Onrad Wednesday July 21st, 1999 10:18:59 PM
Onrad greets Kibo and slaps him on the back. Then as soon as they are past him he motions the others into a quick circle and whispers so no outsiders cah near. "Hey guys, we sure could use another person with rogish talents. Kibo seems very capable. He's led scout troops in the New Elennian Army, for Domi's sake! What say we invite him to join us for the day? We can kinda watch him in a critical situation, before the Mayor, and see how good he is. You have to eventually take a chance on a guy like you did on me once upon a time. If you wait until a non-critical moment, what have you learned about a person? And when does a non-critical time ever come for the likes of us? I watched him closely on the way here as I'm sure some of you did. I was impressed. So what'ya think? Shall we ask him to join us? For the day at least?"
Gareth Wednesday July 21st, 1999 10:35:59 PM
Totally focused on what lies ahead the distracted warrior offers "Did you want to join us? I have no problem with that but as I said, I never saw you. But I respect the opinions of my partners. Either way, lets roll. Can't keep the mayor waiting now can we?"
Jus Thursday July 22nd, 1999 12:01:59 AM
Lazily walking out, enjoying the last of a sticky-bun, Jus sees Gareth inviting Kibo into the group. "Hi again, Kibo. I was going to ask you to join when I saw you earlier this morning, but I thought the others should be involved." Jus grins at Gareth before he says anything, "I know, I know. I'm showing incredible restraint today. But then again", Jus laughes, "it's only morning."
Tericus Thursday July 22nd, 1999 2:25:59 AM
"Well, you all took a chance on me, so i say lets take a chance on Kibo. That is, if he wants to join us."
Teko Thursday July 22nd, 1999 3:36:59 AM
"I vote that Kibo join us." Teko turns with a grin to Kibo and says, "We should be facing rather dangerous circumstance quite soon. Are you up to it?"
Kibo Thursday July 22nd, 1999 4:46:59 AM
Disposing of an apple core into the nearest trash-collection point, Kibo extends a well-muscled hand and begins heartily shaking everyone's hand, "Of course! Said you're visiting the Mayor, is it? Have all the arrangements been made, or do you need me to provide introductions?" Kibo says with a smile.
DM Thursday July 22nd, 1999 6:02:59 AM
And so our brave adventurers called The Three become even more than the more that they were before. This done in their usual manner, they proceed to the High Lord Mayor's Castle.
Petty the Secretary Thursday July 22nd, 1999 6:09:59 AM
A Grey Elf rises from his desk to greet you. "This way please. You're early, but the Mayor is anxious to go ahead and meet with you. Have you breakfasted? Would you like some Klah or Berry Tea?"
DM Jerry Thursday July 22nd, 1999 6:15:59 AM
The castle is older than the 427 years than Plateau City has been the capital of New Elenna. So it must have been a Teucri site that was renovated to become the High Lord Mayor's Castle. Also the furnishings all look new replaced after the evil reign of Quenyar.
DM Jerry Thursday July 22nd, 1999 6:21:59 AM
The High Lord Mayor's office is elegant as the ruler of a kingdom's place of ruling should be. It does resemble an office though rather than a traditional throne room. The desk is made of soft woods of some unknown origin and has a slightly silver coloration to it. The chair of the High Lord Mayor is covered in Red Dragon Hide as is the guest chairs facing the desk. There are two other sitting areas in the office. One sitting area has several couches and chairs all covered in this same red dragon leather and looks out through a bay window on Repeat River and the Arena beyond. The other setting faces a rock fireplace in the corner and a man made waterfall creating the soft comforting tones of falling water on the wall opposite the window. The water glints with the sunlight shining in through the window.
Sturtavent (DM Jerry) Thursday July 22nd, 1999 6:37:59 AM
Sturtavent is a stately man appearing to be in his late middle-age years. He has a strong look of vitality about him. His eyes literally sparkle which is very unnerving. He seems to see much more with those beautiful eyes than most people. "Gentlemen, welcome! I'm so excited that you've accepted the challenge to undergo the trials to join the Dragon Consortium. The needs of your country and The Wold are great and adventuring troups of quality are many times the best equipped entity to deal with such situations. I have a very serious....situation. I asked for help from the Dragon Consortium and they have sent you. I am glad of this and thank you for your help before hand." He shakes each hand cheerfully. Petty arrives with Klah, Berry Tea and sweetcakes.
Gareth Thursday July 22nd, 1999 8:10:59 AM
looks the mayor in the eye and says "Thank you. We are glad to help. So what is this situation you need us to help you with?"
Tericus Thursday July 22nd, 1999 4:38:59 PM
"Ill take some tea." takes a cup from Petty. "I love you office! Who is your decorator? Is all this from the same dragon?" he exclaims with wide eyed wonder at the office
Onrad Thursday July 22nd, 1999 9:43:59 PM
Onrad bows his head slightly and shakes Sturtavent's hand warmly. "I'm honored to meet you sir. I've truly admired what you've accomplished in the last year. I thank you personally for helping turn the direction of our kingdom around in many ways. I am forever at your service." As Sturtavent moves on to shake the hand of others, Onrad takes some Tea and a couple of cakes. "Thank you. These look delicious."
Jus Friday July 23rd, 1999 3:24:59 AM
Jus gives a small bow to Petty when she returns. "I'm always honored to meet a Grey." "Thank you for the tea," he says, savoring the berry aroma rising from a cup just as exquisite as the Mayor's chambers.
Aeglos Friday July 23rd, 1999 5:27:59 AM
Bows to Sturtavent, and says," It is a great honor to be before you."
Sturtavent Friday July 23rd, 1999 8:09:59 AM
Sturtavent settles in a chair which he turns to face away from the bay window and proceeds. "Needless to say, this situation may not be talked of in public or mentioned to anyone not involved. There is an extensive history to this venture." He pauses thinking for a second and then speaks into a ring. "Mr. Petty, please send in our guest in Meeting Room 6 please."
Ursis Friday July 23rd, 1999 8:11:59 AM
A balding rotund man dressed in colorful robes and carrying a common looking lyre enters the room. His face is rosy and he has a weathered smile. His eyes look as if they have seen more than any man would ever want to see. He smiles and sits as Sturtavent motions to him to do so.
Sturtavent Friday July 23rd, 1999 8:15:59 AM
"Gentlemen, please meet Ursis, Master Bard of The Wold. Ursis, these are The Three. I am being signaled that I have other guests arriving that concern this venture. I must welcome them and see to their needs. Ursis, if you would take The Three up to the roof where they can be comfortable, and tell them the tales and histories they will need to know....for what is to come.
Ursis Friday July 23rd, 1999 8:25:59 AM
"This way then Gentlemen." He leads the way out of the High Lord Mayor's office and down a series of passages leading deeper into the castle. Eventually a hallway ends and Ursis strikes a chord on his lyre opening a secret door leading to a staircase going up. 100 feet later, a door leads out onto the roof of the castle where you see a fantastic sight. Spread out before you on the roof is a park complete with trees, bushes, walking trails, and park benches. Ursis moves forward and down the path a bit sits himself on one of these benches and motions you to spread out on the lush grass and make yourselves comfortable. "It's truly good to meet you. Congratulations on your being asked to begin trials to join the Dragon Consortium. I have quite the series of tales to impart to you this sunny morning. Why don't you sit back and enjoy the telling. If you can save your questions until I'm finished, I'll do my best to help you close your dropped jaws at that time. Yes your first task is that momentous." Ursis begins his tale.
Ursis Friday July 23rd, 1999 8:26:00 AM
About five years ago, The Gold Dragons, still in their prime days of daily adventuring, descended into the Drow of the Underdark as guards of a caravan headed for the Drow Trading Post called Mantol-Derith. There they were drawn into the political intrigues of the Drow. Unknown to the Gold Dragonss, the merchant who hired them was carrying potent new spells- wild magic spells- into the Underdark. Though he tried to keep the information secret, at least one potential customer knew what was going on. Several other Drow groups, including rival drow houses and other denizens of the dark, suspected the truth and took steps to gain the magic for themselves--or at least to insure that it did not fall into rival hands.
The Gold Dragons were offered the opportunity to come to the city of the drow, Menzoberranzan, to serve the mercantile interests of House Millithor. This house ranked only 25th in the city, yet it's influence in the Mantol Market made it a promising upstart.
The Gold Dragons took a secret route into Menzoberranzan, yet along the way, were found and encountered by all sorts of drow groups. They were wooed and threatened by House Baenre, the #1 house, and also by that clan's greatest rival, the #2 House Barrison Del'Armgo. They met the famed mercenary captain Hatchme, who also goes by the name of Jarlaxle. Making enemies of all these groups, the group limped into the city in a desperate struggle for survival.
Finally approached in the city by House Millithor, they were taken to the Matron Mother where they were rested, healed, and fed. Brought before her in audience, they uncharacteristically insulted her, not realizing that she was testing them and that House Millithor was uniquely neutral in alignment. She took the Wild Mage spells from the party and tossed them out to fend for themselves. The Gold Dragons had to fight their way to the surface in shame, because of their failure to make friends with such a valuable ally.
Soon after, The Red Dragons traveled to Menzoberranzan to make amends for The Gold Dragons insults and make allies of House Millithor.
About a year after this, House Millithor was faced with a life and death crisis. They asked for help from their surface allies to further test them and to study their strange tactics of forming adventuring groups. The Red Dragons had disappeared and hadn't been seen for awhile, so the Gold Dragons decided to redeem themselves and answer House Millithor's call for assistance.
Using the World's Serpent Inn, a crossplanar nexus where gods, monster, and mortals mix and associate while travelling through the multiverse, as a means of avoiding the long trip; they found themselves in the slums of Menzoberranzan: a place known as The Stenchstreets. Using Stealth, they traversed the city: some of them disguised as Drow and others rendered invisible. Sensing that they were being watched, they approached House Millithor and carefully began to traverse the courtyard leading to the house's front gates. There they suddenly found themselves teleported to just below the surface as the House defenses kicked in with several detonations of fireballs centered on the location where they had just been. Looking up they saw through a transparent ceiling the fireballs going off in the courtyard above. The effect made anyone looking or spying on the Gold Dragons think that they had been obliterated by the House Defenses.
Taken to the matron, the one that had the tryst with Mordred, they discovered that House Millithor was to be attacked by House Nurbonnis, a house under the protection of House #2: Barrison Del'Armgo. House Millithor was alone, because their protector, House #1, Baenre, was a shrewd judge of the city's mood and knew that the whole city was jealous and afraid of House Millithor's Wild Magic, obtained from the Gold Dragons on their first visit.
The Gold Dragons were asked to participate in the defense of the house. Their orders were sealed for secrecy and only to be opened once they were alone in their guest chambers. These plans involved five stages of defense on the part of the party.
A ring was included with the orders enabling them to teleport from one defense stage to the next. The ring also would contact a secret location far under the house for healing and a short rest. They could use the ring twice for the purpose of healing, but must wait for two hours before using the ring again. The ring signled for teleport, but would not be answered until the priests had room for them.
The first defense was to take a position below the courtyard in the same transparent chamber by which they entered House Millithor and position themselves exactly below several of the enemy leaders. Then they were to similtaneously teleport up and grab as many of those leaders as they could, taking them below where they would then confront them in a position of power and take them captive if possible, or kill them if not. This the Gold Dragons did, capturing 3 priests, and 1 warlord.
The second defense dealt with taking a turn at defending the entrance hall just inside the door of the keep. The instructions were to let the enemy drow from house Nurbonnis penetrate the stone door and fill the entrance hall. This was a trap. The door then would magically reappear with the defenders rushing to attack the trapped attackers, from their positons of waiting behind one way secret doors, and kill those trapped inside before the attackers once again penetrated the door. The party took it's turn facing a roomful of drow and killed them all, expending much of their memorized magic, in less than 5 rounds. They then healed themselves and teleported to their next assigned location.
Their third stage assignment was in a Drow Battlemaze, an area filled with secret doors and passages, where they were to engage the enemy when they penetrated to that level of the keep using the secret doors and traps there to help them hold the drow in that area for 25 rounds. They completed the 25 rounds killing dozens of drow.
The fourth defense was in a similar Battlemaze where they were to hold out against the attackers for as long as possible. The Gold Dragons remained there for 30 rounds before calling for healing and barely escaping with everyone's life.
The fifth defense was to protect the Matron's eldest daughter, who was secretly in love with Mordred of the Gold Dragons, to the death. They fought several priestesses of Lolth along with their honor guard and kept the daughter alive.
All this accomplished, the party was rewarded with adamantine and honored by the drow. The Matron Mother had been killed. Mordred and the Matron elect (before she knows her mother is dead and she is the new matron) had a rendezvous and unknown to Mordred at the time, he had sired the new Matron's female heir.
----------------
The party returned through the World's Serpent Inn to the surface in triumph.
Two years later, while infiltrating a Fire Giant Lair in the Scab, located inside the rim of an active volcano, The Gold Dragons came upon a drow contingent from House Millithor once again asking for help. Unknown to the drow of House Millithor, they were being spied upon by a shadow spider and thus found out were attacked by a quad of Drow + the spy from some Lower House of Menzoberranzan. The Drow were slaughtered by the quad. Defeating the quad, the Gold Dragons discovered the message for them from Matron Millithor asking for their assistance.
Now, sometime in the past, House Millithor's Wild Mages had erased Mordred's memory of his tryst with Matron Millithor. Now history repeated itself as the party was joined by a "drow prisoner" found in the 3rd level of the Fire Giant lair. She, in reality, was Matron Millithor's 2nd daughter, half-sister to Mordred's daughter. During the dangerous trip Underdark, he fell to her charms and had an affair with her. She later conceived and once again Mordred was none the wiser.
Arriving in Menzoberranzan, they went before the new matron and she revealed a grand plan to the party. The Drow, namely House Baenre, had the Air Ring of Ascension, one of four powerful artifacts which if ever combined could allow a mortal to become a god. House Baenre (#1 house) had attuned a whole army of drow with their weapons and armor to the air ring enabling them to exist on the surface without penalty or without their equipment being destroyed. Truly dangerous. Their goal: the destruction of all surface elves living in Culverwood, the last untarnished elven land in The Wold. Additional powers were also imparted to special units of this army. These included teleportation, invisibility, and flying.
The evil power of the Ring of Ascension made Matron Baenre into an impulsive expansionist. Rather than her normal win/win strategies and situations, she became more and more desperate to start her war with the elves as time went by. She now talked of immortality and joining Lolth in the Demonweb Pits.
Matron Millithor informed the Gold Dragons that due to House Millithor's talents in Wild Magic, the house was asked to prepare the staging area for this new army known as the "Army of Air" which they did. Using the old Windtunnels, dating from before the 4th Cateclysm, that go beneath The Scab, they set up the staging area east of the Scab in the Ashlands. House Millithor made it look as if they had slaughtered all the Ashmen, but in reality had secretly found for them an underground sanctuary with plenty of water so they could sit the whole thing out and then return to the surface if they wished after the Drow had left. The Matron informed the Gold Dragons that this "Army of Air," of House #1 Baenre, was training there as they were speaking.
The Matron of House Millithor went on to tell the Gold Dragons that her agents had not only hidden the Ashpeople, but had also taken the step of infesting the Wind Tunnels with wild magic charges that could be set off to trap the Army of Air when they traveled west under The Scab to attack the surface elves crushing them under The Scab if necessary. It was felt that doing this would weaken House Baenre to the point that they would turn their attentions home once again.
She then told them something totally unexpected. House Millithor along with several other lower houses, wished to return to the surface to live! Once they sabotaged House Baenre and was discovered, they would obviously no longer have House #1's protection. Instead they would have their wrath. House Millithor will be obliterated. The Matron Mother then gave the party papers to give to High Lord Mayor Sturtevant asking for asylum in New Elenna asking for a small portion of the 2nd Plateau in the wild monster area in which to settle. They would live there in harmony with the area and put themselves under the jurisdiction of New Elenna and all its laws, while continuing to live separate as a tribe. They would fight to protect the plateaus and the High Lord Mayor. The laws of New Elenna would supercede their laws. If refused, they would attempt to settle east in the Ashlands while the Army of Air left to attack the elves and the House Millithor agents collapsed the wind tunnels on top of them.
The House would agree that, after their ascension to the surface, they would keep spies among the Drow to provide information for themselves and New Elenna
There was a contingent of the family who would eventually go with her 1st son and claim retribution. She explained that he was in love with the 1st great-granddaughter of House Baenre and if things went as planned, after all of this, she would take over the #1 house with him at her side. Once secure, he would reveal his origins and take retribution on all that attacked House Millithor killing off several houses, hopefully including House #2 Barrison Del'Armgo. House Baenre would then become a neutral house forever removing the dominance of Lolth the Spider God and elevating Ellistrae to the position of patron God of Menzoberranzan.
The Plan was that when House Millithor is attacked, that they would fake their destruction. In reality, however, they would make their way to the surface. They would try to time this so that the attack occurs the same night as the army moved through the wind tunnels to attack the elves to the end that Matron Baenre would be distracted with the attack, with the other houses also distracted with attacking House Millithor.
Matron Millithor then began to explain the role she would offer New Elenna in this revolution. A surface adventuring troupe would on the night of House Millithor's apparant destruction, and shortly after the demise of the Army of Air by the agents of House Millithor, use this opportunity to take a secret route provided by the great-granddaughter into Matron Baenre's private chambers and steal the Air Ring of Ascension. They would also kill Matron Baenre, her daughters, and all her granddaughters save the one loved by the #1 Son of House Millithor. This adventuring troupe would then escape by the same route and exit Menzoberranzan through the World's Serpent Inn.
The Gold Dragons, thus having heard the plans of House Millithor, returned home via the World's Serpent Inn to New Elenna to report the High Lord Mayor and to deliver the papers of the Matron Mother. When the proposal of House Millithor was brought before Sturtavent, after a suitable time of thinking, he approved the plan. Orion and The Blue Sapphires of the Floating City, another group currently undergoing Dragon Status trials, took the message of approval to House Millithor and returned reporting that the plans had been set in motion.
However Sturtavent and the Gold Dragons are concerned, in that we have now heard nothing from House Millithor about the implementation of these plans for nigh unto a year now. We worry that the Matron and House Millithor has somehow been found out, and even now the Army of Air prepares to move not on the elves, but upon New Elenna for it's part in House Millithor's plans. It could also be that House Millithor has been forced into a position of silence not daring to send us any word of the current situation there in Menzoberranzan. I'm guessing Sturtavent has now received news concerning this volatile situation and thus wanted you to know the full accounting of our dealings there before explaining what he has learned... and what he wants you to do.
Tericus Friday July 23rd, 1999 4:44:59 PM
after hearing Ursis' tale, Tericus mutters to himself, "Gods, what a tale." looks at Ursis. " Can i assume that we are to go down there and find out what happened to the Blue Sapphires?"
Kibo Saturday July 24th, 1999 1:34:59 AM
Looking over at Tericus, Kibo says,"The Blue Sapphires returned safely. I'm sure the Mayor will answer this, but I'm mostly concerned with how to determine which of the drow daughters not to kill...it sounds like a nasty business, going thru their house and slaughtering the family."
Aeglos Sunday July 25th, 1999 10:45:59 PM
" Am I correct in saying we are being requested to perform the job of assassins?"
Jus Monday July 26th, 1999 1:36:59 AM
Jus hisses through his teeth at the mention of Drow. For perhaps the first time since you've known him, his smile has been replaced by unashamed hatred. As he listens further, his opinion of certain Gold Dragons drops, as well. To Aeglos, he says, "I believe our job is yet to be defined. Although I am certainly interested in what we are to do with Drow."
Teko Monday July 26th, 1999 3:29:59 AM
With a look of seriousness, Teko says, "And this is where we are tested in our resolve - not for the last time, I'm sure! All those words I said about self-sacrifice begin to sound a little hollow, even to my own ears." Teko grins. "But I've already decided. Let us hear our mission."
Onrad Monday July 26th, 1999 5:23:59 AM
"Remember gentlemen, that Drow are evil incarnate. Also note that this house, House Baenre it it? is currently preparing an army to wipe out what is left of the elves in Culverwood. These guys worship a Cult God. I, for one, have no problem killing Drow, especially Drow who plan to attack Elves. Jus, your family and relatives lives in Culverwood, right?"
Gareth Monday July 26th, 1999 5:27:59 AM
"We already agreed to do this when we accepted the Gold Dragons offer." He grimaces for a second and then his jaw hardens. "Let's get on with it. I do like the drow returning to the surface part. It's about time the elves start getting back together instead of remaining apart and hiding underground."
Ursis Monday July 26th, 1999 5:38:59 AM
"I can see in your eyes what you're thinking. You were looking at the Gold Dragons as the epitome of what adventuring groups could become. You were idolizing them to a certain extent. Know that these actions are in their past. They did suffer somewhat from a case of arrogance when they first became dragons. However, the experiences of the last couple of years -- the loss of Claudia and the subsequent differences of opinion that led to them being torn apart both emotionally and philosophically. They have learned much and matured. Know also, that they assigned you to this task and personally instructed me to tell you of their failures involving the Drow. They are not perfect. But I owe them my life several times over. Their hearts are in the right place. You don't operate on the level of a Dragon Consortium adventuring troupe without facing threats from both inside and outside. No threat is as dangerous as one to your personal integrity or one that assaults your moral sensibilities as to what is right and wrong. That's one of the reasons you were chosen. You experienced quite a few serious moral challenges in Izen." He pauses to let this sink in. Now, Sturtavent himself bid me to tell you about Mordred's illigitimite children. That information was just learned by us. Mordred himself does not know this information. Sturtavent says he will tell him when the time is right and before long. So consider that your first state secret. You will not reveal that or what you've just learned about our dealings with the drow and House Millithor to anyone. Things are not simple at this level, friends. Know that!"
Sturtavent Monday July 26th, 1999 6:15:59 AM
Appearing on the roof, Sturtavent approaches. Realizing that Ursis has finished his tale, he searches the faces of the party carefully. He sits on the bench. "Please speak freely gentlemen. I wish no misunderstandings, or uncommunicated feelings and issues to remain unspoken concerning these matters. We must have a meeting of minds here before I send you on this crucial mission." He turns to Ursis. "My friend, I thank you for doing favor for me. If you would go downstairs and keep our other guests company, I'll speak with these gentlemen and answer their concerns and questions."
Ursis Monday July 26th, 1999 6:18:59 AM
Stands and bows formally to Sturtavent and informally to The Three. "I am always at your service my friend." He turns to The Three. "May the Gods of Wold bless you in the days to come. If I can ever be of help to you, please ask. I am yours." Then he crisply turns and heads downstairs.
Kibo Monday July 26th, 1999 6:58:59 AM
Responding to the Mayor, Kibo say, "Sir, you know my background, and my loyalty to the Kingdom. Although wiping out a family is required, I will perform the duty. How do we determine which of the drow daughters not to kill...and, what tools will be provided to help accomplish the mission?"
Onrad Monday July 26th, 1999 8:32:59 PM
Nods to Teko at his astute question and waits for the others to respond. He takes a deep breath as he realized that he hasn't breathed for a minute or so.
Gareth Monday July 26th, 1999 8:37:59 PM
"How much time do we have to prepare ourselves? We're gonna have to finish re-outfit ourselves for something like this. We're not even close to having what we need to face Drow, but we will be."
Gareth Monday July 26th, 1999 9:23:59 PM
After another moment of silence the warrior looks up and says "Who is this other group downstairs? You've said that they are to be involved in this? I wonder why they are not part of this discussion yet. And if they are not to be told these things why you have not revealed their identity to us."
Jus Tuesday July 27th, 1999 12:18:59 AM
Jus listens quietly, waiting to hear exactly what The Three are to do.
Teko Tuesday July 27th, 1999 2:44:59 AM
Teko glances at each person as they speak, but soon returns his gaze to Sturtavent. He waits.
Sturtavent Tuesday July 27th, 1999 4:42:59 AM
To Kibo, the mayor simply smiles and nods. When he sees Onrad take the deep breath and look tense, he stands and moves behind Onrad to place his hands lightly on his shoulders. Then he turns to Gareth and says, "I think it best to show you our other guests in a few moments, after I'm sure we have everything ironed out here where we can present a united front. If any of you have any reservations about this mission, or anything pressing on your soul, say it now." He stands tall after saying this in a manner that almost makes the statement a command.
Aeglos Tuesday July 27th, 1999 5:22:59 AM
" I understand that in real life, and in the horrors we will be facing, black and white may blur. I am willing do whatever we must in order to complete the quests we have been given. For I know that we serve the side which is just and good."
Tericus Tuesday July 27th, 1999 7:02:59 AM
Tericus looks at Aeglos with awe, "That was nobly spoken." Tericus hops slightly back and forth, eager for the coming challenge.
Tericus Tuesday July 27th, 1999 7:13:59 AM
Kibo, hearing Aeglos, says, "I disagree. That thought smacks of 'the ends justify the means', and naively self-defines us as all-good. However, the mission must be done, if not for those reasons. Of course, Mayor, we have problems with the mission, and we can never hope to 'iron out' all of our misgivings. The best that can be done is to place everything on the table. I will do this mission, not for acceptance in the Dragon Consortium, but because of the misery that it will prevent to people on all sides, including the Drow.
Kibo (David out of character) Tuesday July 27th, 1999 7:21:59 AM
FYI, that last post should say 'Kibo' in the name line.
Jus Tuesday July 27th, 1999 9:06:59 AM
"I have two thoughts pressing themselves upon my mind. One, what is the age of those we must kill, if indeed our mission is the -- almost -- complete extermination of a family. Two, I question if any drow is worthy of aid. The later I leave to those who plan this mission, the former I'd like to work out between me and the gods."
Aeglos Tuesday July 27th, 1999 8:21:59 PM
" To condem all Drow as evil is unjust. It is a race which is kept in a form of slavery by there religion. It is hard for a Drow to turn out good, but it cannot be said that it is impossible."
Gareth Wednesday July 28th, 1999 12:41:59 AM
I've killed all manner of evil creatures. I'll kill evil elves too if necessary. Evil should be destroyed. Let's get on with it.
Teko Wednesday July 28th, 1999 3:31:59 AM
Teko furrows his brow from time to time, but it is difficult to tell which of the others' words his expression is about. He says nothing. He continues to wait for specifics.
Sturtavent Wednesday July 28th, 1999 7:28:59 AM
"Gentlemen, I would never ask you to perform an evil act. Killing someone who is not evil is wrong most of the time. The fact that House Millithor is a neutral house if a case in point. They are not evil, therefore we help them and risk our resources and lands for their sake and for the good that it will also do for others, including ourselves. Matron Baenre has been serving her patron deity, Lolth -- Goddess of Spiders, by doing unspeakable things for over 1,500 turns now if drow records are correct. Her daughters are nearly 1,000 turns old themselves. All work actively for Lolth as her priestesses. They are both Lawful and Evil. Except for the one granddaughter whom you are to spare. At least this is the case as far as we know. You are to accomplish this mission for the cause of good. Stealing the Ring of Air Ascension will help foil her plans for exterminating the elves in Culverwood. Ending Matron Baenre's life ends those plans. Exterminating her evil daughters and granddaughters allows one neutral granddaughter to marry the person she loves. More importantly than that it hopefully will lead to turning the First House into a neutral one. This brings hope for the hopes of the following generations as they could hopefully then choose to be something other than evil. It also lets House Millithor survive and return to the surface. Finally, I want you to do this mission and to succeed: both for your own sakes and mine. You want to be successful and I need you to be. There are far too many challenges and needs out there in the Wide Wold for the Dragon Consortium to currently deal and help with. Remember, gentlemen, that the Dragon groups are my knights of the realm. I depend on them to keep the kingdom safe for our people. Now, accomplishing this mission will do alot of people in alot of place much good. However, in spite of all these great accomplishments for good, you must follow your hearts at all times and I would have it no other way. If you meet another non-evil drow down there. Help the person if possible. Always feel that you can and will use your own judgment and not blindly follow orders or assignments. Yet also keep in mind that many people and their families and homes are depending on you as well. This is the burden that the Dragon Class Adventurer bears. And it can be a heavy burden at times. The Gold Dragons can bear witness to that many times over." He pauses. "Now...are there any more concerns or issues of morality that you wish to voice at this point heroes?"
Kibo Thursday July 29th, 1999 2:34:59 AM
With a slight bow, Kibo says, "I appreciate your advice to follow our hearts. I have no further concerns to be voiced."
Tericus (DAH) Thursday July 29th, 1999 2:37:59 AM
Tericus solemnly responds, "I am ready for this awesome responsibility."
Aeglos Thursday July 29th, 1999 3:09:59 AM
" I feel like we all will know as the situations arise, what the proper response to any individual we deal with. I am ready to take this responsibility with the blessings of the gods on our side. "
Teko Thursday July 29th, 1999 4:06:59 AM
"So, then, what plans and preparations have been made thus far?"
Onrad Thursday July 29th, 1999 7:06:59 AM
::nods at Sturtavent to proceed and then smiles, bowing his head slightly with respect::
Sturtavent Thursday July 29th, 1999 7:14:59 AM
"Then let us proceed. We indeed have not heard from House Milithor for nearly a year and have been concerned about developments there. Until two days ago. The other guests I spoke of are three drow priestesses of House Millithor. Follow me and we will join them."
DM Jerry Thursday July 29th, 1999 7:20:59 AM
Sturtavent leads the party below to a sitting room similar to the one in Sturtavent's office, however the room is lit with recessed lighting giving the place an after dark kinda look. Three figures stand across the room from the recessed lighting listening to Ursis play a subdued tune on his lyre. Ursis brings the song to a quick end and Sturtavent walks boldly into the room leading the party.
Sturtavent Thursday July 29th, 1999 7:30:59 AM
Sturtavent bows formally from the waist. "Princess, I present The Three. They are the adventuring group that I told you about. Gentlemen, meet Zilvyra 3rd Daughter to Matron Millithor and her two companions Umrae and Talice."
Zilvyra Thursday July 29th, 1999 7:43:59 AM
(Zilvyra--the y is pronounced with a long ee sound. [zil/veer'/ah]) She speaks but he words don't match her mouth movements and you realize she is using some sort of Comprehend Language Spell to communicate with you. Her voice is thick with accent. (Think Transylvanian with a French twist.) "I am duly honored." As she listens intently each of you as you introduce yourselves to her, she scutinizes each of you in turn. Her eyes seem to linger on Jus for just a moment peering into his soul.
Kebo Thursday July 29th, 1999 5:23:59 PM
Responding with a deep bow, Kebo intones, "The honor is ours."
Tericus Thursday July 29th, 1999 6:32:59 PM
bows deeply to the three priestesses. "Ladies, it is indeed a hornor to meet all of you. I realize that there is probably a great deal of pressure and strain on you right now. I think i speak for all of us when i say that we are here to help you, and that if you need anything from us, you just have to ask."
Jus Friday July 30th, 1999 1:45:59 AM
Jus enters the room, reflexively placing his left hand on one of the numerous daggers placed at his side. He calmly stares back at Zilvyra, unwilling to nod or smile in greeting. One eyebrow raises when he hears Tericus' erroneous assumption, but it could be expected from one so new to the party. Jus decides to let his silence speak his thoughts for now -- Gareth and Onrad will understand what that means.
Gareth Friday July 30th, 1999 1:55:59 AM
Gareth strides to the front of The Three and greets Zilvyra with a mimic of Sturtavent's bow. "We are honored to aid your house as our comrades have before us. What brings you forth? Tell me how my party can help and we'll get started."
Aeglos Friday July 30th, 1999 3:32:59 AM
Bows and says, " I am honored as well, and at your service."
Onrad Friday July 30th, 1999 8:49:59 AM
Onrad greets them as equals offering his hand. His thoughts are on Jus and how he is feeling about things. Even though these Drow women are indeed brave and seemingly honorable, their race has much to make up for, especially with the elves they have hurt so much over the centuries.
Sturtavent Friday July 30th, 1999 9:03:59 AM
"The Matron Mother would have you travel to Menzoberranzan to meet with her in 3 days at the first bell which is Midnight here. There you will finalize your part in the events to happen that night. To aid in your easy travel to Menzoberranzan, I present you with Three World's Serpent Inn Coins. One to travel to Menzoberranzan, one to return with, and one as a gift. You will be the lead group of 7 adventuring groups provided by myself. Each will remain anonymous from each other until arrival. They will be identified by call and countersign. These groups will all be inserted into the Menzoberranzan Theatre that night to accomplish various tasks for the good of the Drow People. Once we are revealed, as the destructors of the Army of Air and the honorable thieves of the Ring of Air Ascension, the attack on House Millithor will be massive. We expect these things to take place just after your meeting with the Matron Millithor." The High Lord Mayor then motions to the drow priestess and she presents and reads a letter.
The Letter Friday July 30th, 1999 9:10:59 AM
Greetings friends and soon-to-be fellow countrymen, All Hail to His Honor Sturtavent: High Lord Mayor of New Elenna, Protector of the Realm. The time is nigh. The armies of House Baenre march on the Elves of Culverwood in a fortnight. We must ask for your immediate help to survive this transition and enter into our new lives. We ask that you bid your selected adventuring groups make haste to the Stenchstreets for a Council of War to be held at the Well of Darkness Tavern at the First bell on that fateful night. The password will be "The Truth Will Out." The counter password will be "Bathe the night with joy." Activate as many trusted Adventuring Groups as you can trust and have them assemble. There will be inevitable loose ends that must be dealt with before this is all done." Eternal and many thanks, Matron Millithor PS: Who are the Lords of Diamonds? M. (This last part is not read by the drow priestess, but pointed to as you are given the letter) The Drow princess hands Jus the letter. She again, stares a bit too long in his direction. Curious perhaps?
Sturtavent Friday July 30th, 1999 9:18:59 AM
The Army of Air is scheduled to move through the Wind Tunnels under the Scab through to Culverwood and begin their attack on the elves. Matron Baenre has announced that House Millithor has betrayed Lolth for Ellistrae and already removed her support from the house. So the attack on House Millithor is scheduled for the same night as the Army of Air's movement through the Wind Tunnels. She evidently thinks that the attention of Menzoberranzan will be focused on her attack on House Millithor and thus will not draw any attention from other Drow houses. The Gold Dragons, along with many other groups and portions of the New Elennian Army are now assiting the elves in their defenses. Once you meet with the Matron Mother and your plans are finalized, you will be given a secret way into House Baenre obtained from the great-granddaugher, yes it turns out to be a great-granddaughter who is in love with the first son of House Millithor. You will thus infiltrate House Baenre, kill Matron Baenre, her daughers, and any granddaughters present. Finally, you will steal the Air Ring of Ascension,make your escape by the same secret route, and race for the World's Serpent Inn again. Are there any questions?"
Tericus Friday July 30th, 1999 10:22:59 AM
looks at Sturtavent. "How much time do we have to prepare? We have only learned about this mission in the last hour or so, and need to prepare ourselves for the dangers ahead."
Kebo Friday July 30th, 1999 4:54:59 PM
"With the level of coordination required among the groups, what type of time or schedule devices will be available?"
Gareth Sunday August 1st, 1999 7:56:59 PM
says "We are ready to help. We need some time to prepare. How long do we have before we must leave?"
Aeglos Sunday August 1st, 1999 8:18:59 PM
" I would guess that we don't have much time at all."
Jus Monday August 2nd, 1999 1:07:59 AM
Jus looks at the letter, momentarily lost in thought -- he's sure he's heard of the Lord of Diamonds somewhere, but just can't place it. Looking back at the drow, Jus wonders why this drow would be curious of him. To Sturtavent, he asks, "A valuable member of our party has been called away momentarily. We would like you to give him means to join us when he returns."
Kebo Monday August 2nd, 1999 3:46:59 AM
Kebo awaits answers to the questions already voiced.
Teko Monday August 2nd, 1999 3:58:59 AM
Teko, in his characteristic fashion, watches the Drow very closely indeed - their movements, their sounds. He attempts to make sense of their expressions - facial and bodily. He may well have need of their images very soon.
Onrad Monday August 2nd, 1999 7:03:59 AM
"How long ago was this letter written by the Matron Mother? How much of this "fortnight" is left before we must meet with her and begin?" Onrad continues to keep his eye on Jus and how he is responding to his dark cousins.
Talice Monday August 2nd, 1999 7:15:59 AM
Talice, Zilvyra's second companion answer the question. She is one of those rare drow with purple eyes. She is extraordinarily beautiful and exotic. Her voice is raspy though and you can see a sword scar there. "The Matron gave milady the letter one day before last midnight. Thus the 2nd day of this fortnight began this past midnight. The 3rd day will begin tonight at midnight. You will meet with her on the 4th midnight. So you have the remainder of today and tomorrow. Tomorrow you should leave for the World's Serpent Inn shortly after dark to give yourself time to get there on time....milords.
Zilvyra Monday August 2nd, 1999 7:18:59 AM
Schedule devices? I do not understand. There is a time device in the center of Menzoberranzan that everyone can see when outdoors. It sounds and pulses softly, but where all can hear and see each hour. Timing will, of course, be a concern. The Matron will be watching each group's progress as she is able. She will coordinate. Does that help?
Tericus Monday August 2nd, 1999 7:32:59 AM
"Two days to prepare. Thats not a long time."
Jus Monday August 2nd, 1999 12:50:59 PM
Glancing to Tericus, Jus quietly comments, "It is enough time. We will be there and we will be ready." He politely speaks to the mayor again, adding Nonam's studies just to see the Drow's reactions, "And about the return of our wild mage, Nonam?"
Gareth Monday August 2nd, 1999 4:10:59 PM
"So we leave tomorrow then. We will be there. We must prepare.". When the meeting ajourns and the drow leave, he turns to Sturtavent "We need to buy some gear and magic items. Can you make some suggestions as to the best places to do this as time is short?"
Onrad Wednesday August 4th, 1999 3:43:59 AM
We leave word for Onrad at The Gold Dragon Castle, here with Sturtavent's secretary, and at the Red Wyrm Inn as well as our inn The Adventurer's Repose that there's a message for him at the Repose. We leave that third ring to the World's Serpent Inn for him so he can catch up to us when he returns - - that is if he doesn't return to us by then.
Aeglos Thursday August 5th, 1999 2:06:59 AM
Aeglos takes a few steps closer to the drow, and says to each of them, " If it is not obvious, I am high elven. It mourns me that we as elves have each become so divided. I hope that our dealings together will perhaps be a step towards a future reconciliation between all of our kind. "
Kebo Thursday August 5th, 1999 3:54:59 AM
"Yes, let's begin immediately. Thank you, Zilvyra for that information. We will make this thing a success."
Teko Thursday August 5th, 1999 3:57:59 AM
With an astonished face, Teko blurts out, "A day and a half?" He shakes his head. But his face immediately begins to shine when Gareth mentions magic items.
Gareth Thursday August 5th, 1999 6:36:59 PM
waits for Sturtavent's response to his question.
Zilvyra Friday August 6th, 1999 3:19:59 AM
"As a token of our appreciation in advance, I present you with a gift from Matron Millithor to aid you in your preparations." She motions to Talice.
Talice Friday August 6th, 1999 3:23:59 AM
Talice turns to a low table behind her and picks up a small chest. She opens it to reveal a huge blue diamond. She doesn't say anything as the beauty and value of this diamond speaks for itself. She hands the chest to Jus. "May this begin the sealing of the breach between our peoples."
Tericus Saturday August 7th, 1999 6:18:59 AM
with his eyes wide, staring at the jem "That...that gem is enormous. Legends speak of jems of that size, but i never thought id see one in my lifetime."
Kebo Sunday August 8th, 1999 5:37:59 PM
Thinking to himself ::Peace is not so easily purchased:: Kebo joins Gareth in preparing for the trip.
Gareth Sunday August 8th, 1999 7:12:59 PM
bows to the drow saying "Your gift is most welcome. Thank you.". He marvels at the sheer size of the stone.
Onrad Monday August 9th, 1999 3:22:59 AM
"Lady Talice, are you sure you wish such a treasure to be sold on the market to buy supplies for this mission? It seems too much a collector's item to be sold like that."
Teko Monday August 9th, 1999 3:54:59 AM
"On the other hand, it could be just what the healer ordered..."
Talice Monday August 9th, 1999 9:51:59 AM
"The family of Millithor believes that this gem brings good luck and that no better use can be found for it that to help bring House Millithor to Ellistrae in the moonlight of the surface of The Wold once again. Use the gem to help us. Sell or auction it to get what you need." She bows once again.
Sturtavent Monday August 9th, 1999 9:56:59 AM
"Well then gentlemen, I think we have finally covered everything for now. The princess has asked to see the location of their new house to be and I think I have the perfect guide for them. I'll be around if you have any further questions. Consider me on 24 hour call if you need me before you leave. Off with you then!" He grins and grips each shoulder with his strong, sure hand as you depart. The drow women bow and smile graciously and proudly as each of you make your farewells...except with Jus' where they smile and look at each other grinning like little schoolgirls."
Kebo Monday August 9th, 1999 4:35:59 PM
Kebo returns the bows, and proceeds with the group in preparing for the journey.
Gareth Monday August 9th, 1999 7:11:59 PM
graciously bids farewell and exits with the group. "Looks like you have some new girlfriends Jus..." :). "BOY I wish Nonam were here for this next part. I'm no good at negotiating. I always lose my temper or give up too soon. I hope you guys are ready for this. We better move fast if we're going to get it all done.". After a moment of thought the always battle-ready warrior says "So what do we need to buy? Looks like we have to money for whatever we need. What would that be? I'm thinking magic armor for me. Maybe some - what is ut? - protection magic?" with a confused and concerned look on his face he stops and turns to the others "I really think we should talk about it for a few before we jump into this. I get the idea we're gonna get hurt if we don't choose well."
Onrad Monday August 9th, 1999 10:22:59 PM
Onrad bows and exits with the others. "Why don't we head back to the Adventurer's Repose sit down with some paper, and make a list of what everyone thinks each member needs and of course what we'd like to have, and then prioritize it. We'll do better we're organized about this. We can take each members usual and supposed role in combat, scouting, healing, etc. into consideration as well. When we have a list, we can then see how far our gold will go." Onrad then turns to Jus. "Jus and his drowgirl sitting in a tree...." Onrad winces in anticipation of the thwack to come. Then he continues the ditty, whistling it every change he gets.
Jus Tuesday August 10th, 1999 12:41:59 AM
Jus turns purple in barely conceiled rage. "I don't know what there problem was, nor do I wish to. If you two want to act like the humans I used to know, you'd better expect me to treat you like them, too. I suggest we make this list and get on with things."
Tericus Tuesday August 10th, 1999 1:23:59 AM
bows to Sturdivent and leaves with everyone else. "I think sitting down and planning is a good idea. Ill admit im not the best fighter in the world, but i am a first class healer. Terisala has blessed me with great healing powers, but i can always use some help."
Teko Tuesday August 10th, 1999 3:55:59 AM
After bidding Sturtavent and the Drow a good day and thanking them for their efforts and their help, Teko turns to the party. "Gareth, Onrad, you are right. We must plan well or die." The gnome follows the others quietly to the Repose, obviously already deep in thought. He scribbles notes on a piece of paper as he walks.
Burpo at the Adventurer's Repose Tuesday August 10th, 1999 8:54:59 AM
The party makes it back to the Adventurer's Repose where they pull up chairs around the table in their suite meeting room. From almost nowhere, a young halfling face appears smiling. He has a very low, harsh voice for a halfling. "Gentlemen, how may I be of service? My name is Burpo."
Kebo Tuesday August 10th, 1999 4:22:59 PM
Noticing Jus' purple coloration, Kebo surmises how the drow managed to obtain their skin coloration. ::I wonder which skin coloration is the dominent, if you mate the two:: thinks Kibo. Smiling kindly at Burpo, Kebo submits his ideas to the group on what type of stealth equipment will be needed. (to be handled by e-mail).
Gareth d20=17 d20=15 Tuesday August 10th, 1999 8:44:59 PM
a bit suprised by Jus's response chuckles (failed Wisdom check) and says "Aw come on Jus, She was pretty cute don't ya think? :)". To Kebo Gareth says "You could bring us some food. And do you know a good jeweler in town?"
Onrad d20=2 Wednesday August 11th, 1999 1:00:59 AM
"Holy 'lem Gareth, you ate breakfast, and had snacks at the Mayor's! Now you're hungry?" ::Pats Gareth's abdomen:: "Better watch it bub. Most girls don't like men with large tum-tums." Sadly making his wisdom check, Onrad then adds, "Uh, Sorry Jus, I didn't realize it was such a sensitive issue. Are you going to be able to handle having Drow on the surface?" ::Onrad shudders:: Then pulling Gareth aside so Jus can't hear, "Gareth, ol' buddy. Lay off. Jus is serious. For him this is as bad as if someone told you that your family was the cause of the problems in The Windbourne Hills. It's ultra personal. Watch him though, I don't think he's anywhere near being able to trust a Drow cousin. Even if all three of them look like daughters of Caeroldra herself. Are all Drow that beautiful?"
Teko Wednesday August 11th, 1999 2:03:59 AM
"They won't be after we've had a hand at them, I'm sorry to say." Teko orders milk and poultry if they have it and hunches over his paper, mulling over what he has written.
Gareth (from email) Wednesday August 11th, 1999 3:16:59 AM
As the group sets down to iron out a list, Gareth chimes first with his suggestions for everyone. He begins, "I'd like Magic Armor of some kind or a ring of protection. I also could use some kind protection to prevent me from getting hit so much in fights as I'm always up front. Also, maybe some blinking ability, or an improved Invisibility ring. A better sword would be nice as well." Gareth then proceeds to mention what he thinks the others could use, trying only to be helpful.
DM Jerry Wednesday August 11th, 1999 3:19:59 AM
When Gareth mentions getting better armor, something very strange begins to happen. From somewhere a vibration starts making a low humming sound. Shortly it becomes evident what is making the vibration. By the time Gareth finishes talking, his magical broadsword begins to rise out of it's scabbard singing as only a sword can sing when it vibrates! It rises halfway from the scabbard and the vibration begins to increase: rising in pitch. [Surprise rolls please. Wisdom check for Gareth to help him respond to this.]
Kebo d10=5 Wednesday August 11th, 1999 6:47:59 AM
Not one to be easily startled, Kebo says dryly,"Now that will get us killed." Picking up from Gareth's words, Kebo states, "My suggestions are: Obtain an item, such as a pair of rings, that allows a telepathic connection between the scout and the party lead; obtain some type of sunstaff -- this will put our dark-loving enemies at a severe disadvantage; and obtain some type of item that will mask infrared, ultraviolet, sound, and scent. Finally, we can't assume we'll only be facing drow."
Tericus d10=3 Wednesday August 11th, 1999 10:49:59 AM
"Well, i can use some healing potions, but what i really think is most improtant is scrolls. Scrolls that can heal wounds and cure posion. From what i understand, Drow use posion alot. Also, i think those of us who cant see in the dark will need some kind of device to help us see in the dark. I dont think that walking around down there with torches is a good idea. Whoa, what is that!" he exclaims as he sees Gareth's sword fly around the room.
Gareth d20=18 Wednesday August 11th, 1999 8:04:59 PM
leaps to his feet as his sword rises up in it's scabbard. "What in blazes is WRONG with this thing?!?" He unbuckles his belt and lets it drop to the ground. He looks around trying to see what could have caused such a response.
Onrad d20=7 d10=1 Wednesday August 11th, 1999 9:01:59 PM
Drawing his twin blades, Onrad leaps doing a backflip onto the windowsill (dex check 7). His mouth then flies open as he realizes what is making the sound and he freezes (surprise of 1). "Gareth...uh Gareth... Gareth?"
Jus d10=6 Thursday August 12th, 1999 3:38:59 AM
Furious at Gareth's foolishness, Jus begins to bite back with comments about Gareth's mother having an illegitimate son with a Drow. Taking advantage of the swords distraction (surprise roll) and Gareth's removal of his belt, Jus instead casts Grease on Gareth's pants (inside, or course), then leaves the room to cool off.
DM Jerry Thursday August 12th, 1999 4:02:59 AM
The sword continues to vibrate and remain half drawn, however, the pitch though begins to diminish. Eventually, the things as if being handled, shoves itself back into the scabbard. All sound stops. (Gareth save vs. spell to avoid the effect.)
Teko d10=4 Thursday August 12th, 1999 4:22:59 AM
Teko watches Gareth to see if he melts. He says, "I think we ought to have plenty of Stoneskin protection. In other words, not just a preparatory casting before we go in, but lots of scrolls, too." He quickly turns his gaze back to his paper, but periodically looks out of the corner of his eye at Gareth. He is ready to dodge any explosions.
Gareth d20=10 d20=11 Thursday August 12th, 1999 5:28:59 PM
feels a large amount of something slick oozing in his pants. It quickly comes out all directions as it grows. Beligerantly Gareth glares at Jus totally oblivious to the extent of his anger and rages "Now why in blazes did you do that?!? We're being attacked by a sword!" As Jus storms out he turns his attention to the sword. "We can deal with him later. Why did my sword do that!". He moves over to it and pushes it with his foot, then gingerly picks it up - ready to drop it quick. "Hmmm, it's never done THAT before... I wonder what the deal is? Come on guys, help me out here.". With a deep breath he grips the handle and pulls it out of the scabbard...
Kebo Thursday August 12th, 1999 7:32:59 PM
To Gareth: "Say Slick! I'd help ya retrieve that thing, but I might slip and break my neck on your puddle." Surprised at seeing a hot-headed elf, Kebo kicks back to watch for any other personality quirks from the group.
Onrad Saturday August 14th, 1999 8:01:59 AM
"Uh, Gareth?" ::giggling and nearly falling off the ledge:: "Hehup...did you...heh...have an accident in your pants? Hehup...heh. Hmm?"
DM Jerry Saturday August 14th, 1999 8:03:59 AM
The sword remains in it's scabbard on the floor where Gareth put it.
Gareth Sunday August 15th, 1999 7:10:59 PM
angrily says "You guys finish the discussion if you want. I'm going for a bath!". He picks up his sword and leaves.
Kebo Monday August 16th, 1999 1:24:59 AM
"I see. Should we draw numbers for who leaves next?" Kebo says with a smile, sipping some tea that he has decanted from a nearby container.
Jus Monday August 16th, 1999 2:23:59 AM
"Oh, hi Gareth," Jus quips entering the room again. Other than not skipping in, he appears normal -- he even has a smile." Dropping his pack, he pulls out a quill, ink, and some paper. "Let me jot down what I think we need."
Tericus Monday August 16th, 1999 3:19:59 AM
"And we're suppost to work together? I dont think we can accomplish our mission if we are going to be at each other's throat. Everyone needs to calm down. I know everyone is nervous, but thats no reason to turn our aggressions on each other."
Teko Monday August 16th, 1999 4:00:59 AM
Teko watches the puddle of grease and remembers where it flowed, so as not to slip on it later. "So are we going in as we are, or as Drow, or invisibly, or what? I do not think we should impersonate Drow except under heavy magic. Going in invisibly might be best. I am not sure."
Onrad Monday August 16th, 1999 7:42:59 AM
Perhaps we'd better be prepared with several options: invisibility, magical disguise, and non-magical disguise. Although I think a polymorph would be going to far. Good thinking. As for Gareth and Jus. They'll be ok. This group has a history of lettting of a little steam. If we were attacked at this moment, you'd see them protecting each other's back. You're right about the pressure though. They're just venting in their own way.
Gareth d20=4 d20=11 Monday August 16th, 1999 7:09:59 PM
As Gareth stomps down the hall and enters to the bath he jumps as the grease disappears from everywhere. Realizing from past experience that the spell Jus cast ran out he pauses, and begins to laugh (passed Wisdom check). He walks back down the hall and reenters the room. Seeing Jus in a better mood he smiles and shakes his finger at the wiley mage. "You had me there for a minute...". After a good laugh the large warrior gets more serious. "So what just happened to my sword? You didn't do that, did you."
Jus Monday August 16th, 1999 10:43:59 PM
"Please," Jus rolls his eyes at Tericus, "just consider this party dynamics." When Gareth enters, Jus nods a welcome. "No, the sword did it on its own. As far as getting in to the underworld, you might guess I'll never willingly disguise myself as a Drow; improved invisibility would be far better."
Gareth Tuesday August 17th, 1999 12:21:59 AM
"Well, what did it do? How did it do that? IF I'm supposed to use it in battle I have to know what it's going to do. And you know what it did. Either make me feel better about this or I buy another sword and get rid of it... please."
Tericus Tuesday August 17th, 1999 2:40:59 AM
looks at Jus "If you say so. Anyway, invisibility is a good idea, but we are going to have to take alot of them. I dont know how long it lasts, and im sure its going to talk a few days, if not weeks, to get where we are going."
Gareth (copied from email) Tuesday August 17th, 1999 8:42:59 AM
Gareth walks into "Waldo's Armor" shop. He walks up to the counter and says "I'm looking for some good magic armor. Anything with special powers like 'lightness', 'Invisibility', 'Silence' - that sort of thing. I usually wear splint but I'll look at plate or chain mail as well - even leather if it does what I need it to."
At the store Tuesday August 17th, 1999 8:48:59 AM
As Gareth makes his request of the shopkeeper, once again his sword does something strange. It comes completely out of the scabbard vibrating with such force that it cracks the scabbard. In a high pitched metallic voice, it screams. The scream starts as sort of a whine rising in volume and pitch until it is truly ear splitting. "nooooOOOOOOOO!" In that short moment it also mentally broadcasts feelings of insecurity, hurt, and betrayal. Then in another instant, with a bright flash, it disappears.
At the inn Tuesday August 17th, 1999 8:51:59 AM
While the rest of the party discusses their plans, suddenly they are interupted by a flash of light and a high-pitched scream. "noooOOOOOOOO!" Gareth's sword appears bathed in light for a moment as it spears down burying itself in the center of the table 3 inches deep. It slowly stops vibrating and then just sticks there.
Kebo d20=5 d20=8 Tuesday August 17th, 1999 3:12:59 PM
Unsurprised, Kebo jumps up on the table and wrenches the sword free, looking it over for any signs of battle (blood, etc.), "Guys, that didn't sound like Gareth's voice, but this is sword. Where was he last?"
Gareth (first story line) Tuesday August 17th, 1999 6:46:59 PM
waits expectantly for Jus to answer his question.
Gareth (second story line) d20=14 Tuesday August 17th, 1999 6:48:59 PM
As his sword disappears he stands there a moment in shock. Then he rolls his eyes. "Great, just great! What is the deal with this sword!? Waldo, I'll be back. I have a more pressing need right now. A new sword."
Jus [answering Gareth] Wednesday August 18th, 1999 12:33:59 AM
"Apparently, your sword has just awakened. Consider yourself fortunate and cursed. That sword could either become the most powerful artifact in the Wold, or the biggest pain in the neck you've ever seen -- even worse than Onrad and Nonam together. And no, I can't do that yet... maybe someday."
Jus Wednesday August 18th, 1999 1:17:59 AM
Jus jumps back when the sword first appears. Chuckling, he approaches Kebo when he pulls out the sword, "Be still, my friend," Jus says, placing one hand gently on the sword's blade. "You must have patience with Gareth. He will learn to appreciate you, and you would do well having such a warrior with you."
Tericus Wednesday August 18th, 1999 2:31:59 AM
looks at his staff. "Im glad my friend here isnt so tempermental. I wondere what Gareth said to make it so upset?"
Onrad Wednesday August 18th, 1999 2:52:59 AM
"My guess is that he mentioned armor again. Hehe. Sounds like Gareth sword is as stubborn as he is. :)" Then he realizes Jus' implication. "Hey! I'm an easy going fella. Death does that to a guy. Nonam is....::cough, cough::, now my very ::cough:: dear friend ::cough:: Sorry, got a frog in my throat."
DM Jerry Wednesday August 18th, 1999 7:20:59 AM
The sword lies peacefully in Kibo's hands.
Kebo Wednesday August 18th, 1999 7:27:59 AM
Thinking to himself::I'm not exactly sure who Gareth is buddy-buddy with in this outfit:: Kebo says,"I'll hang onto this 'till Gareth turns up...should we go look for him?" Kebo slings the sword over his shoulder belt on his back for the present.
Gareth Wednesday August 18th, 1999 6:32:59 PM
goes back and joins the party in the room. "You guys are not going to believe what just happened. My sword screamed no and then just disappeared. Looks like I have to get a new sword now. Hope I can find one as good."
Aeglos Wednesday August 18th, 1999 8:08:59 PM
" I wonder if you can buy potions of improved invisibility."
Onrad Wednesday August 18th, 1999 9:04:59 PM
Onrad motions to Kibo, wanting to look serious, but looking like he's about to laugh. "Uh, Gareth ol' buddy, your sword teleported here screaming the word "No" and buried itself in the table about 3 inches deep. Kibo's holding it for you. What happened?"
Gareth d20=11 Wednesday August 18th, 1999 9:50:59 PM
"It came back here. Hmmm... I went into Waldo's Armor shop and asked to see if they had any armor. Why did it scream no? Maybe somebody should tell me more about his awakening thing Jus mentioned. What's the deal? I'm not going into battle with a sword I can't rely on or trust." (failed Wisdom check)
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