The Flashback [DM Jerry] Friday May 25th, 2007 9:59:29 AM
A short time before, brave readers, before the current adventure, during a time of planning, celebration and rest, our heroes carried out some very important business. This tale needs to be told, so with a tip of my wand I take us back in time to watch these bold events that led to everything.....EVERYTHING....that was to follow.
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Yes, as you can see brave reader, the Platinum and Emerald Dragons are meeting to see who is worthy to invite to join them in the Consortium! Dozens of groups are looked at. Many interviews are held. Eventually the Consortium assemblage has narrowed the field down to two incredible troupes of adventurers.
The first group is a brave lot from Aisildur. They have alliances with the Emperor of Aisildur and stand with him against the Priesthood of Ga'al. They also hold friendship and receive much respect from the Pirates of Jack and those allied with them. The Swords of Redemption have proven themselves worthy in every way! They are heroic, generous, and brave. They care for their own and lay their lives down daily for each other as well as for all the things they believe in!
They are:
THE SWORDS OF REDEMPTION!
The second group, are true veterans. Long time adventurers recently having come into a new incarnation of themselves. They protect the northern frontier of the Kingdom of New Elenna. They are lauded from Plateau City to the Scab. From Culverwood to their home town of Windhorn Hamlet. They are noble and generous to a fault, giving to those who are not as blessed by the gods as themselves. They are heroes of children, a grand compliment indeed!
They are THE WINDHORN HAMLETEERS!
A decision is made brave readers. The Dragon Consortium will ask both groups to join them. The usual "weeding out" period will be effect if they accept to see if the Consortium is right for them as well as well as to prove their ability to stand beside the Emerald and Platinum Dragons.
So, the leaders of the two active Consortium groups, Valdor and K'nara, set out to invite them to the "Breakfast of Champions" the next morning, when they will be asked to become members of the Dragon Consortium.
Now, let's go to the action, friends. We'll join here the Emerald Dragons in their fevered preparations for the breakfast, which will be held somewhere in their tower--or should I say castle under construction: Emerald Castle!
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[OOC: This is a flashback so that we can handle the invitations. We will resume the action of DM Jim's adventure as soon as this concludes. K'nara and Valdor are sending out the invitations on the Hamleteers and Redemption boards this day. I've already posted their lead in and appearance. Monday, their "transportation" will arrive for them to bring them here.
All posting after that, beginning Monday-Tuesday will be on this board! It will be a busy place!
Note that the Platinum Dragons will probably begin arriving on this board this very day. Be sure to welcome them! They can help you with the preparations.
Post as many times as you need to folks to be ready.
Have fun!
Send any questions to me via email please.
Now you have preparations to make in character to prepare for about 30 guests for breakfast. Whew! Can you meet this challenge? {evil grin}
Dm Jim: The Emerald Castle Under Construction Friday May 25th, 2007 11:26:49 AM
There is a large tower that dominates the Culverwood forest. Culverwood is an old forest with many large trees and it is mostly clear underneath their spreading branches. The forest is being cleared to make way for the future expansion of the Emerald Tower as it is transformed into the Emerald Castle. There is a huge Minotaur directing scores of wood elves in the preparation for the coming expansion. One are that has been cleared now has a very new cemetery.
There is a contingent of dwarves taking all kinds of measurements and testing some local stone as they must be the front men for the consruction crew. One of the dwarves off to the side is playing the pipes and not paying much attention to the other dwarves.
The Tower itself is stong and tall, but it seems to have taken a bit a damage of late. SOme of the battlements on its top have been toppled and lie have embeded in the soft ear next to the tower walls. There is a giant claw mark toward the top of the tower. What could have made those deep cuts in the stone?
K'Nara Friday May 25th, 2007 1:36:55 PM
K'Nara surveys the Emerald Dragons' "kingdom".
"This should be a sweet little place once the repairs are done." she comments.
Lian Friday May 25th, 2007 6:02:43 PM
The monk and Hand of Domi oversees the preparation of the cemetary, running information and concerns between the foreman, clergy and Brother Bertram.
He also sees to refreshment for the crew, despite the misgivings of the chefs and other attendants. "I'm fine doing this. I'm not so important as to sit on a fluffy chair and look down. Please, out of my way, I have dwarves to feed!" The elf balances about four trays stacked with bread, mead and stew for the crew. "Who has the rabbit? The beef? Wait your turn!"
Ingrge Friday May 25th, 2007 6:53:34 PM
Looking around at the activity, Ingrge first checks with several groups of elves, but finds that Kronnan has everything under control and in hand. The elder elf next checks in with several groups of dwarves looking at plans and diagrams, to be sure that things are going to be working out and that there won't be any surprises. He is a bit fretted over the fact that they haven't yet quite found the other bard/minstrels they have been looking to hire but he has been assured that it won't take but a few more days. After that, well then they will truly begin to see some changes occur around the tower.
Finally he checks with the Stone Dwarve's head Engineer to check and see if there are any potential issues with constructing the gate that they were wanting to have built.
He chuckles once or twice as Lian goes bustling by and for the first time in a while Ingrge actually feels relaxed.
The white-robed white-haired scarred elf looks across the greenway and spies Caeryn and again finds a smile coming to his lips. I still can't believe I'm married to her. he thinks as he makes his way over to stand with his half drow wife.
Seeing K'nara go by he calls out. So just how many are we expecting and where are they all going to sleep? You want I should have a few lrge tents put up or do you have something else in mind? Oh yea, once they are all here and everyone is inside I will make it so no one can interupt us. Anything else you can think of that needs to be done?
Dellintu Friday May 25th, 2007 6:56:58 PM
Collecting a few other elves, primarily begining mage types, Dellintu invites Donara to join him and they begin some basic instruction in the ways of magic.
At other times Dellintu can be found helping with the clearing and practicing with his bow and rapier.
Father Nicolas Valentine (Platinum Dragons) Friday May 25th, 2007 9:49:10 PM
Nick lets out a slow breath as he and the other Platinums arrive. He was never one to enjoy the act of teleportation, and his now aged stomach just complains all the more.
Looking around, he frowns. So. This was the aftermath from the attack Ingrge told Valdor about? Blessed Alemi, that red dragon must have been a terrifying thing.
He spots the cemetery, walks over there and looks upon its current inhabitants.
May you rest easy in the Isles of the Dead. You are not forgotten. Ah.... it will trouble Valdor to see this.
K'Nara Friday May 25th, 2007 10:12:22 PM
K'Nara snags a snack from one of the trays Lian is toting about and noshes.
"Hey...you're pretty good!" she nods to the monk. "Now I know who gets KP while we're on the road!" Then she goes to Ingrge.
"Hey...we're on the hook for breakfast and for giving our guests somewhere to hold their private powwows...they're NOT staying the night." Then the leader of the Emerald Dragons amends: "Well...not unless they have to. In which case, I can offer them the hospitality of the armory...which is empty now..." She frowns, since it was the cowardly attack by Nicholai that had emptied that place.
"Father Nick!" K'Nara says upon seeing the cleric arrive, going over to him and giving him a big ol' hug. "You're looking good! I'm so glad to see you've made it!"
Dahlia Friday May 25th, 2007 10:35:05 PM
The black-skinned halfling, pokes her head out from around behind Father Nicholas as K'nara approaches.
"Waard's Beard! I hate travelling like that. I swear I feel like I am not all in one piece again for several hours afterwards." Oh Hi K'nara! Ready for 30 some odd extra mouths to feed, not counting Valdor's?
As she looks around spotting the damage and then spies the cemetary, She looks up at Nicholas and shakes her head.
"You do realize that Valdor is likely to blow his top when he sees what that dragon did? Maybe we should have held this meeting at Gold dragon Castle."
Falin Saturday May 26th, 2007 10:00:34 AM
Walking around and looking a the damage Falin goes to the battlement that was his room on the top of the tower. It was a shame what happened. Falin thinks more of the elves that died than his own stuff, but he does go looking to see if anything remains.
As he searches the top of the tower he stops and just looks out across the forest and around the immediate grounds.
"This will be a glorious place of refuge and peace. It will be known throughout the forest as a place free from the tyrant Parnoth." Falin says to no one in particular.
Ve Mundr Saturday May 26th, 2007 10:29:09 AM
Ve arrives without complaint, helm slung to one side, shield upon his back and glowing hammer on the other side. Instantly noting the tower and Father Nick's discomfort, he places on hand on the mans shoulder and walks with him to the cemetary. "Quite Right my friend." K`Nara arrives and Father Nick disappears in her embrace, Ve simply takes a small step back and keeps his eyes towards the cemetary until she sets him back down on the ground. Ve then looks and nods, "K`Nara."
Lian Saturday May 26th, 2007 4:02:18 PM
The monk laughs. "Knara, I think Figment had the flare for the food. He was the true gourmet."
Brother Bertram Saturday May 26th, 2007 4:24:57 PM
Bertram eyes everything, intent on what has occured and what changes are in motion.
Gunther Saturday May 26th, 2007 11:06:55 PM
The warrior waves enthusiastically as the Platinum Dragons arrive. "It is goot to see you again!" the man says heartily. Dressed in a tan adventurer's outfit, the big cat trainer is much more at ease in the familiar setting of the Tower.
When K'nara mentions having to potentially put people up, Gunther rubs his clean shaven chin. "I could put some people up in de kitty haven...since it somehow survived de attack. It can be beautiful at night..." Gunther slides in closer to K'nara and gives her a sly look...remembering their first night in the enclosure.
Sonara Sunday May 27th, 2007 10:39:53 AM
Not really sure how to act around all the Dragons and dwarves, the archer disappears from the scene.
Thaeri Sunday May 27th, 2007 10:41:09 AM
The panther is uneasy with all the jostling and movement. She keeps her tail tucked away alot of the time. A dwarf kept stepping on it.
Onrad Monday May 28th, 2007 2:38:44 AM
Onrad looks around and then smiling at Ingrge he asks, "If you'll show me to the kitchen I'll help with preparations there. Where will we be setting up the meal? In the dining room? Or perhaps somewhere more exotic?"
He looks around.
"Hmm....What about up there? He points to the tallest flat surface on the tower he can see. We could erect a tent."
Your Friendly Gold Dragon [DM Jerry] Monday May 28th, 2007 3:10:17 AM
A voice comes in over the communication rings.
"Your friendly dragon here. I've found the ship of the Swords of Redemption. Don't think they are quite sure what to make of me. I'll let you know when we're inflight."
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And some time later, "Your friendly dragon again. I've set down in the street near the Hamleteers. I've spotted one."
Posting Report for Monday May 28th, 2007 7:20:15 AM
Game #3 The Emeral Dragons For the week of may 21,2007
Name-----MTWTF DM Jim F-XXXX2 Glannah--OO2XO K'Nara---OXXXX Lean-----XXXXXSS >also Plays 3 NPplayers. Gunther--XXXXOS Olana----OXOXO Milo-----OXXXO aeralin--OXXXO Inger----X2XX2 Farlin---2XXXOS Athalorn-OXXXX Br. Bert-XXOXOS
Memorial Day
Adm Ceil
Lian Monday May 28th, 2007 12:14:59 PM
While the other such arrangements are being set, Lian brings up a point of concern to several of the other Dragon Consortium members. "My friends, we, that is to say, we Emeralds, have several Friends traveling with us who I believe require sources of communication as they have been very instrumental during recent events. I feel that Athalorn, Dellintu and the twins, Donara and Sonara, require and deserve rings of communication. Of course, that is if they would like one."
Sonara Monday May 28th, 2007 12:16:08 PM
Mingles with the trees in the courtyard, actively avoiding the dragons and dwarves.
K'Nara Monday May 28th, 2007 1:28:46 PM
Each in their turn receive a hug from K'Nara: Dahlia, Ve Mundr and Onrad. As she hugs the halfling, the human's hazel eyes twinkle.
"I daresay that Valdor counts as 30-odd mouths to feed all by himself!" she teases with a grin. In spite of any earlier reservations about Ve, K'Nara easily hugs him, too, knowing that the Platinum Dragons would not have allowed the man into the group if they didn't believe he was a good person.
"I think a large tent to house the intended banquet is an excellent idea." the blade singer agrees with Onrad after hugging him, too. "I will that it is done." And K'Nara is off to do so.
Striding up to Gunther, however, the chestnut-maned woman unabashedly pulls him into her arms and kisses him soundly, then says to him, "Sorry, Gunther...some things I just don't feel like sharing."
To Lian, K'Nara nods agreement.
"We'll ask about getting rings for them while Valdor is here, Lian."
The Scene - DM Donna Monday May 28th, 2007 1:34:32 PM DM OOC: reprinting the description of the Tower and its immediate area as written by DM Jim.)
There is a large tower that dominates the Culverwood forest. Culverwood is an old forest with many large trees and it is mostly clear underneath their spreading branches. The forest is being cleared to make way for the future expansion of the Emerald Tower as it is transformed into the Emerald Castle. There is a huge Minotaur directing scores of wood elves in the preparation for the coming expansion. One are that has been cleared now has a very new cemetery.
There is a contingent of dwarves taking all kinds of measurements and testing some local stone as they must be the front men for the consruction crew. One of the dwarves off to the side is playing the pipes and not paying much attention to the other dwarves.
The Tower itself is strong and tall, but it seems to have taken a bit a damage of late. Some of the battlements on its top have been toppled and lie have embedded in the soft earth next to the tower walls. There is a giant claw mark toward the top of the tower. What could have made those deep cuts in the stone?
To the west of this tower a large tent has been erected. Many elves hustle and bustle, setting up what will become a long banquet table obviously large enough to seat all the groups assembled: the Platinum Dragons, the Grey Knights of the Windhorn Hamlet, the Swords of Redemption from Aisildur and the hosts of the breakfast, the Emerald Dragons.
To the north of the tent is a sprawling village filled with elves and half-elves, living in cottages that look to be constructed of hastily-built wattle-and-thatch.
Everything is a bit chaotic, but the progression of the preparation is about finished by the time the non-Dragon groups arrive.
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Dm Jim: Wow, mine was that bad Nellie.
Lian Monday May 28th, 2007 3:00:03 PM
"They've agreed to come to breakfast then? Great!"
"Did they seem willing to attend, or did they need some sort of compensation? You think they'll accept our offer?"
Ve Mundr Monday May 28th, 2007 3:15:18 PM
Ve returns K`Nara's hug, "It IS good to see you again." Ve looks about at the hussle and bussle of well everything. A small bit of dread crosses his mind, he would be moving his entire family estate and holdings to the Floating city in the near future. How he disliked moving, so much stuff, perhaps Father Mikaili DuVierse was so much the wiser for having forsaken the life of adventuring and taken the vow of Poverty. He pushes the thought away and grasps K`Nara's hand in a firm grip, warrior to warrior. Taking her eyes in he syas it again, "It is good to see you again."
That said, he looks about at the work to be done, "Anything a soldier can do to assist?"
Ingrge Monday May 28th, 2007 4:05:52 PM
Onrad. It is good to see you again. Kitchen? Oh right. It has been so long since we have actually spent any time here that I nearly forgot where what rooms are. Actually, if you go in the main entry the kitchen is straight back and on your left. The pantry and food supplies are down the stairs in the basement.
Ingrge makes his way to the top of the tower to set up a large pavillion like tent and to make sure it is impervious to scying.
Valdor Monday May 28th, 2007 4:19:25 PM
Valdor arrives away from the group withhis eyes closed. He was having enough trouble making himself even show up, as he knows what awaits him here. He slowly opens his eyes and begins to take in the destruction and damageto the tower. He grimaces, knowing what it must have looked like befoe the cleanup began. When he sees the claw marks, he turns beat red and clenches and unclenches his fists several times.
He avoids the festivities for now and just walks around, looking at everything. Tears form in his eyes as he knows he could have prevented all of this with a swing of his sword. Never again will he trust the word of a red dragon. That the dragon wouldn't expect him to retaliate is amazing to him. The red knows he's not a match for the Dragonslayer, yet he did this anyway.
He kicks a dirt clod in frustration and says to noone in particular,"No, I did the right thing. I can't kill a helpless beast, even if it's a red dragon. It would have made me no better than him, if I had done so. But, he made his choice, and he will pay for it. By all the Gods, he will pay for it."
After a long time, he heads back around the others, but hardly smiles and just nods to each person.
Falin Monday May 28th, 2007 5:56:05 PM
Looking down from atop the tower Falin waves at the Dragons as they arrive, "Hello down there." Falin yells. "It is good to see you all. Welcome to the emerald of the forest." He says with a wave of his hand.
Milo Monday May 28th, 2007 11:47:27 PM
Despite the fact that he is a resident here, Milo is somewhat intimidated and overwhelmed at the frequency with which these great diplomatic events seem to be occuring. Because of this, the halfling stays very close to Olana, practically blending in with his love, though graceful enough to avoid causing her or himself to trip in the process.
K'Nara Tuesday May 29th, 2007 2:29:38 AM
"Hold that thought, Ve." the leader of the Emerald Dragons tells him with a smile. "We'll think of something, I'm sure!"
The tall human woman goes to Valdor and hugs him tightly--he is as a brother to her and she doesn't like to see him hurting.
"Never regret what you do when you are motivated by compassion, Valdor." K'Nara assures him. "You did, indeed, make the right choice...'tis Nicholai who made the wrong one. And I will, indeed, see that justice is done as soon as possible, for it is the home of my family and friends that he attacked, and the lives of the people that I had sworn to protect that both he and Parnoth took. Both dragons will answer for that, each in their own time." She smiles and tugs him along.
"Enough of the melancholy, though--this is to be a happy occasion! More potiential members of the Consortium!" K'Nara says with grin, adding in a conspiritorial whisper: "All this AND a free breakfast! What more could anyone ask..?" She winks at the half-elf.
Jus Tuesday May 29th, 2007 5:30:04 AM
"Perhaps you could spare one more hug?" Jus asks K'Nara as he approaches her and Valdor. "There was always something about you I liked," he adds.
Jus listens to Valdor and K'Nara, hearing sentiment that Jus has told himself dozens of times the last few years. "I've been out of touch for a while and don't know how you are related to what happened here, Valdor. But I do know that kind efforts and righteous intents are never wasted."
"Now, how can I help? I'm famished and would love to help prepare for this breakfast feast."
Aeralia Tuesday May 29th, 2007 10:51:30 AM
Aeralia takes a little time to survey the damage to the tower, saddened more by the loss of life then the physical damage to the grounds. But the dedication of these elves did speak something of her new companions, to earn such loyalty and respect was nothing to overlook.
Beyond her simple rounds about the tower, the young sorceress spends what time she can assisting the dwarven crew with their preparations for construction. If they agree, Aeralia will conjure forth grand illusions of each planned structure, to give a better visual of what it will look like when finished. Then, listening to input from the crew's leader, she will alter the illusion here and there, moving and adding walls, changing the color to make samples of stone they've taken, until the illusionary building standing is what the dwarf had envisioned.
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As the Platinum Dragons begin to arrive, Aeralia waves towards any whom look her way, but retains her position near the dwarves, in case there was any other idea's that she could help them bring into vision.
Overhearing K'nara and Valdor's greeting and discussion can't help but bring a smirk to the sorceress' face. She seemed to recall being chastized for her compassion by the Dragonslayer, but now here they were defending his own. But the young woman did sympathize with his decision, so she couldn't hold to much against the Platinum's leader.
Gunther Tuesday May 29th, 2007 11:46:09 AM
Gunther flushes at K'nara's comment. A rush of pure sensual joy floods his body as her physical contact reinforces the memories of that magical night. I'm a lucky, lucky orc...yes I am!!
He sighs as he sees Valdor approach. There was a part of him that still blames the warrior for his refusal to kill the dragon. But still, K'nara was right...to go through mindlessly slaughtering every foe that crossed their path was not the way of a true hero. And wasn't what they all were trying to become? Besides...as they say revenge is a dish best served cold. Soon enough the Emerald Talons would deal with the matter...permanently. Slapping the large warrior on the back, he grins at Valdor. "Today is not a day for such heavy thoughts...at least for us!" he winks "Do not vorry about de dragon...for if Vaard if vith us, before de end of de day ve vill be concentrating on oder Dragons!" he chuckles at his own ingenuity, surprised at the level of complexity of such a comment for his own little orc mind. I must be hanging around Ingrge too much!
Checking on Theari, Gunther smiles. "Why don't you make your way to the banquet hall? You might at least get a good snack as you dodge those dwarfs feet!"
Nonam Tuesday May 29th, 2007 12:21:28 PM
<POP>
Nonam appears and looks around, "You know if we'd met for dinner, I could have gotten a little more sleep. Of course, breakfast might cut down on the number of drunken heroes..." He eyes the rest of those who have gathered and adds, "Maybe."
Lian Tuesday May 29th, 2007 12:29:45 PM
The buildings damage was severe, to say nothing of the loss of life. This cemetary, upsetting site within the grounds or not, is an unfortunate necessity of being a Hero of the Wold. These will be some of the most honored and guarded graves within the kingdom.
Lian will talk with the Tower ghost friend, Brusse, to see if he may be able to incorperate the graveyard into his rounds of the Tower. "I'm sure Lady Knara would agree, but go ahead and ask her anyway, I know you will." He smiles at the stalwart sentinel and moves back to helping the caterers, jumping now and then with the *popping* of dragons.
Sonara Tuesday May 29th, 2007 12:32:37 PM
Still avoiding the groups and occassionally is seen with her brother talking in hushed tones.
Olana Tuesday May 29th, 2007 1:04:16 PM
Olana snags a chunk of bread as Lian passes with the tray. She grabs Milo's hand. "Look at that dragon claw mark. The affrontery of the beast! Shall we go and help that minotaur? Or put the tent up?" She's figuring a bit of hard work would take their minds off everything, for a little while at least.
Nick Tuesday May 29th, 2007 1:04:38 PM
Nick returns K'Nara's hug. "It's good to see you all," he replies. "And my deep condolences for having to bury so many." He nods in acknowledgement of Ve's concern, quietly glad of it. The sadness of their surroundings ebbing the very life out of him. Still, they would bounce back. He'd always seen a bright light shine amidst their Emerald counterparts, one that would be hard to extinguish.
He nods at Dahlia's mention of Valdor and says to her privately at some point, "He'll brood over it for sure, we should watch over him. This wasn't his fault but he won't see it that way. Red dragons are quite mad, this one moreso than most. It was given something of rare value, in the form of the Dragonstone's compassion, and the squandering of it lies firmly on its own head."
Valdor Tuesday May 29th, 2007 1:21:30 PM
Valdor smiles appreciatively at K'Nara, Jus, and Gunther. He says,"While I'm upset about the structural damage, that can be fixed easily enough. It's the innocent lives that were lost that weighs so heavily on me. All of my adult life has been spent defending people like those that died here, only to have one act of kindness to a helpless red dragon come back to haunt me. Well, as Gunther and K'Nara said, that problem will be resolved soon.
Enough though, of worry. The past is gone, only the present and future matter now. We learn from our mistakes and go on. Let's enjoy."
He forces a smile, but his eyes still show the pain inside and he goes on to help with any preparations needing to be done.
Corialote and Amarth Tuesday May 29th, 2007 10:54:10 PM
Cori once again finds herself among the group that they had just had an interesting adventure with. Now this group was to take on the role that they once had and to her they were welcome to it. She glances around and then nods her head to each. "Well met once again." She cannot keep a smile off her face as she speaks.
Milo Wednesday May 30th, 2007 12:22:16 AM
Milo smiles slyly at Olana, "Of course, lets go put the tent up." Milo return's Olana's grasp on her hand, tugging the elf maid along toward work to be done.
Mordrid Wednesday May 30th, 2007 12:53:57 AM
Mordrid is all too aware of his surroundings as he magically passes thru one plane, to arrive again in his own... at the foot of Emerald Tower.
The damage, and the graveyard are a cruel reminder of the irony of the gods.
Valdor has done nothing but serve the gods willingly and selflessly, but time and time again they allow the hero to be isolated by their allowances.
The ranger can do nothing but raise his sword to a dead god, "Hail Jancasis! May our efforts not fall on the death eyes and ears of Justice." A blatant slander towards the so called god of justice, "Alemi, do the tests never cease? This man is worthy to stand at your right hand. I feel bringing these knew ones into the fold is fruitless, when their efforts are rewarded with pain and grief." The dark ranger spits these words between pursed teeth, for those with a willing ear to hear.
He further takes in the scene with hand on hips.
K'Nara Wednesday May 30th, 2007 3:14:33 AM
Jus, Corialote and Nonam get welcoming embraces from the chestnut-maned blade singer.
"We're setting up a tent just west of the Tower," she explains, "It should be quite large enough to hold everyone once their ride gets here." Then she goes to Mordrid, another man whom is kin in all but blood, and hugs hims fiercely as well.
"Thank you for the sentiments, Mordrid." she tells him, her hazel eyes gleaming for a moment with unshed tears in memory of the elves that had fallen to both dragons, but she blinks and then claps his shoulder. "But we're here to see what we can do to swell our ranks, yes? This is a happy time for us, then."
OOC: um...is Jerry posting the arrival of gold dragon bearing the Grey Knights and the Swords of Redemption? Or does someone else do that?
First Arrivals [DM Jerry] Wednesday May 30th, 2007 8:27:36 AM
The dragon comes into sight loaded with the Swords of Redemption. He circles the tower and then lands. Once off, the dragon winks at K'nara and takes off again to go get his other set of guests.
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OOC: Ok folks, the Swords of Redemption are here. I understand some are still getting access to this board so be patient. Would someone email Kim McCoy and Al and get them to give permissions for both games coming. Windhorn should arrive tomorrow. They should be loading up on the dragon today.
Ari Wednesday May 30th, 2007 9:01:28 AM
Ari jumps down from the Gold Dragon, turns and waves his thanks to the Dragon as they take off. Turning, everyone can see a young human man who stands 5'9" of Average build. His blonde hair whips around as the Dragon takes off, and his blue eyes sparkle with enjoyment from the ending of the flight.
Looking around Ari comments, "I wonder what happens next?! "
Rigging Wednesday May 30th, 2007 9:19:31 AM
Rigging will also decend from the dragon, a large air elemental at his side. He will hold out his hand to Ashira to help her down out of politeness but knows that she is more graceful than he is.
Rigging scans the area, making eye contact with all. He will step forward and make a sweeping bow and say, "My name is Arrack Von Palin but my friends call me Rigging. I am Captain of the Sword of Redemption and Leader of the Wildcards who I consider my family.
This is my wife Ashira, a powerful warrior in her own right."
Rigging starts pointing out the others making introductions, "The tall dwarf is Nezamil, cleric of Domi. The handsome dark haired man is Bart, a stout fighter and good friend. The pretty drow elf is Val, another warrior with a heart of gold. The first off the dragon is Ari, our oldest member. The halfling is Cosmo, a wizard and powerful summoner. Mykael is relatively new to us as well but has proven himself a boon companion, and finally we have Appolo who some of you know. He is the truest friend and probably the most dangerous of us all.
I am glad to meet some of the Wold's most famous heroes but must admit a curiosity to why you have summoned us. Breakfast sounds wonderful but rarely do we ride a gold dragon's back to get to one."
Valdor Wednesday May 30th, 2007 10:58:22 AM
Valdor strides up to Rigging and takes the man's hand in greeting. He says,"Have patience my friend. All will be explained in due time. For now, enjoy the gathering. Not in a long time have four such groups gathered together without a war on the horizon."
He emphasizes the word "four", even though there are only three present currently. He grins and finishes with,"And try to keep Appolo from getting into any dagger throwing contests."
Appolo d20+10=30 Wednesday May 30th, 2007 11:36:01 AM
Appolo slides gracefully off the Dragons back,after thanking the Dragon for the ride.
After the introductions Appolo standing there tall and in his finest armour dripping with weapons and his gear.Appolo is clearly ready for action,whatever it maybe.He looks around noticing things,
Stepping up to Valdor"What do you mean Valdor.Dagger throwing contest.You want a rematch.I happen to have plenty of daggers on me."He says witha wink and rougish smile."Looks like there was a hellof a fight around here recently."He then wonders off checking things out
Spot 30
Lian Wednesday May 30th, 2007 1:39:26 PM
Lian stops his bustling as the Swords begin arriving. "Aw, what fun." He says with a wide smile. The monk remembers how mere months ago they were arriving aboard a dragon. He wondered who would arrive that way this time.
He nods at Valdor in passing, with a rehearsed looking, very diplomatic smile. It looks like it hurts a bit. Diplomacy wasn't his cup of tea.
The slender, slightly tanned, tattooed, male elf approaches the man called Rigging. He carries no weapons and in fact seems quite comfortable without them. "Captain Von Palin. I am Lian Siannodel, hand of Domi and Emerald Dragon. It is a pleasure to have you here." He reveals a tray of bread and mead. "Refreshment?" He snickers a bit. "Friends call me Lian."
Sonara Wednesday May 30th, 2007 1:40:00 PM
Is nowhere to be found.
Thaeri Wednesday May 30th, 2007 1:41:02 PM
With more arrivals, the panther seems to be gradually melding into the tower wall, unsure what to make of all the people.
Nezamil Wednesday May 30th, 2007 1:46:28 PM
Carefully disembarking from the Dragons back .....the 9'4" dwarf stops at the Dragons head " thank you for that amazing experince of flight.....it was an honor to experince "
Stepping towards the back of the group so as not to block the view of his compatriots "thank you for the invitation to breakfast...i'm honored to meet all of you....i have heard many good tales of your travels " adds the Cleric of Domi as he gives a respectful bow those assembled
Ve Mundr Wednesday May 30th, 2007 2:43:15 PM
Ve Mundr, clad in full Mithril platemail is only a step or two behind Valdor and just to his left. Olive skinned with dark hair, a slightly large nose and deep set brown eyes, Vé Mundr stands right at 6' tall and weighs a respectable 200 pounds. Emblazoned upon the breast of his armor is the hammer of Domi, wreathed in white flame. The shoulders carry the high Woldian symbols for Domi upon them and Vé Mundr's personal seal, the pillar, is set in the abdomen region.
Ve extends his Hand to Rigging, "Captain. I am Vé Mundr (VE-a Moon-DrA) Servant of Domi." Ve then greets each of the others and steps back towards Father Nick
Brother Bertram Wednesday May 30th, 2007 3:13:23 PM
Bertram eats, contemplating the flurry of activity, deciding where to start.
Nonam Wednesday May 30th, 2007 3:51:51 PM
Nonam thinks about announcing the purpose of their little gathering and so cut through all the fuss, but he decides the grim setting of destruction has troubled everyone enough. It wouldn't do to go disrupting their fun here.
Rigging illegal post Wednesday May 30th, 2007 4:30:02 PM
Rigging burst out in laughter at Valdor's comments on Appolo, "OK I think I know just the way. Appolo, why don't you go have a dagger throwing contest?" He turns back to Valdor and says, "Believe me that has the best chance of working."
Rigging shakes both Lian's and Ve Mundr hands and says first to Lian, "Thank you for your hospitality. Dragon flight does encourage the appetite." Looking at Rigging's many pouches and lack of weapons except for a dagger porclaims him as a wizard.
He turns to the cleric of Domi and says, "I am sure you will get along famously with Nezamil. The oversized dwarf overthere. He to is a priest of Domi."
Ashira Wednesday May 30th, 2007 4:46:18 PM
With more than a little wobble and far less grace than Rigging would have predicted, Ashira departs from the dragons back. "Ttthank you." she stammers to the gold dragon before the introductions are performed.
Trying to regain her composure, Ashira smiles at Valdor and bows to K'nara. "It is a pleasure to meet you." Glancing around at all the activity and recent distruction, Ashira can't help but wondered what happened here...and what would possibly cross paths with the premiere adventurers of the Wold. But then she thinks back to the recently damaged Sword...even heros can't be everwhere at one time. Seems like innocent people get hurt even when heroes are around...perhaps especially when there are heroes around. Shrugging the contemplation aside, Ashira catches sight of that fellow from the Emerald's induction ceremony. He was an odd one, that's for sure...and where is that cat of his that was following him around? Ashira makes her way over to the cat trainer and extends a hand. "Ashira von Palin. And you are?"
Falin Wednesday May 30th, 2007 5:29:44 PM
Coming down from the top of the tower the elven sharpshooter approaches the new arrivals and introduces himself. "Hi there everyone my name is Falin. Welcome to our humble abode."
Ingrge Wednesday May 30th, 2007 6:21:04 PM
Having made sure the tent is up and the area scry prooof (Mordenkainen's private sanctum) He scurries back as he sees the arrival of the Gold dragon and their second set of guest.
As Appolo begins his chatter about a dagger throwing contest and then adds his bit about there must have been a heck of a battle here recently, Ingrge steps in. (4 1/2 ft tall wood elf white haired and white robed very scarred up face)
Welcome WildCards, Make yourselves at home breakfast is cooking and will be served as soon as our other group of guests arrive.
Yes Appolo, there was a to do here recently, however we were away when the cowardly attack occurred. We know who is resposible and when we are finished with our current assignment we will have a Red Dragon head to adorn our wall.
As for dagger throwing ... he pauses and then looks around. Valdor, Didn't you bring that mischevious little halfling with you somewhere? I believe she is handy with daggers isn't she?
Dahlia Wednesday May 30th, 2007 6:29:00 PM
Stepping out from behind Ve and Nicholas, the dark-skinned halfling looks up at Ingrge, with a twinkle in her eye.
Me, mischevious? Ingrge, you wound me. I see myself more as the mischief-making hoyden type myself, but perhaps I have mellowed somewhat. But you are of course correct about the daggers. I always have a half dozen or so around at most times.
Ashira, So good to see you again. How is the Taming of your captain coming along? Are you still planning on keeping him, or have you decided to trade him in?
Mykael Wednesday May 30th, 2007 8:43:07 PM
An elf, just over 5 foot tall, drops from the back of the dragon. Wearing a fine mithril shirt, with both a mithril large shield and a bastard sword on his back, the elf looks weird with so many predomidantly human types of equipment on his person. Pouches around his belt are the mark of a wizard. The Psuedo-dragon friend draped along his shoulders, peers around taking all in.
Human speech flows across his lips, but with the musical fluidity of an elf, "I am Mykael Arliin, thanks for the invitation and the hospitality. The little one is called Ghem."
Val Wednesday May 30th, 2007 9:00:55 PM
She walks away from the dragon doing her best not to let the fear show. Val runs a hand through her red gold hair, trying to smooth it after that wind blown ride. The elf sees numerous people in gleaming armor and living in such a wonderful place. She hasn't had a proper bath since the last time they made port. Her armor was dull and the leather she wore under it was in need of cleaning. She felt so out of place. Val never considered herself to be one that bards sing about. Yet here she was among several of such people.
Gunther Wednesday May 30th, 2007 9:20:26 PM
The warrior looks over at the strange creature that just approached him. Greenish-gray skin and blue hair...black armor with silver trim. Well, she is unique, that's for sure. He looks over at the fellow that introduced her as his wife. Must not be a lot of woman folk to choose from out there on the seas... Remembering something of the manners that Lian has attempted to teach him, Gunther awkwardly juts his hand toward the woman. "I'm Gunther Grell. It's uhhhmmmm...nice to meet you."
Cosmo Wednesday May 30th, 2007 9:26:47 PM
Cosmo nimbly leaps down from the dragons back. He pats the dragon on the side before it take off into the air. He watches the wonderful creature leave and sighs as he knows he can't ever summon one.
The little halfling turns around and watches all the activity going on around him. He looks around for Rigging and heads his way.
Ashira Wednesday May 30th, 2007 9:32:11 PM
Ashira raises a brow at the cat trainer's visual inspection, though she doesn't say anything. Years of being an outsider in the human world has to some degree desensitized her to these types of encounters. She grasps the warrior's hand in a firm handshake and then let's the moment pass.
Dahlia's comments are more than a welcome relief. Her mind races, trying to figure out just where she's seen the halfling before. Must have been at that party. She had been more than a little distracted by the presence of Ga'alian priests... Still, she turns to the woman and laughs merrily. "I'm afraid he's a bit like barnacles...I might get rid of him for a little while, but eventually he comes right back!" Ashira gives Rigging a warm hug before literally pulling Val into her conversation with Dahlia. "Have you met my little sister Val yet? She's quite a handful!!"
Mordrid Wednesday May 30th, 2007 11:12:56 PM
Mordrid approaches the unloading of passengers, prepared to make acquaintances; but is frozen in place upon sight of Val.
Valdor Thursday May 31st, 2007 12:24:47 AM
Valdor laughs in agreement with Rigging and says,"I do understand."
He turns to Dahlia and, back in good humor he says,"Ah yes, my dear troublemaker! I knew all we had to do was bring up daggers and you'd pop up. Maybe we can have some fun later, but we really don't want daggers flying around everywhere, do we? We might end up with someone looking like a pin cushion. You do know, of course, that Appolo and I are the reigning champs at the Giggling Ghost. Of course, he had to bail me out in the last round, but we did win."
He winks at Appolo, as he knows he made all five of his throws in the last round, but wants to give the youngster his dues.
After enjoying the chatting for a minute, he gets a feeling of loneliness again, and searches out Cori. When he finds her, his face again shows relief and he hugs her tightly. Out of the corner of his eye, he catches Mordrid's reaction to Val and gets a curious look on his face while he watches.
Appolo d20+12=32 Thursday May 31st, 2007 12:36:20 AM
Appolo smiles and goes cartwheeling by Valdor"Bail you out.You know you carried me."He says as he goes by heading toward the tent were the meeting is to be held.He continues to cartwhell at full speed straight for it.All arms legs and braided pony tail.
He is apparently enjoying himself.
Corialote and Amarth Thursday May 31st, 2007 12:38:39 AM
Cori returns the hug from K'nara with equal enthusiam. She feels like this might be a kindred spirit in some ways but has not found the ability to talk to the woman.
Then the dragon arrives and draws her attention to other things. She moves to stand beside Valdor with a mischevious flash in her eyes. Looping her arm through his she leans into him as introductions are made. She nods to each in turn with a genuine smile. "My name is Corialote...a resent addition to the Plats."
Olana Thursday May 31st, 2007 1:07:53 AM
Checking the guy ropes, making sure they're taut, Olana waves at the new arrivals. "Hey Milo," she says quietly. "Look at the size of that dwarf. Think it's a spell, like Lian's?"
Olana is a Culverwood elf, with pale, almost white hair; narrow features, grey and black leathers.Her usual swords, bows and whatnot are stashed to one side, not having been much use in raising tents.
Nick Thursday May 31st, 2007 1:19:18 AM
Nick approaches the arrivals and gives them a bow and a smile of welcome. Ashira, Rigging, and of course Appolo he's seen before, and Nezamil, Ari and Val, at the Giggling Ghost. Hopefully he'd get to know all of the others, too. It was going to be a wild morning by the looks of it.
Father Nicholas is a Shepherd of Alemi, dressed in the customary white robes. He looks to be a man approaching his sixties, grey hair clipped extremely close to a balding head, slender build, frail hands. He's looked better, especially seeing as he's only 32 years old.
Lian Thursday May 31st, 2007 1:31:27 AM
The elf smiles, seeing Gunther's attempt.
He turns and spotting Ashira, moves to great the green elf. "Well, you could only be Ashira, right? I've heard that Catacomb clerk speak of you." He smirks a bit. "He really has taken a liking to you."
Bart Thursday May 31st, 2007 1:53:34 AM
The young fighter greets everyone. Hi my name is Albarth Millar, Bart for my friends. Im from Ailthmar where i escaped the hartseeding form the priest of Ga'al. Thanks to my new family here.
Bart wears his mithril chain shirt and a shield, the only visible weapon is a dagger
Welcome, Swords of Redemption! - DM Donna Thursday May 31st, 2007 2:11:09 AM
Standing by the landing area is a human woman, about six feet in height, with her hands on her hips. Her hair is bound up in a snood made of black fishnet, although there are unruly waves of chestnut that frame her slightly-freckled face softening the severity of the effect. She wears a dove-gray bayra (think of it as a long tunic with a hemline that stops at the hip joints on the sides of the shirt but continues down to a point that ends at the knees in the front and the back of the tunic), with a dark brown leather strap that passes between her breasts, running from her right shoulder to the left side of her waist. The strap holds the sheath to her back--the sheath that houses the infamous Lucia, Bright Flame of the Culverwood. She wears pine-green leggings and dark brown boots of soft leather. The whole ensemble shows off her athletic build to great advantage.
The young woman--she is little more than two-score-three in years--has canny hazel eyes that sparkle in delight as she smiles at the newest arrivals. She strides forward and gives each member of the Swords of Redemption a welcoming hug: Ari, Rigging, Ashira, Appolo, Nezamil, Mykael, Val, Cosmo and Bart.
She adds a courtly and graceful elven bow to Ashira in answer to the half-sea-elf's own.
"Welcome to the Tower of Saryd, one and all!" she says warmly. "I am K'Nara Illutu, the leader of the Emerald Dragons (in case you all forgot)...and I introduce everyone to each other as soon as all of our guests arrive. Until then--there are some snacks available, but pray don't ruin your appetite for breakfast."
Onrad Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:13:51 AM
"Nope I don't think anyone will ever be allowed to forget that K'nara," Onrad quips.
Then he deadpans it for about 3 seconds before smiling in his best noble trained manner. "Milady, breakfast is served in the tent."
He points to the tent on the top of the tower.
Welcome the Windhorn Hamleteers! [DM Jerry] Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:15:19 AM
With a roar, everyone is notified that our other set of guests are incoming.
The dragon circles the tower once and lands depositing the Windhorn Hamleteers.
Looks like it's a full house with everyone having arrived.
Transformation [DM Jerry] Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:21:10 AM
The dragon speaks.
"Good, breakfast is ready. I have worked up a mighty appetite hauling these adventurers this morning."
The dragon leaps up into the air again, and lifts into the air once more. As he lifts, he transforms into a human. However, his back is to the group and so it is impossible to see who it is. The figure lands on the edge of the wall just as the transformation is complete and enters the tent.
--------
From the tent, a triangle is struck repeatedly.
A distant voice...
"Breakfast is served!"
DM Jerry [OOC] Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:22:41 AM
Who is Sonara and why is she posting that she is nowhere to be found?
~~ Jan ~~ Jerry, she's an NPC. We're trying to keep some continuity going, I think.
Val Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:33:09 AM
She knows that stare. She can almost feel it burning on her flesh. Val reluctantly accepts K'Nara's hug out of courtesy but would have liked to avoided it altogether. Val has thought long and hard about why she looks as she does. She believes that the mother of elves taut her a lesson. Before Val wasn't an evil person but she was incredibly violent. Perhaps that path would have taken her to a place she never would come back from.
ooc: crap Monthor is here :-) I can only imagine what he's going to say when he sees a dwarf twice his size. It will be nice to post with some of you again. For a time I also played that annoying half-orc paladin which some of you may remember.
Ari Thursday May 31st, 2007 11:36:30 AM
It has been sometime since Ari has been in a peaceful, social setting. Ari feels a little overwhelmed with all the introductions. Just as he runs out of fingers and toes to try to help memorize names, when the dragon arrives again with several more people. Ari groans inwardly as he keeps his smile pleasant at the thought of more people to try to remember.
Seeing the dragon transform and walk into the tent, Ari's curiosity is raised, and he is half-tempted to follow. But decides he should at least watch what happens with the new arrivals.
The Giggling Ghost. I remember that place. I've heard quite a few stories about it. I must remember to visit a few more times than I have.
Appolo Thursday May 31st, 2007 12:15:47 PM
Appolo stops moving long enough to accept K'nara's hug and watch the dragon arrive.He then immediately follows the transformed dragon into the tent and finds his place.
K'Nara (second post) Thursday May 31st, 2007 12:45:05 PM
Once more, the tall human blade singer smiles and greets the newest arrivals--each one receives an enthusiastic hug from K'Nara.
"Welcome to the Tower of Saryd, Grey Knights," she says jovially, "Soon to be the heart of Emerald Keep...or whatever we name it..." K'Nara adds that last bit with a wink and a nod to her fellow Emerald Dragons. "...now that you've arrived, we are told that breakfast is ready, so let us go to the tent and enjoy the meal!"
Bart Thursday May 31st, 2007 1:58:08 PM
Bart blushes a bit while K'narra is hugging him, a greating among stangers like this is not the way he is used to. Anyway she looks realy nice in that outfit. The young fighter (around 18-20 yrs) follows Appollo into the tent. He sure can use a good meal!
Nezamil Thursday May 31st, 2007 2:14:01 PM
Leaning down the 9'4" dwarf returns K'nara's hug of welcoming.....his chain shirt jingling slightly
" Ah good breakfast is ready i'm starving " grins Nezamil " by Domi this is turning out to be a good start to the day "
Tthe big dwarf eagerly heads towards the tent ...looking forward to a good hearty meal
Valdor Thursday May 31st, 2007 2:35:55 PM
Valdor, keeping close to Cori's side, greets the Grey Knights as they arrive and welcomes them. He smiles at Jova and asks,"Now do you believe I am not an assassin? Just a word of advice from many experiences with assassins, including the worst one of all-Korrig the Stalker, they don't appear in front of you like we did. It might help them take out one or two party members, but the rest would quickly fall upon them. But, I understand and appreciate your caution."
Monthor Thursday May 31st, 2007 3:26:05 PM
Monthor sways a bit from side to side. The ride has not been a pleasant one for the burly fighter. The constant swaying had upset his tummy.... that is... until he heard that magical word... BREAKFAST!
Monthor observes only the briefest of cordialities with the others as he makes his way towards the food. That is... until he spots the giant dwarf. Not to be outshined... but more likely from fear that a giant dwarf may actually be able to out eat and drink him... Monthor concentrates briefly on the new tatoo on his hand before he starts to grow.... to twice the size he was before (ooc> Via an ENLARGE effect from his tatoo).
The now enlarged Monthor sprints up to Nezamil. " What say ye cousin!?! Let's EAT!!!! "
Thaeri [Jay B] Thursday May 31st, 2007 3:59:35 PM
Gunther's black panther sits atop a barrel, one of the few places those dwarves have tread. She looks annoyed, tail twitching in irritation.
Lucia, Bright Flame of the Culverwood [Jay B] Thursday May 31st, 2007 4:06:28 PM 'Well! A better looking band of adventurers I've not seen... the exception being the Emeralds perhaps. There IS true potential here Dragons, true potential indeed! Lets eat!' Says the muffled voice of the sword on Knara's back.
Lian Thursday May 31st, 2007 4:09:09 PM
The monk does not partake of the food, but watches Nezamil with mild ammusement, or perhaps interest. His eyes don't move from the dwarf, don't blink, just watches.
Tratain Thursday May 31st, 2007 5:02:15 PM
Tratain steps down from the Dragon. He is wearing Vestments that proclaim his faith on Domi over his Armor. A Tiny Mithril War Hammer, a gift from his companion Bill hand from a chain around his neck wreathed in continual flames. His War Hammer is strapped to his belt and his pack and shield are slung casually over his shoulder, while not expecting any trouble here its obvious He is prepared to meet it if anyone should bother the groups.
Tratain introduces himself to those assembled. "Greetings Sword Brothers and Sisters, it is an honor to be invited here."
Tratain begins walking towards the Tent that is pointed out for breakfast, and after seeing Monthor's Reaction to the Giant Dwarf he says Idly to anyone nearby "I hope there's a lot of food. It looks like Monthor's going to try and out eat and drink everyone here."
Ve Mundr Thursday May 31st, 2007 5:18:09 PM
The Heirophant of Domi nods several times as he notes the many heroes who proudly wear his mantle. "Yes a Fine start to any morning." he says to Father Nick at his side.
Ve moves to escort Tratain inside the tent, "They can crunch all they want. We'll simply make more." The cleric smiles and with a nod, I am Ve Mundr, Servant of Domi and with his blessing soon to be retired to Floating City."
Nezamil Thursday May 31st, 2007 7:05:26 PM
A look of surprise shows on Nezamil's face but turns into a wide grin as Monthor intoduces himself " well met my friend ...good to see a fellow dwarf.....lets share our tales over breakfast " as Nzamil claps Monthor on his back
Monthor ooc to Val Thursday May 31st, 2007 7:13:23 PM
ooc> Monthor says " I miss that sweet smelling princess of a Paladin."
:-) We miss ya in the Hamlet/GK game bud.
Nonam Thursday May 31st, 2007 7:33:34 PM
"Floating City, Ve? I knew I liked you for a reason. Much better than the City of Plateaus if you ask me. Too bad it moved. I much prefered the old lake, but it's still home."
Mykael Thursday May 31st, 2007 8:08:33 PM
Mykael quietly inspects K'Nara from a distance. He had heard stories of her before, but human blade-singers were even more rare than human weapon-mages such as he. Sure, he was in an elven body now, but to many an elf and even himself, he would always be human. He is intrigued be more than just her beauty, to have been so accepted by the elves to be given the honor of such training...
Mykael realizes he may have been staring and quickly looks away. His attention is suddenly grabbed by TWO giant dwarves. He starts to make a comment, then stop himself and he just smiles.
What a group we have here. Perhaps, all this little party is just to allow us all to be among others that could understand us to a degree.
His eyes stray back to K'Nara briefly, as he pats the head of his little dragon friend.
Ghem, perhaps you might like to speak with the wonderous gold dragon? He may be inclined to teach you something. Lets go, there is food in there at least.
Ghem's curiosity or hunger must have agreed, since he takes flight and speeds through the tent opening tapping Nezamil on the head with a gentle tail slap as he goes.
Mykael follows, but at a more methodical pace, with a smile as he notes he love tap that the dwarf receives. "He is learning quick," he mumbles to himself.
Rigging Thursday May 31st, 2007 8:38:02 PM
Rigging looks on in delight as the second group is brought in. Not only will breakfast be served but his curiosity is up on why they are here.
Rigging loops his arm in Ashira's and says, "This is an interesting crowd. Lot of power located in one spot. Though I doubt any one would be foolish enough to attack, they certainly could darken the Wold by finding a way to drop a meteor on this spot.
Keep you eyes and ears open. Though I am honored to be here, we must remember our first goal is to free Aisildur from Ga'al's dominance. I know the Gold dragons have helped in that cause, freeing the Emperor from his heartseed but for them that was just one of many adventures, not a life time goal."
Falin Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:16:56 PM
Having seen everyone Falin makes his way back up the stairs to the tent.
Horvis Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:19:45 PM
The black and brown dog hops down from the back of the gold dragon and then tries to not get stepped on. The giant dwarf, and the suddenly bigger Monthor, simply make it that much more difficult.
Horvis decides that sticking close to Jova might be the best course of action. No telling exactly what might happen with this number of people together.
Val Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:19:50 PM
With the new arrivals Val moves inside the food tent before Ashira can introduce her to anybody else. She knows that Ashira is just trying to help but Val doesn't feel to sociable right now. Back in the jungle each day was a sturggle to make it to the next. There was no time to think the things that are going through her head. She makes sure to step around the two giant dwarves less she get stepped on.
Cosmo Thursday May 31st, 2007 9:35:35 PM
Cosmo follows the growing group of people into the tent. He doubts he will be able to eat with all the excitement that is going on.
Jova Kon Thursday May 31st, 2007 10:20:13 PM
Jova slides easily off the back of the dragon. With his hands crossed behind him, he studies the dragon appreciatively. Sighing, he thinks of the stories of his youth, Dragonriders. Always youthful tales, until now. What aan experience to fly one by oneself. Another day another time.
The dragon jumps and transforms into what seems to be a human. All Jova sees his his back as he enters the tent. Jova scans the area where they have been dropped off. For the first time he sees the recent battle marks all over. Could this have something to do with the summons? Then his senses are overwhelmed as he befins picking out individuals in the crowd. Dwarves, halflings, elves, and in all colors and shapes. One extemely trait they all possess, danger. Again more tales from childhood of gatherings of heroes. This could be one such.
Horvis bounded next to him. Walking toward the tent, being one of the last, Jova is oddly calm. Jova stands at 6 and a half feet tall, so he can see over most the crowd. Dressed in his leather outfit, staff and pack slung on his back, he probably looked out of place. He figured he did not look dangerous.
Then, Valdor speaks up, and greets Jova. "Yes Valdor you are correct. Assassin you seem not to be. One can never assume what is seen, it what is." Pointing to where the dragon had flown in and dropped them off.
"As with our gold friend there, dragon one moment, human next. You could have been the ruse to allow another to stab my back. I prefer to make the battlefieled my choice when possible.
"Beautiful home you have here. Thank you for the invitation. One morething." He looks down to the dog and says, "In full disclosure you should change to normal form my friend, the others will want to meet you."
Izen d20+15=30 Thursday May 31st, 2007 10:28:32 PM
A halfling dressed in functional, battered dark brown traveling clothes lowered himself from the dragon's back just behind Monthor. A rapier dangled at his side, and a javelin was tucked behind his shoulder, but they were clearly forgotten in the moment.
He stroked his tousled brown hair in a vain attempt to smooth it into place, as his brown eyes registered shock and amazement at the mighty group assembled here. He shook his head slowly and scratched at the stubble on his cheeks and chin, clearly still not comprehending what had brought him to this place.
Numbly, he followed Monthor and Tratain toward the breakfast tent, his head swiveling on a pivot to take in all of the surroundings. Reflexively, his hand dug out a copper coin from one of his pocket and rolled it across the back of his knuckles as he walked. (Sleight of Hand, 30)
Gunther Thursday May 31st, 2007 11:25:50 PM
Glad to be relieved of the weird elven chick, Gunther's eyes settle on another newcomer...that elf (Mykael) that keeps eyeing K'nara. Though he is much more confident in his relationship with K'nara than in the past, Gunther still finds himself moving to place himself between the elf and K'nara...making sure that the fellow doesn't get too close to his lover.
Walking with K'nara, Gunther chuckles at Theari. He speaks to the panther in a series of growls which are translated via the wreath of blue flowers which adorns his snow white hair. "Sister, perhaps you would be more comfortable at home? Unless you want to join us at breakfast...I'm sure there's a ham bone or two just waiting for you in that tent."
Moving with a cat like stride, the 5'7" human takes up a position by K'nara's side and makes his way to the breakfast tent.
Ashira Thursday May 31st, 2007 11:49:10 PM
With an exagerated roll of her eyes, Ashira completely ignores the comment regarding the Catacombs clerk made by the elven monk.
She nods at Rigging's assesment of the powerful group. "Makes you wonder why exactly we're all here at the same time...doubt it's just for a nice breakfast and some tea." she whispers in Elven.
Ashira sighs at Val's reaction. In some respects she understands what it's like having your life turned upside down and then shaken apart. Of course, it doesn't help matters knowing that it was by means of Ashira's swords that Val came to be in her new body. Perhaps things would never be the way they were before the Valley of Life. The aquatic elf shakes her head, a frown forming on her face once more. Time...that's what I needed after they removed my heartseed. Time and space.
Olana (Emerald Dragons) Friday June 1st, 2007 1:17:25 AM
Olana stands at the ten entrance, giving a nod and smile, as various folks walk in toward breakfast. "A nice cup of tea wouldn't go amiss, right now," she says to Milo.
Nick (Platinum Dragons) Friday June 1st, 2007 1:23:42 AM
Father Nicholas greets the Grey Knights with a handshake and a smile, and he'll wait until all the guests are in the tent before entering himself. K'Nara was being an excellent host, and he had to admit, despite the damage done to Saryd Tower, it felt restful here - trees, open air, room to breathe.
Breakfast Spread - DM Donna Friday June 1st, 2007 3:30:26 AM
K'Nara winks at Ashira.
"I, too, have known the joys of getting a bit of...unwarranted attention from the Catacombs staff." she says humorously, recalling the time her head was measured (ostensibly for a hat) by the mind-flayer clerk there. She takes Gunther's arm, walking with him to the tent where the tables are laid out with sumptuous fare courtesy of the Culverwood:
Platters heaping with eggs cooked in various ways, flapjacks, sausages, venison dumplings, bacon, ham, steak (of several types--sorry, no dragon steaks this time around! ;D), eggbatter toast (the Woldian equivalent of French toast), croissants (plain and stuffed), roasted nuts, biscuits, rolls, bread, smoked fish, fresh fruits and vegetables, as well as condiments of practically every type imaginable. (Gunther sees that there is even a dish with pickled pigs feet and okra!)
"Don't be afraid to take as much as you wish, my friends!" K'Nara bids everyone present. "There is plenty for everyone! Have a hearty breakfast!" So saying, the blade singer takes a platter and loads up with some of practically everything (except for the pigs feet and okra.)
Falin (Emerald Dragon) Friday June 1st, 2007 4:21:49 AM
Falin watches from the corner fo the tent as people start moving from the line. When everyone has passed through once he goes through and piles a plate up for himself.
He then looks for an open seat.
Jus Friday June 1st, 2007 6:21:33 AM
Jus watches as everyone arrives. He is content listening to the chatter, and intrigued by the various races of them all.
Seeing the drow gives him an unexpected sense of satisfaction. At one time the drow were considered evil and worthy of death on sight. Now here they are, a part of an honorable group. There is hope... Jus thinks.
Jus wistfully remembers fighter drow in his early years, and dying from their terrible poisons. It is strange looking back on it. Death wasn't as terrible as he thought it would be. It was bad, mind you, but not everyone gets a chance to talk with Gargul.
Jus' attention is brought back to the present when K'nara poses for everyone. Everytime I think she's perfected that stance, Jus thinks with a chuckle, she does it again even better. That women's got talent with more than a sword.
In his youth, Jus would be too embarrassed to admire. When many days could be one's last, one learns to ignore their embarrassment. So, Jus watches in open admiration until K'nara leaves, following her to breakfast.
Lian (Emerald Dragon) Friday June 1st, 2007 6:49:38 AM
After helping with the food, and finally being chased away from the kitchens by a very irrate 'french' gnome, the hand of Domi begins mingling.
The appearance of all the Domi followers in the surrounding group somehow makes Lian more aware of his two very small silver holy symbols (Domi and Alemi) around his neck. Quite humbling to see.
Tratain Friday June 1st, 2007 7:10:45 AM
Tratain walks to the tent with Ve Mundr. He says "It is a pleasure to meet you sword brother, my Name is Tratain. I've only been to the floating City two or three times, its a nice place. I've spent most of my time working out of the Cathedral in Plataue City, and then I joined the Grey Knights here."
Inside the Tent Tratain helps himself to some breakfast talking with anyone who is willing.
Rigging (Sword of Redemption) Friday June 1st, 2007 7:26:42 AM
OOC This will be my last post since I am off to Disney World with the family tomorrow for a week. Chris Jensen (Nezamil) will be taking over for me.
Rigging heaps his plate high with food and finds a seat and attacks his food. They have been living on fish, snake and salted pork for to long and getting the fresh food was nice.
Rigging sees the protective stance that Gunther is taking and walks over and puts a hand on his shoulder and says, "I know how you feel. I am married to a beautiful and exotic woman myself and they do attract the stares. You don't need to worry, I am sure your ties are strong."
Valdor Friday June 1st, 2007 9:25:27 AM
Valdor waits for everyone to finish introductions and then is last to enter the tent. He makes sure everyone has their plates before he partakes. He eats sparingly, getting meats and juice and waits for Cori to pick them a spot to sit down.
Seeing the other drow brings a smile to his face. Not knowing Jus's thoughts, he is thinking along similar lines. Ten years before, he would never in his life have dreamed he would ever let a drow live, let alone love one.
Ve Mundr (Platinum Dragons) Friday June 1st, 2007 10:12:53 AM
Ve gets a sampling of just about everything and finds a spot for both himself and Tratain. Ve blocks out the background noise, this morning he would not fall into that routine with the guests gathered about. But he would see the feast correctly began. This Ve stands and holds a hand up. In a clear tenor his voice rings out across the gathered groups. "Before we partake of this splendid feast laid out by our gracious hosts" He directs his hand towards K`Nara and the other Emerald Dragons. "I would ask you to stand with me and bow your heads for a moment of peace and prayer." Ve does so and silently prays himself Domi grant them the strength they will need from this day forward.
With another half dozen breaths he raises his eyes and with a smile returns to his seat and begins sampling the foods and drinks he picked up.
Ari (Swords) Friday June 1st, 2007 10:13:59 AM
Following everyone elses lead, Ari moves into the tent. Looking around at the sumptuous spread, Ari's mouth unconsciously waters.
Since there seems to be a lot of little conversations popping everywhere, Ari takes his time and fills his plate while he listens to the different conversations.
Ari also makes note of all the different animals that are accompanying everyone. Remembering his affinity with animals, Ari feels a small yearning stir within him. Squelching that feeling, Ari stuffs his mouth and begins the process of finding out if this will be rated a 'good' meal.
I wonder what mix of spells this group would throw if surprised!
Ari shakes his head in amusement with that random thought.
Lian Friday June 1st, 2007 11:30:56 AM
Lian realizes that the young sorceress hasn't been seen in a long time, he looks for Aeralia. He is slightly panicked.
Appolo {Sword of Redemption} Friday June 1st, 2007 11:33:31 AM
As the others enter they find Appolo already eating and drinking 4 plates piled highwitha bit of everything.He is happily eating while watching people come in.When Valanthe arrives he watches her closely for a few seconds,then goes back to eating.Using hsi untensils like weapons he attacks and devours his food.Swiftly and surely.
Onrad [DM Jerry] Friday June 1st, 2007 12:44:38 PM
Looking around to see that everyone is seated, he stands.
"Greetings friends! For those who don't know me, I'm Onrad, formerly of the Storm Dragons and now with the Platinums. I'm a duelist.
"This is to be a working breakfast as we all have places to be and important things to do. So without any further ado, let's get to the business.
"K'nara will be making our offer to the Swords of Redemption, and Valdor will be making our offer to the Grey Knights. It doesn't matter which goes first so I yield the floor to them."
Onrad sits and then reaches for some fruit.
"Something orange I think."
Izen (Windhorn Greys) d20+13=15 Friday June 1st, 2007 2:50:21 PM
The halfling's brows arched at the idea of an 'offer,' but he sat discreetly near Monthor and Tratain, ate sparingly, listened quietly, and said nothing. The copper coin continued to roll along the back of his knuckles, although a bit clumsily. (Sleight of Hand 15)
Tratain Friday June 1st, 2007 5:29:48 PM
Tratain sits and idly chats with Ve Mundr. He stands at Ve's toast and bows his head and says a silent prayer to Domi to grant everyone in the room the strength they will need in the future.
He says quietly after a moment "May there be many Bored Protectors in the future."
Tratain glances about the room, looking at those who are assembled. He tries to see the Dragon that was kind enough to bring the party to the Event.
Monthor ( Grey Knights/ Monthor's Angels) Friday June 1st, 2007 7:05:45 PM
Monthor is eating. Really... there isn't much more to say. He's eating. No kidding. Eating. And drinking. Let's not forget drinking. Drinking and eating. Yup. That's what Monthor is doing......
Mykael (Swords) Friday June 1st, 2007 7:06:21 PM
Strolling into the tent, Mykael heaps a plate full of food and finds a quiet corner spot to observe and listen.
Ghem, hovers over the piles of meat. He grabs a big hunk in his mouth and flys around until he spots the dragon, or who he thinks they dragon is. Landing deftly on they opposite side of the table, he eats quietly watching the figure with a what could be described as intensive curiousity and awe.
Ingrge Friday June 1st, 2007 7:17:49 PM
Seeing someone thatbhe has wanted to meet ever since he heard about him, Ingrge (the Wold's first weapon mage) gets a small plate of food consisting mostly of fruit with a few eggs added to the mix and find his way to a seat next to Mykael.
Sitting he turns and looks the quasielf up and down. Good morning Star Mage Mykael Arliin, I am Ingrge Nightseer. I have heard some good things about you and others that have me a bit puzzled. Tell me a little about yourself and why you have chosen the path you are now taking?
Dahli Friday June 1st, 2007 7:23:05 PM
As usual, the little halfling lass pokes fun at those who pile their plates full when there is an unlimited amount of food, and then ponders the two dwarves for a moment. Turning to Valdor, and possibly looking to make a few gold, she quips.
"Hey Valdor, I think there are two dwarves up here who think they can out eat you. Could that be possible?"
Appolo Friday June 1st, 2007 8:15:53 PM
Appolo looks upat the mention of an offer of somekind and stops eating for a second"Well whatever it is I accept."he then goes back to eating.
Nezamil Friday June 1st, 2007 8:29:16 PM
Nezamil pauses for a moment of prayer led by Ve Mundr once done he raises his mug to Ve Munder " To Domi " his anvil holy symbol glints in the morning light
The 9'4' dwarf paces himself as he eats ....making sure to sample everything "delicious"
"So Monthor where ya from ?....i myself grew up in Plateau City"
Nezamil observes the others eating breakfast ...listening to different conversations
Horvis (Grey Knights / Windhorn Hamlet) Friday June 1st, 2007 9:51:43 PM
The brown and black dog stays close to Jova in the crowd. Then, Horvis reconsiders. Many of these people have probably already determined his abilities. So why bother hiding anything ...
After the brief prayer, the shifter moves into an open area and concentrates momentarily, shifting back into his normal form - a tall, heavy brown centaur stallion with black socks and tail. Once he is sure of his reception, Horvis heads to the buffet table before Monthor and this giant dwarf called Nezamil eat everything. At least Horvis is able to look Nezamil nearly in the eye, since he's a rather large centaur.
Val (Swords of Redemption) Friday June 1st, 2007 10:32:17 PM
Despite the feast before them, the dark elf takes a meal of rice and fish with a few pieces of fruit. Her body wasn't used to such rich food and she didn't want to upset things in the middle of a meeting. Whatever this meeting was about. As she ate, Val watched the others with her off colored eyes. The two giant dwarves in an apparent eating contest with a centaur that seemed to want to join in. A man protective of his lover. Plus a few others that wanted to show everybody else just how tough they were. Even now she missed the open sea and the wind in her hair. It kept her sane between the blood and the death that followed her like a shadow. At one point this troubled the young elf but no more. She knew her calling. Heard its whispers while she was on the field of battle.
Jova Kon (Grey Knights / Windhorn Hamlet) Friday June 1st, 2007 10:38:13 PM
After his brief exchange with Valdor, Jova watches as Horvis changes form.
"I think it important you present yourself a true Centaur. I don't see anyother Taurs here. This is quite an honor, for you, the Centaurs, all Taurs. My hat is of to you my good friend." Jova bows deeply to his centaur friend.
Upon getting afew pieces of meat, and sausage Jova spots someone he had been hoping to meet for some time. Walking over to a table full of people, jova picks out one inm particular. Leaning over the mans shoulder he says,
"Master Lian, if I may speak with you after the meal i would greatly appreciate it." Jova then moves off to a spot that is open.
Gunther (Emerald Dragon) Friday June 1st, 2007 11:15:14 PM
Though his choice in women might be questionable, Gunther knows that the young Captain's (Rigging's) words hold a powerful truth. With a hearty slap on the back, Gunther chuckles.
Surveying the breakfast table the warrior beams at K'nara with unrestrained pride. She's the best, no doubt about it! With a hearty whoop, Gunther piles his plate full of his favorites...fried green ochres...pigs feet...deep fried assassin's vine. Tendril still hanging from his lips, Gunther turns to Rigging. "You've gotta try dese...just like mama used to make!"
Ashira (Swords of Redemption) Friday June 1st, 2007 11:25:39 PM
The aquatic ranger laughs at K'nara's tale of woe at the Catacombs. "You would think that the premiere magic store in the Wold would have better hiring guidlines!"
Surveying the buffet, Ashira piles her plate with various samples of seafood. She takes a seat next to Rigging and watches the various conversations going around. Though she does pause as one of the Dragons mentions something about "an offer". Lowering her fork, she pays careful attention to what K'nara has to say next.
Aeralia (Emerald Dragons) Saturday June 2nd, 2007 12:04:42 AM
"Well, I suppose I should join them before I miss anything important," Aeralia says, mostly to herself, though also for the dwarvish construction workers hear. "If I can be of any other help, just let me know," she offers to the team of workers, before following the Dragons and guests to breakfast.
Aeralia enters into the tent at the back end of the crowd, keeping quiet as she makes herself a plate. The woman, in her early twenties if not younger, stands about five feet tall, sporting a slim, curvacious figure. Long black hair hands loosely over her shoulders, reaching her tailbone in length. Her skin is fair, and features delicate, most would consider the woman quite lovely. Her clashing red and yellow travel dress clings tightly to her slender waist and ample busoms, the skirt much more loose and flowing, slit on one side, to not impede upon the woman's movement or flexibility.
The young raven-haired woman takes a seat at an empty end of one table, pickly lightly at the few pieces of fresh fruit she'd taken for herself. She looks around at everyone else in the room briefly, then keeps her gaze to her plate, apparently mumbling to herself, or perhaps the vacant seat across from her.
DM Jerry [OOC] Saturday June 2nd, 2007 3:01:10 AM
We're waiting on K'nara or Valdor here folks. ;) Until then keep eating and having fun.
Lian Saturday June 2nd, 2007 8:44:13 AM
The monk looks relieved to see Aeralia.
When Jova Kon speaks to him, he jumps, not expecting to be addressed at all by the newcomers. He's but a humble Hand of Domi. Setting down his honey wine, the elf looks up. "Um, yes, okay. We'll speak after."
Valdor Saturday June 2nd, 2007 2:47:38 PM
Valdor smiles and stands. He is wearing his mithril armor and his "special" sword stand over his left shoulder this day. He's only wearing one other sword on his right hip. His armor shines and he says,"It has been my great honor to stand as the leader of the Gold Dragons and the Platinum Dragons for many years. To have been asked to carry the title Dragonstone was as humbling an invitation as I have ever had.
For so many years, I have fought for the cause of goodly beings around the Wold alongside the best companions of both skill and heart. There is nothing more important than family and honor to me. Our group, while it's took a long time and we went through many changes, became a family long ago. As all four groups represented here can attest to, you fight together, love together, even die together. When one suffers, all suffer. When one succeeds, all share in that achievement.
Grey Knights...we, the Dragon Consortium, have viewed your growth as a group and family for quite some time now. We have watched your maturity in matters martial, political, and seen how you have learned from mistakes and succeeded together. You have come far and for this we applaud you. No group is perfect, nor will any of us ever be. But, the most important thing is to try to be the best at what we do, to make the right decisions, even if we don't like what we must do.
What we have invited you here for, Grey Knights, is to ask if you would like to join the ranks of being in the Dragon Consortium.
Before you accept or decline, you need to think about it carefully. There is nothing easy about it. I hear the comments everywhere I go. Some are jealous, others proud of what you do. See the Emerald Dragons' keep out there? It brings peril when you accept. It creates enmity with powerful enemies who want to see you fail. But, it brings respect when you earn it. It does bring you power and some wealth, but with that comes a great responsibility to others in the Wold. So, before you answer, consider the consequences, both good and bad."
Lian Saturday June 2nd, 2007 3:08:46 PM
Lian sits, having heard a similar speech recently and taking in every word all the same. He nods in agreement with Valdor. Scars on the monk's otherwise young looking skin, certainly do attest to what the Dragonstone is saying.
He looks at the keep, up toward his room.
Val (Swords of Redemption) Saturday June 2nd, 2007 10:16:53 PM
Val chokes on her rice, coughing hard until she drank some water. She must have heard him wrong. There was no way she was supposed to be here for this. Val turns her head and gives Ashira a questioning look.
K'Nara, an Emerald Dragon Sunday June 3rd, 2007 3:10:01 AM
K'Nara makes sure that Gunther has a finger bowl and a few napkins at the ready, though she leaves it to him as to when he wishes to use them. Just after Valdor makes his speech, the tall human blade singer rises to her feet to make her own, shooting a wry grin at the famous Dragonstone.
"I could...probably should...simply point at the members of the Swords of Redemption, and then at Valdor, and say 'yeah...what HE said!'...but that wouldn't be very personal." K'Nara's humor leaves, but her expression is one of pride--for her own group and for the group she is now addressing.
"Not so long ago, Valdor and the Platinum Dragons hosted a breakfast at their castle and told the band of adventures called 'the Emerald Talons' that they had been carefully observed and judged to be the kind of people that the Dragon Consortium wanted to swell their ranks. Now it is my pleasure and my honor to tell you, too, that you've been observed...you have been judged as being highly desirably to continue to swell the ranks of the Dragon Consortium." Her hazel eyes glance over at the damaged tower. "Membership in the Consortium isn't all fame and fortune...it carries a heavy responsibility and, more often than not, a very high price...but I would ask that you all consider joining, please, for the sake of the Wold. We need all the good people we can get...but we don't want you to join if your hearts are not truly in it." She smiles warmly at the Swords of Redemption and at the Grey Knights as well.
"Know, please, that I am honored just to meet you, and I am selfishly hoping you will agree to the Labors that would be assigned to you in order to complete the qualifications for becoming members of the Consortium. What say you..?"
Lian Sunday June 3rd, 2007 11:55:43 AM
Looking around, the monk waits for the groups answer and hopes that its the right one, the right choice for the group are a whole.
He looks at the group of semi-pirate rabble, grinning and thinking about the diversity the Consortium was about to have, he looks down at his hands.
Rabble. Perhaps a strong word. He thinks. Rapscalian. Nah. Pirates of Jack? Odd images flash in his head. He laughs openly and hoarsely, deep.
JovaKon Sunday June 3rd, 2007 3:19:16 PM
Looking aound the room sends chills down his back. The offer seemed tremendous, but some continued eating as hearing nothing. As for himself he had been studying the large black cat when Valdor spoke. He had not grasped the concept, and even after K'nara speaks he is confused. Well silence never got any anwers.
"Excuse me," Jova the tall human stands, placing his hat in his hands. He runs his fingers through his hair hoping to straightened the mangled mess abit.
"I have trevelled his land much. I have heard the tales of the bards, and storytellers. I have heard of several heroes," He catches Lian's eyes and nods. "I mean no disrespect but I have never heard of this Dragon Consort.Consort..what you said. I fuess is what I am saying, isthere any history, deeds, allies, any information about what it is to be a member. I understand by looking atthe candidates gathered here it is a osition of honor. Thank you." He replaces his hat and sits back down.
Appolo Sunday June 3rd, 2007 4:01:22 PM
Appolo had begun to slow down as he ate,relaxing and enjoying things,when Awralia arrives,He watches her tajea sweat and gives hera friendly nod.
The Valdor makes hisoofer to the other group and Appolo just goes back to quietly observing the room and eating.He is not surprised by what is happening or Valdor's offer.
Then K'mara stand up and makes the same off er to the Swords of Redemption.Appolo stops eating for second and looks upIn clear calm relaxed voice he says"I accept.>"he then goes back to observing things.Takinga drink of wine.
Appolo waits few second then gets up and moves over next to Aeralia and has a seat"Hello names Appolo from Asildiur."
Monthor Sunday June 3rd, 2007 7:36:04 PM
Nezamil: "So Monthor where ya from ?....i myself grew up in Plateau City"
Monthor, in between bites..... " Dirt City me be from..[eat]... Axe Head be me Clan...[eat]... Me family is allied to the House of Knives..[drink] ... Me Pappy is in the Sharps..[eat].. Me's helped then out a few times when heads have needed some cracking...[drink].. Me, me's was a bouncer at one of the taverns..[eat and drink].. good times...
Monthor Sunday June 3rd, 2007 7:51:34 PM
From between bites Monthor answers his his fellow knight with a loud bellow.
" They be okay Jovy... [eat]... Tratain, Ari, Draax and me met up with a bunch of them dragons a ways back. "
" EXCUSE ME Valdor...[ stands up ].. We may be brash and rude and not always so wise.... okay, that's just me... but we're not dumb. With all dues respect, ye ain't gonna get us to agree to join ye until ye tell us more. We can deal with ennemies. There's enough dead bodies and burnt out string holds left across the lands to atest to that. But me would likes to hear more before me's boys and I make a decision...[eat].. Tell us more about this'power and fortune' that joining your gang will bring us? And tells us more of these 'Labors'? What 'Labors' does ye want us to do before we become... [wait for it]... MONTHOR'S DRAGONS!!!! "
Ari Sunday June 3rd, 2007 10:30:41 PM
Hearing the words being passed around the hall, Ari pauses in his eating as the two different groups get invited to be Dragon groups. Looking around the table, Ari tries to gauge the various reactions.
Ari decides to wait to see how Rigging will react and/or respond for the group.
Ashira (Swords of Redemption) Sunday June 3rd, 2007 11:29:51 PM
Ashira looks over at Val, her eyes narrowed in scepticism. With a shrug of her shoulders, she indicates that she's just as in the dark as the drow. She looks over at Rigging and then she fixes her gaze back on K'nara.
"There is a question I must ask. My whole life I have dedicated to the downfall of Ga'al and his priests. If we take up your offer will that be in conflict with our mission?"
Mykael Monday June 4th, 2007 12:04:41 AM
Ingrge makes his introduction and Mykael begins to quietly speak of his personal history, when the offers are made.
Stopping his conversation, politely, he gives his full attention to K'nara.
He leans back in his seat and observes the groups.
Jus Monday June 4th, 2007 12:49:56 AM
Jus stops eating, but not due to Valdor's and K'nara's speeches. Jus understands the problems and tribulations that many must be facing, for he's seen in his share many, many times. What halts his feast is the unexpected reception of the news. Could the Swords of Redemption and Grey Knights truly have no knowledge of the Dragons?
Jus sets his utensils down and listens; surely he misunderstood and hearing more will reveal his mistake.
K'Nara, an Emerald Dragon Monday June 4th, 2007 1:01:11 AM
K'Nara tries to address both the question of "what's a Dragon Consortium?" and "will being a Dragon usurp my group's ultimate goal?" by saying the following:
"The Grey Knights and the Swords of Redemption have been brought here to be offered the chance to earn their memberships into the Dragon Consortium. Members of the Consortium are considered the first line of defense when Wold-threatening issues pop up. They are at the forefront of practically any event that occurs to jeopardize the existence of our plane. These things take precedence...but they are not the only things in the lives of its members. Many of the groups have goals that they pursue even as they retain their membership in the Consortium." The tall, chestnut-maned woman looks around with a smile.
"This is a big decision, and it requires careful thought and discussion. Since everyone's about finished with their meal, we will leave the Swords and the Knights to talk amongst themselves about whether they wish to consider membership in the Consortium." K'Nara bows to the groups. "May your hearts guide you true. When you're finished discussing the issue amongst yourselves, you can find us in the great room of the Tower." She turns to her colleagues. "Come, Emerald Dragons...let us give our guests their privacy." The blade singer turns to leave the tent.
DM OOC: anyone with any other questions may still snag K'Nara or the others before they are out of earshot.
Rigging (Sword of Redemption) Monday June 4th, 2007 1:10:51 AM
Slightly surprised at the offer Rigging stands up " we are honored and humbled by your offer.....something of this magnitude must be discussed among us all.....i will consult with my family so we can make this decision together"
Eyes focused on K'nara " when do you need our decision by ?? ....and my lovely wife's question is an important one....we have known little besides our battle to overthrow Ga'als hold on our homeland...Asildur "
(posted by Chris)
Nezamil Monday June 4th, 2007 1:17:52 AM
The 9'4' dwarf takes in the offer calmly "By Domi thats an honor......i've grown up in Plateau City dreaming as many youngsters have about the Dragons and following in my childhood hero's steps .....by Domi grant us the courage to make the right choice here " prays Nnezamil as he rubs his anvil holy symbol.
Valdor Monday June 4th, 2007 1:32:05 AM
Valdor nods at K'Nara's explanation. He adds,"We had questions and concerns before we accepted. As Dragons, your lives are your own. As Dragons, you will be looked upon for guidance, charity, judgements, and help. These are probably things you already face daily. One of the reasons we have chosen both groups is that you have shown how to handle situations like that.
Monthor, being a Dragon means being a leader of others. When the Wold needs a hero, that's who they expect to stand up. When noone else can do it, that's when you are needed. The power and wealth I speak of was your other question. Have you seen our castle in Plateau City? I don't bring it up to show off, but it is magnificent. Look at my armor and weapons. How many other adventurers do you see carrying such? However, that's not why I became a Dragon. I became a Dragon because the Gods gave me a gift. Its the gift of protecting those who cannot protect themselves. That's my job now. To do what others cannot do. That's what we all are here for.
Understand this, being a Dragon means being better than you think you can be. It means everyone will be watching every thing you do. Ashira and Rigging, consider the influence you will have with the Emporer upon becoming a Dragon group. It will open many doors closed to you right now.
But enough of my preaching. We will respect your decisions whether yes or no."
Bart (sword) Monday June 4th, 2007 1:47:07 AM
Well thats a big offer i dont know the pros and cons, but it sounds like nothing will change. We fight for the good to get rid of Ga'alian priests, and we are opposed by them. What changes if we are dragons..
Before K'nara leaves the tent Bart rises. Please dont leave K'Nara you give us very little information about being a dragon. How do you suppose to make an well thought decission about it if we have this little info. I dont like to lured into something, if i say yes i dont know what the consequences are.
I never have heard about these dragons, and please tell me why i never have seen or even heared about you fighting in Aisuldur against Ga'al? Explain this to me and my friends.
Tell us what will be changed for us? It sounds like nothing will change for us. We already fight for the good and some oppose us even within the Pirates of Jack. I think there is more involved in this all.
Do we get funds from a trust? Magical items that can help us in our quests? Back-up from other dragon groups when we need it?
You cant bring us to an breakfast and ask would you like to join the dragons without giving us more information then you will fight evil and fight for the well being of the Wold, and for doing that you will be hatred by many. Thats not enough info ta make our decission!
Posting Repotrg For Monday June 4th, 2007 7:03:50 AM
Game # 3 The Emeral Dragons For the week of May 28,2007
Name-----MTWTF DM JimF--X DM Donna-XOOXX K'nara---XXX2OS Glannah--OOOOO Lean-----XXXXXS *Also RP for three other NP. Gunther--OXXXX Olana----OOOXX Milo-----OXOOO Olana----OXOXX Inger----XOXOX Farlin---XOXXX Alhutron-XOOOO Br,Bert--OOXOO Coralas--OXOOO Onrad----XOOXX
Platinum Dragons For the week of May 28,2007
Name-----MTWTF DM Jan Valdore--XXX22SS2 Modrid---OXXOO Fr.Nick--OXOXX VE Munt--OXOXX Dahjia---OOXOX Coralote-OOOXO
Sword of Redemption Week of May 28,2007
Name-----MTWTF Kent L Ashira---OO2XO Appolo---OOX22 Rigging--OOXXX A'je-----OOX2X Bart-----OOOXX Nezanil--OOXXX Mukail---OOXXX Cosmo----OOXXO Ari------OOXXXS
Onrad [DM Jerry] Monday June 4th, 2007 8:14:42 AM
"What will change? Well the first thing that will change is the scope of the challenges that you will take on.
"The leaders of the Wold will call upon you asking for your help in emergencies. If there is a global evil out there, we oppose it directly.
"There are many times great consequences for failure. Nations fall. The Wold is changed.
"The Consortium led the fight in both of the Wold shaking events that have become known as The Dark Fae Rising, and The Year of Ascension where we fought to assist Domi, God of Courage on the steps of the Oshirr House itself, where the Wold was created.
"Valdor, the Dragonstone, is the one chosen by both dragonkind and the noble races to lead and assemble the adventurers of the Wold in the case of a global threat.
"We are heroes. That includes knowing who you are, but not being arrogant about it. If you walk through any town, you'll see statues to remind the public that we are around and there to keep them safe. Kids play and collect action figures of us. Its quite a poignant moment when you hear a young boy or girl say to their mom that they are glad that the Platinum Dragons are around to keep them safe.
"You're capable and smart folks. There is a library in the tower containing the histories of the Dragon Consortium, leading back nearly 500 years to the first gathering of heroes to protect New Elenna from the invading forces from Aisildur.
"I suggest taking some time to learn about us before answering. As K'nara has said, you have the run of the tower and may talk of things here before giving us your answer. So learn about what you're getting into before you say yes.
"There is no mystery here. Just an opportunity to serve as heroes on more of a global scale."
Ari (Swords) Monday June 4th, 2007 8:26:04 AM
responding to some of the comments made already, "But aren't we seeing that Ga'al is no longer staying in Asildur. That his curse is being spread to all the Wold?
If we become Dragons, doesn't that mean that we become something that might be better than the Jack? Or at the very least lend some credibility to us from within the Jack?
My question then becomes how do we know what you say is true?! Does being Dragon automatically make you tell the truth and everyone believes it? Or where can we find anything that can corroborate what you are telling us?
Please forgive us our skepticism, but we've grown up with a lot of promises. Most of them have been broken. Though Lemtro..... I mean Alemi has been helpful in restoring my faith in some things."
(ooc Jerry's post was not on the board when I wrote this)
Sturtavent [DM Jerry] Monday June 4th, 2007 9:03:14 AM
Entering the tent with a full plate of pancakes is a lone figure with golden hair and a build only to rival Valdor's and Ve Mundr's.
He listens, frowns, and approaches.
"May I have permission to speak K'nara?"
When she nods, he steps to the edge of the table.
"I am Sturtavent. I have the priviledge of being the High Lord Mayor of New Elenna. I also had the privilege of carrying each of you to the tower this morning on my back.
"I humbly set all of that down on the table to say my piece."
He removes his Consortium Ring, his Amulet of Mayors, his Council of Good Dragons bracelet, and his Free-States League Speaker Ring.
"I am now just a being, just like you. A dragon who has been saved by these guys no less than three times. A person who has witnessed these guys take the first step in freeing Aisildur by saving the Emperor from his heartseed. An event that the Swords of Redemption followed up on by safely delivering the Emperor to talks with several national leaders leading to the first EVER treaty between Aisildur and the other nations of the area.
"Of course, the resources of the area can help you defeat the priests of Ga'al! Of course they can and are helping the Emerald Talons defeat Parnoth! Can there be any doubt? They raised the God Domi during the Year of Ascension for all our sakes! They defeated Flame the dragon for gods sakes!
"They humbly speak of their abilities, for that is their way. They show you great honor here, but you fail to see it! By questioning their abilities, you show your lack of knowledge, which you should remedy immediately.
"Valdor, I do not want to doubt you my friend. I owe you my life. But I do not think they are ready. Now, I take my leave as I bear to hear anymore."
And with that, Sturtavent picks up his items of leadership, walks out of the tent, transforms, and flies up and way for a couple of wing strokes before teleporting away.
Monthor Monday June 4th, 2007 9:31:29 AM
"Well... If heroes ye be and heroes the Knights are as well. The Dragons have the reputation of being the best. And with the Grey Knights joing ye, ye'll be proving that yer the best. Me for ones wish to join ye. If yer purpose be to do good, and help those that can't help themselves... and kick bullies arses... then ye sound like me kind of peaple."
:: Monthor throws his war axe on the table. ::
" Here and now, Me, Monthor of Clan Axe Head. Monthor of Dirth City. Monthor of the Grey Knights casts me vote and accepts yer offer. Now, me can't be talking for all of the Knights. Only meself. What of the rest of you girls? ARE YE WITH ME? ARE YE!!!!! "
Sound off Knights. Sound off loud and proud!!! Let the Wold know wether we be Dragons after today!!! Let the Wold know if we be Knights now long!!! Let the Wold know that after today we be DRAGONS!!!
Val Monday June 4th, 2007 10:18:13 AM
Once the shouts die down the apparent dark elf rises to her feet. "I believe most of these questions are unnecessary. They have told us all we need to know. Also the sweating and bleeding we've done in the jungle these last few weeks has nothing to do with ga'al, at least not directly. So please don't use that as an excuse. The Consortium has done incredible things. But can anybody here truthfully say they wouldn't have helped if they knew about the crisis? Can anybody here just stand idly by and let evil do as it likes? Then there are personal reasons each of us has. For some it could be the honor of belonging to something you looked up to as a child. My people were wiped out before many of you were born. I have found a new family but that will not last forever. Eventually the paths our lives are taking will part. This gives me a place and a purpose beyond the next couple decades. Which is why I accept their offer. Maybe our paths will change on this day because of my decision. But we are losing the fight with ga'al and I don't see how being part of the consortium will make things worse."
Nonam Monday June 4th, 2007 10:19:10 AM
Nonam chuckles to himself at the deliberation and reflects on the political turmoil that surrounded membership in the consortium for the Storm Dragons. Then he calls up to Valdor, "You should warn them about the politics involved in joining the Consortium."
Ve Mundr (Platinum Dragon) Monday June 4th, 2007 10:49:36 AM
Ve sits quietly listening to the Swords and Knights. Yes Good questions all, but such a limited scope of vision. Then again, of course it was, as was everyone's before the whole of the storm was revealed. None of them would understand, truly understand until they set upon the path. The Ga'alian priest and Alsidur, The destruction of such wouldsimply shift the problem somewhere else. Perhaps that is what they need to hear.
Ve stands as the High Mayor announces himself and then sits as he speaks. As the High Mayor turns to leave, Ve stands up again. The dragon was correct, but his tome needed correcting. "Of Course they are not ready Sturtavent. No one hear claims them to be, just as none of us were. It is a great leap from hero to Wold savior. From favored of Domi or Alemi, to champion of the gods of Good." Ve looks to Valdor and K`Nara and then to the groups.
"They do not understand, but they will come to."
"Yes, resources and fame will come. Respect from dragons and noble races alike. But do not be ignorant to the fact that evil will know you as well." Ve's eyes look to the underside of the tent ceiling as if he could truly see the top of the dragon damaged tower. He looks back to the group. "What is being offered before you is the start of a journey and where it leads is nothing like the path you are on now. It is a path not easily described. We are not asking your to retrieve some lost artifact. We are asking you look to the possibility of altering your very lives, faith and souls."
Appolo Monday June 4th, 2007 11:51:48 AM
Appolo listens for awhile,then stands"Hey people listen up.I'm not jioning this group becuase any high moral idea.I'm jioning becuase,Valdor my friend asked me to and becuase I never could say know toa beatiful woman with a sword.That's it.Keep it simple,As far as the bad guys knowing who we are I think they already know.Like I said before I accept the offer."
Appolo then looks aroundas if looking for some one,then starts to head outside.
Izen (Grey Knights) d2=2 Monday June 4th, 2007 12:26:49 PM
Izen listened carefully to all that was being said, the copper coin on the back of his knuckles ever rolling. At Valdor's offer, the coin stopped. Izen looked up.
He listened to Jova Kon, and Monthor. He looked around at the great assembly of heroes.
He flipped the coin. Tails.
"Monthor," Izen said quietly. "The Lord Mayor is right. We're not ready. The Dragons are the greatest of the good, the heroes with the most honor in the Wold. And we ...." The halfling struggled with the words.
"We are not with honor. We have not earned it."
He looked at his recent comrades, the Grey Knights. "We must be tested."
Ve Mundr Monday June 4th, 2007 12:44:26 PM
Ve shakes his head towards Apollo, "Yes perhaps some of the 'bad guys' do, but trust me when I say that evil has not noticed you yet."
Valdor Monday June 4th, 2007 1:00:08 PM
Valdor stands as Sturtavent says his piece and bows as he exits. He looks strangely calm, although this wasn't the responses he had expected. He addresses the gathering and says,"Tested? Oh yes, you WILL be tested, should you agree. And, even should you accept and pass the tests, you may find this not to be your path. My friends, it is extremely hard to explain every minute detail of being a Consortium member. If I led you all the way through it, how could you be proud of what you had achieved?
We went through the same soul searching that you will. We had to make the choices years ago and I do not regret any of it? I didn't set out to become the Dragonstone. I was known as the Dragonslayer before, which really makes it ironic. I have killed or been part of the kill of more than fifteen dragons. Most everyone in the Wold knows my name. I don't do this for those reasons. I look to the future of the Wold and both of your groups have shown the qualities that we look for. Now, enough has been said and asked, we are leaving you to decide. But, if you accepte, you each must face three challenges that we lay before you, and complete them successfully to see if you are in fact ready. But understand that we weren't ready when Mordrid, myself, Jus, Onrad, Nonam, and all the rest with us were presented with these tasks. We became more than we were as we worked through these tasks and grew to what we are now through such tasks. Noone becomes a Dragon overnight, nor does anyone expect you to in this tent. Dragons, it is time for them to discuss privately. Let us take our leave."
He stands up and exits the tent without looking back or taking any more questions.
Lian Monday June 4th, 2007 1:10:03 PM
The hand of Domi and Emerald Dragon speaks up.
"It is wise to realize that you, individually are not ready for this task, it is tough. I'm STILL NOT ready as an individual. But, as a group of individuals, the Emeralds make a whole and I am standing with them." He pauses. "If one within your group decides to join, that does NOT mean that the whole group must follow." He looks at Valdor. "Am I right in thinking this Dragonstone... I mean... some might be ready, others, not so much."
Onrad Monday June 4th, 2007 2:02:52 PM
Onrad whispers in Valdor's ear.
"Two challenges sir. Just two."
He then freezes and turns red for correcting him and sits down quickly puts a rather too large piece of fruit in his mouth to shut himself up.
Bart Monday June 4th, 2007 3:39:43 PM
Hmm the deeds of the dragons are great although bit not all of the stories told is right! Who did free the emperor of his hartseed? Who found the Feybelle Bottle and brought the water of Alemni in it to the emperor? We!! The Swords of Redemption as part of the Pirates of Jack! We did get the healing water from Father Farkus a ghostpriest of Alemni just after the Year. We found The Feybelle Bottle in the vaults of Isuldur after a heavy battle against constructs and brought the bottle to the Emperor, not the dragons!!
I still havent heared anything about the advantage of being a dragon. Is there anything else then the glory? Dont get me wrong im hoping to become a dragon. But i do want to know what is involved.
Val Monday June 4th, 2007 4:39:18 PM
"Bart I think your missing the point. Maybe some of the rest of you are as well. Its not about what you get. Sure some really nice armor and magical blade is useful in keeping you alive. But the tests that you go through to earn the right make you more than you are. Maybe I'm the one who's wrong but thats how I see it."
Ve Mundr Monday June 4th, 2007 4:56:33 PM
The cleric stands after Valdor speaks and with a nod to the Swords and Knights he excuses himself. Ve exists the pavillion and heads in Valdor's wake to the tower "They should be discussing things for quite sometime. We should perhaps take this time to think of what we shall say if they decline." Within the tower he finds a comfortable chair and extracts his book and quill.
Appolo Monday June 4th, 2007 5:05:59 PM
Appolo takes one lastlook around smiles and leaves the tent.He takesa tour of the grounds.The tall lanky heavily armed pirate waves and smiles at those he meets as looks around enjoying the forrest and the day.
CDM Jerry [OOC] Monday June 4th, 2007 5:54:01 PM
If you wish, you can take this back to your boards to discuss as a group whether you want to accept the Consortium's offer.
It will affect the course of your game. We will not ignore your regional concerns, but help you resolve them. But you will be asked to take a more global set of adventurers. Instead of saving your area, you're now saving the Wold at large.
The adventurers are larger in scope and have more dire consequences for failure. Your financial concerns will pretty much vanish as you'll be shown the tricks of treasure hunting that the Consortium knows about.
It gives you a chance to be called the best adventuring group in the Wold.
It makes a legacy for you for all time.
Downside? The games goes "big." But most of any downside is "in character." You'll be a celebrity. Kids will play with your action figures and so you have to consider your reputation more than before. There will be more political situations to go with the crazy battles.
So if you prefer a "neighborhood" game where you deal with helping out a small town or just a set of friends, then this would not be for you. Also, the combats will become more "high level" in nature. There will be more complications in battle. Damage Reduction. Artifacts. High level spells. For example, I wouldn't even leave the house as a Dragon group without a wand of Dispel Magic, a handful of scrolls of Greater Reatoration, and a batch of True Resurrection spells. For you'll be drained more times than you can count. You'll die multiple times.
Kent put the Storms up against about a dozen liches and threw two harm spells at us a round for 3 rounds. That's 300 points of damage a round not including the normal damage of multiple liches. Both sides were flashing Heal and Harm every round for a few rounds.
The flipside is that you'll have the resources to play on that level.
Perhaps this should have gone on the email thread; however, there are lurkers from other games and I don't want a repeat of a group being asked to join and some players honestly not knowing what's the consortium is. ;)
We'll consider that lack of knowledge my bad. I'll make it a project of mine to be sure that knowledge of the consortium is readily available and known. :)
Ingrge Monday June 4th, 2007 6:48:59 PM
Standing Ingrge looks around at the assembled guests and shakes his head. To those who know him, Ingrge looks more than a bit irritated.
"You say you are heros. Perhaps some of you are. But some of you are still self-important, puffed-up, poppinjays. When was the last time you truly took a look around you as you go through your oh so important daily grind? That is where you will see the true heros of the Wold. We all, and you have been blessed with the good fortune, or by the Gods themselves, to have a talent for adventuring and heroic deeds. But those every day people in the Wold, the farmer who is working 13 hours a day to feed his family and supply food for others to eat for a few silver a year, the cobbler and blacksmith and other trades people who actually have to work for a living, are the true Woldian heros.
When was the last time any one of you in this room had less than a gold piece in your pocket? For that matter a handful of them? How many of us here are wearing more wealth than many villages see in their entire existence? Would you do what you do now, if all you got out of it was 3 pieces of silver a day? The people we protect do. Every day they face bandits, robbers, monsters, famine, starvation, injury and death. And they do it without our gifts and training and they do it for what equates to about 25-30 pieces of gold per year, and most of that they have to spend to survive. And we call ourselves heros.
The question has been asked about what do we get out of it? You get the priviledge and honor of making sure that the true heros of the Wold make it through another year alive and maybe, just maybe, you will be invited to share some of their hard earned food with them for dinner and hold one of the Wold's children in your lap."
As he finishes the last word, the white-haired weapon mage turns and leaves the tent.
Milo Monday June 4th, 2007 7:37:41 PM
Quite literally stunned by all the high-n-mightys wandering about, Milo stands speechless amidst the dragons or potential dragons, not know what to say or do. With a glazed look on his face, the halfling rogue wanders nearer Olana and grabs hold of the hem of her cloak, much like a child would his mother. Looking up, "I think that I'm feeling a bit over-crowded right now... ya know... claustro.. claustro... I don't have enough space. Perhaps we should go out for a walk."
Rigging (Sword of Redemption) Monday June 4th, 2007 8:43:14 PM
Listening to the banter back and forth between dragons and non dragons "Swords ...gather at my table ...lets discuss this among ourselves....this is a very important choice .....so we will have a group vote on what direction we shall go in "
Once seated together (without Appolo since he walked away) Rigging then stands with his hands behind his back and paces back and forth as he talks " Val i'm very impressed with you....well spoken......this will help us become stronger and gives us more access to infomation to help us make the wold a better place for all"
"As Val has wisely stated.....this is a path that we can set our future and our children's future.....i want to make a difference in the wold.....and this is way i feel we can do this "
"As Dragons we can have more influence to help our cause both with sword and now with quill "
" i would like you all to have say in this .....please speak up ......so far both Val and Appolo have spoken in favor of this....i will add my own vote to this"
Turning to look as Ashira " i know we havent talked about this but this could really help free Asildur and it's give it's people a free voice like we have here today "
Smiling at Val " i like the new Val.....i hope to keep hearing more of you "
" now lets hear the rest of you "
(posted by chris, whilst george is down at disney world)
Corialote and Amarth Monday June 4th, 2007 9:48:00 PM
Cori was quiet through most of the meal and still is quiet. This is a decision that the group has to make on their own and she cannot really add much to what has already been said anyways.
She slips her arm through Valdor's as he exits the tent. Leaning close she shakes her head. "Well...what do you think...how many will be willing to take the trials." She herself feels that she has only been proving herself the past couple of months that she has been with the group or has it been a year.
Once again she longs for her retirement and all the things that go with it.
Cosmo (Swords of Redemption) Monday June 4th, 2007 9:58:21 PM
Cosmo listens to the various Dragons speak of the Wildcards joining their "Dragon" group. He also hears the various questions and responses from the soon to be Dragons and the the other group that is being asked to join.
He sits quietly thinking about what has been said. Cosmo joins the Wildcards when Rigging summons the Wildcards to his table. He remains quiet, but as the Wildcards start to discuss becoming Dragon, he puts in his 2 cents.
"Rigging, we haven't even cleaned up our own backyard yet. We leave a lot of loose ends if we are sent off performing these tasks to become Dragons. The biggest being that we haven't solidified the port city we are trying to establish."
"It would also be nice to know where we will stand in the Dragon heirarchy. Are we going to just be a tool that these guys use? Are we going to have a say in what we do? In what direction the Dragons go?"
"There also seems to be some different opinions amongst the Dragons on whether we are ready or not. Are we getting ourselves in the midst of a political struggle among the top Dragons?"
Cosmo sits back down and says one final thing, "I am abstaining from voting right now. I want to hear more from my comrades and possibly from the other groups."
Arien (Grey Knight/Windhorn Hamlet) Monday June 4th, 2007 10:10:13 PM
Arien smiles slightly as Monthor responds with all the enthusiasm that he normally does. When Izen speaks though the elven mage's face grows serious once more. After a moments consideration Arien speaks, "I hope that these...tests would be to measure our strengths and to ensure that we are powerful enough to step up to the dragon's level as it were. Otherwise I'm not sure that I approve of the testing, after all will a test make one more devoted to the good? Will it make one more a hero that one already is? Perhaps through that person's actions but I feel that those deeds already slept in their breast, awaiting the time when they were needed. But aye I will vote for the Grey Knights to become members of the Consortium."
Jova Kon (Grey Knight/Windhorn Hamlet) Monday June 4th, 2007 10:25:10 PM
Jova sits patiently waiting an answer. What comes next was far from wehat he expected. He had assumed these people were well versed in politics, and the intrigue behind the scenes. It seemed however they were all of royal blood, expecting obedience from their lessers.
Looking sown at his plate of meat, he has no appetite. What made this group so important? Why did they feel their offer was impossible to ignore?
Jova wanted, always esteemed to become a Dragon. A part of the Horde. Thats what the dragons people were called where he was from, the Horde. They were the ones that helped the good dsragons over come evil. Shaking his head, slowly from side to side, the others words slowly sink in. Jova was never considered the brightest star in the sky.
Could the Consortium be the same thing as the Horde. After hearing the tales he was sure of it. And now he stood there, questioning the group who he most wanted to be a part of. Dumbfounded at the coincidence he sits motionless.
Ashira (Swords of Redemption) Monday June 4th, 2007 10:45:00 PM
Ashira listens carefully to the conversation going around, never once interupting. The faintest smile forms as Ari voices his opinion, and it broadens when Val speaks up.
She shakes her head in disagreement when Bart voices speaks of the Sword's role in freeing the Emperor. She lays a gentle hand on the warrior's shoulder. "Bart, no one here doubts that we have done brave things...we wouldn't be here if they did. But I'm afraid you haven't rendered your story correctly my friend. The Platinum Dragons did indeed free the Emperor from his heartseed and we owe them a debt of gratitude for that one deed...if not for all the other things they have done for the Wold."
Ashira joins Rigging and the others at the table he has selected. She nods at Rigging's assesment as she finally raises her own voice. "All of you know me. And you know that my life will never truely be complete until I see the Wold free of Ga'al's taint. But I believe that Ari, Val and Rigging are right. Not only is joining the Dragon Consortium helpful to our cause, but it is the right thing to do." Smiling, she looks around for the others to say what they might.
Mordrid (Platinum Dragon) Monday June 4th, 2007 10:48:38 PM
Mordrid is not in the least bit suprised by the collective reaction of the candidates. He himself would have been prone to ask the same questions, had he not known Queen Claudia personally. The situation was about knowing one's place in the greater Wold.
Before exiting, he adds this, "there are NO rewards for joining the Consortium, despite what some of my fellows might have you believe. To join is to serve... unconditionally. You will forfit the lives that you have known, and you will be a servant of life. I think Ingrge said it well. Which in itself is testiment to how service to the Consortium changes one's out-look. I would not have you fooled. You will loose yourself, however, it's a small price to pay for immortality." The grey haired ranger winks, and smiles, as he enjoys the implications of the later statement.
Gunther (Emerald Dragon) Monday June 4th, 2007 10:53:09 PM
Listening to Ingrge go off, Gunther can't help but smile. "Remember, the Platinum dragons said many of de same tings about us not dat lont ago..." he says in a gentle tone. "If dey accept, dey vill find out vhat it's really like soon enough."
Val (Swords of Redemption) Tuesday June 5th, 2007 12:06:04 AM
She turns and does her best to keep her gaze from becoming angry or challenging. Mordrid didn't know. He couldn't have known what thoughts troubled her whenever she had time to stop and think. "I think this time I could tell the Consortium stories about forfiting life and losing oneself."
Val turned back to the conversation and tugged on the collar of her elven chain armor even though it would go no higher. Upon her neck were two tattoos all in white. She kept them covered as best she could but they contrasted greatly against her obsidian skin. It was the mark of the Father. She was chosen to be his general and one day she would have to face up to it. In one way or another. She could never forget what happened in the valley of life. Each time she looked in a mirror she was reminded that the face she wore was not her own. And each day it was harder and harder to remember what she looked like before. There were fundamental things she didn't know. Did her body age? Did she have an afterlife waiting for her? Could she have children? Why did she look as she did? Val took a deep breath and had a far away look in her eye for a moment before she rejoined the conversation.
Bart (sword) Tuesday June 5th, 2007 1:23:34 AM
I feel the same Cosmo, we have a lot of loose ends. Remember we did leave the Pirates to do our own thing. Still supported by the jack, but we are on our own. Now e stand on the edge to join another group. I want you to think that over. I have made my decission, I have allways been an opportunist, i see changes here not only to earn honor, to help the helpless, by Domi's will, but also to get more resources that can help us in our tasks. Along time ago I asked if we still had to fight Ga'al if defeafing his priests doesnt changed the balance on Wold, I still think it can change it. But i agreed to fight, to fight against the hartseed, being a believer of Ga'al must be a free choice not one made by society. If being a Dragon helps to achieve this goal, I will be a Dragon
K'Nara Tuesday June 5th, 2007 2:23:56 AM
"Come, Emerald Dragons," the leader of the group says, beckoning, "The Swords and the Grey Knights have much to discuss amongst themselves. Let us go to the great room." She takes Gunther's hand and leads the way to the Tower, to the large room on the first floor, where a huge oval table stands opposite a large fireplace that dominates the space. Above the fireplace is an animated portrait of a napping elven wizard, who snorts and sits up straight in the chair he'd been slouched in.
"What's this? What's this?" the spellcaster in the portrait demands in a quavering voice. "Ahhhh...it's you lot again! And you've brought friends, too..." The wizard nods to the Emerald Dragons and then to the Platinum Dragons as well.
K'Nara chuckles.
"For those who haven't had the pleasure," she announces--mostly for the benefit of the Platinum Dragons, "The illustrious Elven wizard in the portrait is Valor Jlacathra. He's graciously allowed us to hang his picture on our wall."
Nick (Platinum Dragons) Tuesday June 5th, 2007 3:03:16 AM This talk of Ga'al...
Nick takes a deep breath and stands. To the Swords, he says - "I understand your concerns about Ga'al and his persuasive priests. I had the misfortune to be... in Ga'al's presence on one occasion." He clears his throat, swallows, "It was not pleasant. And unfortunately, I suspect that, while his grip on the politics of Aisuldur has lessened, he now seeks to compensate by sending out his evangelists to convert the unwary all over the Wold." He looks toward the Grey Knights, also. "This is only one example the nature of the evil that we face, as I'm sure you're all aware. It's everywhere. And a lot of it is hidden. Bubbling under the surface of civilization or indeed basking within it, a wolf in a sheep's guise, gathering power, choosing it's moment to strike. Some of that evil will climb to dizzying heights within our very societies, and in order to combat it, we must also do the same. Becoming a Dragon will see you embroiled in all kinds of politics. You will find yourself rubbing shoulders with the rulers of the Wold. They hold many keys of power and information, and while they do not wish evil to spread, they are ever mindful of their ranks, hierarchies and protocols. The Dragon name is respected, even feared in some places. Doors will open for you that would otherwise be closed. Others have touched on the responsibilities and the dangers of becoming part of the Consortium, but it does have considerable advantages. You will be heard in those lofty places that are deaf to all but the mighty. "This is not an easy choice. The safety and well being of the Wold will rest on your shoulders. Your lives will be in danger, a normal life will be impossible, but you will not be alone. We work together. We help and support one another. Together we will defeat the endless terrors of the Wold."
He gives both groups a solumn bow, and leaves with the others so that talk can commence and decisions can be made. He hopes he didn't go on too long, or come across as some pompous old priest. Emotions and convictions had a tendency to come pouring out unbridled...
Olana (Emerald Dragons) Tuesday June 5th, 2007 3:17:26 AM
The conversations and the questions have Olana feeling a little unnerved. She has been through this herself, and seeing it all unfold before her now just reminds her of her own decisions, and the nagging doubts and fears that went with it. Sensing Milo tugging at her cloak, she reaches for him and hugs him, while still watching the debate, a move decidedly better than chewing nervously on her braid.
When it comes time for them to leave the discussion, she is as eager as Milo is, not wanting to intrude on what was an important matter for the Swords and the Knights.
Lian Tuesday June 5th, 2007 8:28:34 AM
Lian jumps up on Knara's orders and leaves the Swords and the Greys alone to decide.
Sonara Tuesday June 5th, 2007 8:29:29 AM
The archer is still missing. Until the Emeralds move, and she appears out of nowhere to join them.
Lucia Tuesday June 5th, 2007 8:31:24 AM
The sword speaks to the red-head. You think they can do what is necessary?
Valdor Tuesday June 5th, 2007 8:51:27 AM
Walking beside Cori, he replies,"Ah, they will be fine. It is a whole life change for them...especially the pirates. They have fought Ga'al so long, they have little experience with all the havoc of the rest of the Wold. They know it's there, they just haven't really faced it. Give them time and they will realize that they have a great chance here to do something bigger than than have been doing.
Times are changing, yet I see myself in young Appolo. Give him a purpose and he attacks it. He doesn't care about all the small questions. That was me way back. I didn't need anyone to tell me every little detail. Of course, my compulsiveness got us into lots of trouble when we were younger, but I always had Mordrid around to bail me out, along with so many other great people.
Some are not ready, but they will be soon enough. They won't survive long if they aren't. Wait til they have to fight dragons..."
Ari (swords) Tuesday June 5th, 2007 10:13:22 AM
"I am leaning in the yes direction, but as always I have reservations about how we as a group react to things. I expect that some of us" a brief pause as Ari looks around and eyes each of the swords, " might have to learn how to either hold our tongues, or choose less harsh words.
It is apparent to me that we may be destined for things far greater than we ever imagined. It is only now that I may be starting to understand my parents talk of building a better weapon. For we are the weapons that can stop Ga'al and his influence. But why should we stop with only Ga'al. I believe we can help this alliance that the Emporer has wrought by joining the Consortum and making our own alliances with people who want to see us free of the heart seed, regardless of what land or politics they come from, or even strengthening what has been started by the Emporer.
Even though we haven't found our port city just yet, imagine if we have our headquarters at the city and it's know we belong? What kind of trade might it bring for the city? What other benefits might come with that which will keep us aligned, but operating indepently from the Jack?"
(ooc we can stay here for further conversation or move to our board, doesn't bother me)
Onrad Tuesday June 5th, 2007 10:42:56 AM
Onrad, catching Valdor's comment, strolls over to him.
"Valdor, we've never done this, but what about setting the destruction of the High Temple in Aisildur City and the bringing of the High Priest to justice as the Swords' first task? I'm confident that the Free-States League as well as the Dragon Council would see fit to finance the operation.
"I see this not as a lure, but as a comfort. The Swords need to know that we do indeed still care about their regional situation. In fact, it may be time to try to clean up several regional situations.
"The Grey Knights as well as other regions and groups have been facing growing groups of Sons of Dread for years now. I'm wondering if we couldn't task the Knights with taking out the leader of the Sons of Dread. What do you think?
"We've never given out any information about missions, etc. before acceptance before. If it eases the transition, and they know they will be given the resources to carry out the mission, it might encourage them to take the step to join us as well as give them encouragement.
"My worry is that it would be taken as manipulation or a cheap carrot stick to pull them in."
Onrad looks up at his comrade and for a moment, sees the legend and the hero instead of the person.
::Odd,:: He thinks. ::Most people see the icon first. What a weird perspective on the Wold we have because of position only. Ingrge has it right. The true heroes are the normal citizens who manage life without all this.::
Tratain Tuesday June 5th, 2007 11:19:53 AM
Tratain sits quietly and listens to the discussions going on around him. "He says to his friends, I for one would like to accept thier offer and join the consortium. Being a protector I have devoted myself to the greater good most of my life. I fight so that other are not required or forced to do so. Over the years the scope of what we have done has increased, I started out alone doing what I could, then I join the Hamleteers and suddenly Things got a little bigger. The same happened when we started called ourselves the Grey Knights and working for Lord Arrak. I think this would be a good next step."
Appolo d20+14=34 Tuesday June 5th, 2007 11:26:14 AM
Appolo glides silently up behind Valdor,Cori and Onrad."hello you three.Nice day.Great breakfast don't you think.'he sats once he is right behind them.
Monthor Tuesday June 5th, 2007 11:50:50 AM
Monthor respond's to Onrad's comments in between bits from his breakfast meal....
" We were going to do that anyway. "
(Onrad and Valdor are outside beyond Monthor's hearing-SteveH)
Izen (Grey Knights) Tuesday June 5th, 2007 12:20:47 PM
Izen watched many of the heroes departing the tent and motioned for the Grey Knights to gather near. Eyeing the Dragons as they left over the shoulders of his companions, Izen spoke in low tones.
"I don't want to be misunderstood. Joining the Dragon Consortium is one of the greatest honors anyone could achieve in this lifetime. If I thought myself worthy of it, I ...." He hesitated. "Well, as I say, there is no greater honor, and a great honor it is to accept."
The halfling shook his head as he continued. "But we, as a group, have been together for such a short time! And in that time, what have we done to deserve this honor? Serving Lord Patrark? He is a dragon himself, but we don't know whether he would condone our joining the Consortium. His methods, and reasons, are his own."
"And what of our own actions? We certainly did not end up serving the greater good in the Red Hills, when we slew the enchanted giant leader. We were, perhaps, no better than bullies with the acting troupe. And even with the Umber Hulks, we allowed the innocent to be killed through our choice of methods."
Izen sighed. "There is much in my own past of which I am not proud. I had hoped that serving Lord Patrarch would restore some measure of my lost honor. Now the greatest of all honors is offered to us! I feel we are not deserving. Perhaps those who offered know and understand better than I do. But, for my part, I feel that we cannot truly accept until we have spoken with Lord Patrarch and either gained his consent to join or be released from his service, and until we have been tested and found worthy."
"What say the rest of you?"
Ve Mundr Tuesday June 5th, 2007 12:50:16 PM
Ve Mundr looks up over his book towards Onrad, "I do not think that a wise course of action. Both tasks noble and good in thier own right, but I would ask why they have not already done so. Why have we not? The Tasks are not about prowess and strength they are about the Wold stage and what it takes to stand upon it. I feel the tasks should reflect this. The hidden intricacies of politics on the larger stage as well as the enemies who will come to light as the candidates come into their notice."
"I have no specific task in mind I just feel a sack and grab does not prepare them for what being a Dragon is truly about. I certainly do not think they should told what tasks my be used to further determine thier readiness for such burdens that will be placed on thier shoulders. They should search their souls, thier companions and decide if this is a path they would like to proceed down. They should also be made fully aware that saying yes now does not mean they will become Dragons."
Monthor Tuesday June 5th, 2007 2:17:28 PM
Iz me friend.... you need to understand that all any of us can do, is our best. Our hearts have always been pure. Our methods, although rough at times, have always been used for the greater good. We're not gods little buddy. We make mistakes. We learn from them and do better the next time. Had we not stopped the Umber Hulks, using the best way we knew how at the time, all of those people would have died. We did our best and next time, we'll do better. The acting troup were threatening us. We would have been justified to kill them all but instead we stopped them, make sur they were who they said they were and then we let them go. No one got killed and no one got more then a few lumps and bruises for their trouble.
Let the Dragons test us. We'll prevail. That's what the Knights do. And as far as THE Dragon goes... we can deal with him later. Let's pass these tests first.
Nezamil Tuesday June 5th, 2007 6:22:56 PM
Towering over the others in the tent....the 9'4" dwarf listens keenly to the many sides of the ongoing debate
Adding his voice "This is an honor we cannot take lightly.....whether we accept or not....or we feel we are ready or not.....i look at the Platnuim and Emerald Dragons and they are a mixed bunch.....they had their doubts too when they were put in this position.....but what brings them together is the cause they fight for...and their continued quest for a better Wold.......are we ready for this ??....when will we be ready ???.....these opurtunity's don't grow on tree's"
"The path i walk is in Domi's steps .....in my travels he led me to many places in this battle againist Ga'als forces......he led me to join with the pirates ......which has led us all to this point and the choices we can make right here in this tent.....think of the impact we could make with the membership in the Dragon consortium"
" I don't have a need to be a Dragon......but we have put ourselves in this position by what we have done in the past.....the Dragons have recognized that.....you better believe the other side has too.....and they won't invite us to breakfast!!.....they'll try and feed us to something as breakfast !!"
"By Domi i just believe this is too good of an opurtunity to pass up no matter what we hafta do "
Onrad [DM Jerry] Tuesday June 5th, 2007 7:57:48 PM
"Ve, I agree with you. However, I have noticed something in common about all three groups...including the Emeralds. All three have a difficulty that the Storms did not have: an ongoing struggle that was regional in nature, but global in scope.
The EDs have Parnoth and a homeland held under seige by him. The Swords have the religion of Ga'al to confront. The more difficult part of saving their country remains, confronting those incredible powerful priests. The Knights are more like the Storms in that they have had on again, off again conflicts with the Sons of Dread, but their homeland is free.
The Talons initially balked a bit at our invitation as well. I think it is because their homeland is not free. That is why the Swords have doubts. They simply cannot go save this group or that group and leave their homeland in captivity of mind with those evil heartseeds.
I'm just thinking that defeating the priests of Aisildur IS INDEED a political situation. There will be national repercussions as well as Woldwide repercussions if they can free their homeland.
The same, in a way, with Windhorn. If they can strike a critical blow to that group, it will help Cinnamon Valley, Crescent Valley, The Scab Dwarves, The Kingdom of New Elenna, and others.
See a normal adventuring group of note works for years to achieve a goal like freeing a nation. A Dragon Group takes out in one step. Cause we have to move on to other calls for help.
Why haven't we done these things? Well, in the case of Parnoth, he's been "acting" as an ally in recent years to discourage us and other fires have burned hotter. Aisildur, we did go in to affect, and we freed the royal family, the emperor, and his household. That has sat for a time now, as they have learned of what freedom of mind means and they have opposed their own religion pretty effectively in the last year or so making treaties, and alliances across the peninsula. So we did go in there. We also struck a great blow to the Sons of Dread a few years back during the Year of Ascension. Usually, they have stayed in smaller groups, so that other groups of heroes could effect change one group at a time. No one has ever found a center of the group however, nor identified their hidden leader. That would be a good first task for the Grey Knights as they have experience with them.
My thoughts anyway. As Coordinator of the Consortium, Valdor's glorified secretary you might say, that is my recommendation to him. Speak your mind though as you have. You know we need all minds here to accomplish the most good.
Let me ask you however, what task would you recommend for their first of two tests?
[OOC, this is intended to be read, BTW. Though none of the Swords or Knights are close by, the players can see the reasoning behind the tasks they may be given as their first test.
BTW, in this meeting, feel free to post a second time if you "need" to. Don't post 15 times a day. That's not fair to those who don't have that level of time right now. But if it helps push things forward a bit, sure. post twice.]
Horvis Tuesday June 5th, 2007 9:06:30 PM
The centaur scrapes at the ground with a hoof, clearly thinking about the offer received from the Dragon Consortium. Horvis had heard rumours about them during his years of wandering. And he certainly didn't expect to get invited to join, having so recently joined the Knights.
"Monthor. I'm with Izen on this. We've barely spent much time together as a group. Like you, I'm sure that we can excel in any test but we might need some time before we can work together to greatest effect."
Draax (Grey Knights) Tuesday June 5th, 2007 9:53:14 PM
Having sat quickly listening to the others, Draax adds his opinion. "When the group was originally formed and as young adventurers, we were hoping that one day our deeds would merit an invitation to join the Dragon Consortium. The group was dedicated to making a living at changing some of the wrong things in the wold and making them right. I know that half of our group has only just started working together, but think the original spirit of the group remains.
To give a little history of this group as far as the Dragons are concern. Half of the members of the Grey Knights formerly the Hamleteers have always supported the consortium and have worked with or for members of the consortium a few time, although the consortium might have use non-members to steer the group in a certain direction. There has been many crucial events in the wold that the Hamleteers were right in the middle of and we were vital to the successful outcome.
Basically, what I am saying is that for some reason, this group finds itself in the middle of most of the wold changing events. Maybe not on the same levels as the dragons, but our actions at times has been a big reason for the successes. As I see it we have always been associated with the consortium, only we were on the outside looking it. I think it is time for us to move inside. The only thing I see that will change is the level of the tasks that we will be expert to take on, but we would probably still be part of them even if we were not part of the consortium. So that long winded little speech of mine just says that I think we should accept the invitation."
SteveH Tuesday June 5th, 2007 10:19:00 PM
(OOC:For everyone involved:the characters will be at least partially familiar, if not completely, with the Dragon groups. They would know that only Valdor and Mordrid and a couple of inactives(Jandar and Roosko) are still involved with the Platinum Dragons who used to be the Gold Dragons. The Storm Dragons, who joined together with the Golds, have only Jus, Nonam, and Onrad left. All of the others with them now have joined along the way after they were already Dragons, so don't let that be an issue. Your characters would know this, even if you, as players, do not.)
Ashira (Swords of Redemption) Tuesday June 5th, 2007 11:47:53 PM
Ashira looks over at Rigging and Mykael, interested in what they might add to the conversation.
Gunther (Emerald Dragon) Tuesday June 5th, 2007 11:53:40 PM
Leaving the initiates to their discussions, Gunther quickly wipes his mouth and hands and then joyfully accompanies K'nara to the Tower. He openly laughs at the portrait, almost forgetting that it was still here. "Too bad de dragon didn't destroy dat..." he mutters loudly. Motioning for K'nara to sit, Gunther stands behind her and begins to massage her shoulders, his strong hands working out the knots. He looks over at Lian and smiles. "Vell...do you tink dey'll accept? Dey're an odd lot, aren't dey?" Gunther laughs openly at his wit as he wonders what force other than the fates could draw together humans, elves and an orc.
Bart Wednesday June 6th, 2007 1:37:43 AM
Mykael, Cosmo what is your opinion? Nezamil, Val, Ashira, Rigging, Appolo and me want to accept Ari is leaning to yes but still has some doubts as i do as well.
Mykael Wednesday June 6th, 2007 2:36:04 AM
Sitting quietly observing while in deep thought about the Swords, Mykael finally steps forward to the table with the assembled group.
"I am new the to the Swords. Only Cosmo, is newer. I joined for adventure and because I was informed your goal was just. Many of you dont know this, but before I decided to join you, I researched the group as a whole and as individuals. Now that I have gotten to know each of you on a more personal level and have begun to trust you all, and call you friends. I will speak freely. I cant say that the information that gained before I met all of you was totally accurate, since I had limited resources at my disposal. I can say that the goal WAS and still IS just. I know some about the consortium, but mostly only whispers. However, it seems that joining them should help us to achieve the goal. We may be pulled away to assist others in their goals if we join and that is the price for gaining more help toward our cause."
Shaking his head for a minute as the words Ingrge, one he has somewhat patterned his skills after, rattle through his head. Words he cant quite understand.
"Ingrge is wrong. The little people are not heros because they toil away in thier normal lives striving for happiness and survival. Heros are the ones that protect them. Those that willing meet overwhelming odds and face down evil and tyranny. Heros are those that put thier lives in danger for others, whether it is known or not. And not for glory, cash, or women. Its for an ideal, a belief in right and wrong, good vs. evil."
"Whether we are ready or not, I face the challenge. Where or what, the evil is, I will face it. I will join the Consortium and work within it, as I do within the Swords, as long as this ideal is upheld."
"I question some of the Swords devotion to this ideal. I am not sure if all of you feel as I do. Perhaps some of you are blinded by your personal hatreds toward Ga'al or your own selfishness for your homeland. I say this because, I didnt see the as much passion in some of you, in our recent events against the Yuan-Ti and in helping those on the island. Perhaps I am wrong. I say this as a friend and not as a condemnation, but merely to ask each of you to search your souls for your true path in life and for the reasonings behind it."
"I would like to add, joining the Consortium will have horrid effects on your personal life. Not that we have much of one now. Devoting ones life to the just causes doesnt leave much time for a family life. All the groups here call thier groups a family, and that is because they dont have the time to make a normal one of thier own. Even the married folks are inside the group. Being an adventure or hero isnt for parents, in my opinion. So if you are truly wanting in that area, I suggest you think long and hard about this."
"Aisildur isnt the only place in the Wold, it seems we are being offered a change to help many, which will include Aisildur."
"I cast my vote to join."
Olana (Emerald Dragons) Wednesday June 6th, 2007 2:47:52 AM
Away from the meeting, Olana wags a finger at Gunther, before saying 'Good morning!' to the elf Valor in the portrait.
Jus Wednesday June 6th, 2007 5:28:46 AM
Jus listens to the discussions at breakfast, deliberating whether to share his thoughts. As the Dragons leave, he hangs around a few minutes more, listening to the candidate group discussions. As he tarries, he starts to feel that he is intruding in the privacy. So much personal feelings and concerns are being expressed... all valid. He shouldn't stay any longer.
As he leaves, Jus stops and allows himself to say a few words. "The other Dragons have said what they believe. You'll notice that they don't all say the same thing. We are a group, but we haven't lost who we are as individuals. Some joined for the power, some to increase knowledge, some because it was the right thing to do. Although there are a plethora of reasons, we all became Dragons.
"For me..." Jus chuckles. "I was going to say that I wanted to make a difference in the Wold, but I really just thought it would be fun.
"However, what *I* think you really need to know, is that, as a Dragon, you affect the Wold. A Dragon's actions can either make the Wold a better place, or have terrible, lasting effects. By becoming Dragons you step into a higher responsibility with greater rewards (for you and others) paired with far-reaching consequences. Save people, save nations, save the Wold.
"With this decision, you shape your own future. As Dragons, you'll shape the future of the Wold."
Izen (Grey Knights) d2=1 Wednesday June 6th, 2007 9:00:02 AM
Izen listened to the others. He frowned, and tossed his coin in the air again.
Heads.
"All right," he assented. "We just need to be clear about what we're agreeing to. We're agreeing to be tested--to be judged whether we're worthy of joining the Consortium. If we succeed, and prove ourselves worthy and honorable, then the decision is clear. And if we fail--then the decision is also clear. At least we will have had the honor of trying."
Izen looked at Horvis. "Death before dishonor," he said. It sounded more plea than challenge.
Monthor Wednesday June 6th, 2007 9:16:10 AM
In between bites.
" Works for me. Let's get tested then. "
Juliander (Grey Knights) Wednesday June 6th, 2007 9:40:15 AM
Overwhelmed by the sudden turn his life has taken, the bard sits quietly near Monthor, contemplating the last couple of decisions that led him up to this moment. Unmistakeably he cannot determine where he went so unimagineably wrong so as to invite this kind of responsibility upon himself. Looking over at the dwarf he smiles... and then begins laughing. Imitating Monthor in speech, tone, and voice, "Works for me. Let's get tested then." Laughing again, he peers at Monthor through tear laden eyes, "I'm not sure you realize what we're all getting into here... but gods... lets get tested? Sure... at least it will be a story to tell later on."
Milo (Emerald Dragons) Wednesday June 6th, 2007 9:43:18 AM
Wistfully hoping that they could get back to business as usual, Milo silently stalks beside Olana, wondering what a world with three dragon groups will be like. Speaking aloud almost involuntarily, to nobody in particular, "At least we'll be able to share the workload."
Jova Kon (Grey Knights) Wednesday June 6th, 2007 1:00:58 PM
Jova stands next to Horvis as their little group has their talks. No stranger to danger, jova sees this as just another life experience. The only concern is his decision may affect the lives of others as well.
"It was just a few months back that you all invited me in to advenure with you. Before that i was the everyday 'peasant' as theDragon guy had pointed out. I did go hungry, and i did have to worek for my money. I learned alot traveling as a wagonmaster in caravans, taversing the land.
"What I do know is ordinary people dont care about all this save the world crap. They just want to live and raise their children. It is up to those with the adventuring spirit to take up that mantle.
"I cast my lot when I joined the Knights, so I renew that vow today. If that coinsides with the Consortium, then so be it. I go where Tratain goes. So my vote is yes."
Lian Wednesday June 6th, 2007 1:12:01 PM
The monk/Hand just sits to one side of the group, watching and waiting for folks to speak with him.
Lucia Wednesday June 6th, 2007 1:14:43 PM I could use a polish.
Sonara Wednesday June 6th, 2007 1:15:15 PM
Appears in the kitchens for a glass of honey wine.
Onrad [DM Jerry] Wednesday June 6th, 2007 1:58:09 PM
Onrad goes back upstairs to the tent and says, "When both groups have made their decisions, let me know and I'll try to get everyone together."
He bows formally and heads to the stairs again.
Valdor d20+28=32 Wednesday June 6th, 2007 2:08:50 PM
Valdor senses Appolo sneak, but still jumps anyway. He grins and says,"Shouldn't you be in there in the decision makong process? Or do you grow bored easily and don't like the politics? I can understand that for sure."
Jus Wednesday June 6th, 2007 2:18:38 PM
Jus mingles with the other Dragons, waiting for the decisions to come.
Ve Mundr Wednesday June 6th, 2007 4:32:13 PM
Ve listens to Onrad, his book on his lap so to provide the an his full attention. "I can find little fault with your reasoning I have to admit. Most I wanted to object to the hinting of what the tasks may entail before they had discussed acceptance or not."
"To tasks I think what might be lingering on a high level Since the Fea Return. What longer ramifications has that caused. Investigation into this might be one. The Investigation to find the true power behind the Sons of Dread is a worthy task. I am not so keen on the destruction of the Ga'al main temple. Not for any love of Ga'al of course, but mostly from a lack of knowledge on the repurcussions of such an action. I don't think they should be asked to do so as a test, just so we can find out what the repurcussions are."
"To the Parnoth thing, I agree complicated but holding up that he has been acting as an ally is very thin. He is evil, plain and simple. I thought it an error to rescue him afew months back, but that is past on not worth rehashing. The matter is complex as stated."
"What if we looked at the hardest aspects of being a dragon and came up with at least one task for each group to that end. Diplomacy and politics. Valdor," Ve looks over to the warrior with a smile.
"Do you think it is fair to say the hardest part about being a Dragon is non combative situations. The political changing and subtle landscapes to walk."
"Surely there is a truce or treaty needed to be made somewhere in the Wold between not so like minded nations or clans. Perhaps the leaders recognize this, but are afraid to act because of repurcussions from within thier own ranks. The Swords or Knights could arrange the nuetrality, keep the peace of the conference and act as the mediators and arbitrators themselves."
Draax (Grey Knights) Wednesday June 6th, 2007 5:11:17 PM
Draax smiles at Izen's comments, "I doubt if it could be simplier than that. If we pass the test(s), we will prove we belong. If we do not pass and we survive, we will know that we need more experience. Sounds good to me."
Corialote and Amarth Wednesday June 6th, 2007 7:56:48 PM
Having her attention focused upon Valdor, her love. She had not even been aware of the approach of Appolo till he started to speak and Valdor moved. As she spun, her hands were already passing in a series of gestures and draconic flowed from her lips in short clips.
She just barely had time as the last word rolled from her mouth and with Valdor's comment to bring her pointing finger up and towards the sky. A sizzling bolt of electricity arced its way out and into the sky to pass harmlessly, unless something that been flying over head.
Her eyes harden as she taps her foot upon the ground. "Don't you know that it is bad manners to sneak upon a lady...especially one like myself." She is only able to hold that hard look for about seven minutes till it slips off and she lets a smile appear. "A good day till you get fried and then breakfast does not really matter." Looking to Valdor she shakes her head. "Your friends play at dangerous games...hope you don't want to join them." Her eyes twinkle as she speaks and she has other thoughts on her mind than casting spells when it came to Valdor.
Not caring she brushed her lips to his and then deepened the kiss, breaking off only after a good three minutes had passed. "Been needing to do that." Looking back to Appolo she graces him with another smile.
Monthor Wednesday June 6th, 2007 8:18:29 PM
Again, in between bites...
" Let's call Onrad back then and tell him we're interested..... ONRAD!!!!! "
Horvis Wednesday June 6th, 2007 8:58:37 PM
Even though he continues to tap the ground with one hoof, betraying his nervousness, the centaur is in agreement with Monthor.
"Aye. We shall be tested."
Nick Wednesday June 6th, 2007 9:29:14 PM
Nick is pacing back and forth slowly, listening to the conversation held by the other Consortium members on what the Knights and the Swords might face.
"There's always a chance of something unexpected rearing its ugly head, also," Nick adds. "More often than not, our paths are chosen for us without much say in the matter."
He's going to keep tight-lipped on the subject of politics. Ve had mentioned Ga'al and Parnoth, and Nick had no doubt as to who would be on top of his personal list. Ah, complicated it all was, as had already been said.
He wanders over to Jus. It's possible that he maybe mistaken, but he senses a change in the elf since the last time they met. More introverted, perhaps? "So, how has the Wold been treating you, my friend?" he asks.
Val Wednesday June 6th, 2007 9:40:16 PM
With nothing more to say Val sits there and waits for those who have not decided to keep thinking it over.
Ari (Swords) Wednesday June 6th, 2007 9:46:49 PM
"personal life, bah! We haven't had much of a personal life since the priest thru his red scarf at our first member in the beginning!
But we realized that soon enough shortly there after. So having a personal life is not something I'm worried about. But I am trying to give the rest of my family the ability to have that."
Ari continues to wait to see what Rigging has to say.
Aeralia (Emerald Dragons) Wednesday June 6th, 2007 10:54:34 PM
Aeralia continues to sit silently as the Emeralds and Platinums give their speeches, and the questions of the Knights and Swords are answered (or belittled). She smiles briefly to Appolo, though says nothing, before he heads to the exit.
After K'nara says her last bit, Aeralia continues to sit and listen for a minute or two, before obediently standing and exiting the door, as the bladesinger had asked.
She stands near the open flaps of the tent, looking in, lost in thought. She wondered what she would have done in their place, should she have been given the choice they had now. For the sorceress, joining just sort of happened. She was in the right place, and assisted the Emeralds with a task, and they just hadn't asked her to leave, and before she knew it she was made a Dragon.
K'Nara Thursday June 7th, 2007 1:53:18 AM
"Anyone with half a brain in their head is going to take a peek under the dinner table before eating the feast set upon it." K'Nara says by way of a homespun homily. "Let's just give 'em some time and see what happens." She is extremely mellow thanks to the magic fingers of Gunther.
Onrad [DM Jerry] Thursday June 7th, 2007 5:10:22 AM
"Monthor, I still see some haven't decided. Let me know when you have a total consensus one way or the other, my new friend. I think you'll agree that is needed."
Onrad pats him on the shoulder to let him know he is not worried and smiles giving him a light squeeze.
Jus Thursday June 7th, 2007 7:09:14 AM
"The hardest tasks?" Jus ponders, to Ve's question. "I would say when I realized the world isn't only black and white decisions. When sometimes you have to choose between the grays. It can easily fill one with doubt. That's been the hardest."
Jus watches Nick approach, curious what's up. When Nick asks how things have been, Jus gives him a puzzled look. For a brief moment, Jus isn't sure if Nick is serious. Shaking his head as if to clear the cobwebs, Jus answers.
"Sorry, sir Nick," Jus says. "Its been rough. I made one of those gray decisions when others saw black and white. Most of my time has been off-the-map, so to speak."
Feeling awkward for saying this, Jus quickly adds, "but it is nice to be in the real world again."
It may have felt awkward to say, but it came out surprisingly easy. For whatever reason, Jus has always been put at ease by Father Nicholas.
Lian Thursday June 7th, 2007 11:23:04 AM
The elf shrugs at Knara. "I only think one group will do the tasks, sadly."
Appolo Thursday June 7th, 2007 11:41:53 AM
Appolo smiles at Valdor and Corialote"ah mi'aldy how I am suppowed to catch one without sneaking up on,bedies I would consider it a great honour anda privalige to be killed by sucha beautiful and powerful woman such as yourself."Then replying to Valdor"Oh I daid my piece people just ry to hard to amke things complicated..Beside I knew you'd asks us to jion sooner ot later.Wasn't that big of surprise to me.I mean after you and K'nara show up out of no were,they send the High Lord Mayor to pick us up.Kind of gave things away>So know I've been expecting this for awhile and the anser id yes we'll jion and no we're not ready.and won't be until we'are a dragon group.Not really much to discuss,just say yes and get on with it.'Appolo then pruduces an applea rether calmly begins to eat.He takes a couple of bites and watches as Corialote kisses Valdor deeply and passionately.He stops eating and says"Besides there are much more important hings in this wold,then becominga Dragon group and jioing the consortium or fighting G'aal.Yes much more important."He says witha wink. and begins ro move off.
Izen (Grey Knights) Thursday June 7th, 2007 6:10:03 PM
"Who hasn't piped in?" Izen looked around him. "I'm in, Monthor, Jova Kon, Horvis, Draax, Tratain, Juliander, and Arien? Am I leaving someone out, or counting someone who hasn't spoken?"
Draax (Grey Knights) Thursday June 7th, 2007 6:27:58 PM
Turning to Izen, "That is everyone; we are all in agreement to be tested."
Nezamil Thursday June 7th, 2007 8:12:57 PM
The 9'4" dwarf grabs a large mug of juice and sips it quietly.
Observing his fellow Wildcards and the Grey Knights Nezamil [i]"both groups feel unsure and unworthy of such an honor as this .....but both groups have forged forward at every turn.....they stand up and fight where others won't or cannot......lend their strength to those in need of it......we see ourselves as wanderers....searching for something....and finally we have found something and we cannot grasp it's signifigance.......were the Gold's and Emeralds like this too ??....perhaps it's a role they grew into......if so then there is hope for both groups and for the Wold for that matter....."ponders Nezamil ....."Domi grant all those present courage and faith in themselves" prays the large Cleric
Rigging -Swords of Redemption Thursday June 7th, 2007 8:29:26 PM
Listening to the ongoing discussion at the table again adds his voice
"you each have a voice here......please freely speak up and state your veiws and opinions.....they are all equaly important!!"
"Being of Dragon status is something you must have confidence in ......because those who have need of us will look up and expect that.....they will rely on our strength and courage to see them thru dark times"
" some of you spoke of having no real personal life......i say this is our personal life.....we all chose to live this way for different reasons......we all had cjances to live quiet normal lives ....yet here we are......i would live no other life or change any of my choices " as he smiles at Ashira
" So think of all those things that were said here today by everyone.....think about it.....then make your choice "
(posted by Chris while George is off visiting Winnie the Pooh)
Cosmo (Swords of Redemption) Thursday June 7th, 2007 9:56:26 PM
"Rigging I do have confidence in my own abilities and the abilities of all the Wildcards. You are our leader and if you feel we can best serve our own personal goals by joining with the dragons, then so be it."
"I will cast my vote with Rigging and the Wildcards."
Mordrid Thursday June 7th, 2007 10:56:36 PM
Mordrid raises his mug in support of Milo, "Agreed!"
The old ranger shifts in his chair. His back aches.
Arien (Grey Knights) Friday June 8th, 2007 12:34:05 AM
"Indeed Draax, I suppose all that remains is to inform Valdor of our choice."
Arien shifts a bit in his seat, crossing his legs and takes a drink of water.
Bart Friday June 8th, 2007 1:04:31 AM
I have made my choice let us join
Nick (Platinum Dragons) Friday June 8th, 2007 1:18:53 AM
Nick nods at Jus's comments and speaks quietly. "Walking against the wind is never easy. Is this something you still face? If so, I'd hate to see you face it alone, Jus. Whatever it is, at the very least, I offer discretion and a sympathetic ear if you need it." He casts a glance toward Onrad and Nonam. If there was a problem, he'd have gone to them first and no doubt got their support. Something they don't agree on? Hmmm, or maybe something personal...
Olana (Emerald Dragons) Friday June 8th, 2007 1:31:34 AM
Olana blows a stray length of hair away from her face. "Lian, you're such an optimist," she says with a wolfish grin.
K'Nara Friday June 8th, 2007 1:43:53 AM
The chestnut-maned blade singer gives Mordrid a smile.
"You probably need a masseuse," she says with good humor, "I'd lend you mine...but I'm greedy." K'Nara winks and continues to enjoy Gunther's backrub.
Ashira Friday June 8th, 2007 2:01:56 AM
Returning Rigging's smile, Ashira chimes in. "I have few regrets about the life I have lived. I have no doubt that becoming a dragon will add many more challenges, but I welcome them. Without challenge I wouldn't be who I am now."
Gunther Friday June 8th, 2007 2:03:36 AM
Giving K'nara a quick kiss on the cheek, Gunther chuckles. "Besides...I don't do de men...'cus I am von." He laughs and continues his massage, slowly working his way down K'nara's muscular back.
Valdor Friday June 8th, 2007 10:10:01 AM
All Valdor can do is chuckle at Appolo's brashness. He looks down and shakes his head while smiling. 'So much like someone else from twenty years ago,' the warrior thinks to himself. So much indeed...
Onrad Friday June 8th, 2007 10:41:11 AM
Onrad pulls out his satchel and starts to read some of the documents and articles about the consortium he's collected lately for the Platinum Dragon Museum he's planning.
---------------------
Dragon Consortiums and Councils
--from the musings of Golden Surevoice
You ask of dragon groups, and I must ask of you, "What do you mean when you speak of Dragon groups?" There are two groups or organizations if you will that might have some meaning to you. One more likely than the other; for they are frequently out in the Wold and visibly interact with the populace on a daily basis. This is the group known as the Dragon Consortium.
The Dragon Consortium has always and still does consist of groups of elite adventurers whom have reached a certain level of renown in the Wold. Some of the Wold's greatest and best loved heroes were members of Dragon Groups that were part of the Consortium. Alas, some of the Wold's greatest Villains have also been consortium members.
At one time there were quite a few Groups within the Consortium. There were the White Dragons, but no one knows what happened to them. The Red Dragons and Greens are still around, but since the ascension, they are not very active in things and so are now known as the Red Wyrms and the Green Wyrms. The Gold Dragons are still active and if you are lucky you may run into them in the city... "Ah that Valdor is a mighty warrior. And Joe Hand, now there is a sad story... Oh! Now where was I? Ah yes. There is also a new group that has been honored with the Dragon moniker. That would be the Storm Dragons. Now there is an odd group. Wild ones from what I can tell. They have a mage, Nonam, I believe his name is that has multi-colored hair, or at least he did at one time. And I hear they have a Drow member as well. Their leader Gareth is impressive as well. Oops sorry, sometimes I get a bit carried away. That brings me to the Black Dragons. Well, let me just say that, they still consider themselves part of the Consortium, even though the rest of the groups kicked them out. They are not very nice folk. That Byron would rather kill you than... ah well never you mind about that.
Now there are usually between 4 and 6 Dragon status groups active in the Consortium at most times, so you can see that since the Ascension, there have been a few vacancies in the ranks, so to speak. I hear however that there are several adventuring groups that are thinking about trying to step up and fill the ranks. Often if you hear names of heroes being called on or cheered for they are part of a group that could be close.
Anyway the Consortium and its members aid in protecting the Wold from evil and aid the leaders in keeping the peace and taking care of business that no one else can take care of. In general their decisions are to the benefit of the Wold. The groups all meet several times a year to discuss the matters of import and are sometimes called together for special meetings as the Consortium head deigns necessary.
The other organization that bears the moniker of "dragon group" is much larger and much more dangerous. It also can be much less predictable in its decisions. This group is called The Council of Dragons. And it is exactly that. It is a gathering of real dragons of all colors gems and metals. No one is quite sure what goes on at these meetings, well, that's not totally true. Valdor Dragonstone, and the other Gold Dragons are honorary members of the Council, so they might could tell you something, but as these meeting only occur in dire emergency and from what I would guess aren't very pleasant, I am not at all sure they could tell you much. I am sure you have heard just how well different dragons get along...
Hmm, perhaps the social nature of real dragons is a good topic to ponder.
-------------------
Archival notes by Cornelius, Librarian. 2nd rank. Plateau City Royal Vaults.
This article shows the times we lived in immediately after the Year of Ascension. The Gold Dragons and Platinum Dragons have merged into one group and are shortly to retire. The Storm Dragons have mostly retired, with only a few remaining in a semi-active status. The Platinum Dragons have done extensive recruiting of late with the retirement of Joe Hand and others of the original Gold Dragon group. A new group has joined the Consortium: The Emerald Dragons, formerly the Emerald Talons. So the landscape is changing in the organization as of late.
[updated by Jerry on 2007JUN08]
----------
[I believe this is the first time this one has seen the light of day. Not even sure who wrote it. ;) Just in my files.]
Lian Friday June 8th, 2007 10:51:53 AM
The monk smiles at Olana. "Optimist? I think I'll have to try harder then."
Val (Swords) Friday June 8th, 2007 11:46:38 AM
"My vote is cast in favor of joining the Consortium."
Ari (swords) Saturday June 9th, 2007 4:37:40 AM
"Then lets see what these tests are about and see if we can succeed."
Lian Sunday June 10th, 2007 10:41:21 AM
"The next couple of months will be interesting!" Says the blonde monk to Knara.
Bart Monday June 11th, 2007 2:24:03 AM
I wonder what they have in mind
Posting Reportd for the Monday June 11th, 2007 7:42:15 AM
Game # 3 The Emeral Dragons For the week of June 4,2007
Name-----MTWTF DM Jim F DM Jerry-XXOOO K'Nara---XXOXX Glannah--OOOOO Lean-----X22XXS Gunther--XXOOX Olana----OXXXO Milo-----XOXOO Aerala---OOXOO Inger----XOOOO Farlin---OOOOO Alkutoin-OOOOO Br.Bert--OOOOO Onrad----XOOXO
Adm Ceil -------------------------
Posting Reports for Game # 5 The Sword of Redemption For the week od June 4,2007
Izen (Grey Knights) Monday June 11th, 2007 9:42:50 AM
Izen waited for the group to be addressed once more. They had chosen to be tested--but would they prove worthy of the tests?
Lian Monday June 11th, 2007 11:10:00 AM
The elf waits eagerly, hoping that the Swords except; he's heard alot about them.
Sonara (NPC Jay B) Monday June 11th, 2007 11:22:44 AM
"Have they decided?" The elven fighter appears out of nowhere.
K'Nara Monday June 11th, 2007 1:06:31 PM
K'Nara nods to Lian.
"Right now, Sonara," the blade singer says to the elf, "We are waiting for the leaders of each group to speak directly to Onrad that each group has made their decision. When they do that, we can all go back to the breakfast tent."
Monthor Monday June 11th, 2007 1:33:11 PM
Monthor continues to eat... waiting...
Onrad [DM Jerry] Monday June 11th, 2007 2:43:08 PM
Onrad passes the first document around so that those who are interested can read it.
He climbs up to the tent to see if a consensus has been reached. "Remember that I need a direct statement to me that you have made your decision and I'll gather the others from below."
He heads down into the tower again to join his comrades.
Settling himself once more, he pulls another book from his pack and says, "Now this one looks interesting. I'd always wondered about this."
He begins to read aloud to those near him.
--------------
The First Dragon Group
from Tales of Plateau City
By Ursis and Cornelius
Not long after the Fourth Cataclysm, while our newly reformed Kingdom of New Elenna was building life anew on the plateaus, Aisildur began what was to be three major attempts to dominate and take over the other kingdoms of the peninsula of Elenna.
The first attempt at this was scarcely two years after the Cataclysm. We were was not in any way prepared, and the memories of wars against the various invading countries left us too proud to ask for help. All able-bodied men and women were constructing homes and cities. There wasn't a standard army of any kind.
The demi-kind in Izen simply let the huge army pass through, and in one swift move the Aisildurian army's eastern sweep had taken all the northern and western frontier towns of our New Elenna: those not on the Plateaus. Very soon a horde of Aisildurian mages began to mass near the cliffs by Madvow. A couple of master thieves from the Floating City were able to infiltrate the group and discover their intent. They were preparing to use extended ranged "dimension doors" to move the army up to the First Plateau.
The situation was dire indeed. The High Lord Mayor called for every able-bodied citizen to drop their hammers and saws to take up the sword. The first citizens to show up at the Mayor's Castle to sign up and defend the edge of the First Plateau were some 25 adventuring groups led by the Glittering Ghost riders.
The High Lord Mayor sent them to their probable deaths, with instructions to hold the Plateau until the "carpenter's army" would arrive.
This they did, but in an unorthodox manner for adventuring army combat, instead of the standard alignment. Normally adventurers battle with the fighters up front and the clerics healing just behind the front lines. The mages arrange themselves behind them casting potent spells while the thieves make their way behind enemy lines in scout-sized groups.
Instead each group chose a section of the cliff to defend. Guerrilla tactics were used as groups closed into to attack and hold their area for a time as they could. When they needed to retreat, they would fall back to be replaced by another group who would rescue them so that the first group could heal and rest.
Groups that were enemies worked seamlessly with each other, transitioning, rescuing and performing all manner of heroics side by side and one after the other.
The dead were piled upin mounds near the edge of the cliff. The original 25 adventuring groups grew to 50 and held the cliff against every dimension door and teleporting member of the enemy for three days until the Carpenter's Army arrived.
In the end, only four adventurers died who were not eventually raised by the blessings of Gargul, while 15 of the pitchfork army - who adapted to the tactics of the adventurers working in small rescue groups or adding themselves to replace fallen adventurers - remained among the dead.
The sprit of the Aisildurians was broken, and they withdrew.
The High Lord Mayor, realized that 50 adventuring groups had saved the fledgling nation of New Elenna. He also realized that he wanted those groups on his side and the side of New Elenna for all time. So he came up with an original incentive program. He declared that all knights of the realm would be adventurers, and only adventurers would be declared knights of New Elenna. And since the Adventurer Army had fought as well as mighty dragons, that is what the elite from among them would be called when knighted: Dragon Adventurers. Adventurers would be free to do their occupation as they saw fit with no restrictions, but would swear fealty to the king and his representative the High Lord Mayor. In return, the High Lord Mayor and country would have them as knights of the realm and supply them with land to build a castle which would remain as long as the group was intact. They would also be considered nobility with all the privileges that brings within New Elennian society.
The Glittering Ghostriders chose a new name to signify the change in their status. They styled themselves the White Dragons and have been known by that name ever since. Their castle stands in Dragon Quarter, which was named after the group, and remains to this day. It has been given a special honor as a Historical Landmark and as such was not set to implode upon the death of the group.
Soon other groups were awarded dragon status: The Heartrenders became the first to take the name of The Red Dragons. The Immortals became the first Black Dragons. The group known as Great Intentions became the Glittering Dragons out of their respect for the Ghost riders.
Since that time there has always been at least two dragon groups in the Consortium and sometimes many more. They have lived and died to protect New Elenna as well as set an example for all who would be heroes.
May the Gods of Wold bless and keep them strong and brave. Selah!
Lian Monday June 11th, 2007 3:23:08 PM
"Are any of these First Dragons still around Onrad?! Might we know some of their names?!" Askes the hand of Domi enthusiastically.
Onrad Monday June 11th, 2007 6:26:22 PM
Not that I know of Lian. One was an elf so I guess it's possible. But if so she's keeping a very low profile as none of us have heard of any.
Remember that was about 500 years ago.
Monthor Monday June 11th, 2007 7:39:38 PM
" ONRAD!!!! Monthor's Grey Knights wishes to be tested to join the Dragon Consort-ium!!!!! "
{ What?... manners?... fine then! }
" PLEASE!!! "
Jova Monday June 11th, 2007 8:21:04 PM
Onrad spoke the wrong words. If anything else, Monthor was direct.
Horvis Monday June 11th, 2007 9:21:33 PM
The centaur looks over at his companions. Horvis has never heard of gray dragons, but that doesn't mean that such things don't exist.
Rigging Monday June 11th, 2007 10:43:32 PM
Rigging steps forward and after a quick look at his companions clears his throat and says, "I as Captain of the Sword of Redemption and chosen leader of the Wildcards will speak for us and say Yes we are ready and willing to be tested for this honor. Though we may prove unworthy to try and fill the shoes of the immortals who have come before us, we will try our best to serve this Wold as its next group of stewarts, fighting evil and bringing justice to those who can't find it alone."
The mage clasps his hands behind his back and starts pacing. He clearly looks like he will continue with his speech when he catches a look from his wife and hears a groan from Val and finishes rather lamely. "Uh yes, we accept."
Post by George who has conquered Mickey and all of his strange friends.
Draax Monday June 11th, 2007 11:39:51 PM
Draax never really considered what the group's new name would be. "Grey Dragons? Hmm, is there such a thing? I guess grey is a shade of silver."
Draax continues to wait with his companion while he contemplates the name change.
Corialote and Amarth Monday June 11th, 2007 11:54:02 PM
Cori glances to the two leaders of the respective groups and shakes her head. They would have trying times ahead and she hoped they were up to it.
Glancing to Amarth she smiles. "It should be interesting over the next few months." The raven seems to take all this in with his same stoic resolve and just nods his head.
Valdor Tuesday June 12th, 2007 12:20:04 AM
Valdor hears the announcement and re-enters the tent. He has a very serious look on his face and turns to Monthor. He says quietly,"I like your enthusiasm. However, I would remind you that there will be those who wish to see you fail and I wouldn't go announcing what you are doing."
He then smiles and looks around the room and says,"When I look upon you I see many different races represented and that is good. You must know that how you perform will not only determine whether you become Dragons or not, but you will either be strengthened like iron in the forge, or it will haunt you for a long time. Not from us, but yourselves. Stand together, plan well, equip yourselves properly. Being a Dragon is not just about strength with a sword or a fireball, it is about your hearts and how you work together. These tasks will challenge you physically, for certain, but they will also challenge your minds and your ability to work together.
One of you made the comment while we were just outside and walking off that we were obviously nobles and used to people taking orders. While I AM used to my orders being followed after a couple of decades of leading as powerful of a group as there is in the Wold, none of us to my knowledge were born nobles. We have worked, sweated, and bled together to get where we are. It will be the same for you. The Emeralds have struggled mightily for years to oppose the green lizard who rules Culverwood. Nothing comes easy from this point forward. But, in the end, you will have made a difference in the Wold! A difference for good! You will know in your hearts that you became more than you were.
Onrad will give you your tasks. Know this:I believe in you as do the other Dragons here today and all others around the Wold. Just as those before them trusted their judgement with us. We,the Platinums and the Emeralds, believe you will succeed. Have courage and Domi and Alemi bless you all."
He takes a seat and lets Onrad and the others do the rest of the talking. His bright blue eyes meet with each one and he gives a brief nod as well.
Cosmo (Swords of Redemption) Tuesday June 12th, 2007 12:24:03 AM
Cosmo continues to listen to the speakers. He nods in agreement when Rigging casts the groups vote.
Olana (Emerald Dragons) Tuesday June 12th, 2007 1:34:56 AM
"All - riiiight!" says Olana, looking around for a glass to pick up and raise.
Father Nick (Platinum Dragons) Tuesday June 12th, 2007 1:40:28 AM
Nick smiles to himself as both the Knights and the Swords agree, and for a moment he closes his eyes and lowers his head.
Alemi watch over our brothers and sisters. Give them health, give them strength, and may they shine in the face of evil, and bring hope to the people of the Wold. Amen.
K'Nara, an Emerald Dragon Tuesday June 12th, 2007 1:58:51 AM
K'Nara straightens up in her seat, ruefully giving Gunther a signal to pause in his massage.
"What's that--Onrad, have the candidates reported in...?"
Ari (swords) Tuesday June 12th, 2007 5:19:52 AM
Ari looks expectantly around the room after Rigging announces the group's intent.
Jus d20=14 Tuesday June 12th, 2007 6:22:03 AM
I may take you up on your offer," Jus tells Father Nicholas. "For now, it sounds like we have some more business to attend."
"Both groups accepted? That's a pleasant surprise," Jus states as he heads back to the others.
As he enters the room again, Jus adds in just a bit louder than a whisper to Nonam, "I hope the gods are with them. It would be a shame to have them obliterated on their tasks like happened to the last two candidate groups [Gargul rest their souls]." Jus' grin and a wink to Nonam makes it obvious he's teasing.
Lian Tuesday June 12th, 2007 11:53:06 AM
The monk begins his applause, hoping others will join him. He looks at Gunther with an ammused, but slightly regretful look, and says, "Their lives will never be the same."
Sonara (NPC Jay B) Tuesday June 12th, 2007 11:54:17 AM
The elven archer simply smiles when she hears the two groups except.
Lucia, Bright Flame of the Culverwood Tuesday June 12th, 2007 11:56:28 AM
The sword, who had been patiently remaining uncharacteristically quiet, finally speaks.
Well, now! I was going to place money on them BOTH saying no! I would have lost! Good on them! Things'll never be the same.
Onrad [DM Jerry] Tuesday June 12th, 2007 2:40:57 PM
Onrad rushes around and gathers everyone up to the tent.
Then he sees that Valdor has already talked to them.
"Actually Valdor, I'm noble born. New Elennian. Not, obviously from Claudia's family as that's gone. The Pryderi family. We oversee the Gnowsy Vineyard District. I'll personally slap anyone that calls me "Lord" in a very aristocratic manner. I promise."
"I think K'nara will also have some words when she gets up here."
Once she speaks, I'll hand out the first assignments.
"Valdor, could I speak with you sir?"
Lian an Emerald Dragon Tuesday June 12th, 2007 4:24:51 PM
An pixyish look in his elven eye, the monk/hand of Domi approaches Onrad. "Lord is it?" He winks at the great hero. "Okay, okay, I won't kiss the hem of your tunic."
"I call you friend, not Lord. Is that okay?" Then leaning in, speaking quietly, "I understand humility Brother." Then he laughs quietly.
Izen (Grey Knights) d20+15=26 Tuesday June 12th, 2007 4:25:39 PM
The halfling called Izen continued to wait patiently to be told of his, and the group's, upcoming tests. The copper coin began to roll across the back of his knuckles again, almost reflexively. (Sleight of Hand 26)
Onrad [DM Jerry] Tuesday June 12th, 2007 6:52:17 PM
"Looks like K'nara has been delayed. So I'll play MC Here. Would everyone be seated?"
He waits while everyone arrives in the tent and has a seat.
"Great. Now this part gets kinda formal.
"Swords of Redemption, would you stand please."
He waits for them to stand.
"You have been invited to join the Dragon Consortium. You understand that you will complete two tests in the form of adventures. These adventurers must be completed alone. You may not call for help from any other adventuring group. You may not receive advice from the Consortium. At least one of you must survive each test. If your entire troupe is killed, then your invitation will need to be reexamined.
"Upon completion of both of these tasks, you will be officially and permanently added to the Dragon Consortium with all the rights, responsibilities, and privileges that entails.
"The time for questions and discussion is past.
Onrad bellows this last part as if speaking it for the whole Wold to hear.
"SWORDS OF REDEMPTION, DO YOU ACCEPT OUR OFFER AND AGREE TO JOIN THE DRAGON CONSORTIUM!?"
Mykael Tuesday June 12th, 2007 8:24:32 PM
Mykael stands when told and offers a hearty "YES", in unison with the rest of the Swords, when the final question is posed.
Corialote and Amarth Tuesday June 12th, 2007 8:35:54 PM
Cori slips into a chair and shakes her head. This was going to be a trial for both groups and even if they did not know it now...some of their decision might bring heartache.
She glances to each one trying to memorize their faces and then compare them to what they look like in four month or more. If they become "Dragons" she will study thier face more after they have been at work for a further few months.
Hopefully they would bend and sway in the wind or hurricanes to come, not snap or break as so many seem to.
Horvis (Grey Knights / Windhorn) Tuesday June 12th, 2007 9:08:16 PM
The centaur watches as the other prospective group is called forward. Soon, it will be Horvis and his companions who must make that declaration.
Cosmo (Swords of Redemption) Tuesday June 12th, 2007 9:25:34 PM
Cosmo stands when Onrad addresses the Wildcards. He also answers yes with the rest of his comrades.
Val Tuesday June 12th, 2007 10:01:11 PM
Val resisted the urge to reply with a sarcastic remark. It might not go over so well. "Yes we accept. One question. Will we be able to stop by the catacombs first? We have used pretty much all of our supplies in the fight with the yuan ti."
Rigging Tuesday June 12th, 2007 10:10:16 PM
Rigging punches Val on the shoulder and whispers, "He just said the time for questions is over and what do you do? Ask a question."
Rigging says "Yes." As well.
Draax (Grey Knights) Tuesday June 12th, 2007 11:12:11 PM
Draax sits quietly as the Swords are called to give their answer. He starts getting a little nervous as he realizes that the Knights will be called soon.
Valdor Wednesday June 13th, 2007 12:51:36 AM
Valdor barely keeps from spitting out a mouthful of water he had just drank when he hears Onrad's statement,'If you all die, your invitation wil be reexamined'. He keeps his composure...barely, and whispers in Cori's ear,"If a whole group gets killed, how in the Wold would they be able to re-test? Man, wouldn't that stink?"
He then sits back and watches, his face a mask of calm...
Onrad [DM Jerry] Wednesday June 13th, 2007 1:48:21 AM
Onrad nods and smiles at Val's comment. He nearly breaks out into a huge grin.
::that broke the tension:: Onrad thinks.
"Very well. We thank you.
"Consortium! I commend this worthy group to you for praise and respect.
"Swords of Redemption, we earnestly hope that soon, you will stand side by side with us in our fight to keep the Wold safe.
He pauses.
Grey Knights, would you stand please."
He waits for them to stand.
"You have been invited to join the Dragon Consortium. You understand that you will complete two tests in the form of adventures. These adventurers must be completed alone. You may not call for help from any other adventuring group. You may not receive advice from the Consortium. At least one of you must survive each test. If your entire troupe is killed, then your invitation will be reexamined.
"Upon completion of both of these tasks, you will be officially and permanently added to the Dragon Consortium with all the rights, responsibilities, and privileges that entails.
"Our waiting is at an end. It is time to put our question to you.
Onrad again bellows this last part.
"GREY KNIGHTS, DO YOU ACCEPT OUR OFFER AND AGREE TO JOIN THE DRAGON CONSORTIUM!?"
DM Kent Wednesday June 13th, 2007 7:06:13 AM
(OOC: No Val, You must go directly to face death, You may not pass the Catacombs. You may not collect your magic items.)
(This is Monopoly, yes?)
Monthor Wednesday June 13th, 2007 7:43:30 AM
{ Didn't we just say that we wanted to join.... ?}
:: Monthor takes another bite of his food.. then stands.. then drinks an entire mug of ale in one gulp... and the releases one might BURP!!! Monthor then picks up his axe and rests it over his shoulder before whiping his mouth with the back of his gauntlet.::
" We the Knights of the Grey AGAIN accept your offer. So Onrey me lad... Who do we have to bash!!!! "
Onrad [DM Jerry] Wednesday June 13th, 2007 10:13:31 AM
Onrad smiles at Monthor but continues to wait for the formal reply of the other Grey Knights.
Izen (Grey Knights) Wednesday June 13th, 2007 10:40:28 AM
The halfling called Izen stood as he was bid. Reflexively, he tossed his copper coin, and was about to check the result, when he stopped himself. He looked at Onrad. Slowly, a smile crept across his face, and he cleared his throat.
"I, Caleb Underhill, fifth son of Manion and Jeline Underhill, sworn initiate of the Halfling Protection Society of the Houses of Dirt City, accept your offer and agree to be tested for worthiness to join the Dragon Consortium. This I pledge, for the good of the families, for honor, and for the good of the Wold."
He sighed, smiled, and rolled his shoulders, as if a great weight had been lifted. The coin slipped, unchecked, into a pocket.
Ari (Swords) Wednesday June 13th, 2007 12:11:35 PM
A little slow on the uptake, Ari says 'yes' when asked.
Val (Swords) Wednesday June 13th, 2007 12:29:57 PM
She turns to Rigging, "I don't care if the time for questions is supposed to be over. It was an important question. I assume these tests will be harder than anything we have ever done. Right now we could hardly stop another yuan ti attack."
Lian, an Emerald Dragon Wednesday June 13th, 2007 12:49:22 PM
Looking at the nervous Val, the monk says, "Have Courage! If we didn't believe you could succeed, we wouldn't have asked. It wouldn't be a test if you got a chance to suit up and prepare for everything under the sun. Performing under stress often reveals a person's greatest strengths. And take comfort in the fact that the rest of the Dragons have been through the same type of stress." The monk smiles gently. "You'll suceed."
Sonara (NPC, Jay B) Wednesday June 13th, 2007 12:50:05 PM
The female elf claps as each person confirms their decision.
Lucia, the Bright Flame of the Culverwood Wednesday June 13th, 2007 12:50:48 PM
The sword remains unexpectedly silent.
Valdor Wednesday June 13th, 2007 2:20:50 PM
Valdor catches Val's eyes and nods 'yes' to her question, but doesn't speak.
Bart Wednesday June 13th, 2007 2:29:32 PM
(delayed yes) hmm good question from Val, we could use new supplies, i have money to buy new equipment and potions, if not... hmm i could ask Appolo if he could snatch the sword of Valdor .. ha that will upset him. unlikely it will hapen and goes unnoticed and we sure will kicked out of the consortium even before we are accepted
Bart whispers to Val and Rigging "lets hope we could visit the catacombs, according the rules they just anounced it's allowed"
Jova Kon [Grey Knights] Wednesday June 13th, 2007 3:47:56 PM
Jova stands ewhen bidden to do so. He wasn't surprised at Monthors answer, but Izen on the other hand, shocked him. Who knew he had so many titles?
Tratain Wednesday June 13th, 2007 4:44:15 PM
Tratain stands with the others when asked to by Onrad. When asked Tratain replies, "I Tratain, sworn Protector of Domi accept your offer to join the Consortium and be tested."
Onrad [DM Jerry] Wednesday June 13th, 2007 5:33:54 PM
"Looks like we have two testing groups then.
"From this day forward, you have earned the title Dragonfriend, both individually and as a group. With the blessings of the gods and your group courage, we will soon call you Dragon.
"So be seated. We'll handle the first assignments in reverse order.
"So, Grey Knights. Your first task is to get rich."
"Yep we're serious. There is a place, some of you may have heard of it, called Fae Skiemir. It is the remains of the original Elven City that dates back to the 1st age. It was destroyed near the end of the 2nd age.
"The wealth that can be found in the city ruins is simply amazing. The Gold Dragons brought back over half a million gold pieces on one venture there. They had to kill three Fang Dragons, and one had two heads, but the take was worth the trouble in the good that they could do with the funds.
"We do try to fund our own ventures in the Consortium. So we actually turn down the very generous donations from national leaders and other sources when we can. We realize how money can tie you to support a cause you don't believe in. So we keep free of all that when we can.
"Anyway, one of the traditions/requirements of the Consortium is that all groups have a castle, a place of influence, so to speak. A place where those who need our help can always find us. A source of comfort and security that says, we are not going anywhere.
"Castles are not cheap. Nor is the equipment that is required to fight and adventure on this level.
"So, to Fae Skiemir you'll go. There you are to proceed to a small hut about five miles south of the city. This is the home of Verash the Scribe. An ancient elf, he studies the elven cultures of old and currently is doing research there. He has a friend, Phadrus, who is a Crystal Dragon. The presence of the dragon allows him to continue his work there despite the heavy monster population of the area.
"Verash will give you a goal. Hopefully you can accomplish three things. First, you can deal a blow to the monsters in the city. The "greed and power" of the creatures that call Fae Skiemir home needs to be curtailed from time to time or they start reaching out to our lands of protection to increase their wealth. Second, you can aid Verash in his research. Third, you can bring home the needed cash to get you started on your castle and to equip your group in Consortium Fashion.
"Fae Skiemir is quite the quandry. It has riches. That draws hoarding monsters. That brings more riches. Going in and getting them, though, is only a task for the very daring and powerful.
"You'll need to fight your way in, conserving magical resources. Keep moving because fights draw ever larger predators. You'll need to get to your goal location quickly and with as minimal fuss as possible. If there is a death, you'll need to grab up your mate and move on. There is no time to stop while out in the city proper.
"Once you've hit your goal, hopefully you can recover a bit while going through the lower level monsters that tend to protect the larger ones. Any great treasure or secret is protected by something powerful enough to own it. So you'll probably have to take out something very powerful at your location. When you have what you came for, have loaded up with everything you can carry, and quickly healed, etc. you'll need to make your escape before any friends and allies of the slain monsters come to claim their friend's treasure.
"Getting out is more difficult usually. It will be tough. And you'll be weaker. It is as if they can smell treasure leaving the area.
"There is also massive inherent magic within the city. Anti-magic zones exist. Spells can come off strangely or even reverse themselves upon the caster in heavy-magic zones. Magical weapons may balk the user's commands. It's not easy. But the treasure you can bring home to fund yourselves is simply not to be found anywhere else in the Wold.
"We do not want you to go into this area unprepared. Stock up on scrolls and wands to allow for spellcasting when spells run out. Carry plenty of Greater Dispels and Restorations. Carry True Resurrections. Carry assortments of potions, etc. so that you have choices when things go completely wild with monsters feeding on monsters drawn to those who attacked you.
"To aid you in this, we have a guest."
Onrad speaks into his communication ring.
"Oratai, we're ready for you."
A few seconds later, a woman dressed in white with blue trimmings teleports in with a distinct pop.
She smiles and moves to give several of the Consortium a hug. Then she moves to stand by Onrad. He withdraws letting her have the floor.
Oratai speaks.
"Greetings heroes. For those who don't know me, which is probably most of you, I'm Oratai, High Priest of the Cathedral of Light, Alemi's prime temple.
"The temples of Plateau City would like to help equip you for your first test. Onrad has not told me what it is for security reasons, he says."
She grins mischieviously at Onrad.
"But anyway, we'd like to help."
She points to an empty spot on the floor. With a wave of her hand, the illusion disappears and five white chests with the symbols of various of the Gods of Wold on them appear.
"The contents of these chests are yours as a gift. Use them for goodness."
She bows low, purposely showing that she considers the Consortium equal to her station in importance and walks to the side to stand by Mordrid, squeezing his arm in friendship.
Onrad returns to the front of the table.
"By my personal appraisal, you'll find the items in the chest worth approximately 100,000gp.
"Use the money wisely. You'll see quickly that it doesn't go as far as you'd wish. Which will again make the point that this trip is not selfish in the least, but necessary, for us too, from time to time."
"I'll meet with you downstairs and give you some more information about your mission after we're done here, Knights, for I'm sure that the Swords of Redemption are now extremely curious about what their task is."
Onrad stops and picks up a glass and fills it with cold water. He drinks. Smiles.
"OK, Swords of Redemption. Your task."
Onrad pauses and takes a calming breath.
"You will infiltrate, or attack Heartseed Cathedral in the capital city. Once inside, you will simply take out every priest, heartseed farm, quad training center, etc. that is there.
"You are to slay every evil creature, item, or location within that abomination of a temple. We do know that there is a central location that channels Ga'al's wishes to all the heartseed of the Wold within this structure. That, above all else, must be destroyed.
"Destroy that and no heartseed can receive messages from Ga'al or his priesthood."
"This is an exceptionally difficult mission. But we believe that it is time. For you to feel free to serve on a global level helping people all through the Wold, your homeland must be safe and you free of your worries for your own people.
"The Gold Dragons were from New Elenna. They struggled mightily in their early days to dethrone an evil High Lord Mayor and install a lost royal line to the throne in the person of Claudia. Then they had to deal with the consequences of that when she committed suicide after bearing twin evil half-dragons after a rape.
"See it hasn't been easy for anyone. But the trials forge you. They make you strong and give you confidence.
"Now, we will not send you in for such a task empty-handed either. So, the Emperor of Aisildur, who also does not know what your task is, has donated 100,000gp to help you prepare for your task.
Onrad claps his hands and some of the Emperor's Soldiers come up the stairs, laden with four gold chests of enormous size. They bow and leave.
"Use the money wisely, friends. Oh, by the way, I think the Emperor sent his gift in actual gold. A bit pretentious, I thought, but kinda cool nonetheless. I'm guessing there's some magic lightening the load or they couldn't have carried it."
Onrad grins at the responses around the room.
"One final statement. When the Golds became dragons, there were no gifts until they had passed the tests. This is--new."
"I know that neither group here will not abuse the trust that many others have for you. I also realize that this adds extra pressure for you.
"In addition, the Platinum Dragons will be...out of touch for the next few months. We're heading out of the Wold proper, so to speak. We hope to hear good things when we return.
"The Emeralds will be in the Wold proper, but they have a mission too. So basically, you're on your own.
"When you complete your missions, come here to the Emerald Tower, or should I say castle, and report in. The staff here will contact the Emerald Dragons or us if we're back and tell you about your second test."
"May your gods go with you. May your hearts be strong. May you do much good."
Onrad pauses as if to make sure he'd said everything he intended to say, and then shrugging, leaves the stage.
[DM Jerry: whew. When you're ready, you may return to your own boards to discuss, prepare and start your first test. Onrad will be available to help you with any questions you have.]
Monthor Wednesday June 13th, 2007 6:24:25 PM
Monthor throws down what's left of his meal.
" Works for me. We get to fight AND earn some gold. Sounds like a party. Knights, let's take our slush fund and get back home. We have some preparing to do. "
ooc> I Already started posted on the Knight board gents. Jerry, what can we do to get the Hamlet board changed over to the GREY KNIGHTS board?
Appolo Wednesday June 13th, 2007 7:41:22 PM
Appolo woners in late eating an apple.With a wine skin under his arm.He litens to Onrad and the others.He just silently eats his apple and listens.Once Omrad is done he steps forward"Sounds good to me.Out numbered completely surrounded and deep inside enemey territory.Man life is good ain't it.When do we leave?"He says witha happy confident grin.
Val Wednesday June 13th, 2007 8:02:50 PM
The dark elf takes a moment to digest the mission they were given. It was a good bet that the Aisildur armies knew their descriptions. Well maybe not hers since she had a new body, but their group would be easily identifiable. The main cathedral would be heavily guarded with soldiers and spells. There would be no easy way into it. If they pulled this off everybody would know who they were.
"Now this is a proper mission. Success or we dine with Gargul in the land of the dead." She says with a big grin.
ooc: going back to the swords board for the planning.
Lian Wednesday June 13th, 2007 8:47:28 PM
"Good Luck... to all of us."
Ve Mundr (Platinum Dragon) Wednesday June 13th, 2007 9:10:47 PM
Ve has been silent for some time and listens to Onrad masking his own thoughts with practiced perfection. Still his brow furrowed ever so slightly at the mention of the Ga`al temple. He hoped secrectly that he was wrong, but it seemed that he never was when it came to these sort of things.
Horvis (Grey Knights) Wednesday June 13th, 2007 9:16:59 PM
The centaur raises an arm and exclaims, "I accept!" when Onrad makes the offer to the Grey Knights.
The task set before them is daunting, but interesting all the same. From the sounds of it, Horvis will learn some new forms by the end of this adventure.
Izen (Grey Knights) Wednesday June 13th, 2007 9:29:04 PM
The halfling, now known as more than just 'Izen,' acknowledged his companions' looks of surprise with a wry amile, nodded at Onrad, and bowed his exit to follow Monthor.
Ooc: ... Back to the hamlet board!
Ari (Swords) Wednesday June 13th, 2007 11:10:03 PM
Hearing their task Ari thoughts go off in a myriad of direction...
Such a grand mission, that would make us stand alone in the world of the Jack
Are we up to the task
Who will dine with Gargul when this is all done
is 100k gold enough
how long to prepare
ooc back to the board
Corialote and Amarth Wednesday June 13th, 2007 11:12:34 PM
Cori goes around to each person in turn of both groups. She shakes hands and gives her wishes for their success. When at last that is all done she laughs as she returns to Valdor's side. "You know...the Wold should be in good hands..."Dragons" or not." She smiles again as she gives him a peck upon the cheek.
Ashira Wednesday June 13th, 2007 11:36:46 PM
Her eyes bulge in disbelief as Onrad hands out the Swords assignment. It is strictly beyond her sweetest dreams. Sooo many times she has dreamed of just this situation and now it was handed to them as a quest. Planting a big kiss on her husband, Ashira quckly cleans her plate and makes for the tent exit. Flushed with excitement, the Pirate remembers enough manners to bow to the Dragons before leaving the tent. She even mouths a silent "Thank you" to Valdor and K'nara. Once outside a hoot of excitement can be heard by all with ears.
OOC: I'm back to the Swords board as well.
Arien (Grey Knights) Wednesday June 13th, 2007 11:40:00 PM
The elven mage grows grim at the mention of his race's ancient city and the terrors therein. Arien bows to the others deeply, turns and follows his friends.
Valdor Wednesday June 13th, 2007 11:43:57 PM
Valdor watches the expressions of each member of each group as they are given their assignments. He knows they are ready and will succeed...they must be, for they are his hope and the Wold's.
When Onrad finishes he goes to Rigging and Tratain and hands each a scroll. He says,"Use them wisely my friends. These are my personal gift to your groups. Look to protect your groups first and win second. If you die, there isn't a tomorrow to fight in. Remember invisibility, silence, stoneskins...these make all the difference. Have courage and bring all your people back alive."
The scrolls each contain two True Ressurrections on them(two total per group).
As Cori is making her way around and encouraging, he moves towards Appolo and leans close whispering,"Be deadly my friend. I don't think I have to tell you not to hesitate. Kill them all and let Gargul sort them out. I am counting on you...and my daughter told me to make sure you lived through this if your group accepted."
He then pats the young man's shoulder and smiles. He then moves back to Cori and makes his way out of the tent.
Gunther (Emerald Dragon) Wednesday June 13th, 2007 11:45:07 PM
Gunther grins as he joins K'nara back in the tent. He smiles at the groups reactions. Some excitment, some fear and a whole lot of serious thinking. Yep, pretty much the way it was when we were tested. Wrapping his arms around the bladesinger, Gunther gives her a warm hug, knowing that very soon they were going back on their mission...back to killing and death where such displays of affection could very well get them killed. With a sigh, Gunther looks around, wondering where Theari has gotten off to.
Draax [Grey Knights] Thursday June 14th, 2007 1:02:43 AM
Draax smiles as he stands, "YES! I accept."
Mykael Thursday June 14th, 2007 1:06:42 AM
Mykael's jaw drops, 'Kill all?!? What if some of the heartseeded are good people that are only under the influence of Ga'al? Isnt there a way to save them? I thought this was a group for GOOD.... I need to speak to Rigging.
(OOC: Back to the Swords Board)
K'Nara, an Emerald Dragon Thursday June 14th, 2007 4:31:03 AM
The groups have accepted the offers to be tested for membership. Onrad has given out the assignments. Valdor has dispensed advice and True Ressurection scrolls. All that is left, then, is for K'Nara to think of something.
Something inspiring, noble...heroic. Hmmm...
She stands up, looks each of the candidates in the eye and says:
"You, who would be Dragons...go forth, now--kick butt and take names!!!"
Then she hugs each of them in turn, wishing them the best of luck.
Lian, an Emerald Thursday June 14th, 2007 8:04:03 AM
The elf waits for the Emeralds to gather gear so they might complete their current mission.
Onrad Thursday June 14th, 2007 11:29:28 AM
Onrad smiles, gives Valdor a pat on the shoulder and follows him down the stairs.
::To business then::
----------
OOC: Thanks everyone for making this lots of fun. As Donna's K'nara said, go and kick butt!
Everyone can go back to their own boards now. Email me if Onrad is needed for anything on your board.
Now I have two modules to write today. So I"m pulling the curtains, lighting the candles, and brewing the coffee.
"Dark place for dark business."
Aeralia Thursday June 14th, 2007 11:59:23 AM
Aeralia goes to gather her gear, not really remembering when they had time to return to the tower, before their mission.
Jova Kon @ Lian Thursday June 14th, 2007 12:32:52 PM
Jova takes the new assignment in stride, he had arely lives through the last one. Finding Lian he appraches the elf.
"As promised, like to speak to you. I was travelling as a wagonmaster on a caravan a few years back. I met a devout follower of Domi. He told me various stories of an elite group of fighters known as the Hands of Domi.
"At several campfires he told stories of one named Lian. He told us all if we ever had the chance to meet you, to take it. So, my liege, your deeds proceed you. May Domi bless you.
"I wasgoing to ask more about your group. I had interest in joining. But now... With all this, I may not be able to take the time to induct myself, and train to become a Hand. If thingsgo well, i may try and look you up in a few months, if things settle down... Ya I know unlikely. Well met Sir. If there is ever anything a poor sorcerer can do to help you, please don't hesitate to ask Jova Kon. I would be honored to assisst in any way.
"Good luck, Goodbye, and Good life." Jova exchanges departing comments, bows deeply, and moves off with his Knights.
Lian, an Emerald Dragon @ Jova Kon d20+12=30 Thursday June 14th, 2007 2:43:54 PM
He listens to Jova Kon and cringes slightly at being called liege. He knows now how Onrad must feel at being called Lord.
"Whoever you met, Brother, who told stories of me, did me honor. But I have no group other than the Emerald Dragons. I am self trained in the discipline and was receiving guidance from Brother Bertram." He looks appraisingly at the sorcerer. "It is unusual to see an arcanist who wants to devote the remainder of their life to another strict discipline." He raises an inquiring eyebrow.
"Let me ask you a question. Answer honestly, for I will know if you don't. (Sense Motive 30) What do you wish to gain by training with me?"
The elf seems to deminish under the weight of the potential pupil's insistance. Eager, so eager.
Jova Kon d20+21=24 Thursday June 14th, 2007 8:38:46 PM
Jova looks appraisingly at the elf. A doubter then? Well, that is interesting.
"I seek the ability to fight in close, when spells have been exhausted. I have used the ability to transform into a giant, you know how big they are right? Well to have some ability with that size and strength could go along ways. I have found myself lacking in the defensive category when next to an enemy, so a good offense, could be a good defense.
"You are a skeptic I see, good for you. Caution is necessary."
Bluff 24
Olana (Emerald Dragons) Thursday June 14th, 2007 11:58:17 PM
Olana whistles softly as the dragon assignments are set out. Wow...
"I wish you well," she tells both groups, and gives them a parting bow.
Nick (Platinum Dragons) Friday June 15th, 2007 12:04:11 AM
Fae Skimeir and going after Ga'al. That wouldn't be easy. And as for the Ga'al quest implications... could it truly be done?
Ah, both groups would have to tread carefully, and that was an understatement.
"May you have the blessing of Alemi," he says, giving a bow to both groups.
((OOC - sorry my posting has been a bit scratchy. Migraine on Wed, trip to JPL today.))
Jus Friday June 15th, 2007 2:42:09 AM
Jus congratulates the Knights and Blades. "We took a long time to choose to ensure we chose well. You'll all do fine."
Jus leaves, heading back to his castle with the other Platinums.
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