Rounding up the diseased individuals

From HollowWiki

PART I (Cander,Mateth,Tanya,Laurelle, Hikaru,Myrall)

Outside the tavern in Kelay.

Myrall smiles at those that have answered her call. "I would have hoped more might feel that this was a worth while use of their time, but never mind, at least we can make a start. What I propose is that we seek out those diseased creatures that recently have infested our lands and herd them to the CDC. We will have to be careful, ensure that our faces are covered at all times, and should we touch them either by accident or necessity, we must be sure to wash our hands in alcohol at once, but I am sure that tis only by quarantining them we will prevent the spread of the illness. What say you? Are you willing to aid me?"

Tanya said to you, "unfortunately I already have the disease and I don’t have the cure. This is the second time I have had it"

Hikaru nods, "T-that sounds like a good idea... B-but how are we supposed to convince them to follow us..?"

Myrall said to Tanya, "I understand, and I am sure that I will be able to find a spare cure amongst my allies and friends for you, but first we must try and make sure that no more of our people can catch this dreadful ailment, once that is done I will do what I can to ensure that all those already infected receive the cure.""

Tanya said to you, "I do appreciate it m'lady. But I do have to ask the same thing that hikaru asks how do we convince them to follow us?"

Myrall gives a small shrug and sighs "I am hoping that in most cases the idea that they will find somewhere they will be safe and receive treatment will be sufficient to convince them to do as we ask. If not then I fear it might take a little more physical persuasion, but in their weakened states that should not be much. I doubt it will take more than a firm grasp of an arm or a gentle prod in the back to set them on the right path."

Mahteth said, "How many diseased are among us? Where do we find them? They seem to be everywhere

Myrall shakes her head "I am not sure of exact numbers, but I have seen at least a half a dozen with my own eyes, if not more. I suggest we separate into groups, one group heading east the other west, and search for them. When we find one the give the shout and we shall all converge on the poor creature and see if he or she might be convinced to come with us."

Mahteth looks at the assembled company, "Only four of us? Mind you", she grins at Myrall "four was enough to give a certain gnome a shock".

Laurelle glances up at Myrall and offers a pleasant smile. "Might I offer a hand, as well?"

Cander looks toward the one speaking "I offer as well"

Mahteth whispered something to Laurelle.

Hikaru shifts her gaze as she hears the voice of Laurelle, frowning deeply she looks the other way and tries her best to ignore the feline vampiress, failing miserably at it.

Laurelle whispered something to Mahteth.

Mahteth said, "That's six then. Three pairs heading in different directions perhaps?"

Myrall grins at Mahteth "Exactly, tis not mere numbers that achieve things, but the execution of the plan, and Hikaru worry not about your strength, I am sure that for the main twill only be our presence that is needed, but should it be more, there are those amongst us who have enough strength to do what must be done." she lowers her voice "Though if at all possible, I do not wish to see any of these poor creatures hurt, just off our streets, where they will be safe, and helped."

Cander looks at Myrall "I only trust two people here sorry to say"

Myrall smiles "All are welcome, for this is a matter that affects us all."

Laurelle said to Cander, "Love, love... do not fret it. We are helping people. Right now... that doesn't require trust."

Cander said, "I know but there are only two I trust with my life sir"

Mahteth looks at Myrall, "does everyone here know where the clinic is? Or should we bring the diseased here and take them in one group?"

Cander said to Laurelle, "I was stated what I wanted to say"

Myrall gives another small shrug "Trust is not really an issue in this, for tis not each other we fight, but an illness that has no concept of loyalties or strengths, but one that strikes at random, no matter who or what you are. Though by all means if you are more at ease working with one person than another, then please say so, and it shall be so."

Laurelle giggles and raises a brow. "First time I've been called 'sir' in a long time."

Hikaru raises a hand shyly, blushing, "I-I do not know of this clinic you speak of, Myrall..."

Cander looks at Myrall "I wish to work with Mahteth and Lady Tanya"

Laurelle said to Mahteth, "Would you care to partner up with me on this, dear? I am sure with your brains and my strength... we can 'convince' a good deal of the poor wretches to come along and get help.""

Mahteth looks around and decides Cander must be calling the fool Sir.

Myrall bites her lip as she considers what Matheth has said "It will probably be easier to move them one by one if at all possible, but I agree that if not all know where the clinic is, then a meeting place should be established."

Mahteth said, "I think pairs are better. Cander, why don't you go with Tanya and me with Laurelle? Then Lady Myrall can guide Hikaru."

Laurelle said, "Then everyone is partnered with someone who knows where the clinic is!"

Myrall looks to the group "How about Cander works with Tanya, Mahteth with Laurelle and Hikaru with myself? Is that acceptable to all?"

Hikaru nods and moves closer to Myrall, waiting for their next orders.

Myrall laughs "Ah, our first victim! "

Cander moves toward Lady Tanya and Bows, then stands up straight

Laurelle dashes over and pounces upon the diseased dragon. "You! Get help you prat! Nyaaaah!"

Myrall coughs "I meant patient of course."

Mahteth looks at the dragon in between laughing, "Whoever is going east better take it. And do something about that beard Sir Myrall, Cander is confused" Collapses laughing again. A diseased dragon staggers away to the west, groaning about how flowers are pretty, all the same, but one...

Cander moves to the dragon slowly and bends down and then starts to sing in a foreign tongue and puts it asleep

Myrall bows to the others and then signals to Hikaru "I shall leave you to deal with our friend here, whilst Hikaru and I go and search to the west. I believe there are a number of poor unfortunates over towards the mines. Please remember though..." she takes a scarf from her pocket and ties it around her nose and mouth "Faces covered at all times, and should you need to touch one, was your hands in alcohol immediately afterwards."

Hikaru bows as well before she follows Myrall in their quest to find the diseased of the lands

Part II (Myrall and Hikaru)

Balcony As you look around, you are standing on a balcony overlooking the mountains. The balcony is comfortably large, allowing space for quite a few people to come and enjoy the view. A single wooden chair sits right next to the banister, and begs to be sat in, asking to relax and take in the view from its resting place. You are only around ten feet from the mountain directly below you, and it seems as if it was pure snow, although none of the cold can be felt here. Magic must be at work here, because the snow is so deep you see no forms of rocks or anything sticking out of the snow anywhere. There are doors to the east and to the west, as well as a stairway leading down. Taking a deep breath of the fresh air helps you to decide on what to do. A diseased hobbit with red blisters is here.

Myrall carefully approaches the diseased hobbit, a slight jerk of her head indicating to Hiakru that she is to try and creep round behind him.

Hikaru follows Myrall as they look for diseased people of the lands. As Myrall suddenly stops the half elf vampiress blinks and looks in front of them only to see a child, or what Hikaru believed to be a child when in fact it was a hobbit. Never having seen one before she looks over to Myrall and whispers silently, "T-that child seems to have the dreaded disease, M'lady..." As Myrall creeps forward Hikaru slowly moves behind him in effort to help the dwarfess catch him in case he decides to make a run for it.

Myrall keeps her voice as soft and soothing as she can as she nears the creature "It's all right friend, we wish you no harm. We are only trying to help you. “As she takes a step closer, the hobbit takes another step back towards the waiting Hikaru.

Hikaru furrows her eyebrows and isn't exactly sure of what she should do. As the hobbit nears her she opens up her arms and slowly closes them around the poor creature, hoping to settle the hobbit down she hushes, "T-there, there... W-we only wish to help you..."

Myrall gives a small encouraging nod of the head to Hikaru, she would smile but realises that beneath the scarf the other woman would not see it. As she closes into a position near enough to the hobbit, she suddenly reaches out and grasps the creatures arm in her vice like grip. Panicked by the priest’s sudden movement the hobbit tries to jerk away from her, crashing backwards into Hikaru. "Stay yourself friend, we only wish to help you." looking over his shoulder she apologises to Hikaru. "Sorry about that, I didn't want to risk him making a bolt for it."

Hikaru’s eyes widen as Myrall grasps the hobbit so harshly only to cry out in pain as the hobbit kicks her in response to being grasped like that, releasing him she backs away and rubs her leg, hot tears treating to escape her eyes, "Ouch!" Shaking her head she restrains herself to yell at the poor creature and looks over to Myrall, "N-now what..?" She moves forward and grasps his other arm firmly, making the hobbit spasm and kick wildly around himself once more.

Myrall gives a nod of approval as Hikaru grasps his other arm "Now we either gentle lead him, or frog march him to the CDC, depending on how co-operative he feels." she gives the man's arm a gentle tug towards the stairway "Please sir, twill be so much easier if you come with us willingly, I swear to you we wish only to help. There are people, good people with the means to cure you of what ails you. Is that not so Hikaru?"

Hikaru nods and slowly start to move as well, pulling the hobbit's arm gently, "L-lady Myrall is right... W-we only wish to help you... I-I have also had this illness you suffer from, friend... A-and this very nice Lady by your side helped me get well and cured me... D-do you not wish for that as well...? I-it will only get worse otherwise with terrible rashes and open soars..." Hikaru cringes and shudders as she thinks of it.

Myrall starts to manoeuvre the now somewhat calmer hobbit towards the exit "My friend here speaks the truth, tis not a nice future you have in store if you do not allow us to aid you."

(In the Lobby of the CDC.)

Myrall and Hikaru lead the now quite placid hobbit into the friendly looking lobby of the CDC. Letting go of his arm for a moment, she takes a couple of paces forward, and cough to attract the receptionist’s attention. Her voice still muffled by the scarf. "I believe this gentleman could benefit from the services of this facility madam." she motions for Hikaru to bring him forward.

Hikaru holds the hobbit firmly as Myrall releases him though he has stopped to make any fuss about being here. As Myrall gives her the sign she moves forward with the poor creature and stands next to Myrall.

Myrall pulls down her scarf slightly and gives the receptionist a small smile "I am afraid we do not have a name for him, he is just some poor unfortunate we found wandering around the frozen refuge. I trust you will take good care of him." as the receptionist call for what seems to be a nurse to take the hobbit through, the priestess turns to Hikaru and gives a small sigh of relief. "That is one less for us to worry about. Thank you for all of your help."

PART III (Cander and Tanya) The Diseased Dragon:

Cander moves to the dragon slowly and bends down and then starts to sing in a foreign tongue and puts it asleep

Tanya walks over to the dragon and looks at it. “Getting sleepy my dear" placing one of her gloved hands upon it she slowly brings it to her knees. Taking one of the whips from her waist she ties its arms together minimising its escape

Cander as he see Tanya tie up the dragon he continues to sing and put the dragon asleep

Tanya smiles with the dragon in its weakened state she starts to hum to it, convincing it to follow her

Cander stops singing to the dragon and stands up

Tanya takes hold of her other whip that is still fastened around her waist and places it about the dragons waist. Tying it like a rope she holds to one end and leads the dragon in the direction of the clinic

Cander goes over to the whip grab it to help Tanya, and calmly say to the Dragon "all we want to do is help"

Tanya walking up to the counter and smiling at the receptionist " hello we have someone that needs to be quarantined for a serious illness"

PART IV:

Hikaru and the Vampire:

A diseased vampire walks in from the west, giving you a cordial nod. You blushes and nods back to the vampire, sensing there might be something amiss with him she speaks in a soft whisper thus revealing her fangs to him, "I-I'm sorry to bother you, sir... B-but I can sense something in you that I had not long ago... A-a strange fever that will give horrid effects if one doesn't treat it... W-would you mind following me to a clinic where we can find out if I'm right or not...? I-it won't hurt a bit I promise..." Feeling silly the half elf vampiress looks down on the ground while she waits for his response.

A diseased vampire slowly meanders to the north, smiling, revealing his vampiric canines to you upon passing.

Hikaru blinks as the vampire walks away and only grins at her, showing his fangs to her as well. Dumbfounded it takes a while before she gets her mind in gear and as quickly as she can tries to follow him, "W-wait, sir..! P-please don't go... I-I was being serious... I-if I'm right you might get terrible rashes and blisters... e-even opens soars..." The half elf vampiress shudders at this, having seen it before.

Hikaru sighs as the vampire keeps on walking, feeling her words don't get through his mind she runs to catch him, grabbing him by his wrist gently, "P-please... I'll do anything... J-just come with me, sir..." The vampire turns his head and grins once more, shrugging his shoulders he follows though his eyes promise demise to the bold half elven vampiress. Shaking her head Hikaru tries not to think of it and leads him to the clinic.

Hikaru enters the clinic with the vampire after her, clearing her throat slightly, "E-excuse me... I-I have someone here who I believe suffer from this new strange disease that roams these lands..." No more than a mere second later does a staff member come forth and take the vampire from Hikaru's grasp and leads him off. Sighing she prays that she was right and leans against the wall in exhaustion.

PART V:

Mahteth and another Vampire:

Craughmoyle -

A diseased vampire slowly meanders to the east, smiling, revealing his vampiric canines to you upon passing.

Mahteth catches up with the diseased vampire and says, "I do not know you but we seem to share the same affliction. If you come with me I know somewhere where you can be helped". She nods for the Vampire to follow her.

With the Vampire following Mahteth starts to lead the way out of Craughmoyle. As they reach daylight the Vampire blinks and starts to retreat but Mahteth takes his hand and smiles encouragingly, "It's alright, trust me." With the somewhat dazed Vampire in tow she starts the long walk to the quarantine centre.

Mahteth guides the sick Vampire along Kelay Way then to Milious Road, shielding him from some of the sights. Turning South she leads them towards the warmer climes of the Southern Desert.

Mahteth quickly pulls a blanket from her bag to cover her companion as he reacts to the bright sunshine. Now dragging him she rushes through the old ruins then south where the Centre lies, "Here's another one" she gasps, herself slightly burned by the sun and dehydrated. "Please take care of him now". She relaxes as the staff rush over and quickly lead the Vampire towards the ward. "Goodbye and good luck", Mahteth calls after him.

PART VI

Myrall in her office and beyond….

Myrall puts down her quill and calls ‘Come’ in answer to the sharp rapping on her door. The word has barely left her lips when a fresh faced soldier nervously enters the room, bowing deep before the woman, he stutters. “Ggggreetings Majesty, you ddd..desired I report to you?” Giving him the warmest smile she can muster in an attempt to put him at his ease, Myrall motions to the vacant chair opposite her. “Piran isn’t it? Please, sit. We have much to discuss, and I’d rather not develop a cricked neck from looking up at you, or have you incur a sore back from bowing down afore me.”

Myrall waits a moment, as the young man obeys her request, with a mumbled “Aye majesty, it is indeed Piran, Piran Merrymead of the Royal Guard.” The woman inclines her head slightly in acknowledgement. “Then welcome Piran Merrymead, you are probably wondering why I have asked you here, and I’ll not keep you in suspense a instant more than needs be I promise, but first let me say that when last we met,” she pauses for a moment, a slight shudder passing through her frame, as she remembers that cold night a few weeks ago when he stood guard with her, awaiting the arrival of Vlalkor’s forces from the east. “You served me well that night, and it is for that reason I have chosen you for this mission. Though I fear it will be an unpleasant task, and one I’ll not blame you if you refuse.”

Myrall watches the lads face closely, but does not wait to see if he has anything to say before she presses on “You have probably noticed that there are a number of our kinsmen wandering these lands, seemingly in the grip of some ague that effects both body and mind. I myself have encountered at least two such souls, though there may well be more. Do you know of what I speak?” This time she does break off long enough for a reply to be voiced. “Aye, M’lady, oft when on patrol in the early hours we happen across them in the streets, calling out gibberish to all who pass. Not just dwarves though, with my own eyes I have seen drows and ogres likewise afflicted.”

Myrall gives a sad nod the lines of worry around her eyes, almost seeming to deepen as she draws breath to answer him. “Aye, I am aware of them, though for now ‘tis our own kind that warrants my attention. I shall see what can about the rest when I know that the dwarves amongst them have been removed to a place of safety where they might be treated for what ails them.” She gives a small sigh before continuing “And this is where I am in need of your aid. For I charge you to take a small but skilled group of men from the guard, and round up these poor creatures, there is a place in Gaulon, well equipped to deal with them, and I desire that you escort each dwarf that shows even the slightest sign of this disease there, and deliver them to the person who runs the place. Tis known locally I believe as the CDC.”

Myrall opens her desk draw and removes two parchments, one smaller than the other and bearing the royal seal, this she hands over to the guardsman first “Here is a written copy of your orders, in case you should meet with resistance or a patrol from the Empire, and here” she hands him the other parchment “is a map of where it is you need to take these unfortunates.” The dwarf takes the first parchment and breaks the seal, his face solemn as he reads first the runic script, then the common translation beneath. He then takes the map and studies it carefully before placing it in his jerkin. “Very well majesty I shall do as you bid.” With that the young man makes to stand, and take his leave.

Myrall immediately holds out her hand to stay him a minute “Please, there are a few things I must add before you depart. First take this gold and equip the men you intend to take with you in clothes that that might be easily put to the torch when all is done. Secondly endure that you keep your noses and mouths covered at all times. I recommend a scarf or some such material for this.” She reaches into her pocket and withdraws a small leather pouch “There should be more than enough gold there to cover all expenses you incur. I also ask that you go to the tavern and procure for yourself a quantity the strongest spirit you are able, use this liberally to cleanse yourselves when all is done, hands, hair, beard, any part of you that has contact with these creatures must be treated so, even if it means bathing in pure alcohol. Do you understand?” despite the gravity of the situation she chuckles as the solider gives her a solemn nod. “Aye Majesty, I will so do.” Myrall gives him a warm smile “Very well, then away and tend to your duty, and with my blessing. Report back to me when all is done.” The young dwarf stands and bows once more before hurriedly taking his leave. The priestess watches him go, a mixture of relief and anxiety on her face as she thinks of the task that is before him.

Much, much later………

Myrall sits back in her chair, and passes a hand over her tired eyes, rubbing vigorously at them in an attempt to stave off sleep. Noticing that her candle is almost spent, she stands to retrieve another from the shelf behind her when a knock comes on the door. Wearily she calls “Enter”, turning quickly round curious to see who would come calling at such an hour, she is at once almost overwhelmed by the stench of whiskey. Covering her mouth and nose with her hand, she chuckles “Ah, Piran. You’re back. Did all go well?” The soldier stands shuffling his feet, his face drawn and tired “Aye Majesty, I did as you bid, and apart from a small scuffle with the Empire Guard on the Gaulon road all was as it should be.” The priestess frowns before answering. “The Empire Guard you say? Did you not show them your orders?” Piran shrugs in reply “Aye, I did, but ‘twould seem the fool of an ogre had no learning and could not read either the runes or the common, so I might as well have shown him my arse as that parchment.” He blushes furiously as he realises what he has just said, but well used to the crudities of soldier vernacular she merely laughs. “So tell me, how did you persuade him?” The dwarf looks to his boots and mumbles “With a little dwarven steel I fear M’lady. Though none were badly hurt, and it was but a few minutes added to our journey afore they let us be on our way.”

Myrall crosses to him and places her hand upon his shoulder “You did well, I am most pleased. I can see that as per my instructions you cleansed yourself in alcohol, but did yea burn the clothes you all wore as well?” she bites her lip as she waits on his reply. “Aye, M’Lady, every last stitch, and I told the men to be a cleaning of their swords in the whiskey an’ all? Was that alright?” she gives a pleased nod “Yes, yes indeed good thinking.” Reaching into her cloak she produces another purse. “Here, take this and your men and repair to the tavern, have a few ales on me. You’ve more than earned it this night.” Beaming from ear to ear the lad takes the pouch and hurries from the room, mumbling his gratitude over and over as he goes.

PART VII:

Myrall and the diseased Drow:

Feline embassy

As you enter through the large oak doors you are struck with a newfound astonishment over the work done in the feline embassy. The floor that was once covered with the shavings of nearly everything that the room contained is now cleared to reveal the flawless marble floor that lay beneath. The horrendous odor that once poured from the room is now gone due to the fish bars that line the room’s walls. The bars are filled with fish from the oceans east of cenril, and iced with ice fresh from the frozen north. The further you go towards the back of the room you begin to notice a raised area resembling that of a stage. On either side of this stage-like area there are stairs for the guards to walk on as they change posts. There is also a set of stairs leading up the middle leaving about twelve feet between the peek of them and the elegant golden throne that sits against the back wall. As you turn and glance upon this embassy you hear a voice from behind,” Stay as long as you wish” comes forth in a deep tone. These words come from the ambassador who now takes his seat in the throne. You look across once more before you decide to move on but as you move across the floor you see above the closed doors a sign that reads “doer 'sohna”. A diseased drow with red blisters is here.

Myrall stands for a moment studying the Drow, her keen mind considering her options. The cotton scarf around her face making speech awkward, she edges forward so that she might more easily be heard. “Good sir, I come not to fight but to aid you. I see that the phage that infects these lands has you in its grip. If you’d accompany me, I will gladly guide you to a place where help might be found.” As the creature bares his pearl white teeth at her and growls in response, the woman jumps quickly backward, holding out her hand, palm towards him as if to stay any sudden move. Talking a deep breath to steady herself she tries again. “Please. I implore you. I can find relief for you if you will allow it.” She flinches visibly as the man gives another almost feral snarl, before his hand slips towards his sword.

Myrall mirrors his action, her hand tightening instinctively on the leather bound hilt, but she does not draw the weapon, instead casting her gaze around the busy embassy she tries one last time to calm him. “At least let us take this outside, for if you must have your pound of dwarven flesh before you agree to my offer of assistance, then let it not be at the expense of these good folk.” As the Drow releases his grip on his sword, and flees out into the street, the priestess bows to the Ambassador and offers her apologies. “Please sir, I trust you will forgive the intrusion, ‘twas not my intention to disturb your guests.” And with that she turns and follows the Dark Elf out into Craughmoyle.

A diseased drow with red blisters dashes to the west, shouting, "My arms! They hurt!".

Embassy Row

As your journey carries you further down this grand hallway, you come to the Embassies of the Humans and Felines. The door to your west is made of dark wood, tarnished bands of steel running horizontally to reinforce it slightly. There is not much about this entrance, plain and simple a door within the rock although the sound of raucous laughter and smell of smoke waft towards you slightly. Turning to face to the east, you see the entrance to the Feline embassy. A large oaken door this is also, obviously the held little care for majesty when installing it, but this bears countless grooves and scratch marks upon it. The claws of countless Feline denizens entering through the door has left deep clefts in the wood, particularly at the centre of each where they have had force pushed upon them leaving deep basins of splintered wood. A reeking smell of fish wafts over you as you move closer, tickling at your nose. As before, north leads you further into the mountain whilst the southern path leads to the fresh air of the outside world. A diseased drow with red blisters is here.

Myrall hurries out into the street, signalling to the guard that stands to attention at the embassy door to stand down. This is her fight and she’ll not risk anyone’s health but her own. Once more facing the ailing man, her hand again finds its way to her sword, her breath comes in ragged gasps as she gives reason one last chance “Are you ready to accompany me now sir, or do we have to do this the hard way?” The ear-splitting screech that echoes round the cavernous walls of the city give her his answer as the Drow lunges at her, teeth barred and sword flashing ominously in the light of the sconces that illuminate this part of the city.

Myrall reacts quickly, though not quickly enough, as the sharp blade tears a rent in the fabric of her cloak. Swinging round wildly, her own blade now loosed from it’s sheathe she returns the favour, bringing the sharpened steel down with vicious force on the man’s thigh. As the brand cuts deep into his flesh, she springs back, aware that any contact with his blood will surely bode ill for her own health. The poor unfortunate falls screaming to the floor, his blood rapidly pooling on the ground beside him, in his already weakened state he was no match for her, and pity grips her heart, but she knows what must be done, and steels herself mentally for the task.

Myrall takes a flask of brandy from her knapsack, and pours it’s contents over the bloody blade before wiping it on her cloak and sheathing it, then crossing to the crumpled form, she crouches down, grasping the man’s hair she pulls his head back and hisses. “Now sir, you have two choices, you accompany me as per my original request, or I……” pausing dramatically she reaches behind her with her free hand and extricates the small dagger she keeps hidden there from it’s home, placing it so that the blade bites into the flesh of the Drow’s neck but does break the skin she continues “I end your life, here and now. Deep with in Dwarven lands, so no more will you taste the freedom or smell the stench that is your home. Instead your body will be burnt here, this day in this very spot, so tell me.” She gives a vicious yank on his hair, “Which is it to be?” The seconds tick by as the man wrestles with his options, to go with this strange woman, or forever be shamed to die at her hands, either way his drow pride would be damaged beyond repair, but at least if he lived then one day he might find her and extract his revenge. With this thought running through his mind he gives a defeated nod, and answers in the common tongue, his words stilted by pain and hatred “I go Dwarf, but one day you shall pay for this ignominy. By the spider goddess I swear it.”

Myrall laughs as she stows the dagger, and beckons to one of the guards to watch the prisoner, for that is essentially what the Drow now is, whilst she tends to his wound. Unwilling to actually heal it, least he makes good his escape once he is in command of both his legs, she searches in her bag for a bandage, and wraps it tightly round the bloody gash. Satisfied that it will hold until she gets him to the CDC, the priestess stands dragging the man to his feet as she does so. “I fully expect you to seek me out one day, though I’d like to think that it will be to thank me, not kill me.” She tries to shrug, but with his body weight leaning on her it is not possible, instead they both stumble sideways, bumping painfully into the tunnel walls. Grimacing she continues “But I will cross that bridge when I come to it, and keep a sharp blade at the ready just in case.” With that they set off at a slow limp towards Gaulon, the guard who had been standing at the embassy door, following a few feet behind, Axe at the ready should his Queen need him.

PART VIII

Myrall,Valkor, Leodarkheart and the Ogre:

A big sign tells you that the village down here bears the name of Craughmoyle. The letters are made out of diamond, a small king's ransom by the looks of it, and the sign is pure bronze, which is bolted into the rock wall. Everything down here is rock, the walls, the floor and the ceiling have all been carved out from the mountain. Torches adorn the walls, keeping the place brightly lit, but if they where to be extinguished, the passageway would become pitch black. Everything is kept clean and in perfect order, but the darkness would be so complete that anything imaginable would suddenly take on a life of its own in weaker minds. And with the dwarfs keen eyesight, used to as they are to the dark, one would also become a blind, yet perfect, target for them to hit as they enter this city beneath the mountains. A road of sorts, really just a large passageway, begins to the north, while to the west is a solid looking door. To the east is a set of large stairs leading up to the entrance to the dwarf kingdom. A Dwarven Militia Squad is here. A diseased ogre is here. Leodarkheart said, "Okay how do you suggest we 'talk' sense into this lug?"

Myrall looks the creature up and down before turning to Leo and smiling "I think in as plain a speech as possible, for they are not a race know for their wit and intelligence."

Valkor normal smile falls to sadness seeing the ogre suffering so and lowers his eyes remembering the pain he endured at the curse of the disease.

Leodarkheart stifles a laugh, "Sounds good to me." Leo says, "Hey big guy want to play catch the vampire?"

Leodarkheart said, "Ok we'll talk, if he tries to bolt on us Valkor you might get to play hit the ogre on the head."" Valkor dropped 3 pickled eyeball. Leodarkheart drops a few steaks to the ground as well. "I think that might just help, good idea."

Leodarkheart dropped 3 steak. Leodarkheart dropped 3 steak. Leodarkheart picked up 1 steak. Leodarkheart picked up 1 steak. Leodarkheart picked up 1 steak. Myrall tries hard not to laugh as she edges closer to the Ogre, it’s diseased form causing her to inwardly cringe. Murmuring under her breath in an effort to calm him she is almost near enough to reach out and touch the being when he takes a swing at her, his club narrowly missing the dwarf's head. Jumping backwards she stumbles and falls. Shaking herself off she stands and smiles "As I suspected, niceties and rational arguments are not likely to work on this one."

Leodarkheart raises his bow and releases three arrows in quick succession. "I'll get his attention, might as well try out that tree trunk your fond of Valkor."

Leodarkheart steadies his bow to see if the ogre even takes notice of the arrows. They find there intended target but seem to have little effect other then to anger the poor creature.

Myrall draws her axe from her belt and stands at the ready in case the poor unfortunate creature should attempt to remove her head once more.

Leodarkheart waits for the ogre's next move shouting to him, "Easy fella were only trying to get you some help."

Myrall crouches low, keeping her already short frame as near to the ground as possible, and tries to once more draw close to the creature. Managing to dodge the wildly swinging club with each step, until she is but a few feet away. Dropping her axe, the priestess now lunges forward, gripping the Ogres ankles tightly and hanging on for grim death, she shouts "Now Valkor, hit him now!"

Valkor purses his lips and treads as lightly as a giant may to the opposite flank of the flying arrows. Three grunts of sharp pain are offered up by the now angered Ogre and he turns to spy the vampire raising the heavy club. The smell of the beast reeks of death and decay, assaulting the sense of the three clan's men. The winged knight sees an opening to the Ogre's head and arcs the large club downward halting the Ogre in his tracks. The creature staggers a bit, but shakes off the blow with a blood curling roar.

Leodarkheart seeing Myrall had taken to a direct assault Leo follows suit. The vampire drops his bow and pulls his dagger and leaps near Myrall side. "If the hit is passed off like the first, I have a small trick I seen done not too long ago." Leo yells over the ogre's roar.

Myrall is dragged along the rough ground by the wildly flailing ogre, but through gritted teeth manages to muster the breath to screech. "And again, both of you. One more assault might do it."

Valkor take a deep breath re-gripping his hand to his trunk of a club take steady aim to the sick Ogre cranium. A quick prayer to the divine for true strike is issued forth from his rough lips and his broad arms fall the club with a thunderous clap.

Myrall answers Leo "Do what you must, just bring this beast to his knees whilst I still have some skin on my shins........... please!"

Myrall tightens her grip as Valkor's blow hits home, and the Ogre's knees buckle slightly. She offers up a small prayer that Leo's attack will be the last, and she might at last let go of this walking grunting rock of a beast.

Leodarkheart lossens his hold and into the heel of the ogre, using all his strength he drives the blade through the tough hide. Leo struggles slightly, but manages to push the dagger clean through the back of it's heel. The Ogre shrieks in pain and begins to topple. "Let loose Myrall, Valkor help the poor beast find the ground in a hurry."

Myrall immediately lets go, rolling deftly out of the way, before she is crushed by ten tons of falling ogre.

Valkor heards the command of Leodarkheart and tosses his wooden weapon aside grabbing the Ogre in a bear hug, slowing it's fall. The giant muscle groan in pain feeling the strain of the creature weight. Valkor face contorts as the Ogre is laid down with a boom. The giant releases his grip and massages his fore arms. Patting deeply he said, "Spot of trouble this old boy! Bit of a hard head."

Valkor heards the command of Leodarkheart and tosses his wooden weapon aside grabbing the Ogre in a bear hug, slowing it's fall. The giant muscle groan in pain feeling the strain of the creature weight. Valkor face contorts as the Ogre is laid down with a boom. The giant releases his grip and massages his fore arms. Panting deeply he said, "Spot of trouble this old boy! Bit of a hard head."

Leodarkheart laughs, dusting himself off. "Hope they aren't all this tough."

Myrall stands once more and brushes herself off, seemingly oblivious to the grazes and cuts she has sustained. Mustering as much dignity as she is able, the woman turns to the guards at the gate. "Summon a detail to bring a cart and-four so that this creature might be taken to Gualon." she then turns back to her clansmen. "I thank you both, for it is a great service you have done these lands this night. Where he is going." she jerks her head towards the stricken Ogre "he will receive all the help he needs to get back on his feet........*she casts a glance at Leo and smiles*......literally."

Myrall turns to Leo and smiles "The Drow gave me a spot of bother, though I suppose that is to be expected. No dark elf likes being told what to do by a Dwarf, but other than that, most have seen the sense in our arguments without us having to resort to violence."

Leodarkheart laughs and inspects the blade of his dagger. "Well this thing will need to be cleaned." Leo looks to Myrall, "Well when you dove for his ankles the thought popped into my head. Take him off his feet, that just might work."

Leodarkheart said, "No worse for wear here. *stretches* Needed a good workout myself."

Myrall watches as the guard carefully load the stricken creature onto the cart calling after them "Do not forget, burn all armour and wash all over in spirits when you're done." she then faces Leo and Valkor "and of course the same goes to you two as well. Make sure all that can be burnt is, and the rest cleaned in best whiskey or brandy." she gives a very Dwarven sigh. "A waste of good spirit I know, but tis better to be safe than sorry." then giving Valkor one of her warmest smiles she chuckles "Worry not old friend, this is nought worse than the wounds I receive daily, they will heal afore the sun rises on the morrow."

Valkor smiles to Leodarks reply and nods, "Aye. Nothing like a little tussle to get the blood rushing agian. Good for the heart I hear."

Leodarkheart smiles, "Dare I say I felt mine beat again." Leo laughs.

PART IX:

Myrall and The Human:

Repaired Street

This road used to be covered with burnt buildings and ash, but it has been replaced with new homes as well as a few still under construction. From the north, the sounds of the arena fights can be heard. A few strange sounds cause you to look to the west, where you notice the local zoo and pet shop is located. To the east, a small building seems to reside quietly. Some townsfolk meander around the zoo or make their way towards the arena. The road continues to the south. A diseased human with red blisters is here.

Myrall sneaks quietly up behind the man, she is in no mood for reasoning and small talk, having just spent most of the night tussling with the Ogre. Drawing the ruby bladed dagger she keeps at the small of her back, the woman pounces. Grasping the human’s hair and using it to yank his head back viciously, whilst at the same time digging the tip of the blade into his ribs, she hisses “If you wish to live you will come with me. Understood?”

Myrall tightens her grip as the man tries to struggle free, increasing the pressure on the daggers hilt so that it almost pieces the man’s skin. “Did you not hear me, you have but two choices in this to live or die, pick now and pick wisely, for I’ll not ask again.” The human goes rigid for a second, then lets his body relax, before jerking his head forward in what the dwarf takes to be a nod of agreement. Though she does not bother to question which of her statements it is he is acquiescing to, taking it that the desire to live is strong in all creatures. “Wise choice. Now walk.” With that and using the purchase she has on his hair, the priestess frog marches him off towards Gualon and the CDC.

PART X:

Myrall and the diseased Draconian:

The chapel store room

This room is small and rather damp because of a number of pools of water left on the old stone flooring. This place appears to see very little use and appears to be space merely used to dump unwanted materials and resources. Most of the wooden crates are rotted and have long since spilled contents such as formerly white linen and rusty weapons on the floor. The spiders that hang from the ceiling in a multitude of webs have the run of the place now, it is probably best to leave them to it. A diseased draconian with red blisters is here. Myrall flings open the storeroom door and enters. Her eyes quickly adjusting to the dim light, she spots her prey “I was told I’d find you round here somewhere.” She takes a step close, her hand on the hilt of her sword, ready for any attempted escape by this half man – half dragon. A diseased draconian with red blisters saunters to the south, roaring "Cure me! Please!"

Myrall moves to her left, effectively blocking his exit, seeing there is now way out of this cramped damp room the creature stops and looks mournfully at the woman. “That is exactly what I intend to do. But I have not the means at my disposal here. I need you to come with me. I know where there is help, and will be but a few short hours before you feel the full bloom of health once more.” She holds out her hand. “Do you trust me?”

Myrall holds her breath as she waits for an answer, she can see the Draconian wrestling with the notion. Should he trust her, or should he take his chances with the world. Eventually after what seems like an eternity he steps forward and takes her hand. “I come, but hear me and hear me good, if you double cross me, or steer me false. I shall spend the rest of my days seeking you out, so that I might make you pay.”

Myrall gives him what she hopes is a warm and reassuring smile. “There is nought for me to fear then, as I come only to aid you.” With that she leads him out of the store room and off to Gualon, where help awaits.

PART XI:

Myrall and the Elf:

Road to Milous:

Walking about this place, one would notice the drastic changes that had taken place. The once beautiful road to Milous is now relatively destroyed. The once white fences are now blackened and shattered, with shards of wood lying about. The proud trees are now lying around, being ripped up by their roots, all that remains are some scattered under brush. Looking about more, one would notice the rotting corpses, of what seem to be draconian, orc and even human in origin. This place seems to have been a battlefield, seemingly so, due to the abundance of weapons, shields and of course the bodies carelessly spread about. Moving on, you notice a huge crater roughly in the center of the chaos, its diameter nearly envelops the whole area. Careful not to fall into the deep hole, one should move on, and perhaps they would wonder: what happened here?

As you tip toe past the chasm and the long rotten corpses and weapons left over haphazardly strewn about you spot something protruding from the ground...A tomb. Ornately carved adorned with winged angels and demons. Further to the east the grand city of Cenril beckons your attention, and to the west Kelay calls. But in passing thought you may stop to think who lays here in this lone nameless tomb... A diseased elf with red blisters is here

Myrall walks straight past the elf, then stops and retraces her steps. Stopping just a few feet away from him she manages a bright smile “Greetings sir, are you in need of assistance?”

A diseased elf with red blisters staggers away to the east, jumping up and down and yelling, "The desert it is. Red it is.".

Overlooking Gorge

Your stomach plunges sickeningly quick as you stare down into the seemingly bottomless pit before you. Thin tendrils of smoke lazily drift skyward from the massive chasm, and earthquakes and other signs of volcanic activity are quite common. The narrow strip of stony ground that is the continuation of the Milous Road is a web of cracks leading east, where the beginnings of a bridge over the endless gorge can be seen. a small paths trails northward, while south, the steep ledge you are standing on continues. There seems to be a lot of activity going on to the east as the finishing touches are placed on the new bridge. A diseased elf with red blisters is here.

Myrall hurries after the poor man the look of concern on her face growing ever deeper. “Sir, I beg of you allow me to aid you. Though I have no skills with what ails you personally, I know of a place that does.” She looks to the south-east. “In fact, tis but a few leagues from where we now stand.”

Myrall gingerly reaches out and takes hold of the elf’s arm. “Please sir, I implore you, come with me. I will not harm you of that you can be certain.” With her free hand she pulls her cloak tightly round her short frame so that he does not see her sword and axe, that are on prominent display.

Myrall flinches as the man yanks his arm away from her, flailing wildly and shouting nonsense. Again she grasps his arm, though this time her grip is much tighter. “I know, I know” she keeps her voice soft and low in an effort not to alarm him. “And tis to that very desert we go, for the place I wish to take you nestles there amongst the sand.”

Myrall breathes a sigh of relief as the creature seems to quieten. Pity tugs at her heart as he looks at her with a mixture of fear and pleading. “Will you come with me?” she asks.

Myrall waits expectantly for his reply, and it is only a few moments before she is rewarded with a slight nod. Smiling gently, she loosens her grip slightly, before ushering him south to the CDC.