New Frontiers #16

[Ivy]

Ivy:

Grondar listens as Ivy discusses the temples in this city. He is not particularly surprised that there are no temples to dwarven deities. "Perhaps it might be worth a visit to this God's House. Perhaps those who manage it could be persuaded to allow shrines to other gods as well. At least then, those non-humans who pass through - whether adventurers or from nearby towns and cities - will have an opportunity to give observance to their beliefs."

"That is a fine idea, Grondar. I can show you where God's House is located at if you wish."

Acerion will ask Ivy, "Perhaps if time allows after this important meeting you could show me where the temple to Heironeous is. If you have other matters to attend and do not wish to accompany me, just point me in the right direction, I would be greatly honored."

"It is no trouble, Lord Acerion. I can show you the temple when I take Grondar to God's House."

"Neverwinter was being altered by an evil artifact. So it was a matter of learning that, I always have been interested in history, and managing to destroy it. I had help, but it was very satisfying nonetheless. However, I am sure I hold her enmity to this day."

"I wasn't aware that an artifact was involved in it as well. And yes, I am sure that her followers will pursue you seeking retribution. I'm not sure I could live easy with something like that hanging over my head."

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

Ivy leads Acerion and Grondar to their destinations. Departing Old Town the way they entered, the trio find themselves back on the High Road. She rides past the open market and down one of the streets into New Town. Along the way you ride past the New Town Inn and a building labeled as "Pinstella" on small brass plaque.

At the next intersection, Ivy turns to her right and the Temple of Heironeous is immediately on your left. It is a well kept two story stone building that looks more like a small fortress then a temple. The main entrance has the look of a defendable gatehouse and guards stand to either side dressed in chain mail armor. Each man bears a battle axe and wears a dark blue cloak with silver trim.

"There you go, Acerion. Now if you will excuse me, I will take Grondar to his destination. See you later."

Turning, Ivy will lead Grondar back the way you came and back over the Streelspan Bridge. There is no toll for leaving the island portion of Elcadan.


On the other side, Ivy rides deeper into Crosstown. Most of the dwellings along the way seem more like private residences then businesses. A shingle saying "Scribe" is noted. The smell of a fish market is sensed before the place is actually seen.

Continuing onward, you ride past a temple to Tymora before arriving at God's House. The place is a large, single story stone building. The doors leading inside stand open.

Entering, you find that the interior is one long walkway to the opposite side of the building. Along each side of the alcove are small areas devoted to a variety of gods. A small shrine appropriate to each deity is present as well.

Among the gods present will include: Eldath, Istus, Silvanus, Ehlonna, Celestian, Pholtus, Chauntea, Alesh, Aedrie, Hanali, and Lathander. All of them are typically human deities, but Aedrie and Hanali are also counted among the elven pantheon. There are alcoves which stand empty.

[Laucian]

Laucian





"A sad tale, my friend, but as long as orcs remain it shall be one that is repeated. Treasure the memory of your mother and I hope she is pleased with what her son has become."

"I believe she watches down on me everyday. I know she would be not only pleased but proud." he says with hope but hopes it doesn't sound overconfident.

Talia becomes more agitated as Laucian approaches her. She looks as if she's ready to jump out of her skin and does not offer her hand.

"Talia", she'll finally say. "I'm a scout, of sorts. Please excuse me."

He gently extends his hand but soon withdraws it as she seemingly does not wish to be friendly. She looks ill at eased almost like a cat being cuaght of guard. She quickly excuses herself and walks from the room."Oh,Certainly." He wonders if he did something wrong to offend the Lady, but can think of nothing. 'Maybe she just doesnt care for elves' he thinks to himself.
Swanny begins to tell the tale of her comrade who seemingly retired from adventuring.


"Oh, we didn't really lose him. He finally got tired of dying and hung up his sword. I would imagine that if I died half a dozen times, I probably would think twice about walking into a dungeon too."


"I would tend to agree with his/your thinking. After that many deaths I would think he would start doubting himself as well as endangering your comrades."

As the day drags on Laucian excuses himself from the others and walks outside. He draws forth his sword and begins to become more acquainted with striking at his shadow as if it were an aggressor.
The dark garbed archer soon finds him and wishes to speak with him. Wiping the sweat from his brow and quickly sheath his sword and listen to what Sherra has to say.

She will then try to find Laucian and let him know he did nothing wrong. "Laucian, I learned that Talia had a very bad experience with men in her past and is trying to work through it. She wanted me to tell you that it's not anything personal, and I believe she will just need some time before she becomes more open on her own."
When Sherra speaks of it being nothing personal Laucian will offer a slight sigh of relief. "I was merely being polite and was curious to her background. I thought I offended her in someway or maybe she just doesn't care for my kind."
" I hope that the cause of this experience was dealt with accordingly. When she is ready to speak with me I will be here."

Sherra will try to make sure Laucian doesn't feel too put out and will spend some time talking with him if he wants to, and suggest maybe they can get in some target practice with their bows if he's feeling up to doing such.

Laucian will welcome Sherra's invitation to practice with their bows together. He will also welcome the chance to talk to the darked garbed women. As he knocks an arrow to his bow he will ask, "Where she hails from? What did she do prior to Sherwood's invitation?" Etc.

[Validar]

VALIDAR -

Boelle - "I find the arrangement you propose most agreeable. Come and sit, young noble. Let us iron out the specifics of the arrangement and what you require from us."

(Basically the nuts and bolts of the deal, timetables, etc. Stuff you don't have to go into online. Boelle can supply what you need from her.)

"Very good, Boelle of Azrella. I am certain that your Order's influence and assistance will assure this plan of success." Validar will sit with Boelle and work out the details while the others go about other business.

Once the discussion is complete, assuming the others have not returned by this time, Validar will ride around the island for a short while, looking at the layout and trying to get a mental layout of the bridge and guard towers leading here from the mainland.

He will then return to Edwina's estate alone or with the others, if he meets up with them.

Later that evening, he will search out Sherra.

[Kharyna]

KHARYNA -

"That is one way to look at it", Swanny will concede. "Or maybe he just had a sweet spot for you."

Kharyna will let out a chuckle at the thought. "I always thought he was more your type! You two had a lot more in common that I ever would with Daramos.

Laucian - "I would tend to agree with his/your thinking. After that many deaths I would think he would start doubting himself as well as endangering your comrades."

"It just got to him one day. I don't blame him one bit. Fortunately, we were successful enough to afford repeated resurrection costs and have the connections to do it. Between the Illefarn adventure and the Towers of Gaz, we have never been hurting for funds." Kharyna says this with an easy smile, without a hint of bragging or arrogance.


Jallarzi-
"That's not a bad idea, Kharyna. I've been away often as of late and haven't been spending much time with her. So if you wish to take her out, do so with my blessing. She could use the exercise."

Later on, Jallarzi will show Farthon to those who wish to see her. Farthon is a typical griffon, combining the features of an eagle and a lion. She stands 5' high and is easily 9' long. Her full wingspan is 25'. Her head, upper torso, and forelegs are like those of a giant eagle. This eagle half is covered in golden feathers from her wingtips to her razor sharp beak. The rest of her body is lion like covered with tawny fur and tail.

Jallarzi will fearlessly step up to the griffon and scratch its head.

"I've had Farthon since she was a hatchling. She quite tame, unlike her kind found in the wild. Still, I wouldn't venture too close until you've earned her trust."

'What a magnificent creature," Kharyna cannot help saying when she sees Farthon again. "I look forward to having a griffon of my own one day." Kharyna will daudle over the massive creature, talking to her and stroking her.

Kharyna will then prepare Farthon for riding and sets off for a ride. Despite her high spirits at having been cooped up recently, Farthon is easy to handle and responds well to Kharyna's commands, as long as she is firm. In moments, Kharyna and Farthon take to the sky. What a rush!

In private with Kylie -
Embarassment covers Kylie's fine features. "Lord Corley," she replies in a small voice.

"I-- I don't know. He seems to respond at times, but yet he responds in like manner to all of the other women as well. It's just... I've never been interested in a man in this way, and I don't know what I'm doing or what to expect. And while talking to him about it would probably be the right thing to do, I just can't bring myself to do it." A note of anxiety creeps into Kylie's voice at the thought of being so forward.

Kharyna smiles again at Kylie. "So part of what you're feeling is jealousy that he is interested in many women. My guess is that he's galant and feels protective of women and there are many attractive ladies around. But when I said that perhaps you should let him know of your own attraction, I wasn't talking about talking. I may be wrong, but he doesn't seem to be the type of man to overly discuss things, based on first impressions. Show him that you're interested. Spend time with him away from others. Get him to show you things he is interested in, even if you have little interest yourself. And if he shows interest back, then make him pursue. But you have to gain his interest first and hold it. It isn't necessary to be forward."

[Grondar]

Grondar:

Little Sephie will be entranced by Grondar's appearance and look at him wide eyed. She'll reach out with her little hand and playfully tug on her beard, but not to hard.

"He's fuzzy!", Sephie will announce.

Sephie's reaction brings a deep, rumbling chuckle from Grondar. "Why yes, I am rather fuzzy," he replies as the girl weaves her tiny fingers into his short beard and tugs. "Kind of a like a living teddy bear, really." Grondar winks at Ivy.

"You are most welcome within our halls, Grondar of Berronar. It has been many years since I last encountered a follower of Truesilver. We are honored with your presence. Followers of Berronar are always welcomed in the Temples of the Blue Lady."

"As you are always an honored guest in the halls of the Revered Mother." Grondar bows again. "Now that Illefarn has been returned to my people, I trust you will see more of us in the future."

Swanny will turn and eye the dwarf closely. "Indeed, you are dwarf", she'll say bluntly.

Her features will soften and Swanny will add, "I meant no offense to you. We just had some bad experiences with dwarves in the past and I find it hard to be relaxed around them still."

At first, Swanny's comments bring a frown of consternation to Grondar's face, but her explanation relieves his mind somewhat, though not the disappointment on his face. "I'm sorry to hear that. Most of my people are stout and good of heart, but - like any race - there are a few bad apples in the bunch. Unfortunately, since so many of us live our entire lives in the mountains, it is often those that have been driven out that are encounted by those of the other races.

"If there is ever anything I can do for you, you have but to ask."

"That is a fine idea, Grondar. I can show you where God's House is located at if you wish."

"Thank you, Ivy. Much appreciated."

They travel together with Acerion into New City. Grondar notes the brass plaque on the building, and asks Ivy about it. "Pinstella? What is that, lady Ivy?"

Shortly thereafter, they drop Acerion at the temple of his order and continue on into Crosstown. The area seems to consist primarily of residences and small businesses, such as the Scribe on the corner. The stench of fish assaults Grondar's nostrils shortly thereafter. Personally, he's never liked fish much himself, and has a bit of a hard time understanding why it's so popular among the humans.

Grondar notes the temple to Tymora, which makes him think of Sherra, as she seems to place great faith in Her Lady of Luck.

Reaching the "God's House", Grondar dismounts with Ivy. "So this is the place?" The layout seems odd from the outside, but begins to make some sense as he walks through the long building. There are quite a few deities represented, but none of truly objectionable dogma. Grondar takes notice of the fact that there are empty alcoves, which seems to indicate that space is available for other faiths.

Grondar searches around, trying to find some indication of who runs and maintains the building. If he finds no office or caretaker, he will ask Ivy about it.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Later that evening, Kylie will be surprised, but not too surprised at the same time, to find that Edwina devoured all the tarts. The little pseudo-dragon is just laying there, on her back yet, among the remains of the tarts, partially covered by the gooey filling, her belly bulging largely sleeping contentedly.

Seeing the mess that has been made and the greedy little vermin responsible lying amid the carnage, Kylie steps forward angrily. "Edwina! You greedy, selfish little beast! Those tarts were to be shared by everyone!"

"I am a skill woodsman and warrior. Unlike your friend Laucian, I am not a priest of the Lady of the Forests, but do hold her in high esteem."

"It would seem you two have much in common, Arocken," Kylie says, smiling. If you will be joining us, I guess that gives me someone else to hide behind..." While she maintains a light tone, Kylie is only half kidding.

Kharyna smiles again at Kylie. "So part of what you're feeling is jealousy that he is interested in many women. My guess is that he's galant and feels protective of women and there are many attractive ladies around. But when I said that perhaps you should let him know of your own attraction, I wasn't talking about talking. I may be wrong, but he doesn't seem to be the type of man to overly discuss things, based on first impressions. Show him that you're interested. Spend time with him away from others. Get him to show you things he is interested in, even if you have little interest yourself. And if he shows interest back, then make him pursue. But you have to gain his interest first and hold it. It isn't necessary to be forward."

"Yes. No.... I don't know. It's all so confusing," Kylie says. "I guess it wouldn't be too hard to talk to him about him, though I tend to get tongue-tied around him. I'll try, if I can keep my nervousness from making a complete fool of me."

[Acerion]

Acerion:

After a brief, private meeting with Elspeth, Acerion will see Ivy and Grondar ready to head out and will join up with them.

At the next intersection, Ivy turns to her right and the Temple of Heironeous is immediately on your left. It is a well kept two story stone building that looks more like a small fortress then a temple. The main entrance has the look of a defendable gatehouse and guards stand to either side dressed in chain mail armor. Each man bears a battle axe and wears a dark blue cloak with silver trim.

"There you go, Acerion. Now if you will excuse me, I will take Grondar to his destination. See you later."

"Much thanks to you, Ivy. I look forward to seeing you soon," Acerion will smile and bow his head slightly to Ivy and clasp Grondar on the shoulder before they depart.

Acerion turns and gazes at the temple and takes note of the guards and nods to himself before entering. He will give a nod to each of the guards before entering. Still having his helmet removed from the meeting with the priestesses, he does not replace it within the halls of this temple. He will seek out the highest priest he can gain audience with and present himself. Acerion will then seek to find out if there is any news to be heard. He will spend some time within the temple and ask if there is anything he can do, even if the task is somewhat mundane. Acerion has no tithe at this point to offer, having gained no monetary funds as of yet, but still will not shrink away at offering aid and honoring his faith and deity in this fashion.

Eventually he will depart, and if unable to find any of the others within the city at such a late hour, he will make his way back to the estate. Acerion will rely on the various landmarks he had seen upon entering Elcadan to help him navigate.

[Sherra]

Sherra:

"Let's just say that I didn't shed any tears when they killed that orog high priest."

Sherra represses a shudder, of which she feels a major accomplishment at being able to do so. Her mind begins to speculate all sorts of unsavory things and she quickly wipes those away, only to be replaced by the somewhat-less horrific, but still painful memories of her younger years. Again, with a bit more struggle this time, Sherra manages to remove all unwanted thoughts and memories.

Talia doesn't mind the company or the conversation. She'll relate that she's more of a dungeon scout, locating and disarming traps, finding safe paths, and opening locks than the traditional robbery thief you find in cities.

Sherra will definitely enjoy the conversation and make comment to Talia that she is not a "traditional" thief either, and their skills seem similair, even if Sherra views herself as a "wilderness scout," she still figures her talents would help in dungeon situations easily enough.

Sherra will not depart as quickly as she thought she might, but eventually will say goodbye to Talia in need to search out Laucian. She will definitely look forward to having more time to converse with Talia in the future and will let her know as much before leaving.

Sherra will find Laucian practicing and will watch for a moment, admiring his elven grace and concentration. Wanting to linger, she doesn't and approaches Laucian, watching him quickly retire from the swordplay and listen to her.

When Sherra speaks of it being nothing personal Laucian will offer a slight sigh of relief. "I was merely being polite and was curious to her background. I thought I offended her in someway or maybe she just doesn't care for my kind."
" I hope that the cause of this experience was dealt with accordingly. When she is ready to speak with me I will be here."

"I believe the experience was dealt with quite firmly and I honestly believe in time Talia will be ready to be more open," Sherra will smile.

As the two find a suitable spot to engage in some target practice, Sherra will admire his skill with the bow. No slouch herself, she plans to see just how good both of them really are, but will take notice of the differences in their styles and see if she can spot anything Laucian does that might improve her own proficiency.

Laucian will welcome Sherra's invitation to practice with their bows together. He will also welcome the chance to talk to the darked garbed women. As he knocks an arrow to his bow he will ask, "Where she hails from? What did she do prior to Sherwood's invitation?" Etc.

"I really don't remember too much of my early childhood or of who my parents were," Sherra will start during a break between volleys. "I spent almost all of my years on the open sea, which is where I picked up most of my skills. The people I was with were not lifelong companions however, even if the lifestyle was quite exhilirating. Eventually I parted ways on my own terms. Shortly after, upon arriving in Elcadan, I realized that despite not wanting to be a part of that crew anymore, they had taken care of my every need, and on my own I was ill-equipped to sustain myself. I probably would have ended up within the ranks of an organization such as Lothar's if Sherwood had not seen my potential and rescued me from that seemingly self-destructive path I was about to embark upon."

Sherra will see how Laucian takes all of what she has told him. She has never been ashamed of who she had to be to survive, but she has seen little of that sort of background as hers, except maybe with Kylie and Po, within this group and has remained tentative about giving out too much to anyone so far.

[Kharyna]

Kharyna -

At first, Swanny's comments bring a frown of consternation to Grondar's face, but her explanation relieves his mind somewhat, though not the disappointment on his face. "I'm sorry to hear that. Most of my people are stout and good of heart, but - like any race - there are a few bad apples in the bunch. Unfortunately, since so many of us live our entire lives in the mountains, it is often those that have been driven out that are encounted by those of the other races.

"If there is ever anything I can do for you, you have but to ask."

Kharyna will hesitate for a moment, before speaking up. "We have had both good and bad experiences with dwarves, in fact. Swanny is somewhat miffed by our most recent encounter with you kind, however, as I must admit I have been as well."

"While our encounter with Korin Ironaxe went smooth enough and we were happy to assist him in finding the crown of his ancestors, our exploration of the Towers of Gaz created a much different situation. At one of the towers there was an entire encampment of dwarves outside the tower. They had basically set up a banditry situation by extorting a percentage of the gold and treasure that adventurers were attempting to bring up from the ruins. It was not a haphazard and spur of the moment arrangement, as the encampment seemed permanent."

"Well, it bothered us to no end that these individuals would try to bully those who earned this treasure through their own skills and wiles using numbers and threat of force."

Kharyna will close her eyes and look away for a moment and when she opens them again, her emerald eyes burn fiercely. "We attempted to negotiate with them briefly, but they were firm in their demands. So we attacked. We annihilated them all." Kharyna will look away again. "They got what they deserved, " she will say strongly.


Kylie -
"Yes. No.... I don't know. It's all so confusing," Kylie says. "I guess it wouldn't be too hard to talk to him about him, though I tend to get tongue-tied around him. I'll try, if I can keep my nervousness from making a complete fool of me."

"I bet this Corley doesn't even notice that you get tongue-tied around him. Just keep the conversation going by asking about him and jump on the times he askes you any questions. Give him a chance to know you. It isn't an immediate process. The best relationships take time."

[GM Mad]

Post Closed