The Moors, Ruins of Wescote Manor, Mordent, Early Morning (Mizuki)

[Chris Chandler]

The skeleton of the burned-down manor is easy to pick out against the backdrop of the waning sky. The chimney still stands, as do a few of the inner walls. There is no longer a roof, though, and the corpse of an ancient oaken-treant lay collapsed like a deadfall across the ruins. The smell of peat, smoke, and scorched metal rings through the air.

The letter was from a Lord Godfrey. It was in a hand you did not know - you had it translated by an old scribe. She said it was similar enough to a language she'd come across in her travels, and that is how it read now, a loose translation of some foreign tongue, but it was clear that it was an invitation, a request for assistance, signed by this Godfrey fellow.

The directions were simple enough, though the insistance of travel by ship was an unfortunate delay. That, of course, was where the troubles began, the ship. The fog bank that appeared put the crew on alert, but it seemed to quickly disperse. You did what you could when the ship suddenly, inexplicably breached a reef. You can hear the screams now of the crew. Some you were able to pull to safety. Others, it was if the tide itself reached for them. You brought men to the craggy beach, isolated, not near a settlement. There was nothing around, except for the spot of flame in the distance, a distant campfire, perhaps, to the east.

Satisfied that the crew was able to manage the remainder of the recovery, you headed out. The crew did not know where they were, did not understand how their charts could have been so plainly mistaken. The beach led to dunes which led to a rocky plain, which, in turn led to a packed dirt road leading northeast and south. The northeast leg led here, the ruins of a manor in the middle of a moor, a lifeless, stale moor.

The letter said to meet this Lord Godfrey at a Heather House. There is no indication of just what this ruin used to be.

[LadyGlutter]

Has Scratch been travelling alongside the ship?

[Chris Chandler]

As far as you can feel, she's nearby. You sense that she isn't too comfortable approaching the ruin, but she's close enough for you to tell.

[LadyGlutter]

I check the horizon for signs of that fire I saw before. I also look around here for what might have driven the life away, for signs of dead heather on the moor.

As I look at my surroundings, I also pull out my translation of the directions. If they were simple enough, maybe I'll have some indication of at least what I'm looking for.

[Chris Chandler]

The fire is very close, actually. From your vantage now it is low in the moors, just off this rise, not quite a mile. From here it looks sizable, a bonfire, not a camp fire.

The translation:

Please be cordially invited to the abode of Lord Godfrey, Heather House, within one week of receipt of this letter. Lord Godfrey would like an audience with you regarding a proposition of a most delicate nature. Please follow the Arden River road into Mordentshire, the continue south through town.

Your servant,

William Godfrey, Lord of Mordent

The invitation is less than precise, specifically depending on the recipient to have some bit of foreknowledge of the region. You received the invitation 5 days ago.

You feel, rather that hear the groaning, at first, a deep rumble from the ruins. You see that the treant is... quivering, like an oak in the breeze. It is groaning.

[LadyGlutter]

I realize that the treant isn't a corpse, and feel immediately horrible for not investigating sooner. I drop down and check out the situation, preparing to lay on hands and relieve as much pain as I can quickly. I opt for Sylvan. "Hello, friend."

((I've had this holding for about a half hour waiting on a response to the color question, and decided that's silly. I'm going with sky blue for now. It's readable, pretty, and doesn't seem to be a very popular choice in general anyhow. I'll go back and change if necessary later.))

[Chris Chandler]

The rumble shifts to a loud creak, and wood splinters and cracks as the great creature lifts its body up. Nearly 30 feet high, and just as wide, the treant stands, the burnt bark of the treant sheding like ash. The eyes that show the spark of great wisdom glow dark red like cast off embers. You sense deep hatred within this shepherd.

Friend to whom, little fey? Your kith are all dead here; the river is dead. Do you seek a home here, little one? I can accommodate you quite nicely.

The last word is spoken with such monstrous bile that it leaves no doubt to the nature of his... proposal, though it does not move any closer toward you.

You are close enough to attempt to heal this creature, and it is certainly nearly dead.

[LadyGlutter]

I'm sure there is hate. It would be hard NOT to hate, if my world were so destroyed. I will not judge him because of what I see in his death throes, nor will I heal him without his permission. I also understand if he chooses death.

So, I laugh, sincerely charmed. "A predatory treant! How interesting! Though I hate to disappoint you, I was only offering my aid. I have no need of a home, particularly here. I doubt you could accomodate me as easily as you think." At that I smile, and looking around and sensing no one else, I let a flicker of my true self shine through for his eyes alone.

"I can tend to your wounds, though, if you wish. You seem mortally wounded."

[Chris Chandler]

Little river-daughter, you hold no power here. You are... from beyond the mist, yes? Then you cannot know where you are.

He trembles, most of his leaves falling, then embers of his eyes starting to fade.

No, little child, should you try to tend to my roots, I would surely kill you for your kindness. I hold no love in my heart any longer, but I will grant you an answer, should you ask it, before my spirit truly dies.

Another shudder and he speaks again.

Please, too, when I am no more, burn me to cinders, for if you do not, I shall return a revenant. Now, do you have a question, or shall you start a fire?

[LadyGlutter]

My smile disappears. I was hoping for hope. My eyes sting, but I hold it back. "Of course I will perform that honor for you. I hope you may find love, or at least peace, once more.

As for my question, well, I think you have pointed out to me where my ignorance is greatest. Where am I?"

[Chris Chandler]

The booming shudder is frightening, especially after you see that is laughter. It is short-lived, because the treant simply does not have the strength.

Very... well. An... answer that... with get you... nowhere. You are... beyond the mists, in the... country of cursed Mordent, the realm... of that devil Godfrey... though... though... he too... is a prisoner to the mists. This... is the... realm of... Dread, forever... locked away from the... living... living, breathing world. Forever locked away... Locked away... Away...

And the treant's eyes die down, a flickering testament to the tortured soul of the shepherd. Rather than collapse, the treant settles down, creaks, and moves no more, still upright.

[LadyGlutter]

I will look around and decide if it's safe enough that the fire won't spread. I doubt it will be a problem, seeing the already wrecked moor, but if it is, I'll clear land in a circle around the old one's corpse, and produce a flame to burn him to cinders.

[Chris Chandler]

It doesn't take long. The old shepherd's trunk was dried and broken, and the bark goes up like paper. Your pyre rivals the bonfire down in the moors, to be certain. You smell the oak turn to flame and cinder, and it will soon go to ash. For some reason it as if the gloom cast upon the moor lightens ever so slightly.

With his last request completed, the treant's spirit is free to leave this place.

[LadyGlutter]

I will stay, respecfully silent, with the remains until it is finished, and all the cinder becomes ashes. After the heat has disappated, I will touch the earth with hope of blessing any remnants of plants left in the soil. My aid can only help the land, and I'll center the enriched soil on the remains of the Old One, in a circle, hoping the growth will catch and spread.

It seems as if I may have come at this place from the southern end, but I'm still not sure. I'm looking around for the riverbed as I wait and work.

[Chris Chandler]

You touch the ground and it is as if you are touching the turned soil of a fresh grave. You shudder involuntarily as you work forth your divine power into the nearby plants. You have to maintain a great degree of focus, calling forth life into the flora.

You see that the bushes and weedy grasses spring forth. A few seedlings stiffen and clear over your head and the ivy that was on the side of one of the ruined walls of the manor explodes, engulfing the entire fallen structure. Amidst the ashes of the treant's husk a small oak sapling pokes through, returning the cycle to the land.

You are definitely turned around. There are no moon or stars on this overcast evening. The river, you believe, is a bit south from here, away from the bonfire, which is what you would consider southeast, if you are oriented correctly.

[LadyGlutter]

Time to stretch my wings then. I'll get an aerial view of the land, since I'm not quite sure where I am.

[Chris Chandler]

You do so quite as naturally as would a bird. The clouds hang low in the sky and it is difficult to make out the landforms below you, but your suspicions regarding the river being to your south are confirmed. It is, truly, not very far, either. You, likewise, spot the dots of a number of campfires at the point where your ship's crew struck camp after coming ashore. These fires seem due west. From this height, too, you are also able to see the soft glow of what is most likely a settlement to the southwest, possibly near the coast.

You feel the wisp of air of Scratch skirting you, though the creature is both hidden and quiet right now. The friendly grasp of your companion's tail only your left calf is comforting, for you both, it would seem.

We'll, of course, expound on this, as well.

[Chris Chandler]

On viewing the ground below you are reminded of your discussion with Orestes, the man who knew of Mordent.

The invitation was nothing, an ornate scrap of paper. This Lord Godfrey was no person you'd known, and could have been any corrupt lord looking for favor, for, certainly this invitation reeked of foul deeds yet to be carried out. You received solicitations any time you stayed in an area longer than a fortnight, and truly, not all were as bluntly untrustworthy as this, but enough had been to nearly dismiss this invitation out of hand. You might not have heard of Godfrey, but Mordent had an unnatural ring to it.

It had been years since you had heard the name for the first time. Always wary of the tall tale and of supposed curses, the description of this distant land was darker, more sinister, more controlling than most. It was this old memory, a dark tale from the oracle Vadoma, with whom you studied in your earliest travels. She called herself a Vistani, a wanderer of "The Mists", and she described the realms of the damned within these mists. All sounded horrific, certainly tales more intending to frighten than elucidate, and all sounded fantastical. You had learned though, that much of the lore you learned from Vadoma was more... practical than first realized.

Her tale of Mordent was of misery and murder, of a family killed by a father, of a young woman tortured and blinded, left to die, of a people forever tormented by the restless souls of the family that still ruled them. It seemed unreal until the invitation.

Vadoma had died years ago, and with her death went the lore she held. She had no one to leave anything. No one else knew of this place, at least within the heartland. Travelling to the coast, to the largest port city, would prove nearly as fruitless save for one man. Old and dark like Vadoma, he had the eye of madness, and was left to drink to his death by a innkeeper who was in his debt.

Orestes, too had been to Mordent, had been throughout the Mists, describing them as some sort of uncharted archepeligos, lost to memory. He described a land that should be full of life, soft rolling farmland in a quaint river valley, beautiful old homes, and a picturesque town, but it was, in fact, a land of death and decay, where people lived in fear of those restless spirits. He recognized the hand of the Lord Godfrey, was able to confirm the message from your earlier translation, and, most importantly, was able to tell you how to travel to Mordent.

A local fishing trawler regularly went close to a shoal that barred entry into the mists, though the captain knew that there was a way past. He had no interest in going past the shoals unless there be good pay and a place to unload his catch. Orestes also said that the only way to travel to the mists was by ship. Birds would fly through the mists but never find land. A wizard looking for Azalin, apparently some sage, decided to travel through the mists, and found nothing but dense fog for his trouble. Orestes said that the way he understood it the land was enchanted or cursed to only allow passage by ship.

[LadyGlutter]

I reach for Scratch, instinctively. "Let's see what else there is to see. This looks like a place that needs us."

With that, I'll find my familiar place on her back. I'd prefer the vantage of the air for the time being, and more especially being in physical contact with Scratch. I don't like these mists, and don't fancy losing her in them. We'll fly towards the river, looking for a road. If there is one, I'll follow that into town.

[Chris Chandler]

Scratch fades in and out, her form a gossamer veil in the night air. You alight upon her back and she takes the opportunity to tumble in midair, losing about 100 of your 130 feet, then laying out and powerfully beating down to skim the ground of the moor before pulling up and heading up so high that the fires that so drew your attention are now nothing but the flickers of fireflies.

The dark outline of the river is a still hard to see, but somewhat better outlined now and the nest of fireflies some miles to the mouth of the river betray the form of civilization - a proper town, if a small one. As you move toward the flicker of the lights you make out what looks like a post road heading directly into town, seeming to intersect with the small river just north of town, and just before the river empties out into what looks to be a small bay. From this vantage, too you can see that the camp of your ship is some miles to the north, off the road. It seems like you should have passed by this bit of coast, where the town is situated, but are certain that you did not.

[LadyGlutter]

I lean in to Scratch's ear. "Let's go towards that town. Can you make the road out? If we're lucky, this should be the Arden River, that will be Mordentshire, and if we continue on, we'll be looking for something that could look like a Heather House. I say we stay up high and spiral down on what we think it is....

While we're safely far away, what's your preference? Do you want to come with me, or stay outside? This place is pretty ...odd, so I thought I'd let you choose, since our normal routine might be a bit inappropriate. I'd be glad to have you with me."

[Chris Chandler]

Stitch giggles at your whisper into her ear -

I'm not staying out to be watered with the horses, if that's what you mean, sis. I'm going in with you. I'll hide, but I'm not about to let you out of my sight. I see the road; I'll down toward it.

With that she begins her descent, and heads over the river, toward the bridge. As you close on the bridge you begin to see the construction of the town. The bridge is short, but sturdy, and well lit with lanterns. You can also see now that there is a small pool formed by the mouth of the river, just before the bridge.

The road into town goes from packed dirt to cobble, and you can see that throughout the town. It is positively picturesque. Buildings are close together, but not crowded, or like adjacent townhouses, as in a larger city. The streets are wide and clean, and all the buildings are in excellent repair and beautiful, many with large bay windows to display goods. The streets, like the bridge, are well lit, though it should be noted that you don't see anyone about. It is late at night, though.

You see that in the center of the town there is a large market area, with many stalls, all covered for the night. The cobbled road continues through the town, and the entire market area is cobblestone. Smaller streets run a circuit through the town, and you do note that there is a small pier at the edge of the town. two fishing boats moored to it. There looks to be a second bridge very near the small bay, allowing a small road from town head into a copse of trees and to what looks like a big old temple.

Now then, as you are flying over the town, is there any place in particular where you want to land, or do you want to completely skirt the town? It looks like the main road heads south out of town.

[LadyGlutter]

Yes, we'll skirt the town. Like I said, I'm looking for something south of town that might be Heather House. When we find it we'll spiral the house, making sure we have the right place and have an idea of what we're getting into.

[Chris Chandler]

You follow the road that leads out of the town and it quickly comes to an intersection. It is actually entering a road heading from another copse of trees and heading south into more woodland. Scratch lifts up above the canopy and sees that there is a large manor situated on a wide lawn, dotted with well tended trees, and lit lamps leading up to the doorstep. The ground slopes up here slightly and in the far distance you make out the lights of another building. The manor you see, though, seems the most likely candidate for Heather House, at least based on the little information you have from the invitation.

You spiral around the house, and it, indeed, seems a nice, well-maintained manor home. None of the other houses nearby seem to fit the suggestion of a manor given the title of Heather House. There are lights coming from the inside, and you sense movement from the interior, as well. There are no outbuildings, sheds, or any other accouterments to the grounds, though it is well kept with a simple garden in the back. There is a narrow dirt path leading to the other building.

Any specific questions before you proceed?

[LadyGlutter]

Yes. What time of evening is it, roughly? Even though I might see movement inside, I'm unclear how long into the night I think it is, based on when we crashed and all that has occurred.

[Chris Chandler]

When you were aboard ship it was foggy, very foggy, but you know that there was still daylight. After the crash and heading out from the ship's camp, the sun was pretty low, nearly sundown. You quickly walked toward the fire near the ruined manor, which was perhaps a four mile walk. At this point evening had fallen. You spent at least an hour (but we'll go with an hour), ministering to the treant and the area around the ruined manor. The flight down to the town was another five, maybe six miles, but Scratch moves really quickly. So, all told that means 2 1/2 hours since you left the camp. It's still early evening (approx. 8:30 or so).

[LadyGlutter]

"It's early for the town to be that quiet. Tonight seems best." I'll dismount and fly down myself. I land where the road meets the grounds.

[Chris Chandler]

The ground are well kept, clean, free of weeds, very manicured. The trees, slim oleanders, line the stone path that leads to the manor proper. The manor house is large, but not of the ostentatious grandeur so often seen among the landed.

Scratch lands nearby, closer to the woods than to road. She shimmers and is gone, but you can tell where she is. She is playing hoot-owl, in fact, hooting to let you know where she is.

[LadyGlutter]

I smile to myself at her silliness, and follow the path to the manor house. When I reach the door, I simply knock and wait.

[Chris Chandler]

You don't even get to the second knock before a woman, a tall, ravishing beauty with crystal blue eyes and long red hair back into a loose bun, swings back the door, her dark silken dressing gown tied tightly around her. Her eyes are wide with fear, and she reaches out, physically grabs you, and brings you inside. She spins immediately around, with you in tow, and then she whispers, loudly -

Are you mad, or just a fool? Inside!

The second that she fails to slam the door (which she will do immediately thereafter) is just enough time for Scratch to enter the building. You can tell this because her tail tips over a vase and, in the same instant, stops it from falling and sets it down gently, without a sound. Your keen senses watch it unfold in slow motion, but the woman seems oblivious.

The woman is nearly brimming with tears -

Miss - miss? Miss! Are - you - harmed?

You can sense nothing but fear and concern from this woman.

[LadyGlutter]

That puts me off a bit, but I try to handle it with some dignity. "Not to worry, I am neither a fool, nor harmed, ma'am. I don't understand what you mean by either, for I'm not of these parts. I am sorry to disturb you, but I was looking for a Heather House. Have I found it?"

[Chris Chandler]

She stops, drops her hands (off of you) to her sides, then furrows her brow.

Of course this is Heather Hou... wait, you are not of these parts, so of course you would not know that. Yes miss, I am Gennifer Weathermay-Foxgrove, Lady of Heather House. You say you were looking for the manor. Seems that you've found it, now what is a brave...

She stops for a moment, finally taken you in -

Goodness. Miss, you... you are truly not from this land. What misfortune has brought you here?

She starts moving through the large manor heading down the hall. She reaches out involuntarily to hold your hand as she begins walking.

[LadyGlutter]

I will take her hand, and say, "A pleasure to make your acquaintance. I am Mizuki. As to how I came here, well, some ...Lord Godfrey? Do you know him? Sent for me. I do not know him, or why, or how he heard of me. I had heard of the land of Mordent, however, and it sounded like an oppressed land in need of aid."

[Chris Chandler]

The lady is taken aback by the mention of that name, though she listens.

Aid? In need of aid. That is... more of an understatement than you realize Miss... Mizuki. I do not know what Godefrey has up his damned sleeve with inviting you here, but you can be assured it is of no kindness on his part.

She ponders for less than a second, moving to a table and pouring herself some brandy.

Nightcap?

She continues -

Were you sent an invitation, or did a messenger summon you?

[LadyGlutter]

I respond to the offer politely, "No thank you. It sounds as though I may need my wits about me. I was sent an invitation."

[Chris Chandler]

That is interesting. If he had sent a messenger, he most likely would have wanted you killed, but an invitation? That means a bit more of a personal meeting, to meet with you, not to murder you. I don't pretend to understand the madness of Lord Godefrey.

She smiles with no humor and knocks back her drink. She lets out a slow breath.

[LadyGlutter]

I laugh. Well, I'm not quite sure what to say then. Everything you say is confusing to me, but thank you for the warning. Is he the Lord of this house? And why did you pull me inside all upset like that?

[Chris Chandler]

She sets a trembling glass on the table near her and half smiles.

No, Lord Godefrey never leaves his home - he cannot, for he is cursed to stay atop Griffon Hill for all time. I am... I am one of his great-grandaughters, though I never knew him... as a man, at least. He is a tortured spirit, as are his wife and daughter, cursed by this cursed land.

As she speaks, she moves across the parlor toward a small portrait - the woman look much like Lady Gennifer here, but older and a man who, while handsomely featured, has a haunted look about his eyes. She touches the frame absently then turns back to you -

The moors and river, all of Mordent is unsafe, even to the most stalwart and brave, once the sun goes down. The restless spirits of the dead may never leave this place, and they roam the countryside, the streets of our village of Mortenshire, even in many homes. Did you not see any spirits? You nearly shine like a beacon, if you don't mind the turn of phrase, miss, a beacon that draws thirsty spirits from their slumber.

[LadyGlutter]

"I saw a dying tree shepherd a few miles north, and I helped his spirit escape this land, but that is all. That must have been why he wanted me to burn him. I did hurry on my way once I had taken care of that, though.

So if the land itself is cursed are all those who die here doomed so? Oh, and where is Griffon Hill?"

[Chris Chandler]

Griffin Hill is just to the west of here, though the deadwood on the other side of the main road. it is difficult to see at night - the forest masks the hill quite well. In the daytime, if the sun is bright, you can occasionally see a glint from one of the windows at the House on Griffin Hill.

She looks at the brandy, considering another glass. She stoppers the bottle, though, and moves away.

I do not know, specifically if every spirit is doomed to walk the land. I know that many, even those whom I have know through my own life, do walk restlessly, shades and spectres of their former selves. I must say, though, that those who are selfless, good-natured, happy with their lives, and those for whom there is love in others' hearts, they rest easily. My good brother, for example... His spirit has... has left this place, thankfully.

Her eyes are rimmed with tears, but she blinks them back and looks toward you.

I daresay, though, that you should travel any longer this night. I have far more room than I could ever hope to fill, and it would be certainly wonderful company. Please do stay here at Heather House during your stay. Even though I shall be very grateful for your company, I pray that you are not forced to stay in Mordent for very long.

[LadyGlutter]

"You are very kind. I would be glad to stay here tonight."

[Chris Chandler]

Lady Weathermay-Foxgrove will be happy (well, willing) to continue the discussion, or will be glad to show you to your room. Do you have any other questions for her?

[LadyGlutter]

No, I'll be a good house guest and let her entertain me as she chooses. If anything comes up, then yes, but I'm not about to interrogate her.

[Chris Chandler]

She walks at a brisk clip, but not too fast for you to keep up with ease, heads up the large curving stairs into the suites upstairs and moves down the hall, stopping at a oaken double door. She opens the door and frowns.

I am dreadfully sorry about the state of the room. I don't often entertain guests. Everything is in good order, but these rooms could really use some airing out... Tommorrow. Yes, that will be a nice project.

The room is stately but functional, with little overbearing pomp. The bed is large and there is a sitting area at its foot, a small couch butted up against the bed with a small table adjacent. A washing table is against the wall -

I'll fetch some water for you presently.

She heads off.

there is a large bay window with a desk and chair. You note that one of the small panes is cracked, creating a sliver of white from outside. The moonlight casts scant light into the room itself, but you see a number of lamps to provide for adequate lighting. There is also an enormous wardrobe next to the door - it takes up most of this wall. There is a beautiful rug in the middle of the floor, as well.

Scratch takes the opportunity to bump you out of the way and move... you think, near the window. She is quiet, but still big, and you know what to look for when she moves.

The lady returns with a proper pitcher of water, a dressing gown, and some clothes.

Should you require anything of me, I am at your service. I'll leave you to your rest. Good night!

She closes the door behind her and you hear her footsteps fade down the hall.

Well, goodness, what has her garters crossed?

Scratch fades in, and you see her curled around the writing desk at the window, the moonlight playing off her scales in a most luminescent manner.

[LadyGlutter]

You heard everything I did. I don't know exactly what's going on, but I guess she doesn't want me to air the room out tonight. I suppose I'll behave. Did you see any restless spirits wandering? I didn't.

I will wash up, change into the night clothes, cuddle with Scratch a bit, and generally get ready for bed.

[Chris Chandler]

I, er, wasn't exactly looking for ghosts.

The bed is positively cozy, and you sleep well. The morning arrives early, but you are well rested. From this window you can see more clearly the building you spied earlier. From this distance it looks like a family mausoleum, made from stone. You hear movement from the hall and also from downstairs. It seems that there is, at least, more than just the Lady of the house here today.

[LadyGlutter]

I'll get up, do my morning routine, brush out my hair, and scrub my face, and get dressed in what was left for me. I also make up the bed and throw open the window. I give Scratch a kiss, then head to the sounds from down the hall.

"Good Morning!"

[Chris Chandler]

The dress fits you well. It is a simple summer frock, nearly emerald green, that hits about mid-calf. Lady Weathermay-Foxgrove embraces you as you greet her and scoops you toward what smells like the kitchen, and it smells wonderful - baking bread, meat being fried up, cinnamon all float in the air. You enter the kitchen and see two older women cooking up a formidable breakfast. You see that there is a small table off to the side, butting up against a large window, overlooking the lawn. The table is set for four.

Oh, what would whet your whistle, Miss Mizuki? I've some fair plum juice, fresh cow's milk, and a pot of coffee boiling up as we speak. Missus Mary and Bertha here will be joining us presently. That is acceptable, I hope. It's a custom here. They are my servants, yes, but that doesn't mean they aren't people. Please, have a seat. Now that we've had a bit of rest, perhaps we can discuss things a bit more rationally.

She smiles, absolutely thrilled to have a guest.

[LadyGlutter]

I take a seat. "Of course I do not mind having more people at breakfast! And hmmmm... milk please."

[Chris Chandler]

Quite, and now then, to it. This invitation you mentioned last night. Do you have it on your person? May I see it please?

[LadyGlutter]

Here you are. I hand it over. I had to have it translated. Is this the local language?

[Chris Chandler]

She takes it and opens it -

Pardon? Oh, no, this is some tongue that I've not seen before... No, I take it back. I've seen it once or twice, but I cannot read it. 'Tis the writing of the Vistani, er, wanderers of the mists. You must have seen the mists as you traveled here, yes?

She scrutinizes the letter a moment longer -

I don't recognize the hand, either - our Lord Godefry had someone scribe this for him... or, something worse. How did you say you came about receiving this invitation?

[LadyGlutter]

"Well, I actually didn't say how I had gotten it. But it just appeared in my pack one day."

[Chris Chandler]

Appeared? That is most peculiar, though, if you are an outsider, it would make some sense for Godefrey to send the invitation by arcane means. That, however, does not tell me, actually, who did send the invitation.

She passes you your dish and the other two ladies sit down. Mary, sitting at your right, speaks up -

So, dearie, sounds like you've got a bit of trouble on your plate, you do. What've you done what brought Godefry's nose around you?

[LadyGlutter]

I smile. "I've no idea what particular thing caught his attention. I travel a lot, from world to world actually, so it's extremely hard to say. So, what sort of trouble should I expect?"

[Chris Chandler]

The three of them look at you as if you are mad.

You... travel? You travel from, what did you say, world to world? Please forgive my shock at such a phrase, but please understand. None of us here in Mordent has ever left the borders of the realm. We cannot. To say so glibly that you, if it be possible, to travel the very stars, is, to say the least, unbelievable.

Mary makes the sign to ward the evil eye, to which Lady Weathermay-Foxgrove glares at her. Bertha smirks -

Yer wardin' the wrong eye, Missus Mary. The Lady's liable to send you digging potatoes with no spade, calling on that Vistani -

Oh, ladies please, not at the table. As I was saying -

Well, how d'we not she's not some devil come to -

No devil could be that beautiful!

Never heard of look fair smell foul, then?

She's not a melon!

Mary, I won't hear another word of this. Miss Mizuki is - Mary!

Mary, attempting to stand, stops and plops down, frowning.

If Miss Mizuki had been some sort of devil, perish the thought, then the guardian would have known, now wouldn't she?

S'pose, missus.

So, no more of that talk. Goodness!

She smiles with great force of will and continues -

You have travelled the stars, and, judging from your appearance I cannot say I disbelieve such a statement, but then, even then, it makes me fearful for just why you were called here.

[LadyGlutter]

"I do not intend to bring trouble. Or force my company upon anyone, Mary. Don't worry, I'm not offended. You don't know me, and of course you have no reason to trust me. I will leave if you wish." I smile. I'm truly not offended -- the lives they have lived surely inclines people to be wary. It's actually probably wise. "But I would like to know what this guardian is before I head on my way."

[Chris Chandler]

Both of the servants look quite surprised, but Gennifer smiles broadly.

Oh, would you like to meet her? She would be most pleased, I am sure. Most pleased.

Unless there is something between now and meeting that you would like to discuss, breakfast will continue without interruption, Lady Weathermay-Foxgrove silently thrilled for the upcoming encounter.

[LadyGlutter]

Nothing to add.

[Chris Chandler]

You head out of the kitchen and down the hall, to the other end of the manor. You can see that this section of the manor does not see much activity - where in other sections there are open doors and open curtains, the three doors here are closed. She enters a righthand door and you see a small room, dim, as the curtain is drawn. You can see well enough, though, to establish that this room resembles a small temple, a chapel, if you will. You also see a young woman at the far wall, praying to herself.

Alexi? Alexi, there is someone I would like you to meet.

The woman turns and stand, then slowly floats toward you, her feet wisping into ether. She is beautiful to behold and terribly sad. All of her color, as she approaches you, seems to have washed out, and she looks a pale grey, her long ringlets of hair fading into the dimness around her.

She is dressed as an acolyte of a holy order you don't recognize, with a cuirass beneath a long white surcoat. You see the scabbard of a blade, but it is empty.

She looks at Gennifer, then to you. She smiles plainly and bows in the manner of a knight-militant -

Milady, it is a pleasure to meet you. I am Kitari Shadowborn, of the Shadowborns of... of...

It's alright dear.

I am sorry, Milady. I am... simply Kitari now.

[LadyGlutter]

Though I'm a bit confused, I smile warmly. "What land you once were from is not important. I would not likely recognize it anyway. I am Mizuki. Pleasure to meet you, Kitari."

[Chris Chandler]

As I had said earlier, this land is full of the spirits that once peopled this land. Kitari, here, is a sort of spiritual refugee. She found herself on my grounds one morning, and I approached her. She is an unbound spirit, having been cast from her... pardon me Kitari, cast from her haunt by a powerful evil spirit.

Ebonbane, Milady. It's name is Ebonbane.

Yes, of course. It's so rare to find a wandering spirit that isn't consumed by evil. I asked her to join my household, and she accepted. She keeps away evil spirits, hates them.

They are a reminder of my failure -

Oh none of that, Kitari. I won't hear of it.

Kitari looks toward you -

You are an outsider. Your spirit will reside in the court of Ehlonna. How beautiful, how wonderful.

She says this smiling, she means her statement as high praise, but her sadness overwhelms the statement.

Gennifer stands back, confused herself.

The great tormentor, Godfrey of Griffon Hill, seeks your audience. Do not fear the dead milady. Godfrey cannot harm such as you. Beware of she who beckoned the Lord of Mordent to call you forth. She is dangerous, hidden. Beware.

She says this last with little more than a whisper, and she hangs her head low.

[LadyGlutter]

I will do my best. Do not worry so. Do you know more of who she is, or what she might want, so I can better prepare?

[Chris Chandler]

No, she has hidden herself. I cannot see her spirit. I am sorry.

[LadyGlutter]

Then... how do you know she is female. Or, is that the very reason you are concerned so about her, because she has hidden herself?

[Chris Chandler]

Yes. She appeared, and I did not think of her past her arrival, but it was when I did not notice her, when I noticed the complete absence of her that I worried. Even if a spirit has left I can sense a trace, but with her, nothing.

[LadyGlutter]

Interesting. How long ago? And am I the only one who has arrived that you know of?

[Chris Chandler]

The spirit shakes her head, and looks to Gennifer -

There are visitors, immigrants some call them, outsiders to others. Some, like the old cooper William - he arrived from some city named Culdorn - come to Mordent and live out their lives. Others, most every outsider that visits Mordent, die terrible, bloody deaths. I don't really understand why, beside those few fools who refuse to accept that spirits walk these streets when the sun hides herself. Some say it is Godfrey, others say his daughter, still other say that the Loup Garou have come in from Richelieu, though I have a hard time thinking that such creatures, even as foul and evil as they are, could live out in the moors at night.

It is the land itself, mistress. It hungers for those in the light, the light of the waking world.

Gennifer looks positively nonplussed by her reply, that is, confused and upset.

[LadyGlutter]

No wonder you are so worried. I do not plan on dying a terrible bloody death today, but I do suppose I am delaying an inevitable meeting, and perhaps I will find more answers with Lord Godfrey himself.

[Chris Chandler]

Please do be careful. I really cannot say just what sort of temperament he may have. Surely though, he is a murderous fiend. Please travel safely. Follow the road south slightly and you will see a spur. Take that road up to through the deadwood to the hilltop. His manor is there.

Gennifer looks terribly worried. Kitari fades from your sight.

[LadyGlutter]

Thank you so much for your cordial hospitality. I appreciate it so much. The room was lovely, the dress beautiful, breakfast wonderful. I wish I could ease your mind. I will be careful. I promise.

With that, I return to my room to gather my belongings, and take my leave as soon as possible. My presence is just worrying her sick, and I don't even know if I'll get a chance to come back and assure her I'm fine. So I'd best just hurry up with it, kind as she has been.

[Chris Chandler]

You head out quickly and painlessly. Scratch lets you know that there was something watching the house, but she could not see what it was, specifically, and didn't want to leave and have you not be able to find her.

It looked like a young woman... sort of. It was hiding in the bushes, and I saw a girl's face, but it disappeared as soon as it caught sight of me looking at it.

[LadyGlutter]

I follow the Lady's directions as I walk along with Scratch. Well... thanks for letting me know, but I'm almost certain no matter where I turn I'm being watched here, don't you think? And what do you mean 'sort of'?

[Chris Chandler]

Well, she wasn't natural, that's for sure. I peeked in and listed to a bit of your conversation. I didn't see any spirits last night, and I've got kind of a keen nose, y'know? She could have been a spirit.

You move out across the road and onto the spur. It takes an immediate sharp turn to the left, then heads upward. The path - it is hardly a road - is cut into Gryphon Hill and winds around. There was a thick forest here at one time, but it has been destroyed. The entire area is burnt and ruined. All the trees are dead and you sense no wildlife around at all. You have a sense of great pain throughout this area. You can tell that some of the very largest trees (not quite a dozen) have their spirits still within, though they are very nearly completely dead. Your blood chills from the wind whipping through the dead trees sounds uncannily like faint screams.

As you top the hill you catch sight of The House. It is bleak and dark, even in mid morning, with broken windows, a crumbling roof, and parched, dead grounds around it. You arrive at the rear door, and there is what looks like a decayed garden expanding to the edge of the grounds. The path winds around to the front, and ends.

The skeleton of a multitude of dead climbing roses covers the front of the House. The heavy door, ironbound wood, looks more like the door to a prison than to an old manor. The leaded windows, those that aren't broken, have a glazed, filmy look to them. You see no light from the inside.

[LadyGlutter]

"My host's decorating skills leave a bit be to be desired," I chuckle, glad of Scratch's company. I'm still going to treat it like any regular home I'm visiting, and knock, prison door or not.

[Chris Chandler]

You knock, and it sounds somewhat subdued, as if the door were padded somehow. After a brief moment the door opens, and you see a servant, long since dead, still dressed in the attire of a formal servant, though it is spectral.

May I assist you, Miss?

[LadyGlutter]

"Yes. Lord Godfrey is expecting me, I believe? I am Mizuki."

[Chris Chandler]

The servant fades, appears some 10 feet within the building, and does similarly until he leaves your sight completely. A faint, but low voice calls out from the direction of the rickety staircase.

Well, don't stand out on the steps, you'll let some sunlight in. Come in!

[LadyGlutter]

I wait on Scratch, then go in, towards the rickety staircase.

[Chris Chandler]

In true haunted house fashion, the door will slam behind you. You see the spectral servant, along with a throng of other spirits (who also have the look of servants) poking their heads from the two doorways on either side of you. They are fearful, if such a thing is possible from a ghost.

You see a man, walking along the hall at the top of the stairs. He turns and, rather than descend the stairs in the traditional manner, he glides slowly down the steps. He is dressed in the finery of a baron, a deep blue waistcoat over a fine linen shirt, with black pantaloons over hose and heavy leather shoes. His long hair, brown shot with gray, is back in a ribbon-tied ponytail. He has a full beard, also graying. He is powerfully built, a retired soldier possibly, with broad shoulders and large hands.

He stops and alights at the bottom of the stairs. He bows low and introduces himself -

I am Lord Godfrey, but I don't believe I've had the pleasure, miss... Mizuki was it? How am I to be expecting an outsider such as yourself, though I did note your arrival last night. A young lady, even with such a bodyguard, should be more careful at night. There are all sorts of unspeakable things that make a habit of roaming the moors and roads once the sun departs.

You'll note, of course, that Scratch had been hiding, but you'll also recognize that, from your exposure to other cognizant spirits, simple wards like Scratch's disappearing from sight have no affect on ghosts. They don't even recognize that such a veil is there.

[LadyGlutter]

I return the bow. "Yes, Mizuki.

The Lady Gennifer informed me of the danger of being out at night, so I stayed with her. I was marooned close to night time, so I had little choice."

I pull out my letter of invitation. "And as for how you are to be expecting me, I received this about 5 days ago." I approach him to hand him the letter, but am very watchful. I didn't expect him to not know I was coming.

[Chris Chandler]

He looks at the invitation and he raises a hand, an the invitation leaves your grasp (if you wish it) had he actually taken it. It floats before him an opens, and he reads it.

This is my hand, my paper, my seal, yet I have never seen this before. I... to be blunt, I don't imagine I would ever invite one of... your kind to my home - I did not send this invitation.

He looks at you now -

I'm not sure what sort of title you bear in your homeland, but you carry in your aura something very unpleasant to me, to any spirit, I would wager. I am most surprised that every spirit in Mordent did not seek you out as if you were a bled fox and they the hounds. I would never willingly call you here, Miss Mizuki, no.

The invitation returns to you, folded.

Now then, so that we can maintain this as civilly as possible, where did you get this, from whom?

[LadyGlutter]

"It appeared in my belongings. Repeatedly."

[Chris Chandler]

An apparating invitation.

He mutters a foul arcane phrase and his eyes alight, bright yellow -

Yes, yes I see the dweomer attached to this page. It is, indeed a key to the door of this realm, given to you. That is powerful, since I usually have a say in who and who does not enter my land.

He continues -

You traveled by boat, and your crew were unharmed during the night. Those creatures I spoke of ought to have massacred your ship companions last night. I'll need to speak to them later and find out why they were not compelled to seek your companions out -

He says that in a very offhand manner -

But this key is another matter.

At that moment you feel a presence nearby (still outside, or still not in the immediate vicinity), it is a spirit, but that is not why you feel the approach. You have an uncanny sense of the spirits of nature near you. One such is coming this way. Godfrey seems oblivious.

This key, the invitation that is, is most unusually. It has... picked the lock, so to speak, allowing you to enter unfettered. That connection to this... land is unprecedented.

[LadyGlutter]

So, are you saying you are in control of this land? You are why it is as it is?

[Chris Chandler]

((post eaten!))

I am... the chief steward of this land. I am still as controlled as any who are born and raised here. I may never leave Mordent. The land will not permit it, so yes I am why it is as it is. Horrifying, I know, but as Lady Weathermay would have told you, I am nothing but a murderer.

The spirit is closing.

[LadyGlutter]

Yes, Lady Weathermay filled me in on your character and situation, but actually, at the moment, I'm simply trying to understand. The land won't permit you leaving, but you exert some will over the land too?

[Chris Chandler]

I, usually speaking, am a sort of gatekeeper. The land may want a person in, or out, however the case may be, but I usually can shunt them to another realm if I don't want them. I cannot tell you how many holy men have been on their way to Mordent to only find their way to Sithicus.

He's speaking of things you just don't have the information for, obviously, and he's doing it on purpose. He's as confused as you are in regard to the situation at hand, but he still feels that he is in control.

Oh, that's her.

What?! What is - how did this thing approach my doorstep?

You see what Scratch has seen back at Heather House. You see, directly to your left, a young dryad, though she, too, is dead - a spirit forced to wander. You sense no evil in her, though. She looks at you plaintively.

You have come. I am so happy.

[LadyGlutter]

I look to my left, not surprised but still confused. "Yes, I am here now."

[Chris Chandler]

Godfrey, who seems to be growing in stature and breadth loses any pretense of being calm and collected.

What is the meaning of this!?

The spirit looks at you, as if you have an answer. She seriously is waiting for you to respond.

[LadyGlutter]

I ignore Godfrey. His discomfort does not threaten me. A tiny bit of amusement does play at my eyes, but then again, I'm a little annoyed as well.

Are you the one who summoned me?

[Chris Chandler]

The spirit is a bit shocked at the question -

No, never! I would not do such a thing even if I could, but I saw the rite. I...

She trails off looking away -

Godfrey narrows his spectral eyes -

You were an offering, the price of blood for some witch to bring this to my doorstep! Who was it, little sapling. Tell me before I start breaking twigs.

[LadyGlutter]

I stare at the situation, amazed. I guess I need to draw his attention back to me, though.

"Godfrey, quit with the freak out. This is how powerful you are? Really? I'm terrified, myself."

[Chris Chandler]

The tiny spirit starts to fade in fear as Godfrey turns on you. He barely squints his eyes and you hear a rumble throughout the house. Scratch is nervous, but moves closer to you, and you feel a very slight tremor, as if something were supposed to happen, but didn't.

Imagine Godfrey's surprise.

You are still here? That... is... unfortunate. I hoped to banish you away but you won't go, will you? Perhaps you summoned yourself, little bitch.

He moves aggressively toward you and you feel another presence in the room, not like this fey spirit, more palpable, tangible - You see a woman dressed in black robes emerge from a corner shadow just as Godfrey attempts to reach out at you with his enormous hand, looking to grab ahold of you. You can tell that his ghostly form is becoming almost solid for just an instant as he does this.

[LadyGlutter]

Taking a step back, I draw my sword and, in one smooth motion, disarm him.

[Chris Chandler]

((See, now that is funny))

Your blade leaves it's sheath, the soft blue light enveloping the blade growing as you lunge forth. Godfrey seems unfazed by your weapon, that is, until you bite his spectral form with your blade. He reels back, his great stature immediately diminishing, his ghostly arm separating at the elbow, then reforming quickly, but his form, as a whole, is dimmer. He mutters another arcane phrase, a summoning, and you see the tell-tale sign of creatures being called forth.

The tiny spirit draws your attention. She whispers, nearly panicked -

Godfrey may try to kill you, but I fear that she may succeed. Please, you must leave! Ai!

You see the woman in full now, as she waves her hand dismissively and disrupts Godfrey's summons.

Let's keep this party exclusive, hon.

Godfrey vanishes, his taste for revenge not as great as his sense of self-preservation.

The woman is tall, lanky, with angular, athletic features and short blond hair. She has some elven blood to her, and the lines at the corners of her eyes suggest many years of toil. She is dressed in simple traveling attire, with a heavy wool cloak around sturdy boots, linen skirts and a leather vest.

She smirks at Godfrey's departure.

[LadyGlutter]

So, that was no fun. I wanted very badly to take care of that right now. What's this all about then?

[Chris Chandler]

Hm, oh yes. Don't worry, you'll be able to take care of all of this in short order. You could say you'll be the catalyst for change!

She starts laughing, and not a chuckle either - she lets out a loud guffaw, and she tears up, hands on hips.

Oh... oh my. Yeah, you're not going to find it nearly as funny, but I've to tell you, that's golden.

She takes a moment to size you up -

Hm. Aren't you kind of short for your kind of parentage? No matter, blood's blood. Now then, we can do it here in the foyer, but I find that to be a bit informal. What say we move this to the parlor, pour a drink, smoke a pipe, swap spit and stories?

She turns and heads to the righthand doorway, now bereft of eavesdropping spectral servants.

Oh, come on. I promise not to bite until you say so.

Her eyes light up at the prospect.

Speaking of servants, the little fey spirit is still here, and she's cowering, her eyes pleading with you.

[LadyGlutter]

Oh, very nice.

I look to the little spirit, and stoop down. Whether she's physical or not doesn't matter to me, I want to be where I can speak to her. "You were glad I came. So why are you upset now? Isn't... this why you wanted me?"

[Chris Chandler]

I am joyous that you might could stop Her, but I am fearful that she will tear out your spirit and leave you in torment. It grieves my heart.

[LadyGlutter]

"I will be wary then, but I am already here and it seems I must face her. I will do my best to honor your blood."

[Chris Chandler]

The woman has left the room, heading, apparently, to her destination. The fey spirit is still looking at you, fearfully.

You hear not a peep from Godfrey.

[LadyGlutter]

I follow the woman then, throwing one last smile over my shoulder at the little one.

[Chris Chandler]

Oh, she's not leaving your side. You have a tiny ghostly companion for the duration.

You walk down the decrepit hallway and toward a small, dark parlor, illuminated by recently lamps, from the smell of the sulfur in the room. The woman is lounging on a divan, sipping on a drink - You see a small bar lined with ancient, dusty bottles, one unstopped.

They tell ya that whiskey gets better with age, but I say shenanigans to that - this stuff just tastes like really old rotten corn. Care for a touch - curl the hairs on yer toes! Ha!

She has a sparkle in her eye that is disconcerting.

Now then, to the point of it - Do you have any idea where you are, and I don't mean some place called Mordent in some dead guy's house on some hill?

[LadyGlutter]

"No thank you, and no."

[Chris Chandler]

Thought not. Well, I'm here to elucidate you, yep! See, some folks call this the land of the Mists, or the Domain of Dread, or what have you. You're well-traveled, so you've spent time in the Ethereal. Well, that's where we are, a little pocket of the Ethereal, trying to grow into a proper plane. It's really a sort of chained archipelagos of connected pockets, all loosely grouped together by a singular power - the Mists themselves.

She gives you a questioning look, but continues -

No, I'm not ma... I take that back - I'm nuttier'n a fruitcake, but I'm spot on with this. This Domain of Dread has one big purpose, and that is to distill evil - it hungers for evil. It subsists on it. That means it draws the very nastiest folks from the Prime here, to one of the little pockets, and they do their thing, like be terrible ghosts, or avaricious vampires or lying scoundrels - it takes all sorts, and the realm grows.

She pauses -

[LadyGlutter]

"Alright, and that has... what to do with me, exactly?"

[Chris Chandler]

She laughs, enjoying the game -

Well, the very most nastiest of the nasty, they figure out that the Mists are eating them, after a fashion. I've seen it in a few of the pockets here - The Lord here, Godfrey, he's just an example, but he's a piker and a coward when it comes to brass tacks. He knows what the Mists have done for him, and what they do to him. He's learned to compensate. He, very occasionally, manages to call a particular nice, sweet, and kind individual, trick 'em, and then... eat them, after a fashion. His power bulks up, which allows his realm to grow, and it seems to make those tricksy Mists content, too. I mean, you've gotta admit it's pretty low-down, calling some on-high do-gooder out to be a planar meal.

She smiles, really big -

It really only has a tiny little bit to do with you, per se, though, like I said, you're the catalyst. See, Godfrey's been running Mordent into the ground for a while now and that's just not acceptable. So I'm takin' over!

She hoots.

And you are a particularly nutritious meal, so to speak. I sac you, go banish poor little Godfrey to Barovia or someplace else where he can contend with some other loser, and with my new spledifferous Mizuki power I become the Much More Beautiful and Terrible Lord Queen of Mordent - nice title, eh? Thought of it myself - oh, and probably a few neighboring little pockets, too. Oh, this is going to be so cool! I am so happy I found this place. Unlimited potential, I tells ya! Unlimited!

[LadyGlutter]

"Uhhuh. You're quite the poet. You sac me, was it? And who are you, exactly?"

[Chris Chandler]

((sorry for the delay))

Me? Well, I just told you my soon-to-be title, but that really doesn't help, now, does it?

She smiles again -

You know, I guess it wouldn't do any harm telling you who I am, though I've to say, I've had so many names over the years - So many different times, so many different faces. Ah, the memories.

She looks mock wistful for just a moment -

Oh, I could hear myself talk all day. Most recently, I was known as Abigail, Lady of Azure Flame, a priestess of... oh some local power or whatnot. I lose track of all the dogma. She, er, I was an important figure in a city called Haven. Heard of it? I'm not surprised, really - festering cyst of a city, really awful...

She trails off -

Oh, right - biography. Yeah, that's me. I'm her. Me. I'm me. Priestess from Haven.

Her smile is as big as ever.

[LadyGlutter]

Wow, you're more tiresome than Lord Godfrey was. Enough with the evasion. Let's dance already. My sword's already out, and I intend for it to be in her heart before I finish speaking.

[Chris Chandler]

You thrust, but it clear that the barb is more effective than the attack, though the woman's body crumples to the ground, bright sparks of light scattering as your blade flashes.

Oh, oh that was quick and painful! Now what I need to see is if you can deal with what you give.

The voice is disembodied now, and you hear the little dryad spirit shriek in terror.

She is coming for you!

You feel a looming presence, a sense of impending danger that quickly passes.

Interesting. You'd think with you standing still I might have... No matter. Try try again.

You don't see anything, exactly. There something akin to wafts of heat on the desert, a blurring of the air, just before you.

[LadyGlutter]

I attack that blurring of hot air now. If it doesn't work, well, at least I've eliminated that possibility. If it does, then huzzah.

[Chris Chandler]

You blade glows brighter as it senses the quarry before you and sparks fly from the waver of air before you. You hear the disembodied voice scream.

Can't be hit and can hit me here. Little tree- spirit -

Her voice is decidedly sing-song and menacing -

Just what did you bring me?

The little spirit smiles at you and then speaks out, toward the center of the room, in the direction of the blur.

You bade me call the most powerful of my kind that was not royalty. Mizuki is a river daughter, and the daughter of the Emmissary of Ehlonna. I believe that qualifies.

You little bark-faced bitch! I'll kill you again!!! Mizuki, it appears that your services are not needed - you are... overqualified. Now, if you don't mind, I've a spirit to destroy and a Lord of Mordent to kill the hard way.

You can hear the unease in Abigail's voice. The little spirit looks at you pleadingly -

The wood! Burn the wood!

[LadyGlutter]

I do not take my eyes away from the wavering heat, and attack it again. "Scratch, can you burn the body please? Little one, could you tell her exactly what needs doing?"

[Chris Chandler]

Your friend materializes and moves through the door with incredible speed, laughing loudly at the spectres that feel the need to move their incorporeal bodies out of the way. The dryad spirit fades with a shout -

Quickly, to the old spruce!

The blur coalesces into a loose shape, vaguely female, still a spirit -

What do you think you are trying to do, here? I'm the one in control! I'm the one who brought you here? I can certainly cast you out whenever I damn well feel like it!

Strange that she hasn't yet, as you take another thrust with your blade.

Stop That!

She attempts some incantation, quickly, and you see the sparks of a failed dweomer shed across your skin.

And that too!

Almost there, river-daughter!

[LadyGlutter]

"I'm glad you're still so chatty. It's very diverting. And, oh yes, you're certainly in total control here. I'm all aquiver. Terrified even." I smile, as I continue to do what I can to completely destroy this leech.

[Chris Chandler]

You send a flurry her way, your blade biting her quavering form and she cries out.

Enough! This has gone on longer than you've even been alive, little backwater creek pixie. This is mine, and you shall not stop me.

Yes, that one, that one! Please! Oh, it burns!!!

[LadyGlutter]

"Oh, well, since you ask so nicely...."

I'm not intending to stop til it's done.

[Chris Chandler]

You start to feel a rumble around you. You also begin to smell hickory and sycamore smoke, wafting into the disheveled manor.

The task is... done... Mizuki... Thank you Scratch...

and the Dryad Spirit has gone to where the Shepherd can keep watch over her.

Now it gets confusing -

That dryad had a blood-binding to summon you here. You feel that release. You hear solid footfalls, quick and light, coming down the hall. You hear a call - Gennifer -

Abigail, my friend, just what was so urgent that you send a courier to have me come he -

She turns the corner -

She stops, looking down at the physical body of Abigail, and you with your shining blade out -

Mizuki? What is going on here!?

Yes, yes I'd like to know the same thing.

You don't see Godfrey - his voice is throughout the manor.

Dammit, Ginny, I don't need you anymore!!!

Lady Weathermay looks a might confused, and a little afraid of you.

((I went back and fixed the color for Abigail in the previous posts - sorry about that))

[LadyGlutter]

Not really the best time to talk, but the short is that your friend here was going to use my blood or soul or something to supplant Lord Godfrey. I assume that her disguise explains many things.

I continue to attack the evil in front of me, even while calmly explaining.

[Chris Chandler]

You slash out, and can tell that you are hurting her, definitely -

Godfrey laughs, the timbers of the manor shaking, dust falling -

It doesn't work that way, pet. Goodness me. Do you think I chose this for myself? No, it's the Mists, they chose me. They might have chosen you, but not here, I'm so, sorry. They won't be able to chose you, once I finish with you.

Gennifer looks at you in horror -

I never - I didn't have any... Please forgive me!

She collapses, crying.

Pathetic worm - Once Godfrey's destroyed, the vacuum will -

I can't be destroyed you stupid, stupid girl- don't you think I've tried? Think you'd have learned something about the place your planning on ruling -

Lies -

Ah, what's this? The blood bond is gone, and I see that this little bright shining pest is no longer bound to my realm. Good riddance Miss Mizuki, I hope to never see you again. Don't worry, though - I'll toy with this one a good long time before I send her into torment.

You see Scratch, her head low, her nose a bit singed, coming into the room. She nearly knocks Gennifer down, she is so crestfallen in her task -

What in the world!

Oh, pardon. Mizuki, can we please leave this place?

Ah yes, the pest's pet. Begone with you both - I've torture to plan. Oh, and great-granddaughter, be a dear and clean that corpse off of my floor.

Gennifer looks to the ground, shrugs, tears in her eyes -

Yes, of course, Lord Godfrey.

You feel a definite sense of fading, either you and Scratch are beginning to fade, or this realm is. The hazy form of Abigail, her spirit body torn and bereft from your assault, is before you - you almost can see her eyes, and in that almost form, they look pleading. You see Godfrey apparate just next to her. He smiles menacingly as he waves at you.

[LadyGlutter]

I imagine it's futile, but I make a move towards Godfrey with my sword, trying to get one last shot in.

[Chris Chandler]

You step and fall, seemingly into a pit the drop is so sudden and you automatically scramble for balance. You see Scratch do the same thing, and you see her tumble about, trying to catch wind, in vain.

The area around you is completely dark - can only see the heat from Scratch. You have the definite sense of rapid movement, though there is no breeze and no reference in the distance.

You continue for quite some time, traveling through this void. You lose much of your sense of time, but you feel as if there is a presence observing you, trying to... force something upon you, and then, nothing. You do, however become aware in this blackness of a yawning maw, still black, but with the tinges of darkest red. You smell dust and bones, feel heat, hear the clink of wooden chimes, the sound of the wind against the dunes of sand.

You see the maw open and in a moment you are standing upon sand and you see a bright, barren sky, a young woman standing before you.

((You are the 4th to Athas. Welcome home!!!))