New Frontiers #60
The diabolical dragon has been slain! But with his dying words, Ember claims that he shall not go into the afterlife alone! Coupled with Ember reverting to his true gigantic dragon form upon death, Lord Sharadin has called for everyone to retreat back to the mirror used to reach this Crystal Citadel.
The Guardians follow the Archmage's instructions and begin a hasty retreat. The dragon slayers rush forward as Ember continues to grow behind them. Aria is the slowest and quickly falls behind. Grondar rushes forward, his movement greatly accelerated by his Boots of Speed, and simply picks Aria up. Even with her considerable weight, Grondar is still about the fastest here.
Lord Validar stops to pick up the unconscious Lord Corley, but is surprised to discover that his friend is heavier than he expected. His progress with the extra weight is just barely above a crawl. Lord Acerion lends a hand and between the two of them, better speed is made.
Argent holds her dress high enough to allow her to run as fast as she can, but it is still somewhat slow. The Invoker stumbles, but is helped back up by Laucian. Together, they rush back to the doorway that led into this maze.
Behind them, Ember continues to grow. His body is now large enough to cause strain on the crystal walls of the maze. A great shattering sound is heard as some of the walls give way from the force pressing on them! More and more walls crack and blow out as Ember keeps growing.
Sherra and Chareos are the first to reach the portal. Looking back they can see the others approaching as fast as they can. Small hairline cracks are growing and rapidly spreading throughout the Crystalline Maze like a spider’s web. The entire structure begins to shake and no one doubts that this place will not stand much longer.
More of the crystal walls shatter and shards of quartz are sent flying. The dragon's body keeps on growing and it seems to come closer and closer as the group flees.
Finally, everyone is close to the portal and you begin to pass through the doorway. The magic of the portal does its job and you are whisked back to the matching doorway in the gauntlet hallway. About 120' feet ahead is the demonic portal that will lead you back to Opikus' study and the waiting mirror that will take you back to the caves underneath Corunglain.
Lord Sharadin pauses and attempts to cast a spell. As per Lord Validar's request he'll Teleport many of the group to safety. The spell is cast and nothing happens!
"I was afraid of this," Sharadin notes as he begins to briskly move to the next portal. "I suspected that there was something in play that blocks movement spells. After all, Ember could have simply used his Contingency to return directly to his nest in Opikus' living area. Likewise he was making his way back on foot. Given the urgency of his situation, he would have come as fast as he could to close the mirror portal. I suspected that he did not teleport in because he could not!"
New Frontiers #60
New Frontiers #60
Try it and find out!
Page Two
The group moves forward as fast as they can. More sounds of breaking crystal are heard as the Crystal Citadel continues to break up around you. With a nearly deafening crash, the floor up ahead breaks! The fracture races across the chamber and cuts you off from the demonic portal. As if that wasn't bad enough, it continues up the walls and across the sealing! Before your startled eyes, the far end of this chamber begins to fall away!
Those in front slow their progress to stop from going over the edge. As you watch, you realize that a huge chunk of the Crystal Citadel just fell away from the main body! The sky outside can now be seen as the shard descends. Looking down you are surprised to see that the entire Citadel hovers over a lake of molten lava! The intense heat of the lava washes over everyone.
Looking around, you quickly realize how the Ring of Flame got its name. The Crystal Citadel hovers over a valley. Ringing the valley are five small, active volcanoes. Lava flows freely from their tops, down their sides and settles into the valley below. The Crystal Citadel is a mere 300 feet above this sea of lava!
With a tremendous splash, the shard that broke away plunges into the lava! A huge spray of magma is sent flying and a few of the molten droplets reach your area, but they hit no one. The droplets are hot enough to melt into the crystal quartz.
Lord Sharadin is the first to speak. "With the citadel breaking apart, hopefully the wards that blocked Teleport spells are no longer functioning! Those who will be traveling with me must be in physical contact with me! I can take about six of you with me!"
"If it works, I'll take the rest of you out of here," Silvarn calls out having regained her wits.
Following the mage's instructions, those that Validar earlier indicated (Argent, Aria, Acerion, Corley, and Chareos) along with Sherra join together and physically touch the Archmage. The spell is cast and this time they vanish!
That just leaves Grondar, Silvarn, Laucian, and Lord Validar in the crumbling Crystal Citadel. After the others disappear, Silvarn turns to face you.
"Promise me that you will not tell anyone what you see here today," Silvarn requests. As she speaks, her form begins to change much like Ember's did! She begins to grow larger and her skin takes on a silvery tone. Before growing too large for the crumbling citadel to hold, Silvarn steps off over the edge and disappears from sight!
She reappears a few moments later, flying back towards you. Her transformation complete, you realize that Silvarn is actually a silver dragon! Silvarn's skin is like molten silver. No scales are visible and it seems as if she is entirely composed of silver! She's not as large as Ember was, only being about 130' front snout to tail tip.
Silvarn maneuvers herself closer to the shelf that you are on and hovers. "Get on my back!" she calls out.
Those in front slow their progress to stop from going over the edge. As you watch, you realize that a huge chunk of the Crystal Citadel just fell away from the main body! The sky outside can now be seen as the shard descends. Looking down you are surprised to see that the entire Citadel hovers over a lake of molten lava! The intense heat of the lava washes over everyone.
Looking around, you quickly realize how the Ring of Flame got its name. The Crystal Citadel hovers over a valley. Ringing the valley are five small, active volcanoes. Lava flows freely from their tops, down their sides and settles into the valley below. The Crystal Citadel is a mere 300 feet above this sea of lava!
With a tremendous splash, the shard that broke away plunges into the lava! A huge spray of magma is sent flying and a few of the molten droplets reach your area, but they hit no one. The droplets are hot enough to melt into the crystal quartz.
Lord Sharadin is the first to speak. "With the citadel breaking apart, hopefully the wards that blocked Teleport spells are no longer functioning! Those who will be traveling with me must be in physical contact with me! I can take about six of you with me!"
"If it works, I'll take the rest of you out of here," Silvarn calls out having regained her wits.
Following the mage's instructions, those that Validar earlier indicated (Argent, Aria, Acerion, Corley, and Chareos) along with Sherra join together and physically touch the Archmage. The spell is cast and this time they vanish!
That just leaves Grondar, Silvarn, Laucian, and Lord Validar in the crumbling Crystal Citadel. After the others disappear, Silvarn turns to face you.
"Promise me that you will not tell anyone what you see here today," Silvarn requests. As she speaks, her form begins to change much like Ember's did! She begins to grow larger and her skin takes on a silvery tone. Before growing too large for the crumbling citadel to hold, Silvarn steps off over the edge and disappears from sight!
She reappears a few moments later, flying back towards you. Her transformation complete, you realize that Silvarn is actually a silver dragon! Silvarn's skin is like molten silver. No scales are visible and it seems as if she is entirely composed of silver! She's not as large as Ember was, only being about 130' front snout to tail tip.
Silvarn maneuvers herself closer to the shelf that you are on and hovers. "Get on my back!" she calls out.
Try it and find out!
Page Three
A second invitation is not needed as more shards fall away from the Crystal Citadel. Once you are all on board, Silvarn begins to flap her great wings and flies away.
Looking back, you can see what remains of the Crystal Citadel. At its full size, it must have easily been at least 800' wide and 500' high. The sea of lava churns wildly down below as more and more of the citadel falls into it. Finally, what little remains begins to fall. It impacts the lava with enough force to generate thirty-foot waves of lava on the sea and splatters of molten rock are sent thousands of feet into the air.
Silvarn circles the area a few times before flying off. The Ring of Flame is quickly left behind and you're flying over the mountainous and seemingly desolate Broken Lands. You can faintly hear Silvarn chanting what you would guess to be magical words. The world around you mysteriously becomes colorless and her flying velocity greatly accelerates. The terrain passes by in a blur!
Elsewhere, Lord Sharadin's teleport spell deposits that group within the wall of the Duke's Fortress in Corunglain. Armed guards are close by and they close immediately as you gather your wits.
“Back to your posts, men! Can’t you see that is Lord Sharadin?” The speaker is a woman in plate mail armor. Her helm is off and you can see she is of average looks with brown eyes and short brown hair. She steps up to Lord Sharadin. “You are to report to the King immediately, Lord Sharadin.”
“Duty calls,” Sharadin says to the group before saying his goodbyes.
Turning back to the rest of you, the armored woman introduces herself. “I am Lady Teris Penhaligon. I bid you welcome.”
Seeing that Corley is down, Lady Teris summons assistance. Other people quickly arrive to help tend your needs. A Priestess of Azrella, a blond haired, blue-eyed woman by the name of Faith, casts Heal on Lord Corley and he almost immediately sits up in surprise. His wounds have been completely healed!
Lady Teris will see that food, drink, and a place to relax is provided. She informs you that both Ivy and Lyonessa have been restored to life and are resting nearby.
“Rest for now, fellow Lords,” Teris continues. “Word of your exploits here in Corunglain has reached our ears. The King himself is eager to hear the rest of your report.”
Looking back, you can see what remains of the Crystal Citadel. At its full size, it must have easily been at least 800' wide and 500' high. The sea of lava churns wildly down below as more and more of the citadel falls into it. Finally, what little remains begins to fall. It impacts the lava with enough force to generate thirty-foot waves of lava on the sea and splatters of molten rock are sent thousands of feet into the air.
Silvarn circles the area a few times before flying off. The Ring of Flame is quickly left behind and you're flying over the mountainous and seemingly desolate Broken Lands. You can faintly hear Silvarn chanting what you would guess to be magical words. The world around you mysteriously becomes colorless and her flying velocity greatly accelerates. The terrain passes by in a blur!
Elsewhere, Lord Sharadin's teleport spell deposits that group within the wall of the Duke's Fortress in Corunglain. Armed guards are close by and they close immediately as you gather your wits.
“Back to your posts, men! Can’t you see that is Lord Sharadin?” The speaker is a woman in plate mail armor. Her helm is off and you can see she is of average looks with brown eyes and short brown hair. She steps up to Lord Sharadin. “You are to report to the King immediately, Lord Sharadin.”
“Duty calls,” Sharadin says to the group before saying his goodbyes.
Turning back to the rest of you, the armored woman introduces herself. “I am Lady Teris Penhaligon. I bid you welcome.”
Seeing that Corley is down, Lady Teris summons assistance. Other people quickly arrive to help tend your needs. A Priestess of Azrella, a blond haired, blue-eyed woman by the name of Faith, casts Heal on Lord Corley and he almost immediately sits up in surprise. His wounds have been completely healed!
Lady Teris will see that food, drink, and a place to relax is provided. She informs you that both Ivy and Lyonessa have been restored to life and are resting nearby.
“Rest for now, fellow Lords,” Teris continues. “Word of your exploits here in Corunglain has reached our ears. The King himself is eager to hear the rest of your report.”
Try it and find out!
Page Four
Before her riders can realize what is going on, Silvarn has come in for a landing. The increased movement ceases and you can see that you're inside the walls of some fortress.
“We have arrived,” Silvarn informs her passengers. “You may get off my back.”
When asked about what just happened, Silvarn doesn’t answer immediately. Instead she begins to change forms back into her more common elfin appearance. It also hits you just what Sherwood and Jallarzi meant when they refered to Silvarn as “Little Grandmother” a few weeks back while in Elcadan.
“I invoked Draconic magic that allowed me to fly far faster than normally would be possible. That is how we arrived here so quickly. We now exist just outside the real world. I will end the spell now.”
Silvarn ends her spell and color whooshes back into the world. You quickly realize that you're within the walls of the Duke's Fortress in Corunglain. Armed guards are everywhere and they go for their weapons at your unexpected arrival.
“At ease!” A voice calls out. The speaker is an armored man and one who is familiar to Lord Validar. Looking in the voice’s direction, you see an armored man approaching. It is an older man with thinning brown hair and a broad smile on his face.
“Lord Validar! You have the habit of turning up in the most unusual places!” To the others, the man will say, “I am Sir Alon Teramar. Validar here was my Squire a few years back. I cannot wait to hear of your exploits, my friend! Much has happened in these last few days. We have a new King and I am sure that he will be eager to hear your report first hand!”
“We have arrived,” Silvarn informs her passengers. “You may get off my back.”
When asked about what just happened, Silvarn doesn’t answer immediately. Instead she begins to change forms back into her more common elfin appearance. It also hits you just what Sherwood and Jallarzi meant when they refered to Silvarn as “Little Grandmother” a few weeks back while in Elcadan.
“I invoked Draconic magic that allowed me to fly far faster than normally would be possible. That is how we arrived here so quickly. We now exist just outside the real world. I will end the spell now.”
Silvarn ends her spell and color whooshes back into the world. You quickly realize that you're within the walls of the Duke's Fortress in Corunglain. Armed guards are everywhere and they go for their weapons at your unexpected arrival.
“At ease!” A voice calls out. The speaker is an armored man and one who is familiar to Lord Validar. Looking in the voice’s direction, you see an armored man approaching. It is an older man with thinning brown hair and a broad smile on his face.
“Lord Validar! You have the habit of turning up in the most unusual places!” To the others, the man will say, “I am Sir Alon Teramar. Validar here was my Squire a few years back. I cannot wait to hear of your exploits, my friend! Much has happened in these last few days. We have a new King and I am sure that he will be eager to hear your report first hand!”
Try it and find out!
GM Notes
GM Notes:
With that we bring a close to the Ember Saga. I took the post a little further than I originally planned, but each ending point I considered didn't really have any real options to them anyway, so I kept going to finally wrap things up. The Crystal Citadel was completely destroyed by the molten lava.
With the exception of Arocken, Rathlar, and Valena, everyone is in the Duke’s Fortress in Corunglain. Those who are injured will be healed should they desire it. Food and a place to sleep will be provided as will a place to get cleaned up.
The King will see Lords Acerion, Corley, and Validar ASAP. He'll see the rest of the group later on.
Directions to Lyonessa & Ivy's room will be given to those who ask. They’re just waiting to see everyone again!
You’ve just completed a major quest and a whole boatload of XP’s has been gained. The Roster page has been updated in the World of Cynalon Reference section. I also added a new column to the table that shows how many Character Points (CP’s for short) each of you have yet unspent. CP’s are used to buy new or improve existing Non-Weapon/Weapon Proficiencies. The CP total for those characters with unspent Discretionary XP’s will be updated when they are spent.
One chapter has closed, but yet another one will soon begin!
With that we bring a close to the Ember Saga. I took the post a little further than I originally planned, but each ending point I considered didn't really have any real options to them anyway, so I kept going to finally wrap things up. The Crystal Citadel was completely destroyed by the molten lava.
With the exception of Arocken, Rathlar, and Valena, everyone is in the Duke’s Fortress in Corunglain. Those who are injured will be healed should they desire it. Food and a place to sleep will be provided as will a place to get cleaned up.
The King will see Lords Acerion, Corley, and Validar ASAP. He'll see the rest of the group later on.
Directions to Lyonessa & Ivy's room will be given to those who ask. They’re just waiting to see everyone again!
You’ve just completed a major quest and a whole boatload of XP’s has been gained. The Roster page has been updated in the World of Cynalon Reference section. I also added a new column to the table that shows how many Character Points (CP’s for short) each of you have yet unspent. CP’s are used to buy new or improve existing Non-Weapon/Weapon Proficiencies. The CP total for those characters with unspent Discretionary XP’s will be updated when they are spent.
One chapter has closed, but yet another one will soon begin!
Try it and find out!
-
Laucian
- Ranger of Ehlonna
- Posts: 532
- Joined: Tue Jul 22, 2003 7:18 pm
- Location: Dense Forests of the Elfholds
Laucian
As they enter the next portal a large crack forms along the floor, ceiling and walls. Seeing this Laucian eyes bulge out as half the room is taken away and the breeze from the outside and lava can be seen as well as felt.
Sharadin takes several of the others out leaving only Silvarn, Validar, Grondar and himself left. He looks bleakly around as Silvarn steps forward and says,
Without a second thought he jumps on Silvarn’s back and holds onto whatever he can. Soon the citadel is gone melted in magma. And they are flying with great velocity as everything is blurred.
They land soon after within a fortress of which Laucian is unsure and Silvarn changes back into her human form. Laucian approaches her and kisses her hand in thanks. “Your secret is safe with me Silvarn. A life for a life,” he says with a smile.
Then the spell is ended and armed men go for their weapons, Laucian reaches for his sword faster, then he thinks about it and his sword is halfway out when someone orders them to be at ease.
Those who look can hear the anxiousness in his voice because he wishes to see his friends as well as his cat.
Seeing the invoker stumble, Laucian reaches down placing one hand on her waist and one hand on her arm he lifts her and steadies her on her feet. “Come, I’ll help you!” he says as he begins to step forward with Argent in his arms.Argent holds her dress high enough to allow her to run as fast as she can, but it is still somewhat slow. The Invoker stumbles, but is helped back up by Laucian. Together, they rush back to the doorway that led into this maze.
As they enter the next portal a large crack forms along the floor, ceiling and walls. Seeing this Laucian eyes bulge out as half the room is taken away and the breeze from the outside and lava can be seen as well as felt.
Sharadin takes several of the others out leaving only Silvarn, Validar, Grondar and himself left. He looks bleakly around as Silvarn steps forward and says,
Unsure of what she is asking Laucian makes no sound and merely watches in awe as her figure changes, much like that of Ember only silver! When she re-emerges from her flight Laucian merely says,“Beautiful,"as he sees the magestic Dragon."Promise me that you will not tell anyone what you see here today," Silvarn requests. As she speaks, her form begins to change much like Ember's did! She begins to grow larger and her skin takes on a silvery tone. Before growing too large for the crumbling citadel to hold, Silvarn steps off over the edge and disappears from sight!
She reappears a few moments later, flying back towards you. Her transformation complete, you realize that Silvarn is actually a silver dragon! Silvarn's skin is like molten silver. No scales are visible and it seems as if she is entirely composed of silver! She's not as large as Ember was, only being about 130' front snout to tail tip.
Silvarn maneuvers herself closer to the shelf that you are on and hovers. "Get on my back!", she calls out.
Without a second thought he jumps on Silvarn’s back and holds onto whatever he can. Soon the citadel is gone melted in magma. And they are flying with great velocity as everything is blurred.
They land soon after within a fortress of which Laucian is unsure and Silvarn changes back into her human form. Laucian approaches her and kisses her hand in thanks. “Your secret is safe with me Silvarn. A life for a life,” he says with a smile.
Then the spell is ended and armed men go for their weapons, Laucian reaches for his sword faster, then he thinks about it and his sword is halfway out when someone orders them to be at ease.
Laucian places his sword back in his scabbard and bows ever so slightly at the new word upon his greeting. Laucian will introduce himself, “I am Laucian Nailo of Clan Grundalf.” He merely states, then says, “Would it be possible to borrow four horses so I can retrieve the rest of our party?”"Lord Validar! You have the habit of turning up in the most unusual places!” To the others, the man will say, “I am Lord Alon Teramar. Validar here was my squire a few years back. I cannot wait to hear of your exploits, my friend! Much has happened in these last few days. We have a new King and I am sure that he will be eager to her your report first hand!”
Those who look can hear the anxiousness in his voice because he wishes to see his friends as well as his cat.
Til Ehlonna's will be done
Chareos
Turning on his heels Chareos begins to run full steam toward the portal with Sherra insight. Stopping at the portal he looks back at the others, whom are moving at their fastest. Behing them small cracks begin to form here and there It would appear that Ember was not bluffing!!!!
Sharadin tried to work his magic though nothing happens and explains his thinking, Chareos quickly agrees and once again they move off into the citadel.
Several of the others begin to slow in their movements apparently seeing what the mage has not. He then realizes why they have slowed as a fracture trails the room with a loud groan and crack half the room falls away from the main body. He can’t help but notice the heat of the lava below wash over him and his brow begins to sweat from the heat as well as his excursion.
Sharadin tries once again to teleport some of us out, taking his position and touching Sharadin’s robe he and the others are wisked back to the Duke’s fortress.
“A pleasure, I am Chareos.“ Seeing her call forward the priestess to tend to Corley, Chareos thinks about Lyonessa and Ivy and their whereabouts. He can’t help but ask, “Two of our friends were taken from the caverns, Do you know of their Whereabouts?”
Upon hearing they are ok Chareos places a hand on Acerion’s shoulder.
Turning to Argent he notices she is somewhat shaken and he merely says in attempt to make her smile, “Sure, the Citadel had everything but look at the location! We will find you a home that is far more to your liking in time, If not Ill help you build one.”
Turning on his heels Chareos begins to run full steam toward the portal with Sherra insight. Stopping at the portal he looks back at the others, whom are moving at their fastest. Behing them small cracks begin to form here and there It would appear that Ember was not bluffing!!!!
Sharadin tried to work his magic though nothing happens and explains his thinking, Chareos quickly agrees and once again they move off into the citadel.
Several of the others begin to slow in their movements apparently seeing what the mage has not. He then realizes why they have slowed as a fracture trails the room with a loud groan and crack half the room falls away from the main body. He can’t help but notice the heat of the lava below wash over him and his brow begins to sweat from the heat as well as his excursion.
Sharadin tries once again to teleport some of us out, taking his position and touching Sharadin’s robe he and the others are wisked back to the Duke’s fortress.
Turning back to the rest of you, the armored woman introduces herself. “I am Lady Teris Penhaligon. I bid you welcome.”
“A pleasure, I am Chareos.“ Seeing her call forward the priestess to tend to Corley, Chareos thinks about Lyonessa and Ivy and their whereabouts. He can’t help but ask, “Two of our friends were taken from the caverns, Do you know of their Whereabouts?”
Upon hearing they are ok Chareos places a hand on Acerion’s shoulder.
Turning to Argent he notices she is somewhat shaken and he merely says in attempt to make her smile, “Sure, the Citadel had everything but look at the location! We will find you a home that is far more to your liking in time, If not Ill help you build one.”
To serve and protect those who cannot.
Dragon Slayers...
Lord Validar -
Lord Validar grabs the wounded Lord Corley, and with som assistance from Lord Acerion, they make their way along as best as they can. The group does it's best to escape the rapidly expanding body of the now-dead red dragon as it reverts to its normal form.
Lord Validar hears the crystal walls of the maze shattering, but there is little to be said at this point, as they scramble for their very lives. Eventually, they all reach the first portal and are transported through.
But the danger has not ended as yet. The entire tower is rumbling by now.
Lord Sharadin pauses and attempts to cast a spell. As per Lord Validar's request he'll Teleport many of the group to safety. The spell is cast and nothing happens!
"I was afraid of this," Sharadin notes as he begins to briskly move to the next portal. "I suspected that there was something in play that blocks movement spells. After all, Ember could have simply used his Contingency to return directly to his nest in Opikus' living area. Likewise he was making his way back on foot. Given the urgency of his situation, he would have come as fast as he could to close the mirror portal. I suspected that he did not teleport in because he could not!"
There is no time for disappointment, they simply have to keep moving. "Head for the portal!" the leader of the Guardians commands as soon as Lord Sharadin shares his unfortunate news.
Shards of the ceiling start to rain down around them in the hall and as they rush towards the next portal, suddenly a deafening crack reverberates in front of them. Before his startled eyes, Lord Validar sees the far end of the chamber split off and start to slip downward. A moment later, the sky can be seen through the opening just created.
Validar is about to ask some questions, when they are answered for him.
Lord Sharadin is the first to speak. "With the citadel breaking apart, hopefully the wards that blocked Teleport spells are no longer functioning! Those who will be traveling with me must be in physical contact with me! I can take about six of you with me!"
"If it works, I'll take the rest of you out of here," Silvarn calls out having regained her wits.
"Very good," is all Validar manages to say at the moment. His mind is awhirl on how to survive this situation as he awaits the success or failure of the plan presented. In a moment Lord Sharadin winks out of existence taking most of the Guardians with him.
"Even better," the noble warrior mutters to himself. Only Silvarn, Laucian and Grondar remain besides himself. Laucian has a bleak look on his face, but Validar looks expectantly toward Silvern, much as they all likely are doing.
In a few more short moments, Silvarn reveals much what Lord Validar already greatly expected, that she is in fact a dragon as well. And a Silver one at that. None of those remaining need any more encouragement to climb aboard her back and exit this rapidly crumbling structure.
As they fly, Validar holds on as best as he can, surveying the bleak landscape of the Ring of Fire and the Broken Lands in general. This is likely where the war against the humanoids will one day take them. They cannot put an end to the attacks against Cynalon without taking the fight to the enemy. What is left of the Crystal Citadel crashes into the lake of lava with a dramatic splash of molten flames. "We could have made use of that place and the treasures therein," Validar laments quietly to himself. "At least we have defeated our enemy and blunted the attack. We shall have to take solace in that victory."
Eventually, Silvarn wings away. And then suddenly, after some chanting, they seem to increase rapidly in speed. Lord Validar tightens his grip as they continue to increase in velocity. The world seems to be going by at an incredible pace.
In almost no time at all, the dragon is coming in for a landing. Strangely, the color has seemed to gone out of the world, and the troops on the Duke's fortress do not even seem to notice them at all. An odd fact considering how fast they have arrived and how large their transporter is.
“We have arrived,” Silvarn informs her passengers. “You may get off my back.”
"Indeed we shall, Silvarn," Lord Validar says as he drops to the stone floor. "You have my gratitude for saving our lives this day. That was an incredible trip you just took us on. Very impressive."
Silvarn explains her use of Draconic magic and changes herself back into her 'normal' elfin form. A moment later the spell effect ends and color comes rushing back into their world. The guards all about are astonished to see them suddenly appear in their midst and they go for their weapons.
“At ease!” A voice calls out. The voice is familiar to Lord Validar and he indeed sees his old patron, Sir Alon Teramar. Validar cannot conceal a small smile at seeing one of his mentors.
“Lord Validar! You have the habit of turning up in the most unusual places!” To the others, the man will say, “I am Sir Alon Teramar. Validar here was my squire a few years back. I cannot wait to hear of your exploits, my friend! Much has happened in these last few days. We have a new King and I am sure that he will be eager to hear your report first hand!”
Lord Validar will approach Alon and offer him his hand. "We have heard about the new King. Lord Sharadin was with us in the battle against the Dragon Ember. As for me I prefer to think of it as fortuitous places, rather than unusual. You always said that I would not have trouble finding glorious battles."
"And as for the King, we should not leave His Majesty awaiting any longer." Validar will remove his blood-stained, burnt and torn cloak and then remove his helmet as well, wiping his face with whatever clean spot he can find. "Where can we find the new King?"
Laucian offers to go and retrieve the remaining three of their group, left behind in the caverns below the city. "You should not go alone, my friend. While the battle is ended, there may be roving bands of trolls or other humanoids, and we saw some drow there briefly as well. The caverns down there are still quite dangerous to a lone traveller. Maybe there is some magickal way to reach our friends more quickly and more safely."
"Speaking of our friends, am I correct to assume that Lord Sharadin has arrived in the fortress as well? And before I forget, his daughters were to have returned earlier with two of our fallen comrades. Does anyone know of their condition and their whereabouts?"
Lord Validar grabs the wounded Lord Corley, and with som assistance from Lord Acerion, they make their way along as best as they can. The group does it's best to escape the rapidly expanding body of the now-dead red dragon as it reverts to its normal form.
Lord Validar hears the crystal walls of the maze shattering, but there is little to be said at this point, as they scramble for their very lives. Eventually, they all reach the first portal and are transported through.
But the danger has not ended as yet. The entire tower is rumbling by now.
Lord Sharadin pauses and attempts to cast a spell. As per Lord Validar's request he'll Teleport many of the group to safety. The spell is cast and nothing happens!
"I was afraid of this," Sharadin notes as he begins to briskly move to the next portal. "I suspected that there was something in play that blocks movement spells. After all, Ember could have simply used his Contingency to return directly to his nest in Opikus' living area. Likewise he was making his way back on foot. Given the urgency of his situation, he would have come as fast as he could to close the mirror portal. I suspected that he did not teleport in because he could not!"
There is no time for disappointment, they simply have to keep moving. "Head for the portal!" the leader of the Guardians commands as soon as Lord Sharadin shares his unfortunate news.
Shards of the ceiling start to rain down around them in the hall and as they rush towards the next portal, suddenly a deafening crack reverberates in front of them. Before his startled eyes, Lord Validar sees the far end of the chamber split off and start to slip downward. A moment later, the sky can be seen through the opening just created.
Validar is about to ask some questions, when they are answered for him.
Lord Sharadin is the first to speak. "With the citadel breaking apart, hopefully the wards that blocked Teleport spells are no longer functioning! Those who will be traveling with me must be in physical contact with me! I can take about six of you with me!"
"If it works, I'll take the rest of you out of here," Silvarn calls out having regained her wits.
"Very good," is all Validar manages to say at the moment. His mind is awhirl on how to survive this situation as he awaits the success or failure of the plan presented. In a moment Lord Sharadin winks out of existence taking most of the Guardians with him.
"Even better," the noble warrior mutters to himself. Only Silvarn, Laucian and Grondar remain besides himself. Laucian has a bleak look on his face, but Validar looks expectantly toward Silvern, much as they all likely are doing.
In a few more short moments, Silvarn reveals much what Lord Validar already greatly expected, that she is in fact a dragon as well. And a Silver one at that. None of those remaining need any more encouragement to climb aboard her back and exit this rapidly crumbling structure.
As they fly, Validar holds on as best as he can, surveying the bleak landscape of the Ring of Fire and the Broken Lands in general. This is likely where the war against the humanoids will one day take them. They cannot put an end to the attacks against Cynalon without taking the fight to the enemy. What is left of the Crystal Citadel crashes into the lake of lava with a dramatic splash of molten flames. "We could have made use of that place and the treasures therein," Validar laments quietly to himself. "At least we have defeated our enemy and blunted the attack. We shall have to take solace in that victory."
Eventually, Silvarn wings away. And then suddenly, after some chanting, they seem to increase rapidly in speed. Lord Validar tightens his grip as they continue to increase in velocity. The world seems to be going by at an incredible pace.
In almost no time at all, the dragon is coming in for a landing. Strangely, the color has seemed to gone out of the world, and the troops on the Duke's fortress do not even seem to notice them at all. An odd fact considering how fast they have arrived and how large their transporter is.
“We have arrived,” Silvarn informs her passengers. “You may get off my back.”
"Indeed we shall, Silvarn," Lord Validar says as he drops to the stone floor. "You have my gratitude for saving our lives this day. That was an incredible trip you just took us on. Very impressive."
Silvarn explains her use of Draconic magic and changes herself back into her 'normal' elfin form. A moment later the spell effect ends and color comes rushing back into their world. The guards all about are astonished to see them suddenly appear in their midst and they go for their weapons.
“At ease!” A voice calls out. The voice is familiar to Lord Validar and he indeed sees his old patron, Sir Alon Teramar. Validar cannot conceal a small smile at seeing one of his mentors.
“Lord Validar! You have the habit of turning up in the most unusual places!” To the others, the man will say, “I am Sir Alon Teramar. Validar here was my squire a few years back. I cannot wait to hear of your exploits, my friend! Much has happened in these last few days. We have a new King and I am sure that he will be eager to hear your report first hand!”
Lord Validar will approach Alon and offer him his hand. "We have heard about the new King. Lord Sharadin was with us in the battle against the Dragon Ember. As for me I prefer to think of it as fortuitous places, rather than unusual. You always said that I would not have trouble finding glorious battles."
"And as for the King, we should not leave His Majesty awaiting any longer." Validar will remove his blood-stained, burnt and torn cloak and then remove his helmet as well, wiping his face with whatever clean spot he can find. "Where can we find the new King?"
Laucian offers to go and retrieve the remaining three of their group, left behind in the caverns below the city. "You should not go alone, my friend. While the battle is ended, there may be roving bands of trolls or other humanoids, and we saw some drow there briefly as well. The caverns down there are still quite dangerous to a lone traveller. Maybe there is some magickal way to reach our friends more quickly and more safely."
"Speaking of our friends, am I correct to assume that Lord Sharadin has arrived in the fortress as well? And before I forget, his daughters were to have returned earlier with two of our fallen comrades. Does anyone know of their condition and their whereabouts?"
Conquer or Die!
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Argent
- Sorceress
- Posts: 320
- Joined: Mon Jul 28, 2003 10:53 pm
- Location: Kingdom of Cynalon and other various locations
Argent
Argent:
The Invoker smiles to herself, quite pleased with the results of her barrage of Magic Missiles. This time they actually hurt Ember! The dragon in wizard’s clothing quickly goes down under the blades of the others and his threat is seemingly ended.
“Well, now that we’ve dealt with the ownership issues for this place…” Argent starts to say, when all of the sudden we’re told to start running back to the portal.
Unsure why, Argent pauses a moment before complying. Then it hits her. While Polymorph is not one of the spells she has learned, she’s seen it in action enough. The mage reverts to his true form when either the spell is ended or he is killed. By killing Ember in human form, we’ve just caused him to revert back to being a dragon!
Grasping part of the skirt of her dress, Argent raises it up so that she can better run. Dresses are not exactly made for fast movement! It’s not that unexpected when she stumbles along the way. It's times like that which makes her wonder about the wisdom of her choice of clothing.
Finally they reach the portal that led into this maze. We pass through but it seems that the threat has not yet ended. The whole place seems to be breaking up!
“No! This can’t be happening! We can’t loose all of this! Those books! The diamonds! That wonderful kitchen! Those clothes! The mirror!”
Once more Argent feels herself being helped along as we advance on the demonic teleporter. But before it can be reached, that part of the room drops off and the source of that organish-red glow is discovered: the citadel hovers over a lake of lava!
Lord Sharadin attempts his Teleport once more and this time it works. Suddenly, Argent finds herself safe in a distant chamber. Tired and devastated to have lost so much, Argent drops to the floor.
We meet Lady Teris and she gives us quarters to relax in. Thankfully, Ivy and Lyonessa have been brought back to life. Not only that, but we’re going to be meeting the King! As soon as she is able, Argent will wash up and change clothes. She’ll liberally use her perfume to try and mask the smoky odor from those caverns. After all, it wouldn’t due to meet the new and very single King looking scruffy!
The Invoker smiles to herself, quite pleased with the results of her barrage of Magic Missiles. This time they actually hurt Ember! The dragon in wizard’s clothing quickly goes down under the blades of the others and his threat is seemingly ended.
“Well, now that we’ve dealt with the ownership issues for this place…” Argent starts to say, when all of the sudden we’re told to start running back to the portal.
Unsure why, Argent pauses a moment before complying. Then it hits her. While Polymorph is not one of the spells she has learned, she’s seen it in action enough. The mage reverts to his true form when either the spell is ended or he is killed. By killing Ember in human form, we’ve just caused him to revert back to being a dragon!
Grasping part of the skirt of her dress, Argent raises it up so that she can better run. Dresses are not exactly made for fast movement! It’s not that unexpected when she stumbles along the way. It's times like that which makes her wonder about the wisdom of her choice of clothing.
“Thanks,” Argent manages to utter as they rapidly move along.Laucian wrote:Seeing the Invoker stumble, Laucian reaches down placing one hand on her waist and one hand on her arm he lifts her and steadies her on her feet. “Come, I’ll help you!” he says as he begins to step forward with Argent in his arms.
Finally they reach the portal that led into this maze. We pass through but it seems that the threat has not yet ended. The whole place seems to be breaking up!
“No! This can’t be happening! We can’t loose all of this! Those books! The diamonds! That wonderful kitchen! Those clothes! The mirror!”
Once more Argent feels herself being helped along as we advance on the demonic teleporter. But before it can be reached, that part of the room drops off and the source of that organish-red glow is discovered: the citadel hovers over a lake of lava!
Lord Sharadin attempts his Teleport once more and this time it works. Suddenly, Argent finds herself safe in a distant chamber. Tired and devastated to have lost so much, Argent drops to the floor.
“At least we have those wonderful spell books to examine,” Argent finally says. “I hope there is something worthwhile in there. What an evil, evil dragon to dangle all those wonderful things in front of us and then take them away!”Chareos wrote:Turning to Argent he notices she is somewhat shaken and he merely says in attempt to make her smile, “Sure, the Citadel had everything but look at the location! We will find you a home that is far more to your liking in time, If not Ill help you build one.”
We meet Lady Teris and she gives us quarters to relax in. Thankfully, Ivy and Lyonessa have been brought back to life. Not only that, but we’re going to be meeting the King! As soon as she is able, Argent will wash up and change clothes. She’ll liberally use her perfume to try and mask the smoky odor from those caverns. After all, it wouldn’t due to meet the new and very single King looking scruffy!
I am an Invoker of no small power.
A new and improved Corley
Corley:
A warm feeling comes over Lord Corley and his eyes flicker open. He’s surprised to find a blond-haired woman in the robes of a Priestess of Azrella hovering over him. The pain of his injuries is no longer there. But there’s more.
“What--? What has transpired here?” Sitting up, Lord Corley looks around him in confusion.
“You were close to death, milord,” the Priestess says. “I used the power of the Blue Lady to heal you.”
“You did far more than that, milady!” Excitement showing in his face, Lord Corley rises to his feet. His armor is damaged and scarred, but it can be repaired.
“It feels as if a haze has been lifted from my mind! My thoughts flow freely and coherently! I’ve never been able to think more clearly in my life!”
Reaching out, Lord Corley will gallantly kiss Faith’s hand. “I am in your debt, milady! Should you ever need anything from me, just ask.”
Looking around, Lord Corley can see that most of the group is present. However, Lord Validar, Grondar, Laucian, and the elf-maid Silvarn are not. He’ll ask those near him about their fates.
Stepping up to Lord Acerion, Lord Corley is introduced to Lady Teris Penhaligon. No doubt her father is Baron Arturus Penhaligon himself, ruler of the Barony of the same name that is part of the Inner Kingdom.
“It is a honor to meet you, Lady Teris”, Corley will say as he kisses her hand. “Thank you for your generosity, milady. I am most eager to meet our new king and would like to clean up a bit. If you would kindly direct me to a place where I can freshen up, I would be most grateful.”
Upon hearing that our fallen have been restored, Corley will say to Lord Acerion, “Go to your lady's side, my friend. We seem to have some time before the King is ready for our audience.”
Once shown to a chamber, Corley will do his best to clean himself up for his audience with the new king.
A warm feeling comes over Lord Corley and his eyes flicker open. He’s surprised to find a blond-haired woman in the robes of a Priestess of Azrella hovering over him. The pain of his injuries is no longer there. But there’s more.
“What--? What has transpired here?” Sitting up, Lord Corley looks around him in confusion.
“You were close to death, milord,” the Priestess says. “I used the power of the Blue Lady to heal you.”
“You did far more than that, milady!” Excitement showing in his face, Lord Corley rises to his feet. His armor is damaged and scarred, but it can be repaired.
“It feels as if a haze has been lifted from my mind! My thoughts flow freely and coherently! I’ve never been able to think more clearly in my life!”
Reaching out, Lord Corley will gallantly kiss Faith’s hand. “I am in your debt, milady! Should you ever need anything from me, just ask.”
Looking around, Lord Corley can see that most of the group is present. However, Lord Validar, Grondar, Laucian, and the elf-maid Silvarn are not. He’ll ask those near him about their fates.
Stepping up to Lord Acerion, Lord Corley is introduced to Lady Teris Penhaligon. No doubt her father is Baron Arturus Penhaligon himself, ruler of the Barony of the same name that is part of the Inner Kingdom.
“It is a honor to meet you, Lady Teris”, Corley will say as he kisses her hand. “Thank you for your generosity, milady. I am most eager to meet our new king and would like to clean up a bit. If you would kindly direct me to a place where I can freshen up, I would be most grateful.”
Upon hearing that our fallen have been restored, Corley will say to Lord Acerion, “Go to your lady's side, my friend. We seem to have some time before the King is ready for our audience.”
Once shown to a chamber, Corley will do his best to clean himself up for his audience with the new king.
We fight for King and Country!
-
Aria Stonehand
- Adventuress
- Posts: 93
- Joined: Sun May 15, 2005 11:30 am
What! No Steaks!?
Aria:
The dwarven battle-maiden screams wildly as she charges Ember! Upon reaching her target, her battle-axe is buried in the beast’s chest and he falls from the fury of strike!
“Hah! Not so tough are you now, you lanky lizard!”
Aria’s gloating is short-lived as Ember begins to change and grow as he dies! Realizing that this is no place to be, Aria starts to run as fast as her stubby legs will carry her.
“I hate dragons! Dragons are so stupid!” she complains loudly.
From out of nowhere, Grondar is there and suddenly Aria finds herself being carried.
“Put me down! Leggo of me! What are you doing!?”
Grondar’s unnatural speed takes over and we’re gaining and passing the others as we rush to flee this area. We pass through a magic portal and then the human wizard tries to do something magical, but it doesn’t work.
“Typical,” Aria complains. “That’s why we dwarves don’t rely on magic all the time!”
More running follows and the wizard attempts his magic. This time it works and we reappear in some place much safer. Lots are going on around here, but Aria isn’t that greatly interested. The offer of food does get her attention and she’ll follow whoever leads her to it.
The dwarven battle-maiden screams wildly as she charges Ember! Upon reaching her target, her battle-axe is buried in the beast’s chest and he falls from the fury of strike!
“Hah! Not so tough are you now, you lanky lizard!”
Aria’s gloating is short-lived as Ember begins to change and grow as he dies! Realizing that this is no place to be, Aria starts to run as fast as her stubby legs will carry her.
“I hate dragons! Dragons are so stupid!” she complains loudly.
From out of nowhere, Grondar is there and suddenly Aria finds herself being carried.
“Put me down! Leggo of me! What are you doing!?”
Grondar’s unnatural speed takes over and we’re gaining and passing the others as we rush to flee this area. We pass through a magic portal and then the human wizard tries to do something magical, but it doesn’t work.
“Typical,” Aria complains. “That’s why we dwarves don’t rely on magic all the time!”
More running follows and the wizard attempts his magic. This time it works and we reappear in some place much safer. Lots are going on around here, but Aria isn’t that greatly interested. The offer of food does get her attention and she’ll follow whoever leads her to it.
GM Notes:
GM Notes:
Laucian:
Validar:
Sir Alon will lead the way into the Duke’s Fortress. You can see that while it took a considerable pounding, it's still mostly intact. Inside the fortress, you’ll come across the others of your group and learn that the King is with Lord Sharadin right now. The King will see you, Lord Acerion, and Lord Corley shortly. That’ll give you a chance to relax and clean up before hand.
Corley:
(There’s not enough rooms for everyone to have their own, so doubling and tripling up will be required.)
Laucian:
“Thank you,” Silvarn replies back with her own smile.They land soon after within a fortress of which Laucian is unsure and Silvarn changes back into her human form. Laucian approaches her and kisses her hand in thanks. “Your secret is safe with me Silvarn. A life for a life,” he says with a smile.
“Lord Sharadin’s talented offspring have gone back with his flying carpet to the caves,” Sir Alon will state. “I am sure that they will bring the rest of our companions back to the surface with all due haste. As Lord Validar stated, the streets are not entirely safe yet. Units of men are out routing what remains of the invasion force. If they do not return within a reasonable amount of time, I will go and locate your comrades myself.”Laucian & Validar wrote:Laucian places his sword back in his scabbard and bows ever so slightly at the new word upon his greeting. Laucian will introduce himself, “I am Laucian Nailo of Clan Grunalf.” He merely states, and then says, “Would it be possible to borrow four horses so I can retrieve the rest of our party?”
Laucian offers to go and retrieve the remaining three of their group, left behind in the caverns below the city. "You should not go alone, my friend. While the battle is ended, there may be roving bands of trolls or other humanoids, and we saw some drow there briefly as well. The caverns down there are still quite dangerous to a lone traveler. Maybe there is some magical way to reach our friends more quickly and more safely."
Validar:
“It was my pleasure,” Silvarn will say. “It is my understanding that you were the former leader of the band of adventurers known as the Seekers? If that is true, then I met your comrades a few weeks back. They assisted me in another mission. Ironically they also took on a red dragon, but this one was much younger and not as dangerous as Ember.”"Indeed we shall, Silvarn," Lord Validar says as he drops to the stone floor. "You have my gratitude for saving our lives this day. That was an incredible trip you just took us on. Very impressive."
Sir Alon will grasp Validar’s hand in greeting. “Yes, it is exciting times that we live in. With a new King come new opportunities. The Kingdom has slumbered for far too long. It is time it has awakened and dealt with all its troubles.”Lord Validar will approach Alon and offer him his hand. "We have heard about the new King. Lord Sharadin was with us in the battle against the Dragon Ember. As for me I prefer to think of it as fortuitous places, rather than unusual. You always said that I would not have trouble finding glorious battles."
“Follow me, my friend. I shall escort you to him.”"And as for the King, we should not leave His Majesty awaiting any longer." Validar will remove his bloodstained, burnt and torn cloak and then remove his helmet as well, wiping his face with whatever clean spot he can find. "Where can we find the new King?"
Sir Alon will lead the way into the Duke’s Fortress. You can see that while it took a considerable pounding, it's still mostly intact. Inside the fortress, you’ll come across the others of your group and learn that the King is with Lord Sharadin right now. The King will see you, Lord Acerion, and Lord Corley shortly. That’ll give you a chance to relax and clean up before hand.
“Yes, they did arrive with wounded who were taken inside the fortress. I know not of your comrades' condition, but they should be easy to find.” The location of Ivy and Lyonessa will be given once inside the fortress. You’ll also come across Lady Teris as well."Speaking of our friends, am I correct to assume that Lord Sharadin has arrived in the fortress as well? And before I forget, his daughters were to have returned earlier with two of our fallen comrades. Does anyone know of their condition and their whereabouts?"
Corley:
Faith will appear surprised and a bit embarrassed by this action. “It's quite all right, milord. It is what I was trained to do.”Reaching out, Lord Corley will gallantly kiss Faith’s hand.
“I am in your debt, milady! Should you ever need anything from me, just ask.”
“A pleasure to meet you as well, Lord Corley. You’re General Logan’s youngest as I recall. Come this way. Rooms have been prepared for you all.”“It is a honor to meet you, Lady Teris”, Corley will say has he kisses her hand. “Thank you for your generosity, milady. I am most eager to meet our new king and would like to clean up a bit. If you would kindly direct me to a place where I can freshen up, I would be most grateful.”
(There’s not enough rooms for everyone to have their own, so doubling and tripling up will be required.)
Try it and find out!
At the Duke's Castle...
Lord Validar -
“It was my pleasure,” Silvarn will say. “It is my understanding that you were the former leader of the band of adventurers known as the Seekers? If that is true, then I met your comrades a few weeks back. They assisted me in another mission. Ironically they also took on a red dragon, but this one was much younger and not as dangerous as Ember.”
"That is correct, milady. I was the leader of the Seekers until needing to return to this part of our country recently. Unfortunately, I have not had a chance to return to them nor even make contact with them and in truth, I am uncertain now if that shall ever happen, with everything that has taken place since my departure," Lord Validar explains.
"That is an ironic twist of circumstance that they also battled a red dragon recently. I trust they were all well?"
Sir Alon will grasp Validar’s hand in greeting. “Yes, it is exciting times that we live in. With a new King come new opportunities. The Kingdom has slumbered for far too long. It is time it has awakened and dealt with all its troubles.”
"I think I like the sounds of that. I had many of my own plans, and still do for that matter, but I am intrigued by what direction the new King will be taking our beloved Cynalon," Lord Validar will say. "We have indeed been beset by far too many troubles both from without and within."
“Follow me, my friend. I shall escort you to him.”
Sir Alon will lead the way into the Duke’s Fortress. You can see that while it took a considerable pounding, it's still mostly intact. Inside the fortress, you’ll come across the others of your group and learn that the King is with Lord Sharadin right now. The King will see you, Lord Acerion, and Lord Corley shortly. That’ll give you a chance to relax and clean up before hand.
Validar is pleased to see that Lord Corley is recovered from the attack that felled him in the Crystal Maze. Corley seems somewhat different, but Lord Validar cannot place his finger on the exact change.
Having some time to recover before the audience with the King, Validar will take time to clean himself up somewhat more and remove his armor. He will also send word to the Gatehouse to have their horses brought to them, as Po is currently guarding them there.
Validar will make a brief entrance in to see Ivy and Lyonessa before seeing the King. "It does my heart good to know that both of you are well and recovering. The battle is over and we have won," Validar will explain. "The dragon will not bedevil this land nor our people any longer and the Crystal Citadel as well has been destroyed. We have all earned a short respite for our troubles. Although I fear that there is more adventure and more danger approaching even as we speak."
As he makes his way through the fortress, Validar comes across several of his comrades, as well as many other nobles and knights who have arrived at the combat scene.
One of those is escorting his comrades through the fortress as well. "Excuse me, I believe you are Lady Teris Penhaligon, are you not? I am Lord Validar Vanarkus, eldest son of the Baron of Pyris. I met your father briefly some years ago, when I was training in the house of Lord Tameron Antonic of Verge. Very pleased to meet you, my lady."
Validar will await his audience with the King.
“It was my pleasure,” Silvarn will say. “It is my understanding that you were the former leader of the band of adventurers known as the Seekers? If that is true, then I met your comrades a few weeks back. They assisted me in another mission. Ironically they also took on a red dragon, but this one was much younger and not as dangerous as Ember.”
"That is correct, milady. I was the leader of the Seekers until needing to return to this part of our country recently. Unfortunately, I have not had a chance to return to them nor even make contact with them and in truth, I am uncertain now if that shall ever happen, with everything that has taken place since my departure," Lord Validar explains.
"That is an ironic twist of circumstance that they also battled a red dragon recently. I trust they were all well?"
Sir Alon will grasp Validar’s hand in greeting. “Yes, it is exciting times that we live in. With a new King come new opportunities. The Kingdom has slumbered for far too long. It is time it has awakened and dealt with all its troubles.”
"I think I like the sounds of that. I had many of my own plans, and still do for that matter, but I am intrigued by what direction the new King will be taking our beloved Cynalon," Lord Validar will say. "We have indeed been beset by far too many troubles both from without and within."
“Follow me, my friend. I shall escort you to him.”
Sir Alon will lead the way into the Duke’s Fortress. You can see that while it took a considerable pounding, it's still mostly intact. Inside the fortress, you’ll come across the others of your group and learn that the King is with Lord Sharadin right now. The King will see you, Lord Acerion, and Lord Corley shortly. That’ll give you a chance to relax and clean up before hand.
Validar is pleased to see that Lord Corley is recovered from the attack that felled him in the Crystal Maze. Corley seems somewhat different, but Lord Validar cannot place his finger on the exact change.
Having some time to recover before the audience with the King, Validar will take time to clean himself up somewhat more and remove his armor. He will also send word to the Gatehouse to have their horses brought to them, as Po is currently guarding them there.
Validar will make a brief entrance in to see Ivy and Lyonessa before seeing the King. "It does my heart good to know that both of you are well and recovering. The battle is over and we have won," Validar will explain. "The dragon will not bedevil this land nor our people any longer and the Crystal Citadel as well has been destroyed. We have all earned a short respite for our troubles. Although I fear that there is more adventure and more danger approaching even as we speak."
As he makes his way through the fortress, Validar comes across several of his comrades, as well as many other nobles and knights who have arrived at the combat scene.
One of those is escorting his comrades through the fortress as well. "Excuse me, I believe you are Lady Teris Penhaligon, are you not? I am Lord Validar Vanarkus, eldest son of the Baron of Pyris. I met your father briefly some years ago, when I was training in the house of Lord Tameron Antonic of Verge. Very pleased to meet you, my lady."
Validar will await his audience with the King.
Last edited by Validar on Mon Sep 26, 2005 9:30 pm, edited 2 times in total.
Conquer or Die!
-
Laucian
- Ranger of Ehlonna
- Posts: 532
- Joined: Tue Jul 22, 2003 7:18 pm
- Location: Dense Forests of the Elfholds
Laucian
“I thank you for your kindness, Sir Alon. There is someone among them that I would not want to see harmed, nor any of them for that matter." Laucian's face returns to normal and even smiles somewhat through the grime and blood.
Considering we have time to do so, where would one be able to clean themselves up?” Laucian will then go and clean himself up the best he can and remove his armor. He cares not whom he shares a room with. Looking at his armor he notices several holes within, he will have to have it repaired before traveling again. He will then change into his priest robes and forego his armor.
“It is good to see you both well, my friends.”
Laucian offers to go and retrieve the remaining three of their group, left behind in the caverns below the city. "You should not go alone, my friend. While the battle is ended, there may be roving bands of trolls or other humanoids, and we saw some drow there briefly as well. The caverns down there are still quite dangerous to a lone traveller. Maybe there is some magickal way to reach our friends more quickly and more safely."
“Lord Sharadin’s talented offspring have gone back with his flying carpet to the caves,” Sir Alon will state. “I am sure that they will bring the rest of our companions back to the surface with all due haste. As Lord Validar stated, the streets are not entirely safe yet. Units of men are out routing what remains of the invasion force. If they do not return within a reasonable amount of time, I will go and locate your comrades myself.”
“I thank you for your kindness, Sir Alon. There is someone among them that I would not want to see harmed, nor any of them for that matter." Laucian's face returns to normal and even smiles somewhat through the grime and blood.
Considering we have time to do so, where would one be able to clean themselves up?” Laucian will then go and clean himself up the best he can and remove his armor. He cares not whom he shares a room with. Looking at his armor he notices several holes within, he will have to have it repaired before traveling again. He will then change into his priest robes and forego his armor.
Laucian smiles at the news of their friends survival. He will go and spend time with both of their fallen friends, especially Lyonessa and tell her the tale in detail of what had transpired since they departed.“Yes, they did arrive with wounded who were taken inside the fortress. I know not of your comrades' condition, but they should be easy to find.” The location of Ivy and Lyonessa will be given once inside the fortress. You’ll also come across Lady Teris as well.
“It is good to see you both well, my friends.”
Til Ehlonna's will be done
Chareos
“That is true, Perhaps if we are lucky enough that spell Ember used maybe within the tome’s secrets? At least all of us made it out of the citadel alive; or at least I hope we all did.”
“Speaking of which, don’t the twins still have the tomes in their possesion?” he will ask.
Chareos will then move off and get cleaned up as well as change his clothes, it would not be pleasant to meet the Future King in a holey, bloody shirt. He wonders if they are savalagable but quickly realizes they aren’t, perhaps in the future he will have to buy new clothes.
He cleans them up the best he can though he has a hole in his shirt where a spear used to be.. And awaits word of his summons to see the King.
Chareos will take any healing that is offered by the Preistess of Azeralla
“At least we have those wonderful spell books to examine,” Argent finally says. “I hope there is something worthwhile in there. What an evil, evil dragon to dangle all those wonderful things in front of us and then take them away!”
“That is true, Perhaps if we are lucky enough that spell Ember used maybe within the tome’s secrets? At least all of us made it out of the citadel alive; or at least I hope we all did.”
“Speaking of which, don’t the twins still have the tomes in their possesion?” he will ask.
Chareos will then move off and get cleaned up as well as change his clothes, it would not be pleasant to meet the Future King in a holey, bloody shirt. He wonders if they are savalagable but quickly realizes they aren’t, perhaps in the future he will have to buy new clothes.
He cleans them up the best he can though he has a hole in his shirt where a spear used to be.. And awaits word of his summons to see the King.
Chareos will take any healing that is offered by the Preistess of Azeralla
To serve and protect those who cannot.
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Grondar
- Berronar's Humble Servant
- Posts: 406
- Joined: Thu Sep 02, 2004 7:55 pm
- Location: Aboveground, unfortunately
Extinguishing the Smoldering Ember
Grondar:
The entire place starts to come apart at the seams. At first, it is just the immediate threat of avoiding being crushed by Ember's rapidly-enlarging body. Beautiful Aria quickly proves to be the slowest person there, and Grondar scoops her up in a twinkle. Racing toward the gate with her, he had to admit that he's enjoying the opportunity to share this moment of intimacy with the lady.
Racing on, they leap through the first portal as the maze tears itself apart. Grondar sets Aria down and steps back as Lord Sharadin attempts his spell. Almost unbelievably, nothing happens! Sharadin quickly explains his theory and they run for the demon-mouth portal. Grondar continues to bring up the rear, helping any that need it.
Even as they run, the entire Citadel seems to fracture into pieces. The one ahead falls away, revealing their dire situation. They are floating above a giant lake of lava, and that situation isn't likely to remain for long.
Fortunately, with the integrity of the structure compromised, so is the effect restraining Sharadin's magic. On a second try, he and many of the group are transported away. That leaves Silvarn to rescue the remainder.
Moments later, they are aboard and winging away. The last of the Citadel crumbles into the lake of lava, throwing molten spray in every direction. It is only by luck that they are not struck. The dragoness calls up some magic of her own, and soon they are moving at nearly impossible speed!
They arrive at the castle in a colorless Corrunglain very quickly. Grondar dismounts as bidden, and Silvarn returns to her previous elven form. After explaining a bit about her magic, she releases it and color returns to their world. "Wow, that was amazing, Silvarn. And thank you for bringing us safely out of there."
The small group is greeted by a man apparently known to Lord Validar. Apparently, this Lord Teramar is one who trained Validar in his youth. "Greetings, Lord Teramar, I am Grondar Foehammer, willing servant of the Revered Mother."
Entering the room, he greets his friends warmly. "Praise Berronar and Azrella! It is wondrous to see that you have been returned to us. I trust you are both well."
Turning to Ivy, Grondar bows low. "Fair lady, I have something that I believe belongs to you." Reaching inside his cloak, Grondar brings forth the Kiss of Azrella from where it had been hanging at his belt. "Your patron, Azrella, was kind enough to allow me to use this a couple of times. I believe that doing so made a huge difference in preventing even more losses among our friends. Thank you."
Grondar then addresses the priestess tending to Ivy and Lyonessa. "Thanks to you and your benevolent diety for returning our friends to us. I am forever in your debt."
The entire place starts to come apart at the seams. At first, it is just the immediate threat of avoiding being crushed by Ember's rapidly-enlarging body. Beautiful Aria quickly proves to be the slowest person there, and Grondar scoops her up in a twinkle. Racing toward the gate with her, he had to admit that he's enjoying the opportunity to share this moment of intimacy with the lady.
"Forgive me, sweet lady. I could not bear the thought of you being crushed by this malevolent abberation in its death throes Nor would I be fulfilling my duties to Berronar if I allowed it. We must get safely away!"Aria wrote:“Put me down! Leggo of me! What are you doing!?”
Racing on, they leap through the first portal as the maze tears itself apart. Grondar sets Aria down and steps back as Lord Sharadin attempts his spell. Almost unbelievably, nothing happens! Sharadin quickly explains his theory and they run for the demon-mouth portal. Grondar continues to bring up the rear, helping any that need it.
Even as they run, the entire Citadel seems to fracture into pieces. The one ahead falls away, revealing their dire situation. They are floating above a giant lake of lava, and that situation isn't likely to remain for long.
Fortunately, with the integrity of the structure compromised, so is the effect restraining Sharadin's magic. On a second try, he and many of the group are transported away. That leaves Silvarn to rescue the remainder.
"You have my word as a priest of Berronar Truesilver, wife of Moradin Soulforge," Grondar replies. The dwarven priest watches as she transforms herself into a silver dragon. "Nice to see that my guess was right," he says, mostly to himself.Silvarn wrote:"Promise me that you will not tell anyone what you see here today," Silvarn requests. As she speaks, her form begins to change much like Ember's did! She begins to grow larger and her skin takes on a silvery tone. Before growing too large for the crumbling citadel to hold, Silvarn steps off over the edge and disappears from sight!
Moments later, they are aboard and winging away. The last of the Citadel crumbles into the lake of lava, throwing molten spray in every direction. It is only by luck that they are not struck. The dragoness calls up some magic of her own, and soon they are moving at nearly impossible speed!
They arrive at the castle in a colorless Corrunglain very quickly. Grondar dismounts as bidden, and Silvarn returns to her previous elven form. After explaining a bit about her magic, she releases it and color returns to their world. "Wow, that was amazing, Silvarn. And thank you for bringing us safely out of there."
The small group is greeted by a man apparently known to Lord Validar. Apparently, this Lord Teramar is one who trained Validar in his youth. "Greetings, Lord Teramar, I am Grondar Foehammer, willing servant of the Revered Mother."
Laucian wrote:Laucian places his sword back in his scabbard and bows ever so slightly at the new word upon his greeting. Laucian will introduce himself, “I am Laucian Nailo of Clan Grundalf.” He merely states, then says, “Would it be possible to borrow four horses so I can retrieve the rest of our party?”
Grondar is concerned for those that remained in the tunnels, as is Laucian, but his first concern is for Ivy and Lyonessa. Hopefully, the clergy here were able to return them to life. Thus, he listens, somewhat anxiously, for Lord Teramar's reply.Validar wrote:Laucian offers to go and retrieve the remaining three of their group, left behind in the caverns below the city. "You should not go alone, my friend. While the battle is ended, there may be roving bands of trolls or other humanoids, and we saw some drow there briefly as well. The caverns down there are still quite dangerous to a lone traveller. Maybe there is some magickal way to reach our friends more quickly and more safely."
"Speaking of our friends, am I correct to assume that Lord Sharadin has arrived in the fortress as well? And before I forget, his daughters were to have returned earlier with two of our fallen comrades. Does anyone know of their condition and their whereabouts?"
A look of relief crosses Grondar's face at this news. It seems that all are well and being taken care of. As he seems to be free for awhile as the Lords meet with their king, Grondar heads off in the direction of their priestess companions.Lord Teramar wrote:“Lord Sharadin’s talented offspring have gone back with his flying carpet to the caves,” Sir Alon will state. “I am sure that they will bring the rest of our companions back to the surface with all due haste. As Lord Validar stated, the streets are not entirely safe yet. Units of men are out routing what remains of the invasion force. If they do not return within a reasonable amount of time, I will go and locate your comrades myself.”
“Yes, they did arrive with wounded who were taken inside the fortress. I know not of your comrades' condition, but they should be easy to find.” The location of Ivy and Lyonessa will be given once inside the fortress. You’ll also come across Lady Teris as well.
Entering the room, he greets his friends warmly. "Praise Berronar and Azrella! It is wondrous to see that you have been returned to us. I trust you are both well."
Turning to Ivy, Grondar bows low. "Fair lady, I have something that I believe belongs to you." Reaching inside his cloak, Grondar brings forth the Kiss of Azrella from where it had been hanging at his belt. "Your patron, Azrella, was kind enough to allow me to use this a couple of times. I believe that doing so made a huge difference in preventing even more losses among our friends. Thank you."
Grondar then addresses the priestess tending to Ivy and Lyonessa. "Thanks to you and your benevolent diety for returning our friends to us. I am forever in your debt."
Last edited by Grondar on Thu Sep 29, 2005 3:17 pm, edited 1 time in total.
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie)
Lyonessa:
Laucian smiles at the news of their friends survival. He will go and spend time with both of their fallen friends, especially Lyonessa and tell her the tale in detail of what had transpired since they departed.
“It is good to see you both well, my friends.”
Lyonessa's face nearly beams with suprise and elation upon seeing Laucian enter. She holds out a hand to him as he approaches and says, "It's good to be seen."
Listening to his tale she is astonished at what they faced. She could not begin to imagine such a place as he described, and their narrow escape. Truly an epic ballad needing to be composed indeed! "I am glad that Lord Corley was able to be saved, and that none of the others were seriously hurt. I will also make sure Dusk does his best to get along with your new feline friend," she says with a slight glance in Dusk's direction. "We want to make sure everyone plays nice together."
Entering the room, he greets his friends warmly. "Praise Berronar and Azrella! It is wondrous to see that you have been returned to us. I trust you are both well."
Lyonessa smiles at Grondar's entrance and words. "We will be fine, thank you Grondar. It is good to see you."
Lyonessa watches as best she can as Grondar returns Ivy's mace to her. That he was able to use it was truly another wonderous occurance. She is truly within the company of heroes blessed by all their gods together!
Lyonessa will smile and greet any other visitors that come to check on them. She will be glad for as long as Laucian wishes to stay, and will continue to talk with him as much as he desires, learning all the details of their adventure and anything he wishes to share with her.
Laucian smiles at the news of their friends survival. He will go and spend time with both of their fallen friends, especially Lyonessa and tell her the tale in detail of what had transpired since they departed.
“It is good to see you both well, my friends.”
Lyonessa's face nearly beams with suprise and elation upon seeing Laucian enter. She holds out a hand to him as he approaches and says, "It's good to be seen."
Listening to his tale she is astonished at what they faced. She could not begin to imagine such a place as he described, and their narrow escape. Truly an epic ballad needing to be composed indeed! "I am glad that Lord Corley was able to be saved, and that none of the others were seriously hurt. I will also make sure Dusk does his best to get along with your new feline friend," she says with a slight glance in Dusk's direction. "We want to make sure everyone plays nice together."
Entering the room, he greets his friends warmly. "Praise Berronar and Azrella! It is wondrous to see that you have been returned to us. I trust you are both well."
Lyonessa smiles at Grondar's entrance and words. "We will be fine, thank you Grondar. It is good to see you."
Lyonessa watches as best she can as Grondar returns Ivy's mace to her. That he was able to use it was truly another wonderous occurance. She is truly within the company of heroes blessed by all their gods together!
Lyonessa will smile and greet any other visitors that come to check on them. She will be glad for as long as Laucian wishes to stay, and will continue to talk with him as much as he desires, learning all the details of their adventure and anything he wishes to share with her.
My voice, my will, my magic - three blessings bestowed by Mystra that spell your doom
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Laucian
- Ranger of Ehlonna
- Posts: 532
- Joined: Tue Jul 22, 2003 7:18 pm
- Location: Dense Forests of the Elfholds
Laucian
Laucian will then sit and talk with Lyonessa, speaking in great detail of the citadel, the lost-found-lost dragon hoard and the fall of the dragon itself. Later on in the evening he will ask her, “The ballad in which you were working on, Did you ever finish it?” He will then ask her where she learned to sing and play her Lute from. (hope that is correct).
When he is ushered away by the priestess or summoned to see the king he will look toward Lyonessa. “Alas all good things must come to an end.” he says with a smile in the Priestess’ direction or servant. “May I visit you later on this evening or in the morning?” Depending on the time of day. “You have yet to meet my feline friend.”
Laucian notes Lyonessa’s features lighten and can’t help but smile at the sight of her. Taking her hand in his, he gives it a light squeeze and gives her a light kiss on her hand. He almost says something but holds back.Lyonessa's face nearly beams with surprise and elation upon seeing Laucian enter. She holds out a hand to him as he approaches and says, "It's good to be seen."
“Aye it is a wonderous thing no one else was harmed , though Argent does not seem to be taking the loss of the citadel lightly. She was quite taken by it. She even had herself owning it!“ he says with a laugh, “I will do the same with Onyx, I would not wish to see Dusk harmed.” He will walk to Dusk and see if he/she (dunno which) will let him pet it.Listening to his tale she is astonished at what they faced. She could not begin to imagine such a place as he described, and their narrow escape. Truly an epic ballad needing to be composed indeed! "I am glad that Lord Corley was able to be saved, and that none of the others were seriously hurt. I will also make sure Dusk does his best to get along with your new feline friend," she says with a slight glance in Dusk's direction. "We want to make sure everyone plays nice together."
Laucian will then sit and talk with Lyonessa, speaking in great detail of the citadel, the lost-found-lost dragon hoard and the fall of the dragon itself. Later on in the evening he will ask her, “The ballad in which you were working on, Did you ever finish it?” He will then ask her where she learned to sing and play her Lute from. (hope that is correct).
When he is ushered away by the priestess or summoned to see the king he will look toward Lyonessa. “Alas all good things must come to an end.” he says with a smile in the Priestess’ direction or servant. “May I visit you later on this evening or in the morning?” Depending on the time of day. “You have yet to meet my feline friend.”
Til Ehlonna's will be done
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Argent
- Sorceress
- Posts: 320
- Joined: Mon Jul 28, 2003 10:53 pm
- Location: Kingdom of Cynalon and other various locations
Argent
Argent:
Argent will drop off her extra gear in the guest room that is provided. It seems space is at a premium here and sharing will be required. Since Sherra is the only other woman around at the moment, it looks like they are roomies. That is unless the loud lady dwarf decides to join us.
After cleaning up, Argent will pull a clean dress from her Bag of Holding. She’ll add some of her jewelry collection, but leave the tiara behind for now.
Out in the hallway, she’ll come across Lord Validar and another man in armor.
“Lord Validar! You and the others made it back too! I am most pleased to see that you survived the destruction of the dragon’s lair.”
After that, she’ll drop in to see Ivy and Lyonessa and finds that many of the others are there.
“Hello!” Argent says as she peeks her head in the door. “Good to have you girls back among us!”
Argent will try to find out when the twins come back to the fortress with those, hopefully, yummy spell books!
“We’ll have to wait and see,” Argent will agree. She is still too disappointed in losing all that stuff to worry about the others surviving just yet. The Invoker needs to grieve a bit longer before her thoughts turn to her companions. (But they will turn. Promise!)Chareos wrote:"That is true, perhaps if we are lucky enough that spell Ember used maybe within the tome's secrets? At least all of us made it out of the citadel alive; or at least I hope we all did."
“Yes, that’s right! I’m sure they're smart enough to realize that once the portal vanished that they didn’t need to wait for us to come back down there. Hopefully those books will be showing up any minute now!”Chareos wrote:"Speaking of which, don't the twins still have the tomes in their possession?" he will ask.
Argent will drop off her extra gear in the guest room that is provided. It seems space is at a premium here and sharing will be required. Since Sherra is the only other woman around at the moment, it looks like they are roomies. That is unless the loud lady dwarf decides to join us.
After cleaning up, Argent will pull a clean dress from her Bag of Holding. She’ll add some of her jewelry collection, but leave the tiara behind for now.
Out in the hallway, she’ll come across Lord Validar and another man in armor.
“Lord Validar! You and the others made it back too! I am most pleased to see that you survived the destruction of the dragon’s lair.”
After that, she’ll drop in to see Ivy and Lyonessa and finds that many of the others are there.
“Hello!” Argent says as she peeks her head in the door. “Good to have you girls back among us!”
Argent will try to find out when the twins come back to the fortress with those, hopefully, yummy spell books!
I am an Invoker of no small power.
Ivy
Ivy:
In spite of her concern over her missing weapon Ivy slips into a light sleep. Soon she is awakened by unexpected but very welcomed visitors.
“I wondered what happened to that. Thank you for carrying for it. You were able to make use of it? Amazing! Perhaps our patrons are more closely related than I first expected. I am pleased that it was instrumental in the defeat of that horrible dragon.”
She’ll say hello to the others as they arrive all the while waiting for that one person to step through the door.
In spite of her concern over her missing weapon Ivy slips into a light sleep. Soon she is awakened by unexpected but very welcomed visitors.
“Validar!” Ivy cries out in surprise. “You made it back! Is everyone else okay too? Is Lord Acerion okay?”Validar wrote:Validar will make a brief entrance in to see Ivy and Lyonessa before seeing the King. "It does my heart good to know that both of you are well and recovering. The battle is over and we have won," Validar will explain. "The dragon will not bedevil this land nor our people any longer and the Crystal Citadel as well has been destroyed. We have all earned a short respite for our troubles. Although I fear that there is more adventure and more danger approaching even as we speak."
“Grondar!” Ivy calls out with a smile as the dwarf steps around Lord Validar.Grondar wrote:Entering the room, he greets his friends warmly. "Praise Berronar and Azrella! It is wondrous to see that you have been returned to us. I trust you are both well."
Relief floods into Ivy’s face at the sight of her divine weapon. It would have been most embarrassing to lose such a precious thing after only just gaining it!Grondar wrote:Turning to Ivy, Grondar bows low. "Fair lady, I have something that I believe belongs to you." Reaching inside his cloak, Grondar brings forth the Kiss of Azrella from where it had been hanging at his belt. "Your patron, Azrella, was kind enough to allow me to use this a couple of times. I believe that doing so made a huge difference in preventing even more losses among our friends. Thank you."
“I wondered what happened to that. Thank you for carrying for it. You were able to make use of it? Amazing! Perhaps our patrons are more closely related than I first expected. I am pleased that it was instrumental in the defeat of that horrible dragon.”
“Hi”, Ivy says when Lau pops into the room. She listens intently as he tells Lyonessa about their exploits.Laucian wrote:Laucian smiles at the news of their friends’ survival. He will go and spend time with both of their fallen friends, especially Lyonessa and tell her the tale in detail of what had transpired since they departed.
"It is good to see you both well, my friends."
She’ll say hello to the others as they arrive all the while waiting for that one person to step through the door.
For the glory of the Blue Lady!
GM Notes:
GM Notes:
Validar/Silvarn
(GM Note: The full story is revealed in the Frontier posts #104-117.)
Validar/Alon
Validar/Teris
“Ah, Lord Validar! A name I’ve heard in court numerous times these last few days. It is an honor to finally meet you. You’re making quite a name for yourself among the nobility. Yes, I know Lord Tameron very well. In fact, he is also here the fortress. We’re both among the advisors to the king. I’m sure that we’ll all be in his majesty’s presence again very soon.”
Laucian/Alon
Grondar/Silvarn
Grondar/Alon
Validar/Silvarn
“For the most part, there were some casualties however. Someone named Rooster was killed when a trapped wall fell on him and another named Carnery was lost when he was transformed into a snake.”"That is an ironic twist of circumstance that they also battled a red dragon recently. I trust they were all well?"
(GM Note: The full story is revealed in the Frontier posts #104-117.)
Validar/Alon
“I am among the advisors to the king and have some idea where we are heading. It is the King’s intent to be more proactive, rather than simply dealing with whatever new crisis arises. Securing our borders against enemy incursions is a top priority. Your exploits are known to the King and I am sure that he’ll have a task in mind for you and your companions.”"I think I like the sounds of that. I had many of my own plans, and still do for that matter, but I am intrigued by what direction the new King will be taking our beloved Cynalon," Lord Validar will say. "We have indeed been beset by far too many troubles both from without and within."
Validar/Teris
One of those is escorting his comrades through the fortress as well. "Excuse me, I believe you are Lady Teris Penhaligon, are you not? I am Lord Validar Vanarkus, eldest son of the Baron of Pyris. I met your father briefly some years ago, when I was training in the house of Lord Tameron Antonic of Verge. Very pleased to meet you, my lady."
“Ah, Lord Validar! A name I’ve heard in court numerous times these last few days. It is an honor to finally meet you. You’re making quite a name for yourself among the nobility. Yes, I know Lord Tameron very well. In fact, he is also here the fortress. We’re both among the advisors to the king. I’m sure that we’ll all be in his majesty’s presence again very soon.”
Laucian/Alon
“Of course, my good man. Just accompany me and Lord Validar. We’ll get you heroes of Corunglain all settled in and patched up.”"I thank you for your kindness, Sir Alon. There is someone among them that I would not want to see harmed, nor any of them for that matter." Laucian's face returns to normal and even smiles somewhat through the grime and blood.
“Considering we have time to do so, where would one be able to clean themselves up?"
Grondar/Silvarn
“I’ve always liked the sound of Berronar Truesilver for some reason,” Silvarn says with a wink."You have my word as a priest of Berronar Truesilver, wife of Moradin Soulforge," Grondar replies. The dwarven priest watches as she transforms herself into a silver dragon. "Nice to see that my guess was right," he says, mostly to himself.
“It simply wouldn’t do to have you all perish after finally destroying Ember. I’ve been fighting that red for a long, long time now.”"Wow, that was amazing, Silvarn. And thank you for bringing us safely out of there."
Grondar/Alon
“I bid you welcome, noble priest,” Sir Alon says with a bow. “Come, we’ll get you all situated and reunite you with your companions.”“Greetings, Lord Teramar, I am Grondar Foehammer, willing servant of the Revered Mother."
Try it and find out!
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Grondar
- Berronar's Humble Servant
- Posts: 406
- Joined: Thu Sep 02, 2004 7:55 pm
- Location: Aboveground, unfortunately
Extinguishing the Smoldering Ember
Grondar:
Looking around, Grondar notes that some few are still missing. "Has anyone seen or heard of the whereabouts of our friends Rathlar, Arocken and Valena? I believe they remained in the caves when we passed through the portal. Do we know if they survived?"
Silvarn's words bring a mirthful laugh from the dwarf. "No doubt."Silvern wrote:“I’ve always liked the sound of Berronar Truesilver for some reason,” Silvarn says with a wink.
"Still, dragons and dwarves have not always been the best of friends, and I appreciate what you did, not only for me, but for all of us. I know it was our pleasure to help in ridding the world of that particular menace."Silvern wrote:“It simply wouldn’t do to have you all perish after finally destroying Ember. I’ve been fighting that red for a long, long time now.”
"Thank you, good sir," Grondar replies. "I cannot wait to see them again and be assured of their well-being." Grondar follows the man into the castle. A quick wash and change out of his armor and into his priestly robes leaves him feeling quite refreshed.Lord Teramar wrote:“I bid you welcome, noble priest,” Sir Alon says with a bow. “Come, we’ll get you all situated and reunite you with your companions.”
"That is so very good to hear, milady. We were all quite distraught when we thought we had lost you forever."Lyonessa wrote:Lyonessa smiles at Grondar's entrance and words. "We will be fine, thank you Grondar. It is good to see you."
Grondar beams at the look of relief on Ivy's face. "Azrella was most gracious in allowing me to use its power. It seems our patrons have much in common, and certainly were with us in that time of trial. Without that boon, I may well not have had the power to save Lord Corley when the time came."Ivy wrote:Relief floods into Ivy’s face at the sight of her divine weapon. It would have been most embarrassing to lose such a precious thing after only just gaining it!
“I wondered what happened to that. Thank you for carrying for it. You were able to make use of it? Amazing! Perhaps our patrons are more closely related than I first expected. I am pleased that it was instrumental in the defeat of that horrible dragon.”
Looking around, Grondar notes that some few are still missing. "Has anyone seen or heard of the whereabouts of our friends Rathlar, Arocken and Valena? I believe they remained in the caves when we passed through the portal. Do we know if they survived?"
Gordon (fanchergw AKA Kylie, Grondar, Yusef, Lily Pak / Menagerie)
back safe and sound..
Sherra:
Word reaches everyone that not only Lord Validar and the others did successfully escape as well, but that Ivy and Lyonessa are alive and resting. Lord Corley is quickly healed as well. Blessed Tymora, thank you for our luck this day Sherra offers up silently. She smiles at Lord Corley, "Glad you are back with us."
Sherra will clean up as the stink, soot and strain of the combat weighs heavy on her. Afterwords she will seek out Ivy and Lyonessa, smile at both of them and express her relief, "I am glad both of you are back." Seeing the others coming and going, she won't hover long, knowing there will be ample time to talk with them later if they wish. Besides, there's nothing really more to say as she still doesn't know either very well. Sherra thinks that there's too many she has been travelling with that she doesn't know much about.
She will relax for the rest of the evening, unless she is later summoned. Sherra will see about getting some food and maybe spend some time conversing with Grondar if Aria doesn't keep his attention permanently. <"So how many dragons does this now make you the champion over?"> she will ask Grondar playfully.
It's almost too much to bear as the citadel rips itself apart, destroyed by the dragon's death, failed magic, or a combination of both, Sherra is not sure. Thankfully Sharadin's magic wisks most of us away as things crash down around everyone. There is some surprise as we appear in the middle of the Duke's Fortress, but Lord Sharadin clears up that confusion immediately.Lord Sharadin is the first to speak. "With the citadel breaking apart, hopefully the wards that blocked Teleport spells are no longer functioning! Those who will be traveling with me must be in physical contact with me! I can take about six of you with me!"
"If it works, I'll take the rest of you out of here," Silvarn calls out having regained her wits.
Following the mage's instructions, those that Validar earlier indicated (Argent, Aria, Acerion, Corley, and Chareos) along with Sherra join together and physically touch the Archmage. The spell is cast and this time they vanish!
"Thank you, Lord Sharadin for that timely rescue," is all Sherra probably has time to say.“Duty calls,” Sharadin says to the group before saying his goodbyes.
Word reaches everyone that not only Lord Validar and the others did successfully escape as well, but that Ivy and Lyonessa are alive and resting. Lord Corley is quickly healed as well. Blessed Tymora, thank you for our luck this day Sherra offers up silently. She smiles at Lord Corley, "Glad you are back with us."
"I was wondering if there was something we can discuss?" Sherra asks Argent as she drops off her extra gear as well, claiming a space in the room they will share. "It can be later as I know you have spells to research," she says with a knowing smile.Argent will drop off her extra gear in the guest room that is provided. It seems space is at a premium here and sharing will be required. Since Sherra is the only other woman around at the moment, it looks like they are roomies. That is unless the loud lady dwarf decides to join us.
Sherra will clean up as the stink, soot and strain of the combat weighs heavy on her. Afterwords she will seek out Ivy and Lyonessa, smile at both of them and express her relief, "I am glad both of you are back." Seeing the others coming and going, she won't hover long, knowing there will be ample time to talk with them later if they wish. Besides, there's nothing really more to say as she still doesn't know either very well. Sherra thinks that there's too many she has been travelling with that she doesn't know much about.
She will relax for the rest of the evening, unless she is later summoned. Sherra will see about getting some food and maybe spend some time conversing with Grondar if Aria doesn't keep his attention permanently. <"So how many dragons does this now make you the champion over?"> she will ask Grondar playfully.
Acerion
Acerion:
Lord Validar stops to pick up the unconscious Lord Corley, but is surprised to discover that his friend is heavier than he expected. His progress with the extra weight is just barely above a crawl. Lord Acerion lends a hand and between the two of them, better speed is made.
Silently Acerion works with Validar to ensure they get Corley out safely. There is no time for words at this juncture, nor are they needed. Both Lords know what must be done for them to escape this crumbling citadel.
"Very good," is all Validar manages to say at the moment. His mind is awhirl on how to survive this situation as he awaits the success or failure of the plan presented. In a moment Lord Sharadin winks out of existence taking most of the Guardians with him.
"We will see you soon," Acerion tells Lord Validar and the others just before Sharadin teleports those of the group away that he is able.
Turning back to the rest of you, the armored woman introduces herself. “I am Lady Teris Penhaligon. I bid you welcome.”
"A pleasure to met you, I am Lord Acerion, paladin of Heironeous," Acerion replies, bowing his head slightly and kissing the Lady Teris upon the hand if he can do so without getting dirt and grime on her.
Lady Teris will see that food, drink, and a place to relax is provided. She informs you that both Ivy and Lyonessa have been restored to life and are resting nearby.
Upon hearing that our fallen have been restored, Corley will say to Lord Acerion, “Go to your lady's side, my friend. We seem to have some time before the King is ready for our audience.”
Acerion is lost in thoughts so joyous they are nearly painful, almost to the point of not hearing Corley's words. "Yes, of course," Acerion finally manages, "and it's good to have you back Corley." Acerion slaps his armored hand against Corley's likewise-armored ribs in a friendly gesture, then clasps wrists with the young lord. "Praise the gods of good," he says as he departs.
What to do? Clean up? No, I can not wait any longer, there will be time enough for finery.. Acerion discusses with himself as he finds himself nearly running to the location of Ivy and Lyonessa's room. Entering, he tries to control his emotions, as he moves across the room, removing helmet and gauntlets. He bows his head at Lyonessa and says, "Good to see you again."
Those words are barely out when he is at the foot of Ivy's bed. Acerion kneels down next to her and gently takes a hand of hers in his, the other hand running lightly across her forehead. Fighting overwhelming emotion he says, "I feared I had lost you forever, my lady." Looking deep into her eyes, she can see the tears poised to fall, and he places her hand to his armored chest. "I fear I do not have long before I need to answer the summons of the new king, but know that I have important things to say. Things that can not be waited on much longer. I will not lose you again before telling you."
"Rest now, sweet Ivy," Acerion says, "and I shall return to your side as soon as I am able. Then, if you are willing, we can talk at length." He brings her hand up to his lips and kisses it softly.
Not wanting to leave, he still knows time is precious. Acerion hurries to clean himself up and remove his battered armor. He will don his simple clothing in the colors of Heironeous and join the others when the summons arrives.
Lord Validar stops to pick up the unconscious Lord Corley, but is surprised to discover that his friend is heavier than he expected. His progress with the extra weight is just barely above a crawl. Lord Acerion lends a hand and between the two of them, better speed is made.
Silently Acerion works with Validar to ensure they get Corley out safely. There is no time for words at this juncture, nor are they needed. Both Lords know what must be done for them to escape this crumbling citadel.
"Very good," is all Validar manages to say at the moment. His mind is awhirl on how to survive this situation as he awaits the success or failure of the plan presented. In a moment Lord Sharadin winks out of existence taking most of the Guardians with him.
"We will see you soon," Acerion tells Lord Validar and the others just before Sharadin teleports those of the group away that he is able.
Turning back to the rest of you, the armored woman introduces herself. “I am Lady Teris Penhaligon. I bid you welcome.”
"A pleasure to met you, I am Lord Acerion, paladin of Heironeous," Acerion replies, bowing his head slightly and kissing the Lady Teris upon the hand if he can do so without getting dirt and grime on her.
Lady Teris will see that food, drink, and a place to relax is provided. She informs you that both Ivy and Lyonessa have been restored to life and are resting nearby.
Upon hearing that our fallen have been restored, Corley will say to Lord Acerion, “Go to your lady's side, my friend. We seem to have some time before the King is ready for our audience.”
Acerion is lost in thoughts so joyous they are nearly painful, almost to the point of not hearing Corley's words. "Yes, of course," Acerion finally manages, "and it's good to have you back Corley." Acerion slaps his armored hand against Corley's likewise-armored ribs in a friendly gesture, then clasps wrists with the young lord. "Praise the gods of good," he says as he departs.
What to do? Clean up? No, I can not wait any longer, there will be time enough for finery.. Acerion discusses with himself as he finds himself nearly running to the location of Ivy and Lyonessa's room. Entering, he tries to control his emotions, as he moves across the room, removing helmet and gauntlets. He bows his head at Lyonessa and says, "Good to see you again."
Those words are barely out when he is at the foot of Ivy's bed. Acerion kneels down next to her and gently takes a hand of hers in his, the other hand running lightly across her forehead. Fighting overwhelming emotion he says, "I feared I had lost you forever, my lady." Looking deep into her eyes, she can see the tears poised to fall, and he places her hand to his armored chest. "I fear I do not have long before I need to answer the summons of the new king, but know that I have important things to say. Things that can not be waited on much longer. I will not lose you again before telling you."
"Rest now, sweet Ivy," Acerion says, "and I shall return to your side as soon as I am able. Then, if you are willing, we can talk at length." He brings her hand up to his lips and kisses it softly.
Not wanting to leave, he still knows time is precious. Acerion hurries to clean himself up and remove his battered armor. He will don his simple clothing in the colors of Heironeous and join the others when the summons arrives.
-
Argent
- Sorceress
- Posts: 320
- Joined: Mon Jul 28, 2003 10:53 pm
- Location: Kingdom of Cynalon and other various locations
Argent
Argent:
Mildly surprised and intrigued, Argent will look from her task. “Of course, Sherra. I seem to have the time now. What did you want to talk about?”Sherra wrote:"I was wondering if there was something we can discuss?" Sherra asks Argent as she drops off her extra gear as well, claiming a space in the room they will share. "It can be later as I know you have spells to research," she says with a knowing smile.
I am an Invoker of no small power.
Dealing with the aftermath...
Lord Validar -
Silvarn:
“For the most part, there were some casualties however. Someone named Rooster was killed when a trapped wall fell on him and another named Carnery was lost when he was transformed into a snake.”
"I see," Lord Validar says. "I cannot say that I knew them as they were newcomers to the Seekers after the Battle for Gateway. A number of new faces appeared in the days just before I returned to Pyris." Carnery was a priest of Silvanus and Rooster was the scruffy looking halfling with the weird accent. Validar did not really speak much to eaither of them other than to welcome them before he left the Seekers' mansion. The Seekers always seemed to have death and misfortune follow them. Fortunately, the Guardians of Light have not fallen to the same fate. "Still it is always good to hear about my old friends."
Argent:Out in the hallway, she’ll come across Lord Validar and another man in armor. “Lord Validar! You and the others made it back too! I am most pleased to see that you survived the destruction of the dragon’s lair.”
"Thank you for that sentiment, my friend. Truly it will take much more than that to kill any of the Guardians, if I have my way. We have completed a tremendous battle and have won ourselves a brief respite. Enjoy it while you have the chance, for I understand that the King has a quest for us that we should learn about quite soon."
Ivy:
“Validar!” Ivy cries out in surprise. “You made it back! Is everyone else okay too? Is Lord Acerion okay?”
"Everyone is fine. We all made it back safely. Sharadin's daughters are retrieving the last 3 from the caverns even as we speak. And I am certain that Acerion is on his way here as well. You shan't wait long, I promise you."
Alon:
“I am among the advisors to the king and have some idea where we are heading. It is the King’s intent to be more proactive, rather than simply dealing with whatever new crisis arises. Securing our borders against enemy incursions is a top priority. Your exploits are known to the King and I am sure that he’ll have a task in mind for you and your companions.”
"Impressive," Lord Validar will respond. "My father was wise in having me under your tutelage. Not only did I receive a masterful training in weapon skill, especially the lance, but also increased my political ties quite tremendously."
"I am very pleased to hear about securing our borders more stringently. We have been on the defnsive for too long. As such Cynalon has been under repeated attack from her enemies and it has also allowed the festering of internal issues as well. Indeed there are many changes in the works. It is my honor to assist my King in the tasks required ahead."
"Where is the planning to begin? Are there plans for an offensive already? Is that what the King will be announcing at this meeting?" Lord Validar is very anxious to see what comes next. He has his own plans and they can only be helped by the new King's aggressive stance against their enemies. The only problem that could erupt is whether the plans he has will be superceded by the King. If that were to happen, then adjustments would need to be made.
"After our meeting with the King, I would be pleased if we could discuss some other matters in private. I would like to know your opinion of certain situations," Lord Validar will request.
Validar greets Po when he arrives with their personal items and he gives him charge to keep everything organized and then for the young man to retire to one of the supplied rooms for a welcome rest. Their supplies and horses arrive in time from where they left them in the Gatehouse before attacking the warehouse, and Validar will change into his standard white military uniform, complete with his coat of arms. He wears his swordbelt as usual.
Before heading to the meeting with the King, Validar wanders the halls near the Gatehouse checking on the defenses and remembering the battle from previous days. His mind is awash with thoughts and plans, when a faint yet familiar voice breaks him from his inner monologue. Was that Gabriella? He heads down a side hall and into an open doorway. Sitting at a table with papers piled upon it, Validar spies Lady Allonica making notes and going over lists with several other women. His eyes light up upon seeing her.
Lady Gabriella Allonica was of mixed heritage, part Cynalonian and part Zakharan from her mother. She somewhat tended toward that side in appearance and her normally bronze skin was even more tanned as it had been often kissed by the sun’s rays this recent summer. Her dark curly hair contrasted with her emerald-colored eyes, clearly indicating Cynalonian influence as well. Gabriella was slim and trim with the tone of a dancer’s body and standing to some extent short of average height. Her voice was like a gentle summer breeze, soft and soothing, with a delicate lilt that seemed to caress the listener's ears. She was certainly a beauty, with large almond-shaped eyes and full lips under a narrow and ever so slightly upturned nose. Yet a careful kindness also seemed to radiate from deep within this woman. Gabriella had just completed her second decade on this planet earlier this year.
As Validar peered into the room where she was working, he found her dressed somewhat simply, but still with more than a dash of her typical far western Zakharan style. She wore a simple red blouse, with a black and white colored fringed shawl draped lightly across her shoulders. High waisted, wide legged trousers reached nearly to her bejeweled ankles, which were crossed one over the other under her stool as she leaned forward in her work. Her shoes had already been discarded and forgotten hours ago. Gabriella's many jewels and jewelry struggled to compete with her own natural beauty. As she wrote on the parchment list adding recently learned information, her shimmering gold bracelets played a happy tune of their own.
"Gabriella!" he almost shouts as he strides purposefully into the room. Many of those working here startle in surprise and alarm and turn to see this interruption.
Her mind, switching from the detailed work to suddenly hearing Validar's voice exploding into the room, freezes for a moment from the surprise, unsure if she should greet him formally or rush into his arms. The raven-haired target of his affections looks a bit sheepishly at the other women due to the sudden attention, but she stands to face him. "Lord Validar...!" Before she can get another word out, the Guardians' leader quickly closes the distance and wraps her up in a huge hug, lifting her off her feet!
"I am so pleased to see that you are well." He sets her down and gazes at the object of his affections, then pulls her close again. "I worried that you might have been one of the unfortunates captured at the feast." Validar holds the hug longer than he intended, but it feels so right to have her in his arms.
Separating finally, Gabriella looks a bit flushed. But a large smile graces her features as she pushes her hair out of her face. "I am also happy to see you healthy after all the recent battles. We all heard about your exploits in engineering the counter attack that broke the siege. Everyone in the city is talking about it," she says proudly. Gabriella looks briefly at the women she was working with for a moment, all of whom are suddenly quite interested in the pair's conversation.
Taking Validar's hand, she leads him out to the hallway for a bit of privacy and then smiles warmly at him once more. "I apparently am not important enough to warrant an invitation with the Duke," she says modestly. "I was meeting with several of the local businessmen to arrange for supplies returning from Corunglain back to Crossroads, and possibly Gateway, when the attack came. Fortunately we were close to the Duke's Gatehouse and able to seek safe refuge."
Validar feigns a hurt expression at her admission. "Not important? Nonsense!" Taking both her hands in his, the noble lord cannot suppress the smile on his face as he looks at her. "You are extremely important to me. Still it is very fortuitous. Those unfortunates who were there at the feast are undergoing an awful situation. The Hextor devils and their allies are vile." His smile wanes as he speaks of the repulsive enemy the city has faced.
"I wish I had more time to speak with you, but I am soon off to a meeting with our new King," Validar continues. "But what is it you are working on here?" he asks curiously.
"As you must already know, from the barbaric attacks there are numerous people and children who have been separated from their families. Many who need clothes and food as their homes were destroyed. I am trying to assist with the organization of necessary supplies and matching of families whose members may be split between various Gatehouse refuge stations. The battle may be over, but the repercussions linger," she says full of lament. "There are many children who will grow up missing a parent or even both."
"Yes, war is always hardest on the innocent. There are cheers and accolades and banquets for the heroes. And the little ones suffer despite the victory. You have given me something to think about, my lady."
"I shouldn't keep you any longer from the King." Gabriella changes the subject, and Validar leads her back to her work, still holding firmly to her hand and not wishing to let it go.
"Not even the King himself could keep me from your side, my dear." She blushes again as he pulls her to him, his arm about her waist. "I will search you out when this meeting is complete. Until then." He gazes into her bright green eyes for what seems like an hour, but is only a moment. Their hips touch lightly. Gabriella matches his gaze and bites her lower lip ever so slightly, anticipation palpable. Validar brushes a lock of dark curly hair from her face and pulls their bodies closer, as he leans in for a tender kiss. The moment lingers softly and as they each pull away, Validar sees her beautiful almond-shaped eyes flutter closed and a smile form, as a sigh escapes her lips. He has to remind himself where he is and his waiting duty. For a moment, nothing else mattered.
He stepped away, but his eyes did not leave her until she disappeared back into the room. She gave him a wave and blew a kiss in his direction. A rise of high-spirited chatter and giggles emanated from the room as he strode away, an unwavering smile gracing his face.
[Here we find the first major change and addition due to the Romance of Gabriella and Validar and the changes that this retcon wrought. You can read about the reasons for those changes and the additional exposition that came about with the alterations. From this point, on there will be alterations to the original posted story as Gabriella was not an advisor to the King and their relationship is much different than was originally presented. Their story will intertwine with the original posts with changes and additions noted, in addition to references to the original text. bit.ly/GabbyValidar ]
Teris:
“Ah, Lord Validar! A name I’ve heard in court numerous times these last few days. It is an honor to finally meet you. You’re making quite a name for yourself among the nobility. Yes, I know Lord Tameron very well. In fact, he is also here the fortress. We’re both among the advisors to the king. I’m sure that we’ll all be in his majesty’s presence again very soon.”
"The honor is mine, milady. It pleases me to hear that Lord Tameron is here as well. However the circumstances could be better. While this was a great victory won here, it is overshadowed by the capture of all the nobles who were here including the Duke. This has been a dark day for Corunglain and also for Cynalon. My hope is that we are able to turn it into a true victory worthy of honor and glory."
"It appears that many of my old mentors are advisors to the new King. There is much honor in that title, milady. I am certain you are most worthy for that role." Validar smiles to himself. Having close ties to two of the King's advisors at least is a huge political advantage. And soon they will be sent on a mission personally by the King himself. This will indeed be advantageous in Validar's lofty plans.
"Have there been plans made to rescue the Duke and the other nobles? What do you know of our immediate plans?"
Silvarn:
“For the most part, there were some casualties however. Someone named Rooster was killed when a trapped wall fell on him and another named Carnery was lost when he was transformed into a snake.”
"I see," Lord Validar says. "I cannot say that I knew them as they were newcomers to the Seekers after the Battle for Gateway. A number of new faces appeared in the days just before I returned to Pyris." Carnery was a priest of Silvanus and Rooster was the scruffy looking halfling with the weird accent. Validar did not really speak much to eaither of them other than to welcome them before he left the Seekers' mansion. The Seekers always seemed to have death and misfortune follow them. Fortunately, the Guardians of Light have not fallen to the same fate. "Still it is always good to hear about my old friends."
Argent:Out in the hallway, she’ll come across Lord Validar and another man in armor. “Lord Validar! You and the others made it back too! I am most pleased to see that you survived the destruction of the dragon’s lair.”
"Thank you for that sentiment, my friend. Truly it will take much more than that to kill any of the Guardians, if I have my way. We have completed a tremendous battle and have won ourselves a brief respite. Enjoy it while you have the chance, for I understand that the King has a quest for us that we should learn about quite soon."
Ivy:
“Validar!” Ivy cries out in surprise. “You made it back! Is everyone else okay too? Is Lord Acerion okay?”
"Everyone is fine. We all made it back safely. Sharadin's daughters are retrieving the last 3 from the caverns even as we speak. And I am certain that Acerion is on his way here as well. You shan't wait long, I promise you."
Alon:
“I am among the advisors to the king and have some idea where we are heading. It is the King’s intent to be more proactive, rather than simply dealing with whatever new crisis arises. Securing our borders against enemy incursions is a top priority. Your exploits are known to the King and I am sure that he’ll have a task in mind for you and your companions.”
"Impressive," Lord Validar will respond. "My father was wise in having me under your tutelage. Not only did I receive a masterful training in weapon skill, especially the lance, but also increased my political ties quite tremendously."
"I am very pleased to hear about securing our borders more stringently. We have been on the defnsive for too long. As such Cynalon has been under repeated attack from her enemies and it has also allowed the festering of internal issues as well. Indeed there are many changes in the works. It is my honor to assist my King in the tasks required ahead."
"Where is the planning to begin? Are there plans for an offensive already? Is that what the King will be announcing at this meeting?" Lord Validar is very anxious to see what comes next. He has his own plans and they can only be helped by the new King's aggressive stance against their enemies. The only problem that could erupt is whether the plans he has will be superceded by the King. If that were to happen, then adjustments would need to be made.
"After our meeting with the King, I would be pleased if we could discuss some other matters in private. I would like to know your opinion of certain situations," Lord Validar will request.
Validar greets Po when he arrives with their personal items and he gives him charge to keep everything organized and then for the young man to retire to one of the supplied rooms for a welcome rest. Their supplies and horses arrive in time from where they left them in the Gatehouse before attacking the warehouse, and Validar will change into his standard white military uniform, complete with his coat of arms. He wears his swordbelt as usual.
Before heading to the meeting with the King, Validar wanders the halls near the Gatehouse checking on the defenses and remembering the battle from previous days. His mind is awash with thoughts and plans, when a faint yet familiar voice breaks him from his inner monologue. Was that Gabriella? He heads down a side hall and into an open doorway. Sitting at a table with papers piled upon it, Validar spies Lady Allonica making notes and going over lists with several other women. His eyes light up upon seeing her.
Lady Gabriella Allonica was of mixed heritage, part Cynalonian and part Zakharan from her mother. She somewhat tended toward that side in appearance and her normally bronze skin was even more tanned as it had been often kissed by the sun’s rays this recent summer. Her dark curly hair contrasted with her emerald-colored eyes, clearly indicating Cynalonian influence as well. Gabriella was slim and trim with the tone of a dancer’s body and standing to some extent short of average height. Her voice was like a gentle summer breeze, soft and soothing, with a delicate lilt that seemed to caress the listener's ears. She was certainly a beauty, with large almond-shaped eyes and full lips under a narrow and ever so slightly upturned nose. Yet a careful kindness also seemed to radiate from deep within this woman. Gabriella had just completed her second decade on this planet earlier this year.
As Validar peered into the room where she was working, he found her dressed somewhat simply, but still with more than a dash of her typical far western Zakharan style. She wore a simple red blouse, with a black and white colored fringed shawl draped lightly across her shoulders. High waisted, wide legged trousers reached nearly to her bejeweled ankles, which were crossed one over the other under her stool as she leaned forward in her work. Her shoes had already been discarded and forgotten hours ago. Gabriella's many jewels and jewelry struggled to compete with her own natural beauty. As she wrote on the parchment list adding recently learned information, her shimmering gold bracelets played a happy tune of their own.
"Gabriella!" he almost shouts as he strides purposefully into the room. Many of those working here startle in surprise and alarm and turn to see this interruption.
Her mind, switching from the detailed work to suddenly hearing Validar's voice exploding into the room, freezes for a moment from the surprise, unsure if she should greet him formally or rush into his arms. The raven-haired target of his affections looks a bit sheepishly at the other women due to the sudden attention, but she stands to face him. "Lord Validar...!" Before she can get another word out, the Guardians' leader quickly closes the distance and wraps her up in a huge hug, lifting her off her feet!
"I am so pleased to see that you are well." He sets her down and gazes at the object of his affections, then pulls her close again. "I worried that you might have been one of the unfortunates captured at the feast." Validar holds the hug longer than he intended, but it feels so right to have her in his arms.
Separating finally, Gabriella looks a bit flushed. But a large smile graces her features as she pushes her hair out of her face. "I am also happy to see you healthy after all the recent battles. We all heard about your exploits in engineering the counter attack that broke the siege. Everyone in the city is talking about it," she says proudly. Gabriella looks briefly at the women she was working with for a moment, all of whom are suddenly quite interested in the pair's conversation.
Taking Validar's hand, she leads him out to the hallway for a bit of privacy and then smiles warmly at him once more. "I apparently am not important enough to warrant an invitation with the Duke," she says modestly. "I was meeting with several of the local businessmen to arrange for supplies returning from Corunglain back to Crossroads, and possibly Gateway, when the attack came. Fortunately we were close to the Duke's Gatehouse and able to seek safe refuge."
Validar feigns a hurt expression at her admission. "Not important? Nonsense!" Taking both her hands in his, the noble lord cannot suppress the smile on his face as he looks at her. "You are extremely important to me. Still it is very fortuitous. Those unfortunates who were there at the feast are undergoing an awful situation. The Hextor devils and their allies are vile." His smile wanes as he speaks of the repulsive enemy the city has faced.
"I wish I had more time to speak with you, but I am soon off to a meeting with our new King," Validar continues. "But what is it you are working on here?" he asks curiously.
"As you must already know, from the barbaric attacks there are numerous people and children who have been separated from their families. Many who need clothes and food as their homes were destroyed. I am trying to assist with the organization of necessary supplies and matching of families whose members may be split between various Gatehouse refuge stations. The battle may be over, but the repercussions linger," she says full of lament. "There are many children who will grow up missing a parent or even both."
"Yes, war is always hardest on the innocent. There are cheers and accolades and banquets for the heroes. And the little ones suffer despite the victory. You have given me something to think about, my lady."
"I shouldn't keep you any longer from the King." Gabriella changes the subject, and Validar leads her back to her work, still holding firmly to her hand and not wishing to let it go.
"Not even the King himself could keep me from your side, my dear." She blushes again as he pulls her to him, his arm about her waist. "I will search you out when this meeting is complete. Until then." He gazes into her bright green eyes for what seems like an hour, but is only a moment. Their hips touch lightly. Gabriella matches his gaze and bites her lower lip ever so slightly, anticipation palpable. Validar brushes a lock of dark curly hair from her face and pulls their bodies closer, as he leans in for a tender kiss. The moment lingers softly and as they each pull away, Validar sees her beautiful almond-shaped eyes flutter closed and a smile form, as a sigh escapes her lips. He has to remind himself where he is and his waiting duty. For a moment, nothing else mattered.
He stepped away, but his eyes did not leave her until she disappeared back into the room. She gave him a wave and blew a kiss in his direction. A rise of high-spirited chatter and giggles emanated from the room as he strode away, an unwavering smile gracing his face.
[Here we find the first major change and addition due to the Romance of Gabriella and Validar and the changes that this retcon wrought. You can read about the reasons for those changes and the additional exposition that came about with the alterations. From this point, on there will be alterations to the original posted story as Gabriella was not an advisor to the King and their relationship is much different than was originally presented. Their story will intertwine with the original posts with changes and additions noted, in addition to references to the original text. bit.ly/GabbyValidar ]
Teris:
“Ah, Lord Validar! A name I’ve heard in court numerous times these last few days. It is an honor to finally meet you. You’re making quite a name for yourself among the nobility. Yes, I know Lord Tameron very well. In fact, he is also here the fortress. We’re both among the advisors to the king. I’m sure that we’ll all be in his majesty’s presence again very soon.”
"The honor is mine, milady. It pleases me to hear that Lord Tameron is here as well. However the circumstances could be better. While this was a great victory won here, it is overshadowed by the capture of all the nobles who were here including the Duke. This has been a dark day for Corunglain and also for Cynalon. My hope is that we are able to turn it into a true victory worthy of honor and glory."
"It appears that many of my old mentors are advisors to the new King. There is much honor in that title, milady. I am certain you are most worthy for that role." Validar smiles to himself. Having close ties to two of the King's advisors at least is a huge political advantage. And soon they will be sent on a mission personally by the King himself. This will indeed be advantageous in Validar's lofty plans.
"Have there been plans made to rescue the Duke and the other nobles? What do you know of our immediate plans?"
Conquer or Die!
if possible..
Sherra:
Pausing a moment, Sherra continues, "So what I was wondering is if, as time and materials allow, you could scribe a scroll with low level, but useful, spells upon it? That way, in a pinch, it would be something I could use, or any of the mages of course, and it could prove as valuable as that Wall of Fog spell was."
"Well," Sherra begins, sitting down on her bed in the shared room, "remember the scroll I gave you to cast the Wall of Fog? There's another spell on it as well, and I can read them. Nowhere near your level of skill, but for one untrained in the arts of magic, I can still read spells with decent results from scrolls."Mildly surprised and intrigued, Argent will look from her task. “Of course, Sherra. I seem to have the time now. What did you want to talk about?”
Pausing a moment, Sherra continues, "So what I was wondering is if, as time and materials allow, you could scribe a scroll with low level, but useful, spells upon it? That way, in a pinch, it would be something I could use, or any of the mages of course, and it could prove as valuable as that Wall of Fog spell was."