Jump to content


Photo

Amber&emerald: Chapter 32


  • Please log in to reply
6 replies to this topic

#1 Nimloth

Posted 15 May 2018 - 02:21 PM

Hello, dearest readers! In this chapter, the party will finally meet Bodhi and there is also a little romantic scene after the fight. I hope you’ll like it!

*****************

Darling, just kiss me slow, your heart is all I own
And in your eyes you're holding mine

Baby, I'm dancing in the dark with you between my arms…(Ed Sheeran, “Perfect”)

*****************

CHAPTER 32

 

Anomen shot another worried glance at the corridor, twisting the Flail of Ages in his hands, "Do you think she’s fine?", he asked for the umpteenth time. "I’m sure she is managing perfectly", Yoshimo sighed without looking up from his thieving tools, "But if you’re so worried, you can always go and see for yourself". "I think I will", the Helmite said, but before he could take a step, Meg appeared from behind the corner, stuffing the rag she’d used to clean herself from the blood in her pack .

 

"Here I am", she smiled, dusting her hands, "Are you all fine?". Aerie nodded, "Yes, we are...By Baervan! What happened to your legs?", she exclaimed, seeing that the lower part of her friend’s grey vest was ripped and bloodstained. "Oh, it’s nothing, really: the floor was trapped and some steel spikes cut me a bit, that’s all".

 

Jaheira glared at her, "You should have put your new Red Dragon Scale armour on, child, just as I had told you!". "And I told you that I can’t fight with that on, until I’m accustomed to its weight, otherwise it will only hinder me. You know that I’ve never worn armour before", Meg replied, opening her arms apologetically.

 

Anomen walked up to his leader, his grey-blue eyes filled with worry, "Are you injured, Meg? Let me heal your wounds", he offered. Surprisingly enough, the Painbearer took a step back, a light blush spreading on her cheeks as she avoided his gaze, "I appreciate your offer, but I’ve already healed myself. But thanks anyway", she said, toying with her Ring.

 

He blinked in confusion, but when he lowered his eyes, he understood the reason for her shyness: the fabric was for the most part torn to shreds, leaving her legs quite exposed to the view. He felt a rush of warmth engulfing him and was very, very grateful that he had his armour on, "I...I-I see. Not that I was watching or anything! I, uh, I mean...", he stammered, his face feeling as if on fire.

 

The Kara-Turan mercifully cut him off before he could dig himself too deep in the hole, "The door is open, sekai no hikari. No lock can stand against the Great Yoshimo". "You’re amazing, sensei", she complimented the bounty hunter with a smile, then she sobered, "Haz, send the Golem inside. Guys, keep your stakes ready". They entered the final room and found out that it was full of closed coffins, like a sort of Vampiric dormitory.

 

Edwin wrinkled his nose, disgusted, "Kossuth, how I wish I could just set this place on fire! (If these simians got out, maybe...)". "For once I agree with you, Edwin", the knight said, his lips curling in a snarl as he regarded the coffins with narrowed eyes, "The stench of Evil is oppressing!". Margaret Dawn cleared her throat loudly, "Less talking, more stabbing, please", she ordered, while plunging a stake in the heart of a sleeping Vampire.

 

They impaled all the creatures and as the last undead crumbled to dust, a swirling mist appeared into the room, accompanied by a powerful aura of evil and danger. The mist gradually became a figure, until a female Vampire stood in front of them: she was short and slim like an Elf, with chalk-white skin, long black-dyed hair, pointed ears and glowing red eyes, "Uhm...I hoped this could be avoided, but you are a stubborn one, aren’t you?", she addressed Meg, revealing a hoarse and sultry voice.

 

"I suppose you are the “mistress” who wanted to meet us in this District, right?". "Right. I am Bodhi", she introduced herself and the Ilmatari snorted. "Ah, yes, I know who you are now. Tell me, how does it feel to know that your misguided advice sent your own brother to his downfall?", she growled, but Bodhi just smirked. "Oh, I feel quite well, Child of Bhaal: unlike you, I have no love for my siblings.

 

And this leads me to the matter of your lost Imoen". Meg’s eyes flashed golden, "Lost? She was kidnapped! And if you know where she is, you’d better say it now, or...". "Or what? You will kill me? You will do it anyway: after all, this is what your master ordered you. Have you wondered why he wants your help? He could have had anyone to do this job for him and still, he chose you. Do you think you can trust him?", the Vampiress asked.

 

"I know I can’t trust him, but that’s the only choice I have. Now tell me where Imoen is, or shut up and die". She cocked her head to the side, pretending to reflect on it, "Well, I think...I choose to fight", she said and suddenly lunged at the Painbearer, who quickly sidestepped. The rest of the party joined the battle and more than a blow hit the enemy, but Bodhi was fast as only a very powerful Vampire could be and her endurance was unnervingly high.

 

After a long fight, the Vampiress finally seemed to be cornered, but she startled them with a chuckle, "Well, this was certainly interesting. I saw what I wanted to see and now, I can leave". "Forget it, bitch!", Margaret Dawn snarled. "Oh, don’t worry, we will meet again. Until then, farewell, Child of Bhaal", Bodhi concluded, the she turned into mist and simply vanished, leaving the adventurers to look at the empty room with wide eyes.

 

Minsc looked around, like a confused puppy searching for his lost chewing toy, "No! The Evil Vampiress is gone? It’s not fair of her to escape the righteous butt-kicking she deserves!", he complained, pouting. Yoshimo sighed, leaning heavily against the wall, "What is our next move, sekai no hikari?", he asked, cradling his broken left arm.

 

Meg reflected on it while casting a healing spell on him, "She’s gone and if my guess is right, she’s not going to come back. Now I’ll heal you all and I want Edwin and Aerie to collect the ashes of the Vampires to use as a spell component: it’s rare, expensive and powerful, so I see no reason why it should go to waste, especially considering how hard it was to kill those Godsdamned monsters.

 

Then all of you will go back to the Coronet, have dinner and rest, while I will go to the guildbase in the Docks and report to Linvail", she decided. Anomen frowned, "But my lady...", he tried to say, but she shook her head. "I know what you’re about to say and my answer is no: you need rest like everyone else.

 

Besides, I won’t be alone: Haz and his Golem will accompany me. Right, Haz?", she turned to the Shadow Thief mage and he nodded. "Sure, I must go back to the guildbase too. Don’t worry, lad, Fleshy and I will make sure she’s safe", he reassured the younger man. The Helmite nodded reluctantly, "As you wish".

 

Jaheira intervened, her eyes narrowed with suspicion as she regarded her charge, "Meg, you said that Bodhi’s misguided advice sent her brother to his downfall. What did you mean by that?". "Exactly what I said", the Ilmatari replied, tightly wrapping her cloak around her waist to cover herself, "I will explain it all to you tomorrow morning.

 

Now is not the time for such a long discussion: we are all tired, dirty and hungry. Please, Jae, trust me". The druidess hesitated, but at last nodded, "All right, child. But you will tell me...Tell us everything about it, even the smallest detail, is that clear?". "Adamant. You will know all of it, you have my word on this".

*******************

 

The Shadowmaster was pacing nervously back and forth, when Meg and Haz entered his office, "Margaret Dawn, good to see you alive and well. And Haz, I trust you did your job". The mage bowed, "I did, Shadowmaster", he said in a humble tone. "Good, good. So, do you have good news for me?", Linvail shot a hopeful look at the Ilmatari, who nodded. "Yes, I have: we managed to kill every single Vampire in that lair and only their leader, Bodhi, escaped.

 

But I have the feeling she won’t come back to Athkatla for some time. By the way, she seemed to know you". "I see", his face was emotionless, but his stiff shoulders betrayed his nervousness, "I trust you are aware of her untrustworthy nature". "Oh, I know full well that she’s a deceitful, heartless, selfish, greedy, power-hungry and manipulative bitch. But I would like to know your version of the story", she said nonchalantly.

 

"Fair enough. You have proven yourself to us and you deserve an explanation. Haz, you can go. Margaret Dawn, please sit down", Aran went to sit at his desk and gestured towards the armchair in front of it, "Now, first of all, you should know that it was my thieves who attacked the dungeon of the wizard in Waukeen’s Promenade. We’ve known about your capture soon after it happened, but we didn’t pay it any mind...I hope you won’t hold it against us".

 

You knew we were captive in a soulless wizard’s dungeon and you did nothing at all to save our arses. Whyever should I hold a grudge?, she thought sarcastically, but she kept her face and tone neutral, "I’m sure you had more pressing matters to take care of. Go on, please". Linvail tried to read her expression, but to no avail, so he simply went on, "You must understand, it seemed like a mere kidnapping at the time: nothing that should concern us, more like a job for the city guard.

 

 But shortly after that, we started losing thieves. They were threatened, or corrupted to repudiate the Shadow Thieves and join Bodhi’s guild, though we didn’t know her name back then. Some of them were probably used as food, but not even a guild of Vampires could require so many men to feed upon", he added, his forehead creasing in thought, "Anyway, after some time, we found the body of one of our thieves in a sewer and from there, we managed to find Irenicus’ dungeon.

 

We fought against him, but...". "I saw that, it was a slaughter. And whatever your reasons, it was your attack that gave us the chance to escape and opened up the passage to the Promenade, so I guess I have to thank you for that. Without your intervention, we would still be down there", the Ilmatari said with a shudder. Aran smiled, "I don’t think I deserve your gratitude, but you’re welcome nonetheless.

 

Our priority was and still is Irenicus, though: he must be found and stopped. I know where the Cowled Ones have imprisoned him and it’s the same place where your friend Imoen is held: it’s an asylum for magical deviants, but people usually refer to it simply as Spellhold ". She stood so abruptly that her chair toppled over, "Then we must go there immediately!", she nearly shouted.

 

"It’s not so easy, my dear. Please, calm down and let me explain", the Shadowmaster said quietly and the Painbearer grudgingly obeyed. "Okay, but make it short: Immy needs my help". "Thanks to the gold you gave us, I have already secured a ship for you and your friends to sail to Brynnlaw, the island on which Spellhold is. But once you get to the island, you will have to find a way inside the madhouse on your own: my influence only goes so far, unfortunately".

 

"I see. Is there more that you can tell me about it?". He leaned back in his chair, thinking, "The island is ruled by a man called Desharik. He’s also known as the Pirate King". "Like Rufy", she joked and he blinked. "What?". "Nothing. Please, do go on". "Desharik is a cruel, greedy man and he frequently sends his enemies and those who anger him for any reason, no matter how insignificant, to be imprisoned in Spellhold, passing them off as magical deviants.

 

Not even an arrogant man like him dares to cross the Cowled Wizards, though: they are totally independent and nobody can interfere with the way they rule Spellhold". "Sounds nice", she muttered ironically, then sighed, "Well, if there’s nothing else, I will take my leave. Tell the captain that we’re going to sail tomorrow in the morning". "I will inform him at once. Goodnight, Margaret Dawn". "Goodnight, Shadowmaster", she bowed and left, tired but relieved and she was glad to feel the fresh night air on her face.

 

Before she reached the district gate, she saw Anomen walking towards her and her eyes widened with surprise, "Anomen? What are you doing here?". "I was worried about you, my lady: the hour is late and I didn’t want you to wander the streets alone", the young man explained. "Let me guess: you didn’t even come close to the Coronet, right?".

 

"Guilty as charged", he nodded, "I hope you will forgive me for ignoring your orders". "You are forgiven...For this time", she winked, "And I’m glad you’re here". "My lady, I...I know that you’re tired and that this is not the best of moments, but...I have something I need to tell you, something that’s been on my mind all day and that is for your ears alone", the Helmite said, blushing.

 

"My ears are all yours", Meg said, giving him an encouraging smile. He took a deep breath and opened his mouth to give her the flowery and extremely romantic declaration he had so carefully prepared…But when he met her eyes, he found himself saying simply, "I love you, Meg and I want to spend the rest of my life with you".

 

She inhaled sharply and her lips parted slightly in surprise, "Really?". "Really. I want to be at your side always, to give you a home, to build a family with you, I...", he trailed off as she flung her arms around his neck and held him close. "Oh, Anomen! I love you too, with all my heart!", the Ilmatari exclaimed happily.

 

The young man let out a long sigh of contentment, burying his face in her hair, "You have no idea how happy you have just made me, my sweet, wonderful lady. I have no words to express my joy". Margaret Dawn drew back a little to look him in the eyes, her radiant smile a mirror image of his own, "Sometimes there’s no need for words", she whispered, stroking his cheek.

 

He leaned forward and before they realized it, their lips met in a sweet, shy kiss that left them with pounding hearts and spinning heads. "Wow...", he breathed, leaning his forehead against hers. "I agree". Anomen waited for his erratic heartbeat to slow down a bit, then he asked hesitantly, "Was...Was it pleasant for you too?". "Oh, yes, it was".

 

"Good. My love, there is something you should know about me: this...Well...This was my first kiss. I have never been with a woman before", he admitted and braced himself for rejection, or even worse, mockery. Instead, he saw her smile turn softer. "I have never done this before either, beloved. We will learn together, one step at a time ", the Painbearer reassured him.

 

He relaxed, "I’m happy to hear you say this. I had feared that...". "Now you have nothing left to fear", she told him, placing a tender kiss on the tip of his nose, "But come, let’s rejoin the others: I’m in desperate need of some spiced milk". He chuckled, "Your wish is my command, my lady".

*******************

 

 

 

The party was assembled at their usual table, all of them watching expectantly at Meg as they waited for the promised explanation. "All right, first of all, I have  a little confession to make", the Painbearer began, nervously toying with her Ring, "When we were in Jo...Irenicus’ dungeon, in his study, I found his diary and...And I took it".

 

Jaheira’s eyes were icy slits, "And why didn’t you tell us about it?". "I was afraid you could destroy it", her ward answered, "I know how much you hate him and I thought that, had you put your hands on it, your hatred would have bested your reason, so I kept it a secret. I needed to know more about him, you see".

 

Edwin scowled, "I understand keeping the secret from these simians, but from me? (I am more than capable of keeping a secret! Nobody knows about Father’s penchant for pink underwear, for example)", he muttered and the Ilmatari nearly choked on her milk at that. "Ah, well, I don’t doubt it, Edwin", she said, biting her lower lip to keep from laughing, "Anyway, now you all know.

 

I read the diary and that’s how I found out about his soulless condition, about Bodhi being his sister and them being...Or rather, having been Sun Elves. The only other thing I know is that they lived in Tethyr, in the kingdom of Suldanesselar, ruled by queen Ellesime", her face twisted with disgust and hate, "That bitch! You have no idea how cruel she was to him!".

 

Yoshimo frowned, "You pity him, don’t you? After all he has done?". "Yes, I do", she admitted, lowering her gaze, "I felt his pain, while we were in the dungeon. I know how much he hurts and...All the pain he put me through is nothing, compared to the suffering he has to deal with since he was cursed. The Seldarine...".

 

"I don’t give a damn about his curse!", the druidess snapped, furious, slamming her fist on the table, "He’s not an innocent lamb, he’s a monster! He killed my Khalid and Dynaheir and he took Imoen away and still you pity him? You are a fool, child!". "If you knew what he feels...". "I know what I feel and that’s why, next time we meet him, I will pierce his black heart with my spear! He deserves nothing else!".

 

Margaret Dawn sighed and massaged her temples, trying to keep at bay the incoming headache, "I understand your feelings, Jae, more than you think. And I never said that Jon is an innocent lamb. Look, it’s late, we’re all dog-tired and we have a long journey ahead of us. Why don’t we just drop this quarrel and get some sleep? Please".

 

The Half-Elf hesitated, but saw the exhaustion on her charge’s face and relented reluctantly, "All right, then. But from now on, I want you to always be honest with me: no more secrets, ever". "Yeah, okay", the Ilmatari nodded, but did not openly make a promise: she had a feeling that soon enough she would have to keep another secret from her.

*******************

 

The boat Linvail had promised was waiting at the dock number four the following morning and the captain was waiting for the party with a smile that seemed a bit too wide to be genuine. "Hello there! You’re those fellas I have to bring to Brynnlaw, ain’t you?".

 

Meg nodded, "That’s us, yes", she said, introducing herself and her companions. "Well met, I’m Saemon Havarian and this beauty here is my ship. Its name is Galante, at least until the plate with the name falls off again and I’ll have to find a new one", he gestured towards the ship trying to look nonchalant, but his eyes kept on darting nervous glances Yoshimo’s way.

 

"Good, now can we just get on board and sail? We’re in a bit of a hurry, you see", the Ilmatari said curtly, but a voice came from behind her. "Please, wait a moment", Aran Linvail joined them on the docks, accompanied by a Half-Elven woman in leathers with short platinum-blond hair, "Good morning to you, ladies and gentlemen". "Good morning, Shadowmaster. I hope you have a good reason for this delay".

 

He smiled, "Ah, Margaret Dawn, I have a very good reason for it: this woman here is Sime, one of my most trusted employees. She will come with you to Brynnlaw as a guide and she will also make sure that you don’t come to any harm during the journey. Consider it an extra protection against the dangers of the sea", he explained and his feline eyes fixed on Havarian as he said the last sentence.

 

The pirate blinked, his face going suddenly pale, "Protection? B-but I wasn’t informed about this protection...The c-captain should be informed in advance about such, such...Changes in the plans", he stammered. "Well, I am informing you now. Is that a problem, captain Havarian?", the Shadowmaster asked in a velvety tone that spoke of hidden danger. "No, no, of course not, m’lord!".

 

"Good", he turned again to the Painbearer, "Sime knows well the island and its people, so you will need her help when you reach your destination". "Thank you, Linvail. Sime, welcome on board", she smiled at the other woman, who smiled back and clasped her outstretched hand. "Thank you, Margaret Dawn. I trust our cooperation will turn out to be profitable to both of us". "As long as we manage to achieve our goal, I don’t see why you shouldn’t get something out of it".

 

Saemon intervened, his forehead damp with cold sweat despite the warm morning sun, "So, can we sail? The sea is good now, but the weather could change at any moment and I’m sure you don’t want to find yourself in the middle of a storm, eh?", he said, shooting a hopeful look at Linvail, who nodded. "You are free to go.

 

And remember, Havarian: these people here are my business associates and I’m entrusting their safety to you. So, should any harm befall them, you will be the one held responsible for that. Did I make myself clear?". "Eh, yes, adamant. On board, ladies and gentlemen! We go!", the pirate exclaimed, practically running on the ship and the adventurers followed him. The journey had begun.


Edited by Nimloth, 17 May 2018 - 03:40 PM.


#2 Theodur

Posted 17 May 2018 - 01:46 PM

 

"Here I am", she smiled, dusting her hands, "Are you all fine?". Aerie nodded, "Yes, we are...By Baervan! What happened to your legs?", she exclaimed, seeing that the lower part of her friend’s grey vest was ripped and bloodstained. "Oh, it’s nothing, really: the floor was trapped and some steel spikes cut me a bit, that’s all".

 

 

Nothing to worry about... I guess I've read too much about impalement as torture and instrument to carry out death sentence to have such a nonchalant attitude towards it. :)

 

Jaheira glared at her, "You should have put your new Red Dragon Scale armour on, child, just as I had told you!". "And I told you that I can’t fight with that on, until I’m accustomed to its weight, otherwise it will only hinder me. You know that I’ve never worn armour before", Meg replied, opening her arms apologetically.

 

 

Well, maybe next time you should craft an armor for someone who can actually wear it... that seems a bit more sensible.

 

He blinked in confusion, but when he lowered his eyes, he understood the reason for her shyness: the fabric was for the most part torn to shreds, leaving her legs quite exposed to the view. He felt a rush of warmth engulfing him and was very, very grateful that he had his armour on, "I...I-I see. Not that I was watching or anything! I, uh, I mean...", he stammered, his face feeling as if on fire.

 

 

I'm sure she looks really sexy with all that dried blood over her legs. Anomen is such a dog.

 

"I suppose you are the “mistress” who wanted to meet us in this District, right?". "Right. I am Bodhi", she introduced herself and the Ilmatari snorted. "Ah, yes, I know who you are now. Tell me, how does it feel to know that your misguided advice sent your own brother to his downfall?", she growled, but Bodhi just smirked. "Oh, I feel quite well, Child of Bhaal: unlike you, I have no love for my siblings.

 

 

#IrenicusDidNothingWrong!

 

Besides, I won’t be alone: Haz and his Golem will accompany me. Right, Haz?", she turned to the Shadow Thief mage and he nodded. "Sure, I must go back to the guildbase too. Don’t worry, lad, Fleshy and I will make sure she’s safe", he reassured the younger man.

 

 

Haz is probably just stunned that he somehow remained alive in this AU. :D

 

Jaheira intervened, her eyes narrowed with suspicion as she regarded her charge, "Meg, you said that Bodhi’s misguided advice sent her brother to his downfall. What did you mean by that?". "Exactly what I said", the Ilmatari replied, tightly wrapping her cloak around her waist to cover herself, "I will explain it all to you tomorrow morning.

 

 

And I already see Jaheira loving every word of the explanation.

 

"My ears are all yours", Meg said, giving him an encouraging smile. He took a deep breath and opened his mouth to give her the flowery and extremely romantic declaration he had so carefully prepared…But when he met her eyes, he found himself saying simply, "I love you, Meg and I want to spend the rest of my life with you".

 

 

Don't worry, Anomen, oftentimes the simplest way to say it is the best.

 

She inhaled sharply and her lips parted slightly in surprise, "Really?". "Really. I want to be at your side always, to give you a home, to build a family with you, I...", he trailed off as she flung her arms around his neck and held him close.

 

 

"and I also want to stake my claim before your resurrected half-brother comes back and ruins everything."

 

The boat Linvail had promised was waiting at the dock number four the following morning and the captain was waiting for the party with a smile that seemed a bit too wide to be genuine. "Hello there! You’re those fellas I have to bring to Brynnlaw, ain’t you?".

 

 

Hey, where's the explanation Meg promised about Irenicus?

 

And remember, Havarian: these people here are my business associates and I’m entrusting their safety to you. So, should any harm befall them, you will be the one held responsible for that. Did I make myself clear?". "Eh, yes, adamant. On board, ladies and gentlemen! We go!", the pirate exclaimed, practically running on the ship and the adventurers followed him. The journey had begun.

 

 

And what a wonderful journey it will be! Hope you weren't too attached to your soul!

Nice chapter! And thanks for commenting on Angels, of course. Some thoughts below:

 

 

 

I was surprised to see a Rakshasa allied with a Red Dragon, it was an interesting twist.

 

Well, there is always a rakshasa in Firkraag's dungeon, I just moved him from one location to different room. :) 

 

 

Now, I usually don't agree with Viconia on many things, but I'm so with her about Leah's excessive trust in Samia: I mean, how much can you trust a grave-robber who has already turned on her late master?

Samia: Eh? Excuse me! We're not grave-robbers, we're treasure hunters! Big distinction. Also, totally trustworthy.

 

 

Seems like Anomen is finally loosening up, I'm glad for him! Reyna is really a good match for the boy. And Keldorn recommending him for knighthood is really good news, he definitely earned it.

 

He'll have a shot at the Test soon, yep.

 

 

The Harpers are not gonna leave Jaheira alone, are they? I nearly hope Leah will storm their base in the Docks, turn into the Slayer and slaughter them all: that should teach them not to mess with a Bhaalspawn and her friends.

I think after Leah and friends killed Galvarey and his cronies, the Docks base is pretty much abandoned. Anyway, thanks for commenting! :)


The future teaches you to be alone
The present to be afraid and cold


#3 Nimloth

Posted 17 May 2018 - 02:58 PM

 

 

"Here I am", she smiled, dusting her hands, "Are you all fine?". Aerie nodded, "Yes, we are...By Baervan! What happened to your legs?", she exclaimed, seeing that the lower part of her friend’s grey vest was ripped and bloodstained. "Oh, it’s nothing, really: the floor was trapped and some steel spikes cut me a bit, that’s all".

 

 

Nothing to worry about... I guess I've read too much about impalement as torture and instrument to carry out death sentence to have such a nonchalant attitude towards it. :)

 

Hehe, I have a feeling that you too have read some stories about the real Vlad Tepes, then. They're horrible, but somehow also fascinating, in a strange way. In Meg's case, though, she's so nonchalant about it because that was nothing compared to Irenicus' "gentle care"

 

Jaheira glared at her, "You should have put your new Red Dragon Scale armour on, child, just as I had told you!". "And I told you that I can’t fight with that on, until I’m accustomed to its weight, otherwise it will only hinder me. You know that I’ve never worn armour before", Meg replied, opening her arms apologetically.

 

 

Well, maybe next time you should craft an armor for someone who can actually wear it... that seems a bit more sensible.

 

Truth be told, she wants to wear armour, because she knows she will need all the protection she can get. And she wants to wear it  also because it matches the one for her big brother, of course ;-)

 

He blinked in confusion, but when he lowered his eyes, he understood the reason for her shyness: the fabric was for the most part torn to shreds, leaving her legs quite exposed to the view. He felt a rush of warmth engulfing him and was very, very grateful that he had his armour on, "I...I-I see. Not that I was watching or anything! I, uh, I mean...", he stammered, his face feeling as if on fire.

 

 

I'm sure she looks really sexy with all that dried blood over her legs. Anomen is such a dog.

 

LOL well actually, she had cleaned herself with a rag and some water after healing her wounds, so there was no blood on her legs. I think I will add it to the chapter, though, before she gets back to them

 

"I suppose you are the “mistress” who wanted to meet us in this District, right?". "Right. I am Bodhi", she introduced herself and the Ilmatari snorted. "Ah, yes, I know who you are now. Tell me, how does it feel to know that your misguided advice sent your own brother to his downfall?", she growled, but Bodhi just smirked. "Oh, I feel quite well, Child of Bhaal: unlike you, I have no love for my siblings.

 

 

#IrenicusDidNothingWrong!

 

Haha, in a sense yes, that's more or less what she thinks of him: to loosely quote Jessica Rabbit, he is not bad, he was just designed that way!

 

Besides, I won’t be alone: Haz and his Golem will accompany me. Right, Haz?", she turned to the Shadow Thief mage and he nodded. "Sure, I must go back to the guildbase too. Don’t worry, lad, Fleshy and I will make sure she’s safe", he reassured the younger man.

 

 

Haz is probably just stunned that he somehow remained alive in this AU. :D

 

You know, it's weird, but he died in every game I played, no matter what I did to keep him alive: there was always a vampire or another monster ready to kill the poor guy. I thought he deserved a little breaking of the rules for once :-)

 

Jaheira intervened, her eyes narrowed with suspicion as she regarded her charge, "Meg, you said that Bodhi’s misguided advice sent her brother to his downfall. What did you mean by that?". "Exactly what I said", the Ilmatari replied, tightly wrapping her cloak around her waist to cover herself, "I will explain it all to you tomorrow morning.

 

 

And I already see Jaheira loving every word of the explanation.

 

Ah, you have no idea about the amount of scolding Meg received after that! And Jae still doesn't know about the Geas...

 

"My ears are all yours", Meg said, giving him an encouraging smile. He took a deep breath and opened his mouth to give her the flowery and extremely romantic declaration he had so carefully prepared…But when he met her eyes, he found himself saying simply, "I love you, Meg and I want to spend the rest of my life with you".

 

 

Don't worry, Anomen, oftentimes the simplest way to say it is the best.

 

So true! And I also thought he would be too nervous and exhausted at that point to remember all the sappy stuff he wanted to tell her

 

She inhaled sharply and her lips parted slightly in surprise, "Really?". "Really. I want to be at your side always, to give you a home, to build a family with you, I...", he trailed off as she flung her arms around his neck and held him close.

 

 

"and I also want to stake my claim before your resurrected half-brother comes back and ruins everything."

 

LOL well there's also that, yes. It remains to be seen if it will be enough, though. *grin* Just a little side note: Sarry is not her half-brother, but her full-blood brother, since they have the same mother too.

 

The boat Linvail had promised was waiting at the dock number four the following morning and the captain was waiting for the party with a smile that seemed a bit too wide to be genuine. "Hello there! You’re those fellas I have to bring to Brynnlaw, ain’t you?".

 

 

Hey, where's the explanation Meg promised about Irenicus?

 

I thought it would be best to skip it, because I feared it would be too boring for the readers, considering that they already know about Irenicus' connection to Bodhi and Meg having read Jonjon's diary. But now I'm not so sure it was the right call...Maybe I will add it to the chapter, if I can write it the right way

 

And remember, Havarian: these people here are my business associates and I’m entrusting their safety to you. So, should any harm befall them, you will be the one held responsible for that. Did I make myself clear?". "Eh, yes, adamant. On board, ladies and gentlemen! We go!", the pirate exclaimed, practically running on the ship and the adventurers followed him. The journey had begun.

 

And what a wonderful journey it will be! Hope you weren't too attached to your soul!

 

Well, all I can say without spoilering is that something interesting is going to happen in Spellhold...You'll see

Nice chapter! And thanks for commenting on Angels, of course. Some thoughts below:
 

 

 

I was surprised to see a Rakshasa allied with a Red Dragon, it was an interesting twist.

 

Well, there is always a rakshasa in Firkraag's dungeon, I just moved him from one location to different room. :) 

 

Uh, right! I didn't remember about him, truth be told: I usually just go straight to kill Tazok, since I already know the way :-)

 

Now, I usually don't agree with Viconia on many things, but I'm so with her about Leah's excessive trust in Samia: I mean, how much can you trust a grave-robber who has already turned on her late master?

Samia: Eh? Excuse me! We're not grave-robbers, we're treasure hunters! Big distinction. Also, totally trustworthy.

 

Sorry to break it to you, Samia, but in the list of the most trustworthy people around, you are in a lower position than Lionel Luthor (Lex's father) and Bhaal...

 

Seems like Anomen is finally loosening up, I'm glad for him! Reyna is really a good match for the boy. And Keldorn recommending him for knighthood is really good news, he definitely earned it.

 

He'll have a shot at the Test soon, yep.

 

Let's hope he'll pass it: I already have a bottle of Coke ready for the celebrations, it would be a shame to waste it :-)

 

The Harpers are not gonna leave Jaheira alone, are they? I nearly hope Leah will storm their base in the Docks, turn into the Slayer and slaughter them all: that should teach them not to mess with a Bhaalspawn and her friends.

I think after Leah and friends killed Galvarey and his cronies, the Docks base is pretty much abandoned. Anyway, thanks for commenting! :)

Ow, pity, that, Then I suppose she can hunt the Harpers scattered around Toril...Maybe starting with blasted Elminster? *very evil grin*

Thanks for commenting and responding! *smile*



#4 Nimloth

Posted 17 May 2018 - 03:46 PM

Post scriptum: I added the part about Meg cleaning herself in the beginning of the chapter and her explanation about Jon and Bodhi (and the scolding she got from Jaheira, of course, hehe). I didn't make it long, but I tried my best to make it sound convincing. I figured that after such a tiring day, even our favourite Druidess wouldn't be too inclined to argue all night long. Thanks again for commenting :-)



#5 Theodur

Posted 18 May 2018 - 10:46 PM

Post scriptum: I added the part about Meg cleaning herself in the beginning of the chapter and her explanation about Jon and Bodhi (and the scolding she got from Jaheira, of course, hehe). I didn't make it long, but I tried my best to make it sound convincing. I figured that after such a tiring day, even our favourite Druidess wouldn't be too inclined to argue all night long. Thanks again for commenting :smile:

 

Nice job! I thought the discussion of Irenicus works well and I hope later someone could also ask Meg why is she taking everything in Irenicus' diaries for granted. Considering everything that happened, Irenicus would be extremely biased and resentful towards Ellesime, and I would never trust the story of a jilted lover and a criminal without hearing the other side. Just a thought. :)


The future teaches you to be alone
The present to be afraid and cold


#6 Laufey

Posted 11 June 2018 - 05:11 PM

 

"Here I am", she smiled, dusting her hands, "Are you all fine?". Aerie nodded, "Yes, we are...By Baervan! What happened to your legs?", she exclaimed, seeing that the lower part of her friend’s grey vest was ripped and bloodstained. "Oh, it’s nothing, really: the floor was trapped and some steel spikes cut me a bit, that’s all".

Honestly, you could get tetanus or sepsis from that! 

 

He blinked in confusion, but when he lowered his eyes, he understood the reason for her shyness: the fabric was for the most part torn to shreds, leaving her legs quite exposed to the view. He felt a rush of warmth engulfing him and was very, very grateful that he had his armour on, "I...I-I see. Not that I was watching or anything! I, uh, I mean...", he stammered, his face feeling as if on fire.

 

Anomen, I think you'd better just stop trying to explain yourself right now. :) 

 

And this leads me to the matter of your lost Imoen". Meg’s eyes flashed golden, "Lost? She was kidnapped! And if you know where she is, you’d better say it now, or...". "Or what? You will kill me? You will do it anyway: after all, this is what your master ordered you. Have you wondered why he wants your help? He could have had anyone to do this job for him and still, he chose you. Do you think you can trust him?", the Vampiress asked.

 

Well, presumably none of his own minions were powerful enough, or else he didn't want to risk them. It's funny how Bodhi tries this angle in the game, since it's pretty obvious to the player that Linvail isn't altruistic, and it's all a business arrangement with him never pretending otherwise. 

 

After a long fight, the Vampiress finally seemed to be cornered, but she startled them with a chuckle, "Well, this was certainly interesting. I saw what I wanted to see and now, I can leave". "Forget it, bitch!", Margaret Dawn snarled. "Oh, don’t worry, we will meet again. Until then, farewell, Child of Bhaal", Bodhi concluded, the she turned into mist and simply vanished, leaving the adventurers to look at the empty room with wide eyes.

 

Aw, no Bodhi fight? Hope there'll be a suitably bloody one later on. 

 

 

Meg reflected on it while casting a healing spell on him, "She’s gone and if my guess is right, she’s not going to come back. Now I’ll heal you all and I want Edwin and Aerie to collect the ashes of the Vampires to use as a spell component: it’s rare, expensive and powerful, so I see no reason why it should go to waste, especially considering how hard it was to kill those Godsdamned monsters.

 

A sensible and practical approach, I quite approve. 

 

She inhaled sharply and her lips parted slightly in surprise, "Really?". "Really. I want to be at your side always, to give you a home, to build a family with you, I...", he trailed off as she flung her arms around his neck and held him close. "Oh, Anomen! I love you too, with all my heart!", the Ilmatari exclaimed happily.

 

Awww!

 

The young man let out a long sigh of contentment, burying his face in her hair, "You have no idea how happy you have just made me, my sweet, wonderful lady. I have no words to express my joy". Margaret Dawn drew back a little to look him in the eyes, her radiant smile a mirror image of his own, "Sometimes there’s no need for words", she whispered, stroking his cheek.

Very sweet. :)

 

"Good. My love, there is something you should know about me: this...Well...This was my first kiss. I have never been with a woman before", he admitted and braced himself for rejection, or even worse, mockery. Instead, he saw her smile turn softer. "I have never done this before either, beloved. We will learn together, one step at a time ", the Painbearer reassured him.

 

Just make sure to study an appropriate book first, and then put theory into practise. Plus, I mean, they're both healers so they can't be entirely ignorant about how things work. 

 

Edwin scowled, "I understand keeping the secret from these simians, but from me? (I am more than capable of keeping a secret! Nobody knows about Father’s penchant for pink underwear, for example)", he muttered and the Ilmatari nearly choked on her milk at that. "Ah, well, I don’t doubt it, Edwin", she said, biting her lower lip to keep from laughing, "Anyway, now you all know.

 

Oh Edwin. And you wonder why people sometimes keep secrets from you. 

 

 

"I don’t give a damn about his curse!", the druidess snapped, furious, slamming her fist on the table, "He’s not an innocent lamb, he’s a monster! He killed my Khalid and Dynaheir and he took Imoen away and still you pity him? You are a fool, child!". "If you knew what he feels...". "I know what I feel and that’s why, next time we meet him, I will pierce his black heart with my spear! He deserves nothing else!".

 

It's very understandable that she'd feel that way. Understanding why a person did something horrible doesn't mean you will forgive them. 

 

 

And remember, Havarian: these people here are my business associates and I’m entrusting their safety to you. So, should any harm befall them, you will be the one held responsible for that. Did I make myself clear?". "Eh, yes, adamant. On board, ladies and gentlemen! We go!", the pirate exclaimed, practically running on the ship and the adventurers followed him. The journey had begun.

 

Time for Pirates, yay!

 


Rogues do it from behind.

#7 Nimloth

Posted 12 June 2018 - 02:43 PM

 

 

"Here I am", she smiled, dusting her hands, "Are you all fine?". Aerie nodded, "Yes, we are...By Baervan! What happened to your legs?", she exclaimed, seeing that the lower part of her friend’s grey vest was ripped and bloodstained. "Oh, it’s nothing, really: the floor was trapped and some steel spikes cut me a bit, that’s all".

Honestly, you could get tetanus or sepsis from that! 

 

Not to worry, Bodhi keeps her spikes in perfect conditions: blood tastes awful if it's mixed with rust :-)

He blinked in confusion, but when he lowered his eyes, he understood the reason for her shyness: the fabric was for the most part torn to shreds, leaving her legs quite exposed to the view. He felt a rush of warmth engulfing him and was very, very grateful that he had his armour on, "I...I-I see. Not that I was watching or anything! I, uh, I mean...", he stammered, his face feeling as if on fire.

 

Anomen, I think you'd better just stop trying to explain yourself right now. :)

 

LOL Had he dug himself into a deeper hole, he would have ended up right into the Underdark!

And this leads me to the matter of your lost Imoen". Meg’s eyes flashed golden, "Lost? She was kidnapped! And if you know where she is, you’d better say it now, or...". "Or what? You will kill me? You will do it anyway: after all, this is what your master ordered you. Have you wondered why he wants your help? He could have had anyone to do this job for him and still, he chose you. Do you think you can trust him?", the Vampiress asked.

 

Well, presumably none of his own minions were powerful enough, or else he didn't want to risk them. It's funny how Bodhi tries this angle in the game, since it's pretty obvious to the player that Linvail isn't altruistic, and it's all a business arrangement with him never pretending otherwise. 

 

Yes, it seems like she's making a last desperate attempt at turning the PC against Linvail, even knowing that it's unlikely to work. I've always thought that deep down she was afraid of fighting a Child of Bhaal, despite all of her bravado...It's the only explanation I can think of for that behaviour

After a long fight, the Vampiress finally seemed to be cornered, but she startled them with a chuckle, "Well, this was certainly interesting. I saw what I wanted to see and now, I can leave". "Forget it, bitch!", Margaret Dawn snarled. "Oh, don’t worry, we will meet again. Until then, farewell, Child of Bhaal", Bodhi concluded, the she turned into mist and simply vanished, leaving the adventurers to look at the empty room with wide eyes.

 

Aw, no Bodhi fight? Hope there'll be a suitably bloody one later on. 

 

Well, Bodhi will come up again in Spellhold, but truth be told I feel a bit uncomfortable at writing detailed battle scenes, because I'm always afraid they won't be good enough. I've tried my hand at it against the Balor in the Underdark, though and I hope it will be worth reading :-)

 

Meg reflected on it while casting a healing spell on him, "She’s gone and if my guess is right, she’s not going to come back. Now I’ll heal you all and I want Edwin and Aerie to collect the ashes of the Vampires to use as a spell component: it’s rare, expensive and powerful, so I see no reason why it should go to waste, especially considering how hard it was to kill those Godsdamned monsters.

 

A sensible and practical approach, I quite approve. 

 

Thank you! The association "vampire dust = spell component" came out of the blue and I thought Meg would immediately make it too, especially after having travelled for more than a year with a Red Wizard...

Edwin *clears his throat ostentatiously*: Just a Red Wizard? (Disrespectful simian!)

Eh, okay, the best Red Wizard of all Toril

Edwin *nods*: Much better

She inhaled sharply and her lips parted slightly in surprise, "Really?". "Really. I want to be at your side always, to give you a home, to build a family with you, I...", he trailed off as she flung her arms around his neck and held him close. "Oh, Anomen! I love you too, with all my heart!", the Ilmatari exclaimed happily.

 

Awww!

 

He's adorable when he wants to, isn't he? :-)

The young man let out a long sigh of contentment, burying his face in her hair, "You have no idea how happy you have just made me, my sweet, wonderful lady. I have no words to express my joy". Margaret Dawn drew back a little to look him in the eyes, her radiant smile a mirror image of his own, "Sometimes there’s no need for words", she whispered, stroking his cheek.

Very sweet. :)

 Thanks!

"Good. My love, there is something you should know about me: this...Well...This was my first kiss. I have never been with a woman before", he admitted and braced himself for rejection, or even worse, mockery. Instead, he saw her smile turn softer. "I have never done this before either, beloved. We will learn together, one step at a time ", the Painbearer reassured him.

 

Just make sure to study an appropriate book first, and then put theory into practise. Plus, I mean, they're both healers so they can't be entirely ignorant about how things work. 

 

Well, they know the basics of course and both have read the so-called "forbidden books" (her in Candlekeep, him in the Order's library), so they have a bit of theoretical knowledge about it. And they'll get to practice soon enough, you'll see ;-)

Edwin scowled, "I understand keeping the secret from these simians, but from me? (I am more than capable of keeping a secret! Nobody knows about Father’s penchant for pink underwear, for example)", he muttered and the Ilmatari nearly choked on her milk at that. "Ah, well, I don’t doubt it, Edwin", she said, biting her lower lip to keep from laughing, "Anyway, now you all know.

 

Oh Edwin. And you wonder why people sometimes keep secrets from you. 

 

Really, I don't see why people shouldn't trust him with their secrets: he's so good at keeping them...NOT! xD

 

"I don’t give a damn about his curse!", the druidess snapped, furious, slamming her fist on the table, "He’s not an innocent lamb, he’s a monster! He killed my Khalid and Dynaheir and he took Imoen away and still you pity him? You are a fool, child!". "If you knew what he feels...". "I know what I feel and that’s why, next time we meet him, I will pierce his black heart with my spear! He deserves nothing else!".

 

It's very understandable that she'd feel that way. Understanding why a person did something horrible doesn't mean you will forgive them. 

 

Yes, Jaheira's reaction is pretty normal, considering that she has lost her husband to Jon's hands. Well, to one of his Golems' hands actually, not that it changes anything. As for Meg...She sensed his pain and suffering and she also has forged a sort of link with him because of it, so her disposition towards him is definitely better than the others'.

And remember, Havarian: these people here are my business associates and I’m entrusting their safety to you. So, should any harm befall them, you will be the one held responsible for that. Did I make myself clear?". "Eh, yes, adamant. On board, ladies and gentlemen! We go!", the pirate exclaimed, practically running on the ship and the adventurers followed him. The journey had begun.

 

Time for Pirates, yay!

 

Hehe, now I'll have to get a parrot: as Minsc tells Desharik, there can't be a pirate without a parrot! :-)

Thanks for commenting *smile*






0 user(s) are reading this topic

0 members, 0 guests, 0 anonymous users

Skin Designed By Evanescence at IBSkin.com