New Day Rising (DM JK) Monday November 12th, 2001 7:41:00 AM
Nonam stepped out from the shadows and started casting death. The first spell must have dropped 30 members of the mob around the wizard. Gareth's and Cantos' arrows dropped the few that remained near the mage giving him time to cast again. Then the mob moved away from the castle to fight the Three. What happened next seems little more than a dream now.
Weary, exhausted, and having little other choice, the mighty heroes fought. Several times the mob nearly broke, but always the man with the mustache would appear and rally them again. As the battle raged, each of you once came against this dark leader. None of you seemed able to even scratch him, and he wounded each of you with a quick hit from his rapier before moving on. The blade seemed to leech your strength, and the small wound it left kept bleeding like it was fresh. If felt like the battle took hours, but it couldn't have taken more than one. Time was almost impossible to gauge during those rough hours, but at the end of it all. The Three were victorious. What was left of the mob finally broke and ran away. Seemingly, the power of the man with the mustache over his followers only extended so far.
The battle nearly broke the Three as well. Everyone finished it exhausted, wounded, and on the verge of death. Had anything else come against you at that point, it would have been all over. The events of the past two days had finally caught up to all of you… all the fighting… the sun not coming up… the death of a god… Fortunately, a mission came from out of the High Lord Mayor's Castle and brought you inside to safety. You were all healed, and then the seneschal Rezdek brought each of you to your own room and left you inside. Each room had a tray of food, a pitcher of water, and a warm, soft bed. Sleep came quickly for everyone.
Now, you have just been awakened by the sunlight streaming in the window. You can feel it's warmth on your cheek.
Gareth Monday November 12th, 2001 1:09:04 PM
The warrior arises to find the sun on his face. He breathes deeply and lays in bed a few moments, wondering if past few days were for real, or were just a bad nightmare. Not knowing for sure he gets up and eats - everything. Wondering why he's so hungry he dones his armor and gear and goes in search for the others down the hall. As he walks he gets the sinking feeling that he was not dreaming at all...
Nonam Monday November 12th, 2001 2:21:23 PM
Nonam wakes up and smiles. He squints out the window at the sun. He pulls out a notebook and starts to make a few notes. Studying the sun seems like a worthwhile pastime now. Maybe someday he can figure a reasonable scientific reason for what happened. Done with that and resolved to become an authority on sunrises, the mage next takes his spellbooks out of their robe pocket and makes good use of the desk in the room as he memorizes his spells. He grins as he sits down and says to himself, "Looks like I can study in a proper setting for once."
Addinein Monday November 12th, 2001 4:01:00 PM
Surprised that he could go into a deep sleep. Addinein wakes quickly, and quietly to the sunrise. Still getting use to this sunrise thing, he watches as long as he can. Before he has turn away from the brightness of the sun. Thinking to himself, 'It is definitely lucky, to have made it to this day'. He quickly slides his hand inside his purse, to stroke his pet, and to touch his 'lucky charm'. ( ;) )
Cantos Monday November 12th, 2001 5:17:39 PM
Cantos rolls over and falls out of the bed with a loud thud and then bounces back up laughing at himself. Then the bard looks over at his armor and realizes that the events that happened were real and not just some horrible dream. Cantos pulls on his armor and packs and goes out to search for the others.
ooc I am working on my ledgend but it is coming along slowly
Jus Monday November 12th, 2001 6:52:57 PM
Jus wakes up in a sullen mood. Seeing the sun up, he smiles a humorless smile. Was last night only a dream? No, Jus knows it was nothing less than a living nightmare. He sobs for the innocent lives that were lost last night; lives that he himself sent to the afterlife. His tears flow faster as he questions if the afterlife is still there. Gods have died, where do people go when the heavens are no more?
His tears dry as he sits in saddness, trying to find hope again to continue. How much longer? When will this nightmare end?
Reluctantly, he gets dressed and heads for breakfast, forcing himself to grin in false happiness.
Qualde Tuesday November 13th, 2001 2:29:12 AM
Qualde's sleep is haunted by dreams of the dark leader of last night's mob. She wakes feeling hollow, more drained by the sleep than rested. Mechanically, she dons her snowy ritual garb and limbers up. With measured grace, she begins the familiar dance in praise of Caeroldra.
With each step, she rededicates herself to her goddess, and reconnects with her own desires and goals. Acceptance of her people by the Elennians. A better life for her son. A deeper understanding of her own purpose in the Wold. Love. Growth.
Vengeance for Domi.
Qualde cries out, and the tenor of her dance changes, becoming wilder. With every leap and spin, she celebrates what she loved about her god. Courage. Faith. Honour. Change. She lets the joy of battle sing through her veins, and her every twist of spine and flash of limb spell out her anger, fear, and sorrow.
The emotional storm rages through her, and she drives it higher, higher, straining for something just out of reach. Trying to fill that hollow place inside. Until she realizes it, verbalizes it.
The drow stumbles to a halt. The raw void in her heart won't be filled by dancing. That will take time, and living, and connecting with people. And in the meantime, she has work to do.
The priestess emerges from her room a short while later, wearing her usual grey, copper, and silver. Tied prominently around one sleeve is a strip of white cloth, for mourning. Her jet features remain smooth, unmarred by the grief that lurks in her green eyes and behind her sad smile. She joins her companions -- her friends -- with a quiet word for each, and draws Jus aside.
"Jus, I thank you," she says in her throaty purr. "For support. For compassion. You offered help." Qualde rests her hand on his arm and studies his pained grin. "Did help. Disaster brings grief, hard choices, necessary actions. In time of pain, helps to connect, to celebrate life." She squeezes the elf's arm before dropping her hand. "I would like, with you. To remember joy."
Breakfast at Sturtevent's (DM JK) Tuesday November 13th, 2001 9:04:33 AM
Rezdek comes by and rounds everyone up. Once he has everyone together he explains, "The High Lord Mayor would like to visit with you this morning. Right after breakfast that is. If you would all follow me." In his typical way, Rezdek doesn't really wait for a response but moves off down the hall waiting for everyone to follow. He takes you down to the first floor and through a maze of hallways. You see very few other people, just the occasional guard. Finally he arrives at a pair of double doors and swings them open. Inside is a good-sized, round table. The table is some sort of wood painted in a pale blue. The top is covered in gold filagree. There is a matching chair for each of you. More impressive than the table though is what is sitting upon it. At the center is a veritable banquet: bacon, sausage, ham, cheese, bread, fruit, and berries. A side table is loaded with different bevarages. There is a pitcher of water and two carafes filled with milk. There are three different types of juice, and a metal urn filled with a steaming beverage, probably hot tea. Rezdek bows and says, "Ring the bell if you need anything else, and a member of the kitchen staff will be in straight away. I will return in an hour to bring you to the High Lord Mayor."
[Forget to mention it yesterday, but everyone gets 1100xp for the last scene.] [I will try to have this item fiasco resolved by tomorrow. Expect to see an email with items lost and gained soon.] [I look forward to Cantos' legend. I imagine they'll be colorful.]
Gareth Tuesday November 13th, 2001 11:17:38 AM
The warrior sits and quickly begins to devour more food. Amazed at just how much he can eat after already taking out everything in his room. The drain of the last 2 days - or was that one long day - is requireing a replentishment much larger than normal. He sits in silence for a while not wanting to bring up the obvious, but after a time decides they better speak of recent events.
With a deep sigh and a look around the table, the warrior begins "I wanted to say to you all that I really respect everything each of you did over the past few days. Without the total effort from everyone we all would have been lost. I just wanted to say thanks before we jump back into it again. It's been and I'm sure will continue to be an honor to fight by your sides.". After a pause - and any reciprical comments - Gareth gets down to business, as he usually does.
"So what do you think of the two foes that escaped us? That dead thing - what did you call it - lich? And that guy with the mustache leading the mob. He seemed cut from the same cloth as the first guy. They look to be major players in this debacle. Should we go after them? Maybe mention them to Sturtavent?".
Nonam Tuesday November 13th, 2001 2:20:28 PM
Nonam puts a small slice of cheese and a few berries on his plate and sits down. He stares at Gareth with something just short of of horror as the warrior loads up his plate, "How can you eat so much?"
When Gareth asks about the events of the past two days, Nonam simply responds, "Let's not rush things. Let's see what the mayor wants before we draw up a list of quests to go on."
Jus Tuesday November 13th, 2001 6:41:12 PM
Jus smiles as he takes comfort from Qualde's actions. It's hard to believe he used to hate Drow so....
Enjoying a fruit breakfast -- it's been so long since he's had anything but tack -- Jus listens to Gareth and Nonam banter. He awaits Onrad to jump in with his own remarks... and realizes Onrad isn't around anymore. Fighting another bout of sorrow, Jus asks, "Has anyone heard of the others? What is Onrad and them up to?"
Jus finishes the rest of his meal, content to listen to his friends, new and old alike.
Cantos Tuesday November 13th, 2001 7:53:21 PM
Cantos looks around the table at his comrades in arms and the smell of the bounty on the table hits him. The bard's stomach rumbles loudly enough for all to hear. Cantos matches the warrior bite for bite and drink for drink until he pauses and gasps for air: "....whew now that's what I call breakfast. I agree though we should wait until the mayor gives us an idea what he may need of us before we rush off." At Jus's words Cantos sombers up at the thought of his missing friends.
Addinein Wednesday November 14th, 2001 7:35:07 AM
Sitting at the table, Addinein sits back and has a quick flashback to his childhood. To those few times when his Grandmother would put on some big meal, which would follow with long discussions.
Figuring that this might take some time, Addinein slowly sups on his food. Listening to the banter around the table, Addinein just listens and absorbs. When he happens to notice his sister looking, he'll smile at her.
Nothing to do? (DM JK) Wednesday November 14th, 2001 8:01:17 AM
The food gradually starts to disappear. There are no interruptions. No one knocking on the door. No one bursting into the room and falling dead with a mysterious knife stuck in their back. No screams for help in the distance. No gods falling dead from the sky.
Everything is normal and peaceful. It feels like the eye of a storm.
Gareth Wednesday November 14th, 2001 1:14:08 PM
The warrior nods to Nonam. "Somehow I suspect we won't be telling the mayor anything he doesn't already know. I am betting that the good night's sleep and the big meal are merely a breather before we find ourselves right back in the middle of things."
Eying the bard as he devours his meal in impressive fashion, he considers the fate of the others. "I too wonder about the others, Jus. We lost you and Teko and it seems like just about the time we gained you back Onrad and Addinein leave us. And now with Addinein back I wonder who we lose next? I really hope we can all stay together going forward. I strongly suspect if we make too many changes that we may not survive. Of course, we may not survive anyway at this rate. But at least we can die among friends, and fighting for our land and freedom."
Nonam Wednesday November 14th, 2001 3:10:53 PM
Nonam arches an eye at Gareth, "At least we can die with friends? No thanks. I intend to live to a ripe old age. If you're still around in another 100 years, I'll invite you to my funeral."
Cantos Thursday November 15th, 2001 12:13:15 AM
Cantos says nothing else just sits back and loosens his belt a notch.
Addinein Thursday November 15th, 2001 12:57:11 AM
Listening to the conversation at the table, Addinein reminices about what has gone on before. Thinking about what could be going on in a 100 years, and how young his sister and himself will be. He wisely (cough cough) decided to keep his mouth shut.
Qualde Thursday November 15th, 2001 2:15:49 AM
The drow priestess samples a bit of everything, occasionally asking the names of the unfamiliar surface foods. She takes a bite from a melon slice and, finding it too sweet, sets it aside with a moue of distaste.
"Discuss possibilities is no harm, Nonam." Qualde slices up a spicy sausage, and catches Gareth's eye. "Morlas, I think, is small problem. Other one concerns me, man in black. Those wounds he gave --" Unconsciously, she kneeds the spot where the tall man's blade sliced her thigh.
Jus Thursday November 15th, 2001 3:57:52 AM
"Yes," Jus nods to Qualdes assessment, "there seems to be many players in this game, not just Gods." Leaning back in his chair and thinking, Jus says, "I'm surprised we haven't been summoned. Either things are too busy and we've been forgotten, or there has been a pause in the activities. I can't imagine it being the later."
The audience (DM JK) Thursday November 15th, 2001 8:07:18 AM
The door opens and Rezdek comes into the room, "I hope I have allowed you enough time, but the High Lord Mayor will see you now. If you would be so kind as to follow me."
The seneschal gives you just enough time to get up from the table before he turns and walks out of the room. Again he leads you through a maze of hallways. You get the distinct impression that he picks out the most confusing path on purpose. He finally stops and opens a pair of ornate double doors and announces, "The Three."
Sturtevent is standing in the middle of the room talking with someone who has his back to the group. Rezdek quickly takes charge, "Father Basjar, if you would be so good as to come with me. The High Lord Mayor must meet with the Three right away." Basjar and Sturtevent finish up and shake hands, and the priest leaves with Rezdek.
As the doors close Sturtevent turns and beams a warm smile at the group, "Well done. Well done. I hear the quest in Myth Drannor was a success, and your actions in the city in these most unfortunate times have been heroic. I've heard rumors, so I think I have a pretty good idea of what you've been up to. However, I'd like a full report straight from the horse's mouth, so to speak."
[The thing with the items is taking longer than I thought. It'll be done soon.]
Gareth Thursday November 15th, 2001 10:38:59 AM
The warrior nods to the mayor. "I can tell you the details, but I'm sure it would be boring. Cantos can explain it more eloquently than I. Cantos?" He turns and asks the bard to speak for the group in hopes he is prepared for such a thing.
Nonam Thursday November 15th, 2001 12:51:55 PM
Nonam grins and casts a light spell on Cantos and puts the bard in the spotlight, so to speak.
Cantos (Spotlight on) d20+17=33 Thursday November 15th, 2001 6:39:43 PM
Cantos glides into the spotlight and composes himself. "The best way I can relate to you the stories that we have been part of is in song so bear with me for just a moment." Cantos lifts his head and his glorious voice ranges out across the hall starting out boldly as he sings about The Three's entry into Myth Drannor and Nonam's destruction of the portal. Cantos drops his voice lowly and sadly when he comes to the falling of the silver dragon to the deamons and rises again while telling about the dark stranger avenging the dragon's death. The bard's voice seems to have a cadence to it while singing of tirelessly searching the ruins for the temple into the Myth night and catches everyone by surprise at the emergence of the dark stranger offering his help.
Cantos takes a sip of water and continues his song. He sings about Ciaran Darragh and his surprise as both Nonam and Dalelad swear an alligance to Ciarran. He continues his song with the attempt to enter the temple and the behemoth that they had to defeat, of Gareth's courage in fighting it, and Nonam's wizadry in defeating it, and Qualde's near meeting with her God as a result of her actions for the party. Cantos then bows slightly to those three.
The bard's song continues with the emergence from the temple and Ciarran's information on the Lady of the Sparkling Lights and the Three's preparation to free her. Cantos continues with the battle with the Beholder and its near destruction of the party. Cantos' voice drops lowly as he describes the carnage and raises unexpectedly with the arrival of Ciarran to save the day. The bard's voice drops lowly as he sings of the lady's condition and raises boldly with her wounds healing in the pool. Cantos pauses again, tears falling softly from his eyes as he continues singing with the departure of tried and true friends -- Dalelad, Addinein and Onrad; His voice takes on a melancholy air. He continues with the arrival in the Green Dragon castle and the news that Domi had died. Cantos pushes through the song his voice becoming infused with emotions as he goes through the battle with the crowd and gets triumphant when Qualde seals the wall preventing the crowd from hurting others.
Cantos continues, the tears falling freely from his eyes when he tells of the paladins attacking the group and their unfortunate passing. He becomes angry and animated when singing of Morlas and the Vampires that nearly caused the Three to falter and fail. The tiredness of his voice makes the group realize how exhausted they were as Cantos sings of Nonam venturing into the crowd and breaking the mob. Cantos stops singing and looks around at his friends. "I hope I did not fail you all. I did my best."
(Performance Singing 33)
Qualde Friday November 16th, 2001 2:32:58 AM
As Cantos begins his song, Qualde studies the High Lord Mayor, having never met him before. She is soon caught up in the tale, however, and allows a fresh round of tears to wash her still features. As the final notes ring through the room, she bows to Cantos. "You do us honour, Bard."
DM JK Friday November 16th, 2001 7:45:22 AM
The report given, Sturtevent beams with pride, "Your song was excellent master bard. It is without doubt the best report that has ever been given to me. I thank you for a little joy on this dark morning. The events of the past few days weigh heavy on my heart, but on to the matters at hand. I always had complete faith in all of you. You are bold and independent. Your leader, Gareth Justinian proved that to me the first time we met. You also have a sense of tolerance and open-mindedness that many others lack. That you have cared so much for these drow and made some of them a part of your own group proves that. You are brave and powerful. Your success in Myth Drannor proves that. And most importantly you are devoted to the people of New Elenna, the events of the past two days, proves that. You are all heroes. You are everything that the Dragon Consortium looks for. Let me informally extend my congratulations to you. You have been recognized by the Consortium as being Dragons. However, the political situation here has changed much, and I cannot extend formal recognition at present. The balance of power has shifted. I know that you have questions, ask them quickly. I fear that we let you breakfast too long, and we now have little time."
Gareth Friday November 16th, 2001 11:33:26 AM
The warrior beams with pride as Sturtavent says the thing he wanted him to say. He begins to make an acceptance speech but has the presence of mind to know they must get information about the next mission. "We are honored High Lord Mayor, but now is not the time for speeches. What does this mean, Domi's passing that is? What do we do now? How do we shift the balance of power back the other way? How bad is the situation?".
Nonam Friday November 16th, 2001 3:50:20 PM
Nonam looks at Gareth and back to Sturtevent, "You probably shouldn't ever ask Gareth to ask questions quickly. I doubt we can do much about this war with the gods, so I assume you mean a more localized balance of power. What's happened in New Elenna since we've been gone? The Green Dragons told us that it's been a month, but it's only been a couple of days for us."
Cantos Friday November 16th, 2001 4:20:02 PM
Cantos keeps his mouth shut as the others begin to ask their questions, clearly a bit tired after putting on what he considers the best performance of his life on short notice.
Qualde Friday November 16th, 2001 5:52:47 PM
"What news of Domi's church here?" the priestess asks. After exchanging a glance with Addinein, she ventures. "How does stand Breyt'tar with Elven Council? And Council itself with New Elenna?"
Jus Friday November 16th, 2001 7:22:13 PM
Jus listens in silence, watching the proceeding and looking over those attending. He is especially attentive to any new attendees and any of the strange priests in red robes that were seen in the past.
Addinein Saturday November 17th, 2001 10:13:35 PM
Addinein's eyes twinkle somewhat, as the congratuations and praise are handed out to the group. Listening to the follow up questions, Addinein silently agrees with them, and waits for the answer to these questions. He returns his sister's look, but with a neutral expression, since he has no idea what to expect.
DM JK Monday November 19th, 2001 10:24:13 AM
Rezdek steps in, bows, and quickly speaks, "The Council is coming, milord." Sturtevent turns back to all of you, "There is no time. You are about to see what I mean first hand. Whatever happens, go along with the Council. You can only trust Shanleigh… and of course Rezdek, but in any event appear to be their tool. I know in my heart, that you will make me proud."
The Council bursts into Sturtevent's chambers with a large contingent of guards, an old man with white hair who appears to be in charge nods to the guards, "Escort the High Lord Mayor back to his chambers. He shouldn't be out of bed with his fever." For a moment Sturtevent's eyes blaze like he will challenge the old man, but instead he makes a last warning look at Gareth and follows the guards out of the room.
The old man steps into the chamber followed closely by six other members of the High Council of Lords, "I am Valiano, the Speaker for the High Council of Lords. I hope his mad babbling didn't upset you. I'm afraid he has taken the death of Domi rather hard. He was a close follower. He has been quite mad ever since. What exactly did he tell you?"
Nonam Monday November 19th, 2001 10:27:58 AM
Nonam catches on pretty quickly to what just happened and says, "Councilman Valiano, it's a pleasure to make your acquaintance. The High Lord Mayor was just congratulating us on... our skill in the egg bakeoff. I think you're certainly right. He sounded quite mad. It certainly is a pity. I assume that you... and the Council are running things now."
Gareth Monday November 19th, 2001 10:45:21 AM
The warrior holds his game face as Sturtavent is escorted from the room. If not for the final warning glance he would not have succeeded in this. As Nonam speaks he nods in agreement - and chooses to wait before speaking. Not really knowing what to do.
Jus Monday November 19th, 2001 2:04:49 PM
Jus stands quietly and listens to the exchange. He sees no point and adding another voice to a fragile situation. He does, however, make note of which way Sturtevent was taken, just in case the party needs to find him again.
Tericus Monday November 19th, 2001 6:50:09 PM
"Sorry I slept late." Tericus says as he enters the room. "Whats going on?"
Cantos d20+3=12 Monday November 19th, 2001 8:21:02 PM
Cantos looks at each face as the council walks in mentaly assessing each one (sense motive 12) and wisly keeps in mouth shut.
Addinein Tuesday November 20th, 2001 8:18:59 AM
Addinein watches as Sturtavent is taken from the council chambers. As the old man speaks, he glances at his sister. This reminds him of the game of the houses. Being the newest member to the group, he feels it would be unappropriate for him to speak, just yet.
power begins to shift - DM JK Tuesday November 20th, 2001 9:47:32 AM
Valiano stares at Nonam for a moment and waits for the others to speak. Seeing that the group is ready to play along for now. He praises the Three for their exploits just as Sturtevent had done.
Then he says, "In these troublesome times we need more than ever a dragon group that works closely. We will publicly support the Three as the next dragon group if you agree to be agents of the government rather than running off following your own path like the other dragon groups have done. The others left the city unprotected during its time of most urgent crisis. Only the Gold Dragons stayed in town. They went to one of Domi's temples, ostensibly to help, but they left most of the unfortunate priests there dead. Then they went home to rest while panic gripped the people. The Three at least helped Plateau City and its citizens when they needed it most."
An elf clears his throat behind Valiano. "Ah yes, let me introduce the other members of the High Council: Lady Shanleigh, Lord Leunenon, Lord Malik, Lord Peuroif, Lady Huobeth, and Lord Grendalf." Valiano goes on to explain that the seven members of the High Council serve as the High Lord Mayor's advisory counsel. According to Valiano it is the duty of the High Lord Mayor to carry out the will of the council because they represented the people. This system worked well until, as Valiano explains it, Sturtevent went mad. Now the High Council has been forced to exert more authority.
As Cantos studies the lords, he notices that they are all polite but self possessed. They all seem willing to let Valiano speak for now. Valiano thinks he runs the council, but as he watches Cantos isn't so sure. The black clad Lord Grendelf seems to be biding his time. Clearly, he is a force to be reckoned with in the future. Valiano seems to be speaking his true feelings. Obviously he doesn't believe Sturtevent is mad, but he seems to truly believe he is governing to the best of his ability. He does believe what he says about the other dragon groups. He has an especial dislike of the Gold Dragons for some reason (history or some such check DC15 to remember why). In short, Valiano clearly isn't evil. He actually seems to believe that Sturtevent has mismanaged the government. Grendelf is a different story.
Valiano blathers on for a bit more and finally concludes. "It is our hope that the Three will agree to be our representatives as Knights of the Realm and the first members of a new Dragon Consortium. If you agree we merely need to know the name, so we can begin preparations. We intend to announce you today. If you don't wish to serve this council be assured that we can find another group."
Gareth d20+4=20 Tuesday November 20th, 2001 3:30:19 PM
The warrior clears his throat as the old man finishes his speech. He bows politely and says with a great deal of panache, believability, and charm (CHA DC 20) "My apologies Lord Valiano for our response to this - situaion. Please understand we were caught a bit off guard. We were not expecting to see things in the center of the goverment in such a state as this. But make no mistake, we made our commitment to the people of New Elenna. Even Sturtavent would agree with that. We understand that leaders may change, but the people still need those who will fight for them. We have no knowledge of what other groups did or didn't do so we can't really say much on that front. But as for us, we tried to help the people. I for one will leave the political stuff to those more suited to deal with it. We didn't take the oath for any of that. We took it for the people. You will find no other group more willing - or able - to support the people than us. As for our name, we have spoken of the Storm Dragons. We thought it most appropriate as we will be named during a storm and we will be charged with fighting against one as well. I'm sure the others can more eloquently speak words around it than I..." He looks to the others for any words they might have. Once all have spoken he turns back to the council and waits for their response.
Tericus Tuesday November 20th, 2001 5:04:43 PM
"Well, I think you said it all Gareth." Tericus says. "I don't think I can add to it."
Cantos Tuesday November 20th, 2001 10:26:37 PM
Cantos chuckles at Gareth," and you say I am the well spoken one"
Nonam Wednesday November 21st, 2001 8:11:11 AM
Nonam nods in approval.
DM JK Wednesday November 21st, 2001 8:20:11 AM
Valiano smiles as Gareth mentions that he has no interest in politics and declares, "Storm Dragons it shall be. We will have the ceremony on the steps of the castle just before dinner this evening. Then there will be a feast. You should all clean up and put on something more suitable." He dismisses the group, and Rezdek leads you all to what must be some of the most lavish rooms in the palace. They are much nicer than the ones that you woke up in. There are fresh clothes, and a light lunch is sitting on tables.
While preparing, Rezdek returns. This time on behalf of Sturtevent. He gives Tericus a note from Sturtevent that explains things a bit further, "The balance of power is shifting in government to the Council. For now they have the support of the people. I will remain in the shadows waiting for the right time to take control. Until then, I hope that you will be my double agents. You are members of the True Dragon Consortium and should accept our council, but you should appear to be working for them. I entrust you with much faith. Destroy this letter and keep my words in your heart."
When the letter is finished Rezdek adds, "The High Lord Mayor asks that you give this letter to the council instead of destroying it. This will prove to them that you are their loyal servants. If you keep the confidence that I am truly his servant instead of the Council's, he will know your true loyalty. Also be wary, some of the council members have converted to worship of the cult gods. Valiano probably hasn't. Shanleigh definitely hasn't. We are unsure of the rest. Discovering where the Council's true loyalties lie will be your first task."
[I'll break Thursday and Friday for thanksgiving.]
Tericus Wednesday November 21st, 2001 9:25:07 AM
Putting the letter in his robe, Tericus says, "We are certainly caught in a web. I hope we are doing the right thing."
Gareth Wednesday November 21st, 2001 11:12:31 AM
The warrior looks to the others and glowers, "I HATE this stuff. I kill things for a living, not lick the boots of those in power. You guys need to decide for the group how we handle this part. As long as these guys don't ask us to do anything evil I'd say we should do what they ask. What's this "New Consortium" they have baked up? I'm sure the Greens will assume the worst about us. The others may too."
Cantos Wednesday November 21st, 2001 4:36:13 PM
Cantos grumbles to himself then says aloud, "Is there any way we can just go back to Myth Drannor?"
Addinein Thursday November 22nd, 2001 10:28:09 AM
"It is simply nothing more than the game of the Houses. It's just something that is. Though, our House must be informed of what has transpired." Addinein looks at his sister for direction.
Jus Thursday November 22nd, 2001 11:45:00 PM
"Tell me about it, Gareth," Jus answers with almost as much disgust. "This is exactly the type of thing that I left -- even though I left for quite a different reason." He adds in a much lower voice.
With a heavy, but silent sigh, Jus begins what he hates, and hates what this will start. "Still," Jus speaks, just in case hidden ears are listening, "since we've been dropped in the middle of things, we'd better choose sides. Since Sturtevent is out of power, there's no reason to support him anymore." Jus pauses, looking at his friends, hoping his comrades can tell he is not sincere. "As far as Rezdek, we could keep his affiliation with Sturtevent a secret, as long as he remains useful to us." Again Jus pauses, hoping the others get the gist of the game he's playing. "So, we will show the letter to the Council, Rezdek. Not because the deposed Sturtevent feels it is in our best interest, but because we work for those in power now."
Considering the letter's tie to Rezdek, Jus continues, "So, how did we get the letter? It would not suffice to share that our own inside man, Rezdek, carried it to us."
Nonam Monday November 26th, 2001 12:32:42 PM
"I don't see what harm there would be in saying that Rezdek delivered it. A good seneschal wouldn't be reading the mail that he's delivering. I think Jus is right. We will continue as we always have and do those things that we think are right. Right now, both paths seem to converge. Sturtavent says pass on the letter. The other side will want to see the letter. There's little choice to make. Too bad Onrad isn't here. This is exactly the sort of thing that he was afraid would happen."
Storm Dragons - DM JK Monday November 26th, 2001 12:45:47 PM
With the decision to deliver the letter made, the group discovers that they made the right choice. Rezdek had already informed the Council of the letter. Whether as part of Sturtavent's instructions or his own action to follow those in power is difficult to say. At any rate, the action earned the Three the complete trust of the Council.
Later that afternoon, there is a public ceremony on the steps of the High Lord Mayor's castle. The Council of Lords presides and Sturtavent is notably absent. A huge crowd has gathered to hear the announcement.
As the speaker, Valiano addresses the crowd. "The Dragon Consortium failed to help the city when it was in need. The Gold Dragons and Sturtavent have known about this Dark Lord for years. They did nothing to check his power. Perhaps nothing could have been done, but they could have warned the people of this down. They did not, and we were caught unawares. With the chaos of the past few days and Lord Sturtavent's apparent madness, the Council has assumed control of the government until the High Lord Mayor is able to shake off his grief at losing his god. As our first action we are disbanding the Dragon Consortium. Those so-called heroes have meddled in politics and sought nothing but their own fortunes for too long. It is time for new heroes. Heroes that are here to protect us rather than just groups that go out to slay monsters for their own personal gain. One group known to you as the Three is just such a group. They stepped forward when help was needed. They aided a priest of Alemi in the park last night, and they helped save the seat of government from an angry mob. All because they are loyal citizens and good, honest heroes. The council has decided that they will be the first group in a new Dragon Consortium. A Consortium that will serve the people. They will protect us from the coming storm. Good people allow me to introduce the first members of our new consortium, the Storm Dragons."
Valiano proves to be a good public speaker, and the crowd goes wild with applause and cheers. As they applaud, Valiano puts his arm on Gareth's shoulder and looks down the line at all of you, "Now's the time for speeches, my new friends. They need heroes and some hope today. Why don't you give it to them."
Gareth d20+5=25 Monday November 26th, 2001 3:10:35 PM
At Valiano's prompting, the warrior steps up and waits for the crowd to calm itself. He clears his throat and speaks with dignity, honor, and pride (CHA check 25 - nat 20!). "Citizens of New Elenna, we stand before you today to humbly and proudly accept this great honor from the Council. Please know that our commitment is now, and has always been, to defend this great country and its people. Know this: That as long as the Storm Dragons stand, we will fight for New Elenna and all its people!" And with his last sentence, he thrusts his fist in the air for emphasis. He looks to the others to go next.
Cantos Monday November 26th, 2001 11:49:26 PM
Cantos looks at Gareth and nods approvingly. "Well said O fearless leader." With a smile he looks over the crowd and looks at the others.
Nonam Tuesday November 27th, 2001 8:42:31 AM
Nonam shoots off a bolt of lightning for emphasis as Gareth raises his hand into the air.
LOG ON