The Sylvan Realm #3

[GM Mad]

Sylvan Realm #3

November 24th CR 571

At the last of the enemy forts on the southern edge of the Sylvan Realm, Laucian converses with the members of the adventuring band led by Arlen Brightsword.

“I would like to see that happen sooner rather than later. I also have to see to seeing the other Gryphon stables are found and manned. With the help of our friends. We can patrol the forest from above and below.” He adds thoughtfully to his clansman.

“A solid strategy,” Tanyl agrees. “It most be wondrous to ride on the back of a griffon. How did you tame them?”

A slight smiles comes to the elf’s face as he sees the excitement in the historian’s face. “Aye, I was asked to help save the Sylvan realm. We faced many trials; a archmage named Moorkroft and with help of our allies a black dragon.”

“Such a momentous event must be properly recorded for posterity,” Elora says excitedly. “What you have done here must never be forgotten.”

“And it would make a thrilling song as well,” Lorelei adds. “When time permits, you simply must share your tale of saving the Mother Tree. Perhaps it will form the basis of an epic opera.”

“Forgive me, I did not mean to offend. In truth, I am not one to talk, I have killed countless orcs by blade and bow. Some would say I relish in it,” he says with a snort of a chuckle. ”I only wish our people safe and not have to suffer as I have. If it means throwing orcs from the ramparts, I will do so.” Not knowing why he is saying this to her Laucian quickly stops and looks at the fire mage apologetically. "Your heart is in the right place and one can see the passion and beauty of your work." And not just the beauty of her appearance he thinks as he sees the other elves in his group look at her.

“Those are noble aspirations that I agree with,” Gweyr says, her defensive tone softening. “Perhaps you understand better than I first expected. Fire is beautiful, but it is only a tool to accomplish good things. No elf should suffer. If I may be so bold, what did the orcs do to you to make you so angry?”


November 25th CR 571

Next morning, the griffon riders say goodbye to the elves associated with Arlen Brightsword.

“He was. And some of his magic still lingers within the Palace. Or so it is believed.” he looks to the historian, “I would like that though some of the others may have more details you wish to know. I’ll be near the stables on Golden Peak. If you are free, feel free to seek me out.”

“I will do so,” Elora vows. “In time I will want to interview each of those who saved the Mother Tree. Your stories must be transcribed for history. I look forward to seeing you and your companions once back at the Mother Tree.”

[GM Mad]

November 26th CR 571

Thanks to information gathered by Valena, the full scope of Chandra's treachery has been revealed. He and those who follow him have gone to battle the orcs in their fortress to the north! Lilia has decided to go after the treacherous elf and bring him back to face the justice of the Clan Council. Those with him are to be returned to save them from Chandra's mad quest. The other Heroes of the Mother Tree will be going with Lilia in the morning. There are many preparations to complete before departure.

After saying good night to her companions, Lilia gathers up what remains of the Clan Council and all the elves currently up on Golden Peak. The Queen of the Sylvan Realm then tells all what has transpired and the steps that she will take to deal with Chandra.

“I knew he could not be trusted!” Councilman Olantius Jasus of Clan Mealidil shouts. “Chandra is too far lost in his blood lust that he even endangers his own kin.”

“These are very serious charges,” Voluril Ocing the Councilman for Clan Chossum says. “I need more proof before I will condemn a follower of the All-Father.”

“Are you suggesting that the Elfin Queen would make up accusations about a fellow Priest of Corellon?” Triestar Silvarost, the Councilman for Clan Grunalf demands. Triestar took over Lilia's position when she was elevated to Queen of the Sylvan Realm. “That our Queen is a liar?”

“Serious accusations need serious evidence,” Stobon, the Councilman of Clan Erendyl adds. “Councilman Voluril's concerns have some merit to them.”

“Gentleman,” Allurien Feador, the Councilwoman for Clan Feador tries to interrupt. “We have all seen what Chandra is capable of with our own eyes. We have heard the stories of those who he drove to the brink of exhaustion down to the south.”

“All of which he did to remove orcs from our forest,” Voluril notes. “Any of use would of done the same.”

“That is enough!” an angry Lilia calls out. Unnoticed by the others of the Clan Council, she has climbed up on top of the table the others are gathered around. “Enough of this petty bickering! I have told you what we have discovered and what I intend to do about it. If you doubt our information to be accurate, then those of you who can cast divinations to determine the truth of my words in the morning before we leave. Perhaps then you can believe what Chandra has done to his own people.”

“All of us here today are here for one single goal. To save and protect the Mother Tree. That is my only goal. We set up leadership here in the Sylvan Realm in accordance with our customs. Chandra has no authority to declare war on anyone outside our boarders, but that is what he has done. As I stated earlier, my plan is to return him here so that he can be judged by the Council. Then you will all learn the truth of the matter.”

The elves in the area listen in an almost stunned silence. The forcefulness of Lilia's words coupled with the awe factor that she has being a Priest of Corellon gives her words a great weight. Her words were powerful enough to settle the discussion.

“Until that time,” Allurien speaks, finally breaking the silence, “we should do all that we can to assist our Queen. All of use who can cast spells, should prepare beneficial magic that we can cast on the Chosen before they depart in the morning.”

“We should also prepare supplies and food for the journey,” High Keeper Alanik adds. “Your Majesty, we will protect the Mother Tree in your absence.”

In that the Council does agree and starts to break up. As they slowly depart, Lilia looks down at the table she is now standing on. It's a map of the Sylvan Realm, as it was back when the elves were still here. Unlike the map the Chosen was given back in the Elfholds, this one also has the location of all the griffon stables on them. Lilia notes that there is nearly a dozen such locations spread out through the Sylvan Realm. But she also notes that other places are indicated on the tops of the mountains that surround the Sylvan Realm. One such place does seem to be to the north, along the general route Chandra is believed to have taken.


Back that the Clan Feador Councilwoman's home, Allurien Feador catches up with Kylie. She gives her daughter a great big hug.

“I am so proud of you,” Allurien says as she holds Kylie tightly. “You've grown up to be a fine young woman. I wish I could go with you on this mission to find Chandra, but the Queen wants us to stay here to protect the Mother Tree. But I, and the others here, will lend all of you our aid. In the morning, I will cast Stoneskin on you and Talen. Other spells will be made available to you and your mounts.”

[GM Mad]

November 27th CR 571

The following morning is clear as is typical. It rained heavily overnight, but now the sun shines brightly. By the time everyone has made their way to Golden Peak, the other elves are already there and ready. The griffons are ready for the trip ahead and elfin trail mix has been gathered to nibble on. Numerous spells are offered to each of you.

The other members of the Order of the Golden Griffons will approach Laucian and ask what they can do in his absence. Likewise, the Silver Maidens will see what Valena needs. River Blossom is present, having delivered the messages given overnight. The rocs should meet up with the group in two days to the north of the Sylvan Realm.

The Chosen mount up and take off from Golden Peak. Laucian leads the way mounted on his own griffon that he has named Aura. It takes about two hours to reach the large clearing to the north where you fought orcs and then burned the enemy fort here days ago. Further along where the mountains start to rise up, a trail is seen winding its way to the north...


GM Notes:

Feel free to add more to the Council Meeting if you choose to stick around for it. You were given enough food for a week.

Here's is a list of the spells that the other elves will offer you to cast on you. Pick the ones you want. You do not have the cast any of the spells listed below from your own lists.

Stoneskin – can only be cast on those not wearing armor, so only Kylie and Talen. Duration is special.

Endure Cold – 15 hours duration. This spell will be cast on the griffons too, since they are warm blooded creatures.

Sacred Guardian – 9 days duration. The caster will know if the target is in danger or not.

Cat's Grace – 11 hours. Increases Dexterity.

Strength – 11 hours. Increases Strength.


The griffon outpost Lilia noted on the map is roughly north of where the enemy fort was. Assuming the map on the table is to scale, the griffons should be able to reach the outpost after a full day of flight.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Rather than attend the council meeting with her mother as she sometimes does, Kylie spends the evening at home, studying her spell books and choosing her spells for tomorrow. Not knowing what circumstances they may encounter, she goes with a variety of different types of spells: information gathering / spying, lethal combat for dealing with orcs and monsters, non-lethal combat in case they end up having to fight the other elves, and general utility spells. Dapple keeps her company as she studies, and she can hear Talen and Lia conducting their own preparations, so she doesn't feel alone as she tries not to focus on what could happen tomorrow.

Back that the Clan Feador Councilwoman's home, Allurien Feador catches up with Kylie. She gives her daughter a great big hug.

“I am so proud of you,” Allurien says as she holds Kylie tightly. “You've grown up to be a fine young woman. I wish I could go with you on this mission to find Chandra, but the Queen wants us to stay here to protect the Mother Tree. But I, and the others here, will lend all of you our aid. In the morning, I will cast Stoneskin on you and Talen. Other spells will be made available to you and your mounts.”

Kylie takes a break from her studying when her mother returns. She's a little surprised by the huge hug, but revels in the warmth and love she feels from her mom. "Thank you, mom. I would love to have you with us, but Lilia is right in that you are needed here. With her gone, your voice of reason and calm will be crucial to avoid anyone else doing anything stupid before we return."


In the morning, Kylie gets up and prepares for the trip. She eats a hearty breakfast - insofar as that is possible with elvish food - and says goodbye to her mom and Dapple. When the time comes, she will gratefully accept all of the offered spells, though she fears that most will wear off before they are really needed. Still, it is important that those staying behind be able to feel involved and actively support the mission.

[Laucian]

Laucian

“A solid strategy,” Tanyl agrees. “It most be wondrous to ride on the back of a griffon. How did you tame them?”

“I didn’t. Though mine was a gift and faithful companion from the All Father.”He says evenly. “Our ancestors did something to the gryphons where they see us as friends. The others merely approach and they will allow you to ride. We believe the spell will work with all elves.

“Such a momentous event must be properly recorded for posterity,” Elora says excitedly. “What you have done here must never be forgotten.”

“And it would make a thrilling song as well,” Lorelei adds. “When time permits, you simply must share your tale of saving the Mother Tree. Perhaps it will form the basis of an epic opera.”

“Perhaps, I never thought of being depicted in a ballad,” he says evenly. Looking between the two elves.

“Those are noble aspirations that I agree with,” Gweyr says, her defensive tone softening. “Perhaps you understand better than I first expected. Fire is beautiful, but it is only a tool to accomplish good things. No elf should suffer. If I may be so bold, what did the orcs do to you to make you so angry?”

Laucian looks at Gweyr for a moment. “My father was away on patrol when the orcs raided our village. My mother fought valiantly and fled with me in her arms. She died of her wounds on the temple steps in which I was raised. For many months, I thought my father would return for me while mourning my mother. . To this day I know not if he survived the patrol, captured or dead, or perhaps he thinks me and my mother dead...”

He says looking up at the fire mage. “It is why I entered Ehlonna’s service, to protect our people, our lands and forests, spread her blessings and teachings. In my travels I have looked for sign of him but I am afraid he is at rest.”

Laucian attends the council meeting.

“I knew he could not be trusted!” Councilman Olantius Jasus of Clan Mealidil shouts. “Chandra is too far lost in his blood lust that he even endangers his own kin.”

“These are very serious charges,” Voluril Ocing the Councilman for Clan Chossum says. “I need more proof before I will condemn a follower of the All-Father.”

“Are you suggesting that the Elfin Queen would make up accusations about a fellow Priest of Corellon?” Triestar Silvarost, the Councilman for Clan Grunalf demands. Triestar took over Lilia's position when she was elevated to Queen of the Sylvan Realm. “That our Queen is a liar?”

“Serious accusations need serious evidence,” Stobon, the Councilman of Clan Erendyl adds. “Councilman Voluril's concerns have some merit to them.”

“Gentleman,” Allurien Feador, the Councilwoman for Clan Feador tries to interrupt. “We have all seen what Chandra is capable of with our own eyes. We have heard the stories of those who he drove to the brink of exhaustion down to the south.”

“All of which he did to remove orcs from our forest,” Voluril notes. “Any of use would of done the same.”

Laucian listens to the council deteriming if Chandra is a danger or not. Leaning up against wall his arms crossed, Laucian’s voice is soon heard. “Chandra approached me when the orcs were on the run. He wanted to eradicate them from our land it is true." he says looking at the council of elves, “He also wished to see them removed root and stem from this region at any cost with no regard to our people’s well being or the mother tree’s.“

In that the Council does agree and starts to break up. As they slowly depart, Lilia looks down at the table she is now standing on. It's a map of the Sylvan Realm, as it was back when the elves were still here. Unlike the map the Chosen was given back in the Elfholds, this one also has the location of all the griffon stables on them. Lilia notes that there is nearly a dozen such locations spread out through the Sylvan Realm. But she also notes that other places are indicated on the tops of the mountains that surround the Sylvan Realm. One such place does seem to be to the north, along the general route Chandra is believed to have taken.

Laucian watches as the others slowly leave, stoically he watches Lilia as she stands upon the table. Laucian will silently approach. “Are you ok, your majesty? He says calmly looking at the table seeing many locations marked upon the map.

He looks up at his queen, “This is partially why I did not wish for our clan’s counsel seat. Politics has a way of getting n the way of doing what is right or what is needed to be done.”he says reassuringly, ”Though in truth, I think you handled it better than I would ever have. “

Excusing himself from Lilia, Laucian goes about making himself ready for the coming trails. He will make sure his quiver is full of arrows, and take inventory of his magic arrows. Later on that night, Laucian will pray to Ehlonna for her wisdom and guidance. Bedding down for the night Onyx and his elfin dogs are close at hand ad the rain begins to fall. Within moments the ranger priest is quickly asleep.

Come morning, Laucian is making ready Aura as the other Gryphon riders ask what he wishes them to do In their absence. Laucian looks at his companions. “With in the council chamber is a table map that depicts the location of more stables. Make ready the closest stables while patrolling the mother tree as the council sees fit. If I do not return. Seek out other stables as you see fit. Once the rainbow bridge opens we may have more members within our group and more gryphons to tend too.“

Laucian will take advantage of all the spells that he is able to be blessed with.
( more to come)

[Lilia]

Lilia:

"I hope so, too," Kylie agrees. "This land is too... valuable? ... important? - I'm not sure what the right word is here – too significant to allow it to be lost."

“Those are all good words,” Lilia will agree. “The Sylvan Realm must be preserved not only for the elves, but for our descendants as well.”

As Lilia turns to leave, Kylie speaks up before she loses the opportunity to do so. "I'm sorry, Lilia, I know I promised to bring my spell books by for you to study from tonight. However, I fear this may have to wait until we return, as I will need them this evening to update my spells, and it sounds like you have other duties that need your time and attention."

“No need to apologize,” Lilia states. “This is far more important than my earlier request. It will wait until a later date.”


After saying her goodbyes to her friends, Lilia gathers her thoughts before speaking to the Clan Council and the other elves at Golden Peak. Surprisingly, or perhaps not so surprising it descends into chaos. By this point Lilia has had enough.

“That is enough!” an angry Lilia calls out. Unnoticed by the others of the Clan Council, she has climbed up on top of the table the others are gathered around. “Enough of this petty bickering! I have told you what we have discovered and what I intend to do about it. If you doubt our information to be accurate, then those of you who can cast divinations to determine the truth of my words in the morning before we leave. Perhaps then you can believe what Chandra has done to his own people.”

“All of us here today are here for one single goal. To save and protect the Mother Tree. That is my only goal. We set up leadership here in the Sylvan Realm in accordance with our customs. Chandra has no authority to declare war on anyone outside our boarders, but that is what he has done. As I stated earlier, my plan is to return him here so that he can be judged by the Council. Then you will all learn the truth of the matter.”

The elves in the area listen in an almost stunned silence. The forcefulness of Lilia's words coupled with the awe factor that she has being a Priest of Corellon gives her words a great weight. Her words were powerful enough to settle the discussion.

“Until that time,” Allurien speaks, finally breaking the silence, “we should do all that we can to assist our Queen. All of use who can cast spells, should prepare beneficial magic that we can cast on the Chosen before they depart in the morning.”

“We should also prepare supplies and food for the journey,” High Keeper Alanik adds. “Your Majesty, we will protect the Mother Tree in your absence.”

“Thank you,” Lilia says. “That would be most welcomed.”

In that the Council does agree and starts to break up. As they slowly depart, Lilia looks down at the table she is now standing on. It's a map of the Sylvan Realm, as it was back when the elves were still here. Unlike the map the Chosen was given back in the Elfholds, this one also has the location of all the griffon stables on them. Lilia notes that there is nearly a dozen such locations spread out through the Sylvan Realm. But she also notes that other places are indicated on the tops of the mountains that surround the Sylvan Realm. One such place does seem to be to the north, along the general route Chandra is believed to have taken.

Laucian watches as the others slowly leave, stoically he watches Lilia as she stands upon the table. Laucian will silently approach. “Are you okay, your majesty?” he says calmly looking at the table seeing many locations marked upon the map.

“I am angry,” Lilia will finally admit. “Chandra's betrayal has cut me deep. I thought he was someone who could help me along in this new role I have chosen, but instead all he has done is shown me exactly what not to do.”

He looks up at his queen, “This is partially why I did not wish for our clan’s counsel seat. Politics has a way of getting n the way of doing what is right or what is needed to be done.”he says reassuringly, ”Though in truth, I think you handled it better than I would ever have.“

“My friend, you are far wiser than I,” Lilia says with a laugh. “Indeed, I had thought that restoring the Mother Tree was going to be the hard part. I never imagined that it would be what came after.”

Accepting Laucian's hand, Lilia steps down from the Golden Griffon's table. “My apologies for using your table such as I did,” Lilia offers. “But it was better than hitting someone, which I was sorely tempted to do.”

Turning back to the table, Lilia will point towards the griffon stable located in the direction that they are traveling. “I never noticed this before, but there is a griffon stable up in the mountains. I can't help but think that is where Chandra and his followers were going to. I have no idea far past it this Xorg is.”

Turing back around to face Laucian, Lilia adds, “Thank you for your support and friendship, Clansman. I couldn't have gotten this far with out it.”

Next morning, after praying for her new spells, Lilia wild don her armor and weapons. After eating, she goes towards the landing area of Golden Peak where the griffons are being prepared. Spells are offered for our journey and Lilia will accept all the ones that she can make use of.

“Did anyone cast any divinations?” Lilia calls out. “If so, what did they reveal?”

Eventually we take flight and follow Laucian towards the north. A few hours along we reach the enemy fort and find mostly as we left it.

“It doesn't look like anyone has been here since we left,” Lilia says. “Do we try to follow the path or make for the griffon stable on the table map?”

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

“Of course you are both correct,” Lilia quickly answers when the followers of Ehlonna gang up on her. “What I meant is that we are not going after Chandra with the idea to fight orcs. We are not seeking battle but rather to save or rescue our kin.”

“We will adapt to the circumstances as they come,” Valena adds. “If I can save the life of an elf by killing an orc, than I will do so. I understand what you are saying, that we are not looking to battle or to capture the enemy stronghold, but battle may come to us whether we wish it or not.”

“My faith is perfectly fine,” Lilia answers in a softer tone the she had been using. “I was merely making sure that you were both up to the task.”

“I am ready to serve,” Valena easily offers.

“You might be right,” Lilia slowly says as she balls her fists in anger and trembles slightly. She cannot find the words to express her anger at what Chandra has done.

Valena quietly notes Lilia's reaction to the depths of Chandra's treachery. While she likes the Queen's fire, it does concern her that this same fire could become revenge in time. Let's see how good she is at controlling her emotions when we find Chandra.

“Take him alive,” Lilia finally says as her anger starts to fade. “The council will decide his fate.”

“We will, if he lets us,” Valena offers. Lilia's choice was the safe political one.

“I agree,” Lilia states. “Yes, make your preparations and we will depart in the morning. In the meantime, I have another task that I must attend to. I will see you tomorrow.”

“Sleep well,” Valena tells the others. “Who knows when we will next have a peaceful nights rest.”

After saying her goodbyes, Valena finds a place to sleep for the evening after passing along the necessary instructions to her animal friends. Next morning she'll find the other members of the Silver Maidens and gives instructions to them.

“Stand ready to assist in the defense of the Mother Tree as you see fit,” Valena instructs. “With the good graces of the Lady of the Forest, we should return in a few days. Until then stay vigilant.”

Valena accepts the spells the other elves provide, happy that her kin are trying to assist in this somber task. After that we are off, flying to the north where we torched the enemy fort days ago.

“It doesn't look like anyone has been here since we left,” Lilia says. “Do we try to follow the path or make for the griffon stable on the table map?”

“What griffon stable is this?” Valena inquires. “Did I miss something?”

[Talen]

Talen:

Kylie nods in agreement. "I don't know much about your drow heritage, but there are certainly a number of highly skilled mages on the human side of your family."

“I don't know much about the drow side of my family either,” Talen admits. “I decided long ago that I'm probably happier not knowing.”

"I'm not sure if those markings are roads or not..." Kylie replies, re-examining the map. "But that was my first thought as well. However, we may find that the other areas also have plenty of rivers and streams that are just not large enough to be shown on this map. Also, there's no way to know what may be in the southern area, since much of it appears to extend off the map. We shall just have to go look."

“That's a good point,” Talen says. “Those main rivers maybe very wide and too fast flowing to be all that useful. I hadn't thought of that.”

It is decided that we go after Chandra in the morning. After the meeting breaks up, Talen returns to Kylie's mom's place to prepare. He'll go over his spell book to see what could be helpful in the days to come and decides what spells to learn in the morning.

After studying and eating come the morning, Talen joins the others up at the griffon landing area at Golden Peak. Much to his surprise many elves are present and they are provided food and spells for the trip.

“Thank you,” Talen says to those casing spells on him.

Talen hears Lilia asking about the results to divinations that were cast and he'll be curious about the answers.

Finally we are off and Talen enjoys the griffon ride. At least this time if he falls off a flying bird he has a Ring of Feather Falling to save him! In short order we reach the fort that we attacked and burned days ago. There is a road past it leading into the mountains. We land here.

“If there's a road here that orcs use to attack the Sylvan Realm, then I don;t think I want to call this area home,” Talen tells Kylie. “I'd rather have more protection from outside enemies.”

Otherwise Talen keeps his eyes open and listens to hear what the others decide to do next.

[Lia]

Lia

Rather than attend the clan meetings Lia begins to make ready for the trip. Taking out her longsword, Lia begins to put an edge on the sword with her whetstone. Testing the edge with her finger tips, Lia is soon satisfied and goes through swinging in a few mock test swings.

Lia eats sparingly of some nuts and fruit for dinner and excuses herself from the others. Walking to one of the Rainbow platforms, Lia looks at the darkening landscape as the moon begins to rise and the rains begin to fall. Lia begins to dance and pray to her patron twisting and turning in the moonlight. Once complete, Lia heads back to Kylie’s mom’s house and enters quietly. Sadly, the others, seem to be asleep so Lia goes to bed.

After waking and eating, Lia gathers her gear, making sure to have her lioness figurine is within reach. Lia makes her way down to the gryphon landing platform.

“Good morning.”She says as she greets the others.

Soon enough, Lilia asks if anyone casted divinations, and Lia looks to the others to see what they possibly found. When asked what spells the others will cast, Lia will ask for all of them that she will benefit from. “Thank you for your magicks. I hope that they will help us in the coming day.”

The griffon’s ride is quite enjoyable and the griffons land near the destroyed fort and the road etches the land scape.

“It doesn't look like anyone has been here since we left,” Lilia says. “Do we try to follow the path or make for the griffon stable on the table map?”

“What griffon stable is this?” Valena inquires. “Did I miss something?"

Lia looks to Valena then to Lilia clearly confused. “Table map? Why would there be a griffon stable way out here?” She asks curiously.

Talen mentions this is not a safe place to live and not very defensible. Lia looks to her brother and to Kylie, "Curiousity. If half elves are to stay within the Slyvain realm then would it not be so that they should have representation on the council as well?"

Lia will take the time to stretch her legs while looking to the horizon, looking for dust clouds or silhouttes.

[Laucian]

Laucian

“I am angry,” Lilia will finally admit. “Chandra's betrayal has cut me deep. I thought he was someone who could help me along in this new role I have chosen, but instead all he has done is shown me exactly what not to do.”

“Sometimes we are blinded by our own visions of what can be, to see what is clearly before us.” Laucian says in reply.

“My friend, you are far wiser than I,” Lilia says with a laugh. “Indeed, I had thought that restoring the Mother Tree was going to be the hard part. I never imagined that it would be what came after.”

“Nor would I, but at least we have one another to depend on in securing her borders.”he says in reply.

Accepting Laucian's hand, Lilia steps down from the Golden Griffon's table. “My apologies for using your table such as I did,” Lilia offers. “But it was better than hitting someone, which I was sorely tempted to do.”

Turning back to the table, Lilia will point towards the griffon stable located in the direction that they are traveling. “I never noticed this before, but there is a griffon stable up in the mountains. I can't help but think that is where Chandra and his followers were going to. I have no idea far past it this Xorg is.”

Turning back around to face Laucian, Lilia adds, “Thank you for your support and friendship, Clansman. I couldn't have gotten this far with out it.”

Laucian quickly laughs and shakes his head, “It is a small matter. It is a beautiful piece of work though. He says looking at the table once more. He sees the griffon stable in the mountains and wonders, “If it is still standing, there is s a chance that the orcs have found it. But it would give us a defensible position to strike out from.”

“It doesn't look like anyone has been here since we left,” Lilia says. “Do we try to follow the path or make for the griffon stable on the table map?”

“What griffon stable is this?” Valena inquires. “Did I miss something?”

“I would say go to the griffon stable.”

“Within Golden Peak there is a table that says where the gryphon stables of our order is. There is one near here, but there is no telling what condition the stables are in. But it would give us a great vantage point. Perhaps we could spot Chandra and his party.”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

November 24th, CR 571

Once more we journey down to the last of the enemy forts to the south of the Mother Tree...

“I didn’t. Though mine was a gift and faithful companion from the All Father.”He says evenly. “Our ancestors did something to the gryphons where they see us as friends. The others merely approach and they will allow you to ride. We believe the spell will work with all elves.”

“Amazing!” Tanyl utters. “I shall have to explore this possibility. The ride in the sky on such a magnificent creature would be joyous.”

“Perhaps, I never thought of being depicted in a ballad,” he says evenly. Looking between the two elves.

“Its the very least you desire for what you've done for the elfin people,” Elora answers. “Whether you believe it or not, you are all heroes.”

Laucian looks at Gweyr for a moment. “My father was away on patrol when the orcs raided our village. My mother fought valiantly and fled with me in her arms. She died of her wounds on the temple steps in which I was raised. For many months, I thought my father would return for me while mourning my mother... To this day I know not if he survived the patrol, captured or dead, or perhaps he thinks me and my mother dead...”

He says looking up at the fire mage. “It is why I entered Ehlonna’s service, to protect our people, our lands and forests, spread her blessings and teachings. In my travels I have looked for sign of him but I am afraid he is at rest.”

“You have suffered so,” Gweyr softly says, placing her hand on Laucian's cheek and looking into his eyes. “I understand why you despise orcs so much. You've given me more fuel to burn them when our paths cross next. Such misery will only make them burn hotter.”


November 26th, CR 571

Late in the evening back at the Mother Tree...

Kylie takes a break from her studying when her mother returns. She's a little surprised by the huge hug, but revels in the warmth and love she feels from her mom. "Thank you, mom. I would love to have you with us, but Lilia is right in that you are needed here. With her gone, your voice of reason and calm will be crucial to avoid anyone else doing anything stupid before we return."

“The Queen's reasoning makes sense,” Allurien agrees. “We will keep the Mother Tree safe while you are away.”

“When you have returned and the situation with Chandra has been dealt with, we really must see how advanced your abilities are,” Allurien says after a time. “I am curious to find out just how skilled you are in stealth and magic.”

[GM Mad]

November 27th, CR 571

The following morning, there is a large commotion around the landing are for the Golden Griffons at Golden Peak. Five griffons have been prepared for the trip to come, while Laucian sees to his own mount Aura. Food and spells are offered to the group. Dozens of elves are present to see the Heroes of the Mother Tree off.

Come morning, Laucian is making ready Aura as the other Gryphon riders ask what he wishes them to do In their absence. Laucian looks at his companions. “With in the council chamber is a table map that depicts the location of more stables. Make ready the closest stables while patrolling the mother tree as the council sees fit. If I do not return. Seek out other stables as you see fit. Once the rainbow bridge opens we may have more members within our group and more gryphons to tend too."

“We will do so,” Valis answers, grasping hands as you speak. “Safe journeys, my friend.”

Valena does the same with the Silver Maidens.

“Stand ready to assist in the defense of the Mother Tree as you see fit,” Valena instructs. “With the good graces of the Lady of the Forest, we should return in a few days. Until then stay vigilant.”

“We shall do as you say, forest sister,” Annelwin of Ehlonna proudly states. “Success in your mission!”

“Did anyone cast any divinations?” Lilia calls out. “If so, what did they reveal?”

“I have done so, Your Majesty,” a lady elf calls out. It is Sheeryl Soulsearcher, a Priestess of Sehanine Moonbow, the elfin Goddess of Dreams, Mysticism and other things. “You spoke truly, Chandra of Corellon has gone off to fight the orcs beyond the borders of the Sylvan Realm.”

That announcement draws a shocked response from the other elves present. They cannot believe what Chandra has done. Those other elves who also did their own divinations agree with Sheeryl's findings.

“But more importantly,” Sheeryl continues, “I have foreseen great danger in your path. Not this day, but tomorrow you will be faced with an 'ancient evil from the depths of the earth'. The nature of this evil is not known to me at this time. Proceed with great caution tomorrow.”


The griffons take flight and before long the group reaches the large clearing where the enemy fort to the north was burned. A road leads up to the mountains, but it is decide to try and reach the location of what is believed to be a griffon stable that was noted on the table map in the Golden Griffon order hall.

Mounting up once more, the griffons leap into the air and fly northwards and upwards as the mountains start to rise up before you. For a time you can see the road down below as it winds its way back and forth across the face of the mountain. Eventually, the road seems to lead into a cave and stops there. The cave opening was large enough for a griffon to fly inside.

The griffon riders continue to climb higher as the day grows long. The sun dips behind the ocean to the west. By his estimation, Laucian believes that you have reached the general area where the griffon stable was indicated on the table map. The riders spread out in order to find their destination as night begins to fall.

Finally, Lia sees something off in the distance. At first it was a soft red glow that drew her attention. As you fly closer you can see what appears to be a stone structure emerging from the top of the mountain. But what is strange is that the stone itself is the source of the red glow!

Beside this structure, there is a large, wooden landing area that you've become familiar with at the griffon stables. There is no protection at the landing area, just whatever the stone structure provides. No roads or any normal way to reach this location is seen in the growing darkness. It must be colder now as a light snow is falling in the area and being blown about on the wind, but thanks to the protections you were given you do not feel it.

The area is past over several times, but no one or thing is seen down below. The group can see that the stone structure has steps leading down into it from the landing area...

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

The opening is large enough for a griffon to pass through. All that there is of the stone structure that you can see is the stairs going down into the mountain, the roof over the stairs and the walls.

In the battles to come, I'm going to be trying an experimental alternate way to handle how spells are cast. I'll be trying it with the Lilia, Valena, and Talen. The system involves having a few spells that you know so well that you don't need to memorize or pray for them any more. It also uses a spell point system and it is possible to cast more spells of a certain level then you normally could, but with penalties. While I've never been a huge fan of how magic works in D&D I never had a better system. Maybe now I do, but it needs to be tested to see if it works in game or not.

Kylie, Laucian, and Lia are welcomed to also try this system out if you wish. It's purely optional at this point. Just giving you guys a heads up as there will be some terminology you are unfamiliar with in future posts.

For instance:

Available Spell Points:

Lilia: Mage 35 pts, Priest 18 pts.

Talen: Mage 11 pts

Valena: Priest 35 pts

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“I don't know much about the drow side of my family either,” Talen admits. “I decided long ago that I'm probably happier not knowing.”

Kylie nods, glancing up at the ceiling in thought. "You may well be right about that, though I hadn't considered it before."

“We will adapt to the circumstances as they come,” Valena adds. “If I can save the life of an elf by killing an orc, than I will do so. I understand what you are saying, that we are not looking to battle or to capture the enemy stronghold, but battle may come to us whether we wish it or not.”

Kylie nods in agreement. They have no idea what dangers they may be flying into.

“Those are all good words,” Lilia will agree. “The Sylvan Realm must be preserved not only for the elves, but for our descendants as well.”

"Exactly," Kylie agrees, trying not to think too much about the personal ramifications of 'descendents'. She's not ready for that yet.

“Sleep well,” Valena tells the others. “Who knows when we will next have a peaceful nights rest.”

"You as well, Valena," Kylie replies. While the elves may not need much real sleep, Kylie certainly does and will have to be careful not to stay up too late studing her spell books.

“No need to apologize,” Lilia states. “This is far more important than my earlier request. It will wait until a later date.”

"Thank you, Lilia," Kylie says. "I just wanted you to know that I had not forgotten."

“The Queen's reasoning makes sense,” Allurien agrees. “We will keep the Mother Tree safe while you are away.”

“When you have returned and the situation with Chandra has been dealt with, we really must see how advanced your abilities are,” Allurien says after a time. “I am curious to find out just how skilled you are in stealth and magic.”

Kylie's left eyebrow inches up, not certain exactly what her mother is thinking. "Okay, Mom, that sounds interesting," she says, non-committedly.

“Good morning.”She says as she greets the others.

"Good morning, Lia," Kylie looks up from where she is huddled on the floor in the corner with Dapple, sharing her breakfast with the large mound of fur. "Did you sleep well?"

“Did anyone cast any divinations?” Lilia calls out. “If so, what did they reveal?”

Kylie shakes her head, a bit of sadness or disappointment in her eyes. "No. Unfortunately, I found that I had not mastered any spells that would be useful in this circumstance."

“I have done so, Your Majesty,” a lady elf calls out. It is Sheeryl Soulsearcher, a Priestess of Sehanine Moonbow, the elfin Goddess of Dreams, Mysticism and other things. “You spoke truly, Chandra of Corellon has gone off to fight the orcs beyond the borders of the Sylvan Realm.”

That announcement draws a shocked response from the other elves present. They cannot believe what Chandra has done. Those other elves who also did their own divinations agree with Sheeryl's findings.

“But more importantly,” Sheeryl continues, “I have foreseen great danger in your path. Not this day, but tomorrow you will be faced with an 'ancient evil from the depths of the earth'. The nature of this evil is not known to me at this time. Proceed with great caution tomorrow.”

Kylie gets a queasy feeling in the pit of her stomach listening to the priestess' words. Her suspicions about Chandra not being the worst aspect of this mission seem to be coming true...

“If there's a road here that orcs use to attack the Sylvan Realm, then I don;t think I want to call this area home,” Talen tells Kylie. “I'd rather have more protection from outside enemies.”

"I can understand your concern, Talen, though I don't know if any of the areas will be without danger based on what was learned from the attacks on the forts. There seem to be enemies in all directions."

“It doesn't look like anyone has been here since we left,” Lilia says. “Do we try to follow the path or make for the griffon stable on the table map?”

This question engenders some questions, but having seen the map in the council hall, Kylie just assumes that Lilia knows what she is talking about.

“I would say go to the griffon stable.”

“Within Golden Peak there is a table that says where the gryphon stables of our order is. There is one near here, but there is no telling what condition the stables are in. But it would give us a great vantage point. Perhaps we could spot Chandra and his party.”

"I agree with Laucian. It might also provide a good opportunity to rest before we continue on."


They fly on through the afternoon and into the evening. The sun is setting and night is starting to fall when they reach the area that Laucian estimates is the approximate location of the griffon stable. Fortunately, it does not take them too long to find. The landing area appears easy to reach, but the stable itself is apparently within a stone structure on the mountaintop. Strangely the structure appears to be glowing red! Unfortunately, there is little way to talk to the others while flying, so she cannot ask the others what they think of this oddity.

Flying close to Lilia and Laucian, Kylie points to herself, makes a flying gesture, puts her finger to her lips, then points down to the landing, hoping that they will understand her suggestion. Since she can fly under her own power, it should be quieter than the griffons, and her stealth skills should enable her to scout around a bit before the others land.
_____________________________________________
Since I'd rather not switch systems then potentially have to switch back, I'll wait until you've tested the new system to your satisfaction and explained it in more detail. It does sounds interesting, however.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

“We will adapt to the circumstances as they come,” Valena adds. “If I can save the life of an elf by killing an orc, than I will do so. I understand what you are saying, that we are not looking to battle or to capture the enemy stronghold, but battle may come to us whether we wish it or not.”

“That is all we can do,” Lilia solemnly agrees.

“Sleep well,” Valena tells the others. “Who knows when we will next have a peaceful nights rest.”

“Good night to you all,” Lilia adds. Valena's words to spark an idea. If she recalls correctly, Corellon grants Lilia a spell that would make resting temporarily not an issue. While Lilia wont pray for this spell tonight, she may later on if circumstances dictate it.

“Sometimes we are blinded by our own visions of what can be to see what is clearly before us.” Laucian says in reply.

“Maybe I deluded myself,” Lilia says rhetorically. “Made him up to be what I thought a Priest of Corellon should be, not what he really was.”

Laucian quickly laughs and shakes his head, “It is a small matter. It is a beautiful piece of work though. He says looking at the table once more. He sees the griffon stable in the mountains and wonders, “If it is still standing, there is a chance that the orcs have found it. But it would give us a defensible position to strike out from.”

“Hard to say if the orcs found it or not,” Lilia adds. “If our ancestors used griffons to reach it, there may not be a land route to it.”


Next morning, a large crowd has gathered to see us of. Lilia asks if any performed divinations for what is to come.

Kylie shakes her head, a bit of sadness or disappointment in her eyes. "No. Unfortunately, I found that I had not mastered any spells that would be useful in this circumstance."

“Mage spells are not always useful in determining the future,” Lilia notes. “I now have access to a spell called Augury, but it is only useful for events that will happen soon. A more powerful spell is needed to see further into the future.”

“I have done so, Your Majesty,” a lady elf calls out. It is Sheeryl Soulsearcher, a Priestess of Sehanine Moonbow, the elfin Goddess of Dreams, Mysticism and other things. “You spoke truly, Chandra of Corellon has gone off to fight the orcs beyond the borders of the Sylvan Realm.”

That announcement draws a shocked response from the other elves present. They cannot believe what Chandra has done. Those other elves who also did their own divinations agree with Sheeryl's findings.

“But more importantly,” Sheeryl continues, “I have foreseen great danger in your path. Not this day, but tomorrow you will be faced with an 'ancient evil from the depths of the earth'. The nature of this evil is not known to me at this time. Proceed with great caution tomorrow.”

Lilia allows herself a faint smile feeling vindicated when it comes to Chandra's treachery. The pronouncement of crossing an 'ancient evil from the depths of the earth' is a concern. Drow is the first thing that crosses Lilia's mind, but they are only one a few whole host of possible dangers that could come from below. Or did Chandra's actions stir up something else?

“Thank you for your readings Sheeryl Soulsearcher of Sehanine Moonbow,” Lilia says aloud. “We will keep your warning in mind and proceed cautiously.”

We're off and reach the north clearing in a few hours. There is talk about the next course of action to take.

“I would say go to the griffon stable.”

“Within Golden Peak there is a table that says where the gryphon stables of our order is. There is one near here, but there is no telling what condition the stables are in. But it would give us a great vantage point. Perhaps we could spot Chandra and his party.”

We're airborne once more in search of the outpost marked on the Order Hall table map. Snow begins to fall and blow, but its not a huge hindrance.

Lia is the first to see something on the mountain top. Something glowing a sinister red in color! Flying closer, the elfin style wooden landing area is found, but next to it is a small stone structure that seems to be steps leading down into the mountain.

Kylie wings closer and gestures that she is going down to investigate. Lilia nods her understanding and waves for the others to come closer to her. Lilia will give Kylie about five minutes once she enters the structure before gesturing for everyone to land on the pad. Lilia will gesture for Lia and Talen to back up Kylie in her investigations inside.

While that is going on, Lilia stoops to look at the landing area. It does seem to be of elfin construction, but nothing else here is. From there she'll go to examine the stone structure. She'll run her hand over the wall of the structure trying to determine what kind of stone that this is that glows.

Turning to Valena and Laucian, Lilia will say, “The landing area was built by our kin, but this,” gesturing to the stone structure, “is unlike anything I've ever seen before. It doesn't even look dwarfish. Our ancestors most have found this and used as an outpost or an watch tower of some type.

After about another five minutes, Lilia will lead the others into the structure if Kylie, Lia, and Talen have yet to return from their investigations. She'll head in immediately if any cries for aid are heard.

“We are committed to staying here tonight,” Lilia notes as she walks down the steps. “We're too far away from anywhere else, so this will have do.”

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Receiving a go-ahead from Lilia, Kylie nods and directs her griffon to follow Laucian's griffon. Activating her flying ability, she lifts up away from the griffon's back, the descends quietly to the landing pad. She pauses there to make a quick check around the area for traps.

If she finds no traps or other dangers, Kylie glides quietly down toward the glowing stone structure, her feet remaining inches above the steps, and casting Improved Invisibility on herself as she proceeds. When she reaches the entry, Kylie will pause just to the side, listening carefully for any noise coming from within the structure before proceeding within.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Kylie goes forth to investigate the strange red-glowing structure. As she gets closer, Kylie can see that the steps are about ten feet wide and go down at least for fifteen feet. The steps are made of the same red glowing stone as are the walls and the ceiling overhead. Even though it is snowing outside, there is no snow on the stairs. Nothing dangerous is noted. The stairs themselves are not level, but rather slope to your right. The slope is slight enough not to bother walking, but enough to be noticed.

After casting Improved Invisibility, Kylie slowly flies down the stairs off to one side a little bit. Looking down the stairs, she can see that the same glowing red stone comprises the chamber at the bottom of the stairs. The walls, floor and ceiling all glow the same kind of red. No noise is heard and no one is spotted.

The chamber at the bottom of the stairs is large, about 30' square in size. This chamber is also sloped as are the stairs, so that near left hand corner is higher than the far right hand corner buy over a foot. There is new construction in this chamber. Wooden walls were added to create what reminds Kylie of stables. There are four such stables, each in a corner of the room. No creatures are currently in the stables, but its not had to imagine that a griffon could fit inside it.

The middle of each wall has a ten foot wide opening in it. The opening to Kylie's left goes forward about thirty feet, but after several feet in, the corridor is twisted to her right. The slight slope at the entrance to this hallway becomes more pronounced at the end, where it's nearly at a 45 degree angle. Normal walking would be impossible in area. At the end of the twisted hallway is another thirty foot square chamber, but like the hallway leading to it the floor is at a 45 degree angle. Kylie flies forth to investigate and quickly finds the chamber to be empty. Given it's current state, it's almost impossible to use. The titled chamber does not glow red, but the hallway to it does and then the glow fades right before entering the room.

The opening on Kyle's right is not as sloped at the one on the left. This opening also goes thirty feet and ends at a thirty foot square room. This chamber has also been modified like the stable area. More wooden walls were added to divide the room into smaller areas. Directly across from the entrance is what looks like a meeting area as there is a table and chairs here. There is a small book case behind the table and some books are present. The left and right hand sides of this room use the wooden walls to divide each into two small resting chambers. All is quiet and no one is around. This entire area glows red.

Kylie goes back to the main stable area and investigates the final way out of this room. A passageway can be seen, ten feet wide just like the other passages. However it is longer than the other two. About twenty feet in dirt and rubble from a collapse are seen filling up the hallway. Some of the rubble has been moved aside and there is more than enough room to get past the rubble.

While Kylie inspects this opening, she can hear a faint sobbing far off in the distance. Just pass this blockage, the hallway tilts dramatically, just like the first room she explored. Without going past the blockage, all Kylie can see is the ceiling of the hallway as it slants downwards and away from her. The sobbing seems to be coming from further along the hallway. The stone up to the rubble and what she can see past it all glow red.


Now what?

[Laucian]

Laucian

Laucian listens ad the other elves begin to condem Chandra and his actions. Perhaps they will not need to take the rogue elf alive… But then hearing that they will encounter an ancient evil from the deep. Laucian looks to the others then back in disbelief, ‘Did the orcs dig to deep? Or has Chandra found something slumbering and angered it."

Flying close to Lilia and Laucian, Kylie points to herself, makes a flying gesture, puts her finger to her lips, then points down to the landing, hoping that they will understand her suggestion. Since she can fly under her own power, it should be quieter than the griffons, and her stealth skills should enable her to scout around a bit before the others land.

Laucian pulls on the Aura’s reigns looking down at the structure as Kylie flies nearby motioning that she will go down and scout out. Laucian looks to Lilia and then back at Kylie as the thief descends toward the stable. As Lilia calls out and speaks of the structure, “Perhaps that has to do with the ancient evil we are to encounter?” The elf answers back as Lilia finishes her explanation. “Then let us be on our guard. I do not like this.”he says evenly following Lilia.

As Laucian makes his way down the stairs, he will have his sword drawn and slowly take in his surroundings. If he comes across any books he will curiously look at them and not touch. "Perhaps, they left word of their days here.

[Lia]

Lia

(Sorry for the delay. Works been crazy 60 hrs in 4 days)

"Good morning, Lia," Kylie looks up from where she is huddled on the floor in the corner with Dapple, sharing her breakfast with the large mound of fur. "Did you sleep well?"

“As well as can be expected.”she replies back sitting down at the table. Are you ready for our next adventure?" She asks with a goofy smile. “I always get excited when it’s time to leave."

Lia listens to the words of the elves that sought out Chandra. Her fears have been confirmed! The Elf would see us at war not matter the cost.

Lia is the first to see something on the mountain top. Something glowing a sinister red in color! Flying closer, the elfin style wooden landing area is found, but next to it is a small stone structure that seems to be steps leading down into the mountain.

Lia calls forth as she points down to the structure, “There! It glows red like that of a demon!”she exclaims hoping her voice is not carries on the wind.

Lia lands her Gryphon and begins making her way to the stairs as Lilia steps in front of her. “Perhaps I should go first, your majesty.”She says drawing her blade and cautiously stepping down the stairs."

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“As well as can be expected.”she replies back sitting down at the table. Are you ready for our next adventure?" She asks with a goofy smile. “I always get excited when it’s time to leave."

Kylie hears the not4e of disquiet in her friend's voice, which echoes her own. "I know what you mean; there is always something exciting and yet scary about venturing into the unknown. But I am as prepared as I know how to be." She can only hope that it will be enough.


Hearing no noises in the semi-darkness beyond the entry, Kylie floats into the stone structure. The entire interior of the buiding appears to be made of the same red-glowing stone, giving the whole place a hellish cast while providing some light to see by as well. She cannot help noticing that the floors are not level - especially in some areas - as if the mountain had shifted some time after it was build.

Descending into a chamber at the bottom of the stairs, Kylie is surprised to find what appear to be newly-constructed stables intended to house four griffons. No one is present, but clearly someone has been here in the not too distant past. There are hallways leading out of each of the other three walls of the chamber between the stables.

The room to the left leads to an empty chamber that is tilted at an almost impossible angle. What could have done this, Kylie wonders. Passing back through the central chamber, she scouts the hall to the right. Another chamber of a similar size, also with newly-constructed walls in what appears to be a living area for people. The books scattered about the floor attract Kylie's attention, her curiosity peaked by what they might contain. However, she dare not let down her guard yet.

The center hallway seems to extend quite a way back into the mountain. It is partially blocked by dirt and rubble, but someone has cleared enough of a path to get by. As she peers down the hall, which slopes distinctly downward, the sound of sobbing reaches her ears. There is someone here!


Gliding back the way she came, Kylie encounters Lia just entering the central chamber - her brother close behind. "Lia, Talen, it's Kylie. There is the sobbing coming from down the central hallway past this chamber. I'm going to check it out." She turns to leave, then pauses. "The other two halls are clear, though the right one leads to a living area.

With that, she flies back across the chamber, up the hallway to the blockage, then down the sloping passage beyond. With the tightness of the confines, a bow is not really useful here. Thus, she draws her short sword - just in case this sound is a ruse of some kind.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

"You as well, Valena," Kylie replies. While the elves may not need much real sleep, Kylie certainly does and will have to be careful not to stay up too late studying her spell book

Valena will nod in the direction of her clanswoman when their eyes meet.

“We shall do as you say, forest sister,” Annelwin of Ehlonna proudly states. “Success in your mission!”

“And to yours as well,” Valena will cheerfully respond.


Lilia asks if anyone has performed any divinations about what we will be facing in the days to come. “Unfortunately, the Lady of the Forests does not grant me access to divination magic,” Valena easily answers. “But I am sure that there are other priests who can do so.” Soon enough Valena's guess turns out to be true.

“I have done so, Your Majesty,” a lady elf calls out. It is Sheeryl Soulsearcher, a Priestess of Sehanine Moonbow, the elfin Goddess of Dreams, Mysticism and other things. “You spoke truly, Chandra of Corellon has gone off to fight the orcs beyond the borders of the Sylvan Realm.”

That announcement draws a shocked response from the other elves present. They cannot believe what Chandra has done. Those other elves who also did their own divinations agree with Sheeryl's findings.

“But more importantly,” Sheeryl continues, “I have foreseen great danger in your path. Not this day, but tomorrow you will be faced with an 'ancient evil from the depths of the earth'. The nature of this evil is not known to me at this time. Proceed with great caution tomorrow.”

That a follower of the Mystic Seer would have access to divination magic is of no great surprise. It is most fitting and the warning the priest provides is chilling. “So no great evil today, but that does not discount any lesser evil,” Valena notes. The warning itself is not much to go on, but its better than no warning at all.


A few hours later we arrive at the large clearing to the north of the Mother Tree where we destroyed an enemy fort days ago. Lilia and Laucian are speaking about something the rest of the group has not heard about.

Lia looks to Valena then to Lilia clearly confused. “Table map? Why would there be a griffon stable way out here?” She asks curiously.

Valena simply shrugs when Lia looks her way. She is just as much in the dark. Laucian quickly provides the answer.

“I would say go to the griffon stable.”

“Within Golden Peak there is a table that says where the gryphon stables of our order is. There is one near here, but there is no telling what condition the stables are in. But it would give us a great vantage point. Perhaps we could spot Chandra and his party.”

“I see...,” Valena states as she considers the possibles. “It's not unreasonable that our ancestors used these stables in the mountains to keep an eye on what goes on outside the Sylvan Realm. At any rate we shall see what condition it is in when we get there.”

The higher the griffons climb the worse the weather becomes. Clearly we have passed beyond the borders of the Sylvan Realm as snow starts to fall. Thankfully, the Endure Cold spells we were given protects us from the chill. In time, Lia spots what we are looking for. It is a strange red glowing structure on the top of the mountain. The wind and blowing snow limits visibility, but the red glow still stands out. Valena isn't close enough hear what is said, but its not hard to figure out. Kylie slips off her griffon and flies to investigate the strange structure below. A few minutes later, Lilia gestures for the rest of us to land on the area below.

Once on the ground, Valena will speak to the griffons and tell them to be at ease. Lia and Talen go down the stairs following Kylie. Lilia seems to be examining the area. Valena nocks an arrow and keeps guard.

Turning to Valena and Laucian, Lilia will say, “The landing area was built by our kin, but this,” gesturing to the stone structure, “is unlike anything I've ever seen before. It doesn't even look dwarfish. Our ancestors most have found this and used as an outpost or an watch tower of some type.

“Agreed,” Valena answers as she glances at the wooden area. “I too have never seen such stone before. I seem to recall that we found blood stone gems at the fort down below. Could they have been pieces of this stone here?”

“We are committed to staying here tonight,” Lilia notes as she walks down the steps. “We're too far away from anywhere else, so this will have do.”

Valena nods her understanding. “There should be several more hours left on our Endure Cold spells. Once they are gone all of us, and the griffons will need the protection once more.”

Valena will keep her bow ready to fire when the time comes to go down the strange red stairs.

[Talen]

Talen:

Kylie nods, glancing up at the ceiling in thought. "You may well be right about that, though I hadn't considered it before."

“Mom, dad, and even grandma never really talked about the drow side of the family,” Talen states. “I figure that they probably had good reason not to.”

"I can understand your concern, Talen, though I don't know if any of the areas will be without danger based on what was learned from the attacks on the forts. There seem to be enemies in all directions."

“While that is true,” Talen agrees, “I just think building close to the path that orcs take to reach the Sylvan Realm is too dangerous.”

Talen mentions this is not a safe place to live and not very defensible. Lia looks to her brother and to Kylie, "Curious. If half elves are to stay within the Sylvan realm then would it not be so that they should have representation on the council as well?"

“I believe that Lilia mentioned that possibility,” Talen adds. “I guess we have to see if enough of us want to come here or not?”


Leaving the clearing, we ride to the north and up to the mountain peaks. There a strange red structure is seen along with a wooden griffon landing area. Kylie goes off to explore and Talen is about to follow her, when Lilia gestures to go near her instead. Finally we do land and Lilia finally says to follow Kylie into the structure.

Talen draws his bastard sword and creeps down the stairs right behind Lia. Suddenly Kylie's voice calls out from nowhere!

Gliding back the way she came, Kylie encounters Lia just entering the central chamber - her brother close behind. "Lia, Talen, it's Kylie. There is the sobbing coming from down the central hallway past this chamber. I'm going to check it out." She turns to leave, then pauses. "The other two halls are clear, though the right one leads to a living area.”

“Sobbing?” Talen repeats. “How strange.”

Turning around, Talen reports what Kylie has discovered to the others still outside. Once that is done, Talen will go in the directino Kylie went to see if she needs backup.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Laucian listens ad the other elves begin to condemn Chandra and his actions. Perhaps they will not need to take the rogue elf alive… But then hearing that they will encounter an ancient evil from the deep. Laucian looks to the others then back in disbelief, “ Did the orcs dig to deep? Or has Chandra found something slumbering and angered it.”

“Whatever the source or cause of this ancient evil, the truth will be revealed at some point tomorrow,” Lilia solemnly adds.


At the mountain top griffon stable, Lilia examines the outside area while Kylie explores the inside. The wooden landing area is familiar, but the stone structure is not.

As Lilia calls out and speaks of the structure, “Perhaps that has to do with the ancient evil we are to encounter?”

“It certainly is a possibility,” Lilia admits. “There is too much that we do not know right now.”

“Then let us be on our guard. I do not like this,” he says evenly following Lilia.

“Agreed,” Lilia states. “We'll need a guard rotation for the night. I want two of us awake at all times.”

“Perhaps I should go first, your majesty,” she says drawing her blade and cautiously stepping down the stairs.

“You may proceed Lia,” Lilia easily answers. “My intent was to examine this strange stone only.”

“Agreed,” Valena answers as she glances at the wooden area. “I too have never seen such stone before. I seem to recall that we found blood stone gems at the fort down below. Could they have been pieces of this stone here?”

“It is my understand that the blood stones are gems that are mined from the earth,” Lilia says. “Unless someone cut the blood stones into walls and steps.”

Valena nods her understanding. “There should be several more hours left on our Endure Cold spells. Once they are gone all of us, and the griffons will need the protection once more."

“That is my understanding. Perhaps each of us who carry the spell should cast it before we rest for the evening. Then we can pray for the spell again after we have rested. I don't want to run out of this magic and be exposed to the elements.”

Talen comes back outside and says that Kylie heard what sounded like sobbing and that she has gone to investigate. “We should follow along in case this is a trick or a trap.”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

November 27th, CR 571

The Heroes of the Mother Tree have reached an ancient griffon stable located in the mountains to the north of the Mother Tree. While the griffon landing area looks familiar, the stone structure beside it most certainly does not. The stone glows a menacing red in color! Glowing red steps lead down into the the mountain.

Kylie goes forth to explore this strange underground area using her natural ability to fly. She also casts Improved Invisibility on herself, giving her around 12 minutes of concealment.

At the bottom of the stairs is what appears to be a griffon stable. The ancient elves added wooden walls to divide the large thirty foot square chamber up. There is an opening in the middle of each wall. The opening to the right has a hallway that ends in another room, but that chamber has shifted dramatically so that its floor is now at a steep angle. The area to the right leads what appears to be a relaxation and quarters area for the griffon riders. The stable and the griffon riders quarters all glow red, but the luminescence fades near the end of the hallway with the tilted room.

The last hallway, the one opposite the entry stairs shows signs of a collapse some twenty feet in. But there is a opening in the debris that easily allows passage. Past this blockage, Kylie can faintly hear sobbing and whimpering coming from it. Kylie flies back to the entrance and reports her findings to Lia and Talen who were just coming down the stairs.

Outside, Lilia runs her bare hand over the stone and much to her surprise finds it to the pleasantly warm to the touch.

After reporting in, Kylie flies back to the blockage, draws her short sword and goes through. Right after the blockage, the entire corridor dives down at more than sixty degree angle. Most of the stone here does not glow. However, there are large spots of glowing on what would be the down sloping floor.

About twenty feet below her, Kylie can see that the hallway ends at another thirty foot wide chamber that is also radically tilted. The far end of this chamber is filled up with dirt and rock from the collapse above. This portion fell into the chamber below filling the bottom area where the floor and far wall meet. The stone does glow red around his bottom pile of rubble.

Kylie picks up a figure laying in a fetal position on top of the rubble. This is the source of the sobbing and whimpering. It is an elfin male and he is completely unaware of Kylie's presence.

“Blood...,” he says barely above a whisper. “So much blood...”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Kylie has at least five more minutes left on her Improved Invisibility spell. By this time Lia and Talen will have reached the hallway that Kylie went down and can hear the noise she mentioned. Laucian, Lilia and Valena are at the bottom of the stairs and can see the griffon stable.

The books noted in the quarters area were in a book case, not on the floor. While the area does look like it has been used recently, it was not ransacked.

It has been my assumption for a long time now, given the nature of this game, that Elvish is the language commonly being spoken, unless otherwise noted.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“Mom, dad, and even grandma never really talked about the drow side of the family,” Talen states. “I figure that they probably had good reason not to.”

Kylie nods sympathetically. "Whoever they were and whatever they did is not a reflection on you, Talen."

“While that is true,” Talen agrees, “I just think building close to the path that orcs take to reach the Sylvan Realm is too dangerous.”

"That seems fair," Kylie says.

That a follower of the Mystic Seer would have access to divination magic is of no great surprise. It is most fitting and the warning the priest provides is chilling. “So no great evil today, but that does not discount any lesser evil,” Valena notes. The warning itself is not much to go on, but its better than no warning at all.

"True," Kylie agrees upon hearing her friend's assessment. "We should be careful to not be too confident today, while still preparing for the morrow."

“I see...,” Valena states as she considers the possibles. “It's not unreasonable that our ancestors used these stables in the mountains to keep an eye on what goes on outside the Sylvan Realm. At any rate we shall see what condition it is in when we get there.”

"Good point. I'm sure they would have wanted to have early warning of any aggression from their neighbors," Kylie says.

“Sobbing?” Talen repeats. “How strange.”

"That was my thought as well," Kylie replies. "I cannot rule out that it is a ruse or trick of some kind."

Floating cautiously down the steep slope, Kylie follows the hall toward the source of the sound. Many parts of the hallway do not glow, reducing the amount of light she has to navigate by. Entering the chamber at the far end, Kylie scans the walls for other entrances before allowing her gaze to be drawn to the figure lying on the pile of rubble on the far side. It appears to be a male elf, and he murmurs something about blood.

"Hello? Sir? Are you okay?" she asks softly, not wanting to startle the man.
__________________________________________________________________
Sorry for misreading the part about the books. I agree that they would be using Elvish most of the time. With all this practice, Kylie is probably becoming quite fluent!

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Outside, Lilia runs her bare hand over the stone and much to her surprise finds it to the pleasantly warm to the touch.

“It's warm to the touch,” Lilia says in mild surprise. “How fascinating. The glow is something like embers from a fire. They glow the same way. Will the glow fade when the heat fades? How was this created? This certainly explains why there is no snow on the steps. It melted.”

Reaching the bottom of the stairs, Lilia takes in the stable area.

“It seems to me that our ancestors found this placed and then adapted it for their use,” Lilia notes. “These divider walls were their work. I wonder what they called this place? I imagine something like Blood Stone Peak.”

Lilia will look around the immediate area while waiting for an update from Kylie.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Kylie has entered the sloped chamber and found the source of the noise she heard. There are no other exits from this tilted room.

"Hello? Sir? Are you okay?" she asks softly, not wanting to startle the man.

The elf doesn't seem to pay any attention to what Kylie says. He remains huddled on the floor babbling seemingly incoherently.

“Blood everywhere!” he suddenly cries out and goes back to shaking and whimpering. Kylie can't help but wonder what happened to this elf to reduce him to this state. What sort of trauma could make him snap like this?


GM Notes:

Sorry for misreading the part about the books. I agree that they would be using Elvish most of the time. With all this practice, Kylie is probably becoming quite fluent!

No worries, was just trying to be accurate is all.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

The elf doesn't seem to pay any attention to what Kylie says. He remains huddled on the floor babbling seemingly incoherently.

“Blood everywhere!” he suddenly cries out and goes back to shaking and whimpering. Kylie can't help but wonder what happened to this elf to reduce him to this state. What sort of trauma could make him snap like this?

The elf seems unaware of her presence, her voice. Sheathing her sword, she lets her invisibility spell drop. Floating over to him, she places her hand on his arm. "Sir! Are you okay?" she asks, her voice strong yet full of concern and sympathy.
____________________________________________________________
I'm assuming that a mage can end their own spell early. Let me know if that is not the case.

[GM Mad]

Small Update:

The elf seems unaware of her presence, her voice. Sheathing her sword, she lets her invisibility spell drop. Floating over to him, she places her hand on his arm. "Sir! Are you okay?" she asks, her voice strong yet full of concern and sympathy.

Kylie touches the elves arm will trying to speak to him, but he continues to be completely oblivious to her very presence. He continues to just be curled up on the ground sobbing and whimpering while occasionally shouting out something about blood. Even shaking the elf does nothing to bring him out of his stupor.


Those up above in the stable area would have heard the shout of “blood everywhere” as it was quite loud.


GM Notes:

I'm assuming that a mage can end their own spell early. Let me know if that is not the case.

Yes, they can. Any spell caster can end a spell that they cast upon themselves when they so desire. Spells placed on you by others, such as the prep spells the other elves cast on the group before leaving Golden Peak, cannot be removed until they expire naturally. This applies to mages and clerics and all their variants.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Kylie soon gives up, as none of her attempts to get through to the elf appear to be working. Rising, she flies back up the hall.

She first encounters Lia, who had remained near the partial blockage. "Please keep an eye on the elf down there," she says, nodding back the way she came. "I'm going to report to the queen."

Moments later, she encounters Talen, with the rest of the group not far behind. Kylie addresses Queen Lilia and her other companions. "There is an elf lying on a pile of rubble in the very back. He seems quite traumatized and unresponsive - keeps murmuring about blood with no apparent awareness of his surroundings. I really do not know how to help him. Perhaps one of the clerics can do something?"

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

"True," Kylie agrees upon hearing her friend's assessment. "We should be careful to not be too confident today, while still preparing for the morrow."

“That is always good advice,” Valena agrees.

"Good point. I'm sure they would have wanted to have early warning of any aggression from their neighbors," Kylie says.

“It is always wise to know the lay of the land around you and identify where potential threats can come from,” Valena says. “I do have to wonder if this orchold was here back in the early days of the Sylvan Realm or not. A lot can happen in twenty thousand years.”

“It is my understand that the blood stones are gems that are mined from the earth,” Lilia says. “Unless someone cut the blood stones into walls and steps.”

“Ah,” Valena says. “It does seem unlikely that someone mined up this much blood stone and used it to make a dwelling. This effect is probably magical in nature.”

“That is my understanding. Perhaps each of us who carry the spell should cast it before we rest for the evening. Then we can pray for the spell again after we have rested. I don't want to run out of this magic and be exposed to the elements.”

“A wise decision,” Valena agrees. “Having backup protection is ideal.”

“It's warm to the touch,” Lilia says in mild surprise. “How fascinating. The glow is something like embers from a fire. They glow the same way. Will the glow fade when the heat fades? How was this created? This certainly explains why there is no snow on the steps. It melted.”

“It radiates heat?” Valena says slightly in awe. “That definitely seems magical to me.”

“It seems to me that our ancestors found this placed and then adapted it for their use,” Lilia notes. “These divider walls were their work. I wonder what they called this place? I imagine something like Blood Stone Peak.”

“If this outpost is anything like the Silver Maiden's Order Hall,” Valena adds, “then our ancestors may have let notes behind about this place. Perhaps even reports if this was a look out for the lands to the north. If fortune is with us maybe even a map.”

Moments later, she encounters Talen, with the rest of the group not far behind. Kylie addresses Queen Lilia and her other companions. "There is an elf lying on a pile of rubble in the very back. He seems quite traumatized and unresponsive - keeps murmuring about blood with no apparent awareness of his surroundings. I really do not know how to help him. Perhaps one of the clerics can do something?"

“Sounds to me like he 'turtled',” Valena easily answers. “I heard about it when I was growing up and being trained as an archer and a follower of the Lady of the Forests. It is said that when someone encounters something so horrible or beyond their understanding that they can become unresponsive just like the the elf of which you speak. It's like a turtle drawing into this shell for protection. It is said that some can come out on their own and recover, but others might need help.”

“I don't believe that my Patron currently grants me any spells that can help this poor elf. I'd wager that he was part of Chandra's group and they were here when he went turtle. They must have just left him behind. We must do what we can to help this poor man. He cannot just be abandoned.”

[Talen]

Talen:

Kylie nods sympathetically. "Whoever they were and whatever they did is not a reflection on you, Talen."

“I know,” Talen says with a sigh. “I does make you wonder what sort of horrid things my blood line has done. But, again, I try not to dwell on any of that. Hopefully my human family has more than made up for the drow side.”

"That was my thought as well," Kylie replies. "I cannot rule out that it is a ruse or trick of some kind."

“Be careful!” Talen says. “Just yell if you need help and I'll come running.”


Not long after that Kylie returns seemingly no worse for wear.

Moments later, she encounters Talen, with the rest of the group not far behind. Kylie addresses Queen Lilia and her other companions. "There is an elf lying on a pile of rubble in the very back. He seems quite traumatized and unresponsive - keeps murmuring about blood with no apparent awareness of his surroundings. I really do not know how to help him. Perhaps one of the clerics can do something?"

“Was he bleeding?” Talen asks. “Hurt some how?”

“Sounds to me like he 'turtled',” Valena easily answers. “I heard about it when I was growing up and being trained as an archer and a follower of the Lady of the Forests. It is said that when someone encounters something so horrible or beyond their understanding that they can become unresponsive just like the the elf of which you speak. It's like a turtle drawing into this shell for protection. It is said that some can come out on their own and recover, but others might need help.”

“I don't believe that my Patron currently grants me any spells that can help this poor elf. I'd wager that he was part of Chandra's group and they were here when he went turtle. They must have just left him behind. We must do what we can to help this poor man. He cannot just be abandoned.”

“How horrible,” Talen whispers. “Did this happen to him down there or did Chandra put him down there without a way to get out on his own? I mean this place is pretty creepy, but I'm not freaked out by it. Not completely anyway!”

[Lilia]

Lilia:

“Ah,” Valena says. “It does seem unlikely that someone mined up this much blood stone and used it to make a dwelling. This effect is probably magical in nature.”

“It radiates heat?” Valena says slightly in awe. “That definitely seems magical to me.”

“Yes it does,” Lilia agrees. “Let's find out.” Lilia will cast Detect Magic and look for anything enchanted in the area.

While down in the stable area, Lilia notes that not all of the passage on the left glows red. Curious, Lilia will move closer and try to touch an area where there is no glow to see if it is warm or not.

“If this outpost is anything like the Silver Maiden's Order Hall,” Valena adds, “then our ancestors may have let notes behind about this place. Perhaps even reports if this was a look out for the lands to the north. If fortune is with us maybe even a map.”

“Let's hope that they did,” Lilia agrees. “Logically, any books would not be kept here in the stable. Perhaps in the area to the right. As a scholar this is where I excel.”

Turning towards Laucian and Valena Lilia adds, “Perhaps you should start to bring the griffons into the stable. Get them out of the elements an accustomed to being down here.”

Lilia starts to walk down the right hand passage when Kylie returns.

Moments later, she encounters Talen, with the rest of the group not far behind. Kylie addresses Queen Lilia and her other companions. "There is an elf lying on a pile of rubble in the very back. He seems quite traumatized and unresponsive - keeps murmuring about blood with no apparent awareness of his surroundings. I really do not know how to help him. Perhaps one of the clerics can do something?"

“That is very strange,” Lilia notes. Talen asks if the elf was wounded or not while Valena speaks of a condition she calls acting like a frightened turtle. Talen wonders if whatever happened to this elf happened up here or down there and if Chandra simply left the elf here.

“Any of us priests can heal his body,” Lilia states, “but if the injury is to his mind then that is beyond my ability remedy. We'll need to take him back to Golden Peak and hope one of the other priests there is more potent in this area.”

“I have to wonder if this elf came across the great evil we are supposed to face tomorrow? Was that evil here? Or was it further to the north were we suspect that Chandra is now? Too many questions.”

“If we look at this situation logically, then what we are pondering now is the same questions that Chandra and those within faced. Clearly they were not able to help him either. Either what happened to him happened down there or they put him there. They most likely did that for his or their protection. Perhaps they intended to come back for him.”

Lilia lets out a long sigh before finally speaking again. “While I don't like it, I fear we must leave him here for now. We cannot take him with us, nor do I wish to send one of you back with him. We will pick him up on the way back to the Sylvan Realm. These glowing walls seem to radiate heat, so he will not be cold. One of us priests can go down there and cast a Cure Wounds on him in case he is injured. We can leave him some food and water as well.”

“Unless one of you can come up with a better solution that I have missed,” Lilia concludes, “we will do what I propose. I am not happy about this in the least, but I don't see any other viable options.”

When the conversation comes to an end, Lilia will head to the living quarters and examine any books that might be there.

[Lia]

Lia

The elf doesn't seem to pay any attention to what Kylie says. He remains huddled on the floor babbling seemingly incoherently.

“Blood everywhere!” he suddenly cries out and goes back to shaking and whimpering. Kylie can't help but wonder what happened to this elf to reduce him to this state. What sort of trauma could make him snap like this?

Lia hears the call of blood everywhere and slowly begins to walk forward listening to Kylie and the mystery elf. Nothing comes of it as Kylie comes forward.

She first encounters Lia, who had remained near the partial blockage. "Please keep an eye on the elf down there," she says, nodding back the way she came. "I'm going to report to the queen."

“As you wish.”she says looking the mage in the eye then looking toward the rubble. Lia moves within sight of the elf. She can’t help but feel for the elf and wonder what he encountered to make him so distraught. Narrowing her eyes, Lia looks at the prone elf, “What caused so much blood? Demon? Vampire?" She wonders out loud hoping that maybe the elf will elaborate but is doubtful.

“Where are the others? Where is Chandra?” she asks curiously blade in hand.

If the elf does become violent, Lia will cast hold person on the elf.

[Laucian]

Laucian

Valena nods her understanding. “There should be several more hours left on our Endure Cold spells. Once they are gone all of us, and the griffons will need the protection once more."

“That is my understanding. Perhaps each of us who carry the spell should cast it before we rest for the evening. Then we can pray for the spell again after we have rested. I don't want to run out of this magic and be exposed to the elements.”

“I will do as you suggest.”

Talen emerges from the Griffon stables saying that Kylie has heard some sobbing. Lucian's eyes narrow in contemplation. Coming down the stairs sword in hand Laucian can make out the stables before him.

“If this outpost is anything like the Silver Maiden's Order Hall,” Valena adds, “then our ancestors may have let notes behind about this place. Perhaps even reports if this was a look out for the lands to the north. If fortune is with us maybe even a map.”

“I agree. Perhaps whomever was stationed here left something behind of us. I would also be curious how long it has been since someone rested here.”he asks curiously. Laucian will make his way towards the stables and try to see how long it has been since something laid there.

Moments later, she encounters Talen, with the rest of the group not far behind. Kylie addresses Queen Lilia and her other companions. "There is an elf lying on a pile of rubble in the very back. He seems quite traumatized and unresponsive - keeps murmuring about blood with no apparent awareness of his surroundings. I really do not know how to help him. Perhaps one of the clerics can do something?"

“Sounds to me like he 'turtled',” Valena easily answers. “I heard about it when I was growing up and being trained as an archer and a follower of the Lady of the Forests. It is said that when someone encounters something so horrible or beyond their understanding that they can become unresponsive just like the the elf of which you speak. It's like a turtle drawing into this shell for protection. It is said that some can come out on their own and recover, but others might need help.”

“I don't believe that my Patron currently grants me any spells that can help this poor elf. I'd wager that he was part of Chandra's group and they were here when he went turtle. They must have just left him behind. We must do what we can to help this poor man. He cannot just be abandoned.”

“Whatever it was surely left it’s mark on him. We will have to watch him what ever did this to him may still be within these walls.”

Laucian hears Lilia suggesting to bring the griffons down. “Ill do so.” Silently he wonders if the gryphons might smell if something off.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“I know,” Talen says with a sigh. “I does make you wonder what sort of horrid things my blood line has done. But, again, I try not to dwell on any of that. Hopefully my human family has more than made up for the drow side.”

"My advice would be to do what you know to be right," Kylie replies. "Live your life the best way you can, and don't worry about the past."

“It is always wise to know the lay of the land around you and identify where potential threats can come from,” Valena says. “I do have to wonder if this orchold was here back in the early days of the Sylvan Realm or not. A lot can happen in twenty thousand years.”

"That's very true," Kylie replies. "We have no way of knowing what the situation was then."

“Be careful!” Talen says. “Just yell if you need help and I'll come running.”

"I will. Thank you," Kylie responds over her shoulder as she flies down the hallway.


Kylie returns to the main group and reports her findings.

“Was he bleeding?” Talen asks. “Hurt some how?”

"I didn't see any sign of physical injury, though I didn't inspect him carefully."

“Sounds to me like he 'turtled',” Valena easily answers. “I heard about it when I was growing up and being trained as an archer and a follower of the Lady of the Forests. It is said that when someone encounters something so horrible or beyond their understanding that they can become unresponsive just like the the elf of which you speak. It's like a turtle drawing into this shell for protection. It is said that some can come out on their own and recover, but others might need help.”

“I don't believe that my Patron currently grants me any spells that can help this poor elf. I'd wager that he was part of Chandra's group and they were here when he went turtle. They must have just left him behind. We must do what we can to help this poor man. He cannot just be abandoned.””

Kylie pauses for a second to consider. "I haven't heard it called that, but I have seen similar people in a similar condition back when I was living in Dog Alley."

“How horrible,” Talen whispers. “Did this happen to him down there or did Chandra put him down there without a way to get out on his own? I mean this place is pretty creepy, but I'm not freaked out by it. Not completely anyway!”

"I didn't recognise him, and do not know whether he was part of Chandra's party or not," Kylie states with a shrug.

“Whatever it was surely left it’s mark on him. We will have to watch him; what ever did this to him may still be within these walls.”

Kylie nods in agreement, though she has nothing to add.

Lilia presents her thoughts on the situation, noting that the elf's best chance for help is back at the Mother Tree, but they cannot take him there right now as they need to deal with whatever Chandra is up to.

Something isn't quite adding up for the young mage, so Kylie speaks up. "Lilia, there is something I don't understand here. Chandra was only a day or two ahead of us, right? Looking around, I saw quite a bit of construction that looks far too new to have been here since the elves left, but I don't think Chandra's group would have built it in this short of a time. And the books in the living quarters? Would Chandra have brought those with him? I cannot help wondering if someone - possibly including the elf back there - was already living here when they arrived..."

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Some quick notes.

“Yes it does,” Lilia agrees. “Let's find out.” Lilia will cast Detect Magic and look for anything enchanted in the area.

All of the stone in this structure will detect as alteration magic.

While down in the stable area, Lilia notes that not all of the passage on the left glows red. Curious, Lilia will move closer and try to touch an area where there is no glow to see if it is warm or not.

When she touches an area of the stone structure that is not glowing, Lilia does not feel any warmth coming from the stone. However, at her touch the stone starts to glow, softly at first, but in a matter of moments appearing like the rest of the glowing stone. The glow expands and starts to fill the area around her hand. It will then start to become warm to the touch, but like before is not hot enough to burn or be uncomfortable.

Lia hears the call of blood everywhere and slowly begins to walk forward listening to Kylie and the mystery elf. Nothing comes of it as Kylie comes forward.

The hallway right past the rubble is where the radical change in inclination occurred. After the rubble, the hallway dives down at a sixty degree angle. Going down it will require going down on a rope or using magic like Kylie did. The hallway goes twenty more feet down and then opens in a thirty by thirty room that is now essentially on its edge. The elf is about 50' down below the rubble area. Going to climb down there on a rope to question him?

And the elf down below had no visible injuries. He may have been from Chandra's group. So many elves came out of the Rainbow Bridge that you were not introduced directly to many of them. He doesn't look familiar, but that may not mean much.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

Turning towards Laucian and Valena Lilia adds, “Perhaps you should start to bring the griffons into the stable. Get them out of the elements an accustomed to being down here.”

“It shall be done,” Valena states.

Laucian hears Lilia suggesting to bring the griffons down. “Ill do so.” Silently he wonders if the gryphons might smell if something off.

As she walks back up the stairs with Laucian, Valena will say, “Let me speak to them one at a time and explain what is going to happen. That may remove any skittishness they might have about going inside.”

Once the griffons start to settle in, Valena stay within ear shot of them in case they note something that we do not. Valena will see to feeding the griffons and giving them water.

“How horrible,” Talen whispers. “Did this happen to him down there or did Chandra put him down there without a way to get out on his own? I mean this place is pretty creepy, but I'm not freaked out by it. Not completely anyway!”

“Unfortunately, those seem to be only questions that he can answer,” Valena adds. “And he does not seem to be talkative at the moment.”

“Whatever it was surely left it’s mark on him. We will have to watch him what ever did this to him may still be within these walls.”

“There is also another thing to consider,” Valena says. “We were to encounter this great danger tomorrow according to the divination. Do not forget that tomorrow officially starts at midnight, not when we wake up. This danger might be in this place right now or it may be miles away. We won't know for sure until it appears.”

Turning back to Lilia, Valena will add, “Who shall cast the cure on the elf down below?”

[Talen]

Talen:

"My advice would be to do what you know to be right," Kylie replies. "Live your life the best way you can, and don't worry about the past."

Talen flashes a grateful smile and says, “Thanks.”

"I will. Thank you," Kylie responds over her shoulder as she flies down the hallway.

Talen keeps an eye on Kylie as she flies off and back to the elf. He tries to see what is going on down there. If something bad does happen, he'll just leap down trusting his Ring of Feather Falling to keep him from making a splat.

"I didn't recognize him, and do not know whether he was part of Chandra's party or not," Kylie states with a shrug.

“There were so many elves between the Rainbow Bridge and the ones in the trees we could have over looked any one elf.”

Something isn't quite adding up for the young mage, so Kylie speaks up. "Lilia, there is something I don't understand here. Chandra was only a day or two ahead of us, right? Looking around, I saw quite a bit of construction that looks far too new to have been here since the elves left, but I don't think Chandra's group would have built it in this short of a time. And the books in the living quarters? Would Chandra have brought those with him? I cannot help wondering if someone - possibly including the elf back there - was already living here when they arrived..."

“That reminds of something else that has been nagging me,” Talen chimes in. “All these wooden structures we found in the Sylvan Realm, the hidden griffon stable we found were all made of wood. Now given that it pours here every night, logically that wood should have rotted away a long time ago. But from all indications it has been there for hundreds, maybe thousands of years. How is that possible?”

“There is also another thing to consider,” Valena says. “We were to encounter this great danger tomorrow according to the divination. Do not forget that tomorrow officially starts at midnight, not when we wake up. This danger might be in this place right now or it may be miles away. We won't know for sure until it appears.”

“Oh great,” Talen mutters, looking up at the ceiling. “I'm really going to sleep well tonight.”

[Lilia]

Lilia:

All of the stone in this structure will detect as alteration magic.

“Fascinating,” Lilia says in awe. “The stone is indeed magical. Alteration magic, but that is not a surprise given its seeming effect. This might be some type of ancient magic that we are no longer familiar with.”

When she touches an area of the stone structure that is not glowing, Lilia does not feel any warmth coming from the stone. However, at her touch the stone starts to glow, softly at first, but in a matter of moments appearing like the rest of the glowing stone. The glow expands and starts to fill the area around her hand. It will then start to become warm to the touch, but like before is not hot enough to burn or be uncomfortable.

“Fascinating,” Lilia yet again says in wonder. “This stone seems to draw the warmth from those touching it and gives it back warming the whole area. If this much of the structure is glowing, then Chandra must have been here recently. This glow is the heat that was taken from them. I didn't feel any ill effects from this, but, logically, my hand may have felt cold from the heat being removed from it. The Endure Cold spells might have protected me from noticing.”

“I agree. Perhaps whomever was stationed here left something behind of us. I would also be curious how long it has been since someone rested here.”he asks curiously. Laucian will make his way towards the stables and try to see how long it has been since something laid there.

“All good questions that I will try to find an answer too,” Lilia says excitedly.

Something isn't quite adding up for the young mage, so Kylie speaks up. "Lilia, there is something I don't understand here. Chandra was only a day or two ahead of us, right? Looking around, I saw quite a bit of construction that looks far too new to have been here since the elves left, but I don't think Chandra's group would have built it in this short of a time. And the books in the living quarters? Would Chandra have brought those with him? I cannot help wondering if someone - possibly including the elf back there - was already living here when they arrived..."

“That reminds of something else that has been nagging me,” Talen chimes in. “All these wooden structures we found in the Sylvan Realm, the hidden griffon stable we found were all made of wood. Now given that it pours here every night, logically that wood should have rotted away a long time ago. But from all indications it has been there for hundreds, maybe thousands of years. How is that possible?”

Lilia looks at the questions the half-elves ask and smiles. “Our best guess would put Chandra about a day and half ahead of us. And you're right, they could not have built this in the short time that they had. Perhaps someone else was here and perhaps it was that elf down below. We have no way of knowing for sure right now. Maybe those books will shed light on the matter.”

“As you noted Talen, normal wood should have rotted away long again under the rain the area around the Mother Tree gets. The ancient elves learned this long ago and they developed a method to prevent this. The structures back in the Sylvan Realm such as the hidden griffon stable are probably well over ten thousand years old. Probably closer to twenty thousand years. We elves have a process where we take wood and transform it into something that is more like metal than wood. The process seals the wood, preventing it from rotting or fading with the passage of time. It can be damaged of course, but elfin wood will never rot. Skilled woodworkers then mold the wood into the shapes used in construction. The pieces are crafted and molded into each other and to create a larger, unified piece.”

“For example, if you were to closely examine a railing, you'd see that each spindle isn't nailed or other wise attached to the railing, but seeming fused to it. Clan Erendyl are the masters of this process. The are the most skilled at woodworking of all the clans. Likewise any damage can be easily repaired. The process can be carried over to things that can be made from trees, such as books. Based on this, I feel confident that these wooden stalls and the books have been here hundreds, if not thousands of years. If you note though there is nothing here but stone and things that were made from wood. No fabrics, no straw in the stables and so on. Those things would have rotted with the passage of time.”

“Whatever it was surely left it’s mark on him. We will have to watch him what ever did this to him may still be within these walls.”

“There is also another thing to consider,” Valena says. “We were to encounter this great danger tomorrow according to the divination. Do not forget that tomorrow officially starts at midnight, not when we wake up. This danger might be in this place right now or it may be miles away. We won't know for sure until it appears.”

“Oh great,” Talen mutters, looking up at the ceiling. “I'm really going to sleep well tonight.”

“Lets take a deep breath and relax,” Lilia suggests. “No sense letting our imaginations run away with themselves. That divination is almost become more of a distraction than a help. Well have two guards at all times overnight to keep an eye on things. If trouble appears we will deal with it.”

Turning back to Lilia, Valena will add, “Who shall cast the cure on the elf down below?”

“I'll do it,” Lilia volunteers. “I can magically give myself wings, so I won't need to climb down.”

Lilia will cast Alterself to give her sylph wings and then will fly down to where the elf is. She'll cast Cure Light Wounds on him next.

“Are you feeling any better?” Lilia will inquire. She will cast Hold Person if the elf makes a threatening move towards her.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“There were so many elves between the Rainbow Bridge and the ones in the trees we could have over looked any one elf.”

"That's certainly true," Kylie acknowledges. "I was mostly trying to avoid assumptions since I didn't know for sure."

“That reminds of something else that has been nagging me,” Talen chimes in. “All these wooden structures we found in the Sylvan Realm, the hidden griffon stable we found were all made of wood. Now given that it pours here every night, logically that wood should have rotted away a long time ago. But from all indications it has been there for hundreds, maybe thousands of years. How is that possible?”

Lilia speaks up, providing more information regarding elven wood-working, particularly their ability to strengthen and seal it so that it is not affected by the passage of time or the elements.

"Wow, that's amazing," Kylie says. "I would have sworn that I was looking at new construction..."

“There is also another thing to consider,” Valena says. “We were to encounter this great danger tomorrow according to the divination. Do not forget that tomorrow officially starts at midnight, not when we wake up. This danger might be in this place right now or it may be miles away. We won't know for sure until it appears.”

She hadn't thought about it that way, but Kylie realizes that Valena is right. They must remain alert to any sign of the danger.

“Lets take a deep breath and relax,” Lilia suggests. “No sense letting our imaginations run away with themselves. That divination is almost become more of a distraction than a help. We'll have two guards at all times overnight to keep an eye on things. If trouble appears, we will deal with it.”

Kylie sees the sense in the queen's words and nods, though she will do her best to be alert and on guard - ready for what comes regardless of when. Since she has only used one spell today, Kylie reminds herself to re-memorize that one before she goes to sleep tonight.

[Laucian]

Laucian

Lilia looks at the questions the half-elves ask and smiles. “Our best guess would put Chandra about a day and half ahead of us. And you're right, they could not have built this in the short time that they had. Perhaps someone else was here and perhaps it was that elf down below. We have no way of knowing for sure right now. Maybe those books will shed light on the matter.”

“As you noted Talen, normal wood should have rotted away long again under the rain the area around the Mother Tree gets. The ancient elves learned this long ago and they developed a method to prevent this. The structures back in the Sylvan Realm such as the hidden griffon stable are probably well over ten thousand years old. Probably closer to twenty thousand years. We elves have a process where we take wood and transform it into something that is more like metal than wood. The process seals the wood, preventing it from rotting or fading with the passage of time. It can be damaged of course, but elfin wood will never rot. Skilled woodworkers then mold the wood into the shapes used in construction. The pieces are crafted and molded into each other and to create a larger, unified piece.”

“For example, if you were to closely examine a railing, you'd see that each spindle isn't nailed or other wise attached to the railing, but seeming fused to it. Clan Erendyl are the masters of this process. The are the most skilled working of all the clans. Likewise any damage can be easily repaired. The process can be carried over to things that can be made from trees, such as books. Based on this, I feel confident that these wooden stalls and the books have been here hundreds, if not thousands of years. If you note though there is nothing here but stone and things that were made from wood. No fabrics, no straw in the stables and so on. Those things would have rotted with the passage of time.”

Laucian listens to Lilia speak of how the wood workers seal thew ood then make elaborate designs and achievements that last a very long time.he adds, “It is also why Elven bows are so prized. For their longevity and the beauty that they possess.”

“Lets take a deep breath and relax,” Lilia suggests. “No sense letting our imaginations run away with thIemselves. That divination is almost become more of a distraction than a help. Well have two guards at all times overnight to keep an eye on things. If trouble appears we will deal with it.”
“I’ll take first watch when the time comes.”he says evenly.

When it comes to sleeping arrangements, Laucian will rest with his head on Aura’s side before praying for spells.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed