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…		…
3	=begin comment	3	=begin comment
4		4
5	This is the source for some of the books in crossfire, at least, it should become one.	5	This is the source for some of the books in crossfire, at least, it should become one.
6		6
7	Authors:	7	Authors:
		8
8	Gorlin <gorlin@freibier.htu.tuwien.ac.at>	9	Gorlin <gorlin@freibier.htu.tuwien.ac.at>
9	Mark Wedel <mwedel@scruznet.com>	10	Mark Wedel <mwedel@scruznet.com>
10	Marc Lehmann <crossfire@schmorp.de>	11	Marc Lehmann <crossfire@schmorp.de>
11	The Crossfire Wiki	12	Lalo Martins <lalo.martins@gmail.com>
		13	Yann Chachkoff <yann.chachkoff@mailandnews.com>
		14	Gros
		15
		16	many stories taken from unknown authors at The Crossfire Wiki
		17	http://wiki.metalforge.net/
12		18
13	Each =head1 should become its own book.	19	Each =head1 should become its own book.
14		20
15	=end comment	21	=end comment
16		22
…		…
250		256
251	Around 350 EK: The Story of the Fourth Mariner is written by an unknown author.	257	Around 350 EK: The Story of the Fourth Mariner is written by an unknown author.
252		258
253	435 EK: Colony of Skorn Founded. It would eventualy become the city of Scorn.	259	435 EK: Colony of Skorn Founded. It would eventualy become the city of Scorn.
254		260
255	711 EK: The outpost of Heaven’s Gate is founded.	261	711 EK: The outpost of Heaven's Gate is founded.
256		262
257	=head2 Volume II: Second Millenia EK	263	=head2 Volume II: Second Millenia EK
258		264
259	1223 EK: Ekkis the Drunk leads a disastrous crusade against the Sirens in the southern seas.	265	1223 EK: Ekkis the Drunk leads a disastrous crusade against the Sirens in the southern seas.
260		266
…		…
264		270
265	2287 EK: Battle of Tered - The Kingdom of the Masts is dismantled by Navar.	271	2287 EK: Battle of Tered - The Kingdom of the Masts is dismantled by Navar.
266		272
267	2567 EK: Fernast Fergono, exiled from Navar, leads a famous exploration expedition in the south-east seas.	273	2567 EK: Fernast Fergono, exiled from Navar, leads a famous exploration expedition in the south-east seas.
268		274
269	2765 EK: The city of Heaven’s Gate is burned by pirates.	275	2765 EK: The city of Heaven's Gate is burned by pirates.
270		276
271	=head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis.	277	=head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis.
272		278
273	=head2 Volume IV: Fourth Millenia EK	279	=head2 Volume IV: Fourth Millenia EK
274		280
…		…
356	=head2 Past and Destruction	362	=head2 Past and Destruction
357		363
358	Ah, Euthville - "City of the Pearl", in Old Hemdalite, has indeed a	364	Ah, Euthville - "City of the Pearl", in Old Hemdalite, has indeed a
359	rather sad story!!	365	rather sad story!!
360		366
361	If you went there about half a millenia ago, you’d have seen something	367	If you went there about half a millenia ago, you'd have seen something
362	very different than the field of haunted ruins it has since become. It	368	very different than the field of haunted ruins it has since become. It
363	was initially founded by a handful of industrious, clever dwarves, that	369	was initially founded by a handful of industrious, clever dwarves, that
364	had found a mystical way to locate fields of precious Karitta, the famous	370	had found a mystical way to locate fields of precious Karitta, the famous
365	metal that is as transparent as a pearl of the North Sea, yet as strong as	371	metal that is as transparent as a pearl of the North Sea, yet as strong as
366	the best irons of Navar.	372	the best irons of Navar.
367		373
368	And thus, they found at the location of Euthville a lot of that raw metal,	374	And thus, they found at the location of Euthville a lot of that raw metal,
369	which quickly made the city one of the richest of all. And for a long	375	which quickly made the city one of the richest of all. And for a long
370	time, it stayed so. The inhabitants of Euthville weren’t interested by	376	time, it stayed so. The inhabitants of Euthville weren't interested by
371	war, work, or anything else too tiresome - they preferred to pay somebody	377	war, work, or anything else too tiresome - they preferred to pay somebody
372	else to do all of this. And with the advanced technical knowledge bring by	378	else to do all of this. And with the advanced technical knowledge bring by
373	the dwarves, working was less and less an issue for them.	379	the dwarves, working was less and less an issue for them.
374		380
375	Yet yhey were facing a problem. All their devices, all their machineries,	381	Yet yhey were facing a problem. All their devices, all their machineries,
376	all their tricks to cheat with nature required energy. Lots of	382	all their tricks to cheat with nature required energy. Lots of
377	energy. They relied first on the strength of horses and donkeys, but it	383	energy. They relied first on the strength of horses and donkeys, but it
378	wasn’t enough. Then, they tamed the dangerous Wyverns of Kal-Durandasi,	384	wasn't enough. Then, they tamed the dangerous Wyverns of Kal-Durandasi,
379	so that the hot lizards would provide them with the full force of their	385	so that the hot lizards would provide them with the full force of their
380	steamy breath. But soon, it wasn’t enough. They also used the hidden	386	steamy breath. But soon, it wasn't enough. They also used the hidden
381	power provided by the Faeries of the Tarniska river, building a dam, so	387	power provided by the Faeries of the Tarniska river, building a dam, so
382	that they could put the invisible horses of water that the sylphids are	388	that they could put the invisible horses of water that the sylphids are
383	rumored to breed in use.	389	rumored to breed in use.
384		390
385	But even so, their hunger for power wasn’t satisfied, and became an	391	But even so, their hunger for power wasn't satisfied, and became an
386	increasing nuisance for them. So, the Commander of Euthville (which was,	392	increasing nuisance for them. So, the Commander of Euthville (which was,
387	more or less, the equivalent to our King at Scorn), finally decided to	393	more or less, the equivalent to our King at Scorn), finally decided to
388	send messengers across the whole Continent, calling the world for a	394	send messengers across the whole Continent, calling the world for a
389	challenge. Whoever would be able to fulfill the needs of Euthvillians of	395	challenge. Whoever would be able to fulfill the needs of Euthvillians of
390	energy would become the new Commander, thus the ruler of the richest city	396	energy would become the new Commander, thus the ruler of the richest city
…		…
392		398
393	Many answered the call, of course, and many failed. Wind, Sun, Stars, even	399	Many answered the call, of course, and many failed. Wind, Sun, Stars, even
394	dwarven beer were proposed, but nothing seemed to be enough. For years,	400	dwarven beer were proposed, but nothing seemed to be enough. For years,
395	wizards tried. And failed.	401	wizards tried. And failed.
396		402
397	And then came a boy. He wasn’t a wizard, nor pretended to be one. He was	403	And then came a boy. He wasn't a wizard, nor pretended to be one. He was
398	young, but the story didn’t kept the record of his name, and some now	404	young, but the story didn't kept the record of his name, and some now
399	think it is because he was damned. Who knows? The Boy sat in the middle	405	think it is because he was damned. Who knows? The Boy sat in the middle
400	of the city, playing with his flute, laughing whenever he saw one of the	406	of the city, playing with his flute, laughing whenever he saw one of the
401	demonstrations the powerful wizards and engineers failing again and again.	407	demonstrations the powerful wizards and engineers failing again and again.
402		408
403	After several days, the Commander noticed the Boy, and said: "who	409	After several days, the Commander noticed the Boy, and said: "who
404	are you to laugh, you, who has only a flute ?" "I have only a	410	are you to laugh, you, who has only a flute ?" "I have only a
405	flute for sure - but there’s more in my simple pipe than in those	411	flute for sure - but there's more in my simple pipe than in those
406	legions of wizards." "Really ?" said the Commander, half-laughing,	412	legions of wizards." "Really ?" said the Commander, half-laughing,
407	half-curious, "so you think you can solve my challenge ?"	413	half-curious, "so you think you can solve my challenge ?"
408		414
409	The Boy smiled. "Not only I can, but I shall - and my price will be	415	The Boy smiled. "Not only I can, but I shall - and my price will be
410	quite acceptable to give you the energy you need." "And that would	416	quite acceptable to give you the energy you need." "And that would
…		…
417	the depth. The fountain that stood in the middle of the place crumbled,	423	the depth. The fountain that stood in the middle of the place crumbled,
418	leaving a great hole from which flames emerged. But the fire seemed to	424	leaving a great hole from which flames emerged. But the fire seemed to
419	dance at the rythm of the music itself.	425	dance at the rythm of the music itself.
420		426
421	The Boy then said to the Commander: "As long as you keep playing for	427	The Boy then said to the Commander: "As long as you keep playing for
422	the Demons there, at least 23 hours each day, you’ll get them to make	428	the Demons there, at least 23 hours each day, you'll get them to make
423	whatever you need." And he gave them the score, took a brand new silver	429	whatever you need." And he gave them the score, took a brand new silver
424	flute, and left, and never was seen again at Euthville.	430	flute, and left, and never was seen again at Euthville.
425		431
426	At first, things seemed fine, and the Commander couldn’t believe his	432	At first, things seemed fine, and the Commander couldn't believe his
427	luck, as a pipe was a feeble price to pay for such a powerful recipe of	433	luck, as a pipe was a feeble price to pay for such a powerful recipe of
428	prosperity. Who wouldn’t want to tame the Demons themselves? Quickly,	434	prosperity. Who wouldn't want to tame the Demons themselves? Quickly,
429	though, it appeared obvious that, for enough demons to be there, that	435	though, it appeared obvious that, for enough demons to be there, that
430	music needed to be played rather loudly. And if, at first, it sounded	436	music needed to be played rather loudly. And if, at first, it sounded
431	entertaining, joyous, and funny, it quickly grew on the nerves of	437	entertaining, joyous, and funny, it quickly grew on the nerves of
432	many. And especially because it was played 23 hours a day.	438	many. And especially because it was played 23 hours a day.
433		439
434	Finally, the Commander decided that the city couldn’t stand this	440	Finally, the Commander decided that the city couldn't stand this
435	anymore, and ordered that the Demons had to be attracted faraway from the	441	anymore, and ordered that the Demons had to be attracted faraway from the
436	city. On this fateful day, a whole fanfare left the city, hoping that the	442	city. On this fateful day, a whole fanfare left the city, hoping that the
437	demons would follow, attracted by the music.	443	demons would follow, attracted by the music.
438		444
439	And so, they did. One after another, they climbed out of Earth itself, and	445	And so, they did. One after another, they climbed out of Earth itself, and
…		…
447	music that enslaved them, crushed what remained of the city, in a bloody	453	music that enslaved them, crushed what remained of the city, in a bloody
448	fest that they will forever keep in their twisted memories.	454	fest that they will forever keep in their twisted memories.
449		455
450	The Commander went mad, of course, and it is said that his madness was	456	The Commander went mad, of course, and it is said that his madness was
451	so strong that his mind was unable to understand that he was dead. If	457	so strong that his mind was unable to understand that he was dead. If
452	you search enough in the ruins of Euthville, you’ll probably encounter	458	you search enough in the ruins of Euthville, you'll probably encounter
453	his ghost, as well as those of the many who perished for having believed	459	his ghost, as well as those of the many who perished for having believed
454	that mortals could enslave the hell. Some demons stayed there, obviously	460	that mortals could enslave the hell. Some demons stayed there, obviously
455	enjoying the area and its newborn ashes that smelled fresh blood and	461	enjoying the area and its newborn ashes that smelled fresh blood and
456	carnage. Euthville is now, of course, a dangerous, deserted place, and the	462	carnage. Euthville is now, of course, a dangerous, deserted place, and the
457	richesses that are still sleeping below the ruins of its former palaces	463	richesses that are still sleeping below the ruins of its former palaces
458	are now guarded by powerful entities of the 9th Circle.	464	are now guarded by powerful entities of the 9th Circle.
459		465
460	Many said that, if the Enchanted Music could be found, it would open the	466	Many said that, if the Enchanted Music could be found, it would open the
461	gates of many treasures, but because none of the former Euthvillians	467	gates of many treasures, but because none of the former Euthvillians
462	survived, and because nobody knows where the Boy went afterwards, those	468	survived, and because nobody knows where the Boy went afterwards, those
463	gates are still closed. I’ve heard that the School of Daemonology was	469	gates are still closed. I've heard that the School of Daemonology was
464	precisely founded to rediscover that spell. But who am I to claim this to	470	precisely founded to rediscover that spell. But who am I to claim this to
465	be true ? I’m only a man of the past that tells stories before a fire,	471	be true? I'm only a man of the past that tells stories before a fire,
466	and the fire is dying, and so has my tale reached the end.	472	and the fire is dying, and so has my tale reached the end.
467		473
468		474
469		475
470	=head1 The Kiritani Pass (from "Euthville Legends")	476	=head1 The Kiritani Pass (from "Euthville Legends")
…		…
478	=head1 Sannistra (from "Euthville Legends")	484	=head1 Sannistra (from "Euthville Legends")
479		485
480	The Sannista is a legendary flying boat that was powered by the reaction	486	The Sannista is a legendary flying boat that was powered by the reaction
481	of a fire and a water elemental. It was built by the tenth Commander of	487	of a fire and a water elemental. It was built by the tenth Commander of
482	Euthville, Farkennis, as a gift for the 18th Birthday of his daughter,	488	Euthville, Farkennis, as a gift for the 18th Birthday of his daughter,
483	Sannista. That’s the boat that was stolen by Fax when he fled from	489	Sannista. That's the boat that was stolen by Fax when he fled from
484	Euthville, and that he used to get to Khelens. Giusitta the Verbous then	490	Euthville, and that he used to get to Khelens. Giusitta the Verbous then
485	sailed it back to the Continent, and hid it "somewhere in the mountains	491	sailed it back to the Continent, and hid it "somewhere in the mountains
486	of Euth".	492	of Euth".
487		493
488	So I guess she would have put it there, although I’m not sure. Many	494	So I guess she would have put it there, although I'm not sure. Many
489	people thought the story was speaking about the mountains just east of the	495	people thought the story was speaking about the mountains just east of the
490	ruined city, but now that I’ve discovered those two caves, I’d rather	496	ruined city, but now that I've discovered those two caves, I'd rather
491	bet on them - it seems more logical.	497	bet on them - it seems more logical.
492		498
493		499
494	=head1 The Name of the World	500	=head1 The Name of the World
495		501
…		…
559	kingdom.	565	kingdom.
560		566
561		567
562	=head1 History of Lake Country	568	=head1 History of Lake Country
563		569
564	Lake Country originally was where the elves who where exiled from the north	570	Lake Country originally was where the elves lived who where exiled
565	by the kings of Scorn, during the Vth millenia EK. They named the area	571	from the north by the kings of Scorn, during the Vth millenia EK. They
566	Vkovzerov. The major elven city of Vkovzerov was Tashkeren-tah. It was	572	named the area Vkovzerov. The major elven city of Vkovzerov was
567	destroyed by a Water arch-elemental in 4453EK.	573	Tashkeren-tah. It was destroyed by a Water arch-elemental in 4453EK.
568		574
569		575
570	=head1 Visit our Training Centres!	576	=head1 Visit our Training Centres!
571		577
572	We, Training Centres Incorporated provide the best service for warriors,	578	We, Training Centres Incorporated provide the best service for warriors,
…		…
581		587
582	A Bonecrusher, a Firestar, and a Demonspawn Shield.	588	A Bonecrusher, a Firestar, and a Demonspawn Shield.
583		589
584	Undead	590	Undead
585		591
586	Lich dust, a Spectre’s ectoplasm, and a Skull’s tooth.	592	Lich dust, a Spectre's ectoplasm, and a Skull's tooth.
587		593
588	Dragon	594	Dragon
589		595
590	An Ancient dragon’s steak, an Ancient Blue Dragon’s steak, and an Ancient red dragon’s steak.	596	An Ancient dragon's steak, an Ancient Blue Dragon's steak, and an Ancient red dragon's steak.
591		597
592	Demon	598	Demon
593		599
594	A Demonbane, a Belzebub’s sword, and a Firebrand.	600	A Demonbane, a Belzebub's sword, and a Firebrand.
595		601
596	=head3 Free Centres	602	=head3 Free Centres
597		603
598	As a special service, we provide access to two of our older training	604	As a special service, we provide access to two of our older training
599	centres completely free of charge, although you will understand that there	605	centres completely free of charge, although you will understand that there
…		…
620		626
621	=head1 The Kingdom of Navar	627	=head1 The Kingdom of Navar
622		628
623	Straddling the corner of the Imperial highway as it turns North near the	629	Straddling the corner of the Imperial highway as it turns North near the
624	Eastern border of the known world, and surrounded by dangerous territory,	630	Eastern border of the known world, and surrounded by dangerous territory,
625	Navar is an unlikely site for one of the world’s grandest cities. Yet	631	Navar is an unlikely site for one of the world's grandest cities. Yet
626	there it stands, dominating the skyline for miles around and showing the	632	there it stands, dominating the skyline for miles around and showing the
627	same bustling activity expected of any thriving market town.	633	same bustling activity expected of any thriving market town.
628		634
629		635
630	=head1 The Kingdom of the Masts	636	=head1 The Kingdom of the Masts
…		…
641	Navari Princes against the Artificers, a group of mages that were masters	647	Navari Princes against the Artificers, a group of mages that were masters
642	in the now banned magical field of Technomancy. The Artificers were close	648	in the now banned magical field of Technomancy. The Artificers were close
643	to obtain a complete victory, but were finally destroyed by the raw power	649	to obtain a complete victory, but were finally destroyed by the raw power
644	of their own biggest creation, The Thaumic Gear. The explosion of the Gear	650	of their own biggest creation, The Thaumic Gear. The explosion of the Gear
645	shattered the whole east of the world, and many territories forever sank	651	shattered the whole east of the world, and many territories forever sank
646	into the ocean, including Kari Kori, the Technomages’ city.	652	into the ocean, including Kari Kori, the Technomages' city.
647		653
648		654
649	=head1 Juradiths Dissidents	655	=head1 Juradiths Dissidents
650		656
651	Juradiths, named after Juradith, Minor Spirit of Equity, were a group of	657	Juradiths, named after Juradith, Minor Spirit of Equity, were a group of
…		…
655	Scornians against them. When trying to recapture the city, their army was	661	Scornians against them. When trying to recapture the city, their army was
656	defeated by the Scornian Militia with the help of a couple city mages, who	662	defeated by the Scornian Militia with the help of a couple city mages, who
657	flooded the Juradiths into a magically created lake.	663	flooded the Juradiths into a magically created lake.
658		664
659	Juradiths still exist as a small political faction today, although	665	Juradiths still exist as a small political faction today, although
660	they’ve long traded their violent ways for some weird traditions whose	666	they've long traded their violent ways for some weird traditions whose
661	origins and meaning are now mostly forgotten.	667	origins and meaning are now mostly forgotten.
662		668
663		669
664	=head1 The Gaean Legend of Creation	670	=head1 The Gaean Legend of Creation
665		671
…		…
668	In the beginning there was Gaea, the force of nature. SHE filled the whole	674	In the beginning there was Gaea, the force of nature. SHE filled the whole
669	of existence with her being. After a few billion years, this became to	675	of existence with her being. After a few billion years, this became to
670	grow boring and lonely, so SHE decided to have children.	676	grow boring and lonely, so SHE decided to have children.
671		677
672	At first SHE created a host of forces like Herself, eternal and	678	At first SHE created a host of forces like Herself, eternal and
673	divine. But with all their power, they couldn’t get along with each	679	divine. But with all their power, they couldn't get along with each
674	other, so Gaea decided that wasn’t a good idea. SHE decreed that from	680	other, so Gaea decided that wasn't a good idea. SHE decreed that from
675	that point on all creatures but HER would have a limited lifetime. But	681	that point on all creatures but HER would have a limited lifetime. But
676	most of HER first children disagreed, and went away to an unknown	682	most of HER first children disagreed, and went away to an unknown
677	location.	683	location.
678		684
679	=head2 Age of The Small World	685	=head2 Age of The Small World
680		686
681	So Gaea created a small world and populated it with limited creatures -	687	So Gaea created a small world and populated it with limited creatures -
682	animals and plants of all sorts. For a few million years she was happy	688	animals and plants of all sorts. For a few million years she was happy
683	to watch them. But her remaining faithful children were growing restless	689	to watch them. But her remaining faithful children were growing restless
684	and wanted to make their own experimentations too. Finally SHE got bored	690	and wanted to make their own experimentations too. Finally SHE got bored
685	again, as her creations weren’t self-aware and therefore weren’t	691	again, as her creations weren't self-aware and therefore weren't
686	much of a company. But SHE was also curious, because her creatures had	692	much of a company. But SHE was also curious, because her creatures had
687	developed many different styles of living, and SHE desired to compare	693	developed many different styles of living, and SHE desired to compare
688	them.	694	them.
689		695
690	And Gaea destroyed the original world, breaking it in four new ones.	696	And Gaea destroyed the original world, breaking it in four new ones.
…		…
714	the fittest. It was populated with fierce creatures and predators. Two of	720	the fittest. It was populated with fierce creatures and predators. Two of
715	Her children believed this was the best way to live and decided to live in	721	Her children believed this was the best way to live and decided to live in
716	this world.	722	this world.
717		723
718	After the worlds were created, only four children of Gaea still preferred	724	After the worlds were created, only four children of Gaea still preferred
719	to live in the Void: two because they weren’t interested in any of those	725	to live in the Void: two because they weren't interested in any of those
720	worlds, and two because they liked all of them and preferred to visit them	726	worlds, and two because they liked all of them and preferred to visit them
721	whenever they wished.	727	whenever they wished.
722		728
723	=head2 Age of Awakening	729	=head2 Age of Awakening
724		730
…		…
728	and wanted to create more interesting creatures, SHE understood them and	734	and wanted to create more interesting creatures, SHE understood them and
729	quickly allowed them and gave them the power to do it.	735	quickly allowed them and gave them the power to do it.
730		736
731	So on the First world, one of the Gods who lived there created a race of	737	So on the First world, one of the Gods who lived there created a race of
732	beings that loved peace and wildlife, and called them Elves. The other	738	beings that loved peace and wildlife, and called them Elves. The other
733	God in that world didn’t choose to create followers, but she teached	739	God in that world didn't choose to create followers, but she teached
734	language to the Elves of her brother, and when the Elves larned the art of	740	language to the Elves of her brother, and when the Elves larned the art of
735	naming, they named their creator Lythander, and in exchange for his name	741	naming, they named their creator Lythander, and in exchange for his name
736	he gifted them with luck.	742	he gifted them with luck.
737		743
738	On the Second world, one of the Gods created a race of builders and named	744	On the Second world, one of the Gods created a race of builders and named
739	them Dwarves. His children, in turn, named him Mostrai. His sister, in	745	them Dwarves. His children, in turn, named him Mostrai. His sister, in
740	turn, decided not to create, but teach some of the dwarves (the ones	746	turn, decided not to create, but teach some of the dwarves (the ones
741	willing to learn) about magic and the powers of the gods. The other	747	willing to learn) about magic and the powers of the gods. The other
742	dwarves, however, didn’t accept their changed siblings, so they went off	748	dwarves, however, didn't accept their changed siblings, so they went off
743	to live by themselves and became known as gnomes.	749	to live by themselves and became known as gnomes.
744		750
745	On the Third world, of course, none of the resident Gods wanted to	751	On the Third world, of course, none of the resident Gods wanted to
746	cooperate with the other. Both created their own races: the God who fought	752	cooperate with the other. Both created their own races: the God who fought
747	for darkness created many kinds of fierce, brutal monsters he named	753	for darkness created many kinds of fierce, brutal monsters he named
…		…
818	It was only when a group of reasonable elves, dwarves, gnomes and dragons	824	It was only when a group of reasonable elves, dwarves, gnomes and dragons
819	managed to get together and talk, that it became clear who these masters	825	managed to get together and talk, that it became clear who these masters
820	could be. Till this point, everyone was blaming some (any) god other	826	could be. Till this point, everyone was blaming some (any) god other
821	than the one they worshipped. But there was only one, obvious answer:	827	than the one they worshipped. But there was only one, obvious answer:
822	the Banished Gods, the Forgotten Children who left ages ago because	828	the Banished Gods, the Forgotten Children who left ages ago because
823	they didn’t agree with he concept of death, were back, and enacting	829	they didn't agree with he concept of death, were back, and enacting
824	revenge by subverting death itself. In later days, these Gods would become	830	revenge by subverting death itself. In later days, these Gods would become
825	collectively known as the Devourers.	831	collectively known as the Devourers.
826		832
827	Knowing the enemy was not the solution to the war, but was a start. This	833	Knowing the enemy was not the solution to the war, but was a start. This
828	group, slowly, was able to form a resistence against the undead armies,	834	group, slowly, was able to form a resistence against the undead armies,
…		…
859	In the beginning, for an infinite time, all that existed was a pure light,	865	In the beginning, for an infinite time, all that existed was a pure light,
860	and that light had a name, and that name was Valriel.	866	and that light had a name, and that name was Valriel.
861		867
862	But part of the light was not content to be alone, and so did Valriel put	868	But part of the light was not content to be alone, and so did Valriel put
863	this part of Himself aside and did He allow this part to have independent	869	this part of Himself aside and did He allow this part to have independent
864	life; and this part was everything that wasn’t content, and as it	870	life; and this part was everything that wasn't content, and as it
865	wasn’t light, it surely was the darkness; and the darkness took upon	871	wasn't light, it surely was the darkness; and the darkness took upon
866	itself the name of Gorokh.	872	itself the name of Gorokh.
867		873
868	And for many times more time than a mortal can count, Gorokh was the	874	And for many times more time than a mortal can count, Gorokh was the
869	companion and the servant of Valriel. But Gorokh was not content, because	875	companion and the servant of Valriel. But Gorokh was not content, because
870	that was his nature, and he plotted a way to change everything. And	876	that was his nature, and he plotted a way to change everything. And
871	although filled with hidden motives, Gorokh’s words were always very	877	although filled with hidden motives, Gorokh's words were always very
872	wise, so that Valriel would hear them. So it was that Valriel followed the	878	wise, so that Valriel would hear them. So it was that Valriel followed the
873	wise counsel of the Shadow and created a world full of living things to be	879	wise counsel of the Shadow and created a world full of living things to be
874	His new companions and servants.	880	His new companions and servants.
875		881
876	And as soon as Valriel had millions of new companions and servants, Gorokh	882	And as soon as Valriel had millions of new companions and servants, Gorokh
877	said, "so now you won’t need me anymore, I can leave and find my own	883	said, "so now you won't need me anymore, I can leave and find my own
878	companions and servants". And this made Valriel unhappy because He was	884	companions and servants". And this made Valriel unhappy because He was
879	the only and true Lord, but Gorokh wouldn’t recognize that, and so it	885	the only and true Lord, but Gorokh wouldn't recognize that, and so it
880	was Gorokh who eventually taught men to rule over other men instead of	886	was Gorokh who eventually taught men to rule over other men instead of
881	paying respect to the one true ruler of all.	887	paying respect to the one true ruler of all.
882		888
883	So did Valriel upon the departure of his first servant, create new	889	So did Valriel upon the departure of his first servant, create new
884	servants modeled after His beauty and grace, and elf and man and dwarf he	890	servants modeled after His beauty and grace, and elf and man and dwarf he
…		…
886	himself, so he came to them in the night and whispered in their ears, and	892	himself, so he came to them in the night and whispered in their ears, and
887	some of them were tempted and started to worship and serve the Shadow.	893	some of them were tempted and started to worship and serve the Shadow.
888		894
889	But not enough were seduced by his promises. So he decided to be many,	895	But not enough were seduced by his promises. So he decided to be many,
890	not one. And he wore different shapes and again he whispered in the ears	896	not one. And he wore different shapes and again he whispered in the ears
891	of Valriel’s creations. And to the elves he was Lythander of the bow	897	of Valriel's creations. And to the elves he was Lythander of the bow
892	that never misses, and the elves did not see that if a bow never misses,	898	that never misses, and the elves did not see that if a bow never misses,
893	and it isn’t the work of the Lord, then it can only be the work of the	899	and it isn't the work of the Lord, then it can only be the work of the
894	Enemy. And to the dwarves he wore the name of Mostrai, of the fire, of the	900	Enemy. And to the dwarves he wore the name of Mostrai, of the fire, of the
895	forge, the builder of things, for the fire and the desire to change was	901	forge, the builder of things, for the fire and the desire to change was
896	the true face of Gorokh.	902	the true face of Gorokh.
897		903
898	And he taught the men to wage war upon each other, and scared the warriors	904	And he taught the men to wage war upon each other, and scared the warriors
899	with thunder and lightning, and they would call him Sorig. And those	905	with thunder and lightning, and they would call him Sorig. And those
900	who weren’t scared, he tempted with weapons and glory, and wore the	906	who weren't scared, he tempted with weapons and glory, and wore the
901	beautiful face of a woman, and they called him Valkyrie. And as they	907	beautiful face of a woman, and they called him Valkyrie. And as they
902	killed each other, Gorokh was happy.	908	killed each other, Gorokh was happy.
903		909
904	And much more he did. He taught women to heal and to make the soil grow	910	And much more he did. He taught women to heal and to make the soil grow
905	crop, and they called him Gaea, and believed that Gaea created the world	911	crop, and they called him Gaea, and believed that Gaea created the world
…		…
928	envy, and they became demons. And the plan of Valriel was once again	934	envy, and they became demons. And the plan of Valriel was once again
929	spoiled by the venom of the enemy, because angels had to step aside from	935	spoiled by the venom of the enemy, because angels had to step aside from
930	their assigned mission to fight the demons and keep them from spreading	936	their assigned mission to fight the demons and keep them from spreading
931	the evil in their dark hearts.	937	the evil in their dark hearts.
932		938
933	And Gorokh did find great fun in changing Valriel’s creation into a new	939	And Gorokh did find great fun in changing Valriel's creation into a new
934	race, and so did he get elf and man and dwarf and corrupted them with	940	race, and so did he get elf and man and dwarf and corrupted them with
935	his dark will, and they became goblin and orc and kobold, and troll, and	941	his dark will, and they became goblin and orc and kobold, and troll, and
936	giant, and ogre, and many other abominations to the eye of the Creator,	942	giant, and ogre, and many other abominations to the eye of the Creator,
937	and Gorokh wore the name of Gnarg to these new creations and delighted in	943	and Gorokh wore the name of Gnarg to these new creations and delighted in
938	watching the destruction and sorrow they spread in the world.	944	watching the destruction and sorrow they spread in the world.
…		…
988	Son with a Will.	994	Son with a Will.
989		995
990	And for many times more time than a mortal can count, Gorokh was the	996	And for many times more time than a mortal can count, Gorokh was the
991	companion and the servant of Valriel. But Gorokh was not content, because	997	companion and the servant of Valriel. But Gorokh was not content, because
992	that was his nature, and he plotted a way to change everything. And fueled	998	that was his nature, and he plotted a way to change everything. And fueled
993	by the fire of his will, Gorokh’s words were always very wise, so	999	by the fire of his will, Gorokh's words were always very wise, so
994	Valriel would always hear them. So it was that Valriel followed the wise	1000	Valriel would always hear them. So it was that Valriel followed the wise
995	counsel of the Fire and created a world full of living things to be their	1001	counsel of the Fire and created a world full of living things to be their
996	new companions and servants.	1002	new companions and servants.
997		1003
998	And as soon as Valriel had millions of new companions and servants, Gorokh	1004	And as soon as Valriel had millions of new companions and servants, Gorokh
999	said, "so now you won’t need me anymore, I can leave and find my own	1005	said, "so now you won't need me anymore, I can leave and find my own
1000	companions and servants". And this made Valriel unhappy because he	1006	companions and servants". And this made Valriel unhappy because he
1001	believed he should be only and true Lord, but Gorokh couldn’t agree	1007	believed he should be only and true Lord, but Gorokh couldn't agree
1002	to that, and so it was Gorokh who eventually taught men to rule over	1008	to that, and so it was Gorokh who eventually taught men to rule over
1003	themselves instead of paying respect to one self-appointed ruler of all.	1009	themselves instead of paying respect to one self-appointed ruler of all.
1004		1010
1005	So did Valriel, while Gorokh was away exploring the wonders of the new	1011	So did Valriel, while Gorokh was away exploring the wonders of the new
1006	world, create new servants of flesh and bone to adore him blindly, and elf	1012	world, create new servants of flesh and bone to adore him blindly, and elf
…		…
1018	weapons, medicine, agriculture, writing, magic, and wine and booze and	1024	weapons, medicine, agriculture, writing, magic, and wine and booze and
1019	music, even then would Valriel create a false god to pose as the giver of	1025	music, even then would Valriel create a false god to pose as the giver of
1020	those gifts and take the glory for himself.	1026	those gifts and take the glory for himself.
1021		1027
1022	And since Gorokh kept inventing new presents, Valriel became angry,	1028	And since Gorokh kept inventing new presents, Valriel became angry,
1023	because he doesn’t like change and he doesn’t like any good that	1029	because he doesn't like change and he doesn't like any good that
1024	doesn’t come from him. And so did he create a new race of servants, more	1030	doesn't come from him. And so did he create a new race of servants, more
1025	powerful and more prone to following him blindly than any other, imbued	1031	powerful and more prone to following him blindly than any other, imbued
1026	with the mission of hunting down and undoing the work of the Fire, and	1032	with the mission of hunting down and undoing the work of the Fire, and
1027	this race He called Angels.	1033	this race He called Angels.
1028		1034
1029	But again Gorokh found a cunning way to defend his work, and again he	1035	But again Gorokh found a cunning way to defend his work, and again he
…		…
1034	became demons. And the plan of Valriel was once again spoiled by the	1040	became demons. And the plan of Valriel was once again spoiled by the
1035	genius of the Fire, because angels had to step aside from their assigned	1041	genius of the Fire, because angels had to step aside from their assigned
1036	mission to fight the demons and keep them from spreading the word of	1042	mission to fight the demons and keep them from spreading the word of
1037	Gorokh.	1043	Gorokh.
1038		1044
1039	And Gorokh did find great fun in changing Valriel’s creation into a new	1045	And Gorokh did find great fun in changing Valriel's creation into a new
1040	race, and so did he get elf and man and dwarf and tried to imbue them	1046	race, and so did he get elf and man and dwarf and tried to imbue them
1041	with greater strength, and they became goblin and orc and kobold, and	1047	with greater strength, and they became goblin and orc and kobold, and
1042	troll, and giant, and ogre, and many other strong creatures. But their	1048	troll, and giant, and ogre, and many other strong creatures. But their
1043	intelligences greatly suffered from the process, and he was unhappy with	1049	intelligences greatly suffered from the process, and he was unhappy with
1044	his creation, and while he was looking for a way to help them did Valriel	1050	his creation, and while he was looking for a way to help them did Valriel
…		…
1074		1080
1075	=head1 The Dwarven Creation Tale	1081	=head1 The Dwarven Creation Tale
1076		1082
1077	A play by Shakesdor the Dwarf.	1083	A play by Shakesdor the Dwarf.
1078		1084
1079	- What... where we come from? You’re not old enough for this	1085	- What... where we come from? You're not old enough for this
1080	conversation.	1086	conversation.
1081		1087
1082	- No, uncle, I mean as a whole... the world, the dwarves, the others.	1088	- No, uncle, I mean as a whole... the world, the dwarves, the others.
1083		1089
1084	- Ah. I see. (Big gulp of beer.) You mean, NOW?	1090	- Ah. I see. (Big gulp of beer.) You mean, NOW?
…		…
1087		1093
1088	- sigh all right, all right. It goes like this.	1094	- sigh all right, all right. It goes like this.
1089		1095
1090	First there was the Ore and the Forge. The Ore is what existence looked	1096	First there was the Ore and the Forge. The Ore is what existence looked
1091	like before it existed. The Forge was the untapped will, the potential in	1097	like before it existed. The Forge was the untapped will, the potential in
1092	the Ore to be everything that is, ever will be, or won’t.	1098	the Ore to be everything that is, ever will be, or won't.
1093		1099
1094	Over a span of time that is not time, because time wasn’t forged yet,	1100	Over a span of time that is not time, because time wasn't forged yet,
1095	some tiny scraps of Ore drifted into the Forge. A piece of the Forge	1101	some tiny scraps of Ore drifted into the Forge. A piece of the Forge
1096	merged with that Ore and became sentient. He has many names, but we call	1102	merged with that Ore and became sentient. He has many names, but we call
1097	him Mostrai.	1103	him Mostrai.
1098		1104
1099	He spent ages of time-that-was-not-time exploring, learning the nature	1105	He spent ages of time-that-was-not-time exploring, learning the nature
1100	of Ore and Forge and himself. Till he decided it was time to start	1106	of Ore and Forge and himself. Till he decided it was time to start
1101	forging. And then, first of all, he forged time, so that he could separate	1107	forging. And then, first of all, he forged time, so that he could separate
1102	after from before, and so that he could exist absolutely - as opposed to,	1108	after from before, and so that he could exist absolutely - as opposed to,
1103	at the same "time", existing and not being created yet, which was the	1109	at the same "time", existing and not being created yet, which was the
1104	case if time didn’t exist.	1110	case if time didn't exist.
1105		1111
1106	Then, with things in order, he began forging things. The first thing he	1112	Then, with things in order, he began forging things. The first thing he
1107	forged was his armor, because he liked the touch of metal against his	1113	forged was his armor, because he liked the touch of metal against his
1108	body. Then he forged beer, because of course, beer is essential. He forged	1114	body. Then he forged beer, because of course, beer is essential. He forged
1109	it red like the Forge, and black like the Ore. The yellow thing, as we all	1115	it red like the Forge, and black like the Ore. The yellow thing, as we all
…		…
1121	were thousands of dwarves partying, thousands sleeping, thousands hunting,	1127	were thousands of dwarves partying, thousands sleeping, thousands hunting,
1122	and thousands forging. Mostrai thought it was good, but it was also damn	1128	and thousands forging. Mostrai thought it was good, but it was also damn
1123	annoying. So he created an enormous mountain for them to live under. He	1129	annoying. So he created an enormous mountain for them to live under. He
1124	put the boar and bird, and a few other animals he had come up with later,	1130	put the boar and bird, and a few other animals he had come up with later,
1125	on the outside, where he forged woods and forest. And so that his children	1131	on the outside, where he forged woods and forest. And so that his children
1126	wouldn’t wander forever, he placed these places in the middle of an	1132	wouldn't wander forever, he placed these places in the middle of an
1127	infinite ocean. There you have, that’s the story.	1133	infinite ocean. There you have, that's the story.
1128		1134
1129	- Whoa. What about the others?	1135	- Whoa. What about the others?
1130		1136
1131	- sigh You won’t let me finish my beer, will you?	1137	- sigh You won't let me finish my beer, will you?
1132		1138
1133	- You’ll never finish your beer, uncle. When you soak that mug,	1139	- You'll never finish your beer, uncle. When you soak that mug,
1134	there’s plenty more in the barrel.	1140	there's plenty more in the barrel.
1135		1141
1136	- All right, all rigth. (Big gulp.)	1142	- All right, all rigth. (Big gulp.)
1137		1143
1138	The dwarves had amazing weapons to hunt with. Eventually, the hunt was	1144	The dwarves had amazing weapons to hunt with. Eventually, the hunt was
1139	no challenge anymore. The best hunters would play-act wars between	1145	no challenge anymore. The best hunters would play-act wars between
…		…
1142	Mostrai was worried that those fights might one day evolve into real	1148	Mostrai was worried that those fights might one day evolve into real
1143	wars. So he created an enemy, something very different from the dwarf,	1149	wars. So he created an enemy, something very different from the dwarf,
1144	something very obviously wrong, which lived in the woods and preferred	1150	something very obviously wrong, which lived in the woods and preferred
1145	bows and other coward weapons rather than hand-to-hand combat. He made	1151	bows and other coward weapons rather than hand-to-hand combat. He made
1146	them incredibly lucky, because otherwise they would stand no chance - and	1152	them incredibly lucky, because otherwise they would stand no chance - and
1147	they came to believe they’re lucky because they’re protected by their	1153	they came to believe they're lucky because they're protected by their
1148	god, which of course doesn’t exist. He also made them very old, so that	1154	god, which of course doesn't exist. He also made them very old, so that
1149	they would think they existed before the dwarf - otherwise they would just	1155	they would think they existed before the dwarf - otherwise they would just
1150	recognize our superior position and submit. And all was good and happy;	1156	recognize our superior position and submit. And all was good and happy;
1151	for time beyond count, dwarf and elf honed their skills against each	1157	for time beyond count, dwarf and elf honed their skills against each
1152	other, and prospered.	1158	other, and prospered.
1153		1159
1154	I mean, have you ever fought an elf? Yes, it was an eternal war, but not	1160	I mean, have you ever fought an elf? Yes, it was an eternal war, but not
1155	like those bloody gorefest the others have today. When dwarf and elf	1161	like those bloody gorefest the others have today. When dwarf and elf
1156	fight, it’s clean, it’s beautiful, it’s according to the rules,	1162	fight, it's clean, it's beautiful, it's according to the rules,
1157	it’s a ritual of honor.	1163	it's a ritual of honor.
1158		1164
1159	Well, I digress. All was well, I said. But one day, one elf created yellow	1165	Well, I digress. All was well, I said. But one day, one elf created yellow
1160	beer. And that offended Mostrai to a level of rage unseen before. So he	1166	beer. And that offended Mostrai to a level of rage unseen before. So he
1161	created an entire new piece of the world, and populated it with humans,	1167	created an entire new piece of the world, and populated it with humans,
1162	and other horrible creatures, and then let these young ones discover our	1168	and other horrible creatures, and then let these young ones discover our
1163	land, so that they may raze the elf forests, ruin the elf nations, and	1169	land, so that they may raze the elf forests, ruin the elf nations, and
1164	soil their honor. We’re not stupid enough to argue with Mostrai, so we	1170	soil their honor. We're not stupid enough to argue with Mostrai, so we
1165	went underground, and we’re waiting for that to happen, to see what he	1171	went underground, and we're waiting for that to happen, to see what he
1166	will do next.	1172	will do next.
1167		1173
1168	Can I drink in peace now? There, go play with your friends.	1174	Can I drink in peace now? There, go play with your friends.
1169		1175
1170		1176
1171	=head1 The Legend of the Builders	1177	=head1 The Legend of the Builders
1172		1178
1173	People of the Old Empire believed that the whole universe was made by	1179	People of the Old Empire believed that the whole universe was made by
1174	powerful beings called Builders. Builders were not part of the world	1180	powerful beings called Builders. Builders were not part of the world
1175	like gods were - they lived Outside. Little is known about the Builders	1181	like gods were - they lived Outside. Little is known about the Builders
1176	themselves. The priests of the Empire weren’t quite sure themselves	1182	themselves. The priests of the Empire weren't quite sure themselves
1177	about their names. Some were universally known, though: Mawëdel the Ruler	1183	about their names. Some were universally known, though: Mawëdel the Ruler
1178	or Peterëm the Writing One were the most popular of the ever changing	1184	or Peterëm the Writing One were the most popular of the ever changing
1179	list of Builders.	1185	list of Builders.
1180		1186
1181	The Builders understood very well how difficult it would be for them to	1187	The Builders understood very well how difficult it would be for them to
…		…
1205	left the Holy Guestbook, one of the oldest relics of Crossfire, where he	1211	left the Holy Guestbook, one of the oldest relics of Crossfire, where he
1206	and his fellow friends wrote their names. Skud disappeared long before the	1212	and his fellow friends wrote their names. Skud disappeared long before the
1207	Old Empire came, and nowadays only the Builders can probably remember him.	1213	Old Empire came, and nowadays only the Builders can probably remember him.
1208		1214
1209	Recent researches show that, although he greatly contributed to the	1215	Recent researches show that, although he greatly contributed to the
1210	popularity of the city, Skud didn’t found it: it was in fact created	1216	popularity of the city, Skud didn't found it: it was in fact created
1211	by Tabb the Dark, a Builder that left very little information about him	1217	by Tabb the Dark, a Builder that left very little information about him
1212	behind. According to the Codex Skudensis that was discovered in the depths	1218	behind. According to the Codex Skudensis that was discovered in the depths
1213	of the Old City, "Scorn" would have been the real name of Tabb the	1219	of the Old City, "Scorn" would have been the real name of Tabb the
1214	Dark.	1220	Dark.
1215		1221
…		…
1220	world was colorless and sad. Aware of that problem, the Builders decided	1226	world was colorless and sad. Aware of that problem, the Builders decided
1221	to bring color in the life of the Crossfire people. They called the	1227	to bring color in the life of the Crossfire people. They called the
1222	massive powers of Xepemes, The Source Of All Colors, on the universe. The	1228	massive powers of Xepemes, The Source Of All Colors, on the universe. The
1223	magical burst slowly covered the world with colors, but some elements	1229	magical burst slowly covered the world with colors, but some elements
1224	resisted for a long time. Prophets of the Old Empire announced that,	1230	resisted for a long time. Prophets of the Old Empire announced that,
1225	although victorious, the force of Xepemes wouldn’t stay forever: one	1231	although victorious, the force of Xepemes wouldn't stay forever: one
1226	day, it would eventually fade away against a more powerful magical force,	1232	day, it would eventually fade away against a more powerful magical force,
1227	the mysterious Pegemes (or Peengees?). This happened - but much after the	1233	the mysterious Pegemes (or Peengees?). This happened - but much after the
1228	fall of the Empire.	1234	fall of the Empire.
1229		1235
1230		1236
…		…
1246		1252
1247		1253
1248	=head1 Skud the Great	1254	=head1 Skud the Great
1249		1255
1250	One of the first Builders. Skud created many famous places, like the	1256	One of the first Builders. Skud created many famous places, like the
1251	Scorn’s First Inn or the Newbie Tower.	1257	Scorn's First Inn or the Newbie Tower.
1252		1258
1253	The reasons of the disappearance of Skud are mostly unknown. The Codex	1259	The reasons of the disappearance of Skud are mostly unknown. The Codex
1254	Skudensis mentions that it could have been because of the negative	1260	Skudensis mentions that it could have been because of the negative
1255	influence of the Arch-Demon Neth Aq. It is thought that The Tower of Skud,	1261	influence of the Arch-Demon Neth Aq. It is thought that The Tower of Skud,
1256	although left unfinished by its creator, may contain informations about	1262	although left unfinished by its creator, may contain informations about
…		…
1274		1280
1275	=head2 On the nature of elemental essences	1281	=head2 On the nature of elemental essences
1276		1282
1277	It is said that of the four primary elements	1283	It is said that of the four primary elements
1278		1284
1279	- there is earth which is.	1285	- there is earth which is.
1280
1281	- there is water which changes.	1286	- there is water which changes.
1282
1283	- there is air which moves.	1287	- there is air which moves.
1284
1285	- there is fire which consumes.	1288	- there is fire which consumes.
1286		1289
1287	=head2 Overheard in a Narcopian brothel	1290	=head2 Overheard in a Narcopian brothel
1288		1291
1289	When Mother Earth was suckling her children	1292	When Mother Earth was suckling her children
1290
1291	sky suckled from her right teat	1293	sky suckled from her right teat
1292
1293	but flame and sea fought to suckle from her left teat	1294	but flame and sea fought to suckle from her left teat
1294
1295	this is why they still fight to this day	1295	this is why they still fight to this day
1296		1296
1297		1297
1298	=head1 The Tale of Lord Butakis - The Lost Stars of the Lake, Volume I	1298	=head1 The Tale of Lord Butakis - The Lost Stars of the Lake, Volume I
1299		1299
1300	This story begins nearly four thousand years ago, when Kadriosa IV, King	1300	This story begins nearly four thousand years ago, when Kadriosa IV, King
…		…
1335	very interested at the idea of grabbing all the richesses of Scorn, and	1335	very interested at the idea of grabbing all the richesses of Scorn, and
1336	bringing them back into his dark kingdom of the depth of the sea.	1336	bringing them back into his dark kingdom of the depth of the sea.
1337		1337
1338	"Very well, said Vërno, but you know, I suppose, that we are all bound	1338	"Very well, said Vërno, but you know, I suppose, that we are all bound
1339	by the Law of Equilibrium, established by the gods themselves when the	1339	by the Law of Equilibrium, established by the gods themselves when the
1340	world was new and the seas infinite. And for my services, you’ll have to	1340	world was new and the seas infinite. And for my services, you'll have to
1341	pay the price."	1341	pay the price."
1342		1342
1343	- And what do you want for a price ? - Well, my needs are rather	1343	- And what do you want for a price ? - Well, my needs are rather
1344	modest. I’ll only claim a tenth of your own lands as a reward."	1344	modest. I'll only claim a tenth of your own lands as a reward."
1345		1345
1346	The Elven Princes quickly discussed the matter, and came to the conclusion	1346	The Elven Princes quickly discussed the matter, and came to the conclusion
1347	that it was a rather fair price to pay - after all, their territories	1347	that it was a rather fair price to pay - after all, their territories
1348	weren’t very large, and there was a lot of empty space all around, so	1348	weren't very large, and there was a lot of empty space all around, so
1349	it wasn’t really a problem for them. Maybe it would for a couple of	1349	it wasn't really a problem for them. Maybe it would for a couple of
1350	peasants, but who cared about them more than of the vengeance against	1350	peasants, but who cared about them more than of the vengeance against
1351	Scorn ?	1351	Scorn ?
1352		1352
1353	And so they answered: "The Fate of Scorn is Sealed, then. We accept."	1353	And so they answered: "The Fate of Scorn is Sealed, then. We accept."
1354		1354
…		…
1393	under the tree. And Butakis fell in love, and the elvish lady fell in	1393	under the tree. And Butakis fell in love, and the elvish lady fell in
1394	love, and they both watched the stars. But soon, Butakis felt the need of	1394	love, and they both watched the stars. But soon, Butakis felt the need of
1395	getting back into action, and finding the lost city and getting its power.	1395	getting back into action, and finding the lost city and getting its power.
1396		1396
1397	The lady told him: "The true wisdom is in those stars, and in that	1397	The lady told him: "The true wisdom is in those stars, and in that
1398	tree, and in that house you see. You’ll only find unrest by aiming for	1398	tree, and in that house you see. You'll only find unrest by aiming for
1399	more."	1399	more."
1400		1400
1401	But Butakis had already made up his mind, and he brought back engineers,	1401	But Butakis had already made up his mind, and he brought back engineers,
1402	and sappers, and miners, and they all worked to build a huge machine to	1402	and sappers, and miners, and they all worked to build a huge machine to
1403	pump the water, and discover the city. During ten years, Butakis worked on	1403	pump the water, and discover the city. During ten years, Butakis worked on
…		…
1423	The Elvish lady came, as beautiful as ever. And on the balcony at the top	1423	The Elvish lady came, as beautiful as ever. And on the balcony at the top
1424	of the pump, they watched the stars, and she kissed him, and she when they	1424	of the pump, they watched the stars, and she kissed him, and she when they
1425	were in the bed he had prepared for that very special night before the	1425	were in the bed he had prepared for that very special night before the
1426	pumping started, she whispered at his ear.	1426	pumping started, she whispered at his ear.
1427		1427
1428	That, Butakis had waited for long, but he didn’t expect what she told	1428	That, Butakis had waited for long, but he didn't expect what she told
1429	him then.	1429	him then.
1430		1430
1431	"Ten years you were away, and ten years I watched the stars with	1431	"Ten years you were away, and ten years I watched the stars with
1432	Twak. And now for him, and for he choose me and my heart, I’ll	1432	Twak. And now for him, and for he choose me and my heart, I'll
1433	disappear, and so does your dream."	1433	disappear, and so does your dream."
1434		1434
1435	Butakis understood that he had been fooled, that she only kept her	1435	Butakis understood that he had been fooled, that she only kept her
1436	attention away enough for Twak and three of his faithful men to sabotage	1436	attention away enough for Twak and three of his faithful men to sabotage
1437	the pump. And so came a great rumble from the basis of the huge building,	1437	the pump. And so came a great rumble from the basis of the huge building,
…		…
1466	Banner." – Gros, the Irrelevant One	1466	Banner." – Gros, the Irrelevant One
1467		1467
1468		1468
1469	=head1 The Great Heliograph	1469	=head1 The Great Heliograph
1470		1470
1471	A device made by Mer’Eric the Walker. Built on the highest point of the	1471	A device made by Mer'Eric the Walker. Built on the highest point of the
1472	Brestian Hills, it is basically a giant magnifying glass, using a complex	1472	Brestian Hills, it is basically a giant magnifying glass, using a complex
1473	mechanism commanding several mirrors, that is able to concentrate the	1473	mechanism commanding several mirrors, that is able to concentrate the
1474	sunlight into a powerful beam. The concentrator is associated to a Sun	1474	sunlight into a powerful beam. The concentrator is associated to a Sun
1475	Stone that can receive similar long-range light signals and transform	1475	Stone that can receive similar long-range light signals and transform
1476	them into pure thaumic energy. A keyboard is attached to a mechanical	1476	them into pure thaumic energy. A keyboard is attached to a mechanical
1477	obturator, allowing a single operator to send coded messages to very long	1477	obturator, allowing a single operator to send coded messages to very long
1478	distances. A magically-powered scriptor writes any such incoming message	1478	distances. A magically-powered scriptor writes any such incoming message
1479	capted by the Sun Stone.	1479	capted by the Sun Stone.
1480		1480
1481	Although Mer’Eric only saw the Great Heliograph as a research project	1481	Although Mer'Eric only saw the Great Heliograph as a research project
1482	and as a way to communicate easily across huge distances, this device	1482	and as a way to communicate easily across huge distances, this device
1483	is also a powerful weapon that can burn nearly anything several miles	1483	is also a powerful weapon that can burn nearly anything several miles
1484	away. This is probably why he decided to hide it in a sealed cave.	1484	away. This is probably why he decided to hide it in a sealed cave.
1485		1485
1486	A similar device was built by the Mad Mage of Scorn, but its fate is	1486	A similar device was built by the Mad Mage of Scorn, but its fate is
…		…
1505		1505
1506		1506
1507	=head1 Irial, The Fast One, The Shy Light	1507	=head1 Irial, The Fast One, The Shy Light
1508		1508
1509	Irial is a lesser spirit of flashlight - the light that you can see when	1509	Irial is a lesser spirit of flashlight - the light that you can see when
1510	there’s thunder, for example. It is represented as a small, jumpy and	1510	there's thunder, for example. It is represented as a small, jumpy and
1511	fast fairy with a temperamental mood.	1511	fast fairy with a temperamental mood.
1512		1512
1513		1513
1514	=head1 Khorolizov	1514	=head1 Khorolizov
1515		1515
…		…
1539	=head1 Glamdri, The Darkness Breaker, The Last Standing One	1539	=head1 Glamdri, The Darkness Breaker, The Last Standing One
1540		1540
1541	Glamdri is a lesser spirit of light - it is said that candlelights are	1541	Glamdri is a lesser spirit of light - it is said that candlelights are
1542	manifestations of Glamdri, for example.	1542	manifestations of Glamdri, for example.
1543		1543
1544	Glamdri doesn’t represent a magical light - more a spiritual light, the	1544	Glamdri doesn't represent a magical light - more a spiritual light, the
1545	last pinch of hope in a desperate world. Glamdri also represents original	1545	last pinch of hope in a desperate world. Glamdri also represents original
1546	thinking used to get out of difficult situations, as opposed to Sarikka -	1546	thinking used to get out of difficult situations, as opposed to Sarikka -
1547	the Raging Fire - who tries to resolve those by extreme violence.	1547	the Raging Fire - who tries to resolve those by extreme violence.
1548		1548
1549		1549
…		…
1664	are strongly influenced by Asferenn.	1664	are strongly influenced by Asferenn.
1665		1665
1666		1666
1667	=head1 Story of Lorkas the Fallen, Volume I	1667	=head1 Story of Lorkas the Fallen, Volume I
1668		1668
1669	I’ll tell you about Lorkas of Amudrias, and how he found the White Bird	1669	I'll tell you about Lorkas of Amudrias, and how he found the White Bird
1670	of Hope, and how he capitained it, opening the Gates of the Sun, and some	1670	of Hope, and how he capitained it, opening the Gates of the Sun, and some
1671	stuff like that.	1671	stuff like that.
1672		1672
1673	Some say that Lorkas was an angel of Valriel, that fell long ago from the	1673	Some say that Lorkas was an angel of Valriel, that fell long ago from the
1674	Skies, stealing a couple of highly holy artifacts, and hiding them in his	1674	Skies, stealing a couple of highly holy artifacts, and hiding them in his
…		…
1680	But, for what matters, some also said that Fido was a fiction, or that	1680	But, for what matters, some also said that Fido was a fiction, or that
1681	the Empire never was more than a dream of a past that never existed. Some	1681	the Empire never was more than a dream of a past that never existed. Some
1682	definitely are foolishly uninformed for sure, and speak more than they	1682	definitely are foolishly uninformed for sure, and speak more than they
1683	think.	1683	think.
1684		1684
1685	Because, if they were less quick on jumping to conclusions, they’d	1685	Because, if they were less quick on jumping to conclusions, they'd
1686	quickly notice how difficult it is for an angel to fall from the sky and	1686	quickly notice how difficult it is for an angel to fall from the sky and
1687	never be able to climb back, as if wild gooses were never able to take off	1687	never be able to climb back, as if wild gooses were never able to take off
1688	again once they land after their long journey to the South.	1688	again once they land after their long journey to the South.
1689		1689
1690	Anyway, as every wise man knows, Lorkas was no angelic creature of divine	1690	Anyway, as every wise man knows, Lorkas was no angelic creature of divine
1691	essence, or even a magical creation of a godly force.	1691	essence, or even a magical creation of a godly force.
1692		1692
1693	Some say that Khelens is the Beginning, first of the Cities of Men. That,	1693	Some say that Khelens is the Beginning, first of the Cities of Men. That,
1694	too, is untrue: before the Age of Khelens was the Time of the Kingdoms	1694	too, is untrue: before the Age of Khelens was the Time of the Kingdoms
1695	at War. And before them, the Era of Songor the Great. And going back	1695	at War. And before them, the Era of Songor the Great. And going back
1696	through the thick book of history, you’ll cross Arnistar of the Desert	1696	through the thick book of history, you'll cross Arnistar of the Desert
1697	Dwellers, the Republic of the Two Rivers, and the Ancient Haemdel, and the	1697	Dwellers, the Republic of the Two Rivers, and the Ancient Haemdel, and the
1698	Kingdom of the Long Wall. And before it, the forgotten towers of light	1698	Kingdom of the Long Wall. And before it, the forgotten towers of light
1699	that Horadrists built.	1699	that Horadrists built.
1700		1700
1701		1701
…		…
1706	boy that wanted to see everything, to understand the world and its stars,	1706	boy that wanted to see everything, to understand the world and its stars,
1707	and discover its limits, for it was extending much further than the mists	1707	and discover its limits, for it was extending much further than the mists
1708	of his home valley.	1708	of his home valley.
1709		1709
1710	But life was rude in Kuratas, and trying to think about anything else than	1710	But life was rude in Kuratas, and trying to think about anything else than
1711	your next harvest wasn’t well perceived by most; and, more than often,	1711	your next harvest wasn't well perceived by most; and, more than often,
1712	Lorkas dreamed with tears and despair about the Mountains with the white	1712	Lorkas dreamed with tears and despair about the Mountains with the white
1713	tops, and Seas that ended only when they touched the sky, far away.	1713	tops, and Seas that ended only when they touched the sky, far away.
1714		1714
1715	Tired of his senseless life, he left his parents, his village, his	1715	Tired of his senseless life, he left his parents, his village, his
1716	friends, when he was only 12, and for weeks walked to the West, until he	1716	friends, when he was only 12, and for weeks walked to the West, until he
…		…
1721	Kridatta, which was famous for its ships, as its inhabitants had mastered	1721	Kridatta, which was famous for its ships, as its inhabitants had mastered
1722	a powerful arcane, so that their boats roamed not only the seas, but the	1722	a powerful arcane, so that their boats roamed not only the seas, but the
1723	very clouds themselves.	1723	very clouds themselves.
1724		1724
1725	Because he was smart and quick-brained, Lorkas soon got enrolled in the	1725	Because he was smart and quick-brained, Lorkas soon got enrolled in the
1726	team of Capt’n Bortaras; and after several adventures I shall maybe tell	1726	team of Capt'n Bortaras; and after several adventures I shall maybe tell
1727	about another day, he took the succession of the old mariner.	1727	about another day, he took the succession of the old mariner.
1728		1728
1729	Horizon was the name of his ship, and famous was his crew, exploring huge	1729	Horizon was the name of his ship, and famous was his crew, exploring huge
1730	territories and fighting the Princes of Sinas, who back then tried to put	1730	territories and fighting the Princes of Sinas, who back then tried to put
1731	the whole area under their iron, greedy grasps.	1731	the whole area under their iron, greedy grasps.
…		…
1753		1753
1754	They called themselves "The People of the Mother", and they had	1754	They called themselves "The People of the Mother", and they had
1755	never seen the "Flat-Eared Giants" before, although they already met	1755	never seen the "Flat-Eared Giants" before, although they already met
1756	"Flat-Eared Beards" and "Flat-Eared Greens" before.	1756	"Flat-Eared Beards" and "Flat-Eared Greens" before.
1757		1757
1758	But there was a lady called Sonja. And, although she wasn’t human, she	1758	But there was a lady called Sonja. And, although she wasn't human, she
1759	seemed brighter, smarter, more beautiful than any other woman Lorkas had	1759	seemed brighter, smarter, more beautiful than any other woman Lorkas had
1760	ever seen before.	1760	ever seen before.
1761		1761
1762	Those months were the most wonderful for him - and her - and time seemed	1762	Those months were the most wonderful for him - and her - and time seemed
1763	to have stopped for them in their endless love. But of course it hadn’t.	1763	to have stopped for them in their endless love. But of course it hadn't.
1764		1764
1765	And after a while, some of his men wanted to go back to their own homes,	1765	And after a while, some of his men wanted to go back to their own homes,
1766	and some wanted for their families to come to the Golden City. And, also,	1766	and some wanted for their families to come to the Golden City. And, also,
1767	there was the Bird.	1767	there was the Bird.
1768		1768
…		…
1773		1773
1774	And so they said: "Take the bird as a gift of us to your masters, to	1774	And so they said: "Take the bird as a gift of us to your masters, to
1775	show them we want to make friendship with them. Welcome are the friends of	1775	show them we want to make friendship with them. Welcome are the friends of
1776	the children of the White Bird."	1776	the children of the White Bird."
1777		1777
1778	And so Lorkas left, promising Sonja that he’d soon return.	1778	And so Lorkas left, promising Sonja that he'd soon return.
1779		1779
1780	The people of the Golden City also told him that "The Bird is imbued	1780	The people of the Golden City also told him that "The Bird is imbued
1781	with powerful magic: the one owning it will always keep hope."	1781	with powerful magic: the one owning it will always keep hope."
1782		1782
1783		1783
…		…
1825	leaving from dozens of miles away, reported that an ancient ship left the	1825	leaving from dozens of miles away, reported that an ancient ship left the
1826	bay, with Lorkas sitting at the front of it, holding the Bird, as if he	1826	bay, with Lorkas sitting at the front of it, holding the Bird, as if he
1827	was sleeping.	1827	was sleeping.
1828		1828
1829	Nobody knows exactly where he went. Was he even dead? Nobody knows. But	1829	Nobody knows exactly where he went. Was he even dead? Nobody knows. But
1830	everybody kept hope that, one day, he’d reach the Golden City	1830	everybody kept hope that, one day, he'd reach the Golden City
1831	again. Lots of people tried to find the Bird after that event. They all	1831	again. Lots of people tried to find the Bird after that event. They all
1832	accused Lorkas of having "stolen" it. The story became legend. The	1832	accused Lorkas of having "stolen" it. The story became legend. The
1833	legend became fairy tale. And the fairy tale got forgotten by most.	1833	legend became fairy tale. And the fairy tale got forgotten by most.
1834		1834
1835	Yet, Centuries ago, deep in the oldest parts of the Old City of Scorn,	1835	Yet, Centuries ago, deep in the oldest parts of the Old City of Scorn,
…		…
1838	man at the wheel of a strange ship, and a woman with pointy ears, watching	1838	man at the wheel of a strange ship, and a woman with pointy ears, watching
1839	the skies. And many nowadays keep the Hope that the White Bird now sleeps	1839	the skies. And many nowadays keep the Hope that the White Bird now sleeps
1840	down below the streets, having found its way back to home with Lorkas.	1840	down below the streets, having found its way back to home with Lorkas.
1841		1841
1842	But who could tell if it is the truth, or only a silly story? Who	1842	But who could tell if it is the truth, or only a silly story? Who
1843	knows? As for myself, I don’t care: I just hold hope it is. And so ends	1843	knows? As for myself, I don't care: I just hold hope it is. And so ends
1844	the Story of Lorkas, and so keeps Hope running.	1844	the Story of Lorkas, and so keeps Hope running.
1845		1845
1846		1846
1847	=head1 The Prison of Madness	1847	=head1 The Prison of Madness
1848		1848
…		…
1856	in it, seen many of its wonders and returned.	1856	in it, seen many of its wonders and returned.
1857		1857
1858	He also wrote a book that details all the ways and passages, alas, nobody	1858	He also wrote a book that details all the ways and passages, alas, nobody
1859	could decipher it yet:	1859	could decipher it yet:
1860		1860
1861	gb2trg2gb2gur2rkvg:	1861	gb2trg2gb2gur2rkvg:
1862	2jnaqre2nebhaq2hagvy2lbh2ybpngr2n2znc2aN,	1862	2jnaqre2nebhaq2hagvy2lbh2ybpngr2n2znc2aN,
1863	2vg2vf2ba2gur2obggbz2ragenapr2bs2n2znc.	1863	2vg2vf2ba2gur2obggbz2ragenapr2bs2n2znc.
1864	2bapr2gung2vf2ybpngrq2tb2evtug,	1864	2bapr2gung2vf2ybpngrq2tb2evtug,
1865	2hc,	1865	2hc,
1866	2evtug,	1866	2evtug,
1867	2evtug,	1867	2evtug,
1868	2evtug,	1868	2evtug,
1869	2evtug,	1869	2evtug,
1870	2evtug,	1870	2evtug,
1871	2lbh2jvyy2or2ng2gur2rkvg.	1871	2lbh2jvyy2or2ng2gur2rkvg.
1872	2gb2trg2gb2gur2inhyg:	1872	2gb2trg2gb2gur2inhyg:
1873	2jnaqre2ebhaq2hagvy2lbh2trg2gb2znc2aN1,	1873	2jnaqre2ebhaq2hagvy2lbh2trg2gb2znc2aN1,
1874	vg2vf2gb2gur2evtug2bs2n2abezny2znc.	1874	vg2vf2gb2gur2evtug2bs2n2abezny2znc.
1875	2tb2hc,	1875	2tb2hc,
1876	2yrsg,	1876	2yrsg,
1877	2hc,	1877	2hc,
1878	2yrsg,	1878	2yrsg,
1879	2qbja,	1879	2qbja,
1880	2qbja,	1880	2qbja,
1881	2evtug,	1881	2evtug,
1882	2qbja,	1882	2qbja,
1883	2qbja,	1883	2qbja,
1884	2qbja.2Lbh2jvyy2or2va2gur2unyy,	1884	2qbja.2Lbh2jvyy2or2va2gur2unyy,
1885	2tb2guebhtu2naq2gb2gur2yrsg2gb2ernpu2gur2inhyg.	1885	2tb2guebhtu2naq2gb2gur2yrsg2gb2ernpu2gur2inhyg.
1886		1886
1887		1887
1888	=head1 Order of the Gravestone	1888	=head1 Order of the Gravestone
1889		1889
1890	An ancient order of druids, that venerated the supposed gravestone of	1890	An ancient order of druids, that venerated the supposed gravestone of
…		…
1893	cycle. The Order of the Gravestone was very popular during the first	1893	cycle. The Order of the Gravestone was very popular during the first
1894	Millenia EK, but then went extinct. No druid is known to exist today, and	1894	Millenia EK, but then went extinct. No druid is known to exist today, and
1895	the exact location of the gravestone has long been forgotten.	1895	the exact location of the gravestone has long been forgotten.
1896		1896
1897		1897
		1898	=head1 Rule of Dictus
		1899
		1900	If you get killed twice at the same place - go elsewhere.
		1901
		1902	- Dictus the Fat, EK 323
		1903
		1904
		1905	=head1 Heaven and Hell
		1906
		1907	It is said that the church of Valriel in Scorn has direct access to
		1908	Heaven. The priests of Valriel claim that you can enter Heaven freely, and
		1909	even come back to the world of mortals. The priests of Gorokh claim that
		1910	their church has a connection to Hell. The Valriel priests claim they were
		1911	first, and, in their usual attitude, the Gorokh priests claim the priests
		1912	of Valriel are useless maggots that lie to their followers.
		1913
		1914	Although a number of people have travelled to both Heaven and Hell, their
		1915	reports are inconclusive as to wether it was real "Hell" (or Heaven) they
		1916	visited.
		1917
		1918	Some people claim this Heaven and Hell business is just some magic
		1919	illusion forged by some magicians of those churches, mostly because you
		1920	can still die in Heaven, Hell doesn't look all that impressive (and it
		1921	is so easy to come back), and why would only the churches in Scorn have
		1922	access to those in the first place?
		1923
		1924
		1925	=head1 Barad-Dur
		1926
		1927	In the mountains north-east of the great city we found it at last -- the
		1928	hidden fortress of Barad-Dur. What treasures could lie in it I do not know
		1929	for our party never gained its way past the entryway. Skulls, pixies, and
		1930	a horrible creature I hesitate to name decimated my friends and I.
		1931
		1932
		1933	=head1 A visit to the Alchemist
		1934
		1935	...and then did the Alchemist agree to make me my potion. First he
		1936	called to his grimm servants who hauld forth a great iron cauldron. Into
		1937	this black device did he deposit his ingredients and, opening his spell
		1938	book for reference, then did he cast his spell of alchemy therepon the
		1939	cauldron.
		1940
		1941	Greatly did the tub shake and move! I thought that the Alchemist had broke
		1942	his device, but he chuckled at my ignorance. Into the cauldron did he
		1943	reach an brought forth a filled bottle of golden amber fluid...
		1944
		1945
		1946	=head1 The Philosophical Ingredients
		1947
		1948	Know that there are 4 principle philosophical ingredients. In order, they
		1949	are:
		1950
		1951	- philosophical salt
		1952	- philosophical sulphur
		1953	- philosophical phosphorus
		1954	- philosophical oil
		1955
		1956	The great alchemist has often said that all living things are made of
		1957	these ingredients. Proper combination of these with other base objects can
		1958	often create potions of power and might.
		1959

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