JORDAN, ANASTASIA-ZOE AND THE REDEEMER
JORDAN, ANASTASIA-ZOE AND THE REDEEMER
Jordan, Anastasia-Zoe and there friend The Redeemer spend most of their days wandering the hills that skirt demon territory. Their quest is to drive off or destroy anything coming down from the demon held territories to try to make this area a safer place for the few who are brave enough to call these hills home.
Upon waking from a night spent in and abandoned barn the group notices the distinct smell of smoke. Looking outside they can see a large column of it rising in the distance. Fearing that the smoke is the result of a demon attack on a nearby town, they start off in that direction to try to help. It quickly becomes apparent that Anastasia can't keep up with her companions and begs them to leave her behind, saying that she'll catch up as soon as she can.
Leaving Anastasia behind, they make good time, but still arrive at the town over an hour later. The two stop on a rise outside of town and make a quick assessment of a battle going on below. A large force of Ramrats, Shades and other creatures from the demon horde has attacked the town which is just now starting to organize a resistance. Not being ones to flee from a battle, Jordan and The Redeemer quickly join the fray.
Jordan indicates to The Redeemer his intent to rescue a woman from a ramrat and directs him at the shade that seems to be the commander. He then charges down to aid the unfortunate villager, choosing to leave his Apok's mask off for the time being.
The Redeemer nods, takes his mask and raises it to his face, "I'll take out the leader, you can save the girl" with mask firmly attached, the Redeemer races towards the creature in the center of town, drawing his axe in his right hand and sword in the other.
Their flight down the hill takes them into the midst of the demon force that is scattered throughout the town and they quickly separate to go after their intended foes. The evil beings’ stench is a painful reminder of the time before they took up the masks of the Apok. A sorrow filled existence that they spend every waking day trying to atone for.
Jordan passes by a few other ramrats and rumblers in his haste to rescue the woman from his targeted foe. Luckily the beasts that he passes are too busy with their own battles to pay him any heed as he hurtles past. The ramrat is walking steadily down the street, dragging the woman with him and does not notice Jordan coming up from behind. Her screams echo between the buildings as she begs to be released. Seeing Jordan she screams for his help.
The Redeemer runs past other beasts engaged in despicable acts of devastation. One hacks the arms and legs from a corpse at his feet. The Redeemer skirts the edge of a group of citizens trying to bring down a rumbler who beats his chest and roars in defiance. One citizen notices The Redeemer and turns to face this new foe only to see him run by in a blur. Seconds later the chaos of the fighting opens like the parting of wings to reveal the shade standing just ahead. His masked face turns at The Redeemers approach. His black eyed stare takes the apok in in a single glance.
"Traitor!" the shade snarls in Demongogian. "I was told this town wasn’t supposed to have any defenders!" The shade’s head turns slightly right and left as if looking for help or an escape.
An evil looking sword with barbed spikes running halfway down the length from the hilt hangs from his right hand, the point resting casually on the ground as if forgotten. His left hand holds a strange looking long knife with two parallel blades that hum softly with power.
Jordan and The Redeemer both make short work of their opponents. Jordan finds that the woman he rescued is no longer anywhere to be seen. Looking around for the next fight, the two are surprised to see that the area is clearing out. The evil creatures are making a fighting retreat with their grisly plunder. The plunder: humans to be used as slaves or other gruesome things. That's the risk the town took, though, when they chose to settle this close to border of the demon empire. The humans who are being dragged away are quickly passed up the ranks to separate them from the little resistance the town is offering. Flashes of energy can be seen over the roofs in the distance...with a frustrating feeling they recognize the flashes as openings of small rifts.
As the two heroes approach the trailing end of the demons, a couple of laser blasts flash by his head from somewhere in the horde in front of him. Both miss although one was a little close to Jordan for comfort. Only a handful of humans can be seen as they are dragged towards the awaiting rifts that Jordan can now see on the other side of the few remaining monsters. Upon seeing the grotesque mask of the Apok, one of the retreating ram-rats momentarily loosens its grip on a young man with blond hair and a wicked gash down his check. The man quickly takes advantage of the distraction and wrenches away. As he scampers through the organized retreat another ram-rat takes a swipe at him but only manages to knock him from his feat. The man lays unmoving just in the front of the line of retreating figures. So close to freedom, yet it appears not to be. The horde leaves him where he lays, however, as Jordan and The Redeemer launch a barrage of weapons fire into the retreating mass near the man.
Silence descends over the town as the last of the rifts closes behind the fleeing demons. Jordan checks the injured man over and can see that his still alive and is slowly coming around. His brown hair is matted with blood where the last blow took him. Woozy, but alright, he accepts Jordan and The Redeemer's help in making his way to where some of the townsfolk appear to be helping the wounded. As they half carry, half drag him he introduces himself as Ethrem and profusely thanks the two for saving his life.
Having deposited their charge, Jordan says "Come, let us speak with the other defenders... it is probably a good thing Anastasia was not here to see this." Jordan looks around for the woman he saved earlier but doesn't see her where he left her.
With one last look, he and The Redeemer head towards the remains of the temple where they saw the temple's defenders last. As the pair approach the temple they can see an acolyte that appears to have taken charge. He seems to be giving directions to groups of defenders who then move off in different directions throughout the town. Having obtained a moment of peace around him, he looks back at the temple to ensure that the efforts to put the fire out are still proceeding.
The acolyte frowns as the Apoks approach and then speaks brusquely before they can close the distance. "I guess the rumors are true; we had heard that there were Apoks operating in the area." His voice is strong but the condescension in it makes it obvious that he is not pleased with Jordan's and The Redeemer’s presence. "Your help in this little raid is the only reason I have not had you escorted from town. What business have you here?"
Jordan gives a nod and slight bow to the acolyte. "We were traveling through the area when we spotted the smoke. We hurried here as quickly as we could so as to offer what help we were able but it seems we arrived too late to make any real difference. My daughter is a healer, we left her behind, but if you think her skills will be of use i can travel back out and collect her....."
"Your help, however unneeded, was welcome." The man grudgingly admits; however, his words are lacking in sincerity. As is typical for a member of the church, the man seems to treat Apoks, and Jordan and The Redeemer in particular, with disdain and distrust. It’s not the first time the two have received this type of welcome and probably won’t be the last. Jordan wonders briefly if the man truly knows that one or both of them is in Apok or if he is just naturally unpleasant.
Before the acolyte can speak again an older man appears out of the wrecked church building and catches the acolyte’s attention. "Wait here a moment," the acolyte says in a no-nonsense voice that is more command than request. The acolyte walks over to the old man and in hushed voices converses with him. The old man has wispy, white hair that is as soot smeared as his face and white robes. He carries an armful of singed and yellowed parchments that all appear about ready to explode out of his hands. As he listens inattentively to the acolyte, he looks the two Apok’s over, measuring them, weighing them. He responds with occasional brief statements. The acolyte is getting more and more agitated and starts gesturing wildly, occasionally pointing at the Apoks, occasionally in a broader gesture towards the destruction in the town. The old man finally cuts him off with a sharp, clearly audible word and an impatient scowl. "Now!".
The acolyte bows formally and stiffly before stalking back to Jordan and The Redeemer. His expression is even more unfriendly than before. It went from annoyed and disgusted to one bordering on open hostility. The old man can be seen passing his load off to another church functionary before departing towards a part of the building that was completely Wormwood made and therefore not susceptible to the fire. Jordan’s attention is brought back to the Acolyte when he brusquely and overly formally states "Father Maliki has requested your presence in his sanctuary. If you would be so kind as to tell me the location of your daughter I will send someone to retrieve her. Please give me your name and something for the runner to show her so that she knows that it is you who sent for her. We have our own healers, however, the work will go faster with extra hands and by God’s grace maybe we can save most of the wounded." The acolyte ends his speech without ever once making eye contact with either Apok and then patiently stands waiting for a reply.
Jordan gives an apologetic smile knowing how much the acolyte must hate being forced to deal with them "Thank you for you hospitality, my companion in known as The Redeemer and you may call me the fallen, my daughter is Anastasia Zoe, your runner should find her on the road leading from the side of town, no more than 20 miles distant" Rummaging through his pouches he produces a signet ring to hand to the acolyte. "Show her this and she will know it is mine." He gives a good description of Anastasia before heading up to the sanctuary to meet Father Maliki. Before entering he brushes the dust from his clothes and cleans his face, he gives a respectful bow "Well met elder. How may we be off assistance to you?"
"Come in, come in." The old man gestures with his dirty hand. The room smells strongly of burnt wood. It may not have been affected by the fire, but the smoke still seeped into here. "My apologies for Brother Tobius’ cool reception. Youth can sometimes be over-quick to judge the path of another." The old priest chuckles warmly. His voice, once strong, has become weak and somewhat tired in old age. "But then again, most of my order would feel the same I’m afraid. Personally, I’ve seen too much and am entirely too old for such foolishness."
Fumbling around with boxes and books, Father Maliki clears off four chairs. "Please have a seat." He says as he gestures to the chairs closest to the door and then takes one for himself. Piles of books and crates litter the room. It’s difficult to say whether this is the normal state for the room or just a result of the rescue of things from burnt-out portion of the temple.
Looking at Jordan he says with a sparkle in his eyes. "Don’t think for an instant that I’ve forgotten your question. I may be old, but I still have my mind. Before I answer it, though, I’d like to tell you a little about myself while we wait for your daughter. Mayhap my story will aid you in deciding if you want to help me or not.
"I obviously have not always been the decrepit old man you see before you." He boasts. "I was once young and head strong and thought I could save the world. I trained and studied and was allowed to join the Knights Templar and rapidly advanced in rank; partially due to the untimely deaths of my immediate superiors and partially due to my talents as a warrior and a general." Father Malaki’s story is briefly interrupted by a teenage boy bringing in a pitcher and four plain resin drinking vessels. The boy pours each of them a glass before departing.
After the boy exits the room Father Malaki continues. "It was on one of our forays into demon territory that I found a mysterious object." Pausing for a moment he seems to consider how to continue. "This ‘object’ has consumed me ever since. I have found bits of stories and legends about it over the years, but never enough. I know it is destined to play an integral part in the final battle with the demons, but I don’t know how."
"Are you with me so far?" he asks as his eyes return to focus on the present instead of the past.
After taking a drink of the sweet tasting pure water Jordan replies "I believe I understand where you are going, you would like for us to discover the purpose of your mysterious object and how it works, then take it into the demon lands and use it to help win this war once and for all ...."
"Ah, the impatience of youth, so quick to jump to the end of the story; but alas, that’s not exactly the task I have for you." Father Maliki continues to tell the story of his life. His story takes the three of you from his initiation into the brotherhood of priests to his current position of both spiritual and secular leadership of the small community. Always, he used his influence and position to learn more about the mysterious "object".
"I convinced the church to start this settlement under the pretext of harvesting gems from the surrounding hills, but the real reason is known only to me and soon you. You see, this place holds the key. Not the town itself, mind you," he quickly clarifies "But the region. I don’t know why, but I know it with my whole being. All paths I’ve trodden, all knowledge I’ve obtained have led me here." His enthusiasm and intensity threaten to sweep Jordan and The Redeemer along with it. With a large sigh like the wind through an un-shuttered window he says "In the space of a few hours...all of that may have come undone and been for nothing." He pauses briefly in contemplation before resuming. "Ah, but I get ahead of myself. I’ve told you everything so as to impress on you the gravity of what I am about to ask."
Father Malaki takes another drink to moisten his throat before continuing. "Someone has stolen the ‘object’. Whether by intention or accident, they also managed to burn down my cathedral…or at least a good portion of it. This allowed their easy escape and had the additional result of drawing the attention of a wandering demon raiding party. Rather than being able to send out patrols to find the perpetrators, my soldiers were busy trying to put out a fire and then they were caught up in fighting for their lives and the lives of the town’s people."
"And now, as you’ve probably already guessed, I come to the conclusion of my tale and to the question at hand. Will you two take on the quest to find the stolen object and return it to me? I would send my own troops, but they are needed here; and frankly, I no longer know whom I can trust." The air hangs heavy and silent as the old man leans forward in anticipation of your answer.
Jordan nods "I will accept this task gladly, but I must wait for my daughter to get here and have a chance to rest before we head out."
"Of course, of course," The priest agrees. "I would not expect you to travel forth unprepared, and your daughter is most welcome to stay here in the temple if you would rather she not accompany you on your quest."
"Do you have any ideas as to who the thief might be?" Jordan continues. "Which direction they went?..... Any information will help us find your object and return it to you more quickly...." He turns to his companion "What say you Redeemer, will you come with us or does the world call you to a different cause?"
"For now, it suits me to be in the company of friends." The Redeemer replies. "So, I will see where this trail leads us. However, before we traverse the world looking for something, I would like to know what it is that we’re looking for!" Turning to the priest he states "All you’ve called it so far is an ‘object’."
"Ah, yes…" The priest hesitates. "I was intentionally vague on that point. You see, before I tell you what it is, I need you to give a vow of silence." As The Redeemer starts to give his word not to reveal the priest’s secrets, the priest holds up his hand in a "wait" gesture.
When The Redeemer goes silent the priest says "I’m afraid I didn’t make myself clear; I need you to take your vow while holding this." He pulls a stone rod out of a cabinet next to him. In the short time that the cabinet door is open Jordan can see a number of other interesting and not easily identified objects. "This will let me know if the words you speak are truly the words of your heart. Afterwards I will answer any of your questions that I can." The Redeemer looks at Jordan to let him take the lead on how to handle this latest development.
Jordan grasps the rod "I vow not to reveal anything you tell us about this mission beyond those whom will be aiding us in your quest."
"Such impatience!" The priest exclaims in surprise as the rod is taken away from him. "I’m afraid there’s a bit more to it than that. Please grasp the rod with one hand at each end and repeat the following: "In undertaking this mission I give my oath not to reveal the secret of the object we search for or its powers except in the absolute necessity of completing our mission. I vow not to reveal the identity of Father Malaki as the benefactor of this mission. I vow to see this mission to its end by either returning the object to Father Malaki or, having seen it destroyed, returning with the news of its destruction. This vow I hold sacred and shall not break so long as I and Father Malaki live."
"My apologies, I figured you would be more likely to trust my words if I gave myself no time to think of a lie." Jordon gives a chuckle before taking hold of each end of the rod, confirming with father Malaki he is holding it correctly before continuing.
"In undertaking this mission I hereby give my oath to not reveal any secrets of the object for which we search, or its powers, except in the absolute necessities of completing our mission. I vow to not reveal the identity of the one for whom we undertake this mission. I vow to see this mission to its end, be it with the object returned once more to its rightful place, or placed beyond the grasp of the host through destruction. This vow I hold sacred and shall not break in the length of my life or my death"
Father Malaki frowns and appears on the verge of objecting to Jordan’s rewording when another church functionary arrives in the doorway with Anastasia-Zoe trailing behind. Father Malaki quickly relieves Jordan of the stone rod and slips it up into one of his voluminous sleeves.
With a smile of relief and delight, Anastasia rushes in to give Jordan a warm hug and whispers in his ear "Good to see you didn’t get yourself killed. We need to talk." Before Jordan can respond, Anastasia disentangles herself and gives The Redeemer a similar greeting before turning to Father Malaki. "Father," she inclines her head in a shallow bow "I am told that I have you to thank for the ride here. It was greatly appreciated and saved me hours of walking."
"It was my pleasure to do so…and I’m so very glad I did or I may never have met such a beautiful creature as yourself." He responds very kindly and with a warm, genuine smile.
Jordan relaxes somewhat now that he knows Anastasia is no longer wandering by herself in potentially dangerous lands. "Father Malaki, may I introduce my daughter Anastasia-Zoe. As you can see she has been blessed by Wormwood with a symbiot akin to the angels that frequent Cathedral, she has a very strong connection to the planet and great powers as a seer, her manners are usually better than mine as well." He gives a chuckle before continuing "Anastasia-Zoe, this is Father Malaki, he wishes us to undertake a quest for him to retrieve an artifact stolen during the raid."
Father Malaki gives a slight grunt of amusement before speaking "Well then…where was I… oh yes.." and off he goes into a similar, if abbreviated, rendition of what he just finished telling Jordan and The Redeemer. Anastasia listens intently to the Father's story. When he brings up the matter of the oaths, Anastasia holds up a hand to interrupt. "Before that, I think I may have a story of my own that has bearing. On my journey here, not long after leaving you," she says to Jordan before continuing her tale to all there," I was visited by a kindred spirit, a Spirit of Wormwood. It led me away from the path to a cave where I found an injured man whom I thought was dead. The spirit settled itself on the man and revived him enough to speak. He told me that he was accosted in the night by an inhuman figure in black. The creature, he said, was looking for something…an orb of some sort. The creature described it as blue with gold flex and about the size of two fists together."
"That is the description of the object I wish you to recover!" Father Malaki interrupts excitedly. "It must be divine intervention that has brought us together."
"When the man denied knowing anything about it, the creature tortured him and then left him for dead. Afraid that the creature would return and finish what it started, the man dragged and crawled his way off the road and into a cave some distance away. I stayed with him while the life drained away. Even with my help and the help of the spirit he was still too close to death to save. Just when I thought the life had left him, his eyes shot open. They were glassy white and trancelike. I believe the spirit was speaking to me through him. He said.
The demon trodden streets shall bring them.
The dream that was no dream shall mark them.
The vision of the One shall drive them out.
Five shall go forth.
A sixth shall be saved,
That four may return.
The One will be no more,
But the world need not despair,
For his legacy shall remain if the four hold true.
Look not within, for the trodden path shall be the beginning and the end.
Look not to the heavens, for the heart of Wormwood lies not on another plane.
Let the orb guide you for only in its light can the answer be revealed.
To fail is to abandon all hope.
So long as one remains true, hope can be rekindled.
Do not bow to the will of the Horde or all hope is lost.
Success lies in the trinity:
A sacrifice must be made,
A life must be given, And the past must be reborn.
Heed well these words for all other paths lead to destruction
And the world-that-is-no-world shall no longer see the stars.
"With the end of his prophecy, the light in his eyes faded…as did the spirit." Anastasia finishes with a note of sadness; whether sadness at the loss of the man's life or the disappearance of the Spirit is unclear.
Jordan places a comforting hand on Anastasia's shoulder and gives her a hug if she needs one. He ponders the words she had just spoken, it didn't sound good, "The one will be no more", he sure hoped "the one" was not his dear Anastasia.... "His legacy shall remain".... no it couldn't be Anastasia, perhaps it would be him, he would certainly give his life to protect her but he didn't like the idea of leaving her while she was still so young .....
With an exhalation of breath he didn't know he was holding, the priest proclaims "Well, if that isn't a prophecy I don't know what is, now, what to do about it!"
"I think I do know who the five are," Anastasia interrupts in a hushed, shy voice. "When I first arrived here I saw a creature talking to one of your order outside," she says to Father Malaki. "And behind him was a man with a horse." Turning to Jordan with serious and troubled eyes she says. "I felt drawn to each of them as if I know them or will know them, at least." Jordan can see the concern and worry in her eyes, as if unsure of the path that her powers seem to be leading her down.
"I guess we will have to meet this creature and horseman then." Jordan looks to the priest "Perhaps they would be interested in helping with your little task?" he then pulls Anastasia in close for a hug and whispers "We walk this path together my child, I will always be there to protect you until Wormwood declares we part."
"The oath…" the old priest begins and then seems to visibly deflate a bit "Oh, for the sake of all that's holy spare me from my own stupidity…" he continues half to himself and half to no one in particular (or maybe to whatever deity he worships?). Focusing once again on the trio of heroes he begins again. "In light of recent developments, forget the oath. Find the other two and try to convince them to accompany you if that's what you think is best. Find me if you need anything or have any questions… Wait a second." He rummages around in his desk and pulls out a piece of paper and a writing implement.
Pushing a stack of books aside he scribbles a few lines on the paper and then signs it with a flourish. Folding it neatly he tucks the paper into a leather envelope and ties the flap closed. Handing the packet to Jordan he admonishes. "Guard this as you would guard your honor. It should help you while you're in town here, but I can't guarantee what reaction it may stir once you leave here."
Jordan slips the leather packet into a belt pouch to look at more closely later. He,The Redeemer and Anastasia make their polite departures from Father Malaki and leave him to his organizing and cleaning. As they exit the building, Tobius notices them and scowls once more. As soon as the trio has gone, Tobius turns and strides purposefully to the entrance they just departed.
Anastasia quickly points out the horse that the man she saw earlier was leading and suggests that they start the search for him there. Before reaching the horse she spies the man carrying a resin box out of the building and toward a triage area that has been set up to for people to bring the wounded. Approaching the man, Jordan calls out "Hail to you traveler, my daughter saw you earlier as she entered the church and I wonder if you are looking for a task to occupy your time, if so one of the priests here has need of some aid. You can find him in a back room on the ground floor" he gives directions "There is another i would extend this offer to, he may accompany me or simply meet me at the priests room when I return".
Upon waking from a night spent in and abandoned barn the group notices the distinct smell of smoke. Looking outside they can see a large column of it rising in the distance. Fearing that the smoke is the result of a demon attack on a nearby town, they start off in that direction to try to help. It quickly becomes apparent that Anastasia can't keep up with her companions and begs them to leave her behind, saying that she'll catch up as soon as she can.
Leaving Anastasia behind, they make good time, but still arrive at the town over an hour later. The two stop on a rise outside of town and make a quick assessment of a battle going on below. A large force of Ramrats, Shades and other creatures from the demon horde has attacked the town which is just now starting to organize a resistance. Not being ones to flee from a battle, Jordan and The Redeemer quickly join the fray.
Jordan indicates to The Redeemer his intent to rescue a woman from a ramrat and directs him at the shade that seems to be the commander. He then charges down to aid the unfortunate villager, choosing to leave his Apok's mask off for the time being.
The Redeemer nods, takes his mask and raises it to his face, "I'll take out the leader, you can save the girl" with mask firmly attached, the Redeemer races towards the creature in the center of town, drawing his axe in his right hand and sword in the other.
Their flight down the hill takes them into the midst of the demon force that is scattered throughout the town and they quickly separate to go after their intended foes. The evil beings’ stench is a painful reminder of the time before they took up the masks of the Apok. A sorrow filled existence that they spend every waking day trying to atone for.
Jordan passes by a few other ramrats and rumblers in his haste to rescue the woman from his targeted foe. Luckily the beasts that he passes are too busy with their own battles to pay him any heed as he hurtles past. The ramrat is walking steadily down the street, dragging the woman with him and does not notice Jordan coming up from behind. Her screams echo between the buildings as she begs to be released. Seeing Jordan she screams for his help.
The Redeemer runs past other beasts engaged in despicable acts of devastation. One hacks the arms and legs from a corpse at his feet. The Redeemer skirts the edge of a group of citizens trying to bring down a rumbler who beats his chest and roars in defiance. One citizen notices The Redeemer and turns to face this new foe only to see him run by in a blur. Seconds later the chaos of the fighting opens like the parting of wings to reveal the shade standing just ahead. His masked face turns at The Redeemers approach. His black eyed stare takes the apok in in a single glance.
"Traitor!" the shade snarls in Demongogian. "I was told this town wasn’t supposed to have any defenders!" The shade’s head turns slightly right and left as if looking for help or an escape.
An evil looking sword with barbed spikes running halfway down the length from the hilt hangs from his right hand, the point resting casually on the ground as if forgotten. His left hand holds a strange looking long knife with two parallel blades that hum softly with power.
Jordan and The Redeemer both make short work of their opponents. Jordan finds that the woman he rescued is no longer anywhere to be seen. Looking around for the next fight, the two are surprised to see that the area is clearing out. The evil creatures are making a fighting retreat with their grisly plunder. The plunder: humans to be used as slaves or other gruesome things. That's the risk the town took, though, when they chose to settle this close to border of the demon empire. The humans who are being dragged away are quickly passed up the ranks to separate them from the little resistance the town is offering. Flashes of energy can be seen over the roofs in the distance...with a frustrating feeling they recognize the flashes as openings of small rifts.
As the two heroes approach the trailing end of the demons, a couple of laser blasts flash by his head from somewhere in the horde in front of him. Both miss although one was a little close to Jordan for comfort. Only a handful of humans can be seen as they are dragged towards the awaiting rifts that Jordan can now see on the other side of the few remaining monsters. Upon seeing the grotesque mask of the Apok, one of the retreating ram-rats momentarily loosens its grip on a young man with blond hair and a wicked gash down his check. The man quickly takes advantage of the distraction and wrenches away. As he scampers through the organized retreat another ram-rat takes a swipe at him but only manages to knock him from his feat. The man lays unmoving just in the front of the line of retreating figures. So close to freedom, yet it appears not to be. The horde leaves him where he lays, however, as Jordan and The Redeemer launch a barrage of weapons fire into the retreating mass near the man.
Silence descends over the town as the last of the rifts closes behind the fleeing demons. Jordan checks the injured man over and can see that his still alive and is slowly coming around. His brown hair is matted with blood where the last blow took him. Woozy, but alright, he accepts Jordan and The Redeemer's help in making his way to where some of the townsfolk appear to be helping the wounded. As they half carry, half drag him he introduces himself as Ethrem and profusely thanks the two for saving his life.
Having deposited their charge, Jordan says "Come, let us speak with the other defenders... it is probably a good thing Anastasia was not here to see this." Jordan looks around for the woman he saved earlier but doesn't see her where he left her.
With one last look, he and The Redeemer head towards the remains of the temple where they saw the temple's defenders last. As the pair approach the temple they can see an acolyte that appears to have taken charge. He seems to be giving directions to groups of defenders who then move off in different directions throughout the town. Having obtained a moment of peace around him, he looks back at the temple to ensure that the efforts to put the fire out are still proceeding.
The acolyte frowns as the Apoks approach and then speaks brusquely before they can close the distance. "I guess the rumors are true; we had heard that there were Apoks operating in the area." His voice is strong but the condescension in it makes it obvious that he is not pleased with Jordan's and The Redeemer’s presence. "Your help in this little raid is the only reason I have not had you escorted from town. What business have you here?"
Jordan gives a nod and slight bow to the acolyte. "We were traveling through the area when we spotted the smoke. We hurried here as quickly as we could so as to offer what help we were able but it seems we arrived too late to make any real difference. My daughter is a healer, we left her behind, but if you think her skills will be of use i can travel back out and collect her....."
"Your help, however unneeded, was welcome." The man grudgingly admits; however, his words are lacking in sincerity. As is typical for a member of the church, the man seems to treat Apoks, and Jordan and The Redeemer in particular, with disdain and distrust. It’s not the first time the two have received this type of welcome and probably won’t be the last. Jordan wonders briefly if the man truly knows that one or both of them is in Apok or if he is just naturally unpleasant.
Before the acolyte can speak again an older man appears out of the wrecked church building and catches the acolyte’s attention. "Wait here a moment," the acolyte says in a no-nonsense voice that is more command than request. The acolyte walks over to the old man and in hushed voices converses with him. The old man has wispy, white hair that is as soot smeared as his face and white robes. He carries an armful of singed and yellowed parchments that all appear about ready to explode out of his hands. As he listens inattentively to the acolyte, he looks the two Apok’s over, measuring them, weighing them. He responds with occasional brief statements. The acolyte is getting more and more agitated and starts gesturing wildly, occasionally pointing at the Apoks, occasionally in a broader gesture towards the destruction in the town. The old man finally cuts him off with a sharp, clearly audible word and an impatient scowl. "Now!".
The acolyte bows formally and stiffly before stalking back to Jordan and The Redeemer. His expression is even more unfriendly than before. It went from annoyed and disgusted to one bordering on open hostility. The old man can be seen passing his load off to another church functionary before departing towards a part of the building that was completely Wormwood made and therefore not susceptible to the fire. Jordan’s attention is brought back to the Acolyte when he brusquely and overly formally states "Father Maliki has requested your presence in his sanctuary. If you would be so kind as to tell me the location of your daughter I will send someone to retrieve her. Please give me your name and something for the runner to show her so that she knows that it is you who sent for her. We have our own healers, however, the work will go faster with extra hands and by God’s grace maybe we can save most of the wounded." The acolyte ends his speech without ever once making eye contact with either Apok and then patiently stands waiting for a reply.
Jordan gives an apologetic smile knowing how much the acolyte must hate being forced to deal with them "Thank you for you hospitality, my companion in known as The Redeemer and you may call me the fallen, my daughter is Anastasia Zoe, your runner should find her on the road leading from the side of town, no more than 20 miles distant" Rummaging through his pouches he produces a signet ring to hand to the acolyte. "Show her this and she will know it is mine." He gives a good description of Anastasia before heading up to the sanctuary to meet Father Maliki. Before entering he brushes the dust from his clothes and cleans his face, he gives a respectful bow "Well met elder. How may we be off assistance to you?"
"Come in, come in." The old man gestures with his dirty hand. The room smells strongly of burnt wood. It may not have been affected by the fire, but the smoke still seeped into here. "My apologies for Brother Tobius’ cool reception. Youth can sometimes be over-quick to judge the path of another." The old priest chuckles warmly. His voice, once strong, has become weak and somewhat tired in old age. "But then again, most of my order would feel the same I’m afraid. Personally, I’ve seen too much and am entirely too old for such foolishness."
Fumbling around with boxes and books, Father Maliki clears off four chairs. "Please have a seat." He says as he gestures to the chairs closest to the door and then takes one for himself. Piles of books and crates litter the room. It’s difficult to say whether this is the normal state for the room or just a result of the rescue of things from burnt-out portion of the temple.
Looking at Jordan he says with a sparkle in his eyes. "Don’t think for an instant that I’ve forgotten your question. I may be old, but I still have my mind. Before I answer it, though, I’d like to tell you a little about myself while we wait for your daughter. Mayhap my story will aid you in deciding if you want to help me or not.
"I obviously have not always been the decrepit old man you see before you." He boasts. "I was once young and head strong and thought I could save the world. I trained and studied and was allowed to join the Knights Templar and rapidly advanced in rank; partially due to the untimely deaths of my immediate superiors and partially due to my talents as a warrior and a general." Father Malaki’s story is briefly interrupted by a teenage boy bringing in a pitcher and four plain resin drinking vessels. The boy pours each of them a glass before departing.
After the boy exits the room Father Malaki continues. "It was on one of our forays into demon territory that I found a mysterious object." Pausing for a moment he seems to consider how to continue. "This ‘object’ has consumed me ever since. I have found bits of stories and legends about it over the years, but never enough. I know it is destined to play an integral part in the final battle with the demons, but I don’t know how."
"Are you with me so far?" he asks as his eyes return to focus on the present instead of the past.
After taking a drink of the sweet tasting pure water Jordan replies "I believe I understand where you are going, you would like for us to discover the purpose of your mysterious object and how it works, then take it into the demon lands and use it to help win this war once and for all ...."
"Ah, the impatience of youth, so quick to jump to the end of the story; but alas, that’s not exactly the task I have for you." Father Maliki continues to tell the story of his life. His story takes the three of you from his initiation into the brotherhood of priests to his current position of both spiritual and secular leadership of the small community. Always, he used his influence and position to learn more about the mysterious "object".
"I convinced the church to start this settlement under the pretext of harvesting gems from the surrounding hills, but the real reason is known only to me and soon you. You see, this place holds the key. Not the town itself, mind you," he quickly clarifies "But the region. I don’t know why, but I know it with my whole being. All paths I’ve trodden, all knowledge I’ve obtained have led me here." His enthusiasm and intensity threaten to sweep Jordan and The Redeemer along with it. With a large sigh like the wind through an un-shuttered window he says "In the space of a few hours...all of that may have come undone and been for nothing." He pauses briefly in contemplation before resuming. "Ah, but I get ahead of myself. I’ve told you everything so as to impress on you the gravity of what I am about to ask."
Father Malaki takes another drink to moisten his throat before continuing. "Someone has stolen the ‘object’. Whether by intention or accident, they also managed to burn down my cathedral…or at least a good portion of it. This allowed their easy escape and had the additional result of drawing the attention of a wandering demon raiding party. Rather than being able to send out patrols to find the perpetrators, my soldiers were busy trying to put out a fire and then they were caught up in fighting for their lives and the lives of the town’s people."
"And now, as you’ve probably already guessed, I come to the conclusion of my tale and to the question at hand. Will you two take on the quest to find the stolen object and return it to me? I would send my own troops, but they are needed here; and frankly, I no longer know whom I can trust." The air hangs heavy and silent as the old man leans forward in anticipation of your answer.
Jordan nods "I will accept this task gladly, but I must wait for my daughter to get here and have a chance to rest before we head out."
"Of course, of course," The priest agrees. "I would not expect you to travel forth unprepared, and your daughter is most welcome to stay here in the temple if you would rather she not accompany you on your quest."
"Do you have any ideas as to who the thief might be?" Jordan continues. "Which direction they went?..... Any information will help us find your object and return it to you more quickly...." He turns to his companion "What say you Redeemer, will you come with us or does the world call you to a different cause?"
"For now, it suits me to be in the company of friends." The Redeemer replies. "So, I will see where this trail leads us. However, before we traverse the world looking for something, I would like to know what it is that we’re looking for!" Turning to the priest he states "All you’ve called it so far is an ‘object’."
"Ah, yes…" The priest hesitates. "I was intentionally vague on that point. You see, before I tell you what it is, I need you to give a vow of silence." As The Redeemer starts to give his word not to reveal the priest’s secrets, the priest holds up his hand in a "wait" gesture.
When The Redeemer goes silent the priest says "I’m afraid I didn’t make myself clear; I need you to take your vow while holding this." He pulls a stone rod out of a cabinet next to him. In the short time that the cabinet door is open Jordan can see a number of other interesting and not easily identified objects. "This will let me know if the words you speak are truly the words of your heart. Afterwards I will answer any of your questions that I can." The Redeemer looks at Jordan to let him take the lead on how to handle this latest development.
Jordan grasps the rod "I vow not to reveal anything you tell us about this mission beyond those whom will be aiding us in your quest."
"Such impatience!" The priest exclaims in surprise as the rod is taken away from him. "I’m afraid there’s a bit more to it than that. Please grasp the rod with one hand at each end and repeat the following: "In undertaking this mission I give my oath not to reveal the secret of the object we search for or its powers except in the absolute necessity of completing our mission. I vow not to reveal the identity of Father Malaki as the benefactor of this mission. I vow to see this mission to its end by either returning the object to Father Malaki or, having seen it destroyed, returning with the news of its destruction. This vow I hold sacred and shall not break so long as I and Father Malaki live."
"My apologies, I figured you would be more likely to trust my words if I gave myself no time to think of a lie." Jordon gives a chuckle before taking hold of each end of the rod, confirming with father Malaki he is holding it correctly before continuing.
"In undertaking this mission I hereby give my oath to not reveal any secrets of the object for which we search, or its powers, except in the absolute necessities of completing our mission. I vow to not reveal the identity of the one for whom we undertake this mission. I vow to see this mission to its end, be it with the object returned once more to its rightful place, or placed beyond the grasp of the host through destruction. This vow I hold sacred and shall not break in the length of my life or my death"
Father Malaki frowns and appears on the verge of objecting to Jordan’s rewording when another church functionary arrives in the doorway with Anastasia-Zoe trailing behind. Father Malaki quickly relieves Jordan of the stone rod and slips it up into one of his voluminous sleeves.
With a smile of relief and delight, Anastasia rushes in to give Jordan a warm hug and whispers in his ear "Good to see you didn’t get yourself killed. We need to talk." Before Jordan can respond, Anastasia disentangles herself and gives The Redeemer a similar greeting before turning to Father Malaki. "Father," she inclines her head in a shallow bow "I am told that I have you to thank for the ride here. It was greatly appreciated and saved me hours of walking."
"It was my pleasure to do so…and I’m so very glad I did or I may never have met such a beautiful creature as yourself." He responds very kindly and with a warm, genuine smile.
Jordan relaxes somewhat now that he knows Anastasia is no longer wandering by herself in potentially dangerous lands. "Father Malaki, may I introduce my daughter Anastasia-Zoe. As you can see she has been blessed by Wormwood with a symbiot akin to the angels that frequent Cathedral, she has a very strong connection to the planet and great powers as a seer, her manners are usually better than mine as well." He gives a chuckle before continuing "Anastasia-Zoe, this is Father Malaki, he wishes us to undertake a quest for him to retrieve an artifact stolen during the raid."
Father Malaki gives a slight grunt of amusement before speaking "Well then…where was I… oh yes.." and off he goes into a similar, if abbreviated, rendition of what he just finished telling Jordan and The Redeemer. Anastasia listens intently to the Father's story. When he brings up the matter of the oaths, Anastasia holds up a hand to interrupt. "Before that, I think I may have a story of my own that has bearing. On my journey here, not long after leaving you," she says to Jordan before continuing her tale to all there," I was visited by a kindred spirit, a Spirit of Wormwood. It led me away from the path to a cave where I found an injured man whom I thought was dead. The spirit settled itself on the man and revived him enough to speak. He told me that he was accosted in the night by an inhuman figure in black. The creature, he said, was looking for something…an orb of some sort. The creature described it as blue with gold flex and about the size of two fists together."
"That is the description of the object I wish you to recover!" Father Malaki interrupts excitedly. "It must be divine intervention that has brought us together."
"When the man denied knowing anything about it, the creature tortured him and then left him for dead. Afraid that the creature would return and finish what it started, the man dragged and crawled his way off the road and into a cave some distance away. I stayed with him while the life drained away. Even with my help and the help of the spirit he was still too close to death to save. Just when I thought the life had left him, his eyes shot open. They were glassy white and trancelike. I believe the spirit was speaking to me through him. He said.
The demon trodden streets shall bring them.
The dream that was no dream shall mark them.
The vision of the One shall drive them out.
Five shall go forth.
A sixth shall be saved,
That four may return.
The One will be no more,
But the world need not despair,
For his legacy shall remain if the four hold true.
Look not within, for the trodden path shall be the beginning and the end.
Look not to the heavens, for the heart of Wormwood lies not on another plane.
Let the orb guide you for only in its light can the answer be revealed.
To fail is to abandon all hope.
So long as one remains true, hope can be rekindled.
Do not bow to the will of the Horde or all hope is lost.
Success lies in the trinity:
A sacrifice must be made,
A life must be given, And the past must be reborn.
Heed well these words for all other paths lead to destruction
And the world-that-is-no-world shall no longer see the stars.
"With the end of his prophecy, the light in his eyes faded…as did the spirit." Anastasia finishes with a note of sadness; whether sadness at the loss of the man's life or the disappearance of the Spirit is unclear.
Jordan places a comforting hand on Anastasia's shoulder and gives her a hug if she needs one. He ponders the words she had just spoken, it didn't sound good, "The one will be no more", he sure hoped "the one" was not his dear Anastasia.... "His legacy shall remain".... no it couldn't be Anastasia, perhaps it would be him, he would certainly give his life to protect her but he didn't like the idea of leaving her while she was still so young .....
With an exhalation of breath he didn't know he was holding, the priest proclaims "Well, if that isn't a prophecy I don't know what is, now, what to do about it!"
"I think I do know who the five are," Anastasia interrupts in a hushed, shy voice. "When I first arrived here I saw a creature talking to one of your order outside," she says to Father Malaki. "And behind him was a man with a horse." Turning to Jordan with serious and troubled eyes she says. "I felt drawn to each of them as if I know them or will know them, at least." Jordan can see the concern and worry in her eyes, as if unsure of the path that her powers seem to be leading her down.
"I guess we will have to meet this creature and horseman then." Jordan looks to the priest "Perhaps they would be interested in helping with your little task?" he then pulls Anastasia in close for a hug and whispers "We walk this path together my child, I will always be there to protect you until Wormwood declares we part."
"The oath…" the old priest begins and then seems to visibly deflate a bit "Oh, for the sake of all that's holy spare me from my own stupidity…" he continues half to himself and half to no one in particular (or maybe to whatever deity he worships?). Focusing once again on the trio of heroes he begins again. "In light of recent developments, forget the oath. Find the other two and try to convince them to accompany you if that's what you think is best. Find me if you need anything or have any questions… Wait a second." He rummages around in his desk and pulls out a piece of paper and a writing implement.
Pushing a stack of books aside he scribbles a few lines on the paper and then signs it with a flourish. Folding it neatly he tucks the paper into a leather envelope and ties the flap closed. Handing the packet to Jordan he admonishes. "Guard this as you would guard your honor. It should help you while you're in town here, but I can't guarantee what reaction it may stir once you leave here."
Jordan slips the leather packet into a belt pouch to look at more closely later. He,The Redeemer and Anastasia make their polite departures from Father Malaki and leave him to his organizing and cleaning. As they exit the building, Tobius notices them and scowls once more. As soon as the trio has gone, Tobius turns and strides purposefully to the entrance they just departed.
Anastasia quickly points out the horse that the man she saw earlier was leading and suggests that they start the search for him there. Before reaching the horse she spies the man carrying a resin box out of the building and toward a triage area that has been set up to for people to bring the wounded. Approaching the man, Jordan calls out "Hail to you traveler, my daughter saw you earlier as she entered the church and I wonder if you are looking for a task to occupy your time, if so one of the priests here has need of some aid. You can find him in a back room on the ground floor" he gives directions "There is another i would extend this offer to, he may accompany me or simply meet me at the priests room when I return".
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