The Curse of Carasylia

[HobbitGirl]

(OOC: Please post in the discussion thread if you wish to join this rp!)

My family's gift...my family's curse...I must find It soon. He has awoken again, and only It can stop him. But once I find It, I will not be able to hide It. When It is revealed, He will come for me. He will want me dead. But I must find It, so that Middle-Earth does not go into madness. I must not fail. But I cannot do this alone.

Plamaya sat in the corner of the inn, her hood thrown back and a small mug of good ale in front of her. She was waiting for any to answer the word she had spread around the town. Plamaya had made it known that she was seeking an ancient treasure and that she needed the help of any who were strong and willing. She sighed and took a sip from her mug. It's been hours. No one has come yet, she thought. I know it's cliche to wait in an inn, but it's the quickest way to enlist help. If I am to find my family's treasure I will be needing some kind of assistance. The young woman scanned around the inn one more time for anyone who looked like they would want to undertake a perilous quest. Finally she saw someone walking towards her.

[Éomond]

The man walking towards her was fairly young, but was tall and strong. There was mail on his chest that went down to his knee. A helmet was on his head, it was very clean and the candle lights in the bar refeclted off it. A great sword was at his side. When he got to her, he spoke "Long have I been traviling, wandering the lands to aid people to need my assitance. I have heard about want you want, and, if you will, would you accept me to help you?" He stood waiting for the woman's reply.

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya studied the man for a bit. He looks trustworthy enough,she thought. But I cannot be sure. Still, I badly need companions... "I will accept your help," Plamaya said. "I can see nothing that appears evil about you." She paused, and they stared at each other for a moment. "Please, sit down," said Plamaya politely, breaking the silence.

[Mablung]

An elf walked over after the other man. Several studs on his armor gleamed like stars on the rest of his dark outfit. He hummed merrily approaching, but quickly stopped when he saw the girl and figured this wouldn't be a happy assignment. But she did look like she needed help so he went forward and spoke. "I would help you as well if you would let me."

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya looked at the newcomer. An elf! she thought. I thought that all the elves had passed away to Valinor. Elves have seldom been evil in ages past... "I will indeed accept your help, Master Elf. Goodness, I am forgetting my manners. What is your name? And yours?" Plamaya said, turning to the man seated beside her.

[Mablung]

The elf smiled and bowed. "I am Maegelen. But what is my generous employer's name?"

[Astaldolosswen]

*another elf has heard about a girl wanting help for something and found out that she was at the inn. she went to the inn, and scanned around the inn looking for somebody who needed help. then she saw her in the corner talking to another elf and a man. she goes over by her and says*
"Might I come and help you on your journey?"
*gives a slight bow*

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya allowed herself a small smile. Employer, eh? she thought. "My name is Plamaya," she said to the elf, "and I am not really your employer. I have nothing to pay you for journeying with me. You are here by your own will, and you may leave me at any time you wish. However, if you leave me and betray me to my enimies..." Plamaya trailed off, and her bright green eyes darkened for a moment. If they betray me to my enimies, I will have no choice but to destroy them, for I am the only one that can weild the thing that will stop Him. Plamaya shrugged off her dark thoughts. "Will you come and sit?" Plamaya asked the elf, gesturing to the space beside her.

Plamaya turned to the newcomer. "What is your name?" she asked the new elf.

[Éomond]

The Man repieled "I am Elfhorn son of Éomond, from the lands of Rohan in the west. I thank you for accepting my help." Just as Elfhorn finish his words he saw an Elf walk towards them and talk to the young woman.

[Mablung]

"You will be my employer as far as Im concerned I will go with you to the end now that I am in your service. Anyway a seat sounds lovely and an ale since I don't think I will be getting another one for awhile with this going on." Maegelen ordered his drink and sat next to Plamaya looking at all the others coming and going wondering who would be their next companion he also shot the man in the seat next to him some funny looks almost recognizing him then he laughed and slapped him on the back. "Elfhorn? I haven't seen you in ages though your dad did try and keep you away from some of us though we'd be a bad influence I guess."

[Astaldolosswen]

"I am Astaldolosswen of Celeb Taurornrim. I have had many travels throughout my life. I orginally came from Rivendell, but moved to Celeb Taurornrim when I was really young. I am pleased to meet you."
*gives another small bow*
"Who might I ask, are you?"

[Neothen]

Molfred walks into the prancing pony and took a seat at the afr side of the room. He saw a company of people one table beside him but he decided not to intervine. his black armor gave a deep tone of some importants and his eyes peared through teh room.

[Éomond]

Elfhorn looked at the Elf beside him and laffed "Maegelen! Even in such dark times as this good company can be found! It has been ages hasn't it? Yes, my father though he did what was best for me, which he might have been right." Elfhorn winked at Maeg after his comment. Elfhorn then looked at the other Elf called Astaldolosswen. Another Elf thought Plamaya will be very happy with this. Elfhorn then turned back to Maeg and started talking with him again.

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya was glad that some of those in the company knew each other. It will be easier that way, she thought. Plamaya turned to Astaldolosswen once more. "I am Plamaya, and I will accept your help on this journey. Please, sit with us," Plamaya said. She took another draft from her ale and sat back, waiting for anyone else who might show up.

[Kailita]

A young human girl, who couldn't have possibly been older than sixteen, entered the inn quietly and looked about. With a nervous smile, she pulled the jade green scarf from her hair and retied it around her auburn tresses, as she had a tendency to do when she was somewhat apprehensive. This was an opportunity for her to set off on her first adventure...which she had been looking for for about a month now...a search for a treasure! What could be a better way to start a career of questing? The laundress across the street had told her that the young woman running the expedition could be found here in the inn...but where was she? The girl's brown eyes scanned the room once more, light catching their flecks of green. She noticed a gathering of several people people talking in a corner of the inn, centered around a small young woman probably not much older than herself. Could she be the one? Curious, the girl crept a little closer and tried to listen in on what was being said.

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya was looking around the inn one last time when she spotted the girl a little younger than herself with blazingly auburn hair. She noticed the way the girl tried to nonchalantly get closer to where the company was sitting and figured she must be seeking to join the quest. She doesn't look like she would know how to be evil, Plamaya thought. She's armed, that's good, and she also has a healing bag. A person like her would be valuable for this journey. "Hello, my red-haired friend," Plamaya called to the girl. "If you want to join us, by all means say so instead of hiding by the doorway."

[Kailita]

The girl looked up when spoken to (she had long since gotten used to responding to people addressing her by the color of her hair) and smiled, a little apologetically. She didn't want to seem sneaky or dishonest, and was a little embarrassed at being caught lurking about in such a way. But the young woman who had spoken to her was smiling, and that was a good sign.

"I heard that someone was gathering together expeditioners for some sort of journey," the girl said, her voice clear and light, almost like music. She sounded much more reassured than she felt. "I was wondering if that someone was you..."

[HobbitGirl]

"Yes, that someone is me," Plamaya repiled, smiling. "I assume you mean to join our journey. Will you come sit by us?" The girl sat with the rest of the company. Plamaya looked around at her new companions. A man, two Elves, a healer, and myself, Plamaya thought. Will we be enough?

[Neothen]

Molfred looked at the group and smilled. Unlike his father, Molfed was a kind Sorcerer but people still feared him at times. He walked over to the table and sat at a chair without saying a word. His eyes narrowed giving him a stern look. The company didn't notice him and wondered if they would reconize a sorcerer and take offence.

[Kailita]

The girl took a seat by the young woman, trying to keep from beaming. Calm down, Kailita...you don't want them to think you some bubbly child with no brain, she told herself. But she had been pleasantly surprised, and it was hard for her to keep her emotions off her face. She had expected some sort of debate to rise over her age or experience - both of which weren't too much. But with the leader of the expedition being so young herself, perhaps it wasn't surprising. Well, there's still time to get turned down...don't get your hopes up.

"My name is Kailita Summersong of Magdala, first daughter and first child of Tondrift the Healer and Dacla the Warriormaid," she said cheerily, wanting to make a good first impression. She hoped it wasn't a bad idea to give her full title. Her parents had never really cared much for them, but they had taught her that titles were important for first encounters, especially official ones. "And...who would all of you be?"

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya's smile broadened when Kailita gave her title, and said, "I am Plamaya, and this is Elfhorn son of Éomond, and Maegelen, and Astaldolosswen of Celeb Taurornrim."

Out of the corner of her eye Plamaya saw the new man sit down at the table. She turned to look at him and saw that he looked unusure of himself. The young woman couldn't tell anything about him just from his looks. "Greetings, friend," she said to him. "Do you wish to join us on our journey? Please speak, and tell us who you are."

[Neothen]

Molfred sits up and speaks, "I am Molfred Rudigar general of the Dorinian army and right hand man of Neothen Madoc. I do wish to join your company, because of resent events I have been forced to leave my home for a while so I will give my loyalty to you for the time being." Molfred sits back and hopping that his race would not show.

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya studied thier new companion. He speaks of loyaltly, but he is hiding something, she thought. Wait...Neothen! I have heard of him. This Molfred must posses magic if he is in close company with Neothen. No matter. Anyone who is a friend of Neothen can be trusted...I suppose. "You may join our company, Molfred Rudigar," Plamaya said. The help of a sorcerer of sorts will be valuable indeed, she thought, but I wonder if anyone else will decide to join us.

[Kailita]

Kailita smiled warmly at the other members of the company, hoping to be accepted. She looked up at the tall elves...so noble and graceful...then glanced at the young man Elfhorn. They all seemed kind and trustworthy. And she already liked Plamaya very much, perhaps only because she seemed the closest to Kailita's own age. Leaning back in her chair, she listened as the young woman conversed with Molfred.

[Éomond]

Six now Edhelras thought. He looked at the Sorcerer, very few he had seen, actually it was the first one he'd seen in his sort life. He started to talk, but shut his mouth for now. He got up and ordered a beer and sat down next to Maegelen. Edhelras looked at the young woman that just came in, he made I contact with he, smiled and nodded, and looked away. He started to get restless in his chair. Edhelras finally decided to talk "Shall we be leaving soon Plamaya?"

[Mablung]

"Do not be so hasty little Eldheras this will be a dangerous journey hastiness will do naught but cause us harm." Maeg then turned to Plamaya. "How many do you wish to wait for though to many or too little would be perilous."

[Kellivara]

*a dark cloaked figure walks in and up to the bar, ordering an ale and pricking her ears a bit (which wasn't visible under her hood) to hear the conversation going on in the rest of the room*

[Neothen]

Molfred knew when something of a dark power walks into a room since he is a dark race himself. But he decided not to say anything.

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya spotted the dark figure seated at the bar, partly because the figure was sitting so straight and still, and her head was cocked in Plamaya's direction. She assumed the person must be listening in on their conversation. That means one of two things,Plamaya thought to herself. Either she means to join our party, or she is one of His agents, looking for me. "Molfred," Plamaya whispered to the sorcerer without looking at him and not taking her eyes off the person at the bar, "do you see that cloaked figure at the bar there? Do you happen to know who she is by any chance?"

[Mablung]

Maeg's head whipped around to where Plamaya directed. Catching the feeling off of her he knew who she was immediatly. "Thats a Dark Elf... not all of them are bad though my friend actually went on a journey with one and your companion Neothen if I'm not mistaken Molfred."

[Kellivara]

*snickers under hood at the obvious commotion she had caused, but decided to enjoy it a short while longer, either until someone spoke to her or until she finished her drink......not bad for a surface brew.......

[HobbitGirl]

Hearing that the stranger was a Dark Elf did not increase Plamaya's trust for her. If she is indeed evil then speaking with her will tell, Plamaya thought. Impatient to find out whether or not the stranger was good, Plamaya excused herself from the table and sat at the bar next to the Dark Elf. "I know you were listening on mine and my companion's conversation, stranger," Plamaya said, cutting to the chase. "I find it rude for one to eavesdrop on someone and not introduce themselves."

[Kellivara]

about time..... Kell thought as she rose from her seat, bowing in an extremely sarcastic way as she did so*

"Oh, I am SO sorry, was I being RUDE?? Oh, I don't think I can EVER forgive myself.......*Kell burst into laughter as she dropped her hood to reveal paler skin than even the elves gathered there, and silver hair.* "I am Kellivara, from what I've heard, you've an aquaintance of Neothen here. This bodes well for you."

*Kell then walked right past Plamaya and over to the rest of the group, eying them all* a bit new at this.....but everyone's gotta start somewhere....but all in all, this is not a bad party, they should do well to trust eachother, as they seem already to do, for if they do not, they will surely fail....no matter, that is not important in this moment

*Kell turns to Maeg* "Aye, I have been on a quest with Neothen, and quite possibly your friend, what might his name be?"

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya growled softly to herself. Well of all the...no matter. She's a Drow, and one can't expect any less. Plamaya rose from her seat at the bar and went to speak with Kellivara once more. "Well, do you want to join our journey or don't you? If so, please tell us your name. I haven't much time."

[Neothen]

Molfred got up from his seat but as he did he disapeared. "Kellivara, I've heard little of you but I know enough that drow has a hard time seeing through sertan things." Kell looked around trying to see the sorcerer. If anything could escape the powers of a drow that was a sorcerer. "I think you should be a bit more polite to Plamaya. Where I'm from you need to be polite to even a bush." Molfred was still invisible but he took his seat.

[Kellivara]

"Well Molfred, as Neothen may have told you, I am not am extremely polite person, although good to have as an ally. I have journeyed on more than one occasion with Neothen, and he has proved a great ally. But I advise you, as I'm sure you have been told before, NEVER underestimate a foe, let alone an ally."

*turns back to Plamaya* "well, as I have just told the rest of your group, I am Kellivara. I will join if I am welcome, and quite possibly follow if I am not. It is your decision, as you seem to be these peoples leader for this quest."

[Astaldolosswen]

*as she sees the new arrivals, she wonders what could possibly happen. she wonders about the dark elf and wonders if she is trustworthy, but she decides to trust her anyway*

[Éomond]

Edhelras yawned and looked at the others talking Who's this Neothen guy? Edhelras thought sounds like a Elf or something. Must not be nice if his allies fight often. Edhelras stood up and walked over to Plamaya. He put one hand on the hilt of his sword, most of this folk couldn't be trusted.

[Kailita]

Kailita eyed the Drow, trying to hide her distrust. Her first impression was one of suspicion...yet she had to admit that Kellivara was one of the most beautiful women she had ever seen, never having set eyes on a Drow before.

She was pleased with herself for showing her surprise at the Sorcerer's disappearance through nothing more than rapid blinking, and keeping her mouth firmly closed instead of letting it drop open. This isn't home, Kai. There are some strange characters about. You must pretend you're used to their ways, or they might take advantage of you. Still, she probably displayed more surprise through her wide eyes than the Drow herself did.

She wasn't sure if she wanted this Kellivara to come along with them. But the thought of her trailing behind them was even more unwelcome. Of course, none of it was for her to decide. Listening to the other older, more experienced members of the company speak and understanding little, her eyes wandered across all of them, resting finally on Plamaya, who would decide their fate.

[Mablung]

"Ah so you are that Drow I figured as much not many of you come up here for adventures. My good friend Lolik had some ah.. interesting comments about you."

[HobbitGirl]

Many of my companions seem to have friends who are friends of this Drow, Plamaya thought. She must be all right if that is the case...still, I get an odd feeling from her. Maybe it's just because I'm not used to the Dark Elves. She said that she would follow us no matter what I say...I would rather have her as a friend than an enemy. "Very well then, Kellivara. You may join our party. But know this: If you you betray any of us to our enimies, I will kill you." There was an akward pause. "But come, let us speak of more pleasent matters. Please, sit down, all of you." The party took thier places at the table, and Plamaya began to explain the nature of thier quest.

"I have heard rumor of the location of a magnificent treasure that has been lost for generations. It is said to be between the Misty Mountains and the Ettenmoors to the north-east of here. It was once the hoard of a troll. Now all you who come with me may divide the hoard as you will, but I only seek one thing, and that is the sword Kaedero which is rumored to be with the rest of the treasure. The journey will be dangerous, as evil still lurks in that region. We may be hindered by any amount of evil creatures, so you must come on this quest armed." Plamaya paused, heaved a sigh, and sat back waiting for what the rest of her companions would say.

[Éomond]

Edhelras smiled at Maeg and Plamaya, and glared at the others in the group. Treasure? He thought, he did not desire wealth or treasure, but a little would be nice as gift for family, for Edhelras did not entirely need it, in his home wealth didn't matter. He was here to help, and fight, fighting he did not always like, but that was one less evil in the world that he would have to worry about when he killed. Soon Gailmagol, he thought to his sword.

"Sounds great." Edhelras said in a flat tone.

[Neothen]

Molfred eyed Kellivara strangly. Even though she said never to underestimate your enemy, Kell wouldn't know what she was doing talking to Molfred like that, anyways Molfred isn't General of Doroth for nothing.

[Kellivara]

*snickers and turns to Maeg* Aye, I'm sure he did. Let's just say....we didn't always get along. Rather dense bloke if you ask me...

*turns back to the rest of the group* oh, and as for the wave of surprise I feel bouncing off half of you at the way I look, I'll say this: I am the only one of my race who looks this way, so it doesn't surprise me that you've never seen one like me. For I am not fully drow, I am as well half elven...*at the shocked looks on a few of the elves' faces, she continued* My silver hair comes from being a drow, but my fair skin is my elven blood shown through, drow have obsidian black skin. There ARE other peredhil drow though, mind you, but I have never met one with pale skin like my own. Also....*she said this with a smirk* I get this from my drow blood as well....*her eyes flash silver for half a moment before becoming crimson, and she left them that way for a few moments before they went back to the deep blue they were before*

[Neothen]

"It is funny that you say that Kell," Molfred said sitting up. "Most of you didn't get the normal shock you would have if I was a normal sorcerer. I am born of a sorcerer father and a cleric mother. I am half white magic and half black magic therefor being a very dangerous mix. It was elligal to have a child if the mother was a cleric and not the wife of a wizard so my mother was killed and my father escaped. I am the last of the Super race of sorcerers excest for my father." Molfred clencthes a fist and gets a bit angry. His eyes get even blacker and his hair starts to glow with red streaks. for a secend Molfred was consumed by dark magic but he got over it. "Sorry about that I am a pure sorcerer but I fave extra powers of a cleric which is dangerous so I have to be careful when using magic." Molfred sat back hoping the same laws in Arloth didn't exists in this land.

[Kailita]

Kailita listened quietly as Plamaya explained the quest to them, trying to ignore the harsh voices of the others. She didn’t understand why Edhelras glared at her so...Kellivara and Molfred had her completely unnerved...and all the talk about kings and Drows and sorcerers confused her. She began to feel a twinge of inadequacy…the rest of the party seemed to know so much that she didn’t. Fingering the scarf around her hair, she tried to keep her emotions off her face. Her eyes slowly shifted in turn from Maegelen to Astaldolosswen to Plamaya, searching for any trace of acceptance or kindness. She really didn’t want to get pulled into any fighting that the Drow had brought.

[Kellivara]

*Kellivara stopped in mid-sentence and walked over to Kailita, speaking so only she could hear, and in a suddenly kind, and, quite oddly, almost motherly voice*

"nay, do not worry little one, you will learn what the rest of us know in time, with experience. Oh...I am sorry, I did not mean to offend by calling you "Little One" just an old habit I guess....but anyway, as I was saying, as long as you are on my good side I will not be mean to you.....and do not worry, I do not read your mind, but although your face portrayed nothing, you were sending out waves of uneasiness....."



*Kell turned back to the rest of the party, her voice cold and indifferent once more, as if she had never turned to speak with the girl*

[Mablung]

Maeg nodded and looked at her intently. Something in her voice and face seemed off as though she weren't telling them the whole truth. He then shook his head having already pledged himself. "I will come... and go with you too the end no matter what it may be."

[Kailita]

Kailita subconsciously stiffened as the Drow came her way, afraid that she was looking to further her fight. Bracing herself for what she thought would come, she was very taken aback when Kellivara spoke to her to so softly and kindly.

She hardly noticed the use of the term "little one", though under other circumstances she may have bristled just a little bit. She was more caught up in the worry that the dark elf could get inside of her head and pry about where she was unwelcome. But Kellivara soon put those fears to rest, explaining how she merely sensed the vibes Kailita was unknowingly sending out. As Kell turned back to the group, as cool and detached as ever, the girl made a mental note to try to avoid offending her if possible.

Perhaps she has a soft spot for those younger than she, Kailita thought. Or... she felt a little embarrassed, those with less experience.

She still did not trust the Drow any more than she did before...and she did not feel extremely comforted, except by the fact that Kellivara (hopefully) could not read her mind...but she was somewhat relieved that Kell was harboring no ill feelings towards her and didn't mean her harm.

[Astaldolosswen]

*she turns to Plamaya and says*
"So, what are we looking for and when do we leave?"

[Éomond]

Edhelras turned toward Astaldolosswen and said "Treasure, you might say, which it seems this group will get, and I seem Plamaya want's only some sword. Your second question, I cannot answer."
Edhelras then turned towards Plamaya "I will defend you till the end, wheather you need it or not, wheather you like it or not, I will stand by your side and fight with you to the death."

[Astaldolosswen]

"As will I. I am skilled with the sword and the bow. I know a bit of magic(elven) and my sword allows me to create a defensive barrier for me and for anybody else I choose. I can heal others and I can cook pretty well for when we have meals."

[Neothen]

"I also will never leave you unless you comand me to. I can make quite a bit of a scene with my magic to distract enemys and I can scout by being invisible."

[Kailita]

"I have only a crossbow and some knives and javelins," Kailita said softly, turning to Plamaya with a quiet sincerity in her green-flecked brown eyes. "But I never miss a shot. I've got a good hand at healing...I know plants quite well...and I'm good with animals, if that will help at all. I know it's not much...but I will readily give you all that I have, if it can be of service."

[Astaldolosswen]

"I will do all that I can to help you. My stallion and I will be a great assate(sp?) to you as he is very quick and I as well. As being an elf, I have great healing abilities and some elven magic to go along with it."

[HobbitGirl]

Hearing more and more of her new companions expressing their loyalty and willingness to fight alongside Plamaya made her smile as bright as the sun. When I decided I would enlist help in seeking the sword of my family, I did not expect something as wonderful as this. "It is I who is honored to be in the company of such people as yourselves. I am glad that you are all with me. Now come, let us rest for the night. Tomorrow we begin our journey." With that, the three humans, two elves, drow and sorcerer retired for the night.

[Éomond]

Edhelras went to his room, he took off his Rohirrim helmet and his mail. He also took Gailmagol, his sword off. All he was armed with now was a long knife and some small throwing knives. He lay on his bed for a while but couldn't sleep. He got up and went outside his room. He looked around but none of Plamaya's company was up. He walked downstairs, only the bartender was up, and a few humans and drunks. He walked over to the bartender "Small beer please." He waited for his drink. "Thank you." He said to the bard once he got it. He walked outside. He then went to the stables, and found his horse Aldor. Who wasn't alseep also. "Aldor-Loho?........Lôgrad?......." His words could be heard once in a while, quieting his horse in his native togue of Rohirric. He fed Aldor a carrot and stroked him to sleep. Once his horse was asleep, he smilied, he loved his horse and all horses. He didn't want to leave Aldor but he knew he had to get some sleep.
He walked back in the Inn and climbed up the stairs. He sat on his bed and sharpened Gailmagol, all the while thinking of his family back home: his father, his father-sister Éomyn, and his close friend and relitive Éorilim. He missed them now and...............
Edhelras woke up, it must have been a hour. He quickly put his sword aside and crawed under the covers and fell asleep in the nice, warm bed.

Outside, the moon had gotten darker, the air had gotten colder, and the world slept.

[Neothen]

Molfred's sleep was uneventful that night and the wind quietly brushed againts the window of his room. When he woke the next morning he went down stares to get a bite to eat.

[Astaldolosswen]

*after she had gone to her room, she couldn't fall asleep. she took a drink out of her pack that helps her to fall asleep when she is uneased and took a small drink of it. Right after she took the drink, she put it away and went to sleep. when she awoke the next morning, she went down the stairs to get herself some breakfast. she had eggs and bacon along with a cup of milk as her drink.*

[Kailita]

Kailita left the inn as silently as she had come and sought out the narrow, secluded alleyway she had slept in the night before. She had very little money, and all of it was Magdalanian, so she wasn't sure how much it would be worth in this new place...plus, she didn't want to seem any more of a stranger than she already appeared. So she went back to the small alley behind the house of the widowed laundress who had directed her to the inn to find Plamaya, spread out her travelling cloak on the ground, then curled up on top of it and tried to sleep. Her pack of javelins were nestled under one arm, her unarmed crossbow under the other...she had grown used to sleeping in such a manner. She remained that way, drifting in and out of slumber, until the first rays of the rising sun filtered through and aroused her.

[Astaldolosswen]

*when she is done eating, she goes and checks on her horse, Vanya Ninquë, to make sure that he is doing good in the care of the stablemen instead of her. She sees that he does not like the stable but knows that he has no other choice.*
"Don't worry old pal. We'll have you out of here in a little while."
*she decides to go on a quick joy ride on her horse before she has to help the others find this treasure. Vanya Ninquë likes it when she takes him joy riding. She doesn't go very far as she still has to pack up her things. She returns after about an hour of riding. She puts Vanya Ninquë back in his stable and returns to her room and starts to pack up her things. She changes into her old traveling clothes. She has a dark green long sleeve shirt on with mithril armor underneath. She then puts on a lighter green t-shirt on top of the dark green shirt. She then puts on her finger-cut gloves for handling her swords and packs away her healing herbs which she had bought just after she had gone joy riding. She packs up the food she had bought and put away her money. She put on her leg plates and shoulder plates for they might get into a fight where she would need her armor. She then went back down by her horse to give him a special type of food she makes just for him. She loves the way his fur shines in the sunlight. It makes him look to strong and proud and decides that after this, she will make sure that he doesn't have so many adventures as he is very old, but still as strong as when she met him.*

[HobbitGirl]

"...a madness, a horrible madness is coming over our people. I saw it happen! This man I passed walking home was just fine one moment, and then a black shadow within a shadow passed through him. Oh, it gave one the most horrid feeling. He fell on the ground, writhing, and when he arose again, he looked almost the same, but you could tell that he could no longer think or reason. He became as a beast, he was crawling on all fours and such. Suddenly he charged me, and I lost my wits and ran. I didn't know what else to do! Please, miss, help us!"

"I...can't," I said. "What can I do?"

"They're coming! Run! They'll kill us all!" the villager cried, and sreaming hysterically, ran up the hill. A couple dozen yards away I saw them, those men who had been turned into beasts by the shadow. They pounced on random villagers and then tore their throats out with thier teeth. One looked up from its kill, blood dripping from its mouth. And I knew what it wanted. It wanted my blood. And there was nothing I could do to stop it.

"No!" I cried. "I won't let you kill us! I am a Carasylia!" I looked down to see the sword in my hand, the sword of my family, but nothing was there. The creature with the dripping blood charged me. I stood where I was, helpless. "NO! NOOOO!"

Plamaya woke suddenly. She was cold and clammy and her sheets were soaked with sweat. Her nightmares had been becoming more and more frequent. She figured that this could mean only one thing: the evil that was her family's enemy had risen again.

It was still dark out when she awoke. Plamaya thought that the cool night air would help to ease her nerves. Still shaking a little from the memory of the dream, the young woman dressed and went outside for a short walk. It was dawn when Plamaya finally retured to the inn. She quickly packed up her things, slung her pack over her shoulder, and went to the common room to wait for the others to get up.

[Mablung]

Maegelen woke early then gathered his things and went down to the common room suprised to find Plamaya already up. He had always been an early riser and assumed he would be the first up. As he approached he noticed she had a far away look in her eyes and was shaking fairly badly. Again he sensed something off about this whole quest and sat down next to her. "Relax m'lady this group can handle a simple treasure quest, and whatever lies beyond that as well."

[Éomond]

Éomond woke up very slowed and forced himself to get out of bed. It took him around a half hour to get up, but he finally did. He put on his boots, and his chain mail hauberk, his leather vambraces on his forearms, his gloves, and his long sword and long knife. He put on his cloak and and quiver with his bow. He put his few belongings in his pack and headed out. He went down stairs and saw Plamaya and Maegelen sitting at a table. He smilied, the only two people he really trusted in this fellowship. He ordered a water and meat for his breakfast and ate silently. He looked from Maeg to Plamaya. Something in Plamaya's face said that this trip wasn't going to be easy. He finished his meal and looked back up at his two companions. "Have you two seen the others?"

[Mablung]

Maeg looked towards Eomond and shrugged. "One of them was sleeping behind the inn instead of inside a room. The others are off taking care of their own matters I believe. So much for the hope of getting an early start."

[Éomond]

Edhelras snorted "Does it really take this long to get ready?" He looked around some more and saw other of the group there in the room. "Well, maybe not. But it could take another day if they don't know when to come." Edhelras sighed heavily. And waited.

[Astaldolosswen]

*after she is done with her horse, she goes back into the inn and sees the others awake and sitting together at a table and notices that Plamaya seems to be farther away then the other day. she goes over by them and asks*
"Is everyone here or do we need to wait for some of the others yet? Plamaya, are you alright? You seemed shakened and your eyes tell me that you seem to be trapped in a bad dream or a bad memory."

[Kailita]

Kailita got to her feet after the slowly rising sun had pushed away her quiet dreams. She slung her pack of javelins back over her shoulder, checking to make sure that each one was accounted for, then loaded up her crossbow and returned it to its place on the strap on her back. She picked up her cloak and shook it out, getting out the dirt, then dusted herself off and started for the inn. She was all too aware of her now-matted red hair and the somewhat disheveled look about her, but if the others were up, she didn't want to keep them waiting.

As she pushed open the door to the inn and silently peeked inside, she saw Plamaya, Edhelras, Maegelen, and Astaldolosswen gathered together. Tying her hair back with the light green scarf, she joined them in time to hear Astaldolosswen inquiring about Plamaya's health. The young human girl glanced over at the leader of their quest and noted that she did seem a bit shaken by something...but Kailita held her silence and did not ask about it, waiting for Plamaya to reply to the elven woman's question.

[HobbitGirl]

He's close...so close...he might attack us when we leave...

Plamaya was jerked suddenly out of her thoughts by the Elf's voice. "Oh, nothing," she replied a little too hastily. "It's nothing."

[Astaldolosswen]

*notices the hastiness in her voice and knows that something is wrong*
"You answered my question pretty hastily. Please tell me if something is wrong."

[HobbitGirl]

"Really, it's nothing," Plamaya said slower and much more sincerly. "Bad dreams is all. I thank you for your concern, but it's nothing to be worried about." Yet, she thought.

[Astaldolosswen]

"Very well then. When will we be leaving?"

[Neothen]

All this time Molfred had been sitting at the bar. He hated it when people couldn't see him or forgot what he looked like. Molfred forgot about that matter and sat down at the table listening to the plan.

[HobbitGirl]

Eventually every person in the party had arrived in the common room. When Plamaya noticed that they had all sat down at their table, she shook off her dark thoughts and reganined her composure. Once again assuming the role of the leader, Plamaya said to them, "It's about time we got underway. All of you who have a horse, please pack it with provisions and equipment." There was a simultainious protest from Astal and Edhelras, but Plamaya interrupted them, saying, "I am sorry for treating your steeds as pack horses, but many of us do not posses a mount, and cannot afford one. I know that you would not be willing to leave your horses behind, so you can take them with us, but only if they are not a hinderence." Plamaya sighed seeing the angry looks on her companions' faces. She moved on. "Once the horses are ready to go, we will depart. Please, make haste. We must leave very soon."

[Astaldolosswen]

*she goes to the stables to retrieve her stallion Vanya Ninquë just so he could carry provisions and equipment. she thought to herself.*
Why can't we all just find horses for the rest of the group? My stallion is for riding and moving quickly. Not for carrying provisions and equipment.
*she goes by her stallion and tells him that he will be carrying some of the provisions and equipment, he is angry about that but would rather do that then stay in the stable at the inn while she goes on her way.*

[Kailita]

Kailita felt a little bit uncomfortable as she watched those who owned horses going out to load them up with disgruntled expressions. She didn't possess anything that she couldn't carry on her own back...she hoped no one would blame her for their having to use the steeds as pack animals. But the fact remained that she did not have a horse. Feeling somewhat embarrassed, she turned to Plamaya and asked quietly, "Since not everyone in the party has a horse...are we to walk to our destination on foot?"

[HobbitGirl]

"Yes, we are traveling on foot, unless by some miracle we can all scrounge up horses," Plamaya said impatiently, kneading her forehead with her knuckles. We have to get out of here, she thought. The longer we stay the more danger we are in. Noticing the slightly glum expression on Kailita's face, Plamaya turned to the girl. "I'm sorry for being so blunt," she said, a little friendier. "It's just that I want to get us out of this town as soon as possible. It would be preferable if we all had horses, but since we don't, we'll have to use at least one of our avalilable ones for equipment." She paused, then muttered to herself, "Goodness knows I can't afford even a pony, and what I would do if I had one!" Plamaya took a deep breath of the morning air, sighed, and began to knead her forehead again.

[Éomond]

Edhelras yelled aloud to his horse "Aldor!" He dark-brown horse came, Edhelras put his small pack and blanket on his horse and jumped on. He looked down to Plamaya and Kailita "Do not fret my friends, I have brought two friends from the Riddermark who might help you if you wish." Edhelras wisiled and yelled loudly "Goldwine! Nightshade!" Two horse came fast to him. "As you may know, this is Nightshade." He pointed to a dark-grey horse. "And this is Goldwine." It was a light-brown horse with a glowing mane. "Choose who you want, my friends will be happy to serve you."

[Kailita]

Kailita offered the older girl a small, understanding smile and risked patting her on the shoulder. She had gotten different reactions from different people after bestowing that gesture on others...but she knew it was always what she herself wanted when she had a lot on her mind, and she hoped it would be the same for Plamaya.

"I understand completely. I'm just a wanderer, I don't have a horse either. Don't worry. We'll be out of here in no time."

She offered another gentle smile, but turned abruptly when she heard Edhelras addressing her and Plamaya. At the sight of the beautiful steeds, she almost gasped aloud. She had always loved horses, but her family had only owned a few.

"They're wonderful...thank you so much!" she said, giving Edhelras a bright smile. She hoped he didn't think her too much of a child for showing her gratitude in such an open, enthusiastic way...but it was the only way she knew.

With a grin she turned to Plamaya, gesturing for her to make her pick first.

[Astaldolosswen]

*astaldolosswen comes to the front of the inn with her stallion Vanya Ninquë and she sees the two steeds from Edhelras and thought that they were nice, but still preferred her steed over the other two.*
"Those are very nice steeds you have there Edhelras. But I still think that mine is better. I will go and get us some more horses. I have plenty of money from my last journey. I will not go into detail, but it involved a troll's treasure hord."
*she mounts her horse and goes into town looking for a place that is selling horses. she finds one and asks how reliable the horses are and finds out that they are very reliable. she asks for five horses so they have some for provisions and asks how much they will cost and pays for them and still has plenty of money left over. she returns with the horses.*
"This should be more than enough I might say."
*she shows them the horses she has just bought.*
"Consider this as a gift from me to the others and our journey. Do not worry, I still have plenty of money left over. Enough to last me longer than I need it to."

OOC: Whoever takes a horse, you can make the horse look however you want and whatever gender you want. It don't matter to me.

[Mablung]

Maegelen cries out and runs over to one particurly brilliant and strong brown and white stallion. "We should go get a refund this is my horse Lightmane. Some brigands stole him from an inn a few weeks ago. I never did catch them, and would go investigate the seller but we have more important things right now."

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya looked up at Kailita when she got patted on the shoulder and gave a slight smile of gratitude. She didn't know what to say.

Only when Edhelras called his horses over to them did Plamaya snap out of her worried thoughts. In fact, she snapped so hard that Kailita's hand, which was still on Plamaya's shoulder, was jerked away. Plamaya looked at the horses, and for a moment an expression of disbelief was on her face. But it only lasted briefly and was replaced with a smile so broad that one would think that Plamaya's mouth was going to fall off of her face. "Ha. Ha! HA! Ha ha ha! Edhelras, I cannot thank you enough!" Then, to the man's utter surprise, Plamaya ran to Edhelras and threw her arms around him. She seemed to relize what she was doing, for the next moment Plamaya's arms were around her back and her cheeks were flushed. To her imense relief, however, the man of Rohan was smiling.

After an akward pause, Plamaya finally noticed Kailita's gestures to pick a horse. Plamaya studied the beautiful steeds for a moment. "Well," said Plamaya, "I think that Goldwine should be ridden by Kailita, for a steed so fair seems fitting for one so vibrant. In that case I will ride Nightshade."

"Astal...I do not know what to say, except I am so grateful! Now it seems that everyone has a horse, and we have two left over! I cannot thank you enough!" Plamaya was sure that Kailita and Edhelras were wondering if Plamaya would embrace Astal as well, but Plamaya did not wish to embarass herself again.

Plamaya walked over to Nightshade and stroked his magnificent neck. He nuzzed her reassuringly. Plamaya mounted him, and he was willing beneath her. The rest of the company mounted thier steeds as well. "Well, it seems that everything is taken care of. Let us get under way!"

With that, Plamaya, Edhelras, Maegelen, Kailita, Astal, Kellivara and Molfred rode out of the gates of Bree and onto the East-West Road.

[Astaldolosswen]

*looks over at Maegelen and says*
"Then he is yours to keep. I do not need my money back. I have more then I need. And if I need more, I can always return to my homeland to get some from my stash."
*she is glad that Maegelen found his old horse.*

[Éomond]

Edhelras smileld at Kailita and Plamaya "They shall be your horses to keep, they both seem to like you, and you may have them if you want." Edhelras was happy that he could help already and without sword or spear.
His smile did fade away though, he rememberd what Astal had said ..but I still think that mine is better "Yours are better you say!?" Edhelras cried aloud, "What horse can beat or be better than one of the Riddermark? Only Mearas I think, and your steeds look none like a Mearas. For it is I and my people who have earned the title Rohirrim, meaning 'horse-lords,' and yours has not? Do not challenge the steeds of Rohan, for they are the finest and best in all Middle-earth. I love all horses though, and I don't hate any single one." Edhelras turned away. Why had he done that? He didn't mean to hurt ones feeling, especialy in his group. Was it that he missed his family? He held his spear up-right and got ready to ride off.

[Neothen]

Molfred decided that they needed all the horses that they could get so he blew a small whistle. A black stalion rode up to his side and stood proudly infront of the company. "Don't mind my horse, Morthal. He likes attention so don't give it to him."

[Astaldolosswen]

*she looks over at Edhelras*
"Can your horses keep up with a dragon flying at full speed?"
*she sees the black stallion and is in awe as he is very handsome.*
"He is very handsome Molfred. Where did you get him?"

[Neothen]

"Neothen gave him to me when I became general, oh, and not to brag, but I have a dragon back home and I don't think a horse can outrun one." Molfred didn't want to say that and he didn't want to hear that Astal's horse has outrun a dragon either.

[Astaldolosswen]

"I'm not saying my horse can outrun one, but he can keep up with one if I ask him to. He has done it in the past and can most likely do it again."

[HobbitGirl]

The company, having left Bree and started thier journey eastward, was making good speed on thier new steeds. The three extra horses trotted behind the company, laden down with packages. Kailita and Plamaya had expressed thier deepest thanks to Edhelras for letting them keep the wonderful steeds of Rohan.

After about a day of riding the seven treasure-seekers reached the Midgewater Marshes. Although the East-West road ran around the marshes, the road was somewhat wet and soggy. The sun was setting, and bright Earandil was rising, when Plamaya said to the company, "Let us make camp here for the night. We should not go any further while the darkness lasts."

[Mablung]

Maegelen groans as they begin putting up their camp. "Why the MidgeWater marshes? These bugs will tear us apart before whatever else we encounter on the way has a chance. Give me orcs give me easterlings even give me balrogs, but not mosquitos!"

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya looked in the direction of the main part of the marshes. "Hum...." she said to herself. "This is strange. The last time I passed this way the midges did not reside in this area. The marshes must be spreading. Well, in any case, it is getting dark, and I do not think it wise to travel during the night."

[Astaldolosswen]

"But of all places the midgewater marshes? Why not stay on the edge before they start? It is not that far from where we are and it's better than getting all of our stuff wet and being eaten by mosquitos."
*she swats at a mosquito*

[HobbitGirl]

"Well, technically we're not in the Marshes yet, being only on the side of the road," Plamaya replied. "But the water from the marshes seems to have been spreading over the road, hence the midge infestation." Plamaya swats a midge.

[Astaldolosswen]

"I do not wish to get my stuff ruined and be eaten alive by these pests."

[Éomond]

Edhelras looked at Astal "What did you mean by my horses outruning dragons? There haven't been dragons since the Third Age, almost a thousand years, since Smaug, so what did you mean by that?"

Edhelras took off the small pack on his horse. He did not complain about the bugs, although they did bother him. He left his bow and quiver at the camp and took only his spear and Gailmagol. He jumped on Aldor "I'm going to look around for awhile." With that, Aldor and him flew away into the darkness.
He looked around, it was very hard to see, and Aldor was getting scared.....

[Neothen]

Molfred was getting annoyed at the little knoledge people had about the creatures that still lurked in ME. The larger dragons had been killed but other dragons from far off lands came. Although they were small dragons they were quite strong and powerful, but they hated to get in contact with humans so they stayed hidden.

[Astaldolosswen]

*when Edhelras comes back she plans to tell him about the dragon that protects her village, Tirninquë White Guard. He was a magnificent silver dragon who was very friendly to the elfs of Celeb Tauronrim. She remembered when she had to keep up with him because there was a great evil and danger growing down the main road from her village. she remembered all the friends she had made on that journey.*

[Neothen]

Molfred looks around and sees something sparkle. He walks over and picks it up. It was a scale and quite large. Molfred looked closer. It had a white slash blueish(SP) color. Then he realized what it belonged to. "Leviathan is around here, don't shoot if you see him." Molfred yelled across the camp. Suddenly a pure white dragon flys over the camp. It flys higher and higher until it is out of sight. "Damn....why....why did Neothen send him." Molfred sat down on the ground in an angry manner. "Don't worry, that was Leviathan, Neothen's dragon. I thought he wouldn't interfere with my travels, but I was wrong. I'm sorry for that, but Leviathan has a mind of his own sometimes and he can be dangeruos to people he doesn't know. He won't come back unless I get into battle, but I'll take care of him if that happens." Molfred tried to forget what had just happen and he tried to eat.

[HobbitGirl]

Desptite the wet conditions, the company managed to light a fire and cook a meal. The found the driest spots they could and eventually fell asleep.

It is a curse. He searches ever for me, and when It is with me, It lets Him sense me. He will know who I am. And He will kill me for it. But It is a gift as well. It allows me to stop Him. That's why He wants me dead. He has feared my family longer than memory goes back. We are the only ones who can oppose Him. And I am the last.

Plamaya woke suddenly and stared into the darkness. She was certain she had heard something. It was a horse whinnying. Eldheras's horse! she thought. You fool, Plamaya! You were so aborbed in your thoughts you didn't stop to notice Eldheras was missing! Plamaya got up from circle of light the dying embers of the fire made, and without disturbing any of the company save in a fleeting dream, walked silently away.

[Éomond]

Edhelras was riding around in the darkness, he could see the fires of the camp but they were very small specks of light by now.
Edhelras heard a noise, and gripped his spear harder, he looked to his right, then to his left. He then saw a man, but it didn't seem completely like him. Edhelras realized in horror that the man was eating at the horse and drinking it blood. The man was crawing on all fours, his face void of all intelligence except the reptillian desire to feed, red eyes, and very dishevled. Edhelras breathed hard, and the beast had heard them. It lunged towards Aldor and Edhelras, Aldor cried aloud, but, Edhelras had been ready and threw the spear into it. He then unsleathed his long sword Gailmagol, and was ready to attack. Just then, he saw Plamaya, her sword drawn "No Plamaya! Go back! I can handle the beast!" Just after he said that, two more of the man-beast creature came out of the woods. Plamaya was ready, and Edhelras knew there was no way he could change her mind. Plamaya ran, and Aldor charged. Aldor ran past one, and Edhelras swung his sword and it. He turned Aldor around, and charged again and again. After the beast had been greatly injured, Edhelras jumpped of Aldor and ran at it. He drew his long knife also. He stabbed with his knife and slashed with his sword. He caught it's eye with his long knife, and the creature howled in pain and stood back. Edhelras put his knife away and gripped is sword with both his hands, and swung as hard as he could with his sword. The head of the beast's head went flying. He looked around and saw one of the other beast that he threw his spear into. It started to run at him, but was stopped by Aldor who knocked it aside. It roared at the horse, and with it's mouth wide open, Edhelras took out one of his throwing knife and threw it into the creatures mouth, and it fell to the ground and did not move again. Edhelras got all of his weapons and jumped on Aldor, and watched Plamaya fight the last beast. Edhelras was ready to attack at the smallest hint of deafet.....


HALT!
wait for HG to post

[HobbitGirl]

No! Plamaya cried in her head. No, not yet! This is too soon! I don't have It yet! The creature crawled cautiously towards the young woman, seemingly sniffing out his opponent. Plamaya stared at the beast-like man in horror, clutching her sword. Suddenly the beast jumped at her. It jumped on Plamaya's chest, knocking her to the ground, and it began trying to claw at her face. Plamaya threw the beast off of her and swung her sword at the man-beast's neck. He doged just in time to prevent from being decapitated, but Plamaya's sword sliced off it's arm. The creature howled in pain, a high, screechy, inhuman sound. While the creature was looking at it's blood-gushing stump of an arm, Plamaya moved in and chopped off it's head.

The young woman stood in the dark clearing, panting. Eldheras on Aldor went up to Plamaya and asked her, "What in Middle-Earth were those...things? They looked like men, but they were not men. They were not even sentient. They--"

Suddenly Eldheras stopped speaking. Plamaya knew why. A horrible darkness within a darkness was looming on the edge of the clearing. It radiated fear, yet it also made one want to kill. Both humans stood for a moment, paralyzed with fear and yet entranced at the same moment.

Plamaya broke the deadly silence at last. Without asking him, Plamaya hopped onto Aldor behind Eldheras with the speed of one who is truly frightened. "Run!" she screamed. "Go! Ride! Fly!" Whether it was Eldheras or Aldor or both of them that responded Plamaya did not know, but the three of them took off like a shot.

When Eldheras and Plamaya came storming into the camp on Aldor, every member of the company was awakened by the galloping of hoves. "Get on your horses!" Plamaya yelled. "Fly! We must fly!" Such was the urgency and fear in her voice that everyone immediatly got up, packed thier things quick as a flash, and in a minute were gone.

Plamaya hoped that no one would ask why they had to leave so quickly, but she knew that sooner or later someone would ask. The seven riders had been going throughout the night and into the middle of the next day, for Plamaya urged them on faster than any wanted to go. Finally they made camp once more. Plamaya waited for the questions to come and comtemplated how she was going to answer them.

[Kellivara]

*Kellivara rans her hands along Sirree's coat, along her flanks, her neck, sides, belly, back, and when she was done massaging them she moved to the horses's face and began stroking her fingers along the curves of the obsidian mare's skull.*

Sirree was a beatiful mare, blacker than a night withought moon or stars, and faster than even most of the horses of Rohan. She had been with Kell on all her journeys, and would be there always in the future. And the best part was, no one else could ride her, or make her a pack-horse for that matter, for she was always riden unbridled and unsaddled, and she would only let Kell stay on her back.

[Éomond]

Edhelras had lit a small fire and sat near it. He sat completely still, his eyes wide open, staring at the fire. What he had seen, scared him.......
He tired to shake it off, but couldn't. He lay down to rest, and feel asleep quickly, but waking up often, to any small noise that could be heard.

Close by, Maegelen looked around at the others, trying to figure out what happened without asking a question right away.

[Astaldolosswen]

*astal could see the fear in Edhelras' eyes and knew that when they left their first camp so quickly that something was terribly wrong. she decided not to ask right away as she knew that she should give them time to calm down from their fright. after about an hour passed she went up to Plamaya and asked.*
"Why did we have to leave so suddenly? I heard strange sounds in the night, but figured that they were of no harm. What is going on Plamaya?"
*she waited for Plamaya to answer her*

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya took a deep breath. "I knew that eventually I would have to explain this to all of you, I...I just wanted to wait until you asked." Plamaya took another deep breath.

"I haven't told any of you this yet, but I am one of the family of Carasylia. Now you may be thinking, 'Who are the Carasylias?' We are not very well known because we do not make ourselves very well known. This is because every member of my family that has ever been born into this world has been hunted by a terrible evil." The company leaned a little closer to Plamaya to listen to what she was saying. Plamaya took a third deep breath, but this time the air rasped in her chest ever so slightly.

"This evil is an ancient demon created by Morgoth." At the mention of the name of the first Dark Lord, the elves cringed a bit. Plamaya continued. "In the time between the breaking of Angband and Sauon's return to Mordor from the ruin of Numenor, this demon lay dormant in the deep places of the earth. But when Sauron began stirring up evil, he put this demon to use again. About this time my family, the Carasylias, arose. We have combated this demon since then. He became dormant again after Sauron's first fall, when the Ring was taken from the Dark Lord, and after Sauron's second fall, when the Ring was destroyed. It is many decades now since the War of the Ring, and yet some of the Dark Lord's servants are still on the loose. The demon that is the enemy of my family has awoken again, why I do not know. But I do know how terrible his power is."

"This demon does not have any real name that we know of. But ever since he awoke in the Second Age my family has called him Bloodlust. This is because of what he can do. Whenever he passes through a person, that person is robbed of all rational thought, robbed even of their intelligence. They become as beasts, and you can see it in thier eyes that they can no longer think like one of the Free Peoples. The person is transformed into a beast, yet they still look like they did to begin with, except that their eyes turn red. They hunger for only one thing, and that is blood. It does not matter what kind of blood to them. Sheep blood, horse blood, human blood, elf blood, it is all the same to them."

There was a pause as a look of horror registered on every member of the company's face. Eldheras spoke next.

"So those things that attacked us in the clearing...that's what they were. They...were once...men."

"Yes," Plamaya said.

There was another silence. Then Kailita asked, "You say that this Bloodlust thing can pass through people. How is that possible?"

Plamaya took a deep breath for the fourth time. She repiled, "Bloodlust does not always have a body. Usually he walks the earth in the form of a shadow, a terrible black shadow, that seems to swallow all life and gives off fear. His power to make all those he touches into blood-lusting beasts can also be somehow felt, but in the way that it makes whoever stands near think of blood." Eldheras looked up at Plamaya, his face pale. She seemed to read the look on his face, for Plamaya said, "Yes, Eldheras. The shadow within a shadow we saw was Bloodlust himself."

[Astaldolosswen]

"We had better hope then that he does not take any of our company members, otherwise, we might be at an even bigger disadvantage. How do we defeat Bloodlust anyway?"
*she wants to know, because she has a few friends who live near the villages of men and where Plamaya had seen him last.*

[HobbitGirl]

"Defeating Bloodlust is the reason why I set out on this journey in the first place," Plamaya answered. "The sword that I seek, the sword Kaedero, it is the sword of the Carasylias. Every member of the Carasylia family has possesed the sword at some point in thier life. It is said that when a Carasylia dies, they leave some of thier spirit in the sword. It binds all Carasylias throughout the generations. Kaedero is the key to defeating Bloodlust. It is said that when Bloodlust sees Kaedero in the hands of a Carasylia, he must assume a form of flesh and blood. Only then can he be defeated." Plamaya sighed. "I am the last of the Carasylias. I am the only one who can force Bloodlust into a body so that he might be defeated. But..." Plamaya paused. "I do not know how strong the demon will be even when he wears a body. That is truly why I need your help. I...I am sorry for misleading you in the beggining. I thought that if you knew what sort of peril this quest would bring you into that you would not be willing to come."

[Mablung]

Maeg sighed and laid back against a rock tired. "Well I could tell you were lying because you were not any good at it. But I never imagined it would be anything like this. This truly shall be a journey I will remember in song. Then years after too I suppose." Maeg mused a bit not being scared or affected by this news.

[Astaldolosswen]

"What do you mean when you say 'into a body'? Is he forced into someone elses body, or does he make his own?"
*she is confused and worried about what the answer might be.*

[HobbitGirl]

Plamaya was deep in thought when Astal asked her question. She looked up at the elf. "Bloodlust makes his own body. He is a corrupted Maia, and a powerful one at that, so he is capable of it."

[Astaldolosswen]

"Okay, so that would be kind of dangerous and if he is strong in his body form, do you think that you will be able to defeat him on your own?"

[Éomond]

Edhelras looked around at the other member of the company. He knew that they saw the fear in his eyes, and he hated that. He did not want to apear as the scared one in the group, but what he had seen.....
Edhelras took a drink of water and a specail medcine. He walked over to where his tent, fire and all his few belongings where. Aldor had been away for away, eating and drinking, and now was on the ground alseep. Aldor sometimes stood up when he sleept, but this time Edhelras was very glad Aldor was on the ground. Edhelras wrapped himself up in a blanket and used Aldor as a pillow. And both of them slept their worrys and fears off.

[Astaldolosswen]

*she decides not to ask anymore questions until something unusual happens. she goes over by her pack and goes to sleep.*

[Kailita]

Kailita could not sleep that night. Dark, half-formed thoughts fluttered through her head...for the first time in quite a while, she felt homesick. She wondered what she had gotten herself into, searching around for adventure...why, she could be back at home with her family now if she had just settled down and been content to stay in one place. But no...there was no turning back now. Curling up next to the beautiful horse that had been given to her, she tried to get some rest, watching the forms of the others and keeping her weapons close at hand.

[Neothen]

"Your family reminds me alot of Neothen's family. The way his sword collects the powers of his ancestors. It has a name but it is only known by the maker. Neothen doesn't even know what the purpose of his sword is." Molfred looked a bit tired but he wanted to stay awake in fear of any attacks.

[Astaldolosswen]

*Astal cannot sleep as easily as she normally can. she tosses and turns trying to get the images of death and pain out of her mind, but she can't. she wakes up many times during the night and sees Molfred and Kailita still awake. she goes back to sleep, but the same images come back to her. she has been through to much she thinks to herself. she sees all of the images from the past. they all just rush back to her mind and she wakes up and she fears to go back to sleep, so she stays awake the rest of the night.*

[Kellivara]

*wakes up exactly halfway through the night and walks over to where Kailita lay curled up, tossing and turning, trying to sleep* "Aye, I'm awake now, and I plan on staying up the rest of the night to keep watch. And since Astal is awake as well, she will most likely be keeping watch as well. And do not be weary, if there is an attack, I will make sure you are the first one awakened. Try to get some sleep, from the way this journey is progressing, tomorrow will most likely be a very eventful day. Aye, and if it will put you any more at ease, I'll wake you up at the slightest suspicious movement."

*Kellivara then walks over to where Molfred is still keeping watch*
"Aye, you should get some sleep as well. You'll be of more use to everyone if you are well rested. My drow eyes, accustomed to deep shadow, will catch most anything that moves, especially at night. Between Astal and I, I'm sure we'll see anything creeping anywhere near the camp."

*Kell walks over to Astal* "Well then, I guess we've got watch then. Aye, you wouldn't believe the many times I been put up for night-watch. Guess it comes with bein' a drow, eh?"

*Kell sits down on a nearby rock, and her eyes flash silver for a moment before turning crimson red with silver cat-eye slits in the middle* "Aye, there's a family of sparrows sleeping in their nest a few miles off, do you see it?" *points to her right and waits for Astal to find it before she drops her arm* "Aye, I don't know what I'd do without my elven vision, or my drow vision for that matter. For my drow vision at night is almost exactly equal to my elven vision during the day.....anyway........" *Kell then went back to scanning over and over the landscape around her, taking in and identifying every movement her eyes caught, and as well listening intently to every motion of sound*

[Neothen]

Molfred did not want to sleep so instead he took Morthal and he wraped his dark traveling cloak around his body and rode off for a while. Molfred looked a lot like a wraith in the moonlight with his black horse and black robes. He rode a long perimeter around the camp until morning.

[Kailita]

Kailita did not really want to sleep either, but the day had taken its toll on her, and she was weary in body and mind. And if there was one thing she had learned in her short time as a wanderer, it was that sleep was essential.

She was surprised but comforted when Kellivara woke and approached her, speaking words of reassurance. Strange, how the drow who made her so ill at ease in the beginning could seem as such a friend now. But Kailita took Kell's words to heart and laid her head back down, closing her eyes and willing her heartbeat to slow down, trying to rid herself of her anxieties. In time, her breathing became heavy and she drifted into sleep.

[Astaldolosswen]

*she looks over at Kell*
"Yes, I guess us elves will be keeping watch tonight. The family of sparrows is nice over there. There are many animals that come out tonight."
*she goes back to keeping watch. if she sees anything, she has her bow ready and her sword by her side.*

[HobbitGirl]

Surprisingly, Plamaya slept that night, and her slumber was not plagued by any visions of darkness. She woke just as the Sun was groping with her firey fingers over the horizon. The air of uneasiness and uncertainty among the company from the night before had lessened with the night, but it was still present. After each memeber of the company was roused, breakfast over, and everything packed and ready to go, Plamaya began to speak of their plans.

"This is where we will leave the road and trek through the wilderness. To the northeast of here lies the Weather Hills. Going through the hills is a long and laborous trek, but not as grueling as one might assume. If one continues to travel northeast, one eventually leaves the Hills behind. Eventually, if we keep to a north-easterly course, we will hit the Ettenmoors, where we must search for the cave in which the treasure is hid. I am unfamiliar with the land between the Weather Hills and the Ettenmoors, but I have heard that evil still lurks there; a remnant of the Witch-realm of Angamar of old."

[Astaldolosswen]

*Astal had listened intently to what Plamaya had said and then said with a serious tone.*
"Very well. If we must fight this evil you have heard of, then we will fight till the bitter end. We will help you find this sword you seek and rid the world of the evil that parels the life you and your family have sought. We will not give up. We are at your service, we will not turn away. It is a little late for that, we must continue onward and not backward. If we must go through the Weathered Hills, and then through the Witch-realm of Angamar of old, then so be it."
*she had the most serious look on her face and she was not ready to back down and run away scared. she would help Plamaya as if she were her own family and she would protect her with her life. she wanted this evil that only her sword could destroy to be destroyed and she was not going to give in to the forces of evil, no matter how tempting. she had been in worse, and has lived through it. now she sees this is her last journey as far as she sees it. she is ready to just enjoy nature.*

[Kailita]

Kailita nodded slowly at Plamaya's words. Kailita had been through hills before...she had lived in them...it would not be difficult for her to pick her way through another range of them. She felt energized, after having a good breakfast and finally getting some sleep, and though she still felt a twinge of apprehension, she was ready to dive into whatever came at them. Giving Goldwine a pat, she turned to the others, waiting for a sign to get going.

[Neothen]

Molfred enjoyed everyones enthusiasm(SP) for the mission, but all the talk of family made Molfred think of his. His family was made from the utmost evil of the world. But that had all changed, Molfred's father is the last Rudigar that shares the evil part of the family. Molfred did not miss his family, in fact, he wanted the remanes of his family dead. He wanted to start a new family of good intentions. Molfred came back to reality and listened.

[Astaldolosswen]

*she packs up her things and then puts them on her horse Vanya Ninquë. she mounts him waiting for everyone else to get ready to go.*
"If we want this evil gone and gone soon, we better get going now."
*she points in the direction of northeast and looks out over that way.*

[Kellivara]

*Kellivara makes sure all her weapons are secure, then quickly mounts Sirree and starts walking her in big circles around the camp to flex the horses muscles before they head out*

[HobbitGirl]

At last the company set out on the longest leg of thier journey. They turned off the great East-West Road and made thier way towards the Weather Hills. Each member of the fellowship had similar feelings of aprension, excitement, and a lingering edge of fear. They did not know what they would meet on the way to thier destination, but they all kept thier eyes and ears open and thier weapons close at hand.

[Neothen]

Molfred rode at the side of the group on Morthal. He didn't know how he would be able to make it through his first quest away from home. He had been on many dangerous journeys, but he felt that this one had a special meaning to it. He felt the evil of his family boil in his veins as he thought about it.

[Kailita]

Kailita trotted along on Goldwine just a little bit behind Plamaya and Kellivara, the breeze blowing wisps of her red hair around her face. She wished she knew more of this territory and what awaited them, but she put her faith in Plamaya and steadily trotted on.

She eyed the rest of the company quietly, somewhat shyly. Though no one had been openly hostile with her, she did not feel quite accepted by anyone beyond Kell and perhaps Plamaya and Eomond. She wanted to carry her own weight and prove that she wouldn't be a burden to the quest, but she wasn't quite sure of how to go about doing that. So she sighed and resigned herself to just watching, waiting for an opportunity.

[Kellivara]

*Kell squirmed a bit or Sirree's back, the deathly quiet and stillness between the company was rather getting to her after a while. She couldn't stand it any longer, so she flipped her hood back as her eyes flashed red just long enough to look around to be sure there was no immidiate danger.*

"I will return shortly" Kell said to Plamaya as she reached up and took the daggers & silver pins out of her hair and let it fall down her back

*And at that she leaned down to whisper something into Sirree's ear, and the horse took of at lightning speed. As Kell took off on the mare's back, her hair flew about 3 feet behind her, it's silver sheen shimmering in the sunlight in contrast to her cloak billowing out like a ribbon and Sirree's obsidian black coat, tail, and mane, which reflected no light at all, and looked as if made of pure shadow.*

*after she had gone about 3 miles out, she turned Sirree around and began to head back, before she lost sight of the company.*

*as she returned to the group, she was laughing as she had not done in some time, and in response to this Sirree threw up her head and whinnied loudly*

*Kell rode up to Kailita-still laughing-and Sirree whinnied again as she approached* "Aye, Kailita, I should take you with me next time, it is very refreshing to ride faster than the wind can blow, and the feeling of being content is one of the most contageous, already half this company is smiling! They may think me childish now, but I have not ridden Sirree in such a way for some time, and I wouldn't trade the experience for the world." *Kell stopped speaking when she realized just how quickly she was speaking, and instead of rambling on further she reached down and wrapped her arms around Sirree's neck and stayed there, catching her breath from the glorious ride*

[Astaldolosswen]

*she smiled at Kell and how she could possibly act like she didn't have a care in the world. she rode over by Kell and said with a smile*
"Having fun?"
*she wished Vanya Ninquë would still do that with her, but he had gotten to serious in his lifetime and thought that to be childish when on a long, and dangerous journey.*

[Kellivara]

*now Kell had pulled out a silver brush with an inscription in a language none but Kell in this company could read, and was trying to get all the knots out of her hair that her joyride had caused while Sirree calmly followed the group*

*Kell looked up as Astal rode up and spoke to her*

"Yes, much fun!^_^"

[Kailita]

Kailita's eyes widened the smallest bit as she watched Kell take daggers out of her hair before her wild ride. She was intrigued by this...Kailita had always kept her daggers close at hand - in her boots, along her belt, in secret sheaths in her pockets - but never in her hair.

She smiled as the restless drow came back from her joy ride, laughing. "I do know what it's like to ride that fast," the girl replied, a quiet light shining in her eyes. "My father loves horses. We used to keep a few. They were our most precious treasures." She gave her own horse a gentle pat, then added, "But I don't want to wear Goldwine out...especially since she is not my own horse."

At Kell's mention of being seen as childish, Kailita quickly said, "Of course I don't think you're childish. We all feel the need to ride hard and fast at times..."

The human girl quieted as Astal joined them and spoke to Kell, but she did note the silver brush Kell ran through her hair. Kailita couldn't keep down a wry smile. How long had it been since her own hair had had a proper brushing? Probably not since she left home. As a wanderer, she couldn't afford to bring anything with her than what she needed to survive, so brushes were definitely a luxury item. She loved her hair and knew it would probably be prettier if she had the chance to brush it every now and again...but it was a pain to go through, especially now that it was so tangled. And the wildness of it made her feel more free...

[Astaldolosswen]

*she sees Kailita and feels that she feels almost like a loner. she looks at Kailita and says*
"It is nice to know that you treasure horses very much. I treasure my horse more then any other. He is very dear to me, and he has been through more stuff with me then any other horse or person."
*she smiles at Kailita.*

[Kellivara]

*Kell was twisting her hair in about a million ways at once now*

"If it weren't such a bother to put it back up I'd let my hair down a lot more often:rolleyes: " she said as she began carefully replacing the daggers and silver pins in her hair*

*As Kell noticed Kailita's glance towards her brush she said quietly "Someone gave me this brush many years ago...it is very precious to me^_^........I can let you use it the next time we camp, granted that may be a while, but ya gotta live a little, ne? Even a warrior needs friends, and even the most serious of warriors has to let go sometime^_^ I've learned that over the years, it's one of the most important lessons I've ever learned too, ya know?"

[Neothen]

Molfred sat back on his horse listening to all the women in the company talk. He pulled out his throwing knife that was stashed in his armor. He examined the blade carefully. He hadn't checked his weopons for a long time and this was the time to do it. He then checked his sword. They were all in great condition and so was the viles that held his medicine.

[Astaldolosswen]

*Astal didn't like the way Kailita felt about her being in the group. she could also feel the vibes coming from Kailita when others came to talk to Kell when she was talking to her, she felt as if they didn't like her and just backed down. she wanted her to feel that she was a part of this group and everybody liked her. she says to Kailita*
"So where exactly are you from? You must come from a family who adored horses if you adore them so much."

[Mablung]

Maegelen sat in the back by Molfred strumming his lute trying to think of a song.

[Kailita]

Kailita returned Astal’s smile, cheered at the sudden pleasantness of the elf and her efforts to be friendly. “Your horse seems very regal, Astaldolosswen. My mother calls horses like that ‘stallions of conquerors’, because they always seem to belong to people of wisdom or power. My mother had a horse like that…very much like yours, actually. She was…well, is a warrior. She’s sort of retired now, since she’s settled down, married my father, and had my brothers and me…but she still goes out to battle whenever she’s needed. She has the spirit of a fighter.”

A glimmer of a grin passes across Kailita’s face as she slowly opens herself up a little more. “I grew up in a land of hills and fields called Aladanse. It’s in a country far from here, a place called Magdala. I do miss it some…but I wanted to explore, see places beyond my little world.” Her smile grows a bit. “My family does love horses. My mother thinks they’re beautiful creatures, but has little patience with any of them but her own. But my father is a very gentle man, and a healer, so he’s always working with animals, usually injured or lost ones. We’ve kept a few horses over the years. They’ve always been some of my favorite animals.”

Patting Goldwine’s mane, Kailita listened to Maegelen strumming on his lute, welcoming the music. Remembering Kell and her silver brush, Kailita asked out of curiousity, “So who gave you that hairbrush, Kell? Someone special?”

[Kellivara]

*Kell's face lit up quite noticeably* yea, someone very dear to me gave me this brush. But I have not seen him in some time....

[Neothen]

Molfred sat up quickly in order to listen to the conversation. Things are getting interesting, Molfred thought to himself.

[Astaldolosswen]

*she sees Molfred sit up quickly, but he didn't notice that she noticed. she looks over at Kell and asks* "Who was this person who gave you your brush? He must have been very dear to you if you would of held onto his memory for so long." *she turns back to Kailita and says* "He is very strong, but is also getting old, I will need a new horse after this journey I think. He has been with me many, many years. He is very regel, I was an advisor to a king and queen in the elven kingdom of Celeb Tauronrim. He has been with me since a while before I lived there. He belonged to my father and my father gave him to me, I feel very honored to have him as my horse." *she looks back at Kell and waits for her answer*

[Kellivara]

*Kell smiles as a memory came to her* "Aye, I do keep his memory alive, but that is because I hope to see him again. I have not seen him since I left home many years ago, and on my short visits back I have not run into him yet"

*after a moment of silence Kell continues on as she realizes they were expecting more of an explanation* "He is a very dear friend of mine, ever since I was a child, and has become so much more over the many years we've known eachother^_^ But, I think I will leave it at that for now....."

[sauronbill]

Not far from where the company was, was the little village of Tyragoc. Tyragoc had been there since a century ago, and also that the people there had been attcaked many times but all kinds of things, all kinds of elves and good things had passed through there too. But the people from Tyragoc hadn't had a single battle in more than thirty years. But in these dark times strange creatures had been seen around, and shadows were already started to cover some parts of the land. From a fair distance a wraith, a dark rider observed the village with his two red eyes. He had orders from his dark master(the demon who else) to raise the village that night. With him there were several beast-men covered in dark clothes. Their teeths and claws were hugry for blood. Plus there were also 2 tall humanoid figures dressed with a dark coat and they had red skin. They were extremely thin and their teeth long and sharp. Each of them carried a golden staff in their right hand. The dark rider seemed absort in his thougths when two more of the tall red figures appeared at his side.
"We have spotted a company of travelers not far from here. They are not many, but i sense great magic in most of them. And some are elves.They can create trouble with our plans."
"I won't stop for a bunch of foolish travelers that will probably run when they hear the first screams. Alert the rest of the company, that village is going to be ours tonight....." After these words the tall red figures made a reverence and dissapeared. The dark knight was close to Tyragoc's cementery. He raised his dark blade that gave a strange violet blow. The darkness covered the sky and the sacred land where the dead rested in peace.
"Arise, my childs,"said the wraith with a deep voice,"arise and serve my great master Bloodlust....I command you in his name to obey my word, and to give me your inmortal souls....." After these words, all the graves opened and more than 20 undead raised from their graves, each one of them armed with a long sword in one hand, and a round shield in the other. The dark rider looked over the horizon, at the huge shadow covering everything now. It will be complete at sunset, and that's when the village would fall......

[HobbitGirl]

The company soon left the Weather Hills behind, and decended onto the plain. Crowning the peaks of the hills was a thick fog, and every rider in the group was happy to get out of that wet, cold mess of shadows and mist. Once the company got out of the fog, they spotted the town of Tyragoc and made thier way towards it. But amidst the firey setting of the sun, something seemed wrong with the sky. There was a shadow hanging over the Tyragoc, a shadow that seemed alive and full of malice. As they drew closer, the riders began to smell smoke and hear screams coming from the village. Plamaya halted and sniffed the air.

"Do you smell that?" she asked the others. "I smell wood burning. And other things burning too." She sniffed again, then started. "Hair! And human flesh! Someone is attacking the town!" With that the young woman drew her sword and urged Greymantle forward. Oh please, don't let anything worse than orcs be here, Plamaya prayed. Please Eru, don't let this be His work.

The seven riders approached the cloud of smoke that was before the town. Each had their weapons drawn, and Plamaya was at their head. All at once they plunged into the smoke and emerged into a scene of chaos and devestation. People were screaming hysterically, houses, inns, and businesses were ablaze, and the ground was scattered with the dead. Running after the survivors were hideous creatures. With the heat and the smoke it was at first hard to tell just what they were, but at last the riders saw that they were undead corpes. One of the corpses, half of whose face was eaten away by maggots and was walking on his backwards-broken ankles, had cornered a dark haired man, who was cowering and whimpering like a child.

Suddenly, something whistled past Plamaya's head and the corpse fell to the ground with a large shaft in his side. Plamaya whirled around and saw that Kailita had her arm raised and another javelin ready in her hand. "Nice shot, my friend," Plamaya said with a smile. Kailita's throw had raised the fighting spirits of the company, and shouting the different battle cries of their homelands, each one charged at the undead.

[Kailita]

Kailita returned Plamaya's smile and nodded at her much appreciated praise, but the light of battle had come into her brown-flecked green eyes and she was ready to fight. She could feel the adrenaline coursing through her body...blood pumping furiously...her fight-or-flight instincts had been aroused, and she wasn't about to run away. She threw herself into the fray, javelin in one hand and a knife in the other.

The creatures were hideously disfigured, like nothing the fifteen year old girl had seen before, but this was no time to become squeamish. She hurled javelin after javelin at the farther off targets, waiting to use her knife for close combat.

Hearing a cry, she turned just in time to see one of the undead descending on a young boy, probably only ten years old, with dust colored hair and deep brown, fear-filled eyes. A carefully aimed throw produced a javelin sprouting from the corpse's middle seconds later...the grotesque creature collapsed.

"Run!" Kailita commanded the little boy, urgency in her eyes. "Find a place to hide! This is no place for children!"

"Where...?" the boy quaked, his voice and body trembling. There was strain in his voice. Kailita looked closer, then gasped to see that he was a cripple. Both of his legs were horribly shriveled and misshapen. Bringing her eyes back to the boy's face, Kailita found his dark eyes fixed steadily upon her, waiting for a response. She made a split-second decision, rushing to him and hoisting his frail body into her arms, still holding a knife in one hand.

"We'll find some place to keep you safe, don't worry," she assured him, looking around to find the rest of the group. They were all in the midst of combat, fighting with the confidence and bravery that comes with experience. Looking for some safe place...any safe place...she finally brought the boy to her horse and gently laid him across its back.

"Just stay here for now. Goldwine won't let anything hurt you."

The boy blinked his enormous eyes at her, but nodded silently.

"Bring the injured and the survivors over here!" Kailita called out to the rest of the company. "We've got to keep them away from those things!"

Pulling out another javelin, she waited, poised and ready for anything else that might come her way.

[Kellivara]

*Kellivara whirled around, and as she did so, she spotted a young mother, and infant in her arms, racing across the street to an alley, trying to escape an undead soldier who was right on her heals*
*Kellivara swung up on Sirree's back, and as if the mare had read her thoughts, she raced across the town, through the fray, towards the woman and her child*
*as Kellivara approached the alley, she saw the woman give up, unable to run any longer, and kneel on the ground, cradling the infant in a way that it could not be harmed until it was ripped from her dead arms*
*just as Kellivara approached, the undead soldier sliced through the woman's side with its dagger*
*Kell tilted her head back and screamed with pure rage, and as her gaze settled back on the undead, her eyes had gone crimson red, with silver flecs of light in them that looked like tiny lightning bolts. In the fury of tears and galloping hooves that followed, Kellivara flicked her wrist three times in an instant, and as the third dagger sliced through the undead soldier's throat, its head slid to the ground, and it's body fell beside it*

*Kellivara slid off Sirree's back, and slowly approached the woman, falling to her knees beside her*
*when Kell fell beside her, she was horrified to see that this woman was swollen with child, and very well into the pregnancy by the looks of her*
*Kell bent down and spoke softly to the woman lying still before her* "I will protect your child. I am sorry I could not save you as well.....rest in peace." *and at that Kell reached down and took the babe from the poor woman's lifeless arms, cradling it in her arms as she mounted Sirree yet again, tears still streaming down her face, and galloped back into the fray. she could fight just as well with only one arm to battle with..............*

Her rage served her well in the following battles that day........and yet still at the end she carried the child cradled in one arm......

[sauronbill]

The attack on the village had started even before sunset. The undeads, the wraiths, orcs and beast-men and also the four red vampires(the tall red figures) had attacked the village. Many had died, and the humans didn't offer much resistance. Women and children were screaming and running everywhere, while their houses burned. The men were doing the best they could fighting, but it wouldn't be enough. Several of the beast-men jumped over the men's neck ripping off their sking and drinking their blood. After a while the bodies were transformed in beast-men by the dark knight. All of this and more was happening in these seconds. The wraith had spoted the company when it entered the village. Actually he expected it, but when he saw them he couldn't help feel a little fear in his cold heart. The vampires had been right, there was a lot of power in them. But nothing was invincible. The dark rider slayed two men and then he raised his blade and gave long scream that was heard in all the village. At his command two of the vampires appeared, along with them joined 8 orcs armed with large axes, six undead, and two beast-men.
"Bring me their heads, they can turn around the fight.....Kill them all!!! " After these words all the orcs, the undeads, the beast-men and the vampires, aimed toward the company. The red vampires were the first. Red vampires are powerful undead wizards that throw fire balls from thier staff, and they have the cold touch of death. Carefull with their left hands, if they touch any part of your body it will froze for a little while giving them the advantage. The two vampires raised their staff and each one threw a ball of fire. One went toward Plamaya and the other toward Molfred, while the rest of the creatures attacked the company......

[Kellivara]

*at about the time Kell emerged from the alley carrying the child, she spotted the group of warriors going after her allies*
*She raced towards them, and cut down two of the orcs with two quik swipes of her dagger. She was still caught up in a whirlwind of rage.....her eyes still a fury of silver sparks and crimson flame......she could not be defeated in this berserk state of mind.........*

[HobbitGirl]

"Carasylia!" Plamaya shouted fiercly as orc after beast-man after undead fell by her sword. She charged, slashed, brought Greymantle about, and charged again, over and over until several creatures had been slain. Out of the corner of her eye she saw the red creatures approach the company. One of them was looking directly at her. No! she thought. Curse it all, now Bloodlust has brought forth vampires! I will not let them destroy my friends! "I won't let you!" she screamed out loud, and with only the slightest nudge, Greymantle took off towards the vampire. As she was charging, sword raised, Plamaya saw the vampire raise his hand and shoot a ball of flame from it.

Suddenly a strange senstation came over Plamaya. She felt like every nerve ending was tingleing with electricity. She noticed every little detail of what was going on around her: the flames licking the buildings, the man-beasts tearing out throats, the whinnys of the horses of her companions. Time seemed to slow down for her as she watched the fireball speed towards her in slow motion. She deliberatly fell off Greymantle, hitting the ground with a thud and a crunch. As suddenly as it had begun, the senstation stopped. The flame whizzed over the horse's back, harming niether horse nor rider.

Plamaya was dazed. She had hit the ground harder than she had anticipated. Her head was ringing like the bells of a cathedral and her vision was blurred. Also, the feeling she had had when the ball of flame was speeding towards her left her shaken and confused. She knew not where that state of mind had come from, nor how she achieved it. Unable to stand, yet barely noticing the pain in her arm for the pain in her head, Plamaya crawled into an alley and lay behind a pile of refuse. Darkness took her, and she knew no more.

[Neothen]

Molfred saw the fireball heading at him. The fire ball hit him straight in the chest, but nothing happened. "Fool," Molfred yelled. Molfred's father had been bitten by a full blooded vampire before he was born. Therefore giving Molfred vampire powers or just being able to withstand a vampire. Molfred jumped off from Morthal. The horse began to run wildley at the beastmen and undead. Molfred spotted a school house that went up in flames. Children came running out screaming. Some undead and a vampire ran after the children. Molfred quickly herded the children into an alley that had stone walls and a stone back. Molfred gaurded the fromt as best he could, but he would soon be overcome.

[Kellivara]

*Kellivara's ears twitched as she heard the crying children. Sirree must have heard it too, for at the same time that Kell turned her head around to look, Sirree reared and spun around on her hind legs and bolted toward Molfred*

I will NOT let these children die!!!! Kell thought furiously as she slid off Sirree's back to stand beside Molfred and fight for the children. "They will not die this day....." She whispered, half to herself as a single tear ran down her cheek. She handed the infant she had been holding to the eldest of the children, so as to enable herself to better protect them all. It was almost impossible for her to lose in the state of mind she was in. She didn't even have any regard for her own life, just the children's.......*

[sauronbill]

The dark knight stood looking around with his red eyes. The village had been taken, also that many women and children had scaped to the forest, there will be no problem finding them later. Darkness was covering most of the land now, as the last rays of the sun were fading. Only the company's spot were the one that resisted more and now several orcs and beast-men were coming to them. The dark knight went toward the spot but he stopped to see Plamaya oculted behind the pile. The knight stood, and he felt the voice of his master asking him to spare her. The wraith never questioned his master and it was obvious that he had future plans for this girl. The dark knight continued his way, taking out his sword.......

Molfred and Kellivara tried to defend the children as best as they could but they weren't enough, and now the beast-men and the orcs were coming more and more. Also Molfred was inmune to the vampires, Kellivara wasn't. One of the vampires stood in front of Kellivara attacking her with his flaming staff as he tried to touch her chest with his left hand. While more undead and beast men attacked Molfred......

[Kellivara]

*Kellivara slipped up, just once, and was touched by the vampyre.... for half a moment she froze, paralized, but then the lightning flecs in her eyes intensified as she tilted her head back and let out a horrifying scream that held a mix of extreme pain from the touch so ice-cold it burned, of pure rage and fury, and of terror for the poor children's lives.*

*as her line of sight lowered back to her enemy, she locked gazes with the vampyre, and noted the shock in his eyes that she was not still paralized. That pure shock gave her a slight advantage, and she took the chance gladly, thrusting her pure silver sword deep into the vampyre's heart, and pulling it out as the evil being fell to dust before her.*

*suddenly a black arrow coursed through the air, aimed directly at the little boy who held the infant Kellivara had rescued earlier in the battle. Kell could not allow this. She sprinted across the alleyway, flipping into the air and landing directly behind the little boy, catching the arrow barely an inch in front of the boy's forehead*

*Kellivara's eyes stayed alive with silver sparks as she charged full speed into the line of orcs and undead, driving them back about two meters in that fury of pure rage*

If she had lost all care for her life before, she had truly become berserk now. There was no way she would allow these children to die.........

[Neothen]

Morthal came to the rescue stomping all sorts of undead creatures. Molfred's eyes turned to