Arcanum - Summoner: Goodbye, Arcanum?

RK47 said:

Time to reinstall and restart. Update in 2 weeks.

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ohhhh noooooo

RK47 said:

Time to reinstall and restart. Update in 2 weeks.

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At the rate you work, more like two days.

RK47 said:

Time to reinstall and restart. Update in 2 weeks.

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ohhhh noooooo

I guess that if you don't use the blade, you have to fight the big, bad, red demon?

Clockwork Knight said:

I guess that if you don't use the blade, you have to fight the big, bad, red demon?

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I'm not sure if the killing blow is done without the blade, the demon would be free...I'm not sure if killing the demon would complete or fail the quest. I suppose I could reload at earlier save and see what happens.

RK47 said:

Clockwork Knight said:

I guess that if you don't use the blade, you have to fight the big, bad, red demon?

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I'm not sure if the killing blow is done without the blade, the demon would be free...I'm not sure if killing the demon would complete or fail the quest. I suppose I could reload at earlier save and see what happens.

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I don't think you can attack it, but I can be wrong.

RK47 said:

*Golf claps.*

Shit happens.

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Classic.

Thanks for the support guys, I've done the rerun and discovered that the much rumored 'name tied to loot generation' is true. I looted the same items from that chest behind the demon elf!

Update in two days

root said:

you dare?

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Oh, he dares do all that may become a man.

Yes, Seb. For the last time, I'm sure about this.
It's your choice. Let's do this, then.

The party enters The Tarantian's office in Caladon.


I have evidence of a conspiracy you may be interested in.
*A look of suspicion crosses his face* What do you mean, conspiracy? Is this some type of jest?
The Industrial Council has been illegally breeding half ogres!
Let's say I was interested in this story...I would need proof.
It's all right here. *Shows Sam the journal.*
By the gods! This is astounding! I can make my reputation with a story like this...if you leave this with me. I'll print it in its entirety. It will be the story of the century!
Okay, do it.
*Looks through the book* I cannot believe this! This is what I have been waiting for. I'll write this up now to get it in tomorrow's paper.
Good day.
He seems too...enthusiastic.
We'll see the papers tomorrow. Let's get a room. We need somewhere to crash till midnight.
Ah, the Misk's grave?
Yeah.

Later...


I'll catch some sleep, wake me up near midnight.
Fine, I've some business in town.
Stay safe.
No problem.

Hours later...



It was extremely hot. The smell of burning oil mingle with charred flesh...

Hey! Wake up!
Uh! *Wakes.* Is it time?


What do you think? We've got a grave to rob! *Tosses a shovel.*

A short walk later...


Mmmm. Let's see....

Aha! *Flips through the book*
That was TOO easy.
*Closes the book.* You're right.
*Frowns.* Not what we're looking for?
*Hands book over to Sebastian.*



Bah! Could be a dead end...or not.
Where is this 'Roseborough?'
Uh...that name...seems to be familiar somehow. But...I'm not so sure.
Maybe the widow knows more...let's visit her in the morning...
You still want to catch some sleep?
Nah..let's crash at the pub.

A few drinks later and a local piped up a rumor...


Mmmm. Might be worthwhile to investigate...
Sigh. Why should...ahh..never mind.
Right, let's go.

Later at the outskirts of Caladon....

Look over there!
What the hell is that?

A shadowy figure tore at a small furry creature...beast-like in nature.



Amusing. A real werewolf?
I've got it in my sights! Kill it?
No wait...it stopped. It's...



The hell?!
Let's go!



The party rushed into the house only to find the beast missing, only a lone woman lying on the bed, fast asleep.

Hmmm. Seb?
Don't ask me...I'm no mage.
It's ...possible that SHE'S the werewolf.
Let's not jump to conclusions.
There can be no other explanation...the beast cannot possibly vanish without a trace.
*Growls.*
Wait...there's someone in the next room...


What do you grow here?
Heh. I don't actually grow anything. This is a fur farm..I raise rabbits. My furs are considered the softest, finest quality pelts in all the land. You'll find my products in all sorts of finery...in the trim of a lady's ball gown, lining the inside of a gentleman's winter cloak, even swaddling the newly born nobility.
Sounds as if you do quite well for yourself.
Yeah...I've done all right for my daughter and myself. At least... I was...
Was? What happened?
Something very strange has been happening lately. Every night, one of my rabbits is killed and partially devoured. The signs indicate a large beast of some sort, but no one else in the area is being bothered or has seen anything strange. If you're available, I'd really appreciate some help figuring it out.
I'll try. How long has this been going on for?
The killings have been happening for nearly a full lunar turn. If things keep up at this rate, I'll be ruined within another 2! Rabbits breed quickly...but not that quickly!
What about a dog? Or perhaps a wolf?
No..there aren't any wolves around for miles. I don't own a dog..tried that before, too much trouble keeping them from scaring the rabbits..I never had one that ate them though...
Puzzling. Is there anyone else I can speak to?
My daughter lives with me. You can talk to her, if you'd like. She's been missing a lot of nights..Suspect she's sneaking out to see her betrothed. *Winks.* Ahh..to be young again...
Let me talk to her. I'll see if I can find out anything else. Maybe in the morning, when she's awake.

They left the house and continue to explore the outskirts...

Hmm. It's highly possible that his daughter IS the werewolf. But it's best I confirm it again...Don't want to kill the wrong person.
Yeah. I doubt David wants it dead if that creature turns out to be her own daughter.
Yep...hmm. What's this building?
Looks like a factory...but looks...trashed.



The factory's door opened with a creak.

Hello? Anyone here?
Over here...Hey, wait a minute...


What's your name, sir?
I am Hieronymus Maxim, inventor of the mechanized gun and the recently absconded aeroplane, a heavier than air flying machine. *He appears distracted for a moment, and then thrust his hand toward Gilford.* Oh, you'll have to excuse my absentmindedness, I was just admiring the ruins of my life.
What happened here?
Damned imbecilic ogres stole my flying machine prototypes and burned down my factory. And just to add that little extra joy to the whole affair, they beat me senseless as well. Now the King's advisors say I am a fraud, that heavier than air flight is impossible. They say I staged the whole thing to cover my failure. Without proof, my days here are done.
Well, I saw your machines fly.
You did? Where?! Where are my aeroplanes?!
The ogres crashed them after shooting down the Zephyr.
Those stupid, inbred, ignorant beasts! They wrecked my master pieces! And for what, to kill innocent people?! The bastards!
Would my testimony help?
I'm sorry to say, I fear your word would not be enough. I need tangile evidence that cannot be refuted.
Why don't you simply build another one?
No money. This was all funded by the King. That is why his advisors are after my head, and I can't get any more funds without proof. Quite the vicious circle, it is.
What type of proof do you need?
Anything that would prove they were capable of flight.
Sir, ...if you recall..you DID sold that camera in Shrouded Hills..
Mmmm. Thanks, Virgil. Max, let's say I found proof for you. What would that be worth?
I could give you an experimental mechanized arachnid I've been developing. Quite handy to have around in a scuffle, it will heal you automatically...
Hmm. Fine. We'll start looking.

Later in the morning....


Hello. May I ask your name?
My name is Cynthia. Can I help you with something?
I'd like to talk to you about the rabbit slayings...
Oh, it is awful! The poor things! Devoured at night by some horrible beasts!
As opposed to being stripped of its fur by your dad and worn as slippers...*Rolls eyes.*
Geoffrey! Ahem. How do you know it is a horrible beast?
Well, I don't know for certain. It is just that I have these nightmares about it every night...I dream some horrific beast attacks and devours one of my rabbits. And every morning I awaken to find it is true. *Sobs.* Please! Help us find what is doing this!
Those vivid dreams may be a part of her memory as the beast...
Yes, yes, Seb, I'm not clueless. Cynthia, have you seen anything...Perhaps as you return from your tryst?
*Blushes.* Oh! No...is that what father told you? I was seeing my betrothed for a time...but I have been so exhausted lately, I have not been awakening to make our rendezvous.
Exhausted? But why?
Mmmm. *Looks up Cynthia up and down.* I could think of several reasons.
*Elbows Geoffrey.*
I am very distressed by what is happening to my rabbits. As soon as the sun sets, I come to my room and fall into such a sound sleep, I do not awaken until it is morning. But I always awaken from the nightmare...and when I check on the rabbits..another has been killed.
Hmmm...it is very puzzling...no one has seen this beast...
I have tried to stay awake and keep watch, but have been unable to. I pray you are successful in solving the mystery! I do not want my father to lose the farm.
I'll keep looking for clues. Thank you for your help Cynthia.

Gilford steps out of Cynthia's room and into the living room where David is standing.

David, I've figured out what's killing your rabbits.
You did? What? What was it?
I'm afraid it's your daughter...
My daughter?! What are you talking about mister?
I'm sorry to have to tell you this..but she's become a werewolf.
Oh no! Not my baby! It can't be! What are we to do?
We will probably have to kill her...
No! Don't hurt her! She's all I have left in the world, since her mother's death...Please! You're a traveler...perhaps you have heard of a cure?
No...I've not...
Please, sir...in your travels if you happen to find a cure, think of us. I've heard there are astounding cures in the great mage city of Tulla. Perhaps if you look there...but don't hurt her! I'll make sure she's locked up at night! I swear I will! She won't hurt anyone!
Calm yourself. I won't hurt her. If I ever find a cure, I will return with it...
Pity, I've been itching to try my new gun.
What the hell?

Where the fuck did you get that gun?
Heh, Captain Wheeler's mailed it over last night. Six chamber shots per second. This bitch's a mean one. Eat bullets and shits out death. She's my new love.
Whatever. Let's ask the Widow Misk about Roseborough...

Later...


Well. That's one last lead we should pursue...
Not so fast. Remember the Tarantian?
What of it?
Read today's papers yet?
No.
They didn't publish your story.
WHAT?

They rushed to the Tarantian office...


Who are you? Where's Sam Longwell?
Who? My name's James Legget, I work here. I'm afraid I don't know any Sam Longwell.
He was working here. I spoke to him..he said he was a reporter?
I'm the only reporter who works out of this office. Local Caladonian reporter for the Tarantian, for what, twenty years now? Wait a moment, when did you say you spoke to this fellow?
Yesterday!
*Hits his palm with his fist* What is going on around here?! I was sent on a wild goose chase that day, tracking down a mysterious anonymous tip that was wired here. Someone is playing us for fools, boy?
So the guy I told my story to wasn't a reporter?
As I said, I'm the only reporter that works out of this office. What's your story, perhaps I'd be interested in it, myself.
The Industrial Council is breeding half ogres...
Heh. That's...well, I've heard some outlandish tales in my day, but that is just about the wildest.
It's true, I tell you!
Let it go, boss.
I'm sure it is. *He smiles in a way that tell you he sure it isn't.* I need to get back to work now. If you'll excuse me...
...why you...
Look, I know you're mad, but murdering a journalist in Caladon is only going to complicate things. Let's leave. We've lost this one...no sense in pursuing it further.
Fine. Let's go to Roseborough...



Well here we are...kinda late. Let's find an inn.
Sir, look at this!
What is it?

Roseborough Inn! Remember the matchbook we collected from that dead dwarf at the crash site? *Holds up the matchbox.*
Mmmm. You're right. There must be some leads...
I'd like to look around a bit. This place looks like some kind of tourist retreat.
Eh, the Ring of Brodgar? The site of that famous battle?
There's a monument of some sort here...


"This stone was found in the middle of the Ring of Brodgar. The meaning of the markings on its face are unknown.."

Looks like directions...
Buried treasure?
Beats me. Let's get a room and ask around.

Could you answer someq uestions for me about this matchbook?
Matchbook? *Looks at it* Yes..this is one of our matchbooks. What question do you have about it, sir?
I found it on a dead man at the IFS Zephyr crash. Did you know him?
No..I did not know anyone...Wait! Yes..yes. There was one person who it could have been.
Who?
Well. It is the strangest tale really. Late one night, I noticed all manner of strange light and sound emanating from the Ring. Not long after the ruckus had ceased, a haggard and disheveled man arrived here, inquiring about a room for the night. The poor fellow looked quite a fright.
Really? What was so strange about him?
He had quite an odd look about him, gaunt, clean shaven, but with the features and clothing of a dwarf... Yet, he could not possibly have been a dwarf! No dwarf I have ever heard of would sacrifice his beard to the knife. Even today I cannot say I truly knew his race.
Was there anything else?
He had no coin about him. ..I was about to turn him away, when he offered me an exceptionally fine dwarven blade as compensation. A beautiful piece it was, inscribed with the initial BMC. It fetched quite a price when I sold it.
(Damn it! That's him! Stennar!) Did he say anything to you?
The only other inquiry he made of me was for the quickest route to Tarant. I told him that this was normally a lengthy journey, but that he was in luck! The maiden voyage of the IFS Zephyr would be leaving from Caladon shortly. It was surely to be the quickest way to Tarant.
It was not luck that brought people aboard that doomed ship...
Yes..the Zephyr was such an incredible tragedy. Oh yes...I let him know that he would need proper identification to board. He looked the type to be lacking such, so I referred him to a man I had heard of in Caladon, Mr. Razzia, rather a shady character, but helpful when it comes to passports...
(Razzia! Caladon's Underground fence!) So what happens next?
He thanked me and went to his room. When I awoke the next morn, he was gone. He did not say a word...just left. Oh, well, I told you he was a strange one. Anyway, that is the only person I know that would have been on that accursed flight.
Thank you, milady. I would like a room please. *Hands over the coins.*
Thank you sir! You will find your room just down the hall. The door will be unlocked. I do hope you enjoy your stay.
Thank you.
You go get some rest, I'll find out more about this Ring and any leads to Victor Misk.
Alright. Be careful.

Gilford found his room and lay down for the night. It's been a long journey...but Stennar's point of origin is finally found. The Ring of Brodgar. Where did he escape from...and what is the mystery behind the Ring of Brodgar? Look forward to the next update!

Sterling work, and earlier than anyone has any right to expect, as usual.

RK47 said:

I'm the only reporter who works out of this office. Local Caladonian reporter for the Caladonian, for what, twenty years now?

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Or the Tarantian. Whichever.

RK47 said:

Gilford found his room and lay down for the night. It's been a long journey...but Stennar's point of origin is finally found. The Ring of Brodgar. Where did he escape from...and what is the mystery behind the Ring of Brodgar? Look forward to the next update!

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Same bat time, same bat channel?

Thanks for your commitment. You're making an exhausted teacher's evenings a lot more fun.

friartucksduck said:

Sterling work, and earlier than anyone has any right to expect, as usual.

RK47 said:

I'm the only reporter who works out of this office. Local Caladonian reporter for the Caladonian, for what, twenty years now?

Click to expand...

Or the Tarantian. Whichever.

RK47 said:

Gilford found his room and lay down for the night. It's been a long journey...but Stennar's point of origin is finally found. The Ring of Brodgar. Where did he escape from...and what is the mystery behind the Ring of Brodgar? Look forward to the next update!

Click to expand...

Same bat time, same bat channel?

Thanks for your commitment. You're making an exhausted teacher's evenings a lot more fun.

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Corrected the mistake. Haha. Sorry. Must've been copy-typing it too quickly to notice.

So what Mods and Patches are you using now?

Used the latest Drog patch. Which restores some 'content' that gun is one of them. As well as Axe of Lost Time (Hastes enemy randomly, very slow attack, yet highly damaging.) I also noticed some items icons are changed.

Morning came and the party had breakfast.

How goes your search last night?
I'll tell you once we're outside. Before that, why don't you ask around about the Ring of Brodgar, I think you'll find it interesting...
Fine.

Wiping his mouth with the napkin, Gilford rose from his seat and approach a pair of elves at the lobby.


Hello sir. Might I ask your name?
Oh! Of course...of course... My name is Jason. Jason C. Guy, to be precise.
(What an uncommon name for an...oh wait, he's a half elf.) What are you doing out here Jason?
Well my good man, I'm studying the Ring of Brodgar.
Fascinating. Tell me more.
I have always been fascinated with the Ring of Brodgar. It is strange...the histories always mention the Black Spire synonymously with the Ring of Brodgar, but its meaning is lost in antiquity...perhaps it symbolizes the power of the wards...I do not know. I came here to study wards and to see how they are holding up.
Wards?
Yes. The Rift that Nasrudin created when banishing Arronax required all of the great mages from the Ages of Legends to set up powerful wards around the ring in order to keep the rift sealed.
(Wait...Stennar..escaped from the rift?) Why would they not be holding up?
Technology has spread throughout the land at an amazing pace. I feared that its propensity would have caused the wards to weaken. That is why I am here...to ascertain the strength of the wards.
(Oh, no...) What have you found?
The results of my studies are quite puzzling. As I suspected, the wards are weakening...But at a rate much more accelerated than I had originally calculated.
What happens if the wards fail?
I am sure the great mages placed such powerful wards in this place for a purpose...But many years have passed. That knowledge has been lost to us. I fear if they were to fail, something terrible would occur.
(Arronax.) That is very worrisome.
Is there anything else I can do for you Alain Gilford?
Do you feel magick or technology will ultimately prevail?
I have studied many things. I received technological training from the great university in Tarant. I have also studied magick i nthe wondrous city of Tulla. Through all of my learning, I have developed a theory.
What is it?
I believe that all things work in cycles. Everything natural goes through cycles of ebb and flow. I believe magick and technology are no different. There is only one major flaw with my theory.
What is that?
This appears to be the initial appearance of technology. There is no known history that advanced technology existed before now. As a result, I am unable to prove my theory.
Interesting. Have you searched for signs of such?
*Sighs* Extensively, and to no avail. Say! You are a traveler. If, in all of your travels, you come across any signs of ancient technology, I would greatly appreciate it if you would let me know. It would really help with my hypothesis.
I will let you know if I see any. *Turns to the other half elf.*


Hello, sir. What's your name?
The name's Trevor. Trevor Lynwood. I'm a journalist for the Tarantian.
The Tarantian! What are you doing here?
Yeah...I'm on assignment. Although it's not going so well...
What's the problem?
It's supposed to be simple. Take a picture, get back to Tarant as quick as I could. *Sarcastically* Nothing to it, right?
Sounds simple enough...Picture of what?
The elusive Lethe Wyvern...Ever heard of it?
No..What is it?
Well, legend describes it as a tremendous two legged dragon...Wings, claws, the whole bit. The difference with the Lethe I've read, is in its attack.
What's different about it?
Apparently, every time it strikes, it destroys a bit of its victim's memory...Some sort of venom or something. After enough attacks, the victim can't even remember how to flee and the Lethe's got itself an easy meal.
Sounds dangerous.
Yeah. From my research I've surmised that very few creatures ever survive an encounter with the Lethe. And those few that do, usually don't remember exactly what or who they escaped from.
I certainly don't see anything 'simple' about that assignment.
Well, I didn't really believe it. Thought it was all a hoax. I just came up here because my editor, Mr. Wright, wanted a hot story. He thought if we could get a picture of the wyvern, our sales would boom.
Turned out to be a hoax, huh?
*Turns pale.* No..that's just it. I've seen it! A truly horrible beast! I caught the merest glimpse...But that was all it took! It was gigantic! My heart froze...my skin began to crawl...I'd swear I even forgot which way I should run...
It sounds horrible...Didn't you get your photograph?
I couldn't even snap one shot off! I was that terrified! And I'm not going back....There's no way I'm going back! What am I to do? Mr. Wright will fire me for certain!
What if I took the photograph?
You? You would want to risk yourself to photograph this beast? Why would you do that?
There's a few hundred reasons...umm..I mean..gold.
Uh...but of course..I'm being paid 500 coin for the shot. But, I've spent part of that in supplies so far. I wouldn't be able to pay any more than 300.
I think it's worth far more than that...
Yes. I definitely agree it's worth more than that. Hmmmm...you know, you would be saving my career. I could throw in some of my own coin for that cause. If you'd do it...I'd pay you the full 500. What do you say?
It's a deal. What do I need to do?
Here, take this camera. All you need to do is get within visual range of the Lethe, then use the camera on it. After that, run like the wind!
I think we'd prefer to kill it. *Polishes his gun.*
Fine. Here, I'll mark your map with the location. One more thing...I have heard rumors that an old bridge exists somewhere near that location. I did not have a chance to look for it, but it may be of interest to you.
Yes, that might be helpful. Thanks, Trevor. I'll get that photograph for you in no time!
Sounds like a hoax, but that bridge could prove useful if we want to save time traveling northwards...
And some coin, too. Let's go.


Well, we're outside. What have you got for me?
I found Old Misk's grave.
Mmm. Let's go.

Let's dig in!

That's it! *Grabs the book and flips through it!*

It's the real deal! There's a map to Tsen'Ang! *Flips the page.*
*Smacks fist onto his palm* Right! I'm itching to shoot some of those darkies.

*Yawn.* Maybe it's not worth reading...*Flips the page.*

Oh, Renford. Why the curiosity? *Flips to next page.*

You look bored. Perhaps it's better if we just head straight there?
Hmph. Can skip a few paragraphs..*Flips page.*

*Pauses.* I'm sorry, Renford. *Flips to next page.*

Renford, you fool. *Flips to next page.*

... *Flips to the next page.*

Poor bastard. *Flips to the next page.*


*Closes book.* Don't worry, Renford. Your journey was not in vain...
All done?
Yes. Show me the Ring of Brodgar.

Later...


So this is where the great Nasrudin stopped Arronax...
Doesn't look like he escaped yet...
This Ring is a prison, isn't it?
If what that Half-elf said was true, then yes.
So suppose the Dark Elves wanted to free Arronax...how would they accomplish it?
I seem to recall something about the wards being weakened by technology...
Technology..I see no signs of technology here...but...By the Gods! That's it!
The dwarf?
Exactly! The Black Mountain Clan! The Dark Elves must've taken them into the Void and put them to work in weakening the wards with their technological inventions. Stennar must've escaped..and the Molochean Hand was hired to hunt him down!
That is quite logical, but how do we stop it? Or rescue the dwarves?
I...I don't know. We need to...
Travel into the Void?
That...would prove most interesting.
Whatever it is, we need to head to Tsen'Ang to follow the trail. Get some answers.
*Pulls the lever on his machine gun.* Well, what are we waiting for then? Let's go! If that Wyvern Bridge shortcut is true, we can save many days of travel to Tsen'Ang!



Upon arrival, the party immediately spotted the Lethe Wyvern, a grey, massive winged beast. Quickly, Gilford snaps a shot with the camera.



The party promptly charged and killed it.



I see the bridge to the north.



Great. Let's cross and head for Tsen' Ang!



Along the way...they encountered a strange hut...





What the hell?



Look out! It's charging right at us! *Opens fire.*



Swarms of screaming apes descended upon the party...bullets flew and blades cut down the charging half ogre instantly.

Well...he brought it upon himself...let's go.



Many days later...the dreaded Tsen'Ang came into view.

So what's the plan?
We'll improvise as we go along. Just don't draw any attention to ourselves.


I'm here to see M'in Gorad.
You are aware of the procedure. Where is your amulet, Molochean?
(Too easy.) Virgil?
Ah! Yes, yes! Here it is! *Shows the amulet from his pack.*
You may enter.


Phew. Got lucky.
Let's get this thing over with quickly, I'm getting antsy...
Relax. I'll use my charming spell...that'll arouse less suspicions..

Where is everyone? Your village seems a bit...empty.
*He looks at Alain suspiciously.* What is that information to you? And just who are you?
I am of the Molochean Hand, I suppose I was simply curious....
Then you should know what we are trying to accomplish. It would be very difficult to achieve our goals were we to stay in our village, would it not? Besides, if the location of our village ever became known by our enemies, they would not hesitate to attack. It is best not congregate more than necessary, not only for our safety, but to assure our task is brought to completion.
Thank you for the information.
Looks like something big is going on. Let's find this Min Gorad quickly...
Hmmm. That Dark Elf...seems...different. Excuse me...


I'm sorry, madam? Why do you say such things?
Pitiful creature! Why are you wasting my time with your drivel! You're obviously not fit to speak with me...Begone!
(She seems very upset. But not at me...unlike other Dark Elves here, there's hardly anything sinister about her...) I think, perhaps, that you've made a hasty assessment, madam...
*The Dark Elf woman seems a little surprised at her own words.* Perhaps you're right. I may have been a little hasty with my first impressions of you. Perhaps we might speak for a few moments...
I'm so very glad. Might I ask your name?
I am Z'an Al'urin, warrior-priestess of the Dark Elves. *She gives Alain an uncertain look, calculating.* And who are you, stranger? You've never before seen the trees of T'sen-Ang...of that I am certain...
I am Alain Gilford.
*She gives Alain an appraising nod.* Hmmm. Honesty. You surprise me. You take a large risk in exposing yourself to me...especially considering what you are...
And what exactly do you mean by that?
I don't know exactly who you are, Alain Gilford, but I do know that you don't belong here. Sometimes...I...I see things that others cannot. I know that your road has been long, and that you're in grave danger by being here. *She gives Alain a hooded glance.* I suppose you could say that meeting me has increased that danger...
Really? For some reason I don't feel you pose a threat...
*She gives Alain a long, hard look.* That still remains to be seen, Alain Gilford. But, unlike many of my brethren and sisters here, I am seeking answers to difficult questions. Blind devotion to a cause is the easiest path to take, and the most foolish. I wish to shed light on the path ahead, and choose the best way to travel. Those answers, I think, begin with you...
(Stay cool, Gilford.) Really? And why would you think that, Z'an Al'urin?
I..I see things. When you walked into T'sen-Ang, I saw something around you...a great latticework of wood and iron, and it carried a great weight which weighed nothing at all. These are the visions I see, Gilford. What they mean, I don't always know, but I do know that YOU are somehow important to me...
*Whispers.* Such a strange way of flirting. Must be a dark elf thing.*
Why? What answers are YOU seeking, Z'an Al'urin?
*She is silent for a while, considering you with her dark eyes. Then...* What do you know of the Dark Elves, Alain Gilford? Do you know the difference between us and our cousins in Qintarra?
Yes, I know of the philosophical differences...
Then you know that the Dark Elves, like Arronax, want Arcanum to once again be ruled by elves, and elves only. They will stop at nothing to make this a reality. *She seems almost to shudder.* They've already done much, and are still doing so...
You keep saying 'they'. Aren't you a Dark Elf, Z'an Al'urin?
Yes...yes I am. *She looks down.* I am a Dark Elf. Sometimes that is a burden. I..I don't know exactly what I believe anymore. I see visions, and these visions tell me that there is something very wrong with what the Dark Elves are working for, something very wrong with all that they have done...
(I must convince her to be on my side...) Then perhaps your place is not here among them...
Are you crazy?!
*Raises a finger to his lips to silence Sebastian.*
Perhaps not. I do not wish to betray them, nor do I wish to betray myself...or you, Gilford. And I can't say that, in the end, I won't betray one or all... *She hangs her head, her shoulders slumping.* Perhaps it is best that I leave all of this...
If it's answers that we both seek, then why don't you join me?
You would have me, knowing I can make you no promises? Knowing that my own answers will always come first? *She shakes her head.* And you have no idea where we are going, Gilford. Not yet..not until I am sure of the right choice...
I've seen much more than you think. And the answer is still 'Yes'. Will you come with me? *Extends his right hand.*
*She is quiet for a long time and made no motion towards the hand.* Yes, Alain Gilford, I will join you on your quest. It may be that I can help you...I pray, for your sake, that I am not your, or the world's undoing...
That...is what I pray to myself, at times. Tell me, Z'an, where can I find M'in Gorad?

The dark elf pointed over yonder...and followed Gilford silently.



Z'an Al'urin isn't that old by Dark Elf standard, aged 200 years old, she possess a superb willpower, intellect and constitution to boot. She will most definitely use her Stone Spells more often than anything else...and that will keep her alive most of the time, although...her effectiveness in combat are questionable at best.


That is the one you seek. M'in Gorad.
Alright. Let me deal with her.

I've come to report on the search for the blimp crash survivor.
Judging from the Hand's famed reputation, I assume you are here to tell me that the survivor has been located and eliminated?
That is correct. I completed the assignment myself.
Wonderful! I assume you are here to collect the payment?
Exactly.
Here is the agreed upon amount. *She hands Alain some coins.*
I am also here to collect more information for the Hand.
Why is the Hand interested in our affairs?
It has become our affairs. The survivor killed several of the Hand.
Very well. What information are you seeking?
We are looking for the link between the Black Mountain dwarves and the survivor.
The only link between them would be information that the escaped dwarf passed to the survivor. We don't believe they had any knowledge of each other before they boarded the blimp.
(So they don't know how much I've discovered. Perfect.) That's very interesting. Where exactly did the dwarf escape from?
The Molochean Hand should have no concern for the whereabouts of a few measly dwarves.
We think the survivor was attempting to contact them.
That would be an impossible task for someone of his...limited resources. You will learn nothing from this line of inquiry.
Yes, indeed. He failed utterly....completely!
Epic fail!
Yes, yes..brothers, please...What do you think the dwarf told the survivor?
We cannot be sure, obviously, but we assume it has something to do with why the dwarves were banished to the Void. Sadly, Stennar, the dwarf from the blimp, was one of the most skilled engineers. His loss set our timetable back a fair amount.
(I was right! The Void! I need more specifics...) Why were the dwarves banished to the Void?
Tell me, why are you so anxious to get information concerning the Black Mountain Clan? I've already told you that they had no contact before they embarked on the blimp. Seems to me you are searching for answers that should not concern you.
I was told to get this information for my superiors.
*She leans toward Alain as an attitude of hostility seems to grow around her.* Who did you say sent you here? Your questions are beginning to trouble me.
(Shit. I need to get to the Void. Somehow.) Well..you have seen through me. I am here to join your cause.
Do you think this is some sort of social club you can just join on a whim?
I know you are not averse to violence to forward your plan.
And what plan would that be?
Why don't you tell me?
It's not that simple. You must prove your worthiness first.
How?
Simply slaughter every last inhabitant of Stillwater, and then I will answer any questions you may have.
(Impossible.) Why would you want to kill a town full of innocent people?
Joining with us means following orders without questions. Out of the kindness of my heart, though, I will answer you just this once. Stillwater is too near our lands, they sell supplies to those that might wish to explore areas they shouldn't. No one encroaches on elven land.
(Madness!) They're too close? They're on the other side of a mountain range!
*Her eyes burn with hatred as she lashes out at Gilford with unexpected fury.* I told you never to question orders! *She makes an apparent attempt to compose herself.* If you don't kill everyone in Stillwater, I will have you tortured to death. Slowly.
*Glances at the companions behind him.*
*Nods.*
No. I won't kill another innocent. Luckily, you are far from innocent.


The dark elves assassins drop from the shadows and converge on the party. Z'an Al'ruin explodes into a magickal energy, transforming herself into a golem.

Betrayer!
Shut up, monsters!

The energy crackled in Gilford's palm as he unleashes it to all the dark elves in the room. Stunning them, momentarily.



It proved fatal.



Sebastian gleefully gunned down the nearby dark elf guard who are staggering in place. The victim danced a dance of death before collapsing in a pool of blood.



Torian finishes off M'in Gorad with his Charged Ax.

Fools...*Searches M'in Gorad's body.* We need to hurry...


Vendrigoth? Who is this K'an Hua?
That name is unfamiliar to me...
Whatever you do, make it quick. These dark elves will be raining down on us once they found this bitch dead.
You're right. There's no time to waste...

Rise!

Shut up. I need to know where the Black Mountain Clan is.
The Black Mountain Clan was banished to the Void to create a technological gate to weaken the wards that keep Arronax from returning. Please...the pain..
I don't care about your pain. Why did you enlist the Hand to kill me?
Stennar Rock Cutter escaped through the gate to warn the world of Arronax's imminent return. He passed this information along to you before we could stop him. Nothing can be allowed to interfere with restoring the elven world order.
You fool! Had you done nothing to threaten me, I would not have pursued the lead so fervently! He failed to tell me anything about the Void before his death!
It cannot be...you have come to defeat us, yet you know nothing?
I know everything now...Why hasn't Arronax returned as Stennar did?
Stennar had absolutely no magickal aptitude...he was able to slip through the smallest opening without any danger to himself...if someone of Arronax's magickal power were to attempt to come through before the rift was big enough, it would be an excrutiating death...
Farewell...I will stop your plans...you may regret your actions in the afterlife...
....That's it? What about..
We'll think about it once we left this place. Come!

The party hurriedly exit the building.


(Huh? Another human?) I'm sorry? What are you talking about?
What do you mean? You are in the middle of the village of the Dark Elves, and no one is here who shouldn't be here. So why wouldn't I know who you are.
(It's the Molochean Hand. Damn.) Stay out of my way, stranger. I have things to do...
Ha ha ha! A valiant attempt my friend! I'd have done the same thing myself, had I been in your position. *His face goes still.* And now, I'd know that my ruse hadn't worked. Did you really think the Hand wouldn't recognized its prey? We've been looking for you for a long time, stranger....
So. You do know who I am. Who are you?
*He bows, slightly.* I am Gideon Laier. First Blade of the Molochean Hand. I have sought you for a long time. And here you are, having walked into my very arms. Interesting, indeed.
I find it interesting that you're a mere whipping boy for the Dark Elves...
*He laughs, but his eyes betray his anger.* The Hand serves no one, stranger. The Dark Elves are our most current employers, and nothing more. I suggest you keep your tongue in check.
That much I understand, but why are you trying to kill me?
Why else? We are assassins, friend. We have been contracted to kill you. Is there anything else that need to be said? The Hand has no conscience or morality. We are death. That death has now come for you...
The Hand hasn't always been this way...
*He gives Gilford a hard look.* What could you possibly know of the Hand, stranger? We have been assassins for more than a 1000 years. Our record is immaculate, our techniques those of the oldest masters. You don't know us at all...
I know of the Derian-Ka, Gideon. I know why the Hand left them...
What? How could you...? You know nothing! A mere scrap of information...an old name! You don't have any idea what you're talking about!
Yes, Gideon. I do. Your order was under Kerghan's necromancers once...but your leaders broke free....and fought them. The battle between your order and the Legions of Derian-Ka was legendary...
*He is silent for a long time.* So, you do know of our history. You may very well be the only living person, outside of the Hand, who knows these things. That once we served such evil ends is a shame to us...
Why was the Hand so shamed?
Do you have any idea what sort of monster that Kerghan the Terrible was? He discovered all of the dark necromantic arts. He used to experiment on living souls, killing themm and then raising them from the dead. The Derian-Ka was his evil prodigy, and we served them unquestioningly for 500 years. We had never been told of what Kerghan had done.
And then your leader, Trellian, found something...
Yes...it is said that he found the writings of Kerghan...which described in detail the experiments he used to perform on his victims. It madeTrellian sick with revulsion and despair...he vowed to destroy the Derian-Ka, no matter what the cost...
And yet here you are, making the same mistakes all over again...
What? What do you mean?
If you thought Kerghan was bad, how about Arronax?
Arronax? What the hell does Arronax have to do with any of this?
He's returning...why don't you ask M'in Gorad? Oh wait, she's dead. *Hands over the letter.*
I see. *Anger flares in his eyes.* We have been lied to, once again. Someone will answer for this, in due time. And as for you, I am deeply sorry. The Hand will bother you no more.
Thank you, Gideon.
Good luck to you...we won't be seeing each other again. I recommend you leave this place as soon as possible.
Farewell...

Unfortunately the party's descent was not a smooth one...the dark elven guards found M'in Gorad's corpse and sounded the alarm.

Traitors! Assassins in the camp! Slay them all!
Arrows...everywhere! Argh. *Held his cheek*
Sir! You're bleeding.
That'll leave scar...get them!
RAWR!


The dog tore into one guard's arm and chew it to bits. Torian's ax flashes a few moments before tearing apart the guard's chest in quick successions. Z'an Al'urin's body of stone protected her from the hail of arrows, using the rock form as cover, Sebastian emptied his machine gun at another guard, cursing as his chambers went empty. Thankfully, Geoffrey's zombie finishes off the last one. Virgil quickly healed Alain's wounds after the battle...satisfied, he withdrew his hands and stepped back. He took a deep breath.

Thank you, Virgil....

Yes, Virgil? What is it?
I have to leave. There's something I need to do...something I should have done a long time ago...
What are you talking about?
Listen, I...I'm sorry things have to be this way. I stayed with you as long as I could...I tried to forget...but it burns within me, won't leave me alone. I..I have to go to Caladon. If I can, I'll return to you. If not, well...I wish you the best of luck...
Virgil, please..just tell me! Let me help!
*For a moment, he seem to change his mind...* I'm...I'm sorry...I have no choice..I can no longer live with it. I must go and do what must be done. Farewell, Living One...
Virgil, wait...!


Alain couldn't catch up. The scar and wounds left him too exhausted. Virgil's figure disappeared into the forest. Soon, there's nothing left but the stillness of the forest.

Why?
We'll find him...let's get that scar fixed up at a healer soon...
Ow...yeah..let's go.

Sebastian helps him up...and the party resumes their journey...

Where to?
....Shrouded Hills.
Very well.

Belatedly echoing how awesome this LP is.

Go to Caladon*Cough*

I forgot but I think you can cheese the Axe of Lost Time, with a high enough Tech. Aptitude you can use it without fear of the Hex.

That's a good idea, but Pyro Ax and Charged Ax are equally good, and fire / electric damage doesn't get resisted...and somewhat faster.

The Ax of Lost time speed rating is 2!

Great let's play, it's better than playing the actual game. spent a lot of time reading it at work.

But what happened to the impulsive-driven, mean Alain Gilford? Will he come back?

Still going strong! Zpointlessapostrophean and her visions should make for some fun party banter, especially with Sebastian and post-personality transplant Virgil.

Honestly curious to see where this is going. Keep up the good shit, this is as good if not better then that fucking awesome Somethign Awful Arcanum Let's Play.

Looking forward to next update. I always check here for it...

HURRY UP

Sorry guy's i'm really swamped with my course reviews and work...maybe tomorrow?

*Goes back to playing Potato RPG of the Year*