To recap - Dm Ian Monday February 23rd, 2004 3:46:23 PM
The characters had left the City on a mission to discover its location. As you might recall, the city had been teleported by unknown forces or parties, and ended up in an unknown location. The city still resides on a large lake. On the western shore was the village that the party visited before their struggle with the black dragon Lathiese. It was also in this village that the party originally met an apparently young female silver dragon, who they have not seen since their battle with Lathiese.
Having gathered provisions, the party set out westward from the city, in search of a trade route and general location information for the city government. Their first stop was in the village, where they gained the knowledge of how to capture and ride the beetles to traverse the plains by luring the hungry beasts with a liquid made from local plants. The party still has several vials of this liquid.
Having ridden the beetles across the plains, they arrived after a few days travel at the jungle that shrouds the mountains dominating the western horizon. This jungle also wraps around the plains northward, and has been noticed to have a almost palpable malevolent presence. The beasts here are large, and primal, apparently reptilian and predatory, at least that the party has seen. Further, the place has an odd energy. It has not interfered with spells yet, but drawing magical power feels odd here.
Having reached the jungle, the party has left the increasing recalcitrant beetles behind, and pressed onwards on foot towards the nearby mountains. With the aid of flight, Gareth has been scouting ahead and above, estimated the storm wracked peaks to be about two days travel away.
Travelling along, Jus has been feeling an increasing potent series of feelings emanating from the intricately worked black box taken from Lathiese's lair. The sensations are beginning to overlay his own, deep, bestial feelings of hunger, and almost whining need for... well, thats not clear.
Recently, the party has found the track of two apparently human or human sized people fleeing along the same direction. There was a walking stick cut in half by a bladed weapon, and a scrap of a cloak that bore part of the Black Dragon consortium symbol upon it.
Just another day in paradise - Dm Ian Monday February 23rd, 2004 3:54:40 PM
The jungle trail is overgrown, thorny vines strangling numerous, thin bore trees stretching out as far as the eye can see. Near and far, predatory growls and reptilian calls can be heard, the business of life and death in this primitive place going on despite your intrusion.
The trail itself is barely noticeable in the overgrowth, save for obvious signs of recent trampling by two people fleeing northward. Branches have been broken, and small scraps of jet black fabric hang from greedy vines.
The group moves down the trail in a single file line. There is no room for a more defensive formation. Tericus brings up the rear, and Gareth hoversd above, ducking in and out of the canopy above. In his hand, his intelligent blade, Max, flashes in the bright light every time he pierces the emerald vegetation.
Gareth descends again from the dazzling sunlit world above, as his blade sounds a telepathic message in his mind.
"For just a moment, there were two people ahead of us. Males. Human. Filled with purpose, but afraid. Then, something just took their presence away. Whatever it is, it feels like a sphere, and its big."
Before he can say anything, a male voice cries out up ahead, thin and reedy. Its at least a couple hundred feet away.
"We know you are out there... show yourself! No more games, if you want this business to benefit us both!"
The man is probably old, and is clearly out of breath, desperate, and afraid.
Gareth (Fly, Invisible) Monday February 23rd, 2004 8:48:23 PM
As the storms close in on their quarry the warrior is very impressed with their ability to stay ahead of his allies as they are such a well seasoned and strong group.
He warrior motions to the others his intentions and he turns invisible. He moves toward the voices - but he tells Max in his mind to stop him when he gets too close to the sphere (Unless it is obvious). He hovers quietly to see if the old man as referring to the Storms or perhaps another group.
Nonam Monday February 23rd, 2004 10:04:15 PM
Nonam watches Gareth for a moment, but he decides that today isn't a day for subtlety. So, he shouts out, "What?"
Jus d20+12=30 d20+12=14 Tuesday February 24th, 2004 6:55:00 PM
Jus chuckles at Nonam's characteristic passivity [or lack thereof!].
"That's gotta irritate him," Jus quietly whispers to Nonam, continuing the chuckle in his voice.
"However, unless we want the Black Bladder to hone in on our location, perhaps we shouldn't be so obvious."
Not expecting his words to make the slightest difference with Nonam's behaviour, Jus leaves it at that. Instead, he prepares his bow and starts walking forward at a regular pace, but with at least a nod towards stealth. While heading forward, Jus listens and looks around for any signs that the Black is nearby -- or even what path he has taken.
"Anyone have a silence?" Jus whispers to those next to him.
[Spot 30; Listen 14]
Uninvited guests - Dm Ian Tuesday February 24th, 2004 7:23:12 PM
At almost exactly the same moment Nonam calls out, another voice is also raises, somewhere off to your left, probably about as far away as the original voice. The language is alternatingly sibilant and harsh, a beautiful thing corrupted by rage. Only Addenein understands the words shouted in UnderWold.
"Fool! Lower that spell before the jungle takes notice!"
Then, the voice of the old man replies, "Wait! Someone else comes! We must be defended!"
Jus and Gareth ventures forward a bit, coming to the edge of the overgrown trail vegetation into a large clearing. The area has been the site of a fire at some point in the near past, and now comprises a clearing about a hundred feet across filled with ankle-charred remnants of tree trucks. The jungle is already green and vibrant around the edges, encroaching again on the area.
In the center of the clearing is an impressive display of arcane might, as two men, one standing and one kneeling are ensconced in a shimmering prismatic sphere.
The standing man is older, wearing wizards robes bearing the symbol of the Black Dragon consortium. It doesn't look like the insignia of a full member, however. He is battered and out of breath, shuffling through a large scroll case at his belt.
The kneeling man is drinking potions. As he looks up and scans the area, Jus and Gareth recognizes Byron, of the Black Dragons.
Obviously, Gareth is concealed, and they seem to not see Jus as of yet.
Jus sees no sign of anyone else in the area.
Standing further back, Nonam and Addenein see Tericus suddenly stiffen. He shakes for just a moment, and then a violet flash explodes soundlessly over him. When your eyes adjust, Tericus is gone.
The prismatic sphere begins to tremble a bit.
Gareth (Fly, Invisible) Tuesday February 24th, 2004 10:32:45 PM
To the warrior it seems that the two travelers are trying to call out a foe as of yet unknown to the Storms. He holds his position to see what transpires, perfectly content to let another group weaken the two further if not destroy them - though taking out Byron would be something he would greatly enjoy. Hopefully if there is another foe they have not located the Storms yet - or at least not all of them...
Addinein Tuesday February 24th, 2004 11:37:56 PM
"The others call this one" indicating that spell caster with the sphere, " a fool. The jungles will take notice, or some such. Which seems to hold some kind of truth, knowing what we've experienced so far."
Nonam Wednesday February 25th, 2004 8:40:33 AM
Nonam whips around, "Tericus?" Then he whispers into the dragon ring, "They did something to Tericus. He's gone."
Then the wizard casts invisibility on himself and creeps forward to peer into the clearing.
Then he whispers into the ring again, "We can't do anything to them while they are in that sphere. Wait til it disappears or they move out of it to approach."
Finally, as he speaks he scans the area with his enhanced vision to see if he can locate any invisible people.
[ooc: Not to be contrary, but Nonam speaks undercommon. Actually, he speaks nearly everything (look at his language list), and he has a permanent comprehend languages cast on himself for good measure. Also see invisibile. :)]
(My apologies,... Nonam understood, then. My mistake - Dm Ian)
Jus (Stoneskin: 150hp; AC: 32; HP: 85) Wednesday February 25th, 2004 1:51:15 PM Gargul's depth's!, Jus silently curses as he hears of Tericus' disappearance. Hopefully he just went invisible, but Nonam's tone makes Jus think otherwise. Still, Jus hopes to hear from Tericus over the ring in the next few minutes.
In the meantime, Jus crouches low and watches the Black Bladders within their self-imposed jail. If something is following them, their reaction means it is close. Although he'd love to see Byron dead, Jus is now more interested in what has pummeled them so effectively.
Jus casts Stoneskin upon himself, then activates his Glove as he waits for something to happen.
Shards, and surprises - Dm Ian Wednesday February 25th, 2004 9:55:22 PM
As the group waits for some sort of reaction from the groups perceived so far, the prismatic sphere abruptly shivers violently. The old man screams, thin and reedy, and then the upper portion of the sphere cracks with a thunderous report, sending multi-colored shards flying through the air to land around the clearing.
Several yellow, orange, and red shards land around the clearing, causing small fires, snaps of lightning, and impact gouges in the wet earth. A single bluish shard is tossed high into the sky, and flys far off to the right of the party before beginning a descending arc. Two violet shards pop from the center of the sphere, and tumble a short distance to either side, before popping and revealing two blinking men that were not there before.
The first is Onrad, attired in fine clothing, yet adorned with his adventuring gear. He is raising a goblet as if in toast, and has a rapidly fading smile.
The second is Brother Jandar, also known to the group, kneeling as if in prayer. He is also equipped as if just prepared for a journey. Looking up, it takes his eyes a moment to adjust.
Seeing this, the old mage ends his prismatic sphere, having to form gestures of negation and banishment several times before the crumbling ward winks out of visibility.
In a contemptuous inflection, the unseen speaker hidden to your left speaks again.
"Now we can conduct business. How fortunate that two parties came to negotiate with us instead of one..."
With this, Byron stands with a look of anger on his features. Glancing from side to side at the newcomers, he calls out, "We came to bargain in good faith. Do not let these unfortunates be further confused by these events. We have the payment we have already discussed. There is no need for further negotiations!"
Gareth (Fly, Invisibility) Thursday February 26th, 2004 7:01:27 AM
The warrior notes that their conversation with presumably whoever - or whatever - it is must be with a powerful entity. He decides to stay put but close enough to engagae them quickly in combat. He tries to locate the source of the voice.
Nonam (invisible) d20+8=27 Thursday February 26th, 2004 10:28:58 AM
Shocked and awed that the prismatic sphere was shattered so easily not to mention that Onrad and Jandar are suddenly standing in the clearing, Nonam stands open mouthed and tries to make sense of what is going on.
We are the "unfortunates" interrupting a transaction. Something nefarious, no doubt. But what are those two doing there?
As he observes, he racks his brain to see if the unseen voice sounds familiar. (int check=27)
Onrad Thursday February 26th, 2004 12:27:54 PM
"So in conclusion. I present both of my nephews for our consideration to manage the estate....
"What??"
Onrad shakes his head trying to clear it. Dizzy and in a strange unknown place he does what comes natural. Weapons come out instantly and he looks for cover while glancing around him and listening hard for signs of who or what brought him here.
He thinks, ::Last time something like this happened, I fell down a flight of stairs right into the middle of...hmm.::
Jandar Thursday February 26th, 2004 2:35:54 PM
Jandar stands up and stretches his arms out, as his eyes begin to adjust.
"Well, Mordrid, did Joe get his head cut off again or....um, hmmmm...uh, hello guys," he falters as he realizes he's in the presence of the Storm Dragons and not the Golds.
He takes in the surroundings quickly and stands in his place for the moment, until he can figure out what's going on.
Introductions - Dm Ian Thursday February 26th, 2004 7:16:45 PM
Byron, and his older friend drop into a back to back stance, scanning the treeline intently, their eyes flickering over Onrad and Jandar.
With no apparent sound or disruption of the foilage, a black skinned figure steps from the jungle to the left side of the clearing. He wears dull adamantite chain mail over silks, with a rapier at one hip, and a odd, greyish whip coiled around his body, the handle hanging down over his left shoulder. He walks casually forward a few feet, a mocking smile on his face, before stopping to speak.
"Ah... its good everyone has arrived that was foreseen. Don't worry, Black Dragon friends, we have removed the persons who were chasing you from this mortal coil."
With this, he raises his voice and looks towards Jus and Gareth.
"I only know your group by reputation. I was told there was a civilised being who travelled with the Storm Dragons? Perhaps one of you would be so good as to go fetch him."
Byron stands quietly, seething, as this is said. His eyes flicker back and forth, as if he was looking for something specific. The old man merely stands quickly, his hand over several pouches hanging from his belt.
Gareth (Fly) Thursday February 26th, 2004 9:47:18 PM
The warrior drops his invisibility as he sees no benefit in keeping it up against the black skinned being and has no fear of Byron - and is confident Nonam can deal with Mr. Magic. His eyes and ears register his old friends and the departure of another... no time ... "We are all civilized, sir. And I apologize if we have invaded your domain. We seek these two and have not intended to cause you any trouble. May I ask what deal you would have the Storms bid on?". He sheaths his sword as he makes his way to the ground not too far from Byron.
Nonam (invisible, neutralize poison) Friday February 27th, 2004 12:09:44 AM
With the wheels in his mind spinning rapidly to make sense of this situation, Nonam pulls a potion of neutralize poison from his Pants of Plenty, and he drinks it down.
Fool me twice, shame on me.
Then the wizard steps into the clearing though he remains invisibile, "Gareth, he's talking about Addinein. If you look very closely, you might notice that they share some similar physical features." There's a definite hint of sarcasm in his voice toward the end of his comment.
Then he smiles and directs his next comments to their new acquiantance, "Addinein is here nearby. If you you could just give me your name so that I can tell him who is calling upon him, I'll be happy to get him for you."
Jus (Stoneskin: 150hp; AC: 32; HP: 85) Friday February 27th, 2004 10:23:07 AM
The situation gets weirder by the moment. First Tericus dissappears, and now Onrad and what appears to be Jandar appears. He doubts this is caused by the Drow or Black Bladders -- what purpose would they have in bringing in more heroes.
Jus listens to Gareth and Nonam's banter, content to let them deal with the discussion.
Although he doesn't let his guard down, nor lower his bow, Jus' heart has been greatly lifted with the appearance of Onrad. If anyone looks his way, the silly grin on Jus' face is evidence of that.
Addinein Friday February 27th, 2004 11:19:35 AM
Hearning Nonam speak up and not call for Addinein, Addinein decides to wait for Nonam's call, to see what happens.
A civilised conversation - Dm Ian Friday February 27th, 2004 6:38:13 PM
The dark elf smiles, no apparent trace of offense at Nonam's comment or tone. His gaze flickers over Nonam, taking in details, and his eyes widen almost imperceptibly part of the way through the act.
"How interesting... I see there is more than one civilised being here. I am Fai'fasal. We need not discuss about trepass at this time... I am sure everyone here is more interested in the best interests of both our people."
He says the last with a glance towards Byron, who keeps looking back and forth between Onrad, Jandar, Gareth, and the dark elf.
The dark elf removes a grey silken handkerchief from his sleeve for a moment, sniffs once, and then continues.
"My house, and other interested parties have watched the arrival of your city with some interest. Perhaps the old ways are not so forgotten as some may think. Regardless of the reasons for the arrival of your people, it seems we now share border territory, wild as it is."
With this the drow looks around the jungle, and continues.
"We", he says, indicating Byron and the older man with a nod, "have begun a conversation about trade routes, and information of geography. Dragon Byron has been good enough to bring us a show of good faith for my House's involvement in future negotiations and trade..."
Byron says, "Yes, we did bring the weapon you requested for your.. little problem. Further, we, the Black Dragons of Floating City are willing to deal with this apparently common enemy to forge this alliance."
Byron pulls up his tattered sleeve, and reveals a beaten mithril bracelet, which he taps once, causing a finely scabbarded longsword to appear in his hand.
The weapon is slightly short for its kind, and is scabbarded in what appears to be bronze dragonscale, perhaps from the small, supple scales on the tail of such a creature. The handle is cross-wrapped leather dyed white tooled with symbols that are indistinct at this range, and pommeled with a mithril spike with a diamond inlay.
The dark elf smiles at the sight of the weapon, and says, "How... pleasant that you are willing to help solve the problem of the lich infestation. However, it would be uncivilised of me to refuse our honored visitors", he says, nodding to Nonam, "the opportunity to bargain as well."
Hanging back, Jus feels something squirm in the bottom of his pack. Thinking for a moment, he remembers that the intricately carved box lays there.
Then, he hears a telepathic whine inside his head. Its tentative, and sounds almost childish. The whine is followed by a telepathic voice, which says, "Daaaaaaddy,... hun...gi...."
Nonam (neutralize poison) d20+17=32 Saturday February 28th, 2004 12:17:19 AM
Nonam fianally drops his invisibility spell and bows to Fai'fasal, "I am Nonam Firstorlast, and we are known as the Storm Dragons. It is a pleasure to make your acquaintance." Then, using undercommon, the wizard calls back into the brush, "Addinein, a Lord Fai'fasal wishes to meet with you."
While waiting for Addinein to come out, Nonam returns to common and continues speaking to Fai'fasal, "I must confess that I am not entirely certain what we are bargaining for. If you can fill us in, then perhaps we can make a better offer. However, before you begin, let me point out that while the Black Dragons have great personal resources, they stand at the fringe of society in our city. We, however, are able to speak for the entire city. I am certain we can offer a better offer than these infidels. Furthermore, we could arrange a meeting of state between our Overlord and a representative of your noble House. Such a meeting could be a civilized affair instead of a secret rendezvous out here in the woods with the gnats and bitemes."
(diplomacy = 32)
Onrad Sunday February 29th, 2004 5:22:16 AM
Onrad casually walks out of the trees to stand on the opposite side of Byron from Gareth.
He grins a grin of joy and salutes Jus with his rapier, knowing his expressions well. He then lets his arm and weapon hang casually to his side, loose and unworried of posture.
Inside, however, he is tight as a string, wondering the power of a being that can do what this guy seemingly just did. Simultaneously pop both Jander and him from different locations to this spot and call it fate.
This was a dangerous enemy and from the little he knows of magic probably has two powerful mage friends nearby--which is the only way he knows of to pull off such a feat with the primary already in negotiations at the time of his arrival.
Jus (Stoneskin: 150hp; AC: 32; HP: 85) Sunday February 29th, 2004 7:38:38 PM
Jus is well pleased to see his friend Onrad's greeting; it brings back warm feelings of a time Jus thought he would never experience again. It may be for a short period, Jus understands, but he will enjoy them to know end while they last.
Again, Jus is content to leave the discussions to others. He left the halls of diplomacy long ago and has no interest in bringing them forward again.
Instead, Jus takes a moment to think about the box. Earlier, Jus had felt hesitation and uneasiness with the box. But for some reason, his curiosity has finally won him over as he hears a more personal response from the box. Concentrating towards the box in his pack, he keeps his words short [boy does that take more effort than Jus anticipated], and thinks, What do you feel like eating tonight, little one.
Jandar(HP 159, AC 28) d20+17=19 Sunday February 29th, 2004 11:11:26 PM
Jandar stands in his spot, prepared to cast, but not having a clue as to where he is or what's going on. Silently, he activates his Ring of Evasion, and his eyes dart around at the jungle, trying to discern if anything is hiding.(Spot 19)
He doesn't utter a word, nor make any move.
Addinein Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 1:02:14 AM
Stepping from behind any obstructions Addinein adds, "For there to be any bargaining, we have to know what and who we bargain with, of course. Which leaves us at a slight disadvantage at this point."
When Addinein clears the brush, Addinein nods in recognition at Onrad (assuming he helped bring the family up).
Into the rings Addinein thinks, what does the surrounding area look like. Is this an edge of the jungle, or are we in the middle of it?
The issue at hand - Dm Ian Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 2:49:52 AM
Byron watches, frustration evident on his face, as Fai'fasal delicately clears his throat, and sniffs at the handkerchief again. Then, the drow sees Addenein step into view, and smiles broadly.
"Excellent, most excellent. It is good to finally make your acquaintance, sir. Very well, the agreement my house had been discussing with the Black Dragon consortium had to do with your city being cut off from trade."
"We have watched as your city has been brought into this area. You are in an inhospitable area, and are not aware of the dangers on various sides. We are in a position to offer two things immediately. First, the relative location of your city. Secondly, an agreement that the trade caravans of your people will be welcome at the dwellings of the Houses who dwell near here, and be allowed to pass through our territory for a reasonably levy."
"In return, we had asked for actions of good faith. After all, if neighbors are to exist without war, we must have an understanding, and the dangers of this region that inconvenience us will surely find your people given enough time. "
With this Byron interjects, "And I say again, there is no need to involve this persons. We have brought the lichbane weapon, and offer to employ it on your behalf? What better show of making a common cause with you?"
Fai'fasal smirks for a moment, and replies, glancing for Nonam to Addenein.
"Gentlemen, perhaps you would like to inform this individual what a blue knife means, or shall we proceed directly to the negotiations?"
Looking at the individuals standing around the clearing, Onrad feels a vague final pulse of his earlier vision. These are not the shadows, they have not the fangs.
Glancing around, Jandar spots three dark elves nearly camoflauged in a loose arc behind Fai'fasal, blending cleverly into the vegetation by means of their clothing, or some spell. It is with interest that he notes these three drow are certainly female, their blurred outlines giving this detail away.
In response to Jus' internal query, the telepathic voice makes a squeal of delight, and replies "Met! Wanna met!"
Nonam Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 8:54:58 AM
Nonam absently strokes the handle of the blue knife at his belt and looks to Byron, "The madara ai'lelis means we will kill liches whether we get a trade agreement or not. Now, if you would excuse me, I will contact the Overlord with the terms of your offer."
Nonam steps away from the group a moment, and uses the dragon ring to contact the Overlord and tell her of the offer and of the Black Dragon's involvement. While he speaks, he uses his ever present arcane sight to sweep the area and show him the magical auras in the general vicinity.
Onrad Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 12:04:14 PM
::unconsciously Onrad speaks the words of his vision out loud::
"These are not the shadows, they have not the fangs."
[voluntary Intelligence check of 17 without int bonus]
Sudden realization sparks upon his face. Remaining casual, he looks back and forth between those who speak, but his purpose is to try and spot "shadows with fangs" that might be seen when looking "around and behind" those who talk and with his peripheral vision.
He readies an action to stop any spellcasting within his range of movement.
Jus (Stoneskin: 150hp; AC: 32; HP: 85) Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 7:53:23 PM
Like Nonam, Jus' hand reflexively goes to the blue dagger given The Storms by the drow. He did not, however, know about this Lich killing geas-y thing Nonam is talking about. Jus sternly reminds himself to pay better attention when people give him things -- and promptly forgets his reminder as something more interesting catches his attention.
Met? Jus ponders to himself, trying to figure out what Met could be.
Continuing his borderline-lethal bent towards unchecked curiosity, Jus attempts to communicate further with the starving creature that lives within the dark box found at the evil Black Dragon's Lair.
This time, Jus tries to use his spellcasting skills to imagine a picture of the box being opened and a chunk of iron being put into the box, with a big question mark appearing above the scene.
Perhaps this creature can speak in pictures, Jus idly wonders, as he waits to see if the creature can understand his query if Met means Metal.
Threading through the issue - Dm Ian Tuesday March 2nd, 2004 8:52:31 PM
Fai'fasal nods politely to Nonam as the mage steps back and begins to speak into his ring. As this occurs, Byron and the old man begin to slowly move, hands away from weapons, around Onrad and closer to Fai'fasal.
Onrad voices his thoughts, drawing a suspicious look from Byron, and a look of surprise from Fai'fasal, before the drow envoy smooths his features back to a waiting smile.
Looking around, Onrad doesn't see any signs of shadows or fanged creatures in the immediate clearing. By this point, the last vestiges of his vision had fled, leaving Onrad face to face with the teeming jungle around him. Its a vibrant and living thing, almost seeming to be interconnected between the numerous trees and prolific vines. Far off he hears reptilian calls, and animal roars, as the usual business of predator and prey plays itself out in the jungle.
Almost immediately, the Overlord responds to Nonam through the ring, "If they have the answers to our location, we are willing to enter into a tentative agreement with them. Can you stabilize the situation to give diplomats time to become involved, and a good relationship to start with?"
Then, looking around the area with his arcane sight, Nonam realizes suddenly that everything here radiates some level or manner of magical power, and its all interconnected. The line and fields of power are alive, breathing and distantly aware.
Where the prismatic sphere stood just a moment ago, is a slowly fading pool of magical might. As Nonam watches, the jungle seems to drink a little with every breath, pulling the force back out into the vegetation and earth. At least it solves the mystery of the collapse of the sphere, but its hardly comforting. The only reassurance is that the presence that seems to tie it all together seems very distant, or perhaps scattered.
Still hanging back, Jus concentrates on the now-obviously magical box in his pack. Forming the image of metal in his mind, he is replied with another round of inarticulate whining. Then, the whining dies down, and Jus is replied to with the telepathic image of a bloodily mauled piglet. Added to this, is the repeated chirp of "Met!"
Jandar d20+19=39 Wednesday March 3rd, 2004 1:25:15 AM
Jandar remains silent and unmoving, except for his eyes, which take in the support group. He almost grins when he realizes that a 'mere' male is doing the talking. Clearly the dark elves expect trouble or treachery, else it would be one of the females doing the talking. He is, of course, expendable in most of their societies.
He begins to look at the undergrowth and the other foliage to get an understanding of this place, taking note of whatever strikes him as different from the many forests he's visited before, including Culverwood, which is very magical in nature. (Spot check+ Alertness=39 with a natural 20)
Addinein Wednesday March 3rd, 2004 9:03:32 AM
Since Nonam has had more negotiation experience, Addinein lets him handle the current situation.
Addinein decides to look about some while the others wait for the response from the Overload.
(ooc I don't know what the blue knife thing means.)
Nonam (neutralize poison) Wednesday March 3rd, 2004 11:39:45 AM
As he steps back toward the main group, Nonam raises an eyebrow when Onrad babbles about fanged shadows, but almost immediately he returns his attention to Fai'fasal "The Overlord sends you her heartfelt greetings. She is certainlyl intrigued and willing to bargain. She has granted us the authority to lay the groundwork for negotiations. However, she wishes to be more personally involved in any final settlement and hopes that we may set up arrangements for a more formal meeting between your people and the Overlord and her diplomatic corps."
The wizard hopes that mentioning the Overlord is a woman will help sway the drow. Afterall, if they know the blue knife, then they probably also have a matriarchal society.
A parallel matter - Dm Ian Thursday March 4th, 2004 5:19:58 AM
Byron looks like he might draw for just a moment, and then his tension breaks, and he speaks in low tones to Fai'fasal. Onrad is close enough to hear him say, "Very well. Since you seem convinced to try their talents first, I offer you another bargain. I will still offer up the sword, but in return, I wish a formal introduction to the other House in the mountains, to be conducted while these... individuals... chase down your lich problem."
Fai'fasal smiles, a trace of the mocking nature of his kind evident, and agrees to Byron, reaching out his hand to accept the finely decorated sheath from Byron.
The drow male then turns back to Nonam, and states, ""You see, there has been an ongoing issue finding liches scattered about the area, above and below ground. It is as if they take up residence in the most concealed places like rats nesting, and then issue forth at the most inopportune times. So far they seem not to have any cohesive plan."
"This time we had a divination of this... nest, before they can act. The divination itself was vague... several symbols from earlier places combined with images of fanged shadows. We were able to find indications of an abandoned temple perhaps six hours due north of here where they are likely to be."
"We will make preparations to meet your matriarch, or her duly appointed servants. In the meantime, is there anything you might require, in the way of information on the issue?"
Fai'fasal then offhandedly states, "Oh yes... that other matter. Those mountains looming on the western horizon? Should you pass over them, you would find yourself gazing upon the east side of the land you call the Scab. That should qualify for the goodwill we discussed earlier."
(My apologies for the late post. Been one of those days. - Dm Ian)
Nonam (neutralize poison) Thursday March 4th, 2004 11:24:24 AM
"Your sign of goodwill is appreciated, and it's in the best interests of everyone to stop a menace like the liches you speak of. We have a tentative agreement until our diplomats meet. I do have questions though, You and Byron have mentioned other houses in the mountains. How many houses are there in this region? Will our bargains with your house bind them, or will we have to treat with each? Also, if you would do us the kindness of sharing the name of your house, it would be appreciated."
Jus (Stoneskin: 150hp; AC: 32; HP: 85) Thursday March 4th, 2004 4:54:14 PM
With one last thought of I'll find you something, Jus looks up to see to his surprise that the conversation between Nonam and the others is concluding. Hopefully Nonam hasn't just agreed to some boring ambassador assignment.
As he listens, and Noman talks about Liches again, Jus is heartened to hear that the boring part may soon be over.
A casual response - Dm Ian Thursday March 4th, 2004 8:06:35 PM
A drow woman, regal and haughty, materializes from the underbrush behind Fai'fasal. She is wrapped in glittering cloth, with the exception of her face. At her belt is several scroll tubes, a whip, and a knife. Even so concealed, she is graceful of form, and hard of mein.
"I witness this agreement in the name of House Teir'dal. There is one other House recently come aboveWold in the mountains, but it is not for me to reveal their name. It is sufficient to say that this venture is being undertaken by both Houses, and a representative of that House is here."
"I will reveal one other thing. The jungle here is an old thing, and is not reasonable. We did not shatter the sphere. It did. The small magics of deception and battle do not capture its attention, but enchantments, and the grand magics may, depending on any number of factors. If you need to utilize such, I would do so elsewhere. What works one moment may anger the jungle the next."
With this, she pulls a rolled piece of silvered parchment from a scroll tube at her belt, and tosses it to Onrad's feet. She then turns to Byron and his companion and says, "You will come with us to our camp. There we will introduce you to the ones you seek."
She then bows, ever so slightly towards each of the Storms, and a little deeper towards Addenein, before stating flatly, "Fai'fasal, come. We have miles to go."
Fai'fasal, on the other hand, bows much more deeply, and especially to Onrad. Just before turning to escort Byron into the thick vines, he states, "Once, my people dwelt within a wonderous place. We will make the best of this... arrangement, but as you know, we still have our pride."
With that cryptic utterance, he vanishes into the undergrowth without a sound, following Byron crashing through the jungle.
Jandar Friday March 5th, 2004 12:25:04 AM
Jandar watches them go pondering the meaning of all of this. He has many questions, but few the most important has been answered, so he figures he will bide his time. He waves to the other females, just to let them know he saw them, and possibly put a dent in their armor about their ability to hide from human eyes. He then heads over to the others and says to Gareth,"Well, I have no idea why Domi sent me to your camp, but apparently, he thought I might be needed. I thought I was headed to aid Mordrid, Valdor and the other Gold Dragons, when I appeared here. With liches about, though, I can see that this is a good place to be. I offer my assistance in any way possible, but, of course, reserve the right to make my own decisions if a moral issue arises. I am well versed in fighting the undead. It's my specialty."
Addinein Friday March 5th, 2004 9:48:07 AM
Returning the bows to the two others. Addinein watches in quiet contemplation as they leave the area. Other houses that have moved to the surface. I wonder what this means
Addinein does his best to rack his brains for the house name, and who might have gone with them, that would hide themselves in such a manner.
Nonam (neutralize poison) Friday March 5th, 2004 11:17:59 AM
Nonam watches the drow depart, and then turns to the group, "Onrad, Jandar, it's a pleasure to have you with us, but now that we have time to focus, what happened to Tericus? I think he disappeared in one of the jungle's surges. I'd suggest scrying for him, but I've studied the area little because Tericus was skilled more in that art than me."
The wizard looks at the scroll left with Onrad, "What's that? And what's that mumbo jumbo about shadows with fangs? And how come Byron gets to leave with the dark elves?"
The wizard throws up his hands in frustration. He's hardly the calm and cool negotiator of a few moments ago.
Jus (Stoneskin: 150hp; AC: 32; HP: 85) Friday March 5th, 2004 5:50:52 PM
"I'm not sure," Jus answers Nonam's question about Byron, "but it almost sounds like Byron is selling them the Black Bladder Castle."
"And as far as all of our honored hosts leaving," Jus says with real sincerity, "weren't we supposed to fight liches for them? Did I miss the part where they told us where the lair they found was, or is that in Onrad's dohicky?"
"Speaking of," Jus adds as he grabs Onrad and gives him a bear hug. "It's good to see my clumsy old friend again. Did you get caught celebrating another birthday?"
Without waiting for an answer, Jus turns to Jandar and gives him a hug too. "Good to see you too [I'm still wondering how that happened]. I hope this doesn't put a cramp in your afternoon. Onrad's peevishness for being pulled out here we can ignore," Jus says with a wink, "but I hope you weren't in the middle of anything. How long will you stay here? You're a priest, right?" With slight disappointment, he adds, "probably of Gargul, right? Well, anyhow, you are welcome."
On to the next subject, ever the talker when he gets started, Jus continues. "Everyone ready to go? Where's Gareth?" Jus adds looking around, "What about Tericus?"
Tericus? Buddy? Can you hear us?" Jus asks in the ring. "Jandar, can you scry for him?"
After a moment's pause, Jus says, "Anyone seen a pig around here?"
The conversation continues - Dm Ian Friday March 5th, 2004 11:29:01 PM
The group comes together, and begins to talk, the sounds of the jungle alive and somewhat distant all around them.
(spellcraft checks if you like)
Jandar Sunday March 7th, 2004 2:33:04 AM
Jandar smiles at Jus's warm reception and says,"Of course I will scry him for you all, if that is what you wish. Of course, it will take me some time to do it and, since I knew him, but not all that well, if anyone has something of his to link me to him better, that could possibly help. And Jus, no it didn't put a cramp in my afternoon. I was praying and Domi sent me a vision to get ready to travel, that I would be needed. I assumed, of course, that he meant the Gold Dragons who are in Ailsidur negotiating with the Emporer, or rather, his sons, I would guess. I'm not upset in the least to be here, especially if there are liches to kill. So, is there a safe place where I can begin my scrying? I think the magic of this forest would defeat my spell, or could alter it in some way, which would not be a good thing."
Nonam (neutralize poison) Monday March 8th, 2004 6:54:21 AM
"You know, Jus, 'bladder' doesn't sound much like 'dragon.' How about the black flagons? black wagons? cushions? felons? gluttons? whoresons? Oh, how about the Black Kittens?"
Jus (Stoneskin: 150hp; AC: 32; HP: 85) d20+14=23 d20+12=31 d20+6=24 d20+12=14 d20+6=17 Monday March 8th, 2004 1:29:33 PM
"Bladders?" Jus asks with a moment of confusion. "Oh, yeah. I guess I've gotten so used to calling them that that I'm not noticing anymore -- it just seems so natural."
"Well, let me know when Gareth or Nonam decide what to do next. In the meantime, I'm going to look for some Wild Boar."
Jus starts wandering around the periphery, keeping in earshot [at least for now]. He looks for any tracks or other signs in the jungle as he waits for those that have the desire to lead to do so.
Addinein d20+6=21 Monday March 8th, 2004 2:42:01 PM
"We have at least confirmed some of what we have observed. They said that the jungle was somehow alive, and only tolerates certain kind of magicks. We of course will have to be careful about what we can and cannot do."
(Spellcraft =21)
Ruminations and observations - Dm Ian Monday March 8th, 2004 7:10:32 PM
As Jus hunts around unsuccessfully for signs of a wild pig in the neighborhood, both he and Addenein recall early spellcraft lessons about prismatic power. Each layer is aligned with a specific kind of arcane power, and the results of the sphere shattering is in line with this. The red shards burned, the violet shards breached planar boundaries, etc. The one unaccounted for shared, the blue piece that flew a good distance off to the west, is well known to cause confusion or insanity when applied as a blasting agent.
Jandar remembers the basics to killing any lich, namely, that their life forces are stored in a jeweled phylactery, often a box, pendant, or other piece of jewelry, but somethings as odd as a statuette, weapon adornment, or such. It has to be rune inscribed with necromantic sigils, and made of or decorated with a large value in precious gems. However, liches are well known for hiding their phylacteries in difficult to reach places.
Jus finds no signs of the passage of the dark elves, but a clear and unmistakeably clumsy trail of Byron and his companion leading off west towards the mountain range perhaps half a days forced march from where you are now.
Still hovering at the tree canopy, Gareth sees the trees and other tall vegetation to the east shaking and moving in an irration pattern. The patch is probably a thousand feet away or so, and just appears to be moving around in an erratic circle.
The drow womans scroll lays pristine and untouched in the sunlight beating down from above. Onrad is about five feet from it.
Gareth (Fly) Monday March 8th, 2004 9:55:08 PM
The warrior grits his teeth as his quarry simply walks away. "So close... I will have Byron at the end of my blade before the end of this, one way or another...". After proper greetings to Jandar and Onrad - and the laying of the plan to search out Tericus - he turns his attention to the matters of state. "This is so very odd that even I can see it. Two more drow houses above ground? That's all we need is to have trouble with two houses. I wonder if they are evil or good - and if they know the whereabouts of Addiniens family? So what do you think? Should we go take out the liches and then return - or what? I'm all for destroying that kind of thing but so much just happened here...". He waits for the others to repsond.
(OOC: Got my PC back from Jersey today. I'm back in... DEH)
Onrad Monday March 8th, 2004 11:21:29 PM
Onrad reaches down absently and picks up the scroll.
He mutters, "Could have put it in my hand."
He then hands it to Jus. "Check before reading? And it was my nephew's birthday....Hmm..."
He straightens and stretches contorting one foot and then the other behind his head.
To the group, he adds, "I think what I said was part of a vision. It's fading now, but I may have seen the same thing as the drow. Interesting them being here. We always wondered if any got out after...." He stops then looks around further for footprints of the invisible etc. "Never know if we're truly along, no?"
He ponders why the guy gave him the scroll and seemed to show him respect and waits for what happens next.
Nonam (neutralize poison) Tuesday March 9th, 2004 9:34:35 AM
Nonam turns his arcane sight upon the scroll in Onrad's hand to see if it's magical, and if so what type of magic it is infused with.
"Until they show us otherwise, I can only assume that these drow houses are like most others. Addinein's house was the exception to the rule. Addinein, have you heard of that house before? Did they live in the underdark with your house, or do they come from elsewhere? And while I don't like to toss words like evil around, we can surmise certain things about the drow, even if they are "evil." We can at least trust them to act in their own self interest. They may be harsh and cruel, but they're at least civilized. They operate according to a moral code that is foreign to us, and we would have to be on constant guard against treachery. However, as long as the deals we offer are greater than the deals offered by others, then we can trust them to an extent. Unless of course, they believe they profit most without our city being nearby."
"Jandar, would be so kind as to share your feelings on the drow? I can only imagine that your thoughts on good and evil are different from my own."
Jus (Stoneskin: 150hp; AC: 32; HP: 85) Tuesday March 9th, 2004 1:27:51 PM
Jus wanders back to the others, unable to find the game he was searching for. He'll continue that again when they enter the jungle again. Jus is itching to get moving, and may do just that soon if the others continue just to stand around and talk.
But it turns out Onrad breaks Jus' daydreaming by handing him the scroll. "Check?" Jus simply replies to Onrad's comment. Shrugging, Jus opens the scroll and sees what is inside.
Addinein Tuesday March 9th, 2004 2:04:07 PM
"It is hard to say what to expect of these events. For now we may want to try our best to get more information about the jungle, and how to navigate in and around it without getting into trouble. I don't know if bringing up our last encounter with the local inhabitant would help or hinder us in our negotiations."
(ooc no posted information so far about what Addinein would know.)
(Addenein is not familiar with House Teir'dal. They were not of the city that his family came from, and were not in any of the few trade caravans that had arrived at his city from the other nearby drow settlement in the underwold. However, something that would uproot two Houses and force them to move into the same region would be dire indeed, but most things with that power level could have simply killed the drow. - Dm Ian).
A road leading onward - Dm Ian Tuesday March 9th, 2004 7:06:57 PM
Nonam finds the scroll to be non-magical just a moment before Jus accepts the object from Onrad, and opens it. Jus finds the scroll to be a sketched map of the region against thin grid lines. The map shows the mountain line to the west, a rough edge of the jungle to the south, the clearing the group is in, and ruins of some sort in a clearing off towards the east a considerable distance. The ruins are marked with a single complex set of characters in Underwoldian. Also on the map just north of this location on the lower slopes of the mountains is a small settlement, also labelled with a phrase in Underwoldian.
When examined by the remainder of the group, the word by the ruins symbol is found to translate as "altar of fangs". The word next to the settlement translates as "Trading post".
Up above, Gareth notes that the confused riot of vegetation off to the east has started to wander a bit north. Max, Gareth's blade, speaks telepathically, saying, "That longsword the drow took with them was also intelligent, now that I think about it. It was shielded, or gagged by something, maybe the shealth it was in. Question I have is, if we are solving the drow's lich problem, why were they so intent on taking the lich killing weapon with them?"
Gareth (Fly, Invisible) Tuesday March 9th, 2004 10:56:15 PM
The warrior mentions the vegitation agitation to the others. "I'm going for a look...". He turns invisible again and heads over the area that looks to be moving around to see what's going on. He replies to Max. "I doubt it even occurred to the drow to give us the sword. I expect they feel we should be able to take care of them without help. Any idea why they might restrain the sword? Did it feel very intelligent or just a little?".
Jandar Wednesday March 10th, 2004 1:13:01 AM
Jandar shrugs his shoulders to Nonam's question and says,"With the exception of the family that moved near Plateau City, all the drow I've met up with were evil. I always like the 'innocent until proven guilty approach', but it isn't really a good thing when dealing with drow. Good and evil are realtive terms to me. A man steals food to feed his starving family...was that an evil act just because it's stealing? I don't think so. I don't necessarily think that the cumulative race of drow is evil, although most probably are. I think they have their own desires and goals and will do anything possible to reach them. Which is what really makes them dangerous...their ambition. I could easily debate either side of the argument as to what's evil and what is not, as well as if the drow as a whole are evil or not. Actually, now that you have me thinking, I think I will do just that sometime after I find my way home. Of course, we have this lich problem. I'm not concerned about one lich or even two, though I doubt that two could possibly work together....but a 'nest' of them? We'd best tread carefully, lest some of us come out with less than our current selves intact."
Addinein Wednesday March 10th, 2004 6:45:58 AM
"Our family trusted very few people for similar reasons. If scrutinized, our family was considered ..." Addinein searches for the best word he can find, "unusual at best by most of the other families.
Since I do not recognize at least this first family, they must have been one of the smaller ones. Since this smaller one is asking someone else's help to be rid of the liches, more than one or two could be really troublesome for the family. Added with that the unkown influence of the jungle. I figure they must have a lot to offer us in return.
I wonder if they somehow came upon the surface longer than our family."
Speculating Addinein adds, "We might want to move slowly with the Jungle. You might be able to provide some missing pieces on your own, since many of you have a different outlook on the world, than most of my kind would have."
Looking over the map Addinein comments, "Should I translate and copy this into a more useful map. Or maybe just add this to a our collective knowledge?"
Jus ; Storm Dragons ; Forest ; #217 ; RED TICKET Wednesday March 10th, 2004 9:47:57 AM
"Let's try to convey this map to the Overlord," Jus suggests. "She can make use of it until we get back."
"Anyone think they can do it over the rings? A few could try to describe it to different scribes on the Overlord's side. Then they can compare their results."
Jus lets the Overlord know they have a map, and asks her to find at least one scribe they can talk to. "Unless someone wants to teleport it to her?" Jus interjects to his friends.
Nonam Wednesday March 10th, 2004 8:00:59 PM
"It seems you're wise Jandar. I was afraid you would be a reactionary sort of priest.
Nonam looks to Red Ticket Jus and adds, "Tell her that the mountain range is the Scab and that we are on the far side. They can puzzle it out from there if we are unable to make it back with the map."
"Now where do we come from here? Out to hunt liches that are in an as yet unknown location? Or back to the City?"
A little debate - Dm Ian Wednesday March 10th, 2004 9:15:58 PM
Max replies telepathically to Gareth, stating, "I'm not sure. I just realized as they were leaving that there was a mind inside the blade. I couldn't reach it."
Rising up above the trees and soaring eastward, Gareth closes in on the swirling mass of trees and vines quickly. Its about a hundred feet across, roughly, and at about two hundred feet, Gareth can see one distinctive treetop moving around freely inside the mass, radiating a slight bluish glow. At just a little closer, Gareth hears a masculine shout from the area, yelling, "How entirely rude of you! I'm trying to help you, tell you the truth, and you try to eat me?!"
In response, comes an inarticulate bass mumbleroar from somewhere below the treeline.
Jus and Addenein are able to communicate the jist of the gridded map fairly quickly, and Nonam's comment placing the mountains as the Scab clarifies the matter in the scribe's mind.
Onrad Wednesday March 10th, 2004 9:44:36 PM
Onrad puts his arm on Nonam's shoulder and looks Jandar up and down. Then he grins.
"I guess we'll just have to, uh, "get to know him?"
Then that arm elbows Nonam roughly in the ribs and Onrad laughs.
"It's been too long, Nonam. I've ::fake sniffing:: missed ya!"
Then seeing Gareth move over to the moving bushes, his face becomes serious and he dances over to help the mighty one.
[Edit: Posted this at the same time as Ian. Didn't see his post.]
Gareth (Fly, Invisible) Wednesday March 10th, 2004 10:05:58 PM
The warrior moves in closer but tries to stay out of any melee as to see what type of creatures could be going on like they are. Obviously they are quite large - or at least one of them is...
Addinein Thursday March 11th, 2004 12:27:13 PM
"Now that we have the details taken care of, what is our next step"
While waiting for the current debate to come up with a solution. Addinein noses about in the local area.
Jus (Stoneskin: 150hp; AC: 32; HP: 85) Thursday March 11th, 2004 1:34:03 PM
"Okay guys," Jus irritably starts, "decide who is leader and have that person start making decisions. This bogging-down in simple stuff is getting way too irritating, and I can't help but feel we're going down that path again."
"In the mean time," Jus continues, "I'm heading off towards that lich lair. Let me know if Onrad, Gareth, Nonam, Addinein, or Jandar, whomever is our leader, decides differently. And if nobody can make that decision, I say let Addinein lead since we are dealing with drow."
Jus turns on his heel without waiting for a response, with map in hand, and starts towards where he thinks the lich may live.
Nonam Thursday March 11th, 2004 2:51:59 PM
"Gareth's the leader, Jus, and I imagine that he wants to check out what that noise is about. In fact he is checking it out. It's probably the liches, you know."
"And it's nice to see you too Onrad," the mage smirks, "and how's that elbow? Probably didn't know I've taken to wearing armor, did you?"
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