STORY SO FAR...

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[AGE] THE BEGINNING...

As I stand on the relm of time, my mind transcended to the the events that have transpired over the
long years. My name is Ageless, I come from a world called Daewood. A world of beauty and wonder.
It had been told that the day and hour would come that a seed would be borned of such evil that it
would rise to take over, putting the nation's into bondage to be slaves, under his rule. His name was
Sade.
Now the Dragons of this world decide that they would fade into the shadows of time, till they had
become nothing but stories of a race dead and gone. Then they found me, raised me. taught me
everything they knew. The Dragons had a purpose for they knew that there would be the birth of
people with the skills, power, and heart to defeat Sada who was now called the evil one.
In order for me to live all Dragonkind together made amulet that once put on could never be taken
off. It was a amulet that gave longevity to live through out the ages. Then all Dragonkind gave of their
blood to mingle with mine so that I would have the abilty to be telepathic and go between space and
time. As I became a young women I was sent forth to shape and influence mankind over the ages.
Working to the day and hour that all would be in place for the final and ultimate battle to either free
the world or die.

-------

In the begining days, Sade with the help of a corrupt Magi, worked his way to the highest of ranks.
By then having learned the ways of sorcery he and the Magi Kal had put into high places of rank and
rule the most corrupt of men and then took rule of the land and people. With Kal as his righthand man.
As it had been foreseen by Dragonkind, Sade and Kal went forth to destorying any bloodline that
may have the power to overthrow his evil rule. They declared war on the Magi and with the help of Kal
and the other magi that Kal had entriced to join their evil cause raided the land and homes of the
Magi killing the strongest and killing their children till the Magi race had claimed defeat. They
imprisoned the rest stipping them of any of the magic and sorcery they had. Then they marched
against the Immortals, and with Kal having the knowledge of knowing the only way to kill a immortal.
They slaughted the Immortals till all were gone. With the other nations seeing this they thought of no
hope of fighting the evil and surmitted to his rule. A hard and cold rule. All were slaves , they had no
mercy and killed many. Women, children, and men to keep the world in fear of them.
Now is when I with the help of others that I had recuited over the years hid some of the children of
the bloodlines of the nation. We placed them in humble and good homes so as the evil one would not
know who they were. Some of the Magi went into hiding creating a hidden city which no army could
come against not even Sade's. They sent word to left alone or they would rise and destory the world
before letting Sade take them. Sade in his wisdom accepted their word and left them be. Trying not to
even find the hidden city. Even through in the back of his mind he feared a day that someone would be
able to influence them to come forth. But as Kal pointed out only one of their blood could do that and
would have to be from the outside, which was impossible for all had been killed or stipped.
Now as for the immortals, as it was luck had one that was not in the land when Sada's army
attacked. And that one told on one of his true identity,his name was Thomas and roamed the lands as
a great warrior in hiding. This one had become a thorn in Sade's side. He had a bounty on his head but
could never be caught so far.

-------

Now as the years had past, and the children of the bloodlines that had been hidden had grown. They had gone out
into the world unknowing that they would be pulled into one of the greatest battles of this world. One was a young
women named Tal. She had grown to have great skills in the art of fighting amongest other things. Of course
unknowing to her was the fact that she was of the Magi bloodline.
As Tal had become a young woman her need to find where she came from had moved her to leave her only
family she knew and wander the world in search of a clue of who she truly was. Tal wandered the world as a loner,
always looking always finding no answers. Thus came the decision to go and present myself to her. How I remember
the day. Tal was at her campsite just sitting around the fire. I walked out of the woods, she looked at me, stood up
and drew her sword. I could see in her mind that even through she drew her sword she felt as if she knew me. (in a
sense she did for it was I that had arranged for her the family that raised her, it was I that held her and carried her to
her saftey when her family was slaughtered) At that moment I raised my hand and with my telepathic mind I created
a image of light and spoke these words....I am Ageless. You will travel with me...I am in need of your companionship
and protection. It is a lonely road, and full of dangers. With Tal's hopes of finding her bloodline she join me.
Therefore began our journey together to find the others and go to our destiny. As we traveled together I started
telling her of the old legends of our world. The lost city and the great power of the globe and how in the wisdom of the
people they hid all the texts that showed how to attain the power from the globe and who how whoever gained that
knowledge would have the power of unlimited source, and how no one could stand against them and win. I told her of
stories of the Dragonkind. However there was many things I did not tell Tal, (for the time was not right) I could
sense a peace coming in her soul.
As we entered into a small villiage we heard the cries of a young girl, we looked to see two rough and hard
looking men dragging the girl as she cried and tried to ecaspe. I Looked at Tal and said go and bring her here. As
Tal walked to the men, they looked and with two swift moves she knocked them to the ground. Tal looks at the girl
and says come with me. And at the same time daring the two men to get up. Which they didn't take her on her offer.
Thus brings us to Daina , She looks at us , I look her in the eyes and said you will come with us and you will be safe.

Daina looks at us in wonder and asked who are you? Tal looks at her and said I am Tal and this is Ageless. I Looked around and noticed the townfolks standing looking and pointing their fingers our way. I spoke Tal lets get what we need and leave. Tal looked at me and understood what I was saying. I turned to Daina, come and go with us. Tal quickly got what we need and we left town.
As we were riding out I pulled Tal to the side , you realize that she is elfven don't you Tal? Yes she is from a race that is some of the greatest wood fighters in the world. I wonder how she got here so far from her bloodline? Ageless looks for a moment at Daina then looks at Tal. We shall let her tell us when she feels moved too. We rode back up to Daina, she looks at us and says thank you both for coming to my aid. No one has ever put their life on the line for me. If I may can I travel with you? Both Tal and I smile and said yes. Tal then informs Daina that there may be danger were we go, Daina laughs, I look funny at her and it dawns me , Daina smiles and says well I just came from danger. We all laughed then.
Tal looks at me and asks shall we make camp. No we have to pick another person up in a small village. Tal looks and wonders who ? After traveling half the night we come to this small village that doesn't even have a name. Tal then asks me where to now, I simply say the first bar we come too. Tal looks at me what? You heard me the first bar we come to. As we rode up the street sure enough there was a Tavern Inn. Then all of a sudden the doors flew open and two men landed outside. I smile , this is the place. right after that a woman carrying a staff comes out yelling you think I am so drunk that you can cheat me at cards? She looks up sees me and groans oh no not you. Yes me get your horse and come on I have need of you. But I am in the middle of a winning a pot of money in a card game. Forget the card game Avelina and come on I don't have time to bicker with you. Avelina knew that voice of mine and got on her horse. Avelina meet Tal and Daina. Tal nods her head and sums up Avelina as Avelina sums up Tal. Hello Daina says.
We ride about a hour longer then set up camp. All of us tired and one of us with a mild headache. I decide to talk loudly that day. Avelina looks thanks for the kindness Ageless., my pleasure Avelina , Tal just smiles and Daina just laughs. Oh how I wonder how I got mixed up with you!!!! Avelina sighs. Because we have cause all of us do. (they all looked at me) I kept on riding. Then nightfall came and we were on the outskirts of a city.

[TAL] a buzz of excitement was in the air...the horses were restless and eager to be on their way.
Taliesin waved to the others...it was time to set off on the journey of a lifetime.
One from which not all here would return....

[DAI] Daina stood slightly to one side of the crowd, hidden beneath a stand of trees.
Dark thoughts raced through her mind, how could she prevent them from leaving on this
journey which she knew could only lead to pain and death? Abruptly she turned away,
she could not bear to watch, as those who had cared for, and watched over her during her
training left on what could be the last journey they would ever make.

[AGE] we nodded in agreement ....then headed out on the trail....
ageless sits in the back mind turned into and thinking of what the other side was planning
.....trying to vision what their move would be....the race is on ....all depend on the outcome.
She looks at Tal nods her head with knowing......the air was heavy and filled with antcipatian.

[TAL] Ageless looked thoughtful. Tal wondered what she was thinking.
Probably the same thing as the rest of them...the _not knowing_ was the worst part.
What were the enemy planning? It set the nerves on edge to think about it. They rode
at a brisk trot through a countryside of green hills and sunlight. The day looked bright enough,
but what they rode towards brought to mind only visions of darkness.

[AGE] ageless rides up to Tal, "I must go and look ahead...will get up with later. I think
I may know a person in the town ahead that can give us some advise...camp at the outside of
town and wait for me to come there...be careful and don't draw attention to yourself. no one
must know who we are". ageless turn her horse ahead and rides off......

[AGE] ageless travels through the shadows of the town...there she sees the home of kara...
ageless stops as people walk by...then she heads to the back knowing of the secret pass...
once there she gives the password knock...a person answers the door....looks and says kara
has been waiting come in...(in ageless minds she wonders how the others are doing)
now to see what kara knows and can tell us.......

[TAL] Meanwhile: Taliesin watched Ageless ride off towards the town. She ordered everyone
off the road and into the nearby woods. There were 2 others in their party, not large enough
for protection against an organised band of cut-throats, but sufficient to handle the sort that
were rumoured to roam these woods. They quickly found a suitable campsite. It was far enough
into the trees so that their fire wouldn't be seen. They were all experienced at making camp
and it took almost no time. Taliesin stood sentry just outside the camp perimeter..the others
were dead on their feet and sought the minimum comfort of their bedrolls. She was tired, but
someone had to keep watch...Ageless was due back in the morning, Tal hoped her source of
information was in the sharing mood.

[AGE] ageless walks into the room...Kara looks, "so it has begun....the word is that the other
side has sent messages to all their people to stop you guys at all cost" ...ageless looks "I
wouldn't have expected less...." Kara states "there is a man in the town of URL who will
help with all your needs...Is the Magi getting invloved?"...ageless..."so far no,,,,but I know
the talent and one of the members of the crew is of the magi...she just doesn't know it yet."
"a magi that doesn't know ....how can that be of help" Kara asked..."well she has a feeling of
being diffrent,....but it was best this way,.,,,they would be able to tune into her,,,,,and
do all to kill her....she is of the old blood that is very strong....when the time comes she
her power will rise and come forth.....until then I will just keep eye and guide"....."here"
Kara said "here is money for you to buy what you may need....may your trip end in your favor"...
"Yes" ageless says..."I must get back....thank you Kara you are a great friend....until later
be well and safe"...ageless exit the room and goes to the shadows....serching with her mind
she sees where the camp is and heads that way......

[TAL] The quiet snores of the others told Tal that they were all still deep asleep. The sun
would be up soon, and still no sign of Ageless. A rustling in the bushes towards the back of
the camp alerted her to an intruder. Keeping to her place in the shadows, Tal saw the shape of
a man...he was holding a short sword poised above the sleeping form of one of her companions...

[AGE] as ageless makes her way to the camp....her mind get a sudden rush ....danger is all
she can sense.....she pulls out her sword ...hutched down and keeps heading for the camp....

[TAL] faster than the eye could follow, Taliesin drew a dagger from her belt and threw. It
thudded into the man's chest and he fell in a heap . The camp was quickly roused...

[DAI] Watching, Daina pulled further back into the bushes, waiting for the right moment to
reveal herself. She had been unable to stop herself from following them, using every elven
sense to conceal her presence.

[TAL] Taliesin bent to examine the body. But just then two others burst from the bushes....

[DAI] A strong sense of danger drove her forward, into a body lurking outside the light of
the fire. She raised her knife, ready to strike......

[TAL] The man was huge...that was all Tal had time to take in. She brought her sword up quickly
blocking a stroke that would have taken her head. She looked into his face as she parried
another blow...it was filled with madness. There was another behind her...if she didn't finish
off this big lout first the other would shortly cut her down.

[AGE] as ageless comes thought the shadows her body on alert and knife in one hand ..sword in
the others...she see Tal in a battle and one coming from behide...she throws her knife with
speed the man falls ...but ageless see another and makes way to the hiding person but sense
that something is diffrent with this person........

[TAL] She was tiring...this was no ordinary bandit. Taliesin lifted her sword with weary arms
to parry once more. The only luck she had so far is that someone had dealt with the one behind
her. She thrusts towards him and scores a hit on him. Briefly she exults at the site of her
enemy's pain. He became enraged, and seemed to grow larger. He began hamering blow after blow
down on Tal. Then, without warning, a blur whipped past her head and her attacker was lying
prone on the ground...blood seeping from a wound to his head. Avelina stood still poised,
staff in hand, panting slightly from exertion. They looked at each other and grinned.

** *** **

MEANWHILE:

[SIL]  There was a knock at the door and Silk looked up from the map he had been studying. "Who is it?"
"It's Vorat. We've seen them..."
"Well come in, man! Don't just stand there! Come in!"
Vorat came in looking somewhat worried. "What's wrong now?" Silk asked, "As if I need anymore problems to deal with."
"Well...we've seen them..."
"Yes, yes, I know that already! You just told me! Now what on earth is the problem???"
"Well...you see...they seem to be about 2 days from here..." Vorat said looking somewhat sheepish. Silk swore
"How am I going to get all the things they need in 2 days? Go to Jort and tell him I need 5 of his best horses. Offer 100 crowns each. Don't pay higher than 150 crowns each and don't let him sell you any for less than 75 crowns each otherwise they won't be worth anything. I don't have the time to go haggling with him. I need to find Mirak because he has a map I need and I never know where he is. Send out some people to find him and tell them there is a 10 crown profit to be made out of it. Meanwhile I'll go and gather supplies. Food, tents, weapons-"
"Weapons?!"
"Yes, weapons. The woman who talked to me about this seemed serious. They'll be needing weapons. They're going on a quest of some sort by the sound of it. Oh, and send a message to Fentor in Kamat. He'll have to come back here to run the shop. He isn't doing anything all that important anyhow."
"But why can't you?"
"Because, Vorat, I'm going with them."

Be reasonable, Sir! You can't do this!" Vorat exclaimed.
"I am being reasonable, Vorat. Perhaps the most reasonable I've ever been in my life. And what can you do to stop me?" Silk gave Vorat a challenging sort of look. Vorat sighed. "My point exactly," Silk continued, "besides, they're going on a quest of some sort. They're bound to have trouble, unless I'm totally mistaken, in which case they'll need protection. They're only women after all. I mean I couldn't fight a dragon or any other creature like that, but in regular human combat I would do just fine. I doubt that we'll be up against dragons. I mean what would a human quest have to do with dragons? What is more reasonable then protecting a group of defenceless women? Why else would I be doing this? Now get about what I've told you to do. And make sure that Mirak is found. We can't get very far with out him." And with that Silk went out the door before Vorat could object.

** *** **

[AGE, TAL & DAI]  At the last moment, her Elven instincts made her pull the knife blow. Cursing, Daina crashed heavily into the body before her. In the dim firelight, she looked at the face of the person on the ground in front of her. "Age?? Oh, Thank God it's you!"

"Daina?? Daina, what are you doing here, you were supposed to stay behind!", cried Ageless. "I'm sorry, but you are my friends", replied Daina. "I couldn't let you go. I have the strongest feeling you will need me before too long. And sending me back won't do any good. I'm with you to stay....   Ageless looks up at Daina....don't stand there help me up ...Daina gives Ageless her hand Ageless gets up and dust herself off...come on lets see how the others are...they walk toward the camp......

Looking around the camp they slowly let themselves relax...there weren't any more of them. Bending down to examine the bodies, Taliesin noted a strange looking tattoo on the body at her feet. Checking another of the attackers, Avelina spotted the same tattoo. They were about to call out for Ageless to see what she would make of it when the bodies burst into flames. Springing back with startled cries, Taliesin and Avelina watched with chagrin as what little clues they might have had disappeared into ashes. Ageless stumbled out of the woods with Daina. Tal raised an eyebrow at the young elf's presence, but let it pass. What they carried might prove interesting. Between them, Ageless and Daina half carried, half dragged a man. He seemed to be slightly unconscious - likely they'd had to knock him out.

Unceremoniously dumping the man on the ground, Ageless spotted the smoking ashes and looked inquiringly at Tal. "Seems they were no ordinary bandits. For one thing they fought better than most, for another they caught fire when we were checking them over. That sort of thing speaks of magic to me." Ageless frowned, "yes, I think I felt something a little while ago. I was occupied with this here", she gave the still unconscious man a shove with her foot, "so I didn't have time to concentrate on it. It seemed fairly subtle though. Keeping it so quiet would have taken someone of great power and skill..." They all looked at each other knowing what the other was thinking, but not wanting to voice his name out loud. Daina looked a bit shaken. "Could it be that the Evil One has found us?" "Perhaps", said Avelina, "we'll know more when this one wakes up." She nudged the man with her staff.   He moved slightly, so she shoved him in the side. A groan came from his mouth and he began to wake.

"Now", said Ageless, "we'll get some answers".

Daina go and get some water and throw it on the man's face. As Daina throws the water on the man he wakes and looks us with wide eyes. I look with my finger on my chin and ask who are you and who sent you? The man looked I can't  tell you, they will kill me. Well if you don't we will kill you and still find out, perhaps with us you may have a chance. The man thought , just as he was about to speak he screamed as his body begin to go up in flames. We immediately jumped back looking in horror of a man burning alive. Ageless sends her mind out and grasps as she touches the darkest foulness her mind as ever touched. Tal looks at Ageless what is it? It is the evil one. All look knowing that we had been found. With that Ageless makes a decision. Everyone break the camp and gather the horse's and yourself together. Tal ask what are you planning? You will see , I will be back in a moment. With that Ageless walkes to the woods away from everyone.

As Ageless looks she raises her mind and speaks, Marduk' hear me ..the evil is closer to us than I thought...I need to open time and space and get us away from here....I need you and the others to cover the ripple. Marduk' speaks ...if you do the others will know of your talent ...will they be able to deal with that knowledge of you...They will have to Ageless replies...it is the only way, we must get to Url...So be it we shall cover the ripple as to where the evil one will not know where you have gone or that you have gone, Thank you old great one of the Dragons...with that Ageless walks back to the camp the others are waiting gather together. Ageless looks at them and say's I am about to do something so don't be afraid...with that Ageless raises her hands and tilts her head back the air seem to move in ripples and a light seem to grow surrounding everyone including the horse...In what seem to be a moment the air returned to normal and the others graps looking around...Tal looks at Ageless ..Where are we ??? how did ...she was at a lost for words...the others wide eyed look at Ageless to hear the answer. Just a talent I learned eons ago...If I am correct which I am sure I am we should be about 2 days from URL ...she thinks in her mind Marduk's you could of help us to a more cover area....she hears a soft voice stop complaining ....OK OK OK....Ageless thinks.....
Lets find a place to rest for a few hours and then get moving. The others though shaken by this did just that....

** *** **

[MAR]  My eldest son and I were debating the responsibilities of leadership when I felt the first tendrils of Ageless's mind reaching out to mine.  Dismissing him, I opened my mind to her and learned of her plight.   Breaking contact after assuring her of the Dragons help, I called High Council. As my call went out, every Dragon stopped what they were doing to give me their full attention. Within minutes we had debated, discarded unfeasible plans and agreed on a course of action and who would participate. Leaving my lair, I flew to the nearest Space Warp.  There I was joined by the others who had volunteered. I was proud to see my eldest daughter had gained the Dragons approval for this venture.  Entering the Space Warp, we put our minds in synch and bent it to our will and arrived in Doewood above Ageless and her companions. Using our telepathy, we put them and the horses into a deep sleep. If we tried moving them to their destination on Doewood, the Evil One would surely know of our plans. This complicated things. But the minds of Dragons are crafty and full of plots.

Upon landing, I greeted Ageless and knelt so that she might ride upon my broad back. Then,using our telekinesis, we placed her companions and their horses in stasis fields so that they would survive the flight through an evironment which would surely kill them. I placed a lighter stasis field on Ageless.  Taking to flight, our charges safe from harm, we flew into the Space Warp again. There, we bent it once again to our Draconian will and left it many miles and days from our previous location. We telekineticly placed Ageless's friends in their original positions and bade her farewell. As we took to flight once again, we awoke the humans. We could sense the confusion and distress in their mind, but this was to be expected. They were closer to their goal and the Evil One was again thwarted. Of course, Ageless had a few things to say about our actions but with a few choice words I let her know that this was the best course of action.

** *** **

[BAL]   Meanwhile in a small tavern, just on the out skirts of Pingha…’so why not tell me again, why did You wish this meeting?’, ‘my master requires your services, in order to maintain  that a small group of travellers..never reach their destination….’ Explains Kal as Balinok once again tears at a joint of venison, before reaching for the dull goblet before him.’By any means possible of course’ adds Kal, a slight but sinister smile traces along Balinok’s lips as he brings the goblet to his mouth. ‘ Ahhh I see now I have caught your attention’, ‘ Aye you ‘ave indeed, and just how many am I supposed kill?’ ‘The group consists of four females…’ ‘Ha do not waste my time Wizard!! Why should I waste my services on them? Why not hire bandits for such a petty task? Or better still handle it yourself!’ bellowed Balinok before slamming his fist angrily on the table. ‘ Do not make light of them barbarian, for they are all hardened warriors….’ replied Kal before being cut short once again, ‘bah these warriors your speak of.. What be their names?’ asked Balinok. ‘Their names as I was nearing are Taliesin the young yet deadly warrior, the mystic Avelina, a young elven girl and oh how I despise even mentioning this name…Ageless..’ ‘Ageless? The one that shares the bond with the dragons? It seems that this could be worth my while after all’ replies Balinok  as he mindfully gathers the appreciation Naggoryth will extend in return for the delivery of such a renowned soul…’Lord Oge’   repeats Kal trying carefully not to anger the mercenary, Balinok’s eyes shift to a cold stare and Kal feels that unnerving chill race up his spine, swallowing hard Kal asks for the barbarians answer. The words ring through out Balinok’s ears ‘Bring me their souls, bring me their souls’ the dark one has spoken, ‘ Aye, but let us discuss the price’.

** *** **

[MAR] As we arrived in the Realm of Space and Time, I flew to the nest of my best advisor and teacher Krimtar. He was an old Dragon , long in years and wisdom but his health had been bad lately and his color was off. He lay curled in a ball as I entered his nest but his ears perked up at my arrival. "Who bothers an old and worn-out Dragon on his deathbed," he wheezed.
"Old. Worn-out. Where? You'll outlive us all, Old Worm," I joked.
"And how did your little mission of mercy go?" he asked.
"Well, thank you. Moving through the Space Warps, we cloud our trips to Daewood from the Evil One. But I felt a presence there, one I have not felt in years. As we taking flight to warp back I sensed the Unspeakable One trying to touch my mind. I gave the order to enter the Space Warp but I don't know if we entered in time. He may know of our presence there.'
"The Unspeakable One!" Krimtar rasped, his head rising from his body. "So even the gods themselves begin to get involved in our little game. Are you sure he did not sense you. And what of his lacky, what is his name?"
"Balinok Oge." I replied. "And don't worry about that one, I can take care of him if he gets in our way. It just seems too early for the gods to get involved. We still have so much to do and prepare for before we reveal ourselves to Daewood."
"Ah, beautiful Daewood, I'll never see it again,' he sighed
"How can you say that? You've years left in you, Old Worm. I need your help and guidance more than ever now."
"If it is cousel you seek, look to my daughter for she will be my Successor."
" Your daughter," I asked. "Will the Dragons accept her?"
"WAKE UP , YOU FOOL!" he bellowed. "The old ways are dying everyday. The time of change is upon us.The Dragons will accept her at my say so. Just as they will accept your daughter as your Successor."
"Do you really think so?" I asked, delighted someone else had the same idea I had. " The Dragons will never accept a female as leader."
"Did you learn nothing from me! Search your Memories . Females have led us in battle before. You know this. All you have to do is name your daughter instead of that worthless son of yours. Sure the Dragons will whine for a bit. Put your claw down and make your decision stick," he said forcefully."It's what you've secretly wanted for years, isn't it? Remember you can't lie to a telepath."
"As ever, your cousel is wise, Old Worm. Now, how do we cloud our coming and going to Daewood from a god?" Krimtar sniffed.
"The Dragons that are left behind on your little adventures should be able to cloud your presence there to such a degree that not even a god will know it. Now leave me, please. I am tired and I must prepare for the Grishnaktu."
"The Passing of Memory! You can't be serious!" I exclaimed
"Leave me now. My daughter awaits outside the nest."
"I will leave now," I said to humor him. "And I will be by tomorrow to talk more of this Succession.'
As I left him, I felt exhilerated. Maybe the plans for my daughter would come to pass. I felt younger than I had in years and felt everything was going according to the Plan.

The next day as I assumed my duties as Leader of the Dragons, I knelt to light Krimtar's funeral pyre. The tears streamed down me face as I leaned my head back to keen at my loss. My teacher and best friend was gone. Krimtar would never see his beloved Daewood again.

** *** **

--Meanwhile, back in Url...

[AGE]  When we rested for a few hours, we broke camp and traveled our way to the city of URL. It was a two day ride and during that time not much was said. Finally we enter the city and found a tavern to stay. All of us thankful to finally have a hot bath and good food. As we all sat in the room I told the others we were to meet a man who has made arrangments for all needs and weapons. This was also when I finally informed them that we would be going to Marak to find a man called Androkills. Tal looked but that is across the sea. I know I repiled. Then as I knew it would happen Tal and the others both started. The rumors about you are true! You are linked to the dragons and they are still alive. I stood there looking at them and calmly said, there have been many rumors about me over the years. Avelina eyed me careful and spoked but what you did back there is a talent of the Dragons, I have heard the legends of the Dragons and what they could do. I have also heard the whisper that you have been here for eon's. With all eyes on me I spoke yes that is the rumor and I will tell you that it is true. Where do you think my name came from. And as I told you it was a talent I learned eons ago. So Tal spoke you mean to tell us that you knew the dragons when they were here on Daewood? Daina then spoke my people have talked about a woman who came and went among our people for eons her eyes wide so it was you? Yes to all these question. I knew the Dragons before they left our world. Then we hear a knock on the door......

[SIL & TAL]  "Come in." called Ageless. Silk walked in the door and took a little bow.
"Good evening ladies. Did you have a nice trip?"
"We had an interuption or two but nothing we couldn't handle."
"Good, good...Was there any reason in particular that you picked this tavern from any of the taverns in URL? Just wondering because they have really tight security. I suppose you may have wanted tight security since you _are_ going on a quest but still...That tavernkeeper wouldn't let me through! hmmmm...Anyhow I had to sneak by. If I suddenly hide behind something it's probably because someone is coming. You have no idea what this guy would do if he found me in here. He has all sorts of nasty looking contraptions to do really gory things to people. Once, a friend of mine-"
"Silk, just tell us what you came to tell us." Tal said, obviously irritated. Silk shrugged.
"Whatever you say, m'lady." He says in a half mocking tone. "Some one is looking for you and they seem pretty serious. Last I heard they were in Pingha."
"Where's that?" asks Avelina. Silk rolls out a map and points to a spot somewhere near the middle of Arish.
"Somewhere around there. Anyhow, what my man could pick up was they wanted this quest of yours ended 'by any possible means'. Basically they want you killed. They hired someone named Oge. I think it's Balinok Oge. He's a nasty looking fellow. We never caught the first one's name but he seemed to be a wizard. Balinok called him one anyhow. He's a follower of the god Naggoryth who has been searching for the soul of a certain person for ages now. Or so the myths say. She had a bond with the dragons." Suddenly, despite his dead seriousness seconds before, Silk starts laughing. "Dragons. What a bunch of foolishness." Silk returns to seriousness. "So I suppose you'll have to keep watch behind you. Now if someone will come to see what I have in weaponry and the like I'd be glad to show them."
"Go with him, Tal." Ageless said, "I don't quite trust this fellow so be careful." Silk just laughed at that and led Tal out to the stables. "Wait here." Silk said. After a few seconds the horse master came out muttering something under his breath. A few seconds later Tal heard Silk whisper. "Come in. The coast is clear." He lead her to a group of 5 strong looking horses with many saddlebags containing food, extra clothing, cloaks and weapons. "A very nice assortment of weapons if I do say so myself." Silk said while showing Tal the assorted knives, daggers, short swords and bows. "You might need some help with those little swords and the bow but I can help you there."
Tal snorted derisively and rolled her eyes but offered no other comment. Then she remembered Ageless' plan to sail to Marak. "What about a ship?" asked Tal.
"A ship?! We'd have to go somewhere else for ships."
"Isn't Url a port city?"
"No! I thought everyone knew that! I don't know why it isn't though. The people there are all too high and mighty. They don't like ships. Never could tell why. I mean, sure, they don't smell all that nice but it takes less time to travel by ship than horseback. Besides, if you want to get to an island you'll need a ship. These people can't seem to grasp that."
"You're supposed to be the one getting us supplies and arranging things. You should be able to find a ship!" Tal exclaimed growing angrier by the minute.
"But you can't get a ship in Url. It's impossible! I thought everyone knew that! Besides, the girl who talked to me about this never mentioned any ships!"
"I don't know what she told you. Right now it doesn't matter. Now you know we need a ship. We can't get one in Url, fine. Where then do we find one? Surely you'd at least known someone who does know where to get a ship?"
"If you want a ship we'll have to ride to Kelydon. That's it! If you don't want my services, fine, but you already owe me money and I'm not leaving you women until you do. Then again, I'm not leaving you anyways. You are only women, after all."
Tal looked at him then burst into laughter. Silk frowned and was about to ask what was so funny when Tal composed herself.
"Alright then, we'll go to Kelydon," she grinned again, "If you're set on comming with us you'll have to take that up with Ageless. But as for the money I happen to know that Kara gave you a fair sum of gold. I seriously doubt you've spent it all already."
Silk looked a bit chagrined then grinned at Tal, "You can't blame a guy for trying. Come on then, lets go have a talk with this Ageless person and get to Kelydon."

They slipped quietly back into the room. The others all looked up as they entered. Tal nodded to Ageless indicating everything was in order.  As she sat down she said, "But we have to go to Kelydon for a ship to Marak...and this one," she jerked her thumb at Silk, "wants to come with us."
"Yes, he's supposed to." said Ageless.
Silk raised an eyebrow but only said, "I'll accompany you ladies gladly, and do my best to defend you all should trouble arise-"
He got no further as all in the room erupted in laughter...all except Ageless who sat with a mysterious little smile playing on her face.
"What is everyone laughing at?!" Silk demanded. He got no answer.
They worked out there plans until quite late that night and in the morning they saddled their horses with the new supplies and set off for Kelydon.

** *** **

[MAR] I went to see Loktar, daughter of Krimtar, to see how she was adjusting after the Grishnaktu and the death of her father. It was strange to hear the familiar words of my best friend coming from her mouth. But this is the way of the Dragons. Since time immemorial, we have used the lessons taught to us by the gods so that what we know and who we are is not lost to the race. When a dragon feels that their time is near, they will call their oldest child to them and perform the Rite of Grishnaktu, the Passing of Memories. The child will know what they know and any of the Memories that their parent may have had. Memories, feeling, the sum total of who they were is passed on. The first few days afterwards can be a little awkward as the Dragon gets used to having other voices in their head. But Loktar is strong and I have faith that she will assimilate her father's Memories and all the many others that he carried for so long.
That night, as I slept the goddess Elbereth revealed herself to me in a dream. "The Unspeakable One has entered the game. Too soon, of course. but who would expect him to follow the rules. Ageless and her friends must be shielded from him. This way the Evil One and the Unspeakable One will not know of where she and the others go on Deawood. Tell her to use her amulet as you have taught her and she will be safe from our enemies."
"I thank you for your words, my Lady, I should have known that you would watch out for us." I replied .
"Silly Dragon," she laughed, "Of course, I will protect you. Who do you think thought of Dragons when my brothers and sisters and I made the world."

** *** **

[TAL]  As they sat around the campfire Taliesin stared into the flames, lost in thought. They were only a couple of more days out from Kelydon. The trip had been uneventful so far and soon they'd be on board ship to Marak. Ageless had said they needed to go there and so they went. Tal had been with the mysterious woman for just over a year and had always had suspicions about just what the woman was. A magical creature to be sure, but bonded to dragons?! Never had she suspected that. Always the great beasts had been relegated to myth and legend within her own mind - tales told by troubadors to impress young ladies. Now she found that not only are they real, but her travelling companion for these many months was far far more than she first appeared. It would take Tal time to get used to that. But the news of the reality of dragons gave Taliesin peculiar shivers of excitement.

She looked over towards the sleeping forms around her. As seemed to be the usuall thing, Tal was the last awake - except for the sentry. This night Daina stood sentry duty just outside the glow of the fire, her elven senses giving her a natural advantage in that task. Tal considered Avelina lying not far from her, staff in easy reach. The young warrior had been reserved since meeting them, telling them little of her past. No matter, Tal thought, we all have shadows we'd prefer to leave buried behind us. But since Url she'd been far more introspective than usual. She looked troubled even...as if she were thinking hard about something. When asked what was wrong, Avelina had merely shrugged it off and gave a small smile, saying that nothing troubled her. Tal sighed. It was really none of her business.

A soft snoring type sound came from a lump on the far side of the fire. Taliesin grinned. She had teased Silk during the day about his snoring. He'd strongly denied the charge. Silk was a strange but funny little man who seemed to enjoy ammusing them all with tales he'd heard. Most were totally unbelievable, but they did make the trip less boring. His habit of thinking of them as 'defenceless women' irritated some of them, but Tal found it ammusing. No doubt he'd soon be disabused of that particular assumption. All too soon...

Tal sat and brooded about the dark days they faced. Finally she fell asleep, thinking as she did so of dragons gracefully winging their way through the air...

** *** **

[TEK]  In the middle of Lorash and Ganosh the people had been very happy. They had found a new excavation site and many people had already dug up treasures and sold them for large amounts of money. The people of Lorash were all going to be very wealthy, or so they thought. That was before.

Before some of the artifacts came to the attention of Kal.

Before the armies of the dark one marched into the the Lorash and Ganosh and took over.

Before the dreaded sorcerer Tekarious had come to their land and inslaved their people, forcing them to dig or die.

They had found the lost city Shalimar home of the seven towers of wisdom, and in one of those towers was a vault which held two of the ancient Tashebi texts.

The towers were the key.

Ultimate victory was at hand.

In the palace of Shalimar Tekarious sat behind a small desk. A large hunting falcon was perched upon his arm. A man stood before him quivering in fear, words tumbling out of his mouth, "Please lord I beg your forgiveness but we didn't find what you seek in the third tower, we'll have better luck in the next one I swear!
Tekarious looked at the man, his eyes filled with a calm coldness. "You know how I dislike bad news." A magical tension began building in the room. As the man began stammering again Tekarious lashed out with power and burst the mans heart. Tekarious motioned for gaurds to drag away the body and turned to another.

"You are now headman, please see that you do better than your predecessor...*

** *** **

[BAL]  A vast camp, situated amongst the rocky canyons of the Ashat border-Kwan slowly climbed the rocky path way to the cliff’s edge, his nervousness only increased when the back of Balinok came into view. Kwan was afraid of interrupting Balinok during his praying let alone interrupting to bring bad news. Balinok sensed someone approaching and spun towards them..dagger poised and ready to be thrown, realizing it was Kwan, Balinoks stare only turned more intimidating.
Hesitating Kwan moved forward and handed the Scroll to him, Balinok’s eyes skimmed the page "lost them?..LOST THEM?!?!?" he shouted as Kwan stepped out of his range, "They did not pay me enough to track them down aswell!"Balinok’s rage had taken control of his mind, throwing his hand forward he grabbed Kwan by the front of his cloak and brought him to with-in inches of his face.
"send forth a message to each of our contacts from here to Daewood to as far as Dranol!, I want them found immediately!!" Releasing his grip Balinok turned his back on Kwan and once again turrned to the cliffs edge and prayed again to Naggoryth. Scrambling to his feet, Kwan turned and made his way rather quickly back to the camp in order to take care of this much urgent task.

** *** **

(Still on the road to Kelydon...)

[SIL]  The next morning Silk woke up to find himself looking face to face with Avelina's dog, Wolfy. "Get off me you mongrel!" Silk growled as he pushed the dog away. "Avelina! Keep that mutt away from me." he said as he packed his blanket into his saddle bag.
"What's wrong with you today?" asked Tal as she cooked breakfast.
"Nothing."
"You were snoring again last night."
"I don't snore."
"To be quite honest you sounded remarkably similar to a stampeding herd of cattle."
Silk just rolled his eyes. "What's that?" he asked looking somewhat warily at his breakfast.
"Food, what does it look like?"
"To be quite honest it looks remarkably similar to dog vomit."
"Shut up Silk."
"You did ask."

** *** **

[AGE] The five day trip to Kelydon was a uneventful. Of course we had good conversion and I was able to get somethings in order with the others. First in order was talking with Silk about the ship we needed and the crew. I only wanted the best and was willing to pay for that. Silk informed me that he knew one who had the best ship and crew around these parts. It would take about a day and money upfront. I looked at Silk and spoke money is no problem. As soon as we get settled at Kelydon you go and make the arrangements, and move all our supplies to the ship. Silk stood there and said will do but you know the money will have to be in his hands before we can load anything. I smiled a little smile. Taliesin will go with you to make the payment and inspect the ship and the crew. Ahhhh still not trusting me after all this time we have been together now. (with a little laugh) It is not you I don't trust it is your way of being known to make a huge profit, as I patted his cheek, and smiled sweetly. At that moment I do belived the man blushed. As Silk lowered his head and decided that he need to check his horse. I gave a little laughter as I watched him walk away.
I went to Daina called her to the side. You need to watch over Silk and make sure if we get into battle that he is not killed. Daina looked at me then over to where Silk was. He need to be proctected? Yes at all cost there is more to him than meets the eyes. Would you take that task on Daina I spoke with soft words. Daina thinks and the speaks You and Taliesin save me from a fate that I don't even want to think about. And for that I will lay my life on the line to keep Silk from any harm. I smiled thank you Daina for in the end of this if all goes well and we live, you will see that you have done a great deed indeed. She looked at me with questioned eyes, I looked into her mind and replied yes you have a great part in this mission of ours, with that I walked away and told the others I had to take a small trip and would be back.
Once away from the group I sent my mind to Marduk. I am sorry to hear of of the passing of Krimtar and regret that I could not be there. Yes I know but the plan must go on and you have things to do there,Marduk said. I spoke how are we going to keep the others from reaching out and finding us? I can only cover all of us for so long before my shielding may become weak. We are coming up with a way repiled Marduk, so don't worry about. Oh yes Marduk, Taliesin is thinking alot of things I can tell. We will need to tell her soon and get her started on her training of the Magi. I see Marduk thinking yes perhaps when we are on the ship you should introduce us. Do you think she will be ready for such a thing? I thought then spoke she will have to be. I must be getting back, the others will begin to worry. Tell the others that I miss them and wait till the time we can all be back together here on Daewoo. Marduk smiles yes back home...I could see his thoughts of the day of being back here and the warmth it brought him.
We finally arrive at Kelydon and get settled. Silk had taken off to find this man who owns this ship. I thought to myself , I didn't even get the man's name. I had informed Tal once Silk comes back that she would go and check the ship, crew, and if all was in order to pay the man come and get us and load up the ship to go to Marak. Just then Aveline pulls me aside and spoke I must talk with you. I looked at her , aware that her mind had been occupied. Then Aveline spoke, I listened and agreed.
Finally all things fell in order and we headed to the ship. The captain who's name is Bilo meet us on the docks. I then turned and informed the others that Aveline was staying behind for she had somethings to tend to here for us. They all looked but didn't say a word. Bilo then spoke come the winds are good so lets not waste this time. We went aboard all turned and waved our goodbye to Aveline. I spoke to her mind be safe. Aveline's head jerked up but remained silent other than I wish you wouldn't do that it spooks me everytime. I laugh a soft laugh but Aveline I thought that was one of the things you liked about me. Aveline made a face but then smiled. The boat started to move and slowly the town become smaller and smaller.
Now as I stand on the deck of the ship my own mind has been occupied with a face from the past. And I wonder why and what it may mean. I shake my mind and put my thoughts to the things we must do. And what we must face.

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