Visionaries: Knights of the Magical Light

[repeated line]

Arzon:
A whim, thought, and more is sought. Awake, my mind; thy will be wrought!

[repeated line]

Witterquick:
Sheathe these feet in the driving gale. Make swift these legs; o'er land I sail!

[repeated line]

Cryotek:
Three suns aligned, pour forth their might, and fill the archer's bow with might!

[repeated line]

Lexor:
The arrows turn, the swords rebel; may nothing pierce this mortal shell!

[repeated line]

Leoric:
Whispered sscrets of a shattered age, I summon you; renew this sage!

[repeated line]

Cindarr:
By nature's hand, by craft, by art, what once was one, now fly apart!

[repeated line]

Cravex:
O mist-filled pits dark, dank, unclear, touch all before me with frost-fingered fear!

[repeated line]

Darkstorm:
By what creeps, what crawls, by what does not, let all that grows recede and rot!

[repeated line]

Darkstorm:
Power of rot, obscuring truth, what once was old restore to youth!

Mortredd:
This will be of great interest to Darkstorm!

Cravex:
Heheheh... Forget Darkstorm. It's already of great interest to me.

Arzon:
I do not want to be a damper but I've made a study of curses and I do not believe I've ever heard of one that said "please" before.

Cravex:
Ahh, you've seen one curse, you've seen 'em all.

Cindarr:
They are sun imps, so they need the sun.

Cravex:
You're very quick, Cindarr.

Mortredd:
An ancient tomb.

Cravex:
And richly lain with treasure, I wager.

Arzon:
Imagine the archaeological value.

Darkstorm:
I have yet to hear of sun imps.

Merklynn:
And pray that you never do.

Merklynn:
Sun Imps are nasty, magical creatures that created so much havoc during the last Age of Magic that all of the forces in the old world joined to seal them into a tomb and then buried it. How were we to know that earthquakes would undo our work? Now someone must go out there and bury it once more.

Cryotek:
[muttering sarcastically to the others] I wonder who he might have in mind.

Merklyn:
Darkling Lords, Spectral Knights, I will reward both sides for this mission. Trust me. This is a subject we all can agree upon.

: [cut to them heading down the canyon] There are few things I hate more than manual labor.

Arzon:
[Most laugh, some grumble] Yes, another subject we can all agree upon.

Lexor:
Merklynn has lied before. What if there are no Sun Imps in there but rather - magical items that would pry us from under Merklynn's thumb? Or even return the Age of Technology.

Cryotek:
Huh! Who wants *that* back?

Darkstorm:
There is wisdom in what Cryotek says. I'm pleased with the way things are *now*.

Cindarr:
You take me for a dummy?

Lexor:
[baiting him] All of the others do...

Bearer of Knowledge:
First you collect a rare snorkelberry.

Leoric:
A snorkelberry.

Bearer of Knowledge:
Then, the hair of orange cat and the tail of a stupid lizard.

Reekon:
There is no such thing as a stupid lizard.

Bearer of Knowledge:
*Your*\ totem animal will suffice for now.

Reekon:
[raising his sword causing Cindarr to restrain him] Why -! Defend thyself!

Darkstorm:
Reekon! Impale him later. First we must hear what he has to say.

Bearer of Knowledge:
[laughing] Look at me. Now smile... smile... smile - while I PIE you! [does]

Leoric:
Arzon! You've got to send that thing in for repairs!

Feryl:
While I feel it is safe to say that yesterday's excitement will go unmatched, I'm afraid we do have another meeting with the Botanical Committee.

Leoric:
Oh. What about *this* time?

Feryl:
They want to grow ivy on the city's walls. Uh - then there's that zoning issue over the barracks, and finally, we have a trade dispute, in which...

Leoric:
Yes, I know all about it. The farmers who are using the magical seed are being accused of unfair competition.

Merklynn:
[looking at his book] Hmmm. A spell-detector spell seems to be missing. Of course, it's a cheap, abridged addition.

Merklynn:
Who's here?

Abraxas:
You were expecting maybe the wizard Falkama?

Abraxas:
Never send a knight to do a wizard's job!

[repeated line]

Abraxas:
a magician's orb is all I lack. Take his spell and send it back.

Abraxas:
I hear of powers but I see nary. Fashion this fool into a blueberry.

Abraxas:
To summon a light, a burning torch. To summon a laugh, a creeping blorch.

Darkstorm:
Ahhh, what a beautiful day. The slaves labor for me, my gold is being counted...

Mortredd:
[the soldiers affected by Knightmare begin to snore while he is handling Darkstorm's gold] One-billion-two-hundred-and... Oh, please, I'm trying to count!

Darkstorm:
Enough already; I am degraded! There is nothing more you can do to me.

Shaggy:
Wanna bet?

Merklynn:
Darkling Lords, Spectral Knights, I will reward both sides for this mission. Trust me, this is a subject we can all agree upon.

Lexor:
[cut to them heading down the canyon] I detest manual labor.

Arzon:
[grinning wryly amidst calls of assent] Yes. Another subject we can all agree upon.

Leoric:
We have a special on manners today; all you can eat!

Leoric:
How happy I am, sir, to see you don't know when to quit!

Pirate Captain:
Quit. Ha. The word be yours, not mine.

Leoric:
*This* is mine.

[uses his whip to tie his arm]

Feryl:
It is true, I am tired. But I am the kind that never knows sleep.

Tavern owner:
[as Feryl begins to fight Darkstorm and Mortredd] Oh, noo! Not again!

Darkstorm:
Can your power of fear draw him out?

Cravex:
Never doubt my abilities, Darkstorm. Never.

Darkstorm:
[Leoric disarms him] That wasn't supposed to happen.

Leoric:
A lot of things aren't supposed to happen.

Virulina:
I for one would never try to rescue one of *my* friends.

Darkstorm:
That, my dear, is why you *have* no friends.

Darkstorm:
It's called a pulley-web. I hear they're all the rage among the tax-collectors.

Owl of Wisdom:
Tonight, a great many warriors shall taste bitter defeat. [vanishes]

Darkstorm:
Wait! Which ones - us or them?

Darkstorm:
Heroes have such a nasty habit of getting loose when you don't want them to.

Leoric:
[strained] Well, old friend, I'm glad to see you're hale and - hearty.

Feryl:
And I am sorry to see you in such a state.

Mortredd:
Master will be so pleased when I bring him your head on a silver platter.

Feryl:
Dream on, insect!

Feryl:
[of the alarm] What's that?

Mortredd:
Your doom.

Leoric:
How good are you at finding alternate escape routes?

Feryl:
No complaints yet.

Darkstorm:
What are you doing? Why are you vandalizing my home?

Cravex:
Do ya want me to find them or not?

Lexor:
[shredding a tapestry] They're crafty, cunning fighters; you don't want them to escape, do you?

Darkstorm:
No, but... show a little less - enthusiasm.

Cravex:
[CRASH] Nope - not here either.

Feryl:
Long drop, isn't it?

Leoric:
It isn't the drop, old friend. It's the landing.

Reekon:
Ah, that has to be the stupidest stunt I've ever seen.

Feryl:
[zapping him after getting his breath back] Oh, shut up.

Cindarr:
[Smashes a suit of armor] They're not in there.

Darkstorm:
I *know* they're not in there. Any IDIOT could tell they're not in there. All you have to do, is *look inside*.

Cindarr:
[Opens the helmet's visor] Yeah... you're right. I guess that the reason you're the leader.

Darkstorm:
Actually, Cindarr, sometimes I wonder why I want to *be* the leader.

Feryl:
Gentlemen - and the lady... Leoric will join us in a moment. Darkstorm, I, uh, told him not to hurry. I can easily handle a few, treacherous swine...

Leoric:
Using the catapult as a drawbridge was brilliant, Feryl.

Feryl:
Elementary, Leoric.

Darkstorm:
[the Sky Claw crash-lands through a window] Over a dozen towers to choose from in this castle... and you have to pick *my bedroom*.

Feryl:
I'll never be like you, or - Witterquick, or...

Leoric:
And we will never be masters of vehicles such as you are.

Leoric:
Your ability saved me.

Feryl:
Yeah... I guess it did at that. [smells the smoke] Uh-oh.

Leoric:
[laughs] But neither of us could save our breakfast.

Ectar:
[holding the plant at sword-point] It is difficult to eat without a stem.

Cindarr:
[as Ectar approaches behind the two as a fox] Just try to slip past me, Spectral Knights...

Lexor:
[Ectar transforms, grabs Cindarr's shoulder so he turns, and gibes him a blow to the head which sends him over teh rampart into the moat] Oh! E-Ectar!

Ectar:
Hello, Lexor.

Lexor:
Let's make a deal. I'll let you slip by me, and neither of us makes any trouble!

Ectar:
But I *like* trouble.

Lexor:
Yes. Well... everyone to their own tastes!

Arzon:
Well, Ectar. I can't tell you how pleased I am to be invited along on your mission.

Ectar:
Arzon, I would be less then honest with you if I didn't tell you that I intend to use you as a lure for Darkstorm.

Arzon:
Happy to be of some use.

Ectar:
You'll be captured.

Arzon:
Fine.

Ectar:
Imprisoned. Maybe tortured.

Arzon:
Tell me something I didn't know.

Ectar:
Oh, to be young and foolish again.

Ectar:
We must beware of the seduction of gold and jewels.

Rassius Dubrow:
THIS IS A VIOLATION OF MY RIGHTS!

Ectar:
What rights? The right to wear this - fake beard?

Rassius Dubrow:
[laughs nervously] Beats shaving, doesn't it?

Cryotek:
Luckily Cindarr's beast only succeeded in knocking down a pair of derelict buildings.

Feryl:
Not too loud. Darkstorm will send us a demolitions bill.

Leoric:
The - Botanical Garden Committee meeting will be starting soon.

Ectar:
Frankly, I'd rather be fighting the Darkling Lords.

Leoric:
Wouldn't we all.

Cryotek:
At the risk of seeming tactless, I humbly suggest this is the STUPIDEST IDEA I EVER HEARD!

Ectar:
I realize that you have the power to override me. But let me tell you of something that happened before the Cataclysm, when New Valaric was a technological city. I was then a police detectives. One of the city's banks installed what was believed to be the last word in security systems. Its maker said it was foolproof. Unfortunately, its maker also turned out to be a thief. He did quite a number on us, ripped off the bank and got clean away. The point of this story, ladies and gentlemen, is that you can never rely on a security system. You must have security *people*.

Member:
So, what happened to the fellow?

Ectar:
Since the crime was perfect, we had no clues. But I set a trap of my own. The trap worked, and I got my man. The thief was none other than the Darkling Lord Reekon. Shortly afterwards, he escaped from jail and thus began the most infamous crime wave in the history of Valaric.

Bird:
The boss wants a big price.

Darkstorm:
Name it! Name it!

Bird:
Fifty T-bones, one-hundred juicy flanks, three-hundred ribeyes, and all the condiments you can muster.

Darkstorm:
Am I to pay a meat ransom?

Darkstorm:
Mortredd, pay the man.

Mortredd:
Yes, I - b-b-but, well, I-I've saved up my allowance for two years, Darkstorm. But it's not half enough.

Cindarr:
Me, Cindarr broke.

Cravex:
If the last check to me had cleared, I might be able to help.

Virulina:
Oh-Oh, sorry, Darkstorm. I'm still waiting for some blackmail money to come in.

Reekon:
Look, I'm a mercenary, not a banker. Pay the man or I take off.

Darkstorm:
[sighs] Perhaps I can arrange a loan?

Lexor:
I hate this bug-infested jungle.

Cindarr:
I love it. The jungle is my home.

Darkstorm:
If this is your home, Cindarr, how come you don't know where we are?

Cindarr:
Well, there have been many big development projects since I left.

Virulina:
Dump the condiments! If we're to be eaten we don't need to taste good!

Darkstorm:
We shall see whether I honor my half of the deal. You've rudely violated yours.

Meatius Chompiti:
Yes, well, you must forgive my friends. They are still bitter after years of defoliation and plant poisons.

Darkstorm:
Oh - if you make me cry any more, you'll fog up my helmet.

Reekon:
I do not feel invisible.

Cindarr:
[Chuckles] You don't look invisible either.

Member:
[of Reekon passing in the Cloak of Concealment] What a creep he is!

Member:
Yeah, but I love the jacket.

Tour guide:
Over here is the table where many important decisions of the government are made. And I bet you folks thought it was for dinner parties, ah? [chuckles]

Cryotek:
[imitating Fletchen and chuckling] "Hello, Leoric!" It seems our leader has made a conquest.

Galadria:
[grinning] Don't mock others in he affairs of the heart, Cryotek. He's not the only one to conquer. Or *be* conquered.

Cryotek:
True enough. Though some surrenders are sweeter than...

Fletchen:
Whatever this plague is, it's affecting the users of magic only. The rest of us seem to be untouched.

Leoric:
Truly I am grateful *you* are spared, Fletchen.

Witterquick:
[an arrow from within the castle strikes the cliff-side behind him and Arzon] What's this?

Leoric:
[on the balcony with his bow] Sorry for my rudeness, old friends. But you cannot come any farther.

Merklynn:
[traps the four about to fight in a forcefield] I'm sure this is all very chivalrous, but there are more important tasks for you than breaking up the furniture.

Merklynn:
I foresaw the plague coming, and tried to send the Darkling Lords on a quest for the ingredients a month ago. But, you thought Heskedor could be of more help to you.

Cindarr:
Well, maybe we can...

Lexor:
Maybe we can't!

Merklynn:
The plague is ultimately fatal.

Witterquick:
What?

Arzon:
Fatal? Then - Leoric and the others...

Lexor:
Forget Leoric! What about me?

Merklynn:
Dead. Sooner or later. But dead nonetheless.

Lexor:
[just after they've stretched themselves as far as they can plugging every leak in the boat, a massive one springs up in the middle] That's yours!

Cindarr:
It's yours!

Lexor:
No, i-it's yours!

Cindarr:
[spluttering as they start to sink] But, I thought...

Lexor:
[spluttering] Well, you were wrong!

Wood Nymph:
[laughing after they sink Cindarr and Lexor's boat] At least they're cleaner now.

Witterquick:
You can't hide a four-hundred-foot-long fire-breathing monster.

Arzon:
[sighs] Too bad we have to do this. Dragons are proud and wonderful creatures.

Witterquick:
Ohh. Tell that to some peasant, who's just had his village torched.

Witterquick:
Look, it's us or him, Arzon... And I think I just found *him*.

Cindarr:
Awwww. Loooook.

Lexor:
This is going to be easy. Cindarr, turn loose your power of destruction. We'll pick up the pieces.

Cindarr:
...I dunno, Lexor. So pretty. And just for some horn?

Cindarr:
[of the Beast of Destruction chasing him and Lexor] He gets mad when he doesn't get to destroy something!

Lexor:
[to Cindarr] G-Give me a hand!

Wood Nymph:
Girls, let's give him a hand! [they applaud and cheer]

Merklynn:
[to Leoric] What potion is that you're taking?

Fletchen:
Potion? 'Tis naught but chicken soup.

Fletchen:
Oh, Leoric. What are we to do?

Leoric:
Our best, my dear. Our best.

Arzon:
[being picked up by Gregsgamar] This is definitely not one of our better days!

Arzon:
[of the dragons] It seems such a waste that - they must perish to help us.

Witterquick:
Arzon, if you could be a meal, they can be medicine!

Arzon:
Poor Gregsgamar.

Witterquick:
Let me remind you, friend Arzon, that you were almost eaten by him!

Arzon:
Easy, Gregsgamar. I come in peace this time. I know you understand me. We hunted you because a plague is sweeping the land. We need a dragon's claw to save others.

Arzon:
There are some sacrifices worth making for honor's sake.

Cindarr:
[picks up a unicorn colt whose hoof he got out of a tree-fork] Ohhhhhh. Don't be scared. Everything's fine. No one will hurt you. We're supposed to get a unicorn horn, little fella. But yours is too small for Merklynn to use. Better go find your mama, and stay out of Lexor's way.

Wood Nymph:
You hunt unicorns, yet you show great kindness and let *that* one go. Why?

Cindarr:
Yes, we need one. But... not *that* little fella.

Lexor:
Where's the food?

Cindarr:
Food. The food. I forgot. I was freeing a baby unicorn. I forgot.

Lexor:
You *freed* a *unicorn*? Cindarr, you're impossible! I don't believe your stupidity! What's - that?

Cindarr:
This? Just a flute.

Lexor:
[Takes it] It's made out of unicorn horn!

Cindarr:
Yes. The wood nymphs gave it to me when I freed the baby unicorn.

Lexor:
[puts a hand to his head] I hate you sometimes.

Arzon:
[Gregsgamar picks him up with Witterquick and carries them off] I can't believe it. Wait. I can!

Lexor:
Fools. It would be just my luck if they were killed.

Lexor:
You know, Cindarr, there's really no reason for us to share the cure with the Spectral Knights.

Cindarr:
We promised.

Merklynn:
Ahhh - they are here.

Lexor:
[planning to attack] Good. I can't wait to greet them.

Cindarr:
Lexor - look! A dragon!

Lexor:
AH-! I KNOW IT'S A DRAGON, IDIOT!

Merklynn:
[Chuckles] Pity your little bit of planned villainy goes awry. Eh, Lexor?

Merklynn:
Four set out, and four returned, with treasures they have duly earned. For common sense, and uncommon zeal, by all my powers I command: heal!

Arzon:
They fulfilled their part of the bargain.

Witterquick:
But the next time we meet, we'll be at hazard again.

Leoric:
Even so, it's good to know honor can exist among the darkest of hearts.

[last lines]

Leoric:
A toast. To the brave heroes of the quest - Witterquick and Arzon, Lexor and Cindarr.

Leoric, Witterquick, Arzon, Ectar, Cryotek, Feryl, Galadria, Fletchen:
TO THE HEROES OF THE QUEST.

Darkstorm:
You hold us for ransom, demanding we submit to your will; well, not *this* time! Keep your power! We'll find someone else to give us magical assistance.

[leads the other Darkling Lords out; Merklyn strokes a magical insect-like creature that appears]

Merklyn:
They'll be back.

Darkstorm:
I am Lord Darkstorm and I come seeking the enchantress Heskedor.

Heskedor:
[laughs] Enchantress? [spits] Witch is more like it.

Darkstorm:
I have studied many ancient tomes hoping to find a spell or weapon to use against him. In the oldest of these books, your name is mentioned. As a purveyor of powerful spells.

Heskedor:
Well. It's nice to be remembered after ten millennia.

Heskedor:
The fish spell of Ketteria?

Darkstorm:
Tried it. Didn't work.

Heskedor:
This Leoric sounds too good to be true. [Snaps her fingers] And that just may be his weakness.

Darkstorm:
Well, I was looking for something a little more devastating...

Heskedor:
[slams the book so he coughs on its dust] Oh, it will be devastating enough, Darkstorm. The trick, of course, is finding the *courage* to get close enough to use the potion.

Darkstorm:
[with his totem glowing threateningly] Question not *my* courage, old woman.

Heskedor:
[juggling then throwing three blasts of energy at him] Oh, it's not thy courage I question. But thy wisdom, Darkstorm.

Mortredd:
A wonderful plan.

Reekon:
Yes, but will it work?

Darkstorm:
[tosses him a heavy prop causing him to catch it with a grunt] Of course it'll work. I thought of it, didn't I?

Lexor:
[muttering] That's what worries me.

Arzon:
Just because you don't understand something doesn't mean it's evil!

Fletchen:
We have heard that you champion justice, Leoric. Please save us from this beast.

Leoric:
[taking her hands after coming over] How could any knight refuse such a request from such a charming lady?

Darkstorm:
[waiting at a distance for him, faced with the other Darkling Lords, to transform] Come on, Leoric, don't disappoint me...

Mortredd:
[Leoric, stuck in lion form, angrily pounces on Darkstorm] Leave my master alone!

Fletchen:
Sire - what if it's in there?

Lexor:
Why... just shout. And I'll personally send someone to help you.

Fletchen:
[thinking she's about to be eaten] Go ahead! I hope you get indigestion!

Cryotek:
No prey escapes me.

Witterquick:
Now that we have it, what will we do with it?

Cryotek:
[startling him] Do with it? We'll show you what we'll *do* with it!

Cryotek:
We are not silly superstitious peasants who lash out at anything we do not understand. [Leoric snarls in protest] Well, we thought *you* were dead.

Bearer of Knowledge:
Arzon, did you know there are over five-hundred species of lion on Prysmos?

Arzon:
All well and good, Bearer of Knowledge, but we need to know how to cure Leoric.

Heskedor:
Don't get uppity with *me*, old witch. You have... bewitched my friend Leoric.

Witterquick:
Leoric? Leoric, I don't recall any - Oh, yes. Now I do!

[Cackling]

Witterquick:
Guess my potion worked, eh! Well, there's life in the old girl yet! Yes, sir!

Heskedor:
Congratulations. Now that we've proven that, give me the antidote to change him back.

Witterquick:
But - don't you *have* an antidote?

Heskedor:
Oh, I *have* one, all right. I'll just not be givin' it to ye!

Heskedor:
When people come to me, I want 'em to feel they get a spell that lasts. I can't be undoin' my own magic, eh!

Heskedor:
[Witterquick dodges her blasts] Young fella, I'll thank ye to stand still; this is puttin' an awful wear an' tear on my belongings.

Witterquick:
You give me what I came for or - [tightens his grip on her throat]

Heskedor:
Ohhhhhh, *that* antidote. Well, why didn't you say so, young fella?

Cryotek:
We wait for Witterquick. He'll be here.

Feryl:
But, what if he...

Cryotek:
He'll *be* here.

Gleering:
My lord - darkness falls; shouldn't we be finding shelter?

Darkstorm:
Oh, I suppose we could. And I suppose we could just let the monster roam free, slaughtering at will.

Darkstorm:
Serfs, listen to me!

Leoric:
There is no monster. It was all a ruse! It was Darkstorm. He duped you!

Virulina:
Oops.

Cravex:
Looks like we'll have to go on Merklynn's quest after all, Darkstorm.

Darkstorm:
Ohhh, shut up!

[last lines]

Arzon:
When we finish here, Gleering, we'll start mending the bridge. Gleering? Did you hear me?

Gleering:
[watching Leoric and Fletchen as they take each other's hands] Mmm? Oh, yes. I think some people have already started, to mend... a bridge.

Cravex:
You expect to enrage *me* into doing *your* dirty work? Well you *half*-succeeded - you ENRAGED me!

Cravex:
For enough money, you would betray yourself!

Cravex:
[after attacking or threatening all the other male knights] Cindarr, I'll just crack *you* out of principle!

Darkstorm:
[of Cravex in a rage which started with Darkstorm's announcement of no pay] Restrain him!

Reekon:
Not until I'm compensated!

Leoric:
[running down the hall with Arzon, to some of Darkstorm's soldiers] Didn't you hear the alarms? Prisoners have escaped; after them.

Leoric:
Now, let's get Feryl his magical totem back. Then get our weapons, and round up Darkstorm and his cronies.

Ectar:
Isn't that a little overambitious?

Leoric:
Perhaps. But it's worth a try.

Darkstorm's guard:
[while Feryl is inside it to regain his totem] What's going on? Darkstorm's given orders that nobody's to touch the Dagger Assault.

Ectar:
Oh, allow me to make your acquaintance. I am Sir Ace McGillicutty, magical repairs...

Darkstorm's Soldier:
When Darkstorm finds out about this, he will dangle you from your heels.

Galadria:
[Chuckles] Probably. And what do you suppose he'll do to *you*?

Darkstorm's Soldier:
Uhhh... I hadn't considered that.

Mortredd:
Why do you threaten the rightful rule of Darkstorm, king of the cliffs, baron of the bog marsh? Why do you not answer me? [gets hit in the face with a tomato]

Arzon:
This is too good to be true!

Ectar:
For once, I agree.

Feryl:
[arrows are fired on the vehicle he's in the driver seat of for Leoric, Cryotek and Arzon] What should I do?

Leoric:
Anything, but do it fast.

Witterquick:
Do you know how to pilot one of these?

Ectar:
Don't worry.

Witterquick:
[as he takes off] All right, then I'll just hang on for the riiiide -!

Lexor:
We're still alive.

Mortredd:
And still very dangerous.

Reekon:
Darkstorm. What will you pay me to rescue you?

Lexor:
Nothing compared to what *you* will pay if you don't stop this thing.

Reekon:
[braking] There is no profit in resisting...

Darkstorm:
You will never hold me! [takes a tomato in the face]

Mortredd:
Darkstorm, may I suggest: allow me to do your work for you. Surely it is not right for one of your great power and awesome majesty to waste his time making traffic signs.

Darkstorm:
True. I *do* find this work personally degrading.

Cravex:
That's because it *is* degrading. And I have no pity for you. It is *your* fault we are *in* this terrible predicament! [getting ready to charge, he loses his balance and gets lettering stamped on his face]

Darkstorm:
Pah! You are all pathetic. You *force* me to use the key! Eh... I wonder what I'd *do* with it.

Cravex:
And you call *us* pathetic!

Cryotek:
Leoric - it was the mark of a great leader to promise your people you would not return until you have solved their problems.

Leoric:
If I don't solve the problems there will be nothing to return to.

Feryl:
You know, it might be a good idea to build an elevator to the shrine.

Darkstorm:
[watching from above] Ready, ready...

Feryl:
Then, we could avoid this altogether.

Cryotek:
[Chuckles] I second that motion.

Galadria:
And how would we power an elevator?

Feryl:
Well - I was thinkin' we could have oxen in the valley, and...

Merklynn:
There will be no fighting in the shrine! Let me be clear on this point. I care nothing for your petty squabbles. I have concerns of my own.

Merklynn:
[laughing] Do you think I give you magic out of selflessness? Of course not! I do it, because I want you to be instruments of my will.

Beast of Decay:
What do you wish of me?

Darkstorm:
Decay him!

Beast of Decay:
Ah... I cannot attack the holder of the orb!

Lexor:
[held like the others by a magical hand from the pool] Please, Merklynn - I had nothing to do with Darkstorm's plot. Please - spare me.

Ectar:
Ehh, better to venture forward than be caught from behind by the Darkling Lords.

Darkstorm:
It's a bit late for that!

Darkstorm:
[the Beast of Destruction takes off after a cat-monster instead of the Spectral Knights] I must speak to Merklynn about an obedience-school for that beast.

Bearer of Knowledge:
He is the wizard Falkama, believed until recently to be legendary.

Leoric:
[trapped in the shutting techno-dragon's jaw with him, Ectar, and Arzon] Hold it open!

Cindarr:
You think I stupid?

Leoric:
Don't answer that.

Galadria:
[they and Cryotek are in the techno-dragon's claw headed for its mouth] Cravex, see if you can make the dragon feel fear.

Cravex:
I owe *you* no such favor.

Galadria:
Then you owe it to yourself.

Merklynn:
I will charge yur power-staffs once more.

Leoric:
I'm sorry, that's not good enoguh.

Merklynn:
What do you mean by that insolence?

Ectar:
Look - we know you need the Dragon's Eye. Without it the sacred pool will lose its magical power.

Merklynn:
All right. I will give you magic to help your cities. But do not tell the Darkling Lords of the power you have wielded over me.

Ectar:
Believe me, we are not so stupid.

Darkstorm:
Put him with the rest of the things we have scavenged.

[last lines]

Leoric, Ectar, Cryotek, Witterquick, Arzon, Galadria:
MAY THE LIGHT SHINE FOREVER!

[first lines]

Witterquick:
[juggling a hambone, pumpkin, table, and knife] It's all in the rhythm of the hand, foot, and mind.

Galadria:
[dancing with him] Witterquick has the right idea, Cryotek. It's all the rhythm of the hand, mind, and fo - oot! [he steps on hers and she trips]

Witterquick:
[the items he was juggling land on Cryotek's head, ending with the knife burying itself into the top of the table still atop him] I thought I was good, but Cryotek's a master!

Cryotek:
Fellow knights - I offer this toast, to the Circle of Light.

Arzon:
Cryotek, just the person I needed.

Cryotek:
Not if you're looking for witty conversation.

Arzon:
Cryotek, if I were looking for a laugh, I'd call on Darkstorm's goons.

Mortredd:
Looks like my targets are no longer spires, but Spectral Knights.

Darkstorm:
Looks like Mortredd has found some Spectral Knights to amuse himself with.

Arzon:
[Cryotek flies the hoverpod to where he is falling, letting him drop in] Nice catch.

Cryotek:
Don't mention it. Are you all right?

Arzon:
Yes. Just a bit sore.

Cryotek:
Then hold on. We're in for some fun!

Cryotek:
[throwing Mortredd out by the nest] Hey, eagles - some bird food!

Cravex:
That does it, Cryotek - you're phylot feed!

Cryotek:
Lucky there's still food. I'm hungry as a *bear*.

Cryotek:
Witter - catch!

Galadria:
Cryotek, I know something's wrong; what *is* it?

Cryotek:
Your meddling presence, mostly.

Cryotek:
And now, I intend to take my THREE power-staffs and return to my own city of Northalia... where, I shall create an entire new order to rival that of you whining Spectral Nobodies!

Witterquick:
[charging] Not if I can stop you!

Cryotek:
[Throws him against the wall] But you can't!

Ectar:
[of the Darkling Lords] Looks like we've got company.

Feryl:
Frankly, I'd rather have the plague.

Leoric:
And while our motives are different...

Darkstorm:
Yes, yes, yes, yes, my Darkling Lords will contain their natural and healthy dislike for your Simplecral Knights.

Cravex:
Help me make Cryotek suffer, and I'll reward you well.

Mortredd:
Oh, no. Making Cryotek suffer will be reward enough.

Lexor:
Oh, what a pity. I suppose Cryotek's little town is done for.

Leoric:
[shouts and uses his whip to bind him causing him to yell] It is. Unless you use the power of *your* staff to protect it, now!

Lexor:
Oh-Oh, of course! Yes, yes - I was just getting ready to.

Leoric:
[the avalanche continues on either side of where it was blocked] We still need more firepower. Darkstorm!

Darkstorm:
All right; we could use the target practice...

Cryotek:
I would never threaten my own city. It was you Darkling Lords who tried to destroy my city. And now *you must pay*.

Darkstorm:
Before you present us with an itemized bill, you should know that our chief technician Reekon, believes that the phylot totem can be removed, whether you are living or dead. And you should also be aware, that some of our number, have a definite preference for the latter.

Merklynn:
[He falls into the shrine and the staffs into the pool] Greetings, Cryotek. A most novel way of recharging power-staffs.

Merklynn:
If I didn't know better, I'd say that was Cravex's totem.

Cryotek:
It is. I need your help to get rid of it.

Merklynn:
Unusual request. Usually you swashbucklling types are asking for more magic, not less.

Merklynn:
If you ask me, the change in you is not for the better.

Cryotek:
But I didn't ask.

Darkstorm:
Mortredd! [makes a throat-slashing gesture]

Mortredd:
As always, noble liege, your brilliance astounds me.

Cryotek:
[clutching Galdria's arms] I never had the strength to - to keep the phylot down before.

Galadria:
Cryotek?

Cryotek:
Ahhhh... Yes, I'd say so.

Darkstorm:
Very touching. But in addition to the return of the phylot, there is the small matter of repairing my castle. Which I'm sure you'll be glad to help out with, AS MY SLAVES!

Ectar:
We'd love to. Right after I take your Dagger Assault for a little ride.

Darkstorm:
MORTREDD! HELP ME; I CAN'T SWIM!

Mortredd:
Oh, master - you do not have to worry. This part of the moat is shallow. You can stand up! [Darkstorm does; the Spectral Knights laugh]

[last lines]

Cryotek:
Galadria, I hope you won't be disappointed. But it feels good to be me again. I don't think I'm going to try to be any different from the way I've always been. Boring...

Galadria:
Loveable...

Cryotek:
Predictable...

Galadria:
Reliable.

Cryotek:
And I'll just never be the take-charge, life-of-the-party type I'd like to be...

Galadria:
You mean you're always going to be the same grumpy old bear we can always depend on no matter what?

Cryotek:
Yes, I'm afraid so... I'm really sorry.

Galadria:
[laughs and turns his face back to her] You idiot! That's exactly why we all love you so much.

Cryotek:
You... do?

Galadria:
[laughing] Yes. Now be quiet, and give me a *bear*-hug!

Darkstorm:
Where are you, Mortredd!

Mortredd:
I... don't, know!

Darkstorm:
You are USELESS!

Mortredd:
I know, master!

Feryl:
What do we do?

Ectar:
Prepare for the end!

Leoric:
[charging toward the golem] Show a little faith...

Ectar:
He's crazy!

Leoric:
DEFEND THYSELF!

Ectar:
[it flees] I can't believe that worked!

Leoric:
I reasoned that he'd never been attacked and wouldn't know what to do.

Merklynn:
Cease fighting, you fools! There is magic enough for everyone! Now all you need do is break the door down, and enter the shrine.

Leoric:
Cryotek, why don't you vent your aggressions on the offending slab of wood?

[first lines]

Narrator:
Far away, in a distant galaxy, the people of the planet Prysmos lived in an age of great technology. They had taken control of all their forces of energy, and enjoyed a life of comfort and ease for seven-thousand years. But this was not to last. For the realignment of the three blazing suns of Prysmos signaled the end of the age of science and technology.

Narrator:
When all the electrical energy had been depleted from the world, an age of magic began. But it would take some time before men would believe this.

Ectar:
A magical shrine? But surely that's ridiculous.

Merklynn:
Ridiculous, but true.

Merklynn:
I seek brave knights - men and women of vision. I wish to teach them the ways of magic.

Mortredd:
[going through it] Somebody open the window! [lands amid the shards as Darkstorm enters] O, my great lord Darkstorm... Tread carefully. There's shattered glass.

Witterquick:
Nothing's worse than retreat. Besides, if I don't make it, I'll never know what hit me.

Arzon:
It is not a problem. It is a cleverly-disguised opportunity.

Darkstorm:
SHOOT HIM DOWN!

Mortredd:
But, I-I-I-I lack a bow, fair master.

Darkstorm:
You displease me, Mortredd.

Mortredd:
You're right, master. I'll get a bow, as soon as we return to the castle.

Feryl:
You know, I was thinking, that since we're rebuilding New Valaric, we might have room for a jousting arena near the market square.

Leoric:
A good idea. Though I fear some of the citizens - would rather have a botanical garden.

Ectar:
[chuckling] Botanical garden? You must be joking.

Ectar:
Why don't you speak? Is your tongue sore today from licking your master's boots? Stick it out. Let me see.

Mortredd:
SAVOR MY SCYTHE, ECTAR!

Darkstorm:
MORTREDD! YOU'VE DONE YOUR JOB. GET OVER HERE!

Mortredd:
[running out] Immediately, master.

Darkstorm:
[entering a room lined with skeletons] What a beautiful exhibit. This must be the art gallery.

Cryotek:
I should have thought our last meeting would've deterred you, Cindarr.

Cindarr:
Nothing deters me.

Cindarr:
You got good food in your castle?

Darkstorm:
The best.

Cindarr:
Then I'm in.

Cravex:
[offered to be freed in exchange for fealty] You leave me little choice. So rule me well, or suffer the consequences.

Virulina:
BLAST YOU, DARKSTORM. CUT ME DOWN!

Darkstorm:
Excellent. Worthy subjects, I shall extract you.

Feryl:
[leads them through the maze sniffing] Smell that? Fresh air, I think... Yes. *This* way.

Ectar:
Leoric, I swear I've never met a character with a nose like Feryl's.

Feryl:
You know, I've been thinking. What about a jousting arena *and* a botanical garden?

Leoric:
Mmm, I don't know. You think there will be room for both?

Ectar:
DEFEAT THE DARKLING LORDS!

Darkstorm:
Darkling Lords. I like the ring of that.

Cryotek:
[entering with him, Witterquick, and Galadria to see Leoric, Feryl, and Ectar fighting Darkstorm and his followers] Looks like a party.

Arzon:
Good, let's join in.

Merklynn:
Congratulations, noble knights. You have survived the final test. You, and you alone, had the vision to reach the shrine. You are the Visionaries. And I deem you worthy now to receive my magic. Magic that will help you and your people prosper in this new age.

Leoric:
Merklynn, what do you want from us in exchange for your magic?

Merklynn:
Occasional... tasks.

Leoric:
What sort of "tasks"?

Merklynn:
You will learn in due time.

Merklynn:
Arzon, when it was necessary to fly, you found wings. For that, you shall receive the totem of the eagle.

Arzon:
[gets it then transforms and flies around singing for a moment before changing back and grinning at Leoric] I knew this would all be worth it.

Merklynn:
Cravex, for your deed, you shall earn the totem of the only airborne scavenger on Prysmos: the phylot.

Merklynn:
Mortredd, for bootlicking above and beyond the call of duty, I give you the scampering beetle.

Mortredd:
[whipping out his scythe] I am offended!

Darkstorm:
[as he starts forward] Stifle thyself.

Mortredd:
[sinking to his knees sobbing them bowing] Forgive me, master. Forgive me.

[transforms, chirping and still bowing, causing the other Darkling Lords to laugh]

Merklynn:
And, Lexor, for turning cowardice into a defensive art, I grant you the totem of the armadillo.

Lexor:
Be assured, it was *not* cowardice!

Cravex:
[striding over] Silence, before I BASH you!

Lexor:
[retreating] There's - no need to shout. [transforms and runs grunting]

Merklynn:
Reekon, for your stealth and treachery, you shall bear the totem of the lizard.

Merklynn:
Leoric, for raw courage and leadership, you shall wear the totem of the lion.

Leoric:
[as Galadria reaches for him he transforms, then moves around roaring for a moment causing the others to retreat in awed fear before he changes back breathing heavily] It's all right. I was merely testing.

Merklynn:
And, Darkstorm, for your incomparable climbing skill, and general... sliminess, you shall receive the totem of the mollusk.

Merklynn:
These animals are the representations of your true inner beings. When you need them most, you will become them. Yet remember: they are like emotions. Powerful, but sometimes uncontrollable.

Merklynn:
Now, dip your staffs into the pool, and you will see a wondrous transformation.

Mortredd:
What about those of us who *have* no staff?

Merklynn:
You will discover in time that you also have great powers.

Merklynn:
Now, if you'll excuse me...

Darkstorm:
Wait! That's it, we just - walk down?

Merklynn:
No, as a matter of fact. I have an exit method that I think you will especially appreciate. [creates a whirlpool which washes them out as he laughs]

Darkstorm:
ALL KNIGHTS PLEDGED TO ME, CEASE FIGHTING! I propose - that all magic shall only be used to preserve peace on Prysmos.

Ectar:
[quietly] I can't believe I'm hearing this.

Leoric:
Nor can I, but...

[to Darkstorm so all can hear]

Leoric:
I second your proposal. May the age of peace last forever!

Darkstorm, Ectar, Reekon, Feryl, Mortredd, Cryotek, Cindarr, Arzon, Cravex:
[with Witterquick, Galadria, Verulina, and Lexor] FOREVER!

Cindarr:
We're not really gonna honor that treaty, are we?

Darkstorm:
Of course not. And Leoric knows it. But he is bound to honor *his* commitments. I am not.

[last lines]

Arzon:
Tell me all you know of this fair maiden.

Bearer of Knowledge:
The young woman is... the evil knight Virulina.

Arzon:
[as she removes her disguise behind him] That's absurd!

[finished, she charges just before he turns, forcing him to duck]

[first lines]

Bearer of Knowledge:
My power is fading. Will that be all?

Arzon:
[fighting] Yes - that will be all!

Reekon:
Were you born to be a bootlicker or did you pick up the trade in your early manhood?

Mortredd:
To insult Darkstorm's minister of loyalty is to insult the exalted one. Darkstorm must have honor.

Reekon:
Put away your weapon and do not embarrass yourself.

Mortredd:
No! You must pay the penalty for your insult!

Mortredd:
Reekon, we must tell Darkstorm immediately!

Reekon:
He's going to have to pay big for *my* services.

Mortredd:
Wretched mercenary.

Mortredd:
[Reekon crashes their new craft through Darkstorm's castle wall] You erratic idiot!

Darkstorm:
What happened? The engine works but the magic - avoids me.

Reekon:
It appears that any Visionary can pilot a vehicle, but Mortredd and I are your only knights who can breathe magic into the metal.

Cravex:
No good having the power of Lightspeed, if we know your destination!

Cryotek:
[chuckling and helping her up] Galadria. I should've known; nobody else could've taken me by such complete surprise.

Galadria:
I wanted to see you one more time before returning to Androsia.

Cryotek:
You need not worry. We will have many adventures together.

Darkstorm:
Stop firing! I want them captured, not incinerated!

Darkstorm:
It appears that you failed.

Virulina:
Maybe I had her, but decided to let her go because I don't trust *you*.

Darkstorm:
Trust? It is I who do not trust. It would be madness to hand over a power-staff to a shark, who cannot destroy a *dolphin*.

Virulina:
Darkstorm, I will neither forget nor forgive this.

Owl of Wisdom:
Become one with the Circle of Light.

Leoric:
What do you mean by that?

[it vanishes]

Leoric:
What *can* he mean?

Ectar:
I wonder if you might consider requesting a new power-staff from Merklynn.

Leoric:
I expected a thundering army.

Feryl:
I see only six Darkling Lords.

Leoric:
[chuckling] Six? I know not whether to cheer their bravado or feel insulted.

Mortredd:
Should I die now, I want all to remember that I have undertaken this deed for love of my master and king, Darkstorm.

Darkstorm:
You shall live forever in the hall of valor, Mortredd.

Cindarr:
Where's the Hall of Valor?

Darkstorm:
Quiet, idiot!

Mortredd:
[is catapulted up to the parapet] Darkstorm demands the surrender of New Valaric.

Leoric:
[laughs] Tell Darkstorm that we are less than impressed ny his show of force.

Mortredd:
Well - all right, but how am I to... get back?

[Ectar points to their catapult; cut to him rocketing down yelling]

Mortredd:
It, uh, i-it seems he has, refused our offer.

Cravex:
What did you expect, you idiot? Why are we wasting time? Let us go in there and crush them, BEFORE I TAKE MY AGGRESSIONS OUT ON ALL OF *YOU*!

Ectar:
[after seeing the Beast of Destruction] There can be little question about it, Leoric; Merklynn gave you a d bad power-staff.

Darkstorm:
[he transforms back from his gorilla form and starts digging through the rubble] Cindar, what are you doing?

Cindarr:
There is a cat here somewhere.

Darkstorm:
A what?

Cindarr:
A *cat*!

Darkstorm:
[as he lifts it out] Cindarr! Who cares?

Cindarr:
[stroking it] I sorry. I meant no harm.

Darkstorm:
Ahh, we must see if that wizard Merklynn has a spell to remove Cindarr's compassion.

Darkstorm:
Only a fool would press farther!

Leoric:
Than call me a fool!

Darkstorm:
I would like to release you from your bonds, but first you must swear allegiance to me.

Feryl:
You really oughta do something about your insecurity. You got a real problem.

Leoric:
They've stolen his totem.

Darkstorm:
To avoid a similar fate, you *will* all swear allegiance to me NOW!

Leoric, Ectar, Galadria:
NEVER!

Darkstorm:
I expected as much. Therefore, I will give you time to, think about it. Let them contemplate their bleak futures in the dank silence of my dungeon.

Mortredd:
[applauding] Oh, how merciful our leader is.

Witterquick:
[Leoric slides into the cell] I think we're in trouble. [Ectar lands by him] I think we're in deeper trouble. [Feryl lands on them] I think we're in... deepest trouble. [Galadria lands on the three] It's hopeless.

Arzon:
It is never hopeless. Well, almost never.

Darkstorm:
I know there are many rumors circulating about why I have called you all together. Some of those rumors say that I plan to take away your property and even children. I do not *plan* to take anything. I do not *have* to. All you own is *already* mine, INCLUDING YOUR WRETCHED LIVES!

Man:
[to Darkstorm] Return to the swamp you came from!

Lexor:
If you do not swear allegiance to Darkstorm, you will suffer a lifetime of torment.

Ectar:
[covering his ears smirking] You mean we'll be forced to listen to your irritating chatter?

Lexor:
There is nothing wrong with my speaking voice!

[slams the cell window and stalks off]

Feryl:
Good work, Ectar; you got rid of him.

Ectar:
That may have been the most successful thing we've done in quite some time.

[last lines]

Leoric:
To become one with the Circle of Light is to form a brotherhood. A true, lasting alliance. I propose that right now, we form the Spectral Knights, a sacred order dedicated to bringing light to the darkness of our world. May the light shine forever.

Feryl, Ectar, Cryotek, Witterquick, Arzon, Galadria:
[touching his raised hand] May the light shine forever.

Lexor:
[watching them get bowled over by the water he unleashed] See how your light shines, underwater.

[last lines]

Leoric:
To become one with the Circle of Light is to form a brotherhood. A true, lasting alliance. I propose that right now, we form the Spectral Knights, a sacred order dedicated to bringing light to the darkness of our world. May the light shine forever.

Feryl, Ectar, Cryotek, Witterquick, Arzon, Galadria:
[touching his raised hand] May the light shine forever.

Lexor:
[laughs watching them get bowled over by the water he unleashed] See how your light shines, underwater.

[first lines]

Mortredd:
Oh, Darkstorm, it pains me to see you in such foul humor.

Darkstorm:
You think it pains *you*? Imagine how it pains *me*.

Mortredd:
Surely it is beneath the dignity of Darkstorm to humble himself for any man, or wizard.

Mortredd:
Why, I believe we cast him into the deepest dungeon of the castle. You know, it seems he does have some special powers. Not enough to release himself from prison, mind you, but enough to amuse himself by producing elaborate stage shows. Shows featuring that rats, insects, and slime that infest the dungeon.

Falkama:
[being dragged from his cell by a hook] No, no! My presentation is not finished! Wait!

Darkstorm:
And where can we locate this book?

Falkama:
It is stored in the Aphenaeum. But there is another problem.

Darkstorm:
Yes, isn't there always.

Mortredd:
[from inside the Aphernaeum] I take this book in the name of Darkstorm, Lord of the Velt, High Vizier of the Cliffs, and - [runs out yelling with the seat of his pants on fire]

Falkama:
Ah, it seems that Smoglok still lives.

Mortredd:
[sitting in the fountain to extinguish the flames] I was unable to reach the book, master.

Reekon:
[running in] Let me try. I have an affinity for reptiles.

Reekon:
Good dragon...

Darkstorm:
Well, rather smaller than I might have expected.

Falkama:
Uh, it was a pocket printing.

Darkstorm:
I dislike quests.

Witterquick:
The Darkling Lords are advancing on New Valaric!

Lawyer:
Oh, does this mean the zoning meeting will be cut short?

Reekon:
Virulina, why did we allow ourselves to be caught?

Virulina:
We follow a fool.

Lexor:
Who is more a fool: the fool, or he who *follows* the fool?

Merklynn:
This is the last time I will intercede to save you.

Merklynn:
Your men were right. They are following a fool.

Darkstorm:
[chuckles and holds out a wizard's-bane leaf] *Now* who is the fool?

Merklynn:
I thought it had been eradicated from Prysmos.

Falkama:
[the wizard's bane freezes Merklynn; he appears laughing] It has not. It has simply been marketed under another name.

Darkstorm:
[as he leans in over his shoulder] Your nosiness will get you in trouble one day, Reekon.

Reekon:
I was going to help you read it, Darkstorm. The light here is very bad.

Cindarr:
[Darkstorm disappears from the factory] Now what do we do?

Mortredd:
I-I'm sure the great Darkstorm will advise us - uh, when he feels it is time.

Virulina:
Darkstorm has deserted us.

Lexor:
Heh! Does that really come as a surprise to you?

Darkstorm:
[his voice echoes throughout the factory he transported out of] Mudus nullus!

Cindarr:
[the Spectral Knights are immobilized] Look. They are frozen!

Darkstorm:
That is because I froze them, idiots.

Darkstorm:
Now get to the shrine, on the double.

Lexor:
Are you not going to transport us?

Darkstorm:
Why should I waste valuable energy on *your* laziness? Move it!

Reekon:
[of the frozen Ectar] You know, he might make a marvelous trophy for my den.

Darkstorm:
Virulina, Reekon, and Lexor all feel cheated. How about you, Cindarr?

Cindarr:
Hhhhh? I feel hungry.

Virulina:
You have ruined my face.

Darkstorm:
No, Virulina, I only made your appearance match your soul.

Lexor:
Fair leader - Darkstorm - please do not be angry with me; I-I've always been...

Darkstorm:
Stop! I am tired of your lies. Therefore, I will supply you with a translator, who will let all know what your true thoughts are. Veerus locquor semper!

Lexor's Translator:
[Appears] A rough translation of Lexor's last speech is as follows: Darkstorm, you progeny of a swine, I will say anything to get out of this awful situation; I will betray you at first opportunity.

Lexor:
Who bears this false witness upon me?

Lexor's Translator:
Translation: How does this oaf read my mind so easily?

Lexor:
Please, Darkstorm - give me a chance to prove my loyalty!

Lexor's Translator:
Translation: I will do anything to get out of this.

Darkstorm:
Yes, Lexor. The voice of truth would be a terrible pain to you.

Darkstorm:
We will have many slaves. And *you* will be intelligent, Cindarr.

Cindarr:
[in a vision in the crystal ball] Slave, fetch me my tract on magical physics.

Cryotek:
[walking over and kneeling before him] Yes, my great master.

Cindarr:
[laughing watches the scene] Cryotek my slave!

Cindarr:
[in the vision] It has occurred to me, Darkstorm, that slavery is not really a good idea. Men lacking incentive are not nearly as productive as...

Darkstorm:
[sighs lowering the crystal] Maybe I should make you a little *less* intelligent.

Darkstorm:
You shall have followers who are as loyal to you as you are to me.

Man:
[in the orb] Oh, great Mortredd, assistant to Darkstorm, Ruler of Blackdeck, Prince of the Velt, Baron of Blackmoor, Seytrap of Sangora, major investor in other areas, and landlord of New Valaric!

Darkstorm:
[to him raptly watching the vision] Mortredd! Pay attention to me!

Mortredd:
Wha? Oh-Oh! Forgive me, Darkstorm, Ruler of Blackdeck, Prince of the Velt, Baron of Blackmoor, Seytrap of...

Darkstorm:
QUIET!

Cravex:
[in a vision in the orb] Ah. It looks like my horse is going to win its four-thousandth straight race!... Too bad. Racing seems to have lost its thrill. Why has my favorite pastime lost its thrill?

Race announcer:
Now it's nose to nose! But wait! Cravex's horse loses!

Cravex:
Good. The thrill is back.

Mortredd:
In the past, my lord, it took wizards decades to learn magic.

Darkstorm:
That is because they were idiots. I *know* the magic. I *control* the magic. I *AM* THE MAGIC!

Virulina:
Darkstorm, you have done your last stupid deed.

Lexor:
Prepare to meet thine end.

Mortredd:
[running beside Darkstorm taking out his scythe while he, Cravex, and Cindarr brace themselves] What treachery is this? Right behind thee, master.

Virulina:
So be it.

Darkstorm:
Thus ends the Plague of Fire.

Reekon:
Well, that does not leave me looking forward to the *next* plague.

Darkstorm:
Help me!

Virulina:
What do I get for it?

Darkstorm:
Anything! B-But hurry! I CAN'T SWIM!

Virulina:
[laughs] Then it should be more fun to watch!

Lexor:
I agree. But we need his magic to save *us*!

Wizasquizar:
[causing a card to appear for their game and collecting the money] An ace.

Bogavus:
Why... let's see it.

Wizasquizar:
[it's a three] So, I must've made a mistake.

Bogavus:
[Verulina as a shark tumbles into the cell from the flood] Well, they have a unique way of bringin' us our dinner.

Merklynn:
If you are imprisoned, I will not release you. Expect no favors from me. And do not even consider trying to release these other wizards. [glances at their table] Ohhhhh, drat. They've escaped. You, are a great deal of trouble.

[last lines]

Leoric:
[Both laugh] If - If somebody had told me two years ago that I'd be worried about a zoning issue...

Ectar:
I know. Things have been so quiet and peaceful lately. Whatever became of the days of high adventure and magic?

Leoric:
They'll return. I'm sure of it.

Leoric:
Feryl, you found the dragonroot Merklynn wanted.

Ectar:
Dragon? Huh! It looks more like that Reekon: twisted and weird.

Arzon:
Hey. I found a hunchback root.

Cryotek:
Hm. Kinda reminds me of Cindarr.

Mortredd:
Are you sure you know how to drive this thing, Virulina?

Virulina:
Yes, Mortredd, now it's time to go bye-bye.

Mortredd:
Well, I-I - I'm not sure this is such a great idea!

Virulina:
[Flips the craft so he falls out with a yell] You've just been overruled.

Feryl:
[not recognizing Mortredd in animal form after he falls on the Capture Chariot] Hello, Mr. Bug. Feel like going for a ride?

Mortredd:
[Transforms] It's Beetle, not Bug. And *you're* going for the ride.

Leoric:
Bug or Beetle, it makes no difference; *you're* going for the ride!

Darkstorm:
Sometimes you aren't as useless as you look!

Cindarr:
[finding a scorpion-like creature] Ohhhhhh. Look. A cute little baby.

Virulina:
Monstrosity, you mean.

Cindarr:
[of the creature who knocked him back down the cliff] The baby was cute, but the mother is not.

Witterquick:
Are we there yet?

Feryl:
Getting - closer.

Leoric:
That doesn't sound close... enough.

Arzon:
[seeing the Spider of Fear heading for the monster's cave] Friends, we're in *bug* trouble.

Leoric:
That's a good monster...

Feryl:
Leoric, you may not be as strong as you used to be, but your *brain's* still working. Your plan saved us all.

Leoric:
But my weakness nearly got Arzon killed.

Arzon:
[grinning] Nearly doesn't count.

Ectar:
Can you make it to the spring, Leoric?

Leoric:
Even if I have to crawl.

Leoric:
Then, old and weak as I am, I can no longer remain the leader of the Spectral Knights.

Feryl:
Don't be ridiculous; even without your strength, you saved us from the great scorpion.

Ectar:
And with strong knights like Cryotek, *we* can be your strength.

Galadria:
Yes, you've given us so much, Leoric. Now let us return the favor.

Leoric:
[sighing] Oh, what can I say?

Witterquick:
How about, "Yes"?

Witterquick:
Remember, Arzon, not everyone has *eagle* eyes.

Feryl:
[hanging from a cliff] Now what do we do?

Leoric:
I don't know about you, but - I can't *hang* around here forever!

Leoric:
My staff spoke of a power in wisdom, and the wisdom I'm beginning to learn, is not to *fight* my weakness, but to look for the strength hidden *within* it.

Mortredd:
Don't do it, Darkstorm! [Cryotek as a bear rears up roaring before him] Ohhhhh! On second thought...

Darkstorm:
Do I have your word that if I restore Leoric you will leave me unharmed?

Feryl:
You have my word to destroy your totem if you double-cross us.

Leoric:
Hello, friends. May the light shine forever.

Arzon, Cryotek, Feryl, Witterquick, Galadria:
MAY THE LIGHT SHINE FOREVER!

Leoric:
Being old doesn't mean being weak and feeble. Being old means having a power of wisdom, worth more than the inexperience of youth.

Merklynn:
[Chuckles] Perhaps there is a chance for the younger generation after all.

Leoric:
I hope so.

[first lines]

Mortredd:
Reekon, drive faster. Our lord Darkstorm expected us back long ago.

Reekon:
And the wages he pays us, he's lucky we're coming back at all.

Rowen:
Marna, this is the Age of Magic, not Sweat. Never have Khemirites demeaned their heritage by manual labor. I don't think any of us wish to start now.

Orzan:
Only robot slaves do their own work. The only proper activity for a free citezin of Khemir, is to command, or die in the attempt.

Belezar:
These two knights are the masters of the new age.

Reekon:
And if you pledge allegiance to me...

Mortredd:
Reekon, it's Darkstorm, the true master of the age, to whom they'll pledge!

Reekon:
If you hadn't brought Darkstorm into it, these simpletons would have been pledging their loyalty to you and me.

Mortredd:
And deny Darkstorm of subjects? I hope you change your tune by the time I return with our one and only leader.

Feryl:
[Virulina in struck from one of the pods of the Sky Claw] All right!

[looks ahead]

Feryl:
I mean: Oh, run!

Cryotek:
Leoric, Arzon and Feryl haven't teturned from their patrol.

Leoric:
[chuckling] Oh, knowing those two they're probably out joyriding in the Capture Chariot.

Arzon:
[with it in a sling] I'd fly but my wing - arm, isn't quite up to it.

Cryotek:
Who goes there?

Belezar:
Does it matter? [strikes him on the head]

Leoric:
[Lands on Lexor as he's about to pounce on Witterquick] Sorry to break up the party.

Witterquick:
[chuckling] No problem. Drop in anytime.

Owl of Wisdom:
Comfort and wealth matters little if one is not free. Oh, and watch out behind you. [too late; Leoric's hit over the head with Darkstorm's club]

Darkstorm:
Orzan, I way want them back someday but for now, I give you these slaves.

Leoric:
It will take more than this to conquer us.

Darkstorm:
If you do not accept your fate, my proud friend, the people of New Valaric will suffer most horribly.

Leoric:
Very well, Darkstorm. Do not harm them. We will obey.

Cryotek:
I'll do it; Galadria can't sew.

Reekon:
Your bravery is commendable, Feryl. And your reward shall be the loss of your magical powers.

Orzan:
The mines were deadly for robots. I wonder how humans will fare.

Marna:
A free man surrender himself into slavery? Even to save his friends? It is too much to ask.

Darkstorm:
Spectral Knights are so predictable.

Leoric:
Arzon, I would never have asked you to do this.

Arzon:
Leoric, I would gladly lay down my life for you and all the Spectral Knights.

Arzon:
If I were free at the expense of my friends, I wouldn't be free at all.

Marna:
Exactly. Therefore, I've decided to gain my freedom by helping you gain yours.

Virulina:
[Lexor as an armadillo trips her, causing laughter] Why, you little rodent!

Darkstorm:
Belezar! What in the name of Iron Mountain do you want?

Belezar:
Uh... it was nothing, Darkstorm!

Reekon:
I could have told you that! [laughs with Darkstorm]

Marna:
These knights are worthy of our support. And if their freedom costs us our ill-earned comfort, then so be it.

Cravex:
[trying to stomp on Mortredd after he transforms during their match] Stand still, you miserable bug. Stay! Stay!

Mortredd:
[Cravex flings him against the Dagger Assault] I guess I won't be - winning a power-staff after all.

Cryotek:
Nor will anyone else!

Mortredd:
[Cryotek throws him into Darkstorm's lap] Forgive me, milord.

Belezar:
[of Cindarr] That monkey packs a punch.

Belezar:
The Spectral Knights may lose the day.

Orzan:
Not *this* day!

Darkstorm:
[Witterquick flings Mortredd against the Sky Claw] Get up, you fool, and get us out of here!

Orzan:
So *that's* what that was. The fear of being forced into slavery, by those I myself had enslaved.

Marna:
This is no fear, but the truth. We Khemirites have been so enslaved for years.

Orzan:
Well I, for one, intend to declare my freedom by renouncing slavery forever.

Belezar:
Someday, I hope to prove worthy of knighthood. But, until then, I would like to stay here and - and help the Free People of New Valaric rebuild what's been destroyed.

Orzan:
Hmm. Sounds suspiciously like... work.

Belezar:
Yes, it will be a new experience for all us Khemerites. But I think we will find it most satisfactory.

[last lines]

Ectar, Galadria, Cryotek, Belezar, Orzan, Rowen, New Valaricans, Khemirites:
MAY THE LIGHT SHINE FOREVER! MAY THE LIGHT SHINE FOREVER!

Leoric:
Please accept our sympathies.

Arzon:
But what does this have to do with us, Merklynn?

Witterquick:
Yes, *we* didn't release them.

Ectar:
Obviously, he wants *us* to track them down.

Merklynn:
The fact of the matter is that I could make it worth your while to track them down.

Leoric:
Well... not this time, Merklynn. I can't risk my men on a wizard-hunt. Besides, we really don't need anything; our staffs our fully charged with magic, our cities are thriving...

Merklynn:
The status of your cities could change.

Feryl:
That's not fair either.

Merklynn:
*I* am not fair.

Feryl:
Where is that?

Merklynn:
Young one, if I knew where the Lost Shrine was, it would not be the Lost Shrine, now would it?

Dwarf:
[held upside-down] I've done nothin'! You've got no right to bully me after all these years!

Ectar:
You did plenty back when there were laws to scrape off crusts like you!

Cryotek:
[chuckling] It's funny how the whole world can change and yet Ectar is still a cop. And that dwarf will always be a stoolie.

Falkama:
Darkstorm - rescue me! I-I bear you no ill will...

Darkstorm:
[firing with the others on the Spectral Knights] Rubbish!

Ectar:
I suggest we release one of the wizards as a diversion.

Feryl:
Then release Falkama. He's getting on my nerves.

Leoric:
No. The Darkling Lords don't want *him*.

Witterquick:
I've kind of gotten to like Bolgavus.

Wizasquizar:
Surely you jest. It's dangerous out there.

Cryotek:
[picking him up to force him away] It's more dangerous in here.

Cindarr:
[after being catapulted to land in a sitting position on Wizasquizar] Hope I didn't squash you.

Lexor:
As one liar to another, I think you are prevaricating.

Cryotek:
Takeoff was fine, but the landing could be improved.

Merklynn:
Please accept my apologies. This hand is new. I have not fully trained it yet.

Bogavus:
I am but a forced-in player in this game of wizardry.

Merklynn:
But you *are* a player.

Merklynn:
Mages of the mist, clear his name. Or let his body erupt in flame!

Darkstorm:
Is the Lost Shrine in a mountain?

Wizasquizar:
Yes, in a *tall* mountain.

Cindarr:
[not getting it] But there are no mountains around.

Benny the Con:
Right, now, place your bets.

Ectar:
[striding over] *I'll* bet. I'll bet you're goin' to tell me some things I want to know.

Benny the Con:
I didn't break no laws here.

Ectar:
[lifting him by the throat] Only because there *are* no laws here.

Benny the Con:
I-I never did anything. I-It was that Reekon guy. He set me up.

Ectar:
Oh? Funny thing. I'm looking for Reekon right now. Him and the Darkling Lords.

Ectar:
[after being swallowed by a gelatinous monster] As we used to say in the crime business, this will be an inside job.

Leoric:
[to the creature who swallowed them they threaten with burning if he doesn't release them] Now - open wide!

Wizasquizar:
OLLY OLLY OXEN FREE-EE!

Mortredd:
What idiocy are you babbling?

Recording voice:
[as the overheads lights brighten by degrees] Animal escape. Animal escape. Alert park wardens at once...

Darkstorm:
Whatever he said awakened the long-dead security system.

Recording voice:
[Reekon in animal form is dropped into a labeled glass case] The lizard has been returned.

Mortredd:
[as he's being carried off by one of the zoo-security robots in mollusk form] Darkstorm, I will release you, before they imprison you, or - or cook you in garlic and butter, or something.

Leoric:
It appears that the Darkling Lords have run into a spot of trouble.

Ectar:
[smirking] How tragic.

Arzon:
How are we going to get past those - things?

Leoric:
Any way we can.

Owl of Wisdom:
What do you want of me?

Leoric:
I am about to be captured. What do I do?

Owl of Wisdom:
Resist all temptation to do what you *would* do.

Darkstorm:
Please, Merklynn, accept my apologies.

Merklynn:
You need not apologize. I know you are evil, and would deceive anyone at the first opportunity. Now get out! I may understand you, but I do not choose to socialize with you any longer.

Lexor:
[the Darkling Lords are thrown out just behind the shrine by the giant hand] Cravex - please, save me!

Cravex:
Why should I?

Leoric:
I think we can earn our own gold. We need not be paid. We have benefited from our deeds and that is enough.

[last lines]

Arzon:
You know, I still wonder about old Bogavus.

Merklynn:
Yes... As I have myself. Perhaps we was powerful enough to elude my detection. And that would make him a dangerous wizard indeed.