Elfquest #2

[GM Mad]

Elfquest #2


Within the confines of the Sky Palace of the Elfin King, the group learns more about the quest that lies before them. Questions are asked in return.

“Milord, if these elves hid within the trees what would become of them if the trees were cut down? Orcs are well known of stripping the land; would the elves encased within the trees die if they were cut down? Perhaps this is why word was not sent.”

“Presumably, they would perish if the tree they were placed in died. Such a thing is a strong possibility.”

"I don't know why we were chosen, King Doriath," she says, "but I'm sure the All Father must have had his reasons. For me, it is a privilege to follow in my mother's footsteps, and I hope that this quest will bring me closer to the truth of her fate."

“I am sure that you will do her proud, Kylie Feador, daughter of Allurien Feador. I am also hopeful that you can find her and the others that we sent. There loss was a tremendous blow to the elfin people.”

"While this may sound silly, know you anything of the weather we will encounter in the Sylvan Realm? From what we have been told, it would seem to be far to the north, so that it may be much colder there than we are used to. It would be good to make sure that we have proper clothing for the conditions that we might encounter."

“I would assume that the lands between here and the Sylvan Realm are colder, but the Realm itself is comfortably warm. The climate is similar to that the Elfholds, thanks to the influence of the Trees of Life.”

“Milord, How many adventuring bands were sent?” she asks curiously. If they were captured there maybe allies with the Sylvain lands she guesses.

“Nine bands have taken the Rainbow Path thus far. You will be the tenth.”

Sherwood accepts the pendant and eyes in for a moment. “A form of Polymorph, I would assume? The magic just gives me the appearance of an elf. Thank you for your gift. We will do our best to complete this mission.”

“That is what I am told. The magic of the pendant temporarily gives you the appearance and abilities of an elf. You will remain human for all intents and purposes.”


The king will then wish you well on your quest and the group is off once more. The Clan Elder leads the way back through the way you came to the Cynalonian Embassy. Sherwood makes use of the Elfin Pendant and is transformed into an elf. It’s not a big surprise to most of the group as he has Polymorphed into Elf on numerous occasions before. In this form, Sherwood has no trouble negotiating the rope bridges that connect the great trees over Alfheim.

Back at the embassy, the Lady Salavarian awaits your arrival.

“If your business here in Alfheim is complete, I’ll assist Sherwood in Teleporting you all to Karn’s Keep. Then I must bid you all farewell, as I must return to Corunglain with all due haste.”


GM Notes:

If you have any more questions for King Doriath or the Clan Elder, go ahead and ask them. The Clan Elder will also see to Laucian’s horse Starfire. Otherwise, we’ll be moving on to Karn’s Keep in the next post!

Also check out the Map’s Section in the private reference area. There are several things there of interest to those in this game.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“You don’t trust me,” Sherwood says in mock surprise. “And after all we’ve been through together. You wound me.”

Sherwood's antics draw a laugh from Kylie. "Sorry to hurt your delicate feelings, dear uncle. Having been trained by Rat, I guess I'm just naturally suspicious."

“I’m not sure it’s as cut and dry as that,” Sherwood answers. “The real answer is probably a lot more complicated.”

Kylie frowns. "I don't doubt that you are right about that."

“That seems to be the case. It is rather disconcerting at times. Since I didn’t feel this way before, I am sure that once we are away from the Elfholds it will fade.”

"I can see where that would be seem very strange," Kylie says sympathetically. "I'm having enough trouble trying to get used to what you consider normal."

A discussion of languages ensues, with everyone describing the languages that they are fluent in. Most of the others seem to speak more languages than she does. "The only other language I speak is that of the small folk; Rat taught it to me during my apprenticeship. I would be willing to try to learn Centaur or Dryad if it is felt that we need a language for private discussions. I don't know about Orcish or Goblin, though, as I have little interest in learning more about them. Some kind of sign language might be a good idea; Rat tried to teach me one as part of my training, but I wasn't much interested in learning it at the time. I think I remember enough of the concept that I could be of some help in creating a new one for us."

“Not entirely so. Though I have accidentally spoken the wrong word at an inappropriate time.” he says with a sheepish smile. “It is a wise idea Kylie, you gain knowledge from it and a greater understanding of the beings that speak it.”

"That makes some sense, I guess, though I hadn't really given it much thought. Perhaps this is an opportunity for me to expand my knowledge."

“I am sure that you will do her proud, Kylie Feador, daughter of Allurien Feador. I am also hopeful that you can find her and the others that we sent. There loss was a tremendous blow to the elfin people.”

"Thank you, King Doriath. Nothing would give me greater pleasure than to find my mother and her friends. In this case, your loss has been in a very real sense my loss as well." Their is a hint of sadness in her voice as she says this.

“I would assume that the lands between here and the Sylvan Realm are colder, but the Realm itself is comfortably warm. The climate is similar to that the Elfholds, thanks to the influence of the Trees of Life.”

Kylie nods, making an internal note for herself to obtain some warmer clothes for the trip.

“The prized Elfin Boots and Cloaks are another gift given to us by the Tree’s of Life. The cloaks are formed from carefully treated leaves, while the soles of the boots are made from treated bark. It is also said that other items can be made from the Trees by products, but these are rare. Items such as elfin swords, bows, and arrows.”

Kylie is amazed and intrigued by this information, and Lia seems equally astonished. She had never considered the possibility that such items, other than bows and arrows, could be made from plants. Grabbing the corner of her Cloak, she pulls it up for closer inspection. "That's incredible, Lilia, but I think I can see that it's true, now that I look closely..."

"I know where a few other Sylvan villages are, Kylie. There is quite a tour I could give you through the southern lands," Nariya tells her. "A few places not on any map I know of, and I intend to keep it that way," the last being said lightheartedly.

"That would be wonderful, Nariya," Kylie says with a smile. "I can only hope that someday we will have time for such a journey."

“I know some of them. If the Sylvan Realm lies to the north and west from here, we’ll be crossing the lands of Vassa and that will not be pleasant. We’ll get there, somehow.”

"Excuse me, Sherwood," Kylie interjects. "I have never heard of this Vassa that you mentioned. Can you tell us more about it?"

As always, Kylie is pleased to see Jallarzi waiting for them when they return from meeting with the king. Unfortunately, she won't be with them long. Having never been here before, or to Karn's Keep for that matter, Kylie shifts her attention between Jallarzi, Sherwood and the Elder. "I looks like I'm going to need some warmer clothes for this trip. Where is the best place to get some: here or Karn's Keep?"

[Lia]

Lia

“Nine bands have taken the Rainbow Path thus far. You will be the tenth.”

Lia considers this for a moment but says nothing. So many before them have gone and none have returned. This is a great task she surmises.

Lis looks astonished as Sherwood puts on the pendent as he soon gains the appearance of a fellow elf!! He also navigates the rope brings without any trouble. A most useful magical item indeed!

A discussion of languages ensues, with everyone describing the languages that they are fluent in. Most of the others seem to speak more languages than she does. "The only other language I speak is that of the small folk; Rat taught it to me during my apprenticeship. I would be willing to try to learn Centaur or Dryad if it is felt that we need a language for private discussions. I don't know about Orcish or Goblin, though, as I have little interest in learning more about them. Some kind of sign language might be a good idea; Rat tried to teach me one as part of my training, but I wasn't much interested in learning it at the time. I think I remember enough of the concept that I could be of some help in creating a new one for us."

“Sadly I am not versed in many languages, Though I would be interested in learning the languages of the outside world. Centaur and Orcish appeal to me the most of those mentioned.”

"Excuse me, Sherwood," Kylie interjects. "I have never heard of this Vassa that you mentioned. Can you tell us more about it?"

Lia waits anxiously for any information that Sherwood can provide on this Vassa.

[Laucian]

Laucian

“Presumably, they would perish if the tree they were placed in died. Such a thing is a strong possibility.”

Laucian merely nods at the prospect of loosing those within the trees.

As they get ready to leave The clan elder agrees to see to his mount. “Thank you Elder, I did not wish to leave him alone in Corunglain.”

As the subject of winter clothes come to pass Laucian quickly agrees, “Some provisions will be needed. Winter gear, arrows for those who may need them other then that I think we can manage with what we have.”

If Laucian is able to he will buy arrows and place them in his enchanted quiver, and buy another quiver with 30 more arrows. As well as equipment to make more on the endeavor.

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

Sherwood's antics draw a laugh from Kylie. "Sorry to hurt your delicate feelings, dear uncle. Having been trained by Rat, I guess I'm just naturally suspicious."

“A little paranoia isn’t necessarily a bad thing, Kylie. It’ll take a lot more than that to hurt my feelings after what I went through with my late wife.”

“That is what I am told. The magic of the pendant temporarily gives you the appearance and abilities of an elf. You will remain human for all intents and purposes.”

“I surmised as much,” Sherwood says. “Thank you for this gift.”

"Excuse me, Sherwood," Kylie interjects. "I have never heard of this Vaasa that you mentioned. Can you tell us more about it?"

“Didn’t Jallarzi cover the Witch-King or the Lich Lords during your training? Surprising.”

(Check out the “Fellowship of Mages” background file on the old reference page for more details. The Timeline also has some info too.)

“Vaasa is a vast, mostly wasteland to the north of here. It lies past the Broken Lands and has been ruled by a Lich called the Witch-King for nearly a thousand years. It was the Witch-King that formed the great humanoid hordes that plagued these lands back in the early days of the kingdom. Before that, the Witch-King gave the Crowns of Eternal Night to five mages who became known as the Lich Lords. The Lich Lords were later defeated and imprisoned by the Fellowship of Mages who took the Crowns back to Old Elcadan. It is said that the Crowns drove the Fellowship member mad and several became liches themselves. A gate to the Abyss was opened up in Old Elcadan and that led to the fall of that city. The Great Paladin Valen and his wife, the Arch-Sorceress Elenia, departed to defeat the Witch-King and were never seen again.”

“In short, Vaasa is enemy territory. We have to be on guard against everything. Hopefully Sharadin will have something that will make the trip easier. “

As always, Kylie is pleased to see Jallarzi waiting for them when they return from meeting with the king. Unfortunately, she won't be with them long. Having never been here before, or to Karn's Keep for that matter, Kylie shifts her attention between Jallarzi, Sherwood and the Elder. "I looks like I'm going to need some warmer clothes for this trip. Where is the best place to get some: here or Karn's Keep?"

“I doubt we’ll find much in the way of winter clothing here in Alfheim. I’m sure we’ll find what we need at Karn’s Keep.”

Once we’re ready, Sherwood will cast Teleport to Karn’s Keep.

[Lilia]

Lilia:

“That is remarkable!!! A sword from wood!? I wonder how this feat is accomplished.”

“Only the Keepers know for sure, and they are not sharing their secrets.”

Lilia listens intently to Sherwood’s description of Vaasa. It sounds very much like a place to avoid as he casually mentions at least six lichs being there!

“This does sound like a most dangerous journey to undertake. We will need to keep a low profile as we cross Vaasa.”

In the meantime, Lilia is most interested in checking out Karn’s Keep as she’s heard so much about it. It’s the site of Sharadin’s mage guild.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“A little paranoia isn’t necessarily a bad thing, Kylie. It’ll take a lot more than that to hurt my feelings after what I went through with my late wife.”

A look of sympathy crosses Kylie's face. Unfortunately, there are really no words that will make that any less painful for him.

“Didn’t Jallarzi cover the Witch-King or the Lich Lords during your training? Surprising.”

"Ah... uhm... Yeah, I think I was supposed to read up on that," Kylie answers, her face coloring a bit. "However, it didn't really seem very interesting at the time, so I think I kinda skimmed over it." A shrug is about all she can manage in the way of explanation. Fortunately, Sherwood gives them a quick overview. Indeed, as Lilia says, it sounds as if travel through those lands might well be their most dangerous activity yet. Kylie seconds Sherwood's hope for Sharadin finding an easier way.

Having seen Sherwood Polymorph himself into an elf multiple times before, the amulet's effect when he puts it on doesn't really surpise her. "So what do we call you now, uncle? I think Elfwood has a nice ring to it - don't you?" she asks with a giggle.

“I doubt we’ll find much in the way of winter clothing here in Alfheim. I’m sure we’ll find what we need at Karn’s Keep.”

Kylie nods. "Then Karn's Keep it is. I'm as ready as I'm going to be." As before, if she has the option, Kylie will "ride" with Jallarzi on this next jump.

[Nariya]

Nariya:

“Nine bands have taken the Rainbow Path thus far. You will be the tenth.”

Those words seem ominous to Nariya. nine other bands she thinks, wonder if any or all of them were also divinely touched, or if this is something new She doesn't voice her thoughts aloud as she doubts any of the others would have more insight.

Nariya also listens closely to Sherwood's description of Vaasa. If they do go overland, it will be quite dangerous. Nariya dismisses it however, knowing there will merely be more magic invoked and they will be wisked away as usual.

Having seen Sherwood Polymorph himself into an elf multiple times before, the amulet's effect when he puts it on doesn't really surpise her. "So what do we call you now, uncle? I think Elfwood has a nice ring to it - don't you?" she asks with a giggle.

Nariya smiles at Kylie, "Elfwood is a rather fitting name. I think it may already be stuck with him, even if he protests."

Nariya doesn't want to leave Alfheim, but knows time is short. She equally has no desire to see this "Karn's Keep" being another human-sounding structure. Still, they should be on the road again in a short time, so she guesses she can survive being inside yet another building.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

After a quick visit with the Elfin King the group has gained the Star Map and some more information about their quest. Now they are getting ready to leave Alfheim and travel to Karn’s Keep, the new base of operations for Lord Sharadin. He told Sherwood that he might have a method to get the group to the Sylvan Realm faster then regular overland travel.

Laucian acquires some last minute supplies and then you’re off again. Lady Salavarian suggests that you don your cold weather clothing, as it’s likely not to be as warm in Karn’s Keep then it is in the Elfholds.

The spells are cast and the two mages move the group along to their next location: Karn’s Keep.

The change in location is dramatic. The feel of warmth and love from the Elfholds is suddenly taken away and it takes a few minutes to come to terms with that. It is only then that you realize just how unusual the place you’ve arrived at is.

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

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

At the far end of the room, a huge giant-sized throne sits on a dais. The seat of the chair is over your heads. Several guards in stand on duty, but do not move to challenge you.

“Welcome to Karn’s Keep,” Lady Salavarian says with a flourish. “Numerous beings have used this place as a home and a base of operations in the past. Giants originally built it so that is why it seems so huge. Everything is three times larger than what you’re used to.”

Jallarzi will spend a view moments in private with Kylie before she departs. Mainly to see how her apprentice is fairing thus far.

“It sounds like you have a wonderful adventure ahead of you. Just remember everything you’ve learned and you’ll do fine. Make sure to keep Sherwood out of trouble, okay?”

She’ll give Kylie a hug, say her goodbyes, and then teleport away.


Sherwood will lead you down a spiral set of normal sized stairs to the ground floor of the Grand Hall. From down here you can see that the balconies are supported by giant iron supports. Multiple doors lead out of the Grand hall. Several of the doors are giant-sized, standing 30’ high! Normal sized openings have been cut into most of these doors.

As you’re looking around, a tall human woman comes walking up to you. She’s nearly six feet tall and her blond hair falls to her knees.

“Are you new here,” she inquires. “Can I help you with something?”

As you turn to respond to the woman, you do a double take when you see that she has a 10’ long python curled up on her shoulders!


GM Notes:

Karn’s Keep was heavily featured in the Sword of Doom game that has been reposted in the Q-Link section of the main website. That group, the Company of the Sword, adventured there from Post #35 all the way until the end of that game. Post #35 gives a recount of the Grand Hall you just arrived in, while Post #48 explores the entire keep.

You're also farther east now then you were before, in fact you're just inside Rockhome. The location of the Keep is marked as the letter R on the Cynalon Map

Now what?

[Laucian]

Laucian
Laucian acquires some last minute supplies and then you’re off again. Lady Salavarian suggests that you don your cold weather clothing, as it’s likely not to be as warm in Karn’s Keep then it is in the Elfholds.


Thanking the merchant Laucian stows his gear within his pack, he returns shortly after in time to see the others ready for teleporting to Karn’s/Sharadin’s keep.

Upon reaching Karn’s keep, the feeling of home is lost to him as he looks around gauging his surroundings. A balcony 3 times the size of normal greets his gaze, which Lady Salavarian explains was not man made.

“Giants?” he adds then sees many of the doors cut into to allow passage. “It does make sense.”

Placing Onyx to his feet the cat lingers between his legs and merely rubs against him. Sherwood soon leads us down a flight of human made stairs. Where we are soon greeted by a women with very long hair.

“Are you new here,” she inquires. “Can I help you with something?”

“Aye,” he soon hears onyx hissing and spitting at the women, Picking the cat up and trying to relax it by petting it he then realize he wasn’t hissing at the women. Upon first glance he thought it some sort of scarf, but its tongue came out of its mouth!! A python!! And a large one at that!!

Not paying attention to the python, he introduces himself, “I am Laucian Nailo of Clan Grundalf.” as he bows slightly in greeting. “Might I inquire where one could acquire winter gear?”

[Lia]

Lia

“Only the Keepers know for sure, and they are not sharing their secrets.”

‘I can see why, Such items and tradition should be guarded well.” she adds.

Lia listens to Sherwoods explaination of Vassa lands. By the sounds of it , it is not a welcoming place. “If there are liches there maybe other forms of undead as well, thankfully Eilistatree grants power against such creatures. “

Lia watches in amazement as Sherwood takes on the form of an Elf,

Having seen Sherwood Polymorph himself into an elf multiple times before, the amulet's effect when he puts it on doesn't really surpise her. "So what do we call you now, uncle? I think Elfwood has a nice ring to it - don't you?" she asks with a giggle.

Nariya smiles at Kylie, "Elfwood is a rather fitting name. I think it may already be stuck with him, even if he protests."

Lia smiles at the joke but has nothing to add.

The sensation of home and warm that it beholds soon dissipates which she tries to hold onto but regardless it is gone as the visions of Karn’s keep comes into existence

Her eyes go wide at the stucture, “Everything is so big!!!” she mutters to herself. It is soon learned that many creatures once lived here but Giants created it. It makes a lot of sense to her for she has seen what half-Ogre’s can do with their massive strength. They are soon ushered forth to a stairwell, soon after they are greeted by a women whose hair falls to her knees.
When she is about to introduce herself she notices the huge snake wrapped about her Lia never have seeing such a creature merely stares at it oblivious to the women’s words.
It is only after everyone’s introductions that she is the last one to introduce herself, “Greetings, I am Lia. Whom do we have the pleasure of speaking to?”

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Lia listens to Sherwoods explanation of Vassa lands. By the sounds of it , it is not a welcoming place. “If there are liches there maybe other forms of undead as well, thankfully Eilistatree grants power against such creatures. “

Lia's words attract Kylie's attention. "That is good to hear. From the sound of it, I can only hope that Ehlona does as well; we may be needing that protection long before we reach the Sylvan Realm. Too bad Ivy isn't with us. Oh well, we'll just have to make do."

Nariya smiles at Kylie, "Elfwood is a rather fitting name. I think it may already be stuck with him, even if he protests."

Kylie smiles back, then turns. "Well, I guess that settles it. Think of it as part of your disguise," she says to Sherwood as though giving wise advice.

Arriving in Karn's Keep, they are engulfed by the huge building. Somehow, the great size makes Kylie feel even smaller than she already is. "Wow..." is about all she manages to say as Jallarzi tells them of the origin of this place. Kylie has never encountered a giant, and now she's quite certain she never wants to.

Fortunately, Jallarzi finds a few minutes to talk with her before she leaves, which Kylie greatly appreciates. "Thank you, Jallarzi. In truth, I'm still not certain that this is the life I would choose, nor that I am really cut out for it. Still, it seems necessary, and I am trying to make the best of it."

Following a sigh, Kylie continues. "It was quite a relief to hear of my mother once again, and to learn that she may still be alive somewhere. I feel honored to know that she is seen as a hero among her people. However, the fact that she and many others have already failed in the task before us is daunting to be sure. Nevertheless, if she is out there, I must find her, and this appears to be the only chance I ever have of doing so."

Kylie gives Jallarzi a fierce hug. "Good bye. I miss you already. I wish you were coming with us."

“It sounds like you have a wonderful adventure ahead of you. Just remember everything you’ve learned and you’ll do fine. Make sure to keep Sherwood out of trouble, okay?”

Back in front of the others, Kylie puts on a brave face. "I'll try my best. However, Elfwood here can be quite a challenge sometimes - as I'm sure you well know. We've already had to rescue him once..." she says with a knowing look.

Once Jallarzi is gone, Sherwood takes then down to the floor of the main hall. There they are greeted by a tall woman with unusually-long blond hair. Stranger still, the woman has a huge snake coiled about her neck. "Oh my goodness! Do you need help?" Kylie asks, starting to prepare a Magic Missile spell. However, it quickly becomes apparent that the snake is not harming her, so Kylie drops the spell.

"Um... Hi. I'm Kylie Lanthorn. I believe we're here to meet Lord Sharadin. Is he around?

"Oh, and I could use some winter gear too..."

[Nariya]

Nariya:

Nariya feels the loss upon leaving the Elfholds, almost feeling like emotions, comfort and warmth were physically torn from her. It's a bit unsettling, and for a moement or two she doesn't realise the huge hall they are now standing in.

Looking about, she definitely doesn't feel trapped like she expected. If anything she feels tiny. She listens to hear this was all built by giants and doesn't feel any need to rush off and face an angry one anytime soon.

As you’re looking around, a tall human woman comes walking up to you. She’s nearly six feet tall and her blond hair falls to her knees.

“Are you new here,” she inquires. “Can I help you with something?”

As you turn to respond to the woman, you do a double take when you see that she has a 10’ long python curled up on her shoulders!

Turning to the tall woman, Nariya prepares to give her usual greeting when she spots the python. Her hands clasp around her swords, but noticing the woman isn't struggling with the snake, nor preparing to hurl it at them, she releases her grip. "I am Nariya," she finally says to the woman, "that is a very unique companion you have there."

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

"Ah... uhm... Yeah, I think I was supposed to read up on that," Kylie answers, her face coloring a bit. "However, it didn't really seem very interesting at the time, so I think I kinda skimmed over it."

Sherwood will sigh before continuing on. “Everything Jallarzi covered she did for a reason, primarily to prepare you for the outside world. No matter, it looks like you’ll be getting a first hand lesson on Vassa.”

Having seen Sherwood Polymorph himself into an elf multiple times before, the amulet's effect when he puts it on doesn't really surprise her. "So what do we call you now, uncle? I think Elfwood has a nice ring to it - don't you?" she asks with a giggle.

Nariya smiles at Kylie, "Elfwood is a rather fitting name. I think it may already be stuck with him, even if he protests."

Kylie smiles back, then turns. "Well, I guess that settles it. Think of it as part of your disguise," she says to Sherwood as though giving wise advice.

“I already know better than to protest when it comes to you two,” Sherwood answers casually.


Sherwood has visited Karn’s Keep before, but even he’s not used to the size of the place.

“The keep was conqueror by the Company of the Sword just last month,” Sherwood explains. “That was the adventuring band Argent used to be with. There’s a pillar artifact down in the basement that had been used to reach Gateway with a stop over in a ruined city in the heart of the Keln Lands. We’re actually on the southern edge of Rockhome now.”

“An impressive collection of spell books were found here and that lead to the formation of the mage guild. More books have been added since that time. Let’s see if my uncle is about.”


Down on the floor of the grand hall we come across a human woman with a large snake on her shoulders.

"Are you new here," she inquires. "Can I help you with something?"

“You must be Zynara,” Sherwood deduces based on her appearance and the snake. “I’m Sherwood. Sharadin is my uncle. Is he about? Or perhaps Sherry and Terry?”

[Lilia]

Lilia:

The change in location is dramatic. The feel of warmth and love from the Elfholds is suddenly taken away and it takes a few minutes to come to terms with that. It is only then that you realize just how unusual the place you've arrived at is.

Lilia gasps in a combination of shock and surprise when the strong feelings that she’s been enjoying are suddenly gone. It feels as if a part of her has died, although she knows that the loss is not permanent it is still jarring. Lilia starts to feel her old self after a few minutes and then she realizes that she’s in a enormous place.

"Welcome to Karn's Keep," Lady Salavarian says with a flourish. "Numerous beings have used this place as a home and a base of operations in the past. Giants originally built it so that is why it seems so huge. Everything is three times larger than what you're used to."

“In spite of its vast size, it still feels like a cave,” the Elf Maiden sharply says. “Its all stone. It feels cold and lifeless. It must be a paradise to a dwarf.”

“An impressive collection of spell books were found here and that lead to the formation of the mage guild. More books have been added since that time. Let’s see if my uncle is about.”

“I have heard of this mage guild and am very interested in seeing what they have to offer.”

As you're looking around, a tall human woman comes walking up to you. She's nearly six feet tall and her blond hair falls to her knees.

"Are you new here," she inquires. "Can I help you with something?"

As you turn to respond to the woman, you do a double take when you see that she has a 10' long python curled up on her shoulders!

Lilia’s eyebrow rises noticeably upon spotting the woman and her unusual pet. “Must be a mage,” Lilia silently concludes since this is supposed to be a mage’s guild.

She’ll nod when introduced, but otherwise will remain quiet as Sherwood looks to find his uncle.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

Lia's words attract Kylie's attention. "That is good to hear. From the sound of it, I can only hope that Ehlonna does as well; we may be needing that protection long before we reach the Sylvan Realm. Too bad Ivy isn't with us. Oh well, we'll just have to make do."

“Yes, the Lady of the Forest does give us the power to drive away undead,” Valena answers.

The next thing Valena knows, she’s in a giant castle that was literally built by giants! Valena follows the others in silent awe. Then they come across a woman with a snake!

"Are you new here," she inquires. "Can I help you with something?"

“I am Valena Feador of Ehlonna,” Valena states. “That’s a fine looking python you have there. Is it trained?”

[Talen]

Talen:

Talen feels very homesick after leaving the Elfholds, even worse then when they first left the village in the Lost Valley. But the place that they arrive is interesting in its own right.

“In spite of its vast size, it still feels like a cave,” the Elf Maiden sharply says. “Its all stone. It feels cold and lifeless. It must be a paradise to a dwarf.”

“Pretty nice cave, if you ask me!”

Talen can’t help but watch the strange glowing globes that drift around the grand hall with child-like delight.

“Those are so neat! This is where Uncle Sharadin lives? Amazing!”

Talen follows everyone else, trying to imagine what new wonder lies ahead. Then we come across a woman with a snake of all things!

“What marvels exist outside the valley!” Talen tell his sister. “I wonder what we’ll see next?”

[Lia]

Lia

“The keep was conqueror by the Company of the Sword just last month,” Sherwood explains. “That was the adventuring band Argent used to be with. There’s a pillar artifact down in the basement that had been used to reach Gateway with a stop over in a ruined city in the heart of the Keln Lands. We’re actually on the southern edge of Rockhome now.”

Lia listens intently on what is said about the Keep and in relation to where they were. Unfortunitly she isn’t aware what this Rockhome is, “How far are we from Coruglain are we?”

“I have heard of this mage guild and am very interested in seeing what they have to offer.”

“Tis a shame they do not have places you could test your skills with swords her as well.” she adds thoughtfully.

Talen wrote:
“Those are so neat! This is where Uncle Sharadin lives? Amazing!”

“Never would I have thought such a place would exist. Let alone see it with my own eyes.”

“What marvels exist outside the valley!” Talen tell his sister. “I wonder what we’ll see next?”

“I’m not sure brother. Yet whatever it maybe; it seems it will out do anything that we have seen thus far!.”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The elves have arrived at Karn’s Keep, a giant-sized fortress on the southern edge of Rockhome. Today the Keep is the home of Lord Sharadin and his family. The newest mage guild in Cynalon is based here.

Fortunately, Jallarzi finds a few minutes to talk with her before she leaves, which Kylie greatly appreciates. "Thank you, Jallarzi. In truth, I'm still not certain that this is the life I would choose, nor that I am really cut out for it. Still, it seems necessary, and I am trying to make the best of it."

“That’s all any of us can do.”

Following a sigh, Kylie continues. "It was quite a relief to hear of my mother once again, and to learn that she may still be alive somewhere. I feel honored to know that she is seen as a hero among her people. However, the fact that she and many others have already failed in the task before us is daunting to be sure. Nevertheless, if she is out there, I must find her, and this appears to be the only chance I ever have of doing so."

“I know that you’ll find your mother, Kylie. I just feel it in my bones. This is going to be a growing experience for you. I am sure that when next we met, you’ll be far more confident than you are now.”

Kylie gives Jallarzi a fierce hug. "Good bye. I miss you already. I wish you were coming with us."

“No, not goodbye, just until we next meet. Unfortunately, with the new king I have new duties as well. I don’t know how long your quest will take, but I suspect that home will be different too when you return. We’ll take again then and trade stories of our exploits. Good fortune, Kylie.”


Moving down to the Grand Hall from the teleport arrival area, the group runs into a tall human woman with unusually long blond hair and a ten-foot long python wrapped about her shoulders!

Once Jallarzi is gone, Sherwood takes then down to the floor of the main hall. There they are greeted by a tall woman with unusually long blond hair. Stranger still, the woman has a huge snake coiled about her neck. "Oh my goodness! Do you need help?" Kylie asks, starting to prepare a Magic Missile spell. However, it quickly becomes apparent that the snake is not harming her, so Kylie drops the spell.

“I am fine, thank you for asking.”

“You must be Zynara,” Sherwood deduces based on her appearance and the snake. “I’m Sherwood. Sharadin is my uncle. Is he about? Or perhaps Sherry and Terry?”

“That is correct,” Zynara says in mild surprise. “I am Zynara, a Conjurist. I bid you welcome to Karn’s Keep. I used to be a member of the Seekers with my husband Blod, but I’ve been taking some time off to raise or son Ross.”

Turning to the tall woman, Nariya prepares to give her usual greeting when she spots the python. Her hands clasp around her swords, but noticing the woman isn't struggling with the snake, nor preparing to hurl it at them, she releases her grip. "I am Nariya," she finally says to the woman, "that is a very unique companion you have there."

“I am Valena Feador of Ehlonna,” Valena states. “That’s a fine looking python you have there. Is it trained?”

“This is Sheba,” Zynara says indicating the python about her neck. “She’s my familiar and I’m sure that she’ll bother you not, although she does like to torment halflings. She’s trained as much as she wants to be trained.”

Zynara will lovingly scratch underneath the python’s jaw.

“I haven’t seen Sharadin as of late, but her daughters are here. I’ll help you find them.”

Not paying attention to the python, he introduces himself, “I am Laucian Nailo of Clan Grundalf.” as he bows slightly in greeting. “Might I inquire where one could acquire winter gear?”

“Oh, I’m sure that we can find something for you to wear here. This place seems to have most everything.”


You’re near the other end of the hall when Sherry and Terry come walking in.

“Sherwood!” the twins call out as they rush forward and give him a hug. Next they’ll say hello to Lia and kiss Talen on the cheeks. They’ll say hello to everyone else after that.

“Thanks for meeting Sherwood,” one of the twins says to Zynara.

“We can take it from here,” the other twin adds.

Zynara will say her farewell and then move off deeper into the Keep.

“Father has not returned yet,” the twins continue.

“Probably busy with the new King.”

“But we can show you what he had in mind is you wish, cousin,” the first twin says.

“Or we can get you settled in and you can wait. Its up to you.”


GM Notes:

Sherry and Terry are Sharadin’s daughters and cousins to Sherwood, Lia, and Talen. Kylie probably met them in passing before, but they should be new to everyone else. Valena and Laucian met them in passing in Corunglain.

Zynara was a long time member of the Seekers, Validar's old adventuring group in The Frontier posts. She left the group in Post #122 and first appeared in Post #38 or so.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“I know that you’ll find your mother, Kylie. I just feel it in my bones. This is going to be a growing experience for you. I am sure that when next we met, you’ll be far more confident than you are now.”

"I pray that you are right, Jallarzi. I cannot imagine anything that would mean more to me that finding my mother," Kylie says, imagining just such a meeting in her mind's eye. "As for confidence, I don't know, but I do seem to learn more and more as we travel. That has to have some kind of effect."

“No, not goodbye, just until we next meet. Unfortunately, with the new king I have new duties as well. I don’t know how long your quest will take, but I suspect that home will be different too when you return. We’ll take again then and trade stories of our exploits. Good fortune, Kylie.”

"I will look forward to that day, Jallarzi. Perhaps I will even be able to introduce you to my mother; I think the two of you would get along very well. And good fortune to you as well." Their are tears in Kylie's eye as she turns away.

Sherwood will sigh before continuing on. “Everything Jallarzi covered she did for a reason, primarily to prepare you for the outside world. No matter, it looks like you’ll be getting a first hand lesson on Vassa.”

"I know," Kylie admits sheepishly. "Back then, I never imagined that I would be travelling so far or doing so many things that might require that kind of knowledge. I'm certainly finding reason to pay attention to my studies now that I'm out in the world."

“I already know better than to protest when it comes to you two,” Sherwood answers casually.

"It's good that you're learning, Elfwood," Kylie says with a matter-of-fact tone. "Jallarzi will be so proud."

“Yes, the Lady of the Forest does give us the power to drive away undead,” Valena answers.

"Excellent," Kylie replies. "That makes me feel a lot better."

“In spite of its vast size, it still feels like a cave,” the Elf Maiden sharply says. “Its all stone. It feels cold and lifeless. It must be a paradise to a dwarf.”

Lilia's words cause Kylie to chuckle. "I suspect Grondar might take offense at that comment, were he here. After being in Alfheim and experiencing that feeling, I have some idea what you mean, though. Still, stone buildings don't bother me that much, either."

Kylie listens as Sherwood provides more information on the castle and its current occupants. The mention of the impressive collection of spellbooks catches her attention. Kylie wouldn't mind having a few days to spend with them; of course, she's unlikely to get the chance anytime soon.

“I have heard of this mage guild and am very interested in seeing what they have to offer.”

"Me too," Kylie pipes in behind Lilia.

Lia listens intently on what is said about the Keep and in relation to where they were. Unfortunitly she isn’t aware what this Rockhome is, “How far are we from Coruglain are we?”

"Quite a long ways. Rockhome is roughly on the far side of the Elfholds from Corunglain. Maybe Sherwood can give you a better estimate, but I suspect it is hundreds of miles. Of course, Rockhome is a big place, so where in Rockhome it lies could affect the distant greatly."

Sherwood and the snake-toting woman, Zynara, exchange introductions. Apparently she was in one of Validar's previous groups. Kylie isn't sure she likes the idea of a snake slithering around, nor trusts in its training, but hopefully she won't have to find out just how trained it really is.

It doesn't take long to find Sharadin's daughters, though apparently Sharadin himself is not there. Having met them briefly before, Kylie will greet Sherry and Terry as acquaintances. They offer the choice of settling in or seeing what Sharadin had planned. The latter sounds more appealing to Kylie.

"I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm not very tired right now. I'm also very curious to learn what I can of how we're supposed to get to the Sylvan Realm." Kylie looks at Sherwood somewhat expectantly, hoping he'll agree.

[Lia]

Lia

“That is correct,” Zynara says in mild surprise. “I am Zynara, a Conjurist. I bid you welcome to Karn’s Keep. I used to be a member of the Seekers with my husband Blod, but I’ve been taking some time off to raise or son Ross.”

“A pleasure.” she says with a smile, “How old is your son?” she asks pleasantly.

Lia raises an eyebrow at the exchange between mage and familiar. A strange pairing indeed!!! She has never known anyone to have a snake for a pet.

Lia smiles upon seeing the twins and greets her cousins with a friendly smile., She smiles at seeing Talen’s face when they kiss him hello. He must be in heaven she thinks to herself.

“But we can show you what he had in mind is you wish, cousin,” the first twin says.

“Or we can get you settled in and you can wait. Its up to you.”

“Sherwood, I know time is of the essence but could we spare sometime so that Talen and I can have a look around? Perhaps while you and Kylie see to what Sharadin has planned?” she asks hopefully.

Kylie wrote

"Quite a long ways. Rockhome is roughly on the far side of the Elfholds from Corunglain. Maybe Sherwood can give you a better estimate, but I suspect it is hundreds of miles. Of course, Rockhome is a big place, so where in Rockhome it lies could affect the distant greatly."

“I did not think we would cover so much ground so quickly.” she says with some amazement within her voice.

[Laucian]

Laucian

Reaching down and petting his cat to calm him, Laucian merely listens to the exchange before him.

Sherwood and the mage exchange pleasantries and it is soon learned that She was of the Seekers as well. Upon hearing her skill in training the familiar Laucian looks slightly aback. As much as she wants to be trained? “Let us hope she does not like tormenting cats.” He says with a grin, then looks down at Onyx, “Stay clear of Shelba.” he whispers after she leaves. “or you might just become lunch.”

“Oh, I’m sure that we can find something for you to wear here. This place seems to have most everything.”

“But we can show you what he had in mind is you wish, cousin,” the first twin says.

“Or we can get you settled in and you can wait. Its up to you.”

“If you wish Master Sherwood, I could see to acquiring our winter gear that we may need.” he offers having not the patience to deal with much of the arcane arts. “Though I would be inclined to see how were are to get to the Slyvian Lands.”

Later on Laucian will approach Nariya, “Earlier you mentioned you were a scout of some skill? It seems we maybe sharing these duties as well. Would you have any preference to how to go about our duties?”

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

Lia listens intently on what is said about the Keep and in relation to where they were. Unfortunately she isn’t aware what this Rockhome is, “How far are we from Corunglain are we?”

"Quite a long ways. Rockhome is roughly on the far side of the Elfholds from Corunglain. Maybe Sherwood can give you a better estimate, but I suspect it is hundreds of miles. Of course, Rockhome is a big place, so where in Rockhome it lies could affect the distant greatly."

“I did not think we would cover so much ground so quickly.” she says with some amazement within her voice.

“Distance is not a factor when it comes to using Teleportation magic,” Sherwood explains. “What does matter is how well the caster knows his destination. That is why you see me and Jallarzi using pictures to mentally place where we are going. Teleporting blind can be fatal, so I avoid except in emergencies.”

“I would have to say that we’re at least 900 miles from Corunglain as the crow flies.”

“But we can show you what he had in mind is you wish, cousin,” the first twin says.

“Or we can get you settled in and you can wait. Its up to you.”

"I don't know about the rest of you, but I'm not very tired right now. I'm also very curious to learn what I can of how we're supposed to get to the Sylvan Realm." Kylie looks at Sherwood somewhat expectantly, hoping he'll agree.

“Sherwood, I know time is of the essence but could we spare sometime so that Talen and I can have a look around? Perhaps while you and Kylie see to what Sharadin has planned?” she asks hopefully.

“Tell you what, let’s see what Uncle has in mind first, then we can relax and look around.”

To Sherry and Terry he’ll say, “Show us what your father has in mind first.”

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Lilia's words cause Kylie to chuckle. "I suspect Grondar might take offense at that comment, were he here. After being in Alfheim and experiencing that feeling, I have some idea what you mean, though. Still, stone buildings don't bother me that much, either."

“As a dwarf he might,” Lilia concedes, not that it really matters to her.


As she suspected, the woman is a mage; one who specializes in conjuration magic. The revelation that that snake is her familiar causes an eyebrow to go up!

“No thanks,” Lilia thinks to herself.

“Tell you what, let’s see what Uncle has in mind first, then we can relax and look around.”

To Sherry and Terry he’ll say, “Show us what your father has in mind first.”

The Elf Maiden agrees with Sherwood’s decision. Let us find out what this method of getting to the Sylvan Realm is first, then we can decide whether we are to use it or not.

[Talen]

Talen:

“Sherwood!” the twins call out as they rush forward and give him a hug. Next they’ll say hello to Lia and kiss Talen on the cheeks. They’ll say hello to everyone else after that.

“They are your cousins,” Talen keeps telling himself over and over.

“Nice to see you all again as well.”

Talen doesn’t mind seeing what they came for here first. He’s sure that it going to be yet another wonder!

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

“This is Sheba,” Zynara says indicating the python about her neck. “She’s my familiar and I’m sure that she’ll bother you not, although she does like to torment halflings. She’s trained as much as she wants to be trained.”

Zynara will lovingly scratch underneath the python’s jaw.

“Ah,” Valena says upon being enlightened. “That is a very unusual familiar. May I pet her? I just love all types of animals.”

[Nariya]

Nariya:

“This is Sheba,” Zynara says indicating the python about her neck. “She’s my familiar and I’m sure that she’ll bother you not, although she does like to torment halflings. She’s trained as much as she wants to be trained.”

great more mages Nariya thinks to herself, am i destined to always be surrounded by them? "It's a good thing Rat isn't here then," Nariya says to Kylie, thinking how appropriate the halfling's name would be to this particular snake.

“Sherwood!” the twins call out as they rush forward and give him a hug. Next they’ll say hello to Lia and kiss Talen on the cheeks. They’ll say hello to everyone else after that.

Nariya will watch as the twins enter and will say hello to them as well. It seems Sherwood will be looking into what the possible plans are for leaving from here. That leaves Nariya a little idle time she doesn't really want.

Later on Laucian will approach Nariya, “Earlier you mentioned you were a scout of some skill? It seems we maybe sharing these duties as well. Would you have any preference to how to go about our duties?”

Nariya watches Laucian approach, keeping her eyes friendly. "I'm used to working up ahead of the main group. Trail blazing. In this case, I don't mind you leading the main body, but I'll need some room to find the fastest way. I could leave you signs that I know you could follow since you're a scout as well. I don't know if we're going to need to be doing much trail finding though with all this magic being thrown around."

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:


At Karn's Keep, the elves have met Zynara, a former member of the Seekers…

"A pleasure." she says with a smile, "How old is your son?" she asks pleasantly.

"Just a few months," Zynara answers with a smile. "He's a wonderful boy."

"Ah," Valena says upon being enlightened. "That is a very unusual familiar. May I pet her? I just love all types of animals."

"That's up to Sheba. If she will let you then you may pet her."



Zynara departs after Sharadin's twin daughters, Sherry and Terry, turn up.

"If you wish Master Sherwood, I could see to acquiring our winter gear that we may need." he offers having not the patience to deal with much of the arcane arts. "Though I would be inclined to see how were are to get to the Sylvain Lands."

"No need for that," one of the twins says. "We're going to need such clothing where we're going to be going."

"But first we'll need to give you some background," the other twin states.

"Months ago, father sent a group of adventurers to reach Karn's Keep and locate the legendary Sword of Doom."

"That was the Company of the Sword," the other twin adds. The two keep alternating their narration of events.

"They eventually reached the keep and discovered that the Sword of Doom wasn't really a weapon. It was a flying ship!"

"The stories had it that the Sword propelled Lord Karn into a powerful position in the Keln Imperium."

"Which is true, but everyone thought it was a real weapon and not a vessel."

"So the Company discovered this and also discovered that the Sword was not here."

"The sword was really far away and Karn had used the Pillar Artifact to reach it."

"The Company of the Sword met up with the Seekers and both groups combined to carry on this quest."

"Right now they are likely sailing across the Southern Sea to reach it after deciding to forego using the pillars to reach it."


The twins have led you down stairs into the keep's basement. You spot what appears to be a well in one side chamber. You emerge into a large chamber where numerous cold weather gear has been stored. There are enough coats, gloves, and other garments for everyone to find something that will fit them.

"You'll need to put something warm on where we're going."

"Anyway, the Company cleaned out the Keep and discovered that mages had dwelled here sometime in the past."

"They had discovered some items that they didn't have time to figure out what they were."

"One of them was this."

One of the twins pulls a small golden crown out of a Bag of Holding.

"It identified as something called the 'Crown of the Stars'."

[GM Mad]

The other twin pushes a stone on the wall and a secret door slides open. A rough stone passage leads away from the Keep basement. The first twin produces a stone with Continual Light on it from the bag to help illuminate the way.

"Father experimented with the crown and did determine what function it served."

"Its sole function is to convert a mages spell energy into a motive force."

"It seems that the more spells a mage can memorize, the more spell energy they possess."

"The more energy you possess, the more motive force the Crown can create."


Light can be seen up ahead in the tunnel. In short order it emerges from the cliff overlooking a small lake behind the Keep. A narrow path leads down to the lake. There is a small dock in this land-locked lake and a river barge floats there.

"Perhaps a visual demonstrations would be in order," One twin inquires of the other.

"Agreed."

The twin with the crown places it on her head. She closes her eyes to concentrate. At first you don't notice anything different about her, but then noise from the dock makes you look in that direction. The river barge is rising up into the air! Water drips from it back into the lake below.

The twin opens her eyes and gazes upon the floating river barge. At her command, the barge begins to move through the air and flies back and forth over the lake. After a few minutes of this, she directs the barge to land once more.

The effort to use the Crown doesn't appear to have any ill effect on the twin.

"What Father had in mind was for you to make use of the Crown of the Stars to make the barge fly to the where you are going."

"The speed is much faster than any horse can hope to match and you can cross mountain tops with ease."

"There is a draw back to using the Crown, however."

"All spells the mage has put into memory are drained away, but they can be re-memorized as normal."

"The person using the Crown can last at least ten hours before needing to rest. Maybe twelve."

"The more spells that you can memorize, the faster the barge can fly."

"So Sherwood here could move it faster than either of us, but not as fast as father can."

"By using a barge you could take a lot of equipment with you and then either land on water or flat ground for the night."

"You could probably cross the continent in less than a week!"

"So what do you think?"

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

As noted by the twins in the post, the Crown transfers the spell potential of a mage, the spells they can hold in memory, to both lift and propel the barge. The speed the barge can fly depends on the level of the mage wearing the Crown. The higher the level, the faster the ship can go. Those spells put into memory are drained away by the Crown, but can be re-learned in the usual fashion.

As shown in the post, the wearer of the Crown needs not be on the ship to make it move.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“As a dwarf he might,” Lilia concedes, not that it really matters to her.

Kylie chuckles. "Just thought I might mention it. A matter of perspective really, I guess..."

“I did not think we would cover so much ground so quickly.” she says with some amazement within her voice.

Kylie prepares to speak, but then Sherwood interjects and answers the question better than she could have.

“I would have to say that we’re at least 900 miles from Corunglain as the crow flies.”

Kylie's eyes open wide. She hadn't expected that it was quite so far.

Some of the others go so far as to suggest petting Sheba, Zynara's snake familiar. Frankly, the very idea makes Kylie a bit squeamish, so she stays well back.

Laucian offers to check on warm clothes for them, but Sharadin's daughters inform him that this is not necessary. They have sufficient warm clothes for everyone.

Sherry and Terry trade off telling them the background behind Sharadin's idea. It's a bit confusing as the twins keep switching back and forth, but Kylie does her best to follow along. At first, she thinks that they are going to be taking this flying ship, the Sword of Doom; then finds out that it hasn't been recovered yet.

The group follows the sisters down deep into the bowels of this ancient castle. They find a chamber with supplies, including the promised winter clothes. Kylie starts to eye the piles, but the twins continue on. Suddenly, they produce a golden crown, which they call the Crown of Stars.

As Sherry and Terry continue to tell them about the crown, they lead them further down through the tunnels under the Keep. Eventually, they find themselves looking down on a small lake with a dock and a barge.

Placing the Crown of Stars on her head, Terry gives them a demonstration of it's power. Kylie's mouth falls agape as she watches. "That's incredible!" she says. "How far away does it work? For example, could Sharadin conceivably carry us all the way to the Sylvan Realm while staying here himself?"

"So what do you think?"

"That really is amazing, and a brilliant idea for getting us there. Sharadin's a genius!"

Kylie then turns to Sherwood. "It occurs to me that Lilia and I are also mages, so it should work for us as well. Would it make sense for us to take shifts as well so that we can keep flying day and night? While we wouldn't be able to propel it as fast as you, it should still get us there significantly faster - perhaps as little as four days - and might even be safer than spending all those hours on the ground where we can be attacked by who knows what."

[Laucian]

Laucian

One of the twins soon answer’s his question, saying purchasing gear will not be nessicary as they lead us deeper into the Keep. His head begins to hurt trying to listen to the twins alternating stories lines. Soon he gives up listening and merely falls along with the others.

They enter the basement that holds a well in one room and all the winter gear in the other. He eyes the gear and it quickly comes apparent that they will look through it later as they walk within a long hallway that seems to be coming in on him.

Emerging from the passageway a lake can be seen with a barge laying on it. “ A barge? That’s the wonderful idea?” he asks skeptically, “I don’t see any outlets on the lake.” he adds as he looks about the lake.

It quickly becomes apparent how they will travel when one of the twins puts on the crown and the barge soon floats into the air!!!!

“I have been known to be wrong.” he adds sheepishly, watching the barge move about almost as if its own will.

"So what do you think?"

“Looks like Nariya and I are out of jobs.” he says with a laugh.

Kylie adds:
Kylie then turns to Sherwood. "It occurs to me that Lilia and I are also mages, so it should work for us as well. Would it make sense for us to take shifts as well so that we can keep flying day and night? While we wouldn't be able to propel it as fast as you, it should still get us there significantly faster - perhaps as little as four days - and might even be safer than spending all those hours on the ground where we can be attacked by who knows what."

“You think that is wise Kylie? If we encounter anything on the way with limited resources at our disposal may hamper us more then do us good. Besides, If there are patrols in the area they are surely going to be able to see a flying ship approaching and raise the alarm.”

“It maybe best to land sufficient distance away and trail blaze into the Slyvian lands.” he adds thoughtfully.

[Nariya]

Nariya:

Listening to the twins nearly drives Nariya insane. It's not bad enough that each one speaks one line and then the other chimes in with the next line, it's that it seems a practiced trait. a clear sign of mage madness Nariya thinks. It leads Nariya to wonder if either Sherry or Terry would be able to hold down a conversation without the other present.

The twins show everyone the power of the Crown of Stars and Nariya stares in astonishment as the barge lifts off the water and sails in the sky. The why and how of it is lost on Nariya, but since she not a magic user, it's a moot point. All she knows is more magic is going to get them to their destination instead of her abilities.

"So what do you think?"

“Looks like Nariya and I are out of jobs.” he says with a laugh.

Nariya agrees with Laucian's statement, although she doesn't find it quite as funny. It makes their earlier conversation pretty useless, at least for a time. However, she does think of something else.

Turning to Laucian, Nariya says, "At least we'll have time on this voyage to work on what we discussed earlier - a sign language of sorts. Additionally, all of us can start to learn a spoken language together as well, for the times when a simple sign will not suffice."

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“You think that is wise Kylie? If we encounter anything on the way with limited resources at our disposal may hamper us more then do us good. Besides, If there are patrols in the area they are surely going to be able to see a flying ship approaching and raise the alarm.”

"I don't know for sure, Laucian; that's why I proposed it to Sherwood for his reaction. That said, I think that since we'll be flying across the country either way, if we're going to be spotted, we'll be spotted. The question is, would you rather be on the ground where they can bring all of their forces to bear, or in the air where their attack options are limited? Keep in mind, that none of the three of us is exactly helpless without spells. Also, while one is doing the flying, the other two will be resting and recovering spells, so we should have at least one active spellcaster available at any time.

"It also occurs to me that if we fly high enough, including above the clouds when those are present, it should reduce the chances of being spotted."

[Laucian]

Laucian

“Perhaps you are right, but I think we should bare in mind that 9 adventuring bands have went before us. 9 bands of amble body and minded adventures who have not returned. And they did not have a barge that flew.”

He thinks for a moment then adds thoughtfully, “If it were my choice, I would rather stand my ground then take flight to the sky but neither would help our cause much.

I do not doubt anyone’s skill, it is not my way. But take into consideration what we know. Orcs and perhaps some humans await us, but we do not know what else may lay in wait; Or what manner of creatures dwell there. Once we are seen their number will be raised, alarms sounded, swords sharpened ,bows drawn and the intent of all them will be bent on stopping us. The clouds may grant us safety and protection for a time but nothing is infinite, that is why I say value the element of surprise as it is in our favor.”

“After 600 years of occupying the Slyvian lands facing an alerted force would not be the most wisest of decisions. I do not think any of us would like to assault a whole nation on our second attempt, save perhaps Validar.” He says with a grin.


Nariya said:

Turning to Laucian, Nariya says, "At least we'll have time on this voyage to work on what we discussed earlier - a sign language of sorts. Additionally, all of us can start to learn a spoken language together as well, for the times when a simple sign will not suffice."

“I hadn’t thought of that much since Alfhiem. I would like to see it done though if we can cross the continent within 7 days that would leave us little time to work on it. Perhaps we could take a language that most of us know and add gestures to it. Signs that contradict what we would be saying or saying something entirely.” he adds thoughtfully.

[Lia]

Lia
Lia watches one of the twins pulls out a beautiful ornate crown from a bag. She quietly wonders just what the crown can do to help us. As another moves a stone and a door opens forth!!!!

Lia’s eyes go wide as the door was not there a moment before, “Ingenius.“she mutters to herself as they begin walking down a hallway.

As they enter into the sunlight Lia squints her eyes as the sunlight hits her, in front of her eyes is a large lake with a barge laying next to the docks.

A demonstration on a scale she is not ready for son takes place as a barge flies about as if on strings.

Kyie and Laucian soon enter a debate on actions yet to be taken, If she hadn’t seen Laucian say goodbye to Lyonessa he would say they argue like a couple or family. Lia soon interjects, “Perhaps we should decide at another time. We have a long road before us and we only just begun our journey. Maybe we should take our quest one day at a time and not plan to far ahead…..” she looks between the two as well as Sherwood.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

The young half-elf looks at Laucian for a moment with a quizzical expression. "I'm not certain why you think that only flying for 10 hours a day as opposed to 24 hours a day reduces the chances of our being spotted. We'll be flying the same distance, and thus flying over the same ground, either way. I suppose that if we flew only at night, that might help a little, but with so many varieties of sentients - not to mention creatures - able to see just fine in the dark, I doubt it would help that much. Plus, we'd be sitting on the ground for 14 hours a day where we would constantly run the risk of being spotted and attacked by ground patrols, who would no doubt raise the alarm. On the other hand, if we are spotted, and if the alarm gets passed all the way to the Sylvan Realm, then getting there faster would give them less time to prepare, wouldn't it?"

Kylie then turns to Lia. "I was under the impression that we would be leaving soon - most likely within a day - and by this method. When would you have us put the decision off to?"

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

Zynara departs after Sherry and Terry meet up with us. He’s heard about Zynara before and her rather remarkable experience from Sharadin, but had not met her personally before.

“Zynara there is one fortunate individual. She was early in her pregnancy when she was accidentally caught up in the effects of a Haste spell. The magic ages those under its influence by a year, so she came to full term in a matter of seconds. Somehow she survived this ordeal and when it was over her son was 5 months old. Mystra was clearly looking out for her that day.”

(This all occurred in The Frontier #89-90.)

Sherwood is accustomed to the way his cousins speak, so he does not dwell on it. Although, at times it does occur to him that they seem to be of one mind rather than two separate individuals.

The twins lead the way into the depths of Karn’s Keep and then out to the small lake behind it. There we’re shown what the Crown of the Stars can do. It converts mage energy into lift and propulsion, allowing the barge to fly like a bird!

“That’s remarkable! I figured that Sharadin had something in mind that I would be testing out for him. I guess this qualifies.”

As Sherwood considers the ramifications of this discovery, the others offer their opinions on the matter.

Kylie then turns to Sherwood. "It occurs to me that Lilia and I are also mages, so it should work for us as well. Would it make sense for us to take shifts as well so that we can keep flying day and night? While we wouldn't be able to propel it as fast as you, it should still get us there significantly faster - perhaps as little as four days - and might even be safer than spending all those hours on the ground where we can be attacked by who knows what."

“You think that is wise Kylie? If we encounter anything on the way with limited resources at our disposal may hamper us more then do us good. Besides, If there are patrols in the area they are surely going to be able to see a flying ship approaching and raise the alarm.”

"It also occurs to me that if we fly high enough, including above the clouds when those are present, it should reduce the chances of being spotted."

“Let’s settle down here and take this one issue at a time. I understand your concerns Laucian, but it seems to me that you and Kylie are discussing two separate things here. She’s talking about how we get to the Sylvan Realm and you seem to be concentrating on how we proceed once we get there. Those are two different issues. We do not know the state of things in the Sylvan Realm, so it is pointless to make hard plans at this point. I do agree that we need to reach that area unnoticed. Perhaps we can find a river to sail into that territory or a place to land during the night. We’ll figure out how best to proceed once we get to that point.”

“Alternating users of the Crown is a logical way to proceed. However, I suspect that we’ll need to land before switching over. It seems to me that if the Crown is removed, then the magical energy moving the ship is removed as well. I’d just assume risk not crashing in that manner.”

“Where we are going is going to be dangerous be it day or night. As Kylie noted, if we fly high enough we should avoid casual notice. However we will have to land at some point as I outlined above. We could even take a path that follows the mountain ranges in that general direction rather than just fly there in a straight line.”

After a moments thought Sherwood wills say to Sherry & Terry, “Uncle mentioned that Karn had a library of maps. Did he have any maps showing the northwest portion of this continent?”

“Looks like Nariya and I are out of jobs.” he says with a laugh.

“Not at all. We’ll need to have lookouts to keep their eyes peeled for trouble. Being airborne opens up to the possibility of being attacked from any direction. If we fly the majority of the day and night, we’ll need to be on guard all the time. You’ll also have to keep your eyes open for places for us to land.”

Lia soon interjects, “Perhaps we should decide at another time. We have a long road before us and we only just begun our journey. Maybe we should take our quest one day at a time and not plan to far ahead…” she looks between the two as well as Sherwood.

Kylie then turns to Lia. "I was under the impression that we would be leaving soon - most likely within a day - and by this method. When would you have us put the decision off to?"

“There’s really nothing to debate here, Lia. My task is to get you to the Sylvan Realm. This option will get us there the fastest and safest way. However, we will have to wait a few days before departing. I would want each of us who are going to use the Crown to be familiar with controlling the barge before we depart. We’ll also need to collect supplies for the trip.”

“Any questions?”

[Lilia]

Lilia:

Kylie chuckles. "Just thought I might mention it. A matter of perspective really, I guess..."

“I am sure that he would find my forest home just has distasteful to him as I would feel in a cave.”

The Elf Maiden isn’t sorry when the woman with the snake departs. She never had any desire to have a familiar before, and finding someone with a snake just reinforces those feelings. Sherwood then relates a story about the woman and the circumstances of her son’s birth thanks to aging magic. Lilia can’t help but cringe upon hearing that story. She’s never really even considered having children before. Although elves are very long lived, they don’t have children very often. Unlike humans, elven pregnancies last nearly two years. Another reason Lilia isn’t so keen on the idea right now.

Sharadin’s offspring then proceed to give us some history of this giant castle and how something called the Crown of the Stars was found. They then show that this magic item can be used to lift a barge up and have it fly around!

Talk quickly changes to how to make best use of this ability to reach the Sylvan Realm. It seems that the general idea is to rotate the Crown among the mages so that he barge can fly all day and all night towards their destination. Waiting a few days to get the hang of flying the barge seems logical as well. It will give us time to check out this mage guild too.

“This seems like the best option. We do not know what we will face in the Sylvan Realm; so reaching it quickly is desirable. I do agree that keeping our main means of transportation a secret once there is the best course of action. Any surprise we can throw at the enemy is to our advantage.”

[Lia]

Lia[/b

]“There’s really nothing to debate here, Lia. My task is to get you to the Sylvan Realm. This option will get us there the fastest and safest way. However, we will have to wait a few days before departing. I would want each of us who are going to use the Crown to be familiar with controlling the barge before we depart. We’ll also need to collect supplies for the trip.”

“Any questions?”

“I was not debating anything cousin, More so just expressing not to take and plan to much in advance, because things could change and all these discussions of apples and nuts as it were are for not.”

“My only concern would be that if we are attacked while in mid air. How well those who will be using the crown be able to handle the barge under that type of pressure, as it would be new to them.”

“What would you wish the wearer to do? Land or hold position and fight back the attackers or flee? One thing is for certain if any attack is sprung upon us the wearer of the crown should be protected at all costs.”

[GM Mad]

Post Closed