New Frontiers #13
Grondar returns to Lothar's house after his encounter with Saladin, quickly followed by Laucian who has rounded up the horses. Once everyone is inside, Sherwood will address the assembled group.
"My friends, this adventure has taken some twists and turns that I had not foreseen. It has become greatly more complex in nature and the stakes have been raised to a much higher level."
"Each of you has seen some adventuring in your lives: small missions in your home areas and you are now moving on to greater challenges. You each have shown to have great potential, which is why I originally approached you all to participate in this mission. Until the Cynalonian Armies are once more back to full strength, it will be skilled individuals such as yourselves that will be our first line of defense."
"Do not think that this is just a human problem. Cynalon borders on both the dwarf and elf homelands. Our presence defends parts of their borders, while they provide protection to some of ours. If Cynalon falls then this whole region becomes unstable. Then it will only be a matter of time until our neighbors fall as well. This concerns all of us regardless of race."
"Having said all of that, I would also state that the rest of this mission will be much more dangerous than what we have seen thus far. The risk is greater and the stakes are higher. Naturally, the rewards will be high as well. As such, I will only take volunteers to continue on with Validar and me. You have completed the mission on which we originally set out with the capture of Lothar. However in solving one mystery, others have cropped up. Therefore you may depart of your own accord without any reprisal. Or you may continue on of your own free will. The choice is yours. What say you all?"
New Frontiers #13
New Frontiers #13
Try it and find out!
Blackflame Backstory
To those that remain, Sherwood will continue on with his explanations.
"We have uncovered several important clues with the capture of Lothar. The first is that we now know that this plot originated up in Rennydale and that will be our next destination. It will be our task to uncover Lord Cavius' involvement in all of this."
"The other clue is the returned presence of the Cult of the Blackflame. My ancestor, James the Red, did battle this Cult decades ago, as did Validar's ancestors. They were thought to have been destroyed back in the days before the Great War. It was the fall out from that war that led to the current state of Cynalon."
"Over sixty years ago, the Cult of the Blackflame kidnapped the young Victor the 7th and his older sister and guardian Theandra. The prince and princess were held for ransom by the cult. The Crown Prince was just a babe at the time and probably was never truly aware of what had happened to him."
"Numerous adventurers and allies of the crown searched the land for the headquarters of the Cult. The band that succeeded included my ancestor James the Red, who was also the High Magist of Victor the 6th. The brothers Validar and Valerian also participated in the mission. They were Validar's ancestors."
"The adventurers attacked the cult and their Blackflame. They rescued the Crown Prince, but Princess Theandra was never found. Information they uncovered pointed to Keln as being behind this plot. So enraged was Victor the 6th, that he declared war on the Keln lands. In hindsight, it was probably the Cult who planted that information. The war would destabilize the region making it easier to conqueror."
"For ten bloody years the war against Keln raged. It finally came to a close when a band of elite adventurers include James the Red and Validar's ancestor joined with the King on a victory or death assault on Shadowhold, the high palace of Keln himself."
"No one knows for sure what happened in that final battle for Shadowhold is said to have vanished from the face of the earth. None of the participants were ever seen again. With Keln gone, the Keln Empire fractured and splintered. None of the remaining powers were strong enough to gain control. Many even fought among themselves and continue to do so to this very day."
"The Hextorites, the followers of the God of War, are the strongest faction. The Cult of Set is also said to hold some power as well. On an island to the south of the Keln lands lies the City States of Phelang where militant mages clash for control."
"It is fortunate that this happened as the forces of Cynalon were not in much better shape. The death toll in the war was overwhelming. The best and the brightest of the Kingdom were gone. The borders to the West could no longer be held. Wave after wave of humanoids from the Broken Lands swept through our lands in great hordes. Entire Baronies fell in their path. Women and children were slaughtered by the thousands. Only the natural barrier of the Streel River kept them from moving any further east."
"This was the environment that the King was raised in. He watched men die in war, women and children killed in raids, and entire cities torched."
"Queen Patrice assumed the throne until Victor the 7th was ready to bear the weight of the crown. It was not the first time that Cynalon was without a true king and was ruled by her queen."
"The recovery process was long and difficult. It has been almost fifty years since the end of the war and we are finally making progress. Some of the lands we lost have been recovered, but much work remains to be done. This is the time we live in."
"Getting back to the Cult of the Blackflame, I cannot believe their presence here is an accident. It is possible that they are seeking revenge for being thwarted decades earlier. Baron Relon is a direct descendent of those who helped defeat them. Thus he would be a likely target."
"Validar noted that Artur seemed relieved to have been defeated, even thanking them for it. It is possible that he was not working with the Cult of his own accord, that he was being controlled in some manner. The fact that he broke out into Blackflame upon death would suggest that someone didn't want him to speak to us. Another question we must ponder is did the Blackflame manifest itself before or after he died? Is it possible that the potion that Baron Relon consumed was an attempt to gain control of him like they did Artur and Arkane?"
"The Blackflame itself is a vile fire that only burns living flesh. It burns cold to the touch and as you've seen leaves the victims clothing undamaged. The fire is magical in nature and cannot be extinguished by any normal means other than dispelling the enchantment. I would strongly suggest those who are able to cast Dispel Magic memorize the spell for emergency uses should any of us be engulfed in Black Fire."
"My great-grandfather recounted some of the adventure in his journals, which I've read in my younger days. Before departing for Rennydale, it is my intent to ride to my tower to carry out a more in depth research into the Blackflame. Perhaps he left clues that may assist us in this present crisis."
"Since Princess Theandra was not found and that the Cult appears to be active again, then we can only conclude that some of their members did escape. Perhaps they even had other branches that went undiscovered and have been in hiding for all these long years. Whatever the truth of the matter is, it is our task to uncover it and defeat them once and for all."
"Since we are going to be continuing on down whatever path this venture twists and turns, then perhaps we should organize ourselves into a proper adventuring band. Many such bands choose a group designation to identify their deeds. An official structure will be needed, along with a distribution of treasure policy. What thoughts do any of you have in this matter?"
"We have uncovered several important clues with the capture of Lothar. The first is that we now know that this plot originated up in Rennydale and that will be our next destination. It will be our task to uncover Lord Cavius' involvement in all of this."
"The other clue is the returned presence of the Cult of the Blackflame. My ancestor, James the Red, did battle this Cult decades ago, as did Validar's ancestors. They were thought to have been destroyed back in the days before the Great War. It was the fall out from that war that led to the current state of Cynalon."
"Over sixty years ago, the Cult of the Blackflame kidnapped the young Victor the 7th and his older sister and guardian Theandra. The prince and princess were held for ransom by the cult. The Crown Prince was just a babe at the time and probably was never truly aware of what had happened to him."
"Numerous adventurers and allies of the crown searched the land for the headquarters of the Cult. The band that succeeded included my ancestor James the Red, who was also the High Magist of Victor the 6th. The brothers Validar and Valerian also participated in the mission. They were Validar's ancestors."
"The adventurers attacked the cult and their Blackflame. They rescued the Crown Prince, but Princess Theandra was never found. Information they uncovered pointed to Keln as being behind this plot. So enraged was Victor the 6th, that he declared war on the Keln lands. In hindsight, it was probably the Cult who planted that information. The war would destabilize the region making it easier to conqueror."
"For ten bloody years the war against Keln raged. It finally came to a close when a band of elite adventurers include James the Red and Validar's ancestor joined with the King on a victory or death assault on Shadowhold, the high palace of Keln himself."
"No one knows for sure what happened in that final battle for Shadowhold is said to have vanished from the face of the earth. None of the participants were ever seen again. With Keln gone, the Keln Empire fractured and splintered. None of the remaining powers were strong enough to gain control. Many even fought among themselves and continue to do so to this very day."
"The Hextorites, the followers of the God of War, are the strongest faction. The Cult of Set is also said to hold some power as well. On an island to the south of the Keln lands lies the City States of Phelang where militant mages clash for control."
"It is fortunate that this happened as the forces of Cynalon were not in much better shape. The death toll in the war was overwhelming. The best and the brightest of the Kingdom were gone. The borders to the West could no longer be held. Wave after wave of humanoids from the Broken Lands swept through our lands in great hordes. Entire Baronies fell in their path. Women and children were slaughtered by the thousands. Only the natural barrier of the Streel River kept them from moving any further east."
"This was the environment that the King was raised in. He watched men die in war, women and children killed in raids, and entire cities torched."
"Queen Patrice assumed the throne until Victor the 7th was ready to bear the weight of the crown. It was not the first time that Cynalon was without a true king and was ruled by her queen."
"The recovery process was long and difficult. It has been almost fifty years since the end of the war and we are finally making progress. Some of the lands we lost have been recovered, but much work remains to be done. This is the time we live in."
"Getting back to the Cult of the Blackflame, I cannot believe their presence here is an accident. It is possible that they are seeking revenge for being thwarted decades earlier. Baron Relon is a direct descendent of those who helped defeat them. Thus he would be a likely target."
"Validar noted that Artur seemed relieved to have been defeated, even thanking them for it. It is possible that he was not working with the Cult of his own accord, that he was being controlled in some manner. The fact that he broke out into Blackflame upon death would suggest that someone didn't want him to speak to us. Another question we must ponder is did the Blackflame manifest itself before or after he died? Is it possible that the potion that Baron Relon consumed was an attempt to gain control of him like they did Artur and Arkane?"
"The Blackflame itself is a vile fire that only burns living flesh. It burns cold to the touch and as you've seen leaves the victims clothing undamaged. The fire is magical in nature and cannot be extinguished by any normal means other than dispelling the enchantment. I would strongly suggest those who are able to cast Dispel Magic memorize the spell for emergency uses should any of us be engulfed in Black Fire."
"My great-grandfather recounted some of the adventure in his journals, which I've read in my younger days. Before departing for Rennydale, it is my intent to ride to my tower to carry out a more in depth research into the Blackflame. Perhaps he left clues that may assist us in this present crisis."
"Since Princess Theandra was not found and that the Cult appears to be active again, then we can only conclude that some of their members did escape. Perhaps they even had other branches that went undiscovered and have been in hiding for all these long years. Whatever the truth of the matter is, it is our task to uncover it and defeat them once and for all."
"Since we are going to be continuing on down whatever path this venture twists and turns, then perhaps we should organize ourselves into a proper adventuring band. Many such bands choose a group designation to identify their deeds. An official structure will be needed, along with a distribution of treasure policy. What thoughts do any of you have in this matter?"
Try it and find out!
Plans and Spells
As this particular discussion begins to wind down, Sherwood will add, "Before separating on our own tasks, Lord Validar has something that he wishes to add concerning a plan for the development in this area. It is something that we have discussed at great length in private and I agree with his ideas. Lord Validar will now share this information with you."
After that bit of business, Sherwood will speak once more. "It is my intent that we rest here in Twin Forks for the rest of this day and night. I'll arrange lodging at the Twin Forks Inn, rather then have to stay here in Lothar's untidy dwelling. Rest up for the journey to come."
"Lord Validar and I have some business to attend to here in town, but we will return to check in on what transpired in our absence. From there, we will be magically returning to Pyris with Lothar. There he will be tried under Pyrisian law for his crimes. We should only be gone a few hours before returning."
"The mages have plenty of things to occupy their time. There are Arkane's spellbooks to examine and I am sure that many new magicks will be available for you to study and learn. Maintaining security at the bandits' warehouses and Lothar's boat will be necessary as well. Perhaps those not otherwise engaged could question the bandits who accompanied Artur and Arkane as they may have information we could make use of."
"Early on the day after next we will ride to my tower. It is roughly a day's journey to the west of Twin Forks. I wish to reference my Great-Grandfather's account of the Blackflame incident. From there, we will ride in to Elcadan itself and spend the evening at my cousin Jallarzi's estate. That will put us just under a day's ride from Rennydale, Lord Cavius' lands. Fortunately, most of our journey will be along the main roads, so we will be able to cover great distances in a short period of time."
"Any questions?"
Before departing, Sherwood will gather the mages together around the table where Lilia examined the magic items. Kylie examined the books and didn't find any traps on them. Sherwood will take the first book and page through it. The process is repeated on the other tomes as well.
After going through the last book, Sherwood will say, "A nice selection of spells. There's even a few that I am unfamiliar with. These spellbooks are the first to be captured by the group as a whole. Therefore they should be the communal property of all mages in this group and for any new spellcasters who join up in the days to come. Spells may be freely scribed from these books."
Picking up one of the books, Sherwood hands it to Lilia. "Here is a selection of third level spells for you to learn." Grabbing two of the remaining four tomes, Sherwood will offer them to Chareos and Kylie. "These books contain first and second level spells. Study from one book and then swap it with the other. The remaining spells are beyond your current abilities to learn and will be saved for future study."
After that bit of business, Sherwood will speak once more. "It is my intent that we rest here in Twin Forks for the rest of this day and night. I'll arrange lodging at the Twin Forks Inn, rather then have to stay here in Lothar's untidy dwelling. Rest up for the journey to come."
"Lord Validar and I have some business to attend to here in town, but we will return to check in on what transpired in our absence. From there, we will be magically returning to Pyris with Lothar. There he will be tried under Pyrisian law for his crimes. We should only be gone a few hours before returning."
"The mages have plenty of things to occupy their time. There are Arkane's spellbooks to examine and I am sure that many new magicks will be available for you to study and learn. Maintaining security at the bandits' warehouses and Lothar's boat will be necessary as well. Perhaps those not otherwise engaged could question the bandits who accompanied Artur and Arkane as they may have information we could make use of."
"Early on the day after next we will ride to my tower. It is roughly a day's journey to the west of Twin Forks. I wish to reference my Great-Grandfather's account of the Blackflame incident. From there, we will ride in to Elcadan itself and spend the evening at my cousin Jallarzi's estate. That will put us just under a day's ride from Rennydale, Lord Cavius' lands. Fortunately, most of our journey will be along the main roads, so we will be able to cover great distances in a short period of time."
"Any questions?"
Before departing, Sherwood will gather the mages together around the table where Lilia examined the magic items. Kylie examined the books and didn't find any traps on them. Sherwood will take the first book and page through it. The process is repeated on the other tomes as well.
After going through the last book, Sherwood will say, "A nice selection of spells. There's even a few that I am unfamiliar with. These spellbooks are the first to be captured by the group as a whole. Therefore they should be the communal property of all mages in this group and for any new spellcasters who join up in the days to come. Spells may be freely scribed from these books."
Picking up one of the books, Sherwood hands it to Lilia. "Here is a selection of third level spells for you to learn." Grabbing two of the remaining four tomes, Sherwood will offer them to Chareos and Kylie. "These books contain first and second level spells. Study from one book and then swap it with the other. The remaining spells are beyond your current abilities to learn and will be saved for future study."
Try it and find out!
Moving Onward
After all the discussions, the group breaks up to take on their own tasks. Sherwood and Validar go off into town to speak to Geris and a few other people that Sherwood knows. The pair drop off the two lieutenants that Sherwood had charmed earlier with the Twin Forks militia. Sherwood arranges rooms at the Inn for everyone. The pair stop back in to pick up Lothar and teleport back to Castle Pyris.
Corley, Kylie, and Po ride to the supply and warehouse buildings. The supply building is the same as Kylie left it. Inside is spare gear and weapons. Suits of leather armor are stored in a large stack. Numerous crates lay about, their tops having been removed. Inside are a variety of weapons: daggers, short swords, and spears primarily with a few others mixed in. A few shortbows are present with many flight arrows. Some shields are here as well. All the weapons and armor are non-magical.
In addition to the weapons there is some extra riding gear, camping supplies, torches, etc. Just about anything one would need to camp out in the wilderness with the exception of food.
Over in the warehouse, goods stolen from the caravans can be found. Much if it is mundane equipment: boxes of salted meats, clay jars filled with oil, crates of farming tools, and barrels of cheap beer. The item of most interest is ten crates of tigereye gems in the back of a covered wagon. Some of the gems are missing as Kylie took some and later Saladin attempted to make off with more.
A few of the locals watch as the trio guard the place, but no one approaches. Members of the militia approach to find out what is going on, but once they realize that you're here with Sherwood they depart.
Sherra goes to explore Lothar's barge. After concluding that the barge is free from traps, the black-clad woman goes to explore the cargo. Much of it is mundane supplies; food and drink, clothing, basic gear one would take on a long trip both over land and sea. Strangely enough there are even several bails of hay on the barge and one large area has been left empty of cargo that could have been filled.
Of greatest interest are 11 sealed crates, ten of which are identical. Examining one of the ten, Sherra finds it to be very heavy and not at all easy to move. After checking for traps, she opens it up to reveal the contents: solid gold bars. There are 10 bars of gold in each of the ten crates.
The last crate is much lighter and is trapped. Concealed needles coated with some type of gooey substance line the crate where one would typically go to lift the box. Avoiding these, Sherra opens the box.
Inside the box is small metallic chest some ten inches long, 8 inches wide, and 6 inches high. It is constructed out of some type of metal that she is not familiar with. The chest is hinged in the back but there doesn't appear to be any way of securing it in the front. From the looks of it, the chest lid should just lift up, but Sherra is unable to do so. Several words in an elegant script are written upon the chest, but they are incomprehensible to Sherra.
Once finished with their tasks in Twin Forks, Sherwood prepares to cast his Teleport Spell. He pulls a piece of paper out of his pocket and examines it. Validar sees it and realizes that it is a very realistic drawing of a private chamber in Castle Pyris. Sherwood casts the spell and a heartbeat later he, Validar, and Lothar appear in that very same chamber up in Pyris.
Validar hands Lothar over to the guards and the pair make their way to the Baron's bedchamber. Baron Relon is sitting up in bed and appears much heartier then he had been. Elspeth is still here seeing to her patient.
Seated beside the bed is the Lady Gwendolyn, Baron Relon's aged mother. Upon seeing Validar and Sherwood, Jallarzi and the Baroness approach.
"You have news?", Jallarzi inquires of Sherwood.
"We need to talk," Sherwood answers. The two mages then go on a private walk to discuss matters.
The Baroness greets Validar and gives him a hug. "Does this mean that your mission was a success?"
Corley, Kylie, and Po ride to the supply and warehouse buildings. The supply building is the same as Kylie left it. Inside is spare gear and weapons. Suits of leather armor are stored in a large stack. Numerous crates lay about, their tops having been removed. Inside are a variety of weapons: daggers, short swords, and spears primarily with a few others mixed in. A few shortbows are present with many flight arrows. Some shields are here as well. All the weapons and armor are non-magical.
In addition to the weapons there is some extra riding gear, camping supplies, torches, etc. Just about anything one would need to camp out in the wilderness with the exception of food.
Over in the warehouse, goods stolen from the caravans can be found. Much if it is mundane equipment: boxes of salted meats, clay jars filled with oil, crates of farming tools, and barrels of cheap beer. The item of most interest is ten crates of tigereye gems in the back of a covered wagon. Some of the gems are missing as Kylie took some and later Saladin attempted to make off with more.
A few of the locals watch as the trio guard the place, but no one approaches. Members of the militia approach to find out what is going on, but once they realize that you're here with Sherwood they depart.
Sherra goes to explore Lothar's barge. After concluding that the barge is free from traps, the black-clad woman goes to explore the cargo. Much of it is mundane supplies; food and drink, clothing, basic gear one would take on a long trip both over land and sea. Strangely enough there are even several bails of hay on the barge and one large area has been left empty of cargo that could have been filled.
Of greatest interest are 11 sealed crates, ten of which are identical. Examining one of the ten, Sherra finds it to be very heavy and not at all easy to move. After checking for traps, she opens it up to reveal the contents: solid gold bars. There are 10 bars of gold in each of the ten crates.
The last crate is much lighter and is trapped. Concealed needles coated with some type of gooey substance line the crate where one would typically go to lift the box. Avoiding these, Sherra opens the box.
Inside the box is small metallic chest some ten inches long, 8 inches wide, and 6 inches high. It is constructed out of some type of metal that she is not familiar with. The chest is hinged in the back but there doesn't appear to be any way of securing it in the front. From the looks of it, the chest lid should just lift up, but Sherra is unable to do so. Several words in an elegant script are written upon the chest, but they are incomprehensible to Sherra.
Once finished with their tasks in Twin Forks, Sherwood prepares to cast his Teleport Spell. He pulls a piece of paper out of his pocket and examines it. Validar sees it and realizes that it is a very realistic drawing of a private chamber in Castle Pyris. Sherwood casts the spell and a heartbeat later he, Validar, and Lothar appear in that very same chamber up in Pyris.
Validar hands Lothar over to the guards and the pair make their way to the Baron's bedchamber. Baron Relon is sitting up in bed and appears much heartier then he had been. Elspeth is still here seeing to her patient.
Seated beside the bed is the Lady Gwendolyn, Baron Relon's aged mother. Upon seeing Validar and Sherwood, Jallarzi and the Baroness approach.
"You have news?", Jallarzi inquires of Sherwood.
"We need to talk," Sherwood answers. The two mages then go on a private walk to discuss matters.
The Baroness greets Validar and gives him a hug. "Does this mean that your mission was a success?"
Try it and find out!
GM Notes:
GM Notes:
PHEW!! Very long post and much to be discussed.
Continue onward with the various discussions from the previous post.
Everyone's XP's have been updated on the Adventurer's Roster page in the New Frontier Pages section. Many levels were gained. Either Email me your updated character info or post it in the XP thread in this forum.
The contents of Arkane's spellbook will be posted in the Spell List thread.
I also added more entries to the people list.
Here's a list of the treasure found thus far:
Magic Items that have been Identified:
Dagger of Venom
Dagger +1
Bracers AC: 4
Ring of Water Walking
Boots of Levitation
Bag of Holding 1500 lbs.
Boots of Speed
Unknown Magic Items:
Leather Armor
Full Plate Armor
Helmet
Mithral Longsword
Short Sword
4 daggers
12 Darts
Horseman's Mace
Sack
3 Rings
2 Girdles
5 potions
Talisman
Wand
Coins: 2,250 GP, 1053 SP, & 1030 CP.
10 boxes of tigereye gems
10 boxes of 10 gold bars
Edited as I missed few Un ID'd magic items.
PHEW!! Very long post and much to be discussed.
Continue onward with the various discussions from the previous post.
Everyone's XP's have been updated on the Adventurer's Roster page in the New Frontier Pages section. Many levels were gained. Either Email me your updated character info or post it in the XP thread in this forum.
The contents of Arkane's spellbook will be posted in the Spell List thread.
I also added more entries to the people list.
Here's a list of the treasure found thus far:
Magic Items that have been Identified:
Dagger of Venom
Dagger +1
Bracers AC: 4
Ring of Water Walking
Boots of Levitation
Bag of Holding 1500 lbs.
Boots of Speed
Unknown Magic Items:
Leather Armor
Full Plate Armor
Helmet
Mithral Longsword
Short Sword
4 daggers
12 Darts
Horseman's Mace
Sack
3 Rings
2 Girdles
5 potions
Talisman
Wand
Coins: 2,250 GP, 1053 SP, & 1030 CP.
10 boxes of tigereye gems
10 boxes of 10 gold bars
Edited as I missed few Un ID'd magic items.
Last edited by GM Mad on Sun Oct 19, 2003 2:09 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Try it and find out!
Sherwood is STILL talking!
Sherwood:
Unfinished business from the last post:
"A step above Mithral would be 'Adamantine' which is a jet black metal. Beyond these base metals are four very special metals and alloys. I've only seen one of these four with my own eyes. The first is 'Black Mithral' which is a Mithral and Adamantine alloy. Another is called 'Star Metal' as it has only been found in rocks that fall from the sky. I am told that it is dark blue in color and is frequently referred to as the 'Tears of the Gods'. According to ancient dwarven smiths, 'Dark Steel' is the hardest metal known to the gods. It is an alloy of Black Mithral and Star Metal."
At this point, Sherwood will drawn is own longsword. This is the first time that anyone present has seen it outside of its sheath. The blade is steel shot through with white streaks and swirls, giving it an almost marble like appearance. Elegant and sweeping runes cover the blade and the hilt is highly stylized in elfin fashion.
"This is my most prized possession: Lifeshield. It was forged by the elven sorcerer Thiondar Nightstar and vestiges of his essence remains within the blade. The blade is sentient with several special powers and highly resistant to magic. This type of metal is called 'Gold Steel'."
Unfinished business from the last post:
When the subject of swords and magical metals comes up, Sherwood has his own thoughts to add to the matter. "Often the stronger the metal a sword is made of determines the strength of the enchantment on it. For instance, regular steel forged magic blades are usually the least powerfully enchanted. The next step up is 'Mithral' also called 'Truemetal' by the dwarves."When Laucian admires the silvery blue sword that had belonged to their enemy, Validar will approach him. "It is a beautiful weapon is it not. The metal is known as Mithral and is often enchanted with no small power. It appears to be similar to the one carry." Validar will pull forth his own blade and present it to Laucian for further observation.
"A step above Mithral would be 'Adamantine' which is a jet black metal. Beyond these base metals are four very special metals and alloys. I've only seen one of these four with my own eyes. The first is 'Black Mithral' which is a Mithral and Adamantine alloy. Another is called 'Star Metal' as it has only been found in rocks that fall from the sky. I am told that it is dark blue in color and is frequently referred to as the 'Tears of the Gods'. According to ancient dwarven smiths, 'Dark Steel' is the hardest metal known to the gods. It is an alloy of Black Mithral and Star Metal."
At this point, Sherwood will drawn is own longsword. This is the first time that anyone present has seen it outside of its sheath. The blade is steel shot through with white streaks and swirls, giving it an almost marble like appearance. Elegant and sweeping runes cover the blade and the hilt is highly stylized in elfin fashion.
"This is my most prized possession: Lifeshield. It was forged by the elven sorcerer Thiondar Nightstar and vestiges of his essence remains within the blade. The blade is sentient with several special powers and highly resistant to magic. This type of metal is called 'Gold Steel'."
At one point Sherwood will take Sherra aside. "Do not concern yourself over the slaying of Arkane. Such is the way of battle. Any sword hit or arrow strike can end a life. That is the danger of our chosen professions. It is entirely possible that both men could have been killed by the Blackfire before they could have answered any of our questions. I do not worry with what could have been and do not place any blame on your shoulders for Arkane's death.""I know I have missed much of what has been discussed the past several minutes, but you may count me among those who will continue to ride with you Validar. I am not one to throw in my lot with just anyone, but as long as there is a genuine need for any skills I can add to this group I am with you." Sherra will try to smile lightly and have it appear sincere, but she is still not sure how all this will be received due to her "over efficiency" with her bow this morning.
I do what is necessary.
Long Lost Ivy
Ivy:
(GAH! Brain dead moment here. I wrote a response for Ivy near the end of the previous post. Not only did it not get posted, it also got overwritten when the new responses were added back into the file! GAH! So here goes with Ivy's Lost post…)
While Ivy works she tries to not let her mind wander too far from her task. While not as dashingly handsome as Corley, Lord Validar is a striking man in his own right. Definitely more mature and worldly than the younger nobleman. His muscles are lean and taunt. Strangely enough he doesn't bear the scars from past battles. Peculiar.
And that concludes the lost portion of Ivy…
Laucian joins me by the fire.
Ivy will listen intently to both the words of Sherwood and Lord Validar. "As I told Lord Validar in private, this 'Blackfire' is an affront to all that my goddess stands for. I cannot in good conscience not help in extinguishing this vile fire for all eternity. I will ride with you all until this task has been completed. If a lich is behind this cult then more undead my be encountered along the way. My holy task is to slay undead. I can accomplish this and more on this mission."
"No solid names for an adventuring band come to mind. Perhaps something saying that we oppose those who follow the Blackflame? Fire fighters of some type? Extinguishers of the flame?" Coming up with names is not Ivy's forte!
"I see the need for a definite chain of command in a organized group. The leadership is obvious to me from what I've seen thus far. Sherwood and Validar should share the honor. Sherwood is most experience and wise in his tactics. As a woodsman he can relate to those who stealthy traits and as a wizard he can advise the mages in the group. Lord Validar has a fine grasp of battle plans and tactics. The success we had in capturing Lothar with barely a scratch attests to this. Together these two nicely compliment each other and give us all the best chance to succeed in our mission."
"As for the distribution of magic items, I have heard of several different methods. Items being assigned by the leaders to party members drawing lots to see who chooses what first. It really isn't much of an issue for me since I am very limited it what items I can use. I cannot wear armor or use a shield, so the magical bracers would interest me as they are more powerful then the ones I already possess. None of the weapons are of use to me, but several of the other items could be of interest. Depends on what system we employ and what is available for me to chose at that point."
"Material wealth should be evenly spread among the group in my opinion."
While many of the others have tasks to perform, Ivy seems to be free for the moment. She will make herself available to the rest of the group should they need her services. If everything seems under control, Ivy will gather up her belongings and make her way to the Twin Forks Inn. Some sleep in a nice warm bed would be most welcomed.
After rising, Ivy discovers that Azrella has granted her faithful follower a whole new selection of spells. After saying her blessings to Azrella, Ivy will pray for new spells. Following Sherwood's advice, the priestess will commit Dispel Magic to memory. Then she will go forth to see what has transpired while she was resting.
(GAH! Brain dead moment here. I wrote a response for Ivy near the end of the previous post. Not only did it not get posted, it also got overwritten when the new responses were added back into the file! GAH! So here goes with Ivy's Lost post…)
"Welcome friend Grondar. I am pleased that your goddess carried you through the battle unharmed."Some time later, Grondar makes his way to Lothar's house. Entering, he finds many of his friends still alive and well. "Greetings, my friends. Berronar's blessings upon you all."
Ivy will smile brightly as Kylie and Corley enter into the house. "Hello Kylie. Thank you for asking. Other than being drenched and chilled to the bone I am doing well. I hope someone retrieves our horses. I have dry clothing stored in my saddle bags." After a moments' thought Ivy will add, "Actually, Kylie some nice warm broth would be most welcomed right now."Entering Lothar's house behind Corley, Kylie almost immediately notices a damp Ivy sitting wrapped in a blanket. She moves over to the human woman and kneels next her. "Are you alright, Ivy? I saw you get knocked into the water. Anything you need?"
"Yes, thankfully. The fire was warm and Kylie did brew a fine broth that warmed my insides. A change into dry clothing was most welcome as well."Validar will accompany Ivy to the room she indicates and begins to remove part of his armor. He has already unfastened his helmet and sets it aside. He then begins the task of removing the shoulder pieces and his breastplate and tabard. That should be enough for Ivy to reach the wound. "You seem to have recovered nicely from your evening dip in the river, my lady."
While Ivy works she tries to not let her mind wander too far from her task. While not as dashingly handsome as Corley, Lord Validar is a striking man in his own right. Definitely more mature and worldly than the younger nobleman. His muscles are lean and taunt. Strangely enough he doesn't bear the scars from past battles. Peculiar.
"I have to admit that I am curious as to your reasons for refusing the gifts that Azrella grants me. While I do not wish to infringe upon your own personal beliefs, I do find them difficult to comprehend. Did the gods do something that caused you to spurn their gifts? Do you not follow the beliefs of a greater power?""As I said before, fair Ivy, the wound will be healed by mid-day. It is very useful for someone of my profession. But to answer your question, no, that is not the reason that I normally refuse a healer's touch. I consider it more of a by-product. And I do not refuse those methods which utilize natural healing methods, only those which have been granted or considered to be a direct magical spell."
And that concludes the lost portion of Ivy…
Laucian joins me by the fire.
Ivy will smile lightly at Laucian's jest. "Alas, the choice to sleep on the cold ground was mine to make. A dip in the Grayhare river was not a choice I would have made, Laucian. Lothar saw fit to that in his attempt to escape. Sit and warm yourself. It will help ease the chill of the night air."He will make his way to the fireplace and warm his hands. " It is to cold to sleep under the stars but not for midnight swim?" Having warmed his hands he moves to a chair and seats himself.
Ivy will listen intently to both the words of Sherwood and Lord Validar. "As I told Lord Validar in private, this 'Blackfire' is an affront to all that my goddess stands for. I cannot in good conscience not help in extinguishing this vile fire for all eternity. I will ride with you all until this task has been completed. If a lich is behind this cult then more undead my be encountered along the way. My holy task is to slay undead. I can accomplish this and more on this mission."
"No solid names for an adventuring band come to mind. Perhaps something saying that we oppose those who follow the Blackflame? Fire fighters of some type? Extinguishers of the flame?" Coming up with names is not Ivy's forte!
"I see the need for a definite chain of command in a organized group. The leadership is obvious to me from what I've seen thus far. Sherwood and Validar should share the honor. Sherwood is most experience and wise in his tactics. As a woodsman he can relate to those who stealthy traits and as a wizard he can advise the mages in the group. Lord Validar has a fine grasp of battle plans and tactics. The success we had in capturing Lothar with barely a scratch attests to this. Together these two nicely compliment each other and give us all the best chance to succeed in our mission."
"As for the distribution of magic items, I have heard of several different methods. Items being assigned by the leaders to party members drawing lots to see who chooses what first. It really isn't much of an issue for me since I am very limited it what items I can use. I cannot wear armor or use a shield, so the magical bracers would interest me as they are more powerful then the ones I already possess. None of the weapons are of use to me, but several of the other items could be of interest. Depends on what system we employ and what is available for me to chose at that point."
"Material wealth should be evenly spread among the group in my opinion."
While many of the others have tasks to perform, Ivy seems to be free for the moment. She will make herself available to the rest of the group should they need her services. If everything seems under control, Ivy will gather up her belongings and make her way to the Twin Forks Inn. Some sleep in a nice warm bed would be most welcomed.
After rising, Ivy discovers that Azrella has granted her faithful follower a whole new selection of spells. After saying her blessings to Azrella, Ivy will pray for new spells. Following Sherwood's advice, the priestess will commit Dispel Magic to memory. Then she will go forth to see what has transpired while she was resting.
For the glory of the Blue Lady!
a bit of a haul...
Sherra:
from last post:
Returning to Laucian's question, Sherra had been unaware he was watching with any interest to notice her daydreaming. She feels better that there is at least something of a bond that he would be interested. "Yes, I miss the good parts. Too much of it was bad however. I learned from all of it though, good and bad, so I hold on to the memories."
Sherra opens the crate and peers inside:
the current post:
Sherra will definitely need, and ask for, Laucian's help to move these crates. She will return to listen to Sherwood as he explains everything about the further mystery before us and also the tentative plans for the next several days.
Upon conclusion, Sherra will speak up at an appropriate moment, "As I mentioned to Validar, I will continue to ride with him and all of you. I feel we have made an important beginning together and could easily continue on such a path to the benefit of all of us and to these lands. It has been some time since I have felt like I belonged somewhere, but recently that has begun to change, and it is a feeling I find to my liking." Sherra will smile and look at those she has begun to get to know and then to those she has not had a chance to as of yet. A definite interest is on her face as she looks to each of the group - an interest in who they are.
Later, Sherwood finds her and relieves her of her burden of guilt she had been harboring, although she knows she had done her best to hide it from all. She will smile at Sherwood and nod, for she does understand the chances taken in combat for good and ill, but still desired to have followed through and made the outcome perfect for the man who saw so much potential in her during her darkest days.
from last post:
"Just a moment," Sherra will whisper, although a trapped crate normally does not care if one is whispering or otherwise conversing. Laucian will see Sherra has indeed found traps upon this crate and she will move her fingers almost independantly of her own thoughts. Since Sherra can not see exactly what trap(s) lie in wait, she trusts her skilled fingers to tell her what she needs. After several tense moments, it is finished and she removes the lid.Soon after she begins to inspect the ship, Laucian will move along side her while examining a few crates "Do you miss it?" realizing he is being vague he will add," your home I mean."
Returning to Laucian's question, Sherra had been unaware he was watching with any interest to notice her daydreaming. She feels better that there is at least something of a bond that he would be interested. "Yes, I miss the good parts. Too much of it was bad however. I learned from all of it though, good and bad, so I hold on to the memories."
Sherra opens the crate and peers inside:
"What do you make of this Laucian? I can not decipher what is written here, is it in any tongue you understand?" Unless Laucian knows it immediately, she will continue, "It is possibly a magical script, although not one I have seen. Perhaps one of the mages might recognize it, or Grondar."Inside the box is small metallic chest some ten inches long, 8 inches wide, and 6 inches high. It is constructed out of some type of metal that she is not familiar with. The chest is hinged in the back but there doesn't appear to be any way of securing it in the front. From the looks of it, the chest lid should just lift up, but Sherra is unable to do so. Several words in an elegant script are written upon the chest, but they are incomprehensible to Sherra.
the current post:
Sherra will definitely need, and ask for, Laucian's help to move these crates. She will return to listen to Sherwood as he explains everything about the further mystery before us and also the tentative plans for the next several days.
Upon conclusion, Sherra will speak up at an appropriate moment, "As I mentioned to Validar, I will continue to ride with him and all of you. I feel we have made an important beginning together and could easily continue on such a path to the benefit of all of us and to these lands. It has been some time since I have felt like I belonged somewhere, but recently that has begun to change, and it is a feeling I find to my liking." Sherra will smile and look at those she has begun to get to know and then to those she has not had a chance to as of yet. A definite interest is on her face as she looks to each of the group - an interest in who they are.
Later, Sherwood finds her and relieves her of her burden of guilt she had been harboring, although she knows she had done her best to hide it from all. She will smile at Sherwood and nod, for she does understand the chances taken in combat for good and ill, but still desired to have followed through and made the outcome perfect for the man who saw so much potential in her during her darkest days.
-
Lilia
- Queen of the Sylvan Realm
- Posts: 457
- Joined: Thu Jul 17, 2003 4:54 pm
- Location: The Sylvan Realm
Lilia
Lilia:
The putting away process is interrupted as more and more of the group return and eye the treasures we have acquired. Lilia will point out those items that she has identified for everyone's benefit. She also repeats Sherwood's instructions that the rest of the items will be identified at his tower and then disbursed to the group.
Lilia will listen on with interest as Laucian and Validar examine the strange sword with the Mithral blade. Metallurgy was never a topic the Elf Maiden had ever given any serious thought to before. After Sherwood's explanation of the types of exotic metals in the world and how they relate to enchanted metallic items it does give her pause.
It is logical to assume that higher quality ore would hold a stronger enchantment then a weaker one. It seems that if Lilia ever gets to the point of empowering her own magic items that a knowledge of metallurgy would be required.
Lilia continues to be amazed and impressed at the wealth and depth of the knowledge that Sherwood Elf-Friend does possess. There is much the Elf Maiden can learn from him. Never would Lilia have thought of such a thing from a human!
A look of awe comes to Lilia's face when Lifeshield is shown. She had noted the hilt much earlier and suspected the blade to be of elvish manufacture. The color of the blade is unlike anything she had ever seen before. The runes on the blade are a sweeping elvish script.
"It is beautiful, Sherwood Elf-Friend", Lilia will say in all sincerity. "You say that Thiondar Nightstar forged this blade? Amazing! You must tell me of your encounter of him one of these days. I find this most fascinating!"
After Sherwood speaks to the assembled adventurers it comes time for Lilia to say something. "I must admit that I was most reluctant to participate in this adventure. Indeed, the Clan Elder insisted that I come, so my being here was not voluntary. For the first time I have ventured beyond the borders of my beloved elven forest and found a world that was not quite all that I expected it to be."
"I choose to stay and continue on with this quest, but not necessarily for the noblest of reasons. Yes, the defense of the Elfholds is important to me. Without Cynalon's presence, more of our borders would be subject to humanoid attacks. Such attacks were frequent in the clan in which Laucian and I were raised. All in our clan are taught how to fight in order to repel invaders."
"Yes, this Blackflame cult does sound repugnant and worthy of being crushed."
"However, my primary interest remains in the gaining of new spells and acquire magic items that increase my particular talents. So far the treasure and spells we have gained are most pleasing and I hope this trend does continue."
"Lastly, I find that there is much I can learn from Sherwood Elf-Friend about my chosen field of expertise. It would be foolish for me to leave when there is so much to gain."
"Ivy's thoughts on who shall lead are find with me. I know I have no desire to do such a thing. Likewise the name of this adventuring band matters not to me. Again, the acquisition of knowledge and power are my primary motivations. How shall we divide up such fine treasure? I know that there are many items of which I would desire to own. I will know which items I desire the most after all have been identified."
"I do have a question Sherwood Elf-Friend about your ancestor's battles with the Cult. From what I gather, both yours and Validar's ancestors perished in the war that followed the original defeat of the Cult? What about other adventurers who were associated with them? Were any of them elves? Or perhaps even a half-elf or a dwarf. It could be possible that others in their adventuring band are still alive this day. It seems to me that such a person could more then fill in the missing details concerning this cult."
Later, Lilia is almost overflowing with happiness when Sherwood hands her the fallen mages third level spell book. "Yes, yes, communal spell books. Sounds fine to me." Lilia buries herself in the tome and ignores any outside conversation unless interrupted.
"Chareos", Lilia will nod in greeting as the fellow mage approaches. "We have been blessed by Mystra on this day. Numerous magic items to use and new magicks to learn! The spellbooks are not yet safe to study. Kylie is attempting to ascertain if they are trapped in any manner. I must admit that I am eager to see what secrets these books will reveal."Entering the house shortly after Kylie and Corley he notes the others looking through weapons and items apparently trying to figure out their worth and enchantments. He will move to Lilia "Would you care for some help with these?" And help her place them with the sacks/bags as he is placing several daggers into the bags and sacks he notices the spell books. "Is it safe to read these as of yet?' he will look around at the other mages for a reply.
The putting away process is interrupted as more and more of the group return and eye the treasures we have acquired. Lilia will point out those items that she has identified for everyone's benefit. She also repeats Sherwood's instructions that the rest of the items will be identified at his tower and then disbursed to the group.
Lilia will listen on with interest as Laucian and Validar examine the strange sword with the Mithral blade. Metallurgy was never a topic the Elf Maiden had ever given any serious thought to before. After Sherwood's explanation of the types of exotic metals in the world and how they relate to enchanted metallic items it does give her pause.
It is logical to assume that higher quality ore would hold a stronger enchantment then a weaker one. It seems that if Lilia ever gets to the point of empowering her own magic items that a knowledge of metallurgy would be required.
Lilia continues to be amazed and impressed at the wealth and depth of the knowledge that Sherwood Elf-Friend does possess. There is much the Elf Maiden can learn from him. Never would Lilia have thought of such a thing from a human!
A look of awe comes to Lilia's face when Lifeshield is shown. She had noted the hilt much earlier and suspected the blade to be of elvish manufacture. The color of the blade is unlike anything she had ever seen before. The runes on the blade are a sweeping elvish script.
"It is beautiful, Sherwood Elf-Friend", Lilia will say in all sincerity. "You say that Thiondar Nightstar forged this blade? Amazing! You must tell me of your encounter of him one of these days. I find this most fascinating!"
After Sherwood speaks to the assembled adventurers it comes time for Lilia to say something. "I must admit that I was most reluctant to participate in this adventure. Indeed, the Clan Elder insisted that I come, so my being here was not voluntary. For the first time I have ventured beyond the borders of my beloved elven forest and found a world that was not quite all that I expected it to be."
"I choose to stay and continue on with this quest, but not necessarily for the noblest of reasons. Yes, the defense of the Elfholds is important to me. Without Cynalon's presence, more of our borders would be subject to humanoid attacks. Such attacks were frequent in the clan in which Laucian and I were raised. All in our clan are taught how to fight in order to repel invaders."
"Yes, this Blackflame cult does sound repugnant and worthy of being crushed."
"However, my primary interest remains in the gaining of new spells and acquire magic items that increase my particular talents. So far the treasure and spells we have gained are most pleasing and I hope this trend does continue."
"Lastly, I find that there is much I can learn from Sherwood Elf-Friend about my chosen field of expertise. It would be foolish for me to leave when there is so much to gain."
"Ivy's thoughts on who shall lead are find with me. I know I have no desire to do such a thing. Likewise the name of this adventuring band matters not to me. Again, the acquisition of knowledge and power are my primary motivations. How shall we divide up such fine treasure? I know that there are many items of which I would desire to own. I will know which items I desire the most after all have been identified."
"I do have a question Sherwood Elf-Friend about your ancestor's battles with the Cult. From what I gather, both yours and Validar's ancestors perished in the war that followed the original defeat of the Cult? What about other adventurers who were associated with them? Were any of them elves? Or perhaps even a half-elf or a dwarf. It could be possible that others in their adventuring band are still alive this day. It seems to me that such a person could more then fill in the missing details concerning this cult."
Later, Lilia is almost overflowing with happiness when Sherwood hands her the fallen mages third level spell book. "Yes, yes, communal spell books. Sounds fine to me." Lilia buries herself in the tome and ignores any outside conversation unless interrupted.
Either by my magic or my bow you WILL fall!
Lots to comment on!
VALIDAR -
Validar wil listen intently while Sherwood tells the details of the story of the Blackflame Cult and the War with Keln. He knew most of this information already, but it is a topic of much interest to the noble warrior.
"The Cult of the Blackflame was no doubt dealt a powerful blow when our forefathers struck at them, but they were not vanquished as we can now plainly see. Had they not been attacked and twarted, Cynalon may not have survived the Great War with Keln."
"These are special times we live in, my friends. These are days of glory and honor and change and magnificent wonder. I forsee the landscape of the kingdom changing in the near future. We have a chance to be a true force for good, for change and for righteousness. I thank all of you who continue to ride with us as we exact our revenge upon the enemies of Cynalon and her allies."
After Sherwood turns the floor over to him, Validar will stand up to address the others. "As I said, the Kingdom is changing and it is in flux. We will have a new King soon. However, while there is stability in the Central Kingdom and to the East we have seen much success in the claimng of new lands once held by Keln and the destruction of power groups in that region, we have many troubles which plague Cynalon to the West."
"There are political issues between Lords. Anyone who knows of Elcadan and its allies knows that to be true. There are many fallen lands overrun by humanoids and worse. They pose a constant threat that even the mighty Streel River does not completely safeguard against. Now we have the Cult of the Black Flame resurfacing possibly still lead by their vile lich. Who knows what other enemies they will employ against the Kingdom."
"To counter that end, I am proposing a very generous proposition that will help to stabilize, secure and defend this region, at the heart of our homes and work outwards. The enemies have been whittling away the safety and security that we hold, both enemies without and within. I propose to put that safety back in place."
Validar will pause a moment to look at the faces of each of the people assembled. They seem to be an honorable lot and fine companions, despite many philosophical differences. "I am proposing to take most of the treasure we have gained as well as selling or trading some of the magic items and all of the supplies, equipment and even buildings we do not personally need to vitalize, build and protect this town of Twin Forks. If we do not then someone will quickly fill the vaccuum of banditry that Lothar worked or worse, engage in this area, as Lothar had kept the area protected, though not from noble reasons."
"My proposal is to award each of the 65 or so families here with a momentary or supply award in the amount of 20 gold each. In addition, any families that move to this area and engage in farming or business will receive a 10 gold award. This will help to grow the town and increase it's prosperity greatly. As 1 gold per month is a fine wage, the amount should be enough to accomplish the goal without drawing undue attention from afar. This will account for 30% of the spolis."
"Fifty percent will go to new businesses coming to the area, a trade route established to the East, a road planned and fortifications built. In addition, we will bring in soldiers from Pyris to protect our interests here and guard the appointed accountant for this project."
"As a group, we will always have place that will remember our deads, for generations to come. The town will remain a home away from home for the goodwill we will have created. We will have assisted our fellow men who are less advantaged than ourselves. We will increase safety and security in the area and we can change the lives of select individuals who can leave poverty and come to work in Twin Forks."
"That leaves us the bulk of the magic items and 20% of the treasure to split among ourselves. In addition, I am pledging one half of my own portion of the funds back into the project as well. The remaining funds will be contributed to reinforcing the fortifications of Timberline, the town on the High Road at Elcadan's border, should anyone be wondering why I am not contributing it all."
"It is certainly not a typical way to distribute wealth gained from an adventuring band. However, I would like to think that we are not common mercenaries. We were assembled for a higher goal. Even though we may not have been willing participants at the beginning, all of your were chosen because someone saw something special within you. So what say you all?"
Validar wil listen intently while Sherwood tells the details of the story of the Blackflame Cult and the War with Keln. He knew most of this information already, but it is a topic of much interest to the noble warrior.
"The Cult of the Blackflame was no doubt dealt a powerful blow when our forefathers struck at them, but they were not vanquished as we can now plainly see. Had they not been attacked and twarted, Cynalon may not have survived the Great War with Keln."
"These are special times we live in, my friends. These are days of glory and honor and change and magnificent wonder. I forsee the landscape of the kingdom changing in the near future. We have a chance to be a true force for good, for change and for righteousness. I thank all of you who continue to ride with us as we exact our revenge upon the enemies of Cynalon and her allies."
After Sherwood turns the floor over to him, Validar will stand up to address the others. "As I said, the Kingdom is changing and it is in flux. We will have a new King soon. However, while there is stability in the Central Kingdom and to the East we have seen much success in the claimng of new lands once held by Keln and the destruction of power groups in that region, we have many troubles which plague Cynalon to the West."
"There are political issues between Lords. Anyone who knows of Elcadan and its allies knows that to be true. There are many fallen lands overrun by humanoids and worse. They pose a constant threat that even the mighty Streel River does not completely safeguard against. Now we have the Cult of the Black Flame resurfacing possibly still lead by their vile lich. Who knows what other enemies they will employ against the Kingdom."
"To counter that end, I am proposing a very generous proposition that will help to stabilize, secure and defend this region, at the heart of our homes and work outwards. The enemies have been whittling away the safety and security that we hold, both enemies without and within. I propose to put that safety back in place."
Validar will pause a moment to look at the faces of each of the people assembled. They seem to be an honorable lot and fine companions, despite many philosophical differences. "I am proposing to take most of the treasure we have gained as well as selling or trading some of the magic items and all of the supplies, equipment and even buildings we do not personally need to vitalize, build and protect this town of Twin Forks. If we do not then someone will quickly fill the vaccuum of banditry that Lothar worked or worse, engage in this area, as Lothar had kept the area protected, though not from noble reasons."
"My proposal is to award each of the 65 or so families here with a momentary or supply award in the amount of 20 gold each. In addition, any families that move to this area and engage in farming or business will receive a 10 gold award. This will help to grow the town and increase it's prosperity greatly. As 1 gold per month is a fine wage, the amount should be enough to accomplish the goal without drawing undue attention from afar. This will account for 30% of the spolis."
"Fifty percent will go to new businesses coming to the area, a trade route established to the East, a road planned and fortifications built. In addition, we will bring in soldiers from Pyris to protect our interests here and guard the appointed accountant for this project."
"As a group, we will always have place that will remember our deads, for generations to come. The town will remain a home away from home for the goodwill we will have created. We will have assisted our fellow men who are less advantaged than ourselves. We will increase safety and security in the area and we can change the lives of select individuals who can leave poverty and come to work in Twin Forks."
"That leaves us the bulk of the magic items and 20% of the treasure to split among ourselves. In addition, I am pledging one half of my own portion of the funds back into the project as well. The remaining funds will be contributed to reinforcing the fortifications of Timberline, the town on the High Road at Elcadan's border, should anyone be wondering why I am not contributing it all."
"It is certainly not a typical way to distribute wealth gained from an adventuring band. However, I would like to think that we are not common mercenaries. We were assembled for a higher goal. Even though we may not have been willing participants at the beginning, all of your were chosen because someone saw something special within you. So what say you all?"
Conquer or Die!
-
Laucian
- Ranger of Ehlonna
- Posts: 532
- Joined: Tue Jul 22, 2003 7:18 pm
- Location: Dense Forests of the Elfholds
Laucian
backing up a bit
Laucian listens as Lord Validar retells the finding of his weapon. "A most interesting tale a green dragon,laying siege to a temple of Hextor. This women must have been very cunning and deceitful in order to ensnare so many in her web." Laucian takes note of the man's apparent death and pauses for a moment. Deciding it better be left unsaid he will refrain from asking Validar about this fact, for the moment.
Sherwood approaches them and tells of the different metals and enchantments. The young elf listens as he describes each metal. Unexpectedly he pulls forth his sword. In the light of the fire dances over the white swirls and streaks within the blade.
"This is my most prized possession: Lifeshield. It was forged by the elven sorcerer Thiondar Nightstar and vestiges of his essence remains within the blade. The blade is sentient with several special powers and highly resistant to magic. This type of metal is called 'Gold Steel'."
"A truly magnificent weapon." he watches the flames of the fireplace dance across the almost marble blade. Elvish script sweeps down the blade, he tries to make the script out on the blade.
"What do you make of this Laucian? I can not decipher what is written here, is it in any tongue you understand?" Unless Laucian knows it immediately, she will continue, "It is possibly a magical script, although not one I have seen. Perhaps one of the mages might recognize it, or Grondar."
Laucian begins to inspect the writing on the box. After a few moments "It looks to be elvish, but I can not be certain. A few of the words look familiar to me but I can not decipher this. Maybe Lilia, Chareos or Sherwood would be able to help with this matter."
Afterward he will begin helping Sherra move the crates to the others.
Back to present
Sherwood speaks of the information gathered to our ranks. Laucian sits quietly as he retells of his ancestors battle with the cult. After he is completed in telling his tale Laucian will speak up.
"I do not believe this is just a human problem, Sherwood. Whether it be Human,Elf or Dwarf we all share the same symbiotic circle. If one of our homes/nations does indeed fall the others most likely the rest will. I would rather die than see that day come to pass."
"I volunteered to leave the Elfholds when the situation presented itself. Not for fame,power or wealth, but for my beliefs and for my curiousity."
"Ehlonna asks of each of her followers to protect the forests and the creatures there by within, no matter how vast or small. Also to plant trees and plants of a chosen species and to protect them, to ensure that they are here for generations to come."
"As for my curiousity, I Have always heard tales of the outside world both the horrors and the triumphs. I for one have always seen this world from the borders while patrolling my beloved homelands. I wish to see this world with my own eyes and make my own judgments.
Lastly,"There is only so much one can learn from within the confines of their home. I wish to further the skills that I have been trained in, and acquire new ones as time passes."
Laucian will Listen as the others tell of what they believe the best way we are to be led and for distributing the weapons and gold.
"I agree full heartily with Lady Ivy's suggestion. Sherwood's and Validar's skills and experience would be the logical choice. As for a name for our band I am unsure as of yet. I believe the treasure should be divided evenly among those in the party. Though I do believe a portion should be placed to the side for supplies and the parties needs. As for the magical armor,weapons and items, I believe those who would best benefit from an item should receive it."
"We should also check Artur's and Arkane's rooms at the Inn, there may be information there as well."
Feeling the fatigue of the day Laucian will say one more thing before he leaves for bed. "Come morning I will go to the garrison and see what the men we captured know."
He will head off to the inn. As he reaches the Inn keeper he will ask Where Artur's and Arkane's rooms were located. Once doing so he will head to his room and go to sleep.
Upon rising he discovers that Ehlonna has granted him more spells. He begins to pray to Ehlonna for her blessings and guidance. After doing so He will pray for his spells. Placing one charmed person among his spells.
Afterward he head to the garrison and ask to see the prisoners. If the guards refuse he will say Sherwood has sent him.
Once inside he will ask the Bandits the following.
Whom among you is the most senior person employed by Lothar/Artur or Arkane? And who is the newest man here hired?
If they refuse to answer Laucian will simply remind them of their Commanders demise. "Two of your commanders as you saw were burnt by flame. Lothar is no longer here to Fear or protect you. If you answer my questions I will do what I can for you." in a sincere voice. "If you do not you will be imprisoned or put to death for your crimes. The choice is yours."
He will begin asking them questions
When Did Artur and Arkane come to this village?
Do you know in which direction they came from or town?
Did the two men have any visitors? If so what do the men or women look like and did you overhear any names?"
backing up a bit
Laucian listens as Lord Validar retells the finding of his weapon. "A most interesting tale a green dragon,laying siege to a temple of Hextor. This women must have been very cunning and deceitful in order to ensnare so many in her web." Laucian takes note of the man's apparent death and pauses for a moment. Deciding it better be left unsaid he will refrain from asking Validar about this fact, for the moment.
Sherwood approaches them and tells of the different metals and enchantments. The young elf listens as he describes each metal. Unexpectedly he pulls forth his sword. In the light of the fire dances over the white swirls and streaks within the blade.
"This is my most prized possession: Lifeshield. It was forged by the elven sorcerer Thiondar Nightstar and vestiges of his essence remains within the blade. The blade is sentient with several special powers and highly resistant to magic. This type of metal is called 'Gold Steel'."
"A truly magnificent weapon." he watches the flames of the fireplace dance across the almost marble blade. Elvish script sweeps down the blade, he tries to make the script out on the blade.
"What do you make of this Laucian? I can not decipher what is written here, is it in any tongue you understand?" Unless Laucian knows it immediately, she will continue, "It is possibly a magical script, although not one I have seen. Perhaps one of the mages might recognize it, or Grondar."
Laucian begins to inspect the writing on the box. After a few moments "It looks to be elvish, but I can not be certain. A few of the words look familiar to me but I can not decipher this. Maybe Lilia, Chareos or Sherwood would be able to help with this matter."
Afterward he will begin helping Sherra move the crates to the others.
Back to present
Sherwood speaks of the information gathered to our ranks. Laucian sits quietly as he retells of his ancestors battle with the cult. After he is completed in telling his tale Laucian will speak up.
"I do not believe this is just a human problem, Sherwood. Whether it be Human,Elf or Dwarf we all share the same symbiotic circle. If one of our homes/nations does indeed fall the others most likely the rest will. I would rather die than see that day come to pass."
"I volunteered to leave the Elfholds when the situation presented itself. Not for fame,power or wealth, but for my beliefs and for my curiousity."
"Ehlonna asks of each of her followers to protect the forests and the creatures there by within, no matter how vast or small. Also to plant trees and plants of a chosen species and to protect them, to ensure that they are here for generations to come."
"As for my curiousity, I Have always heard tales of the outside world both the horrors and the triumphs. I for one have always seen this world from the borders while patrolling my beloved homelands. I wish to see this world with my own eyes and make my own judgments.
Lastly,"There is only so much one can learn from within the confines of their home. I wish to further the skills that I have been trained in, and acquire new ones as time passes."
Laucian will Listen as the others tell of what they believe the best way we are to be led and for distributing the weapons and gold.
"I agree full heartily with Lady Ivy's suggestion. Sherwood's and Validar's skills and experience would be the logical choice. As for a name for our band I am unsure as of yet. I believe the treasure should be divided evenly among those in the party. Though I do believe a portion should be placed to the side for supplies and the parties needs. As for the magical armor,weapons and items, I believe those who would best benefit from an item should receive it."
"We should also check Artur's and Arkane's rooms at the Inn, there may be information there as well."
Feeling the fatigue of the day Laucian will say one more thing before he leaves for bed. "Come morning I will go to the garrison and see what the men we captured know."
He will head off to the inn. As he reaches the Inn keeper he will ask Where Artur's and Arkane's rooms were located. Once doing so he will head to his room and go to sleep.
Upon rising he discovers that Ehlonna has granted him more spells. He begins to pray to Ehlonna for her blessings and guidance. After doing so He will pray for his spells. Placing one charmed person among his spells.
Afterward he head to the garrison and ask to see the prisoners. If the guards refuse he will say Sherwood has sent him.
Once inside he will ask the Bandits the following.
Whom among you is the most senior person employed by Lothar/Artur or Arkane? And who is the newest man here hired?
If they refuse to answer Laucian will simply remind them of their Commanders demise. "Two of your commanders as you saw were burnt by flame. Lothar is no longer here to Fear or protect you. If you answer my questions I will do what I can for you." in a sincere voice. "If you do not you will be imprisoned or put to death for your crimes. The choice is yours."
He will begin asking them questions
When Did Artur and Arkane come to this village?
Do you know in which direction they came from or town?
Did the two men have any visitors? If so what do the men or women look like and did you overhear any names?"
Chareos
"Chareos", Lilia will nod in greeting as the fellow mage approaches. "We have been blessed by Mystra on this day. Numerous magic items to use and new magicks to learn! The spell books are not yet safe to study. Kylie is attempting to ascertain if they are trapped in any manner. I must admit that I am eager to see what secrets these books will reveal."
"A good day indeed!"noting the spoils lain out across the table." I share your enthusiasm. I can not wait to unveil the secrets within the bindings of these books."
Sherwood tells the adventures of the Black Flame cult and its involvement in the past. As well as the plans for the party in the near future. Sherwood soon asks How we should be led and how the items/wealth should be dealt out. Before the young mage fighter can say a word Lady Ivy speaks he piece as does several others.
"As I have said to Lord Validar, I will ride with you. This Black Flamed Cult could regain its former power and lead everyone to war. It would be best to crush it into the depths of which it came."
"Lady Ivy's suggestion makes sense to me, my friends. We did well this day and I see no reason why they should be relieved of command."
"The wealth of the party should be distributed evenly amongst us as should be the items of magical origin, in my opinion anyway.
After going through the last book, Sherwood will say, "A nice selection of spells. There's even a few that I am unfamiliar with. These spellbooks are the first to be captured by the group as a whole. Therefore they should be the communal property of all mages in this group and for any new spellcasters who join up in the days to come. Spells may be freely scribed from these books."
Picking up one of the books, Sherwood hands it to Lilia. "Here is a selection of third level spells for you to learn." Grabbing two of the remaining four tomes, Sherwood will offer them to Chareos and Kylie. "These books contain first and second level spells. Study from one book and then swap it with the other. The remaining spells are beyond your current abilities to learn and will be saved for future study."
"I agree a communal of spell books would be best." as he takes a tome from Sherwood's hand. "A large variety indeed, this will keep us busy for sometime. I thank you Sherwood."
Chareos will begin studying the pages of the 1st level spells then wait 'til Kylie's done with the 2nd when she is done with it he will exchange it with her and repeat the process.
"Chareos", Lilia will nod in greeting as the fellow mage approaches. "We have been blessed by Mystra on this day. Numerous magic items to use and new magicks to learn! The spell books are not yet safe to study. Kylie is attempting to ascertain if they are trapped in any manner. I must admit that I am eager to see what secrets these books will reveal."
"A good day indeed!"noting the spoils lain out across the table." I share your enthusiasm. I can not wait to unveil the secrets within the bindings of these books."
Sherwood tells the adventures of the Black Flame cult and its involvement in the past. As well as the plans for the party in the near future. Sherwood soon asks How we should be led and how the items/wealth should be dealt out. Before the young mage fighter can say a word Lady Ivy speaks he piece as does several others.
"As I have said to Lord Validar, I will ride with you. This Black Flamed Cult could regain its former power and lead everyone to war. It would be best to crush it into the depths of which it came."
"Lady Ivy's suggestion makes sense to me, my friends. We did well this day and I see no reason why they should be relieved of command."
"The wealth of the party should be distributed evenly amongst us as should be the items of magical origin, in my opinion anyway.
After going through the last book, Sherwood will say, "A nice selection of spells. There's even a few that I am unfamiliar with. These spellbooks are the first to be captured by the group as a whole. Therefore they should be the communal property of all mages in this group and for any new spellcasters who join up in the days to come. Spells may be freely scribed from these books."
Picking up one of the books, Sherwood hands it to Lilia. "Here is a selection of third level spells for you to learn." Grabbing two of the remaining four tomes, Sherwood will offer them to Chareos and Kylie. "These books contain first and second level spells. Study from one book and then swap it with the other. The remaining spells are beyond your current abilities to learn and will be saved for future study."
"I agree a communal of spell books would be best." as he takes a tome from Sherwood's hand. "A large variety indeed, this will keep us busy for sometime. I thank you Sherwood."
Chareos will begin studying the pages of the 1st level spells then wait 'til Kylie's done with the 2nd when she is done with it he will exchange it with her and repeat the process.
-
Grondar
- Berronar's Humble Servant
- Posts: 406
- Joined: Thu Sep 02, 2004 7:55 pm
- Location: Aboveground, unfortunately
Transitions
Grondar:
From NF #12:
[OOC: You may have, but what I know and what Grondar knows are two different things. I don't believe it was stated in-character by anyone in his presence, though I could be mistaken.]
NF #13:
Turning to the rest of the group, Grondar clears his throat noisily to get their attention. "I have some unpleasant news to share with you all. It turned out that the one known as Saladin was not as reliable as we might have hoped. Rather than fight at our side, he chose to sneak off. He attempted to steal these gems," Grondar dumps the bag on the floor, causing tigereye gems to bounce and skitter across the wooden flooring, "and flee. Fortunately, I was alerted to something untoward occuring and was able to apprehend Saladin in the attempt. I have turned him over to captain Geris and his men."
=====
Grondar listens to the discussion concerning the Cult of the Blackflame and planned future actions for the group. It is good to hear that many of the others plan to continue in the good work that they are doing. There are also some discussions regarding the leadership and organization of the group.
"While Sherwood's knowledge of this Cult clearly exceeds my own, I have heard of this unholy organization previously. However, I did not know they were still active. The Cult of the Blackflame has always been used within our order as an example of that which we stand against. They represent nearly all of those things which are opposed to our goals and beliefs. It would be unfitting for any member of our order to walk away from such a battle. Additionally, it is in my heart to bear the stain of such a diabolic group upon these lands. They must be opposed, and I will gladly give my life to stop them.
"It is well-known - though only rarely admitted among other peoples - that our races are mutually dependent upon one another for long term survival and success. Many have been the times when inflamed passions have led to unfortunate contention among our peoples. Still, when cooler heads prevail, we dwarves understand that only through mutual cooperation can we hope for better things for our children and our children's children."
Grondar pauses a moment to master his emotions. "As for the leadership of the group, I have little objection to the current proposals. However, I must ask Sherwood if he intends to remain with the group for an extended period. It was my initial impression that you intended to see our mission started, then continue on with your own efforts.
"Regarding a name for our little band, I will give it some thought, though nothing occurs to me immediately.
"I have little concern with the distribution of spoils. Berronar provides for my needs. I will accept the group's decision in this matter. I can see the wisdom in allowing the mages as much access as possible to newfound spells. It can only serve to increase their utility and usefulness in the battles before us."
=====
When the subject of metals and magic items comes up, Grondar shows some interest. The correspondence between metal strength and magical strength is well known among his people. After all, the dwarves are among the finest smiths in the world and have created many of the great artifacts.
Grondar takes a good look at both Sherwood's and Validar's swords when they are displayed, though he doesn't display any need to handle them. "Ahh, truesilver. Truly a wondrous metal. It is no accident that it was named after Berronar herself. As for the other metals and alloys you mention, I have heard of them all before, though I have only laid eyes on blacksilver - what you call Black Mithril - previously."
=====
If shown the chest which Sherra found aboard Lothar's barge, Grondar will attempt to make sense of the script.
=====
After a good night's rest, Grondar will include a request for Speak With Dead among his morning devotions. Assuming it is granted, he will cast the spell upon Artur's remains as requested by Sherwood and attempt to assist the mage in questioning the spirit of the departed warrior.
Once that is done, Grondar will offer to accompany Laucian in a visit to question the surviving bandits.
From NF #12:
"Hmph." Grondar grunts, accepting the explanation but not being satisfied that they did all they could to know what was going on in their area."We were unaware that Lothar was dealing in banditry", Geris will simply state. "As far as we knew he was a merchant who transported goods in this area."
(I could have sworn that it was stated that Lothar's goons didn't commit robberies here in Twin Forks, but elsewhere. Thus the locals were unaware of his activities. Most of the banditry was done along the High Road between Elcadan and Pyris. Captured goods were taken to Twin Forks and placed in the warehouse. They were then shipped out, and repacked as necessary, and sent down river to be sold for profit. Validar suggested that it was something mentioned outside of the post in one of our conversations. I guess I must have missed it.)
[OOC: You may have, but what I know and what Grondar knows are two different things. I don't believe it was stated in-character by anyone in his presence, though I could be mistaken.]
Grondar shakes his head sadly. "I'm sorry to hear that, master Sherwood. While they no doubt earned their demise, I can never be happy about a death - and questioning them may have been helpful as well. At least they are now released from whatever hold their masters had over them."Both were slain, but not by our hand. They appeared to be in league with an ancient Cult of the Blackflame and when defeated burst into Blackfire. The Black Flames consumes only living things. All that remains of the two men are their bones."
Grondar is not quite certain what to make of this information. However, it does tell him a bit more of this cult, of which he had heard some little bits previously."Actually, Sherwood, I am afraid that both of the Cult's agents were in fact killed by our hands. It was only when they died that they were consumed by the Blackflame, it seems. Without it, neither would have survived. Their bodies just would have been left a bit more intact."
"Ahh..." Grondar murmurs, rubbing his chin. "I had not considered the possibility of questioning them past death, but what you suggest may be very possible. I shall be certain to request this blessing from the Revered Mother in the morning. However, it is not something I have done previously, so I cannot guarantee the results. Still, it is good to hear that he had a desire to be free of their influence.""I am told that Artur's dying words spoke of remorse and relief. While his spirit has departed this plane, it can be called back and spoken to. With you assistance, I wish to question Artur. Please pray for that particular spell after you rest. Perhaps Artur is willing to answer a few questions."
Seeing Sherra approach him, it appears to Grondar that the attractive human woman has something on her mind. "Yes, Lady Sherra. Is there something I might assist you with?" He allows himself to be drawn aside if she feels a need to discuss the matter in some privacy."Actually, Sherwood, I am afraid that both of the Cult's agents were in fact killed by our hands. It was only when they died that they were consumed by the Blackflame, it seems. Without it, neither would have survived. Their bodies just would have been left a bit more intact."
NF #13:
"And I you, my lady. In truth, I was in little danger, as I missed most of the battle. I regret not being at the side of my fellows when this came to pass, but other matters required my attention.""Welcome friend Grondar. I am pleased that your goddess carried you through the battle unharmed."
Turning to the rest of the group, Grondar clears his throat noisily to get their attention. "I have some unpleasant news to share with you all. It turned out that the one known as Saladin was not as reliable as we might have hoped. Rather than fight at our side, he chose to sneak off. He attempted to steal these gems," Grondar dumps the bag on the floor, causing tigereye gems to bounce and skitter across the wooden flooring, "and flee. Fortunately, I was alerted to something untoward occuring and was able to apprehend Saladin in the attempt. I have turned him over to captain Geris and his men."
=====
Grondar listens to the discussion concerning the Cult of the Blackflame and planned future actions for the group. It is good to hear that many of the others plan to continue in the good work that they are doing. There are also some discussions regarding the leadership and organization of the group.
"While Sherwood's knowledge of this Cult clearly exceeds my own, I have heard of this unholy organization previously. However, I did not know they were still active. The Cult of the Blackflame has always been used within our order as an example of that which we stand against. They represent nearly all of those things which are opposed to our goals and beliefs. It would be unfitting for any member of our order to walk away from such a battle. Additionally, it is in my heart to bear the stain of such a diabolic group upon these lands. They must be opposed, and I will gladly give my life to stop them.
"It is well-known - though only rarely admitted among other peoples - that our races are mutually dependent upon one another for long term survival and success. Many have been the times when inflamed passions have led to unfortunate contention among our peoples. Still, when cooler heads prevail, we dwarves understand that only through mutual cooperation can we hope for better things for our children and our children's children."
Grondar pauses a moment to master his emotions. "As for the leadership of the group, I have little objection to the current proposals. However, I must ask Sherwood if he intends to remain with the group for an extended period. It was my initial impression that you intended to see our mission started, then continue on with your own efforts.
"Regarding a name for our little band, I will give it some thought, though nothing occurs to me immediately.
"I have little concern with the distribution of spoils. Berronar provides for my needs. I will accept the group's decision in this matter. I can see the wisdom in allowing the mages as much access as possible to newfound spells. It can only serve to increase their utility and usefulness in the battles before us."
=====
When the subject of metals and magic items comes up, Grondar shows some interest. The correspondence between metal strength and magical strength is well known among his people. After all, the dwarves are among the finest smiths in the world and have created many of the great artifacts.
Grondar takes a good look at both Sherwood's and Validar's swords when they are displayed, though he doesn't display any need to handle them. "Ahh, truesilver. Truly a wondrous metal. It is no accident that it was named after Berronar herself. As for the other metals and alloys you mention, I have heard of them all before, though I have only laid eyes on blacksilver - what you call Black Mithril - previously."
=====
If shown the chest which Sherra found aboard Lothar's barge, Grondar will attempt to make sense of the script.
=====
After a good night's rest, Grondar will include a request for Speak With Dead among his morning devotions. Assuming it is granted, he will cast the spell upon Artur's remains as requested by Sherwood and attempt to assist the mage in questioning the spirit of the departed warrior.
Once that is done, Grondar will offer to accompany Laucian in a visit to question the surviving bandits.
Conversations...
VALIDAR -
At this point, Sherwood will drawn is own longsword. This is the first time that anyone present has seen it outside of its sheath. The blade is steel shot through with white streaks and swirls, giving it an almost marble like appearance. Elegant and sweeping runes cover the blade and the hilt is highly stylized in elfin fashion.
"This is my most prized possession: Lifeshield. It was forged by the elven sorcerer Thiondar Nightstar and vestiges of his essence remains within the blade. The blade is sentient with several special powers and highly resistant to magic. This type of metal is called 'Gold Steel'."
Validar had heard about weapons forged of this incredible metal and once as a young boy, he glimpsed a view of such a magnificent weapon. But this is the first time that he had seen one so close and as an adult. "It is a truly wondrous weapon, as well as a work of art," Validar will offer. He is not certain of how he feels about using an intelligent weapon however. He had read about sentient swords before and Lars had told him many stories during his studies.
------------------------------------------------------------
Validar will accompany Ivy to the room she indicates and begins to remove part of his armor. He has already unfastened his helmet and sets it aside. He then begins the task of removing the shoulder pieces and his breastplate and tabard. That should be enough for Ivy to reach the wound. "You seem to have recovered nicely from your evening dip in the river, my lady."
"Yes, thankfully. The fire was warm and Kylie did brew a fine broth that warmed my insides. A change into dry clothing was most welcome as well."
While Ivy works she tries to not let her mind wander too far from her task. While not as dashingly handsome as Corley, Lord Validar is a striking man in his own right. Definitely more mature and worldly than the younger nobleman. His muscles are lean and taunt. Strangely enough he doesn't bear the scars from past battles. Peculiar.
"As I said before, fair Ivy, the wound will be healed by mid-day. It is very useful for someone of my profession. But to answer your question, no, that is not the reason that I normally refuse a healer's touch. I consider it more of a by-product. And I do not refuse those methods which utilize natural healing methods, only those which have been granted or considered to be a direct magical spell."
"I have to admit that I am curious as to your reasons for refusing the gifts that Azrella grants me. While I do not wish to infringe upon your own personal beliefs, I do find them difficult to comprehend. Did the gods do something that caused you to spurn their gifts? Do you not follow the beliefs of a greater power?"
Validar notices Ivy's gaze upon him, but he does not shrink from embarrassment, nor does he try to disuade her by mentioning it and possibly embarrassing her.
When Ivy asks presses him more about his reasons for not accepting healing, Validar pauses for a moment. "I would imagine that you are very curious about my reasonings. I admit that I am just as curious how a follower of a pacifist manages to also be a holy warrior. It must be quite difficult to balance the needs of your patron against the lust for battle." He lets that question hang for a moment before continuing.
"I do not dedicate myself to any patron. It is my belief that while we rely on our friends and associates, we each make our own way. I have sworn an oath of allegience to the king and to my baron, but I am not beholden to anyone. I find it necessary to put more faith into myself than into another entity. I believe there may be one true power in this universe, but I am not certain that it is those who play with us as game pieces. There are simply too many of them. That said, I welcome their assistance and that of their minions such as yourself. However, I prefer to not have to rely on such assistance for my existance."
"I thank you for your healing touch and for your concern, Ivy of Azrella. I look forward to continuing our comradery and combatting evil by your side."
---------------------------------------------------------------------
Sherra will speak up at an appropriate moment, "As I mentioned to Validar, I will continue to ride with him and all of you. I feel we have made an important beginning together and could easily continue on such a path to the benefit of all of us and to these lands. It has been some time since I have felt like I belonged somewhere, but recently that has begun to change, and it is a feeling I find to my liking." Sherra will smile and look at those she has begun to get to know and then to those she has not had a chance to as of yet. A definite interest is on her face as she looks to each of the group - an interest in who they are.
"As I said before, fair Sherra, your presence is both welcome and appreciated. The beginnings of what may be true friendship are developing as we test our mettle in the fires of conflict. There is much more of that to come, I am certain."
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Validar is both relieved that Sherwood has pushed the group towards a better method of organization and that he has recommended each of them as co-leaders of the group. He awaits the remainder of the groups' responses, but so far everyone seems to be in agreement.
"The idea of cooperative leadership worked well in my last company, the Seekers. The Seekers shared equally in all treasure gained and the leaders distributed magic items as they saw fit, trying to be fair and keep the group at maximum efficiency. I would recommend this method as having seen it work as well as can be expected."
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Laucian listens as Lord Validar retells the finding of his weapon. "A most interesting tale a green dragon, laying siege to a temple of Hextor. This woman must have been very cunning and deceitful in order to ensnare so many in her web." Laucian takes note of the man's apparent death and pauses for a moment. Deciding it better be left unsaid he will refrain from asking Validar about this fact, for the moment.
"It was a glorious mission that the Seekers undertook into the lands of Keln, my friend. Wendelaine was quite innocent in her appearance and her plea tugged at our hearts to have pity on her. Little did we know that we would be played as fools and so many noble hearts would be slain by the foul witch." Validar pauses for a moment, as he remembers the fallen conrades, especially the ranger with the bright green eyes. "Fortunately, she was killed, impaled upon my blade and that of my good friend, Finrod."
"I am certain that we shall create some incredible stories of our own, this group."
----------------------------------------------------------------------
Turning to the rest of the group, Grondar clears his throat noisily to get their attention. "I have some unpleasant news to share with you all. It turned out that the one known as Saladin was not as reliable as we might have hoped. Rather than fight at our side, he chose to sneak off. He attempted to steal these gems," Grondar dumps the bag on the floor, causing tigereye gems to bounce and skitter across the wooden flooring, "and flee. Fortunately, I was alerted to something untoward occuring and was able to apprehend Saladin in the attempt. I have turned him over to captain Geris and his men."
Validar is curious as Grondar is so demonstrative in scattering the small bag of gems on the floor. In the mess of this place, they will be difficult to recover. A bonus for whomever is entrusted with cleaning this house, Validar thinks to himself. "That is unfortunate, but only goes to show that my lack of faith in the bandit group as a whole was well founded. Po, has proven himself to be the exception, but obviously, it was not circumstances or bad luck that drove these men to a life of banditry and thievery and murder. It was their hearts."
--------------------------------------------------------------------------
Validar listens as Grondar indicates he has some knowledge of the Cult as well. Every bit of information regarding them could be useful. When Lilia mentions that perhaps an elf was among them and could still be alive, Validar is doubly intrigued. He looks to Sherwood for his response.
At this point, Sherwood will drawn is own longsword. This is the first time that anyone present has seen it outside of its sheath. The blade is steel shot through with white streaks and swirls, giving it an almost marble like appearance. Elegant and sweeping runes cover the blade and the hilt is highly stylized in elfin fashion.
"This is my most prized possession: Lifeshield. It was forged by the elven sorcerer Thiondar Nightstar and vestiges of his essence remains within the blade. The blade is sentient with several special powers and highly resistant to magic. This type of metal is called 'Gold Steel'."
Validar had heard about weapons forged of this incredible metal and once as a young boy, he glimpsed a view of such a magnificent weapon. But this is the first time that he had seen one so close and as an adult. "It is a truly wondrous weapon, as well as a work of art," Validar will offer. He is not certain of how he feels about using an intelligent weapon however. He had read about sentient swords before and Lars had told him many stories during his studies.
------------------------------------------------------------
Validar will accompany Ivy to the room she indicates and begins to remove part of his armor. He has already unfastened his helmet and sets it aside. He then begins the task of removing the shoulder pieces and his breastplate and tabard. That should be enough for Ivy to reach the wound. "You seem to have recovered nicely from your evening dip in the river, my lady."
"Yes, thankfully. The fire was warm and Kylie did brew a fine broth that warmed my insides. A change into dry clothing was most welcome as well."
While Ivy works she tries to not let her mind wander too far from her task. While not as dashingly handsome as Corley, Lord Validar is a striking man in his own right. Definitely more mature and worldly than the younger nobleman. His muscles are lean and taunt. Strangely enough he doesn't bear the scars from past battles. Peculiar.
"As I said before, fair Ivy, the wound will be healed by mid-day. It is very useful for someone of my profession. But to answer your question, no, that is not the reason that I normally refuse a healer's touch. I consider it more of a by-product. And I do not refuse those methods which utilize natural healing methods, only those which have been granted or considered to be a direct magical spell."
"I have to admit that I am curious as to your reasons for refusing the gifts that Azrella grants me. While I do not wish to infringe upon your own personal beliefs, I do find them difficult to comprehend. Did the gods do something that caused you to spurn their gifts? Do you not follow the beliefs of a greater power?"
Validar notices Ivy's gaze upon him, but he does not shrink from embarrassment, nor does he try to disuade her by mentioning it and possibly embarrassing her.
When Ivy asks presses him more about his reasons for not accepting healing, Validar pauses for a moment. "I would imagine that you are very curious about my reasonings. I admit that I am just as curious how a follower of a pacifist manages to also be a holy warrior. It must be quite difficult to balance the needs of your patron against the lust for battle." He lets that question hang for a moment before continuing.
"I do not dedicate myself to any patron. It is my belief that while we rely on our friends and associates, we each make our own way. I have sworn an oath of allegience to the king and to my baron, but I am not beholden to anyone. I find it necessary to put more faith into myself than into another entity. I believe there may be one true power in this universe, but I am not certain that it is those who play with us as game pieces. There are simply too many of them. That said, I welcome their assistance and that of their minions such as yourself. However, I prefer to not have to rely on such assistance for my existance."
"I thank you for your healing touch and for your concern, Ivy of Azrella. I look forward to continuing our comradery and combatting evil by your side."
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Sherra will speak up at an appropriate moment, "As I mentioned to Validar, I will continue to ride with him and all of you. I feel we have made an important beginning together and could easily continue on such a path to the benefit of all of us and to these lands. It has been some time since I have felt like I belonged somewhere, but recently that has begun to change, and it is a feeling I find to my liking." Sherra will smile and look at those she has begun to get to know and then to those she has not had a chance to as of yet. A definite interest is on her face as she looks to each of the group - an interest in who they are.
"As I said before, fair Sherra, your presence is both welcome and appreciated. The beginnings of what may be true friendship are developing as we test our mettle in the fires of conflict. There is much more of that to come, I am certain."
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Validar is both relieved that Sherwood has pushed the group towards a better method of organization and that he has recommended each of them as co-leaders of the group. He awaits the remainder of the groups' responses, but so far everyone seems to be in agreement.
"The idea of cooperative leadership worked well in my last company, the Seekers. The Seekers shared equally in all treasure gained and the leaders distributed magic items as they saw fit, trying to be fair and keep the group at maximum efficiency. I would recommend this method as having seen it work as well as can be expected."
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Laucian listens as Lord Validar retells the finding of his weapon. "A most interesting tale a green dragon, laying siege to a temple of Hextor. This woman must have been very cunning and deceitful in order to ensnare so many in her web." Laucian takes note of the man's apparent death and pauses for a moment. Deciding it better be left unsaid he will refrain from asking Validar about this fact, for the moment.
"It was a glorious mission that the Seekers undertook into the lands of Keln, my friend. Wendelaine was quite innocent in her appearance and her plea tugged at our hearts to have pity on her. Little did we know that we would be played as fools and so many noble hearts would be slain by the foul witch." Validar pauses for a moment, as he remembers the fallen conrades, especially the ranger with the bright green eyes. "Fortunately, she was killed, impaled upon my blade and that of my good friend, Finrod."
"I am certain that we shall create some incredible stories of our own, this group."
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Turning to the rest of the group, Grondar clears his throat noisily to get their attention. "I have some unpleasant news to share with you all. It turned out that the one known as Saladin was not as reliable as we might have hoped. Rather than fight at our side, he chose to sneak off. He attempted to steal these gems," Grondar dumps the bag on the floor, causing tigereye gems to bounce and skitter across the wooden flooring, "and flee. Fortunately, I was alerted to something untoward occuring and was able to apprehend Saladin in the attempt. I have turned him over to captain Geris and his men."
Validar is curious as Grondar is so demonstrative in scattering the small bag of gems on the floor. In the mess of this place, they will be difficult to recover. A bonus for whomever is entrusted with cleaning this house, Validar thinks to himself. "That is unfortunate, but only goes to show that my lack of faith in the bandit group as a whole was well founded. Po, has proven himself to be the exception, but obviously, it was not circumstances or bad luck that drove these men to a life of banditry and thievery and murder. It was their hearts."
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Validar listens as Grondar indicates he has some knowledge of the Cult as well. Every bit of information regarding them could be useful. When Lilia mentions that perhaps an elf was among them and could still be alive, Validar is doubly intrigued. He looks to Sherwood for his response.
Conquer or Die!
Transitions
Kylie:
NF #12:
Kylie examines several of the items at random, then returns them to the pile. There is a gleam of lust in her eyes as she gazes at the assembled loot. "I will be sure to memorize an Identify in the morning so that I can help with the identification of some of the remaining items."
The spellbooks are also of great interest to Kylie. "New spells! How exciting! I must admit, learning new ways to use magic is quite thrilling for me. Of course, money's good too!" she says with a giggle. Kylie examines the spell books and reports her findings. It appears the books are safe for use.
"What about you? Please tell me of your life, Lord Corley. What is your connection to Validar?"
NF #13:
Kylie listens quietly as the others discuss the Cult of Blackflame and their plans to hunt down and destroy the organization. Conflict rages within her heart and mind as the information is presented. Intellectually, she understands that this cult must be opposed. However, fear turns her stomach into a roiling miasma. Kylie had never intended to get involved in this kind of thing; liberating valuables from rich merchants is excitement enough for her. Still, she is starting to get a sense that there are bigger issues at stake. A pocketful of jewels is of little use if civilization as she knows it is washed away by hordes of savage creatures. How then - where then - would she raise her own children? Surely, they deserve better than the life she has had.
Kylie rises to her feet from where she had been sitting and listening, uncertain of herself even as she speaks. "This is not the path I had envisioned for my life. Swiping shiny baubles and locating missing people and goods can be fun and exciting, but this thing that you propose - this is enough to turn my bowels to water. Still, there are some things in life more important than fun and creature comforts. For so long as my tattered courage holds, I will help as best I may." Kylie sits quickly, having spoken her piece, tears glistening in her eyes. She has little more to say at the moment.
Upon returning from the search, Kylie gets started on some cooking. As per Ivy's request, she throws together a hearty soup with whatever ingredients she can lay hand to. The soup features lots of vegetables, along with some chicken or turkey if she can get it.
=====
If shown the box found by Sherra, Kylie will attempt to read the writing thereon. If she cannot, and no one else is able to translate it, she will memorize Read Magic and Comprehend Languages (in addition to the Identify) the next morning.
Once she's gotten some sleep, Kylie will spend time memorizing these spells to replace some of those she's used. Once that is done, she will fix breakfast for everyone. After the meal, she begins her attempt to learn new spells from Arkane's spell books. Later on, she'll attempt to Identify a few of the accumulated items. If any time remains to her, then Kylie will help Laucian explore the rooms used by Arkane and Artur.
NF #12:
Kylie concentrates as Validar speaks. Though she has heard of some of these places before, her knowledge of the geography of the land is shockingly poor. Having never seen a map, she does her best to imagine how it must all fit together. "I hope Cavius is still as good a friend as you believe, and has not been subverted by others."Lord Cavius is the Baron of Rennydale. The Barony is part of the Duchy of Corunglain and one of the northern neighbors of Elcadan. Rennydale is to the west of the Streel River. It is also on the borderlands to the humanoid invasion to the North, due to the fall of Stone Ridge and Ardelphia. Lord Cavius has always been a good friend and ally of Pyris."
Lilia looks up from her work when Kylie comes over. "Welcome, Kylie Lanthorn. I am pleased that you emerged unscathed from the conflict. "
"As for the items assembled here on the table, they are all enchanted and were taken from Lothar, Artur, and Arkane. A few I have been able to ascertain their function, the others currently elude me." Lilia will point out each of the items she has identified for Kylie's benefit.
"We have uncovered Arkane's spellbooks as well. New magic for us to poor over! However, many mages will protect their books from unauthorized use. Would you be so kind as to examine the books for any potential traps?"
"Thank you, Lilia," Kylie replies with a smile. "You appear unharmed as well, and for that I am thankful."Entering the house shortly after Kylie and Corley he notes the others looking through weapons and items apparently trying to figure out their worth and enchantments. He will move to Lilia "Would you care for some help with these?" And help her place them with the sacks/bags as he is placing several daggers into the bags and sacks he notices the spell books. "Is it safe to read these as of yet?' he will look around at the other mages for a reply.
Kylie examines several of the items at random, then returns them to the pile. There is a gleam of lust in her eyes as she gazes at the assembled loot. "I will be sure to memorize an Identify in the morning so that I can help with the identification of some of the remaining items."
The spellbooks are also of great interest to Kylie. "New spells! How exciting! I must admit, learning new ways to use magic is quite thrilling for me. Of course, money's good too!" she says with a giggle. Kylie examines the spell books and reports her findings. It appears the books are safe for use.
Kylie finds the feel of Corleys strong arms about her quite comforting, though she tries not to be too obvious about it. "I'm afraid there isn't much to tell, really. My mother fell sick when I was a young girl and returned to her people in the hopes that they could cure her. I haven't seen her since, and fear that she didn't survive. My father and I stayed behind in Elcadan, but after he was injured, he was unable to work and became quite enamored of strong drink. Within a year, we were barely getting by living in one of Elcadan's ugly slums. I took to stealing to survive and keep a roof over our heads. Eventually, I met and was trained in the arts of 'finding' by a friendly halfling by the name of Rat. He was quite a character! Later, I ... uhm... met Sherwood, and he introduced me to Jallarzi. I studied with her off and on until contacted by Sherwood for this trip.Reaching down, Corley will offer his hand to Lady Kylie and with ease help her up with him on Charger. He places Kylie in front of him so as to not block her view of what is ahead. Reaching around the half-elf, Corley will take the reins and send Charger into motion.
While Corley enjoys being this close to Kylie, he remains the perfect gentleman. "Pray tell, Lady Kylie. Other than your instruction in the arts magical at the hands of the Lady Sallavarian, I know little about yourself. I would be interested in knowing more."
"What about you? Please tell me of your life, Lord Corley. What is your connection to Validar?"
NF #13:
Kylie thinks for a moment. "I promised to go with Lord Corley to check on the armory and warehouse. However, if you can wait that long, I will be happy to make us all some soup once we return."Ivy will smile brightly as Kylie and Corley enter into the house. "Hello Kylie. Thank you for asking. Other than being drenched and chilled to the bone I am doing well. I hope someone retrieves our horses. I have dry clothing stored in my saddle bags." After a moments' thought Ivy will add, "Actually, Kylie some nice warm broth would be most welcomed right now."
Kylie listens quietly as the others discuss the Cult of Blackflame and their plans to hunt down and destroy the organization. Conflict rages within her heart and mind as the information is presented. Intellectually, she understands that this cult must be opposed. However, fear turns her stomach into a roiling miasma. Kylie had never intended to get involved in this kind of thing; liberating valuables from rich merchants is excitement enough for her. Still, she is starting to get a sense that there are bigger issues at stake. A pocketful of jewels is of little use if civilization as she knows it is washed away by hordes of savage creatures. How then - where then - would she raise her own children? Surely, they deserve better than the life she has had.
Kylie rises to her feet from where she had been sitting and listening, uncertain of herself even as she speaks. "This is not the path I had envisioned for my life. Swiping shiny baubles and locating missing people and goods can be fun and exciting, but this thing that you propose - this is enough to turn my bowels to water. Still, there are some things in life more important than fun and creature comforts. For so long as my tattered courage holds, I will help as best I may." Kylie sits quickly, having spoken her piece, tears glistening in her eyes. She has little more to say at the moment.
Kylie's hands tremble with excitement as Sherwood hands the book to her. "Thank you, uncle." She turns to Chareos. "I'll let you know as soon as I have finished."Picking up one of the books, Sherwood hands it to Lilia. "Here is a selection of third level spells for you to learn." Grabbing two of the remaining four tomes, Sherwood will offer them to Chareos and Kylie. "These books contain first and second level spells. Study from one book and then swap it with the other. The remaining spells are beyond your current abilities to learn and will be saved for future study."
Kylie looks about the armory, noting that everything appears to be essentially as they left it. If she finds one, she will pick up a longsword and sheath; otherwise she will select a shortsword and sheath. Turning to Corley, she says, "It seems that combat is likely be become a frequent part of our lives in the coming months, and I should know how better to defend myself." She shows him the sword. "Could you teach me to use this?" she asks.Corley, Kylie, and Po ride to the supply and warehouse buildings. The supply building is the same as Kylie left it. Inside is spare gear and weapons. Suits of leather armor are stored in a large stack. Numerous crates lay about, their tops having been removed. Inside are a variety of weapons: daggers, short swords, and spears primarily with a few others mixed in. A few shortbows are present with many flight arrows. Some shields are here as well. All the weapons and armor are non-magical.
Upon returning from the search, Kylie gets started on some cooking. As per Ivy's request, she throws together a hearty soup with whatever ingredients she can lay hand to. The soup features lots of vegetables, along with some chicken or turkey if she can get it.
"I agree, Laucian. If I can find the time tomorrow, I would be happy to assist. If not, I'm sure Sherra could be of as much help to you as I could."We should also check Artur's and Arkane's rooms at the Inn, there may be information there as well."
=====
If shown the box found by Sherra, Kylie will attempt to read the writing thereon. If she cannot, and no one else is able to translate it, she will memorize Read Magic and Comprehend Languages (in addition to the Identify) the next morning.
Once she's gotten some sleep, Kylie will spend time memorizing these spells to replace some of those she's used. Once that is done, she will fix breakfast for everyone. After the meal, she begins her attempt to learn new spells from Arkane's spell books. Later on, she'll attempt to Identify a few of the accumulated items. If any time remains to her, then Kylie will help Laucian explore the rooms used by Arkane and Artur.
a question
Sherra:
"I would like to ask for some assistance from you if you are interested," Sherra will start. "I would like to learn the Dwarven tongue, and if you are to continue on with Validar and those others of us going, we would have some time so that I may properly learn. That is, if you would be willing to teach me," Sherra smiles.
"In case you are curious, I am interested in the Dwarven ways, mostly because of my father. Unfortunately I know very little else about him, but the one memory I hold is seeing him with a Dwarven associate one evening at our small home. I probably was supposed to be in bed, but I remember seeing them by the firelight talking and laughing. I do not know their relationship, nor do I know who the Dwarf was," Sherra will pause as if trying to grasp more of the memory even though for all these years she has had no further success.
"Anyway, it would be an honor if you would agree," Sherra will wait to see if Grondar has a response or wishes to think on this a bit.
discussion of leadership and group:
Sherra will listen as the others talk it over and will add in, "As others have stated, I feel the current leadership proposed would work. If Sherwood does not have long term plans with us, we can talk over this once more at that future date he plans to leave. As far as a name, I have none to offer but will think on it."
As everyone gets settled in for some rest, Sherra will check out the room she will be calling hers for the next day or so. She will then strip off the still-wet and clingy leather armor and go about drying it off completely. Anything else that needs the same treatment she will also do. She will then thank Tymora for the events of the morning and find sleep.
If, after awakening, there is anything needing to be done, Sherra will assist. Otherwise she will make sure her mount is tended to and all her gear is in place and await for word of our departure.
"There is, Grondar," Sherra will say once she reaches Grondar. It is apparent that what she has to ask does not need total privacy, but was not something she felt needed to be brought up in a public forum with the rest of the group. Sherra really doesn't seem to care if anyone overhears either.Seeing Sherra approach him, it appears to Grondar that the attractive human woman has something on her mind. "Yes, Lady Sherra. Is there something I might assist you with?" He allows himself to be drawn aside if she feels a need to discuss the matter in some privacy.
"I would like to ask for some assistance from you if you are interested," Sherra will start. "I would like to learn the Dwarven tongue, and if you are to continue on with Validar and those others of us going, we would have some time so that I may properly learn. That is, if you would be willing to teach me," Sherra smiles.
"In case you are curious, I am interested in the Dwarven ways, mostly because of my father. Unfortunately I know very little else about him, but the one memory I hold is seeing him with a Dwarven associate one evening at our small home. I probably was supposed to be in bed, but I remember seeing them by the firelight talking and laughing. I do not know their relationship, nor do I know who the Dwarf was," Sherra will pause as if trying to grasp more of the memory even though for all these years she has had no further success.
"Anyway, it would be an honor if you would agree," Sherra will wait to see if Grondar has a response or wishes to think on this a bit.
discussion of leadership and group:
Sherra will listen as the others talk it over and will add in, "As others have stated, I feel the current leadership proposed would work. If Sherwood does not have long term plans with us, we can talk over this once more at that future date he plans to leave. As far as a name, I have none to offer but will think on it."
As everyone gets settled in for some rest, Sherra will check out the room she will be calling hers for the next day or so. She will then strip off the still-wet and clingy leather armor and go about drying it off completely. Anything else that needs the same treatment she will also do. She will then thank Tymora for the events of the morning and find sleep.
If, after awakening, there is anything needing to be done, Sherra will assist. Otherwise she will make sure her mount is tended to and all her gear is in place and await for word of our departure.
Corley gives some pointers
Corley:
Lord Corley listens closely as Sherwood makes his speech to the assembled group.
"I have taken a vow to assist Lord Validar in dealing with the foul curs who dared to strike down his father! That mission still lies ahead and my vow remains. We live in troubled times. The deeds of this band shall be recorded by bards for generations to come! We have much to do and a legend to forge! I am greatly pleased that everyone else will stay until the completion of this mission." Corley will send pleased smiles to everyone, especially the fair ladies.
The history lesson covers matters that Lord Corley was unfamiliar with. Naturally he knew of the Great War with the vile wizard Keln and his lackeys, but that this Cult of Black Fire seemed to be the trigger was unknown to him.
"The sheer gull of this cult is astonishing! Clearly they must be beaten down like the gutter slime that they are! Such a thing cannot be allowed to fester with in the heart of fair Cynalon like some disease gone unchecked! It must be exercised and sent back to the foul pits that spawned it!"
Group organization discussions:
"Having been raised in an orderly fashion, I am accustomed to the chain of command. I cannot think of anyone who would be better served as unit commanders then Sherwood and Validar. While they are very different men, they do nicely compliment the other. Equal division of treasure seems fair to me and I will leave it up to the unit commanders as to the division of magical treasure. Ideally they will place enchanted items in the hands of those who can make the best use of them."
Corley can't help but linger on the thoughts of the missing and most likely long deceased Princess Theandra. Aye, there is a noble quest! To rescue a fair princess from her vile captures! It is enough to make the blood stir!
Validar's Plan:
While much of what Validar is suggesting goes over the young nobles head, Sherra in her black leather clingy garments can be most distracting!, he will agree to it. "If you think this a worth while plan, Lord Validar, then you have my support. However we should not get bogged down in such details. There are individuals who have much to answer for that we should reach as soon as we are able!"
Kylie:
"Alas my own tale is much more simpler to tell. My father is General Logan of the King's armies. Currently he is overseeing the occupation of the City of Gateway on the edge of the old Keln Lands. My father and Validar's father adventured together in their younger days, much like we do know. Another member of their band was Lord Cavius, the man who seems to be behind our current troubles."
"As the youngest son, I mostly stayed with my mother while my father was off campaigning in the kings name. Typically my mother would visit friends throughout the kingdom. One of her favorite stops was Castle Pyris. Consequently, I have known Lord Validar from a very early age. He is a few years older than I am, but I am a few years older than his sister, the Lady Rachel. From an early age I was trained in the art of battle and cavalry riding. My fondest desire to become a knight of the realm."
"I was at Castle Pyris when the Baron was felled by this cowardly attack and I swore to help thwart the villain behind it. Thus did I ride with Lord Validar and come to know yourself and the others Sherwood had gather to investigate this matter. Thus far I have greatly enjoyed myself on this venture and welcome the opportunity to get to know others better."
At the armory and supply depot, Lord Corley lets Kylie take the lead as she is familiar with both buildings. In the armory she unexpectedly selects a sword from a sheath and holds it before her.
Lord Corley will gently step behind Lady Kylie and reach around her, showing her how to properly place her arms and hold the sword to do battle.
"I see that you have are already skilled in the use of the dagger, Lady Kylie. In truth, I am told that the shortsword is not all that dissimilar than the dagger, merely that the blade is much longer. Both are thrusting weapons where you stab your foe with the blades point. My own swords are slashing weapons and thus are swung in a wide arc at a foe."
Pausing for a moment, Lord Corley will pick up one of the suits of leather armor and hold it before him. "Here give it a try imagining this suit of armor as a foe. Try to strike it down!"
"Aye, friend Chareos! It is a tactic that we shall be prepared for the next time we encounter such a mage!""Arkane's ability to change into a ghost startled me as well. Though it was a clever tactic. One of which we will be better prepared for in the future."
"Very good, milady. Should you need any assistance, please let me know.""Really, it is not something to concern yourself over Lord Corley. I do not mind and the barge does need to be looked over."
Lord Corley listens closely as Sherwood makes his speech to the assembled group.
"I have taken a vow to assist Lord Validar in dealing with the foul curs who dared to strike down his father! That mission still lies ahead and my vow remains. We live in troubled times. The deeds of this band shall be recorded by bards for generations to come! We have much to do and a legend to forge! I am greatly pleased that everyone else will stay until the completion of this mission." Corley will send pleased smiles to everyone, especially the fair ladies.
The history lesson covers matters that Lord Corley was unfamiliar with. Naturally he knew of the Great War with the vile wizard Keln and his lackeys, but that this Cult of Black Fire seemed to be the trigger was unknown to him.
"The sheer gull of this cult is astonishing! Clearly they must be beaten down like the gutter slime that they are! Such a thing cannot be allowed to fester with in the heart of fair Cynalon like some disease gone unchecked! It must be exercised and sent back to the foul pits that spawned it!"
Group organization discussions:
"Having been raised in an orderly fashion, I am accustomed to the chain of command. I cannot think of anyone who would be better served as unit commanders then Sherwood and Validar. While they are very different men, they do nicely compliment the other. Equal division of treasure seems fair to me and I will leave it up to the unit commanders as to the division of magical treasure. Ideally they will place enchanted items in the hands of those who can make the best use of them."
Corley can't help but linger on the thoughts of the missing and most likely long deceased Princess Theandra. Aye, there is a noble quest! To rescue a fair princess from her vile captures! It is enough to make the blood stir!
Validar's Plan:
While much of what Validar is suggesting goes over the young nobles head, Sherra in her black leather clingy garments can be most distracting!, he will agree to it. "If you think this a worth while plan, Lord Validar, then you have my support. However we should not get bogged down in such details. There are individuals who have much to answer for that we should reach as soon as we are able!"
Kylie:
"I am greatly sadden that you had such a harsh childhood, Lady Kylie", Corley will say with all sincerity. "To have risen above such humble beginnings does you great credit."Kylie finds the feel of Corley's strong arms about her quite comforting, though she tries not to be too obvious about it. "I'm afraid there isn't much to tell, really. My mother fell sick when I was a young girl and returned to her people in the hopes that they could cure her. I haven't seen her since, and fear that she didn't survive. My father and I stayed behind in Elcadan, but after he was injured, he was unable to work and became quite enamored of strong drink. Within a year, we were barely getting by living in one of Elcadan's ugly slums. I took to stealing to survive and keep a roof over our heads. Eventually, I met and was trained in the arts of 'finding' by a friendly halfling by the name of Rat. He was quite a character! Later, I ... uhm... met Sherwood, and he introduced me to Jallarzi. I studied with her off and on until contacted by Sherwood for this trip.
"What about you? Please tell me of your life, Lord Corley. What is your connection to Validar?"
"Alas my own tale is much more simpler to tell. My father is General Logan of the King's armies. Currently he is overseeing the occupation of the City of Gateway on the edge of the old Keln Lands. My father and Validar's father adventured together in their younger days, much like we do know. Another member of their band was Lord Cavius, the man who seems to be behind our current troubles."
"As the youngest son, I mostly stayed with my mother while my father was off campaigning in the kings name. Typically my mother would visit friends throughout the kingdom. One of her favorite stops was Castle Pyris. Consequently, I have known Lord Validar from a very early age. He is a few years older than I am, but I am a few years older than his sister, the Lady Rachel. From an early age I was trained in the art of battle and cavalry riding. My fondest desire to become a knight of the realm."
"I was at Castle Pyris when the Baron was felled by this cowardly attack and I swore to help thwart the villain behind it. Thus did I ride with Lord Validar and come to know yourself and the others Sherwood had gather to investigate this matter. Thus far I have greatly enjoyed myself on this venture and welcome the opportunity to get to know others better."
At the armory and supply depot, Lord Corley lets Kylie take the lead as she is familiar with both buildings. In the armory she unexpectedly selects a sword from a sheath and holds it before her.
"Aye, fair lady, battle does seem to wish to become our constant companion and learning how to defend oneself is a wise course of action. My greatest training is with the two-handed sword, a weapon of great power, but one wholly unsuitable for a fine flower of femininity such as yourself. However, I have received some training with the longsword and the broadsword. Admittedly, I am no expert when it comes to wielding the shortsword, but I should be able to give you enough pointers to handle yourself in battle."Turning to Corley, she says, "It seems that combat is likely be become a frequent part of our lives in the coming months, and I should know how better to defend myself." She shows him the sword. "Could you teach me to use this?" she asks.
Lord Corley will gently step behind Lady Kylie and reach around her, showing her how to properly place her arms and hold the sword to do battle.
"I see that you have are already skilled in the use of the dagger, Lady Kylie. In truth, I am told that the shortsword is not all that dissimilar than the dagger, merely that the blade is much longer. Both are thrusting weapons where you stab your foe with the blades point. My own swords are slashing weapons and thus are swung in a wide arc at a foe."
Pausing for a moment, Lord Corley will pick up one of the suits of leather armor and hold it before him. "Here give it a try imagining this suit of armor as a foe. Try to strike it down!"
We fight for King and Country!
GM Notes
GM Notes:
Sherra and Laucian bring the strange metal chest into the house for everyone to examine. Grondar attempts to read the writing emblazoned upon it and agrees that it is not a dwarvish script. Dwarven runes tend to consist of straight lines, while elfin writing is more flowing with sweeping arcs to the letters. No one, however, is able to full comprehend the words on the chest.
Horseman's Mace also has a Mithral head on it.
After sleeping actions will be resolved during the next post, so try to wrap up as much before sleeping things as possible in this post.
An enlarged map of the Elcadan/Corunglain/Pyris area is now in the New Frontier Reference Pages section.
Sherra and Laucian bring the strange metal chest into the house for everyone to examine. Grondar attempts to read the writing emblazoned upon it and agrees that it is not a dwarvish script. Dwarven runes tend to consist of straight lines, while elfin writing is more flowing with sweeping arcs to the letters. No one, however, is able to full comprehend the words on the chest.
Horseman's Mace also has a Mithral head on it.
After sleeping actions will be resolved during the next post, so try to wrap up as much before sleeping things as possible in this post.
An enlarged map of the Elcadan/Corunglain/Pyris area is now in the New Frontier Reference Pages section.
Try it and find out!
Sherwood
Sherwood:
After finishing up with his discussion, Sherwood awaits the responses from the assembled group. He is pleased that all agree to continue on with this urgent mission. It only serves to underscore that Sherwood and Jallarzi were correct in their selections. While not everyone has the noblest of reasons, they are least committed to doing the right thing.
When Sherra and Laucian return with the strange metal chest, Sherwood will briefly examine it. He runs his hands across the chest, gauging the feel of the metal. "You are correct, Sherra. This is not a metal I am familiar with. There are powerful enchantments on this chest. The magical energy is almost palatable in the air. The writing does indeed appear to be elfin, but not a script that I've ever seen before. Interesting."
Seeing that almost everyone seems comfortable with the idea of Validar and I leading the band say, "Thank you for your votes of confidence. I can only hope that we live up to your expectations.
Sherwood accepts Grondar's explanation of Saladin's actions without comment.
As if understanding what Laucian is trying to do, Sherwood will add, "They are magical runes of power. They are comprehendible only to those who can read such magical scripts.""A truly magnificent weapon." he watches the flames of the fireplace dance across the almost marble blade. Elvish script sweeps down the blade, he tries to make the script out on the blade.
After finishing up with his discussion, Sherwood awaits the responses from the assembled group. He is pleased that all agree to continue on with this urgent mission. It only serves to underscore that Sherwood and Jallarzi were correct in their selections. While not everyone has the noblest of reasons, they are least committed to doing the right thing.
"It is entirely possible, Lilia", Sherwood will admit. "And another reason why I wish to research my ancestor's notes back at my tower. If we can turn up the name of some still living adventurer from that era it will make our task all the much easier.""I do have a question Sherwood Elf-Friend about your ancestor's battles with the Cult. From what I gather, both yours and Validar's ancestors perished in the war that followed the original defeat of the Cult? What about other adventurers who were associated with them? Were any of them elves? Or perhaps even a half-elf or a dwarf. It could be possible that others in their adventuring band are still alive this day. It seems to me that such a person could more then fill in the missing details concerning this cult."
When Sherra and Laucian return with the strange metal chest, Sherwood will briefly examine it. He runs his hands across the chest, gauging the feel of the metal. "You are correct, Sherra. This is not a metal I am familiar with. There are powerful enchantments on this chest. The magical energy is almost palatable in the air. The writing does indeed appear to be elfin, but not a script that I've ever seen before. Interesting."
Seeing that almost everyone seems comfortable with the idea of Validar and I leading the band say, "Thank you for your votes of confidence. I can only hope that we live up to your expectations.
"Making the attempt is all I can ask," Sherwood will state. "I have some knowledge of clerical magic from adventuring with other priests, but since each deity grants varied abilities and magicks to their followers, it is difficult to tell what spell is available to what priest or what level of experience is required to receive the desired spell.""Ahh..." Grondar murmurs, rubbing his chin. "I had not considered the possibility of questioning them past death, but what you suggest may be very possible. I shall be certain to request this blessing from the Revered Mother in the morning. However, it is not something I have done previously, so I cannot guarantee the results. Still, it is good to hear that he had a desire to be free of their influence."
Sherwood accepts Grondar's explanation of Saladin's actions without comment.
"It is true that my original intent was to assemble this group and then set them out on the appointed task. That task turned out being easier then I had anticipated. I had envisioned having to chase him across the kingdom. However, the re-emergance of the Cult and Lord Cavius' involvement does demand more of my attention then I originally expected. There will be times when I do have to travel off on other matters, but dealing with what we face will remain my primary goal. I can travel great distances by way of magic and would easily be able to relocate you all and rejoin you once more. So, if I am away it should only be for a limited time and most likely while traveling across land."Grondar pauses a moment to master his emotions. "As for the leadership of the group, I have little objection to the current proposals. However, I must ask Sherwood if he intends to remain with the group for an extended period. It was my initial impression that you intended to see our mission started, then continue on with your own efforts.
I do what is necessary.
Ivy
Ivy:
"While it is true that I am forbidden to intentionally take the life of another, there are many foes who do not fall under that protection. Undead, the foul denizens of the lower planes, inhuman monsters such as trolls, dragons, and other creatures who plague those who live."
"For instance I could not deliberately slay any of the bandits that we met earlier in battle. Other creatures are more of a judgment call. Trolls can be killed as they would feast on those who live otherwise. When attacked by a pack of wolves, I would try to drive them off first, but could resort to more permanent means of defeating them if I had no other options left."
"It is true that I am a Holy Warrior, but my task is the extermination of undead and that is where by battle skill lies."
Ivy will look away when the subject of battle lust comes up as if ashamed. "It is true that I am something of a contradiction and the path I walk is a narrow one with much peril on it. The things I have endured I would wish upon no other. I still feel much pain inside and occasionally it does come out in battle. Thankfully I haven't strayed too far from Azrella's teachings. So far."
Ivy will listen as Sherwood and Lord Validar speak of their plans and goals. The priestess is pleasantly surprised when Validar brings up the subject of improving the condition of the common man and even helping those move to this area from more oppressed regions. A pleased smile comes to Ivy's face. Perhaps she has misjudged Lord Validar as he earlier suggested.
"I must admit that I am surprised, but pleased by this course of action. Anything to help ease the struggles of the poor is most welcomed. I am sure that we Azrellians would be most interested in helping in this noble endeavor. I shall address this matter with my sect when we reach Elcadan. We could also assist those wishing to relocate from Elcadan to Twin Forks accomplish this task. I think it’s a fine idea."
Ivy will graciously accept her share of the treasures earned and hold on to them. Most of it will be donated to her order once back in Elcadan. A few coins will be kept to handle the mundane expenses of life on the road.
Ivy is saddened by Saladin's actions and will look away. She stares absent mindedly into the fire, watching the flames consume the wood. Saladin was given a chance to redeem himself and choice a different path. At least Po seems to be making the most of the opportunity presented to him.
Ivy's gaze does not linger and she proceeds with her task in a professional matter, putting her own personal interests aside. A healing salve of natural herbs is quickly applied and covered with a bandage. The process complete, Ivy will step away.Validar notices Ivy's gaze upon him, but he does not shrink from embarrassment, nor does he try to dissuade her by mentioning it and possibly embarrassing her.
"It is something of a misnomer that the followers of Azrella are pacifists, Lord Validar. Such a label truly belongs to those who sing the praises of Eldath. Azrella is the Goddess of Life and her followers do what they must to protect life. Life in the sense of sentient beings such as we humans, our demi-human allies, and other noble and enlightened species."When Ivy asks presses him more about his reasons for not accepting healing, Validar pauses for a moment. "I would imagine that you are very curious about my reasonings. I admit that I am just as curious how a follower of a pacifist manages to also be a holy warrior. It must be quite difficult to balance the needs of your patron against the lust for battle." He lets that question hang for a moment before continuing.
"While it is true that I am forbidden to intentionally take the life of another, there are many foes who do not fall under that protection. Undead, the foul denizens of the lower planes, inhuman monsters such as trolls, dragons, and other creatures who plague those who live."
"For instance I could not deliberately slay any of the bandits that we met earlier in battle. Other creatures are more of a judgment call. Trolls can be killed as they would feast on those who live otherwise. When attacked by a pack of wolves, I would try to drive them off first, but could resort to more permanent means of defeating them if I had no other options left."
"It is true that I am a Holy Warrior, but my task is the extermination of undead and that is where by battle skill lies."
Ivy will look away when the subject of battle lust comes up as if ashamed. "It is true that I am something of a contradiction and the path I walk is a narrow one with much peril on it. The things I have endured I would wish upon no other. I still feel much pain inside and occasionally it does come out in battle. Thankfully I haven't strayed too far from Azrella's teachings. So far."
Ivy is a bit shocked by all of this, but tries not to sound judgmental. "But Lord Validar, where will you spirit go after you have passed from this plane without someone to guide it? Have you given no thought to your place in the afterlife?""I do not dedicate myself to any patron. It is my belief that while we rely on our friends and associates, we each make our own way. I have sworn an oath of allegiance to the king and to my baron, but I am not beholden to anyone. I find it necessary to put more faith into myself than into another entity. I believe there may be one true power in this universe, but I am not certain that it is those who play with us as game pieces. There are simply too many of them. That said, I welcome their assistance and that of their minions such as yourself. However, I prefer to not have to rely on such assistance for my existence."
"You are most welcome, Lord Validar. It is a pleasure to serve.""I thank you for your healing touch and for your concern, Ivy of Azrella. I look forward to continuing our camaraderie and combating evil by your side."
"Then see to your duties. I will await your return."Kylie thinks for a moment. "I promised to go with Lord Corley to check on the armory and warehouse. However, if you can wait that long, I will be happy to make us all some soup once we return."
Ivy will listen as Sherwood and Lord Validar speak of their plans and goals. The priestess is pleasantly surprised when Validar brings up the subject of improving the condition of the common man and even helping those move to this area from more oppressed regions. A pleased smile comes to Ivy's face. Perhaps she has misjudged Lord Validar as he earlier suggested.
"I must admit that I am surprised, but pleased by this course of action. Anything to help ease the struggles of the poor is most welcomed. I am sure that we Azrellians would be most interested in helping in this noble endeavor. I shall address this matter with my sect when we reach Elcadan. We could also assist those wishing to relocate from Elcadan to Twin Forks accomplish this task. I think it’s a fine idea."
Ivy will graciously accept her share of the treasures earned and hold on to them. Most of it will be donated to her order once back in Elcadan. A few coins will be kept to handle the mundane expenses of life on the road.
Ivy is saddened by Saladin's actions and will look away. She stares absent mindedly into the fire, watching the flames consume the wood. Saladin was given a chance to redeem himself and choice a different path. At least Po seems to be making the most of the opportunity presented to him.
For the glory of the Blue Lady!
-
Lilia
- Queen of the Sylvan Realm
- Posts: 457
- Joined: Thu Jul 17, 2003 4:54 pm
- Location: The Sylvan Realm
Lilia
Lilia:
The Elf Maiden frowns a bit as Lord Validar makes his proposal. The treasure accumulated on this mission is impressive and she does not wish to part with it. The money, while helpful, isn't her highest concern, so Lilia will not object to that.
On the subject of magic items, Lilia will say, "Lord Validar, which magic items are you speaking about? Surly, you are not considering any that would be a benefit to us in the battles to come?"
To Lilia's thinking, Arkane's spellbook was the greatest treasure here. The magical gear just sweetened the pot. As long as none of the items that are used as Lord Validar proposes hold no interest to Lilia, she will not object. The Elf Maiden will hold on to her monetary share of the loot.
Lilia will give the strange chest Sherra found a curiosity look when she is able. Like the others she will agree that the writing does appear elvish in nature with flowing and sweeping script style. However the words are in a dialect she has never seen before. Since Kylie has already volunteered to commit a Comprehend Languages spell to memory, Lilia will not bother to do so. Let the half-elf see what she can accomplish with the chest. Lilia will continue to study the new spell book and will await the other books to become available before taking her turn with them.
The Elf Maiden frowns a bit as Lord Validar makes his proposal. The treasure accumulated on this mission is impressive and she does not wish to part with it. The money, while helpful, isn't her highest concern, so Lilia will not object to that.
On the subject of magic items, Lilia will say, "Lord Validar, which magic items are you speaking about? Surly, you are not considering any that would be a benefit to us in the battles to come?"
To Lilia's thinking, Arkane's spellbook was the greatest treasure here. The magical gear just sweetened the pot. As long as none of the items that are used as Lord Validar proposes hold no interest to Lilia, she will not object. The Elf Maiden will hold on to her monetary share of the loot.
Lilia will give the strange chest Sherra found a curiosity look when she is able. Like the others she will agree that the writing does appear elvish in nature with flowing and sweeping script style. However the words are in a dialect she has never seen before. Since Kylie has already volunteered to commit a Comprehend Languages spell to memory, Lilia will not bother to do so. Let the half-elf see what she can accomplish with the chest. Lilia will continue to study the new spell book and will await the other books to become available before taking her turn with them.
Either by my magic or my bow you WILL fall!
A yacky bunch...
VALIDAR -
The Elf Maiden frowns a bit as Lord Validar makes his proposal. On the subject of magic items, Lilia will say, "Lord Validar, which magic items are you speaking about? Surly, you are not considering any that would be a benefit to us in the battles to come?"
"Lilia of Grunalf, I may only be a human barbarian who carries a large sword and has to encase his dull brain in a steel helmet to protect it, but I can assure you that I have no intention of ridding ourselves of the most advantageous items we have captured, especially while we are about to embark on our greatest adventure yet. It has been my experience that there are often marginal items despite their magickal properties that would be better suited to others and are more valuable in trading them for gold."
-----------------------
Kylie concentrates as Validar speaks. Though she has heard of some of these places before, her knowledge of the geography of the land is shockingly poor. Having never seen a map, she does her best to imagine how it must all fit together. "I hope Cavius is still as good a friend as you believe, and has not been subverted by others."
"I share those hopes, young Kylie. Cavius was always a bit eccentric in his ways, but he was not evil. I believe that it is someone else's doings or he has come under a very strong, diabolical presence. In either case, we must get to the bottom of this question."
After continued discussions - Kylie rises to her feet from where she had been sitting and listening, uncertain of herself even as she speaks. "This is not the path I had envisioned for my life. Swiping shiny baubles and locating missing people and goods can be fun and exciting, but this thing that you propose - this is enough to turn my bowels to water. Still, there are some things in life more important than fun and creature comforts. For so long as my tattered courage holds, I will help as best I may." Kylie sits quickly, having spoken her piece, tears glistening in her eyes. She has little more to say at the moment.
"Some of us would consider this adventure and the battles to come as fun and exciting." Validar gives a knowing look to Corley. "However, as I pointed out to Po earlier today: true bravery is not the absence of fear, but the conquering of it. We have all felt fear grip our hearts at one time or another. It is simply how we deal with that fear that will show us to be brave. You have done fine so far, young Kylie and I am sure you will continue to prove your bravery to yourself and to all of us in the coming conflicts."
-------------------------
As now everyone has agreed to the current leadership agrangement as proposed by Sherwood, Validar is happy to have that detail resolved.
Sherwood - Seeing that almost everyone seems comfortable with the idea of Validar and I leading the band say, "Thank you for your votes of confidence. I can only hope that we live up to your expectations.
"Once we have identified all of the items then we can begin to make disbursements. We should not have any major combats between now and arriving at Sherwood's tower, so there is no rush to pass them out. However, each of you should make your desires of items made known to Sherwood or myself for when the time comes."
"As for a name, the one that springs to mind is The Golden Fellowship. I am not certain that is the best choice, but something of that nature appeals to me. It implies goodness, honor, a quest and our comradery. In a more agressive term, I like the sound of Vindicators and Golden Defenders as well. Perhaps Defenders of the Realms. I am not convinced that we should advertise ourselves as being opposed to the Cult of the Blackflame. And if we choose a contrary name to them, what happens when our task is complete?"
------------------------
The history lesson covers matters that Lord Corley was unfamiliar with. Naturally he knew of the Great War with the vile wizard Keln and his lackeys, but that this Cult of Black Fire seemed to be the trigger was unknown to him.
"The sheer gall of this cult is astonishing! Clearly they must be beaten down like the gutter slime that they are! Such a thing cannot be allowed to fester with in the heart of fair Cynalon like some disease gone unchecked! It must be exercised and sent back to the foul pits that spawned it!"
"Unfortunately, our beloved Kingdom is not strong. There are many viruses that corrupt and pollute it from within and without. Our hope lies in our new King, the Crown Prince. But there is much that noble hearts of valor and kindness can do to assist in that process."
"Having been raised in an orderly fashion, I am accustomed to the chain of command. I cannot think of anyone who would be better served as unit commanders than Sherwood and Validar. While they are very different men, they do nicely compliment the other. Equal division of treasure seems fair to me and I will leave it up to the unit commanders as to the division of magical treasure. Ideally they will place enchanted items in the hands of those who can make the best use of them."
"Thank you for your kind compliments, my good friend. We shall endeavor to lead to the best of our abilities."
"If you think this a worth while plan, Lord Validar, then you have my support. However we should not get bogged down in such details. There are individuals who have much to answer for that we should reach as soon as we are able!"
While Lord Corley is a dear friend, he always was a bit simple in his thoughts, Validar thinks. Still he is a very good man and his presence is only a benefit. "Preparations should not take us long. We should be on our way shortly, my friend."
-------------------------
Ivy gives a long explanation of her ideas and how they fit in with her patron, Azrella.
"I must admit that I have some knowledge of the various patrons, but it is very limited. I was not aware of some of these things you mention. Most common knowledge is that Azrella forbids the taking of a life and her followers are great healers. Aggressiveness is not something most people expect from an Azrellian."
Ivy will look away when the subject of battle lust comes up as if ashamed. "It is true that I am something of a contradiction and the path I walk is a narrow one with much peril on it. The things I have endured I would wish upon no other. I still feel much pain inside and occasionally it does come out in battle. Thankfully I haven't strayed too far from Azrella's teachings. So far."
"I would imagine that it is a constant battle to overcome your inner feelings with your teachings. However, it seems that you have the control that you need. Build your inner strength and believe in your convictions. They may not match mine, but I encourage people to have strong ideals. It is what makes us live."
When Validar tells the cleric about his views of the dieties, Ivy is a bit shocked by all of this, but tries not to sound judgmental. "But Lord Validar, where will you spirit go after you have passed from this plane without someone to guide it? Have you given no thought to your place in the afterlife?"
"I have given it some thought and I do not believe that the limited power of the various patrons, considerable though they may be, is the true power in this universe. There must be something greater than those who struggle against each other, using all of us a pawns and game pieces in their never ending conflicts."
"I have been told that I have already died once. My fellow Seekers all buried me, along with others of our band who also perished, when I succumed to the foul witch, Wendelaine in the lands of Keln, near Whispering Hollow. There is no reason to believe that they were mistaken, for how can so many be mistaken of something like that?"
"I awoke in a field. My destroyed armor was returned to like new and shined like it did on the day it was presented to me. My tattered tabard was anew and my body felt as though I had a long sleep. I met up with the Seekers and 3 days had passed, while it had felt like a long night at most to me. Death holds no fear for me. So many people wish for an afterlife that never ends and yet they have no idea what to do with the limited one they now possess. I have much to accomplish now with the life that beats in my heart before I think overmuch on what happens when that heart beats no more."
Ivy will listen as Sherwood and Lord Validar speak of their plans and goals. The priestess is pleasantly surprised when Validar brings up the subject of improving the condition of the common man and even helping those move to this area from more oppressed regions. A pleased smile comes to Ivy's face. Perhaps she has misjudged Lord Validar as he earlier suggested.
"I must admit that I am surprised, but pleased by this course of action. Anything to help ease the struggles of the poor is most welcomed. I am sure that we Azrellians would be most interested in helping in this noble endeavor. I shall address this matter with my sect when we reach Elcadan. We could also assist those wishing to relocate from Elcadan to Twin Forks accomplish this task. I think it’s a fine idea."
"I told you not to judge me by words or simple impressions, my fair lady. None of us are what we appear on the surface. For most it is only a facade or a glimpse of the truth that lies underneath. Often it is the uncovering of many layers of a person's soul that allows you to see the true heart they possess, over many years of searching."
"The temple of Azrella would be most welcomed in whatever assistance they can provide, both here and in Elcadan. We do not want a mass migration and we do not want just anyone to be made aware of this opportunity. It is imperative that the merchant guilds and the nobles there have little to no knowledge of this endeavor. Although, with a temple's assistance it will not draw as much attention I should think. We need to make sure the people who are offered this chance are ones who will make the most of it. This on it as a limited offer and only the best should hav the chance. There should be other such arrangement in the future. We don't want a refuge camp growing in Twin Forks."
The Elf Maiden frowns a bit as Lord Validar makes his proposal. On the subject of magic items, Lilia will say, "Lord Validar, which magic items are you speaking about? Surly, you are not considering any that would be a benefit to us in the battles to come?"
"Lilia of Grunalf, I may only be a human barbarian who carries a large sword and has to encase his dull brain in a steel helmet to protect it, but I can assure you that I have no intention of ridding ourselves of the most advantageous items we have captured, especially while we are about to embark on our greatest adventure yet. It has been my experience that there are often marginal items despite their magickal properties that would be better suited to others and are more valuable in trading them for gold."
-----------------------
Kylie concentrates as Validar speaks. Though she has heard of some of these places before, her knowledge of the geography of the land is shockingly poor. Having never seen a map, she does her best to imagine how it must all fit together. "I hope Cavius is still as good a friend as you believe, and has not been subverted by others."
"I share those hopes, young Kylie. Cavius was always a bit eccentric in his ways, but he was not evil. I believe that it is someone else's doings or he has come under a very strong, diabolical presence. In either case, we must get to the bottom of this question."
After continued discussions - Kylie rises to her feet from where she had been sitting and listening, uncertain of herself even as she speaks. "This is not the path I had envisioned for my life. Swiping shiny baubles and locating missing people and goods can be fun and exciting, but this thing that you propose - this is enough to turn my bowels to water. Still, there are some things in life more important than fun and creature comforts. For so long as my tattered courage holds, I will help as best I may." Kylie sits quickly, having spoken her piece, tears glistening in her eyes. She has little more to say at the moment.
"Some of us would consider this adventure and the battles to come as fun and exciting." Validar gives a knowing look to Corley. "However, as I pointed out to Po earlier today: true bravery is not the absence of fear, but the conquering of it. We have all felt fear grip our hearts at one time or another. It is simply how we deal with that fear that will show us to be brave. You have done fine so far, young Kylie and I am sure you will continue to prove your bravery to yourself and to all of us in the coming conflicts."
-------------------------
As now everyone has agreed to the current leadership agrangement as proposed by Sherwood, Validar is happy to have that detail resolved.
Sherwood - Seeing that almost everyone seems comfortable with the idea of Validar and I leading the band say, "Thank you for your votes of confidence. I can only hope that we live up to your expectations.
"Once we have identified all of the items then we can begin to make disbursements. We should not have any major combats between now and arriving at Sherwood's tower, so there is no rush to pass them out. However, each of you should make your desires of items made known to Sherwood or myself for when the time comes."
"As for a name, the one that springs to mind is The Golden Fellowship. I am not certain that is the best choice, but something of that nature appeals to me. It implies goodness, honor, a quest and our comradery. In a more agressive term, I like the sound of Vindicators and Golden Defenders as well. Perhaps Defenders of the Realms. I am not convinced that we should advertise ourselves as being opposed to the Cult of the Blackflame. And if we choose a contrary name to them, what happens when our task is complete?"
------------------------
The history lesson covers matters that Lord Corley was unfamiliar with. Naturally he knew of the Great War with the vile wizard Keln and his lackeys, but that this Cult of Black Fire seemed to be the trigger was unknown to him.
"The sheer gall of this cult is astonishing! Clearly they must be beaten down like the gutter slime that they are! Such a thing cannot be allowed to fester with in the heart of fair Cynalon like some disease gone unchecked! It must be exercised and sent back to the foul pits that spawned it!"
"Unfortunately, our beloved Kingdom is not strong. There are many viruses that corrupt and pollute it from within and without. Our hope lies in our new King, the Crown Prince. But there is much that noble hearts of valor and kindness can do to assist in that process."
"Having been raised in an orderly fashion, I am accustomed to the chain of command. I cannot think of anyone who would be better served as unit commanders than Sherwood and Validar. While they are very different men, they do nicely compliment the other. Equal division of treasure seems fair to me and I will leave it up to the unit commanders as to the division of magical treasure. Ideally they will place enchanted items in the hands of those who can make the best use of them."
"Thank you for your kind compliments, my good friend. We shall endeavor to lead to the best of our abilities."
"If you think this a worth while plan, Lord Validar, then you have my support. However we should not get bogged down in such details. There are individuals who have much to answer for that we should reach as soon as we are able!"
While Lord Corley is a dear friend, he always was a bit simple in his thoughts, Validar thinks. Still he is a very good man and his presence is only a benefit. "Preparations should not take us long. We should be on our way shortly, my friend."
-------------------------
Ivy gives a long explanation of her ideas and how they fit in with her patron, Azrella.
"I must admit that I have some knowledge of the various patrons, but it is very limited. I was not aware of some of these things you mention. Most common knowledge is that Azrella forbids the taking of a life and her followers are great healers. Aggressiveness is not something most people expect from an Azrellian."
Ivy will look away when the subject of battle lust comes up as if ashamed. "It is true that I am something of a contradiction and the path I walk is a narrow one with much peril on it. The things I have endured I would wish upon no other. I still feel much pain inside and occasionally it does come out in battle. Thankfully I haven't strayed too far from Azrella's teachings. So far."
"I would imagine that it is a constant battle to overcome your inner feelings with your teachings. However, it seems that you have the control that you need. Build your inner strength and believe in your convictions. They may not match mine, but I encourage people to have strong ideals. It is what makes us live."
When Validar tells the cleric about his views of the dieties, Ivy is a bit shocked by all of this, but tries not to sound judgmental. "But Lord Validar, where will you spirit go after you have passed from this plane without someone to guide it? Have you given no thought to your place in the afterlife?"
"I have given it some thought and I do not believe that the limited power of the various patrons, considerable though they may be, is the true power in this universe. There must be something greater than those who struggle against each other, using all of us a pawns and game pieces in their never ending conflicts."
"I have been told that I have already died once. My fellow Seekers all buried me, along with others of our band who also perished, when I succumed to the foul witch, Wendelaine in the lands of Keln, near Whispering Hollow. There is no reason to believe that they were mistaken, for how can so many be mistaken of something like that?"
"I awoke in a field. My destroyed armor was returned to like new and shined like it did on the day it was presented to me. My tattered tabard was anew and my body felt as though I had a long sleep. I met up with the Seekers and 3 days had passed, while it had felt like a long night at most to me. Death holds no fear for me. So many people wish for an afterlife that never ends and yet they have no idea what to do with the limited one they now possess. I have much to accomplish now with the life that beats in my heart before I think overmuch on what happens when that heart beats no more."
Ivy will listen as Sherwood and Lord Validar speak of their plans and goals. The priestess is pleasantly surprised when Validar brings up the subject of improving the condition of the common man and even helping those move to this area from more oppressed regions. A pleased smile comes to Ivy's face. Perhaps she has misjudged Lord Validar as he earlier suggested.
"I must admit that I am surprised, but pleased by this course of action. Anything to help ease the struggles of the poor is most welcomed. I am sure that we Azrellians would be most interested in helping in this noble endeavor. I shall address this matter with my sect when we reach Elcadan. We could also assist those wishing to relocate from Elcadan to Twin Forks accomplish this task. I think it’s a fine idea."
"I told you not to judge me by words or simple impressions, my fair lady. None of us are what we appear on the surface. For most it is only a facade or a glimpse of the truth that lies underneath. Often it is the uncovering of many layers of a person's soul that allows you to see the true heart they possess, over many years of searching."
"The temple of Azrella would be most welcomed in whatever assistance they can provide, both here and in Elcadan. We do not want a mass migration and we do not want just anyone to be made aware of this opportunity. It is imperative that the merchant guilds and the nobles there have little to no knowledge of this endeavor. Although, with a temple's assistance it will not draw as much attention I should think. We need to make sure the people who are offered this chance are ones who will make the most of it. This on it as a limited offer and only the best should hav the chance. There should be other such arrangement in the future. We don't want a refuge camp growing in Twin Forks."
Conquer or Die!
Sherwood
Sherwood:
As the discussions begin to wind down, Sherwood will make a point to speak to Kylie and Sherra (separately) in private. The words will almost be the same and are short and sweet. "I wished to let you know that I happy you've decided to continue on with us. You've done me proud."
On the subject of money and treasure, Sherwood will forgo partaking of either. Let his part of the money be split up amongst the rest of the adventurers so they can have a larger share. The magical treasure doesn't greatly interest him at the moment, so he will pass on those items as well.
He will scoop up the 4th and 5th level spell books and study those magicks he has yet to record in his own spell book.
As the discussions begin to wind down, Sherwood will make a point to speak to Kylie and Sherra (separately) in private. The words will almost be the same and are short and sweet. "I wished to let you know that I happy you've decided to continue on with us. You've done me proud."
On the subject of money and treasure, Sherwood will forgo partaking of either. Let his part of the money be split up amongst the rest of the adventurers so they can have a larger share. The magical treasure doesn't greatly interest him at the moment, so he will pass on those items as well.
He will scoop up the 4th and 5th level spell books and study those magicks he has yet to record in his own spell book.
I do what is necessary.
-
Lilia
- Queen of the Sylvan Realm
- Posts: 457
- Joined: Thu Jul 17, 2003 4:54 pm
- Location: The Sylvan Realm
Lilia
Lilia:
Having said her piece, Lilia will turn back to studying the new spell book. Once rooms at the inn become available, Lilia will go there to study in peace. She'll pour through the tome until she needs to rest.
"Then we understand each other," Lilia will respond in her typical stoic manner. If she took any insult from the humans words, the elf does not show it. "I will wait to find out what is available before making any requests concerning the distribution of magic items.""Lilia of Grunalf, I may only be a human barbarian who carries a large sword and has to encase his dull brain in a steel helmet to protect it, but I can assure you that I have no intention of ridding ourselves of the most advantageous items we have captured, especially while we are about to embark on our greatest adventure yet. It has been my experience that there are often marginal items despite their magickal properties that would be better suited to others and are more valuable in trading them for gold."
Having said her piece, Lilia will turn back to studying the new spell book. Once rooms at the inn become available, Lilia will go there to study in peace. She'll pour through the tome until she needs to rest.
Either by my magic or my bow you WILL fall!
Ivy
Ivy:
"Defenders of the Realm has a nice ring to it," the priestess will say. "And it would include all in this area, not just the citizen of Cynalon. "Maybe even Protectors of the Realm."
"I do not know what powers may exist beyond those of the gods and a shutter to think such a thing. I believe with all my heart that I will continue to serve the Blue Lady in some capacity once I have departed this plane."
"While it is clear that you hold no single deity in high regard, at least one feels that you are worthy of restoring to life. Perhaps you are destined for greatness and are set on a path that not even death can hold back. I cannot say for certain, but I do know that many of the gods do work in most mysterious ways."
"Defenders of the Realm has a nice ring to it," the priestess will say. "And it would include all in this area, not just the citizen of Cynalon. "Maybe even Protectors of the Realm."
"That is the common public perception, Lord Validar, so there is no fault in believing that. It is true that my order is weaker in battle than others, but some of us do not shy away from conflict. There are those followers who do behave as you suspect. As noted earlier, I am something of a contradiction to the standard.""I must admit that I have some knowledge of the various patrons, but it is very limited. I was not aware of some of these things you mention. Most common knowledge is that Azrella forbids the taking of a life and her followers are great healers. Aggressiveness is not something most people expect from an Azrellian."
"At times, yes it is Lord Validar. Each day seems like a struggle at times. I have to wonder if I ever will know inner peace as opposed to turmoil?""I would imagine that it is a constant battle to overcome your inner feelings with your teachings. However, it seems that you have the control that you need. Build your inner strength and believe in your convictions. They may not match mine, but I encourage people to have strong ideals. It is what makes us live."
Somehow the manner of what Lord Validar says convinces the priestess that it must be true. Or at the very least he believes it to be true."I have given it some thought and I do not believe that the limited power of the various patrons, considerable though they may be, is the true power in this universe. There must be something greater than those who struggle against each other, using all of us a pawns and game pieces in their never ending conflicts."
"I have been told that I have already died once. My fellow Seekers all buried me, along with others of our band who also perished, when I succumbed to the foul witch, Wendelaine in the lands of Keln, near Whispering Hollow. There is no reason to believe that they were mistaken, for how can so many be mistaken of something like that?"
"I awoke in a field. My destroyed armor was returned to like new and shined like it did on the day it was presented to me. My tattered tabard was anew and my body felt as though I had a long sleep. I met up with the Seekers and 3 days had passed, while it had felt like a long night at most to me. Death holds no fear for me. So many people wish for an afterlife that never ends and yet they have no idea what to do with the limited one they now possess. I have much to accomplish now with the life that beats in my heart before I think overmuch on what happens when that heart beats no more."
"I do not know what powers may exist beyond those of the gods and a shutter to think such a thing. I believe with all my heart that I will continue to serve the Blue Lady in some capacity once I have departed this plane."
"While it is clear that you hold no single deity in high regard, at least one feels that you are worthy of restoring to life. Perhaps you are destined for greatness and are set on a path that not even death can hold back. I cannot say for certain, but I do know that many of the gods do work in most mysterious ways."
Ivy will look away, ashamed of her own past actions. "You do speak with great wisdom, Lord Validar. I am sorry I misjudged you.""I told you not to judge me by words or simple impressions, my fair lady. None of us are what we appear on the surface. For most it is only a facade or a glimpse of the truth that lies underneath. Often it is the uncovering of many layers of a person's soul that allows you to see the true heart they possess, over many years of searching."
"Perhaps you would care to accompany me when I go to visit my home temple in Elcadan? You speak with great eloquence and your words and presence may help facility the actions of my fellow priestess.""The temple of Azrella would be most welcomed in whatever assistance they can provide, both here and in Elcadan. We do not want a mass migration and we do not want just anyone to be made aware of this opportunity. It is imperative that the merchant guilds and the nobles there have little to no knowledge of this endeavor. Although, with a temple's assistance it will not draw as much attention I should think. We need to make sure the people who are offered this chance are ones who will make the most of it. This on it as a limited offer and only the best should have the chance. There should be other such arrangement in the future. We don't want a refuge camp growing in Twin Forks."
For the glory of the Blue Lady!
-
Grondar
- Berronar's Humble Servant
- Posts: 406
- Joined: Thu Sep 02, 2004 7:55 pm
- Location: Aboveground, unfortunately
Transitions
Grondar:
Kylie's obvious emotion touches Grondar, and he looks over at the young woman with sadness in his eyes. Her tale is certainly tragic, as is that of some others in this company, and it rends his heart to know that lives are lived in such a fashion in this world.
Grondar frowns. "I wouldn't be so fast to judge them all on the basis of one man's actions. It is entirely possible that some of the others would have made the same choice as Po, given the opportunity."Validar is curious as Grondar is so demonstrative in scattering the small bag of gems on the floor. In the mess of this place, they will be difficult to recover. A bonus for whomever is entrusted with cleaning this house, Validar thinks to himself. "That is unfortunate, but only goes to show that my lack of faith in the bandit group as a whole was well founded. Po, has proven himself to be the exception, but obviously, it was not circumstances or bad luck that drove these men to a life of banditry and thievery and murder. It was their hearts."
"I do have a question Sherwood Elf-Friend about your ancestor's battles with the Cult. From what I gather, both yours and Validar's ancestors perished in the war that followed the original defeat of the Cult? What about other adventurers who were associated with them? Were any of them elves? Or perhaps even a half-elf or a dwarf. It could be possible that others in their adventuring band are still alive this day. It seems to me that such a person could more then fill in the missing details concerning this cult."
Lilia's question and Sherwood's response lead Grondar to nod unconsciously. He hadn't considered the possibility of one of his kinsmen being among those who battled the Cult, though it would explain something of why it's existance was known among his people - particularly the priesthood."It is entirely possible, Lilia", Sherwood will admit. "And another reason why I wish to research my ancestor's notes back at my tower. If we can turn up the name of some still living adventurer from that era it will make our task all the much easier."
Kylie's obvious emotion touches Grondar, and he looks over at the young woman with sadness in his eyes. Her tale is certainly tragic, as is that of some others in this company, and it rends his heart to know that lives are lived in such a fashion in this world.
Sherra's request brings a hearty smile to Grondar's face. "Of course, my lady! I would be honored to!" Grondar pauses for a second, thinking. "Tell you what: I'll teach you our language, if you'll teach me to swim. I suspect such a skill might prove vital to my survival some day. Be warned, however; I doubt that I will be a very good student," he says with a twinkle in his eye. "The dwarven body is not particularly suited to the water...""I would like to ask for some assistance from you if you are interested," Sherra will start. "I would like to learn the Dwarven tongue, and if you are to continue on with Validar and those others of us going, we would have some time so that I may properly learn. That is, if you would be willing to teach me," Sherra smiles.
"In case you are curious, I am interested in the Dwarven ways, mostly because of my father. Unfortunately I know very little else about him, but the one memory I hold is seeing him with a Dwarven associate one evening at our small home. I probably was supposed to be in bed, but I remember seeing them by the firelight talking and laughing. I do not know their relationship, nor do I know who the Dwarf was," Sherra will pause as if trying to grasp more of the memory even though for all these years she has had no further success.
"Anyway, it would be an honor if you would agree," Sherra will wait to see if Grondar has a response or wishes to think on this a bit.
Grondar nods, as though that communicates all that needs be."Making the attempt is all I can ask," Sherwood will state. "I have some knowledge of clerical magic from adventuring with other priests, but since each deity grants varied abilities and magicks to their followers, it is difficult to tell what spell is available to what priest or what level of experience is required to receive the desired spell."
"My heart is gladdened to hear that you intend to remain largely involved with this group. Your knowledge outstrips that of us all, and may well prove to be the difference between success and possibly-fatal failure.""It is true that my original intent was to assemble this group and then set them out on the appointed task. That task turned out being easier then I had anticipated. I had envisioned having to chase him across the kingdom. However, the re-emergance of the Cult and Lord Cavius' involvement does demand more of my attention then I originally expected. There will be times when I do have to travel off on other matters, but dealing with what we face will remain my primary goal. I can travel great distances by way of magic and would easily be able to relocate you all and rejoin you once more. So, if I am away it should only be for a limited time and most likely while traveling across land."
"Once we have identified all of the items then we can begin to make disbursements. We should not have any major combats between now and arriving at Sherwood's tower, so there is no rush to pass them out. However, each of you should make your desires of items made known to Sherwood or myself for when the time comes."
"I, too, shall wait until all of the items have been identified before stating any preferences," Grondar says. "In fact, I would recommend making this part of the normal distribution procedure: identify all items, then make requests, then disburse. I suspect it would be a lot safer and give better results.""I will wait to find out what is available before making any requests concerning the distribution of magic items."
"As for a name, the one that springs to mind is The Golden Fellowship. I am not certain that is the best choice, but something of that nature appeals to me. It implies goodness, honor, a quest and our comradery. In a more agressive term, I like the sound of Vindicators and Golden Defenders as well. Perhaps Defenders of the Realms. I am not convinced that we should advertise ourselves as being opposed to the Cult of the Blackflame. And if we choose a contrary name to them, what happens when our task is complete?"
Grondar listens to the various name suggestions for their group. "I would suggest Guardians of the Realm, or - better yet - Guardians of the Light. It suggests that we stand against all the forces of darkness, not just the Cult of Blackflame.""Defenders of the Realm has a nice ring to it," the priestess will say. "And it would include all in this area, not just the citizen of Cynalon. "Maybe even Protectors of the Realm."
Transitions
Kylie:
Listening to all the voting regarding leadership of the group, Kylie grimaces. She's not at all liking the thought of having someone boss them all around - she's certainly had enough of that in her lifetime. Still, everyone else seems in favor of the idea, so she remains quiet.
Lord Corley's praise causes Kylie to blush. "You give me too much credit, my friend. I'm not as noble as you might like to believe."
Corley's tale is a somewhat stirring, but also a bit too patriotic for Kylie's taste. Nevertheless, he is a man of conviction, and one who genuinely seems to want to help others, and Kylie can respect that. Part of Kylie's instinct rebels at the thought of liking and respecting someone who grew up in such priviledges circumstances. On the other hand, she's starting to see that he is nothing like those who rule Elcadan. "It seems you have lived a very interesting life, Corley," she says with a smile. "I am glad you have chosen to join this group."
=====
All this discussion of naming their little band seems rather pompous and silly to Kylie. The names proposed sound grandiose and overblown to her ear, and smack of arrogance. "In truth, I see little need to give ourselves some pompous, overblown name. I think we should focus on getting the job done, instead.
"That said, I would really prefer some choice in the matter. I don't believe all items will have one obvious best person to use them. For those items, I think we should be allowed to choose for ourselves."
Kylie pauses, then shakes her head. "I'm sorry. I'm having a difficult time with this - it's definitely not how I had envisioned my future.
"I do agree with Grondar that it is good that you will remain with us." Suddenly, for no obvious reason, Kylie wraps her arms around Sherwood and gives him a hug.
=====
Later, in the armory, Kylie does her best to adapt to the shortsword she had selected off the racks. It is heavier than she is used to, but the style is generally the same. Thrusting and jabbing, she quickly works up a sweat perforating the armor with her sword. She practices for a while before returning to Lothar's house to cook the soup she promised Ivy. "Thank you, Lord Corley, for helping me get comfortable with this new weapon." She attaches the sheathe to her belt before departing.
In truth, the large warrior had admitted that it wasn't a weapon he was entirely proficient with, so Kylie will seek out someone else for further instruction. As the others come to eat the provided meal, Kylie watches for any of the others bearing a similar weapon. She suspects that Laucian or Sherra is her best bet, but she will observe them all.
Unable to read the writing on the chest, Kylie resolves to solve the riddle in the morning via her magics.
Listening to all the voting regarding leadership of the group, Kylie grimaces. She's not at all liking the thought of having someone boss them all around - she's certainly had enough of that in her lifetime. Still, everyone else seems in favor of the idea, so she remains quiet.
Lord Corley's praise causes Kylie to blush. "You give me too much credit, my friend. I'm not as noble as you might like to believe."
Corley's tale is a somewhat stirring, but also a bit too patriotic for Kylie's taste. Nevertheless, he is a man of conviction, and one who genuinely seems to want to help others, and Kylie can respect that. Part of Kylie's instinct rebels at the thought of liking and respecting someone who grew up in such priviledges circumstances. On the other hand, she's starting to see that he is nothing like those who rule Elcadan. "It seems you have lived a very interesting life, Corley," she says with a smile. "I am glad you have chosen to join this group."
"You are probably right. I guess we won't know for sure until we get there. Hopefully, it is a case of someone else acting without his knowledge. Who knows who might have worked their way into his employ?""I share those hopes, young Kylie. Cavius was always a bit eccentric in his ways, but he was not evil. I believe that it is someone else's doings or he has come under a very strong, diabolical presence. In either case, we must get to the bottom of this question."
Noticing Grondar's look and not wanting to be a figure of sympathy, Kylie affects a devil-may-care attitude that isn't entirely convincing.Kylie's obvious emotion touches Grondar, and he looks over at the young woman with sadness in his eyes.
Kylie nods numbly. At the moment, she is far too emotional to provide a coherent response."Some of us would consider this adventure and the battles to come as fun and exciting." Validar gives a knowing look to Corley. "However, as I pointed out to Po earlier today: true bravery is not the absence of fear, but the conquering of it. We have all felt fear grip our hearts at one time or another. It is simply how we deal with that fear that will show us to be brave. You have done fine so far, young Kylie and I am sure you will continue to prove your bravery to yourself and to all of us in the coming conflicts."
=====
All this discussion of naming their little band seems rather pompous and silly to Kylie. The names proposed sound grandiose and overblown to her ear, and smack of arrogance. "In truth, I see little need to give ourselves some pompous, overblown name. I think we should focus on getting the job done, instead.
Kylie nods. "I agree with Grondar on this. There is no point in passing out the items until we know what they all are."I, too, shall wait until all of the items have been identified before stating any preferences," Grondar says. "In fact, I would recommend making this part of the normal distribution procedure: identify all items, then make requests, then disburse. I suspect it would be a lot safer and give better results."
"That said, I would really prefer some choice in the matter. I don't believe all items will have one obvious best person to use them. For those items, I think we should be allowed to choose for ourselves."
Kylie looks up at Sherwood. "I wouldn't want to let you and Jallarzi down," she says with a note of sarcasm, though in truth, she wouldn't.As the discussions begin to wind down, Sherwood will make a point to speak to Kylie and Sherra (separately) in private. The words will almost be the same and are short and sweet. "I wished to let you know that I happy you've decided to continue on with us. You've done me proud."
Kylie pauses, then shakes her head. "I'm sorry. I'm having a difficult time with this - it's definitely not how I had envisioned my future.
"I do agree with Grondar that it is good that you will remain with us." Suddenly, for no obvious reason, Kylie wraps her arms around Sherwood and gives him a hug.
=====
Later, in the armory, Kylie does her best to adapt to the shortsword she had selected off the racks. It is heavier than she is used to, but the style is generally the same. Thrusting and jabbing, she quickly works up a sweat perforating the armor with her sword. She practices for a while before returning to Lothar's house to cook the soup she promised Ivy. "Thank you, Lord Corley, for helping me get comfortable with this new weapon." She attaches the sheathe to her belt before departing.
In truth, the large warrior had admitted that it wasn't a weapon he was entirely proficient with, so Kylie will seek out someone else for further instruction. As the others come to eat the provided meal, Kylie watches for any of the others bearing a similar weapon. She suspects that Laucian or Sherra is her best bet, but she will observe them all.
Unable to read the writing on the chest, Kylie resolves to solve the riddle in the morning via her magics.
visions of swimming dwarves danced in her head...
Sherra:
Composing herself once more, Sherra will add, "However if anyone can find a way for you to be swimming as if born in the very waters themselves, I know of no other better than myself to teach you."
"I am glad that you will teach me as well. It means much to me," Sherra will genuinely smile at his words.
"You ask a near-impossible task indeed," Sherra will reply with a thoughtful frown in place, but soon erupts with a broad, playfully-sarcastic smile.Sherra's request brings a hearty smile to Grondar's face. "Of course, my lady! I would be honored to!" Grondar pauses for a second, thinking. "Tell you what: I'll teach you our language, if you'll teach me to swim. I suspect such a skill might prove vital to my survival some day. Be warned, however; I doubt that I will be a very good student," he says with a twinkle in his eye. "The dwarven body is not particularly suited to the water..."
Composing herself once more, Sherra will add, "However if anyone can find a way for you to be swimming as if born in the very waters themselves, I know of no other better than myself to teach you."
"I am glad that you will teach me as well. It means much to me," Sherra will genuinely smile at his words.
"It is the least I can do to repay your insight and kindness upon having rescued me from a possibly self-destructive path. It is more than that though, as I am finding pleasant company in many of the others and feel as if finally I belong somewhere," Sherra will reply.As the discussions begin to wind down, Sherwood will make a point to speak to Kylie and Sherra (separately) in private. The words will almost be the same and are short and sweet. "I wished to let you know that I happy you've decided to continue on with us. You've done me proud."
VALIDAR -
"Then we understand each other," Lilia will respond in her typical stoic manner. If she took any insult from the humans words, the elf does not show it. "I will wait to find out what is available before making any requests concerning the distribution of magic items."
A wry smile tugs at the corner of Validar's lips as he tries to determine if Lilia's response smacks of ignorance or arrogance. "You show incredible restraint as it may be another two or three days before the dispersement of magickal treasure is made. But waiting does seem to be the prudent thing to do." Everyone else seems to agree as well. Validar is not as concerned about magickal treasure as he is continuing on the adventure anyway.
-----------------------
Ivy - "While it is clear that you hold no single deity in high regard, at least one feels that you are worthy of restoring to life. Perhaps you are destined for greatness and are set on a path that not even death can hold back. I cannot say for certain, but I do know that many of the gods do work in most mysterious ways."
"I cannot say how I came to be restored to life exactly. I believe my friends in the Seekers that I had died. As for whether I am destined for greatness, I think that will be determined by my actions, my sword and my wits and the companionship I choose, not by the whim of some hidden benefactor. As for my path, I do believe that not even death can sway me from my goals, lofty though they may be."
Later, when they are all together again:
Ivy will look away, ashamed of her own past actions. "You do speak with great wisdom, Lord Validar. I am sorry I misjudged you."
"You are in good company, fair Ivy. Do not dwell on it. I have gotten used to having to repeatedly prove myself in the eyes of many."
As further talk about the plan in Elcadan and Twin Forks progresses:
"Perhaps you would care to accompany me when I go to visit my home temple in Elcadan? You speak with great eloquence and your words and presence may help facility the actions of my fellow priestess."
"I am not convinced that I am the best person to address the leaders of a temple, but I will be happy to assist in the process if it will further the aims of our plan."
--------------------------------------
Grondar disagrees with Validar's condemnation of the bandits they fought on the road to Twin Forks:
Grondar frowns. "I wouldn't be so fast to judge them all on the basis of one man's actions. It is entirely possible that some of the others would have made the same choice as Po, given the opportunity."
"I am afraid, my dwarven friend, that we have already judged them. Ivy of Azrella used her granted abilities to ascertain their hearts and only Po here and Saladin were worthy of that option. You were there when it was completed. And of those two, only one took the correct path. It is a dismal percentage and very difficult to argue against without resorting to fantastic what ifs leading to their rehabilitation. We should direct our attentions to those that deserve it. As I said before, there is no reason to first pick up the coppers in a room full of coins, when there is gold to be had. Po, you were one of those gold coins."
Regarding the distributions of magick:
"I, too, shall wait until all of the items have been identified before stating any preferences," Grondar says. "In fact, I would recommend making this part of the normal distribution procedure: identify all items, then make requests, then disburse. I suspect it would be a lot safer and give better results."
"That is the safest method to follow given the opportunity and time, but there may be times when it is prudent in the field to but powerful items to use. It has happened before with the Seekers and I would be surprised if we do not see it a few times ourselves."
"I like Grondar's suggestion of Guardians of the Light. How do the rest of you feel about that choice?
Kylie makes her feelings known:
All this discussion of naming their little band seems rather pompous and silly to Kylie. The names proposed sound grandiose and overblown to her ear, and smack of arrogance. "In truth, I see little need to give ourselves some pompous, overblown name. I think we should focus on getting the job done, instead.
"Why Kylie, I never knew we had so much in common. When I first joined the Seekers, I also said that our actions would be how we were known and judged. The name meant little at the time. However, over time it became something to belong to, to be proud of and to contribute to. The Seekers have begun their own legend, now we will begin ours. In addition, the Crown registers, identifies and rewards groups, especially in the Keln and Gateway regions with these designations. So we are following a procedure of the crown."
More on the treasure splitting:
Kylie nods. "I agree with Grondar on this. There is no point in passing out the items until we know what they all are.
"That said, I would really prefer some choice in the matter. I don't believe all items will have one obvious best person to use them. For those items, I think we should be allowed to choose for ourselves."
"And how do you propose to do that fairly? Who chooses first? Is it random, rotating reverse order, by bidding? We can make a terribly complicated mess out of the procedure if we make it too difficult."
-------------------
"Then we understand each other," Lilia will respond in her typical stoic manner. If she took any insult from the humans words, the elf does not show it. "I will wait to find out what is available before making any requests concerning the distribution of magic items."
A wry smile tugs at the corner of Validar's lips as he tries to determine if Lilia's response smacks of ignorance or arrogance. "You show incredible restraint as it may be another two or three days before the dispersement of magickal treasure is made. But waiting does seem to be the prudent thing to do." Everyone else seems to agree as well. Validar is not as concerned about magickal treasure as he is continuing on the adventure anyway.
-----------------------
Ivy - "While it is clear that you hold no single deity in high regard, at least one feels that you are worthy of restoring to life. Perhaps you are destined for greatness and are set on a path that not even death can hold back. I cannot say for certain, but I do know that many of the gods do work in most mysterious ways."
"I cannot say how I came to be restored to life exactly. I believe my friends in the Seekers that I had died. As for whether I am destined for greatness, I think that will be determined by my actions, my sword and my wits and the companionship I choose, not by the whim of some hidden benefactor. As for my path, I do believe that not even death can sway me from my goals, lofty though they may be."
Later, when they are all together again:
Ivy will look away, ashamed of her own past actions. "You do speak with great wisdom, Lord Validar. I am sorry I misjudged you."
"You are in good company, fair Ivy. Do not dwell on it. I have gotten used to having to repeatedly prove myself in the eyes of many."
As further talk about the plan in Elcadan and Twin Forks progresses:
"Perhaps you would care to accompany me when I go to visit my home temple in Elcadan? You speak with great eloquence and your words and presence may help facility the actions of my fellow priestess."
"I am not convinced that I am the best person to address the leaders of a temple, but I will be happy to assist in the process if it will further the aims of our plan."
--------------------------------------
Grondar disagrees with Validar's condemnation of the bandits they fought on the road to Twin Forks:
Grondar frowns. "I wouldn't be so fast to judge them all on the basis of one man's actions. It is entirely possible that some of the others would have made the same choice as Po, given the opportunity."
"I am afraid, my dwarven friend, that we have already judged them. Ivy of Azrella used her granted abilities to ascertain their hearts and only Po here and Saladin were worthy of that option. You were there when it was completed. And of those two, only one took the correct path. It is a dismal percentage and very difficult to argue against without resorting to fantastic what ifs leading to their rehabilitation. We should direct our attentions to those that deserve it. As I said before, there is no reason to first pick up the coppers in a room full of coins, when there is gold to be had. Po, you were one of those gold coins."
Regarding the distributions of magick:
"I, too, shall wait until all of the items have been identified before stating any preferences," Grondar says. "In fact, I would recommend making this part of the normal distribution procedure: identify all items, then make requests, then disburse. I suspect it would be a lot safer and give better results."
"That is the safest method to follow given the opportunity and time, but there may be times when it is prudent in the field to but powerful items to use. It has happened before with the Seekers and I would be surprised if we do not see it a few times ourselves."
"I like Grondar's suggestion of Guardians of the Light. How do the rest of you feel about that choice?
Kylie makes her feelings known:
All this discussion of naming their little band seems rather pompous and silly to Kylie. The names proposed sound grandiose and overblown to her ear, and smack of arrogance. "In truth, I see little need to give ourselves some pompous, overblown name. I think we should focus on getting the job done, instead.
"Why Kylie, I never knew we had so much in common. When I first joined the Seekers, I also said that our actions would be how we were known and judged. The name meant little at the time. However, over time it became something to belong to, to be proud of and to contribute to. The Seekers have begun their own legend, now we will begin ours. In addition, the Crown registers, identifies and rewards groups, especially in the Keln and Gateway regions with these designations. So we are following a procedure of the crown."
More on the treasure splitting:
Kylie nods. "I agree with Grondar on this. There is no point in passing out the items until we know what they all are.
"That said, I would really prefer some choice in the matter. I don't believe all items will have one obvious best person to use them. For those items, I think we should be allowed to choose for ourselves."
"And how do you propose to do that fairly? Who chooses first? Is it random, rotating reverse order, by bidding? We can make a terribly complicated mess out of the procedure if we make it too difficult."
-------------------
Conquer or Die!
-
Grondar
- Berronar's Humble Servant
- Posts: 406
- Joined: Thu Sep 02, 2004 7:55 pm
- Location: Aboveground, unfortunately
Transitions
Grondar:
"Of the mere two that we gave the opportunity to, one chose the right path." Grondar smiles at Po. "I do not consider half to be a dismal percentage."
What can I say, I'm a difficult man," Grondar replies with a deep chuckle."You ask a near-impossible task indeed," Sherra will reply with a thoughtful frown in place, but soon erupts with a broad, playfully-sarcastic smile.
"It seems that we will both benefit from this arrangement," Grondar says. "Thank you."Composing herself once more, Sherra will add, "However if anyone can find a way for you to be swimming as if born in the very waters themselves, I know of no other better than myself to teach you."
"I am glad that you will teach me as well. It means much to me," Sherra will genuinely smile at his words.
Grondar sighs heavily. "Unfortunately, I can agree with neither your conclusions nor with the judgements that were made. I understand the magics that were used, and they only tell you what the person's inclinations are to, not whether they are capable of making a different choice under the right circumstances. While the judgement was made at the time by the group, I cannot say that it sits well with me. I hope that those who review their case in Pyris will consider the possibilities and not just throw their lives away."I am afraid, my dwarven friend, that we have already judged them. Ivy of Azrella used her granted abilities to ascertain their hearts and only Po here and Saladin were worthy of that option. You were there when it was completed. And of those two, only one took the correct path. It is a dismal percentage and very difficult to argue against without resorting to fantastic what ifs leading to their rehabilitation. We should direct our attentions to those that deserve it. As I said before, there is no reason to first pick up the coppers in a room full of coins, when there is gold to be had. Po, you were one of those gold coins."
"Of the mere two that we gave the opportunity to, one chose the right path." Grondar smiles at Po. "I do not consider half to be a dismal percentage."
"Of course," Grondar says. "Any standard procedure will occasionally require deviation under specific circumstances. Still, I suspect these situations will be in the minority and only for specific items. I have no aversion to adapting to the situation as needed.""That is the safest method to follow given the opportunity and time, but there may be times when it is prudent in the field to but powerful items to use. It has happened before with the Seekers and I would be surprised if we do not see it a few times ourselves."
Grondar smiles to hear that Validar likes his suggestion."I like Grondar's suggestion of Guardians of the Light. How do the rest of you feel about that choice?
Transitions
Kylie:
Kylie gets a sour expression on her face at the thought of being compared to Validar. Still, it's a surprising revelation. "Ahh... I did not realize that it was a policy of the crown to track and support such groups. I suppose then that a name is needed. Any of those suggested by Ivy, Grondar or yourself is okay with me.""Why Kylie, I never knew we had so much in common. When I first joined the Seekers, I also said that our actions would be how we were known and judged. The name meant little at the time. However, over time it became something to belong to, to be proud of and to contribute to. The Seekers have begun their own legend, now we will begin ours. In addition, the Crown registers, identifies and rewards groups, especially in the Keln and Gateway regions with these designations. So we are following a procedure of the crown."
"I don't really suppose it much matters," Kylie replies, "as long as those who were not assigned items get to pick before those who were. Something random like drawing straws is probably easiest, since it doesn't require remembering who went last the previous time. I'm sure Tymora would see that it worked out over time.""And how do you propose to do that fairly? Who chooses first? Is it random, rotating reverse order, by bidding? We can make a terribly complicated mess out of the procedure if we make it too difficult."
VALIDAR -
Grondar sighs heavily. "Unfortunately, I can agree with neither your conclusions nor with the judgements that were made. I understand the magics that were used, and they only tell you what the person's inclinations are to, not whether they are capable of making a different choice under the right circumstances. While the judgement was made at the time by the group, I cannot say that it sits well with me. I hope that those who review their case in Pyris will consider the possibilities and not just throw their lives away.
"Of the mere two that we gave the opportunity to, one chose the right path." Grondar smiles at Po. "I do not consider half to be a dismal percentage."
"Your ideals are amazing. I do not pity your enemies, Grondar, for they have already been given more chances at redemption than they deserve. I am not so good and forgiving that I can allow one possible choice at the exact right time to suddenly make up for a life of criminal activities, banditry, murder and thuggery. I would not worry if our judges were to throw yhose lives away. Clearly they already have thrown their own lives away."
Validar smiles when Kylie makes a face upon being compared to the noble warrior. "What say the rest of you about Guardians of the Light?"
Regarding the dispersement of magick:
"I don't really suppose it much matters," Kylie replies, "as long as those who were not assigned items get to pick before those who were. Something random like drawing straws is probably easiest, since it doesn't require remembering who went last the previous time. I'm sure Tymora would see that it worked out over time."
"Personally I do not choose to put my fate in the hands of chance and random events nor upon the indeterminable whims of a being not of this world. Even for something as inauspicious as this matter of distributing treasure. Is it possible for us to be a bit more organized?"
Grondar sighs heavily. "Unfortunately, I can agree with neither your conclusions nor with the judgements that were made. I understand the magics that were used, and they only tell you what the person's inclinations are to, not whether they are capable of making a different choice under the right circumstances. While the judgement was made at the time by the group, I cannot say that it sits well with me. I hope that those who review their case in Pyris will consider the possibilities and not just throw their lives away.
"Of the mere two that we gave the opportunity to, one chose the right path." Grondar smiles at Po. "I do not consider half to be a dismal percentage."
"Your ideals are amazing. I do not pity your enemies, Grondar, for they have already been given more chances at redemption than they deserve. I am not so good and forgiving that I can allow one possible choice at the exact right time to suddenly make up for a life of criminal activities, banditry, murder and thuggery. I would not worry if our judges were to throw yhose lives away. Clearly they already have thrown their own lives away."
Validar smiles when Kylie makes a face upon being compared to the noble warrior. "What say the rest of you about Guardians of the Light?"
Regarding the dispersement of magick:
"I don't really suppose it much matters," Kylie replies, "as long as those who were not assigned items get to pick before those who were. Something random like drawing straws is probably easiest, since it doesn't require remembering who went last the previous time. I'm sure Tymora would see that it worked out over time."
"Personally I do not choose to put my fate in the hands of chance and random events nor upon the indeterminable whims of a being not of this world. Even for something as inauspicious as this matter of distributing treasure. Is it possible for us to be a bit more organized?"
Conquer or Die!
VALIDAR -
Once finished with their tasks in Twin Forks, Sherwood prepares to cast his Teleport Spell. He pulls a piece of paper out of his pocket and examines it. Validar sees it and realizes that it is a very realistic drawing of a private chamber in Castle Pyris. Sherwood casts the spell and a heartbeat later he, Validar, and Lothar appear in that very same chamber up in Pyris.
Validar hands Lothar over to the guards and the pair make their way to the Baron's bedchamber. Baron Relon is sitting up in bed and appears much heartier than he had been. Elspeth is still here seeing to her patient.
Seated beside the bed is the Lady Gwendolyn, Baron Relon's aged mother. Upon seeing Validar and Sherwood, Jallarzi and the Baroness approach.
"You have news?", Jallarzi inquires of Sherwood.
"We need to talk," Sherwood answers. The two mages then go on a private walk to discuss matters.
The Baroness greets Validar and gives him a hug. "Does this mean that your mission was a success?"
Validar greets his parents warmly, pleased to see the Baron in better health.
"Our mission was successful, my mother. However, I would not call it a success as yet. One mystery has only led to the opening of two more."
"The man who delivered the poisoned wine has been turned over to our guards for punishment. Lothar was a bandit who haunted the High Road between Timberline and Elcadan. There should be a time of reduced attacks on caravans and travelers, at least until another moves in to take his place."
"We have taken steps to secure Twin Forks in Elcadan territory and Pyris will be having a much larger stake in that town's business endeavors. I also will need a small garrison to protect our interests there."
"We have recovered some of the treasure that was taken by Lothar recently and are using this to support the plan in Twin Forks and I have funds to contribute to the furthering of defenses at Timberline. I fear Elcadan may not be pleased with me when as my plans progress and I will be contributing regularly to the defense of our borders and preparing for the expansion of them."
"Finally, to tell of the continuation of my mission. We will not be staying long, Sherwood and I. Our discoveries have led us to next search out the lands of Lord Cavius in Rennydale. Surprising though it may seem, the bandit claimed, under magickal interrogation, that he had nothing to do with the shipment itself and that Cavius simply hired the bandit to ensure that the shipment would arrive safely."
"Therefore, the source of this poison is in Rennydale, or was at the time. Sherwood had agents working and investigating Lord Cavius and we will be leaving for there tomorrow. I will not stop until I take my revenge upon the culprit who committed this low and base attack on our family."
Validar will take time to speak to each of his family members and friends. He will speak to the Baron specifically about Lord Cavius and anything that can be told about the man. He will also mention to the Baron about the Cult of the Blackflame's re-emergence, but will not speak of it to others at this time.
Once finished with their tasks in Twin Forks, Sherwood prepares to cast his Teleport Spell. He pulls a piece of paper out of his pocket and examines it. Validar sees it and realizes that it is a very realistic drawing of a private chamber in Castle Pyris. Sherwood casts the spell and a heartbeat later he, Validar, and Lothar appear in that very same chamber up in Pyris.
Validar hands Lothar over to the guards and the pair make their way to the Baron's bedchamber. Baron Relon is sitting up in bed and appears much heartier than he had been. Elspeth is still here seeing to her patient.
Seated beside the bed is the Lady Gwendolyn, Baron Relon's aged mother. Upon seeing Validar and Sherwood, Jallarzi and the Baroness approach.
"You have news?", Jallarzi inquires of Sherwood.
"We need to talk," Sherwood answers. The two mages then go on a private walk to discuss matters.
The Baroness greets Validar and gives him a hug. "Does this mean that your mission was a success?"
Validar greets his parents warmly, pleased to see the Baron in better health.
"Our mission was successful, my mother. However, I would not call it a success as yet. One mystery has only led to the opening of two more."
"The man who delivered the poisoned wine has been turned over to our guards for punishment. Lothar was a bandit who haunted the High Road between Timberline and Elcadan. There should be a time of reduced attacks on caravans and travelers, at least until another moves in to take his place."
"We have taken steps to secure Twin Forks in Elcadan territory and Pyris will be having a much larger stake in that town's business endeavors. I also will need a small garrison to protect our interests there."
"We have recovered some of the treasure that was taken by Lothar recently and are using this to support the plan in Twin Forks and I have funds to contribute to the furthering of defenses at Timberline. I fear Elcadan may not be pleased with me when as my plans progress and I will be contributing regularly to the defense of our borders and preparing for the expansion of them."
"Finally, to tell of the continuation of my mission. We will not be staying long, Sherwood and I. Our discoveries have led us to next search out the lands of Lord Cavius in Rennydale. Surprising though it may seem, the bandit claimed, under magickal interrogation, that he had nothing to do with the shipment itself and that Cavius simply hired the bandit to ensure that the shipment would arrive safely."
"Therefore, the source of this poison is in Rennydale, or was at the time. Sherwood had agents working and investigating Lord Cavius and we will be leaving for there tomorrow. I will not stop until I take my revenge upon the culprit who committed this low and base attack on our family."
Validar will take time to speak to each of his family members and friends. He will speak to the Baron specifically about Lord Cavius and anything that can be told about the man. He will also mention to the Baron about the Cult of the Blackflame's re-emergence, but will not speak of it to others at this time.
Conquer or Die!
-
Laucian
- Ranger of Ehlonna
- Posts: 532
- Joined: Tue Jul 22, 2003 7:18 pm
- Location: Dense Forests of the Elfholds
Playing catch up
Laucian
As Validar explains his plan for the gold and items, Laucian will listen with an open mind. Some Of what Validar purposes sounds like a good idea though he is concern if the party will only do this in this area.
"I am not concerned with my pay, for everything I need is provided by Ehlonna and the forests that she has granted us. Much of which you purpose has its benefits. Safer road ways and patrols, A home away from home as you say. It also benefits those who would make their home here. My concern is this my friend and I mean no disrespect. If we do as you purpose here, will we do it elsewhere as well? If it is to be so than I agree."
When he receives his share no matter how big or small he will divide it into four equal parts.
One as his own use, another for his temple/deity, another to fullfil his promise to Ivy, and the fourth as an emergency money.
Once that is done, Grondar will offer to accompany Laucian in a visit to question the surviving bandits.
"Your presence would be greatly appreciated in this matter Grondar."
Laucian will head to the Inn and rest. When he awakes he will pray for Ehlonna's blessing as well as spells. He will then seek out Grondar and go to the Garrison. When this is completed he will seek out Kylie or Sherra(whichever is available) and begin searching Artur/Arkane's former residence, he will also ask The innkeeper if any messages were received or sent by the two men.
Validar's sword story
"I am certain that we shall create some incredible stories of our own, this group."
"Of this I am certain."
Turning to the rest of the group, Grondar clears his throat noisily to get their attention. "I have some unpleasant news to share with you all. It turned out that the one known as Saladin was not as reliable as we might have hoped. Rather than fight at our side, he chose to sneak off. He attempted to steal these gems," Grondar dumps the bag on the floor, causing tigereye gems to bounce and skitter across the wooden flooring, "and flee. Fortunately, I was alerted to something untoward occuring and was able to apprehend Saladin in the attempt. I have turned him over to captain Geris and his men."
Laucian begins to wonder the decisions of Saladin. We give this man a chance to turn his life around and he throws it in our faces. His reasons must have been many to do so. He shakes his head at this news "This is most unpleasant indeed. It is a pity that he choose that path rather than the one we had hoped he would. At least Po made the choice to stand with us."
Kylie/Inn rooms
"I agree, Laucian. If I can find the time tomorrow, I would be happy to assist. If not, I'm sure Sherra could be of as much help to you as I could.
"I thank you for your assistance, both of you. I am hoping that they heard the fight with Lothar and rush to his aid, in doing so not securing information that may be useful to us."
Sherwood's Sword:
As if understanding what Laucian is trying to do, Sherwood will add, "They are magical runes of power. They are comprehendible only to those who can read such magical scripts."
"I see your point Sherwood. Even still they accent the blade nicely."
A group name:
Laucian begins to try to think up names for this party but fails to think of a single one. As the others begin to offer suggestions of names he quietly thinks on them. Protectors of the Realm. 'United, standing against those who would cause the area harm, This does fit well.' he thinks to himself. He does this for every one that follows.
The Dwarf mentions the name of Guardians of Light. This name strikes a chord with in him. "I must admit, it does have a nice sound to it. I see no reason why we cannot call ourselves this."
OOC: sorry it took me so long to post, I hope I got everything.
As Validar explains his plan for the gold and items, Laucian will listen with an open mind. Some Of what Validar purposes sounds like a good idea though he is concern if the party will only do this in this area.
"I am not concerned with my pay, for everything I need is provided by Ehlonna and the forests that she has granted us. Much of which you purpose has its benefits. Safer road ways and patrols, A home away from home as you say. It also benefits those who would make their home here. My concern is this my friend and I mean no disrespect. If we do as you purpose here, will we do it elsewhere as well? If it is to be so than I agree."
When he receives his share no matter how big or small he will divide it into four equal parts.
One as his own use, another for his temple/deity, another to fullfil his promise to Ivy, and the fourth as an emergency money.
Once that is done, Grondar will offer to accompany Laucian in a visit to question the surviving bandits.
"Your presence would be greatly appreciated in this matter Grondar."
Laucian will head to the Inn and rest. When he awakes he will pray for Ehlonna's blessing as well as spells. He will then seek out Grondar and go to the Garrison. When this is completed he will seek out Kylie or Sherra(whichever is available) and begin searching Artur/Arkane's former residence, he will also ask The innkeeper if any messages were received or sent by the two men.
Validar's sword story
"I am certain that we shall create some incredible stories of our own, this group."
"Of this I am certain."
Turning to the rest of the group, Grondar clears his throat noisily to get their attention. "I have some unpleasant news to share with you all. It turned out that the one known as Saladin was not as reliable as we might have hoped. Rather than fight at our side, he chose to sneak off. He attempted to steal these gems," Grondar dumps the bag on the floor, causing tigereye gems to bounce and skitter across the wooden flooring, "and flee. Fortunately, I was alerted to something untoward occuring and was able to apprehend Saladin in the attempt. I have turned him over to captain Geris and his men."
Laucian begins to wonder the decisions of Saladin. We give this man a chance to turn his life around and he throws it in our faces. His reasons must have been many to do so. He shakes his head at this news "This is most unpleasant indeed. It is a pity that he choose that path rather than the one we had hoped he would. At least Po made the choice to stand with us."
Kylie/Inn rooms
"I agree, Laucian. If I can find the time tomorrow, I would be happy to assist. If not, I'm sure Sherra could be of as much help to you as I could.
"I thank you for your assistance, both of you. I am hoping that they heard the fight with Lothar and rush to his aid, in doing so not securing information that may be useful to us."
Sherwood's Sword:
As if understanding what Laucian is trying to do, Sherwood will add, "They are magical runes of power. They are comprehendible only to those who can read such magical scripts."
"I see your point Sherwood. Even still they accent the blade nicely."
A group name:
Laucian begins to try to think up names for this party but fails to think of a single one. As the others begin to offer suggestions of names he quietly thinks on them. Protectors of the Realm. 'United, standing against those who would cause the area harm, This does fit well.' he thinks to himself. He does this for every one that follows.
The Dwarf mentions the name of Guardians of Light. This name strikes a chord with in him. "I must admit, it does have a nice sound to it. I see no reason why we cannot call ourselves this."
OOC: sorry it took me so long to post, I hope I got everything.
GM Notes:
GM Notes:
Travel times - I miscalculated the number of days it will take you guys to ride from Sherwood's tower to Rennydale greatly. Here are the accurate numbers.
Sherwood's tower to Elcadan will take 1.5 days, which will give you time to do some things in Elcadan.
From Elcadan to Rennydale is a journey 3.5 days.
For the curious, check out the new map for the Pyris/Elcadan area. The hexes are 8 miles in scale. The distance between Elcadan and Rennydale, following the road, is 184 miles. Using the slowest mount in the ground, ponies and the light warhorses, the group can normally go 24 miles per day. (Roads double this, so 48 miles per day.) Different types of terrain slow the miles per day rate.
The Timeline page has been updated to break down the dates of events that have occurred in New Frontiers, but also the actions happening at the same time in the Frontier and Sword of Doom.
Travel times - I miscalculated the number of days it will take you guys to ride from Sherwood's tower to Rennydale greatly. Here are the accurate numbers.
Sherwood's tower to Elcadan will take 1.5 days, which will give you time to do some things in Elcadan.
From Elcadan to Rennydale is a journey 3.5 days.
For the curious, check out the new map for the Pyris/Elcadan area. The hexes are 8 miles in scale. The distance between Elcadan and Rennydale, following the road, is 184 miles. Using the slowest mount in the ground, ponies and the light warhorses, the group can normally go 24 miles per day. (Roads double this, so 48 miles per day.) Different types of terrain slow the miles per day rate.
The Timeline page has been updated to break down the dates of events that have occurred in New Frontiers, but also the actions happening at the same time in the Frontier and Sword of Doom.
Of the assembled group, only Sherwood, Lilia, and Po actually carry short swords. Sherwood carries both a long and short sword with him.In truth, the large warrior had admitted that it wasn't a weapon he was entirely proficient with, so Kylie will seek out someone else for further instruction. As the others come to eat the provided meal, Kylie watches for any of the others bearing a similar weapon. She suspects that Laucian or Sherra is her best bet, but she will observe them all.
Try it and find out!
Corley
Corley:
"Aye, Lord Validar. We Sons of Cynalon will not let our beloved kingdom fall to such vile corruption! It is vexing that the King waffles in his decision making, but alas he is the King and his word is law. We shall carry on as best we can in the meantime.""Unfortunately, our beloved Kingdom is not strong. There are many viruses that corrupt and pollute it from within and without. Our hope lies in our new King, the Crown Prince. But there is much that noble hearts of valor and kindness can do to assist in that process."
"Very good. I am eager to see true battle instead of these cowardly bandits and mages who shield themselves in foul magicks!"While Lord Corley is a dear friend, he always was a bit simple in his thoughts, Validar thinks. Still he is a very good man and his presence is only a benefit. "Preparations should not take us long. We should be on our way shortly, my friend."
"Perhaps not, good lady, but a proper gentleman will always be polite to the fairer gender until proven they are not worthy of such accolades. You have done nothing in my eyes to make me think otherwise, Lady Kylie."Lord Corley's praise causes Kylie to blush. "You give me too much credit, my friend. I'm not as noble as you might like to believe."
"Interesting? Perhaps to someone unfamiliar with it perhaps, but to me this is adventure is far more interesting. The time for training and being tutor has finally past. Now comes the opportunity to prove my worth to my family, my friends, and my liege. What more could a warrior ask for? Other than the love of a good woman, of course, and fine food and drink.""It seems you have lived a very interesting life, Corley," she says with a smile. "I am glad you have chosen to join this group."
"You are most welcome, Lady Kylie. My only regret is that I could not instruct you further. Alas, my size and strength suggest the use of a much larger weapons to do battle."Thank you, Lord Corley, for helping me get comfortable with this new weapon." She attaches the sheathe to her belt before departing.
We fight for King and Country!
Sherwood
Sherwood:
"In some ways I can understand what you are going through. The path we wish to walk and the one fate casts us upon are not always the same. I do know this, Kylie Lanthorn. You are a strong willed woman and can endure what lies before us. You survived Dog Alley and anything else this world has to throw at you will pale in comparison. Know this as well; as part of this band you will never be alone."
Once ready to return to Pyris, Sherwood pulls out a very realistic picture of a specific chamber in Castle Pyris. The room has been set aside as the designated teleport arrival point by both Sherwood and Jallarzi. The realistic picture was drawn by magic and proves the spellcaster a specific point of arrival.
One in Pyris, Sherwood makes his way to the Baron's bedchamber. Baron Relon is looking much better this day. Elspeth has done her usual excellent work. Sherwood will exchange pleasantries with the young priestess before excusing himself to spell with Jallarzi at great length in private.
"Only time will tell if your words ring true, Grondar of Berronar. However, I would never knowingly set adventurers on a task that I knew they were overwhelmed by. I may test groups and individuals to gauge their reactions, but I try to avoid hopeless struggles as much as possible. I will be there should such a battle be fought.""My heart is gladdened to hear that you intend to remain largely involved with this group. Your knowledge outstrips that of us all, and may well prove to be the difference between success and possibly-fatal failure."
Mildly surprised by Kylie's strong show of affection, Sherwood will gently hold the small half-elf in his arms and attempt to comfort her.Kylie looks up at Sherwood. "I wouldn't want to let you and Jallarzi down," she says with a note of sarcasm, though in truth, she wouldn't.
Kylie pauses, then shakes her head. "I'm sorry. I'm having a difficult time with this - it's definitely not how I had envisioned my future. "
"I do agree with Grondar that it is good that you will remain with us." Suddenly, for no obvious reason, Kylie wraps her arms around Sherwood and gives him a hug.
"In some ways I can understand what you are going through. The path we wish to walk and the one fate casts us upon are not always the same. I do know this, Kylie Lanthorn. You are a strong willed woman and can endure what lies before us. You survived Dog Alley and anything else this world has to throw at you will pale in comparison. Know this as well; as part of this band you will never be alone."
"You are most welcome, Sherra. Often one cannot see their own potential and some like Saladin cannot believe they can rise above such troubles lives.""It is the least I can do to repay your insight and kindness upon having rescued me from a possibly self-destructive path. It is more than that though, as I am finding pleasant company in many of the others and feel as if finally I belong somewhere," Sherra will reply.
Once ready to return to Pyris, Sherwood pulls out a very realistic picture of a specific chamber in Castle Pyris. The room has been set aside as the designated teleport arrival point by both Sherwood and Jallarzi. The realistic picture was drawn by magic and proves the spellcaster a specific point of arrival.
One in Pyris, Sherwood makes his way to the Baron's bedchamber. Baron Relon is looking much better this day. Elspeth has done her usual excellent work. Sherwood will exchange pleasantries with the young priestess before excusing himself to spell with Jallarzi at great length in private.
I do what is necessary.
Ivy
Ivy:
"You conceived this plan, Lord Validar, so that makes you the best to explain it to others. I would not wish to make an error in explaining it to my sisters.""I am not convinced that I am the best person to address the leaders of a temple, but I will be happy to assist in the process if it will further the aims of our plan."
"I am comfortable with that designation for our band.""I like Grondar's suggestion of Guardians of the Light. How do the rest of you feel about that choice?
For the glory of the Blue Lady!
-
Lilia
- Queen of the Sylvan Realm
- Posts: 457
- Joined: Thu Jul 17, 2003 4:54 pm
- Location: The Sylvan Realm
Lilia
Lilia:
"The items are not fully identified anyway, so waiting will be involved no matter what. Plus I have several tomes of new spells to pour through to occupy my time. The wait will pass quickly for me."A wry smile tugs at the corner of Validar's lips as he tries to determine if Lilia's response smacks of ignorance or arrogance. "You show incredible restraint as it may be another two or three days before the disbursement of magical treasure is made. But waiting does seem to be the prudent thing to do." Everyone else seems to agree as well. Validar is not as concerned about magickal treasure as he is continuing on the adventure anyway.
Either by my magic or my bow you WILL fall!
VALIDAR -
As Validar explains his plan for the gold and items, Laucian will listen with an open mind. Some of what Validar proposes sounds like a good idea though he is concerned if the party will only do this in this area.
"I am not concerned with my pay, for everything I need is provided by Ehlonna and the forests that she has granted us. Much of which you propose has its benefits. Safer roadways and patrols, A home away from home as you say. It also benefits those who would make their home here. My concern is this my friend and I mean no disrespect. If we do as you purpose here, will we do it elsewhere as well? If it is to be so than I agree."
"I have every intention of such an arrangement in many places in our part of the kingdom. It may not be possible to take the time in every stop we make, but with the Seekers, we did the same before in the village we rescued from the Hextorites, giving all the monetary treasure we recovered to the ex-slaves of the vile scum."
"We will be laden down with as much treasure as we can carry when our missions are completed. I personally need to take some of my portion for our Barony's needs, but we can make a dramtic impact in our world."
Laucian begins to wonder the decisions of Saladin. We give this man a chance to turn his life around and he throws it in our faces. His reasons must have been many to do so. He shakes his head at this news "This is most unpleasant indeed. It is a pity that he choose that path rather than the one we had hoped he would. At least Po made the choice to stand with us."
"Po made a wise choice and one he will not regret. But it was not a correct choice coming from the situation. It was a matter of the lad's heart. He has proven his bravery and he is on the path of redemption."
"Unfortunately, our beloved Kingdom is not strong. There are many viruses that corrupt and pollute it from within and without. Our hope lies in our new King, the Crown Prince. But there is much that noble hearts of valor and kindness can do to assist in that process."
Corley - "Aye, Lord Validar. We Sons of Cynalon will not let our beloved kingdom fall to such vile corruption! It is vexing that the King waffles in his decision making, but alas he is the King and his word is law. We shall carry on as best we can in the meantime."
"There is much we can do and will do within that law. We will oppose every enemy to our lands and fight them to our last breath."
"I am not convinced that I am the best person to address the leaders of a temple, but I will be happy to assist in the process if it will further the aims of our plan."
IVY - "You conceived this plan, Lord Validar, so that makes you the best to explain it to others. I would not wish to make an error in explaining it to my sisters."
"You words ring true, fair Ivy. When we arrive in Elcadan a few days hence, I shall accompany you to your temple. The order of Azrella seems well suited to the task. We can use as many allies in this endeavor as possible. The Blue Lady's blessing on the actions in Elcadan should be construed by the nobles and merchants as nothing more than a peaceful attempt to assist the misfortunate. They should not see the other benefits we will receive for some time."
It appears that our band's designation will be Guardians of the Light since no one has offered any argument against it. So be it.
As Validar explains his plan for the gold and items, Laucian will listen with an open mind. Some of what Validar proposes sounds like a good idea though he is concerned if the party will only do this in this area.
"I am not concerned with my pay, for everything I need is provided by Ehlonna and the forests that she has granted us. Much of which you propose has its benefits. Safer roadways and patrols, A home away from home as you say. It also benefits those who would make their home here. My concern is this my friend and I mean no disrespect. If we do as you purpose here, will we do it elsewhere as well? If it is to be so than I agree."
"I have every intention of such an arrangement in many places in our part of the kingdom. It may not be possible to take the time in every stop we make, but with the Seekers, we did the same before in the village we rescued from the Hextorites, giving all the monetary treasure we recovered to the ex-slaves of the vile scum."
"We will be laden down with as much treasure as we can carry when our missions are completed. I personally need to take some of my portion for our Barony's needs, but we can make a dramtic impact in our world."
Laucian begins to wonder the decisions of Saladin. We give this man a chance to turn his life around and he throws it in our faces. His reasons must have been many to do so. He shakes his head at this news "This is most unpleasant indeed. It is a pity that he choose that path rather than the one we had hoped he would. At least Po made the choice to stand with us."
"Po made a wise choice and one he will not regret. But it was not a correct choice coming from the situation. It was a matter of the lad's heart. He has proven his bravery and he is on the path of redemption."
"Unfortunately, our beloved Kingdom is not strong. There are many viruses that corrupt and pollute it from within and without. Our hope lies in our new King, the Crown Prince. But there is much that noble hearts of valor and kindness can do to assist in that process."
Corley - "Aye, Lord Validar. We Sons of Cynalon will not let our beloved kingdom fall to such vile corruption! It is vexing that the King waffles in his decision making, but alas he is the King and his word is law. We shall carry on as best we can in the meantime."
"There is much we can do and will do within that law. We will oppose every enemy to our lands and fight them to our last breath."
"I am not convinced that I am the best person to address the leaders of a temple, but I will be happy to assist in the process if it will further the aims of our plan."
IVY - "You conceived this plan, Lord Validar, so that makes you the best to explain it to others. I would not wish to make an error in explaining it to my sisters."
"You words ring true, fair Ivy. When we arrive in Elcadan a few days hence, I shall accompany you to your temple. The order of Azrella seems well suited to the task. We can use as many allies in this endeavor as possible. The Blue Lady's blessing on the actions in Elcadan should be construed by the nobles and merchants as nothing more than a peaceful attempt to assist the misfortunate. They should not see the other benefits we will receive for some time."
It appears that our band's designation will be Guardians of the Light since no one has offered any argument against it. So be it.
Conquer or Die!
Chareos
Validar begins to explain his plan for the treasure that we have just received. Fortifying this area and paying citizens to come inhabit the area. This idea does not seem outlandish to him.
"Your proposal for the fortification and development of this area is a sound one. As long as those magical items of little or no need to us are to be sold, I agree. But may I offer a small suggestion. You propose to give these families a sum of money to stay and cultivate as well as build on this land. This Idea is all well and good my friend. But disperse the wealth over time so they do not just take the money stay for a time and than leave to fulfill their own desires."
Sherra and Laucian return to Lothar's house with a metallic box with a sweeping script engraved upon it. He looks to the box with interest and begins to try to make the writing out. Much to his disappointment he cannot.
"The idea of cooperative leadership worked well in my last company, the Seekers. The Seekers shared equally in all treasure gained and the leaders distributed magic items as they saw fit, trying to be fair and keep the group at maximum efficiency. I would recommend this method as having seen it work as well as can be expected."
Stroking his goatee the young mage speaks up "I must agree with this method of disbursing the items. If we are to work as an unit it would be the best method of being fair to everyone's needs rather than the individuals wants. "
Kylie's hands tremble with excitement as Sherwood hands the book to her. "Thank you, uncle." She turns to Chareos. "I'll let you know as soon as I have finished."
"We all have much to learn and study from these tomes. Take your time, I have much to review as well."
Seeing that almost everyone seems comfortable with the idea of Validar and I leading the band say, "Thank you for your votes of confidence. I can only hope that we live up to your expectations.
"If tonight was to be an inkling of the future, I am sure that you will exceed our expectations."
The topic of a party name comes to pass Chareos begins to play with Ideas within his head of names. Many are formed with in his head but only one to his liking. "Of all the suggestions suggested the name 'Guardians of the realm" seems best in my opinion. Though considering most of you are in agreement with Guardians of Light, it is apparent that the choice has been made." smiling weakly.
He will walk up to Validar, "Of all the items that are here,the potions depending on their making would be of interest to me. "
When the conversations die down Chareos will again pick up where he left off with the magic tomes and begin to try to make sense of the mysteries with in.
Validar begins to explain his plan for the treasure that we have just received. Fortifying this area and paying citizens to come inhabit the area. This idea does not seem outlandish to him.
"Your proposal for the fortification and development of this area is a sound one. As long as those magical items of little or no need to us are to be sold, I agree. But may I offer a small suggestion. You propose to give these families a sum of money to stay and cultivate as well as build on this land. This Idea is all well and good my friend. But disperse the wealth over time so they do not just take the money stay for a time and than leave to fulfill their own desires."
Sherra and Laucian return to Lothar's house with a metallic box with a sweeping script engraved upon it. He looks to the box with interest and begins to try to make the writing out. Much to his disappointment he cannot.
"The idea of cooperative leadership worked well in my last company, the Seekers. The Seekers shared equally in all treasure gained and the leaders distributed magic items as they saw fit, trying to be fair and keep the group at maximum efficiency. I would recommend this method as having seen it work as well as can be expected."
Stroking his goatee the young mage speaks up "I must agree with this method of disbursing the items. If we are to work as an unit it would be the best method of being fair to everyone's needs rather than the individuals wants. "
Kylie's hands tremble with excitement as Sherwood hands the book to her. "Thank you, uncle." She turns to Chareos. "I'll let you know as soon as I have finished."
"We all have much to learn and study from these tomes. Take your time, I have much to review as well."
Seeing that almost everyone seems comfortable with the idea of Validar and I leading the band say, "Thank you for your votes of confidence. I can only hope that we live up to your expectations.
"If tonight was to be an inkling of the future, I am sure that you will exceed our expectations."
The topic of a party name comes to pass Chareos begins to play with Ideas within his head of names. Many are formed with in his head but only one to his liking. "Of all the suggestions suggested the name 'Guardians of the realm" seems best in my opinion. Though considering most of you are in agreement with Guardians of Light, it is apparent that the choice has been made." smiling weakly.
He will walk up to Validar, "Of all the items that are here,the potions depending on their making would be of interest to me. "
When the conversations die down Chareos will again pick up where he left off with the magic tomes and begin to try to make sense of the mysteries with in.
VALIDAR -
Chareos - "Your proposal for the fortification and development of this area is a sound one. As long as those magical items of little or no need to us are to be sold, I agree. But may I offer a small suggestion. You propose to give these families a sum of money to stay and cultivate as well as build on this land. This Idea is all well and good my friend. But disperse the wealth over time so they do not just take the money stay for a time and than leave to fulfill their own desires."
"Your words are wise, friend Chareos. We have plans to have an assigned accountant from Pyris have control over the fund distribution. The people will have access to the money immediately if the desire to spend it on repairs or improvements to the area or business creation. If they simply want the money to live off of, then perhaps we should consider passing it out over time." Validar will remember to mention this to the new treasurer.
About the treasure dispersal:
Stroking his goatee the young mage speaks up "I must agree with this method of disbursing the items. If we are to work as an unit it would be the best method of being fair to everyone's needs rather than the individuals wants. "
"You speak with the thoughts of one who is committed to the group, rather than individual wants and needs. And in my experience, that way of thinking is best for everyone and all benefit the most."
He will walk up to Validar, "Of all the items that are here,the potions depending on their making would be of interest to me. "
"Very well, I shall keep those thoughts in mind, but I am sure with a treasure haul such as this, there will be more than potions for your future use." Validar will note the young mage's lack of greed and commitment to the group.
Chareos - "Your proposal for the fortification and development of this area is a sound one. As long as those magical items of little or no need to us are to be sold, I agree. But may I offer a small suggestion. You propose to give these families a sum of money to stay and cultivate as well as build on this land. This Idea is all well and good my friend. But disperse the wealth over time so they do not just take the money stay for a time and than leave to fulfill their own desires."
"Your words are wise, friend Chareos. We have plans to have an assigned accountant from Pyris have control over the fund distribution. The people will have access to the money immediately if the desire to spend it on repairs or improvements to the area or business creation. If they simply want the money to live off of, then perhaps we should consider passing it out over time." Validar will remember to mention this to the new treasurer.
About the treasure dispersal:
Stroking his goatee the young mage speaks up "I must agree with this method of disbursing the items. If we are to work as an unit it would be the best method of being fair to everyone's needs rather than the individuals wants. "
"You speak with the thoughts of one who is committed to the group, rather than individual wants and needs. And in my experience, that way of thinking is best for everyone and all benefit the most."
He will walk up to Validar, "Of all the items that are here,the potions depending on their making would be of interest to me. "
"Very well, I shall keep those thoughts in mind, but I am sure with a treasure haul such as this, there will be more than potions for your future use." Validar will note the young mage's lack of greed and commitment to the group.
Conquer or Die!