[Roleplay 101] I: Creating an RP Character!

  And we've finally come to my favorite subject in MMO's. Roleplay! RPing in an MMORPG can be incredibly fun and rewarding, but it can also be somewhat intimidating and frustrating. Rift is the first, and so far only, game I've ever RP'ed online with. I have done D&D tabletop games, and forum RP, but I have to say, when I first dived into RP for the first time, it was so fun and addicting. Some of my fondest memories involving Rift were during an RP "session". And of course, the first thing that always comes to mind when one wants to start RPing is....how to create my character. I mean sure, we all know the character creation process right? You log in, you pick your faction, you choose your race, and then you get down to the exacting process of choosing the perfect RP name for your beloved new internet identity. That's all easy (relatively of course....some people, like me, can spend hours at the creation window lol) but then there's an extra step if you RP. You need to give your character "life". You need to give them a goal, a purpose. A story, a life. And that's what this little class on Roleplay 101 is all about! Let's get started!

     The first thing you are going to want to do when you create a new character for Roleplay purposes is to make a backstory. A lot of players already have some ideas broiling around in their mind as they think up names, hair color, etc. in the creation screen, but if you're stuck, or you want a handy method to creating multiple character stories, here is a good way to begin:
     Grab a pad of lined paper and start jotting down anything that comes to mind that surrounds your character or how they will interact in the game. Keep it simple and broad at first, and then add more details, characterizations, and research later as desired. Don't forget these details and information and keep them in a safe, easy to access location while you RP. That way you can keep your character IC (In Character) and not be afraid of doing something that goes against what your character believes in or stands for. Make sure you leave plenty of room for growth. Your character isn't just a stagnant flat, 2-dimensional drawing you'll keep in the same condition. As they travel through the game, meet other characters, and learn and gain experience, they will change, sometimes for the better, sometimes worst. Don't force your character into a specific role or "storyline". Let the story flow as your character grows in level. Something to remember though, is that your characters in game level has no bearing on your character's age, maturity, RP fighting style and experience, and involvement with others. A lvl 1 Rogue is just as capable of taking on a lvl 50 Mage Roleplay wise. Physical level does not equal strength or ability RP wise. Of course, there are some instances where it would be easier to appeal to each respectful character's level when settling a dispute, or referring to something specific, but try not to offend others by playing yourself off as an overpowered lvl 65 Warrior who's killed all the Blood Storm and can defeat any enemy. That would become boring after a while, right? Here's a list of some basic questions you can ask yourself about your character to get you started:

1. Where was your character born or raised?
2. Who were/are your family or guardian?
3. What major events were you witness to, if any?
4. What has your character done in the recent past?
5. What does your character "do" for a living?
6. How would your character explain their job to a stranger?
7. What is his/her mental/emotional/physical state of being?
8. What is your character's morals or values?
9. What is your character's world view, political view, and beliefs?
10. What quirks, merits, flaws, or character traits, does your character possess?
11. What does your character like/dislike and love/hate?
12. What is your character's short term and long term goals?
13. What motivates or drives your character?
14. How "social" and friendly is your character?
15. How would you like your character to be remembered?
16. Does your character have an accent? Affectation?
17. Does your character use common expressions or repeated words?

Character Backstory Tips:

1. Use in game lore, found on Trion's website, or on their wiki, or in fact in my blog!, to help with details
2. Learn the different races and factions
3. Keep your "brushes with fame" to a low profile. No one likes a bragger. (Unless your character is RP'd as that kind of character! Then by all means, brag away!)
4. Forge your own path, don't copy someone else's.
5. Keep it simple.
6. Not everything you think of will fit your character.
7. If you don't know something that could be important, ask another player in private for clarification.
8. Remember, even regular folks can be great heroes if the opportunity arises.

Tips on Starting out:

1. Know the game's lore.
2. You can sometimes bend lore, but try not to break it.
3. Know the terms/abbreviations related to RP.
4. Don't be shy, join in! Make friends. Say something to the player next to you and see if they will strike up a conversation.
5. Be active on your server. Participate in group RP, initiate RP sessions, interact with low lvl players, avoid being caustic or needlessly rude in the general channels.
6. You can RP at any level!
7. Use your emotes.
8. Don't spam or use terrible grammar simply because you want to or are too lazy to type out a full sentence. Nothing breaks the immersion of a scene faster than someone saying "Sup guyz, whatcha up to?"
9. Dress the part.
10. Be consistent while in character. Don't say you hate cats one day, and show up with a cat companion pet that you care for deeply the next.
11. Don't be afraid to grow or evolve your character as you gain experience and confidence in the story and the world of Telara. Of course your character is going to change over time. Grow wiser, more mature, faster, stronger, more respectful or gentle.
12. Allow for mistakes. Be patient and kind to others, be aware of the maturity and level of RP experience that others have. Not everyone is a pro, and not everyone has RP'ed before.

     And now, let's dive into the nitty gritty. Actually creating the character. Following is a pretty big, in-depth discussion on character creation, backstory, and all kinds of other fun details that may or may not relate to your character. Keep this information close and try not to forget it as you RP. It will definitely help if you can refer to your character creation chart when interacting in game with others. When I actively RP in Rift (I haven't done guild or group RP for a while) I would join or help create a guild or group page online, with a forum. In one of the sections of the forum was a discussion specifically made for character creation. Each RP'er could then write down everything about their character for their own benefit as well as for their guildmates and friends. It makes for an easy, all access references sheet for yourself and your friends so you don't get confused as to who you've met before and who your character is friends, allies, or enemies with IC wise. Or of course, you could do what I am doing here. Create a blog, Facebook page, journal, etc., specifically for your RP character(s). Whichever works! Here is an in-depth detailed list of anything and everything you could add to your character profile to help bring your character to life. Have fun with it, and remember, not everything needs to apply!

• Personality:
• Fears/phobias
• Sexuality
• Motivation
• Achievement, discovery, invention, understanding, revenge, fame
• Core Traits
• Bold, impulsive, secretive, seductive, cynical
• Religion/spirituality
• Habits
• Likes/dislikes
• Love/hate
• Long term and short term goals
• Outlook on life
• Optimistic: idealistic, confident, trusting, hopeful
•  pessimistic: cynical, distrustful, resigned
•  despondent: depressed, sad, emotive, mopey
• Religious tolerance: How you view other religions, both your own and others
• Occupation
• What you do for a living (what earns your bread, a roof over your head, or a place in the city? Are you or were you a farmer or tradeskill crafter before your death, or are you planning on taking it up now?)
• What tradeskills do you know, or want to learn?
• Guild
• Rank
• Association
• Status
• Factions (If your guild RP's, they usually have a system or hierarchy for each gameplay rank as well as a backstory. You can ask the guild leader for any of this information!)
• Strange habits/practices
• How you greet the day/night
• Fighting style
• Specific word choice
• Odd behaviors
• Descriptive words related to your character
• Conscientious
• Spontaneous
• Cautious
• Flexible
• Warm
• Agreeable
• Reserved
• Flirtatious
• Narrow-minded
• Habits
• Humming
• Dancing
• Sleepwalking
• Facial twitch
• Fingernail biter
• Compulsive liar
• Whistling
• Forgetful
• Mumbling
• Coin flipping
• Collector
• Stuttering
• Sleep talker
• Daydreamer
• Hobbies (things you do in your spare time, or tasks that are fun)
• Astrology
• Music
• Sailing/swimming
• Brewing
• Calligraphy
• Caving
• Gardening
• Cooking
• Dancing
• Embroidering
• Falconry
• Fortune-telling
• Gambling
• What does she/he like to talk about?
• Mental or emotional disorders
• Addictions
• Amnesia
• Bi-Polar (haha, I can see that one applying to an Ascended...)
• Depression
• Hypochondriac (I can just imagine a character seeking out every healer they can find to "cure" them of whatever disease or ailment they believe they have)
• OCD
• Does your character have a curse or a divine punishment put upon them?
• Strange maladies
• Curses given by a god, other character, or a magical artifact
• Punishment for a past deed. Penance can include helping low lvl players, giving away a certain amount of your gold every day, performing a specific ritual every day, or going on an epic quest to redeem yourself in someone's eyes.
• Why is your character the way they are?
• Childhood trauma?
• Lost or gained friendship that shaped your future?
• Upbringing?
• Choices in their "teen" years?
• Past significant events
• Adventure
• Quests, personal or otherwise
• Exploration
• Aiding of a friend
• Learning a new hobby or skill
• Family
• What did your family do to earn a living?
• Reputation (yours with your family, and your family's reputation with their hometown or city)
• Legends, myths, curses, stories told about family members, ancestors, or estranged uncles
• Extended family details
• Birthplace
• Size, name, location
• Geography, weather, government
• Significant events that happened there, or nearby?
• Why did you leave?
• Crafting
• Craft: Something you can do or make
• Profession: How you earn a living in Telara
• How does your craft or profession impact your character's past/future?
• What level of craft/profession have you achieved so far?
• Do you have any goals for your craft/profession?
• Where did you train? Who trained you?
• Being a journeyman can require a contract. Are you contracted or apprenticed to someone? What are the details to this contract?
• Are you part of a profession's guild? (This can be your actual guild, or a made up guild that your character is licensed to and must perform weekly tasks or such for)
• Do you own a business or shop?
• Family professions?
• Are you successful at what you do?
• Are you a:
• Travelling philosopher
• Adventuring storyteller
• Spy
• Significant events-the reason you are who you are today
• Family related:
• Dark secrets
• Unusual problems
• Illness
• Slavery
• Fortune (both gained and lost)
• Traditions, holidays, celebrations
• Love interests
• Children/lovers
• Personal events
• Sick/injured
• Education
• Betrayal
• Find a magic artifact
• Poor/rich
• Crimes? Falsely accused?
• Talent(s)
• Cult/church/sect/order
• Embarrassing stories
• Notable individuals in your life
• Friendships
• Enemies
• Superiors
• People you respect
• Other motivations
• Success, overcoming obstacles
• Obtain wealth, possessions
• Bring harmony, balance, and peace where you can
• Protect the helpless, healing
• Disrupt, cause chaos, upset the rule
• Creation, to build, culture, invention, design
• Destruction, bring ruin
• Discover, explore, uncover mysteries, adventure, learn
• To teach, provide wisdom, knowledge
• Nobility, perpetrate noble ideals
• To create order and organization
• Have fun, enjoy life
• Control, power, leadership
• Recognition, status, approval, fame
• Seek understanding, wisdom, knowledge
• Emotional Disposition:
• Joyful
• Anxious
• Melancholy
• Curious
• Calm
• Angry
• Contemptuous
• Excited
• Apathetic
• Ashamed
• Existing conflicts
• Who is it with?
• Why do you have a conflict?
• Why can't it be worked out, or can it?
• How will it end?
• What emotions do you have for it?
• Why do you adventure?
• What caused you to take up arms and travel the world?
• As a Cleric, did your god/deity/ancestor call upon you to right a wrong?
• Have you set out to accomplish something?
• Are you looking for something?
• Do you have a family land or home you have to come back to or tend to?
• What do you bring with you on your adventures?

There are four important things to keep in mind when creating the backstory or history for your character:

• Conflicts
• Challenges/hurdles
• Mystery/lost knowledge
• Passions

     And here is the exact template that I always follow when creating a new character. I grab a bunch of sheets of paper and list all these things, then using references to in game lore, and what I want my character to be, I fill in the information. Like a personal contact card or application. It's actually pretty fun creating an RP character! Go ahead and use this for your own character! The credit for creating such a detailed list does not belong to me. All references to information will be at the bottom of the post! It may seem a bit overwhelming at first, but don't worry. Many of these things will come to you as you begin playing your character! Fill out what you can or want, and you can write in the blanks as you go. Or if your big into research and thinking things out (I think about stuff waaaaay too much!!) you can write out the entire list before you start, and have everything ready. Of course, even if you've written a certain thing, you may find that your character seems to take on a life of its own and goes in a totally different direction. That's ok too!

Character Creation Template

Full Name:

Ascended Name:

Nicknames:

Titles:

Realm:

Faction:

Race:

Gender:

Age:

Height:

Weight:

Skin Color:

Eye Color:

Hair Color:

Markings:

Place of Birth:

Date of Birth:

Date of Death (Ascended are reborn mortals remember):

Cause of Death:

Reason for Ascension:

Calling:

Your 3 Main RP Souls:

Pets:

Alignment:

Motivations:

Outlook:

Fears/phobias:

Spiritual Direction/Religion:

Goals:

     Long Term:

    Short Term:

Relatives:

    Immediate (parents, siblings):

    Extended (aunts, uncles, grandparents, half siblings):

Family Traditions:

Family Legends/curses:

Family Trade/Business:

Dark Secrets:

Relationships:

Sexual Orientation:

Enemies:

Allies:

Guild:

    Rank:

Opposite Faction Attitude:

Superiors/Teachers:

Acquaintances:

Rivals:

Crafting Skills/Hobbies:

Professions (default of 3 in Rift):

Positive Personality Traits:

Negative Personality Traits:

Odd Quirks/Habits:

Conversation Favorites:

Addictions:

Likes:

Dislikes:

Personal Possessions:

Fashion:

Armor:

Weapons:

Physical Description:

Notable Accomplishments:

Favorite Foods:

Favorite Drinks:

Favorite Color(s):

Most admired Notable Character (Favorite NPC that you look up to):

Theme Song:

Background Story:

 

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     Well that about sums up the first part of my Roleplay guide. Obviously I'm not an expert at it, nor do I claim to be. I just decided I'd write down some helpful things that may give others the kind of boost that it gave me when I looked for information on RP and how to go about it in MMO's. There isn't a lot of RP info out there that is specific to Rift, but as long as you keep an open mind and remember that Rift has some different rules and canon, you should be ok! As a last note, here's a few tips to help you get started:

• IC (In Character)-what your character is doing/saying
• OOC (Out of Character)-what you the player is doing/saying. If you wish or need to speak to the other players that doesn't have anything to do with the story, characters, or RP situation, it is respectful and less confusing to either whisper the individual, or type 2 ((brackets like this)) around the words. That signifies to everyone involved that you the player has something to say, and shouldn't be taken as part of the RP session.
• OC (Original Character)-A character you created that has no bearing on the actual lore or story. In an MMO, this of course is every character you create, whereas if it were a story you were reading, an OC would be someone that has never existed before and you just made them up, as opposed to say, Asha Catari, who is part of Rift's lore.
• Canon-Follows the lore and story of the game (ex: It's canon that Defiant went back in time to try to avert the end of the world)
• Type /e and whatever you wish to do in order to create an action. (ex: If you want your character to reach over and pick up a glass of wine type "/e reaches across the counter and delicately picks up the wine glass." Adding descriptive words to your emoting helps convey how your character is thinking. You can even add words to your emoting. /e considers a moment, before replying, "ok, let's go investigate the cave.")
• Don't forget to introduce yourself when meeting new characters. Remember, your character is NOT you, and can't magically see a name floating above a head, so they have to get to know others the old fashioned way, just like in real life.
• Don't randomly dash off in the middle of an RP session or chat just so you can kill a mob that was wandering nearby, or craft something, or turn in a quest. It's not respectful to just leave someone hanging. Additionally, if you must take off for some reason, both your physical self, or your character, don't forget to let your comrades know, both IC and OOC if possible.
• Thank the people you RP with when you are done.

 

 

 

 

References: Most of this information can be found on any number of online D&D sites, or by googling Roleplay. There are tons of guides, tutorials, and starter kits waiting for you if you seek them out. RP can be a fun and interesting way to spend your online time! The template was borrowed from the Rift forums, which was borrowed from rpg.ashami.com and www.raven-mythic.com and I give plenty of thanks and kudos for creating such awesome guides! All information relating to Trion and Rift belong to them, and I'm just playing in their sandbox. If you have questions, feel free to message me, or comment on this post! 

[Raeslyn's Story] 3.6: The Light in the Gloom

     Laenaya Niro at Gnarlwood Post helpfully pointed me in the direction of Gloamwood's spirit altar and I quickly made my way over to where it nested at the base of a rather frightening looking tree. The idea of praying at an altar comforted me though, despite its surroundings. Reminds me of my experiences in Silverwood, of which I'm beginning to look back fondly on, ironically. It actually occurs to me that I've not felt or seen any presence of the Vigil since entering this dark wood. A very grim thought. It seems even the holy light of the gods has trouble growing here. All the more reason to put a stop to whatever rot is eating away at the wood.

    Aware that just across the main road through the wood, the Waykeepers at Gnarlwood were no doubt trying to spy on me through the twisted undergrowth, I reverently knelt down by the simple wooden altar. It had obviously seen better days. The wood was old and cracked, and long grasses and weeds had grown up around it, not to mention that disturbing, petrified treant towering over the clearing. I half expected the thing to come to life and attack me. I could feel a faint pulse of...something, emanating from the altar, which gave me hope that there was some light still left in the wood. Hesitantly, I reached out and placed my hand on the rough surface. Instantly, a green light seemed to pulse outward from the point where my palm made contact with the wood. I resisted the urge to jerk my arm back, praying to the gods I wouldn't lose some fingers to some twisted dark curse. The green magic swirled outward from the altar and danced in the air before my eyes. Slowly, it took on the shape of a feminine form. I blinked, somewhat surprised. I don't know what I was expecting, but a woman was certainly not it.

     "Greetings....lady of the forest." I said, bowing my head in respect. The sheer purity and light that came from the being caused my eyes to water. She turned beautiful glowing eyes to my kneeling form and her smile was like the radiance of the sun. Normally I'm not one for waxing pretty words, but I was stunned by the strength of life magic coming off her form.

     The woman smiled at me. "Greetings, young rogue." She said, and her voice had a strange echo, like many voices were speaking at the same time. It kind of reminded me of the Messengers of the Vigil. I shifted nervously and relieved a cramp in my leg muscles. "My name is Laria." The woman continued. "I am the Spirit of the Woods. How may I aid you?" Aha, finally, I could get some answers!

     "There is a darkness in Gloamwood, that I can't seem to be rid of. I need to find the source of it. Where the evil is coming from, before Gloamwood can be cleansed." I flexed my palm, but kept it flat on the altar. I had a feeling it was my contact with the sacred wood that allowed me to see Laria.

     The glowing woman nodded wisely, as if she expected my words. And who knows, maybe she did? "The memories of this forest are as old as any language, rogue. Neither axe nor fire can tame these ancient woods. Those who die in the wars waged here are reborn among her roots." She paused and gazed at me and I suppressed the urge to say something glib. A history lesson was all well and interesting, but I'd been given a task by the Guardians and I needed to solve this mystery.
     "I have been so weak, drained, since the Rifts tore through these woods. It is a great strain to reach out and feel her roots. I perceive so many things; despair of death and joy of life. I remember the Death Rift-servants of Regulos poured forth, killing man, treant, and goblin alike! We were defeated so effortlessly. I failed to protect myself or anyone else from destruction!" To my mortification, Laria began to weep. I shifted. I've never been very comfortable with emotions. What was I supposed to do to comfort a crying spirit? And her information....a Death Rift? Obviously it was a specific one, something happened there. I just know that's the key to this. It happened to so long ago though, I wonder if there's anyone left alive who would remember the events that happened. Except for Laria, who I was beginning to despair of ever giving me any useful intel.
     "I am unable to help you further." Laria finished softly, looking sad and forlorn suddenly. I barely resisted the urge to let out a frustrated curse. "My power is limited. But here, take this locket." She reached out an ethereal hand and dropped a locked onto the altar. When it hit the wood, the locket became tangible. I studied it curiously. It was old, the silver pitted and dull. I raised an eyebrow at Laria.
     "Inside is the essense of a special magical plant called Amorian Root, just enough to help you continue your hunt for answers in the past." She gently reached out and rested her hand on my shoulder and I shivered at the touch. Way strange.

     "Thank you, Laria, Spirit of the Wood." I said formally, and bowed my head to her. "Hopefully I'll be able to stop this evil from spreading and lift its stranglehold on Gloamwood. Laria nodded sadly at me and slowly faded from view. I lifted my hand off the altar and the green mist sank back into the altar. I rubbed my hand, even though it didn't hurt. I just hoped there wasn't any secondary effects from being in close contact with that much magic. Well, nothing for it then, it's time to head back to that creepy Apothecary guy. He seems to be the one with the most information on what's going on around here. Not to mention the only one who is actually cooperating with me. The citizens of Gloamwood are definitely under the effects of the evil aura in the woods.

    Tiredly, I trudged back to town, killing any random goblins that happened to get too near the longroad. No sense borrowing more trouble with those pesky creatures preying on innocent travelers. Not that I've seen very many travelers in the wood. Or any for that matter. No wonder everyone was so suspicious of me. When I walked back into town, everyone stopped their work and stared silently at me. This felt different from the judgemental, resentful glares I'd gotten when I'd first arrived. This time, I could literally feel their curiosity and grudging admiration. Apparently all the hard work I've been doing here has finally been noticed and appreciated. Finally. I've yet to see a town give such a lackluster greeting to an Ascended as Gloamwood Pines. As I sauntered into the town square, the sheriff caught my eye and beckoned me over and I heaved a heavy sigh. Now what? Right now I needed to find out what was going in Gloamwood. And to do that, I needed to speak to...whatever his name was, the Apothecary. So I had a bad memory for names.

     "Ascended. I would like a word." The sheriff said as I got closer. Well that much was obvious when she called me over, I thought sarcastically to myself, but merely nodded at her. She hitched her weapon higher on her shoulder, and glanced around, before wiping absently at her mouth. She looked like she swallowed something sour. Oh, this should be good.

     "Ascended. It has come to my attention....of certain activities you've been engaged in lately. I...we'd like to thank you for clearing out the highway of the spider infestation. As well as your eradication of the goblin problem that has been plaguing the Waykeepers. And I commend you on your efforts to lift our curse. As hopeless as it may be." I quirked an eyebrow. Just full of optimism and thankfulness, aren't they?

     "It was no problem. Just performing my duty as a member of the Guardians. It's our job to keep the land free of riftspawn and other evils." I said evenly, making an effort to sound sincere. Now that I've finally gotten some recognition, I didn't want to antagonize them. I made to walk past the woman, and she held out a large hand.

     "Wait. The mayor would like to speak to you, Ascended. Furtho Dragomir has heard about your success and would like to commend you personally." She wrinkled her nose, and I wondered if it was at the idea of my being honored by the mayor, or if it was the mayor himself that bothered her. I almost asked, but it wasn't worth the effort. There were so many secrets and strange happenings in this town. I was heartily sick of it and couldn't wait to finish my task and return to Sanctum for some much needed sunbathing. I could almost smell the floral scents of Silverwood's lilacs as I lounged by one of its many streams, stretched out on a soft blanket with a cup of iced watermelon juice. Oh, the sheriff was giving me one of those looks....I smiled blankly and nodded.

     "Thank you. I guess I'll go see him now then. Uh, where can I find Mister ....Dragonmire?" I'm pretty sure that wasn't his name, but it was hardly like I had to become his best friend. The sheriff looked disgruntled, but gave me directions to the mayor's office, which of course was at the top of the tallest tree in the Pines. In fact, standing at the base of it and staring upward, I could stay its the tallest tree I've seen. Ever. And that's saying something. It was huge. And not just tall, but in girth as well. Fifteen men easy could link arms and wouldn't even reach around the whole thing. I wasn't that impressed by the mayor though, to make himself at home towering above everyone else in the town. Oh well, wasn't my business. Apparently the only way to the mayor was a winding, fancy ropebridge/staircase that wound around the outside of the tree in a dizzying spiral. I took a deep breath. Don't look down, I reminded myself. I'd...probably...survive a fall from the tree, but I'd rather not add that to my list of Ascended deaths, thank you very much. It wasn't that I was scared of heights per se.....it just made me very nervous to be so very high up off the ground. It felt unnatural. Okay I'll admit it, I was scared of heights. Halfway up, I made the unfortunate mistake of glancing over the edge. My legs went all rubbery and I felt myself suddenly start to sweat. I latched onto the railing with clammy fingers until the feeling of vertigo passed, hoping that no one noticed the mighty immortal Ascended having a panic attack. Not good for the image. After several deep, fortifying breaths to get my heartbeat under control, I slowly began inching my way up the staircase again. By the time I reached the end of the stairs, I was feeling very hateful.

     "Ah, the Ascended is here!" Exclaimed what was no doubt one of the mayor's bodyguards. A big muscled Mathosian stood outside a beautifully carved red door in the side of the tree. I gave him the frostiest glare I could manage while feeling queasy. The deck that the stairway opened up onto was fairly large and solidly built, snug against the bark of the tree. There were expansive, elaborate railings and several hand-carved tables. Which was all well and good, but I knew I was way too high up and feeling more anxious by the minute. Determined to not look around and notice just how high up we actually were, I brushed past the guard without a word and entered the mayor's office. The light was fairly dim inside, and my eyes adjusted easily. I blinked a few times, instantly feeling better now that the height wasn't so obvious. Out of sight, out of mind, I chanted to myself. The rooms inside were surprisingly spacious and tastefully decorated with earthy tones. A wide desk was against one wall, where a swarthy man dressed in fancy garb was scribbling away on parchment. He glanced up when I walked in, and beamed at me.

     "Raeslyn?" He asked, canting his head to the side. It reminded me of a dog. Feeling determined to not like him, I gave a grudging nod. He smiled, pleased, and neatly set his feather quill on the desk before moving around it, hand outstretched.

     "Welcome to our fair town!" He exclaimed. I eyed his hand for several long moments, before giving it a quick shake and backing up a few paces. He frowned at me slightly, but went on, turning to pace as he talked. "So, you are the legendary rogue Ascended I've been hearing about? I've already heard a hundred different accounts of how you foiled the goblin plot both in Silverwood and here in Gloamwood and even put a damper on the spider threat. But its not the means that are important, its the ends. With the goblins on the run, the people of Gloamwood can breathe easier." He paused in his pacing to give me an assessing glance. I shrugged.

     "Just doing my duty, sir." I said neutrally. The mayor nodded, as if I'd said what he wanted to hear.

      "Your deeds have been talked about in the town square all day, you know. It's just what this town needs. Something to look forward to. Something to give them hope! They need to take their mind off the stress and despair that seems to cover everything." I almost said 'So you noticed that huh?' but held my tongue. Remember Rae, be a good representative of the Guardians. Except actually...maybe if I was so nasty and unapproachable, the Guardians would stop electing me for their missions. I'm sure there were other, more eager Ascended that could go save the world. Which doesn't sound like something that a follower of the Vigil would say, but I'd been raised to protect my Silverwood, to the exclusion of all else, and I wouldn't mind being stationed closer to home, in a more permanent setting. Something to look into, at least. Belatedly, I realized I'd tuned the mayor out, and dread filled me as I registered what he'd just said.

     "--calls for a celebration, friend! It's been too long since we had cause to celebrate. It will do the people good to see you up there, with our town symbol." I blinked, bug eyed. Say what? The mayor smiled benignly on me, and I growled. No way. I wasn't some figurehead he could wave around and proclaim to all as if it was by his hand that I was here. Dragomir twisted toward his desk and grabbed something off it. He walked toward me and held out the item expectantly. I stared at his hand. He shook his hand mildly in a 'take it' gesture, and soft tinkling filled the air. How odd, a bell. I gazed coolly at the mayor's face, until his smile fell slightly and he looked perplexed. By the gods, why me? I reached out and snatched the small bell before he could say anything else.

     "What do you want me to do?" I asked, trying to keep my voice as civil as possible. I suppose I failed since the mayor was still frowning at me as if I'd kicked his puppy.

     "Well.....please Raeslyn, allow me to express the gratitude of all the citizens of Gloamwood Pines. Take the Gloam Bell-it's a symbol of our people. Ring it from the top of the balcony outside so that all of Gloamwood Pines knows that there are still heroes who will stand against the darkness." By the end of his little speech, the proud smile was back on his face and I sighed.

     "Uh huh." I walked outside and glanced around. The guard beside the door waved at me. I cut him an annoyed glance and rolled my shoulders to shake loose some tension. The little bell gave a sharp jangle and the guard gazed at my hand with an awe filled glance as if I held one of the holy artifacts of the Vigil instead of a beat up old bell. "So, where should I stand and ring this?" I asked since he was staring. The man instantly pointed straight ahead. Ah, of course. At the very edge of the deck there was a raised platform. Reluctantly I walked over to it, and cringed. If I stood on that thing, I'd see the entire town from here. That was not something I could handle without doing something embarrassing. Like fainting. Did Ascended faint? Carefully, ever so carefully, I turned around so my back was to the railing. I lifted up one foot and then the other and stood on the platform. The guard was giving me strange looks. I backed up a few paces, until I felt my back hit the railing, and I felt my heartrate increase. This was so on my list of places to never visit again. Ever. With shaky fingers, I raised up the stupid bell and gave it a good hearty shake. I don't know what I was expecting, but the sudden loud chilling sound almost gave me a heart attack. The bell was impossibly loud for something so tiny and seemed to echo in every nook and cranny of the town, reverberating back at me for several long minutes. It didn't sound cheerful or celebratory at all. In fact, it sounded like a death knell. The hairs on my neck prickled. I stood still for several more moments, before striding forward and tossing the bell underhand at the guard, who frantically fumbled forward to catch it.

     I descended the tree stairs so fast it felt like flying. To my utter dismay, a whole throng of townsfolk had gathered at the foot of the tree. The second they saw me, they burst into cheers and clapping. Great. The Sheriff and Marshal Oakheart stood in the fore clapping along with the rest. I walked up to them and nodded.

     "We suffered heavy loss to the goblin hoards and the spiders. You have our eternal thanks Ascended. The mayor has instructed me to let you choose from our armory whatever weapon or armor you desire." Sheriff Cosmin squared her shoulders. "Whenever you wish, I can take you there and you can choose your reward." Somehow, the way she said it sounded ominous.

     "My thanks, sheriff." I replied. Marshal Oakheart strode forward and for a moment I thought he was going to want to shake my hand. But he just clenched his fist instead.

     "Ascended. I would ask for your aid." I quirked a brow. What now? "When one threat dies, another rises in its place." The Marshal spoke in a low, serious voice, and I leaned forward, interested despite myself. I admit to actually enjoying a good challenge. "Have you heard of the "Beast" in the wood? The townsfolk are reluctant to speak of it, but something is attacking and carrying off people. Furtho called in a hunter, but he's having trouble with this one. I'm sure Drusk will appreciate your aid." I blinked. Furtho? I guess that must be the mayor. I'm assuming Drusk is the hunter he hired....but wait, attacking and carrying people off???? And I'm just hearing about this now? By the Vigil, the people of Gloamwood have some serious communication issues. As he spoke, the sheriff kept the locals from getting too close and hearing about this "Beast", whatever it was. Mustn't let the sheep panic after all.
     "Right. Disappearing townsfolk. Mysterious beast. I'll talk to this Drusk guy." I agreed. "First though, I need to give something to someone." As I'd listened to the marshal, my eyes had roved over the crowd and I'd spotted the Inn behind them, which reminded me about poor Janina Solemn and what I'd learned about her family. Nothing good. But I had to tell her. And I wanted to speak to Gwyddon Duskenleaf about Laria and what she meant about that Death Rift. It seemed that the problems in Gloamwood grew instead of diminished in the past few days. I sighed. Okay, first things first.

    I went with Sheriff Cosmin to the town's armory. Although armory was a bit strong of a word for their closet of cast off items of war. Digging around amongst the chaotic jumble, I came across a powerful amulet. It seemed to whisper of strong protective magic. While normally I shunned magic, I think that this amulet would be a perfect reward for me. If it did what my senses told me it would, I should have some protection now against magical attacks. Something I've always had trouble with. After I'd placed the amulet around my neck and tucked it into my tunic, I also snatched up a set of good quality vambraces. They said I could choose what I want. Well, I want both of these. I strode out of the armory feeling quite satisfied. Next on the list, talk to Gwyddon. I made my way to his shop, avoiding the overly inquisitive eyes of the townspeople who stopped and stared as I walked by. Yes, I'm an Ascended. Yes, I saved your puny town. Get over it.

     "This locket is given to protectors of the forest. It's very strong magic." Duskenleaf said gravely as he held the locket reverently in his hand. His eyes grew misty as he gazed at it. "My own was passed down through generations. It has served as a constant reminder to repay a debt...." He drifted off, staring into space, and I felt my mouth open, dozens of questions suddenly springing to mind. But I kept silent, hoping to hear more information. I've learned that the people of Gloamwood talk more when you just leave them to it. "Laria's locket may unlock the mystery of what happened to her family. This must be my chance to uphold my family's promise!" I blinked, curiosity brimming inside. I knew his family had to be old from the name. Duskenleaf is an old elvish name.
     "We have another forest altar, near the Guardian encampment in Tearfall Run. It could be another way to communicate with Laria, or maybe her sister, Delilah. Perhaps the Vigil would bless your presence there like they did the last and give us a glimpse into what happened those years past..." He handed the locket back to me and I automatically pocketed it, too shocked to think of anything to say. Suddenly this mystery got a lot more...mysterious. I couldn't wait to seek out the other altar and commune with Laria again. Maybe in Tearfall Run she would be stronger. Or maybe I can talk to this Delilah, whoever she is.

     I left the apothecary shop and sought out the hunter, Drusk Nightclaw. What strange names, trackers chose for themselves. I knew Nightclaw wasn't his real last name. Usually, the really good trackers and hunters earned a name for themselves because of their skill. He was also the strangest dressed person I've ever seen. All decked out in bright reds and blues, heavy chainmail armor. He was literally armed to the teeth. With a getup like that, no wonder he hadn't caught anything. I'd imagine "the beast" easily evaded his garish figure. Of course, I was smart enough to keep that comment to myself as I talked to him.

     "Greetings Ascended. So you're the rogue that cleaned up the spider nest eh? Ha! I expected you to be taller." I rolled my eyes, but I kinda liked his brash manner. No fawning or pointless babbling, and I liked his sense of humor. I grinned at him.

     "Yup, that was little old me." I quipped back. Drusk guffawed at me as if I'd made a grand joke, slapping his knee. Then he sobered. "I'm right thankful you're taking time to help me track this beast. It's quite disturbing really, how its able to evade being seen. It's almost as if it has sentient intelligence. I've got a lead on the creature and I could use a woman of your caliber on this hunt. What do you say?" He raised a rather ridiculously bushy red eyebrow and waggled it at me. I smirked.

    "I'd love to join you. Would it be too much to ask if we start at first light though? I have a few tasks to complete here in town still, and I'm exhausted from everything today." Until I said it, I hadn't realized how exhausted I felt. But my bones ached. I hadn't felt this since my Ascension and I wondered if somehow the oppressive atmosphere was affecting even me.

    Drusk eyed me closely before giving a nod. "That I can do. Scouts found a brutishly large barghest in the cave at Greybriar Hollow, along with many cubs. We can't allow their nightly attacks to go on, and I've an inkling it's them that's causing the attacks. I promised the mayor I'd keep the town safe or I'd go after them myself. If you could go put an end to their threat, that would be mighty helpful. Try to confirm if it was the barghest that are attacking the town, would ya?" I scoffed. So much for teaming up. He wanted me to go take care of his pressing problem all on his own. No doubt he'd take all the credit for it too. My goodwill toward the man soured slightly. But he was so easygoing, it was hard to stay annoyed. I made a few final promises to look into it tomorrow at first light, and then made my way to the Inn to speak to Janina and then get a good night's rest. I could already feel my bed calling to me.

     The second I entered the heavily populated Inn, Janina pounced on me with questions about her brother. I took a moment in responding, letting myself look around the common room first. It was something I did automatically. Assess any threat in the room, keep an eye on the exits, the sort of thing that any good rogue knows to do by reflex. Finally, I gave my full attention back to Janina, who looked on the verge of tears. The grim look in my eyes told her all she needed to know. Wordlessly, I took out the family heirloom that her brother wanted her to have.

     "May it serve you better." I said, echoing his words. Sniffling, Janina tenderly scooped up the tiny trinket and held it to her chest.

     "Thank you Raeslyn. My brother's protective instincts are a bit strong." She laughed, no doubt at some bittersweet memory, and then choked out a sob. "My family is cursed, I accept that. but I won't give up on finding a cure. I won't rest while my brother roams our ancestral land in agony." She turned away, rubbing her finger along the filigree of the trinket.

     A few patrons raised their mugs of ale in salute to me as I paid for a room and a meal. I settled myself at a far table that faced the entrance and before I knew it, I was surrounded by boisterous townsfolk who suddenly treated me like a long lost friend and plied me with ale all the while asking for tales of my adventures. And I was complaining about treated like the evil stepsister before? Can't a girl eat in peace? It was going to be a long night.

[Books and Artifacts] VIII: March Warden Denegar

     This book is a brief look at the March Warden currently in command of Freemarch during the Shade War and the disasters that followed:

"...I have been elected the forty-third March Warden of the Freemarch.

It will be my duty until my death to see that our people have food in their bellies, shields from the evil that threaten them, and a fulfilled promise of liberty. Our people facea strange time.

We have always been loyal to members of the Mathos Empire, even though the Freemarch became a part of the Empire with the promose that we would maintain the self-ruling of which we are so proud.

But in the wake of the disaster the Shade has wrecked upon our lands, we find ourselves once again completely free of influence. The tattered remains of the empire are held together by the valiant Zareph, but it is all he can do to keep the forces of the planes at bay. We must once again see to our own future. It is a task I believe we are prepared to face, however, and I am honored to be at the helm of it."

 

An artifact set you can complete also has some relevance here. It is called "Icons of the March Wardens". The description reads "The March Wardens of Freemarch adopted an icon to represent their period of authority over the March." There is a list of items:







 

• Gold Eye
• Geometric Sun
• Bound Hammers
• Gold Drake
• Winged Helm
• Twin Lion

I would assume, since it is the last on the list, that the Twin Lion is March Warden Denegar's insignia, but I have no way of knowing of course.  

 

  

 

References: This is a direct quote from the in game book that can be collected in Rift about the leader of the March Wardens. You can add the book to your collection by completing the artifact set "Journal of March Warden Denegar", which requires the collection of several pages that you can find randomly spread around Freemarch. When you finish the artifact set and turn it in, you are rewarded with the book, which you can than find in your book tab in the character window, along with all the other books you find in your adventures! 



[Karazhan's Story] 2.10: Mayhem in the Fields!

      So here I found myself heading back to Todrin Estate to cause a little chaos, and maybe try to figure out just what exactly the Endless Court were up to here. Spirits willing, maybe I can even put a stop to their machinations.

     As before, I slipped into the grounds through the gaping hole in the side of the stone wall that skirted the Estate's property, keeping my eyes sharp for the enemy. The Endless Court may be comprised of people, but I had no delusions that they were crazed fanatics who were taken over wholly by Regulos and his promise of untold power. There would be no reasoning with them and if I wanted to stay alive, I needed to shoot first and ask questions never. I heard a strange dry rustling sound as I approached the house and ducked into a shallow alcove, peering out cautiously. To my horror, there was some kind of...undead creature, roaming and stumbling around mindlessly by the front door. The remains of clothing clung to its emaciated frame and the empty eye socked glowed with eldritch light. I put a hand to my mouth to contain my gasp. The cultists must be raising the dead to do their bidding. Was there no end to their atrocities? Well, at least I can put this poor tormented soul out of its misery. With a fast hand movement, I sent arcs of flame at the skeletal being, as quickly and quietly as I could so as to not draw any attention. The last thing I needed was to alert all the cultists in the compound to my presence. Infiltrate and cause chaos, not all out massacre. Right. As the first burst of magical flames struck the skeletal undead man and burst over his flesh and bones with unnatural vigor, I'd already began casting another. The creature stuttered to a stop and turned with a dry slowness to stare right at my hiding place in the alcove, its unseeing eyes peering right into mine. I shivered. It began a fast shambling in my direction, and another bolt of bright hot flames exploded into its jawless face, causing it to stumble sideways. I dearly prayed to the spirits that the poor soul couldn't feel its second death as I finally melted its bones and flesh with a flamestrike that also scorched the ground in a perfect circle around its still-twitching body. After a few tense moments to assure myself that no one was alerted to my actions, I stepped out of hiding and approached the dead thing. Undead thing. Whatever it was. I used the end of my staff to prod at the bones, ensuring it was actually dead, and the skull folded in on itself, turning to ash at my touch. I shuddered. Truly horrendous, what the cultists have done. I whispered a quick prayer for the soul to find the Soulstream quickly and avoid Regulos's hands, then moved on. At least with it's body in ashes like this, it would impossible to reanimate.

     I did see several more of the resurrected undead creatures, slaying those that were close enough to do so without being detected. On the second one, I found a strange, tiny square of metal that bore the mark of the Endless Court-a white skull on a black background with a purple border. I pocketed the insignia. Maybe Cyriac would appreciate the sight of it as vengeance for his slain comrades.

     "The people of this March are fools for giving the witch refuge!" The shouted, guttural voice brought me up short as I came around the back corner of the house and I shrank back, heart pounding, then slowly peered around the corner. Two men in long dark robes with white skulls painted over their faces were lounging by crates of various items. I frowned. What did that cultist mean, 'giving the witch refuge?' What witch? I made a mental note to ask someone about that when I was safely away from here. I watched the two cultists for several long moments, before they finally stirred and went back inside the house, grumbling to each other about the people of the March. 'If you're so unhappy, leave then!' I thought to myself in frustration. It would certainly make all our lives easier.

     Beyond the house, I spotted a low shed by the far stone wall. A large tree gave blessed shade from the hot sun and about half a dozen bovine were peacefully grazing on the grass and clover that seemed to grow in abundance around the grounds. The peaceful and lazy picture was totally at odds with what I'd just experienced, and I found myself almost not believing it wasn't some mirage or trick. The steers didn't seem bothered at all by the death magic permeating the air, their shaggy heads bobbing up and down as they chewed. Hmmm, how to cause a disturbance and disrupt these bloody cultists' plans. I needed something to get them good and spooked. I know a fair number of nasty weather spells that could probably startle the dumb farm animals. Some mages, like myself, had a knack for storm type magic, and forks of lighting was something I could call up almost instantly, but it didn't seem like such a good idea to be sending off magical jolts of high electric power into the midst of a herd of live creatures. Not unless I want some hamburger for supper. I'm not above defending myself and raining down death and mayhem on those that are deserving, but I would rather not harm innocent animals. I even hesitated in the harming of these human cultists, because they were only human after all and we all make mistakes. Who knows what decision drove them to sign up for Regulos's cause? So fire magic and weather magic was out of the way, unless I could whip up some strong rains and winds, but I wasn't as well versed in those spells and again, didn't want to risk harming the innocent steers if I could help it.
     So what else could I use, than? I glanced around the back yard, considering my options. Up against the back veranda was more stacked crates and some other odds and ends that looked to have been tossed out of the house when the cultists moved in. One crate had the universal explosives symbol painted on the side and I grinned rather deviously. Inside, the other souls fluttered with eagerness as well. Didn't everyone enjoy the feeling of blowing things up at least once? I will admit that I do.

     Sure enough, when I'd snuck up to the crate and nabbed it, it was chalk full of different types of explosive devices, some magitech, some old fashioned powder and fuse. I grinned like a naughty novice as I pocketed a few and placed the crate back where I'd found it. It was tempting to take the crate back with me, but I was afraid I'd trip or something equally disastrous and blow my lovely Ascended brains all over the pretty green grass. Something I'd like to avoid if possible. My body may be just a machine, a shell that houses my soul that in theory I should be able to return to if separated from it and heal all damage, but let's not test that, hmm? Not to mention it sounded painful as hells.

     So, being the good citizen I was, I crept back to my previous hiding place, lobbed a few low-grade explosives near to the cows, and with some painful concentration was able to get off two simultaneous fire spells. One exploded into the side of the crate at the same time as a stream of bright orange fire lit up the little devices littering the ground at the steers feet. Predictably, the creatures went wild, and chaos sort of exploded in the yard. Cultists spilled out of the house yelling and swearing, both in the common tongue and in some undead demonic language. Serves them right.

     The steers, wild with sudden fear, stampeded in all different directions. Some smashed right through the stone wall, lowing and bawling their fright to all and sundry as they vanished into the green. Others turned tail and ran headlong into the cultists that were milling around by the house, knocking them over like saplings. I prayed that none happened to glance my way and see me crouched by the side of the house. I turned to sneak away and tripped over yet another crate, and let myself spit out a string of curses. That bloody hurt! I rubbed my shin as I glared at the box that had offended me. Unlike the others, this one was a shiny metal box with a blue sheen to it. Curiosity overcame my aggravation and I lifted the lid, sucking in a shocked breath. Inside, dozens upon dozens of sourcestone glowed brightly, giving off a dark aura of planar magic. And I knew just what kind too. The scent of death was almost overpowering. The Shadestones were fully charged, all that potential power just sitting right there for whatever the cultists intended to use it. I couldn't just let them keep it. So with a swift look around, I grabbed up the crate, making an oomph sound at how heavy it was.

     I waddled rather awkwardly back to the gap in the wall, shoving the box through and sneaking after it, looking back repeatedly to make sure no one saw me. Thankfully they were all trying to either round up the steers or put out the fire that had resulted from the crate of explosives going off so close to the house. I grinned. Perfect. That aught to keep them out of trouble for a while and off our backs. Job well done, if I do say so myself. And I didn't even have kill any of the cultists.

    "So I nabbed this box of sourcestone and high-tailed it back here. But, thanks to Jared over there and his crazy Life energy experiments, I was attacked by a giant, crazed razorback boar!" I glared mock-angrily at the elf, who ducked, looking sheepish, and I rolled my eyes. "But hey, at least they won't be causing trouble around here for a while. Their base of operations has....well, it's exploded." I snickered, even though it honestly wasn't that funny, and Cyriac nodded at me proudly, smiling a little himself. I handed over the insignias I'd gathered up, mentioning that my theory was they were helping the cultists control their undead minions, and he thoughtfully gave them to a fellow standing silently to the side.

     "Good thinking, Karazhan. We will certainly melt these down and make arrowheads out of them. Shoot them right back at those bastards." He clasped my hand and shook it, looking relieved and worried at the same time. I cocked an eyebrow. "What's wrong, you don't look very happy." I asked, feeling a little niggle of concern myself.

    Cyriac rubbed the back of his head, sticking his hair in all directions. "I-we do appreciate your efforts, Karazhan." He said slowly. I nodded, feeling a 'but' coming. "I don't like the feel of these sourcestone. Unfortunately, I've felt this exact magical signature before. Before coming here to help out the folks of Eliam Fields, I was stationed at Seastone Bluff with the rest of the command. Our forces encountered a dark being there calling itself Xalos." I frowned, processing this information. A dark being? So...something from the planes, I guess, if it had the same magical aura as the sourcestone. A being from the Plane of Death, loose in Freemarch. Great. Cyriac continued, looking out toward where I could see the terrain sharply turn into a large jutting mountain. From here, I could even just make out black turrets of what looked to be a castle or keep or some kind. That must be where Seastone Bluff is, I assumed.
     "We were able to drive the beast back, but it had some magical device that allowed it to slip into a planar flux, which is sort of like a pocket rift. It must be working with the cultists to gain them fresh Shadestone for their attack." His shoulders slumped and he gave the crate of sourcestone a baleful look, as if blaming it for Xalos's continued survival. I frowned at the crate myself.

    "Not if I slay the beast." I said, narrowing my eyes in determination. Cyriac blinked at me in surprise. "What? No, you can't go after it alone! It took seven of us to beat it back, and I lost two of my best men on that mission. You'll be killed." Any other time, I might have agreed with the man, and indeed I was comforted by his concern, but I waved my large hand. "It's okay," I said softly. "I'm Ascended remember? I was created for this." I smiled gently and put my hand on my hip. "No offense, but I'm more than capable of taking on a planar foe alone. Especially if the creature is already wounded. Time to see what exactly I'm remade of." I grinned, feeling sparks of excitement grow inside me. An actual enemy, a foe that is a real challenge that I don't have to hold back all my potential on. I don't have to feel guilty about harming a fellow Telaran, or wondering if they have a family somewhere despite their wayward path. This creature is an unnatural evil riftspawn that came to Telara for one purpose. Destruction and chaos. I will have no qualms about extinguishing it. Cyriac looked equal parts concerned and relieved, giving me short, careful looks as if wanting to make sure I would be ok.

     "I'll be fine, I promise. Consider it as pest control. Can't have this beautiful March overrun by planar beasts. Especially from the death plane. Can't be good for the flora." He chuckled at my quip and finally gave me directions on how to find where Xalos had last been seen, as well as a message to relay to the officers at Seastone Bluff when I had finished. I gave Cyriac an exaggerated salute. "Aye, aye, cap'n!" I said cheerily.
~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~~

     The view from Seastone Bluff would have been quite beautiful if it wasn't for the obvious aura of dark magic choking it. It was apparent even before I'd entered the grounds that the place was some kind of warden's watchtower for the Freemarch folk. It was a perfect vantage point to keep a lookout for any trouble in the region, after all, and had the familiar architectural design of other buildings in the march. Sadly, it was also apparent that it had been overrun by cultists for some time. I wasn't sure why the wardens hadn't taken the tower back. Lack of manpower perhaps? More pressing concerns than one lookout tower? I had no way of knowing. It was a shame though, because the tower overlooked the sea with a perfect view of the seemingly endless body of water, along with quite a few miles of the march in either direction. I could easily see the Todrin Estate and Eliam Fields from here and I fancied that if there were another Ascended at Cyriac's location, they might even be able to discern me waving if I were so inclined. And if I had an Ascended companion to share my adventures and journey with, of course.

     There were planar death symbols everywhere on the tower grounds, defiling the once proud land with the foul metallic taint of death magic. I knew of course that death magic had its uses just like any other element, but I just couldn't justify its use when I knew that those accursed cultists were also reverently used it to cause mayhem and misery wherever they went. The front gates that were supposed to provide safety and security for the tower were smashed in and hanging off their hinges. I approached the area with tense caution. I had no idea what to expect, and Cyriac's description of the place was a few months out of date. A lot can change in that amount of time. Despite its eerie planar taint, the grounds appeared deserted, still as death. I had the feeling that the world was holding its breath, waiting to see what I would do.

     Once inside the gate, I found my fearful caution giving way to curiosity and excitement. I loved exploring new places, and I found myself peering around as I walked. Immediately to the left of the gate was a small, domed building with an open archway. A chapel for the wardens to pray at? I heard that the people of Freemarch had belonged to the Vigil. I think in fact that some still do follow their ways and teachings, although it seemed now that most believed the gods had forsaken them and their only chance at survival was to ally with the Defiant "heretics" as they kept calling us. Carefully placed flagstones led from the little domed building to the central tower, which was at least three stories tall. It was narrow and simply constructed, made specifically to be a lookout first and foremost. If I were an evil planar being of death who wanted control of this area, where would I spend my days? I gazed up at the top of the tower and smirked. Of course, the very top, where I could see everything. After making sure there weren't any enemies lurking around a corner to ambush me, I ascended a wooden spiral staircase located in the tower that wove around the inside wall all the way up to the top. At each floor there was a room filled with old dusty furniture and weapon racks. No doubt where the wardens slept and practiced with weaponry to stay sharp and alert.

     The stairs ended at the roof, which was wide open. There was a low wall around the plateau with niches in it. It was easy to imagine the wardens sitting up here, steadfast in their duty to keep Freemarch safe. If only they knew the enemy they faced now couldn't be fought with just spears and swords. The only sign of life up here was a small glowing brazier opposite my position, a beacon proclaiming that at least some creature had been up here recently. I stretched my magical senses outward slowly, trying to feel for any trap or magical snare. Nothing gave me any warnings, but I could pick up a dark magical signature coming from the brazier. That must be where the planar flux is that the elemental was hiding in. What was it Cyriac called it? Xalos I think? I took a deep breath of the death-tainted air. Was I ready? Hells yes. Time to show the minions of Regulos that I was someone to be reckoned with and if he wanted to take Telara, he'd have a fight on his hands first.


     Magical runes pulsed in a circle around the brazier, glowing with an inner violet light, the color of death magic. Yes, this was definitely the spot. I wondered idly how the elemental being was able to hide itself so well. Could he still see the physical world while in that pocket of planar energy? No matter, I suppose. I took out the charged device that Cyriac had given me, smiling fondly at the memory of his warning to be careful and not get myself killed. I wasn't sure how death worked in my new incarnation, but I'd been assured multiple times that it wouldn't be permanent. I gently tossed the tiny device into the brazier, not knowing what else to do with it, and the result was immediate. The air grew ice cold and a strange, foul smelling wind came out of nowhere, lifting strands of hair off my neck. I took a step back and planted my feet in a battle stance, an instinctive reaction that wasn't mine. Having the memories of the other souls was a tremendous advantage against an enemy combatant. Not that I'd ever dreamed of fighting and slaying when I'd been an innocent scholar at the temples of Atia.
     Just as I was finding it becoming difficult to breath through the thick, cold air, a ghostly, oily black shadow twice my height manifested inside the circle of runes. I couldn't hold back my gasp of shock at seeing the creature. It looked like those shadowy planar beings I'd encountered during my time in the future...what seemed like an age ago now after all that's happened. Except this one exuded raw power. The sheer elemental power rolling off the creature hit me like a physical slap and I flinched back, reigning in my magical senses so I wouldn't be so overwhelmed by the death magic assaulting my senses. Most mages are incredibly sensitive to magic. We'd have to be if we wanted to be any good at our craft. Of course there were drawbacks to that extreme sensitivity. I felt a headache begin to form between my eyes and resisted the urge to shut my eyes, knowing I had to keep full concentration on the elemental.

     The being, Xalos, seemed to focus its shadowy sourcestone eyes on me with a malice and arrogance that spoke just much of a threat he thought one puny Telaran was to something from the planes. "You have torn me from the void? Fool, I know not how you have done this, but you will face my wrath!" It's voice was cold as death and echoed oddly, like the creature was only half here.

     "Um, can't we talk about this?" I muttered, trying to buy time as I ran through a list of spells I knew and tried to decide which would be most effective. I'd have only one shot at doing enough damage to slow it down, because once it got a taste of how powerful my own magic was, it wouldn't hesitate at throwing all the death magic at its disposal on me, and I could barely concentrate through the aura of darkness as it was now.

     "Puny mortal! Alsbeth has commanded me to conquer the shorelines. I will not fail my masters." Masters huh? So, this creature was just a pawn in a bigger game. I wanted to ask what Alsbeth needed here, or what her goal was, but I figured that Xalos would no doubt catch on that I was here to put an end to her plans and wouldn't spill anyway, so instead I brought both hands up and together in front of me in a waving arc, trailing tendrils of air and water magic as I did so. When I brought both palms together in front of me and twisted them so my fingers pointed at Xalos, a spear of ice suddenly slammed into his shadowy body. I put all my will and magical force behind the attack and was satisfied when Xalos gave a loud roar of agony, flickering and fading. The taint of death on the wind sharply faded. The creature wavered, fading out of existence for a moment, before solidifying again with another roar, this one of anger and frustration. Ha, found that he couldn't run back to the planar flux and hide this time. That device Cyriac gave me would wedge the flux firmly closed, unable to be entered on this end. Too bad Xalos didn't know that he just had to pluck the device out of the fire to escape. Instead, he charged me, enraged and now fearful.

     I leaped out of the way, tucking myself in for an expert roll to avoid him. Only I forgot the height and build difference of my new sourcestone body and ended up sprawled out on my back instead, feeling mortified. Air whistling behind me alerted me to Xalos and I rolled to the side to avoid a dark splash of planar death magic that hit the flagstones and sizzled not an inch from my wide eyes. The magical backlash stung my eyes and I scrambled back to avoid it, bumping up against the low wall that edged the roof. Something hit my bare thigh and my flesh suddenly felt like it was burning and freezing at the same time. I gave a pained grunt and grit my teeth. By the spirits, that hurt. The death magic was now so strong in the air that I was having trouble concentrating on where exactly Xalos was. Taking a wild guess, I shot a stream of ice in the direction where the most dark magic was emanating from and was rewarded with a hissing sound, like air leaking out of a canister. The death magic lessened again. Good, take that you bloody monster. I squinted against the pain of my wound, which seemed to be traveling up my leg into my stomach. My entire lower half now felt like ice that burned. That can't be good. When I tried to stand, I stumbled onto my knees instead. Alright, think. Obviously I was right in that the ice magic was effective against the elemental. I needed something more potent though. What spell could I use.

     Xalos rushed at me again and almost by reflex I held out my hand and felt a strong wind chill gust outward, hitting the planar creature and sending it hurling backward to hit the low wall. I blinked in surprise at my hand. I didn't even know I could do something like that! Now that I'd done it though, it was like a map had opened it up in my head, giving me the exact ability to use that spell from now on. That was amazing. I felt a thrill of power shoot through me, as if my magic had hit a plateau and was now increasing. No, not my magic, but my skill at using it. As if I'd opened new doors in my mind that allowed me access to higher and more deadly spells. I was so exciting to see what else I could do. Calling up the memory of the book of higher level mage spells I'd read, I singled out a spell that I'd always wanted to try, but hadn't been strong enough or skilled enough to pull off. I painfully and stiffly climbed to my feet, while Xalos hovered, spitting at me in some dark guttural tongue. I imagine he was cursing my lineage or some such. Well, I've cursed my lineage often enough myself in my youth. I brought my staff to bear in front of my body in perfect symmetry with my body, holding it just the way the book had said, and feeling the potential for magic shimmering down my wooden rod and through my fingers. I whispered the words to the spell and felt a broad smile light my face despite the situation as the air grew colder still. Cold as ice. Although this was a pure cold, the type of cold that you felt right before a good hard rain. Or a hailstorm. Suddenly large jagged chunks of ice began pelting down on the tower in a wide frontal cone from the point of my staff onward. The book had stressed that the position of your weapon was of grave importance in this particular spell because of the deadly force of the spell. Once unleashed, it wouldn't hesitate to harm both friend or foe, so I had to be careful where I'd focused it. But I'd done it! I'd actually successfully cast my first hailstorm. Could I now call myself a proper Stormcaller mage? All my young life before my resurrection, that had been my dream. To gain my initiation into the ranks of the Stormcallers, earn my title, and finally be free of the oppressive obligation to my family and their demands. But now that I was someone else, somewhere else, in a grim all out war for the salvation of all of Telara, was being a Stormcaller the right choice? What about my belief that Telara needed a healing hand as well as a protector? Could I be both?

     I was pelted on the arm by a rather large shard of ice as penalty for my lack of attention and I focused back on the fight at hand. One thing at a time, Kara! I scolded myself. I sagged in relief as I realized that the shadowy planar elemental had withered under my magical onslaught of ice magic. The hail ripped right through the shadowy creature's "body" like it was nothing but wet paper, and I paused a moment to reflect on how overly effective my magic actually seemed to be against planar beings. From my interaction with the peoples of Freemarch, it seemed that others weren't so lucky in their interaction with planar enemies. Was it my particular branch of magic-storm magic-or was it because of my unique status as a machine-made reborn being with multiple souls of other long dead powerful mages locked inside? Again I found myself with many questions but no real easy and apparent answers. Well, I'd heard that Meridian was the capital of the Defiant's forces against the planes, as well as being a college of magical and planar study at some point, so it stood to reason that if I were to find the answers anywhere, it would be there. After I'd felt secure in the knowledge that Freemarch was free of this Alsbeth, I would be definitely making a trek to that big, famous city. The more I heard about it, the more I couldn't wait to feast my eyes on it. My eyes were drawn to the dwindling Xalos again as with one final wail of fury, he flickered and seemed to fold in on himself, just like those other planar creatures had. A soft pop was more felt than heard over the crashing of hail onto the stone and all that was left of the once-powerful Xalos was a small shining black orb that radiated dark planar power. Curiously, I approached, feeling that I could finally move my leg muscles a bit, although it still felt stiff and tingly. The icy burning feeling was finally fading and I thanked the spirits that I didn't seem to have any lasting effects from tangling with the death magic. I could just imagine the nightmares I'll have of being corrupted by death magic and turning into some kind of nightmare being that went on an unstoppable rampage, killing innocent women and children and dealing massive damage to everything in my path. Thankfully, Ascended were immune to corruption. Or...at least I hoped so.

     I pocketed the little orb of shadestone, not knowing if it would come in handy at some point or not. It may have been tainted by planar death magic, but it was still sourcestone and sourcestone shouldn't just left lying around for anyone to stumble across. Especially in such a defiled place as this. I shivered as the air finally returned to the balmy warmth that seemed to be normal for Freemarch. I rubbed my knee absently to release the last of the icy tingles as I hobbled over to the wall and set my staff up against it. It was a nice staff, that was true, but after channeling that much magical power into it, I could now sense the flaws and uneven quality of the wood, and it itched at my senses like a drawing that wasn't finished. I would need to find a new, more refined weapon to help focus my greater channeling if I wanted to continue with the higher level spellcasting. Which I most certainly did. Just thinking about that hailstorm again made me feel as giddy as a young acolyte again. If only I had someone else to share this sense of wonder with. As I thought this, my eyes roved over the land. From here, and with my modified eyesight, I could quite clearly pick out every detail for what had to be last a league in any direction. Absolutely amazing. Truly a wonder of magitech, as Sylver had said. Than I frowned as my eyes caught something disturbing. Off to the south, the land seemed to suddenly change. The grass ended abruptly on dead brown earth at the base of that strange keep I'd noticed before.

     Men in Defiant colors paced around a little watchtower that sat at the edge of the green land. They appeared to be frustrated by something from their actions, and at first I couldn't see what the men so upset, but I realized with alarm that the brown dead area seemed to be moving! Rather, there were things moving among the dead grasses and trees. Undead things. They bore the same red and gold armor as the Defiant, but were rotting soulless creatures that even from here I knew had been touched by the death plane. Was this part of Alsbeth's plan, I wonder? She had to be up to something, creating an army of horrific undead slaves to relentlessly attack Freemarch's defenders. I wonder if she wanted the Wardens so distracted and exhausted by the multiple onslaughts that they wouldn't be able to spare the time to investigate what she herself was up to? Regardless, I knew I had to do something about what was going on down there! Those poor Defiant soldiers looked exhausted themselves and I saw that they were effectively pinned down at that watchtower, unable to send for aid, or to break through the ranks of undead that seemed to surround them. It wasn't apparent from this far away if the undead were deliberately keeping them hemmed in, or if it was just coincidence that they happened to have trapped a small force of Defiant in their midst as they went about some other mission.

     Quickly, I strode down the tower's staircase, only limping slightly. I suppose I should be grateful I hadn't been crippled or permanently marred by that magical attack. As it was, I wouldn't even show a mark, thanks to my accelerated healing. I wondered if that was a result of my new magical potential or of my unique status of having a sourcestone-generated body. Ugh, enough questions. Was I always this inquisitive? No wonder the temple priests avoided me as a child. I determinedly strode off in the direction of the Defiant camp I'd seen.

[Dungeons, Slivers and Chronicles] II: Darkening Deeps

Dungeon Name: Darkening Deeps (DD)
Location: Gloamwood
Co ordinates: 5146, 2406
Bosses: Alchemist Braxtepel, Michael Bringhurts, Tegenar Deepfang, Gedlo Council (Incinerator Gerbik, Warlord Swedge, High Shaman Nuggo) There are additional bosses named Skarn and Glubmuk in Expert and Master modes of the dungeon.
Dungeon level: 21-28(*you can of course, mentor down or up to enter, but only if you are 15 or higher.*)
Length: Depending on your group's speed and skill at downing the bosses. A few of them in particular are pretty hard unless your group knows what they are doing or are overpowered. I'd say around 30-50 min.

     In the deepest part of Gloamwood sits an ancient ruined Mathosian castle known as Shadefallen Keep. Beneath this castle, however, the dark caverns and dank canals are alive with the frenzy of riftspawn. The goblins have built a home for themselves into the cliffs here, their hovels lining a rocky path that descends deep into the bedrock of Telara. Daily, the goblin hoards crawl from the depths to attack and pillage the people of Gloamwood.
     The people were barely able to keep back and contain the menace, until Fire Rifts spit out the Gedlo priests, who swiftly took control of the chaotic and mindless goblins, turning them into a brutal fighting force that even heavily armored Waykeepers had trouble dealing with. Always violent and savage creatures, the newfound attacks took a heavy toll on the people of Gloamwood. When goblin raiders spilled into Silverwood, burning and rampaging at will, cries for aid caused Prince Hylas to turn to new allies for aid against the threat. Now Darkening Deeps lays like a smoldering anthill, ready to burst open at the first hint of vulnerability.
     Adventurers who brave the deeps will behold a vast underground chasm filled with the stench of fire and goblins. Goblins will mindlessly attack any venture within, spurred on by the magic of their Gedlo masters. Sadly, goblins aren't the only menace in the deep. Spiders from Silkweb Pass are rumored to nest in deep, forgotten chambers, luring unwary creatures to their deaths. And the ancient waterways that fill the cracks at the bottom of the city have been invaded by polluted water elementals, warped by the evil of the Gedlo.
     Several villagers from the Pines have vanished after encounters with goblin war parties. Sometimes, on clear nights, one can hear their desperate cries, strangely mutating into the howling of wolves when the moon is full, though no wolves are known to live in Gloamwood. Even stranger, treants have become more scarce, and though locals care little for the invaders from the Plane of Life, their disappearance definitely created a stir. Some say it is connected to the goblin city.

    

 From the report of Commander Oakheart, Paladin of the 8th Sanctuary Guard in Gloamwood:

"Three times we've stormed the den of those filthy goblin priests.

And three times we've been pushed back. By now my sword shows more blood

than steel, yet still we can't break through.

I have heard tales of villagers taken prisoner, offered as sacrifices in those halls

that we cannot breach. As we struggled there with the goblins,

I noticed ten long bloody scratches in the rock beneath our feet.

A loose human nail lay where one of the scratches ended.

These degenerates have never shown such ferocity as when defending these halls.

My stealthier comrades have seen goblins regard the chambers

with gleeful reverence, as if they hide a weapon of vast power and destruction.

Whatever they're hiding, whether or not we receive reinforcements,

the goblins have abducted my men, and I will not let them die

under a gedlo dagger!"

 

Quests:

• "The Toxic Source"
• Quest Giver: Marshal Oakheart (Gloamwood Pines)
• Find the missing squad of crusaders as well as the source of the Gedlo Conclave's new power.
• "Dragon Worship"
• Quest Giver: Crusader Bertrand (inside the dungeon)
• Destroy the Idols of Maelforge
• "The Darkening Deeps"
• Automatic quest gained when you zone in
• Defeat the bosses of DD.

Boss Strategies:

• Alchemist Braxtepel-lvl 22 demihuman (goblin)
• Is protected from all damage by a chemical Ward. You need to kill two adds, Mursh and Squersh, while the Alchemist throws fireballs at random people. He also throws a spell you need to watch out for called Bombard. In Phase 2, when the Ward goes down after the adds die, the Alchemist will attack like any melee mob. The tank needs to turn him away from the group and avoid 'Flame Cleave' a spell with frontal AoE dmg. He also casts a random spell called 'Hot Tar' that puts a heavy damage random DoT on party members that should be dispelled quickly if possible. Fairly easy to down if you're paying attention.
• Michael Bringhurst-lvl 23 demihuman (werewolf) *can be skinned!*
• A man who was cursed with lycanthropy. Starts in the middle of the Moonbeam in the room. Keep him out of the light. He grows increasingly stronger the longer he's in the light and will eventually 1-shot the tank (12 or 13 stacks I think). After about a minute of dpsing him, or at half percent, he will fear everyone and run into the moonlight. You may be able to use your "Break Free' ability to get out of it, but I'm not sure, haven't tested it yet. The tank needs to pick up the boss immediately to get him out of the moonlight again. The tank will need to actually run up to him and melee attack him to get him to leave the moonlight. Ranged attacks will do nothing to pull him out.
• Tegenar Deepfang-lvl 23 beast (spider)
• This is the hardest fight of this dungeon, mostly because no one pays attention to mechanics. It's best to keep Ten facing away from the raid, and focused on the tank. Everyone else should stack on his butt except the healer, who can stand by a rock to quickly LoS his web attack to avoid being webbed. Ten has a frontal AoE attack called 'Poisonous Spray' that can be avoided by staying behind him. It puts a debuff on the tank that needs to be dispelled. He will cast 'Cocoon' on a random target who isn't the tank, which is why it's handy to have the healer hide by a spike of rock. Attack the cocoon to break your party member out of it. At 50% health, he will summon a pack of spiderlings who will make your life hell by chasing around whoever has the most threat on the tank (aka, the healer). So help protect the healer by killing the spiders. At this point, you also need to quickly dps Ten down, because he will just keep spawning waves of spiders until dead. This is a heal heavy fight, and requires tight co-ordination in the more difficult modes.
• Glubmuk-lvl 23 elemental (Water)
• Strategy unknown. Haven't encountered him yet. I know he spawns adds that you need to get rid of before they overwhelm you. That's it so far.
• Council Gedlo-lvl 23 demihumans (all goblins)
• Killing one of these bosses will cause the other 2 to gain special abilities. Killing 2 of them will cause the remaining one boss to gain 2 more additional abilities. It's generally easiest to kill the Shaman (healer) first, followed by the Incinerator (Mage) and Warlord (Warrior). The Shaman will spam heal himself and the other two until killed, as well as cast an absorb shield. The Incinerator will cast fireballs and 'Arc of Flames' AoE ability. Keep away from the flames on the ground. The Warlord is a standard melee attacker. Avoid his frontal AoE attack 'Mighty Cleave'.
• Scarn-lvl 52 dragonkin (Fire drake)
• Strategy relatively unknown. Haven't encountered him yet. He has a frontal AoE called 'Double Lash' that should be avoided. Is a standard melee creature. Also has another ability to watch out for called 'Flaming Breath'. Flies into the air at 50% and he will throw down circles of flames you need to avoid.

Achievements:

•  "Darkening Deeps", "Expert Darkening Deeps", and "Master Darkening Deeps"
• Defeat all the bosses of DD in their respective difficulties.
• "Rapid Assault: Darkening Deeps"
• Defeat all bosses in expert or higher within 30 minutes of initiating first combat.
• "Fire Dodger"
• Reach the bottom of Nightrock Commons without dying or being hit by Ragefire and with all Wildmages still alive and active on expert or higher.
• "Squashing Squersh and Meursh"
• Defeat Alchemist Braxtepel after killing his 2 minions within 10 seconds of each other in expert or higher difficulty.
• "Raging Fire"
• Defeat Alchemist Braxtepel after Mursh and Squersh simultaneously have 10+ stacks of "Ragefire" in expert or higher.
• "Stop the Madness"
• Defeat Michael while he has 20+ stacks of Lunar Madness active in expert or higher.
• "Soothing the Beast"
• Defeat Michael while he has no more than 10 stacks of Lunar Madness active on expert or higher.
• "All Wrapped Up"
• Defeat Tenegar Deepfang after 5 players have been Cocooned in expert or higher.
• "Cocoon Crush"
• Defeat Deepfang without anyone being Cocooned for more than 10 seconds in expert or higher difficulty.
• "Melted Sludge"
• Kill Glubmuk after killing 5 Fetid Spawns.
• "Gedlo Gone"
• On 3 separate attempts on expert or higher, leave a different boss as the last one alive.
• "Fire Dancer"
• Defeat Scarn without dying OR taking any damage from 'Smouldering'.
• "Pressure Cooker"
• Defeat Scarn after the Heat index has reached 12+ stacks.
• "Empathy"
• Defeat Emissary Villicar after 5+ players have been given 'Entwined Pain'.
• "Conqueror: Darkening Deeps"
• Complete all DD achievements except Master mode and Empathy.
• Title reward: "Goblin Bane"

References: The description for this dungeon is a summary of the story of DD as written by Trion on their old website when they had all the lore and info pages still. I've broken it down into my own words and rewritten here, but it still belongs to them and them only! All information is as accurate as I can get about the dungeon, but it's also from my own encounter with the dungeon, so there is some things missing. When I can enter Expert and Master mode, I will fill in the missing stats. All achievements are accurate as of 2016, as well as their requirements and rewards. Boss strategy is written with my own experiences in mind except for the higher difficulty bosses, who I've never encountered and instead have asked guild members about! Thank you, and this is Trion's work, not mine! :)