The Shadow Path Mystery....

[scout1idf]

A while back, Scout and Ulric was sitting in the corner of the Adventurer Collective, sipping on mugs of Palo, when Scout asked, “Do you remember that cold and snowy day up near Port Hallik when....



********


It was a cold and snowy winter day, South-West of Port Hallik the brothers, Scout and Ulric, were riding for the port city to spend the night after a couple days of adventuring, when a Shadow Path opened not a hundred yards in front of them. They both pull swords and spurred their horses toward it.

As they dismounted and readied themselves for battle, a beaten and bloody man stumbled from the Shadow Path and tried to run away. He was promptly tripped up by what appeared to be a barbed whip that came from the Gate.

The owner of the barbed whip, an Onyxian Bone Warrior, then stepped through the Gate. As it began to “reel in” the man, a second figure stepped through the Gate. The second one appeared to be an Onyxian Bone Mage when it began to cast a spell directed at the captive on the ground.

********


A few of the members of the Adventurer Collective began to move towards their table to listen to the story being told. Allura brought a tray of Palo mugs to the table and one of the “younger” members, that Scout didn't know, pulled out some money and paid. With a nod of thanks, Scout continued........

********


Scout quickly dropped his sword and grabbed his bow and a pair of arrows. Ulric seeing what his brother was doing, headed for the captive man with the intension of cutting the whip loose and helping him escape.

Scout let the first arrow fly and it struck the unaware Mage through the eye. By the time Ulric cut the whip from the man's leg, Scout's second arrow was piercing the Bone Warrior's skull, his head being turned so the eye wasn't visible. A third arrow hit the Mage to make sure that he wouldn't be casting any spells before he could be finished off.

Ulric pulled the now unconscious man toward the horses and then joined his brother in battle.

Scout went after the “less” wounded Bone Warrior and left the mage for Ulric to take care of.

As they battled, Scout called to his brother and said, “Make sure you take his head, otherwise he will just regenerate and come after you again.”

The battle, for Scout, only lasted a few minutes. For Ulric, it could have been quite awhile, but Scout stepped in to help. As the Mage hit the ground, Scout quickly called on his powers and closed the Shadow Path and headed for the freed prisoner.

Ulric started to protest, “I could have handled the Mage myself, I almost had..”

Scout stopped him and replied, “You could have been killed if I hadn't helped. I've battled these things before and you haven't. I know what I'm talking about on this one.”

“You just don't have any confidence in my ability. I'm telling you I was about to finish him off.”

Scout looked his brother in the eye's and said, “Two things.

One, I do have confidence in your abilities.

Two, did you notice that he was slowly casting a spell while you were fighting?”

Ulric looked at Scout with a shocked and surprised expression and said, “No, I didn't notice that. I didn't know that you could fight and cast at the same time. I thought it took too much concentration to do that.”

“For us, maybe, but they were created in the realm of magic.” replied Scout. “While I prepare some bandages, why don't you begin the healing and maybe we will find out who he is and where he was.”



********


After a while, the majority of the members present in the Collective seemed to be at Scout and Ulric's table. All listening intently to the story and buying rounds of drinks.

Scout called over to Allura and he ordered a steak and a loaf of bread. Ulric said, “That sounds good, I'll have the same.”

A few of the others placed their orders but made it clear that Scout and Ulric come first.

When the food arrived, the same “young” adventurer that paid for the first drinks, paid for the meals for both Scout and Ulric. Scout said, “That's not necessary, I'll get it.”

The young man said, “No, hearing this story is worth the price of your meals.”

“OK, where was I, oh yea, I remember.........



********


The brothers mostly healed the man and bandaged his wounds but he remained unconscious.

Scout said, “I think we better get him to a healer. I don't know why he isn't waking up. Maybe what they did to him needs undone in a hurry or he'll never wake up.”

“I wish it wasn't so far to ride back to Trithik.” said Ulric. “I'm sure the Guild Master could figure this out.”

“I don't normally like to do this, but under the circumstances, I've got enough power left to Gate us there, horses and all.” said Scout. “It'll mean a few days of rest before I go out again, but if it will help....”

“Well then let's go.” said Ulric.


********


Upon arriving outside the Adventurer Collective, Ulric carried the man through The Green Door, and immediately headed for the Guild Master's office. He was met at the door by Allura who immediately headed over to help Scout. On his way through, he yelled to Hawk, who was trying to order his lunch when Allura had suddenly ran to the door, and said, “Please help Allura get Scout inside.” Then he disappeared through the door.

Hawk got to the door in time to see a strange glow around Allura's hand as she passed it over Scout's forehead. He decided to back inside the door way and call to her, “I'm coming, how's he doing?”

When he stepped back outside, Allura looked Hawk in the eyes and said, “I think he'll be ok, he's just drained and the healing magic, I bought for emergencies, I do work here you know, will make him recover sooner.” Then she gave him “the look” and turned back to Scout.

Hawk carried Scout into the collective and laid him on the table in the steam room. Allura sat with him and made sure he was all right. She told Hawk to go and see what was happening with Ulric and the man that he carried to the Guild Master.


********


By now, everyone present in the Adventurer Collective was at the table listening intently to the story Scout was telling. The drinks were flowing “freely” and more food followed suit. In between courses, Scout continued the story........

********


Hawk met Ulric as he was coming back into the common room. He asked, “Who is that man that you brought back.”

Ulric replied, “I don't know, the Guild Master told me to lay him on the cot and get out.”

“Where did you find him?” continued Hawk.

“Up near Port Hallik. He came through a Shadow Path and was being attacked by an Onyxian Bone Warrior and Mage. We fought and killed them and tried to heal the man, but he wouldn't wake up. Scout Gated us here, horses and all, and that's what happened to him. Where is he anyhow?”

“Allura is tending to him in the steam room. I saw her use..... Never mind, it's not important rite now. maybe we should go check on him.” said Hawk.


Upon entering the steam room, Allura had Scout sitting up and talking.

“He's weak and going to be that way for a few days, but otherwise he'll be ok.” said Allura.

Scout asked, “Wh..at... d..i..d the Gu..ild.... Mas...ter sss......”

Allura stopped him and said, “Don't worry about him, you need to rest. Why don't you two take him to the inn and I'll be along shortly.”

Ulric looked to his brother and said, “That sounds like a good idea, besides, the Guild Master kicked me out, so I don't know anymore than you do. Come on Hawk, grab an arm and let's get him home.”


********



“Well that's it, there is no more to tell.” said Scout. “You see that I'm here and healthy. I wouldn't suggest trying to Gate so much, so far though.”

One of the young adventurer's asked, “Who was that man that you brought back? What happened to him?”

Scout replied, “No one knows. The Guild Master won't say and nobody ever saw him leave the back room.”

********

[scout1idf]

In the Guild Master's office......


After a few more passes of the Guild Master's hands, the healing of the man found near Port Hallik was complete. Next came a spell that took much concentration. After about an hour, the Guild Master placed a hand on the man's heart and head. A series of convulsions shook his body and he gasped for air.

The Guild Master looked at the terrified, now conscious man and said, “You are alright and safe.”

The man asked in a raspy voice, “Where am I?”

He replied, “Safe, you were brought to the Adventurer Collective in Trithik. Don't you recognize me.”

The man looked closely at the Guild Master's face and said, “I think so......... You are the one that sent me......”

“Yes, on a mission.” the Guild Master interrupted. “Did you find the information you were sent for?”

“I don't remember anything but pain and agony.” replied the man.

“With time and my help, your memory will return. I must know what you found out.” said the Guild Master.



********



A Gate opened in a bedroom of a secluded house somewhere in the North West part of Tysa. The Guild Master walked through the Gate with the man from his office.

He looked to the group of Mages and servants and said, “Take care of him, he has information that we need to protect the kingdom.”

With that, he disappeared back through the Gate.........



********


Scout was sitting in the Adventurer Collective telling Ulric and Allura about a strange occurrence he had on his recent trip. He was saying, “When I was just up by Charna, doing some adventuring, I ran by that wooded area that we wanted to check out but didn't for lack of time. You remember the one don't you Ulric, the day before we ran into the shadow path?”


Ulric nodded and said, “You mean when we saved the guy that disappeared into the Guild Masters office and nobody has seen him since?”


“That's the one.” replied Scout. “Well, I went into the woods and killed a couple of Goblins that attacked me, then kept moving in to see what was there. I came to a thick hedge, and when I looked though I could have sworn that I saw a house. The next thing I knew, I woke up about a mile outside Port Hallik. Recon and all of my gear was there like I set up camp and took nap.”


Allura looked to Scout and asked, “Are you sure it wasn't a dream, and it didn't really happen?”


Scout gave her a puzzled look and replied, “I'm sure it happened. Why would you ask that?”


“I've heard stories about strange things happening to people up that way. Having “dream's” that they thought were real occurrence's that turned out not to be.” she quickly explained.


Ulric chimed in, “I think the next time WE are up that way, that WE should check out that woods.”


Allura responded, “I think YOU should leave well enough alone.” And with that she headed for the bar.


Ulric looked to Scout and said, “I suppose that you are going to listen to her.”


Scout gave his little brother a look but said nothing........



********



After Scout and Ulric got up and went to the steam room, Allura told Vurii, “Scout found the house. The warding magic worked to stop him, but he seemed skeptical about the “dream” story I told him.”


Vurii said, “I better tell the Guild Master.”



********



Vurii returned to the common room of the Adventurer Collective and to her duties at the bar. She looked over to see that Allura had joined Scout at his table after he finishing in the steam room. She caught Allura's attention and gave her a nod, then prepared to serve some drinks to Vansoul and Silas Drake at their table.



********



In his office, the Guild Master opened a Gate and stepped through.

In a matter of a moment, the Guild Master once again stepped into the bedroom of the secluded house. He approached the Mage in charge of the man's care and asked, “Has there been any progress in obtaining the information?”

The Mage responded, “Nothing of any use. The only information that we have gotten so far, we already knew.”

“We may have a problem. The adventurer who rescued him, found this location and was Gated away as the wards were supposed to, but he has memory of seeing the house. His mind is very strong and that is why he is so important to the Realm.” informed the Guild Master.

“What must we do?” asked the Mage.

“I want him moved to another safe location. This one must be unaccessible by any means except magic.” replied the Guild Master. “When the move is complete, remove all traces of this house and it's shielding magic.”

“It will be finished by the end of the week.” replied the Mage.

With that, the Guild Master stepped back through the Gate and was gone.



********



The next morning, Scout was awakened by a messenger. The note was from the Guild Master inquiring if he would be interested in doing a job down in Graldok for him.

Scout looked to Allura and said, “I wonder what kind of job the Guild Master could want me to do?”

Allura said, “Probably something dangerous if he wants the best and bravest adventurer in the realm to do it for him.” With that, Scout started too...... There was a knock at the door. “Scout, are you up yet?”

Scout looked at Allura and rolled his eyes. He said, “If that boy doesn't start having better timing, I'm going to.....”

Allura stopped him with a kiss and said, “Now now, he's your brother.”

“Stop reminding me!”

Allura slipped into the dressing room while Scout opened the door.

Looking at the expression on Scout's face, Ulric said, “I hope I didn't come at a bad time.”

“It's....... alright. What brings you over here so, early?

“I got a job offer from the Guild Master this morning.”

“That's funny, so did I.” said Scout. “Hey Allura, I guess you were wrong. Ulric got a message too.”

“Wrong about what?” Asked Ulric.

“Oh, nothing. Private joke.” replied Scout.

“So when are you going to see him about this job?” asked Ulric. “Since we both got a note, maybe we should go together.”

“As soon as we're dressed I suppose. Allura has to work today so the three of us can go over there together. Why don't we meet you down stair's and we'll have breakfast first.”

With that, Scout ushered his little brother out the door.



********


Scout and Ulric were joined in the short meeting with the Guild Master by Vansoul and Silas Drake. In a nut shell, he needs the best protection that he could get for a shipment of gold heading for Thane Marindol in Graldok. He was afraid that word might have gotten out about the large shipment.The Guild Master told them that it should only take them about five or six days round trip and that he would pay them handsomely on their return.

“Well that's an offer I can't refuse.” said Vansoul. “Not that I would refuse the Guild Master anyway.”



********



All four adventurer's set off with the four wagon caravan. Scout said his good-bye's to Allura, that put them behind schedule, and took up his position in front, leading the way.



********

[scout1idf]

The Guild Master stepped through the Gate and informed the Mage, “I guaranteed you at least five days for the move. I sent Scout South East to Graldok on an errand.”

“It will be done.” replied the Mage.

The Guild Master again, was gone.....

********


“.......I couldn't believe how much food Thane Marindol provided for the feast.” said Ulric.

******


The foursome were talking about the escort job they did for the Guild Master on the ride back to Trithik. The trip was uneventful and Scout was wondering if the four of them was the reason or if the Guild Master was just being over cautious. Of course, being cautious in this case was warranted. Scout's other three companions weren't privy to the amount of gold they were carrying. Scout didn't know either, till he had talked privately with the Thane.


Scout was remembering to himself.

“I want to thank you personally Scout, for seeing to the shipment of gold. I don't think anyone else would have been better suited to guard 100,000,000 gold tokens.” said the Thane.



Scout did the best he could to cover the shock and surprise he was feeling. The Thane smiled and said, “I'm guessing by your expression that our mutual friend 'The Guild Master' didn't tell you, either what it was that you guarded or how much.”

Scout managed enough air to say, “How much!?”

Not knowing if it was a question or a statement, Thane Marindol just said, “Yes, 100,000,000 gold tokens is a lot to be moved at one time, but sometimes making several trips is more dangerous than just one.” After a pause, he continued, “I hope you and your men enjoy the festivies I planned for you.”

Scout just stood there and watched as the Thane walked out of the private chamber. When he had disappeared from sight, Scout sat down in his chair. It could have been better described as “fell” into his chair.

******


“Scout, are you with us?” shouted Ulric.

Ulric's shout brought Scout back to the present. He looked back to see that the other three had stopped along side of the road.

“We thought it best to stop here and set up camp for the night.” said Ulric. “We asked your opinion, but you seemed to be 'off' somewhere else, so we made the choice.”

Silas Drake said, “I hope you don't mind but we are getting tired and there is water here for the horses. Not to mention, we're a little hungry.”

“No, that's alright.” replied Scout. “I feel like a break myself. Besides, I wanted to talk to you three about something.”

After setting up camp, tending to the horses and the meal, Scout sat down with the group for a talk.

“I didn't know if any of you knew, but I had a private meeting with Thane Marindol before the feast. He thanked us for bringing him the shipment of gold.” said Scout.

“Yea, we saw you leave with him and thought that he was probably thanking you, since you're our leader for this job.” said Vansoul. “We kinda expected that.”

“What I didn't expect was how much we were carrying.” said Scout.

“It was just a couple thousand gold and some trade goods wasn't it?” asked Ulric.

“No.” replied Scout. “I don't know if you are going to believe this or not, but it was more like 100,000,000 gold tokens.”

The group just looked at each other for a few moments before Vansoul finally broke the silence and said, “I think in the future, I'll ask for all of the details before taking a job.”

The group all nodded in agreement. One by one they got up and headed for their bed rolls. To make Trithik by dark, they would need to get an early start.

******


Somewhere in Tysa.......

“Is the move complete?” asked the Guild Master.

The Mage looked up from the scroll he was reading and said, “Just this morning. There is no trace that we occupied the woods or that a house was ever there.”

“Good. I received word that Scout's party is about a day away from Trithik and I'm sure that he'll head North West with in a few days of his return.” replied the Guild Master. “Have you made any progress with our agents memory?”

“Some. From what we have been able to find out, 'they' never found out who he is or what he was doing there.”

He continued, “We have been able to get some details of 'their' plans, but not much.”

“Keep working on it. We must know what 'they' are up to.” replied the Guild Master.

With that, he stepped through a Gate and was gone.

******


The rest of the ride back to Trithik was done mostly in silence. The group was still in shock about what Scout had told them.

Finally, as the sun was setting, the city came into view. With an anxious burst of energy, the four adventurers spurred their horses and sprinted for home.

******


Home. The Adventurer Collective was their destination. I suppose you could call that HOME.

******


Upon arrival, the four headed straight for the steam room. Getting the dust from the road off themselves seemed more important than anything else. That gave Scout the chance to ask, “Do you want me to go and see the Guild Master alone or should we go as a group?”

They all thought about it and finally Silas Drake spoke up and said, “The way I'm feeling about it, I think you should go alone.” The rest agreed so when he was finished, Scout headed for the Guild Master's office.

******


“How was your trip?” asked the Guild Master. “Was there any trouble?”

“Nothing out of the ordinary...... nothing except for the conversation with Thane Marindol.” replied Scout.

“Let me guess, he told you about the cargo's value?”

“Yes..... and it was a little un-settling to find out.” answered Scout. “My men thought so too..... when I told them.”

The Guild Master said, “I am sorry for keeping that from you, but secrecy was very important. If you knew I was afraid that you would either turn down the job or ask for more help. I didn't want someone else for this and sending more help would have drawn to much attention.”

After a short pause, Scout replied, “I can see your point, it's just...... I see your point.”

“I have your payment right here. If you don't mind, could you see that your men get theirs for me? I have some important work to finish. And again, thank you .”

Scout took the four small, but heavy boxes and left the office.

******


Back in the common room, Scout joined Ulric, Vansoul and Silas Drake at a quite table in the corner. He handed each one their box and said, “Here you go. The Guild Master asked me to pay you.”

Each opened their box and found 30 small gems and an ornate gold ring. Vansoul looked at the others and said, “These have to be worth at least 100 gold each.”

Ulric asked, “I wonder what the ring does? I assume that it is magic. Did he say anything about it?”

Scout replied, “He didn't tell me what was inside, he just gave them to me.”

“Well, if this is what he pays for a dangerous job, I guess I'm in the next time he asks.” said Silas Drake.

“If you gentlemen will excuse me, I'm going home.” said Scout. “Ulric, are you coming with me?” asked Scout. He gave his brother a follow me look before he could reply.

“Yea, I'm kinda tired and I think I'll spend a couple of day's in bed. We'll see you two later.” said Ulric.

Silas Drake replied, “We'll be around.”

******

[scout1idf]

On the way to the inn Scout told Ulric, “I don't know why, but I have a funny feeling about the ring's we got from the Guild Master. Don't put it on till we can have them checked out.”

“Does this have anything to do with the man from the Shaow Path?” asked Ulric.

“I don't know, but it seemed kinda strange that when I talked about him, this job came up and delayed a trip back to the woods.” said Scout. “I want to head back up there soon and get to the bottem of this mystery.”

“What about Vansoul and Silas Drake?”

“I don't know how or if they are involved, so don't tell them anything about our plans.” replied Scout.

“Our plans.” observed Ulric. “That sounds nice.”

“Don't let it go to your head, little brother.”

******


In the village of Hawklor...........



Scout and Ulric walked up to the door of Elumyr the Sage. Scout knew that the sage would be able to identify the gold rings given to them by the Guild Master and would be discreet.

Ulric asked, “Should I come in with you or stay out here with the horses?”

“I think it would be better to go in together. If my hunch is right, the less people see us here, the better.” said Scout.

“I can't believe that the Guild Master would mean us any harm, but I'll follow your instincts.” said Ulric.

Scout moved to knock on the door when he heard, “Come in, the door's open.”

Scout said to his brother, “I hate when she does that.”

The brothers went inside and quickly closed the door. It may be early morning, but they still wanted to limit their exposure to potential prying eyes.

Elumyr looked at Scout and said, “You have something that you want me to identify? A pair of rings perhaps?”

Ulric leaned over to his brother and started to ask, “How does she.......”

Elumyr interrupted, “That is why you came to me. I know things, boy.”

Scout gave a chuckle and gave her the rings.

After a few minutes of studying them, Elumyr said, “These rings bear strong enchantments.”

“Can you tell what the enchantments are?” asked Scout.

“It may take some time to decipher. A powerful Mage had to have made these rings. There seems to be a few different enchantments. I will need to keep them for a few days, if I may.”

Scout looked to Ulric and then back to Elumyr and said, “That shouldn't be a problem. We'll be in the area for a while.”

“Stop back the day after tomorrow and I may have an answer for you.” she said.

Scout and Ulric bid her farewell and left her to her work.

*******


Scout and Ulric gathered their horses and headed for the Hillsfeet Inn.

“I stayed here a couple times when I was down this way.” said Scout. “ Not a bad place. The innkeeper, Jennda, she reminds me of someone we both know.”

Ulric replied, “Who? I've never stayed here before.”

“You'll see.” is all that Scout would say.

*******


The brothers walked into the inn and Scout called to Jennda, “Do you have a room for a couple tired adventurers?”


Jennda replied, “Only if those adventurers can pay for it.”

“I thought a room here was free to me.” stated Scout.

Jennda turned around slowly saying, “I know that voice, it has to be..... Why it is you, how have you been Scout? And who do you have with you?”

“I've been doing just fine. I spend most of my 'off time' up in Trithik.” said Scout. “This is my little brother, Ulric.”

“Glad to meet you, Ulric.” she said. “So you need a room. Are you going to stay a while?”

“A couple of days. We thought that we would see if anything was needing 'cleaned up' in the area.” said Scout. “I've heard old Wurmwrit keeps having trouble of some kind in his pumpkin patch.”

“I don't know what's got into that farm of his.” she said. “Something about massive pumpkins getting up and attacking people. That's no way to run a business.”

Scout said, “Well for now, I think we'd just like to sack out for a while and catch up on some sleep.”

“I'll put you in the room upstairs at the end of the hall.” she said. “That room is the quietest one I've got.”

Scout and Ulric grabbed their gear and headed up the stairs.

*******


........in their room.



“Is she related to Vurii?” asked Ulric.

Scout replied, “I don't think so. It's just the patch over her eye.”

Ulric said, “Are you sure? She kinda has the same attitude.”

That remark got a chuckle from Scout.

*******


Scout and Ulric spent the better part of the next day 'smashing pumpkins' for old Wurmwrit down on the farm. Ulric, who hates pumpkins, couldn't get enough. A couple of times he yelled, “This one's moving!” and before Scout could stop him, he smashed it to pulp.

After the third time he did that, Scout said, “You better make sure it's really moving. Wurmwrit's going to start charging us for destroying his crop of pumpkins.”

Ulric replied, “I can't help it, you know I hate these things.”

“I think you've had enough fun for today. Let's head back to town and get something to eat.”

“Ok.” replied Ulric, as he flattened another helpless pumpkin.

Scout walked over to Wurmwrit, tossed him a couple gold tokens and said, “Sorry about the extra ones, my brother gets a little carried away.”

Wurmwrit just smiled and replied, “That's ok. Since he's your brother, I'll let it go.”*******


The next morning, a messenger came to Scout and Ulric's room. Scout thanked him and flipped the young boy a gold token. The boy's eyes lit up and he thanked him. He said, “I've never had one of these before.” Then he took off to show his friends.

Scout smiled and closed the door. He took the message over to the table and started to read.
It said......Scout

Could you please come and see me as soon as possible.Regards, Elumyr

“Get dressed, Elumyr wants to see us.” said Scout.

*******


“Come in” said Elumyr before Scout could knock.

Once inside, Elumyr told Scout and Ulric to sit down.

“I have some answers for you.”started the Sage.
“These rings of yours have some unique powers crafted into them.”

Ulric asked, “What do you mean, unique?”

“To start with, their power's are triggered by a thought, not a word of power.” said Elumyr.

“Second, the power seems to be unlimited, unlike most crafted items. Most items have a limited amount of uses.” continued Elumyr.

“Have you determined what the power's are?” asked Scout.

“Yes, and that is the strangest part. Both rings have the power of Restoration and Necromancy. Life and Death. I have never seen a combination of powers in a single object that were so opposite.” said Elumyr.

“I want to thank you for finding out what these rings could do.” said Scout as he took the rings back. “How much do we owe you for your trouble?”

“250 gold tokens. And also your promise that you will be careful with those rings.” said the Sage.

“You don't have to worry about that.” said Scout. “I think these need to be locked up and used only for an emergency.”

After paying, the brothers said their good bye's and headed back to the inn.

*******


Scout told Ulric, “Let's get our gear ready and head North.”

“Where are we headed, Trithik or Charna?”

“Charna.” replied Scout.

*******

[scout1idf]

.......just outside of the mysterious woods.



“I sure am glad that you decided to Gate us part of the way.” said Ulric. “Otherwise, that trip would have taken forever.”

“I think the first thing we need to do is set up camp and get some rest.” said Scout. “We can get a fresh start in the morning. Also, neither one of us should go into the woods alone either.”

*******


The night went by without any trouble. Scout had put his ring on just in case.

After breakfast, the brothers packed up their gear and headed into the woods in search of the mysterious house.

“I know that I didn't go this far when I came across the hedge.” said Scout. “I don't understand where it is.”

“Is it possible that Allura was right, that it was only a dream or something?” asked Ulric.

He said, “I'm sure it was real. Let's keep going. If we don't find anything by sun down, we can set up camp and look again tomorrow.”

Ulric asked, “Alright, but if we don't find anything tomorrow, are we headed home?”

Reluctantly, Scout said, “Yes.”

After a fruitless day of searching, the brothers set up camp for the night.

Sitting at the fire, Scout said, “Doesn't something seem strange to you about these woods?”

“What do you mean?” asked Ulric.

Scout said, “All day, I didn't notice one bird or animal. It's like something chased them away.”

“Now that you mention it, neither did I.”said Ulric. “This is a strange place.”

*******


After another uneventful night, Scout and Ulric headed out again. They searched the better part of the day when Scout spotted something. It was the body of a dead goblin. Just a few feet away there was another one.

Scout said, “Remember me telling you that I had to kill a couple goblins?”

“Yes. Do you think that these are the same two?”

“I do.” said Scout. “They look like they have been here about that long.”

“I just wish we had a way to know for sure.” replied Ulric.

Scout held up the ring on his finger and said, “I think we do.”

“Do you think that you should be messing around with that? Elumyr told us to be careful.” said Ulric.

“I want to know if it was a dream or not.”

With that, scout pointed the ring at the closest goblin and thought about what he wanted.

After a short time, the body of the goblin started to get up.

Ulric readied his weapon just in case the goblin attacked them.

The goblin just stood there unmoving and more importantly, undead.

Scout asked, “Am I the one that killed you?”

The goblin said in a raspy voice, “Yes.”

“Do you know these woods?” continued Scout.

“Yes.” again was the answer.

“Was there a human structure here?” asked Scout.

“Yes.” replied the undead goblin.

“Show us.” instructed Scout.

The undead goblin started walking South. It went about a hundred yards and stopped.

Scout walked up to the goblin and said, “Show us the human structure.”

The goblin replied only, “Here.”

Ulric said, “Either it's been dead to long to properly remember or the undead can lie.”

“Something seems familiar about this spot.” said Scout. “I know that I've been here before.”

As Scout was looking around, the undead goblin suddenly attacked him.

Ulric moved quickly to destroy it. The now inanimate goblin lay in three pieces between the brothers.

Scout said, “You are getting better, lucky for me. Thank you.”

“Not a problem, thats what little brothers are for.” said Ulric.

“Well, it's obvious that there is no house here. Is it possible that some magic force caused you to see the house?” asked Ulric. “And maybe the same magic made the goblin see the house too?”

“It's possible, I guess. But how did I end up over by Port Hallik?” asked Scout.

“You got me there.” said Ulric. “Do you want to keep looking?”

“No, I guess some mysteries in life can't be solved. Like...... never mind, you'll find out. Let's head for home.” said Scout.

*******


.................somewhere in Tysa.



“I've just received word that Scout has given up on his search.” said the Guild Master.

The Mage said, “It sounds like the rings are working as planned. Have you retrieved the other two?”

“I have. Vansoul and Silas Drake couldn't pass up the offer that I made them. They each have their own castle now.” said the Guild Master.

The Mage asked, “Are you going to retrieve Scout and Ulric's rings?”

“Not right away, we may still need to keep an eye on them.” replied the Guild Master.

“Before I go, have you retrieved the information from our agent?” he asked.

“I think we have as much as we're going to get.” said the Mage. “His mind was more damaged than we first thought.”

“Get what you have to the Grey Circle. They will know what to do with it.”

The Guild Master opened a Gate and was gone.........

*******


..................back in Trithik


Scout and Ulric walked out of the steam room of the Adventurer Collective completely refreshed, on the outside. Ulric sat at a table while Scout went to the bar to get them some drinks.

Vurii brought Ulric his drink and a message. It read.....DO NOT DISTURB

Scout and Allura

Ulric looked up in time to see the two of them as they were walking out the Green Door...........



*************

[scout1idf]

SHADOW PATH MYSTERY Continued


Several months after Scout and Ulric left the woods between Charna and Port Hallik........

As lone adventurer loosed an arrow toward a small band of goblin raiders, a house suddenly “appeared” where they stood then promptly disappeared again. The adventurer just stood there in shock, his next arrow in hand.

After a short while he walked over to the spot where the goblins and house were and found them smashed flat. The adventurer quickly gathered his gear and left the woods. He thought to himself, 'No one will ever believe this!'

*************


“I just wanted to inform you that our spy has recovered and we have released him from our care. I'm sorry to say that the event 'aged' him considerably, though.” said the Arch Mage. “His memory of the mission has been.....how should I put it...... altered.”

“What does he remember?” asked the Guild Master.

“Nothing of the actual mission. We led him to believe that he was rescued from some attackers by Scout and his brother.” he replied.

“Where did he go?”

He said, “He headed to his home. Up around Phak-Rur, I believe.”

*************


While Scout was walking through the streets in Phak-Rur, after finishing a job for a merchant, an old man approached him. He was wearing brown robes with it's hood pulled up obscuring his face. At first all that could be seen was a gray, almost waist length beard. As the man stopped in front of Scout, he pulled his hood back slightly so his face could be seen. Scout noted that his eyes looked to be those of a much younger man than he appeared.

Scout asked, “Can I help you?”

The man's eyes began to tear up and he replied, “You already have and I just wanted to thank you.”

He handed Scout a small pouch and then took off through the crowd. Scout turned to ask him what he had done and what the pouch was for, but the man was nowhere to be seen.

Scout opened the pouch and found it full of assorted gems. He then took off in the direction that the man had went in search of answers.

After a few hours with no luck, Scout gave up the search and decided to head back to Trithik.

*************


Scout walked through the door of the Adventurer Collective and was met by Allura.

After a warm welcome she asked, “How was your trip?”

Scout replied, “Tiring, and...... strange.”

“What do you mean, strange?” she asked.

“I'll tell you after I get cleaned up, I've got three days of the road on me.” he replied then headed for the steam room.

*************


Two men were sitting at a table in the Beggar's Arms tavern. One man was telling a tale he had heard from an adventurer that passed through the other day.

“............ Yea that's right, he said that a house crushed them.” said the man.

“Sounds like he lost his mind out there in the wilds to me,” said the other man. “What happened to him after he told you this nonsense?”

The story teller said, “I don't know for sure, I think he headed South out of town.”

After the conversation and their drinks were finished, the story teller left the tavern and went on about his daily business. The other man went out the back door and disappeared.

*************


Somewhere in Tysa.........

“I've received a disturbing report from an informant in Port Hallik, a house appeared and crushed a group of goblins then disappeared again in the woods near there. It was witnessed by an unknown adventurer.” said the Guild Master.

The Arch Mage replied, “Something or someone is interfering with our magic. That can be the only explanation. The spells of hiding that we used were the strongest and most reliable that we could conjure.”

“I will send someone to find this adventurer and convince him that he didn't see anything. You send five of your best Mages to see whats happening with your magic.” said the Guild Master. “You may want to contact the King and ask for some of his most loyal troops in case you run into more than you expect.”

The Arch Mage replied, “I'll see to it.”

The Guild Master stepped through the Gate and was gone.

*************


Scout left the steam room and headed for the bar. He noticed that the table of eight was empty and thought it strange, but continued on, wanting a drink. He sat down and ordered a Hammertounge from Vurii and asked, “Where did Allura go?”

Vurii said, “She'll be right back, she just ran down into the cellar for some wine.”

Scout thought to himself, 'I wonder if I should go down there and surprise her?' Then the back of his head started to throb remembering the last time he went down there after her. I don't think I will, at least not today.

By the time Scout was asking for his second drink, Allura was there to hand it to him. She gave him one of her 'smiles' and asked, “Why didn't you come down and visit me in the cellar?”

“I didn't see Hawk anywhere to haul me back up here.” he replied with his own smile.

She said, “When you finish that one, I'll be finished for the day so maybe we can g.........”

Scout finished the whole mug before Allura could finish her sentence. He said, “Let's go.”

Allura flashed Vurii a smile and headed out the door with Scout. Vurii just shook her head and watched them leave.

*************


Later in the Adventurer Collective.........


A very exhausted adventurer stumbled through the door to the Collective. The common room was empty of members except for Vurii, who was behind the bar polishing glasses. She looked up as the door opened and immediately went to his aid. She called to the steam room for Finkle. Upon her arrival, Vurii said, “Go get the Guild Master.”

*************


After a couple hours of .....a.....mmmm.......aaaaa....well, Scout and Allura went down to eat in the common room of the inn. Allura asked, “So what was so 'strange' on your trip?”

“I was just walking down the street in Phak-Rur, when this old man came up to me and thanked me for helping him. Then he handed me this pouch.” said Scout.

“What's in it?” she asked.

“Open it.”

Allura opened the pouch and her eyes lit up. She poured the pouch full of gems onto her plate. When she was done counting, she looked at Scout and said, “There's forty two of them.”

Scout said, “Yea, I know. That really brings some meaning to life and everything.”

“Did he tell you what you did for him?”

He replied, “No, he just disappeared and I couldn't find him. There was something familiar about him though. I just can't put my finger on it. Maybe someday I'll figure it out.”

*************


Six of the King's soldiers stepped out of the Gate with weapons drawn ready to fight. They were followed by five Mages from the Grey Circle and the Arch Mage himself, each ready with spells to use at the first sign of trouble, and finally by another ten soldiers.

*************


The Guild Master and Vurii took the unknown adventurer to the back room before anyone could come in and see him. He paused at the door and told Finkle, “You didn't see this man come in here.”

Finkle nodded and said, “I understand.” And they disappeared through the door.

As the door to the back rooms went shut, the front door opened and Ulric walked through. He looked around and asked Finkle, “Where is everyone?”

She replied, “Vurii is busy in the back and I'm here. As for anybody else, who knows. It's been quiet all day.”

“Do you think maybe I can get a drink?” he asked.

“What do I look like, a bar tender?” she snapped. “Help yourself.”

As Ulric headed to the bar, he thought to himself, 'No you look like a........ Never mind.'

As he reached for a bottle, the door to the back room opened and Vurii said, “Touch that bottle and it will be the last thing you pick up with that hand!”

Ulric quickly pulled his hand back and replied, “Finkle told me to help myself.”

“What does she look like, a bar tender?” snapped Vurii.

No longer thirsty, Ulric just shook his head and headed for the door.

In a not so friendly tone, Vurii asked, “Do you want a drink or not?”

Ulric simply said, “Not anymore.” and walked out the door.

When the door was shut, Ulric exclaimed to the world, “Women!”

Back inside, Vurii looked at Finkle and together they said, “Men!”

*************

[scout1idf]

Scout and Allura had just finished eating when Ulric walked in.

Scout looked at Allura and said, “Oh god, not tonight!”

She gave him a strange look and said, “What do you mean?”

Scout just pointed towards the door. She simply said, “Oh.”

Unseen by Scout, Allura made a couple gestures with her hands under the table and spoke some words under her breath. Ulric walked past them like he never saw them.

“He must have something pretty important on his mind to just ignore us like that.” said Scout.

She replied, “Lucky for us.” Then took his hands in hers to get his attention back where it belonged.

After Ulric had left the inn again, one of the bar maids came over to clear their table when she suddenly screamed, dropped her tray and ran to the kitchen. Scout looked at Allua and asked, “What got into her?”

With a big smile she said, “Who knows, I guess they don't hire the kind of girls that the Adventurer Collective does. Lets go somewhere else.”

What Scout didn't know was that their table had been 'empty' when the girl headed for it. They just appeared out of thin air.

*************


“How are you feeling?” the Guild Master asked the adventurer.

“Where am I?”

“You are in the Adventurers Collective in Trithik. Don't you remember coming in here earlier?” he asked.

“No, my memory is kinda........ fuzzy.”

The Guild Master asked, “What's your name?”

He replied, “My name? It's....... it's....... aaaa........ I'm not sure.”

“That's ok. Just rest for now, I'm sure it'll come back to you.”

As the adventurer fell back to sleep, the Guild Master walked over to the mirror hanging on the wall. In a whispering voice he said, “The spells seem to be working. He doesn't remember anything.”

His “reflection” in the mirror nodded to him even though he never made a move.
*************


As the Mages began casting their Divinations, three Shadow Paths opened. Through them rushed many Onyxian Bone Warriors and Mages.

The battle that followed was short but brutal. In the end, the warriors were forced back into the Shadow Paths which were then closed by the remaining Mages.

Twelve of the sixteen soldiers lay dead along with two of the Mages. There were at least 60 Onyxian Bone Warriors and Mages scattered around, most destroyed by a massive fire ball conjured by the Arch Mage himself.

The Arch Mage told the captain of the guard, “Collect your men and the dead. We will head back and report our findings.” after a short pause he continued, “I don't think there was a problem with our magic, I think it was simply a trap.”

When the group was gathered, the remaining Mages opened a gate and they all disappeared through it.

*************


Ulric found himself at the Gnarled Otter Alehouse. He knew the ale was bitter and over priced here, but he needed to get away for a while.

He sat at a table in the corner and just watched the crowd. It didn't take to long and a fight broke out. He debated if he should jump in and break it up, jump in for some fun or just watch.

He was about to jump in, not sure yet what his plan was, when the watch came in and started hauling the fighters away. He thought to himself, 'I'm glad I waited. I would have hated to have Scout come and get me out of jail.' He thought for a moment and said aloud, “Oh no, now I'm starting to sound like him.”

That simple statement caught the attention of a pretty bar maid. She asked, “Who are you sounding like, and can I get you a drink?”

“No one, just my brother and yes, I'll have another ale.”

She flashed him a smile and went for the drink. When she returned he asked, “If you have a break coming, would you like to join me?”

She blushed and said, “I do and I would.”

A flash of terror went through Ulric's mind when he heard those words “I DO”, but it faded quick enough.

*************


Scout and Allura decided the only way to avoid Ulric, and anyone else, was to leave the city. So Scout, Allura and Recon headed out for the day. As he was putting on Recon's saddle, Allura prepared a spell that would make them 'unnoticed' by anybody or anything.

*************


A gate opened in the Guild Masters private chamber and the Arch Mage stepped through. He approached the Guild Master and said, “We were attacked while checking on the problem up North. I believe that the whole episode with the house was just a trap to see if we could be defeated easily.”

He asked, “How did you and your men fair in the fight?”

“We beat them back, but we lost two thirds of our forces in the process. I'm sure that they would have kept coming if it wasn't just a test.” replied the Mage.

The Guild Master said, “I think it's time to recruit some adventurer's to help us. I know that some of them are far superior in fighting this type of threat than even the Kings guard.”

“I agree, but I don't think we should do it quite yet.” replied the Mage. He continued, “Shall I inform the King or will you?”

“Let me take care of that.”

*************


The barmaid took the seat across the table from Ulric. As she sat down she said, “My name is Arabel. Yours is Ulric isn't it?”

He replied, “Yes... it is, how did you know?”

With a embarrassed look she said, “I asked someone after I saw you come in.”

The two had sat and talked for quite a while when the bar's owner came to the table and in an angry tone asked Arabel, “Are you going to do some work today or what?”

She started, “Oh my, is my break.......”

The bar's owner finished, “It's been over for quite a while now. I suggest........”

Ulric spoke up and said, “I'm sorry. It's my fault that she's been neglecting her duties. I asked her to join me.”

Ulric grabbed his money pouch and paid for his drinks. In the process, the owner caught sight of his weaponry and decided he better calm his attitude down.

Now in calmer tones, the owner said, “Well, I guess there's no real harm. It's not like we're over busy.” Addressing Arabel he continued, “You just go on keeping company with this young man. Not to worry.” and he headed back to the bar.

Arabel looked at Ulric and said, “I've never seen him act like that. I wonder what got into him?”

“I don't know, but in my experience, I've found that you need to enjoy it while you can because it probably won't last long.”

*************


“I'm feeling much better now, especially since I remember my name.” said the adventurer. “If you'll show me the way out, I'll be going now.”

The Guild Master gave Vurii a nod and said, “She will show you to the door. First, I think you should have something to eat. My treat.”

“That's kind of you.” replied Devin.

Vurii escourted Devin to the bar and gave him the menu to the kitchen.

Devin started to make a comment then simply said, “I'll just have some Palo, thank you.”

*************


After spending most of the afternoon and evening in the Gnarled Otter with Arabel, Ulric prepared to leave. He asked, “May I escort you home?”

“I would like that, I'll get my things.” she replied.

When Arabel went to the back room to get her personal things, the owner stopped her and said, “You be careful. That one carries magical weapons.”

“So that's why you started to be nice to me earlier.” she replied. “I don't think I have to worry about Ulric. Besides, I can take care of myself.”

*************


Devin headed out of the city after leaving the Adventurer Collective. He still didn't know what he was doing in Trithik. All that he could think about was getting back to his home.

Shortly after passing through the city gate, he was met by Scout and Allura. Scout waved to Devin and said, “Well met friend. Where are you heading?”

Devin just kept walking without so much as a nod.

Scout said to Allura, “That's a real friendly type.”

She just nodded and replied, “Might have something on his mind. Next time you see him, he'll probably turn out to be friendly.”

Allura then dispelled the magic that she forgot about.

*************


After tending to Recon, the couple headed for the inn. About a block away, they met Ulric and Arabel at a corner.

Under his breath Scout said, “We almost made it.” That statement got him an elbow in the ribs.

“Hello Ulric.” said Scout. “And who do we have here?”

Ulric introduced everyone and the two couples headed down the street together.

*************

[scout1idf]

Up in Phak-Rur, an old man was haunted by dreams of torture. He couldn't quite remember his dreams upon awakening, but he had a feeling that it was once real. All he could remember for sure was the face of his savior's.

A Shadow Path opened inside the small house and the dream ended when the nightmare began anew.

This time though, it would be different. A bubble formed around the Bone Warrior as it emerged from the Path, trapping it. The Shadow Path closed and the bubble and warrior disappeared.

The old man just sat there in his bed, frozen in fear. A short time later, a Mage stepped into the room and the old man slipped into a deep sleep.


*************


When the two couples reached the inn, Ulric said, “I'll talk to you two later. I'm going to walk Arabel home.”

She said, “I am home. I live in the inn across the street.”

Scout and Allura smiled and said, “Good night.” and went in.

Surprised, Ulric asked, “How long have you..... Why haven't I seen.....”

“Not long. I've seen you a time or two though.” she replied. “Would you like to come in? Maybe we could talk some more.”

Ulric just nodded dumbly and they headed across the street with Arabel on his arm.

*************


Somewhere in Tysa.........

“Is he resting comfortably?” asked the Guild Master.

“Yes, but I think we should keep him here and asleep for several months. The shock to his system nearly killed him.” replied the Mage.

“I didn't want to use him for bait like that, but it was the only way.”

*************


In a chamber deep in the ground, a group of Mages are interrogating the Onyxian Bone Warrior they captured.

“The only hope we have of getting their plans is if this warrior knows what they are. I don't think we could use the same trap again.”

*************



The Mystery Continues..............

[texlaw1992]

Great so far - I look forward to the rest.

[scout1idf]

Great so far - I look forward to the rest.

Thanks.

Actually I posted the first part February 2, 2009 and the continuation March 2, 2009 and hadn't given the next part a thought since.

I kinda fell into a writing slump and haven't climbed out of the hole yet......