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SotD1: Trap of the Necromancer

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Crystal Smee

Crystal Smee

Posts: 7,994 Rune Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
Hey, guys.
For those who don't know, my name is Smeeze. This story is one of my older ones - I remember writing this in eighth grade. I guess it's a relic. I've decided to repost it and have my completed works here. I should warn up front that it's not my best writing by any stretch of the imagination and I don't expect to edit it any time soon...I've gotten a lot better since then =P
This story, the Saga of the Dungeon (Sot*) consists of three parts. There was a fourth, however, it was never completed, so I've brought it back down to a trilogy as a complete entity. Said parts are as follows:
- The Trap of the Necromancer
- The Cycle Breaks
- The Rise of the Alliance
This story took up a rather large period of my life and was incredibly fun to write. It spawned everything from trying to build the dungeon in game in a house to a version using members of TGP (sadly, both of these were never completed). I guess the point I'm trying to make is that one, it has history, and two, it means a lot to me.
Aside from all that...a little about me:
In the real world, so to speak, my name is Bryana, and I'm an 18-year-old girl. I attend Northwestern University as a Radio/Television/Film major, and I'm planning to add on a double major in creative writing. The plan is to end up in screenwriting. I'm originally from Boston, MA. I'm a diehard Boston Celtics fan and I kind of worship the show LOST.
As for my forum credits, I've been around awhile - going on five and a half years now (Holy ****). I've written a ton of stuff; other works include the Death Tournament series and the Gods Trilogy. I was a member of TWE and TIGA and a ton of other guilds. Once upon a time I founded and ran the Golden Pen. Lately I've been less active, as the real world has consumed my time...and as usual, I'm rambling.
Anyhow. I hope you guys enjoy the story.
-- Smeeze

30-Oct-2010 23:23:05 - Last edited on 30-Oct-2010 23:27:11 by Crystal Smee

Crystal Smee

Crystal Smee

Posts: 7,994 Rune Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
Prologue


The messenger edged his way through the crowded tavern. Brocaded in dashing, bright neon silks, he stood out like a sore thumb amongst the raucous, drunken patrons.

Many noticed this colorful courtier. A crowd began to gather behind him as he made his way toward the billboard in the far corner, scroll in hand. He tacked it up and edged back out. The crowd filled in like a wave of water, packing around to read the message.

One young woman cursed her shortness and shoved her way to the front. There, she paused to tuck a loose lock of wavy brown hair behind her ear, tugging at her ponytail. Then she looked up, grimacing at the stench of sweat and alcohol that surrounded her.

'Dear citizens of Ardounge,

I, Theonalios Goldenblade, your village alchemist, offer you a fine opportunity. Beneath my mansion at the edge of the city are the caverns of Bell'Or, only discovered and named by myself as of late.

I offer ten brave adventurers the chance to explore the caverns. I will teleport you in, and he who survives and finds his way out wins one million golds from myself. The first ten to come to my holding and present themselves for this contest will be admitted.

Sincerely,
Theonalios Goldenblade'

Her eyes flitted across the scroll, and she smiled to herself. Then she turned to make her way away from the tavern. She couldn't turn down something like this.

30-Oct-2010 23:23:40

Crystal Smee

Crystal Smee

Posts: 7,994 Rune Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
Chapter 1


Theonalios paced anxiously in his bedchamber. His deep blue robes swished across the floor as his feet carried him across the same path over and over again. He paused, staring into the gilded mirror that hung from the stone wall.

Messy black hair tumbled to his shoulders, untamed and oily. A malicious grin twisted his handsome figures, and his blue eyes held a malignant gleam. He was clad in blue robes that covered a black tunic, decorated with silver, and black pants. His staff, a thick piece of black oak that held a glittering ruby orb at its head, was propped on the wall behind him.

A liveried servant burst into the room, brocaded in silks as frivolous as the messengers, and gave a hasty bow upon one knee.

"My Lord Wizard," he reported breathlessly, "the adventurers have come. Ten of them, they have been admitted and await your presence in the lounge." Then he rose; head bowed, and stolidly studied the intricate patterns on the crimson rug.

"I see. Go, Jair, and tell them I will be down shortly." Theonalios ordered sharply. The servant, Jair, gave another hasty bow and scurried out. Theonalios turned back to the mirror, humming to himself.

He leaned close, examining himself. He ran one slender hand through his hair, taming it as best he could. He stared long and hard until the gleam vanished from his eyes, and he plastered a warm smile on his face.

Then, he turned and swept from the room, to the adventurers below.

Theonalios quelled his eagerness and descended the stairs slowly, with all the dignified authority he could muster. His booted heels clicked as he strode down the spiraling marble and across the entrance hall to the lavishly decorated lounge.

There, he settled himself on the luxurious cushions, and surveyed his guests. They had spread themselves out amongst the chairs, some sitting and some standing.

30-Oct-2010 23:24:05

Crystal Smee

Crystal Smee

Posts: 7,994 Rune Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
"My name is Theonalios. Welcome to my keep," he began slowly. "I presume you have all come to accept my offer, the challenge of surviving the catacombs beneath my holding, no?"

"Indeed we have," responded one adventurer. He was an older man, his hair like dancing flames. He stared calmly at Theonalios through half-lidded eyes, though the alchemist could see the cold gray beneath them. He wore a gleaming suit of armor, with shining dragon scales attached to its front. Hanging from his belt was a wide black sword. The man stroked the hilt, leaning idly on the wall.

"Good, good," Theonalios said, stroking his chin. "I suppose I should know your names, then," he prompted. The towering man continued to gaze lazily at him.

"Roan," he said flatly.

"Krystal," said a young lady, loose strands of brown hair cascading around her face. She stared at Theonalios with determination.

"Seth," said another man. His short reddish-gold hair hung just past his ears, and his eyes were a startling green.

"Daniel," the young man thrust forward a bony hand and grinned slightly. Theonalios shook it briefly, taking in the spiky blond hair and contrasting black clothing.

"Arvenous Slain," a deep voice murmured. Theonalios surveyed the elf, eyeing his long silver hair and silver chestplate, bearing an enameled dragon on its front.

"Ellya," the musical voice rang in his ears, and his gaze lingered on the beautiful lady.

"Neo," presented another man, his dark brown hair and deep brown eyes much like Krystal's.

"I'm Raylin," the teen said brightly, one hand brushing greasy brown hair out of his eyes. Multiple scars marred his features, but his handsomeness was still evident.

"Syroce," a snide voice drawled. Thick black hair hung in front of crimson eyes that scrutinized the alchemist.

"And lastly, I'm Katelynn," the final adventurer, a young woman, provided. Silky blond hair cascaded around her shoulders, and her blue eyes scanned the rest of her companions.

30-Oct-2010 23:24:33

Crystal Smee

Crystal Smee

Posts: 7,994 Rune Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
"Again, welcome to you all," Theonalios said, forcing down his impatience. He had to play the fool here. "All I need now is to explain the rules, and we can begin." He rubbed his hands together eagerly in anticipation.

"Rules. Yes, unfortunately, there are rules," Theonalios grinned slightly as he heard an exasperated sigh from Roan. He did*’t enjoy the rude manners of the man. He would have fun with this, he most certainly would…

"Firstly, you know that the object of this is to survive. I will not permit any attempts on the life of another contestant. I am a mage, and I will be watching you all. If you kill another, believe me, you will find yourself joining them." He heard a slight intake of breath here, and saw that Krystal had paled.

"Secondly, much like the first rule, I have ventured into the dungeons. There are traps. Any attempt to survive by pushing another into the trap will also result in your death." Krystal paled further at this.

"So, basically, no foul play. You do not have to stick together in there, nor must you spread apart. It is your choice, how you choose to spend your time. You will be given provisions, as well are there hidden stores of food in the dungeon. When your provisions run out, well, then, that could very well be the end of you. Also, with the food stores, you cannot hide them from others. All have a right to the provisions, you may not hoard them, take and or eat all of them," he droned on. Finally, he drew in a breath.

"I believe that about covers it. Remember, I will be watching you." He snapped his fingers, and pack of servants entered bearing packs of laden with supplies. The contestants stepped forward eagerly to take them.

"I give you one night to prepare yourselves. You may leave the keep. Tomorrow, we begin."

30-Oct-2010 23:24:55

Crystal Smee

Crystal Smee

Posts: 7,994 Rune Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
Krystal sunk into the cushions, rummaging through the pack. Inside it were bread, cheese, dried fruit, all foods that would more of less keep for a while. There were enough rations to last a few good weeks, if she portioned it out carefully. There were also a number of canteens, filled to the brim with fresh water.

She glanced up, seeing the young man Seth examining his own pack. She edged closer.

"Same stuff?" She asked.

"Yeah. What do you think of this fellow? I don't trust him," Seth replied, running a hand through his red-gold hair. His green eyes studied her face. She scrutinized him just as thoroughly, noting his muscular chest displayed through his thin black vest.

"I don't trust him, either. But I'm not backing out," she replied softly. He nodded and rose, turning to the mage. Theonalios stood in the doorway, watching for a last moment.

"Sir Magus, where are we to go for the evening?" he asked politely. Theonalios barked a laugh and clapped his hands.

"Ah, how foolish of me to forget," he chuckled mirthlessly as the servants filed in. "Show them to their rooms," he commanded. The servants left, each with an adventurer in tow.

Krystal followed hers into a lavishly decorated room. The bed was wide enough for three, with piles of soft pillows. She threw herself on it once the servant left, snuggling in the warmth. Then she rose and darted into the hallway to explore.

As she slipped through the enameled doors, she bumped into someone. Stumbling back, she gazed once more into the green eyes of Seth.

"Exploring?" he said brightly. She nodded.

"I'm curious as to what this place holds, though I don't know how we'll find anything. Its gigantic, it seems. Now that I think about it, I don't want to get lost..." she trailed off, rethinking her plans.

"Good point," he laughed softly. "Care to come into my room, perhaps, for a bit of wine, then?"

30-Oct-2010 23:25:20

Crystal Smee

Crystal Smee

Posts: 7,994 Rune Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
He turned to the doors next to hers and pushed one open. She mutely stepped inside. Just as she expected, the room was as grand as hers. She sunk into a cushioned armchair and watched Seth pour her a goblet of wine.

"Here," he said, depositing it in her hands and settling down with his own.

"This ought to be interesting," Krystal began, frowning.

"You know, I think the mage is trying to kill us. He throws us in a dungeon, tells us the last one to survive and make it out wins..." he shook his head. Krystal shuddered, and he placed a hand on her arm. For a moment, when his hand touched her, fire seemed to race through her veins.

"I seem to have scared you," he murmured apologetically.

"No, its fine," she managed, heart racing. "I'd best get some sleep."

Seth frowned, his green eyes downcast. "Very well. Good luck, Krystal." Her name rolled off his tongue, and her heart beat faster.

"And to you, Seth," she replied, and left for her own chambers.

*****

The ten adventurers were assembled in the lounge again. Theonalios paced back and forth before them.

"Remember, no foul play. I will be watching you at all times, rest assured." Krystal gulped at this, thoughts vanishing from her mind.

Theonalios, as though reading her thoughts, laughed softly. "There are times when you will need privacy, and I will give you that. But if you take advantage of that, and kill someone as soon as you think my head is turned, well, that will not go over well with me." Krystal smiled, as did a few others. Seth shifted uneasily, and Krystal swallowed a laugh.

Theonalios, as though reading her thoughts, laughed softly. "There are times when you will need privacy, and I will give you that. But if you take advantage of that, and kill someone as soon as you think my head is turned, well, that will not go over well with me." Krystal smiled, as did a few others. Seth shifted uneasily, and Krystal swallowed a laugh.

30-Oct-2010 23:26:03

Crystal Smee

Crystal Smee

Posts: 7,994 Rune Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
"I daresay there is naught more to be said. On that note, I see all of you have your packs. You are ready, then. I will now teleport you to the caverns.

He spread his hands wide and closed his eyes. Slowly, he began chanting in another language, and the world began to spin around the adventurers. It sped faster and faster, until it became a blur, then blackness.

Then, slowly, the blackness faded to spinning once more, and the spinning slowed, until they were in a room. A cold breeze swept through, chilling the adventurers' bones. The dank stones reeked of mildew and other foul odors.

In one dark corner, something growled. Two hideous beasts emerged, covered in tattered rags and each bearing a glittering scimitar. Krystal gulped.

It had begun.

30-Oct-2010 23:26:24

Crystal Smee

Crystal Smee

Posts: 7,994 Rune Posts by user Forum Profile RuneMetrics Profile
Chapter 2


Krystal'* blades hissed from their sheaths as the creatures advanced. Beside her, Seth fingered his black spear, raising it defensively. Roan huffed a sigh, drawing his large black blade. He stepped forward.

"Lemme at 'em, the Silencer'll take 'em," he smirked, lunging. One of the creatures struck at him, and he parried. He rolled away and tried to rise, but slipped in a pool of something slimy. His head cracked on the stones, and he lost consciousness.

"Idiot..." Raylin chuckled. "Look, if we all try, maybe we can kill this these things."

"Who says we're helping each other out?" drawled Syroce. "I thought the point of this was to be the last one alive, no?" He slid his long whip free of his belt and lashed out, catching the neck of one of the beasts. It fell to the ground, twitching on the dark stones.

Neo darted forward then, stabbing it with his silver spear. Ellya shuddered. "Nasty things," she whispered. Neo glanced back at her and dove for the other one. It clawed at him, and he stumbled back, colliding with the slender girl. Blood spattered across his clothes as he collapsed. His breathing calmed when he realized it was only the beast's blood. None of it was his.

With a loud sigh, Katelynn eyed the remaining beast. She loosened her bow and held it in one pale hand, nocking it with the other. One arrow, then another, then a third whizzed into the thick skin of the beast. It let out a low screech, then fell limply to the stones.

Krystal grimaced. Behind her, she heard a voice.

"Stick with me?" She turned and looked at Seth.

"Definitely," she grinned grimly.

The rest of the adventurers milled about, unsure what to do. "Where's Daniel?" Raylin blurted out suddenly.

31-Oct-2010 15:58:32

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