| 1 | =encoding utf8 |
1 | =encoding utf8 |
| 2 | |
2 | |
| 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 deliantra. |
| 6 | |
6 | |
| 7 | Authors: |
7 | Authors: |
| 8 | |
8 | |
| 9 | Gorlin <gorlin@freibier.htu.tuwien.ac.at> |
9 | Gorlin <gorlin@freibier.htu.tuwien.ac.at> |
| 10 | Mark Wedel <mwedel@scruznet.com> |
10 | Mark Wedel <mwedel@scruznet.com> |
| 11 | Marc Lehmann <crossfire@schmorp.de> |
11 | Marc Lehmann <support@deliantra.com> |
| 12 | Lalo Martins <lalo.martins@gmail.com> |
12 | Lalo Martins <lalo.martins@gmail.com> |
| 13 | Yann Chachkoff <yann.chachkoff@mailandnews.com> |
13 | Yann Chachkoff <yann.chachkoff@mailandnews.com> |
| 14 | Gros |
14 | Gros |
| 15 | |
15 | |
| 16 | many stories taken from unknown authors at The Crossfire Wiki |
16 | many stories taken from unknown authors at The Crossfire Wiki |
| … | |
… | |
| 256 | |
256 | |
| 257 | 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. |
| 258 | |
258 | |
| 259 | 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. |
| 260 | |
260 | |
| 261 | 711 EK: The outpost of Heaven’s Gate is founded. |
261 | 711 EK: The outpost of Heaven's Gate is founded. |
| 262 | |
262 | |
| 263 | =head2 Volume II: Second Millenia EK |
263 | =head2 Volume II: Second Millenia EK |
| 264 | |
264 | |
| 265 | 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. |
| 266 | |
266 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 270 | |
270 | |
| 271 | 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. |
| 272 | |
272 | |
| 273 | 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. |
| 274 | |
274 | |
| 275 | 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. |
| 276 | |
276 | |
| 277 | =head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis. |
277 | =head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis. |
| 278 | |
278 | |
| 279 | =head2 Volume IV: Fourth Millenia EK |
279 | =head2 Volume IV: Fourth Millenia EK |
| 280 | |
280 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 318 | |
318 | |
| 319 | =head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis. |
319 | =head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis. |
| 320 | |
320 | |
| 321 | =head2 Volume VIII: Eighth Millenia EK |
321 | =head2 Volume VIII: Eighth Millenia EK |
| 322 | |
322 | |
| 323 | 7124 EK: Harta accidentally creates a Dimensional Grid, connecting the Crossfire Continuum with the Daï-Moh-Nî Dimension. |
323 | 7124 EK: Harta accidentally creates a Dimensional Grid, connecting the Deliantra Continuum with the Daï-Moh-Nî Dimension. |
| 324 | |
324 | |
| 325 | 7563 EK: The tower of Melficef the Red explodes. |
325 | 7563 EK: The tower of Melficef the Red explodes. |
| 326 | |
326 | |
| 327 | =head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis. |
327 | =head1 Recent Historic Events, by Khalis. |
| 328 | |
328 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 362 | =head2 Past and Destruction |
362 | =head2 Past and Destruction |
| 363 | |
363 | |
| 364 | 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 |
| 365 | rather sad story!! |
365 | rather sad story!! |
| 366 | |
366 | |
| 367 | 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 |
| 368 | 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 |
| 369 | was initially founded by a handful of industrious, clever dwarves, that |
369 | was initially founded by a handful of industrious, clever dwarves, that |
| 370 | 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 |
| 371 | 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 |
| 372 | the best irons of Navar. |
372 | the best irons of Navar. |
| 373 | |
373 | |
| 374 | 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, |
| 375 | 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 |
| 376 | 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 |
| 377 | 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 |
| 378 | 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 |
| 379 | the dwarves, working was less and less an issue for them. |
379 | the dwarves, working was less and less an issue for them. |
| 380 | |
380 | |
| 381 | 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, |
| 382 | all their tricks to cheat with nature required energy. Lots of |
382 | all their tricks to cheat with nature required energy. Lots of |
| 383 | 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 |
| 384 | 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, |
| 385 | 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 |
| 386 | 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 |
| 387 | 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 |
| 388 | 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 |
| 389 | rumored to breed in use. |
389 | rumored to breed in use. |
| 390 | |
390 | |
| 391 | 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 |
| 392 | increasing nuisance for them. So, the Commander of Euthville (which was, |
392 | increasing nuisance for them. So, the Commander of Euthville (which was, |
| 393 | 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 |
| 394 | send messengers across the whole Continent, calling the world for a |
394 | send messengers across the whole Continent, calling the world for a |
| 395 | 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 |
| 396 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 398 | |
398 | |
| 399 | 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 |
| 400 | 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, |
| 401 | wizards tried. And failed. |
401 | wizards tried. And failed. |
| 402 | |
402 | |
| 403 | 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 |
| 404 | 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 |
| 405 | 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 |
| 406 | 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 |
| 407 | demonstrations the powerful wizards and engineers failing again and again. |
407 | demonstrations the powerful wizards and engineers failing again and again. |
| 408 | |
408 | |
| 409 | After several days, the Commander noticed the Boy, and said: "who |
409 | After several days, the Commander noticed the Boy, and said: "who |
| 410 | 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 |
| 411 | 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 |
| 412 | legions of wizards." "Really ?" said the Commander, half-laughing, |
412 | legions of wizards." "Really ?" said the Commander, half-laughing, |
| 413 | half-curious, "so you think you can solve my challenge ?" |
413 | half-curious, "so you think you can solve my challenge ?" |
| 414 | |
414 | |
| 415 | 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 |
| 416 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 423 | 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, |
| 424 | 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 |
| 425 | dance at the rythm of the music itself. |
425 | dance at the rythm of the music itself. |
| 426 | |
426 | |
| 427 | 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 |
| 428 | 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 |
| 429 | 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 |
| 430 | flute, and left, and never was seen again at Euthville. |
430 | flute, and left, and never was seen again at Euthville. |
| 431 | |
431 | |
| 432 | 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 |
| 433 | 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 |
| 434 | prosperity. Who wouldn’t want to tame the Demons themselves? Quickly, |
434 | prosperity. Who wouldn't want to tame the Demons themselves? Quickly, |
| 435 | 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 |
| 436 | 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 |
| 437 | entertaining, joyous, and funny, it quickly grew on the nerves of |
437 | entertaining, joyous, and funny, it quickly grew on the nerves of |
| 438 | many. And especially because it was played 23 hours a day. |
438 | many. And especially because it was played 23 hours a day. |
| 439 | |
439 | |
| 440 | Finally, the Commander decided that the city couldn’t stand this |
440 | Finally, the Commander decided that the city couldn't stand this |
| 441 | 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 |
| 442 | 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 |
| 443 | demons would follow, attracted by the music. |
443 | demons would follow, attracted by the music. |
| 444 | |
444 | |
| 445 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 453 | 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 |
| 454 | fest that they will forever keep in their twisted memories. |
454 | fest that they will forever keep in their twisted memories. |
| 455 | |
455 | |
| 456 | 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 |
| 457 | 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 |
| 458 | 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 |
| 459 | 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 |
| 460 | that mortals could enslave the hell. Some demons stayed there, obviously |
460 | that mortals could enslave the hell. Some demons stayed there, obviously |
| 461 | 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 |
| 462 | 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 |
| 463 | 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 |
| 464 | are now guarded by powerful entities of the 9th Circle. |
464 | are now guarded by powerful entities of the 9th Circle. |
| 465 | |
465 | |
| 466 | 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 |
| 467 | gates of many treasures, but because none of the former Euthvillians |
467 | gates of many treasures, but because none of the former Euthvillians |
| 468 | survived, and because nobody knows where the Boy went afterwards, those |
468 | survived, and because nobody knows where the Boy went afterwards, those |
| 469 | 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 |
| 470 | 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 |
| 471 | 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, |
| 472 | 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. |
| 473 | |
473 | |
| 474 | |
474 | |
| 475 | |
475 | |
| 476 | =head1 The Kiritani Pass (from "Euthville Legends") |
476 | =head1 The Kiritani Pass (from "Euthville Legends") |
| … | |
… | |
| 484 | =head1 Sannistra (from "Euthville Legends") |
484 | =head1 Sannistra (from "Euthville Legends") |
| 485 | |
485 | |
| 486 | 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 |
| 487 | 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 |
| 488 | 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, |
| 489 | 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 |
| 490 | 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 |
| 491 | 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 |
| 492 | of Euth". |
492 | of Euth". |
| 493 | |
493 | |
| 494 | 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 |
| 495 | 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 |
| 496 | 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 |
| 497 | bet on them - it seems more logical. |
497 | bet on them - it seems more logical. |
| 498 | |
498 | |
| 499 | |
499 | |
| 500 | =head1 The Name of the World |
500 | =head1 The Name of the World |
| 501 | |
501 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 587 | |
587 | |
| 588 | A Bonecrusher, a Firestar, and a Demonspawn Shield. |
588 | A Bonecrusher, a Firestar, and a Demonspawn Shield. |
| 589 | |
589 | |
| 590 | Undead |
590 | Undead |
| 591 | |
591 | |
| 592 | Lich dust, a Spectre’s ectoplasm, and a Skull’s tooth. |
592 | Lich dust, a Spectre's ectoplasm, and a Skull's tooth. |
| 593 | |
593 | |
| 594 | Dragon |
594 | Dragon |
| 595 | |
595 | |
| 596 | 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. |
| 597 | |
597 | |
| 598 | Demon |
598 | Demon |
| 599 | |
599 | |
| 600 | A Demonbane, a Belzebub’s sword, and a Firebrand. |
600 | A Demonbane, a Belzebub's sword, and a Firebrand. |
| 601 | |
601 | |
| 602 | =head3 Free Centres |
602 | =head3 Free Centres |
| 603 | |
603 | |
| 604 | 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 |
| 605 | centres completely free of charge, although you will understand that there |
605 | centres completely free of charge, although you will understand that there |
| … | |
… | |
| 626 | |
626 | |
| 627 | =head1 The Kingdom of Navar |
627 | =head1 The Kingdom of Navar |
| 628 | |
628 | |
| 629 | 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 |
| 630 | Eastern border of the known world, and surrounded by dangerous territory, |
630 | Eastern border of the known world, and surrounded by dangerous territory, |
| 631 | 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 |
| 632 | 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 |
| 633 | same bustling activity expected of any thriving market town. |
633 | same bustling activity expected of any thriving market town. |
| 634 | |
634 | |
| 635 | |
635 | |
| 636 | =head1 The Kingdom of the Masts |
636 | =head1 The Kingdom of the Masts |
| … | |
… | |
| 647 | 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 |
| 648 | 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 |
| 649 | 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 |
| 650 | 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 |
| 651 | 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 |
| 652 | into the ocean, including Kari Kori, the Technomages’ city. |
652 | into the ocean, including Kari Kori, the Technomages' city. |
| 653 | |
653 | |
| 654 | |
654 | |
| 655 | =head1 Juradiths Dissidents |
655 | =head1 Juradiths Dissidents |
| 656 | |
656 | |
| 657 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 661 | 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 |
| 662 | 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 |
| 663 | flooded the Juradiths into a magically created lake. |
663 | flooded the Juradiths into a magically created lake. |
| 664 | |
664 | |
| 665 | Juradiths still exist as a small political faction today, although |
665 | Juradiths still exist as a small political faction today, although |
| 666 | 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 |
| 667 | origins and meaning are now mostly forgotten. |
667 | origins and meaning are now mostly forgotten. |
| 668 | |
668 | |
| 669 | |
669 | |
| 670 | =head1 The Gaean Legend of Creation |
670 | =head1 The Gaean Legend of Creation |
| 671 | |
671 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 674 | 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 |
| 675 | 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 |
| 676 | grow boring and lonely, so SHE decided to have children. |
676 | grow boring and lonely, so SHE decided to have children. |
| 677 | |
677 | |
| 678 | 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 |
| 679 | 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 |
| 680 | 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 |
| 681 | 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 |
| 682 | 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 |
| 683 | location. |
683 | location. |
| 684 | |
684 | |
| 685 | =head2 Age of The Small World |
685 | =head2 Age of The Small World |
| 686 | |
686 | |
| 687 | 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 - |
| 688 | 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 |
| 689 | to watch them. But her remaining faithful children were growing restless |
689 | to watch them. But her remaining faithful children were growing restless |
| 690 | 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 |
| 691 | 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 |
| 692 | 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 |
| 693 | developed many different styles of living, and SHE desired to compare |
693 | developed many different styles of living, and SHE desired to compare |
| 694 | them. |
694 | them. |
| 695 | |
695 | |
| 696 | 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. |
| … | |
… | |
| 720 | 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 |
| 721 | 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 |
| 722 | this world. |
722 | this world. |
| 723 | |
723 | |
| 724 | 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 |
| 725 | 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 |
| 726 | 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 |
| 727 | whenever they wished. |
727 | whenever they wished. |
| 728 | |
728 | |
| 729 | =head2 Age of Awakening |
729 | =head2 Age of Awakening |
| 730 | |
730 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 734 | and wanted to create more interesting creatures, SHE understood them and |
734 | and wanted to create more interesting creatures, SHE understood them and |
| 735 | quickly allowed them and gave them the power to do it. |
735 | quickly allowed them and gave them the power to do it. |
| 736 | |
736 | |
| 737 | 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 |
| 738 | 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 |
| 739 | 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 |
| 740 | 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 |
| 741 | 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 |
| 742 | he gifted them with luck. |
742 | he gifted them with luck. |
| 743 | |
743 | |
| 744 | 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 |
| 745 | 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 |
| 746 | 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 |
| 747 | 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 |
| 748 | 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 |
| 749 | to live by themselves and became known as gnomes. |
749 | to live by themselves and became known as gnomes. |
| 750 | |
750 | |
| 751 | 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 |
| 752 | 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 |
| 753 | for darkness created many kinds of fierce, brutal monsters he named |
753 | for darkness created many kinds of fierce, brutal monsters he named |
| … | |
… | |
| 824 | 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 |
| 825 | 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 |
| 826 | 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 |
| 827 | 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: |
| 828 | the Banished Gods, the Forgotten Children who left ages ago because |
828 | the Banished Gods, the Forgotten Children who left ages ago because |
| 829 | 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 |
| 830 | 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 |
| 831 | collectively known as the Devourers. |
831 | collectively known as the Devourers. |
| 832 | |
832 | |
| 833 | 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 |
| 834 | 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, |
| … | |
… | |
| 865 | 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, |
| 866 | and that light had a name, and that name was Valriel. |
866 | and that light had a name, and that name was Valriel. |
| 867 | |
867 | |
| 868 | 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 |
| 869 | 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 |
| 870 | 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 |
| 871 | 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 |
| 872 | itself the name of Gorokh. |
872 | itself the name of Gorokh. |
| 873 | |
873 | |
| 874 | 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 |
| 875 | 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 |
| 876 | 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 |
| 877 | although filled with hidden motives, Gorokh’s words were always very |
877 | although filled with hidden motives, Gorokh's words were always very |
| 878 | 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 |
| 879 | 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 |
| 880 | His new companions and servants. |
880 | His new companions and servants. |
| 881 | |
881 | |
| 882 | 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 |
| 883 | 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 |
| 884 | companions and servants". And this made Valriel unhappy because He was |
884 | companions and servants". And this made Valriel unhappy because He was |
| 885 | 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 |
| 886 | 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 |
| 887 | paying respect to the one true ruler of all. |
887 | paying respect to the one true ruler of all. |
| 888 | |
888 | |
| 889 | 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 |
| 890 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 892 | 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 |
| 893 | 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. |
| 894 | |
894 | |
| 895 | 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, |
| 896 | 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 |
| 897 | 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 |
| 898 | 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, |
| 899 | 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 |
| 900 | 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 |
| 901 | 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 |
| 902 | the true face of Gorokh. |
902 | the true face of Gorokh. |
| 903 | |
903 | |
| 904 | 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 |
| 905 | 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 |
| 906 | 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 |
| 907 | 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 |
| 908 | killed each other, Gorokh was happy. |
908 | killed each other, Gorokh was happy. |
| 909 | |
909 | |
| 910 | 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 |
| 911 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 934 | 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 |
| 935 | 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 |
| 936 | 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 |
| 937 | the evil in their dark hearts. |
937 | the evil in their dark hearts. |
| 938 | |
938 | |
| 939 | 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 |
| 940 | 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 |
| 941 | 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 |
| 942 | 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, |
| 943 | 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 |
| 944 | watching the destruction and sorrow they spread in the world. |
944 | watching the destruction and sorrow they spread in the world. |
| … | |
… | |
| 994 | Son with a Will. |
994 | Son with a Will. |
| 995 | |
995 | |
| 996 | 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 |
| 997 | 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 |
| 998 | 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 |
| 999 | 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 |
| 1000 | 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 |
| 1001 | 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 |
| 1002 | new companions and servants. |
1002 | new companions and servants. |
| 1003 | |
1003 | |
| 1004 | 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 |
| 1005 | 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 |
| 1006 | companions and servants". And this made Valriel unhappy because he |
1006 | companions and servants". And this made Valriel unhappy because he |
| 1007 | 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 |
| 1008 | 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 |
| 1009 | 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. |
| 1010 | |
1010 | |
| 1011 | 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 |
| 1012 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 1024 | weapons, medicine, agriculture, writing, magic, and wine and booze and |
1024 | weapons, medicine, agriculture, writing, magic, and wine and booze and |
| 1025 | 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 |
| 1026 | those gifts and take the glory for himself. |
1026 | those gifts and take the glory for himself. |
| 1027 | |
1027 | |
| 1028 | And since Gorokh kept inventing new presents, Valriel became angry, |
1028 | And since Gorokh kept inventing new presents, Valriel became angry, |
| 1029 | 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 |
| 1030 | 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 |
| 1031 | 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 |
| 1032 | 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 |
| 1033 | this race He called Angels. |
1033 | this race He called Angels. |
| 1034 | |
1034 | |
| 1035 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 1040 | 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 |
| 1041 | 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 |
| 1042 | 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 |
| 1043 | Gorokh. |
1043 | Gorokh. |
| 1044 | |
1044 | |
| 1045 | 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 |
| 1046 | 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 |
| 1047 | 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 |
| 1048 | 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 |
| 1049 | intelligences greatly suffered from the process, and he was unhappy with |
1049 | intelligences greatly suffered from the process, and he was unhappy with |
| 1050 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 1080 | |
1080 | |
| 1081 | =head1 The Dwarven Creation Tale |
1081 | =head1 The Dwarven Creation Tale |
| 1082 | |
1082 | |
| 1083 | A play by Shakesdor the Dwarf. |
1083 | A play by Shakesdor the Dwarf. |
| 1084 | |
1084 | |
| 1085 | - 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 |
| 1086 | conversation. |
1086 | conversation. |
| 1087 | |
1087 | |
| 1088 | - 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. |
| 1089 | |
1089 | |
| 1090 | - Ah. I see. (Big gulp of beer.) You mean, NOW? |
1090 | - Ah. I see. (Big gulp of beer.) You mean, NOW? |
| … | |
… | |
| 1093 | |
1093 | |
| 1094 | - *sigh* all right, all right. It goes like this. |
1094 | - *sigh* all right, all right. It goes like this. |
| 1095 | |
1095 | |
| 1096 | 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 |
| 1097 | 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 |
| 1098 | 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. |
| 1099 | |
1099 | |
| 1100 | 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, |
| 1101 | 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 |
| 1102 | 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 |
| 1103 | him Mostrai. |
1103 | him Mostrai. |
| 1104 | |
1104 | |
| 1105 | 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 |
| 1106 | 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 |
| 1107 | 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 |
| 1108 | 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, |
| 1109 | 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 |
| 1110 | case if time didn’t exist. |
1110 | case if time didn't exist. |
| 1111 | |
1111 | |
| 1112 | 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 |
| 1113 | 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 |
| 1114 | 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 |
| 1115 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 1127 | were thousands of dwarves partying, thousands sleeping, thousands hunting, |
1127 | were thousands of dwarves partying, thousands sleeping, thousands hunting, |
| 1128 | 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 |
| 1129 | 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 |
| 1130 | 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, |
| 1131 | 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 |
| 1132 | 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 |
| 1133 | infinite ocean. There you have, that’s the story. |
1133 | infinite ocean. There you have, that's the story. |
| 1134 | |
1134 | |
| 1135 | - Whoa. What about the others? |
1135 | - Whoa. What about the others? |
| 1136 | |
1136 | |
| 1137 | - *sigh* You won’t let me finish my beer, will you? |
1137 | - *sigh* You won't let me finish my beer, will you? |
| 1138 | |
1138 | |
| 1139 | - 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, |
| 1140 | there’s plenty more in the barrel. |
1140 | there's plenty more in the barrel. |
| 1141 | |
1141 | |
| 1142 | - All right, all rigth. (Big gulp.) |
1142 | - All right, all rigth. (Big gulp.) |
| 1143 | |
1143 | |
| 1144 | 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 |
| 1145 | no challenge anymore. The best hunters would play-act wars between |
1145 | no challenge anymore. The best hunters would play-act wars between |
| … | |
… | |
| 1148 | 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 |
| 1149 | 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, |
| 1150 | something very obviously wrong, which lived in the woods and preferred |
1150 | something very obviously wrong, which lived in the woods and preferred |
| 1151 | 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 |
| 1152 | them incredibly lucky, because otherwise they would stand no chance - and |
1152 | them incredibly lucky, because otherwise they would stand no chance - and |
| 1153 | 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 |
| 1154 | 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 |
| 1155 | 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 |
| 1156 | 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; |
| 1157 | 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 |
| 1158 | other, and prospered. |
1158 | other, and prospered. |
| 1159 | |
1159 | |
| 1160 | 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 |
| 1161 | 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 |
| 1162 | 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, |
| 1163 | it’s a ritual of honor. |
1163 | it's a ritual of honor. |
| 1164 | |
1164 | |
| 1165 | 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 |
| 1166 | 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 |
| 1167 | 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, |
| 1168 | 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 |
| 1169 | 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 |
| 1170 | 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 |
| 1171 | 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 |
| 1172 | will do next. |
1172 | will do next. |
| 1173 | |
1173 | |
| 1174 | 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. |
| 1175 | |
1175 | |
| 1176 | |
1176 | |
| 1177 | =head1 The Legend of the Builders |
1177 | =head1 The Legend of the Builders |
| 1178 | |
1178 | |
| 1179 | 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 |
| 1180 | powerful beings called Builders. Builders were not part of the world |
1180 | powerful beings called Builders. Builders were not part of the world |
| 1181 | 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 |
| 1182 | themselves. The priests of the Empire weren’t quite sure themselves |
1182 | themselves. The priests of the Empire weren't quite sure themselves |
| 1183 | about their names. Some were universally known, though: Mawëdel the Ruler |
1183 | about their names. Some were universally known, though: Mawëdel the Ruler |
| 1184 | 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 |
| 1185 | list of Builders. |
1185 | list of Builders. |
| 1186 | |
1186 | |
| 1187 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 1206 | are telling about Skud, the half-mythical hero. How he captured the first |
1206 | are telling about Skud, the half-mythical hero. How he captured the first |
| 1207 | dragons. How he fought unknown monsters in the East. How he built Scorn |
1207 | dragons. How he fought unknown monsters in the East. How he built Scorn |
| 1208 | and the First Inn. Some priests even postulated that Skud was in fact a |
1208 | and the First Inn. Some priests even postulated that Skud was in fact a |
| 1209 | Builder. Skud created the First Inn because he wanted to sleep inside a |
1209 | Builder. Skud created the First Inn because he wanted to sleep inside a |
| 1210 | house, without the risk of being attacked by monsters during the night. He |
1210 | house, without the risk of being attacked by monsters during the night. He |
| 1211 | left the Holy Guestbook, one of the oldest relics of Crossfire, where he |
1211 | left the Holy Guestbook, one of the oldest relics of Deliantra, where he |
| 1212 | 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 |
| 1213 | 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. |
| 1214 | |
1214 | |
| 1215 | Recent researches show that, although he greatly contributed to the |
1215 | Recent researches show that, although he greatly contributed to the |
| 1216 | 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 |
| 1217 | 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 |
| 1218 | 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 |
| 1219 | 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 |
| 1220 | Dark. |
1220 | Dark. |
| 1221 | |
1221 | |
| 1222 | |
1222 | |
| 1223 | =head1 The Coming of Color |
1223 | =head1 The Coming of Color |
| 1224 | |
1224 | |
| 1225 | It is said that centuries before the foundation of the Old Empire, the |
1225 | It is said that centuries before the foundation of the Old Empire, the |
| 1226 | 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 |
| 1227 | to bring color in the life of the Crossfire people. They called the |
1227 | to bring color in the life of the Deliantra people. They called the |
| 1228 | 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 |
| 1229 | magical burst slowly covered the world with colors, but some elements |
1229 | magical burst slowly covered the world with colors, but some elements |
| 1230 | 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, |
| 1231 | although victorious, the force of Xepemes wouldn’t stay forever: one |
1231 | although victorious, the force of Xepemes wouldn't stay forever: one |
| 1232 | 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, |
| 1233 | the mysterious Pegemes (or Peengees?). This happened - but much after the |
1233 | the mysterious Pegemes (or Peengees?). This happened - but much after the |
| 1234 | fall of the Empire. |
1234 | fall of the Empire. |
| 1235 | |
1235 | |
| 1236 | |
1236 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 1252 | |
1252 | |
| 1253 | |
1253 | |
| 1254 | =head1 Skud the Great |
1254 | =head1 Skud the Great |
| 1255 | |
1255 | |
| 1256 | 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 |
| 1257 | Scorn’s First Inn or the Newbie Tower. |
1257 | Scorn's First Inn or the Newbie Tower. |
| 1258 | |
1258 | |
| 1259 | 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 |
| 1260 | Skudensis mentions that it could have been because of the negative |
1260 | Skudensis mentions that it could have been because of the negative |
| 1261 | 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, |
| 1262 | although left unfinished by its creator, may contain informations about |
1262 | although left unfinished by its creator, may contain informations about |
| … | |
… | |
| 1280 | |
1280 | |
| 1281 | =head2 On the nature of elemental essences |
1281 | =head2 On the nature of elemental essences |
| 1282 | |
1282 | |
| 1283 | It is said that of the four primary elements |
1283 | It is said that of the four primary elements |
| 1284 | |
1284 | |
| 1285 | - there is earth which is. |
1285 | - there is earth which is. |
| 1286 | |
|
|
| 1287 | - there is water which changes. |
1286 | - there is water which changes. |
| 1288 | |
|
|
| 1289 | - there is air which moves. |
1287 | - there is air which moves. |
| 1290 | |
|
|
| 1291 | - there is fire which consumes. |
1288 | - there is fire which consumes. |
| 1292 | |
1289 | |
| 1293 | =head2 Overheard in a Narcopian brothel |
1290 | =head2 Overheard in a Narcopian brothel |
| 1294 | |
1291 | |
| 1295 | When Mother Earth was suckling her children |
1292 | When Mother Earth was suckling her children |
| 1296 | |
|
|
| 1297 | sky suckled from her right teat |
1293 | sky suckled from her right teat |
| 1298 | |
|
|
| 1299 | but flame and sea fought to suckle from her left teat |
1294 | but flame and sea fought to suckle from her left teat |
| 1300 | |
|
|
| 1301 | this is why they still fight to this day |
1295 | this is why they still fight to this day |
| 1302 | |
1296 | |
| 1303 | |
1297 | |
| 1304 | =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 |
| 1305 | |
1299 | |
| 1306 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 1341 | 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 |
| 1342 | 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. |
| 1343 | |
1337 | |
| 1344 | "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 |
| 1345 | 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 |
| 1346 | 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 |
| 1347 | pay the price." |
1341 | pay the price." |
| 1348 | |
1342 | |
| 1349 | - 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 |
| 1350 | 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." |
| 1351 | |
1345 | |
| 1352 | 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 |
| 1353 | 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 |
| 1354 | 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 |
| 1355 | 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 |
| 1356 | 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 |
| 1357 | Scorn ? |
1351 | Scorn ? |
| 1358 | |
1352 | |
| 1359 | 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." |
| 1360 | |
1354 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 1399 | 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 |
| 1400 | 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 |
| 1401 | 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. |
| 1402 | |
1396 | |
| 1403 | 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 |
| 1404 | 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 |
| 1405 | more." |
1399 | more." |
| 1406 | |
1400 | |
| 1407 | 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, |
| 1408 | 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 |
| 1409 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 1429 | 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 |
| 1430 | 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 |
| 1431 | 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 |
| 1432 | pumping started, she whispered at his ear. |
1426 | pumping started, she whispered at his ear. |
| 1433 | |
1427 | |
| 1434 | 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 |
| 1435 | him then. |
1429 | him then. |
| 1436 | |
1430 | |
| 1437 | "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 |
| 1438 | 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 |
| 1439 | disappear, and so does your dream." |
1433 | disappear, and so does your dream." |
| 1440 | |
1434 | |
| 1441 | 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 |
| 1442 | 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 |
| 1443 | 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, |
| … | |
… | |
| 1472 | Banner." – Gros, the Irrelevant One |
1466 | Banner." – Gros, the Irrelevant One |
| 1473 | |
1467 | |
| 1474 | |
1468 | |
| 1475 | =head1 The Great Heliograph |
1469 | =head1 The Great Heliograph |
| 1476 | |
1470 | |
| 1477 | 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 |
| 1478 | 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 |
| 1479 | mechanism commanding several mirrors, that is able to concentrate the |
1473 | mechanism commanding several mirrors, that is able to concentrate the |
| 1480 | 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 |
| 1481 | Stone that can receive similar long-range light signals and transform |
1475 | Stone that can receive similar long-range light signals and transform |
| 1482 | 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 |
| 1483 | 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 |
| 1484 | distances. A magically-powered scriptor writes any such incoming message |
1478 | distances. A magically-powered scriptor writes any such incoming message |
| 1485 | capted by the Sun Stone. |
1479 | capted by the Sun Stone. |
| 1486 | |
1480 | |
| 1487 | 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 |
| 1488 | 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 |
| 1489 | 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 |
| 1490 | 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. |
| 1491 | |
1485 | |
| 1492 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 1511 | |
1505 | |
| 1512 | |
1506 | |
| 1513 | =head1 Irial, The Fast One, The Shy Light |
1507 | =head1 Irial, The Fast One, The Shy Light |
| 1514 | |
1508 | |
| 1515 | 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 |
| 1516 | 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 |
| 1517 | fast fairy with a temperamental mood. |
1511 | fast fairy with a temperamental mood. |
| 1518 | |
1512 | |
| 1519 | |
1513 | |
| 1520 | =head1 Khorolizov |
1514 | =head1 Khorolizov |
| 1521 | |
1515 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 1545 | =head1 Glamdri, The Darkness Breaker, The Last Standing One |
1539 | =head1 Glamdri, The Darkness Breaker, The Last Standing One |
| 1546 | |
1540 | |
| 1547 | 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 |
| 1548 | manifestations of Glamdri, for example. |
1542 | manifestations of Glamdri, for example. |
| 1549 | |
1543 | |
| 1550 | 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 |
| 1551 | 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 |
| 1552 | 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 - |
| 1553 | the Raging Fire - who tries to resolve those by extreme violence. |
1547 | the Raging Fire - who tries to resolve those by extreme violence. |
| 1554 | |
1548 | |
| 1555 | |
1549 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 1646 | |
1640 | |
| 1647 | |
1641 | |
| 1648 | =head1 Ranisha the Red, The Red Death, The One Who Commands |
1642 | =head1 Ranisha the Red, The Red Death, The One Who Commands |
| 1649 | |
1643 | |
| 1650 | Ranisha is one of the three moons orbiting around the world of |
1644 | Ranisha is one of the three moons orbiting around the world of |
| 1651 | Crossfire. It is said to be the spirit of the legendary warrior Ranisha, |
1645 | Deliantra. It is said to be the spirit of the legendary warrior Ranisha, |
| 1652 | who was supposed to be an invincible general that was even able to |
1646 | who was supposed to be an invincible general that was even able to |
| 1653 | vainquish gods themselves on the battlefield. |
1647 | vainquish gods themselves on the battlefield. |
| 1654 | |
1648 | |
| 1655 | In astrology, Ranisha is the symbol of violence, hatred, murder, but |
1649 | In astrology, Ranisha is the symbol of violence, hatred, murder, but |
| 1656 | also of strength and courage. It is associated with the fire element in |
1650 | also of strength and courage. It is associated with the fire element in |
| … | |
… | |
| 1659 | |
1653 | |
| 1660 | |
1654 | |
| 1661 | =head1 Asferenn the Blue, The Blue Sister, The One Who Suggests |
1655 | =head1 Asferenn the Blue, The Blue Sister, The One Who Suggests |
| 1662 | |
1656 | |
| 1663 | Asferenn is one of the three moons orbiting around the world of |
1657 | Asferenn is one of the three moons orbiting around the world of |
| 1664 | Crossfire. It is said to be the spirit of the legendary wizard Asferenn, |
1658 | Deliantra. It is said to be the spirit of the legendary wizard Asferenn, |
| 1665 | who was said to have been able to force the gate of the divine dimension. |
1659 | who was said to have been able to force the gate of the divine dimension. |
| 1666 | |
1660 | |
| 1667 | In astrology, Asferenn is the symbol of wisdom, endurance in effort, |
1661 | In astrology, Asferenn is the symbol of wisdom, endurance in effort, |
| 1668 | diplomacy, but also treachery and dark secrets. It is associated with the |
1662 | diplomacy, but also treachery and dark secrets. It is associated with the |
| 1669 | water element in Alchemancy. It is said that the cycle of water creatures |
1663 | water element in Alchemancy. It is said that the cycle of water creatures |
| 1670 | are strongly influenced by Asferenn. |
1664 | are strongly influenced by Asferenn. |
| 1671 | |
1665 | |
| 1672 | |
1666 | |
| 1673 | =head1 Story of Lorkas the Fallen, Volume I |
1667 | =head1 Story of Lorkas the Fallen, Volume I |
| 1674 | |
1668 | |
| 1675 | 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 |
| 1676 | 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 |
| 1677 | stuff like that. |
1671 | stuff like that. |
| 1678 | |
1672 | |
| 1679 | 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 |
| 1680 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 1686 | 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 |
| 1687 | 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 |
| 1688 | definitely are foolishly uninformed for sure, and speak more than they |
1682 | definitely are foolishly uninformed for sure, and speak more than they |
| 1689 | think. |
1683 | think. |
| 1690 | |
1684 | |
| 1691 | 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 |
| 1692 | 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 |
| 1693 | 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 |
| 1694 | again once they land after their long journey to the South. |
1688 | again once they land after their long journey to the South. |
| 1695 | |
1689 | |
| 1696 | 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 |
| 1697 | essence, or even a magical creation of a godly force. |
1691 | essence, or even a magical creation of a godly force. |
| 1698 | |
1692 | |
| 1699 | 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, |
| 1700 | 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 |
| 1701 | 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 |
| 1702 | 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 |
| 1703 | 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 |
| 1704 | 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 |
| 1705 | that Horadrists built. |
1699 | that Horadrists built. |
| 1706 | |
1700 | |
| 1707 | |
1701 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 1712 | 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, |
| 1713 | 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 |
| 1714 | of his home valley. |
1708 | of his home valley. |
| 1715 | |
1709 | |
| 1716 | 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 |
| 1717 | 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, |
| 1718 | 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 |
| 1719 | 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. |
| 1720 | |
1714 | |
| 1721 | 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 |
| 1722 | 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 |
| … | |
… | |
| 1727 | 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 |
| 1728 | 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 |
| 1729 | very clouds themselves. |
1723 | very clouds themselves. |
| 1730 | |
1724 | |
| 1731 | 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 |
| 1732 | 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 |
| 1733 | about another day, he took the succession of the old mariner. |
1727 | about another day, he took the succession of the old mariner. |
| 1734 | |
1728 | |
| 1735 | 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 |
| 1736 | 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 |
| 1737 | the whole area under their iron, greedy grasps. |
1731 | the whole area under their iron, greedy grasps. |
| … | |
… | |
| 1759 | |
1753 | |
| 1760 | They called themselves "The People of the Mother", and they had |
1754 | They called themselves "The People of the Mother", and they had |
| 1761 | never seen the "Flat-Eared Giants" before, although they already met |
1755 | never seen the "Flat-Eared Giants" before, although they already met |
| 1762 | "Flat-Eared Beards" and "Flat-Eared Greens" before. |
1756 | "Flat-Eared Beards" and "Flat-Eared Greens" before. |
| 1763 | |
1757 | |
| 1764 | 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 |
| 1765 | seemed brighter, smarter, more beautiful than any other woman Lorkas had |
1759 | seemed brighter, smarter, more beautiful than any other woman Lorkas had |
| 1766 | ever seen before. |
1760 | ever seen before. |
| 1767 | |
1761 | |
| 1768 | 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 |
| 1769 | 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. |
| 1770 | |
1764 | |
| 1771 | 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, |
| 1772 | 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, |
| 1773 | there was the Bird. |
1767 | there was the Bird. |
| 1774 | |
1768 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 1779 | |
1773 | |
| 1780 | 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 |
| 1781 | 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 |
| 1782 | the children of the White Bird." |
1776 | the children of the White Bird." |
| 1783 | |
1777 | |
| 1784 | And so Lorkas left, promising Sonja that he’d soon return. |
1778 | And so Lorkas left, promising Sonja that he'd soon return. |
| 1785 | |
1779 | |
| 1786 | 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 |
| 1787 | with powerful magic: the one owning it will always keep hope." |
1781 | with powerful magic: the one owning it will always keep hope." |
| 1788 | |
1782 | |
| 1789 | |
1783 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 1831 | 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 |
| 1832 | 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 |
| 1833 | was sleeping. |
1827 | was sleeping. |
| 1834 | |
1828 | |
| 1835 | 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 |
| 1836 | 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 |
| 1837 | 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 |
| 1838 | accused Lorkas of having "stolen" it. The story became legend. The |
1832 | accused Lorkas of having "stolen" it. The story became legend. The |
| 1839 | 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. |
| 1840 | |
1834 | |
| 1841 | 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, |
| … | |
… | |
| 1844 | 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 |
| 1845 | 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 |
| 1846 | 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. |
| 1847 | |
1841 | |
| 1848 | 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 |
| 1849 | 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 |
| 1850 | the Story of Lorkas, and so keeps Hope running. |
1844 | the Story of Lorkas, and so keeps Hope running. |
| 1851 | |
1845 | |
| 1852 | |
1846 | |
| 1853 | =head1 The Prison of Madness |
1847 | =head1 The Prison of Madness |
| 1854 | |
1848 | |
| … | |
… | |
| 1862 | in it, seen many of its wonders and returned. |
1856 | in it, seen many of its wonders and returned. |
| 1863 | |
1857 | |
| 1864 | 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 |
| 1865 | could decipher it yet: |
1859 | could decipher it yet: |
| 1866 | |
1860 | |
| 1867 | gb2trg2gb2gur2rkvg: |
1861 | gb2trg2gb2gur2rkvg: |
| 1868 | 2jnaqre2nebhaq2hagvy2lbh2ybpngr2n2znc2aN, |
1862 | 2jnaqre2nebhaq2hagvy2lbh2ybpngr2n2znc2aN, |
| 1869 | 2vg2vf2ba2gur2obggbz2ragenapr2bs2n2znc. |
1863 | 2vg2vf2ba2gur2obggbz2ragenapr2bs2n2znc. |
| 1870 | 2bapr2gung2vf2ybpngrq2tb2evtug, |
1864 | 2bapr2gung2vf2ybpngrq2tb2evtug, |
| 1871 | 2hc, |
1865 | 2hc, |
| 1872 | 2evtug, |
1866 | 2evtug, |
| 1873 | 2evtug, |
1867 | 2evtug, |
| 1874 | 2evtug, |
1868 | 2evtug, |
| 1875 | 2evtug, |
1869 | 2evtug, |
| 1876 | 2evtug, |
1870 | 2evtug, |
| 1877 | 2lbh2jvyy2or2ng2gur2rkvg. |
1871 | 2lbh2jvyy2or2ng2gur2rkvg. |
| 1878 | 2gb2trg2gb2gur2inhyg: |
1872 | 2gb2trg2gb2gur2inhyg: |
| 1879 | 2jnaqre2ebhaq2hagvy2lbh2trg2gb2znc2aN1, |
1873 | 2jnaqre2ebhaq2hagvy2lbh2trg2gb2znc2aN1, |
| 1880 | vg2vf2gb2gur2evtug2bs2n2abezny2znc. |
1874 | vg2vf2gb2gur2evtug2bs2n2abezny2znc. |
| 1881 | 2tb2hc, |
1875 | 2tb2hc, |
| 1882 | 2yrsg, |
1876 | 2yrsg, |
| 1883 | 2hc, |
1877 | 2hc, |
| 1884 | 2yrsg, |
1878 | 2yrsg, |
| 1885 | 2qbja, |
1879 | 2qbja, |
| 1886 | 2qbja, |
1880 | 2qbja, |
| 1887 | 2evtug, |
1881 | 2evtug, |
| 1888 | 2qbja, |
1882 | 2qbja, |
| 1889 | 2qbja, |
1883 | 2qbja, |
| 1890 | 2qbja.2Lbh2jvyy2or2va2gur2unyy, |
1884 | 2qbja.2Lbh2jvyy2or2va2gur2unyy, |
| 1891 | 2tb2guebhtu2naq2gb2gur2yrsg2gb2ernpu2gur2inhyg. |
1885 | 2tb2guebhtu2naq2gb2gur2yrsg2gb2ernpu2gur2inhyg. |
| 1892 | |
1886 | |
| 1893 | |
1887 | |
| 1894 | =head1 Order of the Gravestone |
1888 | =head1 Order of the Gravestone |
| 1895 | |
1889 | |
| 1896 | An ancient order of druids, that venerated the supposed gravestone of |
1890 | An ancient order of druids, that venerated the supposed gravestone of |
| … | |
… | |
| 1925 | illusion forged by some magicians of those churches, mostly because you |
1919 | illusion forged by some magicians of those churches, mostly because you |
| 1926 | can still die in Heaven, Hell doesn't look all that impressive (and it |
1920 | can still die in Heaven, Hell doesn't look all that impressive (and it |
| 1927 | is so easy to come back), and why would only the churches in Scorn have |
1921 | is so easy to come back), and why would only the churches in Scorn have |
| 1928 | access to those in the first place? |
1922 | access to those in the first place? |
| 1929 | |
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 | |
