Elgon Merrick's Adventures

[cmwise]

I have been fortunate to have good traveling companions. The Brotherhood of Everflames has opened a whole new world to Elgon.



Elgon before leaving Greatgaunt



Big Red as she lay dead..Blune gutting the beast, Lance (cousin), Kiki and Elgon looking on with amazement.

[cmwise]

Elgon and Michelle at the Sunite Revel, a good time was had by all.

[cmwise]

The Brothers (Lance, Blune, Kaij and myself) along with Isa and Kiki went swimming out in the country...it was a great time to relax.

Kaij made an announcement that Isa was with child...it seem to come as a surprise to Blune and Lance...i think there is fear that Kaij is indeed retired from the Brotherhood..he is setting up a family..no doubt he will be a good father..

Lance almost seems lost at times...as though he has no vision..no goal...no woman..heh heh...He seems withdrawn and quiet...not sure what has brought this on...?

Blune is himself...outgoing, adventurous. rowdy and fun...mostly. He seems to try and stay on the bright side of things but he has a darker side that I have yet to know. Not sure i can put it into words...hmm..

As for Elgon, I just keep training and beatin down the monsters...and the Hullack be full of em!!

Did a good venture north of the Flagon with Ronso...we did quite well in fact...he's another one with somewhat of a darkside..he seems to let it out once in a while..by what he says..then withdraws as if he's not sure of himself...I think he would that Elgon take a walk on the darkside..but its no place for a Helmite or an Everflame..

I need to go shopping again as i have acquired a certain amount of coin...but i need to be selective..and purchase some protection of the third circle.

It was good to see the brothers all together...but i cant help but wonder how long we shall last...everflame..heh..what does that mean? I thought it meant taking care of each other, like gotcha back covered brother sort of thing? Kenji and Kaij seem pretty much out of it now...who knows?

The Brothers (Lance, Blune, Kaij and myself) along with Isa and Kiki went swimming out in the country...it was a great time to relax.

Kaij made an announcement that Isa was with child...it seem to come as a surprise to Blune and Lance...i think there is fear that Kaij is indeed retired from the Brotherhood..he is setting up a family..no doubt he will be a good father..

Lance almost seems lost at times...as though he has no vision..no goal...no woman..heh heh...He seems withdrawn and quiet...not sure what has brought this on...?

Blune is himself...outgoing, adventurous. rowdy and fun...mostly. He seems to try and stay on the bright side of things but he has a darker side that I have yet to know. Not sure i can put it into words...hmm..

As for Elgon, I just keep training and beatin down the monsters...and the Hullack be full of em!!

Did a good venture north of the Flagon with Ronso...we did quite well in fact...he's another one with somewhat of a darkside..he seems to let it out once in a while..by what he says..then withdraws as if he's not sure of himself...I think he would that Elgon take a walk on the darkside..but its no place for a Helmite or an Everflame..

I need to go shopping again as i have acquired a certain amount of coin...but i need to be selective..and purchase some protection of the third circle.

It was good to see the brothers all together...but i cant help but wonder how long we shall last...everflame..heh..what does that mean? I thought it meant taking care of each other, like gotcha back covered brother sort of thing? Kenji and Kaij seem pretty much out of it now...who knows?

The oddest thing happened in Suzail..as i was about to board the caravan..the driver indicated it was not in service and in need of repair...extensive repair..so myself and a group of others headed out to walk to Shallybrook or Valkur...

I was approached by a Hin ..Gurno I believe and we traveled together for a short time..however, after coming up over a slight hill..there alongside the road was a Knight..Silverstring..being overwhelmed by some bandits...he must have been caught off guard as he could have easily dispatched them otherwise.

I threatened the riff raff and charged them..Gurno did the same...we made short work of em..but the Knight was almost bled out..we..accompanied him to Shally fighting occasional trolls and such..and left him to recover at the Golden Maiden...I almost feel as though a conspiracy had played out the fate of Silverstring..a coincidence that the caravan was disabled and the Knight took to the road..ambushed by bandits as if they knew he would be there and vulnerable...odd..odd indeed.hmmm? *scratches his head*

Time for bed and a well deserved sleep..that Ronso is a raging warrior at times..almost more than i can keep up with! I am tired!

[cmwise]

It seems I find myself hanging around Greatgaunt more when Lance is around, he likes to flirt with the ladies and offer services to those who might be ill or in need of healings. We often find ourselves prevailed upon for rescue missions, for some fallen unfortunate unable to return home.

I often find myself doing business with the Brown Hedge Wizard, trading for potions and such. I just call him Rata..short for Ratagast, a friendly enough sort, if not slightly eccentric. But what magi isnt a bit odd and off beat?



Another day in GG with Lance and Rata...

[cmwise]

Things have been slow for me lately, I have tried to be of assistance to new comers to Cormyr, and there are plenty of em. But the racial divisions are at times a distraction, dwarves and elves..segregating and sometimes outwardly hostile.

The Hin seem friendly, hell if i was only knee high to a human I'd be friendly too. But they too run with their own. Then there be those of the dark side, the evil doers...summoning demons and such. Not to mention the loosely connected assassins and their kind...It's a tough world out there, and Greatgaunt seems to attract em all!!!

I avoid the place as much as possible but then find myself traveling alone and fighting alone. I have developed good tactics for solo fighting but dont get near enough practice with a group.

I have yet to be included regularly with any of the Helmites and often wonder what few I have met do with their time....?

The Brothers are spread thin these days and contact with any is a rare occasion.

So I travel and fight alone..and do quite well...but it is lonely.

Since my most unfortunate experiences with love...or should i say love lost...i avoid any kind of relationship with the fairer sex.

I have me sword..and that be my companion for now..and to be honest...it's more dependable than most others i have met...seems though that many of those that i have met and traveled with tend to be of the "dark" side...Zera, Ronso come to mind...but i still consider them decent and have no reason not to trust em.

But Lance is determined to control who I travel with and of what sort those folks will be...part of being with the Everflames..I suppose?

I am sworn to uphold the law..and that i will do..but I am much more neutral in regards to what company i keep.

So for now I will travel and fight on my own...and vanquish those that need to be subdued...






Solo fighting again...

[cmwise]

Lance and Elgon out venturing came upon a very strange creature...



Then just to lighten things up a bit some skeleton pirates for bone cracking fun...I mean why not?



Life isn't all talk and no action...in Cormyr...Arghh!! There be more where that came from..Matey!! ;D

[cmwise]

The Red Knights had a temple warming so to speak today, it was accompanied by some contests.

I took second in the archery...but was beaten down in the brawl that was supposed to be a melee match. I just remember looking up and seeing Ginna, swinging wildly at me...Then things went black and I awoke laying on my backside...most humiliating...

I decided the jousting was not my strong suit and opted to watch Ginna and the others take each other on..Ginna won her first round but was bested by the red knight..didnt catch the ladies' name.

I think a good time was had by all but I really had my heart set on a fist O' cuffs match, with nothing more than bare fists and no armor...



There were fire works...or display of magic by Lusty and Shammy...added some spark to the festivities.



It was a good day in Cormyr...I feel somewhat attracted to Ginna..but hardly know her...I'm so clumbsy with women...*shakes his head*....She is a gifted fighter..and not bad looking either..a good all around warrior..and not afraid of a good fight..as I found out in the crypt with Ginna and Lance..heh..someday perhaps love will find me..but i won't be given my heart out like before...two lost loves is enough for this boy.

Time for bed...heh..an empty one at that..*smirks to himself*

[cmwise]

Had some time to venture out with Lance, ran into a winter storm and took cover in a cave. To our surprise we found Big White...to her surprise she ended up dead...Don't like killing those of the dragon kind, especially since I know those of dragon kin...but sometimes it can't be helped...



Speaking of traveling with dragon kin...Seems Nadie ended up with James, Lance, Kain and myself...brawling our way through trolls...on our way to a warmer spot...Nadie likes it hot ;D


Along the way we seemed to lose sight of Kain...figured duties called him back to Suzail...Undaunted we pressed on..to where the rocks melt from the heat..and Nadie gets comfortable...A good time was had by all...James showed his talent with traps and locks and treasure was to be had by all...and all had a good time

[cmwise]

Well, I had the honor of traveling with some folks for the first time...We started out from Eveningstar and headed north...never had the intention of going to the Stonelands..and it was my first trip there. Very interesting place, and not for the weak and weary either.

Although not a power group, Starla, Elva, Morrow, Thorn and myself did alright. The orcs are determined and strong, but no match for us. However, The Zhents..changed our minds about an all out attack...we headed back with what treasure we had captured and made out rather well..




Later I met up with Lance in Suzail and he flirted with Elva..to avail I might add..she's a smart girl..


A quiet day in Suzail in the marketplace..

[cmwise]

It has been a while since I have graced the pages of my journal with the stroke of my quill. Seems that much has transpired but yet I am hard pressed to write anything that seems worthwhile..

Elva seems to be a regular encounter these days..but she appears pre-occupied with others, too busy searching for love to notice what she is looking for is closer than she might know.

I have never been much for serious relationships..not since..*winces and cringes*...dont even want to think of women at this time...I need stay focused on me Sword..not to be distracted by love or lust..as others waste their energies and resources..all for what?

Bah!! No wonder I dont write in this confounded thing..it irritates the hell out of me..damn!

*slams the journal on the desk..as he throws the quill and the ink tips spilling onto the pages*



*hesitates a moment in thought* Heh..some good times..with Elva..and Lance..yeah..


Seems almost sad to destroy such a beast..

[cmwise]

It has been several years of travel for Lance and myself.Our trip to Silverymoon was long and arduous. It took longer than we had hoped and cost us just about everything we had. But we needed to see Lance's mom and dad before they passed. The homestead was run down and dilapidated terribly. The forge was dead and useless and all the animals were dead or stolen. Nothing much for me there anymore.

Lance visited with family but it was a sad time for him at his parents passing. My cousin Diedra was there, briefly before she left for some wayward destination. She was always an unhappy girl,when we were growing up. She wanted to spar with Lance and I but she was just too young.

Lance and I decided to make our way back to Cormyr, as we both had friends there. The journey back south was treacherous and we again suffered losses of gear and coin, that neither of us could replace.

The return was of good cheer to Lance and myself. Many things had changed and many people had moved on.

Lance is a social creature and fell back into his usual flirtatious and friendly self. Myself being less social, have struggled with making friends.

The money situation between us is strained and we both work hard to replace lost and stolen gear and funds. We have met some new friends and we all seem to get along well, so far.

Illios Blune had just returned to Cormyr himself. It was good to see a Brother Everflame again. Especially for Lance who was feeling fairly low in spirits with only me as company. Lance has become his old self again and is slowly getting along with Brotherhood business.

Blune seems a bit on the moody side, like the outgoing fun side of him dimmed somehow. He and Lance have been trying to train me but both seem to lose their patience with me. Especially Blune, he has asked me to leave on several occasions now, stating that he feels I will never make an Everflame.

It has been discouraging for me at times, I try hard to do the right things and move with only the right people. I don't break the laws of the land and try very hard to follow our code.

Lance assures me and tells me to be patient, he tries to encourage me even as Blune seems hell bent on tearing me down. I sometimes feel that Blune really doesn't want me in the Brotherhood, and that I am "in" because Lance and I are cousins. Lance may have felt that way in the beginning, but he assures me that I have the muster to be one of them.

I believe I have the heart and I am building the skills. Even Lance remarks as to how my fighting skills have improved.

All I can do is prove myself to Blune and show him that I can be of the caliber that it takes to be an Everflame.

We have met this Dragon Disciple, I call her Rade, only because I can't really pronounce her name. I called her wings for a while but she didn't like that...? There are others we travel with like Zeek, who is quite the character. He is full of malarkey most of the time, but he fights like a warrior!

Lance has been smitten by a woman by the name of Mallory, I believe her to be a wizard of sort...but not really sure. I have had a chance to speak with her and she seems almost too nice, but considering the folk around Greatgaunt, it's refreshing to have someone around that really is a nice person. I hope that she is good for Lance, and that he doesn't lose his focus. He at times seems to be distracted by Mallory, but then i could just about say that in regards to any woman Lance meets.

Blune keeps to himself as far as relationships, he is a private person..makes me feel uneasy at times. It seems that I don't really have a chance to get to know him. He seems to almost want it that way?

The Brothers remain strong and the future looks good for us all if we stick together like our code says...Everflame..Brothers forever...not to worry Lance and Blune...I got your backs. Elgon smiles and puts the leather bound journal into his pack. Tomorrow should be a good day...Elgon lays back in the inn's bed and drifts off to sleep.

[cmwise]

Time to talk to the book again...*opens his leather bound journal and begins to write*

The weeks have flown by, seems like much goes on but it all blurs into a fuzzy picture. *rubs his head*

It was good to see Kaij in GG the other day. He kids around but really is a no nonsense type of guy. I haven't had the chance to really get to know him, since he retired from venturing. He did mention that he might be up for an outing sometime, as he would be willing to pull his armor out of the storage trunk.*grins*

There was a brief discussion about the Everflames and the company that we keep. Kiki was there so the conversation ended up touching on our traveling with Rade..the Dragon Disciple. Kaij was quick to caution Lance but Lance was non committal and evasive. Kiki had not problem stating her opinion and feelings about trust and beliefs. I tended to agree with Kaij in regards to being cautious, and once Lance left the conversation got much more detailed about my concerns and our traveling companions.

It was settled on my part at least, that I wouldn't come out against a complete ban on who we were traveling with, but I stated that I did not fully trust the Dragon Disciple and would keep a close eye on her behaviors.

There was some heated discussion about my "membership" in the Everflames and recent issues around my concerns about expressing concerns openly in regards to the parties we traveled with. I explained to Kaij that I was told on two occasions that I would never make an Everflame. Kaij stated that the Everflames were not a "faternal" club that you joined into, but if you were determined to have the ilk it takes to be an Everflame, then you were, period! He asked me if i was "mad" about the development and I said that I was hurt and discouraged. He stated that he was pissed about it and displeased. I asked that he be more active and provide some oversight and back bone to the Everflames. He nodded that he would like to. I hope to see more of Kaij.

I feel that my status with the Brotherhood is at times tenuous not some much on what Lance and Blune tell me back based on my own misgivings. I don't like to sit in judgement of others but Lance has often made allies with what might be considered questionable characters. Kaij mentioned that has been a concern for years. My discussions with Lance leads him to take the position of better to have allies than enemies. May be his is right? But I know that it doesn't feel right being on this trial service status with the Brothers, makes me feel like I am much less than either of the two. Kaij made me feel like an equal, I liked that!

Perhaps I am just learning as Lance has told me time and again. Indeed, as a fighter, I understand that more than any other thing in life. I learn every time i go up against an opponent, new or old, tried and true, you walk away learning something about yourself.

My hand and a half..are closer than ever and my faith in me blade is as strong as my faith in Helm...if not more so!

I hope that the Brothers will take the time and have the patience to teach and instruct me..in a way that I can accept. I want to be stronger and more skilled and expect to do so each time we venture out. At times, my own disappointment over shadows that of Blune and Lance. I need to build confidence in myself and become more one with me Blade....Blune's Bastard...she is special and powerful...I just need to know how to fully wield her...*yawns*

*close the leather bound book and leans back in the bed*
Tis time for rest...for tomorrow is another day....ZZzzzz....

[cmwise]

Been some time since I checked in with the little leather bound book. So much has happened it's hard to recollect all.

The Brothers paid a visit to the Ice Dragon:



On another not so promising note was the Brother's encounter with the Bonemaster. I dare not say where or even discuss what transpired...do I?

The Bonemaster has tremendous power at his command, as we quickly found out. He toyed with us in a small skirmish until he was no longer amused by our antics. Blune and Lance quickly exited and I (as usual) lagged behind. So as I struggled with opening the gate, each time the Bonemaster would lock it again, warding it and making each attempt more difficult. Again, he tired of my fumbling and bumbling and began to converse with me!

By then the Brothers had returned for my rescue, only to realize I was now the Bonemaster's prisoner. Lance did an excellent job of relating and negotiating with the Bonemaster. I believe that is what spared us all! After all we were surrounded by a legion of dark elementals that were indestructable.

Well, Lance asked for and received a deal for a truce, we were to leave without engaging any undead unless attacked first. Lance and the Bonemaster had many other things to say, but way too lengthy for this little book. One thing Bonemaster did say in our parting, "I'll be back".

It was odd that he brought up the point that he would not attack unless provoked. Lance vigorously countered with the numerous invasions upon Greatgaunt, to which he replied that his presence seemed to provoke violence rather than civil discussion. How odd that he would see his "man handling" of the citizens as him being provoked?

He went on to speak of his Island of the Dead and how it was a place for neutral folk of all types. Seemed hard to understand at the moment of being held captive.

Time will tell;



Lance has been concerned with my choice of traveling companions of late, and just when he thought our discussion was realized in his favor, Lance and I went on a rescue mission to Icingdwell.

The victims were none other than Zodika and evil companion Ranan..at the request of our friend Salazar we agreed to make the trek. We were joined by Allyson and Handincourt. It was an icy and bloody battle but we all made it out and were successful in our rescue. Ranan stated that he was beholding to us for the rescue, at which Lance responded with we'll see..?

But it brings me to the point of, where does the Brotherhood stand on these types of situations? Would Kaij and even Blune be supportive of such endeavors? I know that Lance had better go lightly on his crusade to dictate to me who I can travel with or not.

Still struggling with gathering enough coin for new gear. I am running around in recruits gear but trying to fight epic battles. Survival is always in question and bandages a major expense.

Best rest up for tomorrow's battles and the possibility of meeting and making some new friends.
*puts the book back into his pack and settles in for a brief moment of peace and sleep*

[cmwise]

Well,Lance did it again! Kessa was egging us on to go out and venture, I thought Lance would ignore her, but....to my surprise...he agreed...!!!??

And of all things Zoe came along too! So I agree to go along thinking we were headed for the Hullack, I like hunting orcs there. But instead we end up going into some crypt in Thunder...now ~what~ is wrong with this picture I ask myself???

Taking these two women into a deader place, is that asking for trouble and possible death or what?

Lance has got me totally confused..He tells me, I'm to be careful whom I travel with for example Zodika,but he can travel with whom ever he pleases and bring me along??

I still can't help wonder what Kaij would say and Blune...? I cant believe he would be alright with this..?

This good and evil thing is making me wonder about my own beliefs. I thought I was a good man at heart, serving others as I can, but this kind of behavior is against what and who I am...me thinks? *scratches his head in confusion*

*lays the leather bound book down on the Inn's bed* *lays back against the headboard and closes his eyes*
ZZZZZZZZZZzzzzzzzzzzzzz................

[cmwise]

*Settles in and leans against the head board of some inn*

*takes out a quill and bottle of ink, sets them on the nightstand and reaches into his pack for his leather bound book*

As he chews on some wild game jerky, he begins to write.

Tis been a few days since i have visited these pages. Bought some new gear, that leaves me broke for a bit.
The flames and myself in particular are taking much flak from various do gooders in the community. I'll give Rade credit, she stands her ground. But the other night she got into a very serious discussion with some of the local Pally's. She seems to be earnestly seeking a change in her life, but is struggling with which way to go. Lance has let her down in regards to Akadi, he's not around enough and too busy when he is around. I feel for her and her frustration.

But as I tried to explain, commitment of this sort does not happen over night, it takes time. She seems in such a hurry to make a change for the better that she is missing the point of serving a god or goddess. She will learn, in time.

I have traveled with some new folks, made acquaintances but no real friends. I guess I am a bit of a loaner *shrugs* good or bad is to be seen, I suppose..?

I still spend much of my time alone hunting down orcs, making enough to cover my healings and not much more. Tis the fate and life of a warrior...poor and tired.

*rubs a large bruise on his upper arm* *takes out a medicinal herb from Padrin and rubs it on the gash across his knuckles*

I finished the flute from the root that Padrin gave me...not sure what he was expecting but I hope he likes it. *begins to play but hears some knocking noises on the wall from the next room and stops playing*

I haven't caught the eye of a lady in so long....I can't remember the last time I even kissed a woman...? *shakes his head* I should have stayed in Silverymoon and ran the family farm. *deep sigh*

Maybe have a wife and some kids by now...instead..*looks around the room*..this...this is all i have..which amounts to nothing!
*grabs at his hand as the pain returns and the wound opens again as he hits his book*

I better see Padrin again for some more salve and herbs.

*leans back and tries to envision his home near Silverymoon*

*for a moment he smiles as memories fade in and out*

Before long...he drops the quill and is fast asleep..ZZzzzzzzz

[cmwise]

It has been cold in Cormyr as winter has set in, in earnest. I prefer to stay busy or indoors during these times of storms and misery. For some the snow in GG was an excuse to cut loose and have some fun with a snowball fight. Of course, fight is just what it turns out to be...Fenix seemed to take too many shots to the head by ice balls and turned out to be a bit confused, but certainly cold?



It was good to see Brother Kaij, even for just a short while, as he was on his way north over the mountains to his home.



May he travel with speed and get to his family safely.

I guess winter in Cormyr isn't as bad as all that...?

Rade has kept me busy venturing the countryside, she seems committed to making a change and seeks out opportunities to gain knowledge of other ways and beliefs. May she find what she seeks.

Had some interesting travels and made new friends. *takes a sip of hot cider* Ahhh...*deep sigh of satisfaction*

All seems to be going well...except...?

*hesitates a moment in thought*....I can only wonder, but not worry that Blune has not been seen for some time now. Not even word of his whereabouts? Hmm...and Lance too has not been around much recently.

Maybe the Brotherhood is waning away...*unconsciously shrugs to himself* Am I what is left or is this considered normal for the Everflames?

*leans back against a tree in thought* Maybe the Falcon Forge is a good place for a wedding...*chuckles to himself as he remembers Zeeks words* Looks around at the waterfalls and spacious area...yep I like it here.

[cmwise]

Most Days are spent lost in thought or just hanging around GG. I haven't seen any of the Brothers for so long I don't think they exist?

Most likely will change my colors, no sense in representing something that doesn't exist..much like worshiping a dead god?

I used to think that the Everflames gave me the stability that I lacked when I first came to Cormyr...Now it's up to me to make my own way..find my own life.

I don't have many friends or allies. Been told that I am not outgoing and friendly...not like Lance. Heh heh...I am not a powerful cleric or wizard as Lance and Blune..so no need for anyone to come to me for help!

*stops in mid-thought, then begins to write again*

I guess other than occasional muscle and a meat shield..fighters just aren't needed much around here...heh?

People seem so self centered and self serving..I find it hard to make and keep friends..

There has to be more to existence here in Cormyr than the occasional dragon scare or Bonemaster invasion...or the snowball fights..heh heh *chuckles to himself as he visualizes Fenix in the blue dress*

Seems unless you have spells to cast, most folks don't want to travel with just a fighter..a warrior...heh..studied all my life with the blade..that is all I know....heh..*lapses into thought again*

*slowly closes his leather bound journal and rests against a tree trunk* *looks up at the sky and mumbles some words in Elven to his long passed mother* *holds back the tears of loss and pain*

*puts his journal into his pack, stands and wanders off into the woods without purpose or care*