He opened his eyes very confused and noticed he was lying in bed, covered with sweat. It took him a couple of minutes to realize he was in his room. His red helm sat in his old wooden desk. "Was this a dream?" he questioned himself. Something felt different about it, but he couldn't pinpoint what. It all felt too real even after waking up. He remembered reading something in an old Arcane Arts book. He jumped out of bed and quickly went through his book collection until he found what he was looking for: "Ways of The Arcane Arts - Vol. 1" He rapidly skimmed the pages and stopped in one chapter: "Hypnosis Salvo". It read:

> The one who shall master this spell will posses the power to traverse the runiverse through the time dimension. Dreams ought to be their vehicle. It is a powerful and dangerous spell. Legend tells that eons ago near the _Alchemist's Archepelgo_ there was a wise old Wizard who mastered this spell. Beware though, getting a hold of this powerful spell comes with great peril.

Iprix stood there, petrified...


Zagan Belligerent of Thunder Mountain

Zaptastic!

~Zap~
~ZZap~
~ZZZap~
~ZZZZap~
~ZZZZZap~
~ZZZZZZap~
~ZZZZZZZap~
~Zip~


Magus Woomba of the Salt

# My mistakes...

My mistakes will live forever on the blockchain


Althia Savior of Kink

# Althia Savior of Kink

> Althia Savior of Kink
> *by REDWRITER*

Althia was born on the edge of The Thorn in the darkness of The Quantum Shadow. It was there that she was cast into the wilderness as a little girl by her foreboding mother. Abandoned to darkness and danger, she learned quickly to become a menacing warrior of the guild.

Torn by her past rejection as a child, her heart turned to darkness. Her only comfort she found was in her companion, an Onyx Panther who raised her in the land of shadow.

As an adult, she settled into the slums of Calistas Citadel. It is there that she found her true gift. Her blossoming and tempestuous physical form bore the power of seduction for all wizards and warriors alike. With it she found the one treasure she had longed for all her life, the feeling of being wanted.

Determined to avenge her feelings of neglect, Althia took on the crusade to save the Kink. Any Wizard or Warrior looking for a good time or seeking that brief but tantalizing moment of being desired, only has to search for the Rune of Uranus. Once there you may knock and enter for the best and kinkiest 60 minutes of your life.

They always say, *The most tortured souls please the best.* Thats why her rate is 69 ETH.

# Where to Find Althia

If you want to find @warrior190 just look for the street cook @warrior2059 in Calista's Citadel, she'll be right next door.

For more creative content visit www.redwriter.org.


Hedge Wizard Lucinda of the Road

Lucinda knelt by the ashes. Like her temper, the pyre was still hot. Running her hand through the coals, shook the soot from her hands and got back up again.

The memories of the fire that took her dear sister @wizard3098 burned bright as ever.

They had Sylvias rose. It pained Lucinda to know that this sacred, eternal rose was likely tossed haphazardly in the back of some warriors sack few knew its true power.

The clouds would be parting soon and the sun would rise. Lucindas hunt began. She must find these murderers, these thieves and return the rose to the enchanted garden where it belonged


Battle Mage Goliath of Arcadia

Goliath was a wizard who loved to play fetch with his field dog Bruno. He would throw the dumb brown stick and Bruno would bring it back to him. But Goliath knew that the dumb brown stick was anything but dumb. It was actually a powerful magical stick that could cause a lot of problems if not used correctly.

One day, Goliath was playing fetch with Bruno and the dumb brown stick got away from him. Bruno ran after it and brought it back to Goliath, but not before the stick had caused some havoc. A nearby tree had been struck by lightning and a rabbit had been turned into a toad.

Even though Goliath was careful, there were still times when the stick would get away from him and cause some trouble. Once, the stick turned a whole field of flowers into weeds. Another time, it made it rain frogs. Goliath did his best to clean up the messes the stick made, but he was always careful to never let the stick get away from him again.


Cleric Kobold in the Shadows

# A Wizard's Rune

> The lore for Cleric centres on "a wizard's rune" - a fictional retelling of my life experiences and journey mostly centred on the Wizards that I own (including warriors). Although each character in the story relates to a token I've collected, I'm also happy to include other Wizards on request or will naturally weave in characters based on real-world (online) interactions. The protagonist (as mentioned) is Cleric Kobold of the Shadows (my first Wizard). The story will unfold as I slowly build a more expansive collection. Donations (of all kinds) are also welcome. - M.

Prologue: During a time of great divide between light and darkness, the story centres on Cleric Shadows, a descendant of a long lineage of wizards that served as caretakers of sanctuaries - places of rest and neutrality for all beings in the Runiverse.

Many of these places were scattered throughout the lands, and it was agreed that no one should violate the peace they offered unless incurring the full wrath of the spirit realm. But while he was still a boy, a necromancer unleashed great chaos that swept through all things, creating confusion and destruction, and left wizards of all kinds weak and corrupted. They called it the bedlam. Light was no longer light but infused with darkness. Some lost any idea of who they were, hurled into a spiral of madness, forgetting cherished memories and even their names.


The sanctuaries crumbled with this turmoil. Lawlessness spread. And with his family divided among themselves, Cleric felt lost. Growing up, he had suppressed the painful memories of the days after the bedlam and, in locking away part of himself, felt forever detached from his inner magic. Eventually, the world grew accustomed to this perpetual state of randomness in everything and everyone. However, a handful managed to preserve fragments of memories and didn't give up hope of what they knew as order. And they knew the sanctuaries would help wizards remember what had been lost. His father urged Cleric to rebuild the sanctuary his family had been protecting for generations.

But Cleric knew that if he could restore his inner nature and remember his heart's magic, he could do more for his family, the world, and himself. So, after graduating from a noble school in Red Wizard Capital, Cleric ventures into the world for answers. And this is where the story begins. His adventures with Goblins, wizards of all hats, shadow dwellers, jesters, queens, kings, and ghouls help him rediscover his innate skills of casting spells as a scribe and more. During his journeys, he eventually stumbles across the ether (a creation of the great mages) that he uses to guide him to the lost land of the Punks. For guarded amongst them are secrets and answers about life that he's been long seeking.

_____________________

Part 1...


Sorcerer Remus of the Bastion

# A Night at the Chuckle Palace

*(Fade in.)*

*(We open on a castle entrance with a sign posted above which reads: WELCOME TO THE CHUCKLE PALACE: OPEN MIC!)*

*(Pan down to a bevy of warriors/wizards/bugbears are lined up in front of the entrance as Guy Conqueror of the Citadel inspects each person before ushering them inside. There's excitement in the air.)*

GUY CONQUEROR OF THE CITADEL\
Two brew minimum.

*(Cut to inside the palace, packed with patrons, an eclectic mix, all seated at a table on the main floor. Theres a bar in the corner. A stage in front adorned with a microphone.)*

*Sorcerer Remus of the Bastion, our MC for the night, takes the stage.*

SORCERER REMUS OF THE BASTION\
Yo! Yo! Yo! Welcome to the Chuckle Palace opening night. Im your MC Sorcerer Remus of the Bastion.

*(SFX: An elephant trumpeting in the background)*

SORCERER REMUS OF THE BASTION\
Dont forget theres a two brew minimum for each ticket. If it is not honored you will be tortured and hung by thy neck.

*(A tense beat. Then changing the subject matter)*

SORCERER REMUS OF THE BASTION\
    Has anyone heard the rumors about the Queen? Have you heard about the Queen buying a chastity belt, or as the king refers to it, sleeping on the couch.

*(SFX: Crickets.)
(This guy sucks.)*

SORCERER REMUS OF THE BASTION\
Okay, grand merci! Grand merci! Lets bring your first stand up of the night. Arch-magician Finn of the platonic shadow!


*(Tepid applause. Onto the stage comes ARCH-MAGICIAN FINN OF THE PLATONIC SHADOW.)*

ARCH-MAGICIAN FINN OF THE PLATONIC SHADOW\
Thanks. I just flew in from Elysian Fields and boy are my arms tired.

*(SFX: Crickets.)*

ARCH-MAGICIAN FINN OF THE PLATONIC SHADOW\
Phew! Is it hot in here or is it just me?

*(Ouch. Hes really flailing.)*

ARCH-MAGICIAN FINN OF THE PLATONIC SHADOW\
Uh, has anyone seen my car keys Last time I lost them they wound up in the Darkness Slayers beard.

*(SFX: ba dum tss)*

*The crowd is not loving it. A single boo reigns out. *

ARCH-MAGICIAN FINN OF THE PLATONIC\
How dare you?! I curse you peasants

*(Sorcerer Remus of the Bastion  retakes the stage and grabs the mic.)*

SORCERER REMUS OF THE BASTION\
Lets give it up for Arch-Magician Finn of the Platonic.

*(Tepid applause.)*

SORCERER REMUS OF THE BASTION    \
Next lets summon up to the stageone of my favorite comics on the road from Death Comedy Brands. Adept Fark of the Road!

*(SFX: Hoot! Hoot! Hoot!)*

*Adept Fark of the Road takes his place on stage. He launches into an animated routine, full of energy*

ADEPT FARK OF THE ROAD\
What's the deal with horse drawn wagon peanuts? Have you seen the size of these things? And could these things taste any worse? Like the smell of horse manure wasn't bad enough. Can we get some bigger and better peanuts back here?!


(An extremely long silence, followed by a chorus of boos and hissing. Once again Sorcerer Remus returns to the stage.)

SORCERER REMUS OF THE BASTION\
Good stuff. Alright, next welcome to the stage
(reading off cue card)
Masturbator Louis of the Sacred Pillars. Wait, that cant be right.
    (On cue Masturbator Louis of the Sacred Pillars takes the stage and jumps into his routine.)

MASTURBATOR LOUIS OF THE SACRED PILLAR\
Go s*\*k a bag of d*\*\*s

*(The lights start flashing in the back, signaling the time is up.)*

SORCERER REMUS OF THE BASTION\
Alright, will you look at that? Im afraid that brings us to the end of the show. Dont forget to follow me, SorcererRemus69 on TikTok.

*(SFX: An elephant trumpeting in the background)*

Remember to tip your wenches and the evening show is later than the afternoon. Dont forget to validate your parking ticket and well see you next time. Goodnight and godbless!

*(The crowd boos, files out drunkenly.)*

*(Fade out.)*

**Starring:**\
@wizard1810 \
@warrior295 \
@wizard8642 \
@wizard8710


Jules Apocalypse of the South

# Jules Apocalypse of the South

Jules is a sight to behold on the battlefield, with her bright yellow armor and her golden-blonde ponytail that trails behind her like arcs of lightning, as she flashes about, swiftly splitting her foes with her mighty battle axe.

Her battle axe is so massive, that it could easily double up as a tower shield, providing Jules with additional cover whenever she is in the thick of combat. How can someone with such a petite frame, be capable of moving around so nimbly with that unwieldy battle axe?


Decima Eidolon of the Berg

# Decima Eidolon of the Berg

Intruders of the Berg be warned! For the fate that awaits you may be foretold, by gazing upon the bony remains of your predecessors, adorned by Decima as accessories and trinkets. They are her trophies, that which represent the countless impertinent fools who challenged her domain and failed in their endeavor.

Decimation beckons the unwelcomed so take heed


Ice Mage Flynn of the Ice

# -> Wut <-


Hammer of the Duck Alliance

# Lore of Hammer of the Duck Alliance

Hammer can be found in Goblin Town waving his stick and yelling at wizard children to stop playing near his fruit stand. He makes a living selling delicious bananas and pineapple, but his true passion is combat. He trains with the Duck Alliance, a rogue group of warriors who pride themselves in non-magical fighting.

He was recently recruited by a Kobold named Gurgo to join the "Duck March" to celebrate powerful, non-magical warriors. He's currently making signs for the march.


Enchanter Mina of the Marsh

*<<- Ch 2: Intro to A*

# Chapter 3: Introduction to Mina

Magic is prismatic. Spells are multifaceted. More often than not, it is wise to keep your full power concealed. Let others underestimate your capabilities. Because the more power they know you have, the more theyll want to take it away. And the less they know about you, the less they can hurt you.

Enchanter Mina of the Marsh is one of those wizards that all the rest assume they understand, yet they actually have no fucking clue. She prefers it this way. In fact, her survival depends on it. Her secrecy keeps her safe.

Mina is known across the Runiverse for her sex appeal. Of course, sex appeal comes from within. But most wizards and warriors are too enchanted by her appearance to delve much deeper than that. Those tight pink pants. That luscious, flowing hair. Her perfect tits spilling out of her barely-there bra. One look at Mina, and youre wet.

Oh, yes. Mina is a sexual healer. She is the sacred whore, emanating divine goddess energy. An alchemist of sex. Her water spell heals the thirstiest of wizards and warriors, who yearn for the taste of her charm.

However. Practicing sex magic does not come without risk. Indeed, there is no type of magic that requires deeper vulnerability than sex magic. Inevitably, there will always be deceitful interests that seek to exploit Mina, her body, her sexuality, her vulnerability. Such behavior generally comes from those who are too ashamed to acknowledge their own natural desires.


This is where Minas protection rituals come in  an absolute necessity for any wizard engaging in erotic practices. Combined with support from her lucky ladybug Lux and her psychic lover A, Mina has managed to build walls that keep her out of harms way. More or less. There has never been anything strong enough to knock them down. Thus far.

And yet, there is far more inside of Minas walls than anyone suspects which would attract even greater threats than those who simply seek to devour her sexual energy. If anyone but the trusted wizards in her coven were to learn of the full spectrum of her water spell, she would become a prime target for the darkest, greediest forces in the Runiverse forces she may not be able to ward off so easily.

What no one else knows it that Minas ability to quench thirst goes far beyond the erotic.

Water is healing. Water is necessary for life. Water is one of the most precious and politicized resources in the Runiverse. It can be weaponized. It can be commoditized. It can extinguish fire...

She who controls water can decide who lives or dies.

And Mina can conjure this essential resource with nothing but her own magic.

While Mina is certain she cannot be the only wizard with this ability  and hopes to someday, somehow connect with others who share it  until then, she must keep her secret under wraps. As a sexual healer, she is already an enemy of the oligarchic overlords of Big Potion, of the government essentially one in the same as those of Elysian Springs and Capital Resources, LLC all run by Red wizards who aim to subjugate the natural world for their own benefit. If they were to catch wind of how much power Mina truly has over that which they want nothing more than to dominate, she would surely lose every last ounce of freedom.


This is why Mina trusts only two wizards to keep her secrets safe  her lover A and their devoted pet, Gimpy. At least, Mina hopes no one else knows what she is hiding. Some fragments of her earlier life seem to have been wiped from her memory  and it was in those moments that she grew into her true powers. Mina cannot say exactly what happened, or who was there to witness these events, if anyone.

With a multitude of potential threats from all angles, it would be easy for Mina to live in paranoia. Sometimes, she does fall into a spiral of fear. She is not immune to it. But she will not succumb to it. Because she knows she is too powerful, to sacred to let that fear destroy her. Instead, Mina embodies her lustful magic so fully that no one has any reason to ever question whether she is anything more than a slut. As far as they know, she exists to make them wet. To entertain their bulges.

And she knows how to keep the boys distracted, thats for sure

Mina is keeping some tricks up her sleeve, for now. As long as her full power remains under the radar, it is still her power.

## To be continued...

*<<- Ch 2: Intro to A*


Nyx Contender of the Cockatrice

# Nyx Contender of the Cockatrice

Nyx was a man of kind words and deeply held beliefs, acquired over decades, together with the grooves of his face. An eternal student of life. With nature, the universe and all beings therein as his teachers.

He was generous with his wisdom. Always gifting nuggets of it to anyone around to receive them.

But on this day, he was barely able to get a word out.

*Whats that symbol on your shield mean, Nyx?
Why do you have null goat as a pet?
Did you really kill a basilisk?*

The three boys had been drilling Nyx with questions for quite a while now. Few other guests remained at the tavern and the innkeeper seemed tired and ready to close up shop. Yet, disinhibited by cheap ale, the boys showed no signs of slowing down.

Patiently, Nyx responded: *Lads, it does not matter what one has done. What matters is what they do from here on out. And we are all one anyway.*

*Yes, yes. I sure hope so. Then I could redeem myself!* Petgrin of Wosstlemore blurted out. At only 16 years of age, he was the youngest. Ruthwald and Wallstur were both 17 already.

Ruthwald elbowed Petgrin in an attempt to shut him up. At this Petgrin slowly turned his head to look a Ruthwald, his expression dimmed by alcohol.

*Nyx wont tell on us. Wont you, Nyx?*

*I certainly will not.* Nyx responded.

*You see?* Petgrin said, still looking at Ruthwald, who seemed too tired to argue. Looking back towards Nyx, Petgrin started a drunken confession:


*We are travelling to the Citadel to start a new life, you see. Start anew. For we have tainted the good names of our families back home. Really didnt mean to, but just so happened. I mean, there was this amulet that belonged to this noble wizard guy and well, we took it. I took it. Was a big deal, we had to flee and all.*

Raising his mug Petgrin proclaimed a toast: *To new beginnings!* But then - with great dismay - he noticed that the mug was empty.

At his, Nyx rose to his feet: *Let me get one last round for you lads.*

*You shouldnt have told him that, Petgrin!* Ruthwald hissed as Nyx was out of earshot.

Petgrin shrugged his shoulders. Behind them Nyx talked to the innkeeper, handing over a satchel of coins which seemed to contain significantly more than what was required for the ale. Yet the innkeeper appeared to be neither surprised nor particularly happy about that.

Returning to the table Nyx placed the mugs down in front of the boys, spilling some of the ale. Behind them the innkeeper quietly left. The last of the other patrons were already gone.

*Thank you Nyx, you are very kind. Very kind.* Petgrin said as he raised his mug.

Out of nowhere, something flashed through the thick air between Nyx and the boys, followed by a splash of chunky liquid hitting one of the wooden walls of the tavern. Wallstur gazed at it in wonder, not comprehending what it was or where it had come from. A moment later it became hard to focus as the world started to spin. He was dead before his head hit the table.


Petgrin did not look at the stain on the wall. Nor would he look at anything ever again. For the same blow that had slashed Wallsturs throat had cut through his face, blinding him.

Ruthwald had been the lucky one. Sitting in the middle between the other two boys he was spared as he had just leaned back at the very moment when Nyxs pike had struck.

He fell from his stool, landing hard on his back, and immediately began scooting backwards in a panic. But Nyx was already flinging himself over the table and - in the same motion - swung his terrible pike yet again. Ruthwalds belly burst open, intestines spilling out over the dusty tavern floor.

Trying to repair the damage that had been done as best as he could Ruthwald attempted to frantically shove his organs back inside of himself. This was enough to catch the attention of the null goat which managed to snag onto a part of Ruthwalds great intestine and subsequently pull it out and across the room.

Nyx turned his attention from Ruthwalds hopeless struggle to Petgrin who was fumbling along the walls in a futile attempt to find the door.

*Stop moving.* Nyx commanded, without great hurry.

At this, Petgrin spun around, back to the wall, frozen. A moment of silence as he wondered if Nyx was even still there. Would he be spared?

For the final time that night Nyxs pike struck. Thus ended the life Petgrin of Wosstlemore, miracle child of Systrine and Hubert of Wosstlemore, the last of his bloodline.

## Epilogue: Nyx and the Assassins Prayer


## Epilogue: Nyx and the Assassins Prayer

Nyx presented himself as a man of kind words and deeply held beliefs, acquired over decades, together with the grooves of his face. An eternal student of life. With nature, the universe and all beings therein as his teachers.

He was generous with his wisdom. Always gifting nuggets of it to anyone around to receive them.

Yet some observed that at times the words seemed slightly out of place, not quite made to fit. As if Nyx had access to a barrel (a huge one, the one the dwarven brewers used for mountain ale) filled with scrolls, each containing just a few prepared sentences. And when opportunity happened to arise, he would ruffle through them, grasping for whatever fit the occasion, even if just a little bit.

At night, before laying down to sleep - kneeling next to clumps of carelessly bound hay - Nyx always halted, eyes closed. He breathed deeply until he was sure to be the center of the world. And then he spoke those few words that he never shared:

>Gods of death I call you, my pike is by my side
Reveal those who disobey wherever they may hide
For I scour the plains and fields and holes
To rip them open, devour flesh, free their souls
Release comes in an instand as they hoped it would
Souls ascent to haven, as I feast on flesh and blood


Archmagus Ixar in the Shadows

Ixar was a powerful wizard who only came out at night when it was dark out. He would walk the dark and lonely streets with his lucky black cat named Willy, avoiding anyone and everyone. Ixar was from the Shadows and was very powerful. He had many spells that he could use to hurt people if he wanted to. But he never used his powers for evil. He only used them to help people. One night, Ixar saw a group of men beating up a helpless old man. Ixar didn't hesitate to help. He used his magic to stop the men and help the old man. The old man was very grateful. From then on, Ixar decided to use his powers to help people in need. He became a hero to many people. And Willy always stayed by his side.


Druid Poppy of the Bastion

# The Kobold Burger Story

Poppy was always an enterprising kobold. Smarter than your average kobold, Poppy was able to follow simple recipes and loved to cook. He dreamed of becoming a burger stall owner. To earn a living honestly would be his chance to get out of the gutters. Poppy set out with nothing but his wooden box and his cooking supplies to start his food stall business. After setting up at kobolds crossroads serving travelers the occasionally grill skewered frog and roasted grasshoppers, business was struggling. On one particularly gloomy day of bleak sales Poppy was visited by a hungry rat. Feeling sorry for the rat he tossed him a bit of the stew he cooked up that day. He watched as the rat sniffed the morsel suspiciously then took a nibble. Immediately the rat spit out the food and exclaimed to Poppys surprise, this is terrible!.

You rat cant do better, Poppy retorted.

Ah but youre mistaken, I can do much, much better, the rat came back.

Leave Poppy alone, Poppy has enough problems, Poppy sunk back into his food stall stool. Hanging his head. His once perky ears now floppy. Tears began to well up in his eyes.

The rat with his beady red eyes leaned in close to Poppy, Ive got a proposal for you Kobold, listen very closely....

# **"Extra, Extra!!! Kobold creates burger empire! Best burgers in the Runiverse! Franchise locations at all major cities. Kobold Poppy is a massive success story!!!"**

Poppy looks at Ratberry the rat, Poppy is so happy we meet, master Ratberry. Your secret ingredient really makes them burgers taste good!.

Ratberry, Of course you idiot, now let me think.


Ratberry, Of course you idiot, now let me think.

The rat was deep in thought, planning on how he was going to source his secret ingredient as it was becoming more and more difficult as business expands. The challenge was finding enough gullible rats to follow him into his slaughter chambers. One young female rat almost escaped the other day and exposed his whole operation. Luckily Ratberry was able to quickly dispatch her with a swift blow to her head with a tiny hammer. Clearly, streamlining operations was a top priority. If he couldnt find more meat for the burgers his carefully crafted empire would collapse.

And then with a twitch of a whisker, Ratberry let out an evil laugh, muhahahaha Ive got it! Theyll never suspect a thing. Hahahahhaaaaaaaaa.


Shaman Armstrong of the Sun

"Not everything is where you left it," she said, striding down the road, "particularly if you've forgotten where you left it in the first place.  So, we must begin with those things lost but still remembered.  Now, do you know the forest where the ancient, wild magick roams unconquered?"

Shaman Armstrong led her there.

"Do not go near the fae ring," advised the young witch foraging for mushrooms at the edge of the wood.  "The creature who lives there is as old as the land and full of spite from long forgotten injustices.  Whatever you do, do not make a bargain with him, do not offer him your name, and do not look him in the eye."[1]

"I know," she said, stepping through the underbrush.  "I am his forgotten injustice."


Margaret Impaler of the Forest

# The Lore of Margaret Impaler of the Forest

Zig-zagging through the trees, Margaret races through the trees in a flash of deep ocean blue. With a dexterity that she was practically born with, she easy picks off the prey that will sustain her for another day. The corsair has grown accustomed to the layout of the forest, given how long it has been. She used to count the days via markings in trees, but no longer attempts this.

Margaret once was a pirate captain among a feared group of corsairs. When her vessel crashed into a desert island, she was the only survivor. The circumstances around this occurrence are unknown. It can't be a coincidence that this happened after a particularly successful raid, and Margaret just happens to be the sole beneficiary of the bounty. But who knows?

A truly skilled forager, she is working on building herself a ship to get back to the seas and resume her pirating ways. With the valuables in her possession, she can easily hire a crew. The hard part will be finding those she trusts and watching her back closely even when she does. If she could join forces with an equally unscrupulous wizard, that might be all that's needed to really make it big.


Vampyre Damien of the Havens

Searing pain shot through his fingers up his arm and into his body.

The burning sensation overwhelmed him as he forced his hand to remain steady.

Hed lose his breath from the pain. Luckily, as a Vampyre, he didnt need to breathe.

But as a Vampyre he also shouldnt be nowhere near Sacred flame.

Damien was not a usual Vampyre though. That was obvious on the first sight. Instead of pompous gothic garb, he was wearing plain white lab coat. Instead of obligatory bat, his familiar was a huge ladybug.


Belial Menace of Penguins

*what's black and white and read all over?*

excerpt from a copy of The Quantum Times:

A gruesome scene greeted inhabitants of a small village far off in the cold North. 45 innocent penguins were found massacred near the village, a seemingly senseless crime only matched in its unexpectedness by its brutality. The penguins were found with clean cuts, suggesting a sharp blade wielded by an expert, although almost half were also found with deep bite and claw marks, the work of a monstrous beast. Authorities are warning any penguins or any parties associated with penguins to be on the lookout for any suspicious activity and report them to the proper authorities. Locals of the village says this is not the first time such violence against penguins has been committed, similar smaller incidents have occurred in the past.

*what's black and white and red all over?*


William Buster of Komodi

# King of thieves.

A domineering and strong warrior who has achieved his authority in the gang thanks to strength and cunning. Having put on the best stolen artifacts, he increased his abilities. Being in the army of the hero, he is able to make a profit. Has the killer skill. Decreases the hero's leadership.


Valentino Armageddon of Giants

# Bullrun warrior
_here is his story_

They are part of the elite fighters of the undead army. Many of them were called by the Dark Lord to his service. However, there were those vampires who decided not to join his army, but to act independently. They wear leather armor and a helmet.


Muthril Piercer of the Road

# Giant story

Giant. The entity controlled by the dark orc, very tenacious, cannot wield weapons, but the limbs with sharp knives are capable of inflicting serious damage to the enemy. Wears armor and armor, can wear a helmet. The entity can use lifesteal to replenish its health and deal damage to nearby enemies. Poorly obeys evil forces.


Faust Lumper of Demons

# Faust Lumper of Demons

The Loathsome Faust Lumper of Demons is no ordinary warrior. With his massive shield and great spiked mace it is wise to be wary of Faust. Some say in battle he will do away with his weapons and fight only using his great big bald head, bashing his enemies until they succumb to their fate. Faust after all is of the demons he is a bad bad man and one to be feared. Not all understand his motives but all do understand the desire to kill is strong with this one. So if you come across Loathsome Faust in your journeys it would be wise to keep your distance.


Auberon Hero of the Flame

# Auberon Hero of the Flame

The Great Auberon Hero of the Flame, where to begin. Some say the last thing a wild beast will see in this world is his empty black gaze peering at it from under his hood. Not much is known of Auberon's origins, the fearsome flaming knight. Many think that he was once an ordinary man who came to know great tragedy and sorrow after a beast came for him and his family, brutally killing them, yet, somehow sparing him. A fate likely worse than death. After all, what is left to live for once you have lost everything. Auberon sought to seek revenge and this consumed him. A great wizard seeing his potential took him under their wing - training him in the ways of fire magic. What became of this relationship we are unsure as Auberon soon severed ties with his mentor and began to aimlessly wander the lands seeking revenge on the beast that took his family. Auberon is a killer, although some say there is good still in him. He has been known to save travelers from the clutches of death, but only if they are attacked by some abomination during their travels. We cannot say for sure that he does these deeds from the goodness of his heart. His companion, a Panther as dark as night, is the only being in this world that he trusts. How their bond came to be so strong only Auberon knows. Traveler, if you come across the decapitated remains of wild beast on your travels know that the great knight executioner has been that way - on his endless search for revenge.


Druid Enigma of the Valley

Diary Entry - 117

Ugh, I just had the worst dream about this huge...homunculus? Flesh golem? Ugh Atrocity, that's what it was!

A huge creature, wearing the skin of what looked to be a cucumber, maybe another kind of gourd? It looked to be stuffed to the brim with some kind of meat, but I couldn't really tell.

I remember running as hard as I can, but it was everywhere I looked...

I woke with such a start, but I had this horrendous lyric stuck in my head, and I must get it on paper so I can go about my day!!

Inoccuous as it was in it's manifestation
This frank in a sleeve has caused some frustration
No matter where you go, it lurks in the shadows
Waiting to embrace you in an endless fandango
There is no hiding from he who sees the universe
But living without the holy one is nothing but a curse

So join your brothers and sisters, please
Pray to the heavens and fall to your knees
Your eternal life is naught but a small toll
Just give into his love and he shall make you whole

All hail he, the mighty Cthucumber
Who awaits us all in a perpetual slumber
Deep in the core of each one of us
is something incredibly superfluous
A hotdog stuffed inside of a cucumber
how he came to be, it must make you wonder

You can never say no to his loving light
Just give in now, you can't win the fight
Bask in his love until you burst at the seams
Or else he'll find you inside of your dreams


Illusionist Tundror of the Road

# Old Tundror

Illusionist Tundror was a merry fellow;

bright red his jacket was and his boots were yellow,

thick was his beard and his breeches all of leather;

he wore in his brown hat a jolly fancy feather.

He lived up near the Road, where the Hill meets the River;

ran from a grassy well down into the dingle...


Talal Mincer of Runes

# CHAPTER 1: The Beginning

Long before the Quantum Downs began to acquire form, but just after the Infinity Veil separated the unlife from the Runiverse, there lived the mysterious progenitor race of Ancient Ones.

After eons of study, Talal the Elder left these authors of the Runes with his full power contained within his Astro Force imbued Megasuit gifted to him by the Olympians, to explore the new worlds of the nascent cosmos.

By folding space he travels distances free of time.

After centuries of exploration, he befriended and became the guardian of the Hunters Guild who in turn protect the companion pets and familiars that graze The Savannah plains south of The Baobabs.

Though settled, in this his new home world, he nevertheless continues to frequently voyage across the worldways in search of new Runes to discover and collect.

To this end, @warrior5095 is his herald through the Time Portals, and @warrior15305 his harbinger across galactic space.

His great quest of "Uplift" is known in name only, but his benevolence is legendary.

Fortunate are the wizards and warriors he watches over and those enlisted to his service.


Ishtar the Rapturous

Endless rays of colour streamed across the glittering path, bathing Ishtar in a dancing cloak of rainbow sunlight.

He flapped his lips contentedly, basking in the warm glow. Further to the north, the sky swirled across the Infinity Veil. He bounced daintily from hoof to hoof:

*Forward, back, forward, forward, back, a little shimmy to the siiiiide Oh yeah, now thats a prance, baby! What a glorious day. What. A. Day!*
He let out a whinny of delight as the Rune of Venus on his rump radiated tranquillity through his muscles from beneath the bronze armour plating, which itself had the same rune  though larger  etched into its surface. He tossed his head back, revelling in the cool breeze that flowed down Hue Masters Pass and fluttered at the edges of the pink mane poking out the sides of his neck shield.

Ishtar considered what to do next than pranced a bit more, flicking his equally pink tail back and forth in unadulterated pleasure.

Well arent you a pretty unicorn?

At this sudden intrusion, Ishtar leaped about two metres straight up into the air and then landed, rose-tinted hooves scrabbling across the slick path.

The girl snickered behind her hand.

Ishtar took a moment to recover his frayed nerves, then puffed up his chest and drew himself up to his full height.


Now listen here baby, Im a pony, see? A POH-NEEEEE. A Dream Pony as a matter of fact. What you see here is what we call Legendary Armour. Horn comes with the package. You know for fighting and such? Now, as to your first point the part about being pretty well, yes actually, I reckon thats true. And how do you explain that purple monstrosity *youre* wearing?

The girl grinned. Oh I *like* you! Youre feisty. My names

Ishtar snorted in amusement. ? Hoo-wee I bet the humans struggle with that one!

Thats the Rune of *Venus*.

Yes, I know its the Rune of Venus, its on my ass isnt it? One Love, baby.

You can just call me Bathsheba, pretty pony. Want to join Haze and me? Were questing. You might make it mildly interesting.

Ooooooh questing are we? How very grown up. The name, *little girl*, is not pretty unicorn, or pretty pony. I am Ishtar the Rapturous, Dream Pony, Lord of the Prance, weapons grade: Unicorn!


Ishtar raised his face to the sky at the perfect angle for the sunlight to reflect off his horn in an awe-inspiring way, and glanced at Bathsheba out of the corner of his eye to see if any awe was being inspired. It was not. Ishtar grew suspicious. He was good at inspiring awe in humans. In fact, it was kind of his *thing*. He cast his mind inward, dipping into the flow of his Rune of Venus, sifting through the threads of magical feedback. His eyes widened. Now wait just one hoof-dropping minute there, sister! He looked her up and down with a newfound respect. Oh man, get a load of you and your impressive disguise! Nice skinbag youve got there, did you make it yourself, or did the Psychic Leap just gift it to ya?

Bathsheba clapped her hands together. Ha! Finally!

She turned to Haze. Not a single wizard. Not one. In fourteen years! But old clippy-clop here saw it straight away!

She smiled at Ishtar and wagged a finger at him. Now thats a pretty useful skill, pony. Youre quite special, arent you?

Ishtar tried not to, but he couldnt help basking in the praise. It was tough being an impressive Dream Pony when there was never anyone around to impress. Human brains, even magical ones, were just not cut out to absorb the full *impressiveness* of any Dream Creature.

He studiously ignored the question with feigned disinterest, instead turning his head to the side and bending down to inspect the girls companion.


Well, well, well, and look at you! A fine shard of the celestial consciousness indeed. And might I add that you make quite the dashing little vixen! Ishtar winked at Haze, who bashfully flicked her bushy tail over her nose and blinked slowly at him.

Ishtar turned back to Bathsheba, sucking his teeth thoughtfully.

Say, you got any sugar cubes, Sheba? All the magic in the Runiverse dont beat a good sugar cube!

She leaned in close, placing a hand on his neck, and whispered, What if I was to tell you, Ishtar my prancing friend, that I know a place where we can get all the sugar cubes you ever dreamed of?

Im listening he whispered back breathlessly.

Well need to get in touch with my friend, Rainbow Cakes. Youll like him, hes got your affinity for bright colours and sparkles. We just have one stop to make first  The Infinity Veil.

She set off over the Pass. So, are you coming or what?

## Story Arc Index:
Prologue: @wizard3914

Part 1: @pony77

Part 2: @wizard2877

Part 3: @wizard1175

Part 4: @wizard3901

Part 5: @wizard4841

Part 6: @wizard2885

Part 7: @wizard3917

Part 8: @wizard6084


Brutus Cleaver of Bugbears

# Brutus Cleaver of Bugbears

### Halt! What is your business here?

### Yeah Hi, Could you direct me to where The Sacred Pillars are? I found this book in my little satc...

### Do I look like a map to you Wizard?

### Well no, I ju...

### Do I look like someone that scribbles little drawings to you?

### Look, I was only trying to ask...

### Tiny, perfectly shaped mountains precisely placed within billowing clouds just ever so drifting as the breeze would so briskly blow in the nighttime air.

### Ohhh kaaay...

NO @wizard1479, now leave this area at once.

### Wait, how did he know my name?


Zayden Striker of Power

Silence.

Breath.

Focus.

Power comes from calmness.
From inaction, action is born.
More quiet the inaction, the more powerful the action.
Balance is found in extremes.

Feel your body. It's free in its inaction.
The cold blade in your hand is just another limb, part of your body.
Extension of your will.

A leaf is falling from the tree. It's impossible to predict the movement of a falling leaf. Don't try to predict the leaf. Don't try to chase the leaf. Fall with it. Become the leaf.

CUT!

Only one movement, faster than the wind. The leaf became two, split in half. Both keep falling, hardly disturbed. It was not your blade splitting them, it was your mind. It was not the leaf which was cut in half, it was you.

Zayden opened his eyes. A thin stream of blood runs from his nose.

Almost perfect. Never perfect. Perfection is goal that changes. Chase it but never hope to catch it.


Asmodeus Basher of Goblin Town

Before Asmodeus came to be known as the Basher of Goblin Town, he used to live everyday life in a coastal town west of the Chronomancer's Riviera. Wanting to travel the world he decided he would move north-east one day. Thus, he packed his belongings and set foot for the well-known Goblin Town.

After many adventures along the way, he would find himself in this town, looking for some well-deserved rest after his travels. Instead, he received nothing but the two-faced thievery the Goblins have honed throughout their evolution. Asmodeus was left with none of his belongings and had to leave Goblin Town lest he starves and dies in it.

Something called Asmodeus, so, seeing he had no other option, he followed his intuition and made his way further east, unbeknownst to him, heading towards the Quantum Shadow.

It is unknown what exactly happened to Asmodeus once he reached the Shadow, but the goblins know things have never been the same since they saw him appearing in the Town with a large stick.

It is also unclear how he came to alternate between "visiting" the Town and surfing along the Reach at seemingly, the same time.


Nails Chopper of Atlantis

Ivan was a brave warrior who loved to chop goblin nails with his axe before he killed them. He was skilled in battle and had a sharp mind, which he used to his advantage in battle. He was also known for his love of cucumdogs, which he would eat like no other.

One day, Ivan was on a mission to kill a group of goblins who had been terrorizing a nearby village. He snuck up on them and killed them all before they could react. He then went to the village and told them what he had done. The villagers were so grateful to him that they decided to throw a feast in his honor.

During the feast, Ivan enjoyed eating cucumdogs more than anything else. He even asked for seconds and thirds. The villagers were so impressed by his appetite that they decided to make him an honorary member of the village.

Ivan continued to protect the village from goblins and other threats. He became known as the village's hero and was loved by all. He continued to eat cucumdogs whenever he had the chance, and he always made sure to save some for the villagers.


Crud Slaughterer of the Ditch

# **The Fantastical Adventures of Crud Slaughterer of the Ditch, Warrior #8644**

### Concerning Kobolds: Part One

---

Suggested Soundtrack:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=WI5FRe5OM6E

---

To Be Continued... (Check WiP Google Docs)

---

### The Origin of Crud: Part Two

---

Suggested Ambience:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CahOLfYxiq0

---

One day Crud appeared. He was not wanted, nor was he welcome, but he existed none the less. And... to be quite honest, I am not quite sure if even Crud fully understood his own existence, or why he had been placed in the dominion of man.

---
After many years of trial and tribulation, Crud found a home. In the ditches of Calista's Citadel Crud discovered what it meant to be a Kobold. He could not read... or write... or even speak, at least anything intelligible. But, despite all of his shortcomings, Crud had a heart of gold. He yearned to join his fellow warriors on the field of battle. He yearned to be a hero, but a hero he was not.

---

On the 811th day of the 41st age after the fall of Avalon Crud discovered something truly magnificent. Laying in a dumpster, full of rats and oozy garbage, Crud found his one true love... an old rusty wrench. He played with it daily, either breaking something of great value or a poor villagers skull, completely by accident, was a common occurrence. Common enough to get Crud put on a list... a list which no Kobold has any business being on... a list that meant Crud's doom.

---


---

Into the depths of the world Crud fled, as he was being pursued by the bane of Kobolds, the @wizard19. Bearing just his rune and his trusty wrench, Crud made his way to the gates of the Elysian Fields. Here he hoped to find a pony, but what he found suited him much better. An old boar he would ride into battle on, he would finally confront the @wizard19.

---

After a short 4 seconds, Crud fell to the earth in defeat... he had lost. Awoken in the dark caverns of a strange lair, Crud was trapped in a cage. There was nothing he could do, he waited for his doom.

---

To be continued...

WiP: https://docs.google.com/document/d/14QV2X76w6n0vFEPAzHB8EtofZ9HPn-MFjZ2MbT_a-Zo/edit?usp=sharing


Sage Otto of the Moors

# Chapter 1: Sage Otto infiltrates the Council
Hey, baby, keep up! Weve got a whole lot of dreams to get through!

Otto muttered gruffly under his breath. He had thought himself at one with all beasts of the woods, the hills, and the water, but this Dream Pony was really fraying his nerves.

@pony77 had popped up in the forest a few days previously. Supposedly Calista had sent the pony to assist Otto in accessing information from wizards on the Council. But he got the feeling that he was actually being micromanaged. Not that he had a problem with that, of course, Empress Calista could do as she pleased, by the light of the Runes and the Stars! Far be it from a simple animist like him to question the commands of the Citadel's saviour. Some warning would have been nice though. And a less excitable accomplice. On the other hand, Otto had to admit that accessing the wizards dreams was a handy technique.

Otto my man, who are you and Dewdrop delving today? The beardy one?

Ishtar guffawed. D'ya get it? Because they *all* have beards! the pony shook his head and gave a self-satisfied sigh.

I get it, Ishtar, very amusing, Otto replied through gritted teeth. The Empress thinks it might be a good idea to visit the White Wizard next, hes not a Dreamer or a Celestial, so we should be able to influence him relatively safely and without raising any suspicion.


The pony flapped his lips. Ah yes, the *Empress* thinks thats a good idea. Of course *she* does. He winked at the Sage.
Otto frowned. And what exactly are you implying, pony?
Ishtar innocently inspected one of his pink hooves. Me? Im not implying anything, baby. Oh no. I never imply things. Cant stand implications... very tiresome. If anything Im an anti-implier, you know.

Youre not a very good liar, pony. I dont have time for this, growled Otto, wiping his hands on his coveralls. The sooner we get some information, the sooner you can leave me in peace and get back to that weird little mistress of yours. She gives me the heebie-jeebies. And just remember, once were in his dream, you *need to be quiet*. Even though youre staying out here, they seem to be able to hear you in there. I dont want a repeat of that nonsense with the Brown Wizard.

Ishtar snorted and rolled his eyes. Yeah well, xenophobia dont hold no water with me, baby. Im pretty sure he was a pony-hater too, I can smell them a mile off. Better off without him Id say. And Bathshebas not my mistress, @pony77 prances to nobodys tune but his own! She and I are partners.

Despite his whinging, Ishtar had already begun readying himself; soon Otto saw the ground in front of the Dream Pony start to stir. The dirt bounced and vibrated in the air, forming itself into a floating outline of the Rune of Saturn.

Just be ready to pull us out if it gets hairy in there NO PUNS, pony! the Sage cut Ishtar off as he opened his mouth.


Ishtar wheezed with suppressed laughter and beckoned the Sage forward with one pink hoof. As Otto approached the rune-shaped dust cloud, the pony whispered in his ear. Hey baby, has anyone ever told you that youve got a sparkling personality?
# Chapter 2: The library
The White Wizards dream turned out to be the dullest so far. While the leader of the Red faction had played out a convoluted plot of intrigue, striving for dominion over all, and the Purple Wizards dreams were a psychedelic swirl of improbable landscapes populated by shape-shifting beasts, this was... a library.

Cobwebs hung across stacks of dusty books; an old and tattered parchment depicting an ancient and crude map of the Runiverse lay limply on a desk in the centre of the room.

In the dream, Otto had taken the same blob-like form as his slimy familiar. Dewdrop was the first to move, oozing her way across the thick rug, which appeared to be the pelt of some unfortunate animal.

Otto followed, as always struggling at first to come to terms with the lack of structure in his slimy body. People dont often pause to think about how much of the heavy lifting a skeleton does for them, but its absence very quickly drives the point home. Otto flopped awkwardly across the rug, still not entirely sure whether this transformation was strictly necessary for him to enter the Dream Realm, or whether it was just the ponys idea of entertainment.

It did have its uses though, like the fact that Dewdrop was a master of camouflage. Otto wondered whether all sapphire slimes had this trait.

*No, only me!* came the cheerful reply. The hive mind they shared was another unexpected benefit they had gained in the process.

A nearby cough startled them, and Dewdrop instantly flowed over the cover of a nearby book, perfectly mimicking pattern, colour, and texture.


Otto managed to turn brown. *At least I got the right colour this time*, he thought ruefully.

*Texture takes time to learn. Really* feel *the rug  you need to be able to* think *like the rug.*

Think like a rug... sure... Otto contemplated his thread count as he slimed his way behind the leg of the desk, wondering if it was doing any good.

The White Wizard came wandering into the library antechamber, his dream form shimmering as though made of diaphanous crystal.

*Are you ready, Dewdrop?*

*Ready boss! Ill take the lead and once Ive convinced him Im a product of his own subconscious, Ill distract him while you access his memory centres.*

As Dewdrop reformed herself, the wizards dream-self was totally transfixed, and Otto got to work. This time, the whole operation was as simple as duping a Duck.

As they stepped out of the dream, Ishtar did a little jig. Hey good job, Sagey-baby! That was swee-eet! Boy, Dewdrop really had that one wrapped around her uh finger. So what now?

Now, my four-legged friend, I shall make contact with Empress Calista, to inform her that the seeds have been sown. The rise of the Citadel has begun, Otto said briskly, as he focused a communication spell through his ruby staff.

In his room, @wizard3901 withdrew from his mind vision, smiling to himself in satisfaction. And after the rise? Well after the rise, comes the fall.


## Story Arc Index:
Prologue: @wizard3914

Part 1: @pony77

Part 2: @wizard2877

Part 3: @wizard1175

Part 4: @wizard3901

Part 5: @wizard4841

Part 6: @wizard2885

Part 7: @wizard3917

Part 8: @wizard6084


Scryer Apollo of the Villa

Scryer Apollo stood and walked to the lectern as the presiding wizard called his name. He looked around the horseshoe-shaped table at the assembled council members  several delegates from each guild, many of them clustered together, side-eyeing the other guilds.

Apollo had been diligent in the days leading up to the Council, presenting his arguments to others who he thought he could win over to his side. He was confident at least some of them would back him, yet he still needed @wizard3901. The Yellow Wizard held far too much sway with the Council Apollo was sure the invitations Oberon regularly extended to other guilds to indulge themselves in Chronomancers Riviera didnt hurt. The debauchery of the Riviera was notorious; Oberon no doubt held secrets like an axe over the necks of many wizards at this table.

Apollo turned his attention to the Councilmembers: Brothers, sisters, let us set aside our differences. It may not seem obvious to all, but we approach a time of crisis for all magic-makers. For the last few planetary cycles, Calistas Citadel has been secretly mustering its strength Now the Empress has aid from the outside, from this interloper who draws wizards to her side like flies to rotting meat. These deserters weaken all the guilds, and lest we forget, many other wizards have disappeared without a trace over the last two cycles.

Apollo paused meaningfully, surveying the crowd, although he wavered as his eyes met Oberons. The Archmagus smiled at him smugly.


Apollo cleared his throat and continued. It is said, comrades, that even the Key Master supports this rogue witch. His familiar, Derek the Sphinx, passes back and forth through the Infinity Veil at will, prowling those reaches at the behest of the Key Master. The sphinx is feasting on the minds of wizards lost to the Psychic Leap. Why should we trust them? The Purple guild knows well the dangers of the Leap, what say you @wizard1827?

A strong-faced sorceress in elegant purple aristocratic robes gave Apollo a wry smile, stroking the black cat on her lap as she spoke: The claws of the Leap may scratch at our minds, Scryer, but the sphinx holds no fear for the living.

She shook her head, making waves of thick purple and black hair bounce around her face. Light flashed off her intricate golden earrings and the gold stud in her prominent nose. No Apollo, @wizard777 has guarded the Gate to the Seventh Realm honourably since before history began, protecting us from the horrors beyond. We may have our differences, but nobody can question his motivations.

Exactly what he would have us believe! replied Apollo, throwing up his hands in exasperation. I say that we have always diminished ourselves by living in the Key Masters shadow! For too long have wizards from all guilds vanished with no trace, while he does nothing to stop it! For too long have rogues and separatists been allowed free reign across our territories! The time has come to make a stand!

Archmagus Alessar and the rest of the White guild had their heads together, speaking in hushed tones. Apollo noted a few others in the different factions around the table conversing, and there were a few murmurs of approval from around the room.


Emboldened, he continued. And now the Citadels army of dark sorcerers, creatures of the Quantum Shadow, and craven Ducks amasses to the south of Alessars Keep

And what have we to do with Alessars Keep or Rudimentals? interjected another voice from the assembly. I say let them tend to their own defences!

Do not be a fool, brother, do you not see that the Citadel means to usurp us all? Do you think they will stop once the Keep falls? But we shall not bow before this threat. We must unite and crush these invaders who threaten our way of life.

The Brown Wizard threw his hands in the air. Bah! We have no interest in the intrigues and machinations of the other guilds. I have a snurtle farm to tend to and the blood grapes are almost ready for harvest. It would seem to me that the Reds stand to lose the most they are the Citadels neighbours and after all, arent they the ones always dabbling in another mans potions? Let them interfere in the Keeps business, should be right up their street.

Angry murmurs rose from the Red guild, but Apollo raised his arms for quiet and shot Oberon a glare. The fool was supposed to be backing his case! He had already been pressured into parting with some very sensitive information on the research being conducted in the Bastion, and he would be crushed beneath the Runes before he let the old goat rinse him like this.

Archmagus Oberon you have something to contribute from the Yellow Wizards?

Oberon yawned and slowly got to his feet, waving a hand condescendingly at Apollo. The Scryer gritted his teeth. He could not risk upsetting the balance not yet.


Hear me now, council members. It is true that the Blues have not been the most trustworthy allies in the past particularly Scryer Apollo. But we do not have to like him to know what he says is true

Apollos face darkened as he struggled to suppress his anger at this sleight on his character. Oberon continued smoothly.

The Citadel has yearned for its former days of glory for centuries and the new Empress claims to be Calista reincarnated. This alone tells us that she seeks conquest  she is invoking the name of the greatest military sorceress in history!

Oberons assertion was met with a few snorts of derision from some of the Red Wizards, but most of his audience were now listening with more interest. The Yellow Wizard nodded thoughtfully, then continued. Yes, you see now that this is a plight we cannot ignore. The longer we leave the Citadel to strengthen, the bolder its leader will become. But we are not warriors. It is not our way to storm a citys walls. Besides, they are protected by Calista's ancient magic. No, brothers and sisters we need somebody on the inside, with an intimate knowledge of the city and access to the Empress.

He paused. Luckily for us all, I have just such a person. Oberon smiled in satisfaction at the look of bewilderment on the Scryers face, then stepped aside. A bearded Sage with a ruby staff and a feather in his hat emerged stealthily from the shadows.

Council members, allow me to introduce @wizard2885.


Council members, allow me to introduce @wizard2885.

## Story Arc Index:
Prologue: @wizard3914

Part 1: @pony77

Part 2: @wizard2877

Part 3: @wizard1175

Part 4: @wizard3901

Part 5: @wizard4841

Part 6: @wizard2885

Part 7: @wizard3917

Part 8: @wizard6084


Thaumaturge Akron of the Thorn

Sl er landa ljme; lti ek helgum dome

The Thaumaturge cast his hands to the sky, then swept them around above his head, repeating the chant:

Sl er landa ljme; lti ek helgum dome

The sacred words echoed back to him from the heavens:

*Sun is the light of the world; I bow to the divine decree*

The golden orb seemed to flare above the mountains of Skylord Rookery and a Sun Rune appeared within the curve of his joy staff  a ring of fire with a tiny ball of molten gas blazing at its centre.

The Thaumaturge swept his blue elven cloak over his shoulder, enveloping himself in his own miniature Runiverse. The Sun Rune illuminated the inner lining of his cape, turning it into his own personal sapphire sky; the visions danced against this backdrop, and Akron hummed meditatively.

Nestled at his feet, Sowil swayed. As the trance also took hold of the dirt rabbit, her eyes glowed  two miniature suns reflecting the glory of the great light on high.

Spell ethers swirled around the Thaumaturge and his familiar as they drank in the visions. Images danced against Akrons elven canvas, vivid yet unfathomable. The message of the visions only became clear as Sowil thumped her back foot against the dirt, sending a rhythmic buzz through his body. He mentally noted the flashes of insight as they blossomed in his consciousness.

*Blue and red moves earth amongst the Pillars  an ancient promise fulfilled stars perish on the slopes as the ocean rises to meet them*

*A giant key turns, a riot of colours in a cosmic clash  adversaries, yet allies*


*A giant key turns, a riot of colours in a cosmic clash  adversaries, yet allies*

*The Alchemist cradles the world; blue patterns shimmer, but hold firm  a yolked infant not yet ready for this realm*

*Ruinous fate, not yet come to pass the body dies, where severed limbs survive.*
*Shatter the old to form the new; follow the bear to the blue tattoo.*

*From the shores of the mirrored lake, the ocean bursts forth.*

*Holy archways bathed in green, the man from the Mount intones: The High Priests blessing on the Emerald Rangers.*

Akron shook his head as his sight came back into focus. He saw the glaze fading from Sowil's eyes. The rabbit twitched her nose at him.

You are right, Sowil. There is no time to lose. It seems fitting that we return to The Thorn to decide the fate of the Runiverse but first we must pay a visit to the Geomancer.

## Story Arc Index:
Prologue: @wizard2875

Part 1: @wizard3032

Part 2: @wizard1182

Part 3: @wizard3282

Part 4: @wizard3916

Part 5: @wizard2550

Part 6: @wizard3919

Part 7: @pony433


Shaman Angus of Elysium

# Shaman Angus and Bubs of Elysium

Shaman Angus gazed upon the world and saw the chaos wreaked by a giant dragon. He turned to his monkey and said: "Bubs, I'm going to need you to step up this time. That dragon damn near killed me."

Bubs looked confused. After a few minutes of quiet contemplation, he began to nod. *I'll get that dragon next time* he thought to himself.

Angus put his arm around Bubs and looked into the sunset.

"Next time we will."


Rocky of the Arena

Not many things are more humiliating than being beaten to submission with a slab of hambone in front of booing crowds...

Rocky of the Arena brings a new meaning to the word "meathead".

*Alignment: Chaotic Neutral*


Vampyre Damien of the Havens

Success! Now a little bit of Sacred flame is his. Just a tiny spark that he can carry without burning himself too much. He activated his Up Only Rune and flew back to Havens.

He couldnt wait to be in his lab, to start his new experiment. Experiments are the last thing he has left, after his new Vampyre kin took away everything else he loved. His love, his familyhis life.

He didnt feel anything, not anymore, not after almost 70 years of living as thismonster. Only sensation that remained was his scientific curiosity. Science helped him forget about his predicament. And now he had two new objects to be curious about. Sacred flame and very rare Egg of Unknown Beast. The way he got these items is a bit shameful, but Damien lost his pride long time ago.


Cerb Slicer of the Ditch

Cerb seems to be a psychopathic murderer known for dragging people or "things" (as he would call them) into a ditch in which he would slice their bodies up.

What is unknown to most is that Cerb tries to be gentle, yet he never learned how to control his temper when someone makes fun of him.

The only being he has a relationship with is his snake companion, which also has temper issues but seemingly regenerates any body parts at will. Fortunately, Cerb seems to be immune to its poison.

Cerb slashes, snake bites.


Hamlin Clubber of the Swamp

# Hammlin Clubber of the Swamp

Hammlin  doesn't remember how he ended up in the swamp. All he knows is that the swamp is all he knows.

A large part of Hammlins diet consists of the plentiful mushrooms that can be found in the swamp. Though the mushrooms seem to cloud his memory, he enjoys how they make him feel and before battle he will chew some berserker mushrooms that put him in a fighting frenzy.

Hammlin has only vague memories of his days as a knight and his formal training. Nonetheless, he possesses superb instinctual fighting skills and immense strength. Standing over two meters tall, he weilds a gigantic mace with a heavy head and leaves a trail of battered corpses in his wake. The black panther Khan is Hammlins steady companion, for as long as he can remember.


Hana Thief of Carnal Delights

*[Author note: this is the safe for work edition of this lore. There will be a NSFW version later.]*

The thief of carnal delights  a slightly deceiving title. While one may have their mind in the gutter, Hana earned this from an old habit. She absolutely loves the consumption of salty meat snacks and will do anything, even overtly mugging strangers (if shes hungry enough), to get them.

Sneaky young Hana loved to climb trees. She loved it so much that she created a nest upon the highest perch of the tallest tree she could find. It was the perfect spot for spotting her next snack, or cozying up and taking a catnap.

One day, hunky warrior Chazoline, strapped with wild game hunted that day, came barreling through the area. He had so much that he carried a wagon full of corpses behind him. His armored boots stomping jolted young Hana awake from her family-famous catnaps. Dazed, Hana peered over her nest to see the hulky Chazoline and his prey. The looming smell of flesh sobered her up in an instant and instinct quickly took over. With great finesse, Hana quietly exited the tree - the boisterous Chazoline and his rattly wagon helping cover the sound. Hana prowled, positioning herself behind the tree as to be out of sight as the bulky warrior passed. Suddenly, she pounced and swiped, grabbing a rabbit from the wagon. She quickly scurried away, and Chazoline was none the wiser.

The rush Hana got from the experience was surreal. She always loved a salty meat treat, but one that had so much emotion attached to it? She had to do it again


Apollo of the Event Horizon

Apollo ran through the head-high golden grass, the footsteps of the huge beast thundering in his ears. He could make out its crested necks up ahead, swaying as it galloped through the rolling fields... he was closing fast. The beast, sensing him getting nearer, let out a primal roar   a mix of rage and terror.

Without warning, a giant rift split the sky above his head. Apollo was sucked up into the sky behind the creature; he cast a rune of brass, but spinning through the vortex he could not stabilise himself to hurl it at the two-headed beast. And then they were spat out into another dimension.

He hit the ground running, barely taking in his surroundings, all his attention focused on his quarry, which had scrambled to its feet and was running for its life. None had escaped him before, and that was not about to change this day. He steeled himself to deal the killing blow... and was thrown from his feet as colours bloomed all around him.

He looked up from the ground at a gold-framed gate that seemed to stretch to the edge of existence, its dimensions defying logic, but was jolted back to reality by a voice that boomed across the snow-covered mountains:

BEHOLD MY QUANTUM STYLE, INTRUDER! Name yourself, or perish!

Apollo snarled in frustration as the beast he had been pursuing lolloped over a crest in the steep slope. With a cry of anger he launched himself at the massive shadow that was looming over him. The clouds above the mountains suddenly parted, illuminating his adversary.

*What diabolical spawn of the cosmos is this?* he wondered.


*What diabolical spawn of the cosmos is this?* he wondered.

The being was enormous, standing fully twice as tall as Apollo himself, with a body resplendent in all the colours of the Astral Plane. On his shoulders sat a golden pyramid for a head, out which glared a monstrous, bulging eye.

Quick as a flash, Apollo reached into his robes and clutched his crystal skull, summoning the spirits of the ancestors from beyond the Event Horizon. The souls wailed as they were torn between cosmic forces. Apollo mustered his strength to channel the Runiversal star magic  somehow, he knew it would take no less to match this brute.

AVAST, YE MEATY CYCLOPS!

The rainbow-coloured colossus effortlessly deflected the raging starlight that the skull emitted in a dazzling beam; the mountainside warped as he cast his runes, and Apollo wavered, his senses clamouring as time and space distorted around him. He fought for an anchor point for his mind as he felt reality slipping away

A sharp whinny cut through his fading consciousness and the world snapped back into place. The two combatants faced each other, neither willing to give ground. Apollo glanced down and saw a tiny and very angry-looking pony that had planted itself firmly between them.

The pony stamped its hoof and snorted. Thats quite enough of your Quantum Style, you think I havent beheld it before?! I mean honestly, Rainbow Cakes, what in the Seven Realms do you think youre doing? You know its my snack time. Ill bet the best grass is already melting, while you two lumbering oafs are busy with all your Behold This and your Avast That.

The pony paused, turning to Apollo: Although credit where credit is due Meaty Cyclops is a good one.


To the side, a feline chuckle alerted Apollo to the presence of another being. Without shifting his gaze from his foe, he glanced out of the corner of his eye and was shocked to see the Ancient Sphinx sat on his haunches, idly picking at his teeth with one vicious-looking claw.

Rounding on the giant, the pony then waded straight back into its tirade. Now, if I have to behold your Quantum Style one more time, Im liable to get mighty testy ice-grass waits for nobody!

With that, it clicked its hooves and leaped high into the air. Apollo looked on, wide-eyed, as it soared upwards, disappearing into the clouds that curled around the towering gate doors, then turned back to the giant.

The multi-coloured titan shuffled his feet. Sorry about Lamia she gets very grumpy if she misses snack time. And you know what bad luck it is to upset a pony, no matter what Astral Plane youre from. He scratched his pyramid. Where were we?

Hold on, I think there may have been some misunderstanding, said Apollo warily. What business have you with the Ancient Sphinx?

Yoohoo, Im right over here! called Derek. Im the Meaty Cyclopss familiar if you must know. Hes not a bad chap once you get to know him. Tends to act before he thinks though.

The giant let out an audible sigh, then drew himself up to his full height and spoke in grand tones. I am @wizard777, Guardian of the Gate to the Seventh Realm and who might you be?

I am Apollo of the Event Horizon, Celestial Thelemist and a slayer of the northern quadrant. I extend an offer of friendship to any companion of the Sphinx; he is highly regarded beyond the Event Horizon.

Derek smoothed his whiskers and nodded officiously.


Derek smoothed his whiskers and nodded officiously.

And yet you have allowed the beast to escape me! It must be destroyed before it can cause more harm.

Sacred Key Master looked sheepish. Oh I do apologise, Apollo, I thought the two of you were in cahoots and uh you were a lot smaller, so I thought Id deal with you first and then go after the slow two-headed one

The sphinx snickered and preened his wings. The Key Master shot him a glare.

So, can I take it that youre not going to try and attack me again? asked Apollo.

Yes. But this is *my* realm, so if youll have to follow a few rules.

Apollo relaxed and smiled up at him.

Im sure an agreement can be reached, Key Master. Now, shall we tend to that beast down there?

The Key Master grinned and extended a hefty hand, which Apollo clasped firmly. The two celestial beings nodded at one another, then set off at a canter down the slope after the monster from the Seventh Realm.

Derek the Sphinx rolled his eyes, yawned, and stretched out on his favourite rock. Exposing his belly to the warm afternoon sun, he promptly fell asleep.

## Story Arc Index:
Prologue: @wizard2875

Part 1: @wizard3032

Part 2: @wizard1182

Part 3: @wizard3282

Part 4: @wizard3916

Part 5: @wizard2550

Part 6: @wizard3919

Part 7: @pony433


Bellicina Cleaver of Monsters

# The Tale of Bellicina

From the beginning of time, Bellicina has stood her ground but has always had a rough life. Her parents were lost in a fire at a young age and had to fend for her life all alone from then on. Bellicina never had any training to wield a weapon but was exceptionally good at defensive strategies and never giving up no matter what was thrown her way.

While traveling far and wide, Bellicina was hunting for food out in the woods. She had set forth a trap to catch any living prey and hang whatever would be caught up in a tree. After waiting only a short period of time, she heard the trap set off. When she walked up to the trap to see what was in its path  Marcellus was stuck upside down clumsily caught up in this tree. Bellicina may be ruthless but is not a cannibal! She had let him free and began talking about their journeys over a warm fire that night. After sharing several stories they figured it was best to stay together.

As time went on, they began going on more and more adventures together. Marcellus even had a pet named Milano that would be on their journeys each and every day. This pet would even sometimes get the food and prey for them while they slept. Years went by and it was clear that they were more than just friends. They got married and Marcellus even shared one of his Tank Heater family shields with her to wield in future battles if anything were to ever happen to him or for Marcellus to not be around at any given moment.

This would lead to the ultimate trio of Marcellus - Chopper of the Tower, Milano the jaguar and Bellicina - Cleaver of Monsters. Tales were told that Bellicina was once a forgotten lady but these days, the three of them are well known and nothing tends to get in their path.


Conjurer Devon of the Heath

# Devon of the Heath

With an infatuation for rabbits and the ability to conjure apples at will, Devon has made it her life goal to construct an empire of rabbits with herself as the Empress


Hoc Sword of the Jungle

# Hoc Sword of the Jungle

_Hoc & Bert_

My helmet looks like sherbet

My sword is pink and green

My spectacled falcon's name is Bert

His talons make him mean

My camo gear will hide me

From foe with axe or mace

But nothing hides them from ole Bert

When he rips off their face


Illusionist Dutorn of the Realm

"The rose is mine... all mine... its beauty is just imaginable..."

Dutorn had made off with a rose... those fools from the Order of the Eternal Rose left the rose unattended for just long enough that Dutorn was able to snatch it.

He would live his live on run now... but his master would be so happy with him... so happy indeed...


Howard Eliminator of Tigers

NUNCHUK! YA! HEE HAHA! OO AH, WHOOO

hYENaa life is the best life. All fighters who hyena fight know the power of whaa whaa chaa chap!

Now: where does a master get a drink around here?


Magus Danny of the Havens

# New Lore Entry

## The lore of Magus Danny of the Havens

**FOLKS!!!**

This is not simply a lore... This is the story of the great Magus Danny!

There is no one more spectacular of him. The night is not a problem anymore. Magus Danny's cat moves in the dark to find the enemies and when he finds them...

## BOOM!!! ##

The fireworks start blowing up and lighting the dark sky at night!

None of you can hide from Magus Danny!


Vega Thief of the Lost City

# Meet Vega, Thief of the Lost City

Vega is a wily expert in obtaining treasures & secrets from the rich and powerful (both those living as well as those for whom only ruins and artifacts remain). She may have stolen a few hearts along the way

Good at: Climbing, parkour, lock picking, swordplay (her own improvisational style) & social engineering. This combo of skills & abilities allows her to get through a variety of situations as she pursues her targets.

Bad at: Killing (though not for lack of skill), relationships.

Favorite treasure: Her Armguards of Magic Resistance (found in an unnamed ruin) lessen the effect of magic spells on her. As a result, lately she has focused her attention on the valuable possessions of wizards


Battle Mage Eric of the Grotto

# Chapter 1: The hunters code
Shafts of golden light filtered through the forest canopy, dancing on the leaves that slowly swayed at the edges of the secluded glade. The massive beast lay on its side, its mountainous chest rising and falling steadily as it slumbered under the effects of the Dryads Ear plant spell.

There, there, my beauty, well get you somewhere safe, where you cant make a nuisance of yourself, crooned Eric, stroking the feathers on the first head. The scaly, reptilian second head rested on the ground nearby, snoring softly.

Eric sighed and tugged at the bushy red beard that jutted from under his blue hood. It was always refreshing to get back out into the forest to track down another stray, but it was getting harder and harder to relocate them to areas where they wouldnt come into contact with people. He hated having to secure contracts in crowded towns, where the citizens bayed for him to slay their tormentors.

Eric scratched Shimmers ears and the dog panted happily. He reflected on lifes many ironies he wasnt sure which was more ridiculous  being a peaceful Battle Mage, or an animist who drew much of his power from a toxic rune that was liable at any moment to poison the very environment he so cherished.

Even now he could feel the molten power of the Rune of Cinnabar sliding through his veins, clamouring to be released. The mercury sulphide steamed inside him; he slowed his breathing, focusing his thoughts inwards, methodically suppressing the familiar urges.


A streak of crimson snapped him into action and he sprang forward, preparing to cast the rune if necessary and simultaneously hating himself for doing so. Before he had a chance, he felt a searing pain in his leg. He cried out in agony and clutched at his calf, which burnt as though thrust into a fire pit. Shimmer snarled, his hackles raised and fangs bared, but the snake was too fast. As quickly as it had struck, it retreated, then reared up on its tail, the top half of its fiery body standing as tall as a man.

*A red mamba*. Eric gritted his teeth at the blazing pain that roared inside him. He could already feel the heat spreading upwards towards his torso. In a wavering voice, keeping his eyes on the snake, he cast the Dryads Ear  this time, on himself. With a slight inflection of the words, he directed the plant spell to mingle with the cinnabar within him. Immediately, he gasped in relief as the concoction started to break down the invading toxins. He wiped sweat from his brow as a man stepped into the clearing behind the snake. He wore a strange, triangular purple-rimmed hat, and over his robes hung a sash that seemed to disappear into the vast recesses of space. The man rubbed a finger along the dome of the crystal skull he carried in his hand.

My apologies, young man, but you startled Magma here. Regretfully, there is nothing I can do for you the man paused, eyeing Eric thoughtfully as the Battle Mage staggered to his feet. Interesting I thought there was no cure for the bite of a red mamba, but it seems I was mistaken. Well, good news for you, I suppose!


Eric glared at the man. Aye, but not for you, stranger, he snarled, flaring his cinnabar. As he cast the rune, though, it petered out pitifully. Eric grunted angrily and tried again, but once more the casting flared and faded to no effect.

The other man shook his head ruefully. Im afraid that wont work, lad. Now if you dont mind, Ive been chasing this creature for days and its about time I finish the job. He cast a rune of his own. Brass manacles manifested out of the air and snapped shut around the six legs of the sleeping beast behind Eric, and a gleaming brass sword materialised in the mans left hand.

What in the name of Mercury do you think youre doing? asked Eric. I captured this creature. By the hunters code it is mine to do with as I please, and I say it lives.

The other man contemplated the Battle Mage. I know nothing of this hunters code and I do not consider myself bound by it. I answer to higher laws than those of man. Step aside lad, before I am required to speed you on your way.

Listen, whoever you are, youre not taking the life of this creature. It is a wild beast and it is only doing what wild beasts do. *My* job is to make sure it does that far away from people, so that nobody gets hurt *especially* not the animal!

The other man chuckled. Well, thats very noble of you, but Im afraid I have no time for such sentiment. If left unchecked, these creatures will overrun the Seven Realms. A slayer never quits until the target is destroyed.


Eric jutted out his sizeable chin, his red beard bristling. Thats a lovely story. Keep telling it to yourself as you walk away, you rune-torn son of a hag. Shimmer stepped up alongside the Battle Mage and bared his teeth again with a menacing growl.

Suddenly, a jovial voice boomed through the clearing: Gentlemen please, I believe were all on the same side here! Eric gaped as a living myth stepped from the shadows, his rainbowed body sparkling in the soft sunlight.

# Chapter 2: The pact
The light was fading from the clearing as the three sat cross-legged around the low fire. Eric shot another glare at the man who sat across the open flames from him. @wizard3032, the Key Master had called him. Eric was still starstruck by the appearance of the gatekeeper. The fabled guardian of the Gate to the Seventh Realm and protector of the Runiverse!

Eric had not been sure until this moment whether the Key Master was not just some fabrication of the collective consciousness  a God, imagined to soothe people to sleep at night. In the lowlands, his name was whispered with reverence in the same utterance as the great cosmic forces and the Astral Plane. Yet here he was, within touching distance Eric had to crane his neck to look up at the Key Masters giant pyramid head.

@wizard777 drummed giant fingers on the ground impatiently. Im sure hell be here shortly, he said apologetically. Derek follows his own schedule Im afraid. He calls it Sphinx Time. Sometimes I think he does it just to annoy me but, well, he is an excellent mediator.

A moment later, there was a soft thud in the darkness, and Derek padded into the ring of light cast by the fire. The Sphinx looked at them one by one, finally resting his gaze on Eric.


Well, whats all this about? I was just in the middle of casting a riddle. He arched one feline brow at the Battle Mage and grinned toothily. Want to try one?

Stop teasing the human, Derek, we need you to adjudicate what is to become of this creature. Sacred Key Master hooked a bulbous thumb in the direction of the restrained beast, which still slumbered beneath another administration of Dryads Ear.

The sphinx settled himself back on his haunches. Alright, lets hear it. The short versions if you please theres a fresh mind waiting for me in the Leap and I dont want it to spoil.

Before we start, interjected the Key Master, Can we all agree that Dereks judgement will be binding?

Apollo nodded. The sphinx is sage; I will accept his verdict.

I would not doubt the word of the Key Master, said Eric. If you wish the sphinx to mediate, then I, too, accept.

Oh, goodie, were all agreed then! Derek unsheathed his claws and inspected them nonchalantly. Okay boys, lets hear it.

Derek listened as Eric and Apollo gave their versions of the story, then puffed at his whiskers before he spoke. Allow me to summarise, chaps. Sacred Key Master you know, I give him a hard time, but someone has to keep a demi-gods feet on the ground. Fact is, he guards the Gate to the Seventh Realm and a fine job he does of it. If any of these beasties try to get through, he stops them and forces them to go back to the Seventh Realm, where they belong.

Behind him, the Key Master blushed, his lips quivering with a smile as red coloured the pyramids smooth surface.


You, Mr. Mighty Slayer, spend all your time chasing after these things and lopping off their heads and various other appendages, the sphinx continued.

And you, red-beard, for some reason which clearly makes sense to your human brain, chase after them, catch them, and move them around the place to keep them away from people, but you *refuse* to kill them because of this thing called empathy (thanks for teaching me a new concept by the way).

The sphinx, as he spoke, had been prowling around the fire to each of them in turn. Now he stopped, making sure that his face was dramatically lit from underneath, and intoned: The time has come for the Sphinxs Pronounce KGHAAAKGHAAAAAKGHAAA urgh ah... whew sorry about that argh wind change Smoke. In. The. Throat GARGH!

Derek sputtered a bit more, then glared at them all, checking for any signs of mirth. The others sat straight-faced, waiting for him to continue.

As I was saying AHEM Im going to level out the playing fields. In this realm, Apollo dear fellow, we follow the hunters code  the beast is this humans to do with as he chooses.

Hah! shouted Eric triumphantly.


Hah! shouted Eric triumphantly.

The sphinx raised a clawed finger in Erics direction. Not so fast rouge-barbe. Heres the deal  these beasts come from the Seventh Realm, which is the slayers domain. To avoid any more of these conflicts, you will be required to bring any beasts you capture directly to the Gate to the Seventh Realm, so that Rainbow Cakes can send them home. You said yourself that you are finding it harder and harder to find safe places to set them free. Once theyre back in the Seventh Realm, though, theyre fair game for the slayer. As he has told us, the beasts are able to move much more freely in their natural habitat, and he only kills the ones that are causing trouble so, you know, win-win, I reckon!

The group was silent. Finally, Eric grudgingly spoke. I agreed to do as you wish, Sphinx, and I will not renege on this pact, but how am I supposed to get these beasts to the Gate to the Seventh Realm? All the myths say it is hidden from human eyes, high in the tallest peaks of the Runiverse.

The Key Master smiled broadly and patted Eric on the shoulder. Never fear, Battle Mage, I can help you with that!

## Story Arc Index:
Prologue: @wizard2875

Part 1: @wizard3032

Part 2: @wizard1182

Part 3: @wizard3282

Part 4: @wizard3916

Part 5: @wizard2550

Part 6: @wizard3919

Part 7: @pony433


Celeste of the Wold

# Celeste of the Wold

Celeste is a member of the Order of the Eternal Rose, a small band of wizards who have set out to source, protect, and nurture the Eternal Roses while exploring the boundless utility of their magic.

Celeste roams the lands, attuned to the pull of the Enchanted Garden she amplifies with forest magic. With her antler corona donned, she sense when and where portals to it might appear. Aiding her in this seeking, and accompanying her in her travels, is her leash of trusty fox familiars: Kaye, and Kaye's family of young kits, whom Celeste and Kaye train to sniff out magic wherever they may find it, to eventually bond to other young wizards.

A quiet and thoughtful forest mage, Celeste speaks little except to Kaye, but enjoys the company of other pure-hearted travellers. She shuns combat and will avoid battle at nearly any cost, preferring to hide or escape for the sake of her precious brood.

Image of Kaye and her kit courtesy of https://mirror.xyz/bambamsimagination.eth


Pyromancer Sisk of the Fey

# Securing the Pendant

EXT. ALLYEYWAY - NIGHT

A hooded man waits motionless in the shadows. The night sky almost completely disguises him, but the moonlight outlines his figure. His face is not visible.

An elderly woman exits the back door of a shop down the road. Using a giant padlock, she locks the door behind her and walks away.

A long beat.

The man walks over to the store, assuring no-one is around as he approaches. He tugs on the lock and again looks around. He raises his hand to the lock with his palm facing forward. The lock begins to heat up.

A short beat.

The metal begins to melt from bottom and slowly drips onto the ground. Whats left of the padlock eventually falls to the ground.

The man opens the door, and he makes his way through the building, leaving his hood up. A few beats pass as he is seen searching through various parts of the store. He checks the glass cases in the showroom before making his way to the back of the store. He checks every drawer, box, and cabinet possible. He is visibly frustrated and throws a small pile of papers into the air.

He watches the papers fall to the ground and notices an uneven floorboard in the corner of the room. He lifts up the floorboard to reveal a hidden box. He opens the box and finds a pendant with a dark red gemstone and an empty placeholder for another gemstone. He pulls a bright blue gemstone out of his pocket and places it in the pendant. The pendant briefly glows.

The man walks to a mirror in the showroom and sets the pendant on a nearby table. He slowly removes his hood and reveals his face. He is covered in massive burn marks from his neck up to a large part of his face.

ANGLE. HIS BACKSIDE.


ANGLE. HIS BACKSIDE.

He ties the pendant around his neck while in front of the mirror.

CLOSE UP. THE MANS FACE.

The reflection does not show a single scar or burn mark. He rubs his hand against his cheek in disbelief.


Battle Mage Baird of the Belfry

# Chapter 1: An appearance remembered
Baird skipped through the dappled sunlight deep in the heart of The Fey, giggling at the feel of the grass between his bare toes. Ahead of him, the wolf pup bounded after a flying wood-nymph, barking excitedly.

Skadi, leave the nymph alone! The wolf yipped at him and came bounding back, knocking the small boy off his feet and placing her front paws on his chest, licking his face.

Baird laughed breathlessly, and rolled the pup off him. Skadis legs waved in the air as she wriggled her body, twisting up onto her feet and preparing to leap at him again.

Skadi, wait! whispered Baird, looking into the bushes bordering the grove. The pup cocked her head and stared at him quizzically. Deep within the greenery at the foot of a sturdy, gnarled trunk, a shimmering blue light cast reflections off the foliage. Enthralled, Baird went to investigate, Skadi padding along at his side. The wolf sniffed at the spot as Baird bent down and parted the vegetation, revealing an enormous egg nestled amongst the bushes. He whistled appreciatively. What do you think laid that Skadi? I bet dad will want to see this, Im sure hell know what it is! Skadi raced in a circle around the boy, bouncing up and down and twisting her body excitedly.

Bairds father was the village medicine man, and spent many long hours in the forests searching out restorative herbs and plants to make his potions and balm. Even magic-makers sometimes dropped by, paying handsomely for his cures.


Baird had always been fascinated by his fathers work  even now, he had a pouch bulging with a variety of herbs to take back home  but this egg was something else entirely. Baird had never seen anything like it. He wondered briefly if it could be a dragon egg and laughed excitedly at the thought. Skadi echoed his laughter with excited yips of her own.

As Baird held the egg out in front of him, a sudden flash of heat seared his palm and he cried out, dropping it to the ground. He clutched at his injured hand, where a strange symbol was branded into his palm. The same symbol glowed fiercely on the shell of the egg.

A rune! he gasped through the blazing pain, collapsing to the floor. As he convulsed in the grass, Skadi nuzzled at him and whimpered. Baird was unable to stop the shaking of his muscles and watched helplessly as the egg teetered on its end, then rolled into the wolf cubs hind leg. Skadi whimpered, and Baird smelled the acrid scent of singed hair. The pup collapsed next to the boy, and Baird thought for a moment that he could hear her confused thoughts in his mind before they both lost consciousness.


# Chapter 2: Disappearance
Lost in thought, Baird blinked and shook himself back to the present. He was staring at the patch of permanently blackened hair in the shape of the Rune of Mars on Skadis haunch, which was mirrored by the scar on his palm. Despite the many years that had passed, that scar had not faded. If anything, it seemed more prominent than ever. He tried to shake loose the memory of that day long ago when the magic had dawned within them both the day that his path away from his family was set in motion. The villagers had been petrified of his sudden unexplained outbursts of power; if he was truly honest with himself, he still had not completely mastered it.

Sensing his troubles, Skadi turned and nuzzled her nose into his hand. Baird smiled; that was one good thing, at least. His bond with the wolf had only grown stronger and stronger since the magic had seared itself into them both. He playfully tugged her ear and she pretended to snap at his fingers and then trotted forward, sniffing the path for clues of their quarry.

They had been working alongside Eric and Pan for the best part of a full seasonal cycle, ranging between The Fey and the other wooded regions of the expansive flats of this part of the world. Over the cycle, the three wizards had had many discussions about the frayed relationship between humanity and the natural world. They had often deliberated the merits of approaching the Green Councilabout addressing this point more firmly with the other wizarding guilds, yet there always seemed to be a new beast to wrangle, a new community to save. For the first time since he had been forced to flee his family home, chased out of the village by people who had known him all his life, Baird truly felt like he belonged.


Baird could now hear the low rumble of the river. To his left, partially obscured by the squat shrubs dotted between the towering trees of the forest, he could see Shimmer working his way forward in parallel to Skadi, closing in on the beast they were tracking. The dog lived up to his name; the delicate drops of mist from the falls up ahead glittered in the sunlight on his shaggy brown coat. Eric silently followed his familiar, who stood almost as tall as Skadi, even if Shimmer was not quite so bulky. The dog and the wolf had formed an instant hunting partnership as soon as Eric had joined up with Baird and Shaman Pan, seeming to instinctively know what the other was going to do at all times.

He couldnt see Pan, but he knew that the Shaman would be in position. After a short time, Bairds path converged with Erics. The other Battle Mage grinned and nodded to Baird, who slipped his left hand behind him onto the eggs shell, wondering as always whether the magic would come. He stared at the Rune-scar on his palm, willing it to start glowing. The waxy, puckered skin pulsed, flickered, and he felt the heat coming. He nodded back at Eric, confirming the magics presence.


He could see the relief on the other Battle Mages face  he knew the pain it caused Eric whenever he was forced to use the toxic Rune of Cinnabar. Baird was sure that this was another reason that Eric had been so eager to join forces with him and Pan after all, with two other wizards around, the chances of Erics rune being needed were greatly diminished. Baird begrudged his friend nothing as the Mercury Runes molten energy coursed through him, triggering pain receptors all over his body; he had made peace with the magic  thrilled in it, even  yet he had never asked for it, nor the suffering he was forced to endure.

Baird readied himself for action. The thunderous roar of the waterfall just around the bend in the river drowned out all other sounds, but as they crept around the bend, the beast came into view. The tall, lizard-like creature cooling itself in the shallows near the bank had the curved beak of a raptor and short arms tipped with wickedly curved claws. This one had certainly proven to be a handful the previous day, when Eric had tried to cast his Dryads Ear soothing.

They had been prepared when the beast broke free from the spell, yet somehow it had managed to evade their attempts. That was why they had devised this strategy. They needed Pan to strike first, channeling the forests magical energy through his Dumb Stick to hypnotise the beast, so that Baird could cast his Rune of Mars to break down its defences. Baird was convinced that if they managed to subdue the creature in this way, Eric would be able to sedate it with his Dryads Ear this time.


The agreed moment was upon them; as one, the Battle Mages sprang from the bushes, Skadi and Shimmer converging on the startled beast from either side. But as Baird started to cast his Rune of Mars, he immediately knew that something was terribly wrong. He could not sense the energy of the Dumb Stick. Where was Pan? He felt the scar shudder and the glowing rune on his palm faded. Cursing, he tried to warn Eric, but before he had a chance the beast screeched and sprang straight at him on its elongated, muscular hind legs, knocking him to the ground.

Baird groaned and rolled over as the lanky animal leaped away nimbly through the forest, Skadi and Shimmer in hot pursuit. Panic raced through his mind  he shouldnt have been able to roll onto his back

Struggling to his feet, Baird saw the egg rolling down the slope towards the river and all other thoughts fled his mind. Yet even as he stumbled after it, clutching his side, he knew it was too late the egg picked up speed, bouncing onto the moss-covered rocks and out into space.

The blue patterns on the shell sparkled; the egg seemed to revolve in slow motion, suspended in mid-air over the river. Then it was sucked downwards, plunging into the dark water and disappearing beneath the surface.

Baird ran as fast as he could, but the river ran faster. He could only look on in horror as the white and blue egg popped to the surface, picking up speed as it headed downriver. Entering a stretch of churning white rapids, the egg tumbled end over end in the swirling waters, before being spat out into the smooth, glassy centre of the flow and shooting over the falls.


## Story Arc Index:
Prologue: @wizard2875

Part 1: @wizard3032

Part 2: @wizard1182

Part 3: @wizard3282

Part 4: @wizard3916

Part 5: @wizard2550

Part 6: @wizard3919

Part 7: @pony433