Cynalon Knights #12

[GM Mad]

Cynalon Knights #12

December 3rd, 571 CR

With one hand holding the drawing of Karn's Keep teleportation arrival point, Allurien places her other hand on Kylie's shoulder. In turn Kylie is holding Argent's hand. Once she is confident in her study of the arrival location, Allurien speaks the words of the Teleportation spell and the Sylvan Realms are left behind!

The change in location is dramatic. Its a bit colder than the Sylvan Realm and the humidity has lessen considerably. But that's not the biggest surprise! Allurien's teleport has you at the the right spot, just twenty feet above it!

Everyone starts to fall, but Kylie keeps hovering thanks to her natural ability to fly. However, Argent's weight is more than she can support and the pair start to go down to the floor. Allurien, also having a fly spell active of her own, hovers and then swoops down to easily pick up Argent as if she was only a small child. Everyone lands safely on the balcony below.

You appeared on a balcony that is seemingly three times larger than what you would consider normal. It looks down into a huge grand hall that is equally huge. The far wall is nearly two hundred feet away while the length of the room is even longer than that. The ceiling of this vaulted chamber is easily 90’ overhead.

The floor and walls of this vast chamber are stone gray in color. Huge tapestries line the sidewalls of the room. There is no outside light to the chamber, but illumination is provided by almost a dozen floating, glowing globes of light. They gently drift about the vast chamber like bubbles.

At the far end of the room, a huge giant-sized throne sits on a dais. The seat of the chair is over your heads. Movement is noted behind you as three guards wearing the uniforms of the Cynalonian Army approach. Two of the men have swords and shields at the ready, while the last has a crossbow drawn.

“Identify yourselves!” one of the guards commands.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

You're back at Karn's Keep after all this time. What a warm welcome!

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

When her mom indicates that she is ready to cast the spell, Kylie takes Argent's hand in hers. Allurien lays her left hand on Kylie's shoulder, as she needs the right one free for casting.

There is a wrenching sensation, and then falling! "Aaahhh!" Kylie isn't sure whether the cry comes from herself, Argent, or both. Kylie's ability to fly kicks in immediately, but it quickly becomes apparent that she cannot carry Argent's weight. Instead, she tries to slow Argent's descent as much as possible. Fortunately, Allurien had cast Fly on herself, and is able to scoop Argent up before she hits the ground.

Kylie has but a moment to look about the large hall, recognizing it as the same place she had arrived when Sherwood brought them here. From this balcony, there is a great view of the hall, which was apparently built by giants in ages past. Just as Kylie is about to tell her mom and best friend about this place and lead them down the stairs into the hall itself, they are approached from behind.

At the far end of the room, a huge giant-sized throne sits on a dais. The seat of the chair is over your heads. Movement is noted behind you as three guards wearing the uniforms of the Cynalonian Army approach. Two of the men have swords and shields at the ready, while the last has a crossbow drawn.

“Identify yourselves!” one of the guards commands.

Kylie and turns to see 3 Cynalonian soldiers approaching with weapons bared. Smiling, Kylie addresses the soldier who spoke. "Good morning. I am Kylie Lanthorn, former student of Jallarzi Sallavarian and companion of Sherwood." She indicates Argent with a gesture. "This is Argent, also a former student of Jallarzi. And this is my mother, Allurien Feador," she says, nodding at her mother. "We have come to speak with Sharadin and any of his kin that may be in residence currently. Can you please show us to them?"

[Argent]

Argent:

And then we reappear in the confines of Karn's Keep, Argent's home away from home for a fair amount of time. Unfortunately, the Teleport was a bit off and we appeared higher then expected! It's better than low and into solid stone, but falling isn't a great option!

“AUGGGHHH!” Argent cries out in surprise as they start to fall.

“Don't let go!” Argent tells Kylie, but she can feel both of them being dragged to the ground. Argent doesn't have the strength to hold on to Kylie, not that Kylie is all that strong either. Shockingly, Allurien flies in and picks me up with ridiculous ease! How could such a small elf be so strong?

“Magical strength?” Argent wonders aloud.

Once on the ground and after regaining her breath, Argent is about to Kylie and her mother all about Karn's Keep and how the Company of the Sword captured it. Later Lord Sharadin claimed it and set up a mage guild here. Argent even has her own room!

However, the guards on duty seem particularly vigilant today. They advance with weapons drawn and challenge us!

“Identify yourselves!” one of the guards commands.

Kylie and turns to see 3 Cynalonian soldiers approaching with weapons bared. Smiling, Kylie addresses the soldier who spoke. "Good morning. I am Kylie Lanthorn, former student of Jallarzi Sallavarian and companion of Sherwood." She indicates Argent with a gesture. "This is Argent, also a former student of Jallarzi. And this is my mother, Allurien Feador," she says, nodding at her mother. "We have come to speak with Sharadin and any of his kin that may be in residence currently. Can you please show us to them?"

“I'm sure that you've seen me here before,” Argent adds. “I have my own quarters in the mage tower. I've been working on a special project by order of Lord Sharadin. “I have findings to report specifically to him.”

Hopefully that will be enough to get the guards to lighten up!

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Allurien has teleported herself, Kylie and Argent to Karn's Keep. The magic is slightly off and all three appear twenty feet above the target arrival point. Kylie tries to hold on to Argent as she falls, but lacks the strength to keep hold on the Invoker. Instead, Allurien, having cast her own Fly spell earlier in the Sylvan Realm picks up Argent with great ease and gently sets her down on the balcony below.

“Magical strength?” Argent wonders aloud.

“When you traveled and adventured as much as I have, you pick up magic items,” Allurien says matter-of-factually. “I wasn't expecting anything like this when Karn's Keep was described to me.”

The new arrivals have got the attention of the guard and three Cynalonian soldiers come to investigate.

Kylie and turns to see 3 Cynalonian soldiers approaching with weapons bared. Smiling, Kylie addresses the soldier who spoke. "Good morning. I am Kylie Lanthorn, former student of Jallarzi Sallavarian and companion of Sherwood." She indicates Argent with a gesture. "This is Argent, also a former student of Jallarzi. And this is my mother, Allurien Feador," she says, nodding at her mother. "We have come to speak with Sharadin and any of his kin that may be in residence currently. Can you please show us to them?"

“I'm sure that you've seen me here before,” Argent adds. “I have my own quarters in the mage tower. I've been working on a special project by order of Lord Sharadin. “I have findings to report specifically to him.”

“You do look familiar,” one of the guards utters in regards to Argent saying that she's been here before.

“As do you,” a different guard says indicating Kylie. “Wait here and I'll alert the ladies of the keep.”

The guard stores his weapons and runs off. The other two keep their weapons at the ready, but are no longer in a threatening pose.

After about ten minutes of waiting a pair of familiar figures are approaching. Its the twins, Sherry and Terry. The young ladies both have shoulder length blonde hair and sparkling blue eyes. They are a little taller than Argent and Kylie and also a little younger.

“Kylie!” one of the twins calls out as she approaches and gives Kylie a hug.

“Argent?” the other twin questions as she approaches and gives Argent a hug. “Is that really you?”

The first twin dismisses the guards and they return to their post. Turning back to the group she says, “Forgive us for the rude welcome.”

“Things are very tense right now in Cynalon,” the other twin adds.

“Come let us retire to more comfortable surroundings where we can catch up.”

The twins lead you out a nearby door and into a long hallway. Over one hundred feet later you all enter into a huge 60' square room. This is the meeting room and map room for the keep. A huge table fills the middle of the room and on its top is a huge map covering this are of the world. Many more maps are hanging from the walls around the room. Kylie recalls that Sherwood used these maps to figure out the course to fly the barge to the Sylvan Realm all those weeks ago. There are also many comfortable chairs and small couches in the room.

“Make yourself comfortable,” the twins say gesturing towards the chairs.

“Having you arrive here like this is a surprise,” one of the twins states.

“It was our understanding that you were in the Sylvan Realm,” a twin says indicating Kylie.

“And you're supposed to be in Elcadan,” the other twins states gesturing towards Argent.

“What happened?”

“What brings you here?”


Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

“I'm sure that you've seen me here before,” Argent adds. “I have my own quarters in the mage tower. I've been working on a special project by order of Lord Sharadin. “I have findings to report specifically to him.”

Kylie smirks, listening to Argent, then turns to the guards and regards them with one eyebrow arched as she awaits their response. They soon admit to having seen both herself and Argent before, and one goes off to report their arrival.

Kylie turns to Argent, completely ignoring the two remaining guards. "Since you know this place better than I, perhaps you can fill my mother in on the history of this castle while we wait..."

Eventually, Sharadin's daughters appear and dismiss the guards.

“Kylie!” one of the twins calls out as she approaches and gives Kylie a hug.

“Argent?” the other twin questions as she approaches and gives Argent a hug. “Is that really you?”

The first twin dismisses the guards and they return to their post. Turning back to the group she says, “Forgive us for the rude welcome.”

“Things are very tense right now in Cynalon,” the other twin adds.

“Come let us retire to more comfortable surroundings where we can catch up.”

"Sherry! Terry! So wonderful to see you both," Kylie exclaims as she returns the hug. "May I introduce my mother, Allurien Feador? Mom, this is Sherry and Terry; they are Sharadin's daughters."

The twins lead them down to a familiar room. Kylie recalls the huge table and the profusion of maps from her previous visit. "I remember this room. Laucian and Nariya spent a lot of time here reviewing the maps to help us find our way north."

“It was our understanding that you were in the Sylvan Realm,” a twin says indicating Kylie.

“And you're supposed to be in Elcadan,” the other twins states gesturing towards Argent.

“What happened?”

“What brings you here?”

Kylie laughs. "We were until just moments ago. That is where I found my mom. We successfully restored the Mother Tree there, and are working to restore the Sylvan Realm.

"As for Argent, that's where things get a bit more complicated. You see, there are more than one Argent, apparently due to some kind of magical mishap. Argent, perhaps it would be best if you tell the story from your perspective."

[Argent]

Argent:

“When you traveled and adventured as much as I have, you pick up magic items,” Allurien says matter-of-factually. “I wasn't expecting anything like this when Karn's Keep was described to me.”

“I can relate to that,” Argent tells Kylie's mother as she too has gained magic items in a similar fashion. “None so far to improve my physical strength.”

Guards are upon us soon after landing.

“You do look familiar,” one of the guards utters in regards to Argent saying that she's been here before.

“I tend to think that I am unforgettable,” Argent adds with a smile.

One of the guards rush off to bring back the ladies of the keep. In Argent's mind that has to mean Sherry and Terry.

Kylie turns to Argent, completely ignoring the two remaining guards. "Since you know this place better than I, perhaps you can fill my mother in on the history of this castle while we wait..."

“I can do that,” Argent replies. “This place has a long and rich history. It was built by giants, but we have no idea just how long ago that was. A Lord Karn used this place when Keln controlled this area. That's how it got the name Karn's Keep. This Karn had something called the 'Sword of Doom' that gave him great prestige with Keln. Lord Sharadin sent us here to find it. Turns out the Sword of Doom was not a weapon, the obvious choice, but rather its a flying ship. Much like the Sunflower I suppose, but probably a warship. The group I was with, the Company of the Sword, got here and the had to clear out the creatures that lived here and then later repel an invasion by Hextor forces. Using the Pillar Artifact in the basement, Lord Sharadin moved in to take control of Karn's Keep. Cynalon has controlled it ever since. It was here that I was doing research on the Pillar Artifact when I ended up by the Sylvan Realm.”

After about ten minutes of waiting a pair of familiar figures are approaching. Its the twins, Sherry and Terry. The young ladies both have shoulder length blonde hair and sparkling blue eyes. They are a little taller than Argent and Kylie and also a little younger.

“Kylie!” one of the twins calls out as she approaches and gives Kylie a hug.

“Argent?” the other twin questions as she approaches and gives Argent a hug. “Is that really you?”

“In the flesh,” Argent says happily with a few tears of joy in her eyes. “Its been so long. You have no idea what I have gone through...”

The first twin dismisses the guards and they return to their post. Turning back to the group she says, “Forgive us for the rude welcome.”

“Things are very tense right now in Cynalon,” the other twin adds.

“Come let us retire to more comfortable surroundings where we can catch up.”

Argent is taken aback by the greeting. The twins seem to act as if I haven't been away for so long. Everyone is many steps away before Argent recovers and she chases after them.

The twins lead you out a nearby door and into a long hallway. Over one hundred feet later you all enter into a huge 60' square room. This is the meeting room and map room for the keep. A huge table fills the middle of the room and on its top is a huge map covering this are of the world. Many more maps are hanging from the walls around the room. Kylie recalls that Sherwood used these maps to figure out the course to fly the barge to the Sylvan Realm all those weeks ago. There are also many comfortable chairs and small couches in the room.

“Make yourself comfortable,” the twins say gesturing towards the chairs.

“Having you arrive here like this is a surprise,” one of the twins states.

“It was our understanding that you were in the Sylvan Realm,” a twin says indicating Kylie.

“And you're supposed to be in Elcadan,” the other twins states gesturing towards Argent.

“What happened?”

“What brings you here?”

Kylie laughs. "We were until just moments ago. That is where I found my mom. We successfully restored the Mother Tree there, and are working to restore the Sylvan Realm.

"As for Argent, that's where things get a bit more complicated. You see, there are more than one Argent, apparently due to some kind of magical mishap. Argent, perhaps it would be best if you tell the story from your perspective."

“I've been missing for nearly two months!” Argent cries out, starting to get too emotional and still not believing that there are other 'hers'. “The Pillar Artifact took me to the far north east to these ancient ruins! I was held captive by orcs for weeks until Kylie and her friends rescued me! Why didn't you come looking for me? I don't know who is in Elcadan, but it is not me!”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

While waiting for Sherry and Terry to arrive, Argent reveals the history of Karn's Keep.

“I can do that,” Argent replies. “This place has a long and rich history. It was built by giants, but we have no idea just how long ago that was. A Lord Karn used this place when Keln controlled this area. That's how it got the name Karn's Keep. This Karn had something called the 'Sword of Doom' that gave him great prestige with Keln. Lord Sharadin sent us here to find it. Turns out the Sword of Doom was not a weapon, the obvious choice, but rather its a flying ship. Much like the Sunflower I suppose, but probably a warship. The group I was with, the Company of the Sword, got here and the had to clear out the creatures that lived here and then later repel an invasion by Hextor forces. Using the Pillar Artifact in the basement, Lord Sharadin moved in to take control of Karn's Keep. Cynalon has controlled it ever since. It was here that I was doing research on the Pillar Artifact when I ended up by the Sylvan Realm.”

“I have heard of some of those names in my travels,” Allurien will admit. “But this place sounds like a wonderful find.”

The twins arrive and greet their guests.

"Sherry! Terry! So wonderful to see you both," Kylie exclaims as she returns the hug. "May I introduce my mother, Allurien Feador? Mom, this is Sherry and Terry; they are Sharadin's daughters."

“Good to meet you,” one of the twins starts to say.

“Ma'am,” the other twin finishes.

“In the flesh,” Argent says happily with a few tears of joy in her eyes. “Its been so long. You have no idea what I have gone through...”

The twin who hugged Argent finds her response a bit odd, but does not comment on it.

In short order everyone is led to a combination map room and meeting room.

Kylie laughs. "We were until just moments ago. That is where I found my mom. We successfully restored the Mother Tree there, and are working to restore the Sylvan Realm.”

“That's wonderful,” one of the twins states. “Finding your mom like that.”

“Sherwood told us that you had succeeded in your quest,” the other twin adds.

"As for Argent, that's where things get a bit more complicated. You see, there are more than one Argent, apparently due to some kind of magical mishap. Argent, perhaps it would be best if you tell the story from your perspective."

“I've been missing for nearly two months!” Argent cries out, starting to get too emotional and still not believing that there are other 'hers'. “The Pillar Artifact took me to the far north east to these ancient ruins! I was held captive by orcs for weeks until Kylie and her friends rescued me! Why didn't you come looking for me? I don't know who is in Elcadan, but it is not me!”

The twins are taken aback by what Argent says and are quiet for several moments. Then they exchange looks with each other, as if engaging in a form of silent communication.

“I believe you Argent,” one of them will finally say. “Honestly.”

“This is quite a shock.”

“And Kylie is right.”

“Back when you had your 'accident', an Argent did return to Karn's Keep.”

“She was weak and just made it up the stairs from the Pillar Artifact.”

“Than she collapsed.”

“Father was summoned and while he was picking her up, another Argent arrived and she too collapsed!”

“We thought that was the end of it, but clearly we were wrong.”

“We are so, sorry!”

“No one imagined that there were three of you!”

“Do you think we--,”a twin says to her other.

“Definitely we should,” the other answers. “Excuse me. I will return shortly.” This twin leaves the room on her errand, while the other twin remains and tries to comfort Argent.

About ten minutes later, the twin returns and she is not alone. With her is Sherwood!

“What happened?” Sherwood asks of Kylie and Argent.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

Argent responds to the invitation and launches into a summary of the history of the castle. It proves to be an interesting tale.

“I have heard of some of those names in my travels,” Allurien will admit. “But this place sounds like a wonderful find.”

"Admittedly, the size of everything here takes some getting used to; at least, it did for me," Kylie says. "I would be interested to hear more about this flying ship, the 'Sword of Doom'. I imagine that a flying warship would be very powerful indeed, as defensive walls would be no barrier to it."

“That's wonderful,” one of the twins states. “Finding your mom like that.”

“Sherwood told us that you had succeeded in your quest,” the other twin adds.

Kylie smiles over at her mom before turning back to the twins. "It has been a very eventful fortnight. So much has happened..."

Suddenly, Argent's pent-up frustrations and anxieties of the last two months spill forth in tears and pained words. Kylie steps forward to comfort her friend, as Sharadin's daughters relate what they know of other Argents. One of the twins departs, and returns with Sherwood in tow.

“What happened?” Sherwood asks of Kylie and Argent.

Kylie looks from Sherwood to Argent, then back to Sherwood. When she speaks, her voice is soft yet serious. "Hi Sherwood. We found Argent here in some ruins to the northeast of the Sylvan Realm. She had been a prisoner of some scro there for over seven weeks. We were able to rescue her, though she has been through a terrible ordeal." Not wishing to make the situation worse, Kylie doesn't mention the other Argent they found there. Probably better to broach that subject with Sherwood when Argent is not nearby.

[Argent]

Argent:

"Admittedly, the size of everything here takes some getting used to; at least, it did for me," Kylie says. "I would be interested to hear more about this flying ship, the 'Sword of Doom'. I imagine that a flying warship would be very powerful indeed, as defensive walls would be no barrier to it."

“You've been to Karn's Keep before?” Argent inquires. “It appears that you've gotten around as much as I have.”

“As for the Sword of Doom,” Argent continues, “I guessed it to be a flying ship by the things Karn wrote in his journal. He said that he found the sword in the Jungle of Lost Ships, somewhere in the Endless Sea. As he became older, Karn become more and more paranoid and he returned the Sword to where he had found it. He used the Pillar artifact, modified by items to change its destination. By that method he made keys to go back to the Sword of Doom, but this method was perilous as he hid the keys in dangerous places. As I understood it, the Seekers of the Sword were going to use ships supplied by the Crown and just sail to this Jungle of Lost Ships to recover the Sword of Doom.”

“But given what I've learned as far as the Sunflower goes and about these Spell Engines, I have to wonder if the Sword of Doom is also a flying ship outfitted with those magical devices. With what I know, it would make sense.”

Later in the private meeting area, Argent lets loose her pent up emotions, much to the surprise of the twins.

The twins are taken aback by what Argent says and are quiet for several moments. Then they exchange looks with each other, as if engaging in a form of silent communication.

“I believe you Argent,” one of them will finally say. “Honestly.”

“This is quite a shock.”

“Try living what I've been through,” Argent adds with more than a trace of sarcasm.

“And Kylie is right.”

“Back when you had your 'accident', an Argent did return to Karn's Keep.”

“She was weak and just made it up the stairs from the Pillar Artifact.”

“Than she collapsed.”

“Father was summoned and while he was picking her up, another Argent arrived and she too collapsed!”

“The same thing happened to me...” Argent starts to say before trailing off. There has been talk of there being more than one of her before, but that was from the elf Lilia, a stranger to Argent. But here are people that she's known for years. They should have no reason to lie to me. “I appeared at Pillar Artifact far to the northeast in an Elder City. I had no idea which pillar was the one that would take be back here. Before I could figure it out, I collapsed. When I awoke the next day, I was a prisoner of the scro.”

“We thought that was the end of it, but clearly we were wrong.”

“We are so, sorry!”

“No one imagined that there were three of you!”

“Do you think we--,”a twin says to her other.

“Definitely we should,” the other answers. “Excuse me. I will return shortly.” This twin leaves the room on her errand, while the other twin remains and tries to comfort Argent.

Argent curls up in a chair, not really knowing what the think. She doesn't want to believe that there other 'hers' out there. The whole concept just freaks her out!

About ten minutes later, the twin returns and she is not alone. With her is Sherwood!

“What happened?” Sherwood asks of Kylie and Argent.

Kylie looks from Sherwood to Argent, then back to Sherwood. When she speaks, her voice is soft yet serious. "Hi Sherwood. We found Argent here in some ruins to the northeast of the Sylvan Realm. She had been a prisoner of some scro there for over seven weeks. We were able to rescue her, though she has been through a terrible ordeal." Not wishing to make the situation worse, Kylie doesn't mention the other Argent they found there. Probably better to broach that subject with Sherwood when Argent is not nearby.

Argent knows enough about Sherwood that he wouldn't maliciously lie to her.

“Is it true?” Argent asks in a small voice. “There are other-- other me's running around out there?”

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

Sherwood is engrossed in his studies when one of his cousins rushes in with surprising news. Kylie, her mother, and a short-haired Argent just arrived by way of teleportation. His cousin believes this be a yet another Argent who claims that she arrived in Elder ruins near the Sylvan Realm. Putting aside his work, Sherwood goes to see this for himself. With Uncle Sharadin away on his quest with Silvarn, there really isn't anyone else in charge of Karn's Keep.

Entering the chamber, Sherwood can see a worried Kylie and a seemingly traumatized Argent. Kyle's mother, Allurien, is present as well. Perhaps she was the one who cast the spell that teleported them to Karn's Keep.

“Ma'am,” Sherwood says with a nod when his eye catches Allurien.

“What happened?” Sherwood asks of Kylie and Argent as he walks towards them. It's only been about 9 days since he last seen Kylie back in the Sylvan Realm.

Kylie looks from Sherwood to Argent, then back to Sherwood. When she speaks, her voice is soft yet serious. "Hi Sherwood. We found Argent here in some ruins to the northeast of the Sylvan Realm. She had been a prisoner of some scro there for over seven weeks. We were able to rescue her, though she has been through a terrible ordeal." Not wishing to make the situation worse, Kylie doesn't mention the other Argent they found there. Probably better to broach that subject with Sherwood when Argent is not nearby.

“You did well to bring Argent back here,” Sherwood says to Kylie. “I see that arrival point papers I gave you paid off. I'm happy to see that you are okay. How is everyone else?”

Argent knows enough about Sherwood that he wouldn't maliciously lie to her.

“Is it true?” Argent asks in a small voice. “There are other-- other me's running around out there?”

Hearing Argent speak, Sherwood turns his attention towards her. He takes a seat near hers so that he can converse. Looking back towards is cousins for a moment, he nods at them, informing them to carry out an action discussed along the way.

“It is true,” Sherwood will tell Argent as gently as he can. “What Sherry and Terry told you was true. I was not at Karn's Keep when it happened, but my family informed me later on. In fact I was with the Guardians of Light and Kylie at that time.”

“That was the day we rode from Ansimont to Favaro,” Sherwood says to Kylie as an aside.

“Uncle Sharadin carried the Argents and placed them in different beds in different rooms so that they could rest. He then went and got Jallarzi and Elspeth. The two seemed virtually identical, even down to their clothes and magic items. Divinations were cast and they said that they were both Argent. They didn't wake up until the next morning. Jallarzi spoke to them in private to determine who was who.”

“As I understand it, Jallarzi knows something about you that no one else does,” Sherwood surmises. “Jallarzi used this fact to determine that both of them were in fact real.”

“This led to the two Argents meeting face to face and, perhaps not surprisingly, they couldn't stand the concept of them having a double. I am told that they argued with each other for a time before Jallarzi yelled at time. Regardless, it was clear that the two Argent's couldn't stand to be around each other. So, one decided to go back to Elcadan and seek out Adventure. The other remained at Karn's Keep to continue the research on the Pillar Artifact.”

“I lost track of the Argent that went back to Elcadan,” Sherwood continues. “Jallarzi told me that she ended up with an adventuring band who explored the ruins of Demara's Castle. I'm not sure what she did after that.”

“Meanwhile the Guardians of Light were now riding on Rennydale and discovered the corruption that had taken place there. We rescued a messenger that Validar had sent to Rennydale earlier. I teleported away with him to take him to safety and to also alert the lower lands of the danger now in Rennydale.”

“I was at the Sallavarian Estate when Elspeth had her vision concerning the Dark One. We went to Karn's Keep to try to find more information about the Dark One from the library there. That's when I ran into the Argent who had remained at Karn's Keep. She was bored, as Uncle Sharadin had discontinued use of the Pillar Artifact since what had happened. When that Argent learned that both Kylie and Kharyna were where I was going, she asked to come along. We felt it was good for her to get out and adventure to find out if there were any side affects from what had happened. As I understand it, that Argent is still with the Guardians and they are in Elcadan right now.”

“That pretty much covers everything,” Sherwood concludes. “Clearly no one gave a thought that there might be more that two of you. I suppose that is no consolation, but it is the truth.”

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

“You've been to Karn's Keep before?” Argent inquires. “It appears that you've gotten around as much as I have.”

Kylie nods. "Just once. We briefly stopped here before starting our trip north to the Sylvan Realm. Sharadin loaned us a small barge and a magic tiara that made it fly. It was a much faster way to make the long trip."

Argent explains what she knows about the ship known as the 'Sword of Doom'. Her supposition that it too uses Spell Engines makes sense. "You're probably right, Argent. I hope to see it some day; though preferably not as an opponent in a battle."

“You did well to bring Argent back here,” Sherwood says to Kylie. “I see that arrival point papers I gave you paid off. I'm happy to see that you are okay. How is everyone else?”

Kylie responds with a nod of acknowledgement. "The others are doing well, though Nariya has gone her own way and we have not seen her recently."

At Argent's request, Sherwood fills them in on the experiences of the other two Argents that he knows of. It is a long and interesting narrative, and Kylie listens closely to the tale. It sounds like the other Argents are doing as well as can be expected, though they too struggle with the idea of there being more than one of them. When he finishes, Kylie turns back to Argent to see how she is taking the news.
____________________________________________________________________________
I kind of like the idea of Nariya being one of those NPCs that shows up briefly now and then, just to keep her a part of the setting. It also avoids the likelihood of the PCs feeling like they have to go in search of her at some point.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

"Admittedly, the size of everything here takes some getting used to; at least, it did for me," Kylie says. "I would be interested to hear more about this flying ship, the 'Sword of Doom'. I imagine that a flying warship would be very powerful indeed, as defensive walls would be no barrier to it."

“It would add a new dimension to warfare,” Allurien agrees with interest as Argent speaks of this 'Sword of Doom'.

“But given what I've learned as far as the Sunflower goes and about these Spell Engines, I have to wonder if the Sword of Doom is also a flying ship outfitted with those magical devices. With what I know, it would make sense.”

Argent explains what she knows about the ship known as the 'Sword of Doom'. Her supposition that it too uses Spell Engines makes sense. "You're probably right, Argent. I hope to see it some day; though preferably not as an opponent in a battle."

“We know that the Spell Engines on the Sunflower have defensive capabilities,” Allurien states. “I imagine that they would be even stronger on a ship of war. Which begs the question, do these magic items have offensive capabilities as well?”


Argent reveals just what she's been through to the twins.

“Try living what I've been through,” Argent adds with more than a trace of sarcasm.

The twins exchange glances once more, but fail to find the words to respond.

“The same thing happened to me...” Argent starts to say before trailing off. There has been talk of there being more than one of her before, but that was from the elf Lilia, a stranger to Argent. But here are people that she's known for years. They should have no reason to lie to me. “I appeared at Pillar Artifact far to the northeast in an Elder City. I had no idea which pillar was the one that would take be back here. Before I could figure it out, I collapsed. When I awoke the next day, I was a prisoner of the scro.”

“An Elder City?” a twin calls out in mixture of surprise and excitement. “Were there Elders there?”

“What is a scro?” the other twin asks.

“Ma'am,” Sherwood says with a nod when his eye catches Allurien.

“Sherwood Elf-Friend”, Allurien responds nodding in return. Allurien hovers near the edges of the conversation. She keeps track of what is going on, but doesn't get involved in it.

Hearing Argent speak, Sherwood turns his attention towards her. He takes a seat near hers so that he can converse. Looking back towards is cousins for a moment, he nods at them, informing them to carry out an action discussed along the way.

The twins nod in return and step away from the group. They then join hands and both then speaks a magical word. Together they vanish, having teleported away.

Now what?

[Argent]

Argent:

Kylie nods. "Just once. We briefly stopped here before starting our trip north to the Sylvan Realm. Sharadin loaned us a small barge and a magic tiara that made it fly. It was a much faster way to make the long trip."

“The Crown of the Stars?” Argent asks rhetorically. “The Company found that when we cleared out the keep. Lord Sharadin ended up with it. I always wondered what it did.”

Argent explains what she knows about the ship known as the 'Sword of Doom'. Her supposition that it too uses Spell Engines makes sense. "You're probably right, Argent. I hope to see it some day; though preferably not as an opponent in a battle."

“It would take a mage battle to a whole new level,” Argent adds. “Given how these Spell Engines work, the chance to serve on such a ship as a mage would be tempting.”

“We know that the Spell Engines on the Sunflower have defensive capabilities,” Allurien states. “I imagine that they would be even stronger on a ship of war. Which begs the question, do these magic items have offensive capabilities as well?”

“Well, hopefully not good enough to replace an Invoker such as myself!” Argent counters. “I would hope to not be replaced by a magic item!”

“An Elder City?” a twin calls out in mixture of surprise and excitement. “Were there Elders there?”

“Yes, a whole surviving city,” Argent answers. “That's what I needed to report to Lord Sharadin. Not only was there a normal size Pillar Artifact, but a king-sized one as well! No Elders, just plenty of orcs.”

“What is a scro?” the other twin asks.

“A smarter kind of orc,” Argent answers with disdain. “They can stand up straight.”

“It is true,” Sherwood will tell Argent as gently as he can. “What Sherry and Terry told you was true. I was not at Karn's Keep when it happened, but my family informed me later on. In fact I was with the Guardians of Light and Kylie at that time.”

“That was the day we rode from Ansimont to Favaro,” Sherwood says to Kylie as an aside.

Argent goes pale as she listens to Sherwood tale. Everything that everyone was trying to tell her is true!

“Uncle Sharadin carried the Argents and placed them in different beds in different rooms so that they could rest. He then went and got Jallarzi and Elspeth. The two seemed virtually identical, even down to their clothes and magic items. Divinations were cast and they said that they were both Argent. They didn't wake up until the next morning. Jallarzi spoke to them in private to determine who was who.”

“As I understand it, Jallarzi knows something about you that no one else does,” Sherwood surmises. “Jallarzi used this fact to determine that both of them were in fact real.”

“Yes, she does,” Argent mutters in regards to Jallarzi knowing a secret about her. However, she does not elaborate any beyond that.

“This led to the two Argents meeting face to face and, perhaps not surprisingly, they couldn't stand the concept of them having a double. I am told that they argued with each other for a time before Jallarzi yelled at time. Regardless, it was clear that the two Argent's couldn't stand to be around each other. So, one decided to go back to Elcadan and seek out Adventure. The other remained at Karn's Keep to continue the research on the Pillar Artifact.”

“That I can completely understand,” Argent adds. “It just creeps me out!”

“I lost track of the Argent that went back to Elcadan,” Sherwood continues. “Jallarzi told me that she ended up with an adventuring band who explored the ruins of Demara's Castle. I'm not sure what she did after that.”

“That was an interest of mine,” Argent inserts. “Ever since I read about her and the Fellowship of mages.”

“Meanwhile the Guardians of Light were now riding on Rennydale and discovered the corruption that had taken place there. We rescued a messenger that Validar had sent to Rennydale earlier. I teleported away with him to take him to safety and to also alert the lower lands of the danger now in Rennydale.”

“I was at the Sallavarian Estate when Elspeth had her vision concerning the Dark One. We went to Karn's Keep to try to find more information about the Dark One from the library there. That's when I ran into the Argent who had remained at Karn's Keep. She was bored, as Uncle Sharadin had discontinued use of the Pillar Artifact since what had happened. When that Argent learned that both Kylie and Kharyna were where I was going, she asked to come along. We felt it was good for her to get out and adventure to find out if there were any side affects from what had happened. As I understand it, that Argent is still with the Guardians and they are in Elcadan right now.”

“Why didn't you tell me about meeting Kharyna?” Argent wonders glancing at Kylie. “I would have been happy to know that she was okay.”

“That pretty much covers everything,” Sherwood concludes. “Clearly no one gave a thought that there might be more that two of you. I suppose that is no consolation, but it is the truth.”

“No it's not,” Argent tells Sherwood in a hurt voice. “Thank you for filling me in, Sherwood. I need time to think. I'll be in my room if you need me.”

Unless otherwise stopped, Argent will slowly walk to her quarters in the mage tower.

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

Kylie responds with a nod of acknowledgment. "The others are doing well, though Nariya has gone her own way and we have not seen her recently."

“Not a big surprise,” Sherwood notes. “Nariya always hated being in one place too long. She's probably just off exploring on her own. She'll turn up eventually and probably when you least expect it.”

Argent goes pale as she listens to Sherwood tale. Everything that everyone was trying to tell her is true!

Sherwood can't help but note Argent's reaction to what he is telling her. However, sometimes there is no way to sugar coat something. Just plow ahead and tell the truth. It's far better than a subterfuge that can come back to haunt you.

“That I can completely understand,” Argent adds. “It just creeps me out!”

“Your 'sisters' seemed to feel the same way,” Sherwood states. “I suppose it is a normal reaction for most everyone. We all think that we are unique.”

Finally Sherwood finishes his tale, at least what he knows mostly from a distance about the situation.

“No it's not,” Argent tells Sherwood in a hurt voice. “Thank you for filling me in, Sherwood. I need time to think. I'll be in my room if you need me.”

“Of course,” Sherwood easily says. “Take all the time you need.”

After Sherwood is sure that Argent is out of earshot, he'll turn to Kylie and say, “Was there anything else you can tell me? The twins said something about an Elder City?”

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

“The Crown of the Stars?” Argent asks rhetorically. “The Company found that when we cleared out the keep. Lord Sharadin ended up with it. I always wondered what it did.”

"That's the one," Kylie replies with a smile. "Along the way, we found a Spell Engine in a flying ship that had crashed in the mountains, so we switched to using that for the rest of the trip north."

“We know that the Spell Engines on the Sunflower have defensive capabilities,” Allurien states. “I imagine that they would be even stronger on a ship of war. Which begs the question, do these magic items have offensive capabilities as well?”

Kylie shrugs. "None of the ones that I have used have had any attack abilities, but that doesn't mean that others don't. Of course, a flying ship full of archers and/or mages could be devastating."

“Well, hopefully not good enough to replace an Invoker such as myself!” Argent counters. “I would hope to not be replaced by a magic item!”

Argent's concerns over the value of her abilities brings a grin to Kylie's face.

“A smarter kind of orc,” Argent answers with disdain. “They can stand up straight.”

Feeling that Argent's statement doesn't entirely answer the question, Kylie pipes up. "They're also more organized and disciplined, which makes them more dangerous."

“Not a big surprise,” Sherwood notes. “Nariya always hated being in one place too long. She's probably just off exploring on her own. She'll turn up eventually and probably when you least expect it.”

"That's pretty much in line with what I had surmised," Kylie replies, nodding in agreement.

“Why didn't you tell me about meeting Kharyna?” Argent wonders glancing at Kylie. “I would have been happy to know that she was okay.”

Kylie looks down, blushing slightly. "I'm sorry, Argent, I guess it didn't occur to me. I forgot that you were... are a lot closer to her than I ever was."

After Sherwood is sure that Argent is out of earshot, he'll turn to Kylie and say, “Was there anything else you can tell me? The twins said something about an Elder City?”

Kylie pauses, collecting her thoughts. "It might be easiest to just tell the whole story from the beginning...

"Scouts had reported that the surviving orcs had retreated to the northeast once we drove them out of the Realm. Despite Lilia's statements - she's the Queen now - that the first priority was protecting the Mother Tree until more reinforcements arrived from the Elfholds, the Red Arrow clan leader named Chondra snuck away at night with his followers to go hunt them down. When we learned of this, we assembled a small team to try to bring them back.

"At our first stop, we found a damaged outlook station in the mountains made of a kind of stone that glows red and is sometimes transparent. We found an elf there that Chondra had left behind, due to suffering some kind of mental affliction. In the morning, we could see the ruins of an Elder city to the north, and Chondra's forces engaged in battle with what looked like orcs.

"When we arrived, we were able to save a few of the elves, but most of the battle was already over. Not only were their bodies of elves, and scro, but some strange bug-creatures as well.

"Looking about, most of the buildings were partially buried. There was one main tower that was quite tall. It had a small pillar artifact on top, that I suspect was where Argent initially arrived.

"Working our way down through the tower, it turned out to be infested with more of these bug-creatures. The main ones looked a bit like humanoid ants or crickets, and they were served by some flying bug-creatures as well.

"In one of the lower levels of the tower, we found them holding a few prisoners, including Argent, and a scro woman named Myev. Another level opened into a large cave, which contained a larger pillar artifact. Chondra and other elven prisoners were being held there. The leader of the bug-creatures was another Argent, who had apparently become thoroughly evil and allied with the bug-creatures; she was able to communicate with them and give them orders. That Argent also ranted about them coming here and taking over this world, and then slew Chondra as more and more of the bug-creatures started coming through the pillar artifact.

"We managed to rescue most of the remaining elves, and killed the evil Argent. We then collapsed the roof of the cave, burying the pillar artifact and the rest of the bug-creatures. Of course, more of them may be able to come through and unbury the pillar. We believe that they are a serious threat to this world, as they can change people into creatures like themselves.

"After escaping with this Argent," Kylie continues, gesturing in the direction that Argent left, "Myev, and the rescued elves, we sent the elves back to the red stone outpost with Valena, and spent the night nearby to get some rest. Shortly before dawn, Talen left on his own with one of the griffins. Fortunately, Laucian spotted Talen in the distance when he awoke, and we were able to pursue. As we followed him, we could see off in the distance a ship flying the same colors as the scro were wearing, and a lighthouse.

"The scro that had remained on the ship had seen Talen, and moved to attack. We defeated them, and found Talen standing next to a strange stone obelisk. A stone arm from the obelisk was wrapped around his head. It released him when we approached, and Talen collapsed unconscious. We found small, odd burns on his head and were unable to wake him.

"While some cared for Talen, Laucian, Andlin, and I flew north to investigate the ship and the lighthouse. What we thought was a lighthouse turned out to be an enormous pillar artifact! And the ship was powered by three Spell Engines. We used the ship to pick up Valena and the other elves, and then returned to the Mother Tree.

"We later learned that the scro had used the ship to travel here from another world. Myev was the only scro on the ship that had any spell-casting ability, and hers was very weak. Thus, it should not have been possible for her to pilot the ship through space, much less find this world. Mother Tree told us that she was able to do so because Myev housed the spirit of an elf from this other world. She also brought a leaf from the Mother Tree of that world, which contained a message from that Mother Tree that the elves of that world need to be rescued."

Kylie pauses for a moment. "Sorry for droning on so long. As you can tell, it has been an eventful few weeks since you left."

___________________________________________________________________________
If I made any factual errors, please assume that Kylie got them right. I didn't spend much time researching the details, and wrote this mostly from my aging brain's memory.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

If I made any factual errors, please assume that Kylie got them right. I didn't spend much time researching the details, and wrote this mostly from my aging brain's memory.

Really only 2 errors that I noticed. One incredibly minor, its Chandra, not Chondra.

The other is a bit more complicated. The Hive Argent was controlled by the bug on her head, so she was not acting of her own free will. What Kylie and Lilia saw was the Hive placing a bug on Chandra's head. His cries of pain was the bug burrowing into his brain! The bug connected him to the hive mind and all that Chandra knew was now known to the Hive. Hive Argent didn't kill Chandra, in the strictest sense, rather he was going to be changed into a Hive creature like was fought going down the tower. He was really killed for good when the ceiling was brought down on top of him.

[Argent]

Argent:

"That's the one," Kylie replies with a smile. "Along the way, we found a Spell Engine in a flying ship that had crashed in the mountains, so we switched to using that for the rest of the trip north."

“Sounds like it was an exciting trip,” Argent adds.

Kylie looks down, blushing slightly. "I'm sorry, Argent, I guess it didn't occur to me. I forgot that you were...are a lot closer to her than I ever was."

“She's my friend,” Argent quietly states. “Just like you are. I would want to know that my friends were safe and healthy.”

“Your 'sisters' seemed to feel the same way,” Sherwood states. “I suppose it is a normal reaction for most everyone. We all think that we are unique.”

“Yeah, that we do,” Argent agrees. “I'd think it was a trick or something or a doppelganger or some other monster. Anything other than another me.”

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

Sherwood listens as Kylie brings him up to date with what has transpired since he left the Sylvan Realm.

"Scouts had reported that the surviving orcs had retreated to the northeast once we drove them out of the Realm. Despite Lilia's statements - she's the Queen now - that the first priority was protecting the Mother Tree until more reinforcements arrived from the Elfholds, the Red Arrow clan leader named Chandra snuck away at night with his followers to go hunt them down. When we learned of this, we assembled a small team to try to bring them back.”

“Lilia is queen now?” Sherwood interrupts. “Wow, she really did get changed when she became a priestess. I never would have guessed that's where she would end up.”

"At our first stop, we found a damaged outlook station in the mountains made of a kind of stone that glows red and is sometimes transparent. We found an elf there that Chandra had left behind, due to suffering some kind of mental affliction. In the morning, we could see the ruins of an Elder city to the north, and Chandra's forces engaged in battle with what looked like orcs.”

“A whole Elder City,” Sherwood says. “We've only found bits of surviving ruins here and there, but a whole city. That is an incredible find!”

"When we arrived, we were able to save a few of the elves, but most of the battle was already over. Not only were their bodies of elves, and scro, but some strange bug-creatures as well.”

"Looking about, most of the buildings were partially buried. There was one main tower that was quite tall. It had a small pillar artifact on top, that I suspect was where Argent initially arrived.”

"Working our way down through the tower, it turned out to be infested with more of these bug-creatures. The main ones looked a bit like humanoid ants or crickets, and they were served by some flying bug-creatures as well.”

“How big were these bugs?” Sherwood asks. “They must have been quite large to be a serious threat.”

"In one of the lower levels of the tower, we found them holding a few prisoners, including Argent, and a scro woman named Myev. Another level opened into a large cave, which contained a larger pillar artifact. Chandra and other elven prisoners were being held there. The leader of the bug-creatures was another Argent, who had apparently become thoroughly evil and allied with the bug-creatures; she was able to communicate with them and give them orders. That Argent also ranted about them coming here and taking over this world, and then slew Chandra as more and more of the bug-creatures started coming through the pillar artifact.”

“Another Argent?” Sherwood says incredulously. “How many of her are there? Did they force this other Argent to serve them? Magic perhaps?”

“And this larger Pillar Artifact you mentioned. Just how much bigger was it? Was there any other differences to it?”

"We managed to rescue most of the remaining elves, and killed the evil Argent. We then collapsed the roof of the cave, burying the pillar artifact and the rest of the bug-creatures. Of course, more of them may be able to come through and unbury the pillar. We believe that they are a serious threat to this world, as they can change people into creatures like themselves.”

“They do sound like a major threat,” Sherwood agrees. “If they can travel around using the Pillar Artifacts, they can attack just about anywhere without warning. If they can change people into them, then they could have limitless numbers.”

"After escaping with this Argent," Kylie continues, gesturing in the direction that Argent left, "Myev, and the rescued elves, we sent the elves back to the red stone outpost with Valena, and spent the night nearby to get some rest. Shortly before dawn, Talen left on his own with one of the griffins. Fortunately, Laucian spotted Talen in the distance when he awoke, and we were able to pursue. As we followed him, we could see off in the distance a ship flying the same colors as the scro were wearing, and a lighthouse.”

"The scro that had remained on the ship had seen Talen, and moved to attack. We defeated them, and found Talen standing next to a strange stone obelisk. A stone arm from the obelisk was wrapped around his head. It released him when we approached, and Talen collapsed unconscious. We found small, odd burns on his head and were unable to wake him.”

“Is Talen alright?” Sherwood asks in concern for his new cousin. “Any idea what this obelisk did to him?”

"While some cared for Talen, Laucian, Andlin, and I flew north to investigate the ship and the lighthouse. What we thought was a lighthouse turned out to be an enormous pillar artifact! And the ship was powered by three Spell Engines. We used the ship to pick up Valena and the other elves, and then returned to the Mother Tree.”

“A third type of Pillar Artifact?” Sherwood says in disbelieve. “Were there the six of this giant pillars like all the other ones? Yet another flying ship. They seem to be turning up a lot lately.”

"We later learned that the scro had used the ship to travel here from another world. Myev was the only scro on the ship that had any spell-casting ability, and hers was very weak. Thus, it should not have been possible for her to pilot the ship through space, much less find this world. Mother Tree told us that she was able to do so because Myev housed the spirit of an elf from this other world. She also brought a leaf from the Mother Tree of that world, which contained a message from that Mother Tree that the elves of that world need to be rescued."

Kylie pauses for a moment. "Sorry for droning on so long. As you can tell, it has been an eventful few weeks since you left."

“Yeah, I can tell,” Sherwood agrees wondering if this is what he sounds like when revealing new information. “It sounds like you will be very busy up in the Sylvan Realm. This Elder City is an incredible find and this Hive sounds very dangerous. I'm surprised that Argent, any of them, would want to return here when the had the chance to explore an Elder City. She's always been very interested in them and probably knows more about the Pillar Artifact than anyone else in Cynalon. Being held prisoner by orcs for weeks on end would break most people.”

“Unfortunately, I don't know if anyone here can be of help to you and the Sylvan Realm just now,” Sherwood adds. “Cynalon is in a state of civil war. I just learned about it myself. I only got back to Karn's Keep a few days ago after I left the Sylvan Realm. The old families of the Inner Kingdom are trying to take control of Cynalon. These are dark times for us.”

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

“Sounds like it was an exciting trip,” Argent adds.

"It was quite the experience; I can tell you that," Kylie replies with a laugh. Looking back, it seems far less terrifying than it was at the time.

“She's my friend,” Argent quietly states. “Just like you are. I would want to know that my friends were safe and healthy.”

Kylie finds that she has no response to Argent's statement, so she just nods her head sadly in recognition of her failure.

“Lilia is queen now?” Sherwood interrupts. “Wow, she really did get changed when she became a priestess. I never would have guessed that's where she would end up.”

Kylie nods, grinning. "I don't think even she expected it." She looks over at her mother. "Mom, I think I recall you saying that there was only one vote separating her from Chandra of Clan Red Arrow, who was the other candidate. He ended up as the Head of the Council - until his unfortunate demise." Honestly, Kylie's not certain that it was that unfortunate; there's no way to know how many other problems he would have caused if he had survived.

“A whole Elder City,” Sherwood says. “We've only found bits of surviving ruins here and there, but a whole city. That is an incredible find!”

"Argent discovered evidence that the city had been known to the Elders as Shillesta. Substantial amounts of it were apparently buried; the tower had somewhere around a dozen levels that were now underground, though it was clear that it had once been open on the ground floor."

"Also, it seems that the Elders were actually multiple races; we saw indications that there had been at least four different races among the Elders."

“How big were these bugs?” Sherwood asks. “They must have been quite large to be a serious threat.”

"The flying bugs were about so big," Kylie says, gesturing with her hands to try to give a good sense of their size. "Just big enough to bury their mandibles in a victim's forehead, and their tail into the back of their neck."

"As for the ant-men, most of them were about 5' tall, though a few of them were closer to 7' tall. Hard to know if some of that difference was based on what type of person they had been transformed from, or development level, or something else entirely. The larger ones were definitely tougher. All of them had red and black coloring."

“Another Argent?” Sherwood says incredulously. “How many of her are there? Did they force this other Argent to serve them? Magic perhaps?”

Kylie shrugs in response to Sherwood's question. "I really don't know. There was a bug in her hair, but it was smaller and quite different; it's color was mostly silver and gold. I cannot say whether it was controlling her or just allowing her to communicate with the other bug-creatures."

"I do not believe that she survived." There is a tinge of sadness in Kylie's voice. Would it have been possible to save that Argent too? Under the circumstances, they will never know.

“And this larger Pillar Artifact you mentioned. Just how much bigger was it? Was there any other differences to it?”

Kylie thinks for a moment before responding. "I'd say about 3 times as big as the ones on top of the tower. Roughly... 20' tall, as an estimate? They were a fair ways away, and there were other concerns at the time. I certainly didn't notice any other differences, but maybe Lilia did? I don't know."

“They do sound like a major threat,” Sherwood agrees. “If they can travel around using the Pillar Artifacts, they can attack just about anywhere without warning. If they can change people into them, then they could have limitless numbers.”

"Honestly, they were pretty terrifying. The first of the flying bugs that we encountered was attached to a dead orc. It was able to make it move, and even speak through its mouth. We also battled a few orcs that were partially changed. They were hideous."

"The Argent that was serving as a sort of 'Hive Queen' had already infected Chandra and the scro commander with bugs by the time we found the cave under the tower. Their screams were horrific to hear. I think we did them a favor by killing them." The grim look on Kylie's face can only hint at the terror and horror that they experienced in that place.

“Is Talen alright?” Sherwood asks in concern for his new cousin. “Any idea what this obelisk did to him?”

A fond smile creeps onto Kylie's face. "Yes, Sheeryl Soulsearcher was able to restore him once we returned to Mother Tree. According to Argent, this obelisk was some kind of instruction device for young Elder. For whatever reason, he was similar enough to what it expected in a young Elder and inflicted him with a need to come to it. He doesn't appear to be able to consciously access whatever it was supposed to have taught him. Maybe that will change in time."

"That same sort of summons is apparently what caused that one young elf at Crimson Crest to react so strangely. he was fine once we got far enough away that he no longer felt the summons."

“A third type of Pillar Artifact?” Sherwood says in disbelieve. “Were there the six of this giant pillars like all the other ones? Yet another flying ship. They seem to be turning up a lot lately.”

Once again, Kylie chuckles. "I had been thinking the same thing. Admittedly, this flying ship was from another world, but Myev says that they had originally started out from her home world on a different flying ship. After that one was severely damaged on another world, they stole this one and made their way here."

As for the giant pillar artifact, I would estimate that it was more than 3 times the size of the one in the cavern, and roughly 10 times the size of the regular one. We only saw one, which was on a pier jutting into the ocean. Most of the other piers were broken or completely destroyed, so there may have been others at one time. Heck, they may well just be underwater now." This being entirely conjecture, Kylie shrugs again.

“Yeah, I can tell,” Sherwood agrees wondering if this is what he sounds like when revealing new information. “It sounds like you will be very busy up in the Sylvan Realm. This Elder City is an incredible find and this Hive sounds very dangerous. I'm surprised that Argent, any of them, would want to return here when the had the chance to explore an Elder City. She's always been very interested in them and probably knows more about the Pillar Artifact than anyone else in Cynalon. Being held prisoner by orcs for weeks on end would break most people.”

Sadness washes over Kylie's face. "Maybe when this Argent comes to grips with all that she has been through, then she might want to return and resume her investigations. However, as you say, this experience would break most people, and I'm not sure whether or not this Argent will recover."

"And you are right, there is much more going on and much more to do in the Sylvan Realm. I've only scratched the surface of Myev's story, and it gets much stranger from here on out. I cannot begin to guess how this will all play out in the months and years to come. However, I feel like the Sylvan Realm is my home now, and I will do what I can to help everything turn out well there."

“Unfortunately, I don't know if anyone here can be of help to you and the Sylvan Realm just now,” Sherwood adds. “Cynalon is in a state of civil war. I just learned about it myself. I only got back to Karn's Keep a few days ago after I left the Sylvan Realm. The old families of the Inner Kingdom are trying to take control of Cynalon. These are dark times for us.”

Sherwood's news comes as a stunning blow to Kylie. "Civil war... Holy crud..." She pauses to try to collect her thoughts. "I thought things were getting so much better here. I trust that Validar, Corley, Ivy, Chareos, and the others are in the thick of it. I hope they are able to bring about a positive outcome from this mess."

"It is still hard to comprehend what some people will do for a little more power..."
____________________________________________________________
I re-read through Sylvan Realms #s 5-11 and took notes, so hopefully I made fewer errors this time.

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

"Argent discovered evidence that the city had been known to the Elders as Shillesta. Substantial amounts of it were apparently buried; the tower had somewhere around a dozen levels that were now underground, though it was clear that it had once been open on the ground floor."

"Also, it seems that the Elders were actually multiple races; we saw indications that there had been at least four different races among the Elders."

“Uncle Sharadin would just love to hear about this and go investigate it for himself if he didn't have more pressing matters,” Sherwood notes. The ranger-mage never had any deep interest in the Elders himself, never bothering to learn to read their language. “This is more information about the Elders than we had before. They had cities and were multiple species. That is interesting.”

"The flying bugs were about so big," Kylie says, gesturing with her hands to try to give a good sense of their size. "Just big enough to bury their mandibles in a victim's forehead, and their tail into the back of their neck."

"As for the ant-men, most of them were about 5' tall, though a few of them were closer to 7' tall. Hard to know if some of that difference was based on what type of person they had been transformed from, or development level, or something else entirely. The larger ones were definitely tougher. All of them had red and black coloring."

“So roughly the size of cats to taller than humans,” Sherwood guesses. “A wide variety and easily noticeable.”

Kylie shrugs in response to Sherwood's question. "I really don't know. There was a bug in her hair, but it was smaller and quite different; it's color was mostly silver and gold. I cannot say whether it was controlling her or just allowing her to communicate with the other bug-creatures."

"I do not believe that she survived." There is a tinge of sadness in Kylie's voice. Would it have been possible to save that Argent too? Under the circumstances, they will never know.

“So these smaller bugs attach themselves to others, putting their limbs into the victims head,” Sherwood notes. “Probably some form of controlling the victim like a puppet. Given the injuries that one would take from being joined like that, the victim would have to be damaged, perhaps fatally. But I've seen life restored to those who were dead and all wounds healed, so it's hard to say if someone could have survived that.”

Kylie thinks for a moment before responding. "I'd say about 3 times as big as the ones on top of the tower. Roughly... 20' tall, as an estimate? They were a fair ways away, and there were other concerns at the time. I certainly didn't notice any other differences, but maybe Lilia did? I don't know."

“Okay,” Sherwood notes. “So around three times bigger. Based on what you've told me, I am pretty certain we've never found pillars like that before. All the artifacts that we found were around 7' high. Maybe its a different separate group of artifacts, somehow unrelated from the smaller ones?”

"Honestly, they were pretty terrifying. The first of the flying bugs that we encountered was attached to a dead orc. It was able to make it move, and even speak through its mouth. We also battled a few orcs that were partially changed. They were hideous."

“It sounds like they were,” Sherwood agrees. “It also sounds like this Hive are parasites. They latch themselves on to others and change them to suit their needs. That makes them very dangerous.”

"The Argent that was serving as a sort of 'Hive Queen' had already infected Chandra and the scro commander with bugs by the time we found the cave under the tower. Their screams were horrific to hear. I think we did them a favor by killing them." The grim look on Kylie's face can only hint at the terror and horror that they experienced in that place.

“You did what you had to do, Kylie,” Sherwood softly says. “But that does not make it any easier to live with.”

A fond smile creeps onto Kylie's face. "Yes, Sheeryl Soulsearcher was able to restore him once we returned to Mother Tree. According to Argent, this obelisk was some kind of instruction device for young Elder. For whatever reason, he was similar enough to what it expected in a young Elder and inflicted him with a need to come to it. He doesn't appear to be able to consciously access whatever it was supposed to have taught him. Maybe that will change in time."

“You think that Talen is part Elder?” Sherwood wonders aloud. “I wonder what it taught him? Things that a typical Elder would need to know? Perhaps you need to take him back to the Elder City to jog his memory?”

Once again, Kylie chuckles. "I had been thinking the same thing. Admittedly, this flying ship was from another world, but Myev says that they had originally started out from her home world on a different flying ship. After that one was severely damaged on another world, they stole this one and made their way here."

“It's not as weird as it sounds,” Sherwood says. “The Alphatians have had flying ships for thousands of years now. Legend has it that they are not even natives to our world, but rather came here after their own world was destroyed. Much like an empire having colonies all over the world, they had colonies all over other worlds. At least they did. Those other colonies choose independence after the Alphatians came to Arret. While they are the most powerful nation on Arret, they are also just a shadow of their former selves as hard as that is to believe.”

“As for the giant pillar artifact, I would estimate that it was more than 3 times the size of the one in the cavern, and roughly 10 times the size of the regular one. We only saw one, which was on a pier jutting into the ocean. Most of the other piers were broken or completely destroyed, so there may have been others at one time. Heck, they may well just be underwater now." This being entirely conjecture, Kylie shrugs again.

“Its hard to say,” Sherwood agrees. “There must be a reason that they made this Pillar Artifacts in different sizes. Just what that reason is eludes us.”

Sadness washes over Kylie's face. "Maybe when this Argent comes to grips with all that she has been through, then she might want to return and resume her investigations. However, as you say, this experience would break most people, and I'm not sure whether or not this Argent will recover."

“I don't know,” Sherwood admits. “I know Argent, but not as well as you or Jallarzi do. The twins went to get help for her. They teleported to Elcadan to get Jallarzi and Elspeth. Maybe the other Argents are around as well.”

"And you are right, there is much more going on and much more to do in the Sylvan Realm. I've only scratched the surface of Myev's story, and it gets much stranger from here on out. I cannot begin to guess how this will all play out in the months and years to come. However, I feel like the Sylvan Realm is my home now, and I will do what I can to help everything turn out well there."

“So you've found a direction in life?” Sherwood wonders with a slight smile. “You've really grown up these last few months. I'm very proud of you.”

Sherwood's news comes as a stunning blow to Kylie. "Civil war... Holy crud..." She pauses to try to collect her thoughts. "I thought things were getting so much better here. I trust that Validar, Corley, Ivy, Chareos, and the others are in the thick of it. I hope they are able to bring about a positive outcome from this mess."

"It is still hard to comprehend what some people will do for a little more power..."

“They were getting better and will continue to get better,” Sherwood answers. “Cynalon has many problems and this civil war has brought it all to a head. Once it is over and those who are out of touch with the realities of the world around them are defeated, there will real change. And yes, the Guardian's are in the thick of it as Elcadan has taken the brunt of the war thus far.”

“Who long did you plan on staying at Karn's Keep, Kylie?” Sherwood asks. “I imagine that Jallarzi will be along shortly and she'd love to visit for a time.“

[GM Mad]

Small Update:

Kylie nods, grinning. "I don't think even she expected it." She looks over at her mother. "Mom, I think I recall you saying that there was only one vote separating her from Chandra of Clan Red Arrow, who was the other candidate. He ended up as the Head of the Council - until his unfortunate demise." Honestly, Kylie's not certain that it was that unfortunate; there's no way to know how many other problems he would have caused if he had survived.

“That is correct,” Allurien answers. “The voting was tied between Chandra and Lilia and I cast the final ballot. However, it really wasn't as close as it seemed. There were many private discussions held among we Clan Masters before the actual vote was held. Those who were not allied with Chandra already knew who we would vote for.”

“The Clan Master for Clan Chossum voted before I did. At this point Lilia had a 1 vote lead. Instead of voting for Lilia like he had indicated earlier, he voted for Chandra instead, leaving me to the be tie breaker. Clan Master Ocing is a merchant first and foremost. He knew who I would vote for, therefore his vote really didn't matter. He voted for Chandra, so as to not draw his ire as he wanted the business of all clans. Thus instead of a 3 vote victory, it was a 1 vote victory and Ocing made himself look good in the eyes of Clan Red Arrow. It was strictly a business decision.”

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

Kylie listens as her mother describes the politics behind the vote that installed Lilia as Queen of the Sylvan Realm. In particular, she notes the role that the Chossum Clan Master played. She will need to remember this and watch for similar behavior in the future if she is going to advise Lilia effectively in the future.

“Uncle Sharadin would just love to hear about this and go investigate it for himself if he didn't have more pressing matters,” Sherwood notes. The ranger-mage never had any deep interest in the Elders himself, never bothering to learn to read their language. “This is more information about the Elders than we had before. They had cities and were multiple species. That is interesting.”

"I hope he gets the chance someday to come visit," Kylie replies with a smile. "I suspect that there is far more yet to learn of the Elders, and there is likely nowhere better to study them. I know we would all enjoy seeing him again."

“So these smaller bugs attach themselves to others, putting their limbs into the victims head,” Sherwood notes. “Probably some form of controlling the victim like a puppet. Given the injuries that one would take from being joined like that, the victim would have to be damaged, perhaps fatally. But I've seen life restored to those who were dead and all wounds healed, so it's hard to say if someone could have survived that.”

Kylie considers Sherwood's words and her reply. "That is certainly true of the regular flying bugs. However, I cannot say for sure about this other bug that was in Argent's hair. It was smaller and too far away to see any detail. Also, we never saw any others like it. Whether it functioned the same or differently from the red and black fliers, I cannot say."

“Okay,” Sherwood notes. “So around three times bigger. Based on what you've told me, I am pretty certain we've never found pillars like that before. All the artifacts that we found were around 7' high. Maybe its a different separate group of artifacts, somehow unrelated from the smaller ones?”

"Whether they are truly separate or not, I don't know," Kylie replies, shrugging. "They certainly seemed to function the same way. Lilia or Argent might be able to tell you more; this is really more their field of expertise than mine."

“You did what you had to do, Kylie,” Sherwood softly says. “But that does not make it any easier to live with.”

"Yeah..." Kylie's voice trails off. She knows it now and knew it then, but it still feels like a betrayal. "No, it doesn't." On some level, it feels like she participated in murdering a friend.

“You think that Talen is part Elder?” Sherwood wonders aloud. “I wonder what it taught him? Things that a typical Elder would need to know? Perhaps you need to take him back to the Elder City to jog his memory?”

"Hmm..." Kylie murmurs, thinking. "I don't know that I would go that far. It may be just that he had enough similarity to one of their races - by whatever standards that stone obelisk uses to judge such things - that it mistook him for one."

"As for taking him back, Talen seems to be feeling a bit overwhelmed these days. It might help, but he may be reluctant to go." This leads her to another topic that Kylie hasn't yet brought up, but she continues on. "Of course, it appears that he is crucial to rescuing the remaining elves from Myev's home world, and the route seems to lead through the Shillastra."

“It's not as weird as it sounds,” Sherwood says. “The Alphatians have had flying ships for thousands of years now. Legend has it that they are not even natives to our world, but rather came here after their own world was destroyed. Much like an empire having colonies all over the world, they had colonies all over other worlds. At least they did. Those other colonies choose independence after the Alphatians came to Arret. While they are the most powerful nation on Arret, they are also just a shadow of their former selves as hard as that is to believe.”

The information that Sherwood provides about the Alphatians is interesting. "Admittedly, I don't know much about the Alphatians, though Lilia has been trying to teach me the language as time allows. You might recall that we started the language lessons on the trip north on the barge. Time has been something of a precious commodity, though."

“Its hard to say,” Sherwood agrees. “There must be a reason that they made this Pillar Artifacts in different sizes. Just what that reason is eludes us.”

Scratching her head in thought, Kylie responds, "I think Lilia or Argent suggested that it might have something to do with range. As I understand it, the idea was that possibly the regular ones were for shorter trips, the medium ones for travel between continents, and the largest ones reach between worlds. It's just a theory, but seems to make as much sense as anything else."

“I don't know,” Sherwood admits. “I know Argent, but not as well as you or Jallarzi do. The twins went to get help for her. They teleported to Elcadan to get Jallarzi and Elspeth. Maybe the other Argents are around as well.”

Kylie brightens visibly at the prospect of seeing Jallarzi and Elspeth again, though she doesn't say anything.

“So you've found a direction in life?” Sherwood wonders with a slight smile. “You've really grown up these last few months. I'm very proud of you.”

"Thank you, 'uncle'," Kylie replies fondly. "It's amazing how much has happened in a few short months. It would be almost impossible to not be affected by it all. I can only hope that most of the changes -in all of us - are for the better..."

“They were getting better and will continue to get better,” Sherwood answers. “Cynalon has many problems and this civil war has brought it all to a head. Once it is over and those who are out of touch with the realities of the world around them are defeated, there will real change. And yes, the Guardian's are in the thick of it as Elcadan has taken the brunt of the war thus far.”

“How long did you plan on staying at Karn's Keep, Kylie?” Sherwood asks. “I imagine that Jallarzi will be along shortly and she'd love to visit for a time.“

Once again, Kylie glances over at her mother before responding. "Maybe a couple of hours? The Rainbow Bridge is supposed to open at noon, and we want to be back for that. I would like to get a chance to talk again with Jallarzi again, and introduce her and Elspeth to mom."
___________________________________________________________________________
I don't have a good sense of what time of morning they left, so that would affect how much time they have.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Once again, Kylie glances over at her mother before responding. "Maybe a couple of hours? The Rainbow Bridge is supposed to open at noon, and we want to be back for that. I would like to get a chance to talk again with Jallarzi again, and introduce her and Elspeth to mom."

“A couple of hours,” Allurien agrees. “The time when the Rainbow Bridge is not specifically at noon. It's when the sun is at its highest in the sky on that day. So there is still time to visit and study, but not a lot.”

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

"I hope he gets the chance someday to come visit," Kylie replies with a smile. "I suspect that there is far more yet to learn of the Elders, and there is likely nowhere better to study them. I know we would all enjoy seeing him again."

“Those ruins could be a boon to the Sylvan Realm depending on how the elves handle this,” Sherwood states. “Like you said, scholars will be very interested in exploring and learning what they can there. The Sylvan Realm could become a destination for them.”

Kylie considers Sherwood's words and her reply. "That is certainly true of the regular flying bugs. However, I cannot say for sure about this other bug that was in Argent's hair. It was smaller and too far away to see any detail. Also, we never saw any others like it. Whether it functioned the same or differently from the red and black fliers, I cannot say."

“I'm merely trying to get a mental image of what you encountered,” Sherwood says. “So in case I do come across them in the future I can know what I am dealing with. I can also warn others of this new danger. Regardless, big bugs on top of someone's head is bad.”

"Yeah..." Kylie's voice trails off. She knows it now and knew it then, but it still feels like a betrayal. "No, it doesn't." On some level, it feels like she participated in murdering a friend.

“It won't feel any better the next time either,” Sherwood adds. “I know that from too much experience.”

"Hmm..." Kylie murmurs, thinking. "I don't know that I would go that far. It may be just that he had enough similarity to one of their races - by whatever standards that stone obelisk uses to judge such things - that it mistook him for one."

"As for taking him back, Talen seems to be feeling a bit overwhelmed these days. It might help, but he may be reluctant to go." This leads her to another topic that Kylie hasn't yet brought up, but she continues on. "Of course, it appears that he is crucial to rescuing the remaining elves from Myev's home world, and the route seems to lead through the Shillastra."

“Talen has always been a bit timid, unsure of himself,” Sherwood says in regards to his cousin. “Give him time to get used to the idea. How do you know that he is crucial to this mission to rescue these other worldly elves?”

Scratching her head in thought, Kylie responds, "I think Lilia or Argent suggested that it might have something to do with range. As I understand it, the idea was that possibly the regular ones were for shorter trips, the medium ones for travel between continents, and the largest ones reach between worlds. It's just a theory, but seems to make as much sense as anything else."

“That could be,” Sherwood agrees. “The ones we encountered here in the frontier lands needed one spell level of spells cast on the destination pillar per person to activate it. Perhaps these other ones are not as limited. The ones here are only a few weeks travel apart from each other as far as we can tell.”

“Do you know what the plans are for the Argent you brought here?”

“A couple of hours,” Allurien agrees. “The time when the Rainbow Bridge is not specifically at noon. It's when the sun is at its highest in the sky on that day. So there is still time to visit and study, but not a lot.”

“Oh, you came to study?” Sherwood asks. “You must now be able cast fifth level spells. I just gained access to sixth level spells and have been adding them to my books.”

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

“Those ruins could be a boon to the Sylvan Realm depending on how the elves handle this,” Sherwood states. “Like you said, scholars will be very interested in exploring and learning what they can there. The Sylvan Realm could become a destination for them.”

Kylie nods in agreement. "Lilia and I have already talked a bit about preparations and arrangements for visitors to the Sylvan Realm - mostly the political sort, but others as well."

“I'm merely trying to get a mental image of what you encountered,” Sherwood says. “So in case I do come across them in the future I can know what I am dealing with. I can also warn others of this new danger. Regardless, big bugs on top of someone's head is bad.”

"I get it, Sherwood," Kylie replies with a grin, "but your aunt did impress on us the need to be precise, and that is what I'm trying to do. You wouldn't want me to disappoint Jallarzi now, would you?"

“It won't feel any better the next time either,” Sherwood adds. “I know that from too much experience.”

Kylie just nods, having nothing of value to say. She knows too little of Sherwood's personal history, but does not doubt that he has lost others that he cared about.

“Talen has always been a bit timid, unsure of himself,” Sherwood says in regards to his cousin. “Give him time to get used to the idea. How do you know that he is crucial to this mission to rescue these other worldly elves?”

Sherwood's question causes Kylie to pause for a moment. "Well, the short version is that Mother Tree told us so."

Seeing the confusion on Sherwood's face, Kylie backs up a bit and approaches from a different angle. "As I mentioned, Myev brought a leaf with her from the Mother Tree of her world. That leaf contained a message to our Mother Tree that she shared with us. While most of the elves on that world had been slaughtered by the scro, some survived by merging with trees. Unfortunately, their ability to survive that way is running out, so their Mother Tree asked that we come rescue them. Based on what had happened earlier, our Mother Tree summoned Talen and gave him more information: the knowledge to be able to lead us back to that world via the Pillar Artifacts. Thus, without him, we cannot get there."

Sherwood finds the theory regarding the pillar sizes plausible, which is encouraging, though they have no way to prove or disprove it at this time.

“Do you know what the plans are for the Argent you brought here?”

Kylie can only shake her head. "She was very insistent about coming back here, as she couldn't bear to remain in the Sylvan Realm any more. I doubt she will ever be willing to return, considering the terrible memories she has associated with that part of the world. Beyond that, I don't know anything about her plans. At this point, I think the greatest challenges ahead of her are recovering physically and emotionally, regaining her sense of herself, and dealing with the knowledge of her other selves."

“A couple of hours,” Allurien agrees. “The time when the Rainbow Bridge is not specifically at noon. It's when the sun is at its highest in the sky on that day. So there is still time to visit and study, but not a lot.”

“Oh, you came to study?” Sherwood asks. “You must now be able cast fifth level spells. I just gained access to sixth level spells and have been adding them to my books.”

"As time allows," Kylie replies in response to Sherwood's question, before turning to his other comments. "That's correct, and congratulations to you. It seems we are both growing, though I may catch up with you yet..."

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

Kylie nods in agreement. "Lilia and I have already talked a bit about preparations and arrangements for visitors to the Sylvan Realm - mostly the political sort, but others as well."

“That's right,” Sherwood realizes. “The Sylvan Realm is a second elfin nation, although with strong ties to the first. We may have to send an ambassador there at some point, assuming we survive this war. Many would be interested in having access to the ruins of the Elder City as well. It is something that we'll need to discuss with Lilia at some point.”

"I get it, Sherwood," Kylie replies with a grin, "but your aunt did impress on us the need to be precise, and that is what I'm trying to do. You wouldn't want me to disappoint Jallarzi now, would you?"

“Jallarzi is not my aunt,” Sherwood objects. “We're something on the order of sixth cousins. And if you really want to disappoint Jallarzi call her an aunt in her presence. Not something I would recommend.”

Kylie just nods, having nothing of value to say. She knows too little of Sherwood's personal history, but does not doubt that he has lost others that he cared about.

Well, Kylie does know about Darya from when they visited his familiar tower back in New Frontiers #15. Kylie has probably heard the story about Shaunil as well, Jallarzi's very first apprentice.

Sherwood's question causes Kylie to pause for a moment. "Well, the short version is that Mother Tree told us so."

“The Mother Tree can talk?” Sherwood asks.

Seeing the confusion on Sherwood's face, Kylie backs up a bit and approaches from a different angle. "As I mentioned, Myev brought a leaf with her from the Mother Tree of her world. That leaf contained a message to our Mother Tree that she shared with us. While most of the elves on that world had been slaughtered by the scro, some survived by merging with trees. Unfortunately, their ability to survive that way is running out, so their Mother Tree asked that we come rescue them. Based on what had happened earlier, our Mother Tree summoned Talen and gave him more information: the knowledge to be able to lead us back to that world via the Pillar Artifacts. Thus, without him, we cannot get there.”

“I can see what Talen feels like he is under pressure,” Sherwood says. “Even a veteran adventurer would be stressed by being put into that kind of situation.”

Kylie can only shake her head. "She was very insistent about coming back here, as she couldn't bear to remain in the Sylvan Realm any more. I doubt she will ever be willing to return, considering the terrible memories she has associated with that part of the world. Beyond that, I don't know anything about her plans. At this point, I think the greatest challenges ahead of her are recovering physically and emotionally, regaining her sense of herself, and dealing with the knowledge of her other selves."

“She's seeking the safety of home,” Sherwood realizes. “A place where she's always felt safe. We'll make sure she gets back to Crossroads, Kylie. I promise.”

"As time allows," Kylie replies in response to Sherwood's question, before turning to his other comments. "That's correct, and congratulations to you. It seems we are both growing, though I may catch up with you yet..."

“Thanks,” Sherwood states. “Why don't you head up to the library and learn what you can with what time you have left. I'll let the guards know that Jallarzi will be arriving soon and where she can join us.”

Assuming Kylie agrees, Sherwood goes to the guards at the teleport arrival area and lets them know that more guests are on their way.

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

“That's right,” Sherwood realizes. “The Sylvan Realm is a second elfin nation, although with strong ties to the first. We may have to send an ambassador there at some point, assuming we survive this war. Many would be interested in having access to the ruins of the Elder City as well. It is something that we'll need to discuss with Lilia at some point.”

"Oh!" Kylie suddenly exclaims, realizing that she forgot something important. She digs into her enchanted Girdle, pulls out a sealed note, and hands it to Sherwood. "I almost forgot; Lilia asked me to give this to you."

“Jallarzi is not my aunt,” Sherwood objects. “We're something on the order of sixth cousins. And if you really want to disappoint Jallarzi call her an aunt in her presence. Not something I would recommend.”

Kylie cannot help laughing in response to Sherwood's comment. "Yeah, that would be sight to see. Not that I want to..."

“The Mother Tree can talk?” Sherwood asks.

"Let's just say that she can communicate effectively, and leave it at that," Kylie replies. Considering the elves' passion for secrecy regarding Mother Tree, she figures that she shouldn't say more.

“She's seeking the safety of home,” Sherwood realizes. “A place where she's always felt safe. We'll make sure she gets back to Crossroads, Kylie. I promise.”

"Thank you, Sherwood," Kylie says gratefully. "She's most likely to heal and recover where she feels safe and at home."

“Thanks,” Sherwood states. “Why don't you head up to the library and learn what you can with what time you have left. I'll let the guards know that Jallarzi will be arriving soon and where she can join us.”

"That sounds good." Kylie turns to Allurien. "Want to check out the library with me, mom?" Either way, she'll head to the library, take a few moments to re-orient herself - and her mother if Allurien comes along - with where everything is, then dive into the spell books.

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

"Oh!" Kylie suddenly exclaims, realizing that she forgot something important. She digs into her enchanted Girdle, pulls out a sealed note, and hands it to Sherwood. "I almost forgot; Lilia asked me to give this to you."

“Thanks,” Sherwood says accepting the letter. He pockets it for now and will read it after he is done conversing with Kylie.

"Let's just say that she can communicate effectively, and leave it at that," Kylie replies. Considering the elves' passion for secrecy regarding Mother Tree, she figures that she shouldn't say more.

“Fair enough,” Sherwood answers.

"Thank you, Sherwood," Kylie says gratefully. "She's most likely to heal and recover where she feels safe and at home."

“Its the least we can do,” Sherwood says.

After Kylie and her mother depart for the mage library, Sherwood pauses to read Lilia's letter. Much of it the ranger-mage has guessed, but there were still some surprises in it. Sherwood alerts the guards to the impending arrivals. After that he returns to the library to continue his studies.

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

As she and Allurien make their way to the library, Kylie points out for her mother the notable rooms that they pass. She also speaks a bit of her previous visit here prior to their departure on the flying bridge.

Once they reach their destination, Kylie points the spell books out to Allurien in case she would like to study a bit. She also explains how the various research and informational books are organized. The amount of knowledge of matters both mundane and magical housed in this room is staggering. Having receive tutoring from Lilia for weeks now, Kylie is half-tempted to try to read one of the books in Alphatian; however, she has higher priorities right now. Hopefully, she'll get to return some day and spend time reading some of the many interesting books to be found here.

Floating over to one of the windows, Kylie looks out over the surrounding lands. "This is my favorite view from the keep. When I study here, I like to sit in this window so that I can look out and see the lands spread out below."

Kylie selects Opikus' book of spells of the 5th circle and takes her preferred seat. Taking out her own spell-book, she begins studying the spells one by one, and transcribing those she understands into her own book. It is somewhat hard to focus, as she cannot help wondering and thinking about when Jallarzi and Elspeth will arrive.

___________________________________________________________________________________
When I went back and reread much of the trip north, I discovered that Lilia had started teaching both Kylie and Talen the Alphatian language. I'm assuming that they have continued that practice whenever they have had free time. At her next level-up, I hope to put points into the language.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Sherwood steps away to alert the guards of the impending arrival of Jallarzi and Elspeth. That leaves Kylie and Allurien to their own devices.

"That sounds good." Kylie turns to Allurien. "Want to check out the library with me, mom?" Either way, she'll head to the library, take a few moments to re-orient herself - and her mother if Allurien comes along - with where everything is, then dive into the spell books.

“Sure,” Allurien easily answers. “It seems that we will have a little bit of time to spare.”

The entrance to the library area is on this same level of the keep. Its just a matter of walking to the other side of the great hall. The library itself is a huge chamber that measures an astonishing sixty feet wide and 150 feet long! The walls are filled with bookcases loaded with tomes of various shapes and sizes. The mage guild spell books are kept in sealed cases in the center of the back wall. There is a spiral stair case in either back corner of the rooms. These stairs go both up and down. One floor down is an area where mage apprentices used to bunk. Now its merely used for storage.

Going up the spiral stairs is a different story as both lead up into towers and are no longer connected. The tower in the left hand corner goes up two more stories while the one on the right three. The shorter tower has a reception area and a small lab one floor up. There is also a walk way to another tower was has been used as guest quarters. The upper most level of the small tower houses the luxurious quarters that Argent uses when she is at Karn's Keep.

The larger tower has one full floor set up as a reception/guest area. The middle level is entirely a mage lab. It was in this place that the Crown of the Stars was discovered. The top most floor was a living area.

The center area of the library has tables and chairs for studying, including several comfortably chairs and couches. Its easy to tell what area Sherwood was using as there are several books stacked in the area.

While Kylie starts her studies, Allurien merely walks around the library looking at the books. Occasionally she'll pull one from the shelve and page through it before putting it back and moving on to the next one. Sherwood returns after a time and returns to his own studies.

Time passes and Kylie can hear familiar voices out in the hallway. They are coming closer! The door to the library opens and Lady Jallarzi Sallavarian enters. She is finely dressed, as is normal for her, in a fine dress. Trailing behind Jallarzi is Elspeth is wearing the traditional robes of a Priestess of Azrella. Elspeth's robes do seem a bit more ornate than they used to.

“Kylie!” Jallarzi says with a smile upon seeing her apprentice. “How wonderful to see you!”

Back at the entrance way Kylie is stunned by what she sees. Argent enters, but this is not the Argent that she arrived with. Her hair is as long and neat as it used to be. Her face is fuller and it really hits home just how thin the Argent found in the Sylvan Realm was. This Argent is also not dressed in a manner Kylie is used to. This Argent wears a black blouse, black riding trousers and green furry boots. A cloaks is draped over her shoulders and there is a tiara resting on her head. A staff is carried in her hands.

More shockingly is that the Argent is black is talking to yet another Argent! This one also has the long, curly hair that Argent is known for. This Argent is wearing a white frilly blouse and over this she has a leather vest. She wears brown leather riding trousers but over these she has on a pair of fine leather high boots with low heels. Both Argents have numerous pieces of jewelry on and some of the pieces are identical! The second Argent also has a staff, but it is not identical to the one the first Argent carries.

Almost unnoticed in the background, Sherry and Terry have returned as well.

Both Argents see Kylie and call out simultaneously, “Hello Kylie!”

“So its true?” the Argent in black inquires.

“There's another one of us?” the Argent in leather asks.


Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn of Clan Feador:

“Sure,” Allurien easily answers. “It seems that we will have a little bit of time to spare.”

With a pleased smile, Kylie leads her mother, navigating the route to the library. While substantially smaller than the grand hall, the library still exhibits the massive scale of giantish architecture. The number of books stored here is mind-boggling. Kylie is uncertain whether there are any larger libraries in Cynallon; perhaps she'll get a chance to ask later.

The spell-books are stored in a locked cabinet, but it is clear that Sherwood has been studying and left the cabinet is open; at least she won't have to go find someone to unlock it for her. Her focus today is the book containing spells newly-available to her as a result of her recent increase in comprehension of the mystic principles. Over the next hour, she is able to master and transcribe 3 new spells: Feeblemind, Sending, and Sunfire. Hopefully, Sending will prove to be a great way to keep in touch with her friends and companions as she travels.

Kylie is in the process of deciding which spell to attempt to learn next when she hears a babble of sounds approaching. As they get close, Kylie the sounds start to resolve into recognizable voices. 'Jallarzi!' The name pops into her head as her teacher's voice becomes clear. Setting the books aside quickly, Kylie rises and moves forward just as Jallarzi and Elspeth step into the room.

The door to the library opens and Lady Jallarzi Sallavarian enters. She is finely dressed, as is normal for her, in a fine dress. Trailing behind Jallarzi is Elspeth is wearing the traditional robes of a Priestess of Azrella. Elspeth's robes do seem a bit more ornate than they used to.

“Kylie!” Jallarzi says with a smile upon seeing her apprentice. “How wonderful to see you!”

"Hi Jallarzi!" Kylie exclaims as she flies forward and gives her mentor a big hug. "It's great to see you again, too!"

"Hi Elspeth!" she says, turning to the Azrellan Priestess. "That is a beautiful new robe you're wearing."

Back at the entrance way Kylie is stunned by what she sees. Argent enters, but this is not the Argent that she arrived with. Her hair is as long and neat as it used to be. Her face is fuller and it really hits home just how thin the Argent found in the Sylvan Realm was. This Argent is also not dressed in a manner Kylie is used to. This Argent wears a black blouse, black riding trousers and green furry boots. A cloaks is draped over her shoulders and there is a tiara resting on her head. A staff is carried in her hands.

More shockingly is that the Argent is black is talking to yet another Argent! This one also has the long, curly hair that Argent is known for. This Argent is wearing a white frilly blouse and over this she has a leather vest. She wears brown leather riding trousers but over these she has on a pair of fine leather high boots with low heels. Both Argents have numerous pieces of jewelry on and some of the pieces are identical! The second Argent also has a staff, but it is not identical to the one the first Argent carries.

Looking between the mage and the priestess, Kylie sees not one, but two Argents enter. While she has known for many weeks about the multiple copies of her friend, that hasn't prepared her for seeing them side by side! There is no missing how much healthier they both look that the Argent that was just brought from the Sylvan Realm. Looking at between the two, Kylie is not sure which one she spent nearly a week with back in mid-October.

Both Argents see Kylie and call out simultaneously, “Hello Kylie!”

“So its true?” the Argent in black inquires.

“There's another one of us?” the Argent in leather asks.

Kylie floats over to greet the dark- and light-clothed Argents, giving them each a hug in turn. "Hi Argent, it is so wonderful to see you both."

The joyful smile on Kylie's face fades away. "Yes, and she has suffered much in the intervening time. She spent most of as the prisoner of a band of advanced orc-like beings known as 'scro'. They were not kind to her, as you might imagine. I believe that she is resting in one of the rooms here now."

While this has gone on, Kylie noted the arrival of the twins. "Sherry, Terry, I'm glad to see you."

Before the conversation has a chance to go much further, Kylie floats back toward her mother. "Everyone, I would like you all to meet my mother, Allurien Feador." Kylie gestures to each person in turn. "This is Jallarzi, who trained me in the magical arts. Next to her is Elspeth, a high-ranking priestess of Azrella. Over here are my friends Argent and Argent, and you've already met Sharadin's twin daughters Sherry and Terry."

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Guests have arrived at Karn's Keep in the form of the Lady Jallarzi Sallavarian, Elspeth of Azrella, and not one, but two other Argents! Kylie greets the new arrivals.

"Hi Jallarzi!" Kylie exclaims as she flies forward and gives her mentor a big hug. "It's great to see you again, too!"

“I am glad that you are safe,” Jallarzi says in response. “I've been told that you've had the experience of a lifetime after we last talked.”

"Hi Elspeth!" she says, turning to the Azrellan Priestess. "That is a beautiful new robe you're wearing."

“Thank you, Kylie,” Elspeth easily answers. “These robes reflect my new status at the Elcadan Temple. Mother Boelle passed away a few weeks ago and I have since taken her place.”

Kylie floats over to greet the dark- and light-clothed Argents, giving them each a hug in turn. "Hi Argent, it is so wonderful to see you both."

“It's been a long time,” the Argent with the leather garments says as you hug. “I haven't seen you since I left the Sallavarian Estate when Jallarzi sent me to participate in Lord Sharadin's quest.”

“And I last saw you in Corunglain last month,” the Argent in black easily answers. “I am the Lady Argent now, by the way. I was given a noble title for what we did there.”

“Yes, she has a title and has to let everyone know it,” the Argent in leather mutters. “But between you and me, she is no lady!”

“I have paperwork that states otherwise,” the Argent in black smugly replies.

Talk turns to the reason Kylie and Allurien came to Karn's Keep in the first place. The third Agent they arrived with.

The joyful smile on Kylie's face fades away. "Yes, and she has suffered much in the intervening time. She spent most of as the prisoner of a band of advanced orc-like beings known as 'scro'. They were not kind to her, as you might imagine. I believe that she is resting in one of the rooms here now."

“That's horrible!” the two Argent says at almost the same time. The two exchange annoyed glances with each other before looking back to Kylie.

“What did they do to me?” the Argent in leather asks.

“Her?” the Argent in black adds. “Us? Damn, this is confusing.”

“At any rate, thank you for bring her here, Kylie” the leather clad Argent says.

“It seems that we have our work cut out for us,” the other Argent states.

While this has gone on, Kylie noted the arrival of the twins. "Sherry, Terry, I'm glad to see you."

“Hello, Kylie,” the twins answer with a smile. “Hopefully Jallarzi and Elspeth can help the Argent you arrived with.”

Before the conversation has a chance to go much further, Kylie floats back toward her mother. "Everyone, I would like you all to meet my mother, Allurien Feador." Kylie gestures to each person in turn. "This is Jallarzi, who trained me in the magical arts. Next to her is Elspeth, a high-ranking priestess of Azrella. Over here are my friends Argent and Argent, and Sharadin's twin daughters Sherry and Terry are in the back near the door."

Attention turns towards Allurien as the introductions are made.

“A pleasure,” Jallarzi says as she is introduced.

“You have my thanks for taking care of her while I was away,” Allurien easily states. “I missed so much of her life and my absence is what sent her on a darker path. I am thankful that you and Sherwood were able to help Kylie so much.”

“Kylie had some measure of magical skill in her," Jallarzi explains. "I just helped her bring it out. Sherwood told me some of what happened and that you two have been reunited. I am very happy for you both.”

“Ma'am,” Elspeth nods when introduced.

“Well met,” the Argent in black responds. “But I am the Lady Argent now. She's just plain Argent.” This Argent gestures towards the other Argent.

“She what I mean?” the Argent in leather counters. “I am happy that Kylie found you again, ma'am.”

“I must imagine that this is really weird for you both,” the Argent in black states.

“It's really weird for us too!” the other Argent adds.

“And just when we thought it couldn't get any stranger we find out that there is yet another one!”

“Fortunately we've been down this road already,” the Argent in leather states. “We lived it.”

“And we fought like cats and dogs,” the Lady Argent notes. “Before we came to our senses and found we could coexist.”

“Jallarzi yelling at us certainly helped,” the leather Argent adds.

“Twice yet!” the Lady Argent announces. “I'll take being yelled at by my mother than Jallarzi any day!”

“Our mother,” the not a noble Argent adds in annoyance.


While you are all conversing, Jallarzi steps away to speak with Sherwood in private. After a few minutes, she comes back.

“Elspeth and I are going to go up and speak to this new Argent,” Jallarzi announces. “Gives us some time with her before either you pop in. I do not want a repeat of what happened before.”

“Yes, ma'am,” the two Argents say quietly.

A moment after that, Jallarzi and Elspeth start up the spiral stairs in the left hand corner heading up the shorter of the two towers that rise from the mage area of Karn's Keep.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

I'm assuming that members are given a key to the spell-book cabinet when they join. If that is incorrect, please feel free to correct as needed.

There are too many members for everyone to have a key to the books. Most likely someone in the Keep needs to open up the books for others. Lord Sharadin has a key, as do the twins, Sherwood and Jallarzi. Since Sherwood was studying here already, the cabinet holding the books was already opened.

Sherry and Terry were the ones you greeted you when you first arrived at Karn's Keep. So they already met Allurien.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

“I am glad that you are safe,” Jallarzi says in response. “I've been told that you've had the experience of a lifetime after we last talked.”

"No kidding!" Kylie exclaims, then exhales sharply as she runs her fingers through her hair. "It's been... something. I'm not sure I'm even the same person anymore."

“Thank you, Kylie,” Elspeth easily answers. “These robes reflect my new status at the Elcadan Temple. Mother Boelle passed away a few weeks ago and I have since taken her place.”

"I'm sorry to hear about Mother Boelle," Kylie replies somberly. "I didn't know her well, but I always heard what a wonderful person she was. I have no doubt that you will do an excellent job of carrying on her legacy."

“It's been a long time,” the Argent with the leather garments says as you hug. “I haven't seen you since I left the Sallavarian Estate when Jallarzi sent me to participate in Lord Sharadin's quest.”

Kylie smiles as the healthy Argents explain which is which. "Yes, I heard about that. I'm glad to see that you returned safe and sound."

“And I last saw you in Corunglain last month,” the Argent in black easily answers. “I am the Lady Argent now, by the way. I was given a noble title for what we did there.”

"Congratulations, Argent. I had wondered what had happened after I left," Kylie says.

The two Argents bicker a bit, and Kylie chooses to stay out of it, simply watching for a moment in amusement.

“That's horrible!” the two Argent says at almost the same time. The two exchange annoyed glances with each other before looking back to Kylie.

“What did they do to me?” the Argent in leather asks.

“Her?” the Argent in black adds. “Us? Damn, this is confusing.”

“At any rate, thank you for bring her here, Kylie” the leather clad Argent says.

"You're welcome. Like you, she is my friend, and this seemed the best place for her to recover. I cannot tell you what the scro did to her, as I didn't ask for details. She had been through too much for me to ask her to have to relive it."

“Hello, Kylie,” the twins answer with a smile. “Hopefully Jallarzi and Elspeth can help the Argent you arrived with.”

"That is my hope," Kylie replies. "They have the best chance of helping her of anyone I know."

Kylie watches and listens quietly as her mother exchanges greetings with the other women in the room. It makes her happy to finally have her mother meet so many of the people who have played important roles in her life. Perhaps she'll get a chance some day to introduce her to the other Guardians that she served with - or perhaps even Master Finder Rat! Wouldn't that be something...

After briefly speaking with Sherwood, Jallarzi announces that she and Elspeth are going to see the new Argent. Kylie isn't particularly religious, yet she hopes that the gods will help them assist Argent in dealing with her travails.

Once they are gone, Kylie turns back to the Argents in the room. "I want to hear what your lives have been like since I last saw each of you." She turns to the leather-clad Argent. "Since it's been longer since I've last seen you, I'd like to hear your story first. Afterwards, Lady Argent, I hope you'll tell me of your experiences with the Guardians."

__________________________________________________________________________________
I've gone back and cleaned up some of the mistakes in my previous post.

[Jallarzi Sallavarian]

Jallarzi:

The Lady Sallavarian has been summoned to Karn's Keep under extraordinary circumstances. Kylie has arrived with another Argent! Somehow, she came a cross a third version of her former apprentice!

The other Argents were alerted that another them had been located, while I went into Elcadan to retrieve Elspeth. Once ready, we all teleported to Karn's Keep. A guard directed us to the library and that's where we found Kylie, Sherwood and an unknown elfin woman.

"Hi Jallarzi!" Kylie exclaims as she flies forward and gives her mentor a big hug. "It's great to see you again, too!"

“I am glad that you are safe,” Jallarzi says in response. “I've been told that you've had the experience of a lifetime after we last talked.”

"No kidding!" Kylie exclaims, then exhales sharply as she runs her fingers through her hair. "It's been... something. I'm not sure I'm even the same person anymore."

“In what way,” Jallarzi asks with a little bit of concern. “You're okay? Is everyone else safe?”

Before the conversation has a chance to go much further, Kylie floats back toward her mother. "Everyone, I would like you all to meet my mother, Allurien Feador." Kylie gestures to each person in turn. "This is Jallarzi, who trained me in the magical arts. Next to her is Elspeth, a high-ranking priestess of Azrella. Over here are my friends Argent and Argent, and you've already met Sharadin's twin daughters Sherry and Terry."

“A pleasure,” Jallarzi says as she is introduced.

“You have my thanks for taking care of her while I was away,” Allurien easily states. “I missed so much of her life and my absence is what sent her on a darker path. I am thankful that you and Sherwood were able to help Kylie so much.”

“Kylie had some measure of magical skill in her," Jallarzi explains. "I just helped her bring it out. Sherwood told me some of what happened and that you two have been reunited. I am very happy for you both.”


While you are all conversing, Jallarzi steps away to speak with Sherwood in private. After a few minutes, she comes back.

“Elspeth and I are going to go up and speak to this new Argent,” Jallarzi announces. “Gives us some time with her before either you pop in. I do not want a repeat of what happened before.”

Before leaving, Jallarzi will step up to Kylie and Allurien once more. “I'm not sure how long this is going to take and I am told that you can only stay for a short time. In case you are gone before I come back, there are some things that I need to tell you. Sherwood told you that Cynalon is locked in a Civil War. So far most of the fighting has taken place in and around Elcadan. Kylie, Dog Alley is gone. It, along with much of the Southern Slums were burned when the Athenos Army attacked the city. Most of the people had been evacuated, but some did perish in the fire. All that remains of that part of the city is smoldering rubble.”

“I also understand that you can now cast Teleport,” Jallarzi continues. “Do not try to teleport to my estate using the picture that Sherwood gave you. The Estate was also attacked and the teleportation tower was knocked over and shattered when it hit the ground. Just tear that page up. Its no good to you now.”

“Be safe, Kylie”, Jallarzi will conclude. “Hopefully when we next meet it will be under more pleasant circumstances.”

A moment after that, Jallarzi and Elspeth start up the spiral stairs in the left hand corner heading up the shorter of the two towers that rise from the mage area of Karn's Keep. On the upper floor a third Argent awaits them.

[Elspeth]

Elspeth:

Upon hearing that her services were needed, Elspeth left her temple in Elcadan and traveled with Jallarzi to Karn's Keep. The priestess had been her before, so its huge size isn't so shocking any more.

"Hi Elspeth!" she says, turning to the Azrellan Priestess. "That is a beautiful new robe you're wearing."

“Thank you, Kylie,” Elspeth easily answers. “These robes reflect my new status at the Elcadan Temple. Mother Boelle passed away a few weeks ago and I have since taken her place.”

"I'm sorry to hear about Mother Boelle," Kylie replies somberly. "I didn't know her well, but I always heard what a wonderful person she was. I have no doubt that you will do an excellent job of carrying on her legacy."

“Everyone took her passing hard,” Elspeth admits. “Her time had come the Blue Lady called her home. Mother Boelle was the closest thing that I and Ivy had to a mother, so her loss was painful. I can only hope to live up her standards.”

Before the conversation has a chance to go much further, Kylie floats back toward her mother. "Everyone, I would like you all to meet my mother, Allurien Feador." Kylie gestures to each person in turn. "This is Jallarzi, who trained me in the magical arts. Next to her is Elspeth, a high-ranking priestess of Azrella. Over here are my friends Argent and Argent, and you've already met Sharadin's twin daughters Sherry and Terry."

“Ma'am,” Elspeth nods when introduced. A joyful smile comes to Elspeth's face as mother and daughter had been reunited. A part of Elspeth does wonder who her own mother was and what led to her giving up her own daughter so long ago.

Pushing such morbid thoughts aside, Elspeth accompanies Jallarzi further up the tower to where this new Argent is at. Hopefully it will be with my power to help her through this dark time.

[Argent]

Argents:

The morning had been going pleasantly enough. That was until we learned that yet another Argent had been found and brought to Karn's Keep by Kylie. Neither one of us knew what to think about this new development.

“I have to admit that I have wondered if there were more of us,” the Lady Argent stated. “I mean there are six pillars in the artifact, so therefore there are six potential destinations.”

“And we arrived at the two known destinations: under Gateway and at the ruins of Mesilva,” the other Argent added. “That does beg the question, where do the other four pillars lead too? And did this other Argent arrive at one of those locations?”

“Its a reasonable hypothesis,” the Lady Argent agreed. “Still, I am just coming to terms with you being here and now there is another.”

“I know the feeling,” the Argent with the leather garments noted. “It sounds like this one has been through a horrible ordeal and she hasn't had the benefit of time to adjust. She's going to be upset and I can't blame her.”

“We'll just bite our tongues and be nice to her,” the Lady Argent stated. “There is no reason to go through what we went through with her.”

“Agreed.”

And so it was off to one of our home away from homes: Karn's Keep with Jallarzi, Elspeth and the twins. A guard directed us to the library.

“She's in our quarters,” the Lady Argent realized.

“Where else would she be?” the other Argent added.

The library was reached and inside was Kylie, Sherwood and an unfamiliar lady elf. Introductions were made.

Kylie smiles as the healthy Argents explain which is which. "Yes, I heard about that. I'm glad to see that you returned safe and sound."

“Ah,” this Argent realizes glancing at her double. “She told you about that I suppose. Makes sense since it was before... before whatever you want to call this happened. Back when I was my own person.”

“We all have a common history and memories before the accident,” the Lady Argent notes. “Its only afterwards that our lives divert. So, yes, I filled Kylie in on our time with the Company of the Sword.”

“Annoying,” the Argent in leather says, “but not unreasonable.”

"Congratulations, Argent. I had wondered what had happened after I left," Kylie says.

“Quite a bit actually,” the Lady Argent says. “Its been anything but dull.”

"You're welcome. Like you, she is my friend, and this seemed the best place for her to recover. I cannot tell you what the scro did to her, as I didn't ask for details. She had been through too much for me to ask her to have to relive it."

“It must have been really bad,” the Argent in leather agrees. “I-- we made a promise to go out and succeed at being a mage before we would ever think about returning home. It took extraordinary circumstances before I-- we returned home to visit our family.”

“It was the first time Jallarzi yelled at us,” the Lady Argent adds. “She told us what happened to her parents and just how foolish we were being.”

“Well, you were being foolish,” the leather-clad Argent tartly adds.

“You were just as bad,” the Lady Argent responds. “She expertly reduced us to sobbing messes. Than we finally went home to face the our parents and got yelled at some more. That was not a good day.”

“No,” the other Argent agrees. “But it was the right thing to do. We were being foolish. At any rate after that we decided to go our different ways as we were not as civilized around each other as we are now.”

“That's when our lives went in different directions,” the Lady Argent concludes.

“Elspeth and I are going to go up and speak to this new Argent,” Jallarzi announces. “Gives us some time with her before either you pop in. I do not want a repeat of what happened before.”

“Yes, ma'am,” the two Argents say quietly.

Once they are gone, Kylie turns back to the Argents in the room. "I want to hear what your lives have been like since I last saw each of you." She turns to the leather-clad Argent. "Since it's been longer since I've last seen you, I'd like to hear your story first. Afterwards, Lady Argent, I hope you'll tell me of your experiences with the Guardians."

“I get to go first,” the leather Argent smugly teases her twin. The Lady Argent simply rolls her eyes at the comment. “There is a tale to be told. Why don't we get comfortable?”

The leather-clad Argent moves to take a seat in the library. The Lady Argent had the same idea and went for the same seat. The two glare at each other for a moment until the Lady Argent mutters, “Fine!” and picks a different place to sit.

The Argent with the leather clothing takes a seat with a pleased look on her face. “To pick up where we left off, after going home to see our family, we decided to go our separate ways.”

“As we couldn't stand to be around each other,” the Lady Argent chimes in.

“Hey! My story, back off!” the leather Argent chastises. “You'll get your chance.”

“Fine,” the Lady Argent mutters once more indignantly.

“I went back to the Sallavarian Estate,” the Argent in leather states. “You had already left on your mission with Sherwood and were gone. So I spent the day relaxing in my old room.”

“Our room,” the Lady Argent notes.

After throwing her double a angry glance, this Argent continues. “So next day I decided to ride into Elcadan in search of adventure. I went to the High Road Inn to see if Gottman had any leads on any potential excitement. Guess who I ran into there? Hesdin.”

“Hesdin was an half-elfin conjurer we met back in Crossroads years earlier,” the Lady Argent adds to clarify.

“Exactly,” the leather Argent agrees. “We decided to team up. We took rooms at the Inn and shared dinner. Next morning we went to the Elcadan Mage Guild to join. They already knew me since I had been there before with Jallarzi. And so I became a member.”

“And later they let me in under your membership,” the Lady Argent adds with a laugh. “That thought I was you!”

“Since you are now a rich noble, it only seems fair that you pay me for half of the membership dues since you are only riding on my coat tails,” the Argent in leather points out.

The Lady Argent shoots her double a look of 'as if!'

“While there we learned that the Archmage Sorvani Caladon was planning an expedition to the ruins of the castle of Demara the Enchantress. I had read about Demara in Jallarzi's books before. She had been a member of the Fellowship of Mages before she went nuts. Exploring her castle had always been a dream of mine, so we went to sign up for the expedition.”

“The next afternoon Sorvani's held a getting to know each other dinner at the Marksend Inn. His wife Kayla was there along with Mara Korvin, a human ranger, Dallar a human Priest of Tymora, Tevra a human lightning mage, a warrior named Reginald and lastly, but least Thorvid, a tall and tasty barbarian. My goodness, he was a big, big man! He was at least six foot five and muscle bound. His leg was bigger than my waste! He took a fancy to me and man oh man was he...”

“Know your audience, dear,” the Lady Argent advises.

The Argent in leather looks surprised for a moment that quickly turns into embarrassment. “Yes. At any rate Thorvid was quite a man and we spent a lot of time together. He very nearly wore me out!”

“We set out from Elcadan the next day,” the Argent in leather continues. The ruins of Demara's castle was far to the north and west. It took eight days of riding to reach it. But as we started to approach the ruins, a black dragon was spotted circling overhead!”

[Argent]

“The dragon flew towards us and then just passed overhead. I managed to keep from panicking when I saw the dragon flying back! We spread out while Thorvid did all but try to get the dragon to attack him! The mages tossed Lightning Bolts at the dragon and we did enough damage that it fled. Wouldn't you know it, it flew right towards the ruins of Demara's castle!”

“I had a Fly spell active, so I went ahead to scout from a very safe distance. The dragon flew into a large hole in the side of the hill below the castle. The castle itself was pretty large, but looked long abandoned. Its highest tower was 3 stories high. Many old campfires dotted the courtyard.”

“Sorvani decided to go after the dragon. After all we had wounded it, so it just made sense to deal with it before it came to hunt us! We rode for the hole the dragon went into and prepared to go in. Kayla cast a True Sight spell on herself and we went in.”

“From the looks of it, this cave had recently been enlarged, probably to allow the dragon to move through it. The groups was spread out to keep to many of us from being caught by dragon's breath. Sorvani cast a Project Image spell creating an illusionary double of himself. This illusion was in the lead.”

“We moved deeper into the cave until the floor dropped out below us. A rope ladder had been placed as this point as the floor dropped down over thirty feet. We moved down to his new level and continued to follow the tunnel. We reached another ledge looking out into a huge cavern. The black dragon could be seen and it was coming towards us! But that was not all. A man of some kind stepped out of the shadows.”

“I am MacDaer!”, he called out. “ Who dares to invade the ruins of my mother's home?!”

“That's not a man!” Kayla told us. “He's a demon!”

“Sorvani ordered us to attack! Hesdin and I sent Magic Missiles towards the approaching dragon, but we didn't slow it down. Sorvani cast Silver Shards on the demon and he retreated! However the dragon reached the ledge, stood up on its rear legs and breathed on us! The dragon targeted Sorvani, but it passed harmlessly through his Project Image. However, Reginald caught the brunt of the attack and was killed instantly! I got caught in the edge of the breath and everything went black on me.”

“I came around shortly after that thanks to Kayla. Others wise I may not have survived that attack! By then the fighting was over with. While I was out, Thorvid freaked out after seeing me go down. He ran to the edge and leaped off at the dragon! He had his great sword in both hands and shoved it into the dragons head! The dragon fell to the floor, taking Thorvid with him. Thankfully, the attack killed the dragon.”

“Just when we let out a sigh of relief, another black dragon appeared and roared about her 'mate'! This dragon was smaller, so we assumed that it was the female. Thorvid carved into her pretty good nearly killing the second dragon. However, the dragon wasn't done. She clawed Thorvid, picked him up and then tossed him into her mouth!”

“Tevra hit the dragon with another Lightning Bolt and that settled the issue. She feel to the cavern floor in death and Thorvid tumbled out of her mouth, still alive. We had survived the battle with not one, but two black dragons! Sorvani conjured his Magical Mansion and we went inside to rest up.”

“Magical Mansion?” the Lady Argent asked. “Sorvani was that powerful?”

“Yes, he was,” the Argent in leather answers. “He made one each night on the trip, so we could relax in style!”

“As we rested Kayla told us more about the demon we briefly saw. She called it a cambion, a child from a human mother and a demonic father. Since it called this place his mother's home it made sense that he was the child of Demara! She did more than just consort with demons after she went nuts!”

“Next morning we were off once more. The priests had healed everyone and we explored the area more. The dead dragons were still there, although scavengers were tearing into their bodies. Thorvid took some of their skin with the idea of using it to make clothing once we got back to Elcadan.”

“We found some dwarves that were being held captive by the demon. They were being forced to tunnel at the back of these caves. They departed that after we freed them. Turns out that Demara had a lab deep underneath her castle and earthquakes in the past had buried the way to it. The demon was trying to reach his mothers lab and no doubt treasure!”

“Instead of trying to tunnel in, we decide to explore the castle above and find another way down. The castle itself was big, but old and falling down. We battled our way through the demons guards and were finally able to send him back to the abyss! Good riddance to that horrible thing, if you ask me!”

“With no more dangers left to face, we decided to try and reach Demara's hidden laboratory. Sorvani explored ahead using Wraithform spells and we did find the lab. The stairs leading to it had collapsed and the ceiling looked like it would come down if we tried to dig it out.”

“That sent us back to the caves were we found the passage the dwarves were digging up. Sorvani did the heavy lifting to reach this treasure trove. He used Transmute Rock to Mud spells to clear the way. The passage was already on a slant, so the newly created mud would slowly slide down, clearing the way. It took a few days, but we reached the remains of the laboratory. Turns out that Demara created whole bunch of magical leather clothing. I ended up getting three items for myself as part of the loot.”

“The vest provides protection of missiles, blocking some of their damage. It can also absorb Magic Missiles cast at me and then I can use that magical energy to cast my own Magic Missiles. The pants can conceal items in them. There are hidden pockets in each of the legs that can store goods, like miniature Bag of Holding. I'm particularly proud of the boots. I call them Demara's Boots of Comfort. They are soft and comfortable to wear, but not only that, they can alter there appearance. They can be knee high in size, over the knee or even ankle high. The heels are adjustable as well. They don't get dirty, so never need cleaning! I can move a little faster in them as well.”

“After completing our mission to Demara's Castle, we returned to Elcadan. The group went their own way, but Thorvid and I stayed together. Another adventure would soon come our way, but first I needed some new clothes as that horrible dragon ruined my dress. I decided that I probably should have some practical adventuring clothes. Since I had all these leather clothes from Demara, I added a nice white blouse to my outfit and here we are!”

More to come...

[Argent]

“We had returned to Elcadan from the ruins of Demara's Castle and that's when things took an unexpected turn. Thor started to talk about seeking out a great treasure for our next adventure. Admittedly, that got my interest. But what he wanted to do with that treasure shocked me! He wanted to build me a palace as a token of his love. A grand place where we shall live and bear many fine children! Yikes!”

“It was like cold water had been splashed on my face! I mean, Thor was a great guy, handsome and a whole lot of man, but I was certainly not ready to settle down or have children! Maybe at some point I would be, just not right now. That was the start of our brief relationship souring. The problem was,” the Argent in leather pauses at this moment, searching for the proper words.

“The problem was that he was a dumb as a box of rocks?” the Lady Argent offers.

The leather Argent looks at her double in surprise at first, but with growing agreement. “Yeah, pretty much. Admittedly when I was just starting out as a novice spell caster I tried to choose powerful warriors to romance mainly for my own protection. But as I’ve grown more experienced and more powerful in my craft, that is no longer the case. I do not need as much protection.”

“Much to my surprise, I’m finding that looks are not everything anymore. Take Thor for instance. The barbarian was certainly a feast for the eyes, but not someone I would seek out for intellectual conversation. Romance is wonderful, but I’m finding that I need more than that from a companion. I need someone I can relate to and discuss things arcane with. I need someone who is my intellectual equal, not some swordsman or armored warrior who couldn’t even spell Mordenkainen.”

At this point the Lady Argent breaks out in laughter.

“You think that is funny?” The Argent in leather accuses. “That you have it all figured out?”

“Its funny because I said almost the exact same thing myself about a month ago,” the Lady Argent explains. “You came to the same realization that I did.”

Turning back to Kylie, the leather-clad Argent says, “And that is how we know that we had been the same person. Sometimes we say the same thing or try to do the some thing at the same time. We really are the same person living different lives.”

“I'm sure Kylie has noticed,” the Lady Argent adds. “Sorry to interrupt your tale. Please continue.”

“So Thor was out looking for an adventure for us to go on,” the leather Argent continues. “He heard stories of a black dragon living in an ancient city down in the great swamp. I wasn't too keen on wandering around a smelly old swamp, so I waited for something better to come along.”

“And something did. Thor had been approached by another adventurer about some mission. We agreed to meet at the High Road Inn. So we were there waiting, I was sipping wine, when these two women entered the Inn. I had never seen women like this before!”

“Leading the way was an incredibly tall woman who called herself Shkai'ra. I mean she was taller than Thorvid! Really muscular too! And gorgeous with long flow red hair. Her companion was named Sakornia and she was exotic as well. Her skill was darkly tanned and she wore little better than animal skins. I had to wonder just where Thor found these two at!”

“The job was pretty straightforward. Shkai'ra had been approached by a merchant to deal with a band of ogres that raided his caravan. He simply wanted us to stop the ogres and recover his stolen merchandise. The catch was that one of these ogres could use magic! Shkai'ra was from Komazan and they hate magic users, so the idea of hiring a mage to counter an enemy mage must have been a difficult one for her. At any rate, we agreed to her terms of employment an we were off two days later. Instead of just going out and hunting down these ogres, we decided to ride with the next caravan going out.”

“I swore I would never ride in a caravan again,” the Lady Argent calls out. “I did that enough back when Jallarzi put me through her initiation.”

“Yes, I know,” the Argent in leather agrees. “Our initiation was bad enough, but at least this time it was for business. Fortunately, the wait was not long. That same afternoon the caravan was attacked. A cloaked figured demanded a toll for passing him. The caravan master refused and ogres came out to attack!”

“With the warriors we had on our side, the battle was short but brutal. Six of the ogres went down and the rest ran for it. We followed them back to a cave they were using as a lair. The rest were taken out just as easily and the missing cargo located. Afterwards we returned to Elcadan to see what new excitement would come our way.”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The reunions at Karn's Keep continues.

Lady Jallarzi Sallavarian and Mother Elspeth make their way up the spiral stairs to the uppermost level of the eastern mage tower. It was the chamber on this top floor that Argent had adopted as her personal quarters while staying at Karn's Keep. Lord Sharadin allowed her to keep it as there was more space than they knew what to do with as it was.

The spiral stairs came up into a huge sixty foot square chamber. The room had been luxuriously furnished with velvet's and other rich fabrics. The room had been divided up into sectors. There was the bedroom area, a small study area and an area for relaxation.

There were wide windows in each of the walls that looked out over the entire keep and countryside. The view of the distant mountains was spectacular. Standing before one of these windows was the object of Lady Sallavarians search: her former apprentice Argent. Or rather yet another version of her apprentice as Jallarzi had arrived at Karn's Keep with two other Argents!

“Jallarzi!” Argent called out as she ran towards Jallarzi and hugged her tightly. She broke out into sobs as she tried to say how she had missed her so.

“It's okay,” Jallarzi whispered softly. The Lady Sallavarian was shocked to see how thin this Argent was. “You're safe now.”

After a few moments, Jallarzi led Argent to a nearby seat. Argent gave Elspeth a hug before sitting down. A few minutes passed as Argent regained her composure.

“Before we get started, we need to get something out of the way,” Jallarzi stated. “When you first arrived at my estate you told me your real name and as I promised, I have not revealed it to anyone else. Since this incident happened, it has also given me a way to insure that you are who you appear to be.”

“I remember that,” Argent notes. “Back when we were touring the museum in your home. You were telling me about your ancestors.”

“That's right,” Jallarzi acknowledged. “You told me that your real name was Madge Tannin.”

Argent looked at Jallarzi in shock and then to Elspeth before looking back at Jallarzi. “That's not my real name!”

“No, it isn't,” Jallarzi agreed. “But an imposter wouldn't know that. Now that we have established that you are really you we can go forward. I have to warn you that I have done this before. There are two other you's down in the library chatting with Kylie. Tell me your story.”


Two floors down in the grand library of Karn's Keep Kylie has met the other two Argents. One is now the Lady Argent whom she met while with the Guardian's of Light. The other Argent has been telling Kylie her exploits since the accident that created the multiple Argent's. Thus far, this Argent has told the tale of how she joined up with an adventuring band led by the archmage Sorvani Caladon and traveled to the ruins of Demara's Castle. There they battled two black dragons and a cambion, the offspring of a human female and a demon! In Demara's lab deep underneath the castle they found a treasure trove of magical leather clothing. This Argent wears three such pieces. Demara's Vest of Missile Protection, Demara's Pants of Storage and Demara's Boots of Comfort.

From there she returned to Elcadan with her barbarian lover Thorvid. Thorvid had taken skin from the black dragons to several leather workers in town to have a variety of garments custom made. It as after this that Thorvid started to get serious about settling down and starting a family with this Argent. This freaked Argent out a bit as she was not ready to start a family at this point in her life.

Fortunately, a new adventure came up involving recovering merchandise stolen from a caravan by ogres. The job was given to an tall warrior woman called Shkai'ra and her companion Sakornia. The task seemed simple enough and Argent agreed. The ogres were no great challenged and were defeated. Argent and Thorvid returned to Elcadan once more.

“So I was back to Elcadan and the searching for the next adventure,” the Argent in leather clothing continues. “We earned some gold from the ogre mission, but not much else. At least not enough for Thor to build me a palace. Thankfully something came up a few days later. Sorvani contacted us once more requesting our skills for a new mission he was getting ready to depart on. Given how well the first one turned out, I jumped at the chance!”

“We gathered at the Marksend Inn the next day to go over the details of this new mission. Sorvani was planning to investigate the ruins of a small keep to the far to the south, just north of the Great Swamp. Those who rode the river boats down south told the tales of a tower with a glowing beacon that could be seen far off in the distance during the night. That was our destination. This beacon sounded magical in nature so hopefully this would lead to more magic items and possible spells!”

“This band of adventurers was similar to the previous one. Tevra wasn't there, but in her place was another mage: Burant!”

“Oh, Burant!” the Lady Argent calls out with a smile. “He was such a nice boy. Wonderful kisser.”

“Uh-huh!” the leather Argent adds knowingly.

“Burant was one of Lord Sharadin's apprentices,” the Lady Argent tells Kylie. “I first met him when I went to Lord Sharadin's mansion in Gateway to become his apprentice. I ended up as Jallarzi's apprentice instead, but that's where I met Burant. I flirted with him and we kissed, but ultimately nothing could come of it. At least while were both apprentices under Lord Sharadin's roof.”

“That's him,” the Argent in leather agrees. “I was already attracted to him and given that I was looking for a relationship with someone more my intellectual equal, Burant fit the bill perfectly! But the great big anchor in all of this was Thorvid. I didn't feel about Thor the way he felt about me, but at the same time I was afraid to tell him that. I didn't want to hurt him and more importantly, I didn't want him to hurt me either. I talked to Burant a bit, but couldn't say all that much with Thor hovering over us.”

“Getting back to my story, we booked passage on a river boat heading south the next day. Sorvani had estimated that sailing down river for a day would place us close to our destination. From there were would conjure Phantom Steeds to ride to this inland beacon.”

At this point Kylie will note that Sherwood has set down his books and is paying attention to Argent's story.

“There wasn't enough of these magical horses for everyone so we had to double up. Those who were light enough rode with those who were heavier. And so the next morning Sorvani conjured these horses and we departed the river boat. I figured that this horses could just run over water. Boy, was I in for surprise! This magical horses could fly and fast! I mean like over twice as fast as I could using a Fly spell!”

“The ground below passed in a blur. We left the Streel River and flew over a light forest. Up ahead was a marshy area. Not as large as the Great Swamp to the south, but still miles wide and across. We could make out many lizard like creatures down below. I was sure glad to be flying other them like this!”

“To the south of this small swamp an area of hills started to rise up. It was there that this rotting fortress was built. A bright green glow was being emitted from the top of the tallest tower. The gates to the fortress had fallen a long time ago. We spotted movement down below. The fortress was not deserted. Even stranger there was this large cauldron in the middle of the courtyard. It was burning, but the flames where jet black in color!”

At this point, Sherwood comes rushing over to join the group. “That has to be the fortress that once belonged to Lord Beltron!” Sherwood says excitedly. “This is the place the Nightmist directed us towards. This must be the base for the Cult of the Blackflame! Tell me everything that happened there Argent, and don't leave out any details!”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Sherra came across these leather merchants and their tales of Thorvid and Argent during New Frontiers #112.

There were many callbacks to the Argent Adventures stories here. Burant, trying to become Lord Sharadin's apprentice and Argent telling Jallarzi her real name.

The location of the base of the Cult of the Blackflame was searched for in the Blackflame game. The group was looking for Nightmist so that she could tell them about the mission to free the baby Crown Prince from the cult. The Swords of Cynalon story in the story section goes into this. Some of that story was similar to Argent's story and that got Sherwood's attention.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

“In what way,” Jallarzi asks with a little bit of concern. “You're okay? Is everyone else safe?”

"I'm fine, Jallarzi, as are the others," Kylie confirms, having not meant to engender concern. "I guess what I meant was that I tend to see a lot of things differently than when I was your student. Hopefully, I'm less naive and less self-centered. Heck, I've even met Corellon Larethian himself, father of all elves. And I finally feel like I have a purpose and a direction for my life now."

A second later, smirk appears on her lips. "Oh, and then there's this..." Kylie points down toward where her feet float a hand-span above the floor.

“Everyone took her passing hard,” Elspeth admits. “Her time had come the Blue Lady called her home. Mother Boelle was the closest thing that I and Ivy had to a mother, so her loss was painful. I can only hope to live up her standards.”

Kylie nods, her mind recalling her memories associated with both Mother Boelle and Elspeth. "How is Ivy? Have you seen her recently?"

===

“Kylie had some measure of magical skill in her," Jallarzi explains. "I just helped her bring it out. Sherwood told me some of what happened and that you two have been reunited. I am very happy for you both.”

Kylie doesn't interrupt as her mother and instructor talk. Still, she cannot help but feel a touch of pride at some of their remarks.

Before leaving, Jallarzi will step up to Kylie and Allurien once more. “I'm not sure how long this is going to take and I am told that you can only stay for a short time. In case you are gone before I come back, there are some things that I need to tell you. Sherwood told you that Cynalon is locked in a Civil War. So far most of the fighting has taken place in and around Elcadan. Kylie, Dog Alley is gone. It, along with much of the Southern Slums were burned when the Athenos Army attacked the city. Most of the people had been evacuated, but some did perish in the fire. All that remains of that part of the city is smoldering rubble.”

"G-gone...?" Kylie murmurs, shock evident in her voice. "It was a hellish hole, but it was still home." She thinks about the many people who she knew there, particularly the few good ones trapped there by misfortune. She can only hope that they were among those evacuated.

Thinking about the people she knew, Kylie's mind drifts to her father, Tomas. She breathes a sigh of relief, knowing that he no longer lived there; Jallarzi had helped him find a new home in Orlane.

And then it hits her. The army was from Athenos! They would have had to have passed through Orlane! "Oh, no... No... Dad..." Tears fill her eyes. Her attention shifts instantly back to her mentor. "Jallarzi. Please. What do you know of Orlane?!"

“I also understand that you can now cast Teleport,” Jallarzi continues. “Do not try to teleport to my estate using the picture that Sherwood gave you. The Estate was also attacked and the teleportation tower was knocked over and shattered when it hit the ground. Just tear that page up. Its no good to you now.”

Jallarzi's news is not comforting. "I'm sorry, and thank you for telling me." Kylie fetches the booklet from her enchanted Girdle, removes the page for the Sallavarian Estate, then replaces the rest of the booklet. Crumpling the page, she tosses it into the fireplace.

“Be safe, Kylie”, Jallarzi will conclude. “Hopefully when we next meet it will be under more pleasant circumstances.”

Kylie just nods, a touch of sadness in her eyes.

===

“Quite a bit actually,” the Lady Argent says. “Its been anything but dull.”

"Indeed," Kylie agrees. It is strange watching these two talk back and forth, sometimes trying to out-clever the other, and sometimes completing each other's thoughts the way the twins do. She can only imagine how much worse it must have been when they first met. She has never seen Jallarzi mad enough to yell at any of her students, and doesn't want to.

Soon, Argent launches into her story. Like the Argents, Kylie settles into a chair to listen. Before long, she's glad she did, as the telling proves to be long and detailed.

The first adventure regards the exploration of a ruined castle that had once belonged to a crazed mage by the name of Demara the Enchantress with a team lead by a mage named Sorvani Caladon. Argent quickly veers off onto the subject of her lusty adventures with a brawny barbarian named Thorvid. Kylie blushes bright red and turns away in embarrassment. Fortunately, Lady Argent diverts her 'sister' back onto the original story.

At the castle, they defeated two black dragons and what she calls a cambion. Kylie isn't familiar with the term, but apparently it is kind of like a tiefling - part human and part demon. With the reference to a tiefling, Kylie recalls a man - tiefling - named Yusef that she had traveled with. It occurs to her to wonder whatever became of him. As her mind wanders, Kylie misses part of the story, but is brought back by the mention of this Thorvid surviving being swallowed by one of the dragons!

"Wait! Wait," Kylie says, astonishment clear on her face. "This barbarian, Thorvid, survived being swallowed by a black dragon?!" She has never heard tell of anything of the like. It is almost beyond belief!

Eventually, after much exploration of the castle, they had rescued some dwarves and located Demara's treasures. Argent had claimed some enchanted leather armor, the very same as she now wears.

The next part proves to be quite amusing. Apparently, Thorvid had wanted to find a vast treasure so that he could build a Argent a castle and make babies with her! Argent's reaction to the idea leaves Kylie laughing for several minutes. Argent settling down to crank out kids?! That'll be the day! Of course, this just diverted her toward wanting to find a more intellectual 'playmate'. Kylie had never realized that her friend was so... libidinous. Interestingly, this leads to the two Argents realizing a bit more just how alike they are. Somehow, she has trouble thinking of the rescued Argent this way, but that may just be a function of circumstance...

Next, she and Thorvid had a brief adventure, along with a couple of adventurers named Shkai'ra and Sakornia, that involved guarding a caravan and slaying a handful of ogres. It was brief, not very challenging at this point in their careers, and not all that lucrative.

The next adventure involves teaming up once again with the mage Sorvani, as well as a mage that Argent - all of her - knew from the early days of her training. At this point, Kylie isn't really surprised by the mention of her friend kissing this other mage. Anyway, they were planning to raid some ruins on the northern edge of the Great Swamp. The name brings back memories of her experiences there with Sherwood and the Guardians; that was when she last saw Lady Argent.

Glancing over, Kylie notes that Sherwood is suddenly interested in Argent's tale. She describes locating the remains of a fort on a low hill after flying past over some lizard-like beings. Movement was seen in the fort, and there was a giant cauldron being heated by black flames! Kylie recalls the vile black liquid that they had found at the perverted temple in the Beleme Swamp. They must be connected!

At this point, Sherwood comes rushing over to join the group. “That has to be the fortress that once belonged to Lord Beltron!” Sherwood says excitedly. “This is the place the Nightmist directed us towards. This must be the base for the Cult of the Blackflame! Tell me everything that happened there Argent, and don't leave out any details!”

Clearly, Sherwood has the same thought. "It must be the source of the Blackwater we were looking for!" Kylie says, looking at Sherwood. She returns her attention to Argent, more interested now than before in her friend's story.

___________________________________________________________________________
Please note that the response she gets from Jallarzi regarding Orlane and her father could drastically change the rest of the conversation.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Kylie has been reunited with her magic teacher, the Lady Jallarzi Sallavarian at Karn's Keep. Jallarzi arrived with Mother Elspeth and two other Argents.

"I'm fine, Jallarzi, as are the others," Kylie confirms, having not meant to engender concern. "I guess what I meant was that I tend to see a lot of things differently than when I was your student. Hopefully, I'm less naive and less self-centered. Heck, I've even met Corellon Larethian himself, father of all elves. And I finally feel like I have a purpose and a direction for my life now."

Jallarzi just smiles at Kylie's explanation. “Oh Kylie, it means that you've grown up.”

A second later, smirk appears on her lips. "Oh, and then there's this..." Kylie points down toward where her feet float a hand-span above the floor.

“How--?” Jallarzi will wonder.

Kylie nods, her mind recalling her memories associated with both Mother Boelle and Elspeth. "How is Ivy? Have you seen her recently?"

“Ivy is still with the Guardian's in Elcadan, so I see her frequently now,” Elspeth explains. “She was granted a noble title by the King for her actions in Corunglain, but she does not seem to be fond of it. Oh, she is engaged to marry Sir Acerion. She is well, and much like yourself, Ivy has blossomed into something wonderful.”


Jallarzi tells Kylie about the damage done to Elcadan due to the civil war...

"G-gone...?" Kylie murmurs, shock evident in her voice. "It was a hellish hole, but it was still home." She thinks about the many people who she knew there, particularly the few good ones trapped there by misfortune. She can only hope that they were among those evacuated.

“To some, yes,” Jallarzi agrees. “Duke VanArkus opened up the three abandoned estates on the Nobles Island to be used as shelters during this crisis. Unfortunately, no one wanted to go into the DeVille Estate. Can't say I blame them there. But suffice to say a place to go for safety was available to all, but not everyone took advantage of it.”

Thinking about the people she knew, Kylie's mind drifts to her father, Tomas. She breathes a sigh of relief, knowing that he no longer lived there; Jallarzi had helped him find a new home in Orlane.

And then it hits her. The army was from Athenos! They would have had to have passed through Orlane! "Oh, no... No...Dad..." Tears fill her eyes. Her attention shifts instantly back to her mentor.

This sudden change in mode is noted by Allurien and she comes up to Kylie. “What's wrong?”

"Jallarzi. Please. What do you know of Orlane?!"

“I know that the Athenos Army passed by it about a week ago,” Jallarzi reports. “But beyond that nothing else. Our enemies are after the nobles who follow the true King of Cynalon. Unless someone did something to provoke the Army, they should have left the towns and villages they passed alone. Their target was Elcadan.”

“Is this Orlane were Tomas lives now?” Allurien asks, also concerned.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

Jallarzi just smiles at Kylie's explanation. “Oh Kylie, it means that you've grown up.”

"Shhh..." Kylie replies softly with her finger in front of her lips. "You'll ruin my reputation..."

“How--?” Jallarzi will wonder.

Kylie thinks back to that day nearly two weeks ago. "When we restored Mother Tree, Corellon gifted each of us with a reward of our choosing. Lilia became a priestess of Corellon Larethian. Laucian and Valena chose mounts: a griffon for Laucian, and a unicorn for Valena. Nariya selected a magic spear named 'Orcbane'. Lia was transformed into a full drow, and Talen gained the natural abilities of a drow. Your cousin," she gestures in Sherwood's direction, "can now see in the dark as well as an elf. I, on the other hand, asked for the ability to fly at will, without the need for a spell.

"Sometimes, I actually forget that I'm flying instead of walking."

“Ivy is still with the Guardian's in Elcadan, so I see her frequently now,” Elspeth explains. “She was granted a noble title by the King for her actions in Corunglain, but she does not seem to be fond of it. Oh, she is engaged to marry Sir Acerion. She is well, and much like yourself, Ivy has blossomed into something wonderful.”

Kylie smiles as she recalls the last time she saw her friend Ivy. "She was always something wonderful, so I guess she really hasn't changed much. Acerion is a good man; I'm sure they will have a wonderful life together."

===

“To some, yes,” Jallarzi agrees. “Duke VanArkus opened up the three abandoned estates on the Nobles Island to be used as shelters during this crisis. Unfortunately, no one wanted to go into the DeVille Estate. Can't say I blame them there. But suffice to say a place to go for safety was available to all, but not everyone took advantage of it.”

Kylie recalls the DeVille Estate with a trickle of fear running down her spine. It had seemed as grand to her as any of the other estates on Nobles Island, yet no sane thief would go anywhere near it. Everyone had a story or rumor about that place, each more terrifying than the next. She only knew of one person who had made the attempt, and they were never seen or heard from again.

This sudden change in mode is noted by Allurien and she comes up to Kylie. “What's wrong?”

Kylie hears her mother's voice, but is too focused on Jallarzi's reply to respond.

“I know that the Athenos Army passed by it about a week ago,” Jallarzi reports. “But beyond that nothing else. Our enemies are after the nobles who follow the true King of Cynalon. Unless someone did something to provoke the Army, they should have left the towns and villages they passed alone. Their target was Elcadan.”

Jallarzi's words bring a ray of hope into Kylie's darkness. It does make sense that they might not have bothered the smaller towns. Maybe.

“Is this Orlane were Tomas lives now?” Allurien asks, also concerned.

Wiping some of the tears from her eyes, Kylie turns to her mother. "Yes, Mom, Jallarzi helped him settle there after I became her student."

Looking around at everyone in the room, Kylie speaks a bit louder as she addresses the group of mages. "Does anyone have a way of scrying or communicating with my father?" She needs to know that he is okay.

__________________________________________________________________________________
I'm assuming that Kylie doesn't know the place well enough to be able to Teleport there.

[Argent]

Argents:

Looking around at everyone in the room, Kylie speaks a bit louder as she addresses the group of mages. "Does anyone have a way of scrying or communicating with my father?" She needs to know that he is okay.

“You can use my Crystal Ball,” both Argents say at the same time.

The two look at each other in annoyance, until the Argent in leather tells her double, “Go ahead and use yours. I got the pick of seats after all.”

The Lady Argent produces her Bag of Holding, the very same one Jallarzi gave her all those years ago. She fishes around inside it until she pulls out the Crystal Ball wrapped up in a spare dress. Argent then lays the spare dress on another chair in a pile and makes a place for the Crystal Ball to rest.

“Have you used one of these before, Kylie?” she asks.

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

“You can use my Crystal Ball,” both Argents say at the same time.

The two look at each other in annoyance, until the Argent in leather tells her double, “Go ahead and use yours. I got the pick of seats after all.”

'A Crystal Ball! Perfect!' Kylie thinks excitedly. Unfortunately, the Argents then clash over whose to use, increasing Kylie's anxiety in this stressful situation. She resists the urge to snap at them, and they soon work it out.

Lady Argent retrieves her Crystal Ball from her Bag of Holding. It appears to be wrapped in some kind of garment, but Kylie takes little notice of that; she is far too focused on finding her father.

“Have you used one of these before, Kylie?” she asks.

Kylie thinks for a few moments before responding, searching her memory for previous experience with such an item. "I recently saw the Argent upstairs use hers, and Sherwood used a spell with a mirror in the same manner while we were working to rescue the Mother Tree, but I have never done so myself."

[Argent]

Argents:

Kylie thinks for a few moments before responding, searching her memory for previous experience with such an item. "I recently saw the Argent upstairs use hers, and Sherwood used a spell with a mirror in the same manner while we were working to rescue the Mother Tree, but I have never done so myself."

“Its really simple,” Lady Argent explains. “Put your hands on the Crystal Ball and move them about it.”

“Like when working with balls of dough back in Jallarzi's kitchen,” the Argent in leather offers.

“Exactly,” Lady Argent agrees. “Clear your mind. It's a lot like casting a teleportation spell. The better you know the target, the better your chance of success. Think about your dad, get a really good mental image of him in your head. Then open your eyes and you should be able to see him within the Crystal Ball.”

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

Kylie listens as the two Argents describe the technique for using a Crystal Ball. She's not entirely sure she gets how to kneed a hard orb like a ball of soft dough, but she's willing to give it a try. Pulling up a mental image of Dad should be relatively easy, as she does it often enough when she thinks of him.

"I think I'm ready to give it a try," Kylie says, a note of uncertainty in her voice. She kneels down in front of the chair that the Crystal Ball is sitting on. Reaching out, she places one hand on each side of the enchanted orb and begins to move her hand over the surface similar to how Argent had done so when Kylie had watched her. "Like this?" she asks, glancing up at Lady Argent."

Once she feels comfortable with the motion, Kylie closes her eyes and focuses on pulling up an image of her father from the last time she saw him. She concentrates carefully, trying to make the image in her mind as accurate as possible, as well as the sound of his voice, and even the scent of his hair and body when he hugs her.

After a few moments, she opens her eyes and gazes into the Crystal Ball, hoping desperately to see her father alive and well.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed