| Continued
. . . (previous) -
by Allan
Maki, Turbine Entertainment Software
The Gathering Storm -
from the
Zone
Leafcull PY 12
/
Earth: November 2001
As the storm clouds gather on the horizon, the people of Ispar breathe the
sweet air of respite. Virindi raiders have been driven away from the
capital cities, averting a second Arwic. The people have prevailed.
They gather now, in communities of homes,
built by the Zaikhal Arcanum. Here they display proudly their hard-won
trophies and keepsakes. They entertain visitors and hearken friends to sit
by warm fires to enjoy each other's company. Arcanum collectors have
changed the focus of their collection to items once used to craft weapons
wielded in the battle against the Shadows. Ceding one of the ingots over
to a representative is rewarded by a writ of refuge. Over a hundred new
homes have been constructed with the promise of many more to come.
The night sky is unmarred by the violet
sheen that has so long reminded the people of the Virindi's attempts to
gain control. Now the stars stare down more brightly than ever. Minute
holes in a gentle blanket over the land.
In the peace, adventurous groups have set
about their tasks in greater number, sharing the bounty of the hunt. They
scour the land for treasures and find that the greatest treasure of all is
sharing time with one another. Pushing deeper into the land of Marae
Lassel they have found and struck down the young Olthoi Queen, earning
accolades and kinship with the Aun Tumeroks. Others have taken a less
savory course and hunted members of the Aun relentlessly, alienating
themselves from the Tumeroks. On the plains, they stalk the unique beasts
that inhabit the island with renewed vigor, striking relentlessly at the
Mattekar and Siraluun in an effort to obtain the treasures that can be
crafted from their hides.
The people grow stronger with every day.
They meet challenges with renewed spirits, knowing that the threats they
face can be overcome if they are unified.
But still the storm gathers in the
distance, and a few watch those clouds with wary anticipation. As the
thunder rolls and the lightning splits the sky they wonder what is to come
next, and shiver at the thought of the coming snows. |