Fight or Flight Progress Report - 11/29

Took two days off for the holiday, but getting back on that horse. The NaNoWriMo challenge might be complete, but the story isn't done yet! I'm gonna try and keep a daily writing schedule on, hoping that I can keep on even without the motivator of NaNoWriMo.

Fight or Flight - 11/29

The two didn’t need a half hour to fetch their horses, the village was small enough the traversal to the stable and then back to the south rode would have been covered in about ten minutes, but the two of them needed time to breath and shake off the foul sensation the men of the Supremacy had left on their person. They both stood in a secluded lot behind the Tavern, Annice constantly fidgeting with her hands and shuddering in revulsion while Wilhelm scowled and balled his fists in a constant effort not to punch a wall.

“That man is awful!” Annice stated, hugging herself as if suddenly cold.

“That is an understatement, Annie.” Wilhelm retorted, he looked about to take a swing at the wooden post that held the clothes line the tavern used for it’s laundry service, he paused and took a breath to calm himself instead.

“I… I don’t know if I can stand any more time with them. They speak of their methods as peaceful, of the tranquility that will come when they’ve enacted their will.” Annice’s voice hitched, she was barely containing her anger. “They stare at me, a servant of peace, as if their entire ideology isn’t inherently violent. It’s offensive!”

Annice turned and swung her fist, crashing it into the back door of the tavern. A flash of holy light left a seared mark of her fist in the wood, which rattled in it’s frame. A stout balding man, one of Fozzie’s employees, pushed the door open peering with narrowed eyes at Annice as she shook her wrist painfully, biting her lip. Wilhelm approached the man and assured him everything was alright, that they were family to Fozzie. The balding man gave Annice the stink eye and told the both of them to keep it down and receded back into the tavern.

“Ow.” Annice said as the man disappeared. She rubbed her knuckles, they stung and the skin behind her middle finger had split. Wilhelm took the hand and inspected it.

“Well, ya did more damage to the door than yer fist, so be proud of that.” He said, patting the back of her palm. “I know it’s hard, Annie, but-“ Wilhelm started, but Annice pulled her hand free and spun away from the man.

“No you don’t, Wilhelm!” She stated, the anger now again rising in her voice. “I am a Cleric to the Goddess Syrene, the Goddess of peace!” Her brow was set deep and there were tears in her eyes as she faced the gladiator again. “And they take her will, her way, and twist it to suit themselves. I see their strategy for what it is!” She paused to swallow hard and keep herself from shouting. “They waltz in pretending to be peaceful, only wishing to have their hateful words spoken aloud.” She scowled, her lips twisting into a sickened frown. “So that if anyone were to raise an arm against them they could claim to be the victims of violence, and not it’s perpetrators. They defame Syrene… They fefame the very nature of peace!” She let out heavy breaths, the tears were falling now and streaking down a reddened face. She sniffled, and turned away from Wilhelm, wiping her face on the sleeves of her robes.

Wilhelm stood there, unable to say anything. She was right, and there was nothing Wilhelm could possibly say to make her feel any better about it. He was asking her to share words, bread, and revelry with those who weren’t just the antithesis of her beliefs, but ones who used her beliefs as a shroud. He approached her, cautiously, and reached out. He held his hand out in hesitation for a long moment before placing it on her shoulder, giving it a gentle squeeze. Annice turned suddenly, closing the distance between them and wrapping her arms around the man’s waist. She started to softly sob into his chest. Wilhelm could feel his own tears start to well in his eyes and his heart break at the sobs of someone he had learned to call friend.

“I know I was sheltered, I always knew that the world outside the walls of the temple were different… But I could never conceive the world being so ugly.” Annice’s voice cracked as she sobbed out her words, Wilhelm listened quietly and simply rubbed her back soothingly. A minute later, Annice’s sobs subsided.

“You ain’t wrong, Annice.” The man finally said. “The world can be a real shit house. People are cruel vicious monsters worse than any ogre in the realm…” He paused, and Annice was not exactly uplifted by his words. “But it’s also majestic, and beautiful, and full of people willin to give their blood and soul to make a strangers day just a little bit better. Kindness, Annie, kindness is precious few creatures born by the Gods’ will… And there are those out there gotta protect those few.” He looked down at her. “Fact that you’re so sickened by these folk, stead of just shrugging your shoulder and movin on, means you’re one who got what it takes to be that protector.”

Protect Him

The words rang in her ears, the command by her goddess, at least that’s what she thought it was. She felt a renewed strength in herself, pulling free of Wilhelm to stand on her own. She let out a few shaky breaths, trying to calm herself out of her distressed state. It took a few moments but eventually she felt her body relax and a deep calm wash over her. She nodded, wiped her face one last time, and smiled wryfully.

“You’re terrible at speeches, Wilhelm.” She said, letting out a small chuckle. The man laughed in response.

“I’m much better at riling up a crowd, yeah.” He turned and spotted the sun in the air. “Alright we should get goin, don’t want to keep these monsters waitin, yeah?”

The two fetched their horses and made their way to the south road. Annice had splashed her face with water from a wineskin to hide the fact that she was crying and cast a small healing spell to close the wounds on her knuckles. When they arrived at the edge of town, Rikkard and his men were already there. Annice saw that Rikkard brandished a crossbow in both hands and what looked a rapier with a very ornate knuckle guard and crossguard at his waist, which did not concern her too much, what did was the four bodyguards that flanked him all carrying less ornate but very well managed broadswords on their backs.

“Expectin the boars to ambush us in numbers?” Wilhelm asked as they approached, clearly noting the same thing Annice did.

“Can never be too careful now!” Rikkard said, smiling broadly. “Can never know what kind of cut throats you’ll find in the forrest, yes?” He hefted his crossbow into view. “A beauty, isn’t it?” He said, regarding the weapon. “Been in my family for seven generations.”

“Very nice.” Wilhelm reached back into his saddle bag and retrieved his crossbow, it was quite a bit larger than Rikkard’s, and the man was obviously annoyed by that fact. “Won this at a Tournement in Duskhall, said to be the finest craft of the Tinker Gnomes of the Dusk Planes.” Wilhelm regarded his own crossbow a moment, adjusting the sights.

“Well…” Rikkard said, quirking a brow at the weapon. “Can’t really compare the craft of a Gnome to a Human.” He said, that broad grin appearing on his face again. “But we’ll see what weapon brings down the boar!” He ushered his horse forward and the party moved into the forest. Annice wondered if blessing Wilhelm’s Crossbow would be a bad idea.

NaNoWriMo2019 - Progress Report 11/26

I DID IT.

Fifty Thousand, One Hundred and Forty Seven words I did it.

All my life I've wanted to be a story teller and... I just... Wasn't. Every single time I tried I would just sit at my computer and stare at a half filled page on a word processor. I would sit there and not write and not write and not write. I thought I was a fraud, a fake, a pretender. That I just didn't know how to tell a story, that I didn't have what it takes to be a writer, just silly ideas in my head but no through line. But here I am 50 thousand words into a story and still going. I feel amazing.

This concludes the NaNoWriMo updates for this blog, but not the end of my Fight or Flight updates. The stories not done. I'll continue on with it, though I don't know if I'll keep the progress reports coming. I'll put one up if I have something to say, but you might see a few Fight or Flight updates before the next one.

I'll try to keep my daily writing going, but I might give myself a break tomorrow. I feel good about completing NaNoWriMo but what I'm most excited for is continuing this story to it's completion. I have some idea's kicking around in the back of my head and they need to get on the page.

Till the next page.

Fight or Flight - NaNoWriMo2019 11/26

Annice returned to her bed and debated for more than a moment to just go back to sleep, instead she sought her possessions from the chest at it’s foot and kneeled on the floor, exhaling a breath. She lit the incense and began to pray. She felt the connection with Syrene and was pleased to find the warm sensation of her love again, perhaps the strife and malice of the ogres contained within the confines of Lost Road is what caused her prayer to feel cold the previous day. She pushed passed her thoughts and sought power from her Goddess, hesitating a moment, and once again for the first time asking for spells she never thought she would ever cast. There were many Gods and Goddesses in the celestial realm and all of them had more than a few Clerics swearing fealty, and few of them had qualms about the makings of war. Clerics outside of Syrene’s service were renowned for their battle spells, stories spread across the land of single Faithfuls proving a match to entire armies when granted the favor of their chosen deity. Annice felt a pang of guilt inside of her, carrying these destructive magics, she only hoped that she would never have cause to use them.

Once done with her prayers she did as instructed, wearing her armor on the inside of her robes and fastening the sling for her club to her hip as opposed to her back. She stared at herself in a full length mirror that hung on the wall and tilted her head, it did seem more casual, she guessed? Turning from the mirror Annice glanced at her shield, Wilhelm didn’t say whether to bring it, did that mean she shouldn’t? She rubbed her wrist feeling a little unsure of herself, but shook her head… She was an adult and didn’t need Wilhelm to walk her through everything. She was several decades older than him for the gods sake! She decided to err on the side of caution and stap the shield to the other side of her hip. She smiled confidently for a moment before happening a glance at the mirror again, her smile sank into a frown and glowered at herself. With her club at one side of her hip and the shield on the other she realized that she was carrying her equipment exactly as Wilhelm did. She groaned and rubbed her face, deciding to walk away from the looming sense of embarrassment that was mounting inside of her and just get some breakfast.

The Half-Elf made her way down the stairs, rounding the corner she saw that the morning service was just as busy as the night’s. She remembered now that Fozzie had explained that the Inn was at capacity and all of the occupants were in the Supremacy. She swallowed hard, feeling anxiety well inside of her and pushed on. Spotting Wilhelm she made a beeline for the large man, seeking an anchor to latch on to in this den of monsters. She was heartbroken when she neared the gladiator and noted he was seated with Rikkard and two other men, some of the sullen eyed men he was sitting with the previous night. Annice pegged the men instantly, now that she was able to give them a proper once over. She had seen men and women of import enter the Healing House in the past, always demanding they be seen first and quick to declare their higher station in life, all of them had men like the ones with Rikkard. These weren’t friends or associates, they weren’t fellows or followers, they were just bodyguards. They were big, too, both of them at least as tall as Wilhelm, and the one of them with a greater shoulder span than the gladiator. Annice nodded to the group politely before seating herself besides her companion.

“Good morning, gentlemen. Sorry to keep you waiting, I needed to complete my morning prayers.” She smiled, though the act was difficult and she felt strain in her cheeks.

“No need to apologize.” Rakkard said. “Your lot’s way I suppose. Elves being so long lived I’ve never known one to consider the time of others.” Rakkard let out a small chuckle. “No offense!” He added, continuing the laugh. Wilhelm joined the laugh, though Annice spotted him digging his nails into his own palm as he clenched his fist. Annice just smiled wider.

“Yes, I guess we do tend to take our longevity for granted.” She managed as politely as possible, a feat to say the least, as Annice felt ready to renounce her edict of peace and leap over the table for the man’s throat.

“Cleric Annice,” Rikkard began “Has Wilhelm shared with you anything we discussed last night?”

“No, not of your conversation. I have only been told that we will be enjoying a hunt today.” She responded.

“Well,” Rikkard leaned forward, obviously excited for the chance to try his pitch on an Elf “I gave him an offer, an opportunity to join a cause worth fighting for, Gods know there aren’t enough of those going around these days, huh?”

“Mmhm.” Annice could feel herself start to shake but Wilhelm grasped her wrist under the table, it was enough to calm her. She shared a casual glance at the man, desperate to look at him without betraying anything, he glanced back and nodded to her.

“A cause truly just and righteous. Should be right up the ally of a Faithful like yourself.” Rakkard continues. “I represent a group of concerned men and women who feel that the existing realm needs…” He paused for a moment as in searching for the correct word, Annice saw it for the practiced speech it was. “To return to a more traditional model. We call our self the Emissary, and we seek to petition the Kingdoms, Councils, and Empires to adjust their lands so that the realm might return to the glory that once was.” Rikkard smiled, though it was really more of a smirk, Annice was distracted by just how white his teeth were, it was off putting. She did take note of the name, must be what they called themselves to outsiders.

“And what is that ‘traditional model’?” She asked, tilting her head.

“Well, one where the Primal Races return to their own lands of course.” Rikkard leaned back, keeping his eyes on Annice’s face. The Cleric kept her own gaze on him and felt as though she were about to burst into flames. She silently thanked Syrene when a server approached the table and began dolling out plates filled with scrambled eggs and cooked ham and tankards of honey mead. Annice took the distraction to compose herself and build up the resolve to jump back in, starting the conversation again before Rikakrd could, to appear eager to learn more, to appear interested.

“Aren’t the lands they were born to theirs?” She asked, stabbing at a bit of egg with her fork.

“Oh goodness no.” He said, leaning in again. “See the Prime Five Races are all sorts of mixed up now. I mean, you must know this, tell me you were born to the forests, correct?”

“The land of my mother is a forest, yes.” Annice said between bites, nimbly avoiding sharing that she was born to the Sapphire Cove.

“See? See?” Rikkard thrust his fork forward to accentuate his point. “Elves are best when they’re in the forest, that’s where they thrive.” He stabbed a piece of ham and shoved it into his mouth, speaking over the food. “Not in human cities, they just don’t belong there, and end up bringing down the humans with them.”

“So what of humans in Elven lands?” She asked, and got a nudge from Wilhelm’s knee for her troubles.

“Ah! See that’s not ideal either.” Rikkard said, seemingly unperturbed by the question. “I mean you have to agree Humans tend to be a bit more adaptable than the other Five. We’ve been sharing out lands with everyone else for so long it’s just natural we tend to thrive anywhere we are, right?”

“As you say, I have to agree.” Annice poked at her food, she was very rapidly losing her appetite.

“So,” Rikkard sat up straight, slipping back into his pitch. “Me and my associates simply travel the lands to speak our truth, gather more to our cause, and amass the power and influence so that we may enact our renewed realm…” Rikkard extended his hand magnanimously at the end of his speech. “Peacefully.” He added.

“It is an ambitious task.” Annice stated.

“Which is why we need allies like you and Wilhelm. People of fame,” He gestured to the Gladiator. “And a Cleric of the Gods.”

“Well, I haven’t exactly signed on the dotted line just yet, Rikki.” Wilhelm said, amassing an air of jest, grinning widely.

“Oh no worries, you’ll get your chance to Wilhelm.” Rikkard said, patting the larger man on the shoulder. “How about you, Cleric Annice, are you interested?”

“Oh yes,” Annice stated, trying to keep the coldness out of her voice. “I am very interested in seeing the dotted line.”

The meal went on with the two companions bearing the company of Rikkard and his bodyguards. The man was unpleasant, that went without saying, but he was so sure of himself. He carried himself with an unearned confidence and casually disparaged Dwarves, Elves, Halflings, and Gnomes to say nothing of how he spoke of any race outside the Prime Five.

“Nothing but a bunch of twisted perversions of the Five.” He stated, speaking most harshly of Orcs, which he saw as a failed attempt to recreate the perfection of humans. “Gods damn the first one of them that birthed a Half-Orc” Rikkard spit.

Wilhelm and Annice sat through this, and were forced to smile, laugh, and agree as he said all of it. Annice could not help but think of Kuran in that moment, how kind she was and how they danced after the tournament together, laughing and reveling together. How they shared words, drink, and smiles. This man saw her as nothing more than a mistake and had he his way she would be put to death.

“And Half Elves.” Rikkard grimaced as he continued, Annice’s eyes snapped to him, Kuran driven from her mind. The man was into his fourth mead of the morning and Annice guessed it had loosened his tongue. “I mean they’re not as bad as Half-Orcs but… yeugh...” The man shivered in revulsion. “Why would you do that to a child, hm? Take away it’s chance for two human parents?” Annice bit the inside of her cheek as he spoke and tasted blood.

“Rikki.” Wilhelm interrupted, his hand had been holding Annice’s for some time now as they used each other to brace themselves against the sickening things being said, but now the large man felt her stiffen and knew the limit had been reached. “Noon sun gonna be on us sooner than later now, shouldn’t we mount up and get us some boar? Gonna be a shame we lose out on good eatin like that.” Wilhelm brandished a smile, trying to distract the man from his ravings, Rikkard shifted in his seat and looked to a window, the mid day sun was nearly upon them.

“Right… Right!” He said, coming to from his buzzed state. He turned to one of his men and smacked them hard on the shoulder. “Why didn’t you tell me the time!” He turned to Wilhelm “So sorry bout that, yes we should be off.” He grinned mischievously. “I probably shouldn’t tell you this, but the boar will be the center of a feast I plan to hold in your honor!” He leaned back. “Okay not entirely in your honor, the feast was originally going to conclude a gathering I’m holding in the area, but it can also be a celebration of Wilhelm the Unyielding joining with his fellows in the Emissary!” He let out a laugh, Wilhelm joined.

“Well then we best catch us a big one, huh?” He clapped Rikkard on the back and stood up. “Me and Annice will fetch our horses and meat you on the southern rode out of town in half an hour.” He stood, releasing Annice’s hand as he did. Annice felt the blood rushing to her digits and suddenly realized how tightly she had been clenching Wilhelm’s hand. She cleared her throat and stood.

“It was… an illuminating morning, Mr. Weiswolf. Thank you.” She said, gritting her teeth in a smile and following Wilhelm out the door.

NaNoWriMo2019 - Progress Report 11/25

I'm 2K away and I am freaking out!

I don't want to sat I find myself struggling, but now that we're in Boughbrook and introducing Rikkard I can't seem to get the same umph I had with the rode scenes. Maybe it's for the best, a more deliberate consideration for the direction of the story would be good now that we're here and facing off against the Supremacy.

I'm very excited, I'm nearly completed with NaNoWriMo, but not the story itself. I plan to keep going with it till it's done and I'll be continuing to post the updates. Maybe not the progress reports so often, though we'll see how I feel.

I still can't believe I've gotten this far!

Fight or Flight - NaNoWriMo2019 11/25

The mirror again shifted and swirled in the way it did two nights previous, Annice stared into it with anxious anticipation, like a child knowing they were about to be scolded. Her heart leapt once the mirror shifted one last time and the visage dissolved into the face of Nim, and once the woman’s face was clear Annice’s heart sank. The gnomish woman looked a mess, eyes deep and surrounded by dark bags, lines creasing the face, stained wet with fresh tears. Annice’s brow furrowed as she stared into red eyes, but Nim was smiling.

“Oh child, I am so happy to see you!” Nim called into the mirror, and Annice watched as the weight of worry vanished from the woman. “Are you safe? Where are you?”

“I’m safe Nim, I’m safe.” Annice said soothingly. “I’m at an inn in Boughbrook. I’m perfectly safe.” It wasn’t… a lie… per say.

“Boughbrook?” Nim’s face contorted into concern, and then realization. “Tell me that brute of a man didn’t march you through Lost Road!” She called out, shock in her face.

“Yes we took the Lo-He’s not a brute!” Annice called, frowning deeply. “He didn’t even want to take the road, we had no choice!” Annice added defensively.

“Oh I’m sure there was a choice.” Nim said, a bit of acid in her voice. “First bandits, then ogres… That man will be the death of you!” She called.

“And my death will be Syrene’s will.” Annice snapped back, reminding Nim that she was on a Holy Quest. Nim’s lips pursed at this and her eyes narrowed, but the old woman took a breath and calmed herself.

“If Syrene be with you, she will keep you safe.” She stated with a nod.

“And Syrene is with me, High Priestess, she has to be.” Annice stated, though a bit pleadingly. Nim’s lips were still pursed and set into a frown, but her eyes lightened.

“Has she made herself known to you in your journey?” Nim asked.

“I don’t know.” Annice slumped onto the desk, resting her head on one arm and holding the mirror slant ways. “I thought I heard her again… but it might have just been a memory.” She sighed. “I do feel like I’m being watched all the time.” She said, frustration in her voice. “Oh Nim, I’m so confused.” She said, burying her face into the back of her wrist.

“Watching you?” Nim asked, leaning in to the mirror to peer at the half-elf. “Why do you feel this way?”

“I don’t know.” Annice said, raising her face to rest her chin on the back of her palm, no longer looking at the mirror, instead staring into space ahead of her. “I dreamed of green eyes the other night.”

“Green eyes.” Nim said wistfully. “Interesting.”

“What, what’s interesting?” Annice turned her head back to the mirror, but found no face in the glass, instead she was staring at the wooden lattice of the ceiling. Annice’s face twisted in confusion. “Nim?”

“Yes child I’m here!” The voice came from the distance. “I’m just searching for a book…”

“Oh… Okay.” Annice said, trying to angle the mirror which to her frustration did not change her vantage. “Why?”

“Nothing to fret about, child.” Nim’s voice was closer, the mirror lifted and Annice could see the woman again, a fairly large tome tucked under her shoulder. “Now, I have some research to do, you get some rest, you look positively exhausted.” She smiled softly.

“Nim!” Annice called out, an expression of utter shock and betrayal on her face.

“I cannot help you with information I do not have. Bed. Now.” She stated sternly. Annice was the one to purse her lips now, but she wasn’t about to argue with the woman.

“Yes High Priestess, good night.” Annice said.

“Syrene’s Love be with you, Annice.” Nim responded, the two shared a smile, an honest one, and the mirror faded back to Annice’s face.

Annice felt no closer to any answers and in fact felt that she had only created more questions. The half-elf stood and paced the room for several minutes. Her mind raced with all the uncertainty she had within herself, the question as to whether Syrene was happy with her, the Goddess had to be, right? Otherwise why would the Cleric still be granted her spells? But if Syrene wasn’t upset, why did the blessing of the land not work that first night? Why did they encounter all three of those Ogres and just barely escape the female? What in all the good in the realm was Nim studying! Annice collapsed face first onto her bed and shouted into the bedding. Crawling into the bed she emboldened herself, strengthened her resolved, and made the willful decision to bin it all, and get some sleep. Rolling into her side she let out a sigh, and waved her hand through the air, the candle light suddenly snuffed at her magic and plunging her into darkness. Sleep would come, and she would once again see the green eyes, they gave off a radiant light that threatened to consume Annice, the eyes peered into the Half-Elf, into her soul.

Annice came to a start in the bed, flailing in a fit as she bolted up in bed. This was the first time she had ever been awoken by a roosters call, and she did not enjoy the experience. She groaned, and fell back into the bed, intending on going back to sleep. It had been days since she slept in a read bed and she planned to enjoy the experience, but that accursed bird didn’t shut up. Annice pinched her head between hands and pillow, trying to muffle the crowing, but relented and gave up her plans to sleep when a knock at her door joined the noise. She sighed and got up, heading straight to the door, it was Wilhelm.

“Breakfast in a half. Get yerself ready, wear your bracers under your robe and strap the club to your hip as opposed to your back.” The man was bright eyed and well put together, obviously having been awake for some time. Annice hated him a little at that moment.

“Mmmrng.” She said in response, Wilhelm quirked a brow.

“You okay? You looked more disheveled than when we was sleepin in the dirt.” He asked, peering up and down at the woman. Her hair was wild and she seemed unable to keep herself up, leaning into her door.

“Thanks Wilhelm.” She said flatly, glaring at the man. “I’ll be ready, thank you. Why at my hip?” She asked, parsing out what he asked of her as she was speaking.”

“More casual, not sneaky, lets people know yer armed.” He stated, leaning into the doorframe. “Also when your prayin, any healin magic you can ask fer, and maybe a couple spells that actually do some damage.” This seemed to wake Annice up.

“I… uh…” She stammered. “There gonna be a fight?” She blinked a few times, eying the man.

“Hope not, but Rikkard is takin me on a boar hunt today, think he’s gonna try and get me to sign on with the Supremacy, he was bein real coy about it last night, clearly gauging me. Now he takes me out on huntin, gives me the real deal of what his little groups about, and asks if I want in. I say yes, we eat like kings that night, I say no, well… the tragic end of Wilhelm the Unyielding, gored by a boar.” He shrugged. “I wanna be prepared.”

“Spells that do damage?” She asked sheepishly.

“Yeah, holy fire, divine strikes of lightning, wrath oh the gods shit.” He stated, but noted her hesitance. He sighed. “Or spells that will make me fight like a Hill Giant and them like a pack of kobolds in the sun, just something that gives us the edge, yeah?”

“Yeah.” She nodded, and moved to close the door. Wilhelm gave her an awkward glance, clearly not realizing he may have crossed a line asking that of her, before moving back towards his room.

NaNoWriMo2019 - Progress Report 11/24

So my original plan was to get up in the morning and immediately start writing to make up for yesterday, that did not happen as I ended up being a little sick when I woke up. I don't care what is motivating you to sit down and write, it's hard to maintain that when you have to get back up and go to the bathroom every 20 minutes. Upset stomach makes for difficult pace keeping.

But I was able to rebound in the afternoon and got myself two sessions and cranked out about 3k words for the day, still less than I wanted but I'm now over 46k.

I realized today as I wrote that I changed Rikkard's name, one I completely just flubbed and accidently wrote the name out as Rikkon far too many times, no real excuse there guess I just latched on to the similarity to the Game of Thrones name. Oops. The other is a flub, but one I'm keeping. I named the character Rikkard Spear to reference a very specific, very punch-able, real person, but I had kinda forgotten by the time of his official introduction, that I gave him the last name Spear, so I came up with Weiswolf.

It's really no more subtle

But you know what? It's a better name, so I'm keeping it. Thus is the nature of firsts drafts. Once I go back to do minor edits I'll correct the mistake. Till now let my warts and all first draft proudly display the contradiction!

Fight or Flight - NaNoWriMo2019 11/24

Wilhelm stood as the man approached, Annice watched in nervous anticipation. The gladiator stood a full head taller than Rikkard and thrice as wide, if Wilhelm wanted he could simply lunge at the man and snap him in half like hard tac… But Wilhelm instead extended a hand and clasped it with Rikkard’s, smiling broadly and clapping the man on the shoulder.

“Well it’s always a pleasure to meet a fan!” He called in practiced manners. He wrapped an arm around Rikkard and drew him in close, spinning him away from Annice, walking back to the man’s table. “Go on and let me know what you got to say, always love jawin with the folk who follow me.”

“Have to say you are the pinnacle of humanity, sir.” Rikkard started, walking with Wilhelm. “Clearly one of the best fighters who ever lived, better than any elf or orc I’ve seen!” Rikkard continued on and returned to his seat, screaming at one of his sullen compatriots to move so that Wilhelm could join them.

Annice watched from the distance, a furrowed brow and frown on her face as she was not happy to have been left out. She stared at Wilhelm as he shared in drink with Rikkard and his men, laughing and carrying on. She tried to remind herself that Wilhelm was likely practiced at encountering and engaging with fans, that he was in fact not enjoying himself with those monsters. She also tried to remind herself that they likely wouldn’t accept her until Wilhelm talked her up, being a half-elf… No, that’s right, she was now a ‘full blooded elf.’ The idea of lying about her heritage for the sake of blind hatred made her skin crawl… She huffed, reminding and reminding herself but still feeling sullen and quite useless now. She was in the middle of a very potent round of self pity when that Dwarven woman Wilhelm had spoken to at the bar approached. She started to wipe down the table.

“Oh, we don’t need the table cleaned just yet.” Annice smiled to the woman politely, trying to assure her that the table would further be used by the two.

“Aye but it be a good way to make it so I can speak without being seen speakin.” Fozzie said. “Our boyo there made mistake enough spoutin off to me, wouldn’t be wise if I came over and started a wee chat with you now would it?”

“Oh, right.” Annice said, leaning in a bit over a half filled goblet of ale. “We were sent to investigate these men.”

“Aye I gathered, now we can’t say much here, too many ears. Just you make sure you’re accompanying our boyo there at half past midnight in his room, and pray to whatever bastid on high you follow no one saw him speakin to me when you two came in.” Fozzie continued to wipe down the table until Annice nodded, at which point the Dwarf smiled widely “There ye go deary! Sorry about that, had a bit of a wild one at this table before ye.” And with that Fozzie left.

“Rikki!” Wilhelm came back some hour or more later, arm around Rikkard, who was laughing at some unheard joke. “This here is Annice Q’ileth, Chosen of Syrene. The one I told you about.” Wilhe;m locked eyes with Annice and she could see the fear in his eyes. She smiled and stood, offering a hand, Rikkard did not take it.

“Well met, Lady.” Rikkard said, and bowed gently. Annice saw in the man the veneer of politeness and courtesy a mask for disgust. He hated her, he didn’t even know her, and Annice had to pretend he wasn’t obvious. It make her ill.

“Yes indeed.” She said, her voice suddenly very formal. “You’ve been keeping our Wilhelm here quite busy.” She smiled and looked between the men as she screamed inside.

“Well, Rikki I must say it has been a pleasure to meet you.” Wilhelm said, offering his hand to Rikkard, who took it and shook vigorously. “But me and Annice have had a long ride and are looking for rest.”

“Oh, you were able to get rooms here?” Rikkard tilted his head. “Which ones?”

“Well,” Wilhelm pulled out the keys and read the numbers imprinted on them. “Looks like 201 and 202.”

“Huh.” Rikkard said flatly.

“Problem?” Wilhelm glanced at Annice and then back to Rikkard.

“Been trying to book those rooms for a week now. The old Dwarf over there refused to hand them over.” Rikkard’s eyes turned cold as he glanced over to Fozzie. “The nerve she had…” He snapped back, smiling again, though the smile carried an edge now. “She told us they were reserved for family only?” His words were not a question, but an accusation.

“Well, Rikki, some people bend their own rules when it comes to celebrity.” He shrugged. “I mean, you don’t expect a dwarf to hold to their conviction if they could make bank saying a famous gladiator spent the night here, right?”

“Yeah..” Rikkard stated, tilting his head. The Cheshire smile returned and he nodded. “Right of course!” He said, letting out a jovial laugh. “I’ll leave you two, get your rest and I’ll see you in the morn.” He patted Wilhelms arm. “Good meeting you Wilhelm!” He stated, turning his gaze to Annice his expression of joy dropped slightly, and she only gave her a firm nod in goodbye. Wilhelm sank into his seat, seemingly exhausted.

“Annice I need yer healp.” He blurted out.

“What is it?” She asked, worried.

“I need you to take that club ye got there and bash me right in the back oh my skull. Hard as you can.” He said, deadpan.

“I’m not doing that.” She said, flatly, sighing.

“Gods above Annice they’re awful!” The large man stated, lifting himself in his chair. “They’re the most vile and nasty sons o’ bitches I ever did meet. And I have met nasty people.” Wilhelm let out a breath and slumped forward again.

“Chosen of Syrene?” Annice said, tilting her head at the man.

“Oh, right.” He leaned on his arms, pushing himself up to a slight slouch. “Baically I told them yer a full blooded elf, obviously, who may be helpful to their cause. They didn’t seem quite so sure though, but then Rikkard asked if you was a Chosen, ‘parently he knows about Syrene’s ways. So I told him you was, that intrigued him, said that a Chosen of Syrene would give them clout.”

“I don’t like this Wilhelm, this is all going so fast.” She said, glancing over to Fozzie at the bar. “Your friend over there wants to meet us in your room at half passed midnight. I think she wants to tell us just how far this has gone.”  Annice glanced back and forth. “Wilhelm I think this goes a lot farther than even Mareen knows!”

“I’m getting that, yeah.” Wilhelm said, glancing over the tavern and taking a long pull of his ale. “Getting the idea I may have been too quick to chastise you for seein the townsfolk as maybe turned. We’re in some solid enemy territory.”

The two sat in silence, feeling utterly exposed… Annice would have preferred the Ogres right now, at least with them she knew where they stood. Here there was an air of mistrust, but nothing solid. Every glance she received felt like a glare, every call felt like a slur. She felt her worry reaching a pitching point when she finally reached out to Wilhelm for her key, and the two left the tavern to get themselves unpacked. Annice had walked to Fozzie and paid five silver pieces to have a hot bath run in her room, and was told it would be done within the hour. Upon arriving at their rooms they were not surprised to see why Rikkard would be intent on getting his hands on them, they were very nice. Soft feather stuffed mattresses in large sturdy wooden frames pressed into the wall took up the room’s center, a table with space and chair for four to one corner, and a desk with paper, ink, and quill in the opposite. The room also had a large chest with lock and key for storage of private matters, Annice quickly unpacked her things and looked at the room’s strangest feature, a wooden slate covering a hole and attacked with a swinging joint. Pressing on the plank Annice stared down a darkened shaft that must have lead all the way to a basement level. Staring at the sign above it she read aloud the words ‘Laundry Chute: 2 Silver Pieces per day.’ She shrugged and shoved her robes and underclothes into the chute, replacing them with a nightgown she was very pleased to have not worn on the road, and sat on the bed. A knock at the door brought her bath and a man, human, rolled a wooden tub into the room, laying it at the foot of the bed. From there he started to pour jogs of heated water into the tub until it was full enough to submerge the half-elf. She thanked him and palmed him a silver piece as he left, she thanked him and exited. Disrobing fully again, she slipped into the water and gasped audibly as the heat instantly sank into aching joints and raw flesh. She hummed her approval and soaked for a long while before even attempting to wash herself. She wanted to fall asleep in this water, but she knew it was a mistake, that she needed to be in Wilhelm’s room by midnight. She must maintain the resolve to stay awake

When midnight did come around Annice was snoring in the tub, the water had long lost most of it’s heat, and every time she shifted in the water she felt a rush of cool water. There were three loud thuds from the wall she shared with Wilhelm, and the Cleric startled awake, splashing water onto the floor. Quickly she rose from the water, and barely had time to towel off a bit and throw her nightgown on  and make her way to Wilhelm’s room, the material of her gown clinging to wet flesh and blond hair darkened and sticking to neck and face. She knocked a few times, and Wilhelm opened the door to her.

“Sorry, sorry. I uh…” She coughed, looking down at herself, pulling at the clinging material.

“S’alright.” Wilhelm said, half his face beet red. “I woke up only five minutes ago myself. Lucky I did I guess.” The man rubbed his face, trying to encourage blood flow and chase the numbing sensation in his cheek away. “So Fozzie said she’d be here at half passed, right?” He said, sitting on the bed and yawning.

“Yeah.” Annice said, stealing some of Wilhelm’s towels and trying to dry her hair. She noted his room was almost exactly like her own, the only difference being the desk and table being opposite to her own. “But she also seemed concerned that you talked to her at all, so I don’t know why she thinks walking down the hall is a good idea, midnight or not I spotted three people out in the hall even now.”

“The trick is!” A muffled voice coming from the walls said. “Not to use the hall!” Fozzie could be heard, and the two gawked around the room, wondering where she was. “Now will one of you blasted ninnies open this laundry chute for me?!” She cried out. Annice rushed over to the wooden slate and pushed it open, she saw fingers now suddenly gripping the ledge, and a very red fazed Fozzie pulling herself through the hole. She toppled end over end and collapsed onto the floor, letting out a string of curses as she pushed herself to her feet.

“Goin a little hard, ain’t we Fozzie?” Wilhelm asked, sitting on the end of the bed.

“Ain’t no such thing with those lunatics runnin the town.” Fozzie said, brushing herself off.

“Wait what, runnin the town?” Wilhelm’s brow raised at this revelation, Annice let the towl rest on her head.

“They have the town?” The half-elf inquired. “How long?”

“Oh must be about two weeks I’d say or so. They and their lot came ridin in, handin out fliers and givin speeches in the town square. Most o’ the folks here paid them no mind, ignored em. Think that’s what they wanted.” Fozzie pulled the chair out next to Annice and sat herself down. “Cause as they were jabberin on in the middle of town no one noticed that more and more of em were comin into town.”

“How many?” Wilhelm asked, crossing his arms.

“Every one oh me rooms here got four of the bastids holed up in it.” She stated. “And before ye ask side from these two you have I have fifteen more rooms. That’s sixty strong, and gods above how many more payin for townfolk’s guest rooms or barn space. Wasn’t long before they started enforcing their own rules, and the townfolk too cowardly to stop em.

“Rules?” Annice asked, not liking what that implied.

“Aye, bout five days back a lovely elf boy was found murdered.” Fozzie placed her hand on her chest in remembrance. “Poor lad, he was a good boy. But he was datin a human girl…” Wilhelm scowled at this.

“No one reached out to the Vibrant Spear?” The man asked, already knowing the answer.

“The magistrate, in all his wisdom, declared the murder clearly one of a passing criminal who was probably long gone by the time we found the body.” The Dwarf let out a long strained breath. “He’s bein pressed, obviously.”

“Movin sixty men into a town ain’t easy, they gotta have a base of operation nearby, any idea?” Wilhelm asked.

“Oh aye, they got some stronghold or some such in the forests down south. Some lost garrison. Hasn’t been occupied in decades, till they came around.” Fozzie responded.

“Likely where the list is.” Annice stated, looking to Wilhelm, Fozzie reacted with confusion.

“List?” She asked “What list?”

“We’re here for a list, supposedly got the names of all these folk’s, the Supremacy they call themselves, inner circle.” Wilhelm explained, he was surprised at Fozzie’s anger.

“List?” She shouted. “Yer here for some damned list? I thought you were gonna be stopping them! All that business about weapons of the forge!” She huffed. “What about this town oh cousin on mine?” The venom in her words cut into Wilhelm, and he frowned.

“We’re here for the list, Fozzie. We ain’t…” He started. “We ain’t exactly capable of takin on sixty men on our lonesome, and however many more may be at that stronghold.”

“Bah!” She waved her hand. “Nonsense! The Drue I knew woulda taught his boy there weren’t no such thing as too many men to handle!” She frowned, but softened moments later when she saw how hurt the words had made Wilhelm. “Laddie, I’ll be thankful for any help you can give me people here. This list will help?” She asked, Wilhelm nodded.

“Yeah, with the list the Vibrant Spear can make work of takin out the higher ups, cut off the head before they know what happens and the rest scatter as opposed to rally. They’re gearin up for a war, cuz, and we’re lookin to prevent it.”

“I see.” Fozzie stated, she turned her gaze to Annice and smiled. “Well, may the Forge Master smile upon ye, and see you through this terrible journey. I don’t know what help I can provide ye, I’m just an inn keeper. Likely lost me head when I pushed back on them rentin me rooms. Found six Vernas Scorpions in me bed when I did. After that…” She paused and spoke with deep shame “I let them have run of the place.”

“You’ve been a great help already.” Annice said, reaching out and clasping the woman’s hands. “And no one can shame you. You did what you needed to do to stay alive.”

“Aye, maybe. But maybe if I had a little bit more fire in me belly, that elf boy wouldn’t be dead right now, and his girl not a sobbin mess.” She smiled and patted Annice’s hand, hopping off the chair. “You two get some rest, you’re in a vipers next and these reptiles like to bite.”

Fozzie came to Wilhelm and the two shared a great hug, Wilhelm lifting the woman off the ground. Fozzie apologized at snapping at the man and for ever thinking he may be working with the Supremacy, Wilhelm assured her it there was no hard feelings and apologized himself for not doing more against these monsters. The two shared a Dwarven shake, where they clasped hands and shoulders, shaking vigorously, and left each other with a smile. Fozzie turned to Annice and gave a curtsey, which Annice returned with a mirthful smile. Goodbye’s given, Fozzie climbed back into the laundry chute, letting out a silent curse as she slipped and disappeared into the darkness, a hard thump emanating a second later. Wilhelm and Annice stood in silence with each other for a long minute, and shared few words, none of import, before deciding both to get to bed.

Annice found her way back to her room, sitting at the desk and staring at the tub that still rest at the foot of her bed. A great weight pressed on her, and she felt like she would collapse to the ground. What was she doing here? This was no place for a faithful to Syrene. It was too much for most people. Facing off against murderers and zealots to a cause of genocide? It made her shiver in revulsion and fear. But she believed this is where Syrene wished her be… didn’t she? Annice went to the locked chest, and fished out the mirror. She stared at it for a long moment, debating on using the power word. At the very least she should tell Nim she was okay… Gods know the gnomish woman was probably fretting over their last conversation for two days now. Annice felt a sudden pang of guilt, and called out the word.  

NaNoWriMo2019 - Progress Report 11/23

Bleh, wasted most of the day and only got 1500 words.

In my defense I did go out and do a lot of my weekly prep chores I would have normally done on Suday today, not sure why I just felt like getting out of the house I guess. I also watched The Mandalorian and caught up on a bunch of other media that I've been unable to partake in because of this little challenge here. Maybe not the best excuse to say I basically sat around and watched TV for most of the day but hey, that's how it went down.

I'm still on track, still made my word count, but I will redouble my efforts and likely do an extra long sesh tomorrow.

Fight or Flight - NaNoWriMo2019 11/23

Boughborn wasn’t a small village, but it was a village. Mostly farmers and merchants that sold to farmers. Boughborn was special only in the regard that it was one of the final stops leading away from the Enclave territories, due to that many merchants coming from distant lands passed though this sleepy little town. If one were to facilitate an invasion of the Enclave, control of the border towns was certainly a good starting gambit. The people here were not like those in the large cities closer to the center oft the Enclave, they didn’t care for the politics of the Council or anyone else for that matter. The sight of the Vibrant Spear was seen to them no more welcome than an an invading army, they could be easily swayed into the Supremacies pocket, long as they were given a promise to be left alone when the bloodshed started.

Wilhelm and Annice made their way down the first cobbled road they rode on in almost a week, though it was the only such road that existed in Boughborn. They were weary, to say the least, and while relieved to finally be off the road, neither forgot the reason they were here. Annice eyed the people as she rode passed and they all stared at her with disgust, a few spitting to one side as they passed. Were they all already turned?

“Don’t judge them, Annie.” Wilhelm said softly, riding Ale up close beside her.

“Hm?” She drew her eyes away from one particular man who looked at the half-elven cleric like she was a rotting fly infested hunk of fruit.

“They ain’t lookin at you like that cause they’re with the Supremacy.” He started, gesturing to the folk who were giving him similar glares. “These people, they like their quiet, when folk like us ride into their homes, well, let’s just say we tend to make things not quiet. They got their own problems, they don’t wanna be dealin with ours.”

“But we’re trying to help them.”  Annice said, frowning. “I doubt the Supremacy will treat them well, humans or not.”

“Yeah well they don’t exactly feel like the Enclave does much better.” Wilhelm retorted, and raised his hand defensively when he saw Annice’s scowl. “I ain’t sayin their right, I’m sayin it’s their way. These folk get stepped on no matter who’s in charge, doesn’t matter to them who’s doin the steppin.”

The two travelers were able to find a stable willing to house their horses for a few nights and after some conversation were lead to the only tavern and inn in the village. A short walk and they found themselves at the Sleepy Sow just as the sun was dipping passed the horizon. They pushed in and found the establishment packed, which was clearly not the standard night’s business for this place. Wilhelm pointed to a table for Annice to snatch up before someone else got to it and headed for the bar. The woman behind the bar, a Dwarven maiden of middling age for her race, stood on a stool pouring a drink, she still had to look up at Wilhelm.

“Meat, cheese, bread, and two ale’s at that table there.” Wilhelm said in Dwarvish to the woman, pointing to the table where Annice sat. The Dwarven barkeep let out a delighted laugh.

“Oooh boyo!” She cackled. “You just made me day! Haven’t had anyone from the homeland in near two winters now!” She smiled at this man, instantly pegging him for more than just a human who learned the Dwarvish tongue, nay this boy was raised by Dwarves. “Oooh that accent though! One oh the minin colonies I’d say!”

“That indeed!” Wilhelm was grinning wide, leaning on the bar. “The Korg Gully Mines!”

“Oh old Drue Flintforge’s lot? Ah the man’s me forth cousin thrice removed!” The woman said, shooing away another customer as she spoke with this man who knew her people.

“Go on and get outa here!” Wilhelm exclaimed. “Well that makes us family, Drue was basically me pa!” The barmaid let out a delighted laugh, and reached over the bar to wrap her arms around Wilhelm, who returned the bear hug, the woman coming off her stool about half a foot.

“Well mey m’boy! Fozzie Oakfist!” She beamed and clapped the human on the arm as she found her footing on the stool again. “Ah, who’da thunk it, family, all the way out here! Now, your foods on me dearie, no no I won’t hear any objection! Yer my kin and I shant be havin you go on with an empty belly!”

“Well thank you most kindly, cousin! We’ll also be needing two rooms, adjacent. Can’t quite tell you how long we’ll be stayin though, few days at the least I’d say.” Wilhelm said.

“Ooh right you are laddie!” Now, fer the rooms I can’t give you free. They’re eight silver a night, but I’m gonna have to bump that up to a gold per night after the first since I’ll be needed to keep them on reserve till I know when yer leavin, I’m so sorry hun.” She said, shaking her head and seeming genuinely troubled she couldn’t just give the rooms to him.

“Not a problem cousin. You have already been most kind by sharing your food and beautiful smile.” Wilhelm grinned and placed six gold on the bar.

“Oh you get right outa here now, mister!” She squealed, crimson filling her face and she smacked his hand. She slid the gold off the table and into a small box, securing the box under the bar. “So what brings you to Boughborn, not much out here but dirt. You like dirt? We got plenty of dirt!”

“Naw, none of that. Heard there might be a gatherin of sorts here, seemed to be something I might take a look at.” Wilhelm smiled, but Fozzie’s sweet disposition vanished.

“Aye lad, that be it? Don’t know those folks be too friendly to the dwarven forged, human or not.” She stated coldly, looking almost fearful now. Wilhelm cleared his throat and leaned in.

“You know something, cousin?” He asked, pleadingly.

“Don’t know nothin that’ll get me in trouble that I’ll tell you, lad.” She stated, shrinking away from the human now. She glanced away from him, staring at the rest of the folk in the inn. Wilhelm glanced back at the patrons, then to Fozzie.

“I can tell you that I may be lookin like a man, but I was forged in the same fires as you. What better weapon to strike at an enemy than one forged to look like the enemy?” He looked her dead in the eye seeking out confirmation that she caught his meaning… he found it.

“Aye I see the hammer strikes that made ye, boy. But I’ll gab yer ear off about the family later yeah? Not good to share a pipe with friends while in the coal mines you know.” She eased visibly, knowing Wilhelm was no threat to her. Wilhelm nodded.

After gathering the keys to their rooms Wilhelm joined Annice, who looked like a lost lamb in torchlight. She glanced to and from the men and women who made a cacophony of noise and revelry. Once Wilhelm joined her she calmed, till she saw his face at least.

“What’s wrong?” She asked him.

“Just got some pretty strong confirmation they’re here.” Wilhelm said in a hushed tone. “And that I look like one of em. It’s disheartenin to say the least, but also should make it all the easier to make friends.

Their food was brought to them and the two stared, mouths watering, at the steaming freshly cooked meats, soft cheeses, and hard breads. They both stopped in their worry and fears to dig into the first food that wasn’t travel rations in days, and it was good. They gorged themselves and a sense of life came back to them, remembrance of what living like people again. The food was gone much quicker than either of them were likely to admit, and they both sat back in their chairs, relishing the sensation of a full stomach.

“Alright. I think our first move is to settle in, get ourselves washed and rested, start lookin for our man tomorrow, could be anywhere and not likely to just fall into our laps-“ Wilhelm bgan, before hearing a cry from across the tavern.

“Is that Wilhelm the Unyielding!?” The call came out, Wilhelm looked up. “It is! I knew it was! How about that!”

The man stood from his table the sullen and dour lot that were his companions all drawing steely gazes towards the Gladiator. The man who called out was tall and had an athletic build, thin but clearly muscular. He wore a silken scarlet tunic under a black vest with brass buttons and gold accents on the collar, a charcoal velvet long coat, and a pair of dark trousers that slipped into clean and sparkling riding boots. Gussied up is what this man screamed with his slicked back platinum blond hair and teeth just a shade to white in his Cheshire smile. He reached out and offered his hand to Wilhelm.

“It’s wonderful to meet you Wilhelm, I’m Rikkon Weiswolf, and I would love to speak with you about something very important, if you would give me the honor.”

NaNoWriMo2019 - Progress Report 11/22

42k... I never thought I would get this far. I'm 8k away from completing NaNoWriMo.

I've been averaging about 3-4k per day per weekend. I could very likely complete the challenge by Sunday. Now, I'm not planning for that, I'm not making that a goal. Just throwing it out there. I'm so pleased with myself, so surprised I was able to just... finally push all of the excuses and stumbling blocks out of the way and put word to page.

Fight or Flight - NaNoWriMo2019 11/22

Rest came uneasy to Annice, sleeping under the stars under any other circumstance would have been a serene way to spend the night, but this night it just made her feel exposed. The air was cold, the dirt hard, and whenever she shifted in a fitful sleep she was roused by the weight of the chainmail on her chest or the pinch of bracers digging into her skin. She could not make herself unaware of the fact she slept precariously on the side of a tall hill with three Ogres that could show up at any moment in the night and kill her and her companion before wither of them were awake enough to stand. What sleep she did get were full of terrible half waking nightmares of cowering under the wagon as the Ogre’s smashed it with their massive weapons. When she was finally woken by Wilhelm hours before dawn she let out a long groan and nearly tumbled down the hill as she struggled to stand.

Wilhelm returned to the path to check if it was cleared and to prep the horses for the days journey, Annice held back to do her morning prayer. The prayer was brief and the familiar warmth of Syrene’s love felt somehow colder than it usually did. It unsettled Annice as she called on her goddess to bless her with spells… Standing, new magic resting in her mind, she joined Wilhelm at the bottom of the hill. The gladiator nodded to her and swung onto his horse as she approached, eager to finish thos journey.

“We’re on the last leg of the race, Annice. You’ll be seein the smokes of chimney fires before dusk, I promise.” The man said to her as she mounted Kasimira.

“Syrene willing” She responded, and managed a small smile. She reached into her pack and pulled out a stick of jerky. She needed to chew on something to wake her up.

The two traveled into the dawn, which was pleasantly visible this time, the tall hills on this side of the path were mercifully shorter and allowed for more sunlight to actually reach the bottom of the valley. Annice’s mood lightened considerably as she felt the sun on her face, and she felt renewed optimism about reaching their destination alive. It seemed likely, now that they knew two of the Ogres occupied the same territory and that it was behind them, the mood of both travelers elevated, and they even started idle conversation as they rode. The hardship was over, they would reach civilization. It was a tragedy, then, when they both heard the holler of something large and angry.

“Shit.” Wilhelm said, eyes trailing up the side of the hills, there it was.

The third Ogre was much smaller than the first two but still a massive hulk of flesh compared to the human and half-elf. It stood next to a sort of hut, though that was a charitable description. A dozen or two trees that had been ripped from the ground roots and all and lashed together to form a crude at best shelter. But this was home to the creature which meant this was territory to be defended. The Ogre had watched the two riders come towards it, not so bright to realize they would likely have passed without even noticing the hovel and likely moved away faster even if they did, when they came too close it let out a bellow. It took seven great stomping strides before leaping, clearing half the distance between it and the two intruders and landed directly in the center of the path with a thunderous boom, dirt spraying the other side of the valley in a gout of unearthed dirt and stone. Wilhelm stared at this creature, and his eyes widened.

“Damn the gods it’s a female!” He hissed.

“Uh, is that bad?” Annice looked from Wilhelm to the Ogre and twisted her face into one of confusion… how could he even tell?

“It’s a woman who has to share it’s space with two men, tell me you wouldn’t be pissed off too!” He called, and pulled his maul from his back and slipped off of his horse. Wilhelm wasn’t a jouster, and as much as he didn’t want to fight this thing he saw no other option so he might as well die on his feet. “When I start swingin at it get outa here!”

“That thick skull of yours again!” Annice shouted, sliding from her own mount. “We’ve been over this I’m not leaving!” Wilhelm glared at her but Annice was not budging, she saw him spit a curse but he readied himself. The ogre charged.

The first ogre wielded the entire trunk of a tree as a weapon, the second a cudgeled together bunch of boards with sword stabbed through the wood, this beast wasn’t so boastful or ostentatious, she carried a boulder. It was simple, a big rock to hit things with, it worked for her. The creature closed the distance quite fast for one with such bulk, coming at Wilhelm as the only one who had drawn weapon against her she came down with the boulder in a long arcing motion, seeking to crush the interloper with a stone twice his size, he leapt back from the strike and was only showered with dirt from the effort. The gladiator took his chance and swung the massive maul, slamming it into one finger, knuckle crushed between metal and stone. The beast yelped and reacted faster than Wilhelm could predict, backhanding the human with her free arm. Wilhelm went flying some twenty feet and collided with the upturned slope of the hill, he grunted and rolled to the base.

“Wilhelm!” Annice cried out, worry in her brow, she threw out her hand and called a word of healing to activate her magic. Wilhelm’s body glowed with a holy light and he stirred.

Shaking his head, not certain why he was still breathing, he stood. The pain radiated through him, and he was already groggy after one blow. That was with Annice’s healing magic. Healing from a distance might have been less effective than touch magic, but this Ogre landed one blow, and Wilhelm was already nearly tapped. Wilhelm wiped his cheek on the back of his hand and took a breath… If this was his day to die, he was gonna make sure he went down leaving a mark.

Wilhelm roared and launched himself forward, the Ogre roared back and lifted the boulder again to crush the annoying man, she lurched forward to swing the massive stone down, and Wilhelm took a chance. He pitched down into a slide, under the boulder as opposed to avoiding it, and was nearly clipped by it. He stood, not in front of the beast he took not one breath before swinging his entire body in a hammer stroke, driving the head of the maul into the side of the Ogre’s knee. The creature buckled, and fell to the injured knee, letting out a howl. It responded in kind, once again swinging with the free hand, Wilhelm avoided the brunt of the blow, but was still caught in the shoulder and spun half a dozen times before collapsing to the ground, he let out a string of curses and clutched his shoulder. The rock was up before the man and it ready to come down as Wilhelm had only made it to one knee. Annice shouted and reached her hand out, pinky and ring drawn in while all other digits extended at their full length, a power word activated her magic and the Ogre was momentarily bemused by a sudden display of sparkling lights dancing in front of her face. The light’s sparkled for only a moment before exploding in a flash of blinding white light, the intensity causing the Ogre to reel and scream, falling onto her back. The stone was dropped and rolled some distance away as the massive creature clawed at her eyes.

Annice smiled for a moment, letting out a breath, but felt her face sallow as the Ogre rolled and pushed itself up and focus in on the Half-Elf. The ogre blinked it’s eyes, but could obviously see enough to know there was something in front of it that needed to be killed. A massive arm came up and a fist came soaring down to batter the Cleric, Annice shrieked as she saw her end come but was startled as Wilhelm bowled her over, suddenly standing between Annice and the Ogre, hands coming up in an instinctive, and futile, gesture of defense. Annice had half a second to react and reached out, grasping onto Wilhelm’s calf, praying she not be too late. There was a flash of holy light and the sound of colliding flesh.

Wilhelm stood, the Ogre’s arm resting between his crossed wrists. He stared in bewilderment.

“Wh..what?” He seemed to croak out.

“YOU’RE STRONG NOW!” Annice screamed at the man, scrambling to her feet. Wilhelm grinned.

The Ogre clearly did not understand why the puny human man was not jelly under her fist, the elf one screamed something, but the Ogre only understood the Ogre tongue. Whatever was said was lost from it’s mind as it was drawn back to the puny human one, who was now lifting her arm? The ogre drew back and reached back for it’s stone, but it was more than an arms length away. It snorted, and snarled, and let out another roar, lifting it’s leg to kick at the human one.

Wilhelm spun to one side before taking off into a charge. The maul was lost in the last blow he had taken but the Warhammer was still with him. Leaping up Wilhelm was amazed at the air he was able to clear, faltering for a moment as he soared, but he readjusted and came down hard. With the strength of a bull he brought his hammer down across the Ogre’s face, it let out a shrieking yelp, just as much in surprise as in pain, that actually hurt it.

“Annice!” Wilhelm called out, “Think I can do this now!”

“No!” She shouted from a distance Wilhelm didn’t expect. “No you can’! I made you stronger, but the Ogre is still stronger trust me!”

Wilhellm swallowed as worry filled him again. Okay, he understood, she gave him an edge but they were not going to be able to get out of this in a straight fight. He shouted as the Ogre came at him with a lumbering fist, however much he did hurt it, not enough. The blow struck him in the side and he rolled with it, landing in the dirt again. Good, not dead, he could take a hit from it now. Still hurt like the Hells. He stood up and charged back in.

“Any plans?!” He called out, unable to take his eyes off the battle to find Annice.

The Half-Elf did have a plan, but she was busy implementing it. She had already gotten to Kasimira, reigns in hand, and was on her way to grab Ale. The horses had galloped off when the fight had started and in the wrong direction to make it worse. Annice grasped the Clydesdale’s reigns in the same hand she held the quarter horse and the two beasts followed her, now for the hard part.

“Yeah, keep it busy while I get the horses past you two!” She called out, starting to lead the very distraught horses alongside the start of the hills, trying to keep as much distance from the melee as possible.

“Yeah, easy!” He cried out bitterly. “Any help would be appreciated!” The man was using the new power in his leads to leap clear of each of the Ogre’s enraged blows, each coming harder and faster than the last.

“Uh, okay!” She said, exasperated. She pointed, the gesture seemingly simple but not all somatic elements of spells trusted your fingers into pretzels.

The spell went off just as a rather nasty blow came down on Wilhelm, but before it connected it veered, sliding off something invisible and causing the Ogre to land into the dirt, confused. Wilhe;m laughed out loud as he saw, faintly in the air, that he was surrounded by a shimmering field of protective energy.  The Ogre’s eyes snapped to the man and a wild uppercut came at the man, it once again pressed into the nearly invisible field, it veered again but not as much and connected with the man’s shoulder, Wilhelm stumbled back. Okay, the field could be bypassed, but it did make him harder to hit. He lunged forward and swung his hammer into the beasts face.

Annice was tugging now on the reigns, the horse both rather reluctant to get closer to the fight, the crawl she was able to make them move caused her fear to tenfold itself, she needed to get these horses across this field! It was only a matter of time before the Ogre noticed them and realized that… The roar drew Annice’s attention, and she saw the Ogre staring at her, Wilhelm in the middle of recovering from another blow. She cursed silently to herself as the Ogre charged, the Cleric could not cast a spell as her hands were now tangled in the Reigns, if tugged at her arm to free it but found the leather strap wrapped around it twice over and two very frightened horse keeping them taught. She shrunk away from the coming blow but instead watched the Ogre collapse to the ground skidding face first in the dirt. Wilhelm’s hammer came thudding to the ground, hilt up, a moment later. Looking past the creature Annice saw Wilhelm, panting and arm extended in a completed throw. He groaned as he lifted himself up from the ground and took a moment to find the Maul he had dropped earlier before closing the distance between him and the ogre.

“Alright ma’am, the tussle’s been fun but it’s time to end this.” He said, walking around the beast towards it’s head. He was gonna finish this, bring the maul down on her head with all his might and finally take this thing out. Unfortunately that didn’t happen.

The beast lashed out, and Wilhelm yelped in surprise at the creature’s possum, fat fingers the side of his wrist gripped his chest and the man was lifted into the air. He flailed helplessly before being brought down onto his back. The world spun for Wilhelm and he tried to shake his daze, but the ogre’s other hand down his face, and crushing digits wrapped around his head. He gripped the ogre at the wrist, but could not find the strength to get the arm free as the creature bore down on him. He hollered in pain as his chest and head were crushed, trying to rip the hand from his face and wildly kicking the ogre in the torso, nothing was happening. He felt the pressure in his skull rise and the intense pain of it drowned out the world, his entire head was about to pop and be crushed like a grape. He thought it did when the pressure stopped, he thought he died and was suddenly in the Three Heaven’s waiting room. It took him longer than he would ever be willing to admit to realize that the Ogre had simply vanished.

“It worked!” Annice shouted, hopping in the air in triumph.

“Wh…what?” Wilhelm stated, sitting up. The man gripped his head, feeling long trench marked in his skin, but noting that his skull was otherwise still the shape it always was. “What’d you do?”

“No time!” She said, rushing to him and helping him up. He managed to resist her insistent tugging long enough to grasp his hammers before she lead him to the horse. “We have to go, now.”

“Why, you got rid of the damn thing, right?” He asked.

“Yes and no.” She stated, getting onto her horse. “I just… Banished it.” She noted the look of confusion on Wilhelm’s face. “I shifted it onto another plane of existence, another realm. But not forever, it could come back at any moment! So, you know, go.”

“Why didn’t you do that when we saw the thing?!” He asked.

“Cause I can only do it once, it has a high chance of failure, and it basically saps my reserve of magic. If I had started with it, I wouldn’t have been able to cast the Healing, Strength, and Shield spell I used. However much magic I cast before the Banishment spell I’m only able to cast one more spell after, and it has to be a pretty basic spell then that’s it, I’m tapped!”

“Right, alright let’s get going!” Wilhelm mounted Ale.

“Full sprint, I’m not joking, the banishment spell can last for minutes at best, and seconds at worst.” Annice urged.

“Ale can’t keep up with that pace…” Wilhelm stated, and before he could suggest she go off without him, Annice laid her hand on Ale’s flank, a flash of light emanated from the horse’s side.

“Now he can. Let’s go.” Annice kicked off and Kasi sped down the path.

Wilhelm followed suit, shocked at Ale’s sudden ability to keep up with a Quarter horse. The two continued on at full sprint for a solid six minutes, it was about that time that Kasimira started to show signs of exhaustion. The two came to a stop and dismounted, having put what had to be a mile and a half between them and the female ogre. Even if the banishment had ended, the creature would have reappeared and found it’s quarry gone, and no signs of where they had headed. Annice gave Kasi water and food, stroking it’s mane and cooing loving compliments to the horse, thanking her for saving their lives.

The two allowed for an hours rest, to afford Kasimira the chance to regain strength. Wilhelm sat against a rock, bracing sore muscled against the solidness of the stone. Annice laid, splayed out, on a patch of grass staring into the sky. The time passed by with no words, there was nothing that could be said in the moment. The two had not yet processed what they had just encountered. They nearly died, neither of them under the impression they didn’t scrape by that entire encounter by the skin of their teeth. Judicious use of magic and a man’s skill of fighting was just enough to make it out alive. They were not exactly celebrating, small amount of talent, maybe the blessing of a goddess, and a lot of blind luck.

The two were back on their horses as soon as Kasimira seemed able to carry Annice’s weight and move forward without discomfort. They rode as a slower pace for the animal’s sake, but still made good time. Tears came to Annice’s eyes when she saw a barrier stretched across the path, a mirror to the one they had seen the previous day at the start of their trek on Lost Road. Annice glanced over and saw Wilhelm quietly wiping away his own tears. The man wasted no time, not bothering with pulling the barrier free this time, he took his maul and cracked the chain once, causing it to crumble, and then swung one more time in the barriers dead center, causing it to swing open wildly and finally release them from the path. Annice took a deep breath, and perked when she smelled smoke, staring into the distance her face lit up as in the distance, some miles away still but clearly visible, she saw barns and houses. She let out a long haggard breath, and leaned into Kasi as the strength left her body. They had made it.

Boughborn.

NaNoWriMo2019 - Progress Report 11/21

So close to 40k! I'm at just under 39. I'm gonna break 40k tomorrow, I know it.

I honestly didn't expect to be on the Lost Road still. Thinking this section might be a little flabby? I don't know, should be done with it by tomorrow and onto Boughborn, AKA, ACT THREE! Finally we'll meet the Supremacy and Wilhelm and Annice will face the true threat!

Fight or Flight - NaNoWriMo2019 11/21

The horse snorted.

Wilhelm shifted over to Annice and pressed his head to the woman’s, she could feel his lips brushing against the point of her ear and even at this distance his whispers were so light it was hard to hear them.

“When they lift the wagon get on your horse and take off. Full sprint, Kasi is too fast for them to ch-“

Annice shifted and thrust her hand up, casting the Silent spell a second time. She screamed and cursed herself, tearing into herself in this moment where no one could hear her words. The Cleric leaned into the notch again and peered out at the ogres, one was staring directly at her. The blood froze in Annice’s veins. The creature couldn’t see her, that much was obvious the hole was far too small to be visible at that distance, but the unassuming wagon had it’s attention. Annice found breath hard to take as the creature scratched at it’s greasy beard, tilting it’s head to the side. Contemplating was not the ogres strong suit and Annice clenched her jaw as repeatedly mouthed the words ‘just go just go just go’ in a fleeting attempt to will the situation away. The ogre took a step towards the wagon. Then it took another. Tears formed in her eyes and she glanced back at Wilhelm, the gladiator was slowly pulling the maul from his back and Annice saw something that caused her heart to sink… She saw wet eyes and trembling flesh. She saw the terror in Wilhelm’s face and it was all too much. She reached out and took his hand, he stared at her, confused, but squeezed her fingers in his palms. She knew that they would die, but they would not die alone. The moments passed and they kept their eyes on each other, any second now…

Many seconds passed.

Annice started to worry, which was quite odd, to worry about why you weren’t dead. She turned back to the notch and peered out. The second Ogre had taken the one who had been walking towards them by the shoulder, yanking him back. The first one pulled away from the grasp, and the second shouted something… Whatever it said could not pass beyond Annice’s Silent spell, but she imagined she would not be able to understand ‘Ogre’ as a tongue. The first Ogre pointed at the wagon and shouted something back, but the second waved its mitt dismissively, more unheard words as it strode off in the direction they were originally heading. Whatever was said was obviously not very polite, as the first Ogre bellowed a scream and socked the second in the back of the head. Annice’s eyes widened as the second Ogre stumbled forward, seemingly crying out in either pain or surprise, before turning on heel and swinging the massive tree trunk it carried. The log crushed into the first Ogre’s stomach, and the creature doubled over. Annice’s brow furrowed into confusion as she gestured for Wilhelm to join her. The two pressed themselves together, ear to ear, to be able to both peer out of the notch. The first Ogre rebounded and swung the spiked mace, a howl of anguish and pain that neither Wilhelm nor Annice heard rang out as two of the swords sank into the bloated flesh over the secon’d shouler, thick black gouts of blood poured from the wounds, and Annice felt sick again, not helped by the added queasiness as feeling relief at this sudden violence.

The second Ogre bull rushed the first and tackled it’s once compatriot to the dirt, the bladed mace still buried in it’s shoulder. The world shook as the two came onto the ground, and Annice and Wilhelm watched as haymakers and sucker punches were traded by the two monsters. The fight went on for near an hour with each ogre refusing to stay down, and the battle traveled back and forth across the path, up the hills, and more than once dangerously close to the wagon. Annice was sure that any second one, or hells both, would end up falling atop the wagon and crush the both of them without even realizing. Eventually the fight took them out of view and the two spectators strained to find an angle that would allow them to see. They had vanished in the direction they had been walking, which was the opposite direction of the way Wilhelm and Annice needed to go. Wilhelm signaled for her to drop the spell, and the Half-Elf clasped her hand into a fist, the magic released.

“Alright we gotta risk it, we haven’t seen them for ten minutes and more now, hope if you can they continued their slobber knocker down the path. Second I get this up get on your horse and take off, don’t go full sprint I’ll be right behind you and Ale can’t keep up with Kasi, yeah?” Wilhelm ran over the plan and Annice nodded.

The gladiator found it much more difficult to find a good angle to lift the Wagon, but eventually found himself in a tight squatting position with fingers dug under the wood. There was no need for subtlety now, the Ogres were either too far to see them or they weren’t… So Wilhelm grunted and pushed hard, the Wagon came up and over, the entire thing falling onto it’s side and rolling onto it’s bottom. Annice was quick to her word and was atop Kasimira and taking off the moment the wagon lifted high enough for them to pass through. Wilhelm leapt atop Ale and with a snap of the reigns they were galloping off after the Cleric. Wilhelm dared a glance back and his own heart sank when he spotted the Ogres in the distance. They were far, but not out of sight, but by whatever gods above may be responsible they were still too engaged in their own blood match to have noticed the wagon overturn and four would be dinners sprinting off into the distance. Eventually they had traveled far enough that the massive beasts were nothing but a speck of yellow green in the distance, and the two travelers let out a long and exhausting breath at the knowledge they would not be spotted.

“Gods!” Wilhelm shouted. “I have never been that terrified in mah dang life!” He called out, letting out a nervous laugh to try and sooth his wracked nerves. “Might have to make a stop to change my armor.”

“Uugh.” Annice was not in such high spirits as Wilhelm. “I messed up, I’m so sorry Wilhelm.”

“Nah.” He said, reassuring. “Your first time out on an adventure, right? Cant be easy slingin spells like that havin never done it before.” He reached over and patted her arm a bit. “You handled yourself like a pro, got that spell back up lickity split, and when we was makin our escape you moved with the grace of a dancer. Trust me if I was killed every time I made a mistake, well let’s just say the gods’d be mighty confused as to why there were so many of me up there.”

“I’m not going to leave you behind.” She stated flatly, narrowing her gaze and staring daggers at the man.

“What?” He said, confused, feeling a bit whiplashed at the sudden shift in tone. Wasn’t he just reassuring her?

“You told me to run. Said to get on Kasi and take off. I didn’t let you finish but I can gather what you were gonna say.” She rolled her eyes and spoke in an accent that was a poor imitation of Wilhelm’s “’Ah’ll stay beehind as uh deestracshun!’ Am I right?”

“Hey now.” He started. “Your horse is faster than mine, ain’t no way they could keep up with you. Specially if there was a nuisance like me smackin them with a hammer. What’s the point of both of us dyin?” He said in his defense.

“I’m not leaving you, Wilhelm. Period.” She said flatly, not accepting his answer.

“Well fine.” He said. “I make no promises, but I will try to get that though this here thick skull of mine. You’re stickin around.” He nodded.

“We have to spend the night here, and then the next day as well.” She said, staring at the walls of the valley. It was growing dark as the sun started on it’s decent, slowly passing the summit of the hills.

“Yeah, we do. Shouldn’t be the whole day, we made good time.” He said, trying to be reassuring. “Should be in Boughborn by supper at the latest.”

“Right, then we just need to find and befriend  the group who wants to kill all non-humans in the Enclave. I almost prefer the Ogres.” Annice stated.

“So would I.” Wilhelm agreed.

The two continued on until it was as dark as when they first started, the Half-Elf again taking point. It was around that time that Annice’s spell had worn off and Wilhelm found it difficult to keep his eyes open, and even more difficult to stay on his horse. Against Annice’s protests he insisted they continue on for two additional hours, after that even he couldn’t argue the point and they decided to make camp. They pushed themselves up one of the hills, walking near half a mile up the steep grade before finding a cluster of shrub bushes they felt would obscure them. The night wouldn’t be comfortable sleep that was certain, with branches in their face and belted into armor, but they were able to settle in and attempt to sleep. Well, Annice attempted, Wilhelm was out like a candle flame in a stiff breeze the moment his head found soft dirt. Annice smiled at the man, he was so… sure. Nothing seemed to bother him and he carried no inner conflict. She layed on her side, staring at his face, the peace on it, and wondered why a woman of faith could not have that face. She averted her eyes, it was wrong to do this, she was sure. She should have never attended the fights, that’s when her problems all started. Sighing she rolled back on to her back, no, she had to remain confident that this is exactly where Syrene wanted her. She glanced back to Wilhelm, and frowned. His peace she envied, but she really wish he would stop snoring!