Act I - Jurion-Thiltis Quest - Spirit of the Forest (Group 1)

[Andromeda]

This is for Group 1 from Jurion and Thiltis.
Dragonheart - Jurion
Cassie-Chan - Jurion
Psiko - Jurion - Knight of the Crescent Moon
Musicmuse - Thiltis

I shall explain a few things to hopefully make sure they are as clear as I can make them with everything that has been happening recently. If you have questions still do not hesitate to ask.

First, I shall explain this first round (Act I). For all groups in this round there will be a single RPer eliminated from the group at the completion and judging of the quest. The remaining group members will continue to the next round (Act II). Act I and Act II are the preliminaries, when the preliminaries are finished the remaining members will be re-organized into two groups for the finals. I will explain the elimination of Act II when that arrive, right now it is simple and straight forward, a single member from each group is dropped once the quest is finished and judged. The eliminated members will be announced and the remaining proceed.

Next, the RP itself. Remember to follow all of the same rules as in the RP Forum they all apply here, of course. The quest itself, remember that this is a mini-RP, I do not expect it to be hundreds of posts. The quest is short and simple. All I expect will be 15 to 30 posts, so do not feel that you have post a ton. Be active and be concise.

Next, you are free to do whatever you want with what you are given. You should know the bounds of the world that I create, so use common sense and having fun. You make create whatever addition people, histories, locations you require. The quest is your RP, do with it as you wish. Do remember that you have a goal in mind and that the most important part of this is that you complete the quest. Remember success or fail is not the concern, completion. The boss fight outline in the quest is that an outline, you can expand on it as much as you wish. What I provide is the basics, you can add on as much as you use. One requirement is that you must confront the boss fight and deal with them in whatever fashion. This does not mean you need to kill them, whatever manner of victory you make is your decisions. And remember that victory in the boss fight does not always mean victory in the quest, they do not always go hand in hand.

The deadline set for the quest is marked out as a month currently. There will be a three week set of time. At that point, I will announce that there is a week remaining and that all quests need to be wrapped up. So that means ending whatever you have come to some conclusion. It is important the quest has an end.

One last thing, if it becomes problematic that a member is inactive and you are waiting on them to continue, proceed without them. Allow some time, but do not let them slow you down. Carry the character along with minimumal controling, so you do not step over the line. Progression is important.

Timeline:
March 5th One week warning
March 12th Deadline

Quest
Spirits of the Forest - Group 1


Jurion Briefing

Summary: Travel to the Forest of Ynuron and investigate the strange disappearances. Report back to the Knights of the Crescent Moon the findings.
Briefing: Many soldiers have entered the Forest of Ynuron and have not returned. The forest is an ancient land said to hold strange magic as well as powerful monsters. The forest lies on the border of Jurion and Thiltis, try to observe the treaty as best as possible during the investigation of the forest. However, it is important to know what has become of our men, several Crescent Moon knights have been dispatched to the forest as well not to be heard from.
Your mission is to investigate the forest and learn what has become of our men. If it is the work of a monster slay the beast so that no more people come across its path by whatever misfortune. If it is a trick of Thiltis learn as much as possible about the situation and do not attempt a rescue, we do not need you starting a political incident. If it is Thiltis treachery the matter will be handled by the King, report back immediately once you have learned enough of the situation.
If possible account for all those at have been reported missing. The missing are as follows: Knight of the Crescent Moon Ruthin Hillrim, Knight of the Crescent Moon Whinah Eytir, Knight of the Crescent Moon Thini Ortinerm, Tower Guard Yurino Falltial, Sentry Doth Moin, and Scout Murin Roathin including fourteen civilians. Ruthin Hillrim was a male Lt. Mage Knight roughly six feet tall, short brown hair, green eyes, medium build and had the ability of water magic. Whinah Eytir was a female Senior Mage Knight (higher ranking than Lt. Mage) much under six feet tall, long red hair, blue-gray eyes, slender build and had the ability of fire magic and dark magic. Thini Ortinern was a male Senior Mage Knight over six feet tall, medium length brown hair, blue eyes, very muscular and had the ability of physical magic.
Starting Location: Jurion-Thiltis Wall, you will meet a good will ambassador from Thiltis as a sign of good faith from them. Treat them with respect, but be cautious of treachery. Did not attempt open hostility towards the ambassador even if it is discovered to be a Thiltis trick. Escort the ambassador out of the forest after the investigation is complete.
Thiltis Briefing

Summary: As a good will ambassador you are there to extend Thiltis hand in friendship as Jurion conducts its investigation of the Forest of Ynuron.
Briefing: The Forest of Ynuron is not a friendly area at the border of our two kingdoms. Many monsters and strange creatures lurk in the forest so be on your guard, but remember that it is the Jurion’s mission and let them handle what you cannot. The forest is said to have magical properties, which would be of great use to the Jurion. Make sure nothing happens to create a political incident, but do not let Jurion roam freely through the forest.
The Jurion military is insisting on investigating the forest for their supposed lost men. While we are forced to believe this story for the time being, watch their actions and report any suspicious behavior back to the court at the completion of the mission. If their story is true then we have nothing to fear and they will no doubt find their men dead. However, if it is a trick of Jurion take what actions you can to prevent a situation and immediately report back to the court. As said before do not start a political incident.
Starting Location: You will travel to the Thiltis-Jurion Wall to meet the soldiers from Jurion. From there you will travel to the forest north. Extend the Jurion soldiers all courtesy and friendship while on your mission. Once the mission is finished, they will escort you out of the forest upon which you will depart company and return to the court.
Boss Fight:
Undead Ruthin: Former Crescent Moon knight with all of his abilities from when he was living along with inhuman strength as an undead. He cannot be instantly killed by curative magic, but it does hurt him. Ruthin wields his sword along with a small shield attached to his arm for blocking strikes. Most of his intelligence has remained making him more than a wandering spirit.
Abilities:
Water Break – A blade of water formed around the user’s hand that can be used as a weapon. It is typically a weak spell that is dispelled quickly.
Aqua Shell – A protective barrier that protects from physical attacks, magical attacks will break it easily.
Needle Rain – A fury of water that is sharp as daggers that assault a small-targeted range.
Undead Whinah: Former Crescent Moon knight with all of her abilities from when she was living along with the inhuman strength as an undead. She cannot be instantly killed by curative magic, but it affects her more than the others. Whinah wield a blade staff, a long pole with a blade similar to that of a sword attached at the end. Most of her intelligence has remained making her more than a wandering spirit.
Abilities:
Pillar of Uthi – A column of flames that breaks up through the ground.
Endowed Flames – Fire that is cast on the user’s weapon granting it temporary elemental properties.
Firestorm – A ball of flames that is directed at a small range that upon impact explodes outward to engulf a larger area.
Night – A spell that blackens the light from the surrounding area.
Black Whip – A rope or whip like matter of darkness that can be uses as a weapon, though more conventionally a restraining spell as it drains the strength of the victim.
Undead Thini: Former Crescent Moon knight will all of his abilities from when he was living along with the inhuman strength as an undead. He cannot be instantly killed by curative magic, but is does hurt him slightly. Thini uses no weapons at all; his method of combat is with his fists. Most of his intelligence has remained making him more than a wandering spirit.
Abilities:
Burning – A spell that increases his strength.
Harden – A spell that toughens his body to attacks.
Flight – A spell that increases his agility and reaction.

[Musicmuse]

Geneva Prentiss tried to justify the situation in her mind. Somehow she would make her situation not sound so bad.

"Betrothed," Geneva muttered softly to herself, "That's not a big deal, right? It's not like he's already married and this is an act of adultery. Betrothed just means that you're promised to marry someone from birth to better the position of -- "

Her thoughts stopped abruptly. Who was she kidding? It was impossible and wrong and she shouldn't have started the whole relationship to begin with. What was worse was the position he held. This man was destined for greatness, and now she had single-handedly thrown his future into turmoil. Prince Tyrak Kose Til Thilterin was the heir to the throne of Thiltis. One day, perhaps tomorrow for all she knew, Tyrak would become the King. He would have power and influence and would basically shape the history of the Land of Thuyin through his leadership at the helm of the Thiltis bloodline. All Geneva had to offer was a past of broken homes, deceit, and seduction. Geneva sighed in frustration and glanced at the note in her hand again. The handwriting was neat and free-flowing.

Meet me at midnight. It's important. You know where.

Yeah, she knew where all right. In about five minutes she was supposed to meet Prince Tyrak in his bedchambers. For months now Geneva and Tyrak had been having a secret affair behind everyone's back, but lately their encounters had become more frequent and less caution had been given to secrecy. For a kingdom which prided itself on family values and upstanding morals, this affair was pretty much the most insulting and ignorant act Geneva had ever been involved in. It hadn't been until very recently that she had bothered to think about the possible ramifications of this hidden relationship. It had become clear to Geneva that as deeply as she cared for Tyrak, and as perfect as their love had started to seem, this was an impossible dream that had to be dashed before it started to influence the reality at hand.

Geneva held the note in her hand, took a candle from the bedside table, and set fire to the note. After today they would never speak of this forbidden relationship again, and there could be no trace that anything had ever happened between them. Not even this simple little note. As the flames licked the parchment, Geneva dropped the flaming message into a shallow metal dish on her dresser and slipped quietly out of her room to meet with Tyrak. It was time to set things right in the kingdom and stop pretending they had a future together.

*****

The door to Tyrak's room was never used by Geneva. She always entered through a secret passage behind a towering suit of armor in the corner of the Prince's bedchamber. Whenever a secret rendezvous had been arranged, Tyrak would slide the armor out of the way so that Geneva could sneak into his room at night unnoticed. As a betrothed man, Tyrak was expressly forbidden to have relations with his fiance until the wedding, and it was assumed that he wouldn't be involved with anyone else. Those assumptions made it very easy for the two of them to meet without having the Royal Court wondering what they were up to if ever spotted together.

This time was different. The suit of armor was still in place, and there was no light coming through the crack between the bottom of the passage door and the chilly stone floor. Something was amiss, and as Geneva slid the shining armor back in front of the passage she realized Tyrak was not around. Without the usual blazing fire next to the plush bed the room felt clammy and unwelcoming. This had never happened before, but perhaps Tyrak had been detained by some important matter. Geneva rested gently on the prince's bed and ran her hand along the silky sheets. Her mind wandered and before she knew it she had sprawled herself out and was laying on her back staring up at the ceiling, her golden hair draped over the crimson sheets.

"Where could he be?" Geneva cooed softly in her sultry voice. "It's not like his majesty to keep his lady waiting." She giggled at the thought of herself as the future queen. Despite her intentions of ending the affair, she couldn't help but indulge her fantasies.

"He's not coming," a gruff voice informed her.

Geneva's eyes flashed with fear and she bolted upright in the bed, her head swiveling in the direction of the comment. She suddenly felt naked and cornered and her cheeks flushed instantly. The man who had spoken was reclining in an overstuffed chair in the corner, staring at Geneva's ashamed face. She recognized him immediately and felt even worse.

"Cameron," she snapped in embarrassment, "what in Thuyin are you doing here?!"

"I could ask you the same thing," Cameron replied, neither malicious nor taunting. His tone was even and calm, and it were as if he couldn't have been less surprised with the entire situation.

Geneva didn't dare to answer, and her gaze shifted uncomfortably from Cameron's unimpressed look to the bedroom floor. She had finally been caught, and it felt even worse than she had ever imagined it.

"I just want you to know that -- I mean it's not like I was here to --" Geneva stammered, clutching her face in her hands and feeling her flushed face growing hotter with every word.

Cameron grunted in amusement and waved her attempt at an explanation aside. "Geneva," he interrupted, "I've known Tyrak for my whole life. We've been best friends since before either of us could hold a sword. I've known for a while now."

Geneva wasn't sure if this information made her feel better or worse. On one hand, he wasn't enraged. On the other hand, if Cameron knew there was no telling who else might have suspected such a relationship by now. Geneva asked where Tyrak was, and the answer made her heart sink. Cameron informed her that Tyrak had left just about an hour before to go meet with his uncle about a diplomatic matter and he had entrusted Cameron to look after her in his absence. Geneva tried to protest, saying that she hardly needed to be watched over, but Cameron just smiled and said he was simply repaying a favor.

"Which leads me to my next point," Cameron continued. "I'm being sent out to oversee an investigation in the Ynuron Forest tomorrow. I've got to play diplomat and extend the proverbial olive branch to the Jurion Knights that will be roaming the area. Basically I need to make sure they're not feeding us some lie as a way to cross over onto our land without having them think we don't trust them."

"And this concerns me because..." Geneva quipped playfully. She was feeling considerably more relaxed about the situation now that she knew Cameron was completely uninterested in her love life.

"It concerns you because you'll be accompanying me tomorrow," he answered firmly. "I promised I'd watch over you and I can't very well do that if you're not with me at all times, now can I?"

Geneva had no choice but to agree. It seemed her worrying about the affair would have to wait until Tyrak returned from his mission. In the meantime she looked forward to spending some time outside of the castle with Cameron. In all of the time she had served as an entertainer for the Royal Court she really hadn't gotten the chance to get to know him. This mission seemed straightforward and stress-free enough that it could provide an excellent opportunity to get to know Tyrak though the eyes of his closest companion.

Cameron sent Geneva off to get some rest before they headed out together in the morning, and she couldn't help but feel a little relief that there was someone else she could confide in about what she was really feeling. She slipped under the covers and wondered what Tyrak was doing at the moment. As she drifted away to sleep, Geneva could never have imagined the events that would unfold in just the next few days.

[Psiko]

The chill of the night bit Jarek's skin as he practiced a new sequence of moves. Thrust. Parry. Stab. Duck. Thrust. Kick. Victory.

Despite the cold his black hair clung to his skin, bonded by sweat. The hard muscles of his bare torso flexed with every move, Several people passed by and paused momentarily to watch his show of skill. He paid no attention to them. His mind was focused only on the task at hand.

"Jarek Therion!" a booming voice called out and caused him to end his practice with a final cut that would leave his opponent decapitated. If he was fighting an opponent, that is.

He bowed to the ground, pressing his forehead into the red-hued dirt. A smear of earth colored his face when he rose back to his feet to formally greet his superior, but neither man paid attention to that.

"Master Shion, I live but to serve. What may I do for you?"

"Enough sweet talk, Jarek. We have business to attend to. Meet me in the conference room as soon as you've cleaned up."

The grizzled old man winked at Jarek with his one good eye and turned to head back into the castle. Jarek retrieved his clothing and hurried in after Shion, not wanting to make the man wait any more than necessary. He rushed through the stone corridors, past colorful tapestries illuminated by the dancing flames of torches. He swept through the kitchen and grabbed a small loaf of bread and a slice of smoked meat from a passing tray. He ignored the protesting voice that called behind him and continued toward his room.

Several young maidens huddled in a corner, talking in hushed whispers. They giggled and blushed as he passed by, but he paid them no mind. There were more important things right now. Perhaps later he would come back and woo one of them into bed. But, of course, a direct visit from Master Shion usually meant another mission. He had only been back three days since his last one. Most times he would get at least two weeks in between. No matter, he got paid well for the last mission, and no doubt this would be the same.

He threw open his oak door and tossed his clothes in a corner. His water basin was filled hours ago, so the water was cold, but the temperature didn't bother him. It felt good to wash all the sweat and dirt from his body. He quickly bathed and then got dressed in a regal burgandy tunic, trimmed in gold. He donned a silver cape that billowed behind him as he passed through the winding halls of the castle toward the conference room.

He opened the door and was surprised to find more people than anticipated. He expected Master Shion, and perhaps a few high-ranking nobles, but there were also two other people who were seated and appeared to be just as lost about this meeting as he was. What was going on here? He sat down and shrugged his shoulders, figuring he would soon find out what this was all about.

[Musicmuse]

Dawn had just fallen over the land, and Geneva stretched her arms out as she yawned, blinking back the fuzziness from her vision. She gathered her hair in a loose ponytail and slipped out from under her covers. The floor was cool and the fireplace smoldered gently at her bedside, the deep embers emitting the last of their heat in the chilly morning air. She dressed quickly, lacing her black corset and pulling on her knee-high boots. As she slid on her leather arm bracers, Geneva thought about the events which had unfolded the night before. Her mind wandered over the news that Prince Tyrak had been dispatched on a special mission hours before she had planned to break off their affair, and then snapped back onto her own mission at hand as there was a loud boom on the door.

Geneva flung the door open and greeted Cameron, Prince Tyrak's childhood friend and the Royal Court's head Knight. Cameron asked if she was ready to set out, and Geneva nodded indicating she was all set. He led her down the arched hallway and past the kitchen, stopping to gather a few provisions for the road. Their next stop was the stables, and Geneva and Cameron's horses had been saddled up and readied for their trek. Cameron's horse was a deep chocolate brown with a regal gait and piercing black eyes, much like Cameron himself. Cameron mounted his steed and checked to make sure his sword was secured at his side. Geneva stroked her horse's black mane and patted his ebony flanks affectionately before she mounted. She clicked softly at her horse and in response it tossed its mane and picked up speed to strut alongside Cameron's trotting horse.

The two of them set off for the Thiltis-Jurion Wall side-by-side, and Cameron gave Geneva a little more insight into their mission of "goodwill".

"They seem to think that some of their men have fallen somewhere in the Ynuron Forest, and they are adamant that they are only interested in retrieving the bodies," Cameron explained.

"Seems simple enough," Geneva commented, "but I'm sure the Royal Court has some reason for sending us as an escort. It's not like the Jurion soldiers would be incapable of searching for men on their own."

"Of course," Cameron replied. "As I'm sure you're well aware, the Thiltis and Jurion Kingdoms are on good terms, but that doesn't mean that we trust them. Quite the opposite. The Jurion seem to be magic-hungry, and what better place to gain even more magical power and knowledge than a forest teeming with magical creatures and monsters that even our own Royal Court isn't fully knowledgeable on."

Geneva nodded and munched on a hunk of bread as she listened intently to Cameron.

"So what it basically comes down to is that we are supposed to escort them mainly to make sure they aren't trying to further their kingdom's power while upon our lands. We have remained uninvolved in this bickering between kingdoms thus far, and the last thing we need is for the Jurion troops to drag the Thiltis Kingdom into their warmongering."

"Makes sense," Geneva answered between bites. "So what if they ARE lying to us?"

Cameron's eyes narrowed. "That's why they sent me," he replied. "I'll ensure that they realize that the Thiltis Kingdom will not tolerate treachery." His glance found Geneva's eyes. "I also know that you'll have no problem in the heat of battle. Tyrak may speak highly of you, but thankfully I've seen you practicing your swordplay, and I can confidently say for myself that I'd be happy to have you assist me if things get a bit hairy."

Geneva smiled upon hearing Cameron speak so highly of her, then added "But first and foremost I assume we are to not engage them if possible?"

"Correct," came the response.

The sun was climbing higher in the sky, and it would be within the hour that they'd arrive at the Thiltis-Jurion Wall to greet the Jurion Soldiers.

[DragonHeart]

“What is it Adra, another summons?” Remiel snatched at the scroll, pouting as his brother absently held the thick parchment out of grabbing range. The ribbon binding was gold and green - the royal colors of Jurion.

“Of course it is.” Adrastus scowled at the letter. “They hear even a little rumor about dark magic and they come running to me. Fools.” He threw the summons aside and stalked off, leaving a trail of muttered insults in his wake. As much as he wanted to, not even Adrastus Melkaede dared ignore an official mission from His Imperial Majesty.



This conference threatened to be even more tedious and boring than the last one. Adrastus yawned and ran a hand through his wild red hair, trying to wake himself up. His lanky form and decidedly ungraceful manner drew disgusted sneers from the nobles and lower ranking officers, but a sharp glance from those dark amber eyes forestalled any comments. He knew what they were thinking and he didn’t particularly care, either.

They were the ones who dragged him away from his research, after all. They should be grateful he even bothered showing up. It was really his younger brother Remiel who kept him loyal to Jurion. Luckily, the general understood this and let his lapses of etiquette pass.

“He’ll be here shortly,” Master Shion said as he entered.

About damn time, Adrastus thought and stifled another yawn. I hate conferences.

Finally, the last member of their little group joined. His clothes drew Adrastus’ attention. Burgundy and silver. A Knight of the Crescent Moon, no doubt. The Knights were strong as lions but dumber than rocks, in his opinion. Oh well, they made good meat shields, at least.

Adrastus himself did not wear the colors of the mage guilds, but he hardly needed to. Everyone in Jurion could no doubt recognize him by now. Troublesome, but it couldn't be helped. With his plain white shirt and tan slacks he resembled a peasant more than anything, but his hair and eyes gave him away for who he truly was. Adrastus Melkaede, the Red Dragon of Jurion.

The Knight was seated and finally the briefing began. Adrastus sighed. He hated conferences.

[Andromeda]

Sorry for the interruption, but just wanted to remind you have two weeks, and the only group that has everyone posting. Cassie will not be joining you remember. So you can move ahead without waiting.

[Musicmuse]

Geneva and Cameron made it to the Jurion-Thiltis wall in good time, and seeing as there was no one else around yet they dismounted and walked their horses over to a nearby stream to get some water. The Ynuron Forest wasn't very far from this location, and the endless trees were sprawled across the countryside in the distance, looking mysteriously dark and dangerously foreboding.

An hour passed without any sign of Jurion soldiers arriving, so Cameron built a fire while Geneva collected the slabs of meat from her satchel. The kitchen staff had seasoned the steaks and they looked delicious. A loaf of bread had also been packed, and it too was set out for lunch. The fire Cameron had started was crackling gently with thin wisps of smoke curling toward the sky. Not only would they get a chance to eat, but the rising smoke would serve as a signal to the Jurion soldiers that their escort had arrived at the wall.

Geneva speared the steaks with a sturdy thin branch and propped them over the glowing flames. Cameron was already munching contently on a hunk of bread, and he offered a piece to Geneva. She picked at it while she tended the steaks and peered out across the horizon. Surely the Jurion troops would be arriving shortly...

[DragonHeart]

“What do you think we’ll find? If His Majesty even summoned you, there’s bound to be something major going on.” One of the junior knights that formed their escort happily babbled on, completely oblivious to the warning glance from his commander. “Maybe it’s a dragon! Do you think we’d get to slay it? They say you can turn into a dragon, is that true? My cousin said he saw you once--”

“Enough.” Adrastus reined in his horse and let the others pass. He looked down at the boy, smiling tightly at the fear flickering in his eyes.

“This is a mission, soldier, not a show. I didn’t come all the way out here to play with children. We are investigating the disappearance of men far stronger and undoubtedly much smarter than you. This isn’t a game. If you want to play then you might as well go home before you get us all killed. I will not suffer the company of fools.”

He nudged his horse into a trot to catch up with the main party. He never turned back, knowing full well that the boy was either crying or angry.

“You’re too hard on them. That one’s barely graduated from the first rank.” The commander remarked as the mage returned to the front of the column.

“Would you rather he learn on the battlefield, watching his own life’s blood pouring out on the ground? You’ve always been too soft, Phelan.”

“Well, you‘re still alive, that must count for something.”

“Hmph. I left that path long ago. I have no need of swords nor shields.”

Phelan simply grinned and let it go. Even after so many years, Adrastus hadn’t changed. He was still the headstrong little nephew who’d vowed never to use a metal weapon after the first time he’d cut himself in practice.

A scout appeared on a nearby hillside and gave a series of signals that meant nothing to Adrastus.

“The Thiltis emissaries are ahead. Looks like they only sent two. I’ll put the escort on standby here until we return.”

“That’s fine.”

“Be careful Adra. Remi’s counting on you.”

“You worry too much. I’ll be fine. See you in awhile.”

Phelan and his soldiers dropped back, leaving Adrastus, the Knight of the Crescent Moon, and a tracker to continue forward to the rendezvous point. They approached the Thiltians, a man and a woman. They didn’t seem concerned; in fact, they appeared to be having lunch. He didn’t particularly care, although it could alert whatever lurked in the forest to their presence.

The tracker, a weathered man of middle age, stepped forward to make the introductions. Adrastus grimaced, wishing the man didn’t insist on calling him the Red Dragon . But then, everyone did.

He dismounted and bowed his head toward the two but made no effort to start the conversation. He had other things to worry about. A distant look came into his eyes as he scanned the forest with magic, seeking any disturbances in the area. He felt it immediately, of course. Something was very wrong in Ynuron.

Maybe the rumors have some truth in them, after all…

[Andromeda]

Ok, there is one week left in the round. It is pretty apparent that the others are not going to be posting. I do insist that you complete the quest and have a conclusion. With the people dropping out, the prilimaries will be brought to a close on this and go in the finals afterwards. The remaining people have all passed, so congradulations on making it into the Finals. I will be putting up a new grouping after the prilimaries end.

You have one week to end the quest and it is important that you do.

Dragonheart, Musicmuse and Psiko continue on to the Finals.

[Musicmuse]

Now that the Jurion troops had arrived, it seemed the only thing left to do was venture off into the Ynuron Forest and actually see what had happened to the lost soldiers. The trees twisted back upon themselves and formed a gnarled wall that was completely impassable, and Geneva didn't remember this ever being the case before...

"Here's a path," Cameron announced as he started down a mysteriously clear lane. It was as if the forest were luring them in -- for there to be only one clear path was a bit odd for a forest.

Geneva sighed and followed Cameron's lead. He strode casually ahead of the others, picking his way through the winding passage, and Geneva took the opportunity to study the Jurion reinforcements they were escorting. They all seemed capable enough, and honestly she thought that they were truly here to get some answers about their fallen comrades. Nothing sneaky was showing in their demeanor, and if anything they seemed to be thinking the same thing she was: this forest was hiding something. There was an intensity in the air that could be easily seen on everyone's face.

A chilled wind sifted through the group, and Geneva felt it breeze through her golden hair and prickle her skin. She felt immediately cold and uneasy, and glanced over her shoulder suspiciously. There was no one there, of course, but nevertheless she couldn't help but feel as though they were all being closely monitored by some unseen force from deep within the forest. A hushed whisper floated on the breeze, but it was hard to tell whether it was just her mind playing tricks on her.

Geneva quickened her pace and caught up to Cameron. "I think something's wrong here," she muttered softly to him. "I just feel like --" She stopped suddenly when she saw the way Cameron was looking at her. His eyes were narrowed and a nod of his head told her to stop talking.

"I think we're getting close to finding our answers," he responded slowly. Cameron's eyes displayed an intensity and concentration she had not seen in him before now. His hand was at his hilt, and a slight nod of Cameron's head to the right sent Geneva's gaze wandering in that direction...

...and then she saw them. There were three figures standing a few hundred yards away, silent and clothed in shadow. They seemed to bear the armor of the order of the Crescent Moon Knights, but even from this distance it was clear that they were not seeking friendship. The three knights had bowed heads, yet Geneva felt a piercing glare coming from them. It seemed that even without meeting her eye they were somehow sizing her up. She shuddered and turned to see what reaction this meeting would get from the other Jurion troops.

[DragonHeart]

“Here’s a path,” The Thiltian man, Cameron, announced, snapping Adrastus out of his thoughts. It appeared to be the only way in; they had no choice but to take it. They did so, the Thiltians in the front. Adrastus stayed to the rear.

I didn’t see a path here before…

They hadn’t gone far before they all began to feel it. A fell power twisting through the forest, whispering darkness in their ears. The path closed behind them, leaving no choice but forward. Even Adrastus was uneasy. He had knowledge of such magics but nothing like this. He got the sense that it was old, very old. Maybe even a remnant of the time before the Barrier…

Cameron stopped them, hand on the hilt of his sword. To the right, three Knights of the Crescent Moon. The missing knights…no. They had been. Now the power of Ynuron corrupted their bodies, giving the dead life. They were mere puppets, marionettes to dance with death.

“This isn’t good,” Adrastus spoke quietly, trying not to antagonize the undead knights. “This magic is beyond even me. If we cannot destroy them…”

They had no time to plan. The knights drew their swords and advanced. Their movements were slowed with death but they had lost none of their skill. It would be a difficult fight for all of them.

“Stay back.” He ordered, holding his hand out. His eyes narrowed with concentration as he started to draw a line of earth glyphs on the ground in front of them. It had been awhile since he used his magic; his hand shook slightly with the effort. He scowled and steadied himself as he connected the glyphs just as the knights reached it, whispering the incantation for the spell under his breath.

Great Mother, rise to crush mine enemies with thy rage! Earth Dragon, ascend!

The ground shook and massive spires of earth burst upward with a roar. With startled cries their enemies were forced back, stunned from the unexpected resistance. Adrastus smiled grimly; he was no pushover himself. He could only hope the Thiltians would be as successful. Using the reprieve before their earthen shield withdrew, he stepped close so they would hear him, not wanting to chance being overhead.

“Keep them off me if you can. I need time to cast.”

The spell’s power faded; they were out of time. They would meet this enemy together or die one by one. It was their choice, but Adrastus had no intention of dying. He prepared for his next cast, ready for anything Ynuron cared to throw at him. It was clearly angry; it responded in full force.

[Andromeda]

I've extended the deadline quite a length longer than I was expecting. But since no one is posting and it is not finished yet. I will grant the next the person, regardless of order or double posting, permission to end the quest. It is important to have some resolutions for the next quests. So Psiko, Dragonheart or Musicmuse whoever gets here first can end anyway they wish. You three are naturally moving on, but I need an ending.

Post as soon as possible so the round can end. Finesse is not really required at this point since it is no longer being judged this round. What needs to be decided is the results of the investigation, the reasons for the undead.

[Musicmuse]

Geneva and Cameron stepped forward, blocking the undead's path from Adrastrus. If he needed time to cast, they would do their best to give it to him. Geneva unsheathed her short swords and raised them defiantly. Cameron's great sword was also drawn, and the two of them stood poised to spring into action.

The squat female with unruly red hair stepped forward to attack, and Adrastus called out a strategy to Geneva and Cameron. "That's Winah -- watch out for her fire and dark magic. I have a feeling it has greatly increased in power with her current state."

As if on cue, Winah's hands thrust forward as she unleashed her firestorm attack. Three small swirling balls of flame jetted out from her fingertips and sped toward the group of investigators. They hit the ground a few yards ahead of the group, and at first Geneva thought Winah had messed up her aiming. It wasn't until the flames started to expand outward that she dove out of the way. The first attack had missed, but the battle was far from over.

As a tall, burly man stepped into the fray, Geneva glanced back for some sort of explanation as to who he was. Adrastus, however, seemed to be deep in thought and had begun his chanting again. Geneva refocused and charged the towering hulk. His sword and her two smaller blades connected, and she found that for as tough as he looked he was really not that much stronger than her. She whirled around in a tornado spin, her twin blades crashing against the mighty sword this massive stranger was wielding, and with her final swing she managed to catch him off guard and he staggered back a bit, his right arm slashed slightly.

With a cry of anguish the Crescent Moon Knight uttered a few words. A silvery shimmer encompassed his body, and his skin seemed to prickle and thicken under the shimmering light.

"It's a harden spell," Cameron called out to Geneva. "Don't bother trying to fight him in hand-to-hand combat now -- even if you connect I doubt it'll even slow him down."

Cameron had been engaging the third shadowy stranger, and from the looks of Cameron's panting it had been a pretty fair match thus far. Geneva couldn't remember the last time she had seen Cameron struggle with a fight.

Winah was advancing again, but this time Adrastus was ready for her. He thrust his staff into the ground and immediately the ruby began to glow with intense power. The golden wings emitted an intense light and a scathing ray of the purest light shot forth from the ruby and barreled straight toward Winah. Her squinty eyes widened as the beam connected to her chest and she let out a horrendous screech as she was blasted backward. The light seemed to have severely affected her, for as she lay writhing on the ground her skin bubbled and puckered.

"What was that?" Geneva asked Adrastus.

"It's a very powerful spell that only a select few can perform," he responded, as if anticipating that she might ask how to perform it. "It is devastating to undead creatures because it calls upon the holiest light from the very heavens above."

And apparently Adrastus was right. The looming canopy of the forest had been blasted away from the magnitude of the light, and now a stream of sunlight was pouring onto the forest floor. The vegetation on the ground seemed to shy away from this pure light, as if it were alive and trying to escape any trace of goodness.

Geneva and Cameron turned to face the burly warrior once again, but Adrastus called them back.

"We must go," Adrastus beckoned. "Their magic is far too powerful right now."

"But I just saw you --" Geneva started.

"Such powerful magic is taxing, even to me," Adrastus responded quickly.

They retreated quickly, and to their surprise the other two Crescent Moon Knights didn't bother to give chase. When they had finally stepped out of the forest, the natural sunlight seemed blinding. The Ynuron Forest had indeed become a place overrun with darkness and evil magics.

"So what caused them to become so twisted and evil?" Geneva asked finally. "I assume they weren't always like that."

"I have an idea of what it may be, but I must report back now," Adrastus said coldly. "Your company is no longer needed. I can find my own way back."

And with that he rode off at a manic pace, back toward the Kingdom of Jurion.

"I think there's something he's not telling us," Geneva confided to Cameron. Much to her surprise, Cameron laughed.

"So you don't recognize him then?" Cameron asked her. "That's the famous Red Dragon. He's one of the most powerful mages in all of Jurion. Rumor has it that he can even turn himself into a dragon, though I somehow doubt that's true."

"So what is he hiding?" Geneva asked, annoyed that she seemed to be thew only one out of the loop.

"He thinks he's found the Doithmin Shard," Cameron answered quietly, as if rolling the idea around in his brain. "It's possible, I suppose. They WERE unnaturally strong... but how did they -- no matter. We must go back to the King and report what has happened. I'm sure you're anxious to get back to Tyrak as well?"

Geneva's heart dropped. She had completely forgotten that she had intended to tell Tyrak that she wanted to end their affair. Now she had the entire ride back to Thiltis to try to regain the courage to tell him. This entire mission hadn't made much sense to her, and had actually been a nice distraction from her troubles back at the kingdom.

The ride home had never seemed longer.