The Sylvan Realm #33 (#77)

[GM Mad]

The Sylvan Realm #33 (#77)

December 7th, CR 571 or Deepnight 29th, 20,519 AP

The HIVE Queen asked Lore Keeper Ironaya about the enemy of the Chiliz. The Queen was linked to a small frog-like creature through her silver head hunter. The Lore Keeper resembled one of the Chiliz themselves, the type generally referred to as a 'horn head'.

“Thanks to their innate mental and magical abilities, the Chiliz Civilization grew rapidly and expanded beyond their home world,” Lore Keeper Ironaya stated. “They traveled between the stars are started to colonize other worlds. But they did not find other creatures who were intelligent like them. That lead some Chiliz scientists to experiment on other races in hopes of making them intelligent. None of these experiments bore fruit during the time of the Chiliz.”

“Near the large central hub of stars and worlds, the Chiliz explorers found a gigantic tear in the fabric of space. A massive hole that seemed to serve no other purpose but to swallow anything that came to close to it. They called it the Great Wound and theorized that perhaps some other place lay beyond it. None who attempted to reach this other place were ever seen again.”

“The Chiliz studied the Great Wound for many years, but the answers to it eluded them. In time, they turned their attention elsewhere. They found many other worlds and put in place means to reach them without traveling through the darkness of space. The Chiliz Civilization soon enveloped much of the known galaxy.”

“One day a 'thing' emerged from the Great Wound. It was a blob of pure darkness. The closest Chiliz outpost collected the blob and took it in. The Chiliz attempted to study this creature, but could not find any form of intelligent to it.”

“The blob lashed out and parts of it landed on those studying it. These patches of darkness rapidly grew larger until they covered the bodies of the Chiliz. Once that happened, they were Chiliz no more. They were now servants of this darkness that came from the Great Wound. They sought to take over more and more Chiliz.”

“Terrible battles were fought against their own kind. Those first infected with the darkness were defeated and destroyed, but more blobs of darkness emerged from the Great Wound and more Chiliz were infected. There seemed to be no end to these black blobs.”

“The top thinkers of the Chiliz worked to find a solution to this problem that threatened their civilization. Many ideas were worked upon and few reached implementation stage. Project: Infection was one such idea as was Project: Resonance. They were both worked on here in Shelvestra.”

The names of those projects were somehow familiar to the HIVE Queen. The Chiliz Essence she had absorbed worked on both and used both to disastrous results. With more than bit of fear in her, the HIVE Queen finally asked:

“What was Project: Infection?”

[GM Mad]

An ancient black dragon was the next adversary to be sent to deal with the coalition here to exterminate the HIVE. This dragon survived the opening barrage of spells and arrows that brought the first one down. In soared in and grabbed two of the armored warriors and carried then off!

Voices call out, trying to determine just who was carried off. It's quickly discovered to be Arlen Brightsword and the dwarven Lieutenant Stonebeard!

What happens next occurs is in the span of a few heartbeats. More arrows are fired at the now fleeing dragon. Onas manages to get one of his shafts to embed in the rear flank of the dragon. Laucian lines up a shoot with a Paralyzation Arrow. His aim is true and the arrow draws blood, but the dragon keeps on moving. Valena fires another volley of arrows, but only one of them hits the target. The other arrows just bounce off.

Kylie and Lilia fly off after the dragon, while both Gweyr and Lord Sharadin are casting their own spells. Lord Sharadin gets his off first and suddenly a gigantic Wall of Iron appears right in the path of the black dragon! There is no time to avoid this new obstacle and the ancient dragon crashes head first into the magical wall!

There is a tremendous crash and all the forward momentum of the dragon ceases! It lands hard on the ground, stunned from the sudden impact, but still very much alive. As everyone takes this sudden turn of events in, the Wall of Iron itself wobbles from the impact. The wall begins to fall--- away from the dragon and the coalition. Another tremendous crash follows as the Wall of Iron lands on the muddy ground. The earth shakes in the area violently and dust is hurtled into the air. More of the hatchery area of the HIVE was just crushed flat from the Wall of Iron.

Much to your surprise, the dragon still lives and is trying to shake off the effects of the impact! The dwarves start to run off in that direction with weapons at the ready.

“For Lieutenant Stonebeard!” The cry out as they advance.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Kylie, Lia, and Lilia can still act in this round.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

“Sound off, who are we missing?!”

Amidst the noise and confusion of the dragon's attack, Kylie just barely hears Laucian's call and several responses from far below. "Here!" she chimes in as she races overhead in pursuit of the enormous beast.

“Kylie! With me!” Lilia calls out. “If that dragon drops our allies from a great height they could be killed!”

"Already on it!" Kylie calls back seeing Lilia rise into the air off to one side. The mention of falling friends leads gives her an idea; she angles her flight downward to a level a bit lower than the dragon's current altitude, hoping that this will give her a bit more speed.

Kylie cannot help wondering how far from her friends she is going to have to chase this dragon. Though they are underground, the cavern is vast and the wall they are currently flying toward is still some distance away.

Just then, a metal wall suddenly springs up in front of the beast! Clearly, one of the other mages cast Wall of Iron; a small part of her mind notes the cleverness of casting it right in the dragon's path. Unable to avoid the wall, the dragon plows into it and is brought to a sudden halt. With no forward momentum left, it falls to the ground with a resounding crash that shakes the floor of the cavern like jelly. She cannot see whoever was scooped up, and figures that they must have been crushed under the dragon's body.

Taking a page from the other mage's playbook, Kylie casts Wall of Ice in the air above the dragon as soon as she is within range, aiming it so that it will fall onto the huge beast. As soon as the spell is cast, she continues flying in the direction of the dragon.

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

“Which one,” Valena says with a laugh. “The dwarves or the dragons? I bet they would give you different answers.”

Onas chuckles at the Silver Maiden's question. "Somehow I suspect it would be a bad idea to ask a dragon if they taste good..."

“Sadly, the stories are true. It was Ehlonna’s will. That and the will and strength of my companions.” He says simply.

Onas' hand moves instinctively to the symbol of his patron around his neck. "With the love and support of our gods, almost anything is possible." Onas finds that he is curious about these companions that Laucian mentions; perhaps there will be time to learn more of the woodsman's history later.

At Laucian's prompting, the archmage confirms that a Hive head-hunter also emerged from the other black dragon. "I'm glad to hear that it was destroyed," Kylie says. "That will prevent it from enslaving another host."

All this talk of these bugs enslaving people leaves Onas feeling a bit queasy. "No one deserves such a fate," he murmurs, a grimace crossing his features.

Laucian calls for everyone to report in so they can identify who the dragon snatched up. "Onas here!" Onas shouts in response as he hears others do likewise.

As he moves forward, Onas listens for the sound of his brother's voice, but it never comes. Soon the replies taper off, but Arlen isn't one of them! "Arlen! Oh, gods above! It has my brother!" Fear and foreboding claw at his chest, and Onas nearly stumbles as he charges onward.

Onas joins many of the other archers in firing at the dragon. Though many shafts rebound from the beast's scales, one of his manages to penetrate, as do ones from Laucian and Valena. Disturbingly, the gigantic drake seems not to notice.

Before he can take another step, a huge slab of metal appears out of thin air in front of the dragon! How can this be?! Just then, it occurs to Onas that he had heard Lord Sharadin chanting a moment ago, and no longer does. Magic - that must be it...

Apparently stunned by it's collision with the metal slab, the dragon crashes to the ground. "Arlen!" Onas screams. Shaking the shock out of his head, he races forward looking for a good shot. If only he can get there before the dragon takes off again, perhaps he can save his brother. But how...

__________________________________________________________________________
If he gets there before the dragon resumes flight, Onas will switch to his Frost Brand and strike with that.

[Laucian]

Laucian
Laucian lines up a shoot with a Paralyzation Arrow. His aim is true and the arrow draws blood, but the dragon keeps on moving.

Laucian watches his arrow strike home. For the briefest of moments, he holds his breath that the arrow’s magic will take hold. But his hope his short lived as the Ancient dragon beats it’s wings driving itself forward into a solid wall of Iron that one of the mage had casted.

Knowing that he will have to use his spells for healing on Lt Stonebeard and Arlen, Laucian moves to his Fire and Ice arrows. He will call out, “Hit it with everything you got while it’s dazed! If we can take it’s wings out do so!” He calls out as he hears Onas call out over his taken brother.
Laucian takes his fire/ ice arrows and begins to aim at the dragon.

[Lia]

Lia
Lia watches as the Dragon moves off with two of their number. She answers the call to who is still here and it is soon learned that Arlen and Lt. Stonebeard. Hearing Onas yell for his brother, makes her think of Talen in the protective bubble.

“Onas do not be reckless! Your bother would not want you to die trying to save him” she says as she follows the horse rider. When she can she will let loose her last of the magic missile, from her ring, ate the beast.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia flies after the black dragon who took two of their companions away with it. She can faintly hear those behind her talking about who was carried off. It was Arlen Brightsword and the dwarven Lieutenant Stonebeard!

Unexpectedly, a barrier simply appears in front of the dragon and it collides with it! The dragon appears to be stunned, while the barrier itself falls the opposite way. With the dragon stunned, there might be a chance to rescue those in its grasp! Lilia flies forward and towards where those being held would be at. If they are free of the dragon's grasp, Lilia will fly in and carry whomever she finds off.

Otherwise, Lilia adds her own Wall of Ice to drop on the dragon.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

Onas chuckles at the Silver Maiden's question. "Somehow I suspect it would be a bad idea to ask a dragon if they taste good..."

“Probably,” Valena agrees.

The dragon flies off with two of the attack force. It is quickly determined to be the dwarven Lieutenant and our own Arlen!

As he moves forward, Onas listens for the sound of his brother's voice, but it never comes. Soon the replies taper off, but Arlen isn't one of them! "Arlen! Oh, gods above! It has my brother!" Fear and foreboding claw at his chest, and Onas nearly stumbles as he charges onward.

“Courage, Onas!” Valena calls out. “Your brother will survive this!”

Knowing that he will have to use his spells for healing on Lt Stonebeard and Arlen, Laucian moves to his Fire and Ice arrows. He will call out, “Hit it with everything you got while it’s dazed! If we can take it’s wings out do so!” He calls out as he hears Onas call out over his taken brother.

“Aye!” Valena chimes in as she focuses on the beasts large wings. If they can be damaged...

Valena alternates Fire and Frost arrows at the dragon. Maybe she'll have better luck with those.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

December 7th, CR 571 or Deepnight 29th, 20,519 AP

“Project: Infection was an attempt to counter Chiliz being infected by the darkness and converted into serving them,” Lore Keeper Ironaya stated. “Defenses were enacted to keep the infected away from other Chiliz. The pillars used to travel between worlds were locked with a code that changed regularly. This prevented infected worlds from threatening uninfected ones.”

“The theory behind Project: Infection was that the darkness coating the infected itself could also be infected and turned back into Chiliz. A creature was engineered lay a significant amount of eggs. These eggs would hatch larva that upon feeding with cocoon themselves and when they emerged they would be a large, flying insect-like creature. These insects would latch onto an infected Chiliz and purge the infection, changing them back into a Chiliz.”

“The initial phase of the project was a great success. A queen was created to lay eggs and control her hive mimicking what the Chiliz had observed among mindless insects. The flying creatures attached themselves to those who were infected and changed them. But they did not change back into a Chiliz. Instead they were changed into an insect-like creature and became a force controlled by the queen.”

“Thus Project: Infection was a complete failure,” Ironaya concluded. “Instead of rescuing infected Chiliz, they were just converted into a new kind of enemy. One that was unable to tell the difference between a healthy Chiliz and an infected Chiliz. All they created was a new, malevolent enemy.”

“Those infected by the queen was destroyed as was the queen herself. The remaining Project: Infection samples were sealed away in stasis for protection. The project was abandoned and the Chiliz moved on to new methods. It is speculated that...”

Lore Keeper Ironaya suddenly stopped in her explanation as the HIVE Queen had become enraged at what she was hearing. Was this thing actually suggesting that these Chiliz had created the HIVE? Nonsense! The HIVE Queen was the pinnacle of evolution! Not some kind of experiment!

To show her distaste, the HIVE Queen slammed down one of her massive legs on the building holding the Lore Keeper and her frog-like avatar. The building collapsed and the avatar died instantly. The HIVE Queen assumed the Lore Keeper was crushed as well.

The HIVE Queen rumbled back to her nest, rejecting what she had heard. The HIVE were not a failed experiment! They were predators who would make all like them! The HIVE would rule over all!

[GM Mad]

The ancient black dragon has been brought down after it plowed into a Wall of Iron cast by Lord Sharadin! The dragon falls, but not very far as it was already close to the ground. The beast is stunned and those grasped in its claws are let loose!

Lilia spots one of those carried off and flies down to rescue them. Its the dwarf Lieutenant Stonebeard. The Queen of the Sylvan Realm flies off with the dwarf thanks to her magically enhanced strength.

Onas quickly covers the distance to the dragon. He spots Lilia flying off with one of those grabbed, but she is too far away to clearly make out who. Instead, Onas brings his Frostbrand into play and twice drives it deep into the dragons flank! The dragon roars in pain!

Once Lilia is far enough away with the dwarf, Kylie drops a Wall of Ice on top of the dragon doing more damage to it. Gweyr adds yet another of her more portent Fireballs. The spell burns the dragon further wounding it!

Laucian and Valena fire another barrage of arrows at the dragon, alternating Fire and Frost Arrows. Each only scores a single hit with minor damage. The dragons wings remain undamaged.

Andlin dashes up the other side of the dragon, away from Onas. He spies a disorientated Arlen up ahead. Andlin reaches Arlen and starts to move him away from the dragon before they are inadvertently caught in the spells going off in the area.

The dwarves follow Andlin in, but stop and start to attack the dragon with their weapons. The dwarves do some damage, but not enough to put the dragon down.

The dragon regains control and turns back towards its attackers. The gargantuan beast roars and waves of fear cover the attackers! Some are affected by dragon fear, while others manage to steel themselves from its effects.

Lilia, already flying away from the dragon now panics and starts to fly as fast as she can. Gweyr flies off as well while Lia and several of the dwarves run for it! Kylie, Laucian, Onas and Valena manage to maintain their composure and are now faced with a very scary, wounded and angry dragon!

Now what?

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Forgot to mention this when I posted last night. Priests in this game have had their spells altered as per my notes in the most recently OG post. What that means is that spells are read out based on your spheres and not from me assigning the spell to you like I do for mages. So some spells may be gone from your lists as it was a err that you had them and new spells that you should have had all along are now listed.

Also, it seems that I forgot about Lia's action during the post. She cast her last Magic Missile and it did some damage to the dragon, but not enough to change the outcome.

Now what?

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

“Courage, Onas!” Valena calls out. “Your brother will survive this!”

"He had better!..." Onas shouts back as he takes off running. His heart is beating wildly as a vision of his brother's mangled body crushed beneath the dragon swims through his mind.

“Onas do not be reckless! Your bother would not want you to die trying to save him” she says as she follows the horse rider.

Though he doesn't reply, Onas hears the words of the Chosen. Looking ahead, he slows his run for a moment to note the position and facing of the beast. The crusader alters his path to swing more around toward the dragon's flank; perhaps it won't notice him until it is too late.

Lilia arrives before him, and Onas sees her scoop someone up and fly off with them, though he cannot tell whether it is Arlen or Andlin due to the distance and angle. 'Let it be Arlen,' he prays silently as he runs, then changes his mind. 'Angharradh, please watch over and protect them both!' Fortunately, he is soon within reach of the dragon and plunges his Frost Brand into it's side once, and then a second time.

He will call out, “Hit it with everything you got while it’s dazed! If we can take it’s wings out do so!” He calls out as he hears Onas call out over his taken brother.

Even as he yanks his blade from the dragon's ribs, Laucian's words reach Onas' ears. A strange sound causes him to look up and Onas sees a large slab of ice fall from the sky and crash down upon the beast. This is almost immediately followed by a huge ball of fire. Still, the beast is so large that neither comes close to striking him.

Just then, the black beast roars, and waves of fear wash over the crusader and many of the others. Onas grabs his symbol of his faith in Angharradh and focuses his thoughts on his love and devotion to her blessed divinity. A feeling of warmth and courage washes over him; though he sees a couple of the dwarves break and run, he manages to hold his ground. It occurs to him that some of the spells he converted to healing earlier would be very useful right now, but there is nothing to be done about that.

The Golden Griffon's words return to him. Pausing but a second to consider, Onas turns and races along the dragon's body toward where the wings connect. Leaping high, he attempts to drive the Frost Brand into the joint or as close to it as he can reach. 'Cannot let it take off again!'

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

All this talk of these bugs enslaving people leaves Onas feeling a bit queasy. "No one deserves such a fate," he murmurs, a grimace crossing his features.

Kylie looks at the Forest Rider with sympathy on her face. "No, they don't."


The dragon crashes into the ground, stunned by the Wall of Iron Sharadin created. Continuing to fly forward, Kylie spots Lilia swooping in to pick up one of those snatched by the swamp dragon. From the size and shape, Kylie surmises it to be the dwarven lieutenant.

Onas' sword carves into the beast's flank just before her own Wall of Ice smashes into it. Gweyr adds a Fireball, followed by a flock of arrows from the archers, and yet the dragon still lives.

Kylie dives toward the dragon; from this vantage, she has an excellent view of the battlefield. Andlin races up the far flank from where Onas wields his blade. Finding the other captive, Andlin starts to lead him away; Kylie realizes that this must be Arlen and she starts to smile. However, the airflow created by the speed of her dive causes her lips to flap wildly and makes the expression unreadable. "Onas! Andlin has your brother!" Kylie shouts, trying to share the message, but cannot tell if her words are comprehensible.

Lifting it's bulk out of the gully carved by its landing, the dragon lets out an ear-rending roar. The sound and majesty of the creature drives spikes of fear into Kylie's breast. Her dive slows as her resolution wavers. Fortunately, her altitude and position above the dragon give her a unique perspective and she sees that most of the dwarves remain fighting. Determined to do her part and allow no others to be harmed, she pours on the speed. As soon as she is close enough, she pauses her flight and casts Lance of Disruption straight down at the beast's scaled shoulders. "This has to end!" she exclaims through gritted teeth.

[Lia]

Lia
Arrows and magicks light up the dark as, Lia thinks they are making headway against the Black dragon. How wrong could she be?

The dragon regains control and turns back towards its attackers. The gargantuan beast roars and waves of fear cover the attackers! Some are affected by dragon fear, while others manage to steel themselves from its effects.

Lia watches as the Black Dragon turns and faces the barrage, It’s eyes full of hate and loathing. It let’s out a great roar, causing Lia to shake within her armour. A great feeling of fear overcomes her as her courage fails, turning on her foot she tries to get away from the dragon the best she can while.

As Lia runs away, she will try to regain her courage and wits.

[Laucian]

Laucian
Drawing up his bow, taking aim and firing, Laucian watches as his arrows and others strike home. Magics go off furthering wounding the beast. The fighters fight the dragon, damaging the beast further.

Laucian watches as the gigantic beast turns about it’s eyes filled with Rage, hate and anger opens it’s mouth and let’s out a deafening roar. Many of the dwarves run for as do Lilia, Lia and Gweyr. Suddenly the they are staring down a very angry dragon with half their number retreating.

“Do not doubt your courage! Steel yourselves!” he calls out as he sees his companions break and run from the fear of the Dragon. He is about to grab a few more arrows to put in the dragon’s hide but thinks the better of it. Targeting Lilia, Onas, Gweyr and Lia, Laucian will call upon his patron and cast Cloak of Bravery.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The HIVE Queen simmered for many months, brooding over what the Lore Keeper had told her. That the HIVE had actually been created by the Chiliz to combat an enemy that was attacking them. That plan failed and the project abandoned.

The HIVE Queen desperately tried to remember her own beginnings, but found that she could not. One of her abilities was to take the knowledge of others and add it to her own. But there was a limit to this talent. Every time the HIVE siphoned new information from an unwilling being, old information was forgotten in return. In time, the HIVE Queen would not remember the encounter with the Lore Keeper at all.

But she could still draw upon the disjointed memories of the last of the Chiliz as it was an recent absorption. This being was millions of years old and when the HIVE Queen found him all that was left was his decaying bones. But his essence, his mind, still existed but just barely. This Chiliz was part of the battle against the darkness coming forth from the Great Wound.

Project: Infection had failed, but there were memories of a different initiative. The first project was the attempt to save those infected. The second was to simply kill them and deny the enemy their bodies to use as weapons. With the Chiliz, their greatest strength was also their greatest weakness. While their bodies were tough and resistant to most physical damage, their minds had no such protection. Project: Resonance was the name of this idea.

Just how to deliver Project: Resonance came into question. There was promising research in an unrelated project that perhaps could be adapted here. That other concept was known as Project: Exodus. If the two projects could be merged, then the enemy could finally be stopped.

Time passed as the great projects were being worked on. The Chiliz the HIVE Queen had possessed found that his mind was starting to wander. He no longer was focus exclusively on the project. He started to feel that there was a sort of intelligence to the darkness from the Great Wound. Some force was driving it, but he could not understand what. Using the teleportation network, this Chiliz moved to the closest clean world to the Great Wound. Borrowing a small ship, the Chiliz traveled to the Great Wound to see it for himself. Perhaps what had been nagging him would become clear there.

What Chiliz didn't know was that the enemy was indeed intelligent and it was also learning. While it coated the enemy to completely control them, the process also revealed just who was being controlled. But if just a spot of the darkness was attached the subject, while not under complete control, they could be influenced.

As the Chiliz saw the Great Wound for himself for the first time, he found that he was drawn to it. For at some point, a spot of darkness had latched on to him. Where or when it happened, he had no idea. Not truly sure what he was doing, the Chiliz piloted his ship into the Great Wound and it vanished from the known universe.

[GM Mad]

In the underground ruins of Shelvestra, the coalition contends with an ancient black dragon. The beast is gigantic, bigger than most city blocks! The elves and dwarves are like insects against this enormous creature. Dragon fear washes over everyone. Some flee, not having control over themselves, while others are shaken, but not driven to flight.

Queen Lilia was one of those who succumbed to the fear and flew away, carrying a dazed Lieutenant Stonebeard. Gweyr also flies away as Lia and a few of the dwarves simply run for it in a blind panic.

Kylie hovers high overhead and casts Lance of Disruption targeting the dragons shoulders. The spell impacts upon the dragon wounding it further. With something this large, its hard to tell how effect the magic was.

Onas has the same idea and rushes up the flank of the dragon towards where its wings emerge. His Frostbrand bites deep once more and the dragon roars its displeasure. More attacks follow from the dwarves and from Andlin and Arlen Brightsword. Lord Sharadin casts a spell that accelerates hunks of pure silver that rocket through the steel-hard scales and directly into the beast. It hard to tell just what attack delivered the final blow, but the dragon's movement stops and then it completely crashes to the ground. The body convulses a few times and then all movement stops. Those near the head will hear and see a silver head hunter climb out of the ear and attempt to fly away.

All is suddenly quiet in the general area. Silvarn and Saryn arrive a moment later and switch to their humanoid forms. Both look like they've been in a terrific battle.

“Is everyone all right?” Silvarn will ask.

Those affected by the dragon fear will slowly come back. In the background, the Fire Elemental continues to move around the hatchery causing HIVE eggs to explode. There immediate area seems to be clear of threats.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

And finally the dragon is defeated!

Cloak of Bravery requires the caster to touch the targets of the spell, that's why I didn't address it in the main body of the post. Laucian could have fired more arrows should he so desire.

Here's where everyone's health was last left at.

Hit Points:

Andlin: 68 of 80
Arlen: 66 of 76
Lia: 57 of 63
Onas: 61 of 66


Now what?

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia flies towards one of the stunned dragon's forearms where it was carrying an ally. As she gets closer, Lilia can see that it is a dwarf and not an elf. Arlen must have been on the other side! The dwarf is stunned from his ordeal and helpless. Lilia lands beside him, picks the dwarf up and flies off.

Without looking back, Lilia hears a tremendous roar that just drives her further away from the dragon. The affect is momentary and after slowing and looking back, Lilia can see that the beast has been slain. Flying off once more, Lilia brings the dwarven Lieutenant back to everyone else. Silvarn and Saryn also return and shift back into their smaller humanoid forms. It is clear that they have seen battle.

“Is everyone all right?” Silvarn will ask.

“I believe so,” Lilia answers before turning her gaze towards the dragoness. “However, it appears that you have been wounded. I can help heal you if you wish.”

Addressing both Silvarn and Saryn Lilia will say, “Behind us is a HIVE hatchery. Those weak life signs were those being devoured by HIVE larva. They were beyond saving and we ended their suffering. That's why those dragons were sent here to stop us from destroying their eggs. More enemies will arrive. It's just a matter of time. But until then we should continue to destroy the eggs to prevent more HIVE from being born.”

Drawing her Manabow once more, Lilia continues to fire arrows at the larva eggs.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

Feeling more than a bit useless against an enemy of this size, Valena continues to fire her arrows. Finally, the dragon falls! Figuring that this dragon was also controlled, Valena makes her way towards the beasts head. She looks and listens and is finally rewarded by hearing and then seeing a silver bug come out of its ear! Taking aim, Valena will shoot it with an arrow.

Afterwards, Valena walks back to the others. She catches some of what Lilia tells the dragons.

“Are all the dragons accounted for?” Valena will wonder. “As I recall there were five of them and two were slain here and another one was defeated by the dwarves. I for one have had enough of fighting black dragons.”

[Laucian]

Laucian
More magicks are put forth to the field as Onas drives his frostbrand into the dragon. Then Lord Sharadin casts a spell that penetrates it’s armor quite effectively. The ensuing barrage lays the dragon down as the body convulses in it’s death throws.
Those effected by the dragon fear slowly come back as two of their dragon friends come back to them and become humanoid once more. With the blood and sweat, their hair in desire, Laucian makes them out to be Silvarn and Saryn.

“Is everyone all right?” Silvarn will ask.

“It seems we are no worse for wear, considering our foe.” The follower of Ehlonna states as he converts his detect magic to a healing spell upon Andlin. “Though the battle was hard fought, only some are injured.”
He sees the silvery creature come from the head of dragon, then Valena taking aim at it. She soon asks if that is all the dragons that they thought was here.
“If there are more, perhaps we should have Talen and the others move the protective barrier forward so that we can reach it easier if in need.
Laucian will ask those returning from the dragons fear if they are well and if they need anything, especially Gweyr.

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

Kylie looks at the Forest Rider with sympathy on her face. "No, they don't."

Onas nods respectfully to the Chosen of Corellon. He appreciates the support, though he has nothing more to say on the matter. Instead, he turns his thoughts toward what is to come and his need to erase the stain of evil from this place.


They have hurt the dragon, but the battle is not yet done. Sprinting along the dragon's side, Onas sees Kylie high above casting some kind of spell. From this angle, however, he cannot see what harm it may have done.

Though he jumps as high as he can, Onas cannot reach the wing shoulder. Fortunately, his Frost Brand does carve into the muscle just below the joint, causing the dragon to roar its displeasure. Onas is amazed that he can wound so massive a foe.

More attacks from various quarters, some he can see and many he cannot, bring their opponent down for its final rest. Feeling the ground shudder as the beast drops, Onas pauses to pray to Angharradh, thanking her for her assistance in this fierce battle. He then turns and makes his way toward where they others appear to be gathering.

Silvarn and Saryn arrive first, changing back to their human forms soon after landing. Silvarn asks after the group's well-being. "Arlen and one of the dwarves were snatched up by the dragon. I think Lilia managed to save the dwarf, but I know not the fate of my brother," Onas says anxiously, looking about for Arlen as the others trickle in.

Soon, Onas sees his brother Arlen return with Andlin. Both are injured, though not badly. "Praise Angharradh that you are well, my brother, and you, friend Andlin!" he exclaims as he greets the pair. Laucian provides healing for Andlin, and Onas does the same* for his brother.

“Are all the dragons accounted for?” Valena will wonder. “As I recall there were five of them and two were slain here and another one was defeated by the dwarves. I for one have had enough of fighting black dragons.”

Turning, Onas notes that they are missing one of the friendly dragons. "And what of your companion, Lothtor? He went with you, did he not? And do you know aught of Quirin's situation?"

___________________________________________________________________________
* Converting Bless to Cure Light Wounds for Arlen.

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

“Do not doubt your courage! Steel yourselves!” he calls out as he sees his companions break and run from the fear of the Dragon.

The dragon's roar of pain and rage causes Kylie's heart to quail within her chest. The words of her long-time companion, Laucian, reach her ears over the din of battle, allowing her to press forward rather than flee.

Diving down closer to the beast, Kylie casts Lance of Disruption down into its back between the shoulder blades. She has seen this spell blast a stout wooden door off its hinges, yet the huge dragon barely flinches from the impact. Its strength is unbelievable!

Though a few of her companions fled the fearful roar of the dragon, most stay and continue their assault. Spells, arrows, and blades all take their toll. Just as the dragon whips its head around to attack one of the stinging insects, its strength gives out and it collapses.

Breathing a sigh of relief, Kylie flies down to check on Andlin and Arlen. She can see rents in their armor and blood seeping from multiple wounds. "Are you two okay?" she asks, concern in her voice.

Kylie guides the two warriors toward where the others are gathering near the head of the slain dragon. Valena puts an arrow into the silver Hive bug that emerges, instantly slaying it. Silvarn and Saryn are there, having resumed their mortal forms. Soon, Lilia returns carrying Lieutenant Stonebeard. Laucian and Onas provide healing to Andlin and Arlen, and it is confirmed that all survived the battle.

"This huge black dragon was a mighty foe, and I am glad that we all survived," Kylie says. "It seems our gods watched over us this day."

_______________________________________________________________________________
I have updated Kylie's spell list as best I recall. Please let me know if I missed any cast spells.

[Lia]

Lia
Soon enough the fear of the dragon wears off leaving the thumping of her heart in her chest. She leans over a broken egg and catches her breath as she looks back into the gloom. She does not hear the sounds of battle and slowly makes her way back.
In short order, she sees the others gathered, the great beast lying dead upon the ground. She sees Valena shoot a silver thing from the air.
“Is it over?” she asks rhetorically seeing the beast upon the ground.

“Is everyone all right?” Silvarn will ask.
“I am okay.. I think. I cannot say the same for my under garments.” she adds softly to no in particular. Seeing the other clerics moving healing the others, Lia will do the same.
Convert Detect traps/pits to heal Onas.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

December 7th, CR 571 or Deepnight 29th, 20,519 AP

The HIVE Queen wandered among her absorbed memories from the last of the Chiliz. The being in question was a scientist who worked on numerous projects. As the battle against the darkness continued, new and more dangerous weapons were being created and tested.

But in the midst of all this, he found himself drawn to the Great Wound. He traveled to the closest world to it that was free of the infection. He borrowed a ship and upon arriving at the tear in the fabric of reality, he plunged into it. For at some point he had come under the influence of the darkness due to a single spot of it on his being. The enemy was learning and was now concealing just whom it controlled and influenced.

His ship left the known universe and appeared in total darkness. There was no light, no sound, just vast seemingly emptiness. But out there in the darkness, he felt that there was some thing watching him. There was a presence, but could not find a way to communicate with it.

He felt a sharp pain in his head, as alien information was being poured into it. The pain of what ever was in this place washed over him. The Great Wound as the Chiliz had named it was a most apt description. For it was really a tear in this being of darkness and he viewed what lay beyond it as nothing more than a disease, an infection. All the darkness' actions against the Chiliz was to sterilize this cancer and heal his wound. He blacked out from the pain and the force feeding of knowledge.

What happened next he was vaguely even aware of. His ship returned to where he had started. The portal network was used and he returned to Shelvestra. In his absence, the other scientists were successful in merging Project: Resonance with Project: Exodus. Project: Exodus was created to deal with the rapid movement of many individuals from world to world. Should the enemy attack a uninfected world, Project: Exodus would quickly evacuate everyone to a different world, denying the enemy their prey.

Project: Resonance had it roots in the study of sound. Tuning forks would vibrate when exposed to sounds of certain frequencies. The pillar teleportation network would function as the tuning forks in this instance. A powerful mental attack would be launched at an infected world. It would resonant among the pillars on that world which in turn would amplify it and increasing its range. Such an attack would then cover an entire world, essentially destroying the minds of those infected.

The night before the first test was to occur on an infected world, he unwittingly acted as instructed by his dark master. The perimeters of the test were changed. Every world where the Chiliz had been and placed teleportation pillars upon it became the target. The scientist summoned up the mightiest mental attack he could muster, amplified many times over thanks to the tinkering done to him by the darkness, and unleashed it on all the Chiliz everywhere.

The attack spread out from world to world. The planetary pillars directed it to all known worlds. The city pillars spread it out to all the cities on those worlds and finally the smaller pillars carried across the globe. The majority of the Chiliz died instantly, their brains, literally, fried from the assault. Some did survive, but in a nearly lobotomized state. They quickly went from being the apex predator to just another dumb animal. Their capacity for mental abilities and even basic thought were violently burned away. On that night, some 65 million years ago, the Chiliz essentially became extinct.

Having completed his task, the Last of the Chiliz was freed from his control and instantly realized just what he had done. He went mad from the pain and grief of his actions. He died not long after, but he still continued to exist beyond death. He wandered the city of Shelvestra for millions of years until finally even his body fell into dust. It was in this greatly reduced state that the HIVE Queen found him and absorbed his essence into herself. Thus was this long circle completed. What had started out as a Chiliz experiment truly became the last being of their legacy. The HIVE Queen was now the Last of the Chiliz.

[GM Mad]

The battle with the gigantic black dragon has ended in its death. The silver head hunter controlling it tries to flee, but Valena shoots it out of the air with an arrow. With the fighting over, everyone checks on each other.

Breathing a sigh of relief, Kylie flies down to check on Andlin and Arlen. She can see rents in their armor and blood seeping from multiple wounds. "Are you two okay?" she asks, concern in her voice.

“I've had worse,” Arlen says with a grin as he walks along gingerly.

“And not all of this blood is ours, Milady,” Andlin adds as he walks beside Arlen towards the rest of the group. “Close quarters combat can be bloody to all involved. I do thank you for your concern.”


Not far away, everyone else is gathering up around Silvarn and Saryn. The silver and gold dragon have returned and show signs of battle visibly.

Silvarn and Saryn arrive first, changing back to their human forms soon after landing. Silvarn asks after the group's well-being. "Arlen and one of the dwarves were snatched up by the dragon. I think Lilia managed to save the dwarf, but I know not the fate of my brother," Onas says anxiously, looking about for Arlen as the others trickle in.

“They are all safe and returning even as we speak,” Saryn states.

Lilia flies in and deposits Lieutenant Stonebeard on the ground.

“Thank ye kindly, miss,” Lieutenant Stonebeard tells Lilia before he rambles off to check on his kin.

“It seems we are no worse for wear, considering our foe.” The follower of Ehlonna states as he converts his detect magic to a healing spell upon Andlin. “Though the battle was hard fought, only some are injured.”

Soon, Onas sees his brother Arlen return with Andlin. Both are injured, though not badly. "Praise Angharradh that you are well, my brother, and you, friend Andlin!" he exclaims as he greets the pair. Laucian provides healing for Andlin, and Onas does the same* for his brother.

“I am okay.. I think. I cannot say the same for my under garments.” she adds softly to no in particular. Seeing the other clerics moving healing the others, Lia will do the same.

The healing magics are cast and both men feel better and offer their thanks. In turn Lia casts a healing spell on Onas.

“I believe so,” Lilia answers before turning her gaze towards the dragoness. “However, it appears that you have been wounded. I can help heal you if you wish.”

“Dragon to dragon combat can be brutal,” Silvarn admits.

“Fighting tooth and claw is most uncivilized and tends to be bloody,” Saryn adds in annoyance.

“Thank you for your healing magic, Lilia,” Silvarn adds when healed, but her appearance does not really change.

“Are all the dragons accounted for?” Valena will wonder. “As I recall there were five of them and two were slain here and another one was defeated by the dwarves. I for one have had enough of fighting black dragons.”

“In that we are in agreement,” Saryn states.

“If there are more, perhaps we should have Talen and the others move the protective barrier forward so that we can reach it easier if in need.”

“That won't be necessary,” Silvarn answers.

“Yes, we slew the two younger ones and were forced to chase after the others when they fled,” Saryn adds. “I believe they are all accounted for. I have no love for my acid spewing cousins, but they deserved a better fate than being a puppet for the HIVE. It's unseemly.”

“The barrier is there to protect the Pillar Artifact from the HIVE Accessing it and escapting,” Lord Sharadin stresses. “It wasn't meant to be moved.”

Turning, Onas notes that they are missing one of the friendly dragons. "And what of your companion, Lothtor? He went with you, did he not? And do you know aught of Quirin's situation?"

“Steel Dragons are smaller and prefer talking over fighting,” Saryn explains. “Thus he was out of his element somewhat. He lives, but was too wounded to fly. So we had to leave him behind to give chase to the other dragons.”

“He is making his way back here on foot,” Silvarn adds. “As for Quirin, I can sense that he is near and coming closer.”

Addressing both Silvarn and Saryn Lilia will say, “Behind us is a HIVE hatchery. Those weak life signs were those being devoured by HIVE larva. They were beyond saving and we ended their suffering. That's why those dragons were sent here to stop us from destroying their eggs. More enemies will arrive. It's just a matter of time. But until then we should continue to destroy the eggs to prevent more HIVE from being born.”

“That explains why those dragons suddenly flew off,” Silvarn rationalizes. “They were coming here to stop you.”

"This huge black dragon was a mighty foe, and I am glad that we all survived," Kylie says. "It seems our gods watched over us this day."

“In that I am in agreement,” Andlin adds.

Laucian will ask those returning from the dragons fear if they are well and if they need anything, especially Gweyr.

Gweyr is uninjured from the battle. However, her pride took a hit from being force to flee from the dragon. “I hate dragon fear!” is the Fire Mage's quote.

“But I am pleased that you were not injured,” she adds to Laucian.


“Rest and recover while you can,” a new voice calls out from a short distance away. Those looking in that direction can see the couatl Quirin weaving its way through the air like a serpent on the ground. “You have endured the blunt of the HIVE'S forces and now the queen herself is moving on to the battlefield. But she is not alone.”

The ground shakes in response as something truly gigantic moves far away. Other thunderous footfalls are heard as well. The queen is not alone! Large dark shapes can be seen rising up across the remains of the city and they are on the move.

“We are at the end game,” Quirin adds, now floating overhead. “The last of the HIVE is coming for us. All will be decided shortly.”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

You'll have a few rounds to prepare for what is to come. What exactly the enemy forces all are too far away to tell right now.

Some 31 years after I conceived it, that is what happened to the Elders. Granted some of the events changed over the years and were improved upon, but the basic gist is still there. One their own took out their entire race leaving behind all the things that they built. Those few Elders who did survive eventually became the ancestors of the modern reptilian races, such as lizard men and their kind. They never again achieved the level of civilization that the Chiliz had.

The Last of the Chiliz became what is called a Psionic Lich and eventually fell into being a Psionic Demi-Lich. That's how he survived for so long until the HIVE Queen found the remains.

I have been using this HIVE Queen interludes as a way to tell this particular story to avoid having Talen do another massive information dump like I did earlier. This is information he would have discovered a bit further down the line, but doing it this way helped you to understand what you are dealing with right now.

Hit Points:

Andlin: 74 of 80
Arlen: 73 of 76
Lia: 57 of 63

Now what?

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

The devout within the group provide healing for those most injured. Onas himself receives the grace of Lia's patron, Eilistraee. As it washes over him, her power elicits a strange, pleasurable thrill throughout his body. Onas' eyes momentarily open wide in surprise and then a soft smile settles across his features. Looking down, he sees that all of his injuries have left no mark. "Thank you, Lia, for sharing Eilistraee's gift with me."

Though Lilia uses Corellon's power to heal Silvarn, it makes little apparent difference. "I can provide but one more healing through Angharradh's provenance if it will help..." Looking between the queen and her draconian friends, the young crusader sounds uncertain as to the best course of action at this time.

“Steel Dragons are smaller and prefer talking over fighting,” Saryn explains. “Thus he was out of his element somewhat. He lives, but was too wounded to fly. So we had to leave him behind to give chase to the other dragons.”

"Ah," Onas murmurs, considering this news. "Perhaps I had best reserve my last blessing until he arrives." He smiles at the news that Quirin is returning as well. Being in the couatl's presence is not unlike that of the deities themselves.

"This huge black dragon was a mighty foe, and I am glad that we all survived," Kylie says. "It seems our gods watched over us this day."

Onas nods in agreement with Lady Kylie's statement. "Indeed they have, good lady. The deities of our people have once again seen us through."

It is not long before Quirin appears among them, his warm beneficent aura soothing rattled nerves and inflamed emotions. Onas cannot help but feel buoyed and hopeful, and he smiles joyfully despite the couatl's dire warnings. Ground-shaking footfalls in the distance capture Onas' attention and he turns to look in that direction. "What be they that could shake the earth so forcefully? More dragons? Giants? Titans?"

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

“I've had worse,” Arlen says with a grin as he walks along gingerly.

“And not all of this blood is ours, Milady,” Andlin adds as he walks beside Arlen towards the rest of the group. “Close quarters combat can be bloody to all involved. I do thank you for your concern.”

"Glad to hear it," Kylie says when the warriors confirm that they are not badly hurt. "I suspect that if a dragon that size had plowed me into the ground they way it did you, Arlen, I'd likely be little more than a bloody red smear."

“I am okay.. I think. I cannot say the same for my under garments.” she adds softly to no in particular.

Hearing the dark elf's words, Kylie grimaces slightly and nods in sympathy. It seems best not to comment, though. Fortunately, attention turns to providing healing for those injured in the battle.

There is talk of the dragons on both sides. It seems this was the last of the black ones, and only Lothtor was seriously injured among the ones on their side.

“That explains why those dragons suddenly flew off,” Silvarn rationalizes. “They were coming here to stop you.”

"It does," Kylie responds, "though it leaves me wondering why they were left with so little protection in the first place. Hardly prudent, one would think. Can they truly not have sensed that enemies were coming?"

Quirin's return is felt even before his voice is heard. The glow of such purity and light once again leaves Kylie speechless for a time. The effect is short-lived, however, as the ground trembles beneath her. They soon hear hear the tread of heavy feet moving toward them, and Quirin warns that the Hive Queen herself is about to enter the fray.

Ground-shaking footfalls in the distance capture Onas' attention and he turns to look in that direction. "What be they that could shake the earth so forcefully? More dragons? Giants? Titans?"

Kylie turns to face the Forest Rider. "Some time back in a swamp north of here, we encountered a giant creature made of plant-life, mud, and water. Since this too is a swamp, perhaps they are something of that sort."

Kylie then turns to Lilia, Sharadin, and Silvarn. "So what is our strategy for this battle? Do we fight here, try to find a better strategic location, or perhaps even try to scout out the opposition?"

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia flies back bearing the dwarven Lieutenant Stonebeard and sits him down on the ground.

“Thank ye kindly, miss,” Lieutenant Stonebeard tells Lilia before he rambles off to check on his kin.

“You are most welcome, Lieutenant,” Lilia will say as the dwarf moves off.


Moving on, Lilia comes across the Silvarn and Saryn. Lilia casts a Healing Spell on a wounded looking Silvarn.

“Dragon to dragon combat can be brutal,” Silvarn admits.

“Fighting tooth and claw is most uncivilized and tends to be bloody,” Saryn adds in annoyance.

“Thank you for your healing magic, Lilia,” Silvarn adds when healed, but her appearance does not really change.

Lilia is mildly surprise that her Healing spell was not more potent. But then she recalls just how much damage the black dragon took before it fell. Dragons are much larger and healthier than the rest of us.

Though Lilia uses Corellon's power to heal Silvarn, it makes little apparent difference. "I can provide but one more healing through Angharradh's provenance if it will help..." Looking between the queen and her draconian friends, the young crusader sounds uncertain as to the best course of action at this time.

“If you wish, Onas,” Lilia easily states.

“Steel Dragons are smaller and prefer talking over fighting,” Saryn explains. “Thus he was out of his element somewhat. He lives, but was too wounded to fly. So we had to leave him behind to give chase to the other dragons.”

"Ah," Onas murmurs, considering this news. "Perhaps I had best reserve my last blessing until he arrives." He smiles at the news that Quirin is returning as well. Being in the couatl's presence is not unlike that of the deities themselves.

Lilia just nods her understanding on his reasoning.

“That explains why those dragons suddenly flew off,” Silvarn rationalizes. “They were coming here to stop you.”

"It does," Kylie responds, "though it leaves me wondering why they were left with so little protection in the first place. Hardly prudent, one would think. Can they truly not have sensed that enemies were coming?"

“We do not fully understand how the HIVE communicates among themselves,” Lilia suggests. “ But clearly they do have ways to talk to each other. Do not forget just how many HIVE fell during their initial attack right after we arrived. They knew we were here. Their losses must have been extraordinary.”

“Rest and recover while you can,” a new voice calls out from a short distance away. Those looking in that direction can see the couatl Quirin weaving its way through the air like a serpent on the ground. “You have endured the blunt of the HIVE'S forces and now the queen herself is moving on to the battlefield. But she is not alone.”

The ground shakes in response as something truly gigantic moves far away. Other thunderous footfalls are heard as well. The queen is not alone! Large dark shapes can be seen rising up across the remains of the city and they are on the move.

“We are at the end game,” Quirin adds, now floating overhead. “The last of the HIVE is coming for us. All will be decided shortly.”

It is not long before Quirin appears among them, his warm beneficent aura soothing rattled nerves and inflamed emotions. Onas cannot help but feel buoyed and hopeful, and he smiles joyfully despite the couatl's dire warnings. Ground-shaking footfalls in the distance capture Onas' attention and he turns to look in that direction. "What be they that could shake the earth so forcefully? More dragons? Giants? Titans?"

“Given the nature of our foe, giant insects?” Lilia wonders. “Is there any more information you can supply, Quirin?”

Kylie turns to face the Forest Rider. "Some time back in a swamp north of here, we encountered a giant creature made of plant-life, mud, and water. Since this too is a swamp, perhaps they are something of that sort."

“A Nature Elemental,” Lilia adds. “I believe that is what Elspeth called it.”

Kylie then turns to Lilia, Sharadin, and Silvarn. "So what is our strategy for this battle? Do we fight here, try to find a better strategic location, or perhaps even try to scout out the opposition?"

“I say we fight here,” Lilia will state. “We have the bodies of the two downed dragons to use for cover. If we are done battling dragons, than we shouldn't have have to worry about breath weapons any more. And if what is coming is a big as those footfalls seem to suggest, we will need to maneuver.”

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

“Yes, we slew the two younger ones and were forced to chase after the others when they fled,” Saryn adds. “I believe they are all accounted for. I have no love for my acid spewing cousins, but they deserved a better fate than being a puppet for the HIVE. It's unseemly.”

“It's a relief that they have been dealt with,” Valena says. “The HIVE has caused so much misery and death to so many. None will mourn their passing.”

“Rest and recover while you can,” a new voice calls out from a short distance away. Those looking in that direction can see the couatl Quirin weaving its way through the air like a serpent on the ground. “You have endured the blunt of the HIVE'S forces and now the queen herself is moving on to the battlefield. But she is not alone.”

Valena can feel the goodness coming from Quirin before she sees or hears the feathered serpent.

“The Queen coming after us?” Valena says.

The ground shakes in response as something truly gigantic moves far away. Other thunderous footfalls are heard as well. The queen is not alone! Large dark shapes can be seen rising up across the remains of the city and they are on the move.

“Just how large is she?” Valena questions with a bit more urgency in her voice. “And what are those things?”

“We are at the end game,” Quirin adds, now floating overhead. “The last of the HIVE is coming for us. All will be decided shortly.”

“I say we fight here,” Lilia will state. “We have the bodies of the two downed dragons to use for cover. If we are done battling dragons, than we shouldn't have have to worry about breath weapons any more. And if what is coming is a big as those footfalls seem to suggest, we will need to maneuver.”

Valena glances at Laucian and then looks up at the body of the giant dragon near by.

“Seems like a good archery position to me!” Valena calls out.

She stores her bow and looks for a way to climb up on top of the dragon.

[Lia]

Lia

“We do not fully understand how the HIVE communicates among themselves,” Lilia suggests. “ But clearly they do have ways to talk to each other. Do not forget just how many HIVE fell during their initial attack right after we arrived. They knew we were here. Their losses must have been extraordinary.”

“One can guess though.” She says evenly. “Perhaps we are being scryed upon or they speak without speaking. Nightmist spoke of creatures from the underdark that spoke to you by way of thoughts.”
“Given the nature of our foe, giant insects?” Lilia wonders. “Is there any more information you can supply, Quirin?”
“After Dragons there is no telling what is coming for us. Judging by the sound of those foot falls though it’s gonna be big and Ugly”

“I say we fight here,” Lilia will state. “We have the bodies of the two downed dragons to use for cover. If we are done battling dragons, than we shouldn't have

have to worry about breath weapons any more. And if what is coming is a big as those footfalls seem to suggest, we will need to maneuver.”
“it would be a folly to move from here. It is ground of our choosing.” She says evenly to the others.
She then calls upon her patron, “Eilistraee, her my call, Send me your moonfire so that my allies may see better.” As the moonlight takes hold she will push the spell to it’s limit so that the others may see what is coming.( Color blue white. As bright as she can make it. Spell description doesn’t say how bright

[Laucian]

Laucian

Kylie wrote:"This huge black dragon was a mighty foe, and I am glad that we all survived," Kylie says. "It seems our gods watched over us this day."
“In that I am in agreement,” Andlin adds.

“I am sure the dwarves would make it taste great as well. I understand it to be a delicacy of theirs, or so that is what the rumors say.” He says looking to Kylie and Andlin then to the dwarves.

“I hate dragon fear!” is the Fire Mage's quote.

“But I am pleased that you were not injured,” she adds to Laucian.

“Better to run away than become it’s next snack.” He says with a hint of a smile reassuringly. “But it is good to see you well.”

“We are at the end game,” Quirin adds, now floating overhead. “The last of the HIVE is coming for us. All will be decided shortly.”
Those close to the ranger cleric can see his free hand got to his holy symbol, his eyes close as he says a prayer in Elvish to Ehlonna to see them through their trials.

He hears Kylie mention their gods watched over them. Which he fully agrees. “Let us hope they are still watching..” he says more to himself than anyone.

“I say we fight here,” Lilia will state. “We have the bodies of the two downed dragons to use for cover. If we are done battling dragons, than we shouldn't have have to worry about breath weapons any more. And if what is coming is a big as those footfalls seem to suggest, we will need to maneuver.”

“We do not have the time to scout about. This is good ground and we know it. To venture forth in the dark now would not suit our cause. It would hamper it.”

“Seems like a good archery position to me!” Valena calls out.

“And it’s hide will give some protection!” Laucian calls back but first he looks back to where the large thumps are coming from. “Do not venture to forward. Let us see if we can slow them down some.” Laucian will cast Spike growth the way the sounds are coming from as long as the vegetation is suitable. He will then move back to the fallen dragon area and take up position, bow at the ready.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

December 7th, CR 571 or Deepnight 29th, 20,519 AP

The HIVE Queen had wandered the memories of the essence she had absorbed. It was the last of the race that had built this ruined city and he had been instrumental in their downfall. Armed with this new knowledge, the HIVE Queen realized that if she was to conquer all things she would need larger, more powerful weapons at her disposal.

To solve this problem she gave birth to a special larva, one that would, over time, change its host into something much larger and more powerful. Eggs holding these new larva were laid, they hatched, cocooned again and emerged as a special type of head hunter. These head hunters latched onto borer beetles and in time they would grow large enough to breach the walls of enemy cities. There would be no safe haven from the HIVE!

While that was going on, it was discovered that a small family of black dragons were nesting nearby. The Head hunters managed to ensnare them all eventually. Hundreds perished in the numerous attempts, but finally all of them were brought under the sway of the HIVE. That task complete, the HIVE Queen went to sleep confident that when she awoke, all would be ready for the HIVE to begin their conquest.

Only a few months ago, the HIVE Queen fully awoke. While she slumbered the rest of the ruins of the Elder City were unearthed. The diggers had found not one, but two of the smaller Pillar Artifacts. The HIVE Queen went forth to see for herself. The northern most one seemed to be in good shape. The records core showed nothing happening from more than 65 million years ago. The HIVE Queen assumed that the attack that eliminated the Chiliz had damaged the artifact in the process. These devices could heal themselves and become usable again over time. But that old data was probably gone forever. Other teleporters were so damaged from the incident that they never were able to repair themselves.

The HIVE Queen was reluctant to use the smaller teleporter as she didn't know what waited on the other side. Was the arrival area protected or guarded? She needed more information. According to the records the artifact had seen virtually no use. Were this things even usable? To that end, the HIVE Queen modified the local artifacts. Instead of traveling from one pillar to one pillar, anyone using the artifact in the immediate area would instead be sent through all six of the pillars and arrive at six different locations. She reasoned that anyone using the artifact nearby would have two copies sent here. Then they would become new HIVE and their knowledge of the outside world would become known.

The other Pillar Artifact located at the the other end of the city was even more questionable. There were times the HIVE Queen could sense its presence and others when she could not. It was if it was only there part of the time and somewhere else the rest of it.

Having eliminated the two smaller Pillar Artifacts, the Queen turned her eyes towards the city to city version. One possible destination led to a city underwater and that was ruled out, but the other was buried, much like Shelvestra had been. That might be a way to covertly gain more HIVE. Diggers were rounded up and the HIVE Queen used the larger teleporter to move them to this other buried Chiliz City. Upon use, the artifact would clear whatever debris there was at the arrival point. Once there, all the diggers had to do was toss the dirt onto the artifact. The next day, the HIVE Queen would send more diggers and remove the earth dug up the previously. In time this new area would be cleared.

Time passed and the digging at the other city was getting results. Chiliz buildings were found close by. The Queen believed that this city was not as deeply buried as the one she was currently in. So much the better.

Finally, the Queen detected that the teleporters in Shelvestra had been activated! Guards had been stationed at both Pillar Artifacts to await for a new arrival. Guests had arrived. A biped creature was captured when it appeared on the northern platform. It soon collapsed, as the strain of being duplicated in this manner was exhausting. The arrival at the other teleporter was seen for a second and was then gone as if it was never really there.
A silver head hunter was dispatched and it landed on the unconscious new arrival. Meeting no resistance, this being was forcibly joined with the HIVE. New knowledge and memories filled the HIVE Queen. She learned several magic spells and passed them on to the rest of her brood. This new arrival would serve as a HIVE Queen avatar as her size was quite vast now.

This new avatar was sent along with a unit of warriors through the city to city pillar to this new location. Inhabitants were found and quickly captured and transformed into more HIVE. Beings believed to be leaders were acquired and brought before the HIVE Queen Avatar. They too were absorbed into the HIVE. All their knowledge and memories became known to the HIVE.

But this new knowledge came at a heavy price. The HIVE Queen had forgotten about the limitations her creators had placed on her so long ago. There was a limit to how much knowledge she could hold and once passed, old absorbed information would be forgotten. The HIVE Queen crossed that line and in the process everything she knew about the Chiliz was forgotten. She could no longer make use of their devices. The new avatar knew a few things about the Chiliz technology, but that just barely scratched the surface.

Right after that, all connection to the new avatar ceased and the HIVE Queen could no longer sense any of her children from that distant city. Confused and disorientated, the HIVE Queen decided to lay low once more. Not long, from her perspective, intruders were sense in this city! Warriors were dispatched to capture them, but they were overwhelmed and perished. Even the black dragons were not enough to save her eggs!

The HIVE Queen rose up to her full height. She directed the enhanced beetles to join her as the Queen went forth to destroy these intruders who dared to kill her children! Failure meant the HIVE would be no more...

Thus ends the tale of the HIVE Queen.

[GM Mad]

The coalition has come back together and are chatting among themselves. Kylie intercepted the elfin warriors Andlin and Arlen.

"Glad to hear it," Kylie says when the warriors confirm that they are not badly hurt. "I suspect that if a dragon that size had plowed me into the ground they way it did you, Arlen, I'd likely be little more than a bloody red smear."

“Fortunately, the ground is soft and muddy,” Arlen offers. “Had it be rock it would have been worse.”

“Never thought I'd be thankful for mud,” Andlin agrees.


The battle against the HIVE thus far is considered.

"It does," Kylie responds, "though it leaves me wondering why they were left with so little protection in the first place. Hardly prudent, one would think. Can they truly not have sensed that enemies were coming?"

“One can guess though.” She says evenly. “Perhaps we are being scryed upon or they speak without speaking. Nightmist spoke of creatures from the Underdark that spoke to you by way of thoughts.”

“We do not fully understand how the HIVE communicates among themselves,” Lilia suggests. “ But clearly they do have ways to talk to each other. Do not forget just how many HIVE fell during their initial attack right after we arrived. They knew we were here. Their losses must have been extraordinary.”

“There protection was sent to fight us when we arrived,” Lord Sharadin offers. “That's why they are no longer protected. Seems like the simplest explanation.”


While others regard the dead bodies of the two giant black dragons.

“I am sure the dwarves would make it taste great as well. I understand it to be a delicacy of theirs, or so that is what the rumors say.” He says looking to Kylie and Andlin then to the dwarves.

“Reds are definitely a delicacy,” the dwarven Sergeant Shalecrusher pipes up as she licks her lips. “Blacks not so much. Probably cuz they spit acid!”


Laucian catches up with Gweyr. The petite fire mage keeps watch on her summoned Fire Elemental as it continues to destroy HIVE eggs. Gweyr was annoyed to have fled due to dragon fear.

“Better to run away than become it’s next snack.” He says with a hint of a smile reassuringly. “But it is good to see you well.”

“That is one way to look at it,” Gweyr says with a laugh and a smile. “And, as always, good to be seen.”


Quirin returns warning that the HIVE Queen herself is on the way. The ground rumbles as more enemies are approaching with her.

“Given the nature of our foe, giant insects?” Lilia wonders. “Is there any more information you can supply, Quirin?”

“After Dragons there is no telling what is coming for us. Judging by the sound of those foot falls though it’s gonna be big and ugly.”

“I sense some sort of insect,” Quirin confirms. “Colossal versions of the ordinary variety. Not as fearsome as the enemy dragons were, but their great size makes them dangerous.”


Talk turns to whether to fight here or try to move to a new location.

“It would be a folly to move from here. It is ground of our choosing.” She says evenly to the others.

“I say we fight here,” Lilia will state. “We have the bodies of the two downed dragons to use for cover. If we are done battling dragons, than we shouldn't have have to worry about breath weapons any more. And if what is coming is a big as those footfalls seem to suggest, we will need to maneuver.”

Everyone else quickly agrees and spreads out to greet the new arrivals. As the group waits, Lothtor comes walking up. The steel dragon is a bit bloodied and in worse shape that Silvarn and Saryn. Ma Granite casts a healing spell on him and it helps a bit.

Laucian and Valena climb up on top of the larger of the black dragons slain, using its body as an archery platform.

While waiting for the enemy to arrive, Lia casts a spell.

She then calls upon her patron, “Eilistraee, her my call, Send me your Moonfire so that my allies may see better.” As the moonlight takes hold she will push the spell to it’s limit so that the others may see what is coming.

As Lia casts her spell, a ball of bluish-white light appears in her hand. The ball is moved from hand to hand as it grows in size and intensity. Then Lia flicks if off into the distance. The ball flies away from everyone, still growing larger. The light from the spell is much like the brightness of the moon on a clear night. It illuminates the immediate area with light bright enough to cast shadows.

Off in the distance, more of the Elder City can be seen in this gigantic cave. About a mile away, the larger version of the Pillar Artifact can be seen. It lies approximately in the center of Shelvestra. Above the city-to-city transporter is the large opening in the city spotted earlier. Daylight and swampy water pours in from the rift.

Past this formation and on either side, gigantic beetles are seen approaching! The woodsmen recognize them as borer beetles, but of a colossal size. Such creatures appearing in nature are roughly 9' long, but these ones are closer to 90'! Perhaps as many as a dozen of them are approaching!

Hovering behind the giant beetles, is the HIVE Queen herself! She flies on gigantic wings and resembles a head hunter, but one of incredible size. The HIVE Queen is at least 150' long!

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Apologize for the delays. Been very busy with work.

The enemy has arrived and they are very big!

Now what?

[Onas]

Onas Brightsword:

Kylie turns to face the Forest Rider. "Some time back in a swamp north of here, we encountered a giant creature made of plant-life, mud, and water. Since this too is a swamp, perhaps they are something of that sort."

The hovering half-elven daughter of Speaker Allurien responds to Onas' question. In the back of his mind, he wonders if he will ever get used to the way she just hangs in the air like that... The queen states that it was described as some kind of nature elemental. "Ah, I... see. Sounds most unpleasant, like the swamp itself rose up and attacked you." His eyes flit in the direction of the distant footfalls before returning to his companions.

Lilia suggests the possibility of giant insects, which is confirmed by Quirin. Onas nods, considering the idea. "That makes sense; swamps tend to be full of insects. If they're not flying, then perhaps something like ants or beetles?" The dark one, Lia, speculates that the attackers will be large and ugly, which brings a smile to Onas' face.

Quirin informs them that the Hive queen herself is leading those that come to attack. This is not a comforting thought, if she is massive enough to shake the earth like this...

Soon, discussion turns to strategy for the fight to come. Queen Liliathelionn decides that the best option is to wait here and meet the enemy on known ground, reminding the squad that they have two dead dragons to use as cover.

Just then, Lothtor arrives on foot. Ma Granite of the dwarves casts a healing spell on the badly-injured dragon. Onas looks sympathetically at the transformed drake. "Would you like more healing, Lothtor? I have a bit left and you appear to be in need."

Laucian and Valena climb up on top of the dead dragon to find a good shooting position. Onas surveys the downed beast and notes the direction that the enemy is approaching from. He finds a spot behind a wing, limb, or part of the tail that provides both decent cover and a view of the apparent battle ground. Offering a quick prayer to Angharradh, he readies his bow and nocks an arrow.

Lia calls upon her patron, bringing light to the dimly-lit cavern. "That is helpful, Lia. Thank you."

The illumination allows a better view of much of the cavern in that direction. Onas can see parts of the underground city which they haven't yet visited. There is a larger pillar artifact in the distance. A number of huge beetles can be seen moving in their direction. Behind them, the Hive queen can be seen flying thunderously along; she is nearly the size of the dragons they just fought!

"Now would be a good time for Captain Roma and her ship to make an appearance..." Onas mutters softly.

__________________________________________________________________________
If Lothtor accepts his offer of healing, Onas will convert his last spell and cast it on the steel dragon.

[Kylie]

Kylie Lanthorn the Half-Elven:

Arlen and Andlin appear to be well, citing the muddy ground as having helped with Arlen's survival. "I recall playing in mud a few times when I was little. It was fun as long as it wasn't too cold. We'll get you cleaned up later."

When she asks about the lack of protection for the eggs and larva here, Lilia reminds her of their initial battle after entering the swamp and the archmage confirms that thought. Kylie nods, recalling that they did slay quite a few enemies. "I suppose it makes sense for them to try to overwhelm us initially, rather than keeping some back to defend. Of course, since that strategy failed, it has cost them dearly."

They say that armies travel on their stomachs, so perhaps it should come as no surprise when the discussion turns to eating the dragons. Laucian remarks that he's heard that it is a dwarven delicacy. The dwarf, Sergeant Shalecrusher, confirms that red dragons are delicious indeed, but black dragons are much less tasty. "Yeah, poison and eating don't really go so well together, do they sergeant?" Kylie replies.

The hovering half-elven daughter of Speaker Allurien responds to Onas' question. In the back of his mind, he wonders if he will ever get used to the way she just hangs in the air like that... The queen states that it was described as some kind of nature elemental. "Ah, I... see. Sounds most unpleasant, like the swamp itself rose up and attacked you." His eyes flit in the direction of the distant footfalls before returning to his companions.

Kylie turns to the Forest Rider, a look of remembering in her eyes. "You have that right, Onas. It was terrifying; I had never seen anything remotely like it before."

“I sense some sort of insect,” Quirin confirms. “Colossal versions of the ordinary variety. Not as fearsome as the enemy dragons were, but their great size makes them dangerous.”

It is not long before they hear the approach of the enemy once again, this time their very footsteps shake the ground. "Insects large enough to be heard that far away are no joke," Kylie says. "This may well be the toughest battle yet."

Regarding strategy for the coming fight, Lilia declares that they will stand their ground here. The dead dragons will provide cover for those on the ground. Several of the team begin to take up positions. As is her way, Kylie is always looking for a different angle and flies up toward the roof of the cavern, then starts to circle around in hopes of attacking from the side or rear of the Hive force. When Lia's magical light flare's into being, Kylie swerves to stay well out of it's reach. She'll be better of if the Hive don't see her coming...

______________________________________________________________________
Kylie is particularly watching for any "head-hunters" and will prioritize taking them out with bow or Magic Missiles, as appropriate. For a really large group, she'll use Cone of Cold or Ice Storm depending on the size of the group.

[Lia]

Lia

As Lia casts her spell, a ball of bluish-white light appears in her hand. The ball is moved from hand to hand as it grows in size and intensity. Then Lia flicks if off into the distance. The ball flies away from everyone, still growing larger. The light from the spell is much like the brightness of the moon on a clear night. It illuminates the immediate area with light bright enough to cast shadows.

Lia feels her hands begin to tickle, as blue white emerges from her palm. Weaving her hands about the light the ball begins to grow in her hands. As it does so she pitches the light forward toward the oncoming sounds. The light slowly grows and resembles that of moonlight. Not to bright but bright enough to cast shadows.
As the spell generates a large foot comes into sight then more. He gaze looks up as her eyes look to the huge creatures amble forward, the Hive queen flies in their wake.
“I think we have their attention.”she calls out as her mouth goes dry and she swallows to wet her mouth. She grips her sword in her hand and looks down briefly at it. “What can a sword do against one so big..” she states as she steels herself for the coming battle.
Trying to get as many of her companions in range she casts Bless then tries to find some cover till they get closer.

[Laucian]

Laucian
(Wasn’t sure if this was caught from last post)
“And it’s hide will give some protection!” Laucian calls back but first he looks back to where the large thumps are coming from. “Do not venture to forward. Let us see if we can slow them down some.” Laucian will cast Spike growth the way the sounds are coming from as long as the vegetation is suitable. He will then move back to the fallen dragon area and take up position, bow at the ready.
Present:

“Reds are definitely a delicacy,” the dwarven Sergeant Shalecrusher pipes up as she licks her lips. “Blacks not so much. Probably cuz they spit acid!”

“Guess it tenderizes the meat to much.” he says with a mirthful smirk.
Large thuds are soon heard and felt as something approaches. Lia calls upon her patron to light the way then does so again to bless them. Laucian’s eyes narrow as he takes in the scene. Giant beetles begin to come into the moonlight. Followed by a headhunter type that can only be the queen given her size.
He hears Lia’s comment, “By Blade or bow, they will fall. Have faith.” he says to the other priest.
A thought comes to him as he watches the things lumber forward. “Borer Beetles…” Let us see if we can bring the roof down upon them.
Laucian will hold action until they come within range and then cast Soften Earth and Stone upon the cavern ceiling. He will try to get as many of the beetles as he can in it’s radius without bringing it down upon his companions.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

The battle with the black dragons has ended and a new threat is looming.

“One can guess though.” She says evenly. “Perhaps we are being scryed upon or they speak without speaking. Nightmist spoke of creatures from the Underdark that spoke to you by way of thoughts.”

“From what I have been told, there is a possibility of sensing that someone is scyring you,” Lilia explains. “Since no one has mentioned such a thing, that may not be how they are watching us.”

“Their protection was sent to fight us when we arrived,” Lord Sharadin offers. “That's why they are no longer protected. Seems like the simplest explanation.”

When she asks about the lack of protection for the eggs and larva here, Lilia reminds her of their initial battle after entering the swamp and the archmage confirms that thought. Kylie nods, recalling that they did slay quite a few enemies. "I suppose it makes sense for them to try to overwhelm us initially, rather than keeping some back to defend. Of course, since that strategy failed, it has cost them dearly."

“They do not seem to be skilled in the art of warfare,” Lilia surmises. “They have yet to employ any form of strategy in any of our encounters, other than simple try to overwhelm their enemies. That trait can be used against them.”

The hovering half-elven daughter of Speaker Allurien responds to Onas' question. In the back of his mind, he wonders if he will ever get used to the way she just hangs in the air like that... The queen states that it was described as some kind of nature elemental. "Ah, I... see. Sounds most unpleasant, like the swamp itself rose up and attacked you." His eyes flit in the direction of the distant footfalls before returning to his companions.

Kylie turns to the Forest Rider, a look of remembering in her eyes. "You have that right, Onas. It was terrifying; I had never seen anything remotely like it before."

“Initially yes,” Lilia adds. “The swamp was the source of a dark corruption and the land reflected that. The Nature Elemental was thus also corrupted and attacked us, but we managed to defeat it. Once the corruption was removed, it returned to its normal state and was peaceful. It absorbed what remained of the swamp and left a rapidly growing forest in its wake. It was breath taking to witness.”

“After Dragons there is no telling what is coming for us. Judging by the sound of those foot falls though it’s gonna be big and Ugly”

“They usually are,” Lilia adds mirthlessly.

“I sense some sort of insect,” Quirin confirms. “Colossal versions of the ordinary variety. Not as fearsome as the enemy dragons were, but their great size makes them dangerous.”

“Apparently, the HIVE does not do small very much,” Lilia mentions.

Lilia decides to make our stand here, using the bodies of the dead dragons as cover if need be. The others quickly agree.

Lia casts a most unusual spell summoning a ball of light into her hands. Lilia has never seen anything like it, but based on what Lia said it may be a special spell to those who follow Eilistraee. The spell lights up the distant area and we can see what new enemy approaches.

“By the All-Father!” Lilia curses upon seeing the giants. “Stand ready friends, this battle will not be easy!”

Once the enemy is close enough, Lilia will cast Bless on those around her.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

“And it’s hide will give some protection!” Laucian calls back but first he looks back to where the large thumps are coming from. “Do not venture to forward. Let us see if we can slow them down some.”

“My thoughts exactly,” Valena calls out as she climbs up on top of the dead dragon.

The dragon's spine is reached and a suitable place to fire arrows is located. Soon the enemy reveals itself.

A thought comes to him as he watches the things lumber forward. “Borer Beetles…”

“I thought they looked familiar,” Valena notes. “But I couldn't place them. I'm really getting sick of fighting giant monsters!”

Valena will prepare an arrow to fire at any enemy who comes with in range.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed