Valdor Tuesday June 6th, 2006 12:22:53 AM
Valdor wipes his face. then walks his daughter carefully up to the door. He says to the guard,"This is my daughter, Valdora. I want the twins to guard her until I return. I want her treated like a queen. She needs to have a fresh bath, food, and a room in my wing, right next to mine. Tell the twins that although they have never let me down, this would not be the time to start. She has been through much and needs to have rest and comfort. They are to be within a few feet of her at all times, until I return and give them different orders. Of course, they know how to handle themselves when she is bathing."
His voice is steady and calm, but his eyes...oh his eyes tell them they's better do this to the letter.
He kisses his daughter and says,"You will be completely safe until I return, my dear. They will fix any food you wish, and provide any drink you need. I'll be back shortly."
He activates his Knight of the Realm ring to let Sturtevant know they are back and on their way.
Cori and Amarth Tuesday June 6th, 2006 2:08:39 AM
There is the sudden lurch and then she feels the Wold fold around her. The city of Osto is gone and now in it's place is the castle environs of Plateau City and her adopted home...of sorts.
The clang of the trident hitting the ground nearly makes her jump as she looks in that direction. "Well at least the vile thing made it through ok." Not that she would have mind the weapon having gotten lost mid trip. Then her cloak hem stirs and she looks down to watch it settle as the air is displaced by thier arrival.
Mildly surprised she spots a folded piece of paper near her feet now. "Where did this come from?" She bends over and picks it up carefully as she studies the leaflet. Not having the required spell she walks about five feet from the group with her back to them and opens the plane up. If it was a dumb idea than her body would shield the others from the blast at least.
Amarth contiues to sleep peacefully on her shoulder...which is no surprise. After all he is a familiar and been around magic almost all of his life...no it has been all his life. He silently dreams of flying with a mate through the air and maybe building a nest...some young ones would be nice.
SPELLS 0th: dancing lights(2), ghost sound(2) 1st: shield, tenser's floating disk(2)*, ray of enfeeblement(2), reduce person(2) 2nd: web(2), see invisibility, touch of idiocy(2), mirror image(2) 3rd: hold person(2), haste(2)*, displacement(3)* 4th: stoneskin(3)*, greater invisibility(2)*, wall of ice 5th: feebleminded, hold monster, passwall* 6th: greater dispel magic(2), shadow walk*, mass bull's strength*, maxamized fireball 7th: summon monster VII(2), mass hold person, mass invisibility, maxamized shout(2) 8th: summon monster VIII(2), polar ray(2) 9th: shapechange, time stop(2), summon monster IX
greater empower rod 2/3 uses * used
Mordrid Tuesday June 6th, 2006 3:27:39 AM
Mordrid prepares for Valdor to once again pass the ring around. For the first time he notices that Nick looks horrible, and in dire need of rest. He also takes in Korrig's alarming gaze at the keep's walls and windows. He can only imagine what is going thru the assassin's mind. Cori is also up to something; however what... he does not quite yet know.
The ranger shuffles his weight from one foot to the other, as his feet hurt mightily and his boots feel the weight of grey Ostonian mud.
He is releaved to be back home again.
Dahlia Tuesday June 6th, 2006 5:53:15 AM
Ready for the transport this time, Dahlia looks over at the others and then at Korig once thay have settled. A knowing smile sneaks over her lips as she thinks about what is probably going through Korigs mind as he tests his bonds and looks at the castle. Shaking her head she focus back to the moment just in time to hear Valdor's comments to the staff. Walking up to Valdora, the halfling looks over at Cori and the back at the loung lady and then speaks.
And Valdora, since this loveable oaf you call a father has not had any time to provision for your stay and it will take the staff a while to get things you may need, You may, and I an sure Cori won't mind, borrow a few things from our rooms until the staff has located the items that you might require.
Valdor Tuesday June 6th, 2006 4:07:07 PM
Dahlia feels something 'ping' the top of her ear and then sees a copper piece bounce merrily down the street. When she looks around, she sees Valdor looking up towards the sky, hands behind his back, whistling a merry tune.
Nick Wednesday June 7th, 2006 12:54:02 AM
"Hang on," says Nick, "we can't just leave this trident here. It's dangerous."
If the castle blacksmith has the furnace going, then he'll drag it over there, wrapping a cloth over parts he has to touch, then he isn't in direct contact with the awful thing. He'll cast DISPEL EVIL and say a few blessings into the furnace also. He hasn't seen himself in a mirror yet, so he's still baffled as to why he's getting a few strange looks.
DM Jan Wednesday June 7th, 2006 1:18:04 AM
Osto - EPILOGUE
Somewhere in the centre of Osto, in a long dining hall within a high-walled stockade, His Unsurpassed Excellency, Ruler of the Emerald Kingdom, Saviour of the Wold, Scourge of Elves, the Mighty Green Dragon Parnoth, is sitting at a table with six human men, one of whom is the Governor, Mandelor. Parnoth has an ever-growing case of indigestion, courtesy of the muddy ale and half cooked meat he has eaten. It's partially his own fault he acknowledges, as he sits here, still pretending to be 'one of them', although he will never understand why these humans insist on eating their meat half raw. However, despite the deep anger and malicious intent growing alongside the indigestion, overall he's feeling quite optimistic.
Gods ears, these creatures were arrogant. It was obvious that Valdor's introduction of him hadn't sunk in. They were treating him just like another human - hence the deep anger (malicious intent always came naturally), and now, sat at this table, they were actually making demands! And Sturtavent thought he was provincial. Well, he'd think this lot were a horde of utter barbarians. Probably hadn't even come into contact with a dragon before. How wonderful.
He sits there for a little while longer, a completely false, but utterly beatific smile on his face, as the others talk on, one in particular, sat on the right hand side of Mandelor - "You realise that you people destroyed an ancient part of our town." Morons. "These evil creatures were from your lands, not ours, and it seems only fair that we should be compensated for it." I will fry your little fat head in dragon fire and crunch on the remains. On and on it goes.
A little while later, Parnoth clears his throat and makes a gesture toward the window. "I see you have a fine garden out there. Would you mind if we stepped outside for a few minutes, for a breath of fresh air?" He stands before anyone can raise an objection, and walks through a set of double doors into a quiet back courtyard that contains a small orchard and some vegetable beds. He waits for a moment, until the others have joined him, and then -
There is a cracking sound, like bones breaking, as Parnoth switches to his true form at all possible speed. Always a little incomfortable, done so quickly, but he does have a point to make. In seconds, he's huge -filling the courtyard with glittering green scales and massive wings. He lowers his head quickly, snapping up the man, who'd been making all those sorry little demands, in his massive jaws. There is a sharp crunch, as thousands of pounds of pressure literally breaks the man in two. Human blood dribbles out of the corner of Parnoth's jaws, and he spits out the man's remains. Two halves of a human corpse drop to the ground with a sickening thud.
Oh look, the others were cowering on the ground. How white their faces had turned. Excellent. Excellent! "And now my friends," he booms, "I think it's time we re-negotiated, don't you?"
Finis -----------------
Plateau City -
While Nick takes care of the trident, Cori unwraps the folded piece of paper. It's fairly cheap parchment and hastily cut, but the words are bold and plainly written -
VAL DOR LIZARD SANCTUARY BRING YOUR UNWANTED PET HERE NO CREATURE TURNED AWAY NO QUESTIONS ASKED Swamp Meadow Lane Osto
It seems that Valdor's bag of platinum, handed to a citizen on arrival in Osto, has been put to good use. Flabersham the head butler comes running down the stairs, and a bewildered and slightly embarrassed Valdora is whisked away. The staff will take very good care of her. The trident takes about ten minutes to be disposed of, with the blacksmith and some of the stable lads in attendance, who are thoroughly intrigued by it all. Korrig stays silent, unless spoken to directly, his thoughts on his next move. Sturtavent receives the message that the group are on their way.
Valdor Wednesday June 7th, 2006 1:47:48 AM
Valdor, seeing that everything has been tended to, says,"Let's go now. I would rather get cleaned up, but there's no way Korrig gets into our castle. Let's get rid of him and I'm ready for a hot bath and a comfortable chair."
He makes sure that they take back roads and alleys not often travelled, while on their way to the High Lord's mansion.
Ve Mundr Wednesday June 7th, 2006 10:47:49 AM
The Hierophant has been quiet and standing on Korrig's left back side shoulder. His attention firmly fixed upon the dangerous assassin from Osto. Ve was fully confident in his abilities to handle Korrig, or nearly anything else, but he was also a fully vested member of the overconfidence gets you killed society.
With Valdor leading the way, he moves with Korrig directly at his right.
Nick Wednesday June 7th, 2006 10:11:40 PM
Nick rejoins the others after his visit to the blacksmith with the trident. He feels weary, like he's dragging his feet, but he's sure everyone else feels the same way. A hot bath and a comfortable chair certainly sounded good to him. At least the girl was safe now, and looking at the determination on Ve's features, he didn't fancy Korrig's chances if he tried anything.
DM Jan Thursday June 8th, 2006 2:21:18 AM
Valdor's route takes everyone via the southern edge of the Adventurers Quarter, where it's fairly quiet, but there's no hiding where the river has to be crossed, and the group attract a few stares as they walk over the bridge and turn South toward the High Lord Mayor's castle.
At the main gate, they're recognized as the Platinum Dragons. No one at this point recognizes Korrig. As they walk up the steps and into the giant hall, the assassin smiles and says in a conversational tone to Ve - "This should be interesting. Did you know the last time I was here, I held a knife at Sturtavent's throat."
Up the stairs and along the marbled floor that leads to Sturtavent's office, some of the guards much higher up the food chain stand and stare. They're not completely sure, after all, with the exception of a few available sketches, Korrig had done a reasonable job of keeping his face out of the tabloid parchments. Still.... "Gargul's teeth," mutters one man in a jacket with decorated epaulets, and immediately gives a hand signal to a subordinate, in effect, calling for reinforcements.
The doors ahead swing wide, revealing a large, familiar room. There's a desk straight ahead. Sturtavent is stood behind it, waiting.
Ve Mundr Thursday June 8th, 2006 8:53:31 AM
Ve looks back at Korrig and his tone is neutral, "and this time you will not." Ve waits on Valdor.
Valdor Thursday June 8th, 2006 10:49:15 AM
Valdor walks up to Sturtavent and holds out his large hand for a shake. He says,"You won't believe what we've just witnessed, and a fish we caught along the way...or should I say surrendered himself. I'd rather one of the others tell the tale, as I wasn't exactly myself and much of it escapes me or is a haze. I only know this piece of garbage had kidnapped my daughter and given her to a group of liches to hold hostage. I wanted to just kill him as did several of the others, but we felt it was our duty to bring him in, instead of just killing him. You remember Korrig, I'm sure.
We actually worked with Parnoth, believe it or not, and I have concerns that he is still in Osto, attempting to "acquire" more land and taxpayers. But that's another subject. We'll discuss that later. It is good to see you again, my friend."
Valdor bows and steps back to allow one of the others to take over.
Nick Thursday June 8th, 2006 7:06:58 PM
Nick attempts to explain to Sturtavent what happened when they descended into the ancient arena, or whatever it was, In Osto - the liches, Korrig's appearance and the strange creature that gave forth the massive aura of bad arcane magic. "I don't know what it was, but it was big, and I'm not sure if we actually destroyed it. Parnoth buried it under tons and tons of rock and it's aura seemed to disappear, but I'd like to suggest that the Star Tower should be informed, then they can investigate. If it's still alive, it's dangerous. I could barely stand to be near it and it seemed to strip me of energy every time I cast a spell." He looks around. "Anyone got anything else to add?"
Ve Mundr Friday June 9th, 2006 3:56:04 PM
Ve speaks up after Father Nick, "Yes I would like to add that the entity in the pit seemed to actually partially feed off of magic, but only that derived from casting and challening magic. Items seemed to be completely unaffected except for those involving dimensional movement. The creatures proximity seemed to affect any sort of extra movement. The action of the liches seem to indicate that the creature attempting to enter the Wold required living beings of great pwer to either completely open the gate or to completely fuel its emergence. Personally i do not think it destroyed but rather the gate closed."
DM Jan Friday June 9th, 2006 6:16:06 PM
Ve Mundr hears Korrig give out a barely audible sigh as Valdor talks to Sturtavent. The assassin also flicks a glance toward Mordrid. Your friend - has a big mouth, the look seems to say. And while Nick and ve give their version of things, Cori and Dahlia notice a growing clatter from behind outside the doorway. It looks like about a dozen guards, all armed to the teeth, all with a look of alarm on their faces.
After the mutual bonecrushing handshake, Sturtavent listens to what the Dragons have to say. Half of his attention however, is on Korrig, and the Mayor carries an expression that suggests he can hardly believe what he's seeing.
"Does one of you have connections with the Star Tower?" Sturtavent asks at one point, "or should I see to it?" He gives a sigh. "I've always thought it was a dangerous thing to go to magical extremes. There's a reason liches look the way they do." He looks to the door as the guards arrive, led by the man with the epauletted shoulders. "Ah, Commander, I see from your timely arrival that you've seen our guest. Lock him up, please, and no interrogation - not yet. And that means no softening up, either. See to it."
Korrig turns to Ve. "It's been a pleasure," he says before he's led off.
When the assassin has gone - "Well I've no idea what to do with him," says the Mayor, a bit perplexed, "but I'm sure I'll think of something. So, what's next for the Dragons? I'm having a dinner next week in honour of one the Consortium envoys. You're all invited to attend. To be perfectly honest, I'd be glad of your support. I still don't know the real reason why she's coming here."
Valdor Friday June 9th, 2006 7:13:25 PM
Before he leaves, Valdor says,"I know you'll try to escape. If you succeed, know that I will do nothing else in this Wold until I have hunted you down and killed you. You may think that you are unbeatable, but that isn't even close to accurate. If there is a next time, I will not let my nice side out until you are dead beyond resurrecting. Sleep well."
He waits until Korrig is gone and says,"You know he will make an attempt. He will have his cohorts come. Word will spread rapidly and there will be an attempt. I want to be called immediately, if such occurs. I need a room I can teleport into. I want him dead!"
He stares hard at Sturtavent, as if he had anything to do with it. After a second, he realizes he's losing it a bit again, and his face softens a bit and he says,"Sorry, my friend. You can't imagine what they did to my daughter, and I will see him dead, whether by local justice...or my own. I don't speak for anyone else on this, but I will be glad to join you at dinner, as long as my daughter may join me. We have been apart too long, and I want her near me for a while until she feels secure. And Cori is a member of Star Tower and can make that visit. She has proven to be quite capable, as I would expect from a member of that group."
Dahlia Monday June 12th, 2006 7:36:32 AM
"I do hope you have a prison cell worthy of our friend here. I would hate to think that there would be no challenge in his escape attempt. I am thinking perhaps fully extended verticle arm and leg shackles and chains that are centered in the room, and not against the wall. The interior and exterior of the cell should of course not allow magic and perhaps should be made of adamantine. I think the cell should also be magically lit 24 hours a day and he be fed by an unseen servant. He should be dressed only in a loin cloth and not alowed any visitor in the cell with him.
If I think of anything else I will be sure and tell you.
Ve Mundr Monday June 12th, 2006 10:32:16 AM
Ve looks at the men gathered to lead Korrig away and he is unhappy to say to least about it. Then Valdor and Dahlia speak up and his mood turns more sour still. "Valdor, if the intent here is to simply lock him away for the illusion of punishment for his crimes just so that he can escape and then be put to the sword. Well let's just say I would object most vehemently."
The cleric looks at Dahlia. "And were this some plane of the damned in the Land of Rest that very well may be an acceptable position to take. But, I believe our recent efforts prevented such a catastrophe from befalling the Wold, so we might attempt to think of a less vile recourse then torture onto insanity and death."
"Sturtavent, by your leave I will be assuring Korrig stays put and behaves himself while the official decree of his crimes and the just punishments of them are drafted and prepared. Until then Mayor, friends. If a man-at-arms could direct me?"
Ve moves to exit and make his way to where ever Korrig is being led.
Valdor Monday June 12th, 2006 1:52:55 PM
Valdor puts his hand on Ve's shoulder and says,"You misunderstand me. If he escapes, I will follow him to the ends of the Wold. I do NOT want to spend one minute doing that, but I want justice, or I would have just killed him before now. I am no monster...unless justice isn't served. Then, well, I and our family here, have suffered enough at his hands and I am done being mister nice and polite while he tortures and kills people who have done nothing to him. You are welcome to guard him personally, but I fear it wil not be enough."
Ve Mundr Monday June 12th, 2006 2:26:29 PM
The cleric nods as Valdor speaks, but does hold up a hand at the end, "I also believe I have been misunderstood as well. I do not intend to sit and watch hime to the end of the Wold. I am completely confident that the charges all course will lead to his execution. I am not hear to save anyone and especially not man such as Korrig. I mostly am going to assure he stands for his crimes and unless the gods of Testing wish to rescue him, he will." Ve extends his ahand to Valdor and with a nod moves out. The a small pause and glance back, "If someone could see a real dinner is sent down for me," with a final wink, "I am a saint after all, not a martyr."
Dahlia Monday June 12th, 2006 3:46:09 PM
Dahlia gives Ve a lok and a shrug, that seems to imply that any further deaths by Kirig were then to be on his head alone, shakes her head and walks out of the room.
Nick Monday June 12th, 2006 9:41:39 PM
Nick looks a little shocked as Dahlia comes up with her suggestions. He says nothing, other than to give out a long sigh. A proper can of worms, Korrig was. What made it more complicated was the fact that Korrig seemed resigned to his fate, and that didn't feel right at all.
DM Jan Monday June 12th, 2006 11:07:05 PM
As the Dragons discuss Korrig's immediate future, Sturtavent spends some time staring hard at the Master Assassin.
Under normal circumstances, Korrig would have stared right back. Dragons, dragons and death had never frightened him; some of the Gods might give him pause, but apart from that... The assassin finds himself losing interest in the stare-down and his eyes begin to wander. Yes, he knew all about this place, too, and had more than one clandistine visit, but right now, what he couldn't remember - was who he had on the payroll, here. Horns of a black dragon, was he losing his mind? He closes his eyes for a second - the memory was in there somewhere - all he had to do was chase it down. Gods, they could have already hanged him by the time he'd figured it out. Come on, old man. Snapping his eyes back open, he tilts his chin up slightly, assumes an air of quiet defiance and says nothing. Up yours, Valdor and that little savage sidekick of yours. And I'll exploit your clerics if I have to. You should have killed me in Osto.
Sturtavent breaks from his current thoughts. "Commander, by all means let whichever members of the Dragons who wish it, inspect Korrig's future home. Do not be alarmed gentlemen. Right now I have no intention of letting him go, but he won't be unduly harmed."
The guard commander is looking as though he's just been given charge of a poisonous snake.
"Do we have any other business?" asks Sturtavent.
Scott Tuesday June 13th, 2006 12:05:37 AM
I've been out of town. I will get back on things asap.
Mordrid Tuesday June 13th, 2006 9:54:39 AM
Mordrid eyes Ve strangely. Actually his plan had been to jail Korrig until he escaped, then kill him. How astute of the cleric to make that logical progression on his own. He was smarter than he looked.
After Sturtevant invites the next course of action, "Well, other than Korrig's arrest, I think getting down to the bottom of this pit is the next step. And I assume that includes the mages at Star Tower."
Valdor Tuesday June 13th, 2006 10:13:51 AM
Valdor asks Cori,"Do you mind handling the Star Tower visit? It's your element. Of course, they need to be aware that if the creature is still there, we could have more liches on our hands if they succumb to its promises. They must be extremely careful.
Sturdevant, any fresh news we should know about? I'm in need of some rest and some quiet time...but I'll be ready in a day or two if we need to go somewhere. And don't forget what I said about Parnoth. Ever the schemer, that one."
Ve Mundr d20+14=18 d20+16=32 d20+14=22 Tuesday June 13th, 2006 2:01:06 PM
Like many other things, Ve notes the look of Dahlia and knows what it means, likewise Mordrid and Korrig, but he lets it pass. The calm look of Korrig, of course he meant to escape, a pity how dim some of the Dragons thought he was. This was a game, it was always a game and Ve had grown very much a master in it. Korrig had money, connections and powerful motivation the Wold over and those were the pieces he would be trying to move into position. Ve had foresight of this and no small power base of his own to draw on and most importantly time. Korrig needed to move quickly to avoid a death sentence and Ve merely had to sit back and observe and prime the pump.
Ve follows Korrig and the guard and moves up next to the man, "You know the sentence will be death for your crimes and that it will be handed down very quickly. So if you wish a confessor, I will hear you, but do not take to long to decide."
Upon arrival at the cell, Ve casts Dimensional Lock. Spot 18 Sense Motive 33 Listen 22
Nick Wednesday June 14th, 2006 12:32:43 AM
Nick says quietly to Valdor, "With your leave, I'll accompany Ve, Korrig and the guards. Won't do any harm to take a look. Then I feel I need to go back to the castle and get some rest. It's been quite a day, wouldn't you say?"
He'll tag along with the guards, doing his level best to hide the fact that he's exhausted.
DM Jan Wednesday June 14th, 2006 1:17:32 AM
The procession through the High Lord Mayor's castle attracts a lot of attention, after all it isn't every day that folk get to see a high level criminal AND a couple of high level adventurers AND the guard commander who definitely looks as though his feathers are seriously ruffled. Along marble hallways full of well dressed courtiers, until the floor changes to stone and wide stairs lead downward in a gentle spiral. Through locked doors, down a set of much narrower stairs, and along a stone walled tunnel lit with flickering torches. More stairs. More locked doors. Always downward.
"Confess?" Korrig replies evenly and without rancour to Ve as they walk along. He seems genuinely suprised. "Hmmm. I'll keep that in mind." He wrinkles his nose as a scent of damp walls and humanity begins to haunt the surrounding air as they all descend. "Ah, prison stench," he sighs. At the bottom of the final stairwell, the corridor here is bristling with guards. There are junctions leading off right and left, and the sounds of inmates can be heard - songs and obscenities for the most part. All the junctions are bypassed except for the final one. Here it's quiet, and both the doors and walls are thick. A left turn and here are three cells. They look bigger than most. The first one seems empty, the second one - the door is shut and a shadow shifts on the other side of the inspection hatch.
Korrig is led into the final cell - a stone walled cube. It has a tattered rug on the floor, a cot, a pile of blankets, a table and chair, and a latrine hole in one corner. The walls themselves glimmer slightly, and take on a slightly green tinge as Ve adds his spell to the mix.
Back upstairs, Sturtavent shakes his head. "Other than the arrival of the Consortium envoy in a few days. I don't think there's anything pressing, so I suggest you all get some rest. You look like you need it. Madame Corialote, if you need any additional help on convincing your colleagues at the Star Tower, do not hesitate to ask." He hesitates, then raises his head to sniff the air in a not quite human gesture. "Parnoth, eh? My gut tells me there are long term implications, there."
As the door slams shut on Korrig, two tall young men, so alike only their mother would be able to tell them apart, are flanking a polished wooden door on the third floor of Gold Dragon Castle. Both of them are trying hard not to grin, as sounds of bed springs and laughter can be heard beyond the door. Seemed like someone was jumping up and down on a bed and having a high old time of it.
Valdor Wednesday June 14th, 2006 12:03:48 PM
Valdor says with a bow,"Let us know when you will need us and we will be there. I'm in need of a good meal and a hot bath...and a bed."
Valdor heads back quickly. Upon arrival, he instructs the cooks to make prepare a divine meal, then heads up to the room his daughter is in. He smiles at the twins and stands there listening. The hardened warrior of more than a thousand battles has tears of joy welling in his eyes. He doesn't try to hide them, he just basks in the glory of fatherhood...and thinks about just how much he's missed. After a few minutes, he knocks on the door and tells his daughter that dinner should be ready shortly and he'll come get her after he cleans up.
Mordrid Wednesday June 14th, 2006 3:08:34 PM
Mordrid replies to Sturtevant, "A meeting of the Consortium? This is the first we've heard about it. Why has the meeting been called?"
Mordrid tilts his head in a show of curious concern. "There has not been a meeting to my knowledge since before the dragons of Dragon Bay were whiped clean out by the wasting disease. My god..." the ranger's head spins, "alot has happened since then."
When dismissed, the ranger will return to the castle. Once there he will contemplate everything that has happend since the last cataclism: Dragon wars, heart seeds, Ebyron, now Parnoth again, and the capture of Korrig. Puzzling how he swore to kill Korrig, however he found he didn't have the spine to do it. Now Valdor had a daughter. Perhaps it was time to hang it up. It seemed he lived a full life before the cataclism: giants, Flame the dragon, Pirates, Ravenloft, Black Dragons, drow, Rings of Ascension, Fae Skimmir, service to the king, Claudia and wars in the Oashar House. He himself threw the sword of Gual into the Abyss.
sleep
Ve Mundr d20+16=29 Wednesday June 14th, 2006 4:14:09 PM
Ve nods to Korrig's restatement. "Yes, oh the soul cleansing variety." Ve will look for a semi comfortable place to sit, after all he would be here for a bit. Looking over at Father Nicholas, "How are you truly feeling old friend? To be honest you look thin. I will be fine, Korrig will not be trouble. Go and get some rest."
Ve will then make some talk with the guard with him. Trying to get a sense of how they feel with the assignment they drew this night. Sense Motive 29
Dahlia Wednesday June 14th, 2006 5:52:31 PM
Having left the room before the other, Dahlia's head is spiining and she just had to get some air. Leaving the Mayor's palace, she doesn't have a destination in mind, she just needs to think. As she strolls along her mind races thinking about Korig the man who killed the only father she had ever known and tried to have her killed more than once. As an after thought, now that she's been walking ahile she sends a brief message, via earpiece to Nicholas telling him that she was fine but had to clear her head.
When she next looked up a smile came to her face as she realized her feet had brought her exactly where she needed to be. Looking up she saw the sign of the Neverempty Mug, a tavern in the Rogue Quarter, and without hesitation entered.
Nick Thursday June 15th, 2006 12:45:33 AM
Nick is deep in thought as he follows the guards deep into the bowels of the castle. Curious as always, and seeing as he hadn't been down here before, he takes note of his surroundings and before long starts to feel a little claustrophobic. After having a quick look at Korrig's cell, he finds himself feeling relieved as Korrig suggests that he takes off. Dang he was tired... "Be careful," are his parting words to his fellow adventurer. Unable to find Dahlia, he also heads back to the castle to get cleaned up and get some rest.
DM Jan Thursday June 15th, 2006 1:32:34 AM
High Lord Mayor's Castle -
"Actually, it isn't the whole consortium," Sturtavent says to Mordrid, "merely one of its members. One of its dragon members to be exact, who is skilled at prophecy - and that's the part that has me a little on edge. I suspect a full Consortium meeting will follow soon, though. I feel it in my bones."
Down in the dungeons, with Korrig locked away, Ve Mundr finds himself in the company of rank and file guards and a couple of sergeants, after the commander has bid farewell and gone upstairs to report to Sturtavent. The men seem a little uneasy. After all, this was one of the Platinum Dragons stood before them, built tall and strong and armed with Warrd knows what. And was he here to check up on Korrig, or keep an eye on them? Both? And was he going to be all high and mighty? The small talk helps break the ice a little, and when food is brought down - a spicy meat broth and large chunks of bread, he's offered a share. This fare is fed to the prisoners, too.
Gold Dragon Castle -
Valdor and Mordrid arrive first, and Nick follows a short while later. Evening is approaching, and the staff are busy lighting lamps and stoking fires. However, hot baths are poured, and a change of clothing has been laid out on various beds. Shadowed by the twins, Valdora eventually makes it out of her room and joins her father for dinner. She is dressed in a velvet tunic, cotton leggings, and slippers, after having a rather heated discussion with Flabersham who was having dozens of frothy dresses brought in. Mordrid finds his bed to be a soft, feathered, peaceful sanctuary. Nick gets a terrible shock when he looks in the mirror. The hair on top of his head is coming out in large tufts. His forearms look fragile, their tendons standing out. There are wrinkles around his eyes that were not there before. As for the eyes themselves - they still reflect his relative youth, and look a little odd, set as they are in what now is a much older face.
Elsewhere in Plateau City -
Deep in thought, Dahlia enters the tavern as twilight approaches. It's fairly quiet inside, a small respite before the evening traffic appears. As for Cori - she heads straight over to the Star Tower, where she's soon embroiled in an emotionally high pitched meeting, that will go on into the early hours, as mages and wizards listen to the astounding news about the pit creature, become outraged that someone should create such a thing, then get into a mighty argument about what should be done about it.
And so the night closes in, with the promise of the mundane over the next few days. But what does an adventurer do on days such as these?
Ve Mundr Thursday June 15th, 2006 9:11:30 PM
As a Protector of Domi, Ve has been among the rank and file a great deal. His charges became increasingly more important of course, but his duty and distance to the charge generally held firm and he took the posts as more a common soldier than commander. The years of such service had cost him greatly in the grander scheme of things he supposed, title within the heirarchy of Domi, provincial titles and estates and such. He could hold his own politically, but certainly lacked the drive and true mastership the craft required for such things. Appearance, honor and conduct had always held a high place with him, but Ve also saw no reason pride of one's job and appearance had to depend on title.
He talked to the guard, accepted the meal with little fan fare one way or the other. He will tell them of the Dimensional Lock spell he placed in the area. Any attempts by Korrig or any other would be done the old fashioned way. Ve contemplated placing spells directly on Korrig. He could Mark or Quest him to stay put and even bury a Contingent Harm spell or other such unpleasant ward to further retain the mans cooperation. For the time being though, Ve was more intrigued with the reaction to confession. Ve was very astute in body language, but he had been fooled before and he was not certain of Korrig's reaction now. He did know that any such forced cohersion would destroy any true thoughts Korrig might entertain on the idea. So Ve would wait, Korig was currently going no where.
Valdor Friday June 16th, 2006 1:19:51 AM
After a hot bath, Valdor feels much better and he hurries to find his daughter. He enjoys dinner immensely, and begins to contemplate where his life is going. Certainly he has done much to better the lives of many good people. That he had helped save thousands of lives during the Year of Ascension was in his mind. Ending so many evil threats in the Wold over the years sat well with him. Trying not to think too highly of himself, he thought of all the children who emulated his actions and wanted to become the next 'Valdor'.
He smiled at the thought, then looked across at the beautiful young lady across the table from him. All those thoughts slipped away when he saw the gleam in those eyes and he just stares. Is this the feeling of fatherhood? He could sure get used to it. No worries in the Wold could take away the joy and pride he felt at this very moment. His work was not quite done yet, however, and if he ever wants to have a peaceful life, he knows he has some loose ends to tie up.
Awkwardly, he says,"I guess I'm going to need some new armor. I'm sick about losing my breastplate. It felt like a second skin, and no matter how skilled an assassin might attack, they could never score a critical hit against it. We should also spend some time training so that you can protect yourself, my dear."
He lapses into that awkward silence, then, when she's not looking, he tosses a grape at her and pops her on the top of the head with it.
Nick Friday June 16th, 2006 1:33:20 AM
Nick's stomach curdles as he sees himself in the mirror. It's quite a shock. Dear Alemi, he looks just like his father... Now he understands the worried glances of the others. Okay, no problem, he would figure it out. For now, he gets cleaned up, shaves his head completely, dresses in clean robes and joins some of the others for dinner.
At some point he'll visit the Cathedral of Light and talk to the head cleric about their latest adventure. Checking on his beloved herb garden and attempting to figure out how to cure the effects the pit creature had on him, will come second.
Dahlia Friday June 16th, 2006 8:07:22 AM
A load of stress and weight seemed to evaporate from The litle halfing's shoulders as she walked through the doors of the tavern and looked around at all the everyday things being done; cards, darts, daggers, drinking, dice, bones, rendezvous. Dahlia let out an audible sigh as the weight of responsibility left her and she thought to herself that this was what she has been missing. As she moved into the interior of the room she took note of who was where and what was going on. Once at the bar, she wasted no time what-so-ever and simply asks for a pony of their strongest dark ale and asks for it to be brought to the empty table againt the wall near the throwing lanes. She was no nonsense and curt, like someone on a mission, which she was. Paying the bartender she made her way over to her preferred table.
DM Jan Friday June 16th, 2006 1:39:28 PM
Over the next day or two, life in Plateau City seems much as it ever was. It is the Dragons who have changed, the legacy of the pit creature leaving its mark in ways both obvious and surreptitious.
Nick bears the most obvious signs, and no healings or restorations are able to repair the damage.
Both Korrig and Mordrid suffer from memory loss. Mordrid's childhood is scattered like shattered glass - to his benefit or not, that is something he must mull over. And as he looks in the mirror, the furrows etched in his forehead seem less prominant; same with the crows feet splayed at the edges of his eyes. Some of his grey hair will eventually grow back in its original colour. Old, hard life lessons forgotten, easing both body and spirit? Who knows... The effect on Korrig is more random - threads from the tapestry of his entire life have been drawn out here and there, shifting the pattern, so that recall has to hop about, pause, and then hop some more, if it means to make sense of the past.
The Star Tower mages initially bear the brunt of the changes in Corialote, as their arguing back and forth about the creature brings out her newly honed, hard-edged ambition, lack of compassion, and her reluctance to suffer drawn out discussion. Her familiar, Amarth, will no doubt be aware of it, and perhaps urge caution.
A tough sparring session, that has left them both scratched and bruised, aptly illustrates the effect on Valdor and his daughter. Valdor finds himself at a new edge, this one teetering on the brink of a dark madness - the need to win at the expense of all else, the pure black thrill of combat, regardless of the cost. For Alemi's sake, this is his daughter! Only his years of experience enable him to step back, avoid the killing blow his skilled hands are able to make with a mere practice weapon, and in doing so, leave his guard open, allowing Valdora, equally enthralled by the thrill of battle, to draw blood on his forearms and face. In the aftermath, the girl reaches forward and strokes the deep scratch she has inflicted on her father's arm - I did that? her eyes say - and then she promptly bursts into tears.
As for Ve and Dahlia, did they emerge unscathed?
Deep in the Mayor's castle prison, the guards suspicions are quickly overcome, and the awe that replaces it can be seen in their eyes, and heard in their eager questions about Ve's life as a Dragon adventurer. See how easy it is to win them over? With the hearts of these men in your grasp, you could take them and use them to your advan - And there it is - a now familiar litany, power fuelled by righteous might; stringent control and lands in order, at peace, locked down by a tyrant's fist, only now it's not coming from that creature left back in the pit, it's inside his head, his own thought, curled up and bedded in like a tiny worm, waiting to cloud his judgement, whenever he's tired, or drunk, or weak.
And in that first evening in the tavern, as Dahlia heads for that spot by the wall, a hand reaches out to touch her - old, female and wizened. It's owner beckons, cracking a toothless grin. "These are for you," says the old lady, her garments a shredded bundle of rags. On the table in front of her, are a scattering of bones - white grey and brown atop a wooden table soaked with ale. Normally, for Dahlia, this would mean nothing, but something shifts in the halfling mind's eye. And there is the pit, and the creature, bringing a deathly chill to her skin, but there is also a beyond, and in that? Something in the past. Water. Deep water. Dark skin and long white hair, submerged and caught in a dragon's jaws. Death, and the glimmer of a communication ring. Then it clouds over, and the bones become what they are - just bones scattered on a table.
Sturtavent informs the Dragons of his decision to keep Korrig alive for now. "He might come in useful," he says mysteriously. The mayor seems unusually jumpy. As for Korrig himself, he seems to spend a lot of time pacing about in his prison, muttering, playing some kind of mental game with himself. He asks for pen and parchment at one point. Word starts to get out in the taverns, about some great disaster in the environs of the North West, around Osto, and the words 'hero' and 'Parnoth' are being bandied about.
It's now the day before the dinner with Sturtavent and the Envoy. The invitations sit in a crisp pile on the hallway table, and Flabersham is enquiring about which clothes should be laid out for that particular evening.
Corialote and Amarth Friday June 16th, 2006 6:25:24 PM BEFORE After the meeting with Sturtavent she slips up to Valdor and lays a simple piece of parchment into his hand. "Came through the portal home with us...though you might be interested." With that she moves off into the city to meet with the mages of the Star Mage Guild.
That had been a study in patience for her as she finds their bickering to grate on her nerves. Amarth comes to the front several times and stops thoughts from spilling out of her mouth. Several times she finds the ways of her ancesters to be superior...the Matron of the house would give an order and all would jump to obey. Several times she breaks into the argueing to announce something that sends the mages into another round of argueing. Finally having had enough she simply walks out with the declaration that they can notify her with the decision of the council.
NOW Cori finds herself in her new room of the Dragon's castle. Parts of her whisper for her own home in the city with it's flower gardens. The quiet little study and room for her experiments...that she has been away from for some time. She finds that her mind grabs at all little and larger chances to take power. Many times she is only reigned in by her familiar and his wise council...that she has always taken to heart.
Still on the edge of her thoughts is the need to dominate and put under her heels...others. Mostly it is her parents that would dare to single her out as defective but keep her out of pity. Her inability to speak without stuttering had been a constant source of amusement to her friends and family. Oh, they never laughed while she was close enough to hear...or at least not often.
She looks to the servant of the castle as he asks about clothes and shrugs her shoulders. "What I wear now will suffice...with a little magic they will be clean and ready to go." She has found it even harder to fit in around the place the Platinums call home now than before.
Finally back into the action. That was one testy week without time in the Wold. Now I know how much I miss my D&D fix and need it.
((~~Jan~~ Dude! Good to see you. You (and Scott) were missed.))
Valdor Saturday June 17th, 2006 10:50:20 AM
Valdor, finally back within himself, beams at his daughter's quick learning and her physical skills. When she strikes him, he doesn't even wince or flinch. He smiles as the tears begin to well up and says softly,"I am glad you don't like to hurt another. However, it will come to that some time or another. You must be able to defend yourself, and sometimes that means not just defending, but inflicting on the other person. If you fight someone without hurting them, will they ever have a reason not to attack you again? No. If they don't feel pain, they will just try over and over until they finally get you. Unfortunately, there will always be evil beings in this Wold, and while that is the case, strong men and women need to fight for those who are not capable of protecting themselves. That is what I do, and what I have always done. I have never harmed an innocent, but many people across New Elenna sleep better knowing that Valdor is out there, with Mordrid, Dahlia, Nick, Cori, Gareth, Onrad, and so many other powerful good adventurers who are prepared to give their lives to protect them.
I had hoped you wouldn't follow that path, but you are my daughter...my blood runs in your veins. One day sooner or later, someone you know and love will need your protection, andyou must be ready. Killing should never come easy to you. I absolutely hate it, but I was born to be what I have become. I only kill when necessary, and it is difficult sometimes to hold that killing stroke.
Don't be upset that you scratched me. It will heal, and I hardly feel pain anymore. I have been breathed on by red dragons, so a small wound is nothing. I will have the twins work with you whenever you like, and when I am not around. Remember, however, that they cannot take as much punishment as I can, my dear. Let's get some rest and get prepared for the dinner. I would caution you not to speak much to the guest. He or she will be a dragon in human form, and they understand things and think differently than we do. Most are extremely arrogant, with good reason, but they take offense at things you would not expect. A compliment from a human, even myself, means little to them."
He gets cleaned up, bandages up his cut, and gets dressed up wearing his dinner best:leather breeces, dress boots, and a loose fitting silk shirt. Just as a precaution, he wears his baldric of throwing daggers under his shirt and one in each boot on the sides, but not where anyone could see them.
Ve Mundr Saturday June 17th, 2006 11:25:25 AM
Ve can hardly believe his ears. "Your decision to keep Korrig alive? What nonsense is this. I have heard nothing but the great atrocities that he has committed and now without so much as the creation of charge you plan to keep him locked up downstairs because he might be 'useful' someday? He's not a dog and I will have more of an answer Sturtavent."
Dahlia Saturday June 17th, 2006 12:06:55 PM
registering the vision in her mind's eye so that she can recall it later, the little halfling places a gold piece on the table for the old lady, whispers her thanks and continues to her table where she proceeds to put a dent in the small cask of ale she ordered. Some time that evening she is joined by some rough types and spends some time just being a gypsy girl. When the cask dries up, the little halfling makes her way to the door and aimlessly wanders the town slowly making her way back to the castle.
During the next day she spends some time watching Valora's sparring occasionally giving pointers to the girl as she is slighter and smaller than most of her opponents will be.
When the summons from Sturtevent comes she is prepared and ready for whatever is to come.
Mordrid Saturday June 17th, 2006 3:36:08 PM
Mordrid wakes at dawn. Today it is easier getting out of bed. The weight on his mind is lighter, and his aches and pains seemed to have gone on vacation.
At the wash basin he leans forward, taking a hard look at his face. "Hmmm." Funny how somedays you just seem to see yourself a little differently.
Feeling galant and free, the ranger dresses in his finest, and bounces downstairs; humming a song of the sea. He can't seem to remember how or where he first heard it, but today the bells of joy ring loudly in his ears.
He yells out in the great hall, "Valdor! Where are you, dragon bait!? Let's get this day rolling."
Nick Sunday June 18th, 2006 7:53:07 PM
Nick stares hard into the mirror. Deal with it. Just deal with it. It could have been worse, and there are other things to chew over, more important than this. He rubs a hand over his newly shaved head. It still feels a little strange. He's told the Cathedral all he knows about what happened, so that it's very likely that they will know as much as the Star Tower.
At some point he asks Valdor about his daughter's schooling. Languages, history, writing skills and herbology he could pass onto the girl if need be. Mathematics were not his strong point, perhaps one of the mages...
Other than that he wonders how his friend Ve fares, with his vigil on Korrig. Two other things also pluck at him - Dalia's scarcity (was she avoiding him?) - and what did Mordrid have to be so danged cheerful about?
Come the evening of the dinner, he'll dress in his formal robes.
DM Jan Monday June 19th, 2006 1:07:50 AM
After a long, excitable meeting, the Star Tower reaches a consensus, and a very high level team of wizards sets off toward the wilds of Osto, hopefully to draw a conclusion to the pit creature affair. Cori is certain that she'll get plenty of feedback on what happens.
Valdora soaks up Dahlia's combat suggestions like a sponge. She seems very relaxed in the halfling's company, and perhaps a little in awe of everyone else.
(I'm assuming Ve went back upstairs to talk to Sturtavent personally.) There is a flash of gold in the Mayor's eyes as Ve Mundr's indignation makes itself clear. It's followed by a moment of stony silence, then Sturtavent barks out a laugh. "If I could give you a clear explanation, I would. But be assured I'm not about to treat him like a pet. He's a snake and a dangerous one. However, the likes of Korrig often travel where we do not. They have access to levels of communication that is hidden from the likes of us." He drums his manicured fingers, those of a well bred human, on the table top. "I wish to keep him sound and secure until we've concluded the upcoming dinner and meeting with the Envoy. Call it a precaution. Something's brewing. It could be nothing, but I'd be a fool to put Korrig on trial and execute him until I was certain that it was, in fact, nothing. If he has key knowledge..." He shrugs. "Your Mayor is a little superstitious, and he asks you to bear with him for the next couple of days." Those fingers continue to drum, a sign of distracted tension. Something obviously troubles him.
That tension still hangs over the Plateau City High Mayor's castle on the night of the dinner. As the Dragons enter, they find the castle security tighter than usual and a broody atmosphere. Not only that, the corridors and hallways have been cleared of the usual courtiers and petitioners. The lights have been dimmed. With the exception of the most experienced guards and servants, there's no one around to witness this evening's occasion with the exception of the host and the invited guests.
"This place is spooky," says Valdora with the usual teenager's candour.
The grand dining hall doors are swept open. The table has been laid in such a manner that suggests the utmost in formality. Sturtavent is stood by an ornate fireplace, and his face registers relief at the sight of the Dragons.
Valdor Monday June 19th, 2006 1:42:00 AM
Before they head off together, Valdor tells Nick,"Your assistance would be most appreciated with her studies. I will ask Marlow to work with her when we leave on a trip. And could a spell not restore your appearance? If there's a cure we can buy, I'll spend whatever it takes. Or perhaps Alemi is just testing you. I'm sure prayer will work, as you are a devout follower of his. And Dahlia, my thanks to you for making Valdora feel at home. This has been an awful time, and she seems to be much more at ease with you than anyone. Again, my thanks to you all for helping me recover that which is most precious to me."
Valdor rightly beams at his daughter's beauty. He says,"You clean up nicely. I'll have to make sure all the teenage boys know you are my daughter and I'll slice them up if they look at you wrong." He's joking, but his voice kind of catches as he finishes. He coughs to play it off, however.
When they arrive, Valdor takes her straight over to Sturdevant and introduces her. He says,"I hope all is well with our prisoner. Well, not really. I hope he dies a slow and painful death, but we won't discuss that tonight. Who is our guest tonight? Have we met him...or her? And one last question, what's up with the atmosphere here? You could slice it with a dagger, it's so formal."
Ve Mundr Monday June 19th, 2006 10:51:14 AM
Ve catches the flash and does not flinch. If the Mayor dared to openly challenge him, it would be to his own err. Ve knew well the power at his disposal. I should just take control of Korrig and deal with him myself. Levels of communication hidden from you perhaps A odd look breifly flashes across Ve's face and his brow furrows. By Domi, remeber your place. Only Domi controls such power, you are but a servant Ve and messenger. Not judge, king or executioner.
Despite the distractions of his own mind, the cleric is quite aware that something troubles Sturtavent and it has much to do with the up and coming Envoy and tonights meeting. Ve dips into a small nod to the explanation and returns to the cell area. About an hour before dinner he will clean up and join the others. Ve wears his full mithril plate and has his hammer. His pack shield and other more travelling or adventuring gear is left in the room.
Ve greets Valdor and the others, "Korrig is not quite as you left him, but is generally well. A subject for perhaps a bit later."
Mordrid Monday June 19th, 2006 12:01:08 PM
Mordrid is alarmed upon enetering the Mayor's Castle. He doesn't recall the lights ever being this low, and he wonders who or what is the special guest tonight; and why would it require low lighting to make IT feel welcome.
The ranger skips all introductions and assumes guard duty. Finding a corner facing the doors, he stands with arms crossed, scanning the room for signs and warnings.
He is glad Valdor is happy. He is glad Valdora is safe.
Valdor Monday June 19th, 2006 2:55:48 PM
Valdor thinks for a second,"I wonder if it's a woman and Sturdevant likes her or something. The incredibly powerful gold dragon smitten and outof his element of control. Maybe that's it. Nah..."
Nick Monday June 19th, 2006 4:08:41 PM
Talking to Valdor before they arrive at the Mayor's grand residence - "Perhaps it is a test, Valdor. I don't know. I'm pretty sure that my faith protected me in some way against that creature but I don't really know how. The rest of you seem fine. As for me, my heart seems to beat well enough, and despite that fact that I don't appear to have the stamina I used to have, I can function well enough."
Nick enters the castle with a look of curiosity on his face. It was odd to see the castle stripped of it's usual pageantry and pomp, and the dimmed lights seemed to add to the mystery. He greets Sturtavent with a formal bow and casts a glance at the dining table. So, not all the pageantry is eschewed. This must be indeed a special visitor.
Corialote and Amarth d20+14=27 d20+12=20 Monday June 19th, 2006 5:10:32 PM
Cori slips into the castle with the rest of the Dragons. She feels acutely out of her element and stays near the back of the group as they make their way to the dining hall. Once again she feels that flutter of anger at her own loss of control and she steels herself as she enters.
Without a word to the others she throws back her cloak to present her bared ebony arms with their multitude of white tattooing. Strapped at her side is a rapier of impecable make and that has at least seen some use. Her middrif is also exposed but that three inches of exposed ebony skin is also covered in white tattoos.
Turning her head ever so slightly to take in her friend Amarth she nods. "I think a little inspection is in order." A few simple tap of a purple tattoo upon her lower arm sets off on of her spells. With that she starts to study the entire hall with a practiced eye, taking in magic, quantity, effects and power levels. "I am not sure if we are here to guard or attend really Amarth...but lets do both." Amarth brushes her cheek with a wing. "You got it Mistress...I will be alert as always."
DM Jan Tuesday June 20th, 2006 1:51:23 AM
After a self-conscious bow before the Mayor, and a blush following his gracious smile, Valdora backs away, a little overwhelmed. She is drawn to the table, and her fingers reach out to touch the crisp white linen table cloth, more white than Father Nicholas's robes. She marvels at the precisely laid, shiny utensils - knives, forks and spoons - so many! And there are the opulent bowls of flowers and fruit running along the centre, arranged low so as not to obstruct the flow of talk across the table. Glancing away from the display, she can see Mordrid at the far side of the room, watching the the door, the windows, his eyes everywhere. And there was the dark elf Corialote, talking to that pet bird. Her eyes seemed to be everywhere, too. What was wrong? Her father seemed at ease, talking to the Mayor - but then something happens to make her gasp and take a sharp, involuntary step back, and she collides with Ve Mundr.
Sturtavent is in the midst of explaining, "You might have seen her at the last Consortium gathering, or maybe not. I don't think she attends them all, and when she does, she tends to keep her own counsel. She's very old. Older than me, Parnoth and Alemi knows who else put together, and when she does speak, it is always wise to listen. I think - ah, she comes."
A strong presence - dragon - veiled, but so powerful it can hardly be contained, comes from beyond the dining room doors and sweeps across the room like a wave. The doors open to reveal three figures -
On the left, a short, brown-skinned, rotund man of middle age, wearing a plain brown robe. One hand rests on a plain wooden staff, the other rests on his round belly.
On the right, another man, this one tall, pale and lithe, wearing boiled leather armour. His feet bear soft boots, tailored for stealth, his hair is grey and the skin around his eyes is lined with age. The pommels of twin swords are visible behind his shoulders.
And in the centre - the source of that wave. A diminutive female humanoid. At first glance - fine boned and fragile, utterly at odds with an outward flowing charisma that gives the impression that beneath the surface, she is constructed entirely of granite. Her eyes are slanted, almond shaped, her skin is the colour of parchment. Her hair is pure silver, hanging long and straight down her back beneath a soft, black velvet hat, and in contrast to her companions, her own robe - although of a plain cut, it is altogether different from anything worn currently on the New Ellenian Peninsula. Light grey satin is covered top to bottom with rich, colourful embroidery; of wild plants and strange creatures, all intertwined.
Cori senses magic on all three of them. The centre one, behind the disguise, was a female dragon, a silver, carrying immense power.
Sturtavent steps forward and offers a deep bow. "Shenlong Zhi, Queen of the Clouds, Mistress of the Rain, it is so very good to see you. I welcome you to my humble residence."
The tiny woman steps forward and returns the bow. "This place does not seem so humble to me, Sturtavent, and why are the lights so dim? Would you have an old lady stumble around in the dark? We thought you were not at home! Or is that the idea behind this insufferable darkness?" She smiles and appears to give a slight nod of approval, and then gestures to her companions.
The tall one steps forward to introduce himself. His voice is soft, unassuming. "Sirrius Rand, personal body guard to Shenlong Zhi." He also gives a bow and his face remains solumn but unthreatening. His eyes however, are quick to flick around the room, missing nothing, lingering an extra beat on Mordrid, acknowledging the ranger's subtle but alert stance.
The shorter man sweeps his arms wide, his bow much more flamboyant. "I am Wu!" he proclaims with a broad grin aimed at everyone, " the Beloved Shenlong Zhi's bound sorceror."
All three then wait expectantly for the necessary introductions to come from their hosts.
From their position, both Nick and Dahlia can see that Valdora has taken refuge behind Ve, and the girl is breathing hard, struggling mightily in an attempt to cope with the dragon's aura.
Dahlia Tuesday June 20th, 2006 7:04:15 AM
Seeing Valdora beginning to go a bit freaky, Dahlia curses herself for not thinking about the fear effects of a dragon on the young lady, she rapidly walks over to the young lady and puts her arm on her back and whispers.
"You have dealt with fear before and this is a fear you do not need to scared of. Breathe slowly, in through the mouth and out through the nose. Think about your sparring or firing the crossbow into the lich. I am right here as is your father and the rest of us. We would not bring you to someplace where you would be harmed."
"As the young lady begins to calm down, she steps forward and begins to introduce herself. My name is Dahlia Lightfingers, It is a pleasure to meet you. Would it be impolite of me to ask that you dampen your fear aura a bit for the sake of the young lady?"
Valdor Tuesday June 20th, 2006 10:20:47 AM
Seeing Dahlia helping his daughter, Valdor smiles and barely bites back a chuckle at Dahlia's impertinence. He whispers intohis earpiece,"I would imagine that while she could easily increase it a hundred fold, that she's so powerful that that is as low as it gets."
He looks at the others, giving a small bow to the sorcerer nd the bodyguard, and then a deep bow to the lady. He says,"I am Valdor, given title of the Dragonstone by the honorable and noble Lady Maab. The beautiful young lady over there is my daughter...and a daughter of Caeroldra. She is new to these experiences, so please forgive us. She has been through much recently and I didn't want to leave her at home without me nearby."
Mordrid Tuesday June 20th, 2006 1:42:29 PM
Mordrid remains silent in an effort not to draw attention to himself; which oddly enough, he had found in his long career, usually achieved the exact opposite result, which brings into question why he finds himself assuming this role.
The trio entering the hall seemed peaceful enough. Obviously a silver. Obviously intellegent, as she travels with companions, which indicates she is less prideful and more practical. The reds that go sulking alone in their caverns usually die. The smart ones like Parnoth that assume henchmen always survived.
It strikes the ranger as odd that she would bring protection to this meeting, but then it occurs to him that Sturtevant has a team of six hardened mercenaries standing by his side. That must make an impression.
With all things considered, it was time to guard against unwanted party crashers. The trio bring no harm. His eyes abandon Shenlong and search windows and doors, and shadowed corners.
The ranger makes a note to notify Wu as soon as possible that the Wold's most notorious assassin was within the castle walls, and he should be concerned for his lady's welfare.
Ve Mundr Tuesday June 20th, 2006 1:55:36 PM
The Protector, out of a lifetime of instinct more than anything resembling a conscious thought, puts his arm back around Valdora's shoulder as she moves behind him and turns to further act as a physical shield. Dahlia is quickly enough there to assist and Ve knows there is no true danger from these three, but stays as he is. The warmth of human blood and flesh often help calm fears.
At the introductions of the two with Shenlong Zhi, the cleric of Domi nods deeply. He then introduces himself. "By Domi's grace I am Vé Mundr sveinn Rögnvaldr, Protector of Domi." He finishes with another deep nod and partial bow.
Corialote and Amarth Tuesday June 20th, 2006 5:07:59 PM
Cori looks over the three strangers with practiced ease of one that is use to studying such unusual things before. She has met very few dragons in all her studies and finds that this one is someone to strive to be like. She wields power but does not have to overtly use it...it just is.
She does not move from her spot in the grand hall but does cut a neat bow to the lady. "Corialote en Andor of the Star Mage Guild...often called the Purple Rose...and her faithful familiar and fiend Amarth at your service." She does not normally use her given title as it is just a formality from some at the Star Mage Guild...so she created a purple rose with white tattooing much like her own...it was no big deal.
As she straightens her glowing eyes take in the rest of the grand hall...looking for things that should not be there. For a meeting this low-key...it must be important and therefore dangerous.
[detect magic - 1 minute]
[Scott - since when have you referred to your trusted companion as a "fiend" - lol / just joking]
Nick Wednesday June 21st, 2006 12:10:24 AM
Nick swallows hard and steels himself for what is about to come through that door. All praise to the Blessed Alemi that Valdora had support in the form of Ve and Dahlia. He had to admire the girl's determination. At that age he was sure he'd have been cowering under the table by now. He casts a quick glance at Valdor. What are we getting into, here? It's almost an anti climax to finally see who their visitors are. Clearing his head, he steps forward, and on his turn, after a bow, introduces himself - "I am Father Nicholas Valentine, Shepherd of Alemi, and I hope your journey here was a pleasant one."
DM Jan Wednesday June 21st, 2006 1:22:51 AM
Shenlong Zhi and her companions recieve the introductions with a nod. Sirrius remains impassive throughout, whereas Wu raises a thoughtful eyebrow as Valdor mentions his Dragonstone title. Obviously the ambassador of the group, the small, wide-girthed sorceror steps forward. "Our apologies, Dahlia Lightfingers, but we have done all we can do, I'm afraid. We did not realise a child would be here, otherwise you would have been forewarned." Shenlong interrupts - "The girl will do well to float on this gentle tide of dragon fear. All the better shall she remember it. A difficult lesson, but not all of my kind are encountered under such civilized circumstances. Something that will no doubt be discussed later. But enough. Sturtavent! We are hungry from travel and wish to avail ourselves of your hospitality."
Mordrid gets a chance to inform Wu about Korrig as everyone prepares to take their seats at the dining table. "Thank you. Let us inform Sirrius. He says little but loves to mull over this sort of thing," says the sorceror.
Sturtavent leads Shenlong Zhi to the seat at the head of the table. He will then take a seat at the opposite end. It appears that the Dragons, Wu, Sirrius and Valdora are left to take whatever seats they prefer on either side of the table.
It's a struggle, but Valdora breathes as Dahlia has suggested and has managed to stop her hands from trembling. She sticks close to Dahlia and the Protector, not wanting to distract her father.
It soon becomes evident that Sirrius is not joining everyone at the dining table. He'll miss out, and stay by the door, on guard.
The dinner is a long procession of varied courses, and as there is no need for pretense, both Sturtavent and Shenlong Zhi touch nothing but the meat dishes, and between them eat enough well-charred flesh to satisfy a tarrasque.
There is also plenty of opportunity for small talk. As Shenlong's sorbet lies untouched and melting in a bowl set in front of her - "So, how does Plateau City fare after the latest turmoil? I would hope that the Lady Maab and her wayward husband are now reconciled? Many lost their lives over that little spat." The dragon's question is presented to everyone at the table.
Dahlia Wednesday June 21st, 2006 5:12:08 PM
My apologies my lady. No disrespect was meant. I keep forget how often we have been around dragons. The instinct to run is while not gone, severely muted. I just always assumed it was because the dragons we were around could control it, not that we were getting used to it.
As they take their seats at the table, Dahlia notices Valdora taking in all the different silverware and lets her know that if she has any questions to ask and then listens to the conversations at the table.
As the conversation turns to events following Oberon's foray into the Wold, she nods and makes one comment and then asks a question.
"Well on the lighter side of things This year's wine ought to be fabulous, I had the sweetest grapes on my vineyard and they were all about the size of canteloupes.
How are things since, ummm, the move from the Island after the wasting Disease?"
Mordrid Wednesday June 21st, 2006 10:27:36 PM
Mordrid takes a post opposite Sirrius. With a knowing nod the ranger lets the silver's protector know that he too shares a similar role.
After hearing Dahlia's segue into the conversation regarding Ebyron, the ranger adds, "and then there is the mute female child to consider. She is a harbinger of sorts. But for what we do not know." These are the only words the ranger has spoken other than the short whisperings to Wu.
Valdor Thursday June 22nd, 2006 12:36:31 AM
Valdor says in response,"My lady, we were able to come to an agreement with Eberyon, not Lady Maab. That is why his crazy nature is no longer threatening the Wold. He was actually quite resonable once we got him to quit trying to show off how powerful he was."
Valdor grins and then gets up with a leg of lamb and hands it to Mordrid. He says,"If anyone sneeks in, hit him with this." He chuckles and walks back to his seat. He then says,"He doesn't eat enough to keep a bird alive. I have to make him eat or he'd just dry up and blow away."
Nick Thursday June 22nd, 2006 1:03:33 AM
"I think the City appears to be bouncing back quite well," adds Nick, eating only the kind of things that Sturtavent and Shenlong Zhi are leaving untouched - the vegetables, the sorbet. "We did experience some bad flooding at one point, though."
Corialote and Amarth Thursday June 22nd, 2006 1:04:48 AM
Cori slips over and takes a spot at the table, one that affords her a view of most of the room. Her one blind spot is mainly behind her and Amarth seems to be viewing that as he munches on a grape that Cori gave to him. As she sits and listens to the conversation she shakes her head.
She silently wonders if the subject of that force in the pit will be brought up as well. That should open up a new can of worms. Then there is Parnoth who they left behind...a power hungry dragon on the loose in an area that is vulerable at this time.
She otherwise nibbles on a little of the fruit, nuts, bread and a little cheese...though in the past she has packed it away with gusto. The fact that she has cast a lot of powerful magic would dictate that she would need to eat to regain her strength for the future...but she is worried about other things. Like what the Star Mage Guild has found out and what they plan to do. She silently reminds herself to have two dozen of her special roses sent to Sturtavent and maybe a small plant as well. It helps her release stress to tend her own plants and it could not hurt their Lord either.
DM Jan Thursday June 22nd, 2006 2:15:34 AM
As the diners talk back and forth, Mordrid and Sirrius stay on alert. Mordrid gets a return nod from his opposite number, enough to achieve an understanding, and on this occasion, all the action seems to be taking place at the dining table. The location appears to be safe.
At one point, Shenlong Zhi looks questioningly toward Wu, and the sorceror leans forward and addresses Dahlia. "This island, Dahlia Lightfingers, would you be referring to Dragon Bay, perhaps? An unfortunate situation, and thankfully for us, in an area to the far east." Shenlong Zhi makes a tiny sound, but one that nevertheless carries the sentiment of disgust. "Another subject that will rear it's ugly head tonight," is all she says before tucking into a blackened rack of ribs, tearing it apart ruthlessly with delicate fingers.
Valdora mimics Dahlia's table etiquette to the letter, and breaks out her first smile of the evening as her father leaves the table with a turkey leg.
Finally, as the meal comes to an end - "Well, Sturtavent," asks the Silver, "are you ready for the tidings I bring?" The Mayor gives a heavy sigh. "I suppose I'd better be, Beloved Shenlong Zhi. Should I fear the worst?" The Silver shrugs and gestures to the Dragons sat around the table. "Whatever happens, you have your support, as I have. Dim the lights further, then. We won't be needing them. "
The sorceror Wu stands, clears his throat, and then addresses Valdor, Nick, Cori, Valdora, Mordrid, Ve and Dahlia. "Ladies and gentlemen, Shenlong Zhi is about to seek a reading. "
Sturtavent leaves his place at the table. "If you would all join me at Shenlong Zhi's end of the table, I would value greatly your opinions," he adds to the others.
A mild skittering of magic - cantrips - dims the lights and draws crockery and utensils to the centre of the table. Sirrius lets a out a barely heard, overly patient sigh as his task it seems, has just been made more difficult.
Mordrid Thursday June 22nd, 2006 3:19:52 AM
Mordrid waves the turkey leg in the air once or twice. "Don't upset Amarth with such nonsense."
He takes a bite, before placing it back on the table. "I wouldn't want anyone to get a leg up on me." (the ranger's idea of a joke.) "Especially as we take kindly to bedding with the enemy."
When Shenlong get's to her post supper show, he comes to the table as he is called forward. He glances at Sirrus as if to say, 'it's all up to you.' He flashes a hand signal his way; a signal of the forestmen. It says, "there is a beast near camp. Beware." The ranger can only hope that Sirrus shares similar knowledge.
Valdor Thursday June 22nd, 2006 2:10:31 PM
Valdor hugs his daughter and says,"It would probably be best if you went and stood beside Sirrius over there. Don't say anything, nor make any noises. What we see will not be dangerous and if you make any noise, it could disrupt her. I will be right over here."
He kisses her forehead then goes to stand at the back of the group as he's taller than most of them.
Ve Mundr Thursday June 22nd, 2006 2:22:01 PM
Ve keeps his mouth quiet and his mind open to the conversations at dinner. It is small talk, but you never know when a real piece of information or intention will come out in such conversations. That and he was nowhere near the City during the Ebyron crisis and nor did he have much to do with it up north where he was. From what he pieced together through the aftermath with various bards and some other heroes, the Ebyron and Fey rising while seemingly Wold wide, seemed to also naturally concentrteabout the heroes of the Wold. Something he found odd, but acceptable. Some affects were certainly Wold wide, but the heart of the conflicts were definately more hero-centric as one bard put it. So Ve sips his brandy and listens.
The prelimenaries end and the main event starts. He tries to muffle a chuckle of his own at Sirrius' apparent discomfort. He knew Mordrid's mind fairly well and thought Sirrius to fall very close to that as well. He did not understand the self inflicted stress that almost every ranger he had ever met inflicted upon themselves. Though he also had to admit he was a rare figure in the circle of the Protector, relying much more on natural reaction and instinct then remaining on a conscious level of alert. Perhaps he was as odd as some have always said. Ve gives his head a small shake returning to the matter at hand. He moves to the appropriate end of the table.
Nick Thursday June 22nd, 2006 3:05:34 PM
Nick raises an eyebrow at the conversation between the two dragons. NOW his curiosity is really piqued. A reading? What did that mean? A crystal ball? Tea leaves? Too irreverent. Maybe she could stare directly into Sturtavent's head. Well, he wouldn't envy her that. This would prove most interesting. The only cloud on the horizon - what it would reveal. Her earlier hints hadn't exactly suggested anything good. He joins the others, eager to discover what happens next.
Dahlia Thursday June 22nd, 2006 6:29:23 PM
Noting that they referred to the dragon bay incidence and the wasting disease as being FAR to the east, Dahlia smiles and nods her head keeping her racing thoughts to herself.
Throughout dinner Dahlia spies Valdora mimicking he table ettiquette and carefully nods her approval to her when noone else is looking.
At the mention of the reading, Dahlia perks up and remembers the hag having just recently read the bones for her. Smiling to herself as she recalled the rest of that night, Dahlia moves around to where she is directed.
Corialote and Amarth Thursday June 22nd, 2006 7:17:58 PM
Cori listens to the talks going on around her with some interest. Having eaten little of the food she is quick to grab onto the chance to see dragon magic. She has heard that it is quite different than what she uses...it should be informative.
Amarth takes no note of the goings on around him as he keeps watch. The grapes are good and he even gets a little of the nuts as well...with some bread.
Cori moves over with Amarth still on her shoulder to take part in the reading. She takes a seat that puts her in a good place to react to anything that may happen...that is not suppose to.
DM Jan Friday June 23rd, 2006 1:11:41 AM
Valdora joins Sirrius just after the lights dim. Everyone else gathers at the table.
As soon as everyone is in position, Shenlong Zhi reaches into the folds of her sleeve and withdraws what looks like a circular deck of playing cards. She asks two of those stood at the table to cut them. Anyone who reaches forward to cut the cards finds them quite heavy, and cold to the touch. They appear to be embossed with some kind of metal, and contain a multitude of elaborate designs upon their surface. "I have reached the same result, on three separate occasions," states the Silver, so let us all be witness."
She lays out three cards - in a row - on the table's surface, then below the row of three - one single card.
For a moment, nothing appears to happen, then all four cards begin to glow, then double their size and cast forth a bright vertical column of light. Their surface patterns swirl, and images take their place.
Top left = a male black dragon. Top middle = an iron gauntlet curled into a fist. Top right = a male green dragon.
The single card below, beneath the others = a male gold dragon.
"Pah," mutters Shenlong Zhi. "It is the same, always the same. Not a very auspicious thing to have two chromatics hanging over your head, Sturtavent. The iron fist suggests they will try and wrest control from you. Am I to assume that none of you desires this political structure?" She gestures to the top three cards. "I am unsure of the timing of it, but as of now - it is a certainty. Unless something can be done."
((OOc - I'm out till Sunday, guys. Have a good weekend.))
Valdor Friday June 23rd, 2006 1:26:44 AM
Valdor rubs his chin and says,"Most impressive. I would guess that the green would be Parnoth, but we should always keep our options open. The only male black dragon that I know of would be the one Dae'lin fought just before the war against the Usurper. Could the Gold Dragon be us and not Sturdevant? Since all the Storm Dragons went home or wherever, we here, except Ve are members of the Gold Dragons. Just throwing out options that might not be so obvious. Of course, it could be simply the way it appears, but in my limited experience with readings, they are never quite what they seem, no matter how skilled the reader."
Dahlia Friday June 23rd, 2006 8:15:03 AM
Um, Valdor, does it have to be a dragon, couldn't it possibly mean the Black Dragons? Prehaps others of the Black dragons are going to team up with Parnoth to free Korig, or maybe Parnoth and Korig were alreay partners. I suppose that, it if IS a dragon dragon ... I wish more of the Storms were with us, Didn't they have a run in with a Black dragon or two? I believe the female often went around in human form as well. What was her name again? Soldara, something like that... Or maybe they are talking about the Black father of the young dragon Jus was taking care of.
Corialote and Amarth d20+34=37 d20+39=51 Friday June 23rd, 2006 11:36:55 PM
Cori studies the cards as they are dealt and tries to come up with the meaning on her own. This type of reading is open to many interpretations as the others are now bringing up. With a last shake of her head she looks up. "Then it seems we will have to prepare for the worst." Though it did not need to be said she could not help it...it just kind of popped out.
Glancing to Shenlong Zhi she nods her head to the cards. "Have you tried any other methods of divination?" She tries to keep her tone respectful as she is just asking a simple question but does not want to offend.
[knowledge(arcane) 37 and spellcraft 51]
Mordrid Saturday June 24th, 2006 3:50:31 PM
Mordrid can't help but to barely supress a chuckle. 'Witchcraft?' Not exactly what you would call high magic.
"So Parnoth and the Black Dragons mean trouble. That is hardly news," the ranger adds with skepticism. Is there more?"
Ve Mundr d20+16=19 Sunday June 25th, 2006 10:33:15 PM
Ve observes the cards but more so observes the other two men with the dragon, though he is distracted by the multitude of possibilities. [Sense Motive 19 not even a hunch]
"Perhaps if we knew about the question or issue being sought in this reading." The cleric offers. Depending on the subject and in what light you begin, the answers or tales are dependant told. If Sturvant is the subject of the reading I would err to the side of Parnoth and a Black dragon known or otherwise plotting to take control. We quite conveniently left the emerald demon in a town of victims to claim as his own and use to his black hearts content."
Nick Sunday June 25th, 2006 11:52:35 PM
Nick stays quiet for the most part, not really knowing what to make of it. That green had to be Parnoth. But surely - he wouldn't try anything... "Solara," he says distractedly to Dahlia at one point, as he ponders the implications at what has been revealed on the table.
DM Jan Monday June 26th, 2006 12:24:28 AM
As everyone discusses the reading as it stands, the flat images on the table start to become three dimensional, rising from the table and up into the columns of light.
The iron gauntlet revolves slowly - tightly clenched, it looks a thing of resolve.
The green dragon image rises upward. It too begins to rotate, revealing a gold foreclaw on the creature.
The black and gold dragons also rise. Anyone who has seen Sturtavent in dragon form will recognize the individual ridged forehead as being identical to the Mayor.
The black one - slightly larger than Sturtavent and Parnoth, with long, forward-facing horns and a near-white bony face. It is a male.
Shenlong's delicate features lean toward Cori. "There is no need, child. This is prophecy - destined to become history unless those within it are strong enough to cross it's path. Not an easy task, for the path has the strength of a river in flood." As Cori studies the cards, and cards is probably not the best term to use, she realizes that she has never seen anythng like them before. Even the magic involved looks, sounds, tastes different. It doesn't appear to be evil, merely different - another book on a higher shelf.
The ancient Silver smiles. "Yes,"she answers Mordrid. "There is more. Let us call the final line - the 'wild' cards. These are the icons of change." As she begins to deal - this time a vertical line of three cards, alongside the main formation, Ve can see Wu looking on with interest, and over by the door, Sirrius bent slightly, as Valdora whispers something into his ear.
Top wild card - a city floating on a lake.
Middle wild card - a group of humanoids, two of the smaller figures have dark skins. One of the taller ones is dressed in white robes.
Bottom wild card - a large, barrel-chested, armoured orc, on horseback. The orc carries a standard that flutters in the wind.
Shenlong Zhi looks across the columns of light at Sturtavent. "I do not recognize the black, but I suspect that his rise will enable Parnoth to grow bold."
As the black dragon image continues to revolve, Dahlia suddenly becomes overcome with fear - pit fear, a mere accompaniment to what happens next. For a moment, an image of a much smaller silver dragon appears inside the same column of light supporting the black dragon. It's in her peripheral vision and it's gone in an instant.
Valdor Monday June 26th, 2006 12:18:44 PM
Valdor says,"So these are real dragons. If we take out this black dragon...or Parnoth quickly, can we keep this from happening? Parnoth is manageable as long as he's kept in check. One of these days, he will grow too bold, we've known that. But, if we stop this black before he really gets started, then Sturdevant would be safe. And, I'm assuming that if Sturdevant is in danger, it's more like Plateau City is in danger.
The orc, did anyone recognize the banner? And, if he's the leader of the black dragon's followers, we could take it out as well. Of course, it's difficult to talk of such things until they've done something against us. Even if they are evil, I don'tlike to strike until provoked."
Ve Mundr Monday June 26th, 2006 4:17:51 PM
Ve watches the columns of color and takes note of the Wildcards. "It certainly appears that we are one of the Wild Cards. I would venture the other is the Floating city and perhaps is the the starting point or the location of the final battle." Ve pauses in a bit of thought and then turns to Shenlong Zhi, "These talismans of prophecy, how accurate are they and could this black dragon posses such tiles as well or are they unique in your possession?"
Looking to Valdor after the question is answered, "I could use a Discern Location possibly if the cards are as powerful as she says." An odd look then crosses his face, "Valdor do not take this the wrong way, but because they are evil is precisely the reason we should strike. Evil should be sought out and destroyed, not ignored until it personally affects you. We walk in the light as heroes of the Wold. We seek out evil and destroy it by conversion or the sword. What we should begin doing is learning as much as we can about this banner, the orc and the Black dragon. I suggest Floating City is where we start."
Dahlia Monday June 26th, 2006 5:37:41 PM
Umm,... did anyone else see that or was it just a flicker of movement.... she then will describes the momentary vision she saw of a much smaller silver dragon appearing inside the same column of light supporting the black dragon.
Mordrid Monday June 26th, 2006 7:26:04 PM
Mordrid calmly replies to Ve, "Valdor speaks for the moral code of our group. He is correct in the notion that we do not draw blood due to a prophetic reading. Valdor and I are not holy men and do not render judgement upon such things. Perhaps if we investigated and found a true need to clear out evil, we could then do that. Because of our elivated status, we have been forced to be calculated in our responses. One wrong move could mean instability in the Wold. It would be like a gardener damaging his plot, because he destroyed one thing or another, that leads to an imbalance. Perhaps killing all the snakes would lead to an infestation of rodents."
The ranger looks up, and seeing that he might be losing them with his analogies, simply clarifies, "We need to know more. Valdor, if we learn more, we could then seek action."
[Mordrid has become lawful good late in life. He comes from a true neutral background.]
Nick Monday June 26th, 2006 8:58:44 PM
Nick raises an eyebrow at Dahlia's comment. He certainly hadn't seen anything. He says to her quietly as an aside - "I'm trying to remember what the Storm Dragons told us about their encounter a while ago with a black dragon. Didn't Jus or Gareth mention a silver also? A young female?" He shrugs, unsure of whether he's remembered correctly.
His curiosity is so much at the forefront, that the irradication of evil debate between Ve and Mordrid leaves little impact on him. Followers of Domi had a tendency to be more forthright when it came to such matters. Nick would have to jump on the side of Ve under normal circumstances, but right now, he's staring at the orc and wondering who it is, and what part the creature plays in the prophecy.
Corialote and Amarth d20+34=52 d20+34=38 d20+24=31 d20+14=18 Monday June 26th, 2006 11:34:24 PM
Cori just shrugs and then nods. "I had wondered about that." She watches as the other cards are layed out and wonders if this type of magic can be learned. Would it be impolite to ask or would it be seen as a lesser being asking for an elevated gift. Oh she would not mind study if that is what it takes...then again maybe it is an born talent...or something inherintely dragon.
As she watches the cards come up she nods her head as some of the others speak. "I would agree with The Floating City being the location...but what of the orc and the dark skinned ones?" She strains her eyes to identify the true race of the two figures and the banner...though the last maybe out of her area.
Looking to Valdor she then looks to the others but lets her eyes settle back on him. "Want me to do some checking as well...both with the Guild and with some of my own spells?" She believes that she has gotten a good enough look at both the orc and figures to at least use a few spells...and the library.
Valdor Tuesday June 27th, 2006 1:17:07 AM
Valdor adds,"Cori, I think the two dark skinned shorter beings and the tall white robed are you, Dahlia, and Nick. The orc is just a stupid orc. But, I have never overlooked any opponent, even an orc. Now that you have a visual, perhaps that and the banner would be a good place to start searching. Mayhap the mages guild, or even the public library has pictures of such a banner.
Ve, I was testing your response. I do not like to seek out evil, it always seems to find us just fine. Perhaps we should seek out Onrad and Gareth, Jus and Nonam. We could sure use their help in this coming battle, if indeed one is coming...especially if they have already fought this dragon. We should prepare for battle with both a black and Parnoth, from spells to acid protection scrolls, rings, whatever you all think we need.
Dahlia, why don't you search with Cori for the banner. Also, if you saw a silver supporting a black, that's definitely a problem and we need to find out which dragons might have such an allegiance. There can't be many. Perhaps Sturdevant could help us there. Nick and Ve, some futher divinations to your Gods separately might give us more clues and you could help with a list of what's needed for fighting these dragons.
Mordrid and I will go to Floating City to attempt to find the other Platinums to join us in this fight. I would feel more comfortable if they were here. If not, perhaps I can convince them to at least gather information through their contacts in the big Float.
Anything else anyone can think of? Sturdevant? Lady? Wu?"
DM Jan Tuesday June 27th, 2006 2:06:41 AM
The 'wild cards' begin to turn three dimensional, just as the others did.
The city on the lake becomes very familiar, it's inhabitants scurrying like ants, they look to be fixing things - rebuilding. The surrounding water seems calm, and at the edge, a haze of green jungle.
As the image on the middle card rises into the light, Cori recognizes herself, and the others, stood strong, faces looking outward.
As the orc on horseback rises from the table, everyone is able to get a better look at him. The flag flutters in a strong breeze - a lightning bolt in front of a dark mountain against a white background. Neither Cori or Nick recognize it, suggesting that it is new, or has been hidden for an age. The creature carries a grim look, as though something troubles him. His mount appears to share a similar sentiment, pawing the ground impatiently with one hoof. The animal is broad-chested with long, muscular legs and is stood on stony, barren ground. And behind them both, a grey troubled sky.
Shenlong Zhi gestures toward the cards laid on the table. "These are unique," she explains to Ve. "If the black dragon has something of a similar nature, then he would have had to create them - a feat long on time, patience and skill." She shrugs. "Nothing is impossible."
No sooner has he addressed his fellow adventurers, Valdor feels a tug at his elbow. It's his daughter. "Daddy, Sirrius says he knows where the horse came from."
"I know the breed," offers Sirrius from his position by the door. "One of the few brave enough, and stubborn enough to carry an abomination like that without bolting. They're bred alongside the Peaseblossom River, on the borders of Izen and Blackbird Forest."
"Is that orc in Izen, then?" asks Sturtavent eagerly, his anger and irritation growing as he takes in the revolving images. The Mayor's eyes lock upon those of Shenlong Zhi. The sorceror Wu backs away from the table as suddenly the air becomes very dry. There's a fraction of a second, where everyone suddenly feels light on their feet, but it subsides immediately. A moment later Shenlong Zhi's hand slams hard on the table, causing the images to shimmer. "I did not come here to warn you Sturtavent, only to have you charge in and reawaken the wrath of the Gods! This must be done carefully. Remember the incident at Dragon Bay and remember it well - hundreds, thousands killed - at the whim of Gargul. Oh, yes, I lay that atrocity at HIS feet, not at that disease-ridden puppet Marteaus!" The silver gives out a hiss of frustration and then appears to calm herself. Both dragons appear troubled; the atmosphere becomes thick with gloom.
Valdor Tuesday June 27th, 2006 10:32:09 AM
Valdor looks from Sturdevant, then slowly back to Shenlong and says quietly,"There is something you are not telling us. I do not wish to be a puppet in this. If there is important information not being shared, we need to know. We have always been glad to help, eager to do so in fact, but I will not be a pawn in some game of power between dragons. Let's hear what you are not telling us. A battle between dragons is hardly a new thing where power, land, and monetary gain is involved, but this is more than that. You are both immensely powerful and would not be so on edge about this situation."
He hugs his daughter then bids her to stand beside Sirrius again, just in case Shenlong retaliates in some way for his comments.
Mordrid Tuesday June 27th, 2006 11:59:00 AM
Mordrid is 100 percent behind what Valdor just said. He shows it by standing over his shoulder with arms crossed; eyes set firmly on the two dragons.
'I wonder if Shenlong knows that the Golds could have helped the dragons at the Bay, but failed. I wonder if they know that Myrridan took the last brood of dragon eggs from Dragon Bay, and they are now currently under the protection of the druids.' Pondering, Mordrid realizes that he too is not telling everything.
DM Jan - ADDITIONAL POST Tuesday June 27th, 2006 12:48:01 PM
(For clarification)
Shenlong Zhi gives an awkward sigh - a translated expression of emotion for her humanoid form, and her humanoid audience. "There are no secrets, Dragonstone. Now you see us as we are. Lizards. Crawling on our bellies from stone to stone, hiding from the destructive whims of the Gods. Gods who laid down promises, never to intervene." Her voice is full of sorrow, heartbreak and bitterness. Sturtavent looks awkward, a little embarrased, as though something of a personal nature has been revealed, something he had rather kept under wraps.
If anyone had ever had cause to wonder about the impact the dragon extermination in Dragon Bay had on the remaining few, then here it was, laid bare. Whatever their perception of it - what it meant, whether or not it would ever happen again, was now obviously a factor in every decision and every action they made. Marteaus's bold move had struck a deep chord.
There is a moment of quiet, as both dragons stare at one another, their faces close, communicating silently in their own way, using scent and facial expression. Wu takes the opportunity to step beside Valdor. "Our Beloved Lady of the Clouds lost a nephew in the extermination," he tells everyone quietly. "She has urged caution amongst her fellow Consortium members ever since." He glances toward the columns of light rising from the table. "If I am to read anything at all in her outburst, it is a suggestion perhaps that the scale of what lies before us, may be grand enough to bring forth the Gods attention once more. It's hard to say. I have been witness to many of these readings. They present bold outlines, leaving many of the smallest details to emerge later. And what is the saying - that loss lies in the details?" He shrugs. "Forgive my presumptions, brave fellows. But perhaps a cautionary approach to this problem would not be a bad thing, no?"
And Mordrid could well be correct. On all counts.
Ve Mundr d20+16=35 Tuesday June 27th, 2006 1:06:39 PM
A myriad of responses roll through his mind to both men, but would serve much of a purpose beyond distraction and beginning an arguement from which no one would back down. His opinion to them on most matters means little and the misconceptions of his character placed by thier past upon him render him unrecognizable to almost any of them. Outside of his freind Nicholas, the others likely saw him as outsider and only there by chance and they were right. What had it been 3 days since they had met.
Indeed, by Valdors own account, he should not have gone to Osto, after all the evil there had hardly sought him out. That too, was irrelevant in the end. His moral code and purpose in the wold was twofold. To seek out evil and destroy it, by conversion or by sword. Or to foster good and to protect it. This 'reading' seemed to Ve to fall squarely into the first category.
Ve nods to Valdor on the request for a divination. "We should assume our would be opponents are moving likewise and take what precautions we may against divinations ourselves."
The two dragons then come to a head of sorts and Ve's hand moves to his Hammer. His eyes too, pass from Dragon to Dragon as Valdor asks on the information being held back. Or perhaps not so much as information as suspicions and fear.
[sense motive 35]
Valdor Tuesday June 27th, 2006 3:16:27 PM
Valdor nods to Ve and replies,"Although MOST dragons are so arogant as to think themselves almost invincible, they are, for the most part, a very intelligent group. Knowing that, they would already have a game plan in effect. The evil dragons wouldn't be as concerned about angering the Gods as the good ones.
And My Lady, 'lizards' is hardly a way to describe a dragon. You know better than that. While I don't pretend to understand your feelings in this, I know you are much more than that and have more self worth than you are now showing. Magnificent, powerful, intelligent beings are what dragons are. Why would powerful men and women of all races seek to name themselves after mere lizards? I try not to be arrogant, but I am a very powerful man. I would not name myself or be part of a group called the Platinum Lizards. Self pity will not help us here, nor will denying your power and ability. My Lady, you have done much already and I, for one, am proud to be in the company of one so regal and important. Do not belittle yourself or your abilities please. Remember who you are and what you are capable of. And you as well, Sturdevant!
Now, back to our purpose here. We can do these things quietly. We don't want a panic. We should tell noone of our purpose or our missions, unless we KNOW them to be an ally an will keep quiet. I would like to find out about this orc quickly and eliminate him, if indeed he is a general or a threat. It could be done quietly. Forgive me Wu, but slow and cautious have never been words in my vocabulary."
Corialote and Amarth Tuesday June 27th, 2006 3:21:15 PM
Cori laughs lightly as many things are stated and she shakes here head. "My people are known for thier plotting and deception...it is one trait that we share with all the races." She nods her head again at the points brought forward. "So this war...if you want to call it that...could well be the beginning of the end, in that the Gods may have to put a hand in the pot as well or are forced too." She shakes her head again but this time with a look of concentration upon her face.
With a look to all those present she starts to turn and then stops. "If there is nothing else then I will start my own investigation now...I will be at the Guild...the library most likely." If there is nothing else she will retreat from the hall and make her way to the Guild, though she does stop at the doorway. "If I am not a the Guild...seek me in my garden back at my house." Yes the garden will be the perfect place to do what she will need to do. Question and answers...she has a lot of the first but few of the others at this time.
Dahlia Tuesday June 27th, 2006 5:17:53 PM
My Lady, Do you recognize either the black, r perhaps you know of a silver that supports the agenda of a black and could perhaps give and informed opinion about who they might be, or of anything you may have heard?
Nick Wednesday June 28th, 2006 12:22:35 AM
Nick watches the interaction between his friends and the dragons with a little apprehension, and hope no one loses their temper. At a point where things need to settle - "I'll walk it across to the Cathedral of Light, and do my divination there. It should be VERY safe from prying eyes. Ve, do you want to join me? Or would you rather seek out a temple of Domi? I was going to check out our library afterwards, and talk to the missionaries - maybe they've heard of orcs on horseback." He shrugs. "Or maybe not."
DM Jan Wednesday June 28th, 2006 1:15:59 AM
Shenlong Zhi's eyes home in on the halfling. "I have had no aquaintance with a male black dragon in these parts. Whoever it is has never petitioned for a seat on the Consortium. A secretive rascal. As for the involvement of a supportive silver? I would deem that impossible." To Valdor, she barks out an abrupt laugh. "Well! Crying over it certainly won't help matters. You're right about that." Her tone registers slight annoyance, but it's brushed off quickly enough. She cocks her head and gives Mordrid a hard, analytical look, then turns to Sturtavent. "Alas, my dear Golden friend, I must return to my own lands, and swiftly. " She sweeps a hand through the columns of light, watching them as they dwindle. And as she gathers the cards together, " the great White Chay T'toth still terrorizes the upper reaches. If life up there isn't difficult enough. That dragon is completely crazed. A drooling idiot. At least with the likes of Parnoth, you can hold a conversation, perhaps negotiate." Her hands give a swift signal to Wu and Sirrius, who move swiftly to her side. "Fear not, Sturtavent. These are good people who stand by your side." Sturtavent and Shenlong Zhi appear to embrace, but instead of a peck on the cheek, their tongues flick out - a quick taste under the ear, behind the jaw. A decidely odd gesture, for a human that is.
Sturtavent moves to the windows and draws them open, and the evening air drifts in, heavy with moisture. What had been a clear night, was now cloaked by a thick fog. None of the city outside the castle walls can be seen at all. The sorceror Wu takes time to shake everyone by the hand. "I am very glad to have met you all," he says, beaming magnanimously, and then with a glance to the window, "alas, I should have brought warmer clothes." Sirrius merely nods.
What happens next is both fluid and swift. Shenlong Zhi begins to change as she walks to the window, her form growing larger, rippling with muscle that carries a hard, metallic grey sheen. Outside, she completes the change, and her companions climb swiftly onto her neck. A dive into the mists, and she's gone.
Sturtavent stands at the window for a long moment, letting curls of wet fog snake into the room. Then he turns to face the group. "Well. That was interesting." He attempts to make that comment light. And fails.
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