat on him. And then Keldorn turned to me.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“D
still have one obligation left: your sister, Imoen. It te
capture and I cannot rest until you two
me to do?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>It w
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Keldorn, I really appreciate your offer and I
can’t express my gratitude enough. I suggest we settle on a compromise: We will
go and get Imoen and afterw
them. M
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You have brought my husband back and for that
I am grateful. I think it is only fair that I let him go for this time and let
him help you. Hopefully, you find your sister soon, D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yes, I hope this too…” I whispered.
Imoen:
In my he
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>After my horrible experience with the girl,
Irenicus began using a new technique. He began to directly influence my mind,
working his way through my memories, only taking the worst ones, the painful
ones and turning them into the worst of nightm
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>It didn’t take long and I lost all memory of
what was going on
wasn’t real at all, it was a dream. Still, it seemed more real than reality.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>In all the pain and suffering, I felt as if I
was stretching out, trying to seek D
found him in a dream.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I was lying on grass, my eyes closed, pain
running through my body, when I suddenly felt a hand on me. The pain seemed to
fade and when I opened my eyes and saw D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I began to sob, p
anything, but took me into his
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Don’t speak, Im, don’t speak. We
where reality and illusion fades and longer matters. For me it could be real,
for you also, does it matter? The only thing, which matters, is us. I’ll come
soon, I promise, Im. It won’t be long now, just don’t die on me, do you
understand?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Again he kissed me and then he just held me
close, stroking my hair, while I sobbed and my te
the strangest thing began to happen. He began to kiss me, first on my forehead,
then my eyebrows, the sc
found his way down to my lips. First I was a little shocked, but then I
realized, how much I wanted this, how much I needed this. So we kissed each
other, more and more passionately, he put his
his hands, pressing my body against his, so I could feel his w
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>His hand began to move down my back and finally
found the end of my shirt, pulling it upw
pull the shirt over my head and then he gently touched my skin, sending shivers
through my whole body. Again he st
I just stood there, enjoying it, letting it happen, for while he did this, my
pain seemed to vanish completely.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>As gently as possible he laid me down on the
grass and moved over me, pulling my skirt up, slowly and gently, moving his
hand over my b
And then we loved each other, in the moonlight, on the grass. It was the best
thing, which ever happened during my time in Spellhold, for some time I forgot
completely, where I was and what had happened, leaving all the pain behind and
only feeling joy and passion.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>When it was all over and we lay next to each
other in the grass, D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Never forget this, Im, keep it with you.
Whatever happens, never forget this. Draw from it, hold on to it and let it be
your strength. Soon we’ll be together again, but first you’ll have to manage
the last p
heal, if you keep this in your he
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He took my hand and moved it to his chest, so I
felt his he
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Feel my he
happens, never let go of it. If you lose it, you will lose yourself.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Again he kissed me, this time onto my lips, a
long and passionate kiss, while I closed my eyes and felt him.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I now, it will be h
couldn’t get any worse. But it will, Im, it will. And without me in your he
there and do not lose me, do not lose yourself.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I don’t know, how long we stayed there, he
holding me in his
skin, comforting me, taking away the pain. I awoke finally, although I can’t
say, when exactly. Of course, the pain returned, but the memories stayed and
somehow it was easier now.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>It was the most realistic dream I ever had and
I really believe that somehow we communicated through our dreams and he really
wanted to comfort me somehow. Without it I would probably lain down and died, I
just no longer had any strength inside of me. But after…
Well, what came was horrible, but somehow, the dream had given me strength.
difficult p
D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>We were back at my castle, because a messenger
had told me of some urgent business: Isaea Roenal awaited me.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I immediately summoned him to the main hall,
when I
have lasted long. When he entered, he didn’t even have the courtesy to bow.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You know as well as I do that you won’t last
long as stew
cannot deny me forever. Once she has m
dep
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Now there
give up your title willingly and let me m
return in force and take what is mine. If you accept the offer I wish to
propose to you, you will receive adequate payment for your services to Lady
Nalia and I will let you leave in peace. But if you refuse, we will meet again
on the battlefield and the only payment you will get in that case is death.
What do you choose?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>This
I wanted to draw my sword and kill him right there at this spot. Did he think
he could simply bribe me like this? Somehow I managed to hide my anger, though.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Sir Roenal, I suggest you leave this place
immediately and never return here. If you do, I will fulfill my role as stew
trespassing. I hope that I have made myself cle
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He gl
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
handle things, you will have to live with the consequences.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>And then he turned
looking back.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Since I was there anyway, I asked Nalia, if
anything else had happened. She told me that several people wished to speak
with me about certain matters.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The first person who was brought before me was
a trader. He had passed through my lands and had been robbed by bandits. Now he
demanded that I paid him and recruited more soldiers in order to solve this problem.
Sighing I gave him his money and told Cernick to recruit more gu
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Cernick stayed, he wanted to talk to me first.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Lord, I’ve caught one o’ dah
gu
Duh yah wish t’ he
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yes, bring him before me” I replied.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The gu
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“What is your name, son?” I asked him.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“L… La… Lastin, Lord.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“So, Lastin, can you please explain to me, why
you did steal some of my belongings?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Lord, please, mee
wife’s mortally ill an’ I don’t ‘ave enough money t’
buy some medicine. Everyday she gets worse an’ I don’t know what t’ do!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I pitied the man. Although it wasn’t right that
he had stolen, I could understand why he had done it.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Lastin, do not worry about your wife - I will
personally pay for her medicine. And now that I know that you
will show mercy. You may remain in the gu
anything you need, just tell your Captain and he will tell me. Then I will see
what I can do.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Lastin gasped in total astonishment. I guess he
couldn’t believe his fortune. Cernick gave me an admiring glance, but then he
turned to Lastin and gave him a stern look.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yah’re fortunate
that our Lord’s a merciful Lord, Lastin. But bew
out o’ dah gu
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Last came cleric, who
asked me, if he could become the cleric of my castle. I granted his wish, since
he seemed to be a good man and one could always use a cleric.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>When all was over, I took Cernick aside.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“How’s our defense?” I asked him.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Well, Lord, I did as yah’ve
told me t’ do. The fire-kegs’re installed on
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yes, of course, show them to me.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Proudly he led me on the roof of the castle.
There they were, all in one line, glittering in the sun. Next to each one stood
three gu
kettle, where he could light it; the other one stood next to a crate of iron
balls, the last one was responsible for moving the fire-keg so that it faced
the right direction. They saluted when I and Cernick passed them.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
sight.
I am immensely pleased. Therefore I grant you an increase in payment. Oh, and
whoever created those, I decl
gets the necess
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Then I pulled out my notebook and showed him my
sketches of the fire-spiters and exploders. I had
also invented another weapon: the fire-tube. The fire-tube had a longer range
and was more accurate than the fire-spiter; it was
also about one-and-a-half meters long. Cernick promised me to show those my new
smith. I wanted that all gu
weapons.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>If Isaea Roenal should ever appe
would wait for him. I was confident that he would stand no chance against
troops equipped with my new weapons.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>We slept in my castle and again a dream came to
me. But this one was immensely different than any of the dreams I had before. I
stood in front of an ancient circle of huge, upright stones. In the middle of
the circle stood a stone shaped like a block. It was covered with blood; a long
knife lay on it. And next to the alt
shaped like a wolf.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Welcome, my son. Finally we meet. I want to
show you something. I want to show you your heritage.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Who… who
astonishment.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“D
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>It couldn’t be, it was
just not possible! How could this… beast be my mother?
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Son, I and all the others of our clan
you have been taken from us, before we could teach you, before we could give
you what is rightfully yours. Come, follow me, my son.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I followed her, what else was there to do? She
led me away from the stone circle to a ne
covered by straw were in it, in the middle a great wooden hall. I could make
out people, some of them in wolf-shape, some of them human. The human ones wore
brown or gray checkered trousers and shirts, their hair blond or brown and
long, long swords, decorated with wolves, hanging at their sides. And they all
had a blue wolf tattooed onto their forehead, just like I had done it.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“We
you be. The gift of the wolf is ours and always have we been w
and no prince will ever rule us, for we
anyone should try to rob it from us, he will feel the steel of our blades and
the sh
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I looked closer at the people and saw that they
all had gray-blue eyes like I had them. My mother saw it and grinned.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You see the sign, my son. We all have it, the
sign of Faenrryr and we will always know our people by it. Embrace your
heritage, my son. I will teach you, how to you use what is yours. Come to us,
find us!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Mother, what is your name?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I am Gwyncha ap Lleyd
and I am waiting for you, my son. And your real name is not D
cursed be his name. Bhaal then rapped me and you were the product of this
unholy union. But you
he is your father! His sword is waiting for you, come and get it!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>With this she suddenly held a beautiful long
sword in her hands, its hilt decorated by the head of a silver wolf, its eyes
were rubies. The blade was long, straight and sh
glimmer was
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“This is the sword of our family, forged long
ago by Maddoc ap Faenrryr. Go to the regions north of
Deepwater and you shall find us and it.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Suddenly my mother changed into her human form.
She was a tall woman with a pale and proud face and long, flowing brown hair.
The sword she held with the ease of an experienced fighter.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I know what you do, my son. We descendants of
Faenrryr have always been famous for our weapons. By creating the new weapons,
you have made us proud. Bring them to us that we may vanquish our enemies! It
is your duty to your clan, Dallheygh!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>And then I felt the power in me. I felt an urge
to hunt in the night and howl at the moon, to be with my pack. My skin was
covered by brown fur; my hands had long and sh
rip ap
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You feel it, don’t you, my son? This is the
gift of Faenrryr to you, although it is yet only a dream. In order to wake what
is in you, you need to come to us that we may perform the necess
an appropriate sacrifice, my son. Only the blood of your greatest enemy will
suffice, bring it to us! Bring us the blood of Irenicus!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Hate and rage grew in my, I felt the bloodlust;
I wanted to claw and bite, rip Irenicus into a thousand pieces.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Suddenly I awoke, sweating and panting. But
something was different than before: My forehead was burning where my tattoo
was. The wolf was calling and I had to answer, it was calling for Irenicus’
blood.
Imoen:
The demon inside
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>One day I came to myself again and found myself
lying on the floor in my cell, blood covering my body and my clothes, pain
everywhere, especially in my head.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>With a groan I tried to sit up and saw a bowl
of water next to me, which I took and drank. When I had just finished and was
beginning to think that perhaps I would be left alone now, the door opened and
Irenicus gl
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“What now? What kind o’ hellish torture ‘
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“The final step, Imoen, and then it will be
over. We must awake your true self, your father’s essence. Then I will be able
to take what I need from you. Soon it will all be over, Imoen, soon… But you
need to go through one last procedure.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He stepped closer and looked at me closely.
Finally he shook his head.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“No, this won’t work. At least not in the state
you
what shall I do about that?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He left my cell and soon some of his servants
entered, c
off the blood and dirt. They even changed my blood-soaked clothes, giving me
new and clean ones. Irenicus observed it all.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Now you
and people won’t turn from you in disgust. As I have rem
describe you as pretty. Very well, you
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>What the hell was he talking about? What did he
have in mind now? This didn’t seem like his usual self. Something was awfully
wrong here, I could feel it.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The servants and also Irenicus left me, but he
came back after a while, with him a man. The man had black hair and a be
covered by a patch and a sc
strong and he was bigger than Irenicus. His eye was black, it looked mean and
greedy. Irenicus whispered something to him and the man then looked at me, his eye
glittering and a dirty grin appe
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Do whatever you want with her, I leave you two
alone” Irenicus rem
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Slowly the man advanced and sat beside me on
the bed, stretching out his hand and stroking my hair. Although I was afraid,
it actually felt good.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Too bad he treated yah like that, but
though, eh?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He bent forw
shoulder and kissed me. I was st
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>His eyes flashed angrily, he stroke out with
his hand and he hit me h
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He had caught me right into the face and my
head was flung backw
would pass out.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Don’t, please!” I whispered fe
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I wouldn’t wanna
hurt yah, lassie, I just want somethin’ from yah an’
yah can eithahr gimme it or
I’ll take it.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Sobs began to shake me, I was afraid, so
afraid, in my head I imagined, what he wanted to do with me.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Please, he hurts me all the time, all the
time, he never stops! I can’t stand the pain, don’t add to it, please! Help me
t’ get away from ‘ere, please!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I only raised a laugh.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“No one escapes Irenicus an’ also not Lord Desh
o’ Brynnlaw. Come on, don’t be afreed, I don’t
yah’ll even forget yahr
pain for a while. Then yah’ll think back kindly on
this hour an’ yah’ll thank ol’
B
given yah such pleasure, eh? I just wanna
be nice t’ yah, alwees wanna
be nice t’ dah ladies.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I had moved into the corner, my body shaking
from fe
slowly. Then he stroked my hair, softly, and moved his hand over my skin.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“There, isn’t that bad, aye? Just let me do it
an’ enjoy dah whole thin’, lassie. Me, I’m the
master, ol’ B
town for ‘is skill” he rem
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>When he tried to kiss me again, I tried to push
him away. But he just took hold of my shoulders and continued. Finally I hit
him into his chest as h
only anger him.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Don’t yah d
me, fuckin’ bitch, I’m gonna
show yah who’s dah master ‘ere!” he screamed and hit
me, h
flung against the wall, my head dizzy for a moment.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He then grabbed me and pulled me down, holding
me down with his weight, while he began pulling at my shirt and finally ripping
it open, whereas he pulled it off and threw it away. I tried to hit him, but he
simply used his huge hand to grab both my hands and hold them still. With the
other hand he began grabbing my breasts, while he kissed me. Of course I
screamed, but no one was coming. Irenicus had planned the whole thing, he
wanted this to happen!
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Finally he grunted and moved his hand down,
grabbing a hold of my skirt and pulling it up. I tried to kick him, but found
that I couldn’t, instead he used his knees to pull my legs ap
trousers and finally managed to open them. He was busy with that and so I bit
him, right into his e
my nose and mouth.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Then he grabbed both my hands and held them
down, while he thrust himself into me. I screamed in pain, as it happened, as I
felt how something ripped ap
my legs, a burning pain erupting there, where he now began to push and thrust.
Again and again he pushed and thrust, while he grunted and panted and I kept on
screaming.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>It was then that it happened. Fe
feelings, fe
to change into something else entirely, into a deep, angry growl, like the
growl of an angry predator. And as my consciousness began to fade, I he
a quiet satisfaction to he
nothing.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>When I awoke, I was covered in blood, as was
the cell. In another corner lay the remnants of the man. Not all of it, some of
his p
lying somewhere else. I felt pain, where he had hit me and also down there… And
the feelings of triumph turned to something else; I began to feel shame and
revulsion against myself and vomited next to me onto the floor, my body shaking
from sobs and my feeling of sickness. I hated myself; I hated the man I had
just killed. Irenicus had been right; the evil was inside of me. I simply
wanted to die right there on that spot.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>It was then that the door opened and Irenicus
entered, looking
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You have reacted as I have predicted,
extraordin
D
guild-w
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Proudly Aran Linvail showed me the new weapons.
They were all laid out on a table in front of us. Mook wore two fire-
now pointed at a t
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“It… it is amazing!” I managed to say.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“They’re beauties, right? Just wait until you’ve
seen the exploders…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He took one of them and threw it at a pile of
wood, which lay in one of the corners. The sound was even more deafening;
pieces of wood were catapulted in all directions, a huge cloud of smoke rose
into the air and what was left of the pile was burning. Fortunately, we had all
ducked before the impact.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“It gets even better. D
substance which we now add to the bullet. This substance destroys all magical
defenses upon impact. Perfect for hitting mages and all enemies protected by
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Amazing, this gives us quite an advantage in
battle… Can I have the formula?” I asked.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Of course, you have given us the weapons and
so I think it’s only fair if I give you the formula. Here you go.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>With this he handed over a piece of paper to
me. I looked closely at it. The idea was ingenious; the inventor had just
exploited the fact that magic was just another kind of energy. This new
substance he created disrupted all flows of energy when it reacted. The energy
from the explosion would activate the exothermal reaction, by the time the bullet
hit the t
and destroy all fields of energy ne
bullet would kill or wound him. Mages and priests were no longer safe, this
would change w
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Indeed, my thieves have all been equipped with
the new weapons and st
against” Linvail continued.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Keldorn took me aside and whispered: “D
dangerous! Didn’t you stop to think about what would happen afterw
organization equipped with a new weapon against which there is no defense. Soon
the whole of Amn will be under control of the Shadow Thieves. And as the use of
these weapons spreads, death and destruction will come to the whole of Toril.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>More than that, with the new powder those
thieves invented, magic won’t be able any more to balance things out. Mages
with a gun and the proper bullets can kill a mage now.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I shrugged my shoulders.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Well, can’t change that now. And we need those
weapons in order to fight our enemies. Right now, the Shadow Thieves
choice.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Before we went to w
copy of the formula to my castle. He should give the formula to Captain
Cernick, who would then give it to the smith.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Soon our “
fifty Shadow Thieves would accompany us, led by Mook. Our meeting place was the
north entrance of the gravey
impressive. They each wore two fire-spiters and some
grenades, had bags with bullets and explosive powder with them. But they also
had their short swords and
equipment.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“We should attack from sev’ral
entrances. I think there’re three ways down t’
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Right, we should split. I and my companions
will take the eastern entrance, one half of your group the western and the
other half the middle entrance.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“OK, let’s do it! Good luck t’ yah!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I had two fire-spiters
myself, of course also my Rose Blade. My companions refused to take the new
weapons, with the exception of Yoshimo, who gladly took two fire-
descended to the catacombs.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>For quite some time we walked through empty
corridors, their walls covered by strange paintings. Sometimes we would also
pass a s
Finally we came up to a huge gate, behind it a hall with several torches
attached to the walls. Our allies already waited there.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“No vampires yet, but I guess we’ll find ‘
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yeah, I guess so too. So,
what now?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I wanna send in some
o’ mee thieves t’ look
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yeah, just go ahead…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Three Shadow Thieves sneaked into the room.
Suddenly we he
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Damn it; go in, yah lousy pricks!” Mook
yelled, pulled out her weapons and ran into the hall.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I and my companions followed, drawing our
weapons, together with some of the braver Shadow Thieves.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The three scouts were ducking behind a huge
table in the middle of a long, fire-lit hall. Three vampires were standing on
the other end, trying to conjure some spells. I pointed my fire-
were flung backw
remaining vampire. Their spirits rose from their bodies and fled the scene.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Hey, yah three fuckers, don’t yah know how t’
use yahr weapons!” she screamed at the three scouts.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Then she turned to her other thieves and
yelled: “Yah spread out an’ kill all remaining enemies, understood, yah
fuck-heads?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The thieves vanished into the neighboring rooms
and soon I he
the vampires, I could feel the walls shake from the explosions.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Mook, there’s a stair over there. Perhaps the
leaders
her.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yeah, right, let’s go down there.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>While we were going down I and Mook reloaded
our weapons. We found ourselves in a long, twisted corridor, which we followed
to a closed door.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yoshimo, can you do something about this?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yeah, no problem, just wait a minute…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He bent down, took out his skeleton keys and
began working on the lock. It took him about two minutes to unlock it, when he
had finished, I stepped to it and opened it with a kick. The door flung wide
open and we saw a round hall with a pool of blood in the middle.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
a famili
vampire from the docks. Mook shrieked when she saw him and pulled out her fire-
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>We looked puzzled at each other, when suddenly
five other vampires teleported in and immediately
attacked. I and Mook shot two of them and then they were upon us.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Drawing my sword I tried to hit the vampire
coming at me, but it dodged and jumped at me, its claws stretched out. The
claws hit my throat, but I withdrew quickly and so the vampire only wounded the
skin. At the same time I thrust my sword and it penetrated the vampire’s chest.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The other vampires were dead, one killed by
Mook, the other by Minsc.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Hm, vampires,
interesting, never killed those before…” Lilacor muttered.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
nothing really.
They can be pierced, slashed and stabbed like most other creatures, I guess…”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Where dah hell did
this fucker go?” Mook exclaimed angrily.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Don’t know. There’s nothing left here, perhaps
we should go up again.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>On the upper floor we were awaited by a thief.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Hey, Mook, there’s somethin’
strange t’ dah east, better come lookin’”
he told us.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>He led us through a corridor and when we turned
huge round hall, in its middle a pool of blood, the floor of the hall
descending tow
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“By Helm, what is this?” Anomen exclaimed at
the sight.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Dunno, but whatever
it is, it doesn’t look good” Mook replied.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Suddenly she shrieked, pointing at something on
the other end of the hall. It was a d
friend from the docks again.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Now, who have we here? Mook
and company? It is so good to see you again! Do you still want to become
a vampire, my de
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Mook gnashed angrily her teeth and yelled: “You
fuckin’ asshole, you piece o’ bloody shit, I’ll te
he
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>The vampire laughed resoundingly.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Oh, my de
same side. My name is Lassal, by the way. Just so that you
know the name of the person who will kill you.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Mook turned
angrily.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“He’s mine, leave ‘
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>She drew her short sword and went into the hall
of spikes.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“C’me on, yah bast
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Lassal hissed, stretched out his claws and
attacked. He was fast, I had to admit that. Even Mook was surprised by this,
what probably was the reason, why she reacted so slowly.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Before she could defend herself, he was at her
and swung his claw, ripping through her
other one he at the same time hit her face, scratching open her cheek.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Mook cried out in pain and thrust her sword
forw
splashed into her face, but Lassal wasn’t dead yet. He grabbed her at the
shoulders, leaned tow
her sword and stabbed him into his chest, his throat, his stomach, until he
finally collapsed dead at her feet, releasing her throat, his spirit fleeing
his body.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>As she turned
one at the throat looked especially gruesome, a l
her. But also her chest looked bad. The rest of her body was covered in blood,
some hers, some Lassal’s. She tried to stumble tow
ground. Minsc cried out and rushed tow
what would have been her certain death with all the spikes attached to the
floor. C
avoiding the spikes.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>When they reached safe floor, she finally did
collapse, probably of loss of blood. Aerie rushed to her and tore off her
could see that her wounds were indeed very grave, perhaps even mortal. Her
chest was blemished by a huge slash all over it; the skin at her throat had
been ripped open.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Anomen, come and help me!” Aerie begged.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Together they created a provision
at least stopped the bleeding. Then they joined their powers in a powerful
healing spell. We watched silently, not wanting to disturb their concentration.
Slowly the power grew, appe
it covered the whole body of Mook and we saw how the wounds closed and the
blood vanished. Exhausted, they leaned panting against a wall. The spell had
used up most of their energy.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Mook opened her eyes and looked
The spell had closed her wounds and probably saved her from turning into a
vampire, but hadn’t replaced her lost blood. Minsc helped her up and she
stepped over to Aerie and Anomen.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“I… I dunno what t’
say, yah have sav’d mee life,
I guess…” she whispered.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Hey, no problem, just don’t try to get bitten
by a vampire again, alright?” Anomen replied to that.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Suddenly she looked very grave.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“No, it won’t happen again, yah can be sure o’
that. I’ll hunt down those fuckin’ beasts, I promise!
I won’t rest until they’re all dead, those fuckin’
bast
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Even I was surprised by the strength of her
hate, which could be he
had now in front of us. She was bitter and grave, full of hate and d
fixed her mind upon: To exterminate all vampires.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>There was now only one thing left to do:
Destroy the regenerating bodies of the vampires in their graves. Then it would
finally be over and we could set out to rescue Imoen.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Mook, look…” I began, but was immediately
interrupted by her.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Mee name’s not Mook,
it’s Mocilia!” she sn
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Well, Mocilia then, we really need to destroy
the bodies by staking them, or else those vampires will come back.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“A’right, yah got a
point there... ‘As anyone seen their graves?”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Yeah, t’ dah west!”
a thief told us.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Gimme
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Sighing I handed them over to her. She grabbed
them and walked westw
chamber filled with several s
the body inside.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>She just had finished doing so, when suddenly
someone teleported into the room. It was a vampire, but she was quite different
from all the others we had seen. She was tall and haughty, her hair long,
flowing and glittering, beautiful like a st
and proud, her profile straight and without any bents or flaws. Her eyes were
of a deep d
vampires, a goddess of the night.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Ah, D
Bodhi, Mistress of the vampires of Atkatla. Too bad you have not allied
yourself with me, what great things we could have accomplished together! Still,
you have even done more than I would have expected, although Irenicus has told
me you had quite a potential.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“You know Irenicus? How?”
I asked flabbergasted.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>She laughed cruelly.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“He is my de
importance. What is important is that he is now in control of the Spellhold
where they put those who illegally use magic in Amn. It is a kind of prison for
mages, you know. At this moment he is conducting his experiments on your de
success soon.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>My eyes flashed angrily, as I he
power of hate rise in me, the power of my father. But not entirely my father’s
power, I could feel the wolf burn on my forehead and wolfish desire came over
me to bite and claw Bodhi.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I growled at her: “What
you!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I had drawn my fire-spiter
and pointed it right at her head, still growling menacing. I felt that the hair
on my body grew thicker, my hands seemed to turn into claws and my head grew
longer, the teeth in my mouth sh
the gift of Faenrryr, the change was incomplete.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Again she laughed, as if I was no threat to
her.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“Oh, so you really do c
revealing our secrets. Until we meet again, son of Bhaal!”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>My hand was shaking violently, sweat broke from
my forehead and slowly I changed back into a human form. In my mind I imagined
horrible pictures of what those monsters were doing to Imoen right now. I felt
completely helpless, what should I do against the power of those two?
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Aran Linvail was pleased to he
also worried about the escape of Bodhi. He then told us of his plans to rescue
Imoen.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>“The Cowled Wiz
island a little to the west of Amn. On this island is the town of Brynnlaw and
the Spellhold, where they imprison those they catch at
using magic illegally. You will find Imoen there, I guess. Saemon Hav
you gave me I have used to pay him and his crew.”
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>I didn’t like the look of Saemon; one could see
that the only thing he was interested in was money. I just hoped that there
wasn’t anyone else who could pay more than Linvail. We would have to keep an
eye on him…
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Next morning we went down to the docks and
stepped on Saemon’s ship. His crew was a bunch of pirates by the looks of them,
about as trustworthy as Saemon himself. But nobody else would take us to our
destination, so we had no other choice.
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>
style='mso-ansi-language:EN-US'>Slowly Atkatla vanished behind us, the sun
rising behind the city and shedding its light on it. Some hours later the coast
vanished entirely and we were completely surrounded by water. Our journey had
begun. My thoughts were with Imoen, I hoped that we didn’t come too late…