The Great Library of Palanthas
An Aesthetic shows you to the private room of Galadir.
A young Squire leads you into the private study of Lord Galadir Fortescue, Knight of Solamnia. As you cross the threshold, the Squire leaves you and a servant takes his stead ready to accommodate you.
The Study of Galadir
The study is marvelous in its simplicity. A stone fireplaces glistens and crackles helping to warm the room from the breeze drifting in from the enormous glass window that is open at most times. These together keep the room at a nice temperature and provide ample lighting conditions. Sounds not uncommon to a training ground drift up from below, and the view of the window shows the Bay of Branchala to the north as well as the diligent squires training below. There is a mahogany desk on the opposite side of the study, facing the window. On it rests a voluminous novel kept so immaculate that the title can be read from across the room: Measure of the Knighthood of Solamnia. To the side of the desk, against the wall, is a large bookcase containing mostly reports and battle records. An occasional mythical story sneaks in here and there, but only for his occasional relaxation periods. Two oak chairs with crimson cushioning face the desk with their backs to the window, obviously used during his few relaxing times. There also appears to be a second room with an enormous table containing troop movements on pinned down maps. Lining the walls of this room are suits of armor passed down from generation in the Fortescue Line. Overall the study is spacious and immaculate, providing comfort and versatility at the same time. The butler begs you to choose any record, report, or story and have a seat while he pours you a glass of wine...
Stories of Ansalon from the view of Galadir.
A little gully dwarf runs by and says 'Wordwrap Off 65 80.'
The gully continues 'Want color back? Turn Color Back ON!!
Astinus says 'Enter the main library here to view only the author list.'
Astinus gently places a well written novel on the table in front of you.
You note the spine bears the word 'Galadir' scribed in grey ink.
Author: Galadir Date Sat Aug 28 18:08:25 2004 Subject A faded parchment An emissary from King Faldarin Sanifir, bearing a faded parchment and seal of sword crossing flame on a mountain peak. Most Esteemed Knights of Solamnia, As requested per Galadir's petition to your esteemed ranks, in the following documents contain our Family Lineage, and let my seal bear witness to the truth of the below statements. Galadir Sanifir, Youngest Prince of The Mountain Kingdom, has been sent forthwith from our lands, as they fade into decay and rubble, amidst riots and mutiny. The Sanifir Family has ruled the Mountains of Taladar for more than 400 years. King Galdrial Sanifir fled from the Plains of Solamnia during The Cataclysm, north into unfamiliar lands and territories. It was there, that he set up the new Kingdom known as The Mountain Kingdom, also known as 'Salanir thos selc Maras' or, Honor of the Mountains. There, he and his people lived and they eventually began to thrive. After Galadrial's death, his eldest, Sandar, led his people even deeper into the mountains, and from there, the People of the Mountain ruled, the lineage carrying down from King Galadrial to the now, King Faldarin. After an unknown evil entered 'Salanir thos selc Maras', the once brave and loyal people began to turn against eachother, and then against their King. It was at that point, that King Faldarin made the decision to send his youngest son to learn the sword with the Knights of Solamnia. Even as this official document reaches the hands of the esteemed Knights, King Faldarin and his eldest, stand with the Palace guards, and the King's personal bodyguards, Salanir Guard, to face the oncoming swarms of the ravaged, insane People of the Mountain Kingdom. Today marks the day of the fall of 'Salanir thos selc Maras'. I pray my youngest was delivered into your hands as safely as was this document. He will be the last surviving heir of a deceased nation. He does not yet know of what has befallen his land, so I beseech you to keep it so, until the time comes when it can be withheld from him no longer. Est Sularus Oth Mithas Salanir thos selc Maras King Faldarin Sanifir, King of the People of the Mountain Author: Galadir Date Tue Sep 21 18:57:17 2004 Subject RE: A Bounty Notice Taking advantage of the break before his next shift, Galadir decided to hit up a local tavern. As he approached the tavern, he noticed a dark fluttering object nailed to the door frame. As he strode up to the object, he bore witness to the bounty placed upon his head. Angrily, he snatched up the paper and held it steady in front of him. His eyes widened in surprise at the hefty sum, even as his hand unconsciously reached for his ear. With a growl he crumpled the paper up and proceeded into the tavern, where he located the owner of the tavern. Sitting the owner down, he tossed the crumpled wad of paper to him. "Open it." Galadir watched as the owner uncrumpled the paper, read it, and looked up expressionless. "Since when do the people of Palanthas allow bounties upon the heads of members of the Knighthood who protects them?" The owner's expression still did not change as the man asked, "Do you know where one could find this, Galadir?" Caught off guard, Galadir naively responded, "I am he." The man's beady eyes lit up greedily and Galadir watched calmly as the man proceeded to lean forward to reach down for his boot, as he feigned a sneeze. With a grim smirk upon his face, Galadir kicked the man's hand while it reached for the boot, crushing the hand between foot and stool. The man let out a yelp and scrambled up, out of the chair. With his other hand, he grabbed out a knife. The beady eyed man lunged at Galadir. Galadir kicked off the man's chest and as his chair tumbled over backwards, he rolled out, as the man's knife reached overhead. Within an instant that he was up, Galadir had his sword withdrawn and was fending off the owner, trying to defeat the man without injuring him too severely. He watched dejectedly as the owner crumpled when the hilt of his sword slammed into the man's face. With a small sigh, he sheathed his sword, and as he bent to pick up the paper still crumpled in the greedy man's hand, he heard a whistling sound above him. As he spun around, he came face to face with a greedy merchant, axe in hand. Kicking out, Galadir watched as the merchant crumpled to the floor, grasping his knee and moaning. Clenching his fist even tighter around the piece of paper, he strode out of the tavern, and back to his quarters to get some rest before his next shift. Upon arriving at his quarters, he took a tack, and tacked up the paper on the wall next to his bunk. As he lay there, staring at the paper, he wondered what he should do about it. As he wondered, another squire came to awake him for his shift. With a mutter about not getting any rest, he got up and donned his cloak, then headed out the door. Author: Galadir Date Tue Nov 16 20:23:54 2004 Subject Rebellion Against Authority Surveying my quarters, I looked upon them for the last time, disgusted. A few objects in hand, cloak, letters, and money, I had been ordered to clean out my part of the room. Well, perhaps not ordered anymore, asked is more appropriate. With a quick turn, I left my quarters, undoubtedly to never see them again. he "acting" Grand Master had attempted to put reins on me that choked, and I rebelled. Now, with stamped papers in hand, and several hundred steel pieces, I walked towards the entrance. No, towards the exit. The papers were mine, I had requested them. As I walked to the exit, I handed the guard my papers for honorable discharge, if such a thing existed. he guard did a double-take as he looked from the papers to me, and back again. Apparently requested discharge wasn't very popular as his surprise turned to contempt. With a sneer I grabbed my papers and stuffed them into my cloak. I continued on, out the door and into the refreshing night air. Fortunately, the Knights had been willing to let me keep my steed, although since I had been a squire, I did not own a great war horse. I decided to stay awhile in Palanthas, doing oddjobs here and there, earning a living. The only trouble was avoiding the Solamnics, for I am sure they would not neglect the opportunity to corner me and make sport of me, for I am recuperating from an injury on the battlefield, and am not at my strongest yet. That is a story for another time. For now I shall keep to my wanderings, strengthing myself and hopefully selling my sword to make a better living. Maybe then I shall encounter a former Solamnic fellow, and vent my pent up animosity upon his body. Until then, who knows? -Signed in ink- (Unique eh?) Galadir, The Mercenary Apprentice of Magic Author: Galadir Date Wed Apr 20 16:04:35 2005 Stamp 1114031075 Subject A New Chapter Sitting atop a barrel, the man glanced down from atop the building at the docks. A spot he had spent weeks picking, he sighed in contentment. A perfect view of the harbor and the ships entering as well as good sight for gazing at the Jewel City of Palanthas. His scabbard across his lap, he withdrew the sword and gazed at it as it glimmered in the light reflected from the sea. With a small series of flicks of his wrist, the sword danced in front of him. All too suddenly he sighed and sheathed it. Hopping from his barrel he danced through the building's narrow walkways, down rotted ramps and over upturned crates and barrels to a small, insignificant office at the unused end of the docks. Sitting himself in a cozy armchair, he looked at the man across from him. Or beast, rather, the hulking creature across from him could not be named a man. Eyeing the beast up and down his gaze traveled from the minotaur's eyes, to his snot, and down along his muscled arm to the hand that was stretched in front of him. With a small spit on his hand, the man slapped palms with the minotaur and shook. "Deal." And so it was settled. His life as a Knight of Solamnia had long since ended. He could not help but gaze at the fluttering banners one last time as he brought that chapter of his life to a close. Soon, he would see Palanthas no more. Soon, he thought, hopefully very soon. With a skip, hop, and a jump, he settled atop his barrel in a crouch with his wide-brimmed hat pulled low. With a last glance over his shoulder at the Jewel City he called home for a time, he refocused his gaze on the sea. The page turned, a new chapter was just starting to be written... Author: Galadir Date Wed Aug 17 22:10:04 2005 Stamp 1124334604 Subject Relinquished Relics Life was definitely improving. I'd been reinstated as a Knight of Solamnia, albeit stripped of all previous rankings and honors. Neither really bothered me much. After the Council decides I've suffered enough, they'll reconvene and determine whether the punishments be lifted or not. Until then, I've started my old duties; primarily patrolling the city and guarding the harbor. The Council seemed to figure that since I'd spent so much time there, that I'd know how to pick out the smugglers. It was about time for the graveyard shift. My shift. Getting out of bed, I quickly slipped on my pants, shirt, and breastplate. Figuring I'd patrol lightly tell galadir * tell galadir * armored, I grabbed only my sword and a dagger and tucked them into my swordbelt. Stuffing my feet into my boots, I tied them quickly, and threw on my cloak as I left my quarters. Fortunately I had gate duty tonight. Warming my legs up, I took the long route to gate, letting the cool air wake me up. Arriving at the Western Gate, I knocked on the guardhouse door. The door swung open at my touch, creating an eerily foreboding feeling in the pit of my stomach. Loosing my sword a hand, I slowly stepped into the guardhouse and looked around. Oddly enough, it was empty. Completely void of all life. Looking around, I saw no signs of violence; the chairs and table were all upright, and there was an open book on the table. The strange thing was that there were two cloaks hanging from the coat rack, and two swords on the weapons rack. Still wary, I fully entered the room and closed the door behind me. For some reason, I was drawn to the open book. There, opened to a specific page, was a picture of a magnificent sword. With a platinum hilt, studded with rubies, and the blade seemed to be of the sharpest, purest silver and steel. Not taking the time to read the article, my eyes just sought the bolded words: Last Seen On The Isle of Sancrist. Gazing in awe at the sword on the page before me, I barely noticed the two bodies that had previously been hidden from view by the door. With a curse, I drew out my sword, but found myself smothered in darkness and the sword no longer in my grasp. Stumbling, I grabbed blindly for a chair and swung it by the legs at the darkness around me. The chair flew from my hands without contact. With another curse, I dashed blindly for where I thought the table was, and as I reached it time around me seemed to slow. My legs felt like jelly and I lost control of their movement. Grabbing hold of the book, I chucked it over my shoulder. Lady Luck was on my side as the book connected and a loud grunt issued forth from an unknown source. The darkness evaporated and I regained control of my legs. Grabbing hold of the second chair, I turned and swung, only to connect with a dark mist as my mysterious attacker also seemed to evaporate. With another curse, rather unKnightly, I grabbed my sword which was lying at my feet. Brandishing it in front of me, I walked cautiously to the two bodies and knelt down to check for pulses. Fortunately they were both still alive. Whatever curse had been place upon them seemed to be wearing off. While keeping my eyes on the door, I reached out and turned over the book. When it hit the ground, it closed with a thud. To my surprise, one page flew out of the closed book as if by magic. Turning it over, I saw the picture of the sword, and the caption underneath. As the two guardsmen started to come around, I folded up the page and put it in my pocket. Helping the guards to their feet, the same words kept drifting in front of my eyes: The Isle of Sancrist. After filing my report, I was going to do a little research and perhaps purchase passage to a little island north of Ergoth. Est Sularus Oth Mithas My Honor is My Life (To Be Continued) Author: Galadir Date Sun Aug 21 15:06:13 2005 Stamp 1124654773 Subject Relinquised Relics: Conclusion That report was a bit confusing. Not knowing the attacker nor finding anything stolen I simply stated that he attacked a Knight and two guardsmen, which I figured enough for jailtime. The guardsmen didn't seem to remember anything, which was unfortunate to say the least. A warrant was put up for the mysterious attacker's arrest, although no picture was put on the posters. The citizens of Palanthas have been offered a reward for any information leading to the capture of such a figure. I'd handed over investigation of the case to a more dedication man, Sir Thalstain. Now I had time on my hands to bathe and change into a simple outfit and head to the library with the picture in my pocket. Approaching the Great Library of Palanthas, I knocked on the wooden doors and was answered by a balding middle-aged man. After informing the man of my status as a Knight of Solamnia, he agreed to let me search through the volumes of the Library. I showed him the article and asked him where I could find information on such an object, and he took a few moments to read the article over. After he was done, he beckoned for me to follow, and he led me to a small section of the Library in which there were two shelves of books. He pulled out a specific book and handed it to me. Thanking him, I took it off into a quiet corner and delved in. Hours later, I walked out of the library and set off towards the docks. There, I purchased passage to Sancrist Isle to leave in the morning. The man I bought passage with was a portly fellow with a receding hairline who owned the ship but did not work it. It was a bit of a rip off, but I needed passage and he was the only one heading that way anytime soon. I returned to my quarters to find a man who looked as if he had just completed a three day journey without rest, through every element the weather could throw at him. His hair was disheveled, his boots and pants were completely covered in mud and dirt, and his face had a layer of dirt to it that could be seen from the side. When he saw me, he handed me a dispatch and gave me a brief outline of it. I was summoned to Vingaard Keep with all haste. I would be filled in upon my arrival. The sword I'd set my sights on earlier this week completely left my thoughts, as I packed my saddlebags and headed towards the stables. I hadn't owned a good horse since leaving the Knighthood the first time, so the stable boy lent me one of the Knighthood's spares. The horse was a strong one, I could see it's leg muscles rippling under it's skin. It was a chestnut color, with a light mane. Quickly putting my saddle on it, I tied the straps and mounted the steed. With a small salute to the stableboy, I was out of the stableyard, through the courtyard, and out the front gates of the headquarters. Within moments I was through the South Eastern Gate, and heading at full speed for the High Clerists Tower. Once there, I would stop only to exchange for another horse, and continue on until I reached Vingaard Keep. Whatever this summons was for, I knew it couldn't be good. Est Sularus Oth Mithas My Honor is My Life Author: Galadir Date Mon Jun 26 14:18:30 2006 Subject A Rare Sighting, Pk Activity [ Half-Elf ] * [ Conclave ] [Red] Masticore stole his grandma's wheelchair. [ Human ] Dedriik the Woodsman [ Human ] * Necrid the Brother [ Minotaur ] * (VIOLENT) Grisov Blackfur, [ Blood ] [ Nerakan ] * (SLAIN)[Holy Order] [Dark] Torlith SuMMeR iS HeRe!!! [ ] * (VIOLENT) (KILLER) Mordiar the Darkstalker [ ] * [ Conclave ] [Red] High Archmage Khyldes "KELLY CLARKSON!!!!" [ Kender ] * (SLAIN) [Holy Order] [Light] Priestess Emla Thumbfingers [Spamming] [ Taladan ] * (VIOLENT) [ Solamnic ] Grand Master Galadir would like to meet with Branchala [ Kender ] Turnbuckle the Proud Author: Galadir Date: Fri Dec 22 16:18:00 2006 Subject Trial Galadir sat at his desk, leaning back, feet kicked up. He was taking a mental break from all of the mind numbing paper work that cluttered his desk daily. Hands folded on his chest and eyes closed, he was about to doze off when an abrupt knocking came at his door. "Damnit Gildarth, you know this is my busiest time of the day, and you know I am not to be interrupted." "Sir, it's urgent. Othwerwise you know I would not have disturbed you during your ritualistic napping." Grumbling about squire's knowing too much, Galadir replaced his feet on the floor, sat forward, and beckoned the squire in, "Enter." The squire looked deathly ill as he entered and saluted the Grand Master. As he laid the official paperwork on Galadir's desk, he splurted out, "Sir, the people are unhappy with Lord Godric's initial punishment. They are demanded a trial for treasonous acts against the Solamnic nation." "Since the documents are open, I assume you took the liberty to read them yourself? No, I don't want to hear your excuses. Off with you, and send Sir Railen this way." (To Be Continued) Author: Galadir Date: Thu Jan 4 12:21:07 2007 Subject Trial (Continued) As the squire took off, Galadir leaned back in his chair and exhaled deeply. This was a critical blow at a poor time. Exhaling again, he sat back and waited for Sir Railen to arrive. As Sir Railen entered, Galadir stood and returned his salute. "Please, have a seat. The orders I am giving you are of the utmost importance." Proceeding to take a seat himself, Galadir waited until the Knight was ready. "As you may or may not already know, the populace of Solamnia is ill content with the way Lord Godric's previous actions were dealt. They have demanded a trial for Lord Godric, charged with treason. The trial will commence, providing that we feel there is enough substantial evidence to charge him. Therefore, I am assigning you, Sir Railen, by the Crown and the Measure, with the task of investigating the events that transpired between Lord Godric, two mariners, and two Knights of Takhisis. Rumor has it there may have been a magic-user involved as well. You are to question as many and all witnesses as possibles to try and put together the series of actions that took place. You will have this by the next time Solinari is full. Any further questions may be directed towards Lord Cormac. May Habbakuk speed you, Kiri-Jolith guard you, and Paladine enlighten you." Galadir stood and saluted the Knight before him, who immitated the action before speaking, "Sir, I put the beliefs of the Knighthood before me as I seek the truth and justice for Lord Godric." Turning heel, Sir Railen left Galadir standing with the documents in his hand, wondering where this all was going. Author: Galadir Date: Thu Jun 14 08:27:52 2007 Subject Shronius and Kaeptakus It's really more of an honorary term for me, Knight. I've since retired, leaving the position of Lord Grand Master to some unfortunate soul, Aramynia I believe. If only she knew what lay ahead; my head throbs as the visions of paper work crawl by at a snail's pace. It was fun while it lasted, but the grey streaks in my beard were beginning to distract me every time I looked down. Now I do what I enjoy, randomly roaming the streets of Palanthas in search of crime. My best days have the worst crimes, a lady getting mugged, a kid stealing ice cream, some minotaurs trying to fight. Palanthas is rougher these days; it isn't the same old sandbox it used to be. As I was steadfastedly wandering the streets, I heard cries coming from the local hangout: Palanthas Dome. Rushing towards the scene, I found a broken hearted damsel, weeping as her lover broke her heart. With a sigh, I sheathed my sword and proceeded to woe the innocent woman. My advances seemed to be making quite an effect, until we were both knocked over by two brawling citizens. I was quite miffed, to say the least. Being the gentleman that I am, I assisted the lady to her feet and guided her to a safe area. When I returned, all hell broke loose. I drew my sword, hefted my shield, and saluted the two wrestling combatants. I strode towards the fight and bashed the man in dark robes with my shield. He fell to the ground, stunned. I turned to the other man who began swinging at me violently. I parried one attack with my shield, stepped in and lunged at him. I felt my sword pierce bare flesh and slide between ribs. He was down and out, and I was feeling good. The old blood was boiling with the frenzy of the fight. The dust was shaking from my bones and the joints were loosing up. This was what I needed to get me jump started. It helped that I had a lovely damsel watching me vanquish her offender as well. I turned to the black cloaked man, but he had left. As I was returning to the woman's side, a drunken dwarf stumbled across my path, rambling incoherently and blocking my way. He felt the brunt of my shield before his face hit the cobblestone. Later, I decided I'd book him for disturbing the public, but he'd been drug off somewhere and probably mugged. His safety wasn't my prime concern at the moment. As for that pretty dame over on the bench...
The Storytellers of Ansalon, The DragonLance MUD
Astinus points to the massive wall of books behind him and bids you to make a selection.
Authors: All|A|B|C|D|E|F|G|H|I|J|K|L|M|N|O|P|Q|R|S|T|U|V|W|X|Y|Z
Astinus mentions 'We have had over 869 storytellers on Ansalon pen their epic stories here for all to read.'
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