Elea walked out just in time to see Golin slap Donnan across the face, challenge him to a duel and Tranthor to spring from nowhere to grasp the fighter by the neck. She stopped and watched, confused at Golin's actions.
Donnan looked at the note, from Golin, in his hand, tore it up then looked at Golin and Tranthor. "You can put him down." He brushed himself off as Golin regained his feet. "Golin, you may do what you will with your challenge but as I do not care one whit what you think of me, I will not fight you."
"Then you are a coward!" The ruffled Golin spat him. "A coward before all."
"I will take the challenge." Tranthor growled at Golin.
"No, Tranthor..." Donnan began.
"Listen here, little brother, this man has insulted you, myself and our father." He cut Donnan's response off with a sharp gesture. "As the eldest brother, it is my right!"
"Then I accept." Golin responded quickly. "To first blood." Tranthor nodded in agreement.
As the two men began to square off, Ratan-Albion shook his head. "What is the meaning of this?"
"Golin has insulted Donnan and his family. Tranthor, as Donnan's older brother, has claimed the right to meet the challenge." Be'ornhelm watched, keeping his voice low.
After a moment, Ratan-Albion nodded. "Makes sense." Elea was relieved to see that he removed his hand from his sword pommel. She was still less than pleased at the sword's control over her companion.
The ensuing battle was short and sweet. Tranthor was the better fighter by far. It seemed that he was playing with Golin, not even trying to draw blood from the determined fighter.
Elea shook her head. "I cannot watch this." She turned to leave.
Donnan gripped her elbow. "Please stay and watch. You are the Mistress of the Tower."
She looked at Donnan for a moment and then nodded. Watching the battle, Elea wondered about Golin and his odd quirks of getting an idea in his head and never letting it go. Apparently, in his mind, Donnan was a coward for leaving Ratan-Albion as he slaughtered the orks after the challenge in town.
Tranthor finished off the battle by striking Golin with a vicious backhand, causing a few teeth to go flying. It was obvious that Tranthor had not even broken a sweat nor was he breathing heavy.
Golin was out like a candle in the wind, lying there on the ground. Elea inwardly winced at the sight. Then, Tranthor got a bucket of water, dashing over the fighter who sat up with a muffled groan. Golin put his hand to his mouth and looked at the blood. "Honor has been restored." He managed to mumble about his broken jaw.
Donnan and Elea turned to go back into the tower as Donnan muttered, "It was never gone to begin with."
Tranthor helped Golin up. "C'mon. Let's get a drink."
*****
That night, Be'ornhelm filled Elea in on the heroics of Collin, Golin and Ratan-Albion. Then he told her about the wish for the Clerics of Nurell to bestow laurels upon the three for saving their Embassy. Golin had already stated that he would emphatically not accept any laurels from the likes of the Church of Nurell. Be'ornhelm impressed up her how politically important it was for the three to be there and accept the public thanks. He left it in her hands to convince the three.
During dinner, Elea solved the problem in a very simple manner. She praised the three men for their deeds and told them that she would be there to watch them accept the laurels as was their due. Golin looked like he wanted to protest but then he just asked, "I won't have to perform a service for them or be beholden to them in any way, will I?"
Elea suddenly understood his reluctance and assured him that he would not have to do anything more than accept the laurels. If they wanted more, that was tough. He was in the service of Bretonius and, in his absence, Elea. Golin looked a lot happier, as did Collin and Ratan Albion.
Also, during dinner, the rest of the party was introduced to a small but impressive set of retainers assigned to the tower and Elea by Duke Reynald:
- Maphesto, a Githzerai Mage
- GoldenMane, a Wemic fighter - a bodyguard, companion & friend to Elea
- Sir Edmund Guillory, a Human Paladin
- Atlan of Westfork, a Human fighter
- Clyos, a Satyr Ranger
*****
Horrible dreams and odd sleepwalking plagued everyone that night.
...Images of GoldenMane hurt, bloodied and standing over a dead Golin ... Ratan-Albion screaming at Donnan, Be'ornhelm and Elea for his sword ... Stonesplitter dead and bloodied in the hallway ... Confusion and chaos as people ran through the tower corridors ... Winston trying to cure Stonesplitter and failing ... Images of blood and death ...
Elea gasped as she became aware of herself. She was standing in the healing room with Donnan, who looked as confused as she felt. A startled squeak came from the box the two of them were standing over as Golin seemed to awaken from an unrestful sleep. "What's going on?" he asked.
"Get out of that box!" Donnan demanded of Golin, reality syncing a little too close to his dream.
"I was dead, you were going to bury?" It was a statement and a question.
Elea shook her head. "I was dreaming. It was horrible. You attacked GoldenMane."
"No! He killed Stonesplitter."
Donnan waved a hand for silence. "This doesn't make sense. I was in my room. How did we get here?"
Be'ornhelm walked in, looking sleepy. "What are you all doing here?"
The three of them shook their heads, confused and disoriented.
Meanwhile, a very confused Ratan-Albion found himself two miles away from the tower, wandering aimlessly, his sword in his hand. While a much disturbed Stonesplitter found himself in one of the tower corridors next to Winston.
Be'ornhelm got everyone back together and in bed because the next day was going to be an important one for everyone. He did notice that Ballarius seemed to watch all that went on with a certain, amused look in his eyes. Be'ornhelm made a mental note to speak in depth to the Time Warden as soon as he could.
****
Morning came all too soon for all involved. Most were still unnerved by their odd dreams and sleepwalking. Still, Be'ornhelm made sure everyone was up, fed and dressed by the appointed hour. Then, he teleported the whole lot of them into a side alley near the Embassy of Nurell.
Elea looked around as she smoothed the magical gown. She adjusted her cloak, so her face would not be seen until they entered the Embassy of Nurell. She was a little nervous about this, remember the last time she encountered a Paladin of Nurell - who healed her with the Tear of Lloth. Elea shuddered at the memory. 'I will not let the Dark Lady take me!' She inwardly vowed again.
The rest of the party seemed as nervous as she. They were escorted to the front of the assembled people. Golin, Collin and Ratan-Albion had seats on the stage, while the rest were in the front row. She let the cloak hood fall back, revealing herself. With her Elven ancestry and the magical dress, Elea's beauty shone out above all, drawing attention to her.
Until the High Priestess of Nurell stepped out onto the stage.
Elea swallowed hard at the woman's Presence. All eyes turned to the impossibly lovely blond, dressed in the regalia of her God. She spoke at length about the bravery and heroism of the fine warriors at her side, describing, in detail, how they saved the Embassy from the ork invasion. Her speech was eloquent and persuasive. She would have some converts this day.
The three warriors shifted under the praise - both enjoying and not enjoying the attention. Elea watched Donnan and the rest of her father's men bite their tongues, attempting to present a dignified retinue.
A Paladin of Nurell walked onto the stage carrying a long wooden box. The High Priestess opened the box and then turned to Collin, who stood at her gesture. "For your bravery and service to the Church of Nurell, we award you the rank of "Sergeant of the Guard" with all the privileges and rights therein." She placed two medallions around his neck. "If you wish to enter into the service of Nurell as one of his own, all you need do is ask."
Elea clenched her hands at the woman's words and held her breath, waiting Collin's answer. To her relief, all he did was thank her for the medals and sat back down.
Golin stood up straight and tall as the High Priestess approached him. She smiled charmingly at the fighter and then spoke softly - her voice still carrying to all watching, "For your bravery and service to the Church of Nurell, we award you the 'Golden Star of the 6th Order of Lloth' with all the privileges and rights therein." She placed the two medallions around his neck. "And the Church of Nurell would be pleased to offer you a place here, within the Embassy."
Golin stood ramrod straight, "Thank you for your generosity, but no, Milady. My service is already spoken for." The woman nodded her acceptance as Golin sat down.
The front row gave a collective sigh of relief, almost as one. Elea smiled. She was so proud of Golin. 'I knew he would do himself and Bretonius well.'
The High Priestess then moved to Ratan-Albion, who stood on cue. She turned those assembled. "This man proved himself to be one of the greatest, most skilled fighters I have ever seen. He single handedly took out the mage controlling the orks that were attacking our fair city. It was his idea to guard the Embassy. For that, we will be ever grateful." She turned to Ratan-Albion. "For your bravery and service to the Church of Nurell, we award you the rank of "Captain of the Guard" and membership in the Order of Balefist - with all the rights and privileges therein." She placed the medallions about his neck. "And, we offer you Knighthood, in the Service of Nurell. What say you, brave warrior?"
Sir Edmund Guillory gasped aloud, half standing in protest. Donnan put a restraining hand on his arm, hissing, "Not a word!"
The Paladin grit his teeth, body so tense it was shaking.
The entire front row was willing Ratan-Albion to say 'No,' but not one person said a word. It was Ratan-Albion's choice. The tension grew thick as Ratan silently looked between his friends and the High Priestess. Finally, he took a breath as the world waited his decision. "Thank you, my Lady. I will need some time to think about it."
She smiled indulgently. "Of course, brave warrior. Please tell us within a week. We eagerly await your decision."
All of Ratan-Albion's friends relaxed. Donnan had a few quiet words to Sir Edmund as the High Priestess gave a short but impressive closing speech and dismissed the assemblage. Elea saw a couple of young men wander over towards the Paladin of Nurell, curiosity obvious on their faces. She shook her head at the foolish young and turned to her group and the three heroes.
"Shall we get something to eat?" Elea asked. The rest nodded and they all headed off to their favorite tavern. Elea glanced at the medallions feeling very uneasy. She resolved right then and there, they would not be allowed in her tower.
***
The party sat around the table, eating the celebration feast. The conversation was light and pleasant. Elea inwardly sighed and did not wish to bring down the noon day festivities but she had to say something. She lifted her voice slightly, looking to Ratan-Albion, Golin and Collin. "I'm really very proud of your laurels. You really deserve them but, I'm sorry, I will not be allowing them in the Tower. She held her breath as they looked at each other.
Ratan-Albion caressed the pommel of his sword, an affection that he had picked up recently, thinking. Finally, he nodded. "I understand. I will place them in a bank vault for storage when we return to the Tower."
Golin nodded his agreement. "Of course, my Lady. I understand your concern."
Collin also nodded as everyone contemplated the medallions.
"Can you tell if they are magical, my lady?" Golin asked.
Elea nodded. "I can but it would take me a little bit."
"I can tell easily." Winston spoke up. Elea deferred to him as he asked for the medallions.
Ratan-Albion looked distracted as he gave over both of his medallions. While Golin and Collin gave over one of theirs. Donnan and Winston walked off, around the corner for 'just in case' purposes.
While they were gone, Elea bit her lip and looked to Ratan-Albion. "Ratan, we've not traveled together for long and I've enjoyed your company. You deserve all the rewards offered to you but... I'm sorry, if you choose to accept the knighthood in the service of Nurell, we will have to part ways. I do not say this out of malice, only out of devotion to my own beliefs."
He nodded to himself, seeming very calm. Looking at Golin, he asked, "What would you do?"
Golin looked serious. "My service is to Bretonius and saving him. My beliefs are not with Nurell. I reluctantly have to agree with Lady Elea."
Ratan was silent, thinking for a moment. Then he lifted his head. "I understand your concern, Elea. As I have enjoyed being with this group and knowing that at least two would leave...." He shook his head. "There would be no benefit to me to join the service of Nurell. I will not accept the knighthood."
Golin grinned from ear to ear while Elea slowly let out the breath she was holding. "I'm so very pleased to hear that, my friend." She murmured to him. "And relieved."
Ratan gave one of his rare smiles, saying nothing as he took a drink.
Just then, Donnan came back, looking disturbed. "I have bad news for you all." The party came to attention. "The first medallion, the one that all of you gave over was a medallion of inescapable location. The mage who created it could see and hear everything we said and everything around us." Everyone looked around, quickly reviewing their words as the medallions were in their presence. "The second one," continued Donnan, indicating the medallion that Golin and Collin still wore, "Is a protection against Good and is a pass into the Underdark."
Elea paled a little. "Drow." She hissed under her breath.
Golin and Collin took off their medallions, looking at them uneasily.
"Oh, now I'm very glad I wasn't going to allow them in the tower." Elea shook her head.
Donnan nodded. "I think we might have be set up. And I -"
His words were cut off by Winston's scream of pain. The swashbuckler dashed off in the direction of his friend as the rest of the group stood, looking very wary. They waited until Donnan returned with Be'ornhelm and Winston.
Winston's hands were burned horribly.
"What happened?" Elea asked.
"He sent a spell through the medallions. They melted on his hands." Be'ornhelm answered. "Quickly, we must get him to the sage, Alagorn."
The party moved as one, gathering gear and themselves. Be'ornhelm took the unconscious Winston with him. Elea walked quickly, hiding her face, keenly aware that her augmented beauty made her a very, noticeable target. Not that the large Wemic at her side hid her at all.
As they hurried through Midmeadow, Elea saw the Ratan was speaking urgently with Donnan. She wondered what being said. Then she was distracted by the rest of the town. She had not seen the devastation. Half of the town had been burned to the ground. All around them, people were slowly trying to rebuild their lives.
Once they got to the Sage's shop, Be'ornhelm went first. He greeted the man, that could have been his brother, with a warm handshake and then quickly explained the situation. Alagorn took charge of Winston, taking him to a backroom to rest and heal. The Sage also warded the room thoroughly.
While Be'ornhelm, Winston and Alagorn were thus occupied, Donnan gently pulled Elea to the side, over to Ratan-Albion. She looked up at him. "What is it?"
Donnan smiled. "I'd like you to meet our friend, Ratan."
Ratan grinned at her. Elea looked between them like they were both crazy. "What?"
Donnan repeated, "I'd like you to meet our friend, Ratan."
Elea tilted her head at the way Donnan said Ratan's name and suddenly realized that he had not added the second half 'Albion.' "Ratan?" She asked, surprised.
Ratan nodded. "Yes. It's me. Just me."
"By the Gods! What happened? How did you break the sword's curse?" She hugged the fighter warmly.
He shook his head, awkwardly returning Elea's hug. "I don't know. He's just gone. And I'm me, again."
She clasped her hands together. "I'm so happy. You don't know how happy! Welcome back, my friend." In the back of her mind, Elea wondered if the odd dreams from the morning had something to do with Albion's banishment(?) or maybe something within the Embassy of Nurell? She smiled, deciding not to question their good fortune too closely.
***
As it turned out, Winston needed a full night of rest, undisturbed with recover from what had happened. Alagorn graciously invited all to stay in his shop and home. The group accepted gratefully, feeling somewhat safe in the cozy shop.
The next morning, Collin, Golin and Ratan headed out to pick up Golin's armor and drop the medallions off in the bank.
The following events and discoveries are confusing at best.
Somehow, everyone in the Embassy of Nurell died in the night. Over eighty-five people. Certain people could walk into the Embassy without difficulty. Some would immediately keel over - unconscious or dead. It appeared to be a Death magic curse of some sort.
Winston, Donnan and Be'ornhelm immediately set out to investigate once word got back to them of this occurrence. Also, a messenger from the Temple of Nurell had arrived to report that the same had occurred in the Temple. Another forty people dead.
Elea and the rest were told to stay put, while this investigation went on. After several hours, she and the rest become worried and headed out towards the healer's place, where everyone was eventually going to meet up.
On the way there, there was a Drugar attack against Donnan, whom they had met up with halfway there. As Elea was about to set off a series of spells to defend herself and Donnan from the enemy, GoldenMane's protective instincts took over and he grabbed Elea, tucking her behind his shield as he bolted for the healer's shop.
It took Elea a few minutes to convince GoldenMane to put her down so that she could see what had happened to her companions. When she saw Donnan, Stonefinger and Collin down, she sent GoldenMane out to protect them. Eventually, the Drugar disappeared and her companions where brought into the healer's shop for healing and protection.
All the while, Golin was grumbling about being attacked every single time he came into MidMeadow. The growing sentiment was that no one was going to return to this town.
Elea caught sight of 'something' on the rooftop across from the healer's shop. It looked like a Drugar in stealth armor. She alerted the others as she threw a couple of spells at it. To everyone's horror, the thing kept coming, homing in on Elea. Fortunately for all involved, Winston figured out it was an illusion and dispelled in, just as it was going to attack the bard. After that, GoldenMane would not leave Elea alone.
Finally, Be'ornhelm got everyone together (except Ratan and Collin) and teleported them to the tower grounds. A few hours later, Ratan and Collin showed up at the tower carrying a very large chest. Winston had found it in the Embassy of Nurell - in the High Priestess' office. How he got it, Elea did not want to know. She had Be'ornhelm ensure it was not a danger before it came into the Tower.
The Chest was brought into the Library where Collin worked his lock picking magic and opened the chest. Winston and Elea carefully began to remove items: journal, scroll cases, folders, bundles of papers and small books. Each item was locked with an explosive rune. Half way down in the chest, there was a membrane separating the chest in half. Winston and Elea decided to take the items they already had to her office and begin to research them with the help of Ballarius and Be'ornhelm - leaving Collin, Golin and the rest to figure out how to untrap the rest of the chest and open the hidden compartments.
Hours later, Ratan sent the chest up to Elea's office, where the four magically inclined people were hard at work categorizing the found items and working on how to dispell the explosive charge, knowing that if one went off, it would start a chain reaction.
Stonefinger, upon discovering that the chest is no longer in the library, panicked and ordered the tower to teleport him to where the chest was, startling the mages, making one to drop a scroll - causing it, and every other explosive rune outside the chest, to explode, destroying all of the items from the chest as well as a number of things in Elea's office.
And thus, ended just another day in the life and times of Elea Clearlight.
Continue on to: 21. Days of Yore, Knights of Today