The Chronicles of Ballard

Ballard — Thu, 12 Jan 2012 23:36:41 +0000

Just walked past Wizard Idol auditions. No joke.

Ballard — Mon, 21 Nov 2011 04:11:08 +0000

Arm wrestled a Mer-man… and lost.

Ballard — Tue, 04 Oct 2011 00:23:58 +0000

Can tuck my beard in my belt now

Ballard — Fri, 23 Sep 2011 00:19:36 +0000

Wizards have it all: magic, fancy hats and a giant stick. They don’t even have to wear pants.

Ballard — Wed, 21 Sep 2011 23:47:22 +0000

There’s a dead cow in the middle of the road… #bbq

Ballard — Mon, 19 Sep 2011 23:41:36 +0000

No ma’am. Just because I let my facial hair go doesn’t mean you can use it as a mop.

Ballard — Thu, 01 Sep 2011 01:09:24 +0000

SPRING BREAKKKKK!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Ballard — Mon, 22 Aug 2011 11:56:20 +0000

Found some eggshell in me beard lol

Ballard — Thu, 07 Jul 2011 22:21:32 +0000

Woke up with an icicle on me nose.

Ballard — Thu, 31 Mar 2011 23:16:00 +0000

Could’ve sworn it was only January yesterday.

Ballard — Thu, 24 Mar 2011 22:06:07 +0000

Heaven’s grasp upon
Face; Begging my return from
City of Slumber

Ballard — Tue, 22 Mar 2011 12:50:53 +0000

And so. As they lay under the blanket of the moonlit sky, their whispers passed through the mountains as the earth bid goodnight.

Ballard — Mon, 21 Mar 2011 00:28:51 +0000

Ha! A mysterious man with a beard of silver tried to sell me a magical stone tablet at an unbelieveable price. As if, kind sir! #failsale

Ballard — Sun, 13 Mar 2011 04:56:54 +0000

Leather pouch shopping.

Ballard — Fri, 11 Mar 2011 00:02:57 +0000

… well that didn’t go as planned. Not only did she not want rescuing, but the Mer-Men threw me into a trough #fail

Ballard — Thu, 10 Mar 2011 23:30:25 +0000

Great. It’s that pack of Mer-men again. Now they’re disturbing a red headed lass â€” time to get my Hero on.

Ballard — Sun, 06 Mar 2011 22:57:34 +0000

Welcome Winter’s breath
Company of pints of ale
Front a dragon’s fire

Ballard — Sat, 05 Mar 2011 02:58:03 +0000

Give it up for my lad Korin Howl – the greatest animal impersonator in all the land! He’ll be at The Classy Wench at 9 o’clock tonight!

Ballard — Thu, 03 Mar 2011 06:42:58 +0000

I felt a lift in spirit today. So I bought an apple.

Ballard — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 21:44:36 +0000

Do we even have butter in this medieval fantasmical world? Lol

Ballard — Wed, 16 Feb 2011 21:40:09 +0000

On a carriage sitting next to a woman eating corn… What, no butter?

Ballard — Tue, 15 Feb 2011 01:03:54 +0000

Thanks jerks for pushing my breakfast off the table. And onto the floor. Stupid Mer-men…

Ballard — Fri, 11 Feb 2011 00:07:30 +0000

Yesterday I saw a swamp monster — with a hat. True story.

Ballard — Thu, 10 Feb 2011 20:36:58 +0000

Yes my dear, I AM happy to see you.

Ballard — Sat, 29 Jan 2011 03:03:43 +0000

Off to a lake for the day with the goblin neighbours. I thought water burned their skin? We’ll find out soon enoughâ€¦

Ballard — Tue, 25 Jan 2011 04:39:37 +0000

Blades beam in it’s awe
Souls spring forward Under eye
Of our closest star

Ballard — Wed, 19 Jan 2011 12:17:07 +0000

It’s teeth shatteringly cold. And all I can think about is tossing that burly man’s wooden leg into fire.

Ballard — Thu, 06 Jan 2011 00:20:36 +0000

So I joined a good ol’ fashion witch hunt… #jobless

Ballard — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 05:50:33 +0000

Inside The Classy Wench.

Ballard — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 04:46:23 +0000

At The Classy Wench opening. The owner is cutting the ribbon and is wearing a very nice hat. Classy.

Ballard — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 00:13:34 +0000

Speaking of food, The Classy Wench opens today! Tavern lunch everyone!

Ballard — Tue, 21 Dec 2010 00:12:49 +0000

“Burn her at the stake!” they yelled. To which I instantly thought on a tangent, medium/rare with mushroom sauce please.

Ballard — Mon, 13 Dec 2010 02:59:43 +0000

Spent the weekend with the troll neighbours and their extended family. They’re all leaving today. May we met again! I sure would like that.

Ballard — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 23:06:47 +0000

They’re indeed a nice bunch. Another thing, they’re mountain trolls – not goblins. And no they don’t look the same ye racist bastardo.

Ballard — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 23:02:18 +0000

UUuuuUUUUngnnngh. Hung overrrr mate. Instead of giving the goblins an earful, I ended up partying with them instead. Jovial.

Ballard — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 12:05:37 +0000

QUIET DOWN YE GOBLINS!!! No, of course I didn’t say that. They’d pitch-fork me. Going over now to show em who’s boss (me). Wish me luck.

Ballard — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 11:56:00 +0000

Cant sleep. Laughter coming from the goblin neighbours, as well as chanting, ruckus and whatever they call music. An end to this shall come!

Ballard — Thu, 09 Dec 2010 07:49:08 +0000

Caught a young goblin staring at my behemoth watermelon. “Get away ye goblin spawn!”

Ballard — Wed, 08 Dec 2010 23:28:58 +0000

There must be at least a hundred goblins over at the neighbour’s. Some burly. Some tiny. And some in between. *shudders*

Ballard — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 10:31:21 +0000

Oh wait. No, that’s meâ€¦

Ballard — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 10:29:45 +0000

Those goblins are indeed a loud bunch. And so smelly!

Ballard — Tue, 07 Dec 2010 03:30:08 +0000

Err, where are all these goblins coming from.

Ballard — Sun, 05 Dec 2010 02:01:51 +0000

Word in town is The Classy Wench is opening the next fortnight. A new backdrop for intoxicated tavern brawls. Excitement!

Ballard — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 10:10:14 +0000

In other news, I’m baking a strawberry-choc cake!

Ballard — Wed, 01 Dec 2010 10:00:38 +0000

Just saw the goblin neighbours cart in 4 huge pigs. Big appetite for a family of 6. Monsters.Â

Ballard — Tue, 30 Nov 2010 23:18:59 +0000

Watering pumpkins
Transform them into hot soup
Belly be hearty

Ballard — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 23:52:50 +0000

No, seriously. They are literally GOBLINS!

Ballard — Mon, 29 Nov 2010 23:43:36 +0000

Woke up to the ruckus made by the new neighbours moving in. Darn goblins!

Ballard — Fri, 26 Nov 2010 03:13:45 +0000

Archery contest. First prize: A barrel of rum. Let’s. Do. This.

Ballard — Tue, 23 Nov 2010 23:57:44 +0000

I’m pretty sure this uncomfortable pile of rock was a soft bed last night.

Ballard — Mon, 22 Nov 2010 23:30:50 +0000

Oh hello. A duck has wandered into the garden. Will it become lunch? STAY TUNED!

Ballard — Wed, 17 Nov 2010 03:57:13 +0000

They’re building a new tavern in town. It’s called The Classy Wench. And it looks like a ship! Classy.

Ballard — Thu, 04 Nov 2010 09:03:19 +0000

Firewood is useless when wet #fact

Ballard — Fri, 29 Oct 2010 08:47:47 +0000

On a trip down the river, the only available seat is one next to a goblin with no pants on. This will be interesting.

Ballard — Thu, 28 Oct 2010 09:28:15 +0000

There’s always time for beer and wenches.

Ballard — Fri, 15 Oct 2010 02:39:01 +0000

Uh oh. Town meeting time. I knew not tending to my tomatoes (now riddled with worms) would come in handy.

Ballard — Sun, 03 Oct 2010 13:31:22 +0000

Free wine in the hunting valley!

Ballard — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 03:19:04 +0000

Hot water and tea leaves. Who knew?

Ballard — Sat, 02 Oct 2010 02:42:27 +0000

Did someone say, “A pint of ale”?

Ballard — Mon, 27 Sep 2010 22:08:28 +0000

I’m pretty sure this uncomfortable pile of rock was a soft bed last night.

Ballard — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:26:31 +0000

My Men dared not look at me. I must admit, I’m crushed. And no, they’re not tears in me eyes. I’m just allergic to hurt.

Ballard — Thu, 04 Mar 2010 00:24:57 +0000

Saw the men I once led march past me. They’re now led by my nemesis Heura. Ooh I hate that guy!

Ballard — Wed, 03 Mar 2010 00:44:04 +0000

Lying in bed. It’s cold. My broken-down door doesn’t help either.

Ballard — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 06:54:45 +0000

This is so sad. Even the beggars are feeling sorry for me. Theyre feeding me scraps of food n tipping warm water into my mouth. Tastes weird

Ballard — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 06:23:53 +0000

Still lying down on the side of the street. Not even the rain can move me from this state of woe. At least I get a free shower.

Ballard — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:21:35 +0000

A horse almost trotted over me if he hadn’t smelt the awful stench coming from my mouth as I moaned in bewilderment.

Ballard — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:19:15 +0000

It’s honesty time – I’m lying on the side of the street. People walk around me as if I’m wild boar turd. Can’t blame them, I smell like shi

Ballard — Mon, 01 Mar 2010 00:14:27 +0000

Days have passed. I’ve yet to know what to do with myself anymore.

Ballard — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:09:47 +0000

This is ridiculous! Everyone needs an extended holiday. Followers, heckle at them upon where they gather http://tinyurl.com/yhhblb7!

Ballard — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 08:04:59 +0000

The Men are not pleased with my sudden departure from The Order. They’re unhappy because I took a long holiday.

Ballard — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 06:17:34 +0000

Oh, he threw me out because I took too long of a holiday… Just as well, the gold and jewels were worth it. Keep it hush hush ye okay?

Ballard — Wed, 24 Feb 2010 06:16:36 +0000

Great. Just met the Commander. He threw me out of the Order of the Knights of Rothorn! I’LL SHOW HIM! TO THE TAVERN!!!

Ballard — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 12:03:23 +0000

Whoops! Drunk bumped into the Commander’s henchmen. Handed me a letter demanding I meet him morrow at noon or else. Or else what? Exactly.

Ballard — Tue, 23 Feb 2010 07:34:46 +0000

Yes! Dodged my commander yet again!

Ballard — Wed, 10 Feb 2010 04:46:21 +0000

Apparently, my commander just found out I have returned. I’ve been away longer than expected. He may be cross.

Ballard — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:34:18 +0000

Gave Gabriel a gem as a token of gratitude. Only a small one of course.

Ballard — Thu, 04 Feb 2010 03:33:18 +0000

My house is still standing! Much thanks to Gabriel for keeping it clean. Gosh, she even watered the pumpkins.

Ballard — Mon, 25 Jan 2010 14:13:52 +0000

Leaving Kurukaka tomorrow. Must visit this place again one day. There’s some remaining gold I have yet to retrieve.

Ballard — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 08:17:55 +0000

And yes, a bird of the feathered kind.

Ballard — Mon, 18 Jan 2010 08:10:16 +0000

Spent the last week with Molo. He’s always good company. He didn’t accept some gold of gratitude. He’d rather me give him an exotic bird.

Ballard — Tue, 05 Jan 2010 04:09:57 +0000

Off to catch up with Molo at the local Inn. Much to discuss about the previous month. Hope he accepts some gold as tokens of gratitude.

Ballard — Wed, 30 Dec 2009 10:41:05 +0000

Been a while since I’ve had some meat and potatoes. Also had a wee bit too much to drink, almost lost my loot! Would’ve been tragic.

Ballard — Mon, 28 Dec 2009 23:41:14 +0000

Got into town at the break of dawn. Feel abit ragged, but I’m ok. First order of business: a pint of cold ale! Second: will find Molo.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 07:21:54 +0000

*Gulp* AAARRRRRGGGGGHHHH!

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 07:12:06 +0000

Yep. It’s a waterfall up ahead.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 07:04:51 +0000

The rushing water is getting louder. Are we going over a cliff soon?

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 06:50:23 +0000

Looking back at the monster as I float down the river. Don’t think it likes water. It can’t get back inside too. It’s really angry, people.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 06:41:33 +0000

Is it too convenient that there are a few floating logs in the water? Ok, I’m not taking any chances. Here I come!

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 06:29:29 +0000

ARGH! The monster struck me with such a rage that my shield broke in two… So I threw it at him.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 06:20:48 +0000

Hmm, now that I’m outside: death by monster or death by river. Decisions, decisions.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 06:12:02 +0000

OH! The monster appeared behind me slashing as it burst through the entrance reducing it to rubble. Going back in is no longer an option.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 05:59:55 +0000

I’ve reached the entrance and now catching my breath. No monster behind me. I’ve err, just noticed there’s no boat here to take me home.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 05:51:08 +0000

The monster appears in front of me in a blink of an eye. Startled, I swing at it as it disappears in another puff. Just a few more steps…

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 05:39:31 +0000

I scurry across the floor picking up whatever jewels I can manage. I hope the monster doesn’t realise I’m dashing for the entrance.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 05:34:19 +0000

UNGH! It flung me across the cavern. I barely get up, but remember the entrance to the underground river is in view. It’s now or never.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 05:13:30 +0000

My blade carves the air but never lands on anything. The creature always turns to dust before I realise where he is. This may take a while.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 05:05:32 +0000

My arm will crumble to dust if I let my shield take anymore of the monster’s beatings. I must strike or I’ll end up like Blackstone – dead.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 04:53:56 +0000

How can you tell if a monster really wants to rip your head off? It lets out a terrifying roar that really could awaken all nightmares.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 04:32:51 +0000

Whoops. It’s angry now. The crown leapt out of the monster’s hand shattering into a thousand pieces, after I threw a dagger into it’s back.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 04:16:17 +0000

OOMF! The monster caught the crown as it flew into the air when I tripped over a rock. NO! IT’S MINE! IT LOOKS BETTER ON MEEE!

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 04:02:22 +0000

GOTCHA! My wild (read: aimless) sword swinging made a connection and tore open his left shoulder. It has black sizzling blood. Eww.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 03:59:04 +0000

OUCH! It slashed at my chest ripping my tunic revealing my clawed armour. And oh yes it disappeared again. Typical.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 03:47:37 +0000

I swear theres flames coming out of it’s eye.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 03:45:49 +0000

I wish I hadn’t bellowed, KILL ME IF YOU WANT IT!, because it exposed its terrifying claws and its remaining one eye turned a bright orange.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 03:41:29 +0000

YOU WANT MY CROWN DO YOU? YOU CANNOT TAKE WHAT ISNT YOURS, FRIEND! (Yes I know I took it from Blackstone, but he isnt with us anymore is he)

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 03:08:46 +0000

Strange. Every time it re-appears from the dust, it makes a not-so-lethal swipe to my head. Is it trying to get at my crown?

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 02:51:25 +0000

Great. All the treasure I carefully packed in my carry sack has spilt all over the floor. I AM NOT PICKING IT ALL UP!

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 01:16:31 +0000

UNGH! It struck me from behind. I should’ve seen it coming. Fortunately, I am protected by chest armour. HA! YOU CANNOT HARM ME!

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:48:25 +0000

Side note: Oh Blackstone, u’ve hidden the entrance to the river well. You disguised it as part of the rock wall! Blackstone you genius, you.

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:47:27 +0000

Blackstone’s writings were true! It really is hideous! Oh great, it’s disappeared in a puff of swirls again. FACE ME COWARD!

Ballard — Wed, 23 Dec 2009 00:01:13 +0000

HA! THERE YOU ARE! The monster has finally decided to join us. And with that it swiped at my head with a delirious look in his remaining eye

Ballard — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 22:31:41 +0000

According to this badly drawn map, the secret door to the underground river should be here somewhere.

Ballard — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 21:59:41 +0000

Oh the agony of waiting to see if death shall come! Face me now monster! Where art thou?! I WILL SMITE THEE!

Ballard — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 12:17:16 +0000

Don’t think I can step forward another foot. My arms are about to fall off. If I rest here the monster may eat me in my sleep!

Ballard — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 07:38:45 +0000

My arms will be the size of canyons after I’m done carrying all this weight in treasure. Having a shield on one arm doesn’t help either.

Ballard — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 05:13:22 +0000

Just left the rocky tunnel that led to the underground lake. No sight of that creature. Time to mount the shield just in case though.

Ballard — Tue, 22 Dec 2009 00:28:50 +0000

Odd, this lake is a wee bit colder.

Ballard — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 23:45:03 +0000

Goodbye strange island surrounded by an ankle-deep lake in the middle of an even stranger empty cavern!

Ballard — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 22:16:42 +0000

Goodbye Den where Blackstone once walked! Oh cavern of light! I will take this idea of a network of mirrors home and make a fortune!

Ballard — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 20:17:57 +0000

It’s hard to part with gold and jewels you cannot carry. I must return one day. Goodbye my love!

Ballard — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 07:37:46 +0000

I’m enchanted by a deep blue gem that sits in the pommel of Blackstone’s blade. It’s like I’m staring into a swirling body of cold.

Ballard — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 07:14:44 +0000

This blade is astonishing. Raising it towards the light feels like it radiates a strength that can save the darkest lands. Ok, it’s mine now.

Ballard — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 06:48:47 +0000

If you’re wondering where I found it, it was wrapped in a thick hide (probably a rocky mountain goat) stowed away under some ye olde books.

Ballard — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 06:38:23 +0000

Odd. Why didn’t Blackstone take this sword? It’s perfectly balanced between the blade and cross-guard. Oh well, it’s now mine.

Ballard — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 04:05:19 +0000

Bad news: The entrance is hidden. And it’s located outside of this hidden enclave. Yep, where that hideous monster maybe lurking. *gulp*

Ballard — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 03:57:37 +0000

Good news: Found a map in one of Blackstone’s other journals. There is a river that runs deep leading to the outside world in 3 days. Handy.

Ballard — Mon, 21 Dec 2009 00:52:53 +0000

I’ve filled my bag with as much gold and jewels as possible. Ungh! I can barely lift it off the ground. Have to return for the rest one day.

Ballard — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 20:38:46 +0000

This silver crown lined with gold and encrusted with blue diamonds from the night sky will do very nicely thank you.

Ballard — Sun, 20 Dec 2009 11:37:27 +0000

I think I look quite dashing in this piece of chest armour. It really brings out my eyes.

Ballard — Wed, 16 Dec 2009 23:37:30 +0000

This must be the chest armour Blackstone was writing about http://tinyurl.com/yhtssmv Shame, it’s a little dull looking.

Ballard — Tue, 15 Dec 2009 21:18:07 +0000

Oh my! The great Frederick Blackstone was the keeper of the journal! He was one great legendary knight!

Ballard — Mon, 14 Dec 2009 01:11:33 +0000

I guess I could go back and forth taking the treasure in small portions… No, scratch that, sounds like alot of work.

Ballard — Sun, 13 Dec 2009 23:24:04 +0000

How will I ever escape with all this treasure? I believe there are rare artifacts as well and am afraid of ruining them.

Ballard — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 05:31:06 +0000

Ooh! My neck is a tad stiff though *Groan* Apologies for the complaint – must’ve been the big red gem I used as a pillow

Ballard — Fri, 11 Dec 2009 04:56:29 +0000

I’ve awoken from much needed sleep. Fittingly, I was sleeping on the pile of treasure, with a pure gold teapot in hand. How rich.

Ballard — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 05:47:41 +0000

What’s remarkable is that it is lit by a network of mirrors that seem to travel through the deep crevices along this cavern. Brilliant.

Ballard — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 05:32:50 +0000

It is a cavern big enough for 20 elephors, with a mound in the centre full of jewels, gold and gems I’ve never set my eyes upon.

Ballard — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 04:08:26 +0000

*GASP* I HAVE FOUND IT.

Ballard — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 02:51:37 +0000

Oh! I can see a glow in the distance! THIS MUST BE IT!

Ballard — Thu, 10 Dec 2009 01:05:36 +0000

The path is obvious. The ground has been carved by the journal’s author who must have trodded along here a thousand times.

Ballard — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 23:31:05 +0000

Walking along the path just to the left of the island. I’ve found what looks like part of a shoe. The Den must be nearby. It must!

Ballard — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 07:05:31 +0000

The small island is barren, save the boulders that lay in the wild grass. To the left it continues off somewhere…

Ballard — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 05:07:27 +0000

Brrr! The water is cold as I run towards the island. My pants are hanging onto me for dear life – I may have lost some weight.

Ballard — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 03:19:30 +0000

Allow me to paint the scene. The island seems to bridge off to the left, hidden by the cavern walls that are creeping forward.

Ballard — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 01:47:49 +0000

Scratch that, it’s not a lake. The water is only ankle deep. A giant puddle perhaps?

Ballard — Wed, 09 Dec 2009 00:55:14 +0000

Just emerged from the tunnel. And OH MY. An underground lake! With a small island in the middle. Typical.

Ballard — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 06:29:05 +0000

Odd, the ground is getting damp and muddy. Better move to the side of the tunnel where the ground is dry.

Ballard — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 03:56:34 +0000

The wall of moss is leading me down a windy, narrow and rocky tunnel. This must be the way to the Den of treasure I’m sure of it!

Ballard — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 02:44:57 +0000

Speaking of sleeping forever, that may have been a reality! The wall jumped to life with vines trying to strangle me! *huff*

Ballard — Tue, 08 Dec 2009 01:01:57 +0000

The wall of moss really is soft. I could sleep on this forever.

Ballard — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:32:05 +0000

“Where resting on the walls will be kind to the body”. Did he mean all that moss running along the wall?

Ballard — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 05:23:24 +0000

Okay. I have no idea what this next part of the clue means, “Where resting on the walls will be kind to the body”. A healing bed?

Ballard — Mon, 07 Dec 2009 03:57:14 +0000

I may have found his secret Den. “They proudly stand where no one will notice” may be referring to some oaks hiding in the shadows.

Ballard — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 02:18:45 +0000

These great oaks seem to be thriving on stream of sunlight from a hole high above me no bigger than three men.

Ballard — Sun, 06 Dec 2009 02:17:35 +0000

I’ve located an enormous hollowed out area filld with more oak trees strangely. No signs of the Den. Maybe I’m reading the directions wrong.

Ballard — Sat, 05 Dec 2009 23:44:16 +0000

Ok, I think the map points to here. I think I’m here, but all I can see are great oak trees. Inside a cave?

Ballard — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 04:13:48 +0000

Found a little exit from the secret tunnels. Even though I’m still in the caverns, that air is fresher here.

Ballard — Thu, 03 Dec 2009 00:13:32 +0000

There’s seriously no air in these secret tunnels. How did he breathe?

Ballard — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 08:57:59 +0000

Ha! Found it.

Ballard — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 07:59:26 +0000

According to a half drawn map in his journal, one of the entry points to the short cuts should be around here somewhere…

Ballard — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 03:51:22 +0000

This is tough. This chap really hid his tracks really well. There are no footprints at all, even if he did die 200 yrs ago.

Ballard — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 01:23:57 +0000

Spoke too soon. Saw something move over to my far right. Ran towards it but it vanished. COME FIGHT ME BEAST! I KNOW YOU’RE THERE!

Ballard — Wed, 02 Dec 2009 00:27:20 +0000

About to set foot again looking for this supposed den filled to the brim with treasure. Haven’t seen the Thing in the shadows lately either.

Ballard — Tue, 01 Dec 2009 03:55:04 +0000

Oh dear, I believe the end for our journal’s author is here.

November 24th, 1809

… Oh I am wounded! It is indeed a monster! It stands 9 feet tall. Eyes darker than the deepest parts of one’s malicous mind and deeper than the coldest depths of the ocean. Its face was horrid and his breath wretched enough to make the faces of men of any army to turn inside out.

I contemplated the thought that I could have been dead, but have luckily survived by the kind hand of my blade.

The monster lunged from the darkness and I swept my blade as close to it as I could. But it did the most remarkable thing – it vanished into dust that circled in the air and would suddenly appear behind me or where ever else I would least expect. I could only keep up with its game of vanish-and-appear for so long.

As a last breath of desperation I slashed my blade violently in the air hoping the monster would appear under it. Luckily the heavens were on my side. The tip of my blade pierced through the monster’s left eye as it sprung on my right as quickly as it had disappeared from my left just a second before. It let out a chilling scream that shook the cavern and surely awoke the nightmares within the realm. It yelped helplessly, as it spun around and made off with its damaged eye. It won’t be able to see from that side again.

Alas, amongst the commotion it was able to swipe across my chest, ending at my shoulder where it burst open. My blood gushing like a fountain as my blade fell to the ground. It will be a while before I can hold a sword again.

Oh how I regret not wearing the armour I had acquired just months before – made from the finest metals from the Mountains to the North. It could have prevented the pain that I am experiencing as I write this.

Anyhow, I must take my jewels and gold while I still can breathe and leave this place soon.

In the meantime, I must tread carefully back to my den as I have countlessly before. I will rest then…

Ballard — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 23:55:39 +0000

I may have found the where abouts of the treasure!

November 14th, 1809

… I write this as a record just in case the where abouts of my den slip my mind, as it is becoming easier to do so as I age another day.

They proudly stand where no one will notice.
Where resting on the walls will be kind to the body.
Past the weave…

Um, ok. The rest of the page has been torn off. Grand.

Ballard — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 08:03:32 +0000

Ooo! Found a recipe for fish and berry stew in his journal. Shall give it a whirl. Might even invite that thing in the shadows for a meal.

Ballard — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 04:55:55 +0000

Insightful.

October 30, 1809

… Walk towards the direction of fear. And the shackles will crumble away…

Ballard — Mon, 30 Nov 2009 00:55:44 +0000

Wow, I guess his wife really meant something to him.

October 10, 1809

… She was my rose in a sea of thorns. The flicker of light in the darkest of nightmares. The rays of warmth underneath an unforgiving blanket of cold. A goddess among Men…

Ballard — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 22:55:03 +0000

Hmm, abit mellow with this entry.

September 19th, 1809

… Oh dear. I just had a thought. I always keep this journal on me at all times. So if you are reading this, then I am having a bath or I am already dead…

Ballard — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 12:10:00 +0000

Oh my, there are a bunch of short cuts in these caverns! Another page from the poor sod.

August 2nd, 1809

… I must move much swiftly in the shadows, for I fear that thing without a face is becoming more confident in its ability to cause me harm. I’ve stumbled upon a network of crevices and tunnels that I’ll use as shortcuts to get back into the land of light. No man cannot live in the dark forever…

Ballard — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 11:45:48 +0000

Hmm, a tad too mopey for me with this entry…

July 21st, 1809

… I reminiscence the soft waft that came from the kitchen. My senses would always be delighted to find a freshly baked loaf of bread every night when I came home from a hard day’s work. I was always greeted with an embrace that I longed for as soon as I left it. Her laughter a soothing oil to my earth battered hands. Her eyes a window to our happiness…

Ballard — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 11:30:10 +0000

My suspicions were right, that “thing” in the shadow indeed exists!

July 14th, 1809

…I can feel another presence with me when I’m trawling the caverns. It is not an animal. And it is certainly not human. It would vanish once I laid my eyes upon its direction. Everyday I feel it is getting closer to my being.

Ballard — Sun, 29 Nov 2009 05:12:16 +0000

His journal entries are quite the read:

June 29th, 1809

…Those wise men say happiness cannot be bought. Fools, tonight I happily traded some gold to be in the company of 3 beautiful women. If happiness isn’t that then I don’t know what is…

Ballard — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 20:50:44 +0000

I’m exhausted as I dare not to sleep for fear of having my throat cut by the one who moves among the shadows. So tired!

Ballard — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 10:39:05 +0000

WHO’S THERE?! I saw something move amongst the shadows. SHOW YOURSELF YOU COWARD!

Ballard — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 06:22:42 +0000

Oh dear. I think I’ve found the journal’s owner. All that’s left of the poor sod is his bones.

Ballard — Thu, 26 Nov 2009 04:15:43 +0000

Astonishing. Followed a trail of loose pages and found the journal itself. Its pages spread across the floor like it’s had its guts spilt.

Ballard — Tue, 24 Nov 2009 03:15:59 +0000

Haven’t been able to sleep. My mind has been racing. Treasure on the brain…

Ballard — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 06:18:17 +0000

Got most of the dirt off. I think we’re onto something here. So, those rumors were true. I wonder if there’s more pages lying around?

Ballard — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 03:34:16 +0000

Whoops. Just ripped it.

Ballard — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 03:26:03 +0000

Layers of dirt have covered this torn page over the years. Miraculously it’s still in one piece. Cleaning it will take some time and care.

Ballard — Mon, 23 Nov 2009 00:52:38 +0000

Great butterscotts! I’ve found something that looks like it’s a page from someone’s journal!

Ballard — Sat, 21 Nov 2009 10:36:08 +0000

Another underground stream. This time I it’s glowing. It may be good to drink because I SEE FISH!

Ballard — Fri, 20 Nov 2009 04:29:36 +0000

I hear a faint rumble in the distance.

Ballard — Thu, 19 Nov 2009 23:31:54 +0000

Why do I feel like someone is following me?

Ballard — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 06:59:12 +0000

The cold makes the hairs on my neck stand up. Oh, how I miss my two great friends - Camp Fire and Ale.

Ballard — Wed, 18 Nov 2009 00:57:50 +0000

Wonder how my house is holding up. Gabriel better have remembered to water my prized pumpkins. Hope the Men didn’t help themselves to them.

Ballard — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 06:35:45 +0000

It’s strange. This new cave feels a tad different from the last, yet familiar.

Ballard — Tue, 17 Nov 2009 04:12:51 +0000

My eyes maybe lying. I saw a bird fly out from a tree. It may have a nest. And that nest may have eggs. Mmm, a good way to send myself off?

Ballard — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 23:30:46 +0000

A nice day today to move on. But not until after a big meal of berries and shrooms! Joy. I will surely miss the sun’s rays.

Ballard — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:57:08 +0000

Ahh, nothing like a getting your fingers toasted in front of a fire while the rain falls outside. I guess I should move on tomorrow.

Ballard — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 05:30:20 +0000

I think its finally safe to make a fire. With all this light, there’s no chance a monster can creep up behind me. Unless it’s old age! Har!

Ballard — Mon, 16 Nov 2009 00:27:53 +0000

Oh my! Rain! The drops are large enough to blind me. It has indeed been a while, old friend! And it also has been a while since I’ve bathed.

Ballard — Sun, 15 Nov 2009 11:14:38 +0000

It’s been a while since I’ve seen the stars.

Ballard — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:22:00 +0000

… As on the other side of this small pocket of green, this long and tiring journey through the dark cavern continues. Much joy.

Ballard — Thu, 12 Nov 2009 00:09:07 +0000

It’s been many moons since I felt the warmth of the sun on my face. I shall bask in this light for as long as I can…

Ballard — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 06:14:43 +0000

A cloudless sky, only cluttered by the towering arms of these tall barked giants. The sun hangs, just to the side. It is afternoon.

Ballard — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 04:20:32 +0000

…I welcome the wind as I explore the open. Tall rocky walls surround this green patch. It’s as if a mountain has had it’s top cut off.

Ballard — Wed, 11 Nov 2009 03:54:40 +0000

I’m blind as I’ve finally escaped the darkness and stepped into a pool of light. I’ve finally found my way out into an enclave of trees…

Ballard — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 20:57:30 +0000

Still alive. Ye good times.

Ballard — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 12:25:01 +0000

My stomach growls as it has a bit of a hard time churning the wild berries and shrooms. Haha ”shrooms”. I’ll keep that.

Ballard — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 10:15:26 +0000

Joy. My skin hasn’t changed. So I begin feasting on this wild banquet. The last drop of rum that I have, lands softly upon my tongue.

Ballard — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 07:00:46 +0000

I’ve cut open the berries and mushrooms, and smeared them across my skin. If my skin begins to burn or turns goblin-like, I’m doomed.

Ballard — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 01:10:27 +0000

…Should I eat them? If I don’t, I’ll die. If they’re poisonous I’ll die. Either way im bound to leave this earth one day. It may be today.

Ballard — Sun, 08 Nov 2009 01:09:24 +0000

I’ve been sitting against this rock for what seems like an eternity, staring at the wild berries and mushrooms…

Ballard — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 06:25:17 +0000

Berries and strange mushrooms litter the ground… Sure why not?

Ballard — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:59:55 +0000

The silence is disturbed by rumbling of my empty stomach. I’M SO HUNGRY!

Ballard — Fri, 06 Nov 2009 03:55:51 +0000

Entering this cave without any available maps has been a choice made only by a fool.

Ballard — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 08:04:36 +0000

I’ve yet to stumble upon any hints of the treasure promised in the tales I’ve heard. Can’t label them as lies, but only as wishful thinking.

Ballard — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 01:02:27 +0000

… and the light catching pebbles that are scattered all over the floor. Am I scrambling around the depths of my conciousness?

Ballard — Thu, 05 Nov 2009 01:01:34 +0000

My sense of time is gone. The dim surrounds me. My guides are the glow from the rocks that hang from the ceiling…

Ballard — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:03:43 +0000

…I’ve stripped myself to the bare essentials – the clothes on my back, the cape that keeps me warm, both my blades and my last sip of rum.

Ballard — Wed, 04 Nov 2009 08:03:08 +0000

A wondering man needs no things that will weigh him down…

Ballard — Tue, 03 Nov 2009 01:21:30 +0000

I’ve been in this cave for days. No treasure. No food. No map. Tomorrow looks bleak.

Ballard — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 12:11:21 +0000

I followed the sound, and it turned out to be an underground river. Water tastes fresh and untouched. No signs of fish. Running out of food.

Ballard — Mon, 02 Nov 2009 01:27:59 +0000

Still inside. Something sounds different, yet familiar. It’s distant, but I’ll find it.

Ballard — Sat, 31 Oct 2009 01:06:48 +0000

Into the blackness I slip again. My lamp has exhausted all the fuel I could carry. These strange hope emitting pebbles will have to do.

Ballard — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 23:23:31 +0000

Strange vegetation inhabits this cave. I’ve found a plant where it’s bulb is scarlet, speckled with white, and has dentures?

Ballard — Fri, 30 Oct 2009 10:59:14 +0000

What time is it? I’ve lost my sense of time being in this cave. There’s no escape as I can’t find the entrance that lead me here.

Ballard — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 22:40:59 +0000

Awoke to something furry sitting on my face. And it wasn’t my burly beard.

Ballard — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:09:36 +0000

The field of grass sways hypnotically by an unknown breeze. I’d be lying if there wasn’t fear in my heart. What IS this place?

Ballard — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:02:48 +0000

Lost in the gaze, I’ve realised the giant enclosure is lit by a sea of mysterious rocks in the ceiling. The hue that reminds me of the sky.

Ballard — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 10:02:14 +0000

Where on earth am I? I found my way into a cavern blessed with a never ending field of tall grass. No treasure here at all.

Ballard — Thu, 29 Oct 2009 05:31:39 +0000

I think I’m going around in circles.

Ballard — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 22:49:57 +0000

The silence is only interrupted by my breathing (oh, and the occasional clink clank from my bag of supplies).

Ballard — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 22:29:31 +0000

I don’t think my lamp has enough oil to endure the dark depths of this cave. It’s damp, cold and I wanna go home.

Ballard — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 06:20:24 +0000

Just in front of the cave. It’s pitch black inside, like all our nightmares.

Ballard — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 04:10:08 +0000

VICTORYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYYY

Ballard — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 04:08:34 +0000

Okay, goodbye cruel world! *Leaps*

Ballard — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 03:59:24 +0000

The glide should only take a few seconds, but why is it so hard? *Deep breath*

Ballard — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 03:58:41 +0000

This is it. I’m atop our makeshift tower. The raging river bellows below. It’s a really hot day so if I do fail, at least it’ll be cool.

Ballard — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 01:07:56 +0000

Just looking down into the raging river… maybe the ‘treasure’ isn’t worth the risk of being gulped by a ferocious current after all. *gulp

Ballard — Wed, 28 Oct 2009 00:01:02 +0000

Packed some food that should last me a few days. And some rum which will last me a week. I hope this lamp is water proof.

Ballard — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 23:59:04 +0000

4 hours till we attempt to fly over the raging river to get to the cave on the other side.

Ballard — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 04:02:02 +0000

… Let’s put it this way, falling into an angry river with unforgiving rocks won’t be dandy at all.

Ballard — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 04:01:23 +0000

Molo asked if I’m nervous. I laughed in his face and said I eat danger for breakfast (with a side of potatoes)…

Ballard — Tue, 27 Oct 2009 03:59:03 +0000

Making sure everything is right before we glide over the raging river. The wind is good. The river is still ferocious though.

Ballard — Mon, 26 Oct 2009 03:48:07 +0000

Preparing for the short flight across the raging river. The treasure inside the cave better be worth it.

Ballard — Thu, 22 Oct 2009 02:53:22 +0000

Test flight was a success. My BFF Molo made sure I had a soft landing by stacking mountains of hay in the landing zone. He’s a nice guy.

Ballard — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 23:42:19 +0000

Flying contraption Test 2: We’re flying over land the same distance it takes to fly over the raging river. Toes crossed.

Ballard — Wed, 21 Oct 2009 22:24:22 +0000

The ocean is quite warm today. Yet there are black clouds looming over the horizon.

Ballard — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 23:09:01 +0000

Rumour has it the cave across the raging river, is filled to the brim with riches. Imagine all the ladies you could buy.

Ballard — Mon, 19 Oct 2009 05:33:29 +0000

Bad news: The island is now full of featherless birds. Good news: Our flying contraption has enough feathers for our next test flight.

Ballard — Wed, 14 Oct 2009 06:19:04 +0000

We need more feathers for our winged contraption. Why is it so hard to capture birds?

Ballard — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 01:25:20 +0000

WHOAH. Glided through the air for a while before landing face first into the dirt. Success!

Ballard — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 01:04:24 +0000

No I haven’t jumped yet… Will take a deep breathe first…

Ballard — Tue, 13 Oct 2009 00:40:49 +0000

So uh, I’m on a platform about a tavern high with our flying contraption strapped to my back. To be honest, it’s just a giant kite.

Ballard — Mon, 12 Oct 2009 23:01:25 +0000

Flight testing today. Conditions are perfect. But first, some wild boar

Ballard — Sun, 11 Oct 2009 22:26:40 +0000

It’s alivvvvvvvve! Our flying contraption is complete. Time to test it’ wings, but pity there isn’t enough wind today… Time for ale?

Ballard — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 05:17:20 +0000

As our flying contraption takes shape, the number of featherless birds is climbds.

Ballard — Fri, 09 Oct 2009 00:51:56 +0000

Didn’t realise Molo had a large collection of birds. Creepy thing is he keeps the dead ones next to the live ones. Put the fear in, he says.

Ballard — Tue, 06 Oct 2009 00:01:18 +0000

How rude of me! I’ve forgotten to introduce the local I saved a few weeks ago. His name is Molo. We’re now Best Friends Forever.

Ballard — Mon, 05 Oct 2009 20:54:30 +0000

An early start to building that contraption we’re going to use to fly over the raging river. Yes, we’re still on it.

Ballard — Wed, 30 Sep 2009 22:00:28 +0000

Woke up to the chirps of baby chicks. Shame, I wished it was eggs for breakfast.

Ballard — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 04:41:59 +0000

Enjoying a few boars on the fire, complimented by a fresh beverage of the coconut nature.

Ballard — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 04:19:05 +0000

…But it was just one of the locals who got stuck up there. After chuckling for a while, I saved him of course.

Ballard — Tue, 22 Sep 2009 04:16:38 +0000

Thought it was a monkey atop a tree throwing coconuts at the wild boars that were huffing and grunting at the base…

Ballard — Mon, 21 Sep 2009 00:37:54 +0000

A week of brainstorming ways to cross the raging river has resulted in one brilliant solution – we must build a giant bird!

Ballard — Thu, 10 Sep 2009 04:33:00 +0000

After a few days we finally got some rope over the raging river. It was then we realised there was nothing on the other side to rope around.

Ballard — Tue, 08 Sep 2009 04:28:56 +0000

How to cross the raging river: one obvious solution is to not enter the water at all…

Ballard — Mon, 07 Sep 2009 06:58:42 +0000

Spoke to more of the locals. No one’s attempted to cross the raging river. They fear the angry water gods will devour them or something.

Ballard — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 09:44:01 +0000

None of the locals know anything about the small cave over the raging river. What luck. I was hoping for hints of magic or something.

Ballard — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 09:44:00 +0000

Ooo! A magic vase would be handy!

Ballard — Sun, 06 Sep 2009 09:41:37 +0000

Upon exploration of Kurukaka I can see a small cave entrance. Though to enter it I must cross a raging river. Danger’s my middle name.

Ballard — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 05:14:02 +0000

I’m in a canoe with 4 others trying to fish. Thing is, there’s only room for 3. And we’re drunk. This is going to be interesting.

Ballard — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 02:47:12 +0000

Cancel the fishing. I’ve found a local who has pointed me to a store that sells beverages-that-make-you-feel-funny-after-too-many.

Ballard — Sat, 29 Aug 2009 02:43:21 +0000

Too many palm trees and coconuts. Where’s the ale? I suppose I’ll try some fishing.

Ballard — Fri, 28 Aug 2009 16:39:11 +0000

Arrived! But now what?

Ballard — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 05:46:48 +0000

*Pant* That was extreme. Had to cut the sail ropes to rescue the poor fellow from the ocean. Now we’re one sail down. Great butterscotts.

Ballard — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 04:47:52 +0000

Someone’s fallen overboard… can’t find any rope and the ocean looks pretty angry. Hmm, what to do…

Ballard — Wed, 26 Aug 2009 04:14:51 +0000

WE’RE IN THE MIDDLE OF A WILD STORM!! LET ME TELL YOU, ROCKY SHIP + A GUT FULL OF RUM = AN UPRISING OF STOMACH GUNK.

Ballard — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 23:48:02 +0000

Dark clouds are looming overhead. We may be in for a rough ride on the ocean… Perhaps a pint will help.

Ballard — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 05:13:33 +0000

Perhaps sailing with these sods isn’t too bad. The ship’s barkeeper is kind on the eyes. She does indeed put the wowsers in the trousers.

Ballard — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 03:49:48 +0000

Why am I sailing with these peasants? I like to think they need a hero on board in case a giant magical octopus appears or something.

Ballard — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 02:32:15 +0000

Wow, so apparently she IS the queen… She’s sailing with these peasants to save some gold. Tough times, tough times.

Ballard — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 01:38:25 +0000

This is taking forever. Some lass has decided to bring her horde of items, inconveniencing the rest of us. What is she, the queen?

Ballard — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 01:14:44 +0000

Speaking of goblins, I think I saw a few at the tavern last night. Not even a hundred ales could render them decent.

Ballard — Tue, 25 Aug 2009 01:13:55 +0000

I’m sailing with these peasants? How unruly! At least they’re not as unpleasant as goblins *shudder*

Ballard — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 23:52:17 +0000

Unghhh… Oh my, what a great headache.

Ballard — Mon, 24 Aug 2009 08:32:14 +0000

Leaving for Kurukaka tomorrow. But I don’t think I’ve packed yet. Hmm… another pint will help.

Ballard — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 16:42:49 +0000

Remember the gold I took from the goblin when I was frightened? I exchanged it for a barrel of rum.

Ballard — Fri, 21 Aug 2009 09:11:41 +0000

A goblin asked if I had any sugar. I clubbed him in the face out of fright and took his gold.

The Kurakaka Islands

Ballard — Thu, 20 Aug 2009 09:32:49 +0000

For my loyalty to the kingdom, I’ve been granted a trip to the Kurukaka Islands. As a nobleman once said, “That’s quite dandy”.

Ballard — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 01:34:10 +0000

Guess who’s having deer tonight! Perhaps I shall share this joyous occasion with a beautiful lass from town…

Ballard — Mon, 17 Aug 2009 01:28:13 +0000

There’s a deer just below the rock across the river. Haven’t had deer in a while, it should go nicely with the pumpkins from my garden.

Ballard — Fri, 14 Aug 2009 14:03:20 +0000

It’s always good to carry extra lamp oil – such as when your lost in the forest with a cloudful night sky.

Ballard — Wed, 12 Aug 2009 13:13:46 +0000

As the moonlight dances upon the fields, there is only one thing that sits heavily on my mind – a cold pint of ale.

Ballard — Fri, 24 Jul 2009 05:03:08 +0000

Despite the slightly uncomfortable yet flattering affection from the patrons at The Prancing Tony, they cook a mean poached egg on toast.

Ballard — Thu, 23 Jul 2009 06:12:16 +0000

Day 1: Training the Men to fire arrows on horse back. Verdict: We might be here for a while.

Ballard — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 23:16:30 +0000

Unghhhggh, anyone know a remedy for poison mushrooms? Will gladly trade 3 of my prized potatoes…

Ballard — Mon, 20 Jul 2009 12:55:19 +0000

Ow my stomach… Poisonous mushrooms. Who knew?

Ballard — Thu, 16 Jul 2009 05:18:35 +0000

Having a wonderful time in the dungeon with a game where u spell out words using wooden tiles with letters – I believe its called Squabble.

Ballard — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 03:51:36 +0000

He wasn’t too pleased at all. I’m in the dungeon now.

Ballard — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 01:48:38 +0000

… So I heartily replied, “Ha! Not even by sundown! We’re still hung over from another night of festivities milord”. He wasn’t too pleased.

Ballard — Wed, 15 Jul 2009 01:44:53 +0000

Lol The king just asked if the Men would be ready by noon to accompany him for a negotiations thingo at the City of Golan…

Ballard — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 02:43:00 +0000

This tavern I haven’t been to, The Prancing Tony. It’s a wee bit weird. Why are there all the males scantily clad?

Ballard — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 01:10:13 +0000

Having an alcoholic beverage whilst waiting for my bow string to be fixed. Great day for the markets too – it’s raining.

Ballard — Tue, 14 Jul 2009 00:19:46 +0000

Hmm, seems like a broken bow string will have some sort of unproductive affect on my hunting… TO THE MARKETS!

Ballard — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 23:06:02 +0000

Owwwww. My head hurts. But more importantly where am I?!

Ballard — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 01:56:32 +0000

Where are all my Men?! I hiked all this way for nothing? Time to hit the tavern…

Ballard — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:33:15 +0000

Eating breakfast, haven’t had boars and eggs in a while…

Ballard — Thu, 09 Jul 2009 00:10:28 +0000

Darn, woke up a few hours late after the sun rose. My Men won’t be happy.

Ballard — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 08:12:40 +0000

I knew it. This Twitter bird isn’t worth the amount Wedgecliff owed me from losing in that card game…

Ballard — Wed, 08 Jul 2009 03:47:29 +0000

Hello ye olde world?

Prologue

Ballard — Wed, 10 Jun 2009 08:43:07 +0000

“The Chronicles of Ballard” is a little experiment using social media, in particular micro-blogs, to tell an adventure story. It is a tale of a fearless man named Ballard who goes on a quest for riches, fantastical creatures and enchanted lands.

This site is an archive of Ballard’s tales where you can start from the very beginning or from any chapter. You can follow Ballard’s day-to-day rambles through Twitter (if you don’t have Twitter you can subscribe to Ballard’s posts with this RSS feed).

Okay, now what?