소드 오브 프로스트... 인가.

[홍승규]

The Sword of Frost

Campaign Description :
The Elven Hero, Gelu, sets out to find the arcane Sword of Frost despite an apocalyptic prophecy. Now, the fate of the world depends on Tarnum's ability to rekindle his darkest talents and lead the devious creatures of Nighon against his former friend.

1. Tarnum the Overlord

Scenario Description :
Tarnum must conquer the Dungeon towns of Nighon to form a force willing to battle Gelu and his Elves. All Heroes are limited to level six, and all of Tarnum's skills, spells, and experience will transfer to the next scenario.

ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
The Elven Hero, Gelu, set out to find and destroy the Sword of Frost to stop an apocalyptic prophecy, but he didn't realize that simply finding the ancient weapon would put the world at risk. Tarnum had to stop him, but he didn't but the good forces of Avlee and Erathia refused to battle Gelu. Who, then would lift a sword against the Elves?
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"If the Sword of Frost and Armageddon's Blade should ever meet, it would mean the end of the world!"

How can that fool of an Elf go looking for the Sword of Frost? I met Gelu once, and I found him to be an inspiring leader and dedicated fighter. He never would have accomplished all that he has in the past few years without the skills to match his stubbornness. But I've never known him to be stupid.

Is he so attached to the Armageddon's Blade that he can't see the danger he's putting the world in?

So, I've come to Nighon in search of a force to battle Gelu and his Elves. Unfortunately, the Elf King will not lift a finger against AvLee's greatest hero. And the Erathians consider themselves allies - to battle Gelu will only shatter that alliance. My only resort is to don the dark armour of an Overlord and somehow use the troops of Nighon for a good cause.

I've heard that after the death of their leader, the Dragon Queen Mutare, Nighon has fallen into chaos. Mutare's generals battle for control in an endless civil conflict. Just the sort of environment where I could slip in and gain control of the forces I'll need to stop Gelu's foolish quest.
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As you enter this world of perpetual darkness, you wonder if you have made the right choice. The creatures of the subterranean world are known for their cruelty. Was it arrogance to believe that you could shape them into a force for good?
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A pack of Harpy Hags swoop down out of the dark ceiling and attack you, but you raise your weapon and drop their leader in a single blow. The other Hags smile at you and beg to join a leader with such obvious strength.

A group of Harpy Hags with a desire for greater glory wish to join you. Do you accept?
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Over the centuries, I've managed to stash away huge caches of resources for situations just like this. Knowing that I would need these resources, I sent word to trusted friends arranging for some to be delivered to me here. The first wagons should arrive tomorrow, and more are on their way, probably arriving every two weeks or so.
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Wagons of supplies arrived today taken from one of my personal caches.
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All these years removed from the life of brutality that made me unworthy of entering Paradise have softened me. After more than a week leading the creatures of Nighon, I've learned to pity their hard life. The weakest of them, the blind Troglodytes, get the worst of it.

I've seen Harpies and Beholders kill a Troglodyte for no other reason than it got in their way. It's no surprised the little creatures have learned to move around so quickly. I admit, over the years, I have probably killed hundreds of Troglodytes, but now that I lead them I only want to protect them from their own allies.

When a pair of Harpies started harassing a Troglodyte carrying some food to its friends, I jumped in and grabbed the winged women by their scrawny throats. I knew I couldn't show any weakness around here or someone would try to kill me and take over my leadership. Nor could I show compassion for another.

So, I kicked the Troglodyte to the ground and threw the Harpies up against the nearest tunnel wall.

"Did I say you could fight amongst each other? Did I?" I shouted at the top of my lungs. I made sure my entire army could hear.

The Troglodyte cowered as I drew the spiked mace from my belt. The Harpies tried to slink away. It was at that moment that I knew I had to make an example here and now or more of these creatures would die.

I jumped on the Harpies. With one hand, I tore off a wing. With my mace, I broke the other Harpy's ribs, crushing its heart.

Turning to the rest of my army, I held the bloody wing up for all to see.

"I say when and who you can kill! If anyone doesn't understand, step forward now," I told them. They knew that if anyone moved, they died.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
I have to struggle with my own troops after every victory to keep them from slaughtering the survivors. These Nighons don't even know the meaning of the word mercy. So, to keep them from believing that I, an Overlord, was weak because I showed mercy toward my enemy, I've had to feign insanity.

I started talking to things that aren't there, and on one occasion I rode for several miles naked before I 'realized' that I wasn't wearing my armour.

And when someone is caught, instead of torturing them to death I humiliate them. I dunked a pack of Troglodytes in tar, threw feathers over them, and told them that they were Harpies now. I even made a Minotaur wear a woman's dress.

Thankfully, my troops are confused enough that they no longer seemed bothered when I tell them they can't kill the prisoners, and so far they're all still too scared of me to challenge my authority.
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I received a letter today from a friend in AvLee stating that Gelu set sail for the distant northern lands of the Vori weeks ahead of time. He's anxious to complete his quest to destroy the Sword of Frost. If I don't hurry and consolidate my power here in Nighon, I'll never catch up with him.
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Victory is near, So I sent word ahead for some ships to be purchased and prepared for my arrival. Also, I've learned that Nighon's influence spreads even as far as Vori lands, so perhaps I'll be able to seize control of those Dungeons as well.

We'll see. But first, I must finish things here and strengthen my defences enough that no Nighon Overlord will be able to threaten my territory - at least not until I've stopped Gelu.
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2. The Land of the Vori

Scenario Description :

Tarnum crashes on the icy shore of Vori land, only to learn that the Vori Elves have joined Gelu. He must defeat the enemy towns. All of Tarnum's skills, spells, and experience will transfer to the next scenario. Heroes are limited to level 12.
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The bitter shores of the northern reaches did not greet Tarnum kindly. He made it ashore with only a small force, cut off from any support and surrounded by the stubborn Vori Elves. And to make matters worse, one of his own troops was plotting his death.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
I sailed far into the north to the frozen lands of the Vori, but I found them waiting for me. I attempted to reason with the Vori, even told them about the prophecy linking the Sword of Frost and Armageddon's Blade, but they wouldn't listen.

They consider Gelu - who is half-Vori - one of their own, and they too are smitten by his charisma. And perhaps they can never trust an Overlord.

The Vori attacked, sinking two of my three ships outright. The Nighon forces are unused to sea battle, so they didn't put up much of a fight. I managed to escape, barely, but my ship was so damaged that I was lucky to make it to shore.
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Ah, there you are, Master! We though maybe the cursed Elves took you!

A group of Infernal Troglodytes with a desire for greater glory wish to join you. Do you accept?
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As you sneak across the snowy landscape, you find a group of Dwarves and Vori Elves leading several Beholders. The Beholders are blindfolded and chained together, probably being led to their deaths, so you mount a rescue.

Beholders join Tarnum's army. (8 Beholders)
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I am told there is a Magi somewhere to the south who can give me a vision of my enemy, allowing me to watch the movement of the Vori troops.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Another attempt to reason with the Vori has failed.

I sent a messenger to the Vori who block me from following Gelu. I begged for their understanding, but nothing. Now I understand where Gelu got his blind stubbornness!
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Something hit me in the shoulder, knocking me from the saddle. Pain shot down my left arm. By the time I came to my knees, I realized there was an arrow through my body. An Elf ambush?

No. I looked closer at the barbed arrowhead protruding from my skin and realized no Elf forged it.

Turning slowly, I found a Medusa slithering slowly toward me with another arrow notched in her bow. She smiled wickedly, hissed. It was a power play. In typical Nighon fashion, the Medusa was testing my strength as the leader and when I failed she would replace me.

"You are Overlord no longer," the Medusa said. "I rule now!"

I tried to lift my mace to defend myself, but my arms were going numb. I should've known the Medusa would lace her arrows with poison. Even though I couldn't truly die, in the eyes of my troops I would be dead, and it was too late for me to raise another army.

Then a blast of magic struck the Medusa's bow, snapping it in half. She turned, only to be struck in the chest by three more brilliant beams. She collapsed, dead, and I turned toward my rescuers - Beholders.
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It has taken me some time to recover from the Medusa's poison. In fact, I think I did die - as far as I am capable of death. Thankfully, no one noticed. The Nighons aren't known for their medical skills. This morning, I dragged myself out of my tent and over to the three Beholders who rescued me.

Although Nighons only care about power and strength, sometimes that works to your advantage. Creatures such as these Beholders didn't save me from the Medusa because they thought I was a good leader. Nor were they motivated by compassion or loyalty. No, they were making a different kind of power play, and they expected me to repay them at some point.

"you're walking again - good," said one of the Beholders/

"I want to thank you all for helping me," I said. I had just the way to repay them too.

"I'm in need of some personal guards who can act as advisors as well," I said. "They will be the leaders of my army. Do you know anyone who might fit such a role?"

Of course, the Beholders recommended themselves.
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Everywhere I go now, I travel with three Beholders - Neez, Zarm, and Kilkik. They seem to ignore me when I go into one of my 'fits'. Perhaps they don't care if their leader sometimes declares war on a tree and orders half his army to attack it. Or maybe I'm not the first insane leader they've had?

But the benefit of always having them at my side is three extra eyes watching for ambushes from my own people. At least now, I can get some rest. The only people I have to worry about now are my own bodyguards.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Neez, the leader of my Beholder bodyguards, approached me during the march. When he talked, he kept his voice low and secretive.

"Do you know the Medusa we killed when we saved your life?"

"Of course! I have already repaid that debt."

"No, not that. Her hatchlings are plotting against us all. Soon, they will attack," said the Beholder.

"How many of them?" I asked.

"Ten. Not good odds."

"Are you sure?" I said.

"Positive. I have a spy among the Medusas."

"Then we'll have to do something about it, won't we?" I said, chuckling madly.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
The Medusa hatchling sisters were secretly brewing a batch of poison for their arrows when we attacked.

We caught them in a crossfire with Neez and Zarm on one side and Kilkik and me on the other. I drew back my bow, and using years of experience among the Elves, let my arrow fly. The Beholders followed upon my signal.

Four Medusas died in the first moment of the ambush. Another three went down before they could reach their weapons. The rest put up a good fight, placing two arrows in Zarm's eye before we brought them down as well.

Walking among the dead, I made sure the Beholders saw me smiling with satisfaction although on the inside I took no pleasure in killing my own troops. I couldn't wait to rid myself of this Overlord identity. Every action I take was for the good of the world, but I still feel like I am reverting to my old ways.

I‘m afraid that one day I will realize I enjoy being an Overlord.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ

3. A New Enemy

Scenario Description :

Tarnum must defeat the Vori Elves guarding the land bridge to the northern glaciers, but a new enemy has joined the search for the Sword of Frost. All of Tarnum's skills, spells, and experience will transfer to the next scenario along with his best Captain. All Heroes are limited to level 18.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Another set her eyes on the Sword of Frost, but neither did she want to destroy it or keep it from being found. Kija, the wife of the brutal Barbarian King Kilgor, came to possess this dangerous blade. More than ever, Tarnum had to succeed.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Gelu is still ahead of me, and the reports from my scouts say that he's fortified a town near the land bridge to the northern glaciers. It's only way to reach Gelu, so I'll need to take that town.

But my Harpy spies have spotted Barbarians in the area as well. What are they doing up here in the north? Ever since I heard the news, I've had a sinking feeling in the pit of my stomach.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
I was untested before, but now after I've placed a few victories under my belt the evil Dragons have agreed to join me here in the north. The Red Dragons complain endlessly about the cold - forcing me to build huge bonfires to keep them warm. It's costing me a lot of wood, but since Gelu is bound to have some of the Green and Gold Dragons fighting on his side, I'm going to need their power.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
The example I set for my people when I was the brutal Barbarian Tyrant has come to its final fruition today. A man named Kilgor now rules my people, and he's turned them into the blood thirstiest bunch of savages in all the land.

But still I had hope for my people. I sent some messengers to the nearby Barbarians asking them why they have come here, and if we can enter into an alliance together.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
A rugged warrior rode into camp today, refusing to surrender his axe to my guards. I saw him from a distance and recognized him as one of my people - a Barbarian - and ordered that he be brought to me.

"That is not wise, Overlord Tarnum," said the Beholder, Neez.

"Yes," added Kilkik, "he could be an assassin. Let us interrogate him."

"No, I will talk to him," I said.

Remembering that I am supposed to be insane, I looked to my right into thin air and said, "I told them, mother! I'll talk to the savage...yes, alone!"

Turning back to the Beholders, I said, "Take the Barbarian to my tent I will talk to him alone."

Later, the Barbarian was escorted before me. He appeared proud and strong, ready to die.

"Good day," I said.

"You lead this slime?"

"Yes, and what are you savages doing so far from home?" I asked.

"I represent my leader, Kija, third wife of King Kilgor of the Krewlod!" the Barbarian said.

"What does she have to say?"

"Only this, Nighon scum! She has come to this land seeking the Sword of Frost. She does not know why you have come here, but she warn you that if you get in her way she will string you up by your ankles. Do you understand?"

So, I was dealing with the third wife of Kilgor himself. I'm sure she wasn't looking for the Sword of Frost for herself, but for her husband. Again I had that sinking feeling in my stomach. This was exactly what the Ancestors were talking about. More than ever, I had to convince Gelu to stop looking for the Sword of Frost. Imagine what a madman like Kilgor could do if it fell in his hands.

"Do you understand?" the Barbarian messenger spat.

Just then, I saw a shadow drift across my tent - the familiar shape of one of my Beholder advisor. If I let this Barbarian talk to me in that way, the Beholders would sense a weakness. As much as I disliked it, I still need them and my troops.

So, I cleared the distance to the messenger in a single jump and broke his nose. While he was stunned, I took away the Barbarian's weapon and broke his arm with the blunt end of the axe. Then I threw the Barbarian outside the tent where everyone could see.

"Go tell that woman that I do what I wish! I'm not like Kilgor, cowering behind his females when something has to be done. I am a Nighon Overlord!"

Then I buried the axe in the ground between the man's legs and told him to flee before I strung him up by his ankles.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
The Barbarian woman Kija doesn't realize that I probably know Barbarians better than anyone. I knew my threats would be met with violence. Unfortunately, I didn't have any choice in the matter.

She declared war on me, and now I have two enemies here in the north - and I'd rather not kill either of them. I don't relish killing my own people, no matter how misled they are, and over the years I have lived with the Elves I have grown to love them as well.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
I've had to dip into my reserves of wood to keep the fires burning for the Dragons. Fighting battles in the north are never easy or cheap. (Wood -10)
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
The Beholders Neez and Kilkik meet briefly with me each night to keep me informed about our progress and discuss the next days' march. Neeze who seems to have ears in every faction of the camp, keeps me informed of any possible betrayals so I can squash them before they get out of hand. And Kilkik has taken charge of collecting intelligence on our enemies.

Today he informed me that he learned something interesting as he interrogated an Orc prisoner. I didn't ask about the interrogation or if the Orc survived. I already knew the answers to those questions.

"It seems that this Third Wife is trying to arrange for her sons to be named as Kilgor's heirs," said Kilkik.

"Yes, of course! If she gives Kilgor a weapon as powerful as this Sword of Frost, he'll certainly be grateful," I said.

"So, we've determined that alternate methods of dealing with her - such as bribery or extortion - will most likely fail. She has a higher goal in mind and will probably never surrender," said Neez.

Which meant the only way I was going to be rid of Kija was to kill her.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
During one of our strategy meetings, I turned to Kilkik and asked, "Have you learned yet where Gelu is going? Maybe we can beat him to it."

"No," said Kilkik.

"All the Elven prisoners we've interrogated have been ignorant of Gelu's ultimate plan. He's a wise leader, keeping that secret from his own people," said Neez.

"But I have a suggestion," said Kilkik.

"What?"

"So far, we have only captured underlings - the unimportant. We need to capture someone close to Gelu."

It was a good idea, but right now Gelu ignored me as long as he was well ahead of my army. If I kidnapped someone he cared for, it would probably anger the impetuous Elf.

Then again, maybe that's what I needed. I needed Gelu to be off guard.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ

4. A New Ally

Scenario :

Dragons when he realizes his enemy is much stronger than he first believed. Tarnum and his two best Captains will carry over to the next scenario along with all their experience, skills, and spells. All Heroes are limited to level 22.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Tarnum knew the Azure Dragons, strongest of the all the Dragon, would give him the edge he needed to defeat both Gelu's Elves and Kija's Bararians. Convincing the Azure Dragons to join him, however, would cost him dearly.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
My battles with Kija's Barbarians slowed me down enough that I've lost Gelu. We know he was heading north, but he is so far ahead of me now that I'm afraid I won't catch up to him in time.

I have to face the possibility that Gelu might beat me to the Sword of Frost. But would that be such a bad thing? Yes, the Ancestors told me that if The Sword of Frost and Armageddon's Blade should ever meet, it would bring about the destruction of the world. But can Gelu be foolish enough to allow that to happen?
But no matter how good his intentions, Gelu cannot stop the unpredictable. Kija's presence here in the north is evidence of that. What would happen if she were to obtain the Sword of Frost? Horror!

So, to strengthen my own forces I've decided to enlist the help of the Azure Dragons. Some of these pompous, but supremely powerful creatures live in the region. I need only to find them.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
You help a travelling merchant repair one of the wheels on his wagon, and in return he tells you that a Magi lives a short distance to the south. This Magi should be able to show you the Azure Valley.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
You see an old Wizard crouched over a table covered by countless scrolls. You wait for him to notice you before you speak.

"Those are blue-prints for a tower, are they not?" you say.

"Yes, yes they are. I'd like to build my very own Wizard's tower, but I just don't have the materials!"

"What kind of resources do you need?"

"Oh, let me see," the Wizard says, consulting one of his scrolls. "That would be 50 Wood, 50 Ore, and perhaps 3000 Gold to pay the labourers."

"I see. And what would you be willing to offer me if I could come up with those supplies for you?" you ask in your best business-like voice.

The Wizard seems to ponder the question for a moment, and then grins.

"I happen to know you're searching for some Azure Dragons, but before they join you, you're going to have to defeat some of them. Now, the only creature I can think of that will give it a challenge is the Crystal Dragon - and to make Crystal Dragons you'll need Crystals. I'll give you 60 Crystals in exchange for those supplies."
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
A Harpy scout returned to camp today with horrible news. Kija's Barbarians are in the north. Somehow, they circled around me and, once again, they block my path.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
My Beholder spy, Neez, has somehow learned that Kija left the Barbarians in the north to delay me long enough for her to catch up to Gelu. I've learned that it's best not to ask Neez how he gets his information. I'm sure it came at a the cost of several dead bodies.

"Try to learn where Kija and Gelu are headed," I ordered.

Then to Kilkik, I said, "We can't be wasting our time on these Barbarians!"

"Yest, I will begin looking for a weakness," Kilkik said.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Knowing that my resources are going to be slim up here in the northern wastes, I've arranged for the Dungeons I've left behind to step up production and ship everything they can here to me in the north. Every two weeks I should receive a huge shipment.

I just hope it will be enough. (Wood+3, Mercury+3, Ore+3, Sulfur+2, Crystal+5, Gem+2, Gold+15000)
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Kilkik entered my tent and immediately held out a large, red crystal shard in one of his ropey tentacles.

"What's this?" I asked.

"That is our enemy's strength and weakness, Overlord," Kilkik said.

"Explain."

"It seems that the Barbarian, Kija, is not a brainless savage. She has somehow gained the ability to manufacture Crystal Dragons. These powerful Dragons are stronger than anything we have at the moment, but it requires a lot of Crystal to build them. They will be forced to focus their entire production toward Gold and Crystal - which means if we can control all their Crystal we will keep them weak."

I pace back and forth, tossing the single crystal in my hand. I've faced Crystal Dragons before. They are capable of tearing an army to pieces. Now, I need the Azure Dragons more than ever!
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Some of my scouts have uncovered a huge cache of Gold and Mercury in the far northwest. Unfortunately, this treasure is guarded by a group of Green Dragons. I assume this stash belongs to Gelu, something he left behind for an emergency. Not only could I use those resources, but I also have to keep Gelu from getting them.
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A single Medusa approached between the watchful gaze of Neez and Kilkik. She prostrated herself before me. Ever since her kind tried to kill me, the Medusas have been getting fewer rations and a smaller share of the treasure. They've been trying to get back on my good side. And now, one of them practically begged to talk to me.

"What do you want?" I asked.

"Once again, Overlord, we apologize for the behaviour of some of our sisters and hope that you can forgive us. W have brought you some news. Many of my sisters risked their lives and died to bring you this information," the Medusa said.

I reached out and grabbed a handful of the Medusa's wiggling tendrils of snake hair.

"One more is going to die if she doesn't spit it out!" I shouted.

"The Azure Dragons, Overlord! We've found them!"

"Where?"

"Beyond a magic portal, one that glows with a teal light, but my sisters ran into one of those Dragons. All were killed, but myself," she said.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
"Not only will we have to battle the arrogant Azure Dragons before they will agree to join you," says Neez, who has been researching the creatures, "but they also require massive quantities of Gold and Mercury. You might want to consider saving for them now."

"I'll think about it," I said, and since it had been a while since I've had one of my 'fits', I tore the shirt off my back and threw it at the Beholder.

"It hurts!" I shouted, scratching at my skin.

I ran outside and jumped half-naked into the snow, rolling around in it as if I were on fire. By the time I finished, I had gathered quite a crowd. I turned on Neez.

"Find the one who cast that spell on me," I ordered.

"Uh, what spell, Overlord?"

"The one that set my shirt on fire, of course! Now, go!" I said and retired to my tent again.

Once I was in private, I chuckled to myself. The expression‎ on Neez's ugly face had been priceless. The Beholder would spend hours trying to figure out a way to handle my insane orders. In the end, he will come to me and lie, stating that he had found and killed the culprit.

My chuckle turns into a laugh when I think of my answer.

"What culprit? I don't know what you're talking about," I will say.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Neez reported today that although he hasn't able to track down anyone close enough to Gelu to know where the Elf was headed, he has learned much about my enemy's troops.

Apparently, Gelu confides only in two of his followers. Both are loyal Rangers who joined the Forest Guard around the same time as Gelu. The three are inseparable, but if Gelu's mission was suitably threatened one of them might attempt to stop us.

"One of Gelu's friends, a Dwarf named Ufretin, is prone to acts of bravery and sacrifice. I believe we could capture this man," Neez said.

"Well, first we'll have to engage Gelu's troops. Begin putting your plans in motion. Soon as we get the Azure Dragons on our side, that should pose enough of a threat for us to lure this Dwarf away," I said.

Inside, I cringed. I knew this Dwarf, Ufretin. He was a brave fighter and a good person. I'm not sure if I can allow Neez and Kilkik to torture the answers I need out of him.

Curse the Ancestors for this! I thought I was supposed to save lives - not destroy them!
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Neez presented his plan for the capture of the Dwarf, Ufretin, to me this morning and I accepted it. Gelu and the others will never realize what hit them.

And then my two Beholder advisor informed me that their interrogations of Barbarian prisoners have turned up little information. Kija is simple following Gelu as we are. She hopes to snatch the Sword of Frost from Gelu the moment he finds it.

Now, I only need to find out what Gelu knows of the Sword of Frost. Unfortunately, it looks like that information is going to cost the life of a good man.
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5. The Capture

Scenario Description :

Tarnum must capture Gelu's friend, Ufretin, so can learn where to find the Sword of Frost. Tarnum and his two best Captains will carry over to the next scenario with all their skills, spells and experience. All Heroes are limited to level 26.
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Tarnum was reluctant to capture one of Gelu's friends because he regretted the inevitable interrogation. How far was he willing to go to learn where the Sword of Frost was hidden? Could he resort to murder? And if he did, would the Ancestors ever forgive him?
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I pushed my troops hard and fast to catch up to Gelu. Those that couldn't keep up were left behind. It is the Nighon way. Unfortunately, I marched too far, too fast. Before I knew it, I was surrounded by the Elven troops.

I knew this plan was risky when I first heard it, but it would take a risk such as this to learn where Gelu expects to find the Sword of Frost. Just as Neez predicted, Ufretin remained behind. But Neez didn't foresee the Dwarf's ingenuity. Ufretin waited for my forces to catch up to him before he came out of hiding, attacking quickly.

The first ambush cost me dearly, nearly crippling my army. The he gave me an opportunity to surrender. That was his mistake. By backing off, Ufretin has given me an opportunity to dig in and rebuild my forces. Let him think I'm too weak to fight. Soon, his compassion will come back to bite him.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
A messenger from Ufretin came today demanding my surrender.

"We have given you more time than you deserve," the messenger said, "If you don't drop your weapons now, we will kill every last one of you!"

I nodded, and a moment later an arrow appeared in the messenger's arm. I stepped in front of the man, who looked up into my eyes knowing that he had made a terrible miscalculation.

"When you wake, go tell your boss he better make sure I'm dead next time, because I will never give up!"

Then I punched the messenger so hard I felt his jaw shatter beneath my knuckles.

It felt good. That's what frightened me.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
The old Knight living in this crumbling house is friendly enough. He offers you a small meal and good conversation, but his home provides little protection from the icy wind blowing outside.

Before you leave, you ask the man if you could help him in any way. His only request is for you to find the artefact he has been looking for all these years but has not been able to obtain.

"What artefact?" you ask.

"The Sword of Hellfire. It has eluded me for many years, and now I am too old to search for it. Before I die, I would like to find this evil blade so I can destroy it," the Knight says.

When you agree to help, he tells you that he doesn't expect you to do it for free. Nearby is a stash of 40 Mercury. If you bring him the Sword, he will trade it for the Mercury.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
The moment you bring the Sword of Hellfire into the old Knight's house, you immediately notice a difference. Some of the icicles hanging from the ceiling begin to melt.

"Are you sure you want to destroy this weapon?" you say as you show it to the old man. "It can keep you warm, at least."

"No. I have sworn to destroy it, and I will. If you will hand it to me, I will give you this map to the Mercury," says the Knight.

Do you give him the Sword now?
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"The Dwarf, Ufretin, commands his army from behind a gate in the south," my advisor, Kilkik, informed me this morning. "Unfortunately, we cannot pass through this gate without visiting the Green Keymaster's Tent first."

"And where do I find this Tent?" I asked. I pretended not to care as I ate my breakfast.

"Some of my spies have found it northwest of here, but the enemy has surrounded them. We'll have to hurry. They will protect the Tent as long as they can," Kilkik said.

I nodded, dismissing him with a wave of my hand.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Despite his bold behaviour in the past, Ufretin has been cautious so far. He refuses to face me in the open field despite numerous challenges. I even allowed Neez and Kilkik to display some of the tortured prisoners outside Ufretin's gate. Nothing.

So, Ufretin isn't stupid, and now he probably suspects that I up to something. Why else would I stay and fight when I could flee and continue my pursuit of Gelu?

None of that matters. Ufretin committed himself to this battle. He knows that I will come after him sooner or later, which only means that he will be well prepared for my arrival.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Neez and Kilkik brought a dozen Troglodytes before me today, accusing them of losing the 2100 Gold they were transporting from one of my mines.

"I need all the Gold I can get! How can you lose that much?" I shouted.

The Troglodytes couldn't answer, chossing instead to cower and plead for their lives. Neez, however, offered a possible scenario.

"They probably went to sleep and didn't post a guard. Elves aren't above stealing when they need to. Who else would take the Gold but leave these scum alive and well?" Neez said.

"Sleeping" I slapped the nearest Troglodyte hard enough to knock it unconscious.

What was I going to do? Showing mercy with these workers would make me appear weak. Mistakes of this calibre were always punished in the same way. Death.

But I couldn't execute them.

"You are the luckiest scum I have ever met!" I said.

Neez squinted at me curiously, and said, "Lucky? How are they lucky?"

I threw my weapon on the ground.

"Because I can't kill them today, and I really want to! But I had a dream last night that told me I would die in battle with an Elven arrow through my neck if I killed any of my own troops today," I explained.

I glared at the Neez and then at the Troglodytes with my eyes as wide as possible, hoping that they would realize this was just one of my moments of insanity. My Beholder advisor, however, just scowled at me. He was not pleased. I wasn't going to get away with this one.

"But I have another idea," I said quickly. I marched in front of the hapless Troglodytes and to them I said, "I have a mission for you, men! I want you to march on the Rampart of my enemy, the Dwarf Ufretin. You will bring him back to me, alive. Just to be sure follow your orders, my advisor, Neez will accompany you."

The Troglodytes, who a moment ago though they were safe, now appeared crestfallen. How could such a small number conquer so many Elves and Dwarves? It was a suicide mission.

"But Overlord..." Neez said. He realized that his own life would be in danger as well.

"Oh, don't you worry, Neez! I'm not asking you to attack the Rampart - just to watch over these Troglodytes until they have captured the Dwarf or died trying. Whichever comes first? Do as I order, because tomorrow I am no longer restricted from slaying my own troops!"

At least this way, the poor Troglodytes had a chance - even if it was a miniscule one. Unfortunately, something had to be done about Neez. I could tell by his look that I had just earned another enemy. (Gold -2100)
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Kilkik floated into my tent this morning with a menacing look on his face. I knew the Beholder wouldn't be foolish enough to attack me one-on-one, but there was something in his dark eye that told me Kilkik no longer felt any loyalty toward me.

So, I stood and called, "I want to introduce you to someone, Kilkik. Trongar!"

A secret slit in the back of my tent parted and a massive, black Minotaur King stepped inside. He had to bow his great head to avoid tearing the ceiling of my tent.

"Kilkik, meet Trongar, my new bodyguard. I hired him last night," I said.

Kilkik studied the Minotaur for a long time, realizing now that I was twice as powerful as before.

"So, why have you come here, Kilkik?" I asked.

"To report some bad news," Kilkik said. "The Troglodytes you sent to capture Ufretin were killed before they even reached his Rampart. An Elven ambush! Unfortunately, our loyal companion, Neez, was slaughtered as well!"

"Oh, I'm sorry to hear that! I really am," I said. "You may go now. Leave me to my grief."

Once I was alone with Trongar, I tossed him a heavy bag of Gold.

"That one's dangerous," Trongar said.

"Yes, I know, but he just lost his strongest ally. It will take him a while to regain his power," I said.

Just before Trongar left the tent, I said, "Good work, by the way. I assume the Medusas used Elven arrows to make it look like our enemy did it."

"Yes. They were all too willing to get back on your good graces - and to get at least partial revenge for the deaths of their sisters," Trongar said.

I smiled, but inside my guts were twisting with shame. This kind of treachery was all too easy for me.
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6. Tunnels of Ice

Scenario Description :

Tarnum must battle his way through the tunnels inside a giant glacier if he is ever going to catch up to Gelu. Tarnum and his two best Captains will carry over to the next scenario along with all their skills, spells, and experience. All Heroes are limited to level 30.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
When Ufretin looked at him, all he saw was a man who betrayed the Elves and joined their mortal enemy. But Tarnum needed his prisoner to trust him and tell him the location of the Sword of Frost. The alternative - forcing him to talk - was too horrible for Tarnum to consider.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Gelu's forces disappeared into the tunnels beneath a giant glacier, so we followed. Even though these tunnels are bitter cold, this is the type of environment my Nighon troops are used to fighting in. Unfortunately, there is evidence that Kija and her Barbarians have been in the area as well.

I wonder which one I will discover first.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
I visited my prisoner, Ufretin, for the first time today. I have made the Dwarf wait for nearly a month to weaken his resolve and soften his anger. Along with low and sporadic rations and exposure to the cold, Ufretin should be ripe for interrogation.

When I approached Ufretin's iron cage, I found the Dwarf half-naked, bruised, and thin, but he still managed to pull himself proudly to his feet.

"Make it easy on yourself and answer my questions," I said.

"Why don't you take off that helm and show me your real face? Or are you a coward?" Ufretin responded.

I had hoped to wear my helm at all times. If I showed him my face, I took a chance of Ufretin recognizing me as the same Tarnum who lived and fought alongside the Elves of AvLee for all those years. But I figured I owed Ufretin that much at least.

I took off my helm, and despite the black designs painted on my face he recognized me.

"Tarnum Dragonfriend!"

That was my Elven name.

"Yes."

"It can't be!" Ufretin said.

"It can, and it is," I said. I looked around to make sure no one was within earshot. I shudder to think what would happen if my Nighon troops learned that I used to fight for AvLee.

"I am Tarnum, so believe me when I say I don't wish to harm you. I beg for your help, Ufretin. Maybe I can avoid more deaths!"

Ufretin was quiet for a long time. I could tell by his expression‎ that I was one of the last people he would've ever expected behind that helm. Finally, he looked up at me, his eyes burning with hatred.

"I have no words for you, traitor!"
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
The commander of the Medusas, Zallisa, approached me today with news I had hoped not to hear.

"Those barbarians are everywhere in these ice tunnels!" Zallisa said.

Her Medusa scout have been exploring the tunnels and in every occasion they spotted Barbarian troops. So, Kija found another way in. I've been wondering where she went. Now, at least, I know where she is.

"Good work," I said.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
"if he won't talk, let me use a more aggressive means of questioning," Kilkik suggested.

I mistakenly mentioned my frustration over my daily meetings with Ufretin in front of the Beholder. For almost a week now, I've been pleading with my prisoner but the Dwarf refuses to speak. I'm afraid if I don't learn the location of the Sword of Frost soon, I will never have the chance to stop Gelu.

"No torture!" I said. "At least, not yet."

"I don't understand," Kilkik said.

He had a right to be confused. I have allowed torture before, but only because I wasn't part of it. I didn't know the people. I didn't have to listen to their screams. But with Ufretin, a bold hero who deserves better, I couldn't bring myself to allow it.

And my reluctance was causing a stir among the troops. Although I have no proof, I'm certain Kilkik is at least partially behind the increasing disobedience of my army. Still, my success depends entirely on Ufretin - and he thinks I am his enemy.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
My Minotaur bodyguard escorted the Queen of the Medusas, Zallisa, into my tent.

"What have you learned?" I asked her.

"My scouts have found three Strongholds blocking our way. There is another danger as well. All these tunnels intersect, which will give the enemy the opportunity to sneak up behind our front line troops," Zallisa said.

"What do you think, Trongar?" I asked the Minotaur.

Shrugging, the big bodyguard said, "Hit them hard enough, and those tunnels won't matter."

"Right. If we take the Strongholds, we win the battle," I said. But to be safe, maybe I should keep some troops behind to guard the small area I've conquered.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
I had been a while since I had talked to Ufretin, so when I saw the pale Dwarf sprawled in the bottom of his cage I was shocked. He appeared to be near death already. Lack of food, exercise, and proper clothing has taken its toll. And here I had been trying to avoid torturing him.

I nudged him with my gauntleted fist, waking him.

"You fight for the wrong side, Ufretin. I know Gelu is your friend, but he's confused. He's being a fool looking for this Sword of Frost!" I said.

"He only wants to destroy it - not use it! Not like you!"

"I don't want to use it! I don't even want it to be found at all!"

But Ufretin didn't believe me. In his eyes, I was a traitor. I was one of the Nighons now. How could I convince him otherwise? Was it possible to earn back his trust?
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
"Do you honestly believe a little extra food and a warm cloak is going to get me to talk?" Ufretin asked as I approached.

Thanks to the extra rations I had ordered, he looked a lot healthier since I last saw him.

"No," I said. "I just didn't want you to die."

"Then why are you here? I'm not going to tell you anything."

"I came to explain myself - to really explain myself." I said.

It has come to this. I could think of no other reason why Ufretin would ever speak to me, short of torture, and I wasn't going to resort to that. Already, I feel I have allowed myself to be dragged too far down by my troops.

"What is that supposed to mean?" Ufretin asked.

I looked around to make sure no one was watching. Then slowly, I pulled my shirt apart to reveal my naked chest.

"I am immortal, Ufretin. I am not just long-live like the Elves and Dragons. I am immortal - I can't die!"

"You're a fool!"

"I was a fool once, a cruel one, and I've been paying for my brutality ever since. I will probably pay for it until the end of time. That's why I am here! That's why I must stop Gelu! Gelu is about to destroy the entire world, and no matter what disgusting things I have to do I will not let him do it!"

Before Ufretin could respond, I plunged my unseen dagger deep into my own heart.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
I gave Ufretin a full day to absorb what he had seen before I visited him.

"How do you feel today?" I asked.

"Let me see your chest," he said.

I opened my shirt. There wasn't even a scar where I had stabbed myself.

"You just stood back up," the Dwarf said. "I watched it go in, I saw the blood myself, and then you just stood back up. How?"

"Like I said, I am immortal."

"How? Why?" Ufretin asked. I no longer saw hatred in this man's eyes, but fear.

Over the next hour, I told him a shortened version of my story. I tried to explain my actions by describing the cruelty of the Wizard-Kings who enslaved my people, but when I described the hundreds of villages I burned to the ground and the thousands of people I slaughtered my excuse seemed weak. Finally, I told him how I died, and how the Ancestors refused to allow me to enter Paradise.

"I do what they ask - I am their servant until I can redeem myself. But they have never asked me to fight against my friends before. I couldn't convince anyone else to fight Gelu!"

"I don't know, Tarnum," Ufretin said. "This is a lot to take in - a lot to believe at once."

"Search your heart, and ask yourself why I haven't allowed anyone to torture you. Maybe then you'll see I am telling you the truth," I said.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
My army was at the point of mutiny, and all over my treatment of the prisoner, Ufretin. I knew that Kilkik was instigating the commotion, but there wasn't much I could do about it. I had to remove the cause of my problem. I had to get rid of the Dwarf.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Most of the camp was asleep when a single figure hovered over the ice toward the black iron cage. The prisoner sleeping inside the cage didn't stir even when a long tentacle reached out and opened the lock. The cage door swung open, and still the bundle of furs didn't budge.

"Now, Dwarf, you die!" Kilkik said.

Suddenly, one of the furs flew up and over the Beholder's head, blinding him temporarily. Beneath them, Zallisa, the Medusa Queen, darted out with the quickness of a snake and plunged a crude dagger forged from a bone deep into Kilkik's body.

"No! You die, Beholder!" Zallisa said. She removed the dagger, stabbed him again. "This is for my sisters!"
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Meanwhile, in one of the distant tunnels, Ufretin and I dismounted from my horse. I handed the Dwarf an axe and a bundle of food.

"That should be enough to get you back to your friends," I said.

"You could've released me up above on the surface. At least I wouldn't be able to warn Gelu," Ufretin said.

"I'm hoping that you will be able to convince Gelu to stop."

"What makes you think that I even want to?"

"Nothing. But I'm not going to torture the answers I want out of you, and I can't hold you. What you do now is up to you," I said.

I climbed back onto my horse.

"What happens if we meet again?" Ufretin asked.

"Then we'll probably still be enemies," I said.

I prepared to leave, but before I could get out of earshot, Ufretin stopped me.

"The City of Volee - that's where the Sword of Frost is. Gelu is looking for some ancient, lost city of the Vori Elves," Ufrtin explained.

"Thanks," I said.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ

7. The Barbarian's Wife

Scenario Description :

Tarnum must find the Ring of Infinite Gems to Open the passage to the City of Volee. Unfortunately, the Barbarian woman, Kija, stands in his way. Tarnum and his two best Captains will carry over to the next scenario with all their skills, spells, and experience. Heros are limited to level 32.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Gelu was too close to the Sword of Frost for Tarnum to be lenient. Kija, was still out there she would be a threat, so he decided to eliminate one of the palyers
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
The remainder of the Barbarian forces retreated here deep into the tunnels in the glaciers. Or did Kija lead them here?

My own research has turned up some interesting information about the City of Volee where the Sword of Frost is supposed to be hidden. Volee was the first city of the Vori Elves, but it disappeared more than a thousand years ago shortly after the Sword of Frost was created.

Some speculate that the Sword of Frost itself is responsible for the creation of the glaciers that buried the ancient city. If this weapon is capable of such power, I'm not surprised that it has the power to destroy the world as well.

But first, I must deal with Kija once and for all. The wife of the Barbarian King has nowhere to go.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
The elaborately dressed sorcerer who lives in this hovel appears out of place. Even the pompous way he speaks convinces you that he wouldn't be buried in such a dump.

"I need your help, bold adventurer," says the sorcerer. "It seems I some Red Dragons have stolen a book that is quite valuable to me. If you should return the Tome of Fire Magic to me intact and unblemished, I will give you 48,000 Gold. A hefty price, eh?"

"It seems more than enough," you say.

"Yes, I know, but as I said, I MUST have this book. And soon! Ride hard and ride fast, my friend."
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
"I do apologize, but under ordinary circumstances I wouldn't associate with your kind. I have no interest in socializing with you. I am only interested in my book!"
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
The arrogant sorcerer studies the Tome of Fire Magic, placing a white glove on his hand before he turns each page slowly and deliberately.

"Oh, my! A smudge!"

"It was in the possession of Red Dragons," you say. "You can't expect it to be perfect."

"I can, and I do! But I shall you the 40,000 Gold anyway," the sorcerer says.

"Uh, it was 48,000 Gold," you remind him.

"Yes. You know you are practically stealing it from me, don't you? Take your blood money and leave immediately!"
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Zallisa, the Medusa Queen, warned me today that there are too many Monoliths and tunnels in this part of the glacier. The enemy will be able to sneak up on me quickly and easily if I don't defend myself well.
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I have learned there is a Wizard hiding in an old Seer's Hut to the south who is offering a large reward to anyone who can retrieve something for him. I must hurry. I certainly don't want my enemy to claim that Gold.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
It cost a little Gold, but today I paid some Barbarian deserters to tell me all that they know about Kija and her troops.

For the wife of Kilgor, King of the Barbarians, she's a powerful warrior. She may not be insane like her husband, but she is driven by her ambition and her taste for cruelty. Kija has built a Stronghold one of the caverns below, fortifying it well. And she knows I'm coming.

More importantly, she's trying to find the Ring of Infinite Gems the only object that will open the passage to the City of Volee - before I get there. All she really wants is the Sword of Frost and she will do anything to get it - even if it costs the lives of all her troops. (Gold -3118)
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
With Neez and Kilkik dead, I rest a little easier these days. I can trust my Minotaur bodyguard's greed. His desire for wealth is predictable. And Zallisa and her Medusas still feel grateful to be on my good side once again. Now, if I can just hold things together for a little while longer.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Today, a Goblin messenger arrived at the camp to present an offer from Kija, Third Wife of Kilgor.

"The Queen wants our two great forces to join against the nasty Elves," the Goblin said. "Why do we fight when we could be allies? Queen Kija even makes you a most generous offer!"

"I'll be the judge of that," I said. "What does she want?"

"She asks only for the Sword of Frost. You may keep all the loot and even this frozen northern land. All will be yours!"

I looked around at my troops. They seemed ready to stop fighting, and this alliance seemed practical to them.

"I refuse!" I said.

"What?" said the Goblin.

"If Kija is willing to give up everything in exchange for this Sword of Frost, then it must be a powerful weapon indeed - perhaps one capable of conquering the entire world! No, I refuse her offer, but go back to Kija and tell her I will give her the same option. She can keep this icy wasteland, but I get the Sword of Frost."

I sent the Goblin away and stared into the dark, suspicious eyes of my own bodyguard.

"Why did you do that? That's more wealth that I can imagine," Trongar said.

"Because with the Sword of Frost I will be able to take it all for myself anyways. That's what Kija plans. She give everything away to me now, but what happens when her husband comes marching north? I'll tell you. He takes it all back - and then we have nothing!"
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
There was only one solution as far as Kija was concerned. I had to defeat her army. I had to squash her completely or she will never give up her quest for the Sword of Frost.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
"I am Tarnum," you say.

You hear the clicking of several locks being thrown open, and then a stocky figure steps out into the light.

It's the Dwarf, Ufretin!

"I never expected to see you again!" you say.

"Believe me, I never expected to be here," Ufretin says.

"What happended?"

"By the time I found my way back to Gelu, your words finally sunk in. I knew you had to be right - or else why would you do what you're doing? I tried to convince Gelu to turn back, but he wouldn't listen. He calls you a traitor, and me one too for listening to you. He's out of control!"

"I know. He believes he's right, and he's too stubborn to realize that he's endangering the entire world," you say.

"Well, he closed the passage to the City of Volee behind him and kept the only key - the Ring of Infinite Gems. I stole it from him and I was bringing it to you when Kija and her Barbarians found me. Luckily, I was able to lock myself within this magical tree," Ufretin says.

The Dwarf removes the Ring and stares sadly at the sparkling piece of jewellery.

"I hope I did the right thing," Ufretin says.

"I realize how hard it must've been for you to betray your friend, but believe me, Ufretin, it's for the best!"

"Just stop him Tarnum Dragonfriend. Stop Gelu before he ruins his own name and is forever known as the Elf who nearly destroyed the world with his pride."

Ufretin offers you the Ring of Infinite Gems. Do you take it now?
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ

8. The Protectors of the Sword

Scenario Description :

Tarnum must conquer the City of Volee before Gelu to keep the Sword of Frost from being discovered. All Heroes are limited to level 36.
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Gelu still refused to see that just uncovering the Sword of Frost could bring the prophecy to life, so Tarnum had no choice but to beat him to the forgotten City of Volee where the ancient weapon had been lost.
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For several days, Gelu and I have been passing messages back and forth through aerial messengers. I have attempted to convince him to give up this search for the Sword of Frost, but Gelu holds stubbornly to the belief that it is his fate to destroy the ancient artefact - thus, assuring the safety of the world forever.

Fool!

Today, I received Gelu's last letter.

"Tarnum,

I have agreed to hold my advance on the City of Volee while we settled this matter, but I believe we have come to an impasse. My people called you Dragonfriend once, so I beg you to stay out of my way if you refuse to join me. I will not stop until I have destroyed the Sword of Frost. I will also not hesitate to kill you and the evil creatures you associate with these days.

Ride from this place so I will not be forced to kill you. You know that I have never failed in anything I have set out to do - whether that is killing an evil Overlord or destroying a dangerous artefact. I will not stop.

Gelu of AvLee and the Forest Guard"

So that was it. All my attempts to avoid this conflict have been foiled. I regret the day that I will meet Gelu in combat, but first I must capture the Sword of Frost.
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There is a Magi living nearby who has offered to give me a vision of the City of Volee and other key areas in this region if only I can find him.
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The entrances into the lush, green lands around the City of Volee are blocked by impenetrable gates. The only way to pass through them is to speak the passwords known only by the Keymasters.

During their many trips to deliver messages to Gelu's forces, my Harpies spotted a Blue Keymaster's Tent near Gelu's Town. Unfortunately, that's the only Keymaster's Tent that has been spotted by my scouts.

It looks like I'm going to have to face Gelu after all. I can't let him get to Volee before me. That would mean disaster.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
The Snow suddenly explodes all around you as a band of Gelu's Sharpshooters spring from hiding and attack!
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"What is it?" I ask my Minotaur bodyguard, Trongar.

He usually rides next to me at the front of the line, but I've noticed in the last few minutes that he has distanced himself by falling back slightly.

"I was trying to get a good look at the trees over there," Trongar says pointing. "I think I saw something."

"That's too far away, even for an Elven archer," I say.

"Yeah, but could be a spy. You know these Elves. They love to ambush you whenever they get the chance," Trongar says.

I know the Elven better than anyone, and the Minotaur was right. I should've been paying more attention. Attack-and-run tactics are taught to ever member of the Forest Guard, and Gelu is one of the best to have ever come out of AvLee.
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Unfortunately, the Vori Elves who live in the City of Volee will not respond to my numerous requests for a meeting. They have attacked every one of my messengers without asking a single question. The only good news is reports that they treat Gelu's messengers in the same way.

Apparently, Volee sees both of us as an enemy.
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A strange Harpy flew into camp today and was almost torn to pieces by my Harpy troops.

"Wait!" I shouted, stepping in to protect the exhausted Harpy.

You give the creature some water and let it catch its breath before you order it to explain why it has come here.

"My sisters want to help you," she said. "These Elves have been hunting us for centuries. Finally, someone has come to help."

"Where are your sisters?"

"That's just it. We captured the tower protecting the White Keymaster's Tent! Now, your enemy can't reach Volee, thanks to us!" she said.

This was great news! I still had to risk battle with Gelu to reach the Blue Keymaster's Tent, but I no longer had to worry about Gelu getting the Sword of Frost first.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
A messenger arrived this morning to inform me that the Barbarian King's wife, Kija, escaped from her Dungeon prison. She's alone. Her army is either dead or disbanded. It doesn't really matter if she got away. Kija will probably make her way home to her husband and lick her wounds. Even if she convinces Kilgor himself to search for the Sword of Frost, it will be too late.

Either I will have the Sword, or Gelu will have destroyed the world. Then it won't matter.
ꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏꠏ
Last night before I went to sleep, I begged for the Ancestors to speak to me. They don't usually respond, but this time they appeared.

"I thank you for talking to me," I said.

"We sensed you needed us," one of them said.

"I should reach Volee soon, but you never told me what to do with the Sword of Frost. Certainly, I can't keep it! So, do I destroy it?" I asked.

"No. The Sword of Frost can't be destroyed except by Armageddon's Blade. We fear Gelu will realize this and mistakenly bring the two blades together. That's why you must retrieve the Sword of Frost."

"And then what?"

"Bring it to us. We will cast it into a place where it will never be found," the Ancestors answered.

Before the Ancestors vanished, I summoned the courage to say something that has been bothering me for months.

"I am sorry," I said.

"For what?"

I lowered my head in shame and said, "For the things I have done while searching for the Sword of Frost. I thought they were necessary."

"And we agree. Tarnum, doing what is best for all - even if that deed is disgusting to you - that is true honour! We cannot fault you for that," the Ancestors said.

"It still feels wrong," I insisted.

"As it should."

The Ancestors disappeared.
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Tarnum's hard-fought victory over the City of Volee was for naught. When he reached the resting place of the Sword of Frost he found that someone had already chipped it from its icy sheath. Among the broken ice was a discarded Barbarian Axe. Tarnum closed his fist around its hilt and screamed the name of the thief.
"Kija!"
Why didn't he kill her when he held her captive? Then he prayed, "Ancestors, please don't let my compassion destroy the world!"
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- End -

* 나도 참... 타이핑 연습 한 번 열심히 했군. 어디서 복사해온게 아니라 직접 친거니까 퍼갈 땐 나름의 예의를... (하긴 나도 3do 허락받고 타이프한 건 아니지만서두..)

[홍승규]

결국 이렇게 타르넘이라는 녀석이 겔루랑 다투는 동안 킬고르의 세번째 부인 키자가 소드 오브 프로스트를 훔쳐달아나서 킬고르 손에 전해지고, 뭐 그렇게 해서 겔루랑 킬고르가 싸우다 응보의 날이 도래해버린 게지.

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아악~! 크로니클즈에서 지겹게 보던 추남영웅 '타넘'이 또 나오네...

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허헐 제 친구와 성함이 같으시네요 --; 아 그런데 어제 쉐도우 캠페인 하는도중에 선술집에서 킬고르가 떴다는... 음냐리