DM Carl Tuesday June 22nd, 2021 11:24:59 PM Bralin takes a moment. He thought their job was done. It is done, though. The Sea Dragons have saved The Wold from Tinker's machinations. The disposition of Tinker's collar can be handled without them, but maybe they see a chance to leave one last mark on the world? He asks a question of Lord Wardd.
"Just Wardd, please. Dig the reverence, though. And yea, Gargul and I probably could just destroy it, but breaking artifacts can get dicey." He pauses, presumably to let that word sink in a bit. Bralin blinks, and suddenly Wardd's arm is around his shoulder. He leans in conspiratorially and stage whispers, "They don't like us talking about this stuff, but there's things outside our little slice of the heavens way more potent than any measly Woldian god. Best not to speak of them." Another blink and he's back where he started.
Tahni ponders other gods that could be behind this, but Wardd's words likely quash that line of thought. She approaches the question of the collar in true Tahni Wyrmrider fashion: methodically, thoughtfully, and succinctly. Then she throws that out the window and suggests Gargul add it to his arsenal.
Gargul shakes his head and opens his mouth, no doubt to say that's not a good idea. The words don't come, though. He pauses and begins mulls something over.
Terser wonders if that bubble could be made more redundant, or stretchy. Gargul's still thinking, but Wardd speaks up. "Bubble's just a figment of his will made manifest. It's more a trick to help focus his power than a predictable magic effect. Kinda flashy for the old shadow-stealer if you ask me. Why pink?" Terser also mentions just sending it to another demiplane. "Could work, but that's leaving a lot to chance. I know that's kinda my thing, but still..."
Rill doesn't approve of relying on luck, and that's fine. He's allowed his own prerogative. Still, there are supernatural powers everywhere in the Wold. Why couldn't supernatural luck exist? Wardd's continued existence is itself a testament to luck's power. Rill has a number of interesting ideas.
Wardd claps his hands together. "See? You guys are smart! We don't have to break it, just unmake it. What do you think about that, big guy?" He turns to look at Gargul, but the god of life and death is still deep in thought. His eyes are...empty. It's almost like he's somewhere else entirely. Wardd notices, and doesn't seem concerned. "Yea, he's gonna need a minute. He can still here your ideas though."
Fang also comes up with a novel idea: just leave the collar on the curb until someone comes by and takes it. "Honestly, Fang, that idea has real merit. We're small fries here on The Wold, and the powers that be have been clear they intend to keep it that way. This whole Tinker debacle raised some hackles, let me tell you. Chucking that thing out of our little slice and letting the things out there leave us alone may be our best bet."
Aexana seems reluctant to offer anything specific, which is fine. Aexana has given more of herself than most to the good of the Wold. Let someone else handle this one.
"No," says Gargul (finally). "I can't add it to my staff, but it may be possible to use it to reinforce the barrier between the Wold and the rest of existence. It wouldn't last forever, but it would protect us for several millenia. It would also keep us in, which Alemi seems to consider just as important. Between your adventures and the Iron Dragons' numerous trips through alternate dimensions, Alemi's had enough. He is very much a proponent of this idea."
"He wants us to lock ourselves in and throw away the key? What happens when the house catches on fire and we're stuck inside?" Wardd doesn't seem to like this idea.
"Then we put it out ourselves, like we always have," comes Gargul's matter of fact response. The bubble surges, but holds. "Besides, time is up. There's not time for much discussion." Our heroes have a last chance to voice an opinion on what seems to be two likely outcomes, or they can leave such decisions to the gods.
There is a loud CRACK from Tinker's former throne. A large stress fracture appears, and smaller lines start spider-webbing out. Inside, Bruagh's eyes flutter.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 38/23/32 -- CMD 32 -- HP 228/228 -- DarkVision/TrueSeeing Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 4:53:07 AM
Wardd and Gargul are being a little evasive as to who is actually behind all this and if they don't want to say then there is noooo way that Tahni is going to press it.
"Locking the Wold away from other dimensions? That sounds like a big thing. I hope there aren't any other adventurers out there right now that might get cut off" she worries.
If it comes down to Gargul or Warrd, Tahni's going to go with Gargul (especially if Alemi is in agreement with him!). Use it to reinforce a barrier to keep us all safe. Casting it off into space may mean that it gets found someday, and even if the Wold is safe there is no guarantee that other worlds would be. She wants to be a good 'dimensional citizen' after all.
At the sound of the crystal cracking Tahni spins on her heels and locks her eyes on Bruagh's. She doesn't even pause for a 'by your leave' with the gods before she flies (literally) towards him. In any other situation, turning your back on Gargul might be seen as rude or earn you some sort of eternal doom and that might still turn out to be the case. Right now though the thought hasn't even entered Tahni's mind. There is only one other being in the Wold and that's Bruagh.
She gets her face as close to his as possible and starts banging on the crystal. "Bruagh! It's me! I'm right here. Ok? I'm going to get you out. Look at me. I'm right here." She looks about frantically for something to start smashing the crystal with. Not finding anything at hand though Tahni immediately goes with her answer to all of life's problems: magic.
Tahni takes a step back from the crystal and casts a Telekinesis spell, focusing all her concentration and will to tear the crystal away from Bruagh's body. Tahni gives it her all. The muscles in her arms and hands tighten and the strain on her face is visible to all. Whatever it takes, she's going to get him out.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 43/239(+38 while raging) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, ) DR 2 (3 while raging)CMD: 36 Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 8:19:22 AM "I suppose if we stuck it in a volcano the volcano might explode. Probably bad for the health of whatever lives around it." Fang muses. "Will using it to lock the metaphorical door cause it to cease to be over time?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 270/270, DR 5(7)/-, SR21, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (75% no crit, rage 26/45, channel 5/7) Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 10:38:29 AM I like the idea of using it to lock our dimension away. By its own admission, Tinker played with other worlds and people as it passed by their corners of space and dimension. This would also protect the rest of existence from its meddling.
Having said his piece, Terser excuses himself to aid Tahni in getting their lost friend out of his prison. His adamantine gauntlets should be pretty good at breaking down the crystal.
Bralin - MikeK - (AC48 T21 F39, CMD 44, SR25, HP 276/276) Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 6:35:08 PM
Bralin decides to leave powers of gods to the gods.
Aiding Tahni to free Baugh seems much simpler.
The dwarf pulls a warhammer from his pack, and whacks the crystal a few times, pulling his blow to avoid injuring the occupant.
(Brock) Jozhur AC32 / Touch 23 Flat 24--CMD 30--HP 113/205 --Shadow Companion 49/102hp Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 7:24:53 PM
Jozhur doesn't have much opinion on this matter. Locking the Wold way from other worlds, worlds with much more powerful entities, would seemingly be a good thing.
He looks up at those suspended in crystal, checking on Urlryn.
Rill (MarkB) AC40 T23 F35, CMD 31, HP 217/251 Wednesday June 23rd, 2021 8:30:07 PM "With all due respect my Lord Wardd, er, I mean Wardd, hope is not a plan and luck is not a strategy. Casting the thing out into the universe in hopes that no one will find it leaves much to chance. I like certainties like life and death. I mean, with life and death you know where you stand, eh? And closing off the Wold - I don't really see the downside there."
DM Carl Thursday June 24th, 2021 12:38:32 AM Fang agrees the volcano idea is probably not the way to go. She wonders if using the collar to lock the metaphorical door will cause the literal Tinker to be.
"Tinker is dead," answers Gargul, and he would know. "Death just has different limitations with beings of his power. Using the collar to seal off The Wold would unravel, or unmake as Rill put it, the lingering essence Tinker's keeper infused into it. It would be a permanent end for him." He says it with an air of surety. Wardd sighs, figuring that last bit of info is the nail in the coffin for his arguments.
Rill insists luck and chance can't be trusted in this situation. He receives a few seconds of incredulous looks from Wardd before the god of luck chuckles. "He was right, you know. You do make a lot of assumptions." He tilts his head towards the collar. "But, guess I can't rightly say they ain't served you well."
Terser also agrees, but doesn't stick around to see the conclusion of the discussion. He has a friend waiting on him.
Gargul looks grimly at the bubble, then Wardd. "A hand, brother? This is a burden best shared."
"Well, when you ask like that..." Wardd doesn't finish the thought, just places a hand on the bubble opposite Gargul's. The bubble pops, spewing manic desire and sociopathy. The two gods concentrate against the forces until a single thread pulls free from the collar. They sigh a bit as the hardest part is completed, and the sickly aura dissipates. The thread shoots outward and upward in a single, unbroken line. It flies past the Dragon Bay and Plateau City, and in a moment is past the entire length of the Elennian Peninsula. It soars out into Jericho Space, winds through rivers of Woldsblood into the Lands of Rest, then back again.
Our heroes don't see most of that, and it's a shame. Who knows what hidden vistas they could witness in the weird spaces surrounding the Wold proper? Students of the arcane and divine across the lands see the threads of magic take form surrounding the known cosmos. Then, they vanish. Gargul and Wardd both gasp as they complete the task. Gargul tries to stifle a coughing fit, but fails. Wardd breathes heavy, speaking between breathes, "Man, that sucked." Gargul nods his agreement and regains control after one final cough.
And just like that, the Wold finds itself cut off from any interdimensional terrors.
Tahni will soon find time to reflect on what that means, but not now. She reaches out with her telekinesis, pulling the throne apart. Even through the magic, the touch of the throne feels maddening. That is not hyperbole. An awful, frantic energy twists the fringes of Tahni's mind. Bralin lends his hammer. Terser moves to tear the thing apart with gauntleted hands. Both dwarves discover the same madness as Tahni, but no doubt it doesn't deter them. Large chunks of crystal are torn free. The three must slow down as they get closer to Bruagh so not to injure him. Tahni's more delicate touch is needed to peel the final layers of the crystal, then he is free. Bruagh gasps and falls to his knees, breathing heavily. After just a second his head shoots up and for the first time in years Tahni sees the eyes of her love.
Madness stares back at her. "One thing. ONE THING DOMI. Keep Tahni safe. Keep Tahni safe." He falls back and pulls his knees in, rocking back and forth and repeating "keep Tahni safe" over and over.
Without warning or fanfare, the Abbott, Grandmaster monk of Domi, pops into existence next to Bruagh. He turns to Tahni, who sees his eyes glow with a peaceful blue light. "I know," he says, turning back to Bruagh. He leans into the former paladin, whispering something in his ear. Bruagh calms as the Abbott speaks. It's just a few moments, he then wraps his arms around Bruagh to embrace him. Then, the Abbott swoons and faints. The little gnome comes to rest next to a much calmer Bruagh. The dwarf stands, looking around in obvious confusion. His eyes finally lock on Terser and he beams a smile at his old friend. "TERSER! Where've ya been! Where've I been, for that matter...and where are we? Seriously, what's goi..." He spots Tahni, and finds himself lost for words.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 38/23/32 -- CMD 32 -- HP 228/228 -- DarkVision/TrueSeeing Thursday June 24th, 2021 3:07:37 AM
Tahni doesn't give Bruagh a chance to finish his question. Tears start to build and she throws her arms around her love, letting her body collapse against his.
She closes her eyes and places her head against his chest. It's been so long but this is exactly how she remembered it. Being held tightly by his arms, the feel of his beard against her forehead, the comforting feeling of his chest rising and falling as he breathes, and even the smell of weapon oil and bear fur.
This is what she's missed and she could stay like this forever. Tahni sniffs and pulls away from Bruagh to look closely at his face. It's him. It's finally him. She reaches out to run her fingers down his cheek.
She's only vaguely aware of the others around her right now. Her eyes are watering and she gives a small chuckle. This is what happy feels like.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 43/239(+38 while raging) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, ) DR 2 (3 while raging)CMD: 36 Thursday June 24th, 2021 8:06:27 AM
Fang has never met the guy and has no intention of interrupting the tender reunion. She just hangs in the background. When/if Braugh notices her she raises a hand and says, "Hey."
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 270/270, DR 5(7)/-, SR21, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (75% no crit, rage 26/45, channel 5/7) Thursday June 24th, 2021 1:35:18 PM
Terser let's Tahni have this moment. There will be plenty of time to catch him up on their adventures later. He takes a moment to consider if they should send a message to Sam to let him know Bruagh was saved, or just pop in for a reunion.
Rill (MarkB) AC40 T23 F35, CMD 31, HP 217/251 Thursday June 24th, 2021 5:06:00 PM
Rill smiles at Wardd. He seems kind and tolerant - probably more so than Rill tends to be at times.
"Assumptions? That is probably true Wardd. And I will certainly concede that any endeavor is going to go better if the God of Luck is on your side. So I do apologize if I have given offense.
"And speaking of luck, what are the odds that a good cleric could change the world view of an assassin? Hypothetically speaking of course..."
Bralin - MikeK - (AC48 T21 F39, CMD 44, SR25, HP 276/276) Thursday June 24th, 2021 6:39:14 PM
Bralin gives Braugh and Tahni some space.
He watches Gargul and Wardd unravel the collar and seal off the Wold. Truly the work of gods.
His mind turns to the stone figurines in his pack. It has been some time since he attended to them.
Mayhap it is time to stow his axe and return to the stone.
DM Carl Friday June 25th, 2021 1:17:43 AM Tahni takes a moment. It takes Bruagh a moment to process that the woman holding him really is Tahni. When he finally embraces her, it's slowly, almost as if he's scared she's going to vanish. The two say nothing for a long moment, but Bruagh speaks first. "I spent so long looking for you. I found ya, of course, but every time I knew it wasn't really you. Feels like...like I was trapped for lifetimes, like someone was just toying with me. Don't even know who or what was behind it." He sucks in a shuddering breath. "For a while I thought Domi was punishing me for forsaking him. Didn't handle losin' ya too well, love."
These two have been through more trials than they deserve. They have a lot to unpack and work through, but at least they have each other and can finally get started. The rest of their story is theirs to tell. The rest of our heroes give the couple some space, though Terser looks forward to spending time with his friend again. Maybe he'll gather their old friends from The Scab, even the gnome...
Wardd waves off Rill's apology. "Not the first to question luck, certainly not the last. Gave up tryin'a defend luck ages ago. I'm here, and most of them aren't." Rill's follow up raises an eyebrow. "I get a lot of prayers from folks looking to be lucky in love. Seems to me that a priest of the god of death and an assassin are a better match than you might think." He shrugs. "Don't think you need my help though. You think she would have been on Team Dragon a week ago? Still," he removes a clover from his lapel you're pretty sure wasn't there a moment ago. "A little luck never hurt." He places the clover in Rill's hand. A lightness spreads over Rill. He may not give much credence to luck, but he knows his future just got a little better.
Just a little, though. Can't rely just on luck, can we?
After a moment, the Abbott comes to. He sits up slowly, hands cradling his obviously aching head. "I'm afraid my head is not large enough for your greatness, my lord," he says. He notices the two love-sick dwarves and wordlessly pops away again, coming to next to the rest of the Sea Dragons. "I must admit, I'm heartened to see Domi's insistence that this debacle continue proved sound. The Chancers are going to have to find someplace new next year, though."
Bralin ponders his future. He is still a Dragon, and still bears a responsibility to protect The Wold when it needs protecting. That doesn't mean he needs to keep going out and looking for trouble, though. There are lots of ways to protect their home, and this new magic means there are much fewer threats to face.
Wardd saunters back over to Gargul. "So, you gonna bring all those folks back now? We didn't need an audience for that, but that doesn't mean we need to ruin the whole Invitational."
Gargul nods. "Some of them." There's a cold finality in the words. With a wave, those who fought for Team Dragon return, no longer in stasis but very confused.
Han Valen is the first to recover and immediately rushes to what remains of his friend. Grief etches itself on his face. "You big dummy. You ain't the best the best bass player in this world. You ain't even the best bass player in Dragonsound. We ain't gonna have a hard time replacing you...no sir." He's not crying, just tryin'a get all this dust out of his eyes.
"Those who fought against you are mine to judge. This one especially," intones Gargul as he raises a hand upwards in front of him. Cloud appears in his grasp, held above the ground with Gargul's fingers vice-like around his mouth and jaw. Gargul's eyes shine with a terrifying intensity as he passes judgement. "FOR YOUR BETRAYAL, YOUR SOUL IS BANISHED FROM THIS REALM." With his other hand, Gargul pokes a single finger into the shadow realm. He traces downward, opening a sickly red/black portal. Smoky tendrils drift outward, bringing with them songs of torment. Cloud's muffled screams escape past Gargul's hand, but the god of death is unmoved. "You will find no comfort here." He releases the doomed man, and the tendrils shoot out like lightning. In a blink, they grab Cloud and pull him in. He doesn't even have time to scream.
Wardd gives a low whistle.
The rest of Team Dragon regain their wits. Xuffie, Xid, Elhonna, Crall, Urlryn, Marshall, and Jada all realize they've won, and breath a collective sigh of relief.
Claw stares at Gargul in stunned silence as she realizes her pack is no more. Rage and sorrow vie for control within her, but it looks like rage is close to winning.
(Brock) Jozhur AC32 / Touch 23 Flat 24--CMD 30--HP 113/205 --Shadow Companion 49/102hp Friday June 25th, 2021 2:24:48 AM
Jozhur smiles at the sight of Bruagh and Tahni reunited. He's pretty unbothered at Gargul's disposal of Khloud, good riddance.
He rushes to embrace Urlryn before she even comes to her senses. The young man has had quite enough of fighting with cosmic powers.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 43/239(+38 while raging) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, ) DR 2 (3 while raging)CMD: 36 Friday June 25th, 2021 6:53:51 AM
Fang looks about and notes that the Fangs are all gone. She turns to Gargul and makes an appeal. "Though the Fang's leader chose to fight for the Tinker and the others felt bound to follow him, they intentionally did not take hostile action against us other then summoning some minions they knew would stand no chance. In the end they turned on their leader and the Tinker and fought beside us. Surely such actions deserve mercy, just as Cloud's deserve vengeance?"
Rill (MarkB) AC40 T23 F35, CMD 31, HP 217/251 Friday June 25th, 2021 2:48:58 PM
Rill places Wardd's token on the chest of his robe. "Thank you Wardd. I am honored."
The cleric is gratified to see their allies reappear, but he is touched by Han Valen's sadness.
"My Lord Gargul, if it be your will I would like to raise Foreigner. He is an aasimir, and so an outsider of sorts. Still, he fought bravely and his passing is a burden on my friend Han here, and I'm worried about Han going Solo.
"And if it be your will, would you please restore that poor Deva that was altered by The Last Whisper before returning it to the celestial realms? It is a beautiful and benign creature, and my magic was not quite enough to free it."
Rill will warmly thank the others. He pauses at the vampire Urlryn. "Be at ease here Urlryn in Gargul's presense. You have my blessing, and my Lord Gargul grants me some level of discretion in the Wold. You will be safe with my dear friend Jozhur, as his wish will always be mine. And speaking of wishes, we should use some to make the Lionfish into a flying ship. I think Jozhur would be a great captain of a flying ship!"
Finally, he smiles as he stands before Xuffie. "Well Xuffie my dear - we vanquished the bad guy and I guess we can relax a bit now. At least until the Gods of the Wold send us on another task. Perhaps we can spend a bit of time together. I think you might actually like Bonetown. You know there's this one cafe down by the docks where you can watch the sunset...."
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP195/195 - AC36/28/31 - CMD 31 and LEAFY (L) - HP108/108 - AC31/12/29 - CMD 20 Friday June 25th, 2021 7:11:08 PM
(oh this is just awfull... the last week of Bonetown and I miss a couple of post - sorry...)
Aexana has quietly observed all that has transpired the past few minutes. No doubt the choice to lock the Wold from other dimensions will at some point show some concequences... you don't make choices that big without counter effect...
The little Gnome is smiling at the sight of Tahni and Bruagh. She's quite certain she won't need to supply them with any love potions. She does have some pretty delicate oils they might enjoy... perhaps if they visit her shop one day.
It seems things are coming to an end... Aex is tired but still stands proud waiting for what will come next...
DM Carl Saturday June 26th, 2021 12:12:37 AM Jozhur rushes to embrace Urlryn. Her body is cold, her flesh unyielding, but there's a warmth in her embrace when she regains her senses. "Listen to me, Jozhur. I know we've been through a lot, and emotions are probably high, but I've been here before. The reality of what I am isn't pretty, so take a moment and make sure you want this." She continues holding him close as she talks. If he goes to answer right away, she puts a finger to his lips before saying, "No. Take a moment."
Jozhur doesn't need a moment though, does he? Lucky for him, her contract with the Mailed Fist has expired, freeing her to travel with him.
Fang notes the Fangs of the Beast are no more. Well, Mirri and Kirri are out there somewhere, but they hardly make a pack. She beseeches Gargul to reconsider his judgement. It's a brave act; few things upset Gargul more than having his decisions questioned. Indeed, there's a flare of anger in his eyes. He's quiet for a moment. "You've earned the right to make such a request, but my judgement of them will not be reversed." He looks at Claw. No, he looks past Claw at the reassembled Mint, Grandfather, and Sky. "Faced with the choice to defend our world, you sided with an ancient evil due to misguided notions of power. It was a shockingly foolish decision. I make no guarantees about your remaining life-spans, but know that should you pass before you've proven you learned from this, you will face the same judgement as the rest of your traitorous comrades." The beastfolk aren't long-lived, and Grandfather is already very advanced in age. The reality of their plight is clear on their faces.
Claw nods. "Serves you idiots right. Never thought I'd see the day with Mirri and Kirri showed more sense than you, Grandfather." She strides forth and stands before Grandfather. She reaches out, and takes his staff. He hesitates, eyes narrowing for just an instant before he relents, head bowed. "Come. We have penance to perform."
Mirri and Kirri pop out of the shadows. "Hey, how come you get to be the boss!" Kirri asks, hands on her hips.
Claw keeps walking, answering only "Come take it if you think you're able." Mirri thinks about it, then shrugs and follows along. Claw stands before Fang wordlessly for a moment. "Thanks, sister. I think we both need time, but it won't be that long before I end up in Bonetown. I hope by then I'll be welcome back in your life." The rest of the Fangs make themselves scarce. The tense moment is marred only by Kirri and Mirri dancing around Tahni and Bruagh making kissing sounds.
A tap on his shoulder breaks Terser from his thoughts. Jada stares back. "Don't expect you'd want back into a family that sold you, but you've still got me, ok? You didn't turn out too bad after all, brother." She goes to hug him. "Still, you're really not maximizing all your position could do for you. If you've got some time, I've got some ideas..." Who knows how Terser reacts to all this. Jada's shown she knows her stuff, but it's doubtful Terser's suddenly interested in profit.
Rill petitions for the return of The Foreigner. His concern about Han being alone is met with something light hitting his chest. Looking down, Rill sees it is a twenty-sided die. Someone must have thrown it at him. Gargul shakes his head, but a smile crosses his face. "The Foreigner wishes to remain where he is, Rill." He crosses to Han, placing a hand on his shoulder. "His kind have an...exuberant afterlife. According to him, where he is now 'makes The Fence look like a convent.'"
It elicits a small chuckle from Han, who nods. "He'd go on about it when he got drunk enough. Glad he made it." Han stands and gives Rill a quick embrace, punctuated by three pats on the back. "You Dragons are all right, Rill. My mates and I are gonna immortalize this whole thing. Zaggy has this idea to turn the whole thing into a buncha songs that tell a big story. Kinda like an opera, only cool. You best believe we're opening in Bonetown too." He smiles. "You ain't seen the last'a Dragonsound. No sir..." The rest of the band approaches from somewhere to pay their respects. It's a sad moment, but undercut with the satisfaction of knowing The Foreigner went out like he always wanted.
Rill goes to ensure Urlryn knows she is welcome, but her and Jozhur are obviously having a heavy moment. She catches his eye and sees the acceptance on his face. She smiles, and it's enough. There's a low whistle behind him. "Yea, vampire chick is pretty hot. Don't think you've got a shot there, though." Xuffie smiles. "The Undead Hunter and the vampire? No one's gonna buy that..." He begins asking her on a date, only to be cut off as she grabs his robe and pulls him into a kiss that can only be described as fierce."You talk too much, dear." She puts a sarcastic spin on the "dear" bit. "Anyway, I've got payment to collect for this mess. Invitational's over, the team I was on won, and I'm owed some serious cash. Buyer probably won't see it that way, but I'm sure we'll end up seeing eye to eye." She smiles, but it's all edge. "Might blow off some steam in Bonetown after. Good booze, fun atmosphere," she pauses, leveling her gaze at Rill before finishing, "comfy beds." Her gaze lingers a moment longer than it has to. "I'll see you soon, holy man." She smiles, taking a few steps back. Kirri dances between her and Rill saying, "Oh Tahni!" in a mock romantic tone. Xuffie's gone when she passes.
Wardd gives two big thumbs up from across the crowd. That probably went as well as can be expected. She may not be a one-dimensional villain, but there's certainly evil in that heart of hers. Who knows what that future holds...
Aexana watches with a detachment only age can bring. She's lasted longer than most in this game, but retirement looms. She misses her daughter, and her shop. Who'd have thought that a quick trip through the Wold to see some sights would end up like this? Life is strange.
Wardd, meanwhile, approaches what's left of Tinker's throne. He looks sour and shakes his head. "Can't go leaving this stuff around, can I?" With a wave, the shards and chunks of throne rise and compress themselves into a dark orb about the size of a pumpkin. The madness from it can be felt just in back of every mind within 100' of the thing. "There's that. Now what to do with this?" He thinks, then snaps his fingers as the idea comes to him. He snaps his fingers again and a sleepy looking Restlin pops into existence dressed in a voluminous bath robe. The Mendicant snaps to attention, eyes darting before landing on Wardd and widening even further.
"My...umm...lord?" he somehow makes it a question. "Here, put this in your tower's vault. Bad stuff inside." He tosses the orb to Restlin, who manages to catch it in both arms. He winces at it's touch.
"Oh geez, Wardd. I know madness is part'a your domain, but I signed up for the luck. I'll get it put away thoug..." he trails off, eyes locked across the field at Marshall LeCarlo. Eyes widen and he shouts out, "THAT'S MY ROBE!" before Wardd snaps his fingers and sends him home. He wipes imaginary dust off his hand and smiles at a job well done.
Eventually, people start excusing themselves. It's an emotionally charged occasion, and everyone needs time to process. Making their way back to their tent, the Dragons walk through the grounds that have been there home for what seems like a year and a half (1 year, 7 months to be exact). It's still mostly empty, giving a melancholy aire. Inside their tent, Heather sits in the comfiest chair, feet propped up on a cushioned ottoman. She drinks a scandalously large glass of wine between bites of strawberry. She smiles warmly as our heroes enter, but doesn't rise.
"Do you have any idea what a mess this is going to be to sort through? The Chancers are going to end up in court for decades because of all of this. I guarantee there's going to be a Dragons clause in future contests...sort of an 'act of god' thing." She laughs. "That's someone else's problem, though.
"So, back home to Bonetown with you? Well, I will miss you guys. Hope you don't mind if I come to visit sometime. I hear you guys haven't cleaned all the fun out of it yet." She places her wine down and stands. She bends down, picking a book up off the table. "Before you go, you remember Parnell? Works for Wold Co, has a little box that makes pictures? Publishes those packs of trading cards with heroes on them? We contracted him to create some promotional materials for us since The Mighty Sea Dragons were participating. I figured he bailed when things got dicey, but that man is persistent." She hands the book over. "Nothing about this debacle has been marketable though. Thought maybe you'd like his work."
It's unlikely anyone was impressed by Parnell back in Bonetown, but give the man some credit because the picture book in your hands is stunning. Inside is a record of the Dragon's time at the invitational. Crowds cheer as you take the field for the first time. Tahni blows the horn mere moments before Rill does the same. Bezos looks out as Aexana wins her bet; a faint hint of a smile can be seen on Gwendolyn's face. The Dragons face off in single combat: Bralin stabs Xid, a look of shock on the warlord's face. A barely alive Fang eeks out a final blow to Claw. Terser and Tencent wrestle in the muck as enormous crocodiles prepare to attack. Jada grins as smoke and fire erupt from her contraption, surrounding Bralin...and so it goes, page after page. Somehow there are even pictures of the Dragon's underwater fight against interdimensional terrors, as well as against the Talons' monstrosity in Tinker's demiplane. An entire page is dedicated to Fang's killing blow, gore erupting from the wound and covering the ratgirl. The Collar seals off The Wold. Tahni embraces Braugh. Jozhur embraces Urlryn. Xuffie kisses a shocked Rill. Gargul lectures the Fangs, sisters looking on in agreement. Aexana smiles at a crowd out of focus around her. These things happened less than an hour ago, yet here they are.
Heather shrugs. "See? Guy's got resources." She embraces you each in turn before taking her leave. "Thanks for the adventure, friends. I'll never forget it." A last smile, and she takes her leave.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 270/270, DR 5(7)/-, SR21, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (75% no crit, rage 26/45, channel 5/7) Saturday June 26th, 2021 1:51:50 AM
Terser may not care too much about amassing personal wealth, but it seems he's managed to do so anyway. He is however interested in spending time with the sister that also didn't manage to fit in with the family.
We've always worked well together. Let's see what we can put together! I've been entertaining some thoughts of a cidery/meadery. And I bet you've got some fun ideas for our ship - maybe we'll open the Wold's first traveling brewpub! And of course, Heather will always have a table reserved.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP195/195 - AC36/28/31 - CMD 31 and LEAFY (L) - HP108/108 - AC31/12/29 - CMD 20 Saturday June 26th, 2021 1:45:35 PM
Aex warmly returns Heather's embrace : "Do visit us some day dear... I'm sure my daughter will be happy to see you... there's always some tasty cake and pie..."
The little Gnome bites her lip. She realizes everyone in the group is about to weave their own tapestries... she hates goodbyes...
Fang (Mitch) HP: 43/239(+38 while raging) AC: 30/21/24 (-2 while raging, ) DR 2 (3 while raging)CMD: 36 Saturday June 26th, 2021 11:19:11 PM
Fang is satisfied with the return of the Beastfolk. "Thank you lord. A chance is all that could be asked for." she says with a deep bow. She goes over the join the Fangs of the Beast and leaves the rest of the group to work in their relationship stuff or whatever. "Don't worry, we'll find you something. I'm a dragon, my job description is to save the Wold, I bet I could find something for you to do to redeem yourself."
She is suitably impressed by the book. "How much for a copy? I might want to get several to pass out. Then again, that might be a bit gauche. I mean I'd literally be passing out a book about how awesome I am. Probably shouldn't."
(Brock) Jozhur AC32 / Touch 23 Flat 24--CMD 30--HP 113/205 --Shadow Companion 49/102hp Sunday June 27th, 2021 4:19:46 AM
Jozhur does indeed take a moment to think, even though his mind was already made up. "I don't care what you are, only who you are. So yes, it's fine. I'd like for you to come with me to Bonetown. It sounds like we may be getting a flying ship I'll need help piloting."
Jozhur pauses and chuckles a little as he glances Xuffie and Rill, "Now there's an odd couple." He barely notices any of the other goings on.
He gives Heather and her enormous glass a wine a wink, "Well earned, thanks for all your help. And you're certainly welcome in Bonetown. I won't let Rill completely clean the place up."
Bralin - MikeK - (AC48 T21 F39, CMD 44, SR25, HP 276/276) Sunday June 27th, 2021 2:31:58 PM
Bralin leafs through Parnell's book, nodding. It is very impressive, and he thoroughly approves.
The dwarf returns Heather's embrace, with a "Many Thanks".
He the grabs a mug, finds a chair, and sits. Removing his helm, he looks at his comrades, and raises his mug. "The Sea Dragons," he intones simply, before draining it.
Bralin reaches into his bag, pulling out his stoneworking tools and a piece of marble that looks suspiciously like part of the arena.
"I propose we wait for the morrow to sail," he declares. With that, the dwarf turns to his stone. Nothing is heard but the sharp tink, tink as he methodically chips away at it.
CDM Jerry [OOC post] Monday June 28th, 2021 4:29:56 PM
Greetings Woldians!
We have TWO games that have achieved Level 20 and just retired over the weekend! So in our usual tradition, we're holding a celebration for the next few days on the Giggling Ghost board!
Folks are already beginning to gather. We expect everyone to join in and post daily on the GG board, but all are excused from posting in their "regular career game" through Wednesday at least. :) It doesn't mean you can't post, just that you don't have to.
DMs if you're in combat, feel free to just post a "pause until after Wednesday" if you'd like, or you can do that anyway. These celebrations are important as both of these games have players who have been working for at least 9 years to achieve this retirement for their PCs.
--DMs may take the role of an NPC or 2 if they wish and hand out dishes, create action, help out, etc. --Anyone may take the stage and tell a story or sing a song. --Post as many times a day as you'd like on the Giggling Ghost board.
Entertain yourselves and enjoy!
Yes you may go there now and post. Yes you should go there now and post. What are you waiting for? Yes, now is fine. Are you still reading this? Why?
(StevenVdB) Aexana Gnome (S) HP195/195 - AC36/28/31 - CMD 31 and LEAFY (L) - HP108/108 - AC31/12/29 - CMD 20 Monday June 28th, 2021 6:38:08 PM "Well then, " Aex says. Continuesly biting her lip and fighting back her tears she continues :"guess this is it then... time to go home... if either of you ever visits Plateay City please stop by my little shop for some tea and pie. It's in Trade Quarter... "Aex's Herbs 'n Spices"... can't miss it. Smallest shop on the block with a look-out on the Silver Coin Tavern. "
All is said... the board closes... thanks everyone.
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