Commotion in the Lands

Amethyst McMahon wanders deep in thought across the large stone path joining Cheshire to The Citadel. 
After learning from ArchDruid Fitheach that she and the Mage Gabriel had finally had a breakthrough in brewing the potion to revive the Cheshire Cat, she was anxious to visit her friend, Audrey and see for herself if the Cat was regaining strength.

Preoccupied with her musings, she stops suddenly as a guard emerges from the shadows to take up position near the pathway leading up to the walled city. He inclines his helmed head slightly in recognition and watches her as she crosses to join the track leading to the many towered city.

Amethyst McMahon smiles, yet the smile hides her apprehension, the increasing number of guards and Rangers appearing all over the Lands simply heightening her disquiet. 
Jaek had been gone for well over a fortnight now and with no news as to where he had gone, or when he would return, the Lands may be left in the capable hands of the Elven Council, but as they rarely left Calenhad to dwell among the townsfolk, the citizens were becoming restless and uneasy without the reassuring presence of their beloved Druid King.

She hurried onwards, noting the large number of guards and soldiers gathered at their camp, practicing with swords and lances or standing close together, deep in conversation. As she approached the walls of the city, her eyes swept the ramparts, counting the guards stationed on the bulwark and each tower and settling on the nearest tower, where the figure of the Captain of the Guards stood surveying the area.

On a whim she decides to pay him a visit and listen to his account of the present situation, hoping that his valiant, unflinching manner would calm her nerves.

She passes under the many arches and walks up the rouch cobblestone path towards the entrance to the west tower, her light steps bringing her swiftly to her goal, but also allowing her to catch a conversation between two guards posted in the courtyard near the tower.

Amethyst McMahon frowns and draws a deep breath as she hears the report from the taller guard, his information about increased Drow sightings towards Taibreamh, Hobbit Shire and Calenhad doing nothing to allay her fears. Apparently there had already been numerous chases by the Rangers patrolling each border, but as yet, the bands of Drow had sucessfully fled back within the Shadow Lands and the Elven Council had given strict orders that no one was permitted to enter the Underdark until further resolutions were announced...

She coughed loudly to warn the guards that she was about to enter the courtyard and they both turned hastily towards her, an awkward silence falling until they perceive who has interrupted them and their tension easing as she passes them with a soft greeting.
Both men reply with a respectful, "Good day, Lady Amethyst", and stand to attention as she starts up the stairs leading to the tower.

Captain Archer glances over his shoulder as she opens the heavy wooden door and moves across to stand beside him by the parapet. They exchange greetings, the soldiers eyes constantly roaming the land and sea before him.

Amethyst McMahon glimpses the soldiers at their swordplay way below and takes in the sheer number of armed men in sight from the tower.
She turns her attention to the battleworn soldier and asks him directly about the rumours of nightly Drow encounters all across the Lands. Never one to mince words, the Captain's rough tone conveys the impatience of his men, "Aye, M'Lady, the Drow are encroaching further into the Lands each evening. We have orders not to enter into hostilities with them, but with each encounter my men are put into peril and the danger increases for each of us who call these Lands their home."

Amethyst crosses her arms around her small frame and nods mutely, words escaping her as the realisation of the menacing threat to the River Lands settles grimly upon her consciousness. She murmurs a few encouraging words in parting, barely comprehending Captain Archer's parting warning about not roaming the Lands alone and unattended until the King returns to her side.

She descends to the courtyard and leans against the cold stone wall at the bottom of the tower, reflecting on the fear and tragedy that the Drow had caused the Lands in the past and sending a silent plea to the gods to return the Druid to his people and to her as soon as possible.
She collects herself and taking a deep breath begins walking along the sloping path leading to the home of Audrey and Gabriel...

Fit Sends the Undines to Reconnoiter, Part 2

Fit stared soberly at the undine, realizing she had seriously underestimated them. She had thought them like their naiad cousins; light minded, playful creatures interested only in amusement. The undine smiled craftily knowing her thoughts and tilted her head still waiting for a response.

Underestimated Undines

Fitheach raised her eyebrows and smiled at the tiny creature: “Thank you, my sister, that is a most generous offer. We need information on what the drows are planning; we fear they may attack us. But, what do you know of the drows?”

The small creature regarded her thoughtfully and said: “You think us only made for play but we serve those with water power as the fauns serve those of earth, the sylphs those of air and the salamanders those of fire. We are attracted to those of power like you and we serve those of both the light and the dark, but the light is kinder and less likely to force us into things.” “We have visited the lands of shadow and seen the drows and dark fae who live there; we fear them and do not wish to serve them.”

The Undines are Ready to go Inside

“We will meet you outside the walls of the dark lands and then venture inside.” The undine whirled around and disappeared with all her sisters. Fit jumped out of the pool and pulled on her clothes hastily before setting off at run for the Shadow Lands. Once inside the dark lands she ran swiftly but silently along the water until she heard soft giggling; looking down she saw the undines by the bank and sat on a rock near them.

“This water leads inside,” the undine leader said.  “We will follow it and see what we may find; can you wait here for us?” Fit nodded and drawing her cloak around her she walked into the shadows by the rock wall and hid there silently. The undines all disappeared again. It was a long cold wait there by the rocks near the entrance to the underdark, but Fit was not going to leave until all the undines were safely out of the dangerous land.

Brave Undines in the Underdark Pool

Finally all the undines appeared again in the water outside and called softly. Fit made her way back to the bank and sat on the rock again. The tiny leader looked puzzled and cocked her head at Fit: “Something has happened in there. We saw few females and many more males and they were not slinking about timidly but walking with determination. We found a small pool near the main hall and we could see inside from there and there were males in the council hall! There was no females to be seen there at all." 

Only Male Drows to be Seen!

"And there is a presence, something dark and brooding that contaminates the very air and water; we could not stay long.”  Fit looked soberly at the undines.  “I thank you my sisters for risking this adventure; your news is strange and I cannot think what it might mean. If you dare to return and can learn more, I would be grateful. But I will not ask you to go into that evil again; it must be your choice.” The undine smiled; “And this is why we serve you, Druid Fit. We will go again but need time to recover.” The undines all whirled and disappeared yet again and Fit headed back to Calenhad with strange news for the elven council.

ArchDruid Fitheach shares good and bad news with Amethyst

Amethyst McMahon knocks softly at the door to ArchDruid Fitheach's working place in Taibreamh, waiting anxiously for answer from within.

Fitheach Eun hear the knock and turns asking: " Who is there?"
"Fitheach, it is Amethyst. May I come in, I've been trying to see you for days..."
Fitheach opens the door excitedly; "Come in Ame, I have great news!"
Amethyst brightens when she sees the expectant face of the Druid Elf, "You do? What is it?"

Fitheach turns to regard the old grimoire on the desk again contemplatively...
Amethyst follows Fit's gaze to the leatherbound book.
Fitheach: "You just missed Gabe; we were finally able to make that stasis potion work. It seems the ingredients had to go in a specific order and it was not the one in the book. The unicorn horn must go last!"
Amethyst beams and takes a step closer to the desk, "Oh my, that is wonderful news! Well done the both of you! I was just with Audrey and the Cheshire Cat is quite near death."

Fitheach: "The potion did not explode in a cloud of nasty smoke this time; Gabe has run back to the Citadel with it to give it to the cat."
Amethyst runs a hand through her hair, "I passed Gabe on the bridge, but he was in such a hurry and would not stop, only called to tell me that I should seek you out here! So the Cat can be saved...", she claps her hands with joy, "that is such good news. Audrey will be so relieved."

Fitheach: "Well it will not make him whole but he will get no worse and perhaps we will have time to get the collar back. It is a shame it took us so long but my ancestor could have done a better job of transcribing that recipe..."
Amethyst shakes her head, "No, Fit. You and Gabe have been working tirelessly for weeks. This Dark Magic is extremely rare and only a few souls would have found a solution."
Fitheach: "Gabe has been tireless pursuing this; he will be a fine mage one day."
Amethyst smiles faintly, "Tis true. He has made such progress."

Amethyst looks at the ethereal Elf with concern, "..but can we move the Cat? You heard of the Drow scouring the Citadel the other night? What says the Elven Council?"
Fitheach Eun looks soberly back at Ame; "The elven guard wanted to attack the Shadowlands, but I counseled patience. We must know more about their strength before we go barging in..."
Amethyst gasps in alarm, "yes, do we have enough troops for that? Do we know what faces us in the Shadow Lands?"
Fitheach: "Exactly my concern; we do not know what force they may have and what traps they have laid..."
Fitheach: "...and I keep hoping the Aran will return."

Amethyst McMahon bites her lip, her eyes downcast... "that is also the reason I have sought you out. Where is he, Fit? Do you know?"
Fitheach looks back at Ame sympathetically; "I am afraid I do not know where he has gone, only that he is seeking some help."
Fitheach: "If help is to be had, he will find it."
Amethyst takes a deep breath, "Aye, that is what his note said... but...", she hesitates, "he was never gone so long before!"
Fitheach: "It must be very hard for you. Not knowing where or how he is?"
Amethyst suppresses a sob, "I..I.. it seems so strange that no one knows of his journey. I just hope he did not enter the Shadow Lands alone."
Fitheach Eun regards Ame with concern: "He did promise me that he would not and he had a pack with him when he left us, so I think he expected a long journey."
"I just wish I knew where and how long he might be."

Amethyst frowns, "he did?", she sighs, "well, thank you for telling me this and for your time today, Fit. I will ask the Ranger to accompany me back to the Citadel to see Audrey and Gabriel and check on the progress of the Cat."
Fitheach: "Let me know if you need anything Ame, are the elven guards staying close?"
Amethyst smiles warmly as she turns to leave, "Yes, I am being constantly "shadowed", on Jaek's orders. I am so glad your research paid off. You can be very proud of having worked out what will help keep the Cat alive."
Fitheach: "I am so glad it finally worked."
Amethyst McMahon: "...as am I. Take care, Fit. These are dark days and we are all in danger it seems... even if the true reason for these attacks remains unknown..."
Fitheach Eun: "Safe paths, Ame"

Amethyst McMahon leaves the hut and makes her way across the meadows of Taibreamh to the bridge leading to the Citadel, clutching her cloak close as the moon rises and the cold wind blows around her...

Yuletide and Midwinter Festivities are approaching

The citizens of the Lands enjoy spending the darker, colder months gathering together in cosy places and celebrating the beauty of Winter time.

Ice Garden @ Mara Scamall

Come and visit the River Lands Medieval Fantasy Roleplay Community and delight in the Ice Garden in Mara Scamall where you can pick up some skates and do some graceful turns on the ice rink or simply kick back and admire the frost-covered view. 
Or check out the Yule Wonderland above Shadow Lands for some fun in the snow...

Yule Wonderland @ Shadow Lands

And for those in the southern climes basking in the warmth of Summer... jet on in and cool down a bit! ;D

Hope to see you soon! Safe paths...

You can find portals to each area in Cheshire. Simply wander from the landing point at the Docks through the arch into the town and look for the portals situated around the iced lake there.

HG-address: login.greatcanadiangrid.ca:8002:River City

Amethyst and Audrey share their fears

Amethyst McMahon wakes before the dawn, another restless night behind her. She quickly rises and dresses, determined to continue her search for news of Jaekob.
"I must talk to ArchDruid Fitheach or Fiesty", she muses quietly, her voice echoing in the empty house, "...maybe Fit will be easier to get a hold of than Fiesty has been. The Shire is preparing for possible dangers and Fiesty is so busy that she is rarely at home, but Fit should still be with Mage Gabriel, trying to find a potion to heal the Cheshire Cat."

Amethyst McMahon leaves the cottage, barely noticing the glowing sunrise hinting above the horizon. She nods and smiles at the Elven Ranger in attendance near her home, approaching him shyly and informing him that she intends to visit her friends, Audrey and Gabriel at The Citadel.
The Ranger informs her that possible Drow sightings around the Citadel had been reported during the early hours and she should best stay near Calenhad in safety.

Amethyst McMahon frowns, but her tone is determined when she answers that if that is the case, then she must check on her friends and the Cat without delay. She asquiesces as she notices the Ranger follower her closely as she sets off through the forest.

Upon reaching the Citadel she regards the increased number of guards and Rangers thoughfully, nodding in greeting as she hurries on towards Audrey and Gabriel's home. The Citadel is eerily quiet and devoid of life that morn, the townsfolk remaining within their homes, apparently disquieted by possible Drow encounters so close to their dwellings.

She pauses and greets the guard stationed before the steps leading to the door of the Mage's residence, an obvious increase in security since her last visit. Knocking at the door, she calls out loudly, "Audrey, Gabriel... it is Amethyst. May I come in?"

Audrey Ashgrove strokes the weakened feline, the weariness from her sleepless night finally catching up with her. Gabriel hat not returned until dawn was nearing, but his arrival brought her no liberation from her fears, as he stormed into their home with two guards shadowing him. 
Gabriel had quickly gathered her into his arms, words tumbling out of his mouth, her tired brain hardly catching their meaning... Prowling! Skulking Shadows! Alarm! Drow! Guards! Chase!
From what she had gathered, many citizens of the Citadel had described hearing the same scraping and hissing, sighting the same shadowy presence all over The Citadel during the night. Alarm had been raised at the break of dawn and the Guards had tracked a Drow group and given chase, but their prey were lost when they disappeared within the spectral stone barriers surrounding the Shadow Lands.
Gabriel was not sure that the Drow had gotten wind that the Cheshire Cat was here with them, but before he left for Taibreamh again, after just two troubled hours sleep, to continue his frantic search for a potion with ArchDruid Fitheach, he secured a guard to remain directly at their home while he was away.

The knock roused Audrey from her listlessness and she brightened upon hearing Amethyst's call.

Audrey Ashgrove rose and uttered a welcome as Amethyst entered the room.

Amethyst McMahon crossed to her friend, her gaze moving from the languishing cat to her visibly tired friend. "Audrey! Are you alright? I have heard of the Drow sneaking through the Citadel last night and wanted to make sure you are well!"

Audrey Ashgrove looks up dejectively and pushing a loose strand of hair from her face, she tries to smile at the other woman, but her face crumples and she whispers in dismay, "oh Amethyst, it was dreadful. I was paralysed with fear. I could think of nought other than keeping the Cheshire Cat from harm, but had no idea how I caould manage it!".
She takes some steps backwards and slumps on the lounge.

Amethyst McMahon sits near her friend and takes her hand, her tone reassuring, "Everything is fine, Audrey, you are very brave and your care is what is keeping the Cat alive right now. Do not fear, the guards and Rangers will patrol the Citadel in increased numbers now and you must be certain to try and catch up on some rest during today."

Audrey Ashgrove nods, a small smile lighting up her pale features, "Thank you, Ame. Yes, I will just remain here on the lounge and try to sleep. Gabriel promised to return earlier today."

Amethyst McMahon furrows her brow, her eyes watching the cat as it lays panting near the fireplace. "And have Gabe and Fitheach made a breakthough as yet, Audrey? I fear our wee friend here will not be able to hold onto life much longer."

Audrey Ashgrove slumps in her seat, shaking her head, concern in her voice as she answers, "He hasn't said as much and I suspect that they are still examining different possibilities, as he has only had a few hours sleep each night and returns to Taibreamh at the crack of dawn each day to pore over the old recipes."

Amethyst McMahon sighs and gets up, crouching by the Cat to brush a hand along it's ginger fur and murmurs softly, "Stay strong, dear Cat. We will find a cure for you soon."
She rises and moves towards the door, turning to give Audrey an encouraging smile. "You get some sleep too, Audrey. I will return on the morrow, but if you should need anything until then, please send a guard with a message and I will be here as soon as I can."
She quietly opens the door, both inhabitants of the house falling into a doze and steps out into the fresh air, the weak winter sun struggling to warm the cobblestones.

As she fastens her cloak again, she signals to the guard and instructs him to have her notified if either Audrey or Gabriel should need her. She smiles warmly as he nods and returns to his station and starts back down the path towards Cheshire, the Elven Ranger appearing suddenly from beneath an archway to escort her back to the cottage...
"As hard as it is, I will simply have to trust that Jaekob is safe and that he will return soon. Fitheach and Fiesty have more than enough to trouble them right now, without me plaguing them with my worries..."

She wanders swiftly along the track hugging the coastline... her anxiety growing as the rough seas and blustering wind mirror the disquiet which has become her daily companion and suddenly turns her steps towards the bridge to Taibreamh, "No, I must seek out Fitheach. I cannot go another day without hearing from her if she has knowledge of where Jaek is gone."  

Fitheach Sends the Undines to Reconnoiter, Part 1

Fitheach paced around her home in Calenhad impatiently. The Aran had been gone for 2 weeks with no word and she had no idea when or if he would return.  The elven guard had come seeking advice about whether to plan an attack on the Shadowlands as a preemptive measure, but she had counseled patience.

Fitheach in her home in Calenhad

There had been no additional signs of activity since the dragon ambassador had gone to negotiate and been attacked. More information was definitely needed but remembering the pain of the spider poison and Saphira’s injuries she was cautious about scouting too close to the underdark.

On the Bridge to Taibreamh

Suddenly she thought of her undine friends; the tiny creatures could travel anywhere there was water and even Drow needed that. Fit rushed out heading towards Taibreamh; the warmer water there would attract the undines.  As she crossed through the mist into Taibreamh, she felt the sense of welcome that always seemed to be there and then the warmth of the air, even more welcoming after the chill in the River Lands. The undines were frolicking in the thermal pool by the waterfall as she thought they might be. Fit left her clothes on the bank and slid into the warm water with them.

Fit and the Undines

“Greetings my sisters”, she said smiling as the small group of barely clad tiny women played around her, splashing her in their games. “We are glad to see you, Druid Fit”, the undines chorused; aside from slight differences in the shades of green skin color, it was hard to tell them apart.

 Fit watched the playful creatures and felt hesitant about asking them to go into danger.  Then one of the undines stopped playing in front of her and said: “How can we help you water sister; your need is plain?” Fit looked seriously at her: “We need information about what is going on in the Shadow Lands; is this someplace you can go?” The undine replied: “The land where the dark ones live? We can come and go there as we please; they never see us. Tell us what you need to know.”

The River Lands Community featured in Virtual Art & Lifestyle Blog

China Dream (as she is mainly known in GCG) showcases regions, events, hunts and all things virtual worlds over various grids in her blog. She graced the Lands with a visit last week and we headline her latest blog piece! *smile*

Huzzah Riverlanders!

Our heartfelt thanks to China. 
Check out her virtual world roundup here:
Virtual Art & Lifestyle

Everyone is welcome to come and explore our multi-region roleplay community and participate in our weekly events... we look forward to meeting you here soon!

Evienne evades the Drow and discovers an old friend

Evienne duLac shimmies and flutters her wings, the frothy skirt of her new "pastoral" outfit tickling her legs... "ooh, how delicious that feels", she exhales with a breathless giggle.

Leaving her Otherworld sanctuary, she moves fluidly through the cool water, paying special care to avoid the naiads converging for their frolicksome gathering under the nearby waterfall. 
Evienne duLac scowls and mutters in a low tone, "...bothersome creatures! The only companions who currently seek me out and I simply loathe their mooning about and constant appetite for new love affairs!". She shudders and breaks through the water's surface, shaking her wings and spraying droplets like diamonds in the air, ".. and mostly mortal lovers being their chosen prey too! Simply ghastly!"

The discerning Fae steers her course towards Taibreamh, which suits her flowery costume and floral ambitions on this day. She skirts the high walls of The Citadel where she had witnessed those hideously drab Drow skulking during the darkest hours of the previous night. She chose to ignore such base creatures, only intent on misery and terror and if they were encroaching upon the Citadel, as guarded as it is, she could only wonder that the Elven King had chosen such an in opportune time to disappear and leave the townsfolk so open to the Drow's grim mischief. 
"I will go and favour the unicorns with my presence this morning," she nods vainly, her thoughts soon swerving away from Drow and the danger they present. "Perchance they know where that Elven King has disappeared to. I rather fancy another audience with him. He amuses me somewhat..."

Evienne duLac reaches a sylvan glade and smiles benignly at the brilliant white creatures lazily enjoying the late afternoon sunshine among luscious meadows covered with wildflowers.
"This land Taibreamh is such a delightfully peaceful place," her attention is captured by the tumbling waterfall nearby, her true element drawing her gaze and making her long to return to the cool flowing rivers around her refuge. She lets out an impatient breath as a petite Faerie flutters past her, her eyes widening in wonder as she catches sight of the powerful Fae.
Evienne du Lac waves a hand listlessly, as the tiny Fae nervously squeaks a reverential greeting to the famed, yet reclusive, Lady of the Lake.
"Yes, yes, it is I," she sighs wearily, inclining her head in greeting. "Please simply go on with whatever it is you are doing and do not concern yourself with my appearance here."

The wee Fae glances uncertainly from Evienne to the unicorn standing at attention nearby, the bowl of water in her hands shaking, some of the liquid seeping over the sides onto the grass below. She gasps and her whole little body begins to shake, her wings drooping as she lights on the ground between the two mythical beings. The other Faerie flittering among the unicorns nearby pause in mid flight, in awe at the visitor and anxious for their nervous sibling.

Evienne duLac arches her eyebrows, her patience dangerously thin, but the rebuke on her lips dies as she peers down at the shivering Faerie, whose tear-filled eyes stare up at her appealingly. "Oh, do get a hold of yourself, Wee One," the Lady of the Lake addresses her small kin, not unkindly. "Yes, it is I. You have likely been fed on tales of my wondrous deeds your whole life... but as you see, I am very real and have graciously chosen your home to visit today... and... I do not bite."
She turns and scrutinises the area, convincing herself that the unicorn population is healthy and well served by the Faefolk of these parts and returning her gaze to the tiny Fae, she finishes in a soft tone, "May your efforts be rewarded with generosity and kindness, Wee One. I have seen enough and will visit again when I next feel the desire to immerse myself in flora and fauna.

A little annoyed at having her plans disrupted by her kinsfolks tending of the unicorns, she sets her sights on an Elven Tower in the distance and hovers over the balcony before smoothly landing and surveying the glistening sea stretching before her.

Evienne duLac twirls around, enjoying the vista when she lets out a sudden shriek of glee as a long sinuous neck emerges from the waves, "Nessie!", she squeals, immediately taking flight and speeding towards her ancient friend and confidante, glowing with anticipation at renewing an old attachment and catching up on the gossip of the high seas! 

Farewell dear Drow Hunter Montgomery

News of the passing of Hunter Montgomery, a lovely guy, a magical maker of music and a handsome Drow to boot sadden our community and his many friends and admirers on the Great Canadian Grid and the Metaverse today. Our thoughts and prayers go to his family and those closest to him.

Safe paths, dear Hunter, and until we meet again.

Ame, Jaek & tRLs Community

Audrey is stalked by Shadows

Audrey Ashgrove dozes on the lounge of her home inside the secure walls of The Citadel, the Cheshire Cat laying limp and panting softly on her lap, as the midnight hour approaches.

A sudden noise, a scratching and scraping outside the window, has her alert and awake within seconds, her hold tightening on the withering feline, so that it lets out a barely audible mewling at the unexpected pressure.

Audrey Ashgrove stands noiselessly, the cat held gently in her arms and places it tenderly in its basket near the fading fire.
"No need for alarm," she murmurs quietly, whether to the Cat or herself remains unknown. "Gabe should be home from his work with ArchDruid Fitheach soon," she tries to sound reassuring as she strokes the moist mottled fur, barely containing her gasp as the scraping continues along the house wall towards the door after a short pause.

Audrey Ashgrove goes rigid, her focus entirely on the eerie noises coming from outside. She gathers her courage and moves cautiously towards the window, peering into the murky darkness outside.

Without warning a spine-chilling shadow passes beneath the window, a creature half crawling, sneaking and searching in the gloom and Audrey presses her hand to her mouth to quell her rising panic and stop herself from screaming. 

The sinister shadow moves in near silence around the house and Audrey falls to her knees, sliding back across the rug towards the Cheshire Cat as the ghastly scraping begins again, whispering in despair to the near unconscious feline, "I f-f-ear the Drow have found you, my friend. What am I going to do?"

To be continued...

Jaekob at the Hall of the Ancients, Part 2

   The Druid was exhausted and fell into reverie exactly where he had collapsed, exhausted by the formidable journey to the Halls of Honor. (Reverie is the elvish form of sleep. They rest but are aware of everything around them.) It was hours or was it days before he slipped back into a total awareness, his clothes torn and ragged his hair unkempt, dirty and tangled. His body was caked in various dirts and muds chronicling his journey to the Halls of Honor, home of the Ancients.

   Slowly, he pushed upward on his palms and rose to stand near the statue. He wanted to touch it, his body ached to render his flesh to the marvel that shone itself before him. Then he paused and looked first to his right to note the large doors he had pushed open and left for the cold to have its way. Still the Halls felt amazingly comfortable. He reached into his rucksack and fumbled around until he found the last piece of lembas bread. He slowly removed the mallorn leaf and began to nibble the dry, crisp bread slowly. Then his tired eyes caught sight of the steps leading to the dais and the throne which sat there, wrapped in vines and limbs that probably rivaled his age easily.

Jaekob Discovers the Throne of the Ancients

He moved slowly, each step seemingly deliberate as his worn body moved up each step until his trembling fingers could touch the throne.. It was warm to the touch; it did not reflect the cold outside or the emptiness of the Hall. Rather, it seemed as if the owner had only just arisen from the throne. He let his hand grasp the arm of the throne and let his body slowly move to sit on the throne of the ancients. Then, his body seemed to tremble and he let go the arm of the throne and stepped backward as if some awe or fear had creeped through his worn body.

Then he turned and with a heavy sigh moved back down the steps that had led to the dais, he began to weave and work his way through the thick vines searching each room, each nook and cranny for signs of life. After all, he had come to the Halls for answers, for help. And he would not leave until he had them.

Fiesty Prepares for War, the War Room Scene

The morning found Fiesty trying out a new recipe for a corn cake that she and Tangles had collaborated on. It was really easy and did not need much to make it up, just corn meal, water, salt, sugar, and a little milk. You could even get by without the milk. That made it a good recipe for the hobbit scouts. She remembered how fun it was to experiment new recipes with Tangles and decided to call it Tanglecake.

Perhaps she would include it in the Tavern recipes. The Tavern cook Bertha was game for new foods and would probably improve on it a bit. Those new seeds Fae Talia had traded her for were really something. The tomatoes were good in season and were pretty good dried. The taters kept in storage a long time, and the corn was a real find. Fiesty couldn’t wait to try out Talia’s latest batch of seeds. She had said they were big green round things with red sweet insides. But those seeds had to wait for spring, so Fiesty put them away carefully.

Fiesty Making Her Rounds

Then it was time for a few errands and lunch with Copper and Juste. She left her cozy burrow and felt the cooling autumn breeze. Soon now she would have to bring her cloak, but the sun was shining enough to warm her. She looked out Southwest toward the Lighthouse and thought fleetingly of the task Tangles had taken on. He had left this morning with a few hobbit boys to keep lookout at the mouth of the Longflood River and the white cliffs. It was bound to be uncomfortable up there in the wind and the elements. She strengthened her resolve to see what she could do for them.

 Next stop the Millhouse. The winter was coming on and there was much to do. There was drying of all sorts of produce, and storage of grain and meat. Everything needed to be done quickly. As she entered the millhouse,  Fiesty smiled and looked around. The place was humming with activity. Some Hobbit girls were cutting off the corn kernels from the drying cobs to be milled, while other Hobbits shucked the cobs and laid out the silk on racks to be dried and used as a healing tea. The older hobbit men were at the grinder processing and hauling away flour and cornmeal to the storage burrows.
The Hobbit girl Maisie Boffin was hauling water for the mead and she smiled at Fiesty as she came in. Fiesty thought she was such a pretty Hobbit and was happy Copper was not around to gawk at her.

 "Oh yes" she mumbled, "Lunch…"
Fiesty then ambled off to the Tavern for her lunch with Copper and Juste.
She entered the Tavern and saw Copper there waiting for her.

Copper Lotus: "Hi Auntie. Where ya been? Lunch time be important!"

Fiesty Lotus nods "Yes. But I had a few errands to do. Well, I am here now so let’s eat."
They repasted on roast duck and tater fritters with a little salad. Copper gobbled his lunch with gusto. Then he began thinking of dessert but Fiesty addressed him before he could get up to ask Bertha about it.

Fiesty Lotus: "Ahh, Juste must have even more ter do. Tell you what Copper, Let's tell Bertha to make him up something and send him upstairs shortly."
Copper Lotus nods, choking back his last mouthful. "Alright Auntie, lead the way."
They proceed up the stairs and Copper notices Fiesty has taken out a long rolled up paper from her knapsack. He holds his tongue and watches while she unrolls a map of the Shire. She weights it down with various cups, and then looks up at him seriously.

Fiesty Lotus: "Copper, I know you be young, but yer do have experience in wartime. Back on the Island they said yer did well in battle."
Fiesty Lotus: "And I expect yer had some fighten when yer sailed them ships. So, I want you ter head up my scouts there in the North."

 Copper Lotus grows serious. "Yes, I see that the bridge and the river should be watched."
Fiesty Lotus nods, "Tangles has already left for the Lighthouse and the Cliffs in the Southwest. You will be in charge of our border."
Copper Lotus: "I kin do that. I will need ter round me up a few boys that kin shoot."
Copper Lotus stares at the map considering his options and who he should take.
Fiesty Lotus: "It is gettin chilly; remember to take warm clothes and provisions."
Copper Lotus grins at his doting aunt. "I will, and I will make sure me men do too.
Fiesty Lotus: "You know of the dangers- I have told you about them, Them Drow may not get this far South, but we is takin no chances. They be sneaky and mean as an adder."
Copper Lotus: "Yes Auntie. I do remember you talkin about them. We will take no chances."
Fiesty Lotus: "Yes- that is good."

Juste Rivers rushes up the steps to meet with his hobbit friends. He runs through the door huffing and puffing but manages to say, "Mees is 'ere. Mees was doing a chore for Missy Amethyst and forgot da time."
Fiesty Lotus: "That's all right Juste- did you get the food Bertha has for you downstairs?"
Copper Lotus nods to Juste.
Juste Rivers nods, "She done told me abouts it and mees told 'er mees would get it after a bits."
Fiesty Lotus nods- "Well- I won't take up much of your time. I am going over with Copper the plans for keeping watch on the Shire borders."
Juste Rivers: "You bees worried bout dem dowries?"
Fiesty Lotus: "He and Tangles are sharing out the most vulnerable area."

Juste Rivers: "Wells mees can 'elp too."
Fiesty Lotus: "Yes , indeed. What I need from you Juste is…  I need a supply sergeant. The boys will be strung out at the White Cliffs and the Northern border."
Juste Rivers puffs up his shoulders, "Mees can be da supply 'obbit?"
Fiesty Lotus: "They need a way to survive and keep warm."
Fiesty Lotus: "So I need someone to head up getting them the supplies they need."
Juste Rivers: "Mees will take very good care of all da men off pertecting us."

Copper, Juste and Fiesty

Fiesty Lotus points with a stick at the X on the map.
Juste Rivers walks closer and looks at the map.
Fiesty Lotus: "This will be your supply burrow."
Fiesty Lotus: "And anything else you can scare up will be good."
Juste Rivers nods, "Mees supply burrow is where da X is?"
Fiesty Lotus: "Yes."
 Fiesty Lotus: "You will get some boys and girls to shuttle the goods up to the Cliffs and the river."
Fiesty Lotus: "They will count on you."
Juste Rivers: "Okays and mees gots a good cart for da 'eavy stuffs."
Fiesty Lotus nods.
Fiesty Lotus: "That's good."
Juste Rivers: "So Mistah Tangles is already gone off to do da pertecting and Mistah Copper is on 'is way soon?"
Fiesty Lotus: "Yes, Tangles is already gone and Copper is going to round up some recruits immediately."
Juste Rivers nods, "Den mees will go spectate the supply burrow and sees whut mees 'ave and whut mees needs."
Fiesty Lotus: "I don't need to impress on you the importance of this. WE are in danger. Them Drow is nasty."
Fiesty Lotus: "Good. Then we are agreed."
Juste Rivers: "Yes Missy Druid Fiesty, mees will take dis 'ere job very serious."
Fiesty Lotus: "I know you will Juste."
Fiesty Lotus: "I am ajurnin this meetin. Thank you both for your help."
Juste Rivers nods and stands very proper, "Tanks you. Mees will get rights to work."
Juste Rivers turns and hurries out of the inn..

Market Day and other Events

The River Lands Roleplay Community hosts a variety of events on a weekly, fortnightly or monthly basis. Everyone is welcome to attend these events, either as an active roleplay participant or just an observer.

Market Day (Thursdays) and Hobbit Elevenses (Sundays) are fully in-character events, where citizens of the Lands gather to shop, dance, eat and mostly gossip! Usually a fun affair with plenty of laughs, they also provide a possibility to keep up with current storylines or create new ones.

Drum Circle (Mondays) and Bardic Tales (to be announced) are more informal gatherings... a time to spend enjoying each others company and catching up on everyday things. Bardic Tales features some wonderful storytellers from our community and around the metaverse -  an opportunity to lose yourself in far-flung tales and fantastical adventures!

There is an events board at our Welcome Area and we also post events to the GCG Calendar (http://www.brownbearsw.com/cal/GCGEvents). 
These events are the perfect opportunity for all those who are curious about roleplay... just what it is we do, or how to get involved! Being a part of an active roleplay community is very rewarding, although it may seem daunting to many who have not tried it as yet, but we welcome newcomers or seasoned players, and the amount of time you invest is up to you.

Come and explore the River Lands Roleplay Community!
HyperGrid: http://login.greatcanadiangrid.ca:8002:River City
or 
GCG: the River Lands, The Sea of Rivers I (120, 109, 4001) 

Ame visits the Shire (Quest Roleplay)

Amethyst McMahon paces nervously around the market stalls, her mind buzzing with possibilities, smiling and nodding to the townsfolk, her thoughts obviously elsewhere...

Amethyst McMahon wanders across to the mangy cat who lurks around the fountain mewling for scraps and bends down to stroke behind it's ears, muttering softly to the apparently interested feline, "I tell you, it's astounding that he has done it again. He said he wouldn't disappear on me after his last outing to Mirkwood and yet...," she stands abruptly, nearly sending the cat flying, turns hastily and begins marching towards the bridge leading out of Cheshire, "...and yet, here we are spending hours and days wondering and worrying about the Druid!"

She hastily crosses the bridge and half runs through the forest towards the Henge, shaking her head in irritation as an idea forms in her mind. "Why didn't I think of this earlier! I will go to Hobbit Shire in search of ArchDruid Fiesty. She may be able to tell me more about Jaek's mysterious disappearance. The Druid's have much wisdom, but just as many secrets!"

Amethyst McMahon reaches the bridge leading to the Shire. Upon following the path and turning to climb some rough wooden steps, she stops to admire the home of the Hobbits of the Lands. An idyllic and peaceful place, yet she has attended a few rowdy Hobbit festivities in the path and smiles as she remembers just how much the wee folk love to eat, drink and be merry.

The Shire is quiet and the doors to the charming Hobbit homes are all closed. Her gaze sweeps the meadows and fishing spots, but there is no one to be seen.

"I wonder where everyone is? I had hoped to at least see Juste," she pouts and decides to circle back and walk past the gardens in expectation of seeing some bustling Hobbit activity there...

Amethyst McMahon looks pleased as she enjoys the sight of the burgeoning Hobbit gardens, bursting with fruit and vegetables and she considers gathering some beeswax from nearby hives that Juste usually looks after, in order to assist the Shire's candlemaker in her work. With the darker days upon them, Yuletide festivities were being planned everywhere. A call had gone out during Market Day for people to gather beeswax for the Candlemaker of the Shire - demand was high at this time of year!

Amethyst McMahon guides get steps to the hive hanging high above a fragrant field of late summer wildflowers.

She reaches into her pouch, talking to herself as she rummages among the contents, "...my new dagger is just what I need to gather some beeswax and I can deliver it on my way to see Fiesty."

The Candlemaker has her workshop on the banks of the sea. Amethyst approaches the wooden hut as the sky radiates the setting sun in warm, startling hues. The Candlemaker is standing smiling on the threshold as she pauses before her, grinning, "Good day to you! I've heard you are in dire need of beeswax just now!" 

The Candlemaker (NPC) beams and holds out her hands to gather the pieces of beeswax in her outstretched hands. "Now bless ye, M'Lady Amethyst! It be such an honour to see ye here an' to think you took the time to get me some wax."

Amethyst McMahon brushes her hands down her skirt to remove the last traces of wax and looking up with a shy smile, she speaks in a soft tone, "I'm glad if I can help you in some small way. I wish you an enterprising evening. Safe paths."

Beginning to retrace her steps and continue on to Fiesty's house, she looks back over her shoulder and turns as the Candlemaker rushes up, takes her hand and presses a silver coin into her palm, "M'Lady, many thanks for wax and here's a silver for ye trouble." 

Amethyst McMahon's protests are silenced when the older woman shakes her head, gently releasing Amethyst's hand and moving quickly back to her hut, her voice sincere and assured, "Nay, bless ye, but I couldn't sleep tonight knowing I hadn't rewarded ye for the kindness."

Her smile widening, Amethyst stows the coin in her purse and raises her hand to wave farewell.

On the path to ArchDruid Fiesty's home, Amethyst wonders again on the unaccustomed quiet in the Shire this even. She shrugs and reflects that as the last of summer's bounty was currently being harvested, the Hobbit community may be afield gathering potatoes or mushrooms. All hands were often needed for the tasks, but as the evening lengthened past dusk, she figured that most would be returning to their cosy homes and Fiesty likely among them.

On reaching Fiesty's home, she knocked and listened for the melodious humming to approach as the hard-working Hobbit Druid came to open the door.

She knocks again waits patiently, but after another minute passes without answer, she groans, turning away from the door and directs her steps back toward Cheshire.

Amethyst McMahon kicks at a pebble on the path, grumbling under her breath, "Such luck! I'll have to return tomorrow to consult with Feisty," and as she speedily crosses the bridge separating the Shire from Cheshire, a smile lightens her features as she ponders aloud, "...but perchance the Druid is waiting at home when I return and on the morrow I will have nothing more pressing to attend to than perhaps persuading our friends, the bees, to give up some more beeswax!" 

*** The Candlemaker Quest is currently up and running in the River Lands Roleplay Community. A Unity pouch is free at our Welcome Area, you need this to gather the beeswax when you find the hives in Hobbit Shire. Join our Riverlands OOC Group and check the notice archives for the notecard explaining the Quest! ***

Evienne changes her spots

Evienne duLac glides towards the poised spires of the Citadel. Her magnificent wings flutter in the cool breeze and a throaty laughter bursts from the statuesque Fae and floats around her as she admires the rythmical swishing of the bright azure feathers...

Evienne duLac delights in her new outfit and her melodious voice sounds against the mountain peaks surrounding the walled city, "Pretty woman, I don't believe you, you're not the truth, No one could look as good as you..."

"Well", she lets out dramatic sigh, "...if I had known that a change of clothes would make my world right itself, I would not have dallied so long among those boring humans looking for fun! Now to claim a new member for my court."

Evienne duLac gracefully grazes the soft leafy tops of the trees as she circles towards the town walls, peering through the thick blanket of foilage to make certain that the guard who usually took up his post on this luscious grassy hilltop, was focused on the sea and Docks, as per usual.

She lights to the ground behind a pair of peacocks and nods regally in their direction. Neither bird had ruffled a feather at her appearance... they were (since yesterday at least), intimate acquaintances.

"Good evening, my friends," the Fae lilts in an enticing tone and flashes her bewitching smile at the animals. "What do you say to my new gown?", she continues, whirling on the spot, her voice questioning and her eyebrows arching charmingly.

Evienne duLac tilts her head as if she is listening for an answer and smiles encouragingly at the female peacock, resplendant in similar colours. She deliberately chooses a spot nearest to the blue-green bird and lowers her lovely form to the ground, fluttering her wings invitingly and turning her back on the other peacock, a male and partner to the Fae's chosen respondent.

"We fine females are simply too ravishing for words, my dear," Evienne duLac coos in a complimentary manner. "Would you be so good as to consent to accompanying me to my Otherworld today perhaps?"

Evienne duLac picks nonchalantly at a blade of grass, all the while watching the peacock pair conversing silently from underneath her lowered lashes. She tugs at the grass impatiently, pulling out a clump of earth which scatters over her skirt, just as the female peacock turns her attention back to the brazen guest.

The Fae hastily brushes the dirt away, a frown forming on her otherwise smooth forehead and interrupts pertly, "Oh really, you cannot truly believe a MALE who will tell you any fairytale to keep you here cooking and cleaning for him!"

Evienne duLac rises speedily, soaring upwards, but descending again far enough to address the colourful birds, her voice frosting over, "Naturally, the life I was offering you among my admirers is beyond magical, but if you choose to credit the nonsensical utterings of a mere male of your species, then I doubt you have what it takes to serve me anyway!"  

The capricious Fae nods majestically from the air and twirling with a flourish, directs her flight back towards her Otherworld refuge, grumbling under her breath, "Such a load of codswallop... silly fowl actually believes her meddlesome partner who attests that a bird cannot exist underwater in my sanctuary for too long without drowning."
Evienne duLac flicks her hair self-importantly over her shoulder and recommences her mutterings, "... of all the stuff and nonsense! Shows how much he knows! What about all those "water fowl"? They didn't get that name just because they enjoy a warm bubblebath!"

The Fae shakes her head at the obdurate creatures populating the Lands and floats wearily into her Otherworld home, settling onto her settee, where her head rests on a silken pillow. She waves her attendants away and is soon overwhelmed by a deep sleep and extraordinarily lavish dreams... 


Song text: Pretty Woman by Roy Orbison