Subject: Repost
Posted by:Mallagant On: 06/10/00 01:59 PM

"I thank you for the escort m'lady" Mallagant dipped into a bow, taking Mura's hand and kissing it lightly.

"I will await lord Murtano inside. I'm glad I could do my part to help in his recovery."
Mura smiled and bowed in return, leaving Mallagant at the door to Murtano's office. As she made her way down the hall, Mallagant briefly surveyed his surroundings, taking in every inch, stone by stone. Surely enough the castle furnishing's were exquisite, but he expected nothing less from his mother and her new husband. Mallgant watched as pages and squires bustled about, carrying on their duties as if nothing else in the world mattered more. He couldn't help but laugh.
The knob on the door turned and with a click the door was open. Stepping inside the office Mallagant noticed the large piles of paper on Murtano's desk, his eyes settled on the papers but resisted the urge to snoop. Instead, he took up a seat in a large plush chair which faced directly in front of Murt's desk. Sitting comfortably, Mallgant closed his eyes and let his mind wander, almost in a trance like state he awaited Murtano's arrival.
 
 

Mallagant smiled. "What is it I want? I simply want to put a rest to the turmoil which surrounded the Macrorie family." "Is that wrong Lord Murtano?" "My past is the past, one cannot move forward if he is constantly moving back." Mallagant continued to lock eyes with Murtano as he spoke. "I understand your feelings, but I assure you, my intentions are just. Since my arrival I have been nothing but polite, even aiding you in your recovery." "Surely you can understand finally that I come in peace, the time for fighting has long ended. Its now a time of rebuilding"
Murtano remained quiet as Mallagant spoke, his body still weak from his ordeal.
"In time you will see the truth, whether you accept me or not, we are now family."
Mallagant rested comfortably as he awaited Murtano's reaction.
 
 

Subject: Appetites 2
Posted by:Vilessa On: 06/13/00 09:03 PM
Consort of Mallagant

Something followed. Something, or someone. Nostrils flared briefly as the great wyrm sought the scent of whatever triggered the faint alarm. Strong wings beat steadily as Shadowfyre remained on course towards the distant Tannisbury castle. A slight breeze blew in the wrong direction. With a soft snort of self derision, she chided herself. (You'd think I'd know better by now.)
Only blood and bits of flesh remained to mark the "meal" from earlier as Shadowfyre searched for a likely spot to wash and wait. The waiting came natural, her patience infinite. There. Her sharp sight marked a likely spot. Icy water cascaded downward and fed into a large pool of moonlit water, creating a lovely little grotto. No cave nearby, but that shouldn't matter. The trick was to land so as not to disturb anything. To do so would indicate to even the most ignorant tracker that something large had landed here.
Perhaps a little illusion. Decision made, Fyre landed carefully and only managed to break a few large limbs from the surrounding growth. Within seconds, the ancient red's form began to melt and flow like wax, pulling in upon itself. Then only a naked woman stood in the shallows, moonlight reflecting off her pale, creamy skin. Swiftly she chanted a spell. Suddenly there was another enormous dragon. An image of herself as she was only moments before. Chanting a second spell, the image came to life. Sound, scent, sight, and even touch, the illusion seemed every bit as real as the original. The new dragon sprang upward into the air and sped away in the opposite direction from which Vilessa Shadowfyre headed. Total time for all these precautions: less than 2 minutes.
That spell should last for several hours or until someone dispelled it. Or tried to attack it. Vile giggled at the thought. (That illusion is real enough to kill.) Then with a shriek of terror (just in case..), Vilessa dove into the water and hid as best she could near the base of the waterfall to wait for what might follow.

Subject: Appetites 3
Posted by:Vilessa On: 06/13/00 09:03 PM Consort of Mallagant
 

Vilessa waited and watched as a star elf and a queen of the pegasi landed nearby. Amusement warred with greed which warred with chagrin. (If only I had known, damn the luck.) The female knew illusions did not fool such elven folk, yet did not this puny mortal realize what temptation he offered? (If I could get my hands on such a gem…)  Crimson eyes gleamed with avarice. Pity the fool rode upon a female of the pegasi species. The pegasi held no threat to one such as Vilessa. Now a unicorn (or an alicorn), that was a different matter altogether. (Whatever! I shall need to come up with a plan… that elf will know I am the one it seeks.) Vile did not want to engage in battle, whether of wits or the physical. Not this close to Tannisbury. If the elf should live and get word to Lady Laorte, it would put a definite cramp in the plot. As it stood now, the elf knew nothing of substance.  (Looks like Mall will have to send another to retrieve that watchamacallit from Lothar. Let the elf try to follow one who has teleported.)  At about this time in the woman's train of thought, Vile caught scent of another. Another male. One who reeked of greed and power... and things of the not-so-savory sort. She attempted to focus on intent. She could only sense the bright aura surrounding the first two arrivals. She grinned to herself. A fence sitter. She vaguely remembered spotting something trying to hide on the plains as she came to land here in this grotto. Perhaps this other would prove useful. Pity she must use human form to teleport.  The man crept closer to where Vilessa hid. She smiled as she could now pinpoint his location. (Just a little closer…) The thought also projected.  With serpentine speed, Vile tackled the man and Tys suddenly found 120 pounds of naked and very feminine flesh wrapped about him. "What-the-f…" Swiftly the woman cast her spell before he could finish. With a soft pop, the two disappeared from the grotto…  "ck!" To reappear within Tannisbury Castle, in the very rooms Vilessa had departed from earlier. As the female released Tys, the look on his face caused her musical laughter to chime out.  "Welcome to Tannisbury Castle, whomever you are."
 

Subject: Sated Appetites 1
Posted by:Vilessa On: 06/13/00 09:08 PM Consort of Mallagant

OOC Note: The following post was roleplayed in chat by both Tyserach and Vilessa. The log was transcribed and rewritten by Tyserach, edited by Vilessa.

Her eyes widened as the tall man gripped her tightly by the upper arms. "Now," he spoke, the softness and certainty in his voice clearly threatening, "you shall tell me your name and why you have brought me here." A shadow of pain flickered across her crimson eyes as they met the steely determination in his of deepest blue. There was something else there, too, something which she had seen before, in other men's eyes. She knew it well.

"No need to get violent, sirrah," she murmured, glancing downwards. "My name is Vilessa Shadowfyre, and I have no idea why I brought you here." His long-fingered hands were too strong. She knew that any attempt to writhe free would be futile. "I am an impulsive creature."

He breathed deeply as he decided what to do with her. She did seem rather helpless now, although she was obviously a sorceress powerful enough to bring him here against his will. There was something else about her. She seemed to exude some kind of influence, something… electric. The tall rogue felt his heart begin to beat faster, but as he continued, his stony expression gave no clue as to the effects he felt within. "You had best have a care whom you abduct, Vilessa Shadowfyre."

Vilessa seemed to melt as a wax figure held too closely to a flame. Her body drooped in his angry grasp, her soft, voluptuous curves molding against the rough hardness of his wool-clad chest. "Would you allow me to cover myself?" she pleaded plaintively, yet not at all humbly. "I left the grotto rather abruptly…." Her voice trailed off as she cast her ruby eyes downward toward her naked form.
Tyserach's eyes narrowed as he appraised her. Perhaps his intimidation had worked too well. He softened his grip on her, but did not let her go. "Impulsive, indeed," the arch-spy remarked acidly. After a long moment, he finally removed his hands from her arms and folded them across his chest, his piercing gaze bearing down on her. "Very well, clothe yourself."

"Thank you, sir," replied Vilessa. She slowly backed away, allowing him a full look at her shapely nakedness. Her eyebrows arched momentarily in vexation that not once did his eyes leave hers. Sidestepping behind a silk-screen partition, she took up a gauzy dressing robe she found there, addressing him as she wrapped it around herself. "So, Stealer of Souls, are you a lord or nobleman? Should I put a Sir by your name or call you Lord Tyserach?"
The harsh-featured man chuckled briefly to himself. If only she knew. "Aye," he replied, "I am of noble blood. You may call me simply Tyserach, if you please."

A peal of laughter sounded from behind the screen. "So, it is Lord Soulstealer then!" rang Vilessa's melodic voice. Tyserach's chest rose and fell with his deep breathing as he took the opportunity to look around the room once more. She must have been a noblewoman herself, to dwell in such fine chambers in Tannisbury Castle.

As she emerged from behind the screen, clothed in the flimsy robe, he turned his eyes on her once more. "Are you then the lady of this Tannisbury Castle?"
She laughed softly, mockingly. "No, Lord Soulstealer, I am no lady, though I have noble blood running through my veins. I'm merely a guest to the son of the lady of this castle. The Laortes are the nobles of Tannisbury: Lord Murtano and Lady Felena."
As she spoke, Tyserach began to slowly pace toward the fireplace, his booted heels making no sound at all against the stone floor of the bed chamber. Finishing her explanation, Vilessa turned to watch him as he passed. "It is the lady's son, Mallagant, that I am with."

The dark-clad lord of thieves turned abruptly on his heel at the mention of those names. She was hiding something; of that he was certain. Soon he would discover her true agenda.

Part One of Three: To Be Continued….

Subject: Sated Appetites 2
Posted by:Vilessa On: 06/13/00 09:12 PM
Consort of Mallagant

OOC Note: The following post is part 2 of the roleplayed chat by Tyserach and Vilessa. The log was transcribed and rewritten by Tyserach, edited by Vilessa

I decided that an abrupt change of topic might throw this Vilessa Shadowfyre off just enough for her to let something slip. There were also questions she still hadn't answered, questions whose answers might hold the key to the location of that dragon's lair. As I paced back toward the bed, I addressed her without looking at her. "Tell me, why were you at that pool in the forest?"

She was watching me intently, turning to face me as I passed by her. I wondered if she knew how wise that precaution really was, if she realized that she was in the presence of a master Lurker. As she replied, I detected a hint of frustration in her voice. "I often go there to enjoy time alone... it is normally peaceful there." She turned to look at the fire --in other circumstances, a potentially fatal error. Perhaps she didn't know who I really was after all. She continued, "I had not expected such unique visitors."

Unique visitors, indeed. At an apparently unremarkable pool in the midst of a largely uninhabited forest, in one evening, there had been a pegasus-riding elven lord, an ancient red dragon, an extraplanar exile-turned-master spy, and one very beautiful and mysterious sorceress. Or had there?

I slowly walked around behind her, testing if she would turn to follow me. She didn't. Instead, she simply looked into the fire. I imagined what the firelight would look like reflected in those crimson eyes. If only I could see the red flames dancing across her ruby irises. I could clearly see the shadowed, elegantly-curved outline of her body as the fire's glow penetrated the translucent robe. The thought of fire reminded me of why I was here. "You must have seen the dragon, then."

"Oh yes... the first of those unique visitors I mentioned. I'm surprised no one heard me shriek. Fortunately it took off almost as soon as it arrived." As she spoke, she finally turned to face me. I did not return the favor; rather, I kept up my circuitous pacing. Her voice quivered slightly. "I feared I would be dinner."
I was not satisfied. Yet I knew that nothing more was forthcoming. Time to move on. "Doubtless that elven lord was tracking it as well. Do you know who he was?"

Her tongue darted out slightly to moisten her perfect lips. Good. That caught her off guard. "Yes, though I noticed the pegasus first. I do not know who he is, though I think I know of what race he was." I turned slightly to steal a glance at her and for a moment our eyes locked-crimson fire on pale blue ice. Like the echo of a dream, I heard her ask, "Do you know him?"

I sardonically replied, "I didn't get a good look at him. I didn't have much of a chance to." I shot her a raised eyebrow and continued pacing around her and back toward the fireplace.

Musical laughter chimed out. "I am sorry, I guess I did take you by surprise. Sometimes I do things without knowing why... yet subconsciously it's because I know there may be a need."

I wondered if she also knew what my probability sense had told me. That in fact there had been a need, that Fate had ordained that seemingly chance encounter in Tannisbury Forest. "Perhaps Fate had a hand in our meeting," I suggested softly.

She merely shrugged. As she did, the front of her robe fell slightly open. In that moment, her presence became overwhelming. I stopped pacing and turned to face her. Once more our eyes locked, but this time, neither of us looked away. It was then that I noticed that I was standing very close to her. How had I circled this close? Had I been drawn in by this energy that seemed to seep from her very pores? I inhaled deeply and the sensation magnified a thousand times. Her scarlet lips parted slightly in a whispered sigh, seeming to exhale a honeysuckle wind that filled me, completed me, drew me closer and closer....
I stepped forward, looming over her. "Do you believe in Fate, my lady?"
Part Two of Three: To Be Continued....

Subject: Repost: Sated Appetites 3
Posted by:Vilessa On: 06/13/00 09:13 PM Consort of Mallagant

His questions were getting a little too probing, but Vilessa was a mistress of dissembling. (He needs distraction.) She laughed softly, using amusement to throw him off the scent. "I am sorry, I guess I did take you by surprise." She studied the broad back as he looked towards the crackling fire. She knew he circled her, looking for a chink in her story. What he didn't know was his circling drew him closer without his conscious knowledge. The ruby eyes lit with lustful admiration that she hid swiftly as she continued with her explanation. "Sometimes I do things without knowing why... yet subconsciously it's because I know there may be a need." (He must be attracted, no male of any species has ever held back for so long).

Vilessa barely heard his next question. "Perhaps fate had a hand in our meeting." Tys spoke towards the fire, still slowly pacing. Vile shrugged, allowing the wrap to slip slightly from her shoulder. The movement seemed natural, yet the woman knew exactly what picture she presented. When the elven male stopped his pacing and turned abruptly to face her, it almost caught her off guard. He realized he was closer. Much closer. Her lips parted slightly in response to his nearness as their eyes locked without either looking away. He seemed to inhale her scent, drinking deeply as if caught in the desert for several days without water.

"Do you believe in Fate, milady?"
Tys was very close. Too close. Vile looked up and placed a slender hand upon the broad chest before her as if to hold at bay the intensity of those searching eyes. "Of course. I try to help Fate quite often," she spoke with subtle meaning in the words. (Now this is dessert...)

The elf looked down at the smaller female with a wolfish grin. "Aye. Fate is the sea on which sail the ships of our souls. And, like the sea, although we can sometimes change our course upon it, we cannot control it."

"you speak of souls again, so your ship sails on those you've stolen?" (Those eyes, so blue... no wonder he steals souls). She nodded as if to answer her own question and continued, "So you also 'help' Fate..."

Tys let out a grim chuckle then replied, "Sometimes. Sometimes I fight it." It seemed a reluctant admission to a losing battle to the female staring up at him. Vile now had both hands on his chest absently fingering the fastenings they found there. A husky note entered her soft voice as she spoke words full of innuendo, "you wish to fight what Fate has offered this eve?"

The elven male narrowed his eyes as he smiled and sniffed the light musky scent of the woman before him. "Tell me, what has Fate offered this eve?" He asked without a hint of his true thoughts.

"Why, me of course," Vilessa stated bluntly as desire flared blatantly within the ruby gaze. One small hand crept upward to caress the smooth cheek as he half stepped closer and leaned down slightly. (Kissmeohkissme. Let the passion flame...) Her voice deepened with need, "I have a hunger at the moment, but not for food."
Tyserach loomed over the smaller frame as he seemed to relax his guard, "One cannot always fight fate. Tonight I shall let this welcome wind take me where it will." The caress of soft skin on his cheek moved around to the nape of his neck as Vile slowly pulled his head closer. The pressure was gentle as if to allow him a denial should he wish to pull away. Vile's fingers twined in the thick black mane, enjoying the texture. Then Tys reached up and caught the teasing appendage, bringing it to his lips to trail a soft kiss along the inner wrist. As his fingers traced upward along the soft skin, somewhere in the back of Vile's mind an unconscious call arose, wishing for the one she shared these rooms with.
It was then the elf seized both upper arms again in a firm grip, rough but not menacing. Vilessa's eyes widened slightly in surprise. (Now I know I'm gonna have a few bruises...) As her thoughts whirled, his nostrils flared as he inhaled deeply... a wolf on a scent, hunting for its prey... then he abruptly kissed her. Stealing her breath with the burning passion. (This man could steal my soul... if I still had one). The thin silken wrap floating forgotten to the floor as he stepped towards the bed that lay behind her.

Though the push was gentle, there was steely force behind it. Vilessa allowed the guiding pressure and when she sensed the edge, fell backwards upon the yielding surface. Her musical laughter an invitation to join her. (Oh to have both...) Her amusement stopped as Tys began to unfasten his belt, the gleam of anticipation heightening her senses. Both intent on the moment that neither noticed the complete silence until a soft click fell with deafening loudness into it.
 

Subject: Re: Appetites
Posted by:Mallagant On: 06/10/00 02:01 PM

Mallagant exited Murtano's office, shutting the door behind him. A young page girl, no more than 16 summers, moved along the same corridor, polishing and cleaning as she went, oblivious to her surroundings. The sudden collision brought her from her daydream.

"Pardon me m'lord, I did not see you there" She blushed furiously as she looked up, quickly gasping. It was him, the lady's son. The one who had stirred up all the commotion, it was even rumored he had a hand in lord Murtano's recovery.
Mallagant smiled brightly, dipping into a low bow.

"It is quite ok young lady, Its a joy to see one take such pride in their work.
Her cheeks reddened at the compliment. "Thank you m'lord, I take my duties very seriously. Mallagant's eyes settled on her, as they traveled along her body she could feel an intangible electricity, it made her skin tingle and her senses more alive. She wasn't quite sure why, but she immediately wanted to comply to his wishes.
"I'm afraid my mother has retired for some much needed rest, and has left me without my tour. Perhaps you would be so kind as to help me?" Mallagant's eyes found hers, and pierced her to her soul.

"I...I would be honored m'lord! Not many know the castle as well as I." I could show you my rounds? There is so much to see!" She wasn't quite sure why she was so happy he asked her to show him around, but she knew it would break her heart to have him angry at her. Mallagant offered his arm, which she took shyly, her cheeks still burning red.
And this is the dining hall, this is where the lord and lady entertain their guests. They traveled on. "And this is the kitchen, did you know that we have the best cooks in Tannisbury here? Its true, wait till you have dinner." As she spoke Mallagant's eyes took in her young body. She was young, in a few years she would have fully developed into a woman. Mallagant sighed softly to himself. How he yearned to caress her, to take his favored dagger and plunge it into her soft skin, repeatedly, deeply.

"And this is the entrance to the throne room" None are permitted to enter without the proper consent. Mallagant's eyes settled on hers again. "Yes repeatedly, in the stomach, face, back, arms, her neck." He mused to himself quietly as he smiled. Her heart raced again when she saw that smile.

"M'lord?" She tugged on Mallagant's arm, bringing him from his trance. He snapped back into reality. "Forgive me m'lady, did you say something?" She smiled again. "I asked you if you would be ready for your evening meal, I must leave to attend to my duties in the kitchen. "Yes m'lady, I will indeed be prepared. But I'm afraid I am lost in this grand establishment, perhaps you could show me back to my room?" She smiled again, "Gladly m'lord."

As she exited down the hall, Mallagant watched her go. The handle to his chambers clicked, opening the door.
 
 

Subject: Re: Sated Appetites
Posted by:Mallagant On: 06/10/00 02:01 PM

Vilessa's head turned towards the door as she heard the click, her eyes dancing with glee. Mallagant entered the room gracefully, his eyes immediately falling upon Tyserach. Tys quickly spun around, his hand going for his sword which was sprawled out on the floor. Mallagant's eyes danced between the two as Vilessa shifted on the bed, propping her head in her one hand. Mallagant smiled brightly, his eyes still moving between the two.
"I hope I am not disturbing anything"? He continued to smile.
Vilessa laughed, "M'lord Mallgant, this is Tyserach, lord soulstealer."
Considering what almost happened, Tyserach relaxed some, Mallagant didn't even seem bothered. Mallagant's eyes continued to study the new arrival, then dipped into a low bow.

"A pleasure to meet you,... Soulstealer." As he spoke, Vilessa spied her silk wrap, quickly retrieving it before sitting up. Tyserach bowed in return, his eyes never leaving Mallagant. "Hail and well met Mallagant Macrorie, your name precedes you." Mallagant moved to a tray of wine, filling one of the goblets. Mallagant's tone was gentle, almost friendly, yet there was a hint of something, Tyserach simply couldn't put his finger on it, but he was sure he'd find out sooner or later, after all, that's what he did.
"And what brings you to Tannisbury?"

Vilessa chirped in. "One could say I did m'lord."
"One could say indeed" Tyserach thought as he listened intently to Vilessa's explanation.
"I was bathing in my grotto when all the sudden a dragon appeared" She watched Mallagant with a veiled look as she spoke. "Where I shrieked in fear."
Mallagant sipped from his goblet. "A dragon?"
Vilessa nodded her head, "Then an elven lord appeared, riding on a silver tipped Pegasus. I presume it was him who chased off the dragon." Vilessa smiled. "Then I found this one, and my intuition said, bring him."
Mallagant's eyes continued to probe Tys as Vile told her story.
"It would seem you've had a busy..day."

Vilessa nodded. "Of course m'lord. Turning her head to Tys, she noted his eyes flickering between her and Mallagant. "M'lord Soulstealer was most gracious about his..abduction". Mallagant's eyes closed, his lips tasting of the fine wine in the goblet, savoring its delightful taste before swallowing. He could feel Vilessa in his mind.
"Do not allow your lust to betray us m'lord" The voice faded as his eyes opened, fixating back on Tyserach.

"And why do they call you soulstealer?" Mallagant's eyes continued to probe.
Tyersach's eyes moved to meet Mallagant's.
"It is because of something I did long ago, and why are you called Macrorie?"
Vilessa eyed a tray of sweetmeats and helped herself as Mallagant spoke.
"It is the name of my family"
"I thought your family was Laorte." Mallagant chuckled as if Tys had just told a joke.
"No, that is the name my mother now carries, My brother and I shall always remain Macrorie, its in our blood you see."

Vilessa poured herself a goblet of wine, then disappeared behind the dressing screen. Mallagant drained his goblet then moved to the stand to refill it.
"You never did tell me what kind of profession your in m'lord Tyserach" Vilessa's voice carried over the dressing screen. Tyserach's fingers flicked along his sheath before turning slowly to face the fire, which was burning in the fireplace. tbc.

"I am a cartographer. I make maps. A scout of sorts." Vilessas grinned, " A fine line between scout and spy" She kept that silent, only letting out a soft snort which sounded like laughter from behind the screen. As she finished dressing, she stepped out, fully adorned in a deep emerald gown with golden trim. All eyes went to the seemingly priceless pendant which dominated the gown. Diamonds of huge size adorned it, as they did on her matching earrings, which were equally as impressive. Tys had to restrain from drooling. Then he broke the temporary silence.

"I am also a freelance problem solver, and a mage for hire."
Mallagant continued to watch him.
"And what kind of problems do you solve?...soulstealer" Mallagant let the word linger for a long moment. Vilessa slipped over to Tys, brushing up against him as she came close.

"Care to fasten my dress, m'lord?" She turned slowly, the gown accentuating her form nicely as her back faced him. Tys quickly went to work fastening the straps, leaning closer to her ear as he did.
"Mainly problems of knowledge, I find things out." Tys's attention went right back to vile, like a bee to honey. Vile's skin tingled as his breath caressed her ear, her eyes meeting Mallagant's, her look promising of delights later to come. Tys inhaled deeply, almost lost in her glow.
"You look splendid"

Vilessa spun around, dipping into a deep curtsy which revealed the low cut of the gown, her firm breasts ready to fall out. Mallagant grinned as Tys focused on Vile. She rose from her curtsy, her lashes shyly hiding her eyes.
Mallagants grin went from ear to ear.
"I am sure you will enjoy your stay in Tannisbury, lord Soulstealer."
After and act of pure will, Tys was able to draw his attention from vile.
"I certainly hope so."

Vile spoke up, her voice hinting at a slight concern.
"And how are we to explain his presence to your mother?" "I don't think she likes me." She seemed to pout. "She may not approve of the manner in which I brought him here. Tys chimed in.
"She may not approve of him at all." Vile laughed.
"Your wit is keen m'lord soulstealer."

Mallagant spun around to meet Tys, his face wearing that same smile from their first encounter.
"Why, you are my guest. All are welcome in Tannisbury." "Perhaps you would be so kind as to honor us with your presence, at dinner this evening."
Tys nodded, watching Mallagant carefully.
"The honor is all mine, sir."
Mallagant seemed to brighten.
"Excellent, Vilessa shall escort you" Tyserach raised an eyebrow, Mallagant met his gaze with his normal demeanor. "I insist"

"I fear I abducted him without any thought of his things, including dinner garb." Her eyes went to Mallagant. "Perhaps something of yours will fit him?" Vile sized up the two proficiently. "I think he is a little more slender, but that should post no problem."
Tyserach smiled warmly, patting the pouch at his side
"I think I have something in my belongings that will do."

Vilessa turned to Mallagant, who was now setting his empty goblet down.
"I suppose you should find a servant to get m'lord Tyserach a room."
Mallagant simply looked at her, not needing to say a word. She quickly hopped off the bed.
"Oops, pardon m'lords. I suppose "I" should find a servant." With those words, she glided to the door. Tyserach buckled his sword hanger around his waste as Mallagant stepped forward.

"Vilessa shall escort you when dinner is ready." She stopped as the door opened, glancing backwards with a veiled look.
"I shall enjoy that duty" She smiled and exited out the door, leaving the two men in the room.
"Oh, and soulstealer", Tys spun around to Mallagant. "Aye?"
"Please feel free to enjoy the many...comforts Tannisbury has to offer." Mallagant grinned. Tys nodded and grinned faintly in return, slipping out the door. As the door closed, Mallagant stood alone. In seconds, the room was filled with laughter, insane laughter.

Subject: Winterbrook
Posted by:Lord Ian On: 06/10/00 02:19 PM
Lord of Winterbrook

Giantkiller and his companions were escorted along the grand halls which seemed endless in the massive Macrorie castle. The lead guard nodded to the other guards which stood watch outside Ian's audience chambers. Stepping forward, the lead guard spoke.
"M'lord is waiting for you inside, but your troops must remain outside. M'lord wishes to keep a low profile on this as not to alarm anyone." Giantkiller nodded.
"I understand completely"

Gk entered the audience chamber, which was fully decorated with only the finest furnishings. The plush red carpet was gigantic, covering the entire marble floor. In its center was the Macrorie crest, Gk remembered seeing something similar on Mallagant's garb. In the middle of this room was a lengthy oak table, several elaborate chairs lined each size, with a single throne sized chair at the end. Gk bowed as he greeted the chairs occupant. Ian rose immediately and bowed in return, stepping forward.
"I am most delighted you were able to come so quickly, you are most welcome in Macrorie castle."

Gk smiled, taking a few minutes to survey his surroundings.
"Your mother said this matter was urgent, so we rode as fast as our horses would carry us." "Please do tell me of the problem, and perhaps we can begin to remedy whatever has you worried." Ian's sigh filled the room as he turned to look out a nearby window, which overlooked the courtyard.

"My scouts have reported undead in the area. They are killing the local farmers, burning crops and villages, robbing my people from their very own graves." "Only a few days ago, it was reported that a well known temple of Tyr was desecrated." Ian's words trailed off as he almost whispered. "The priest was nailed to the walls"
Gk's shoulders slumped as Ian told him the grisly reports, it must of been a rough few days for Ian, Gk could see the bags under his eyes.

"I have brought with me several clerics of profound faith, as well as some of Tannisbury's elite. We shall aid you in every way we can, until your mother arrives." "Have you any idea how many undead walk the land?" Ian nodded and spun around to meet Gk's gaze.
"My scouts say the force is not large, yet they continue assault my lands. We fear the worst, although I cannot understand who or what brought them here, or why they attack Winterbrook." "But enough of our problems for now, you have ridden hard and have only arrived, you must be starving." "I have had the servants prepare your rooms, and the kitchen is on alert to see to your every need." "You are my guests, and have full access to the castle." "In the morning we shall speak again, do rest, I fear we may have not have much time."

Gk nodded as he went to the door, exiting the audience chamber. The lead guard awaited him and escorted the group to the finest rooms in Macrorie castle.

Subject: R: Winterbrook Posted by:Giantklr On: 06/11/00 10:48 AM
Knight Captain of the Royal Guard - Tannisbury
 

Exiting the audience chamber, Giant steps out into the hall and looks into the questioning faces of those that had arrived with him from Tannisbury. Taking a deep breath, he steadies himself and walks over to them. "Lord Ian has provided us with rooms so that we may rest after our ride here." Remembering the words spoken about not wishing to alarm anyone, Giant continues. "I am afraid there is not much to tell you other than it looks like we will face an enemy that most of us have never faced."

Looking to the guard, Giant nodded and he started off down the hall. Motioning to his men, Giant spoke once more. "Let us rest now, and as we move forward, you will learn more....on that you have my word." The group then fell in behind the guard, walking down the various halls and corridors. Before long, they arrived at their room, and Giant watched as his elite guard were soon all in their room, the doors shut behind them. This left just he and the clerics left.

As the clerics are about to enter their room, Giant stops them and pulls hem to the side. "I feel I need to tell you more than I have the others, for your skills will be greatly needed." Giant's eyes fall to the ground for a few moments and then he looks back into the eyes of the clerics. "I fear our enemy cannot be counted as among the living." Watching the looks on their faces Giant lets out a long sigh. "Yes, our enemy is the essence of evil....the undead." Not saying a word, the clerics nod their heads and then enter their room. Standing in the hall alone for a minute, Giant soon enters his room, and thanks the guard for the escort.

Alone in his room, Giant finally starts to go over Ian's words in his mind. One by one, he replays them until he come to the part about the temple of Tyr being desecrated. Walking over to the wash basin, Giant splashes some cool water onto his face as he remembers his own childhood. He had been raised in a temple such as this and the thoughts of someone, something actually doing such an act to such a holy place. The more he let his mind think of this, the angrier he got....if this could happen here, it could happen at the temple he grew up in, it could be the priest he knew as a brother hanging on the wall. His anger to the point where he wished to scream, Giant let his mind go blank and took a deep breath. Splashing more water onto his face, he then walked away from the basin and over to where is gear had been placed. He would stop this evil before it had the chance to strike another temple, but he knew his anger would lead to his downfall, he needed to calm himself.

Realizing he was still in his riding clothes, Giant began to change. Before much longer, he was standing there, in clean clothes. Leaning over, he picked up the small chain he always wore around his neck. Placing it over his head, he positioned it so that the holy symbol of Tyr that hung from it was in the center of his chest. With only one thing left to do, Giant reached down and grabbed the one weapon Tyr sought to provide him, Freedom. Pulling the sword from its scabbard, Giant found that as always, the blade was razor sharp and rust free. Pushing the sword back into place, he then fastened it around his waist.

Finished, Giant turned and there was a knock at the door. Hurrying over, he opens it and is greeted by one of the kitchen staff carrying a large plate of food. Stepping aside, Giant allowed her to enter and watches as she places the tray on a small table in the corner. The girl then walked back to the door and before leaving turned back to Giant. "Milord said to see that you were well fed." With that the girl was gone as quickly as she had came. Alone once more, Giant sat and started to eat. It wasn't too long before the plate was empty and he found himself lying on the bed. Sleep soon found him, but to say it was restful would be a great misinformation.

It seemed that no sooner had he closed his eyes, that morning had arrived. Sitting up, Giant shakes his head as he notices that he fell asleep in his clothes. Quickly washing up, Giant is ready and out the door in hardly no time at all. Walking down the hall, Giant tries to remember which way is to where as he seeks out Lord Ian once more.
 

Subject: More Trouble
Posted by:Lord Ian On: 06/10/00 02:20 PM

As Gk moved along the hall, he was greeted once more by the familiar face of the guard he had seen the day earlier.

"M'lord Ian has sent me to find you, it seems matters have worsened."
Nodding briefly, the pair moved swiftly down the hall to Ian's audience chamber. The guards had doubled since Gk's last visit, a quieted clamor among them. Each one stepped aside and bowed their heads as Gk made his way inside. Once inside, Ian looked up from his table, several other high ranking guards speaking to him.

"M'lord Giantkiller, you are just in time. More undead horseman have been seen, they continue to assault the local farms, burning all crops as well as butchering the livestock. I was hoping you would be willing to accompany my scouts as they patrol, perhaps you will see something they do not." Gk nodded as he approached the table.
"I most certainly will M'lord, my services are yours. I shall send word as soon as there is something to report." Ian nodded and smiled. "Excellent my friend, take all of the supplies you need, I will await your report. May Tyr watch over thee.." Gk bowed and exited, Ian turned to his captain who lowered to whisper in his ear. "My lord, there is more, about the rivers......"

Subject: R: Repost
Posted by:Giantklr On: 06/11/00 10:58 AM
Knight Captain of the Royal Guard - Tannisbury

Quickly exiting the audience chamber once more, Giant made his way to the courtyard where he found the scouts awaiting his arrival. Noticing that Terror was saddled and readied, Giant mounted. Turning to the guard who had been his escort, Giant began to speak. "Please inform my men that I will return shortly, also inform them that I expect them to be readied and on alert for when I do return." Placing his helm over his head, Giant then follows the scouting party out of the gate.

They hurried away from MacRorie castle and into the surrounding lands of Winterbrook, Before long they came upon several farmhouses that had been burnt to the ground, all inhabitants either slain or apparently missing. Leaping from Terror, Giant knelt to the ground and surveyed a few tracks he noticed. Gathering what information he could from them, Giant remounted Terror. As much as he wanted to stay here and give the people proper burials, but knew he could not, for time was something he was short on. Motioning towards the north to where the tracks had apparently came from, Giant took off, the scouts right on his heels.

Only minutes later, they came across another farm where the same grim scene had been played out. Again, Giant dismounted. This time he hoped to find more information, perhaps some sign that would tell him exactly what was going on. Walking around the burnt ruins, Giant could find nothing. Everything had been burnt badly, and on top of that trampled by what could have been hundreds of feet. Stopping in mid step, this hit Giant. To be trampled in such a manner meant a large force, much larger than he had ever imagined, and much larger than this scouting party or his elite guards could possibly hope to stop.

Running back to where Terror stood, Giant mounted and then spun around to call to the nearest scout. "I believe it would be in our and the entire land of Winterbrook's best interest if we take what we have found here and report back to Lord Ian as quickly as possible." nodding in agreement, the scout went to the others and before Giant could say much more, they were all riding as fast as they could back to MacRorie castle.

The arrived back at the castle well after the sun had reached its peak and rode into the courtyard, where Giant jumped from his horse and immediately made his way to Ian's audience chamber. As he approached the room, one of the guards posted there, swung open the massive door. Giant walked by without saying a word. In the room, Giant dropped a quick bow and the started his report. "We tracked the attackers as far north as we dared and from what myself and your scouts could gather, their force is large, very large. M'lord, I fear the force we have here is lacking the strength to fight such an adversary. I would strongly advise that word is sent to your mother at once, bearing a request to have the Tannisbury army march at once." Giant pauses for a moment and then continues. "I can only hope that as many knights as possible can make the trip as well....I hate to say this, but perhaps your mother can even convince your brother Mallagent and his friend to......" Watching the look that comes over Ian's face causes Giant to stops in mid sentence. "M'lord, are you all right?"