K'Nara Sunday July 18th, 2004 5:55:09 PM
As Lian explained the circumstances under which her comrades involuntarily changed hair color, K'Nara's face fell.
"I wish I'd been there..." the woman warrior said empathetically, "...by all rights, I should be sporting white hair, too..." She sighed.
"Greymalkin had to come get me because the Bladesingers of The Wold had a terrible problem." she explained. "One of our most accomplished members went rogue--he was extorting money from defenseless citizens. When some of his brethren went to stop him, they were systematically slaughtered. Grey investigated and found out that the rogue bladesinger had tricked two different spellcasters into placing permanent enchantments upon him: one protected him from defeat other than at the hands of a bladesinger, and the other was a spell that made it impossible for any elf to touch him in battle, either physically or by spell. The rogue was convinced that he was invincible...except Grey remembered me--and came to fetch me forth to battle the turncoat. It took us weeks to follow the bloody trail he'd left behind." K'Nara paused, her right hand appearing to go to her heart, rubbing the area absently as she continued her tale.
"The rogue bladesinger was quite surprised to find a human woman fighting him using the bladesong technique. We fought for what seemed to me to be hours--but Grey tells me it was only for a few minutes. We both danced and spun in for the killing blow--but only I came away from the combat alive...though not uninjured. I've been healing up from the fight for the last few days. As soon as I could, I asked Grey to return me to wherever you all were...and--well--here we are."
Athalorn Monday July 19th, 2004 5:59:49 AM
The druid nods slightly at his introduction. He stands at 6'6 tall, and seems uncomfortable at this height - another gift from the Fae Skeimir ferryman. He is slim, with a slight tan, and has long flowing brown hair with streaks of blonde, which is tied sporadically with large feathers. He sports a green checked cloak, which has obviously seen better days, and leathers of brown. he has 2 spears strapped unceremoniously to his back.
"Aye, tis true. I have the power to shapechange, and our travels through Fae Skeimir were troublesome indeed. So, K'Nara, you led these companions once? Tell me, why did you leave." His tone is not unfriendly, but perhaps brash. The druid had little cause for ceremony.
As he speaks, Glannath, a large Golden Eagle, circles above the forest, then descends and lands in a visible branch of a large nearby tree.
Lian Monday July 19th, 2004 7:37:30 AM
The monk, as if perhaps wanting to ask the same qyestion the druid asked, crosses his hands in front of him and makes a sharp look at K'Nara. "Your heard her Brother Bird, she had a rendevous with a rogue." The monk winks at the Bladesinger and darts a glance at the druid for a response from the newly found nickname.
Figment Monday July 19th, 2004 10:26:58 AM
The mage smiles as he sees the red-headed warrior rejoin the group. He greets her warmly but does not stop looking at the elves and the Heirophant. "Greetings Mohannin. I am betting we are here for more than a reunion with our friend...".
Jerry (OOC) Monday July 19th, 2004 12:18:44 PM
please delete this after Jay reads it and says to.
Jay! I tried answering some of your requests, but the emails started coming back to me as undeliverable. Is your hotmail box full?
Send me an email when you've checked things out and I'll send again.
Jerry
DM kent Monday July 19th, 2004 3:51:25 PM
Ingrge too greets K'nara, his hair also is alabaster white. Nodding as she tells her story, he catches her up with all the fun she missed after she was whisked away.
Bertram greets the bladesinger gruffly, but all can tell that he is happy to see her again even with his now china white flowing beard and locks.
Milo to greets her though much more reserved than he has ever been. He like Athalorn seems to be around 4 inches or so taller than before.
Mohannin beams at all as old friendships are renewed, and as Figment speaks he raises his hand and the grove becomes quiet.
"Figmentary, you are of course correct in your supposition. If you would all folow me to the table at the center of the grove we will get started."
As the Talons move into position the crowd of elves settles and moves in closer as well. At the table are seated 4 ancient elves. Mohannin turns to you and introduces you to then as a group and visa versa.
"Lords of the Culverwood Elven Council, I present to you the Adventurering group known as the Emerald Talons."
After nods and bows all around, Mohannin too walks to the other side of the table and takes a seat. pausing a momnet he looks over at the most ancient looking of the elves and recieves a nod from him.
Mohannin reaches into his robs and pulls out a scrolled up paper and opens and begins to read from it.
The other elves at the table shake their heads, but all have smiles upon their faces.
Mohannin continues, and pulls out several other scrolls.
"Hmm, let's see, nope. Ahh, here it is, I should have known it was the sealed one. Now then ..." The heirophant takes a deep breath, and ...
Let it be known forthwith that the adventuring group known as the Emerald Talons has upon many occasion, come to the aid of the Culverwood and its inhabitants, at risk to their very own lives. Furthermore, the group known as the Emerald Talons has repeatedly shown that they are the friend and protector of the peoples of the Culverwood. Moreover, the group known as the Emerald Talons has repeatedly shown valor and chivalry in the face of adversity and has championed the cause of the Culverwood elven community, continually aiding and succoring the injured and helpless.
In recognition for all that they have done and undoubtedly will continue to do for the citizens of the Culverwood, we, the members of the Culverwood Elven Council, after having discussed this amongst ourselves and the peoples of the Wood, do forthwith and forever deed the property rights of the Tower of Saryd over to the Emerald Talons for their permanent abode."
As the Heirophant completes his reading, he taks in another breath as the assembled elves clap and cheer the Talons.
K'Nara Monday July 19th, 2004 5:10:46 PM
Bittersweet was the reunion with her comrades, for the sight of how they had been altered in her absence only served to remind K'Nara that she should have been with them when they faced such a trial. Then practicality asserted itself: she could not have refused Grey's mission, because that horrible rogue bladesinger had murdered far too many people before she'd finally been able to (just barely!) dispatch the villain to Gargul's Hall of Judgement...where she dearly hoped that Gimp would bedevil the ex-bladesinger unmercifully.
She sat, stunned, by the announcement made by the venerable council.
"The Tower...?" K'Nara echoed in a strangled voice. She found herself unable to articulate any further...
Brother Bertram Monday July 19th, 2004 8:01:44 PM
Bertram takes in this announcement and bows with dignity. He looks to the others and grins broadly.
Falin Monday July 19th, 2004 8:12:20 PM
Falin appears a little stunned by this gift.
"I think they have worked hard for it, " He thinks to himself as he joins in the clapping.
Olana Monday July 19th, 2004 9:15:25 PM
Olana gives a gracious bow to the Council. "Thank you, that is a wonderful gift," she says with a delighted smile. "We've never really had a place to call home before."
Oooooh, funny how we were going to check that place out, anyway, she thinks, pondering over the synchronized thought between the two groups.
She nudges Lian. "Now we have somewhere to hang that grouchy old painting," she whispers, before turning to Milo to guage his reaction on the excitement of it all.
Gunther Monday July 19th, 2004 11:51:43 PM
The large man becomes visibly uncomfortable in the presence of the Elven council. He watches nervously as the Talons are awarded their new living quarters...never uttering a word. He fidgets with a buckle on his armor anxiously waiting for the meeting to end.
Lian Tuesday July 20th, 2004 2:28:47 AM
The monk, still hearing half the words spoken to him, looks confused. "They are giving us something, I know that much." Then excitement flows over the monk. "Are we getting a Keep in the City?!"
Olana nudges him, "Huh? What about the grumpy what?"
(OOC: Where have the horses been kept through this whole module?!!)
Athalorn Tuesday July 20th, 2004 4:44:48 AM
The druid feels a little uncomfortable with this gift - not least because he now, more than ever, feels like a newcomer to the group, and that perhaps he wasn't deserving of this praise. Still, he nods and smiles to his old mentor, Mohannin.
DM Kent Tuesday July 20th, 2004 10:06:01 PM
As the Talons all stand around sort of dumbfounded by the announcement, The Heirophant once again stands this time with another scroll in his hand, looking for someone to hand it to. As one of the Talons takes it from him the eldest elf stands and addresses the assembled. "It is now time for food, drink and music." And with a mere flick of his wrist several food laden tables suddenly appear in the glade along with seating tables and six musicians. "Everyone eat, drink and be merry."
Brother Bertram Tuesday July 20th, 2004 11:11:19 PM
Bertram doesnt hesitate at this command. He falls upon the food with enthusiasm, his tankard kept full. Soon he is quite merry!
Figment Wednesday July 21st, 2004 12:42:23 AM
The mage sits amazed at the gift. Yes, the Talons have done all those things but the tower... After a bit he muses that it is perhaps a fitting gift as it will serve to sway the Talons to do more. Thought they would anyway...
He looks to each member of the elven council and thanks them individually with great respect. When the time is right he asks the heirphant about the tower. "Is there any documented history of the tower I could peruse?".
K'Nara Wednesday July 21st, 2004 5:20:33 AM
The tall redhead--still a bit in shock at the enormity of the gift given to her group--automatically stretches out a hand to The Heirophant, accepting the scroll from him in a bit of a daze.
"Thank you..." she says, then clears her throat and projects to the assemblage: "Thank you all. The Emerald Talons accept your wonderfully generous gift in the spirit with which you've granted this to us..." She looks down upon the scroll in her hand and then addresses the Heirophant:
"Um...what is this one? A copy of the decree..?"
Athalorn Wednesday July 21st, 2004 6:41:23 AM
Athalorn smiles as he sees the enthusiasm with which the talons dig into the food. Before joining in, he goes to speak with Mohannin. "Greetings, Mohannin. I have done as you asked and now stay with the Talons, if that is your request. Tell me, have you news of my father? I have not seen him in a long while."
Lian Wednesday July 21st, 2004 8:01:32 AM
The monk stands around, and soon its obvious that some sort of celebration is happening. He has no idea why they are celebrating, but it is apparent to the monk that something VERY exciting is happening. "What did we do Bertram?" The elf asks his dwarven friend.
Olana Wednesday July 21st, 2004 12:10:17 PM
Olana approaches Gunther, who looks a little nervous. "It'll be nice to have somewhere to stay, and not wonder where the next roof over our heads will be, don't you think?" she says with a warm smile. "I'm glad you and Athalorn are with us, and I hope you decide to stay, same with Falin, too - oh my - I think Bertram has already drunk all the ale!"
Falin Wednesday July 21st, 2004 1:54:10 PM
"I would love to stay Olana. I left culverwood once when I was much younger out of hatered, but I have returned to try to become one of it's defenders." With that Falin goes over and grabs a few things off of the table. He then goes off to the side out of the limelight and eats.
DM kent Wednesday July 21st, 2004 11:09:40 PM
The Heirophant nods at K'nara's question and also adds there is also a mention that they blocked off/removed the portal that was in the basement, and that all the malevolent undead and spirits have been removed, though there is one spirit whom the elves did not have the heart to turn out, He is basically harmless and has been tied to the tower for over 200 years. he also mentions that what has been written about the tower is also included in the scroll though it is not much.
The dinner and music is almost beyond belief and compare. there is more food here than you have seen anywhere in the last year or so and you can't remember the last tiem you were actually able to relax and enjoy the moment. Throughout the meal elves come up and coax each of the talons out to dance. Several fair lads and lasses set their eyes on various Talons and none are left alone for very long, except for Milo. Wile he does go out and dance a few times he certainly doesn't apear to be himself, but then perhaps he is thinking about the time he is about to spend with the Tines. The party goe on throughout the night and sooner than you would expect there are light tints of pink touching the sky to the east. The dawn is here and the party is finally winding down.
(ooc. David this is all that has been written about the tower.
The toewer was built by the elves of old, they came from the cities to the North hundreds of years prior to Parnoth's reign.The Tower of Saryd was one of the old watchtowers. It was commanded by the warrior mage Saryd. The tales tell of how the elves stood watch at the Tower of Saryd even after the disappearance of the elven cities and never left the tower. Rumors and old wives tales suggest that they still stand watch there for incursions by the lesser races. "The Watchers" are often used by parents, of all races, to scare their children (similar to the bogey man). )
Gunther Wednesday July 21st, 2004 11:45:55 PM
The warrior smiles awkwardly at Olana. "Yes a place to live vould be very nice. I tink I vill enjoy it. And I believe I vill very much enjoy staying vith de Talons. If you vill have me." Though Olana's words are very comforting and the elves are very inviting, Gunther forgoes most of the party. He tries not to look aloof, but the truth was he was very uncomfortable about being around so many elves. Olana and Ingrge were one thing...the warrior sensed a commonality with the Talons. But having been raised among orcs, Gunther still found it very hard to socialize with many elves. It wasn't that he still held to any of Grell's teachings about them anymore...it was just that he found elves to be so...odd.
Athalorn Thursday July 22nd, 2004 6:00:59 AM
After a time, the druid relaxes, hoping that Mohannin did indeed have word of his father.
He begins to enjoy himself - just being in the Culverwood again was making him happy, and the vast quantities of wine and ale, and the elf maidens made him more happy again. He joins in the dancing ad hoc, and drinks too much wine, but enjoys his time thoroughly.
Falin d20+7=13 Thursday July 22nd, 2004 11:59:03 AM
After some conjoling by the elf maidens, Falin does something that many have never seen. He smiles and begins dancing(occ: 13 on a dancing roll).
He puts on a sensible performance while dancing. Although he falls once he laughs it off, gets up, and continues.
K'Nara d20+4=21 Thursday July 22nd, 2004 3:36:26 PM
K'Nara tilted an eyebrow at the scroll and then tucked it away so that it could be studied later. Then she got back to reacquainting herself with her old companions by leaping to her feet.
"Figment--dance with me!" she demanded of the mage playfully, holding out her hands with a merry twinkle to her hazel eyes.
Each of the Talons did the human bladesinger dance with in turn--and between sets with various elves of the assemblage. Odd though it must have been to non-elf eyes (especially Gunther's), K'Nara even executed an intricate dance with a group of wood elves, looking paradoxically alien (she is six feet tall to their average four-and-a-half feet of height) and quite at home as she twirled, bowed and leaped with the best of them. (OOC: made a voluntary Perform (dance) skill check of 21.)
The last person she danced with was Milo, making sure that it was a slower dance, for K'Nara sensed that the dear rogue had something on his mind that he might wish to apprise her of--especially after Olana's rather worried query of whether K'Nara had been to see the Tines yet.
"Correct me if I'm wrong, my friend," she said to Milo, "But it seems that I've returned to an unsettled family...you have something that is bothering you? Can it be about the newest lineup of Tines..?"
Lian Thursday July 22nd, 2004 5:06:21 PM
Lian soon joins in the festivities, still unaware of the Tower, but very aware that he has consumed more elven ale this night than he's drank his entire life. Not having the ability, or at least having little ability to do much dancing, the monk improvises with spins and back flips. (think early Break dancing)
Brother Bertram Thursday July 22nd, 2004 7:14:07 PM
Bertram cant help but enjoy himself in such revelry. He laughs aloud watching Friend Lian and the others throwing thier normal worry to the winds.
Olana Thursday July 22nd, 2004 9:55:17 PM
Olana doesn't drink too much, keeping herself sharp. Every now and then, she'll check on Milo, and make sure he's all right. His current demeanor wasn't normal, and although things had cooled a little between them, he concerned her nonetheless.
Ingrge / DM Kkent Friday July 23rd, 2004 1:10:52 PM
Taking some true relaxation time is something that Ingrge knows little about. He does however hav a drink with Bertam and Gunther, before being lassoed by K'nara for a dance.
As they are dancing Ingrge keeps a little conversation going on. "I am glad you are back, I wasn't really sure why I hated leadership, but I do. I am made more for the support role of second in command. I don't like making the hard decisions." I am worried about Milo, ever since the interaction with that abomination... I hope I did the right thing suggesting that he should stay and keep an eye on things with the Tines and the artifact."
Fae Skiemir was not a fun place, I expect several of us will have bad dreams about things we saw there, in the times to come. Thanks to Mohannan for sending us Athalorn and Gunther when he did or you might be having this conversation with yourself. There was more than once that I was sure we were all done for."
This small talk continues throughout their dance and then he goes back to Bertram and another drink. ---------
Milo grudgingly takes to the dance floor a few times and is no less eager when approached by K'nara. He doesn't say much, of his own free will while they are dancing, but he does kind of answer K'nara's questions.
"Unsettled is a good word. We were each nearly kiled at least once, we have acquired new and once lost members who are not completely acclimated within the group, we had to kiss that unclean and ungodly thing, and we have a meglomaniac in charge of the organization that sent us on this quest, who I think believes he should be the next emperor god of the kingdom after he personally destroys a Parnoth that we are no longer sure is evil. Yeah I'd say things are a bit unsettled." That is one reason I did not question Ingrge's decsion to leave me to help/watch the Tines. That and that all of a sudden I am just tired, so tired....
------
The party comes to a close, the sun is rising, your things await you at the inn and your new abode awaits.
Lian Friday July 23rd, 2004 7:24:45 PM
A very intoxicated monk stumbles over to Milo, hearing just a few words he said and says, "Haffing friend, I shink your right, the big green thingy, the dragon Parthon ish good, but not that goodsh..." The elf, not having drank much in the past, has just clapsed, *THUD!* on his face. When did Lian become a raging alcohalic? :) Maybe fron all the stuff in Fae Skemir!
Gunther Friday July 23rd, 2004 10:29:20 PM
The man chuckles at the monk's performance. "It vould appear dat some of us can not hold der ale!!!" A huge grin on his face, Gunther leans over and gently picks up Lian. With Lian over his shoulder, drooling on the bulky man's armor, Gunther approaches Ingrge. "If you don't mind, I'll take de prince here back to de Inn to sleep off his fun. Just call me de designated valker!" With Ingrge's permission, Gunther heads back to the Inn...a large wet spot forming on the back of his armor from Lian's drool.
Ingrge Saturday July 24th, 2004 7:29:41 AM
A smile crosses his face as Lian does his face dive. This is just what the Talons needed, a safe way to blow off some steam and relax a bit. As Gunther stoops down to scoop Lian up, Ingrge stops him.
"Gunther, let's wait and all go together. Even thouhg we are safe here ther is alot that can happen in he 4 hours back to the city. Let's not separate just yet. Make him comfortable and let's all get ready to head out.
K'Nara Saturday July 24th, 2004 1:04:30 PM
The tall redhead frowned thoughtfully at the words of Ingrge, but most especially of Milo. Whatever had happened to him in Fae Skeimir had obviously effected him far more deeply than K'Nara thought possible. One could even say that the normally happy-go-lucky halfling might even be Wold-weary.
By the time Lian flopped over, K'Nara felt it was likely time for the group to go.
"Let's get going," she urged the other Talons, "This is an elven party, which means there's another day or two left to the celebration--but it's obvious that not all of us are, um, NOT on the same kind of time our hosts are..." Here she looked pointedly at Lian. "...I'll go make our goodbyes and then we can head back to the City."
Gunther Sunday July 25th, 2004 9:17:17 PM
The muscular warrior is just about to put Lian down when K'nara speaks up. Readjusting his load, Gunther keeps ahold of Lian and waits patiently to leave with the others.
Athalorn Monday July 26th, 2004 4:29:39 AM
The druid is a bit intoxicated, but not to the same extent as Lian. He really does not want to leave the forest - hoping they might have stayed for a few days. He longed to see his grove again, even though the forest and the creatures within would protect it for him. But he had made the choice to stay with these people - at least for the time being. And so he waits grumpily to leave, while trying desperately to attract Mohannin's attention for one last conversation
The Party's Over - DM Donna Monday July 26th, 2004 5:46:42 AM
K'Nara makes her way over to the Council members who are still up and about and thanks them sincerely on behalf of the Emerald Talons. While she is doing so, Athalorn gets the attention of Mohannin, who looks at him with patient curiosity, wondering what it is that the tall human wishes of him.
(OOC: if Athalorn's player posts quickly enough, there may be another transitional post made by me later today.)
Falin Monday July 26th, 2004 9:53:02 AM
As he see's everyone is getting ready to leave he gathers his things and bids goodbye to all of the dancing partners he has had through the evening. He then falls in with Gunther.
"Can't hold his wine?", he motions towards Lian.
Olana Monday July 26th, 2004 1:27:26 PM
The elf nods at K'Nara and gets ready to leave, making sure to thank Mohaninn and the elves for the really nice party.
Quietly she approaches Bertram. "Bertram did you happen to leave a ward guarding our room? I wouldn't like to run inside and get my ears fried," she grins.
Athalorn Monday July 26th, 2004 2:19:38 PM
He speaks quickly to the aged druid before they leave. "Mohannin, my old liege. I will travel with the Talons further. Please ensure my grove is well guarded. And if you will, please pass word to my father that I am well, and will meet him someday soon. My thanks, as always."
Farewell Forest...Hello City! -- DM Donna Monday July 26th, 2004 2:48:29 PM
Mohannin nods sagely at his protege.
"Worry not," he assures Athalorn, "The Culverwood and all the groves within it will outlive us all. And I will pass your greetings on to your sire. You are in very noble company, Athalorn--I daresay that you should bring out the best in each other. Take care!"
K'Nara, meanwhile, says the group's thanks once again and farewell to the Council members, and returns to the group.
"We're all assembled..?" she asks, looking around and noting that Gunther is holding up well under Lian's weight. "Let's go--we shouldn't have Gunther suffer under such a load for longer than absolutely necessary...so, Gunther, you have my permission to drop Lian upon his head if need be..!" Her hazel eyes twinkle with humor as she jokes and then the woman warrior leads the way back towards Emerald City whistling a jaunty tune.
The journey back takes longer than the trip into the Culverwood, but it is still early enough in the morning so that, when you approach the gates of Emerald City, the guards there are only just opening the gates to the great bastion of civilization.
Before the party can advance more than just inside the gates, however, there suddenly appears an ancient woman, wrapped in ragged woolen robes. She steps toward the Talons with a long staff clutched in one slender, boney hand and her long stringy hair wild about her milky-eyed face.
"Alms...?" she begs in a plaintive, quavery voice that only underscores her age. "...alms for a poor, blind woman..?"
"Get off with ye, witch!" one of the guards comes towards the much smaller and older female, his burly bulk far outstripping the old lady's. His face is ugly and he has the look of someone who is likely to enjoy bullying the helpless...
Gunther Monday July 26th, 2004 4:11:54 PM
Gunther smiles brightly as they leave the forest...none too soon for his liking. He was beginning to become very uncomfortable what with all those elves. Though Lian tosses and turns a couple of times on the journey, Gunther is more than able to handle the load. He chuckles at K'nara's comment.
Upon arriving at the city gates and seeing the spectacle before them, Gunther's face grows almost feral with anger. After all...that could be his father begging for alms. Well...obviously it couldn't be his father...what with her being a woman and all... But it could be his mother...except she was an orc... In his anger, Gunther drops Lian heavily on the ground and pounces to interpose between the woman and the bully. He looks deadly serious as he stares up into the face of the guard. "Dat vill be quite enough!! Leave de voman alone!" Gunther drops into a low crouch, his hands reaching for, but not yet drawing the two-bladed sword strapped to his back.
Ingrge Monday July 26th, 2004 5:25:25 PM
Ingrge walks along basking in the relief that they would soon be taking a deserved rest, but wondering how they were going to deal with the cunundrum of Endrin, when they arrive at the gates and the old woman approached them. Reaching into his pouch for some coinage he is shocked by the attitude and actions of the guard. Quickly joining Gunther Ingrge looks at the guard he speaks in a very low and controled voice, with a face completely devoid of any expression.
"Do you know who we are? If you do not, let me introduce us to you. We are the Talons of the Emerald Kingdom. We do not like those who need to prove their manhood by picking on people who are weaker than them, particularly if they are blind and pose absolutely no threat. If you value what you call a life, then you will cease this bullying of those less fortunate than yourself, or you might find yourself in their place sooner than you think."
Lian d20+9=20 Monday July 26th, 2004 6:47:31 PM
Landing gracefully on all fours, the monk, staggering a bit, stands and smelling of elven ale, looks at the old woman (Sense Motive 20, factor in being drunk). Then he speaks to Ingrge as if the guards aren't even there.
"Seems this woman might be a greater threat to these guard, for her wit is sharper than their swords and her courage is superior than their minds. She poses a true threat to these fools.
Ah yes, seems their not familiar with the Talons either, but ignorrance is no excuse. Back off, friends, for I am not feeling diplomatic today." The elf holds his head, which is throbbing in pain.
Brother Bertram Monday July 26th, 2004 6:48:34 PM
Seeing the other Talons move on the offending guard, Bertram casually moves over towards the other guards, in case they were to make a move on his friends
Olana Tuesday July 27th, 2004 12:06:19 AM
On seeing that the guard is getting a serious verbal drubbing, and probably wouldn't survive any more with his wits intact, Olana approaches the old lady and hands over 5 GP.
Falin Tuesday July 27th, 2004 3:04:38 AM
Seeing that their could possibly be trouble Falin knocks and arrow and circles around the old woman in case their happens to be other guards.
Lucia Tuesday July 27th, 2004 3:07:00 AM *K'Nara, this does not look good. Why would those guards bother that poor woman? No, I do not like the way this is panning out.* she says. *Although it looks as if your friends are doing the right thing. Maybe a little premature, but the right thing.*
Hail Talons -- DM Donna Tuesday July 27th, 2004 5:31:26 AM
K'Nara scowls at the sight of the bullying guard but is inwardly pleased to see that the Talons aren't about to let anyone get away with being mean. She also blinks in surprise--the human bladesinger still has to get used to having a weapon that can actually render opinions.
The guard, on the other hand, sees that his behavior has raised some objections amongst the rabble and readies a sneer--until he also suddenly realizes that there are...the burly man squints, his lips moving as he counts the number of Talons who are moving to act.
"Awwww...just go do yer beggin' elsewhere, ya withered old bat!" he mumbles, wisely slinking back to the guardhouse, where (Brother Bertram and Falin note) NONE of his fellows bothered to stir from. K'Nara watches him back off and gives a grin and a thumbs-up to the rest of the group.
The beggarwoman fumbles with the coins that the generous Olana gives her--nodding as she squirrels the currency away somewhere amongst her (cough, cough!} well-worn robes. If the elven ranger wasn't sure before, she is now: the old woman is blind.
"Such magnanimity! You can only be..." the lady mutters, nodding again, and then says: "Hail, Emerald Talons...thy doom awaits thee. Although the lost one is found, not all reunions are pleasant ones. Miss Masie sees what she sees. The mark of doom is still upon thee. The scales weigh and keep the balance. Remember Miss Masie when you come into your own."
"What the--?" K'Nara sputters, whirling away from watching the guard--but the wizened old beggarwoman has now disappeared, lost amongst the stirrings of the forming crowd of shoppers heading for the farmers' markets of Emerald City. The tall redhead frowns thoughtfully.
Lian Tuesday July 27th, 2004 7:03:11 AM "The scales keep the balance?"
The monk drunken stupor hasn't dulled his wits. "Scales! Parnoth!" He then lowers his voice. "He's the balance. Seems the old woman must know of the Talons and the new Tines leader. K'Nara? Ingrge?"
"The Artifact. Milo." Concern washes over the monk.
Athalorn Tuesday July 27th, 2004 7:57:06 AM
Tired and still a little drunk when they arrive at the gates, Athalorn watches the proceedings with interest, but remains quiet. When he hears the old woman speak, he sobers up suddenly, and speaks forcefully. "If what this woman says carries merit, we have made a grave mistake in entrusting to the Tines. I did not like that man yesterday, and I like him less now. Let us take from him the artifact."
Gunther Tuesday July 27th, 2004 10:28:46 AM
As the guard departs, Gunther rises to a standing position. He shakes his head in confusion at the beggar woman's words. "Vell, dat is a strange tank you!" Noting that Lian is now on his feet, Gunther hands the monk the equipment he gathered from the grove with a smile. "Vell, goot morning sveet prince! Did you sleep vell?" Gunther chuckles good naturedly.
He notes Athalorn's words with a grimace, but doesn't join in on the conversation. A crowd was not the place to be talking of such private matters. Gunther too wonders the wisdom of giving the Tines leader the artifact. One thing was for sure though...if they intended to take it back, Gunther doubted that the man would just hand it over without a struggle.
Ingrge Tuesday July 27th, 2004 2:18:45 PM
"Lian, Athalorn. There is no telling what she meant, but we will have time to discuss what her words mean or don't mean later. This is not the place. Let's move out, collect our things and go home."
::sigh:: Home. It has been so long since I have been able to say that without meaning a room in an inn ... I wonder how Folbre is getting on ...
Brother Bertram Tuesday July 27th, 2004 3:41:43 PM
Bertram snorts at her words. "Well now there is something we arent used to, Doom and danger descending upon his." He grins but is secretly worried about such a prophecy.
Olana d20+17=27 d20+13=27 Tuesday July 27th, 2004 8:45:56 PM
Olana gives a sigh after the old woman has gone. If it wasn't one thing, it was another.
"Good idea, Ingrge," she says eventually.
The elf will keep eyes and ears on the alert.
LISTEN DC 27 SPOT DC 27
Falin d20=1 d20+1=20 d20+1=10 Wednesday July 28th, 2004 2:39:05 AM
Falin continues to stay frosty. He puts away his arrow, but keeps his bow out for ease of use. He follows the rest of the party back to the inn.
(OCC: spot 1 search 20 listen 10... He doesn't catch anything at first glance, but apparently if he looks long enough he will find something :))
Lucia Wednesday July 28th, 2004 2:42:43 AM *With all of the nastyness around here it might be best if you and your friends quickly grab your things and get to the tower. Also, your friends seem to be acting a little cautions, but you know it is always better to err on the side of caution.*
Figment Wednesday July 28th, 2004 6:24:51 AM
The mage decides enough of them are confronting the guard so he just watches. He moves out wih the others. "Great, another scrap with Doom. Just what we need...".
Legends Old & New -- DM Donna Wednesday July 28th, 2004 6:30:08 AM
K'Nara smiles to herself, assuring Lucia that the Emerald Talons are, indeed, a most heathily-cautious group...which is why the redheaded warrior was so impatient to rejoin them.
K'Nara indicates that the group should hurry along to their destination, but she speaks as they go:
"Miss Masie is a bit of an urban legend here in Emerald City...she's supposed to be a blind seeress who--rumor has it--is very good at it." the female fighter says with an idle sort of nod. "However, imposters abound here in the City--for all we know, that old woman could have been a pretender out for money. I do know one other little bit about the mysterious Miss Masie: it is said that you cannot go looking for her--it is she who finds you. So if that was the real Miss Masie...she may have something most interesting to reveal."
At the inn, Milo speaks to K'Nara again.
"I'm returning to the Tine headquarters," he says, then his brow furrows and he shakes his head, "There's something...something..." He sounds like an elder attempting to recall something that he really ought to know--but cannot seem to grasp the fact and say it. K'Nara looks concerned, but the old Milo resurfaces just then:
"Ah, well--at least I'll get the opportunity to do some...ah...creative eavesdropping." the halfling says with a grin. K'Nara's misgiving evaporates and she smiles back.
"All right, then, Milo," the leader of the Emerald Talons agrees with his departure, "Just...be careful."
"I'm always careful!" Milo replies. "I fully intend to be the longest-lived halfling in The Wold!" The wily rogue exits, though he does pause long enough to give Olana a brief private farewell.
The Talons settle up the proprietor of the inn. K'Nara finds that all the animals (horses and anything else that may have been left with a caretaker in the City) are just fine and makes sure that all outstanding bills are settled.
The entire group has this opportunity to finish any City business or post about any anticipation about returning to the "new" Tower of Saryd.
Lian Wednesday July 28th, 2004 8:17:43 AM
Lian steps infront of Milo before the halfling has time to dodge him. "Milo, my friend, be well. I will look after her... I promise." He says, gesturing slightly toward Olana so only Milo can see. He repeats, "I promise."
When reaching the stables, Lian finds Merlot, his oldest friend, well. It brings a small tear to the elf's eye as he hugs the animal around the neck. The horse cocks his head, seeing that his rider is much smaller than he used to be. The horse snorts and brays, as if laughing at the elf. Taken aback by the horses reaction, the elf can think of only one thing to say to his friend. "Oh...oh, shut up Merlot. It is not funny!" Then the elf himself laughs slightly, shaking his head. He mounts up. "We have a new home to go to friend. Lets ride." The gray horse bolts from the stable, happy to have Lian back.
Olana Wednesday July 28th, 2004 11:37:11 PM
Olana gives Milo a tight hug. "Be careful," she whispers, running a hand through his hair. She gives a sigh when he's gone and then goes to check on the treasure they left in safekeeping, with the intention of loading up then they can take it to the new premises.
Gunther Wednesday July 28th, 2004 11:50:36 PM
The warrior watches the exchange between Milo and the other Talons with a hint of sadness. The halfling had been a fine battle partner and he hated to see him go. But, someone needed to keep an eye on those Tines people, and he seemed like just the right kind of guy. Gunther smiles at Milo and pats his on the back as he departs. "De gods be vith you. Though I doubt you'll need dere help!"
Since he has no stead to check on, Gunther heads up to his room and packs up his few possesions. Then he meets up with Olana and checks to see if she needs any help with transporting the treasure.
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