DM Jan Wednesday February 5th, 2003 11:12:22 AM
At some point in the morning, Mitchum announces to everyone that their carriage is ready, and that if they're to keep their appointment at the Palace, they'd better make a move.
It is entirely possible that Nonam would have to be dragged out of his chambers while finalizing complicated scripts in his spell book, and perhaps Addinein has had time to write a letter to his family, telling them of his latest adventure. While Tericus tells the others about what he saw, he seems to remember also that the physique of the older man in the boat did not suggest a fighter, his build was slight and narrow compared with the younger man sat in front of him as they both fought the rapids.
The journey to the Palace is uneventful. Everything seems to be as normal after the Mask Day celebrations of a few days ago.
In the Palace itself, the group is led at one point past the door to the anteroom where they had to enter the Shadowlands. The handles are tied together with strong ropes, and a 'no entry' sign dangles there at an odd angle.
Beyond that - in a reception room with doors that lay open onto a balcony of the Palace, the Dragons are welcomed warmly by Alicia D'Anlaf, the Overlord. She wears a light coloured robe, and a few sparkles twinkle in her swept-up hair, as if perhaps a little sparkle and light will help wipe away those recent terrible memories of shadow and death. A pity that her eyes, tinged with sadness, suggest the memory is still very much alive.
She also appears to have acquired a new aide - the big Trash Level guy, who stands nearby, tugging uncomfortably at the stiff collar of a new jacket. He seems very pleased to see the Storms also.
There is a group of people at one end of the room - merchants mostly, by the looks of their clothes. They appear restive, on the point of argument.
Out on the balcony stands another man, ancient, with a long braid of grey hair. His cloak appears to be made of leaves, feathers and tree bark, and a faint scent of wet moss hangs nearby. He has his arm outstretched - a thick leather glove encases the hand. Suddenly, with a beat of wings, a huge bird comes to land on the glove - an owl, with magnificent, flecked plummage and huge orange eyes. The man seems to be unaware that the Storms have arrived, and is looking outward into the distance.
Beyond him lies the lake to the south - an endless stretch of water.
Nonam Wednesday February 5th, 2003 2:26:21 PM
Feeling a bit petulant about having to leave his study, Nonam frowns throughout the short trip to the palace. His spirits improve a bit as the group reaches the palace.
On meeting with the Overlord, Nonam speaks with her, "Greeting milady. I hope the day finds you in good spirits. I never really had the chance to welcome you into office the other day, and I just wanted to say that I wish you the best. I also brought a gift."
Nonam fishes a potion out of a pocket and presents it with a flourish, "A potion that will help you discern the thoughts of others. I'm certain that it could one day prove useful to someone in your position."
Tericus Wednesday February 5th, 2003 3:05:37 PM
"So why are we here?" Tericus asks the Overlord
Jus Thursday February 6th, 2003 10:19:45 AM
Jus needles Nonam the whole way, trying to get Nonam to blow his top. He even suggests that Nonam take a spell-casters class, as Nonam's writing looks like it was done by a feebleminded Ogre.
When they arrive and finally meet the Overlord, Jus is completely shocked at Nonam's behavior. "Okay, guys," Jus whispers to the others near him, "who is this fellow talking with the Overlord?"
Stepping up, Jus bows deeply to the Overlord, then to the new-clothed merchant. "It is good to see both of you," he says. "I hope the new strength you've found in your trials leads you upwards." With a forced chuckle, Jus quietly adds, "Although I hope I never have the chance to find 'strength' in that place again."
DM Jan Thursday February 6th, 2003 4:01:39 PM
((OOC - Tim has lost his access temporarily and is working on a solution, and David is currently working long hours, but hopefully the rest of us can keep things rolling until we're back to normal.))
Alicia graciously thanks everyone for their kind words and their support, her face lighting up with a look of pleasant surprise as Nonam hands her the potion. "Oh, thank you!" she says, a slight touch of colour warming her cheeks. She slips the vial into a pocket. To Jus, she adds - "I never knew that place existed. If you hadn't arrived when you did..."
Tericus's question breaks into a moment of serious thought. "Ah," she says, switching quickly to business, "it appears we have a serious problem. I'd like you to sit in at this meeting, and perhaps help out with a solution." She beckons to the man stood outside on the balcony who has now turned and is looking at the Storms, his face unreadable. The Overlord continues - "I have asked Aerashkiel here, one of the members of the Circle of Alder to join us, too. The man nods; his owl, perched sedately on his arm, merely blinks.
As for the meeting - it soon gets very heated -
"Our trade is nearly at a standstill!" "Plateau City is starting to look East for its business, instead of the Float! That fat dragon Parnoth and Aisildur will be getting all our trade. I bet they're even trading with Izen." "No one knows where we are, and so they're afraid we won't pay our debts!" "Yes! They're afraid the portal will close and they'll lose their money, so consequently the price of imports has skyrocketed. We can't possibly hope to be competitive. We're losing money hand over fist!" (To a smirking Barracks Level guard nearby) - "It's trade that pays your wages, you young fool, and don't you forget it!"
There is an awkward moment where steel is slid part way from its scabbard, but a quick glance at who's in the room, and the guard backs down.
The argument continues, primarily from the merchants. They do have a point. It is obvious that until the Floating City gets back on the map, there will be trouble and hardship ahead.
The Overlord turns to the druid. "Aerashkiel - any news?"
The grey haired man scratches the owl's neck for a moment, and then nods. "Perhaps," he answers, deadpan, unemotive. "We have the maps supplied to us by these distinguished gentlemen here." He gives the Storm Dragons a nod of acknowledgment. "However, this cloud cover makes things very difficult, it stretches in all directions, we cannot see the stars and the magic emanating from the nearby jungle seems purposefully keen on stopping any navigational attempts - magic or otherwise. Something out here wants to stay lost - or so it would seem.
He continues - "But - I sent Hergerathe south a few days ago. He returned to me just before this meeting. Through his eyes I have seen many things - the most startling of which - was sunlight. "South - beyond the lake, there are rapids - a strong river, and there is a crack in the clouds. It could well herald normal skies. If someone could travel...
"Well, I'm not going!" shouts one of the merchants. "We've all heard what it's like in that jungle - who knows what else is out there!"
Tercus Thursday February 6th, 2003 7:30:27 PM
"Thats the way Byron and his companion fled." Tericus whispers to Nonam and Jus. "I lost contact with them when they entered the sunlight."
Gareth Thursday February 6th, 2003 10:50:12 PM
Always the problem solver, the warrior listens to the banter. "If we know there is a something to the south then perhaps we'd do well to go see if it turns up any clues? I'd be happy to find that murdering traitor again anyway... Any ideas on method of travel? The turtles, a boat?".
Addinein Friday February 7th, 2003 8:08:55 AM
Addinein listens to the merchants tale with a little bit of disbelief. Hearing them complain about a little extra work convinces Addinein that most of the merchants in the city are not made for this new environment. Looking at him you see there's no sympathy from him for the merchants.
"Since we would be the ones to forge a path south. I'm thinking the Storms should get a percentage of the profits from the trade."
Nonam Friday February 7th, 2003 11:46:48 AM
Nonam hisses at Gareth, "We're trying to keep that murdering traitor bit a secret, remember?"
He beams approval at Addinein's suggestion though. He keeps his own mouth shut during the conversation. The group doesn't need everyone to speak. He does take plenty of notes, sizing up just who is in the room, the organizations they represent, their political alliances, or anything else that seems obvious to him from the discussion.
Clangden Saturday February 8th, 2003 6:57:36 PM
the doors open, and in walks Clangden. dressed in his full plate armor, shield floating and axe in hand, and the guards behind him looking very uneasy. looking left and right then straight ahead, as if looking for the enemy, he spies the rest of the group. walking up to Tericus he asks: so, what did I miss? is the battle over with already? seeing that in fact it's a meeting of sorts, he sheepishly looks at the Overlord saying: sorry milady, but you see, every time we have been summoned to this place, we've had to overcome adversarys of one thing or another, and i figured it was happening again. my apologies (bowing to the Overlord) he then goes and stands next to the smirking guard. placing the bottom of the handle on the ground, he leans on the head and asks the guard: so, what did I miss?
DM Jan Saturday February 8th, 2003 10:51:54 PM
The Overlord indicates to Clangden that nothing is amiss, and he is most welcome. In terms of location, it definitely appears that both Tericus and the druid's owl have spied the same thing.
Gareth's suggestion that the Storms travel south is met by a great deal of warm enthusiam from the group as a whole - right up until the point when Addinein suggests a cut of the profits.
This sends the merchants into a paroxysm of outraged chatter, primarily among themselves.
The guard next to Clangden gives a sigh. "Oh, you haven't missed much. What you see here are a group of people way out of their comfort zones and unable to line their own pockets like they usually can. Although I have to admit, if food prices start going up there'll be a few on the lower levels who'll start finding it tough."
One of the Fence Level reps approaches Gareth. "If what he says is right," the man says, indicating the druid. "You'll need two boats for a journey like that. The turtles are fast across the lake, but they won't survive rapids."
Nonam's perusal of the meeting tells him that all levels appear to be represented here. They are all stood in groups, the merchants group being the largest. The smallest group, containing four people, are extremely well attired, suggesting that these people live on the uppermost, Open Air level. They all look quite wealthy, if clothing is anything to go by. One of them is female - very attractive, perhaps in her late twenties; her long sweep of jet black hair glistens as though it has been polished; she has light brown skin, dark brown eyes; her black slubbed silk dress accentuates every curve. A grey silk shawl is draped artfully across one shoulder. In the folds can be seen an embroidered design that looks like a huge black griffon, or maybe a dragon.
This lady raises her hand - "If someone else discovers the location of the Float, before our esteemed heroes here - would they get a share of the profits instead?" Her tone is slightly mischievous - an implied challenge perhaps.
Jus Sunday February 9th, 2003 12:24:31 AM
Jus smiles when he hears of a possible trip into the jungle. He definitely wanted to make the first trip with his friends. Having another chance is welcome news.
When the well dressed woman speaks, Jus smiles, "Black Dragons?" Jus gives the woman a curt nod, impressed by her demeanor -- even if he dislikes the blacks.
Gareth Sunday February 9th, 2003 7:33:33 PM
The warrior smiles at the challenge, suspecting that the woman is the one trying to buy their place. "I'm not interested in any race. You either want us to do the job or you don't. Just let us know..."
He whispers to Nonam, "I bet she is referring to Byron who is now clearly ahead of us. So what do you think?"
Addinein Monday February 10th, 2003 10:42:29 AM
Looking at the other members of the Storms Addinein asks, "Are all the merchants represented here? I would not someone else to have a jump on what we are about to do. Because if someone has gotten a jump on us, there is no time to lose! Even less time to debate about our percentage cut of trade!"
Pausing to let that sink in for a few seconds Addinein looks to his the length of his fingernails as he states, " Now of course we could keep a map along with all the trade items we might find and either give them to the Overlord or sell them to the highest bidder. So if you really want to be outraged about all merchants being able to find a market for their goods because they offered us a percentage of all trade then that is your right. I'm sure that if something is not workalbe that I could just end up going to my Matron mother since I know that she'll appreciate the value of what we propose."
When Addinein is done he'll briefly glance at the Overlord to get her impression of what he said. After that he glances as his fellow Storms and then puts his serious face on as he finishes his glance towards the merchants.
Tericus Monday February 10th, 2003 12:17:48 PM
Tericus walks next to Clangden and says "Im not much for all this talk about profits, though im a bit worried about our people not being able to eat."
Clangden Monday February 10th, 2003 1:19:42 PM
nods in agreement. especially the children. patting his belly, and then pointing at all the bigwigs here he remarks: those people there, myself included, could stand to eat less so food might spread out longer, I don't care if I do eat, as long as the children in this town get fed.
listening to all the bickering about who gets what, how and who gets what share makes Clangden's cheeks rise with redness. after listening to all the bickering he can't stand it no more and walks over to the table and SLAMS his fist hard on the table.
W H A M
when everyone looks at him Clangden says: all im hearing here is oh no, im not gonna make a profit this quarter or oh no, I might not get my favorite supper tonight or oh no, I won't be able to grease the political wheels like im accustomed to. how come I don't hear We need to make sure EVERYONE is fed, how come I don't hear the Children comes FIRST, make sure they have food, how come I don't hear Anything about rationing or Groups <staring at the Lady and then at the Storms> joining forces, putting their differences aside for the betterment of our fair city??????? it irritates me to no end, that in time of trouble, everyone starts pointing fingers, shuffling for the front of the line, and most irritatingly, who gets in favor with the new overlord. if we ALL can't work together in this, then this city will one day fall into ruin and who will you blame then?
turning to the lady with the shawl he says: milady (bows) if you do be a member of the Black Dragons, then you know what I say is truthful, and I have traveled with the Black one time and know they too are an honorable lot. in their own special way (winks). but what say you, will the Black help the city?
Nonam Monday February 10th, 2003 4:59:22 PM
Still convinced too many cooks in the kitchen would spoil the cooking, Nonam keeps his mouth shut and keeps an eye on the room. Using his ability to see invisibility and detect magic, he studies the room again, especially the woman in the shawl, to see what might lie hidden.
DM Jan Monday February 10th, 2003 7:47:57 PM
The elegant, dark haired lady raises an eyebrow toward Jus, and gives a gracious nod in return. "You think you're up to the task?" she then challenges Gareth, in a silky voice.
Addinein's further comments seem to unsettle just about everyone, and he notes that even the Overlord appears to be shocked at what he has just said.
After a quick word with Tericus - who voices his concerns about the mood of the room, Clangden walks to the centre and brings all conversation to a standstill. His words seem to bite deep, and there are more than a few sheepish glances tossed back and forth.
The Overlord takes advantage of the silence.
"Very well, then," she states, her head high, her voice pitched low - carrying across the entire room. "I see shame on some of your faces - as well there should be! "I gathered you all here so we might discuss ways of protecting and lessening the hardships of our great City. This is a time when the needs of the individual mean little - where we must all work together, as one, and find a solution. "I realise that some of you are fearful for your livelihoods, and are uncertain of what the future holds, but take heart, and have faith in your fellow citizens. Those on the Trash level are experts on recycling and making the most of what we already have. Those on the Fence level - our dockworkers, turtle handlers, fishermen, skilled workers, and our... guilds - their hard work and ingenuity in our new surroundings will be invaluable now. It is a whole new world out there, and we will have to learn how to tame it and how to successfully use its resources. Those on the Barracks level - our guards will keep order, and protect us from anything both inside and outside that wishes us harm. Those on the Merchant level - despite their misgivings, I have the utmost faith that our merchants and storekeepers will continue to ensure the flow of goods and services in and out of the City, and make the best deals possible that are in all our interests. Those on the Gold level - our physicians, our clerics, our druids, our adventurers, our mages, our professors, our entreprenuers - their wealth of talent, courage and learning will prove invaluable. Those on the Open Air level - our Temples, our philanthropists, and those with political clout in other lands - I expect them to use what they have in both skills and finance, to ease hardship here, and promote our City elsewhere. As for myself, I will meet with the high Lord Sturdavent, of Plateau City, and see if anything can be done about stabilizing our trade."
As she pauses, a glance around the room will reveal a few folk nodding their heads, and a few animated whispers of "Well, perhaps we can...." "Maybe if we..." etc etc. Positive seems to be overtaking the negative.
"Alright, ladies and gentlemen. I need contingency plans - from each level, that will help the City through this - you have two days, and if the Storm Dragons wish to volunteer to travel into the wild unknown and help put us on the map, then I for one will welcome their help, and have absolutely no doubt whatsoever that they are up to the task."
Alicia then steps back and beckons to Gareth, the Storm's leader. "Master Justinian, am I correct in presuming that your colleague's comments were merely a jest, or perhaps a taunt leveled at our merchants?" she asks quietly and discreetly, apart from flashing a firey look toward the dark elf, clearly mystified by Addinein's approach. "We need help and support here, from 'all' our citizens. Every one of us may well have to dig deep into our own pockets. I too can see the need for intimidation sometimes, but these are good people on the whole, they're just afraid for their families, and for the future."
In another part of the room, Clangden and Jus are met with a rich laugh. "You presume much about my family, but the past is the past. Be assured that we will do as we see fit to protect the City. We are part of it, too. Let me introduce myself - I am Lady Dolores Solara. I would introduce you to my brother, but unfortunately, he had to leave."
The druid with the owl on his shoulder approaches Tericus, Nonam and Addinein. "I should warn you," he says gravely. "Through Hergerathe's eyes, far south - I saw... well, it was difficult to say what I saw. A dark shadow in the sky. It was brief - but enough to startle Hergerathe here, and my owl is not easily startled."
Nonam's examination of Dolores reveals a number of magical auras, some of which appear to be VERY strong.
Two of the Fence level men are already discussing boats, how many turtles would it take, etc..
Clangden Tuesday February 11th, 2003 1:27:10 AM
bowing deeply to Lady Solara he reaches out to take her hand, lightly, in his, and brushing the back of her hand lightly with a kiss, he says: I am Clangden Swiftaxe at your service, and might I add, I hope that whatever misgivings both groups might have, that we can put them aside for now, until order is restored. a challenge between Dragon groups is healthy, until it starts getting innocents hurt. bowing again, he excuses himself and goes back over to the guard. again, leaning on his axe he quietly says: meetings are ok I guess, if it's cold outside, you never have to worry about freezing, all the hot air coming out and all. standing up and almost letting the axe hit the floor, he looks at the guard. reaching into his pack he retrieves his leather pitcher and 2 cups. pouring a thick, dark liquid into both cups he offers one to the guard and keeps the other. then, lighting touching cups together he says: a toast to you and me, may we never become politicians and may our swords always remain sharp.
then he slams it home.
Tericus Tuesday February 11th, 2003 2:11:58 PM
looking at the druid, Tericus says "Did it happen near that ray of sunshine? I was scrying Bryon and lost contact with him near a ray of sunshine."
Nonam Tuesday February 11th, 2003 2:57:54 PM
Nonam looks over at the door and wonders when this wretched meeting is going to be over with. How did he get dragged into this sort of thing anyway?
He writes down a description of Lady Solara along with which of her items might be magical.
How do politicians sit through this sort of thing everyday and like it?
Then he puts down a list of who was at the meeting, at least the names that he knows. Followed with a transcript of the conversation.
The wizard glances over at the guard and wonders who is more bored with the meeting.
Nonam also comes up with some quick sums about his estimates on how much trade Floating City does and what even a 1% share would be. Helping is all well and good, but his spells are expensive. Nonam looks over at Clangden and thinks to himself, "That dwarf will drink anywhere. Maybe I could get away with reading a book."
Jus Tuesday February 11th, 2003 8:10:01 PM
Jus listens to Clangden, splitting his attention between the Dwarf and the "Lady" (as if the term could be given to a Black Bladder). While doing so, he tries to remember what Byron looked like, and if this women bears any family resemblance to him.
Unsure if Clangden is joking or not, Jus refrains from letting out the guffaw that is yearning to get out. The speech over, and Clangden returned to his drinking self, Jus is still a bit confused over the matter, but lets it pass for now.
Addinein Wednesday February 12th, 2003 1:44:38 AM
Addinien wonders about these surface dwellors sometimes. Pausing to observe how the Overlord conducts herself. Addinein listens in as the druid tells of what he's seen.
DM Jan Wednesday February 12th, 2003 2:16:47 AM
While the Overlord talks to Gareth, Nonam spends time writing down everything he thinks might be helpful, while perhaps realising that for a hero of the realm, its not all guts and glory, and that sometimes, bone-grinding tedium is a necessary part of the job. The Lady Solara possesses two rings and an amulet at the very least.
Jus will note that yes - there is a resemblance between Dolores and Byron from what he can remember. A few mannerisms, the same hair colour and accent, the same nose. Strange.... or perhaps not.
The guard stood next to Clangden looks ruefully at the drink offered. "Gotta be when I'm off duty," he says," but I'll certainly drink to that, the first chance I get."
The druid's owl turns its head through a disconcerting 180 degrees and back again, and its orange eyes blink curiously at Addinein as Tericus asks about the shadow and the sunlight. Aerashkiel shakes his head - "I don't think so. The sunlight and gap in the clouds seemed to be far ahead, down the river. The shadow appeared when Hergerathe was flying over the lake. It was far south of here, to be sure - but whatever it was - it was big."
The Fence level boatmen want to know whether or not to prepare a boat/boats for the Storms and what supplies they might need.
Clangden Wednesday February 12th, 2003 9:48:16 AM
after pouring the offered Guard his cup back into the pitcher then placing both cups and pitcher back in his pack, he reaches in to his pocket and pulls out 10 gold pieces. handing them to the guard he says: I like someone who sticks to his guns. handing him the 10 gold pieces he says: well then, after your shift, take this money and your friends and go have a few rounds on me. and when I get back, we'll go get so snipped, that it'll take 20 days to sleep off our hangovers. (smile)
walking up to Addenien, Clangden pats him on his back and says: Dragon groups aren't in it to make a profit or get paid for their services my dark skinned friend, we are here because we are good at what we do. we are here to protect and to serve, not to be hired mercenaries. if payment is what you'd like, then i'll pay you 50% of whatever my share is on each adventure. (smiles widely at Addenien, not in a mean way, in a brotherly way)
to the rest of the Storms he says: I knew that whenever we get summoned to this place, it means we are on our way out to adventure. anyways, i'll meet you all at the docks in 2 hours? that should give the men at the docks time to get some boats ready and the supplies you all think we need. gives me time to go get ripped in anticipation of another boat trip.
did I ever tell anyone how much I hate the water and boats? he says as he walks out of the hall.
Nonam Wednesday February 12th, 2003 2:48:30 PM
Nonam takes his chance and follows Clangden out of the hall.
Addinein Thursday February 13th, 2003 12:58:51 AM
Commenting to Clangden, " So our residence is free? How about the eyes and ears you may have about this place, are they free?"
Having not had to deal with a city wide type of emergency before. Addinein is reminded once again that the surface dwellers do not seem to think in the way of the families. With all the odd looks and mutterings that he's heard around the area Addinein is not sure anyone understood anything about what he was doing. He'll have to write his family about this and see whether they can give some guidance.
DM Jan Thursday February 13th, 2003 2:38:13 AM
The guard tucks away the cash Clangden gives him and tells him thanks.
Differences between life in various realms becomes apparent as the dwarf talks to his dark elf colleague. The contrast between the loose democracy of the Float, and the savage matriarchies of the Underdark is a stark one and difficult to reconcile. The behaviour here in the Float would probably be untenable where Addinein came from and could possibly mean death to a family, having left themselves wide open to treachery; although a milder version of the game of houses was perhaps emerging, courtesey of the lady in the dragon shawl. Certainly the criteria of a hero above ground, was vastly different in some respects at least, to that below. There were things to be learned here, from both sides, but when in Rome...
The meeting appears to be dissolving. Clangden and Nonam leave at the earliest opportunity. The Lady Solara, aware of Jus's scrutiny, smiles and sweeps her shawl over her shoulders. "Till we meet again," she says, her voice rich and deep. She heads for the exit, too.
Gareth can be seen talking to the Overlord. He appears to have been making assurances that no percentage will be demanded, and that the group will set off on their journey as soon as they have supplies. The discussion continues, however, with another subject.
The druid has no further information to give Tericus and Addinein, other than to wish them a safe journey and a plea to share anything that they may learn about the local flora and fauna.
Down at the docks, Clangden discovers that its going to be the following morning before the turtle handlers can get the transport organised.
It leaves the evening free for the Storm Dragons to prepare for their journey. However - Gareth returns to the mansion later than the others, and quietly tells Tericus, Nonam and Jus that he has made arrangements for 'the ceremony' and that the entire group should return to the Palace in the evening.
((OOC - my apologies gentlemen, I'm going to be away now till Sunday. JK has graciously agreed to step into the breach in the meantime. DEH also sends his apologies - he is unable to post until next week.))
Tericus Thursday February 13th, 2003 7:01:04 AM
"Ok Gareth, ill be back then. I have to go pick something up." Tericus tells Gareth as he walks out the door
Jus Thursday February 13th, 2003 8:44:47 AM
Jus is a bit pleased that the trip won't begin until the morrow. He may actually have a chance to cast those permanencies that he's not found the time for.
Humming to himself, Jus leaves with the others to begin preparations for the two appointments before them.
Clangden Thursday February 13th, 2003 8:44:58 AM
not til tomorrow eh he asks of the Boatmen. great, just enough time to get some libation in me system, and teach the bird some more words of wisdom.
(heads off to the Mansion for drink and time with Sam)
Addinein Friday February 14th, 2003 1:41:12 AM
Not knowing what to do at this point Addinein will just concentrate on getting his gear put together. He decides to put some notes together about his interaction with the City council and pass them on to his family.
Nonam Friday February 14th, 2003 2:29:33 PM
Nonam heads back to his study and gets to work.
Invitations (JK for Jan) Friday February 14th, 2003 2:35:25 PM
In the afternoon, letters arrive for Addinein and Clangden. They are sealed formal invitations. The seal features a dragon stamped in gold wax.
Each one reads:
The Dragon Council requests your presence at a celebration in your honor this evening at the Palace of the Overlord in Floating City. A carriage will arrive for you at the evening bell. Please make every effort to attend.
Formal Attire.
Addinein Sunday February 16th, 2003 11:55:56 PM
Not wanting to get on anyone's bad side. Addinein decided to find Meechum and find out what is the proper gear to weat to something like this.
Clangden Monday February 17th, 2003 2:00:34 AM
thinks to himself when he receives the notice at the Overlords Palace. hmmm, proper attire at that place. gotta go clean up my armor. and make sure my bags are packed. oh, and cant forget to bring my shield and Axe. you never know who or what might show up.
Scratching his head, Clangden wonders just what the heck is going on. He doesnt remember doing anything out of the ordinary. He wonders just why anyone would throw a shindig in his honor.
If it werent for the seal on the invitation, Clangden probably wouldnt show up. But being the officialness of the invitation, he decides to show up. Even goes so far as to take a bath and braids his beard and puts on clean, unrumpled clothes.
When all is done, and he waits for the carriage to arrive, he sits in the parlor, and drinks out of his Pitcher of Endless Dwarven Ale and talks to Sam. When the carriage does arrive, he leaves the Pitcher with Mitchum saying: don't know what is going on, dont know if something will happen tonight, but if you would be so kind as to hang on to this until I return, i'd be grateful. Then he gets in with his Dark Elf companion saying: dont know whats going on Add, but I think that whatever it is, its all your fault and thats what i'm gonna tell em.
(smiles)
Nonam Monday February 17th, 2003 10:08:46 AM
Nonam keeps an eye on the time while in his study. He checks to make sure that Clangden and Addinein accepted the invitation that Gareth told him about. Once they're in the carriage he gets ready himself.
Tericus Monday February 17th, 2003 8:36:49 PM
coming back from the shop, Tericus catches up with Nonam and says "Am I late?
DM Jan Monday February 17th, 2003 9:21:56 PM
((Back - thanks, JK!))
After a moment's thought, Mitchum suggests to Addinein that some weapons might be appropriate, perhaps his more ceremonial ones, and for dress, he suggests something understated but obviously expensive. "The cut and the cloth are everything, any more and its overdone."
He promises to take good care of Clangdens ale mug.
Meanwhile, Gareth mentions quietly to Tericus, Nonam and Jus that he's sent an invite to the Gold Dragons, too, and that hopefully this should be quite an occasion. Then he's off to get changed into something formal.
The evening draws close. Natural light starts to fade and disappear on the levels, and the lamps flicker on here and there.
Up on the Open Air Level - the Palace lights flicker brightly. Even from a distance, there is a sense of anticipation in the air. At once it is both intimidating and welcoming.
The carriages set off...
Clangden Tuesday February 18th, 2003 1:13:53 AM
sitting back on the seat of the carriage, Clangden closes his eyes and within minutes a light snoring can be heard coming from him.
Nonam Tuesday February 18th, 2003 9:05:27 AM
Nonam shaves his head down nice and smooth to rid himself of any stubble, and he dons his typical outfit: black leather pants of plenty and a loose black shirt. He wears his mithril chain shirt beneath it all. Black boots, a black cloak with a silver lining, and a black skullcap touch off the outfit. He polishes up his jewelry and puts it back on. On each of his hands, he has the 3 rings on the 3 middle fingers. Over his shirt on his right arm, he wears the armband fashioned in the shaped of a dragon that was a gift from the dwarves. He wears a pair of matching bracers on his wrists, and an amethyst pendant hangs about his neck. The wizard grabs his gloves too, but decides there isn't a need for them and tucks them into a pocket.
He leaves his shield and crossbow in his room but takes along the usual complement of wands, daggers, scrolls, and potions, that are secreted in his magical pockets.
Then Nonam heads down the stairs and hops into a carriage.
Gareth Tuesday February 18th, 2003 9:01:48 PM
The warrior prepares himself best he can, takes a deep breath, and goes and gets into the carriage.
Addinein Tuesday February 18th, 2003 10:54:13 PM
Unsure as to what would be considered understated. Addinein rummages through his things and the stuff at the mansion to see if there is anything other than his padded armor. He's not really had any time to consider this 'formal' thing that has suddenly come up. If he cannot find anything more suitable as far as he can tell, he'll suit up with just his Keen rapier, his rings, his 4 leaf clover, and he'll make sure he's well groomed for the occasion. Not sure if he should wear his cloak or not, he opts against it and hopes that the surface worlders will be able to tolerate his countenance during this 'formal' thing.
DM Jan Wednesday February 19th, 2003 11:11:39 AM
Back at the mansion, Mitchum ponders the correct form of reply to the Lady Solara's offer to buy the place. The parrot offers some suggestions, which has Mitchum muttering about teaching it some other phrases.
Outside, the carriage finally arrives at the Palace. The guards stood outside are in their best uniforms. Some of them don't appear to know whats going on, other than something big.
The Overlord is at the top of the steps, waiting. She is wearing a dark blue, silk satin gown, closely fitted to the waist, which then flares outward. The foot of it is richly embroidered with silver thread. She has a velvet cloak in the same colour, lined with silver silk, that sweeps the floor. Some of her sandy hair is piled on top of her head, and interwoven with jewels, while the remainder falls down her back in a river of curls.
"Welcome, gentlemen!" she says with a grin. "It's been so long."
Alongside is her aide, who nods a gruff welcome. He still seems uncomfortable, and not looking forward to suffering an evening of pergatory in his stiff, uncomfortable jacket.
Clangden Wednesday February 19th, 2003 11:28:55 AM
waking up with a start just as the carriage comes to a stop. Clangden rubs his eyes and stretches. climbing out of the carriage, and seeing the Overlord dressed finely and the guards out in their finery, Clangden realizes its time to be courtly. making a slight bow, Clangden proceeds up the steps to the Overlord. he takes her right hand and kisses it lightly, thanking her for her hospitality and commenting on how nice she looks this evening. he returns her assistants nod with a gruff one of his own.
(since everyone else described what they were wearing, I will too: full battle dress: highly polished full plate armor, fresh, crisp, clothes underneath, axe firmly secured to his side, but in case something happens this evening, easily attainable for him, cloak with clasp, on chest and around neck: various medals and awards from different kings and countries for services on their behalfs including an isignia as advisor to the King of the Red Dwarves, and tied to his belt, his mug of holding)
Nonam Wednesday February 19th, 2003 6:19:20 PM
Nonam smiles at the Overlord when the group arrives, "You look radiant this evening. You must be expecting company."
Addinein Thursday February 20th, 2003 9:24:09 AM
As the carriage pulls up and the overloard steps out Addinein breifly wonders about all this show. Then he remembers that his Grandmother might like this lady. He smiles up to the overlord.
Having not been involved in social things that much Addinein doesn't realize that he's under dressed a little bit.
Tericus Thursday February 20th, 2003 9:43:35 AM
dressed in his ceremonial robes, Tericus makes his way past the guards and enters the room
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