Therion rose early, and noticed the change in Vengar...he was 
impressed by the restrained power of Vengar's emotions.  The thought 
aura was inescapable of someone of Therion's sensitivity, and he greeted 
Vengar as soon as he saw him.
     He continued, "Vengar, I believe that you wanted a look at the 
castle's defenses...Lord Carnarvon was kind enough to arrange for the 
Captain of Archers to show you anything you wish to see."
     "Excellent!" answered Vengar.  "I shall endeavor to make use of the 
Lord's open hospitality."
     Therion continued. "Unfortunately, it will take a while before the 
preparations for our journey are complete.  My horse is being checked to 
make sure that he is properly shod, and supplies are being packed for 
us...we will be traveling 150 miles to reach Chadwick as soon as 
possible."
     After a brief pause, Vengar answered, "Then this shall give me an 
opportunity to explore the fortifications of the castle without causing 
any unnecessary delays."
     "Vengar, I know you prefer to walk, but if I press my horse to his 
limits I can travel 25 miles in a day...a distance that may be difficult 
on foot.  Lord Carnarvon would supply you a horse, if you would like."  
Therion waited for Vengar's answer.
     Vengar thought for a moment, contemplating the benefits of the 
speedier horse-borne travel versus the disadvantage of losing any 
advance warning of an ambush.  Then he answered the mage with, "I think 
that urgency is of the utmost in our circumstance.  I shall accept Lord 
Carnarvon's offer of a steed."
     Afterwards, Vengar located the Captain of Archers and set up a time 
for the tour.  The Captain was at first suspicious, not liking to show 
the castle's defenses to a stranger, especially in these times, but the 
Lord had given Vengar leave and the Captain agreed reluctantly.  The 
time was set for the next morning, and Vengar was at the meeting point 
promptly.  Vengar was very interested, and complimented the Captain on 
the many ingenious defenses he had devised, most effective he thought 
were the many zones of crossed archery fire.  Vengar's ability to 
recognize the function and ingenuity of the castle's defenses impressed 
the Captain, and his hard stance on Vengar lightened slightly.  By the 
end of the tour, both Vengar and the Captain had a cordial and 
respectful friendship between them.
     After breakfast with Lord Carnarvon, and Vengar's tour of the 
castle defenses, the two bid the Baron and Alicia good bye and departed 
at noon with their supplies.  They made good time on the road northwest 
to Chadwick.  Vengar had not seen Therion so focused since their first 
meeting...there was an unusual seriousness about him.  Unusual as well 
was the dearth of traffic on the normally well-traveled road...
     Vengar did not take a characteristic lead position, but instead 
rode abreast of Therion.  He had been impressed by the magician's 
performance the night of the raid, and he felt that splitting the 
already diminished group (could it still be called a group?) seemed 
unwise.  Besides, perhaps Therion would be able to read the malicious 
intent of any encountered adversaries just as easily as Vengar could 
read the physical signs.  All the same, the emptiness of such a large 
and obviously normally well-traveled road made Vengar uneasy, and he 
kept his bow at the ready.
     As the day wore on, the two talked but little, trying to move 
quickly toward Chadwick.  Therion grumbled that mind magic was sorely 
lacking in the ability to teleport and such other flashy spells, and he 
seemed to pause several times to strengthen the horses during the 
journey.
      Twilight came upon them, and as the darkness grew, they spotted a 
small Inn ahead.  Entering, they saw yeoman farmers sitting about...and 
the inhabitants of the inn saw them.  Vengar felt a collective thought 
(the first time this had happened to him) that struck nearly as hard as 
a physical blow...the inhabitants of this inn hated Therion, for he was 
dressed as a noble, and behaved as such!  As Therion looked about at the 
sullen group, and the innkeeper asked, "What do YOU want, yer 
lordship?", Therion lifted his rod with the crystal top, and Vengar felt 
a wave of power....
      At that point, the crowd started laughing and joking, and the 
innkeeper welcomed Therion heartily.  After a pleasant meal, the two 
were given the Inn's only private room.  Therion secured the door, 
carefully propping a chair to hold it shut, then lay down to sleep...
     Vengar made similar preparations, laying his bow at his feet on the 
bed and propping his sheathed sword against the side of the bed.  He 
hung his quiver from one of the posts on the headboard, at which point 
his preparations were complete.  Then he, too, lay down for a night of 
rest.  For years he had been training his body to make the most use out 
of little sleep, sometimes going for days without it, and the effect of 
this was a shortened sleep time.  Vengar awoke well before Therion, and 
busied himself guarding the door and listening at the various morning 
sounds and deducing the actions associated with them while the mindmage 
slept.  When he finally awoke, the two prepared for their next day's 
journey.
     The next morning, the innkeeper was less friendly than the night 
before, but still cordial.  After a quick breakfast, Therion paid their 
bill and the two were off again.  Therion seemed very relieved that the 
horses were in excellent condition, and confided to Vengar, "I fear that 
matters in this area are not as pleasant as they might be.  I am going 
to confide something to you... Lord Carnarvon told me that a peasant 
revolt has occurred, and that a minor knight under him miscalculated the 
situation and massacared quite a number of people, while losing many 
soldiers.  As you can guess, this has created resentment...These 
problems have not spread to the Barony of Chadwick, of that I'm quite 
certain, but it will be days before we get there.  In the meantime, we 
must be cautious...."
     "I see," said the fighter, and, when not mounted, began to travel 
with his hand resting on the top of the pommel of his sword.  Just in 
case.
     And so, as the day wore on, the two continued their hurried 
journey...
     The second day went much as the first had, with little conversation 
and hurried travel.  Meals were hastily consumed in whatever shelter was 
present when the pangs of hunger forced a temporary pause.  Vengar took 
the opportunity of the few stops that they made to inspect the 
surroundings for any clues of their intended targets, or of any other 
passers-by who might wish the travelers harm, while Therion busied 
himself strengthening himself and the steeds.  The pace was difficult 
even on Vengar, and he was much younger than the mindmage.  He was 
impressed at the magician's stamina, but reflected that his own 
fortitude was comperable when dealing with matters of great personal 
importance.
     Only very occasionally did the pair come across any other 
travelers, despite this being a major road between Chadwick and 
Fleivance.  And even these few were not the typical denizens normally 
expected...mostly they, too, were hurrying towards whatever destination 
lay at the end of their paths, and they were entirely disinterested in 
Therion and Vengar, even when hailed.  The few others were minor 
strongmen who were more interested in bullying and highway piracy than 
actually getting anywhere.  Some were with henchmen, others were alone, 
but all were armed and all were hostile.  Fortunately, none of the 
belligerents were very well trained in mind magic, and Therion had 
little trouble dissuading them from molesting the two.
     This continued for the next several days with little deviation.  
Mostly they were able to spend the night under the shelter of a small 
inn, but once or twice they slept under the stars.  After but a few days 
they were in the border area between Chadwick and Fleivance, and Therion 
expected a marked improvement in the reaction of the local populace, not 
to mention the visibility of the same.  However, hour after hour they 
approached Chadwick and no noticeable change in the disposition that 
lingered over the countryside manifested iteself.  Therion was worried, 
and Vengar suggested that Gurlith was already in the area, and that they 
should heighten their senses and their pace.  Therion reluctantly 
agreed, surrendering to the thought that all was not right in Chadwick.
     The fourth night out from Fleivance was spent under a cloudy sky 
that blocked the stars and the moon from illuminating the land.  Vengar 
was pleased, as this would hide the pair as the slept from any 
adversaries, though he did not expect any.  They slept well, until 
sometime considerably before sunrise Vengar snapped to a sitting 
position and strained his ears to hear what he thought had awakened him.  
He heard nothing, and looked over at Therion.  He was still asleep, and 
Vengar didn't see any ghostly images of the mage, so the fighter relaxed 
slightly.  Vengar sat upright for several more minutes trying to hear 
what could be heard, but the weather was not cooperating...the clouds 
were absorbing most sounds and a light wind was causing the grasses and 
leaves to rustle, masking what the clouds didn't consume.  After several 
minutes of heightened alertness, Vengar finally laid back down to catch 
a little extra sleep before the next day's journey.
     The next day started just as the several before had, but when 
Vengar mounted his horse he saw a pillar of dark smoke rising into the 
sky in the direction they were to travel.  He pointed this out to 
Therion, and the mindmage looked long at the smoke.  This obvious sign 
of distress and destruction weighed heavily upon Therion, and he said 
nothing as he mounted his horse in turn. Vengar readied his bow and lay 
three arrows between the knuckles of his left hand, ready at a moment to 
draw the string and send them into action.  They continued quickly, but 
as they approached the column (the source of which was hidden behind a 
small copse of trees and a bend in the road), they began to move more 
cautiously.
     Just out of sight of the fire, Vengar halted his horse and asked 
Therion to wait as he investigated.  He dismounted, and moved into the 
underbrush at the edge of the trees.  Then, Vengar began to slowly 
approach the fire, moving silently where he could, and only when there 
was a rustling breeze to mask his sound when he couldn't.  After several 
careful minutes, he could see through the trees at the edge of the bend 
in the road a cottage, almost completely burned to the ground but still 
ablaze.  As Vengar approached, he could see the burned out remains of 
several hay wagons, and several common household items strewn about 
outside of the house.  Barrels were scattered and in many cases 
shattered as well, benches and tables lay cast about and tipped, few 
laying properly on their feet, and clothes and linens dotted the scene, 
caught in crooks and crevices where the breeze had blown them.  There 
was, however, no sign of life.
     Vengar sat concealed in the underbrush for several more minutes, 
observing the scene to make sure it was safe to venture out.  The 
crackling of the flames and the smell of the burning hay, wood, and 
other items were all that he could discern.  The heat of the fire began 
to scorch his face, and the smoke began to irritate his eyes when he 
finally decided it was safe to venture out for a closer look.
     Vengar emerged from the underbrush very cautiously, expecting that 
any attack that would occur would occur just as he cam into view.  He 
held the bowstring on his bow halfway back, and moved the bow with his 
gaze in order to shoot anything he saw should he see an enemy.  But 
there was none to be seen, and no attack came, and Vengar relaxed the 
bowstring.  Then he quickly replaced the arrows into his quiver, flipped 
the bow back over his shoulder, and drew his sword.  "This would likely 
be an up-close-and-personal fight, if one were to break out," he thought 
to himself.
     Closer to the center of the area of destruction another smell 
caught his attention.  This was not the odor of burning plant material, 
but the odor of burning flesh.  It was not long before his nose led him 
to the far side of a burning hay cart, where on the ground lay the 
smouldering remains of a person, little left but the charred bones.  
"Definitely looks like the work of orcs," he muttered under his breath 
dejectedly.
     Just then a voice called out to him.  "Drop the sword and 
surrender!"  It was an adult male human voice, and it spoke with 
conviction, but from a short distance.  Vengar looked in the direction 
away from Therion, and through the smoke saw several well-armored men 
had taken up positions just outside the homestead.  They were behind 
various barricades and other means of cover, and all had crossbows 
trained on Vengar.  They appeared to all be similarly clad, which led 
Vengar to believe that they were either part of an army or a 
constabulary or the sort.  There was a single man, larger than the 
others, who was standing somewhat closer and without cover, armed with a 
drawn sword that he held at his side and not at the ready.  Even so, the 
several crossbow points staring him down told Vengar that this was not a 
situation he could easily fight out of.
     Rather than surrender, Vengar offered acquiescence by slowly 
sheathing his sword, fully prepared to draw it again quickly if 
necessary.  The crossbowmen did not lessen their vigilance, and the lone 
man made no move.  Vengar then hailed him, saying, "Who are you that 
require my surrender?"
     The lone man answered, "We are of the Home Guard of Chadwick, and 
we are investigating the destruction of this property of the Lord.  You 
are under arrest pending this investigation.  Surrender your weapons."  
Vengar realized that it was him who addressed him originally.
     Vengar answered.  "I, too, am investigating the destruction of this 
property, and while I do not have the authority to place YOU under 
arrest, I believe I know someone who does!"  He then whistled loudly, 
and the crossbowmen and their leader fidgetted in preparation for a 
battle, though Vengar made no aggressive move save a large grin on his 
face.
     As Therion exited the brush, the 21 soldiers of the Home Guard 
relaxed and smiled in a friendly manner.  Vengar soon noticed that they 
weren't acting at all like they saw their Lord, Baron Chadwick, but 
rather behaved as if they were with a good friend named 'Sam'.  Therion 
introduced Vengar to the soldiers, and their friendly demeanor remained, 
as the conversation soon turned more serious.
     "In my experience as a warrior," began Vengar, "I have seen 
destruction like this before.  It has almost always been caused by orcan 
raiding parties.  My good friend," Vengar paused as he looked at 
Therion, then continued, "'Sam' and I were attacked by a small 
detachment of orcs not long ago, and we were able to beat them off.  
But, we fear that they may have gained strength and are threatening this 
area.  We must make haste if we wish to catch and defeat them!  We must 
spread out and attempt to pick up their trail...let us move quickly, for 
the orcs will be on the move again this evening!"  With that, Vengar 
began to inspect the brush around the still-burning homestead, and the 
soldiers of the Home Guard began also to fan out and search.
     Soon, the scouts had determined the direction taken by the orcs, 
who seemed not to have hidden their trail particularly well.  The young 
leader, Lieutenant Addison, was all for going after the brigands, and 
said to Therion and Vengar "Vengar, you are clearly a fighting man of 
some ability;  we would be glad to have you among our number.  Sam, you 
shouldn't be out here by yourself;  the orcs wouldn't spare you, just 
because you sell good wine!  You'll be safer if you come with us;  just 
stay to the back and we'll protect you.  Still, you owe us a few bottles 
for our efforts!"  Lt. Addison and his troops acted as if they had heard 
a joke, and promises of wine to come, though Therion's lips never moved, 
and Vengar heard nothing spoken by him.
     Vengar looked at Therion, who returned his glance sheepishly, 
prompting Vengar to roll his eyes and shake his head helplessly.
     Once prepared, the 21 soldiers of the Home Guard accompanied by 
Sam/Therion and Vengar took to the trail.  Vengar and the lieutenant 
took a lead position in front of the main body, and they carried their 
missile weapons at the ready.  The rest of the group stowed their 
weaponry in favor of speed.  With Vengar's experience and Therion's 
magic, the risk of ambush was minimal.  In this arrangement, they could 
make good time in pursuit.
     The group followed the trail, and as dusk fell were coming close 
upon a copse of trees, with a campfire's glow apparent.  Lt. Addison 
commented, "Get ready for battle!  We'll clean this Orcish trash up now, 
and for all".  
     As the Home Guard prepared their crossbows for battle, Vengar 
looked about to assess the best approach to attack.  There was a hill 
nearby, and Vengar commented to Lieutenant Addison that it would make a 
good fall-back position.  The lieutenant agreed as Vengar continued to 
guage the coming battle.  Though there was nothing that he could 
identify as hard evidence, Vengar was uneasy about the situation, and he 
was not the only one.
Therion frowned...something was wrong.  He could feel it;  there was a 
strength among those trees that was more than a small band of orcs.  
And, it wasn't friendly.  The Lieutenant looked confused, then said 
"This way!" as they witdrew to a small hill a few hundred feet behind 
them.  As they reached the half way point, they heard a yell, and a 
great many orcs swarmed after them.  
     Vengar was surprised at the suddenness of the attack, but his 
reflexes reacted quickly, loosing the arrows currently nocked only 
moments after the initial assault.  But the wave of approaching orcs was 
unstoppable, and Vengar, discharging arrow after arrow, found himself 
retreating with the Home Guard to make a stand on the hill behind them.  
In the midst of the confusion, Vengar noticed that there were orcs 
dropping out of the trees that moments before they were standing 
beneath!  A very clever attack ploy, much more so than typical of orcs.  
The only thing that averted a disastrous slaughter was the orcs 
ineptitude at executing the attack plan.
     The soldiers had just enough time to reach the top of the hill and 
turn to defend themselves as more than a hundred  well armed orcs 
attacked.  
     Vengar was at the front, fighting and inspiring the soldiers.  
Several bloody minutes passed that seemed to take days to resolve, all 
the while Vengar's bowstring was singing.  The orcs were attacking 
fiercely at the point in the line where he was fighting, and his supply 
of arrows was getting low.  As the line began to crumble, Vengar dropped 
the bow and drew his sword.  As before, a blinding flash of bright blue 
light caught the attention of all around the fighter as he unsheathed 
the blade of impenetrable darkness, the wispy flamemyst of blood red 
dancing ferociously across the blade.  The orcs immediately in front of 
Vengar screamed and cowered in fear, and Vengar shouted a curse at them 
in a tongue unrecognized by the soldiers around him.  He then swept upon 
the fleeing orcs, who, consumed by fear, were tripping over each other 
to escape the terrible figure of Vengar wielding his magical blade.  
Vengar smote them, and many were slain.  Other orcs, bigger and braver 
approached, but they, too, met a premature demise.
     Vengar's actions had stabilized that part of the Home Guard's line, 
but there were other sections that were crumbling.  As the siege where 
Vengar was standing began to ease, he heard Therion's voice in his head 
say, "Over to your left."  Vengar spun around, but the mage was on the 
other side of the hill with the lieutenant directing the battle on the 
opposite flank.  There, the orcs were bringing up what appeared to be 
some sort of siege weapon of massive dimensions, and the soldiers of the 
Home Guard were beginning to break.  Therion and Lieutenant Addison were 
busy rallying the troops, but the attack was hard-pressed.
     Vengar charged over the crest of the hill and lept high into the 
air over a small precipice that served well as a launching point.  He 
waved his sword fanatically and yelled as he crashed upon the surprised 
orcs below.  A panic ensued, and the orcs again began to flee, and a cry 
of joy went up among the defenders.  Instead of slaying the orcs around 
him, Vengar instead ran for the huge siege weapon, which had ceased its 
advance as its crew began abandoning it in droves.  Vengar met token 
opposition as he covered the few yards to the monstrous contraption.
     When he reached the wooden behemoth, he saw a large iron basket 
that held flaming pitch, apparently the ammunition for this device.  He 
kicked it over so that the pitch fell on the siege engine, and it 
quickly caught fire.  Typical of orcan construction, the huge weapon 
soon turned into an equally-sized bonfire, with flaming orcs still 
leaping from its top-most structure.  Another cheer from the Home Guard 
as the battlefield was cast into a strange playground of light and 
shadow, each dancing and chasing the other, interspersed with clouds of 
smoke that wandered aimlessly between the trees and combatants oblivious 
to the carnage that was being created.  The fighting was long and hard, 
but the battle seemed to be going in the favor of the defenders.
     The troops were fighting well and holding their own, when Therion 
yelled "Down!  If you value your lives, get down!"  The orcs had pulled 
back, but not in temporary defeat as first thought...moments later, a 
powerful explosion erupted on the hilltop as an opposing mage unleashed 
fire upon the little group.  Several soldiers screamed in pain, the fire 
consuming them.
     Vengar was shocked at this new attack, and as quickly as hope of a 
victory had manifested itself, dread of a defeat replaced it.  As the 
soldiers of the Home Guard stopped fighting and began frantically 
searching for cover, several more explosions ripped across the face of 
the hill.  Vengar tried vainly to rally the soldiers, but already some 
were breaking ranks and running, only to be picked off by well-placed 
crossbow bolts loosed from orcan snipers.  The situation was rapidly 
deteriorating.
     Therion lifted his staff, and the upper crystal glowed brightly as 
blue light enveloped a number of orcs and penetrated into the distant 
stand of trees.  Several orcs started slashing at their companions, and 
in among the trees there was a human scream of pain.  The orcish hoarde 
returned to the attack, among them a dark and angry form somewhat larger 
than the norm.  Gurlith drove his orcs harder, pressing the attack 
fiercely as he sought to engage Therion in direct combat.  
     Through the confusion, Vengar saw Gurlith approaching.  He moved to 
put himself between Therion and Gurlith, pushing his way through fleeing 
comrades and hacking his way through attacking hostiles.  When he had 
placed himself between Therion and Gurlith, he planted his feet firmly 
and waited, sword held upright in front of him.  A few orcs challenged 
him standing there, and were promptly dispatched.  The others needed no 
further demonstration, and scattered.
     Another orc attacked Gurlith, but was slain almost instantly.  
Vengar heard a single word formed in his mind...the word 'run'.  
     Confused, Vengar held his ground, watching as Gurlith doubled over 
in pain, and Therion's image shimmered and disappeared.  In an instant, 
a bolt of lightning erupted from the trees, killing several more troops.  
Vengar felt a strange pulsing within his mind, and the cry went up among 
the orcs that an enemy was behind them!  The soldiers of the Home Guard 
appeared to flee;  curiously, they all seemed to be running in the same 
direction.  
     It was becoming clear that Vengar was soon going to be alone on the 
battlefield, but he still did not move.  Vengar was torn between the 
obvious need to withdraw and the tempting opportunity to avenge himself 
upon Gurlith, now writhing in pain only two dozen yards in front of him.  
As the last Guardsman left the hill, the temptation overcame Vengar and 
he charged forward.  But before he could take two steps, a second 
lightning bolt tore through trees and struck the ground where he had 
just been standing.  The blast hurled him upwards and all went black.



     When Vengar regained consciousness, he felt as though he were 
dangling off something under his chest.  He slowly opened his eyes, but 
before they could focus the first wave of pain crashed upon him.  
Vengar's eyes pinched shut as his face twisted in agony.  When it had 
passed, he tried opening them again, with greater success.  He found 
himself about fifteen feet up a tree, deep within its branches.  The 
ground was barely visible through the foliage, as was the surrounding 
area, except for a clear channel through the leaves that climbed at a 
slight angle upwards from where Vengar had landed.  He surmised that 
this must have been the path he had taken just as the second wave hit.  
Mercifully, it was significantly less potent than the first.
     Vengar began to look for a way to the ground when he noticed three 
feet below him his sword sticking straight out from the trunk of the 
tree.  He slowly lowered himself to an adjacent branch, and bracing 
himself between it and the trunk began to work the blade out of the 
wood.  It came easily, as it was not embedded deeply.  Vengar sheathed 
it (he was amazed to see that his equipment had remained with him 
through his aerial sortee), and began to lower himself to the next 
branch when he heard unmistakably the voices of orcs directly below him!  
He froze, not wanting to risk making a sound or breaking off a piece of 
bark that would prompt them to look up.  Unfortunately, he was halfway 
down, and supporting hiself entirely by his already aching arms.
     The orcs were having a pleasant conversation, and did not seem too 
interested in speeding things up and resolving their little chat so that 
Vengar could extricate himself, much to his chagrin.  When the throbbing 
agony in his arms let him, he could pick out occasional words from the 
conversation below him.  "Easy victory" and "casualties" and "survivors 
escaped" and "wine", no, "march" (in Orcish they were phonetically 
similar) and "Chadwick".  Vengar's arms were beginning to quiver, and he 
knew it would be moments before he unexpectedly and uninvitedly joined 
their merry little discussion on the previous day's battle (was it 
yesterday?  Vengar was not sure how long he had been out).  Just then, a 
distant horn sounded, and the orcs below paused.  Then, in a louder 
voice, Vengar distinctly heard one voice say, "That's the signal.  Let's 
go."
     Vengar argued with his arms to hold out a few more moments while 
the orcs departed (and not quickly enough, he thought).  When they were 
finally out of earshot, he conceeded to his arms and let go.  He fell 
the remaining ten feet onto his front with a soft thud, and he lay there 
prone to hear if anyone was coming to investigate, and looking around to 
see if there was anyone else around.  He heard nothing, but he saw quite 
a bit.  No orcs, but the ground all around was devastated.  The soil was 
churned up from the battle, and the corpses of those who had died were 
still scattered about.  There were several small, smoking craters that 
were undoubtedly gouged out by the incoming magic.  Over closer to the 
hill where the Home Guard had been defending, the smouldering remains of 
the siege weapon the orcs had brought up still stood high above the 
battelfield, like the skeleton of some huge beast.  Several trees closer 
to the hill lay broken, their branches and leaves littering the area.  
It was an ugly scene.
     When he decided that it was clear, Vengar got up and began to head 
for the hill.  He had a mental image of Therion and several others 
huddled in a gulley of some sort some distance in front of him, and he 
surmised that it was Therion telling him where he had gone.  The image 
grew stronger when he headed in one direction, and Vengar guessed that 
that was the direction he needed to go.  He ran hunched over, to try to 
remain unseen by any watching eyes, up the hill and over the top.  As he 
began to descend, he saw out of the corner of his eye his bow that he 
had cast down so early in the fight.  He made a slight detour to 
retreive that item, and then straightened up to break into a faster run 
to rejoin his companions.

     After evading the relentless enemy through the night, Therion, the 
young lieutenant, and five surviving soldiers were hidden in a small 
creek bed.  Therion had suffered a sword wound to his right arm, several 
minor burns, and his clothing was torn.  The troops were acting as they 
would with their Lord present, for Therion was no longer able to 
continue the illusion.  Vengar continued to receive a strong image of 
where the group was....
     Therion could sense Vengar's approach, and continued using the last 
of his strength to eliminate pain and accelerate bodily healing in 
himself and the remnant of the Home Guard.  Nevertheless, it was an 
injured and not particularly effective unit that greeted Vengar's eyes 
as he approached.  Therion said to Vengar, "It seems my mind magic 
wasn't powerful enough doesn't it, my friend?"
     Vengar looked upon his companion as Therion tried to use a 
reassuring smile to cover the pain, both physical and mental, that was 
obvious on his face.  "You are injured, and undoubtedly fatigued.  You 
should rest," he told his friend.  "Not very compassionate," he thought 
to himself, wishing he could have found better words.
     Continuing to Lt. Addison, Therion said, "Lieutenant, Vengar has 
been my traveling companion for some time;  and, I believe he may well 
have saved my life last night.  Despite his now apparent portion of 
Orcan blood, he will be an important part of our group."
     Vengar had not realized that Therion had been masking Vengar's 
appearance.  Probably a good thing, too.  Had the soldiers of the Home 
Guard seen him during the battle as he truly was, they may have mistook 
him for an attacking orc.  But what about future battles?
     Lt. Addison looked confused for a moment, for Vengar had seemed to 
him to be a rather stocky young human with a pleasant face;  he had not 
been aware of the orcan features while Therion had exercised his magic.  
Discipline, along with a grudging respect for Vengar's obvious combat 
ability, soon won out over confusion, and the Lieutenant replied, "Yes, 
Lord Chadwick".
     Vengar was invited to share the meagre rations being shared by the 
small group....
     It was when the rations were offered to Vengar that he realized 
there was a ravenous hunger lurking just beneath the pain and general 
soreness that he had been aware of all along.  Seeing food brought that 
appetite to the forefront.  He ate what little rations could be spared 
quickly, and his stomach screamed for more, but his mind forced the 
hunger to be checked.
     After he finished the first "meal" he had had since the battle, 
Vengar turned to Lieutenant Addison and asked, "Are these five the only 
survivors, or do you suspect there are others scattered elsewhere?"  
Vengar knew that the orcs he had precariously hung over had not alluded 
to a retreat, but more likely to an advance, and he, Therion, Addison, 
and a handful of Guardsmen would not be enough to even slow the orcs 
pace.  Options were tight.
     The lieutenant answered that he was unaware of any other survivors. 
Vengar remembered that everyone appeared to have retreated in the same 
direction, and he surmised that Therion had guided them.  If that were 
so, then there probably were no others.
     The mood of the group was decidedly somber, and all were 
deliberately silent.  Night finally came, and sleep was welcomed as an 
escape from the oppressive atmosphere of defeat that lay upon the 
survivors of the battle.  There was a brief discussion of setting a 
watch between Therion, Vengar, and Addison, but Therion convinced all 
(and not entirely verbally) that rest was more important at the moment.  
Besides, they
were well hidden, and Therion did not think that they would be found.  
Unfortunately, Therion was either overestimating his abilities under the 
circumstances, or underestimating his fatigue, because his "early 
warning system" was sorely lacking that night.
     Vengar's eyes snapped open at the sound of metal on metal, the 
characteristic soft clinking of chain-mail.  It was deep night.  Clouds 
obscured any natural light, and there were no fires anywhere near.  
Fortunately, though, Vegnar could see into the infrared spectrum, and 
after a few moments to adjust his eyes, he could discern several forms 
approaching slowly.  The lead figures appeared to be hunched, and they 
were picking there steps carefully to avoid sound.  They were clearly in 
an attack posture.  Vengar could not tell exactly, but he estimated 
there were close to two dozen figures.  Then, a fragment of a command, 
and Vengar recognized the language...orcan.
     Vengar quickly made an assessment of the situation.  He could 
suddenly leap to his feet and engage the attack party, alerting averyone 
else to the ambush.  But the orcs likely had their weapons at the ready, 
and they were too close...they would probably kill everyone before they 
had a chance to ready for a fight.  He had to find another solution, and 
FAST, and it came to him.
     He closed his eyes momentarily while he concentrated hard on the 
image of the beach  Therion had presented him on his first lesson in 
mind magic.  It appeared, with the familiar shed close by.  There was 
also a large bell suspended from a pole set into the sand.  Vengar ran 
to it and began ringing it ferociously, all the while shouting Therion's 
name as loud as he could.  After a few moments, the mage appeared on the
beach beside him. 
     Therion started to smile...Vengar had made good progress...
     "Therion, there are orcs approaching the party.  About two dozen or 
so.  Can you alert the others?" Vengar asked hastily, the need for fast 
action clear in his voice.
     Therion's body remained prone, but his image appeared in the dark, 
outlined in a ghostly aura...an aura rather weaker than it had been when 
last Vengar had seem him like this...the tired soldiers awoke with a 
start, grabbing for their weapons, and quickly got to their feet.  The 
soldiers were all convinced they had heard Lt. Addison's command to 
prepare for battle...and, Lt. Addison was convinced he had heard Therion 
call out to him...
     The attacking orcs stopped briefly, surprised at the sudden snap to 
attention of their prey.  But the leader barked out a one-word command, 
and they charged forward, yellling and snarling hideously, swords swung 
about wildly, ready to hack at anything in their way.
     As the first orc stepped into the camp, Vengar lept up, daggar in 
hand, and buried it into the chest of the vile creature.  The orc 
following him was taken aback at the sudden demise of his comrade, and 
Vengar dispatched him with one continuous motion as he unsheathed his 
sword and slashed across the orc's chest.  On the counter-stroke, he 
lopped off the head of a third.  The soldiers of the Home Guard, though 
just awakened, were also fighting with incredible tenacity.
     As the orc's came closer, Therion's image faded to nothingness, 
then reappeared behind the nearby attack force.  An orc turned, 
convinced he had heard a noise, and saw 12 members of the home guard 
behind him, with swords drawn!  The orc immediately called out to his 
companions, who turned their backs on the actual survivors to face the 
perceived attack.  A general melee ensued as the orcs who had given the 
alarm were attacked by their companions and began defending themselves 
vigorously.  The leader of the Orcs howled in pain and collapsed in a 
trembling heap as every nerve in his body became overloaded with pain.  
The subleader collapsed as his heart forgot to beat.  And, behind them, 
Therion's aura grew dimmer...
     Vengar and the Guardsmen made no delay in exploiting the confusion 
that Therion was creating.  They charged into the attackers, despite 
being outnumbered.  It did not take long for the Guardsmen to rout the 
orcan party, and only a handful were left to flee.  Vengar wanted to 
pursue them, but the fading aura of Therion concerned him.  When all was 
silent again, Vengar rushed over to Therion to see how his comrade was 
faring.
     Therion's image disappeared, and as Vengar approached, Therion's 
eyes opened tiredly.  He smiled weakly and said, "It's fortunate that 
you sleep lightly...I had thought I could expand my awareness to 
interrupt any attack that might come.  Apparently, my exhaustion 
overcame my good intentions..."
     "Fatigue is an enemy that is often overlooked," Vengar said.  Many 
campaigns in wars much farther to the south had taught this lesson to 
him only too dearly.  Vengar's mind briefly visited the memories of past 
friends, and then as quickly he returned to the present and Therion.
     After a pause, he continued, saying, "When I invaded the leaders' 
minds, I learned something of their plans.  Gurlith and his wizard 
friend have taken the majority of their force toward Chadwick, with 
these left behind to 'clean up the survivors'.  So, *_if_* Gurlith told 
these two the truth, we may have several days before they learn of our 
continued existance.  And, even if they march rapidly, it will take a 
number of days before they reach Chadwick.
     "This is true," said Vengar.  Continuing, "We should be able to 
move much faster than Gurlith's forces...the small group always moves 
faster than the large one."
     "As matters stand, they are too strong for us..but, it may be that 
there is a way for us to win---for I perceive that Gurlith rather 
dislikes you and I," Therion chuckled, "---and his uncontrolled emotions 
can be his undoing..."
     Vengar thought to himself, "As long as those uncontrolled emotions 
are not our *_own_* undoing.  Emotion tends to be a double-edged sword."
     Therion paused and said, "I'm sorry, Vengar, but I am tired..very 
tired.  Perhaps you could set a watch," Therion grinned, "...as you 
suggested earlier...and we could meet on the beach..."
     "Of course," replied Vengar.
     Therion then closed his eyes momentarily, drew in a deep breath, 
and let it out slowly.  He stood, apparently strong and alert, and 
motioned to Lt. Addison.  As the lieutenant arrived, Therion said, 
"Lieutenant, please lend me your sword for a moment."  Receiving the 
weapon, Therion turned to Vengar, smiled, and said, "Vengar, would you 
be so good as to kneel before me for a moment?"
     Vengar complied without uttering a word.  He was confused, and did 
so hesitantly, curious about what Therion was up to.  He was certainly 
uneasy about being in such a vulnerable position while Therion was 
brandishing a weapon.
     He then took the sword and pressed the flat of the blade against 
Vengar's left shoulder, saying, "In the name of the King and the Counsel 
of Lords...", then lifted the blade and pressed it against Vengar's 
right shoulder, continuing "I dub thee Sir Vengar, Knight Companion of 
the Order of the Silver Star.".  Therion lifted the sword and handed it 
to the lieutenant, saying "Arise, Sir Vengar!"
     Vengar stood, a bit unsteadily, mildly stunned at his new title.  
He was without words (which was not entirely uncommon for him!), and 
after gaining his feet could manage nothing more than to stare blankly 
at Therion.
     Therion turned to Lt. Addison and said, "Lieutenant, obey Sir 
Vengar as you would me.  Turning to Vengar, he continued, "And now, I 
must once again place myself in your hands.  I must rest...we'll meet on 
the beach..." (Lt. Addison looked a bit confused, since there was 
certainly no beach anywhere nearby!)
     And with that, Therion lay down, closed his eyes, and was soon in a 
deep sleep.  This time, there was no greenish glow surrounding his body, 
and his breathing slowed....
     Vengar turned to Lieutenant Addison and began discussing the 
arrangements for the watch.  He felt uncomfortable giving orders to 
Addison, but the Lieutenant was faithful to the words of Therion, and 
expressed no ill towards Vengar for his recent "promotion".  Vengar told 
Addison to set a watch of two soldiers each for two hours, the 
Lieutenant having to pair up with one of the Guardsmen.  Vengar also 
said that he would take the last watch.  He did not want Therion in the 
rotation to give the mage as much time to recover as possible.
     Once the orders were carried out and the watch set, Vengar laid 
down as if to go to sleep.  He closed his eyes and began to concentrate 
on the beach.  It came into view fairly easily.  Therion was already 
there.  Vengar approached him.
     Therion was looking somewhat better, and said to Vengar, "You're 
doing better and better, Vengar!  After Gurlith has been dealt with, I 
do believe you'll be ready to tackle the next room..."
     Vengar thought to himself, "Therion's confidence in my abilities is 
very high.  On the other hand, his confidence has also misguided us on 
occasion.  We shall see."
     After a pause Therion continued, "Remember that the key to many 
things is within the emotions.  Gurlith hates me, because I tried to 
kill him, and didn't finish the job.  It may be that he doesn't even 
know *_why_* he hates me;  not that that matters to him!  And, because 
you were with me...and because you triggered some very powerful emotions 
within him...he hates you too.  That, Vengar, is the key to defeating 
him."
     Vengar was again silent when Therion paused.  While true that 
Gurlith's rage could be used against him, Vengar was not entirely 
emotionless about the issue.  The very weakness that Therion proposed to 
exploit could, in turn, be their Achilles' heel.
     Seeing the dubious look on Vengar's face, Therion smiled and said, 
"Remember, we have several days' time.  Tomorrow night, I will be much 
stronger.  I will 'encourage' the survivors of the attack on us to hurry 
to Gurlith.  After they reach him, I will provoke him further.  Perhaps 
you can join me...though it may be painful for you, and I would not 
blame you if you chose not to do so."
     Vengar thought briefly before replying, "Nay, I will join you."  He 
did not fully know why he had agreed to join Therion, except perhaps 
that he could not think of any reason not to.
     Therion continued.  "Gurlith will be enraged.  He will come after 
us, driving his troops hard to reach us.  During that time, we will 
strengthen ourselves, while slowly retreating in a wide circle back to 
Chadwick.  At every step, we will place little traps.  We will warn the 
populace ahead of us, thus depriving the enemy of food.  And Vengar...I 
will disturb them so that they will have very little rest.
     "Still, you know more of tactics and swords than do I.  What say 
you to my plan?"
     "I think the basics of the plan are sound.  We are far too 
outnumbered to confront Gurlith's forces head-on.  Our only recourse, 
then, is to attempt to even the battlefield, as it were.  Short 
skirmishes and brief clashes to bleed our enemy's strength while perhaps 
we recruit some of our own.  And I am very experienced in the laying of 
traps - it was a favorite tactive of mine during the..."  Vengar paused, 
then, "it was a favorite tactic of mine.  And as you say, if they are 
deprived of food and sleep over this campaign of attrition, then their 
morale will certainly begin to suffer as well.  It is when all of these 
elements have come together that we will be prepared to make a 
counterstrike and defeat Gurlith for good!"
     Therion left Vengar on the beach, and the next morning dawned 
without further interruptions by anything worse than a few mosquitos.
     Therion was clearly feeling quite a lot better, and even the worst 
of his wounds, the sword cut on his arm, had largely healed.  During 
their sleep, the soldiers had regained much of their energy and morale, 
although to a lesser extent than had Therion.
     Vengar was pleased to see that Therion was feeling much better.  
His own morale was improved at the sight of Therion's recovery, and he 
suspected the others were similarly inspired.  And this improvement 
didn't even tax the powers of the mindmage!
     He said to the group, "There is a small farmstead nearby; we will 
need food, water, and another night's rest would not be unwelcome for 
any of us.  It is scarcely 2 miles from here..."
     "You know the land better than I," answered Vengar, "but I would be 
cautious.  We must treat this area as hostile until we can determine 
without a doubt the location of Gurlith and his orcs.  Let us proceed 
with caution."
     Lieutenant Addison and the soldiers of the Home Guard obeyed 
immediately without a word from Therion.  Vengar was at first confused, 
and then he remembered that he had been knighted.  The fact that his 
words carried the weight of an order was unfamiliar and uncomfortable to 
Vengar, at least for the moment.
     In less than an hour, the group had traveled the distance to the 
farm.  A family of 4 were already busy tending their land and livestock.  
There had been a measure of fear when the group had first approached, a 
fear which grew worse as they recognized that it was a group of 
soldiers, and still greater when Lt. Addison mentioned who was with 
them.
     Not to mention the fact that the soldiers were approaching with 
weaponry at the ready, as had been Vengar's suggestion.  It was not an 
entirely desirable situation, but when survival was on the line niceties 
generally were ignored.
     Therion winced at that...he hadn't intended to be quite so 
forthcoming about who he was and what he was up to...and concentrated 
for a moment.  Suddenly, the attitude of the family improved markedly, 
and they invited the hungry group inside for food and rest.
     Vengar scowled at Therion for using his powers for anything but 
healing, feeling that changing the attitude of the peasants was an 
unnecessary use of energy.  Therion made no answer.
     The food was simple yet plentiful, with potatoes, bread and cheese, 
apples, and good water from a nearby spring.  As the meal was finished, 
the farmer, whose name he had revealed to be Justin, said to Therion, 
"M'Lord, I would ask a boon."
     Therion smiled and replied, "We have appreciated your food and 
hospitality, Justin...what would you ask of me?"
     Justin paused, and his wife Mary interjected, "Your lordship, we 
cannot pay our taxes!  We were afraid the soldiers had come to put us 
off our land...if you could just give us a little time, 'til the harvest 
comes..."
     Vengar then realized why the farmers had reacted at their approach 
in the manner that they had.  He had been confused, thinking that they 
would be relieved to see soldiers arriving during a time of orcan raids.  
He now realized that they were in a very difficult position...afraid of 
losing their land to one of two causes: 
destruction by orcs or foreclosure by the state.
     Therion raised an eyebrow and asked to see the assessment, then 
studied it for a time.  He looked up and said, "I'm confused...this says 
you have but 20 hectares...yet the taxes are for 5 times that.  Do you 
have other lands elsewhere?"
     Justin, emboldened now, said, "M'Lord, over the last several years 
the taxes have gone up again and again.  We have only the 20 hectares, 
and though it is good and fertile land, it does not produce enough to 
pay the taxes.  Last year we had to go to a money lender..."
     Vengar began to smell somthing foul in the land, and it was not the 
stench of his hated enemy.  There was something distinctly wrong here.
     Therion frowned and said, "I authorized no such increase in taxes.  
I see there is much that must be done---."  He then took the paper from 
Justin, and waived the taxes for the year, signing with a flourish.  The 
family were quite grateful, and the group finished the day fully 
recovered from their earlier hunger pangs.  A bit of cured bacon was 
even produced, for Justin, Mary, and their children were very much 
relieved to know they would be able to keep their home!
     Vengar was very pleased to see Therion right this obvious travesty 
of power.  However, this was merely a symptom of a much greater illness, 
an illness that would require Therion's attention.  The Barony of 
Chadwick was not having a red letter month.
     That night, the soldiers were given quarters in the barn, Justin 
and his wife and children slept on the porch, and Therion and Vengar 
slept within the house.  Therion said to Vengar "I doubt you really 
approve of this arrangement;  but just as they are bound to a social 
order, so are we as well.  Yes, Vengar, *_we_* as well.  And changes of 
social orders are not easily done.
     No, Vengar was not comfortable with this arrangement at all, and he 
let Therion know in no uncertain terms.  Vengar pointed out that he was 
perfectly used to sleeping outside, that his battle training and 
experience had taught him to endure conditions far worse than a night 
out on the porch without even a second thought, and that regardless of 
their standing, Therion and Vengar were *_still_* guests, and that in 
Vengar's opinion it was far nobler to refuse to deny a citizen his home 
than to accept it.  Therion would hear none of it.  The coup-de-grace 
came when Therion convinced Vengar that it was what Justin and his 
family
expected of Lord Chadwick, and if they accepted anything less it would 
damage their belief in the system of nobility; that Justin was not 
bowing to the demands of Therion, but that Therion was bowing to the 
demands of Justin.  Vengar was not entirely satisfied with the argument, 
though he could see the reasoning of it.  Though inside, he slept on the 
floor so as not to mess up the linens of the family.  Though his body 
had suffered discomforts much greater, the mental discomfort Vengar felt 
through the night did not yield him much rest.  Still, the morning came 
early and he was ready to face the next day.
     Therion greeted Vengar, "Now, my friend, we have rested...we have 
eaten.  Are you ready to start battling Gurlith and Company?"
     "By all means, Lord Chadwick!" was Vengar's reply.  "Let us seek 
out our enemy and make him regret troubling this land!"
     Therion smiled and said, "Good!  Justin and his family are already 
awake and doing the work that must be done on a farm.  Unfortunately, we 
of the nobility have a reputation for sleeping late;  and, we are not 
expected to be up and about.  Let us use the time to good advantage, 
then, and help the ones who attacked us last night on their way...I do 
believe they are still asleep!"
     Vengar was liking less and less the reputation of nobility that he 
was now suddenly supposed to be upholding.  There was never this kind of 
class structure in the wilderness -- everyone was equal but for his 
skills alone.  Stature meant nothing out there, and it meant little to 
Vengar.
     It was obvious that Therion had fully recovered, and where once 
there had been a sword wound on his arm, now there remained only a 
slight reddening.  Therion sat down, and invited Vengar to meet him on 
the beach...
Vengar agreed, and soon he had the image of the seascape in his mind.
     Therion appeared on the beach, his usual self, though the sky was a 
bit darker than normal, and the wind blew a bit harder.  The waves 
crashed noisily against the shore...and Therion smiled and said, "Now, 
Vengar, in the world of the mind, our forms are not fixed as they are in 
the world of matter.  Watch closely..."
     He began changing from the rather jovial image he had maintained 
since first Vengar had met him to an evil and terrifying apparation.  
His eyes glowed green, and his face acquired vaguely elven features.  
About him flowed a cascade of fire, and in his right hand he now carried 
a great sword shrouded in flames.  Therion said to Vengar, "I do not 
know how much you know of Orcish religion...but the image I have applied 
to myself is their 'devil'.  Perhaps you can assume a similarly 
unpleasant form?  Or perhaps you could appear to be one of those we 
slew, undead and seeking their life-force?"
     Vengar was familiar with orcan mythology, and had quickly 
recognized Therion's form once it had begun to solidify.  He was 
impressed, and wondered where Therion had learned of the orcish devil.  
"I guess you have to know these things when you're a lord," he mused to 
himself.  Still, though, there were few other figures that illicited as 
much fear to the orcs as did the demon that was now Therion.  Different 
tribes had different mythos, but the one common thread between them, the 
King of Fear and Lord of Death, Therion had already assumed.
     He mused about also assuming that form, reasoning that what was 
more fearful than the sight of the devil than the sight of two devils?  
But, this option was quickly rejected on the grounds that it might be 
too much of a good thing (er, evil thing?)...the orcs might have been 
instructed to look out for such trickery.  There was, however, another 
option.  The Lord of Death was feared not only for his terrible power, 
but also for his minions.  Legend held that he always appeared with a 
host of the living dead, and to enhance the fear that this scene 
inevitably wrought on its victims, the dead were generally known to the 
victims.  This, he thought, would be an excellent counterpart to 
Therion's guise.
     Vengar began to think of the orc party that had attacked them after 
the first battle.  He remembered that each was wearing a black bandana 
tied around their right arm.  "Some sort of unit insignia," he thought.  
"That should serve to identify me."  He looked at his feet and a black 
bandana, similar to the ones the orcs had been wearing, lay across his 
boots.  He picked it up and tied it to his arm.
     Then Vengar closed his eyes.  He pictured each of the slain orcs in 
his  mind (he could remember the faces of but eight, but that would 
serve his purpose), and quickly switched from face to face.  After each 
cycle, he interjected the apparition that Therion now was.  Each 
succeeding cycle was faster, and also with each cycle the faces of the 
orcs began to change.  Slowly, their eyes began to sink deeper within 
their skulls, and the skin began to grow darker, with mottled patches 
rising to the surface.  Faster the faces flashed in Vengar's mind, 
almost until they were blurring.  The orc's hair began to grow very 
lengthy, and was matted and tangled, turning a sickly color of yellow-
gray.  The lips receded, tightening across misshapen and misaligned 
teeth that were now stained every dismal color imaginable...brown, gray, 
green, yellow, black, orange...and not at all respectable shades either.  
Their accoutrements similarly degraded, losing color and falling into 
disrepair in a matter of seconds.  Now, the faces began to slow, and 
their appearance began to stabililze.  The skin was now a dull ashen 
gray with splotches of dark brown interspersed across its surface.  The 
eyes had sunken completely out of sight...there was nothing but a pair 
of impenetrable pits where they had been before.  The sinewey yellow-
gray hair slithered down to the shoulders like the branches of and old, 
gnarled tree.  The lips were drawn so tightly that it was impossible for 
them to close over the disgusting teeth.
     Now the faces again began to cycle through Vengar's mind, but this 
time the retained their present form.  Therion began to see Vengar's 
body shudder and then blur.  He now began the transformation from his 
normal self to the denizen that he had imagined.  But that was not all.  
Once the transformation was complete, Vengar's body began to convulse 
even more violently.  Therion then saw several bodies step out of 
Vengar's!  A total of seven stepped out and took positions around where 
Vengar had originally been standing, leaving eight very sinister-looking 
undead orcs standing before their master, the Lord of Death.
     Vengar opened his eyes slowly.  He looked at Therion and asked, 
"What do you think?"  A couple of the images began to flicker, and 
Vengar stiffened as he intensified his concentration on the apparitions.  
The images resolidified, and Vengar relaxed slightly.
     Soon, the image of the beach shifted, and the form of several 
sleeping orcs could be seen.  There was no doubt they were the ones who 
had attacked the little group so recently...Vengar recognized the black 
bandanas on their arms. Therion stood, and soon all were thrashing about 
in their sleep and moaning, as they ran endlessly in their sleep from 
the devil as they perceived him.  Therion's image again shifted, to an 
evil caricature of himself, and he permitted the orcan leader to awaken 
and see him standing there, a ghostly, terrifying image....
     Vengar and his images were standing around Therion, and when the 
orcan leader awoke, began to march his forces slowly forward.  Vengar 
spoke to the leader, and his voice was shrill and wispy...it was no 
earthly 
voice, there was no tone in it whatsoever.  It was as if the wind itself 
were speaking...it was an ethereal voice.  Vengar spoke to the orc in 
orcish, but in Therion's ears he heard the words in his native language. 
Vengar said, "We have returned, chief.  Why have you slain us?  We have 
returned for YOU, chief!  Now, you will return with us!"
     The orcs arose quickly to their leaders frightened screams, unsure 
whether to be relieved at escaping sleep, or afraid of facing reality!  
As Therion's image faded out, the orcs began a panicked journey to 
rejoin Gurlith...
     Vengar had done a good job maintaining his concentration for as 
long as he had, but the strains of maintaining such a complex illusion 
took its toll on such an amateur mind.  As panic began to settle on the 
orcs, the images began to melt into the ground.  One by one, they began 
to flicker out.  But fortunately, the fear had already taken seed, and 
despite the rapidly disappearing undead host that had awakened them, the 
orcs had had their fill and continued to flee.  When the last orcs was 
at a full run, Vengar relaxed and even his own image returned to its 
natural state.
     Returning to the beach, Therion's image returned to a reflection of 
reality...and soon, he had returned to wakefulness.  It being 'decently' 
late, Therion opened the door of the house, acting as if he had only 
just gotten up.  Lt. Addison and his troops were in good health, and 
seemed filled with energy;  what wounds there had been were largely 
healed.  Breakfast soon being finished, Therion dallied a bit, asking 
Justin to update him on what had been going on during his absence....
     While Therion and Justin began to discuss local events, Vengar 
sought Lieutenant Addison.  Finding him, he asked how the soldiers were, 
and began to discuss various tactics that they might employ to wither 
the strength of Gurlith's forces.  They continued, debating various 
options, until Therion emerged from the house after talking with Justin.
     Therion commented to Vengar, "All is not well, here in Chadwick!  
Gurlith is the most immediate problem...but not the only one.  Perhaps 
not even the most dangerous one.  Still, we must deal with first things 
first.  Tonight, we will want to aggravate Gurlith somewhat;  and, since 
it would be dishonorable to make this farm the focus of Gurlith's 
attack, it seems best that we should leave, and start leaving a trail of 
traps for Gurlith's orcs to find."  Therion smiled grimly.
     Vengar said to Therion, "Lieutenant Addison reports that his 
soldiers are ready to march at your command."
     "However, Vengar, I know little of battle tactics, or the movement 
of troops.  I must rely on your judgement in this matter.  Two things 
that you should know...this portion of the Barony is lightly populated;
there are a number of farmsteads in the area, but no villages or..."  
Therion sighed  "...friendly inns.  Secondly, we must be alert, for I 
have felt something...a creature, of some sort, that seems to be keeping 
at the perimeter of my awareness.  Whether that is significant or not, I 
cannot say.
     Vengar made no comment at this revelation, although it concerned 
him greatly.  He suddenly had the feeling that they were being watched, 
but not on the physical plane.  As Vengar was still but a student in the
world of the mind, this put him at a tremendous disadvantage, and he did 
not like that one bit.
     Answering finally after a pause, Vengar said, "We can use the 
sparse population to our advantage.  The support that our small band 
will require will be much smaller than that which Gurlith will require.  
This, actually, is good news.  As for the latter," Vengar trailed off, 
never really finishing the sentence.
     Therion  continued, "Fortunately, Justin has enough stored that we 
can resupply our food;  and, he has sold me a pony that we can load the 
supplies on, and relieve ourselves of carrying that burden!"
     Vengar immediately said, "We should begin rationing these supplies 
immediately.  As resupply will be questionable at best, the longer we 
can make our supplies last, or more importantly, outlast Gurlith, the 
more advantageous of a position we shall be in."
     As Bellatrix rose and the day advanced to mid-morning, Justin 
helped load the pony with food, a small cask of water, and a tinderbox.  
Therion paid Justin well, and the group readied itself to follow Sir 
Vengar's lead...
     Vengar led the small troop eastward along a small stream that ran 
through the farmer's land.  He picked this route purposefully for, 
though the going was very tough, they would leave a minimum of trace for 
Gurlith's scouts to detect.
     Soon after clearing the farmstead, the small group came to a fork 
in the stream.  At that point, Vengar turned to Addison and said, 
"Lieutenant, is there a well-known landmark within a day's overland 
journey from here?"
     The lieutenant answered, "Yes, sir.  There is the Singing Rock 
about four miles east of here."  The Singing Rock was a strange 
formation that when the wind was coming from just the right direction at 
just  the right speed, it would make strange, ghostly tones.
     Vengar continued.  "Good.  I have a dangerous mission for you and 
your men.  It is very, very risky, but I think it will work to confuse 
the enemy.  I propose to split our group, and send two or three men up 
each of these tributaries.  Then, as they encounter forks, they will 
split off.  Ideally, each man will eventually be alone.  What I want 
them to do is to leave no trail while heading up the creeks, and then to 
leave *_obvious_* trails to the Singing Rock.  These multiple paths 
should confuse Gurlith's scouts, and with luck he will see that they are 
all heading to the same place and try to launch an attack.  Meanwhile, 
after we rendezvous at the Singing Rock, we will backtrack and strike 
Gurlith's supply base.
     "Now, the men must move quickly when alone, as they will be at 
their most vulnerable.  They cannot make contact with the enemy, no 
matter how tempting the target.  Do you think your men are capable of 
this
mission?"
     The lieutenant answered swiftly, "Absolutely, sir!  Is that all?"
     "Yes.  Send three soldiers up one fork while the rest of us proceed 
up the fork that heads towards the Rock.  As we encounter other forks, 
the remaining soldiers will peel off.  The more false trails we leave,
the better.  We shall meet at the rock this evening by sundown.  Make it 
clear that they are to rendezvous at the Rock NO LATER THAN SUNDOWN!"
     "Yes, sir, I will relay your orders."  Lieutenant Addison then left 
Vengar and Therion as he passed on Vengar's plan to the Guardsmen.
     Vengar then turned to Therion, "I understand that your magical 
discpline is of the mind...what a pity you hadn't dabbled in 
pyrotechnics also.  Still, is there any way that you can lay a mental 
trap at a place, and
have it sprung later when you are not present?"
     Therion hesitated for a moment, then replied, "Yes...it is 
possible.  You have doubtless heard of haunted houses, spirits that 
walk, and the like?  Some...a few...are what they seem to be.  But in 
most cases, the so called hauntings are merely residual emotional energy 
from some traumatic or terrifying event."
     Therion reflected a moment, then added, "The images of the dead 
orcs you used when we disturbed the raiders would be perfect...yes, I 
think that would work.  Of course, once we imprint it on the scene, it 
will be rather stable!  Men may still be affected by it centuries in the 
future..."
     Vengar thought for a moment, then said, "Then we must endeavor to 
return to 'clean-up'!  And even if we should fail to do so, it will give 
the locals the basis for tall tales, eh, Therion?"
     Therion chuckled and replied, "Indeed it would...it's almost 
tempting *_not_* to clean up, isn't it?"
     Just then, Lieutenant Addison returned.  "The orders are given, 
sir.  Now, we should make our way up that stream."  Vengar turned in the 
direction that Addison pointed, but before he did so, he saw over 
Addison's shoulder three Guardsmen making there way up the other fork, 
swords drawn.
     Vengar shouted after them, "SHEATH THOSE SWORDS!  There is to be NO 
contact with the enemy!"  The Guardsmen stopped and looked back at where 
the others were standing.  They paused, apparently not too comfortable 
with the idea of running through the wilderness unarmed while the enemy 
was lurking.  But their loyalty overcame their misgivings, and before a 
second order had to be issued had sheathed their swords and were again 
on their way.
     Addison now led the others up the other creekbed.  After an hour, 
they he sent the first soldier off, and the second was sent off after 45 
minutes.  Midday, and another fork.  Vengar told Addison that he, too, 
must split off.  The lietenant gave Vengar final directions to The 
Singing Rock and, making his farewells to Therion and Vengar, 
disappeared into the underbrush.  Therion and Vengar would have to make 
the final leg of the journey to Singing Rock alone.
     Vengar led Therion at a fast pace for another hour when he noticed 
that the mage was beginning to tire.  "The wilderness of Chadwick is not 
the likely venue for the Baron," he thought to himself.  Aloud, he said,
"I don't know about you, but I'm famished.  Shall we stop briefly for a 
quick meal?"
     Therion was delighted at the break, and after a few bites, closed 
his eyes for a few minutes.  The pattern of his breathing changed, and 
when he again opened his eyes, he seemed more energetic...as if the rest 
had lasted hours, rather than minutes...
     There was not a lot to eat, as the forced rationing had cut the 
daily allotment to a meager rate.  Vengar hoped that each of the 
Guardsmen would recognize the necessity for the diminished meals, and 
comforted himself in the thought that, as Guardsmen, they would.  The 
meal was hardly enough to fill his stomach (and probably not at all what 
Therion was used to, Vengar thought...then again, did he not say back at 
the Inn that he was a traveler?  Perhaps he had encountered such 
adversity before?), and the pangs of hunger would return shortly after 
they resumed.  Vengar had the mental discipline to ignore these pangs, 
and they didn't affect him during the trip to the Rock.
     Therion was not as cautious as he normally was, and commented in 
passing, "Vengar, when we get some time, I need to teach you about 
control of pain and discomfort...it's far more effective than trying to 
ignore it.  After a pause, Therion said, "Sorry...I didn't mean to pry.  
I need to help you shield your thoughts more instinctively..."
     Vengar was surprised that Therion had read his thoughts...it had 
been some time since he had last done so.  It brought back memories of 
the hostility that he first had felt towards the mindmage.  He replied 
tersely, "Yes, you do."  Then, less harshly, "...on both matters."
    Once finished, Therion and Vengar again resumed their fast pace to 
the Rock.  After only a few hours, it loomed into view.  They had just 
crested a hill, and the Rock was atop the next hill.  It was late 
afternoon, and Bellatrix was already heading for its sleeping place in 
the west, but the light was still good.  They could see that the stream 
they followed ran past the base of the hill that The Singing Rock was 
on, and that only a 
few hundred yards separated the streambed from the hilltop (albeit a few 
hundred yards *_uphill_*!).
     When Therion and Vengar finally arrived at the top of the hill, 
emerging from the treeline, a voice cried out, "Halt and be recognized!"
     Therion wasn't used to *_not_* being recognized!  For that matter, 
he wasn't used to being involved in field operations, either.  As a wary 
soldier looked out, Therion really didn't look particularly 
baronial...his traveling clothing was made for function instead of 
appearance, and it was not in the best of shape after the last few days 
activities.  Still, Therion had enough of a sense of mischief that he 
couldn't resist using a bit
of mind magic.  He looked up the hill, and said to the soldier, 
"Sergeant Elbel, if you can't recognize Therion, Lord of Chadwick, 
perhaps you'll recall your wife, Joanne..." and with that, Sergeant 
Elbel saw his wife, looking *_precisely_* as he remembered her, and 
apparently saying, "Be nice to Lord Chadwick or there'll be no supper 
for ye!"
     As the sergeant looked on in surprise and confusion, Therion 
dropped the illusion and said, "Now, do you know anyone else who could 
do that?" The Sergeant relaxed considerably, for Therion was known for 
occassionally pulling a practical joke, and acknowledged the arrival of 
the two travelers.
     The entire interaction between Therion and Elbel confused Vengar.  
He finally realized what was transpiring, it dawning on him that the 
illusion was in the sergeant's mind, not his.  With the pleasantries (as 
they were) out of the way, it was time to get down to business.
     Vengar debriefed the two Guardsmen on what they had seen in their 
trips to the Rock.  Neither had any contact with the enemy, and so there 
was little to report.  He also questioned them on their trail-making, 
trying to size up the type and amount of evidence that both had left 
behind.  Satisfied with their reports, he then set then to work 
constructing various traps and pitfalls around the Rock.  Most were 
passive (covered pits filled with stakes, etc.), but a few were set with 
triggers.  Vengar was able to do some very creative things with meager 
supplies of rope, and where possible he used the natural 
vegetation...the local vines had a surprising strength to them!
     While Vengar and the Guardsmen were working on the traps, Therion 
was busy developing his own.  There was a danger that the group would be 
taken by surprise, but it was a calculated risk that Vengar insisted on 
taking...there was a lot of work to do and very little time to do it in.  
Every so often he would stop and scan the surrounding treeline, 
listening for any peculiar noises.  He also kept a mental vigil on the 
bird sounds and other fauna noise...Nature tended to keep the best 
watches, if you knew how to interpret her warnings.  An hour after they 
had begun working, Nature gave her warning.
     The fighter stopped what he was doing and readied his bow, and the 
two Guardsmen grabbed their crossbows.  They expected it to be one of 
their own, but were preparing for the worst.  It did not take long for 
them to hear someone approaching, thrashing through the underbrush and 
generally making a great deal of noise.  That was a good sign.  A few 
minutes later, and Lt. Addison popped out from beneath the canopy of 
trees, and the tension was dissipated.
     Vengar paused again to talk with the lieutenant while the Guardsmen 
continued work on his designs.  The lieutenant had turned the 
opportunity into a reconnaisance patrol, and had found what appeared to 
be Gurlith's supply base.  Vengar was very interested in this 
information, and the two spent quite a lot of time detailing the route 
that Addison had taken, the best approach to use from the Rock, and 
other attack plans.
     Soon, the mental trap had been set...to an orcan mind, the place 
would seem particularly pleasant, and there would be a tendency to think 
that all was well.  A peacefulness would surround it...until the orcs 
actually did relax, whether to sleep or merely to rest.  At that time, a 
horrendous scene of carnage would erupt, with the inner fears each 
sentient being carries triggered and lived out in lurid detail.  Those 
afraid of spiders would live through being buried in a writhing mass of 
the creatures...those who feared drowning would endure being in a 
limitless ocean...those afraid of heights would fall continually in 
utter darkness, their screams echoing off unseen walls.  Therion put 
quite a lot into it, to the point that even the human guards were acting 
relaxed...he looked over at Vengar and hoped *_he_* didn't relax too 
much!
     As the trap was set, Therion frowned a moment, looked over to 
Vengar, and sent a distinct thought.  "Remember the entity I detected 
before?  I sense it again...closer, this time.  And, I get the 
impression
Gurlith may not be as far removed as I had hoped..."
     Vengar stopped, and looked about.  There was nothing obvious that 
he could see, so he sought out Therion (who was resting on a rock near 
the imposing walls of the Singing Rock).  He asked, "Is the first 
connected to the second, or independent."
     Therion thought a moment, closing his eyes briefly.  Opening them, 
he said, "Independent."
     Vengar posed a second question.  "Does it mean us malice or aid?"
     "That I cannot tell."
     "Then if all you can detect is neutrality, then that is what we 
must assume from it."  Vengar did not like the idea of dismissing this 
potential threat so quickly, but matters closer at hand dictated that 
course of action.
     The fourth Guardsmen finally arrived at the Rock.  Bellatrix was 
very low in the sky, and the deadline was fast approaching.  He reported 
to Vengar that he had heard war drums beating in the northwest.  Vengar 
asked about the rhythm of the drumbeats, and was not at all happy with 
what he heard.  From what he knew of orcan battle tactics, the drumbeats 
were signalling an attack.  The trails he had laid for Gurlith were 
bearing fruit far more quickly than he had calculated.  He ordered that 
everybody prepare to move, deciding that as soon as the fifth man 
appeared, they would leave the Rock.  Weapons ready, they waited.
     The minutes slipped by, and the tension mounted.  There was still 
no sign of the last Guardsman.  The shadows were growing higher and 
higher on the Singing Rock as Bellatrix began to slide beneath the 
horizon.  The first ominous tones from the orcan wardrums were now 
beginning to be audible as the group waited for their last man.  The 
Guardsmen began to get jumpy, as the dusk light began playing tricks 
with their eyes.  To the east, the stars were beginning to emerge.  
Moonlight was gradually replacing sunlight.  Finally, the last rays from 
Bellatrix shone upon the Rock, and it was night.  The fifth Guardsman 
was nowhere to be seen, and the drums were getting louder.
     "We cannot wait any longer," announced Vengar.  "We must leave now.  
Addison, lead us away from here, I shall bring up the rear."  Then, 
addressing everyone, he said, "Leave as little trace of your passage as 
possible!"
     Addison headed off into the woods, followed by Therion and the 
Guardsmen.  Vengar continued to search for the missing man for as long 
as he could, remaining at the foot of the Rock until the last Guardsmen 
was almost through the treeline.  But to no avail.  Vengar sprinted 
after the group, now keeping an eye on any sign they may have left 
behind of their passage so that he may hide it.


     The prisoner was finally let out of the box after what must have 
been hours.  The suddenness of being cast into sunlight after being 
deprived of it nearly blinded him for the moment, but being released 
from that torture chamber of hot, steamy, stale air was worth it.  But 
even before he could fully appreciate the improved quality of air, the 
abuse began.  It came in the form of a boot to the side, and it landed 
with enough force to roll him over onto his back, where another boot 
from the other side greeted him.  Of course, having just rolled over, he 
had the pleasure of receiving it in the same place as the first.  He 
heard a crack when  the second landed, and a much sharper pain than the 
dull blow of the kick shot up through his side, and he screamed.  He 
coughed twice, and up came blood. 
     A loud voice cried out, barking an order in some language he didn't 
recognize.  The kicking stopped, and instead four rough arms grabbed him 
and dragged him to his feet.  The pain surging up from his side buckled 
his legs, and even when he did get them to the ground, his captors still 
had to hold him upright.  He was trying to open his eyes (which had 
clamped shut from the pain) to see what was happening.  He could feel 
himself being dragged forward, and managed to squeeze one eye open to 
see a huge orc standing before him.  He wanted to spit on the creature, 
but his mouth was still twisted in agony.  His side was throbbing now, 
and he could barely think because of it.
     "So, human, where are your friends?" the orc asked in a demanding 
voice.
     The prisoner forced out an answer, but his voice was failing him.  
It came out as an unintelligible murmur.
     "WHAT!??" shouted the orc.  "I can't HEAR you, human!"
     Another attempt.  "Kent Fairfield, Corporal, Homeguard of 
Chadwick."
     The orc, enraged with indignation, slapped the man across the face 
so hard that he was wrenched from the arms of his captors.  He crumbled 
to the ground as the orc turned his back, yelling orders and obsceneties 
and epithets to all within earshot.  The captors hurridly picked the 
prisoner back up and held him again, and he could feel that they were 
shaking.
     They stood there for several seconds, the larger orc still ranting 
off at some distance.  Finally, having vented some of his anger, he 
returned.  Pressing his face into that of his prisoner's, he said, 
"Fine.  So the human doesn't want to talk to Gurlith.  Fine!  I know 
someone you WILL talk to, whether you want to or not!"  With that he 
pulled back, and Corporal Fairfield could see a human dressed in a deep 
purple robe standing behind the orc.  He was holding a sphere that was 
suspended within an octahedron, and within the sphere were a multitude 
of colored points that were spinning about as if caught within a 
tempest.  The man approached, and the points began to slow.
     Slowly, the scene in front of him began to melt away, and in place 
of it a new scene was emerging.  It was in the forest just past Justin's 
farm.  He could see the other four Guardsmen gathered around him, and 
they were speculating about where they were headed.  Behind them, 
Fairfield could see Therion, Vengar, and Addison, talking amongsth 
themselves.  He looked about, and behind him, some yards off, stood the 
man in the robe.  He was no longer holding that odd contraption that he 
had seen before.
     Fairfield reached for his sword and drew it, surprised to find that 
he actually had it.  The other Guardsmen were all stunned, and drew 
theirs as well in reaction.  Fairfield shouted, "Kill that man!", but no 
one moved.
     The other Guardsmen began to ask which man, and acted as though 
they saw no one.  Fairfield attempted to point the man out to them, but 
to no avail.  Finally, the others began resheathing their swords, 
saying, "Nice try Kent, but you're gonna have to be more creative than 
that.  C'mon, that's getting old!"  Try as he might, Fairfield could not 
convince them that the man was there.
     He looked over his shoulder one last time.  The robed man was still 
standing there, making no motion, and grinning widely.  Fairfield 
scowled at him in defiance, and turning back to the other Guardsman 
sheathed his sword.  Just then, Lieutenant Addison approached the group.
     Suddenly, Fairfield was aware that the robed man was right behind 
him, looking over his shoulder.  Addison began issuing orders, and it 
was right then that Fairfield knew what was going on...this man was some 
kind of mind-reader, and he was trying to dig out information from him 
about Lord Chadwick!  He mustered all of his mental powers, and 
concentrating hard, determined to force an end to the scene and return 
to reality.
     The image began to fade, and the sound of Addison's voice blurred 
momentarily, before the robed man had a chance to react.  The sudden 
flexing of what mental strength Fairfield had had caught him off-guard.  
He reacted.  Fairfield felt a sensation as if his brain were imploding, 
and he staggered.  The image clarified,
and the sound stabilized.  Addison had just completed giving the orders, 
and was now assigning the three Guardsmen who were to break off.  
Fairfield was one of them.
     Just as they were beginning to head up the stream, Fairfield turned 
to the others and said, "Let us at least travel with swords drawn, so as 
not to be caught unawares."  The other Guardsmen agreed, and drew their 
weapons as they started up the creekbed.  Then, a shout came from Sir 
Vengar, ordering them to sheath their weapons.  Fairfield's heart sank.  
He looked over at the robed man (who was now at his original position), 
who just stood silently and smiled.
     The image again faded, and it was replaced by a another, this time 
a view of the Singing Rock, as seen from the northwest.  The image 
lasted only a few moments, and then it, too, began to fade.  But this 
was not like the previous scene changes...it was different.  This time 
he saw nothing but blackness.  And then the
pain began to return.  He opened his eyes and saw that he was back in 
reality.
     The robed man spoke to Gurlith, saying, "He is too weak to probe 
any more, thanks to your ruffians..."  Gurlith snarled, but the man 
continued, "...but I think I have the information you were seeking.  If 
we may return to the map, I shall show you where they are hiding."  The 
robed man turned an eye to Fairfield and smirked evilly.  Fairfield, 
faced with the thought of unwillingly betraying his friends and, worse 
yet, his lord, began to lose his strength rapidly.  He closed his eyes 
as the pain in his side rose, and began to cough uncontrollably, spewing 
up more and more blood.
     "You go on ahead," Gurlith said to the robed man as he approached 
Fairfield.  His captors dropped him, and he fell to the ground, coming 
to rest on his back.  "I have some garbage to take care of."  Fairfield 
knew that Gurlith was referring to him, and he struggled to force open 
an eye to see what was happening.  He saw
Gurlith standing over him, with his right heel hovering briefly over his 
head.  Then, not even bracing for the impact, Fairfield saw Gurlith 
bring his heel down hard.


     Therion watched as Vengar approached the group, and was grateful 
that an experienced fighter was part of the group.  Mind magic was all 
well and good, but it was never meant for closeup fighting against large 
numbers of determined enemies.  He sighed...if only he had been at his 
castle instead of traveling, this would not have happened.
     He reached out with his senses, very cautiously, and noticed strong 
feelings of pain...and a hint of magic.  Focusing a bit, he could feel 
the Corporal's discomfort, and could sense the mage who was attacking 
his mind.  At this distance, there was little Therion could do, save 
block some of the man's pain and fear as Gurlith murdered the hapless 
soldier.
     Therion turned to Vengar and said, "My friend, we are outnumbered - 
we cannot win this fight.  But I know a man who can help us.  He is in 
Montfort;  his name is Marco, the president of a bank there.  And, he 
can arrange nearly anything...for a price."  Therion being tired, and 
angry about the death of the soldier, his mental shielding slipped just 
a bit...and, for the first time, Vengar noticed some of Therion's 
surface emotions.  There seemed to be a certain distaste in his mind.
     The fact that Vengar could sense emotion from Therion struck him 
like a blow from a charging cavalryman.  He could not see the fate of 
the last Guardsman.  Vengar had trouble deciding how to interpret this 
view of Therion's surface emotion, and as such did nothing.
     Therion continued, "Mercenaries can be brought in;  not from around 
here.  I've heard of some of the things they've done in the past.  
They're ruthless, and will do anything necessary...and they're good 
fighters that are well armed.  Of course, they must be watched...lest 
they engage in certain..."  The distaste leaked out again.  
"...excesses."
     The fighter was silent.  This was an option that he had not 
considered, and for good reason.  Mercenaries were used well in the 
hinterlands, but in civilized lands were a severe liability.  As Therion 
had eluded to, their excesses tended to be extreme.  They were generally 
an uncultured lot that couldn't be trusted with anything...including 
loyalty.  As sure as they would fight for you, if paid more they'd turn 
and fight against you.  Vengar had had experiences with plenty of 
mercenaries during the wars, and Therion's overall assessment seemed to 
coincide with his.  He had never heard of this Marco character, though, 
but from Therion's reaction, he didn't think he wanted to.
     There was no easy answer, and a lot of thought would have to be 
given to the problem before an adequate solution presented itself.  But 
there were other matters at hand.  Changing subjects, Vengar said to 
Therion, "We have other matters to attend to first."  Turning to 
Addison, he added, "Let us proceed.  I want to raid that base tonight."  
Then to all, "We will likely not get much sleep tonight."
     Addison lept forward into the brush, and the Guardsmen followed.  
To Therion, Vengar said, "After you, my lord," and he followed the mage.  
Addison was leading the group on a sweeping path to cut to the south of 
the approaching attack force, and then onwards to the supply base.  The 
going was tough, as the moonlight was blocked by the canopy above, 
yielding total darkness on the forest floor.  That made maneuvering 
through the tangled underbrush very difficult.  After several hours (and 
a few harrowing encounters with pickets that the group was able to 
evade), they saw before them through the trees the lights of campfires.
     Vengar led the group to the edge of the brush where they could 
safely observe the base while not being observed themselves.  The orcs 
guarding the supplies were doing their job very poorly...several were 
asleep, and the rest were more interested in their conversations than in 
watching for raiders.  "So much the better," thought Vengar.
     The camp was not well laid out, and the supplies were scattered 
haphazardly across the grounds.  Still, they were gathered somewhat in a 
poor attempt at organization.  After several minutes of surveying the 
site, Vengar had located various targets within the compound:  stable, 
armory, quartermaster, and the barracks for the garrison.  The various 
crates, barrels, boxes, and piles of material made good avenues of 
approach into the camp with minimal risk of observation from the 
sentries, and Vengar began formulating his attack plan.
     Finally, he turned to Therion and Addison.  "Lieutenant, there are 
two key elements to any successful raid:  stealth on our part, and when 
that fails, confusion on their part.  Therion, if you are up to it, I 
would like you to create a diversion that will draw the orcs to the far 
side of the camp."
     Therion smiled, for what seemed to him the first time in a long 
while!  He nodded agreeably;  there would certainly be a diversion!
     Continuing, Vengar said, "Then, Addison and I can lead the 
Guardsmen in.  Lieutenant, your primary target will be the armory.  Take 
two Guardsmen and destroy all you can.  I will take the other two and 
attack the quartermaster area.  Once you have completed your primary 
mission, destroy any targets of opportunity that you can with minimal 
risk to yourself and your men.  Understand that above all else we cannot 
lose another person."  The lieutenant nodded, indicating that that fact 
was very clear in his mind.  
     Vengar continued.  "Now, I want you to approach from slightly to 
the right, between that tent and that pile of boxes."  Vengar pointed to 
the spot he was referring to.  "I will come from there on the left."  He 
shifted the direction in which he was pointing.  "Once we have entered 
the camp and hit our primary targets, we can meet in the center and see 
what more mayhem we can cause!"  Turning to Therion, he added, "While we 
are in the camp, watch for any signs of trouble.  If you see any, let me 
know," and with that he put his right index finger to his temple.
     Therion agreed..that would be no problem...
     Vengar and Addison prepared for the assault.  They each picked the 
two soldiers they were going to take, and moved forward into the thick 
grass that surrounded the camp.  Everyone had their bows at the ready, 
the members of the Home Guard with their standard-issue crossbow, and 
Vengar with his long bow.  Once ready, they awaited the diversion 
courtesy of Therion.
     The orcs in camp were bored and, like bored conscripts anywhere, 
they had found something to pass the time.  As Vengar had prepared the 
assault, Therion had let his mind wander amongst the orcs to a gambling 
game being conducted.  By the time the little group was ready for a 
diversion, two of the less popular orcs had experienced quite a streak 
of good fortune.
     At this point, a rather hot-tempered orc became convinced 
(absolutely convinced) that he had seen the two cheating.  For some 
strange reason, the participants and spectators had all been growing 
more irritable; and soon after accusations were voiced, a general brawl 
ensued.
     For the first time, Therion lifted his staff...the golden filaments 
along the shaft glowed dimmly, and the crystal at the top emanated a 
hint of reddish light.  One of the marvelous things about orcs was their 
wealth of raging, uncontrolled emotion..particularly hate and anger.  
And, with Therion's help, all of the hidden and repressed emotions were 
coming forth, as the camp began to dissolve into a confused riot of 
infuriated orcs attacking each other...
     Once the guards had been distracted, they dashed into the camp.  
Vengar led his pair of troops to the large collection of various 
provisions on the left side of the supply base.  There was a tent nearby 
with still more supplies.  "Let's prepare to burn this," ordered Vengar.  
Behind him, a horse neighed, and the nearness of the stables gave Vengar 
and idea.
     He told the soldiers to evenly space themselves between the supply 
tent and the stables.  Vengar then dashed inside, grabbed a bale of hay, 
and heaved it at the next soldier in line, who in turn heaved it to the 
last.  After a few minutes, they had placed several bales in and around 
the supplies.  Taking a lantern from the stables, Vengar tossed it into 
the tent onto one of the bales.  The hay quickly lit, and the fire began 
to spread over the entire bale.  Within minutes there was the beginning 
of a raging inferno.
     Then, unexpectedly, Addison and his contingent appeared.  Vengar 
asked, "Did you take care of the armory?"  Addison answered, "Wait..." 
     Vengar was about to begin heaving more supplies that were not in 
the way of the flames onto the conflagration, when a large explosion 
came from the opposite side of the camp.  Debris went flying, and the 
raiders had to take cover for fear of being hit.  From the light of the 
fire could be seen a large cloud of white
smoke rising from where the armory had been.  Seeing the stunned look 
upon Vengar's face, Addison explained, "They had built themselves a very 
impressive forge, and a tank to collect rainwater for cooling the hot 
metal.  We simply redirected the sluice from the tank into the forge, 
and set fire to the rope holding the gate closed.  When it finally 
burned through, the water rushed into the forge, and...well, you can see 
for yourself!"
     The stunned look on Vengar's face remained, not from what was 
happening as before, but now because of the sheer genious displayed by 
Lieutenant Addison.  Staring at the cloud rising high above him, he 
could only mutter the word, "Brilliant."  But the orcs were snapped from 
their distraction by the sudden catastrophe at the armory, and they were 
charging back into the camp full of anger and hatred.  They were 
determined to avenge their lapse of duty on the raiders, hoping to 
salvage something that might spare their puny lives when Gurlith learned 
of the destruction that had been wrought.  They were closing fast.
     Therion hadn't planned on this!  With the orcs already giving full 
vent to their anger, they had been given a focus...Vengar and the small 
raiding party.  Therion sent a hurried mental message to Vengar;  it was 
a single word, emphasized such that it sounded more like a scream than 
the usual staid tones of mental discourse.  The word was 'RUN'.
     The word rang in Vengar's ears, and he stiffened from the 
suddenness that it had arrived to him.  The smoke from the burning 
supplies was obscuring the vision of the raiders, and he was unable to 
see the approaching danger.  The word rang again, and a sense of urgency 
gripped the fighter.  Shouting to the lieutenant, he yelled, "Addison, 
get your men out of here!  Company's coming!"
     Seconds later, as the enraged orcs approached, Therion stood out of 
the brush where he had hidden.  No longer appearing as a tired older man 
traveling about, he stood tall and proud, and lifted the staff high.  A 
silver aura surrounded him, and the filaments on the staff shone bright 
gold.  The crystal at the top flashed a brilliant white, the physical 
light blinding in it's intensity.
     Addison was now shouting out orders for a withdrawal, ordering one 
Guardsman to stand by him to cover the escape.  Bowstrings began 
singing, and a slight drizzle of arrows began growing into a steady 
downpour.  Addison and the second soldier tried in vain to return what 
they could, but their combined output just couldn't compare.  When the 
rest of the Guardsmen were safely away, they, too, turned and fled.
     The other Guardsmen had stopped at the edge of the camp to recover 
the two who had covered their retreat.  Addison and the Guardsman caught 
up to them quickly.  They were in defensive positions, with crossbows 
trained towards the camp and any potential pursuers.  There were a few 
who were dispatched with quick and accurate crossbow fire, but overall 
the orcs were not mounting a pursuit.
     Addison said to the Guardsman who led the retreat, "I need to speak 
to Sir Vengar.  Where is he?"
     The soldier had a surprised and confused look on his face.  He 
replied, "He is not with us, lieutenant.  We thought he was with you."
     Lieutenant Addison echoed the Guardsman's expression.  Saying aloud 
to all, Addison spoke, "He is still inside.  We must attempt a rescue.  
Prepare for battle!"  The Guardsman rose to their feet and prepared to 
charge into the camp, which by now was a hellish scene of flames and 
smoke.  "ON MY MARK.... MARK!"
     Just as Addison and the Guardsmen were about to charge back into 
the camp, several dark forms appeared from within.  They were silhoutted 
against the flames, making identification hard, but they were larger 
than man-sized.  Addison shouted, "Ready bows!!" and the Guardsmen 
trained their crossbows on the fast approaching figures.  Several tense 
moments went by as the soldiers waited anxiously as the unidentified 
figures approached.  Hoofbeats were heard, and Addison could make out 
that the figures were indeed horses.  The lead horse had a lone rider, 
and the others were riderless.  The men began to fidget as the horses 
drew closer, running at a full gallop.  Addison commanded again, "Stand 
ready!!...... Ready!!........"
     Then Vengar's voice cut across the crackling of the burning supply 
camp.  "Special appropriation for the Chadwick Freedom Fighters!"  The 
soldiers burst into a yell, hailing the safe return of Sir Vengar and 
his daring acquisiition of mounts for the group.  Vengar rode past the 
group, heading up the small rise to the treeline where Therion had been 
waiting.  Addison and the Guardsmen ran behind him, carefully watching 
thier backside but all the same elated at the successful raid that they 
had just executed.
     Among the orcs, a great quiet descended as they all fell to the 
ground in trembling convulsions.  Some swallowed their tongues and began 
choking, and in a few the convulsions were so severe as to break bones.  
In any event, they had lost control of all their voluntary muscles.  The 
soreness caused by the epileptic seizures would last quite some time...
     Therion said to Vengar, "I fear my little stunt will draw the 
attention of any mind-aware mage or being in the area.  Perhaps we 
should depart - and soon.  Had they not been careless leaving their 
soldiers unprotected, this would not have been so easily done...."
     Vengar was about to answer, when he was blinded by a scene that 
overrode the hos normal vision of the mindmage before him.  He saw the 
Singing Rock, illuminated by dozens of campfires, each surrounded by 
dozens of orcs. Several of the orcs were screaming in abject terror, 
while the others looked on horrified and confused.  The more he watched, 
the more orcs began to suffer from the trap Therion had laid.  The scene 
degenerated into a general scene of chaos...orcs running in every 
direction, sometimes fighting anyone who was in their way, most 
screaming, some crying, and some cursing, and their leaders embarking on 
a lost cause to restore order.  Gradually, it faded back to Vengar's 
normal vision, and he saw again Therion standing before him.
     "It is sprung," he said.