S4E5 - LOST SECRETS
This Episode is in 2 Parts:
NAR - KELDOR Zorin was alone. Wandering the dark old smelling halls under the arena was lonely but in the inky darkness he felt a familiar home. He heard voices periodically, causing him to instinctively duck into recesses in the cracked stonebrick walls or behind the occasional supply crate lining the halls, shrouded in the shadows. ZORIN (sigh) Can't get to them now. NAR - KELDOR He had seen where Sophie, Skotmir and the other Dwarf had been roughly caged. ZORIN At least not tonight. (beat) Let's see what we can find about what dear old dad is planning shall we? (chuckle then mock voice) Why yes Zorin! What a smart man you are! (normal voice) Yes yes I know. Stick with me, and you'll... (sigh) whatever. (getting bearings) Ok... if the crew is being held down those stairs, that should be the dungeon. (beat) Which... means up those stairs would be the barracks. So then down that hall would be any kind of office... if I were to guess. NAR - KELDOR Zorin made his way down the hall, dimly lit by a single oil-burning lantern. He looked at the well on the lantern briefly and saw it was three quarters full. A ring of sediment on the bottom was mirrored by one barely a finger above it. This was a common line for it to sit at. ZORIN They won't be back this way to fill it tonight. Looks like it's snuffed out in the morning at the same time every day. (beat) Good. NAR - KELDOR He turned the corner and found several darkly stained (MORE) 62. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) oak doors, closed, each with matching wooden signs burned with a single name. The hall appeared smooth and a dusty crimson and charcoal rug ran the length of the floor. He smiled slightly, thinking Zane would have been proud. He remembered them sneaking into the Village storehouse in Olan-ak-khan. Zane pointed out the most important items were next to the office. And the office wasn't too far from the rest of the finished goods. ZANE Some people love to be next to their work. And since the most important things are usually... right next to each other, (chuckle) don't look too far to start with. NAR - KELDOR Zorin smiled at the fond memory. ZORIN (sigh) I'll get you out buddy... I promise. Ok this is.. Stocuk. (beat) And you are Mortas. (beat) Hmmm... really? NAR - KELDOR He stared at the name for a moment, part of him knowing he shouldn't be surprised. Soon, curiosity getting the better of him, he gently set the latch with his thumb and slipped into the door. ZORIN Lets see what you have here Dabria. (beat) Hmmm. NAR - KELDOR Part of him questioned if it was truly their companion as he began to investigate. The room was very clean and tidy. Various implements of torture lay organized in an open box. He shuddered slightly. ZORIN Ugh... what are you? (sigh) This is awful but... but I saw you yesterday. NAR - KELDOR He remembered her face at the edge of the parade. More importantly... Benedict saw something in her, a goodness. ZORIN (chuckle) Well Dabria, you and Benedict are off (MORE) 63. ZORIN (CONT'D) somewhere probably having a meal, and hopefully NOT trapped sneaking around with half the Dark Army above your head. (sigh) Oh. Hello. What's this? NAR - KELDOR His hand found a leather Journal. Opening it, his hand landed on an entry from 2 years ago. This was her handwriting, he was sure of it. Calculated, precise sweeps of red sangria colored cursive ink danced across the yellowed parchment of the page. DABRIA (Narrated) 23rd day of Harvest fifteen twenty. My partner is leading our dead legions to the Emerald Atoll, a little island with nothing of importance as far as I can see but Pallus and Dekkion are convinced it is of future strategic importance. It's only a primitive human settlement of fishermen, led by a single shaman. One that holds some heathen spiritual significance. An old magic I assume, but... nothing that can stand before us. We... must strike following the closure of the trade routes for the winter... to not raise any suspicion from the neighboring Elves or the merchants of Port L'For. I have requested I accompany her as well and it has been granted. I... must admit I look forward to our journey... alone together... more than the battle that I so crave. Away from all... this. Away from him... I despise the way Dekkion looks at her... I will ensure Kartilaan watches her back... NAR - KELDOR Zorin froze. ZORIN Wha... Kartilaan? Sophie's sister? NAR - KELDOR A flood of memory as he remembered the last time Sophie spoke of her SOPHIE My sister travelled a lot as a sellsword... It would be weeks if not months before we would see each other again. She mainly protected caravans crossing the desert back in Kur. She... just never came back. If she did well there's nothing left of home anymore. 64. ZORIN I... have no idea how I'm going to tell her this. Well Dabria may want this back. NAR - KELDOR He closed the journal and tucked it in his knapsack. Seeing nothing else in the room but dark memories, he nodded in respect one last time at where Dabria had come from before leaving the room, returning to the dim hall of doors. ZORIN Hmm. What's this? NAR - KELDOR Further down the hall he spied a room slightly ajar but that appeared to be unoccupied. There was no sign on the outside, possibly a shared room of some sort. ZORIN Ugh... looks like his office back... (beat) hmmm NAR - KELDOR Peering in he could see the foul and obscene marking of the dark army draped on the wall with an 8 foot map laid out on a large conference table. 13 chairs were tucked around the giant rectangle, an echoing of unseen attendees in this Warroom. ZORIN Let's see here. Enruk... Kur and Port L'For... southern Bloodwood... Wargrave. Really? I knew the Mines of the Bloodwood dwarves... but the arenas... actually... (chuckles looking around) that's making complete sense looking at this place. Hmm.. he never did get Viridian according to this. (chuckle) Good for them ha! Lets look over the pond here at the new country. Yes... of course here in Enruk... And Wolfling? Really? The... Obsidian Fortress. Oh no. NAR - KELDOR As they had all feared, at least according to this map the Obsidian Fortress was under his dread father's control. ZORIN Gods... wait. What's this.. marker? NAR - KELDOR The northern half of the new world continent was split amongst 3 areas only known as The Shattered (MORE) 65. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) Lands. No one went there save the darkest of legends. A land cut off from the rest of the world and draped in shadow, it was best to leave it in books and stories to scare children into behaving, or to entertain in the dark of the night around a campfire. It was at the southernmost central border north of the glen it was marked with. ZORIN The Netherspring. Ok Dad, what else... well.. I could have guessed that one. Garnet Keep. Well, better get the hell out of here soon so I can tell Benedict how my dad is gonna take over his dad's place. (sigh) That will go over well... hmm (beat) Ok, time for the shelves. NAR - KELDOR The smell of worn salt-tanned leather and molding pages greeted him. These were records, likely containing historical significance if nothing else. Thumbing past a few dusty scrolls and folded up leaves of yellowing musty parchment he found a midnight suede journal. The familiar Skull with 5 dragon heads within a red triangle burned and painted into the flesh. This had to be from an insane cleric of the dark queen herself. ZORIN I totally want to wash my hands after this. I don't want to know what kind of leather this... yuck. I don't even know how to read half of this, must be magic or something. Wait. No... it's a journal. Late winter... fifteen twenty two... that would be... NAR - KELDOR Realization powered his hands as a finger trembled, framing this date. His pulse quickened as his heart pounded in his chest. Recognizing this was so close to: ZORIN Ollan-Ak-Khan, where were you that night?... 10th Spring Blossom. Let's see... there... there you are. NAR - KELDOR As if willed from his mind ... that was the day OallEnakkhan was sacked. By his father. When it all began. 66. MORTAS 10th day of Spring Blossom, fifteen twenty two Just the MENTION of this month makes me want to vomit. Oh so pretty they say, as they dance! They dance so pretty for me on fire they did! HA! Yes you foul pixies, I so love to pluck off your wings like a child with a locust. (cruel laugh) Today as we searched south for the refugee children Pallus spoke of, we found a windmill by the coast. Only an old man and a young girl were found by Ash Delarosa and I. Dekkion refused to approach the windmill, sending Ash and I to retrieve the girl. Even after flaying the old man he never told us of those children. (beat while thinking) hmmm... well... Then Ash presented the girl to lord Dekkion as the dark lord had requested. That girl has a power I don't understand. She is connected to death in a way I wish to know more about! The way she just stared at the old man and how calm he became in his last moments baffles me. His skin fell from his sides in bloody rags and as I laughed she didn't move... HE DIDN'T MOVE! SHE STOLE THIS FROM ME! I NEED TO FEEL THEIR PAIN! MY DARK QUEEN NEEDS THIS! ...She will travel with us now. My little angel of death. In fact I will name her 'Dabria'... NAR - KELDOR Horrified, Zorin almost didn't hear the voices up the hall approaching. After closing the book in its original position, he darted out the door and hid in the alcove across the hall from the unmarked door. A round pockmarked man rounded the corner. Dark robes falling at his side, he spoke to someone behind him. MORTAS Such arrogance! (beat) Lord Dekkion is most displeased and I blame him not! Those guards will find themselves serving in the undead legion for sure. Bah! STOCUK No matter anyway, Mortas. They had to have died in the volcano's heart with those Kobolds when it caved in. To hell with all of them and their horrible little hearts. I only wish I could have tasted their blood... at the end of my knife. 67. MORTAS (cruel laugh) Yes... indeed dark brother. Come. NAR - KELDOR Zorin noted the sores and boils around the bald man's neck and head as the door came shut, and with it came silence. He hurried back down the hall, his curiosity satified and filled with a dull and forgotten ache in his chest. ZORIN (panicked, hushed half sob) N... Not now... Not yet... Oh god... No... (grunt as he slides under a dark stair well.) Here... just. Here... NAR - KELDOR He curled up under a cold stone stairwell far away from the regular path of the patrols. Trembling, he tucked his hood and cloak around and lost himself in its warmth. His breathing slowed, and then he allowed himself to remember. He remembered the shock at seeing Zane, his best friend, struck down by Dekkion himself. His father killing Erebus and Lorahana Shieldheart. His father... who was Pallus... He remembered their hearts low and leaving their home in Ollan-ak-khan so many years ago with Elloveve. 5 lost children on horseback. He remembered passing the windmill with the old man and the young girl. He remembered their eyes, her golden eyes and how they silently pitied those refugees which he was part of. He remembered the sound of the waves on the coast, the firey glow of their homes burning behind them in the rain. He remembered the haunting song Elloveve sang as they rode towards port'lfor to start a new life. How he hated that girl for her pity. For her happy life with the old man far from their struggles. ZORIN (sobbing) I'm... so sorry... NAR - KELDOR Six children, not 5 were changed forever. And Dabria was their missing sibling sired also from that long night. And on this night, alone in the darkness for the (MORE) 68. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) first time in over a decade, Zorin finally wept. DOOR TRANSITION SOPHIE (panting under breath) Ugh... y... you promised me a dance... or at least a nice dinner... not... ew... ettercaps. ZANE No I didn't, you know I can't afford that. But... I hoped for something better than this. At least one of those stale cakes back home they would put outside for the beggars. Only the best! NAR - KELDOR Sophie laughed to herself slightly. She was trying to find joy in the situation as she pulled her sword out of the dead body of the bloated humanoid creature. Its wicked spiderlike mandibles twitched slightly even in death. (CHANTING) The crowd chanted above Sophie in the arena. Hers was the 1st battle of the day. Ettercaps were wicked things, she remarked, always looking to ensnare their opponent with webs. Like a spider. Like those giant spiders in the underworld. She shuddered. SOPHIE Ugh. NAR - KELDOR She thought back to how she was was rudely awakened on the second day of the games. (sophie grunt and a kobold laugh) A swift kick to the ribs, she had noted. While every fiber of her being told her to fight back against her captors, Zane's calm voice kept her in check. ZANE Wait, Sophie. Please. Just wait. Our time will come. NAR - KELDOR She was fed a soupy bowl of flavorless pasty gruel alongside many fellow gladiators now including a silent Eralin who sat across from her, mindlessly stirring the gruel with an iron bound hand. She noted everyone's head was down too. Quiet. Skotmir and his brother weren't in their cell when she woke, or at the table. She was called to the Arena first, making her ascent up the stone ramp alone save a guard (MORE) 69. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) opening the iron gate. And she was met with a cascade of boos from the many members of the audience. Her audience now. Though she didn't want them. ZANE You have to play them. The show has to win for you to win. We have to win to survive. You got this. SOPHIE Ok fine. (SHOUTING) Who's next?! ANNOUNCER She wants more, my good people of Enruk! Here to finish her off is a favorite of yours and mine the legendary... Ibn Dragonheart! ZANE Wait... who?! NAR - KELDOR The gate to the ramp opened and out strode a warrior in sparse Green and Black armor over a dark riveted chainmail Hauberk. It covered the thighs, the right shin and a single left shoulder. His helm was a simple blackened steel sallet sitting over a chainmail coif, the single slit allowing his eyes to see but leaving his sneering smile exposed. ZANE Well hello, Ibn. SOPHIE Friend of yours? ZANE Oh we go way back. Watch his sword. The guy likes to poison the blade and paralyse his playmates... Wait... is Maldros watching? NAR - KELDOR Sophie saw the shadow-like form of the horned gladiator standing, gauze covered arms crossed and two blood red eyes staring out from behind the blackened helmet. Unnerving and intentionally staring at her. Analyzing every move. SOPHIE (sarcastic chuckle) Oh yes. 70. ZANE Strike Ibn with a Spear toss first, then don't use your sword. Use my daggers. SOPHIE Ok, but... wait. (beat) Yes. ZANE Lets send a message. NAR - KELDOR Sophie thought of how Maldros had tortured and twisted Zane. Years they spent alone, and away from each other. But now they were together and whole. No force on this world or the next could pull them apart now. His vengeance on the man who kept them apart was also hers. SOPHIE Yes. (smiling) Let's. (BATTLE CRY) NAR - KELDOR Sophie picked up a spear from the arena floor and threw it at the charging warrior. He swatted it aside with his armored arm, missing the mark. He continued charging forward with his sword, swinging wildly at her as she stepped out of the way in a swift graceful motion, swatting upward to the sword's crossguard and the fingers beneath. Startled, he missed with such momentum that the weapon flew out of his hands. Sophie began to attack him with Zane's daggers, 6 quick slices causing him to lose blood at a rapid pace. IBN DRAGONHEART (surprised) Gah! Those daggers... ugh... Impossible! (battlecry) NAR - KELDOR He drew a handaxe, striking at her midsection. He missed as he stumbled, blood soaking the chainmail across his chest where the links had separated from the blows. SOPHIE Yield or die! NAR - KELDOR But Sophie lost her footing and failed to land a hit. Her moment of weakness opened up the opportunity for her opponent to grab his sword and hit Sophie with (MORE) 71. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) two strong swings, cutting deep. She felt a numbing creep along her arm from the blows. SOPHIE Gyah, Poison! (Panting) Sorry Zane, it's my turn now. NAR - KELDOR Knowing she had moments to fight against the poison before she would be helpless, she entered a panicked rage, dropping the daggers and pulling out her longsword. She swung weakly once and Ibn dodged. Using the force of the swing she brought the sword back around and over quickly, landing her hit with a sickening 'thunk' into the top of the fighter's helmet, splitting it to the visor. The crowd went wild and the body of the great Ibn Dragonheart slumped to the ground. (cheers and chants and crowd goes wild) SOPHIE This victory feels hollow and makes me want to puke. How can they cheer such needless death? ZANE I know... I feel the same as you. Come on, let's just go. NAR - KELDOR Maldros watched on. After regaining Zane's blades, Sophie turned to the edge of the darkened sand of the bloodpit in which she stood. And saw him staring at her intently. She looked down at the daggers in her hands, and then smiled at Maldros. She stood straight and held them aloft in the air in victory, spinning them across her palms before bowing. A move she felt... she had done before. In a different life, at least. ANNOUNCER Your victor! Sophie! CROWD (chanting)So-phie So-phie So-phie NAR - KELDOR Sophie walked off the field with the crowd chanting behind her. The sand looked blood red from the thick dark crimson and black colored clouds of Enruk. She passed the now open Iron Gate and walked a few paces (MORE) 72. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) down the stone ramp towards her cold dark cell. Away from all this. MALDROS You! Sophie! NAR - KELDOR She could not pretend that this man didn't scare her to her core. As he grabbed her and began to verbally assault her face, Zane's voice filled her head, blocking out the sharp words and reassuring her. ZANE I'm here. Don't let him intimidate you. He scares everyone, but he's nothing. Nothing but an angry slaver, Sophie. He's scum. MALDROS Tell me one thing... Maggot. Where did you get those blades? SOPHIE They're mine. MALDROS (chuckles) I knew their owner once. And it's not you. At least... (chuckles) It matters not. Sleep well, and... NAR - KELDOR Maldros leered from behind the dark helmet before storming away. MALDROS You will die well, maggot. You will die well... TRANSITION NAR - KELDOR Zorin remarked on the second night that it seemed easier to move around with less guards, and he smiled to himself. There was a network of tunnels that seemed to be largely ignored throughout the facility,ancient pathways built by the original kobolds for some purpose, but not used by the larger humanoids who would need to stoop in many cases to use them. One was actually right at the entrance to the Arena. 73. ZORIN If we time it just right and if we can get rid of the 2 guards, we could slip into the shadows and escape this hellhole. NAR - KELDOR He was hiding behind a crate and able to see Sophie, Skotmir and Thotmir's cells behind 2 Orc guards in dark rough forged Iron armor. There was only one way in and there was nothing to hide behind. Besides, he didn't even know where they had the key. ZORIN (sigh) Can't do anything tonight. I'm sorry, my friends... (beat) but tomorrow... I promise tomorrow we will escape. NAR - KELDOR He whispered an apology under his breath as he dipped into the officers' area once again. After all, they had a mission: find out what Pallus had planned, or was planning. He returned to the unmarked war room. Digging in the tomes he found a collection of loose pages, notes of some sort. These appeared to be an index for the wall of tomes. One caught his eye. ZORIN Research - Una. NAR - KELDOR He thumbed through the old dusty pages. They described various experiments testing clairvoiance, page after page filled with dry data points and tables. Frustrated, he went to close it but saw something sticking out just inside the back cover. ZORIN Huh... some old note. (SFX - UNFOLDING PAPER SOUNDS) She's a seer, supposedly able to predict events of the future in strange visions. The rest of Amberreach are like dogs. That seems appropriate for what Ash has done. She and Dekkion are both amazing and horrifying to see work with each other... Huh. NAR - KELDOR He folded the paper back up and placed the tome back on the shelf. He returned to the map filled with markers at various locations. Looking at the marker on the Netherspring he saw a number 6. Looking on the (MORE) 74. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) edge of the map he found reference. ZORIN "Operation Blue Fire." Wait. That was in that in... index yes... lets see here... Here it is. "... there's an artifact deep in the Netherspring's ruins, from before the destruction of the stone. Legend claims it can destroy an entire army but be wielded in a single hand. There is supposedly an ancient portal there that can only be opened by someone of the original bloodline, whatever that means... The prophecy states that this person will travel with 2 pairs. 2 lost souls from the sea who are actually two halves of the same coin. Also 2 brothers by marriage joined from a common tragedy... Sounds ridiculous... but Lord Pallus and Dekkion are convinced we can just force it open with the right tools. Or ritual. He's one of the few that has ever been there so he could be right..." (to himself) We... We need to get there first... but... but Garnet Keep is likely his first target. NAR - KELDOR Feeling confident this is the plan that they came for he quickly took note of it and slipped into the shadows, preparing for the next day. TRANSITION SKOTMIR (out of breath) The sun must be high. It's already a long day, my brother. NAR - KELDOR The brothers stood side by side in the red arena, looking up past the far bleachers to the sky itself. The dark clouds, seperated by cracks of deep red and orange, were menacing. But, now that they became accustomed to the gloomy sky, they saw it for something else entirely. Ebbing and flowing like the bellows of a great forge, it was creation itself. It was freedom. THOTMIR Did you see your friend this morning? 75. SKOTMIR Yes. She was right behind us on the ramp. THOTMIR Oh? (chuckle) That banshee scrambled my memory as well, I think. ANNOUNCER The dwarven sons of the Garnet Mountains are back folks, and today they will be facing one of Dekkion's finest apperations. Formless and angry. NAR - KELDOR Back at the gate Sophie watched the brothers prepare for battle. She glanced at the chalkboard. SOPHIE We aren't on for 3 more matches. Good. (sigh) GUARD 1 Those not fighting should return to the mess hall for rest. SOPHIE No. I want to watch this match. KEHLVAN Oh! Hahaha! That's your little friends arent they? NAR - KELDOR Sophie glared daggers of warning at the guard from behind her dirty matted blonde locks. The other 8 gladiators made their way down to the mess hall. Thinking better of taking any action against the two Orcs guarding the gate, she turned back to the arena while leaning on the iron gate with both hands. They didn't notice her position her hands around her face, to hide the welling tears. SOPHIE Yes. GUARD 1 Leave her, Kehlvan. Let's go get some food too, eh? Not like she can go anywhere. Hahaha! KEHLVAN Hahaha! Yeah! See ya later... girlie. Ha haha! NAR - KELDOR Sophie was alone. She drew in a deep sigh as she (MORE) 76. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) pressed her head against the cold iron bars, losing herself in their touch. Time slowed for a moment as a tear rolled down her cheek. She couldn't help her chosen brother on the arena floor. She couldn't help Skotmir. She looked at her dirty hands. SOPHIE Some good you are right now... (sigh and a sniff) NAR - KELDOR She felt the faded threads of the friendship bracelet on her wrist, absently fidgeting with it. She lost herself in a fond memory of Cordelia giving it to her when they were children, promising to always be with her. Sophie had never removed it. SOPHIE (deep breath sigh) Hope you are better off than us right now. (beat) Miss you. ZORIN Hey. SOPHIE Wha... Zorin? ZORIN Yeah, over here. But don't draw attention to me. Look, there's a tunnel back here in the shadows. It's not very high, probably for the Kobolds but I haven't seen anyone use it. When they come off the Field we are going to duck out through it. NAR - KELDOR Sophie's heart soared. Freedom was here at last and again, just as it did in the Drow Prison, Zorin was here to help. She heard footsteps coming up the ramp. Turning, she saw the form of Eralin walking alone up the ramp. He approached the gate next to her, and stood silent. SOPHIE Hey. ERALIN Hello. SOPHIE Got a suprise for you. 77. ERALIN Oh? What's that? ZORIN Me, tall and ugly. Ha! Who saw you come up? ERALIN Zorin? Ah... No one. ZORIN You sure? ERALIN Yes, now that I've returned to being a dragon again, I... I can tell. They will be down there for a while. They have no interest in me as a gladiator. I believe... They will try to capture my soul in that sword again. ANNOUNCER Ouch! a colossal hit! His axe was shattered by the force of the lightning strike, folks! He's not moving. SOPHIE (Gasp) NAR - KELDOR Sophie snapped back to the arena. She saw the ghostly form of some Armored wraith circling the two brothers, but now Skotmir stood over the crumpled form of Thotmir, his axe held high in his hands. SKOTMIR No! You will be destroyed, demon! NAR - KELDOR Skotmir swiped 3 times, connecting with the shrieking blue and white wisps that made up the form of the creature. Its face curled back in a scream as it disappeared. Sophie turned to Eralin... But he was already gone. ZORIN Come on, let's get ready. Eralin is probably halfway home by now! (chuckle). NAR - KELDOR The gate ascended as Skotmir walked in carrying the unconscious form of his brother over one shoulder. 78. SKOTMIR Hold on Thotmir. ZORIN Skotmir! Over here, quickly! SKOTMIR Wha... Zorin? SOPHIE Yes, there's no time. We are escaping! NAR - KELDOR Skotmir started towards the dark recess next to the gate when he heard voices coming from down the ramp. SKOTMIR No. Im sorry. SOPHIE What? Why? Come on! SKOTMIR Thotmir won't make it. We... We will have to find our own way out. SOPHIE No... Please? SKOTMIR We will slow you down. Go. We will... meet again someday, but I have to do this. He... He came back for me. NAR - KELDOR Sophie knew this was goodbye. She stepped from the shadows briefly to embrace her brother. SOPHIE He... He did. (sniff) He did. I love you... my brother. SKOTMIR Forever and always the stone... you and I Sophie. Forever and Always... I will be your brother. SOPHIE Here. NAR - KELDOR Sophie slipped a small coin into Skotmir's pocket. 79. SOPHIE Still owe you that drink. (sniff chuckle) ZORIN Goodbye, pal. NAR - KELDOR Skotmir nodded and continued down the ramp as his friends plunged into the darkness below Enruk, knowing in his heart they probably would not meet again in this life, but hoping he was wrong. DOOR TRANSITION NAR - KELDOR It took only an hour for them to stumble across a few of the Shadowclaws, who happily showed them the way out to the north, setting them on the path back to Garnet Keep which was a week or so away. After 2 days travel, they had set up camp at the foot of the Garnet Mountains and seemed to be very close to the Waterfall that shrouded Smuggler's Path. Zorin was cooking some Venison that Eralin had hunted on the way. ZORIN This is going to be the FINEST dining. SOPHIE Oh really? ZORIN I always paid attention to Elloveve's cooking. SOPHIE Through your stomach, you mean. ZORIN Best way to learn! ERALIN Well, it smells good. ZORIN Really? ERALIN Yes. ZORIN Well thanks! 80. ISENATHA Hello? NAR - KELDOR Stepping out of the shadows into the campfire light was a familiar face, dirty and mud soaked from the road. But, so were they. SOPHIE Isenatha? ISENATHA Sophie! NAR - KELDOR Isenatha ran to embrace Sophie tightly. ISENATHA We thought you all died in the fireball, but I knew. Just Knew you were ok. I'm so happy I found you. I... do you mind? ZORIN What? Oh! Of course, sit down and prepare for a taste sensation! Thats what Una would say. SOPHIE (Laughing) No she wouldn't. ZORIN Really? Huh. ...wait... Where is Una and everyone, Isenatha? SOPHIE Yes. Are they... behind you? Or? NAR - KELDOR Fear gripped Sophie's heart as she saw Isenetha's worried face. ISENATHA They were escaping the Temple underground through the heart of the Volcano when it collapsed. I... SOPHIE No... are they gone? ISENATHA No! At least... I don't think so. I believe they escaped. What about Skotmir? 81. NAR - KELDOR Sophie sadly shook her head. SOPHIE He's still trapped in the prison below the arena... Zorin got separated from Benedict and Dabria too. ZORIN Yeah. They disappeared after the first day when I got trapped. Never saw them again in the stands either. Hope they didn't get caught elsewhere, not like goody two shoes to disappear if he knows his friends need him. ISENATHA Well, let's not give up hope. SOPHIE Yes... (sigh) Let's not. NAR - KELDOR The next day, their return to Garnet Keep was a syrupy dream. They came to the same crossroads where they had all parted ways once before. When they were all together. They stood there for a moment when Eralin spoke up. ERALIN The sea calls to me... SOPHIE Oh? Are you leaving us... I... ZORIN I'm not suprised. (chuckles) Well say hi to her for me. And take care of yourself, Eralin. ERALIN I will see you again, Zorin. I know this. Our paths will cross again. NAR - KELDOR Eralin stared at him awkwardly for a moment before nodding as he turned away. Holding onto the memory of the young mariner silently was his way of bidding them all goodbye... as he turned his path towards Whitford. (sounds of Garnet Keep fade in.) Sophie didn't believe it felt real. Here was home in (MORE) 82. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) front of her. Her friends Keldor and Elloveve gave her hugs in greeting and Zane's mother kissed both her cheeks. Her heart was locked in place though, unable to free itself to soar and fly as she expected. Slipping into the shadows of the celebration, she made her way quickly to her room... and sitting on the edge of her soft bed she allowed the boiling emotion to surface. Thinking of brave little Skotmir, she cradled her face in her hands and cried. DOOR TRANSITION
NAR - KELDOR Zorin was alone. Wandering the dark old smelling halls under the arena was lonely but in the inky darkness he felt a familiar home. He heard voices periodically, causing him to instinctively duck into recesses in the cracked stonebrick walls or behind the occasional supply crate lining the halls, shrouded in the shadows. ZORIN (sigh) Can't get to them now. NAR - KELDOR He had seen where Sophie, Skotmir and the other Dwarf had been roughly caged. ZORIN At least not tonight. (beat) Let's see what we can find about what dear old dad is planning shall we? (chuckle then mock voice) Why yes Zorin! What a smart man you are! (normal voice) Yes yes I know. Stick with me, and you'll... (sigh) whatever. (getting bearings) Ok... if the crew is being held down those stairs, that should be the dungeon. (beat) Which... means up those stairs would be the barracks. So then down that hall would be any kind of office... if I were to guess. NAR - KELDOR Zorin made his way down the hall, dimly lit by a single oil-burning lantern. He looked at the well on the lantern briefly and saw it was three quarters full. A ring of sediment on the bottom was mirrored by one barely a finger above it. This was a common line for it to sit at. ZORIN They won't be back this way to fill it tonight. Looks like it's snuffed out in the morning at the same time every day. (beat) Good. NAR - KELDOR He turned the corner and found several darkly stained (MORE) 62. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) oak doors, closed, each with matching wooden signs burned with a single name. The hall appeared smooth and a dusty crimson and charcoal rug ran the length of the floor. He smiled slightly, thinking Zane would have been proud. He remembered them sneaking into the Village storehouse in Olan-ak-khan. Zane pointed out the most important items were next to the office. And the office wasn't too far from the rest of the finished goods. ZANE Some people love to be next to their work. And since the most important things are usually... right next to each other, (chuckle) don't look too far to start with. NAR - KELDOR Zorin smiled at the fond memory. ZORIN (sigh) I'll get you out buddy... I promise. Ok this is.. Stocuk. (beat) And you are Mortas. (beat) Hmmm... really? NAR - KELDOR He stared at the name for a moment, part of him knowing he shouldn't be surprised. Soon, curiosity getting the better of him, he gently set the latch with his thumb and slipped into the door. ZORIN Lets see what you have here Dabria. (beat) Hmmm. NAR - KELDOR Part of him questioned if it was truly their companion as he began to investigate. The room was very clean and tidy. Various implements of torture lay organized in an open box. He shuddered slightly. ZORIN Ugh... what are you? (sigh) This is awful but... but I saw you yesterday. NAR - KELDOR He remembered her face at the edge of the parade. More importantly... Benedict saw something in her, a goodness. ZORIN (chuckle) Well Dabria, you and Benedict are off (MORE) 63. ZORIN (CONT'D) somewhere probably having a meal, and hopefully NOT trapped sneaking around with half the Dark Army above your head. (sigh) Oh. Hello. What's this? NAR - KELDOR His hand found a leather Journal. Opening it, his hand landed on an entry from 2 years ago. This was her handwriting, he was sure of it. Calculated, precise sweeps of red sangria colored cursive ink danced across the yellowed parchment of the page. DABRIA (Narrated) 23rd day of Harvest fifteen twenty. My partner is leading our dead legions to the Emerald Atoll, a little island with nothing of importance as far as I can see but Pallus and Dekkion are convinced it is of future strategic importance. It's only a primitive human settlement of fishermen, led by a single shaman. One that holds some heathen spiritual significance. An old magic I assume, but... nothing that can stand before us. We... must strike following the closure of the trade routes for the winter... to not raise any suspicion from the neighboring Elves or the merchants of Port L'For. I have requested I accompany her as well and it has been granted. I... must admit I look forward to our journey... alone together... more than the battle that I so crave. Away from all... this. Away from him... I despise the way Dekkion looks at her... I will ensure Kartilaan watches her back... NAR - KELDOR Zorin froze. ZORIN Wha... Kartilaan? Sophie's sister? NAR - KELDOR A flood of memory as he remembered the last time Sophie spoke of her SOPHIE My sister travelled a lot as a sellsword... It would be weeks if not months before we would see each other again. She mainly protected caravans crossing the desert back in Kur. She... just never came back. If she did well there's nothing left of home anymore. 64. ZORIN I... have no idea how I'm going to tell her this. Well Dabria may want this back. NAR - KELDOR He closed the journal and tucked it in his knapsack. Seeing nothing else in the room but dark memories, he nodded in respect one last time at where Dabria had come from before leaving the room, returning to the dim hall of doors. ZORIN Hmm. What's this? NAR - KELDOR Further down the hall he spied a room slightly ajar but that appeared to be unoccupied. There was no sign on the outside, possibly a shared room of some sort. ZORIN Ugh... looks like his office back... (beat) hmmm NAR - KELDOR Peering in he could see the foul and obscene marking of the dark army draped on the wall with an 8 foot map laid out on a large conference table. 13 chairs were tucked around the giant rectangle, an echoing of unseen attendees in this Warroom. ZORIN Let's see here. Enruk... Kur and Port L'For... southern Bloodwood... Wargrave. Really? I knew the Mines of the Bloodwood dwarves... but the arenas... actually... (chuckles looking around) that's making complete sense looking at this place. Hmm.. he never did get Viridian according to this. (chuckle) Good for them ha! Lets look over the pond here at the new country. Yes... of course here in Enruk... And Wolfling? Really? The... Obsidian Fortress. Oh no. NAR - KELDOR As they had all feared, at least according to this map the Obsidian Fortress was under his dread father's control. ZORIN Gods... wait. What's this.. marker? NAR - KELDOR The northern half of the new world continent was split amongst 3 areas only known as The Shattered (MORE) 65. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) Lands. No one went there save the darkest of legends. A land cut off from the rest of the world and draped in shadow, it was best to leave it in books and stories to scare children into behaving, or to entertain in the dark of the night around a campfire. It was at the southernmost central border north of the glen it was marked with. ZORIN The Netherspring. Ok Dad, what else... well.. I could have guessed that one. Garnet Keep. Well, better get the hell out of here soon so I can tell Benedict how my dad is gonna take over his dad's place. (sigh) That will go over well... hmm (beat) Ok, time for the shelves. NAR - KELDOR The smell of worn salt-tanned leather and molding pages greeted him. These were records, likely containing historical significance if nothing else. Thumbing past a few dusty scrolls and folded up leaves of yellowing musty parchment he found a midnight suede journal. The familiar Skull with 5 dragon heads within a red triangle burned and painted into the flesh. This had to be from an insane cleric of the dark queen herself. ZORIN I totally want to wash my hands after this. I don't want to know what kind of leather this... yuck. I don't even know how to read half of this, must be magic or something. Wait. No... it's a journal. Late winter... fifteen twenty two... that would be... NAR - KELDOR Realization powered his hands as a finger trembled, framing this date. His pulse quickened as his heart pounded in his chest. Recognizing this was so close to: ZORIN Ollan-Ak-Khan, where were you that night?... 10th Spring Blossom. Let's see... there... there you are. NAR - KELDOR As if willed from his mind ... that was the day OallEnakkhan was sacked. By his father. When it all began. 66. MORTAS 10th day of Spring Blossom, fifteen twenty two Just the MENTION of this month makes me want to vomit. Oh so pretty they say, as they dance! They dance so pretty for me on fire they did! HA! Yes you foul pixies, I so love to pluck off your wings like a child with a locust. (cruel laugh) Today as we searched south for the refugee children Pallus spoke of, we found a windmill by the coast. Only an old man and a young girl were found by Ash Delarosa and I. Dekkion refused to approach the windmill, sending Ash and I to retrieve the girl. Even after flaying the old man he never told us of those children. (beat while thinking) hmmm... well... Then Ash presented the girl to lord Dekkion as the dark lord had requested. That girl has a power I don't understand. She is connected to death in a way I wish to know more about! The way she just stared at the old man and how calm he became in his last moments baffles me. His skin fell from his sides in bloody rags and as I laughed she didn't move... HE DIDN'T MOVE! SHE STOLE THIS FROM ME! I NEED TO FEEL THEIR PAIN! MY DARK QUEEN NEEDS THIS! ...She will travel with us now. My little angel of death. In fact I will name her 'Dabria'... NAR - KELDOR Horrified, Zorin almost didn't hear the voices up the hall approaching. After closing the book in its original position, he darted out the door and hid in the alcove across the hall from the unmarked door. A round pockmarked man rounded the corner. Dark robes falling at his side, he spoke to someone behind him. MORTAS Such arrogance! (beat) Lord Dekkion is most displeased and I blame him not! Those guards will find themselves serving in the undead legion for sure. Bah! STOCUK No matter anyway, Mortas. They had to have died in the volcano's heart with those Kobolds when it caved in. To hell with all of them and their horrible little hearts. I only wish I could have tasted their blood... at the end of my knife. 67. MORTAS (cruel laugh) Yes... indeed dark brother. Come. NAR - KELDOR Zorin noted the sores and boils around the bald man's neck and head as the door came shut, and with it came silence. He hurried back down the hall, his curiosity satified and filled with a dull and forgotten ache in his chest. ZORIN (panicked, hushed half sob) N... Not now... Not yet... Oh god... No... (grunt as he slides under a dark stair well.) Here... just. Here... NAR - KELDOR He curled up under a cold stone stairwell far away from the regular path of the patrols. Trembling, he tucked his hood and cloak around and lost himself in its warmth. His breathing slowed, and then he allowed himself to remember. He remembered the shock at seeing Zane, his best friend, struck down by Dekkion himself. His father killing Erebus and Lorahana Shieldheart. His father... who was Pallus... He remembered their hearts low and leaving their home in Ollan-ak-khan so many years ago with Elloveve. 5 lost children on horseback. He remembered passing the windmill with the old man and the young girl. He remembered their eyes, her golden eyes and how they silently pitied those refugees which he was part of. He remembered the sound of the waves on the coast, the firey glow of their homes burning behind them in the rain. He remembered the haunting song Elloveve sang as they rode towards port'lfor to start a new life. How he hated that girl for her pity. For her happy life with the old man far from their struggles. ZORIN (sobbing) I'm... so sorry... NAR - KELDOR Six children, not 5 were changed forever. And Dabria was their missing sibling sired also from that long night. And on this night, alone in the darkness for the (MORE) 68. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) first time in over a decade, Zorin finally wept. DOOR TRANSITION SOPHIE (panting under breath) Ugh... y... you promised me a dance... or at least a nice dinner... not... ew... ettercaps. ZANE No I didn't, you know I can't afford that. But... I hoped for something better than this. At least one of those stale cakes back home they would put outside for the beggars. Only the best! NAR - KELDOR Sophie laughed to herself slightly. She was trying to find joy in the situation as she pulled her sword out of the dead body of the bloated humanoid creature. Its wicked spiderlike mandibles twitched slightly even in death. (CHANTING) The crowd chanted above Sophie in the arena. Hers was the 1st battle of the day. Ettercaps were wicked things, she remarked, always looking to ensnare their opponent with webs. Like a spider. Like those giant spiders in the underworld. She shuddered. SOPHIE Ugh. NAR - KELDOR She thought back to how she was was rudely awakened on the second day of the games. (sophie grunt and a kobold laugh) A swift kick to the ribs, she had noted. While every fiber of her being told her to fight back against her captors, Zane's calm voice kept her in check. ZANE Wait, Sophie. Please. Just wait. Our time will come. NAR - KELDOR She was fed a soupy bowl of flavorless pasty gruel alongside many fellow gladiators now including a silent Eralin who sat across from her, mindlessly stirring the gruel with an iron bound hand. She noted everyone's head was down too. Quiet. Skotmir and his brother weren't in their cell when she woke, or at the table. She was called to the Arena first, making her ascent up the stone ramp alone save a guard (MORE) 69. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) opening the iron gate. And she was met with a cascade of boos from the many members of the audience. Her audience now. Though she didn't want them. ZANE You have to play them. The show has to win for you to win. We have to win to survive. You got this. SOPHIE Ok fine. (SHOUTING) Who's next?! ANNOUNCER She wants more, my good people of Enruk! Here to finish her off is a favorite of yours and mine the legendary... Ibn Dragonheart! ZANE Wait... who?! NAR - KELDOR The gate to the ramp opened and out strode a warrior in sparse Green and Black armor over a dark riveted chainmail Hauberk. It covered the thighs, the right shin and a single left shoulder. His helm was a simple blackened steel sallet sitting over a chainmail coif, the single slit allowing his eyes to see but leaving his sneering smile exposed. ZANE Well hello, Ibn. SOPHIE Friend of yours? ZANE Oh we go way back. Watch his sword. The guy likes to poison the blade and paralyse his playmates... Wait... is Maldros watching? NAR - KELDOR Sophie saw the shadow-like form of the horned gladiator standing, gauze covered arms crossed and two blood red eyes staring out from behind the blackened helmet. Unnerving and intentionally staring at her. Analyzing every move. SOPHIE (sarcastic chuckle) Oh yes. 70. ZANE Strike Ibn with a Spear toss first, then don't use your sword. Use my daggers. SOPHIE Ok, but... wait. (beat) Yes. ZANE Lets send a message. NAR - KELDOR Sophie thought of how Maldros had tortured and twisted Zane. Years they spent alone, and away from each other. But now they were together and whole. No force on this world or the next could pull them apart now. His vengeance on the man who kept them apart was also hers. SOPHIE Yes. (smiling) Let's. (BATTLE CRY) NAR - KELDOR Sophie picked up a spear from the arena floor and threw it at the charging warrior. He swatted it aside with his armored arm, missing the mark. He continued charging forward with his sword, swinging wildly at her as she stepped out of the way in a swift graceful motion, swatting upward to the sword's crossguard and the fingers beneath. Startled, he missed with such momentum that the weapon flew out of his hands. Sophie began to attack him with Zane's daggers, 6 quick slices causing him to lose blood at a rapid pace. IBN DRAGONHEART (surprised) Gah! Those daggers... ugh... Impossible! (battlecry) NAR - KELDOR He drew a handaxe, striking at her midsection. He missed as he stumbled, blood soaking the chainmail across his chest where the links had separated from the blows. SOPHIE Yield or die! NAR - KELDOR But Sophie lost her footing and failed to land a hit. Her moment of weakness opened up the opportunity for her opponent to grab his sword and hit Sophie with (MORE) 71. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) two strong swings, cutting deep. She felt a numbing creep along her arm from the blows. SOPHIE Gyah, Poison! (Panting) Sorry Zane, it's my turn now. NAR - KELDOR Knowing she had moments to fight against the poison before she would be helpless, she entered a panicked rage, dropping the daggers and pulling out her longsword. She swung weakly once and Ibn dodged. Using the force of the swing she brought the sword back around and over quickly, landing her hit with a sickening 'thunk' into the top of the fighter's helmet, splitting it to the visor. The crowd went wild and the body of the great Ibn Dragonheart slumped to the ground. (cheers and chants and crowd goes wild) SOPHIE This victory feels hollow and makes me want to puke. How can they cheer such needless death? ZANE I know... I feel the same as you. Come on, let's just go. NAR - KELDOR Maldros watched on. After regaining Zane's blades, Sophie turned to the edge of the darkened sand of the bloodpit in which she stood. And saw him staring at her intently. She looked down at the daggers in her hands, and then smiled at Maldros. She stood straight and held them aloft in the air in victory, spinning them across her palms before bowing. A move she felt... she had done before. In a different life, at least. ANNOUNCER Your victor! Sophie! CROWD (chanting)So-phie So-phie So-phie NAR - KELDOR Sophie walked off the field with the crowd chanting behind her. The sand looked blood red from the thick dark crimson and black colored clouds of Enruk. She passed the now open Iron Gate and walked a few paces (MORE) 72. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) down the stone ramp towards her cold dark cell. Away from all this. MALDROS You! Sophie! NAR - KELDOR She could not pretend that this man didn't scare her to her core. As he grabbed her and began to verbally assault her face, Zane's voice filled her head, blocking out the sharp words and reassuring her. ZANE I'm here. Don't let him intimidate you. He scares everyone, but he's nothing. Nothing but an angry slaver, Sophie. He's scum. MALDROS Tell me one thing... Maggot. Where did you get those blades? SOPHIE They're mine. MALDROS (chuckles) I knew their owner once. And it's not you. At least... (chuckles) It matters not. Sleep well, and... NAR - KELDOR Maldros leered from behind the dark helmet before storming away. MALDROS You will die well, maggot. You will die well... TRANSITION NAR - KELDOR Zorin remarked on the second night that it seemed easier to move around with less guards, and he smiled to himself. There was a network of tunnels that seemed to be largely ignored throughout the facility,ancient pathways built by the original kobolds for some purpose, but not used by the larger humanoids who would need to stoop in many cases to use them. One was actually right at the entrance to the Arena. 73. ZORIN If we time it just right and if we can get rid of the 2 guards, we could slip into the shadows and escape this hellhole. NAR - KELDOR He was hiding behind a crate and able to see Sophie, Skotmir and Thotmir's cells behind 2 Orc guards in dark rough forged Iron armor. There was only one way in and there was nothing to hide behind. Besides, he didn't even know where they had the key. ZORIN (sigh) Can't do anything tonight. I'm sorry, my friends... (beat) but tomorrow... I promise tomorrow we will escape. NAR - KELDOR He whispered an apology under his breath as he dipped into the officers' area once again. After all, they had a mission: find out what Pallus had planned, or was planning. He returned to the unmarked war room. Digging in the tomes he found a collection of loose pages, notes of some sort. These appeared to be an index for the wall of tomes. One caught his eye. ZORIN Research - Una. NAR - KELDOR He thumbed through the old dusty pages. They described various experiments testing clairvoiance, page after page filled with dry data points and tables. Frustrated, he went to close it but saw something sticking out just inside the back cover. ZORIN Huh... some old note. (SFX - UNFOLDING PAPER SOUNDS) She's a seer, supposedly able to predict events of the future in strange visions. The rest of Amberreach are like dogs. That seems appropriate for what Ash has done. She and Dekkion are both amazing and horrifying to see work with each other... Huh. NAR - KELDOR He folded the paper back up and placed the tome back on the shelf. He returned to the map filled with markers at various locations. Looking at the marker on the Netherspring he saw a number 6. Looking on the (MORE) 74. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) edge of the map he found reference. ZORIN "Operation Blue Fire." Wait. That was in that in... index yes... lets see here... Here it is. "... there's an artifact deep in the Netherspring's ruins, from before the destruction of the stone. Legend claims it can destroy an entire army but be wielded in a single hand. There is supposedly an ancient portal there that can only be opened by someone of the original bloodline, whatever that means... The prophecy states that this person will travel with 2 pairs. 2 lost souls from the sea who are actually two halves of the same coin. Also 2 brothers by marriage joined from a common tragedy... Sounds ridiculous... but Lord Pallus and Dekkion are convinced we can just force it open with the right tools. Or ritual. He's one of the few that has ever been there so he could be right..." (to himself) We... We need to get there first... but... but Garnet Keep is likely his first target. NAR - KELDOR Feeling confident this is the plan that they came for he quickly took note of it and slipped into the shadows, preparing for the next day. TRANSITION SKOTMIR (out of breath) The sun must be high. It's already a long day, my brother. NAR - KELDOR The brothers stood side by side in the red arena, looking up past the far bleachers to the sky itself. The dark clouds, seperated by cracks of deep red and orange, were menacing. But, now that they became accustomed to the gloomy sky, they saw it for something else entirely. Ebbing and flowing like the bellows of a great forge, it was creation itself. It was freedom. THOTMIR Did you see your friend this morning? 75. SKOTMIR Yes. She was right behind us on the ramp. THOTMIR Oh? (chuckle) That banshee scrambled my memory as well, I think. ANNOUNCER The dwarven sons of the Garnet Mountains are back folks, and today they will be facing one of Dekkion's finest apperations. Formless and angry. NAR - KELDOR Back at the gate Sophie watched the brothers prepare for battle. She glanced at the chalkboard. SOPHIE We aren't on for 3 more matches. Good. (sigh) GUARD 1 Those not fighting should return to the mess hall for rest. SOPHIE No. I want to watch this match. KEHLVAN Oh! Hahaha! That's your little friends arent they? NAR - KELDOR Sophie glared daggers of warning at the guard from behind her dirty matted blonde locks. The other 8 gladiators made their way down to the mess hall. Thinking better of taking any action against the two Orcs guarding the gate, she turned back to the arena while leaning on the iron gate with both hands. They didn't notice her position her hands around her face, to hide the welling tears. SOPHIE Yes. GUARD 1 Leave her, Kehlvan. Let's go get some food too, eh? Not like she can go anywhere. Hahaha! KEHLVAN Hahaha! Yeah! See ya later... girlie. Ha haha! NAR - KELDOR Sophie was alone. She drew in a deep sigh as she (MORE) 76. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) pressed her head against the cold iron bars, losing herself in their touch. Time slowed for a moment as a tear rolled down her cheek. She couldn't help her chosen brother on the arena floor. She couldn't help Skotmir. She looked at her dirty hands. SOPHIE Some good you are right now... (sigh and a sniff) NAR - KELDOR She felt the faded threads of the friendship bracelet on her wrist, absently fidgeting with it. She lost herself in a fond memory of Cordelia giving it to her when they were children, promising to always be with her. Sophie had never removed it. SOPHIE (deep breath sigh) Hope you are better off than us right now. (beat) Miss you. ZORIN Hey. SOPHIE Wha... Zorin? ZORIN Yeah, over here. But don't draw attention to me. Look, there's a tunnel back here in the shadows. It's not very high, probably for the Kobolds but I haven't seen anyone use it. When they come off the Field we are going to duck out through it. NAR - KELDOR Sophie's heart soared. Freedom was here at last and again, just as it did in the Drow Prison, Zorin was here to help. She heard footsteps coming up the ramp. Turning, she saw the form of Eralin walking alone up the ramp. He approached the gate next to her, and stood silent. SOPHIE Hey. ERALIN Hello. SOPHIE Got a suprise for you. 77. ERALIN Oh? What's that? ZORIN Me, tall and ugly. Ha! Who saw you come up? ERALIN Zorin? Ah... No one. ZORIN You sure? ERALIN Yes, now that I've returned to being a dragon again, I... I can tell. They will be down there for a while. They have no interest in me as a gladiator. I believe... They will try to capture my soul in that sword again. ANNOUNCER Ouch! a colossal hit! His axe was shattered by the force of the lightning strike, folks! He's not moving. SOPHIE (Gasp) NAR - KELDOR Sophie snapped back to the arena. She saw the ghostly form of some Armored wraith circling the two brothers, but now Skotmir stood over the crumpled form of Thotmir, his axe held high in his hands. SKOTMIR No! You will be destroyed, demon! NAR - KELDOR Skotmir swiped 3 times, connecting with the shrieking blue and white wisps that made up the form of the creature. Its face curled back in a scream as it disappeared. Sophie turned to Eralin... But he was already gone. ZORIN Come on, let's get ready. Eralin is probably halfway home by now! (chuckle). NAR - KELDOR The gate ascended as Skotmir walked in carrying the unconscious form of his brother over one shoulder. 78. SKOTMIR Hold on Thotmir. ZORIN Skotmir! Over here, quickly! SKOTMIR Wha... Zorin? SOPHIE Yes, there's no time. We are escaping! NAR - KELDOR Skotmir started towards the dark recess next to the gate when he heard voices coming from down the ramp. SKOTMIR No. Im sorry. SOPHIE What? Why? Come on! SKOTMIR Thotmir won't make it. We... We will have to find our own way out. SOPHIE No... Please? SKOTMIR We will slow you down. Go. We will... meet again someday, but I have to do this. He... He came back for me. NAR - KELDOR Sophie knew this was goodbye. She stepped from the shadows briefly to embrace her brother. SOPHIE He... He did. (sniff) He did. I love you... my brother. SKOTMIR Forever and always the stone... you and I Sophie. Forever and Always... I will be your brother. SOPHIE Here. NAR - KELDOR Sophie slipped a small coin into Skotmir's pocket. 79. SOPHIE Still owe you that drink. (sniff chuckle) ZORIN Goodbye, pal. NAR - KELDOR Skotmir nodded and continued down the ramp as his friends plunged into the darkness below Enruk, knowing in his heart they probably would not meet again in this life, but hoping he was wrong. DOOR TRANSITION NAR - KELDOR It took only an hour for them to stumble across a few of the Shadowclaws, who happily showed them the way out to the north, setting them on the path back to Garnet Keep which was a week or so away. After 2 days travel, they had set up camp at the foot of the Garnet Mountains and seemed to be very close to the Waterfall that shrouded Smuggler's Path. Zorin was cooking some Venison that Eralin had hunted on the way. ZORIN This is going to be the FINEST dining. SOPHIE Oh really? ZORIN I always paid attention to Elloveve's cooking. SOPHIE Through your stomach, you mean. ZORIN Best way to learn! ERALIN Well, it smells good. ZORIN Really? ERALIN Yes. ZORIN Well thanks! 80. ISENATHA Hello? NAR - KELDOR Stepping out of the shadows into the campfire light was a familiar face, dirty and mud soaked from the road. But, so were they. SOPHIE Isenatha? ISENATHA Sophie! NAR - KELDOR Isenatha ran to embrace Sophie tightly. ISENATHA We thought you all died in the fireball, but I knew. Just Knew you were ok. I'm so happy I found you. I... do you mind? ZORIN What? Oh! Of course, sit down and prepare for a taste sensation! Thats what Una would say. SOPHIE (Laughing) No she wouldn't. ZORIN Really? Huh. ...wait... Where is Una and everyone, Isenatha? SOPHIE Yes. Are they... behind you? Or? NAR - KELDOR Fear gripped Sophie's heart as she saw Isenetha's worried face. ISENATHA They were escaping the Temple underground through the heart of the Volcano when it collapsed. I... SOPHIE No... are they gone? ISENATHA No! At least... I don't think so. I believe they escaped. What about Skotmir? 81. NAR - KELDOR Sophie sadly shook her head. SOPHIE He's still trapped in the prison below the arena... Zorin got separated from Benedict and Dabria too. ZORIN Yeah. They disappeared after the first day when I got trapped. Never saw them again in the stands either. Hope they didn't get caught elsewhere, not like goody two shoes to disappear if he knows his friends need him. ISENATHA Well, let's not give up hope. SOPHIE Yes... (sigh) Let's not. NAR - KELDOR The next day, their return to Garnet Keep was a syrupy dream. They came to the same crossroads where they had all parted ways once before. When they were all together. They stood there for a moment when Eralin spoke up. ERALIN The sea calls to me... SOPHIE Oh? Are you leaving us... I... ZORIN I'm not suprised. (chuckles) Well say hi to her for me. And take care of yourself, Eralin. ERALIN I will see you again, Zorin. I know this. Our paths will cross again. NAR - KELDOR Eralin stared at him awkwardly for a moment before nodding as he turned away. Holding onto the memory of the young mariner silently was his way of bidding them all goodbye... as he turned his path towards Whitford. (sounds of Garnet Keep fade in.) Sophie didn't believe it felt real. Here was home in (MORE) 82. NAR - KELDOR (CONT'D) front of her. Her friends Keldor and Elloveve gave her hugs in greeting and Zane's mother kissed both her cheeks. Her heart was locked in place though, unable to free itself to soar and fly as she expected. Slipping into the shadows of the celebration, she made her way quickly to her room... and sitting on the edge of her soft bed she allowed the boiling emotion to surface. Thinking of brave little Skotmir, she cradled her face in her hands and cried. DOOR TRANSITION
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