New Frontiers #81

[GM Mad]

New Frontiers #81

The Guardians try to locate the invisible Priestess. Many of the group goes to block the exits from the room, while Sir Corley directs Grondar to secure the first priestess. The dwarven priest quickly reaches the girl and finds her to be truly unconscious.

Farian blocks one of the exits and swings his warhammer before him, hoping to strike his unseen foe. Elsewhere Chareos tosses snow hoping to coat the enemy. Ivy reaches yet another exit and keeps her eyes open, as does Sir Corley. Aria, Sherra, Lyonessa and Argent keep watch near the entrance.

She thinks she can hear the beating of wings, but not being able to see her target she's uncertain. Lyonessa empathically asks Dusk if he can sense anything better than her.

“Something is here,” Dusk empathically tells his mistress. “I can hear it, but there is too much noise to tell from where.”


Elsewhere in the room, Yusef hears a faint beating of wings and moves in that direction. He races towards the same exit the invisible priestess seems to be heading towards. The sound is very close and unexpectedly the two collide! Reaching out, Yusef grabs a hold of the girl and forces her towards the ground. She hits the floor hard and the girl stops struggling in Yusef’s grasp. She turns visible once more and now seems to be unconscious.

The two girls are quickly bound and secured before they wake up.


GM Notes:

I’ll need to know what spells are going to be cast on what girl and by whom. Who’s going to question them and what are you going to ask?


Now what?

[Chareos]

Chareos

Chareos threw two handfuls of snow into the air but found that his efforts were in vain as the snow drifted slowly to the ground. He looked about looking to the others seeing how they fair. Farian swinging his war hammer before him contecting nothing but air as the others stand and guard.

His gaze fell upon Yusef almost as he collided with something in mid air, He watched as he grappled with air and dropped down to the ground hard. In the pervious of moments the girl became visible again as she laid their unconscious.

"Nicely done Yusef, " he said as he couldn’t help smile at the monk he quietly wondered just how strong he truly is…

Not wishing to have any more surprises out of the priestesses, Chareos will move toward the two down girls and remove any jewelry that may have upon them and cast them aside.

When it comes to questioning them Chareos will stand in back of the pair and merely listen to the interrogation.

[Yusef]

Yusef:

Running for the only remaining unguarded exit, Yusef crashes into an unseen obstacle. Instinctively, he grabs the object and by twisting his body he is able to use their combined momentum to slam the girl into the hard ice floor.

Immediately, he scrambles to get an immobilizing lock on her arm, but soon discovers that she is out cold. Hoisting her over his shoulder, he carries the unconscious girl back to where Grondar is guarding the other one. Sherra pulls out some rope and quickly binds them quite effectively.

"Nicely done Yusef, " he said as he couldn’t help smile at the monk he quietly wondered just how strong he truly is…

"Thank you, Lord Chareos," Yusef says with a nod. "It is good to finally make a contribution toward our success."

As the others prepare to question the girls, Yusef approaches and smiles at Sherra. "You did a great job of tying them up, Sherra. I could learn a lot from you."

[Grondar]

Grondar:

It doesn't take long to determine that the girl he's assigned to guard is indeed unconscious. Still, he stands over her as the others attempt to capture her friend.

On the far side of the room, Yusef seems to bump into something unseen. The young man twists his body in an amazing way in midair. Moments later, the missing girl is discovered in his arms on the floor! She appears to be unconscious as well and Yusef brings her over to join the one he's guarding.

"That was incredible, Yusef," Grondar says. "I've never seen anyone move like you did in midair just then."

Soon, the question of how to question them is brought up again. "I recommend that Lyonessa and Ivy cast their Charm spells on these girls. Berronar has blessed me with the ability to detect lies, so I will stay close by during the questioning. Would it be best to separate them while we question them, or keep them together?"

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

Lyonessa doesn't have to worry about using her Command spell as she watches Yusef bring down the winged girl. Apparently unconscious, the girl reappears and the two are quickly tied up.

Soon, the question of how to question them is brought up again. "I recommend that Lyonessa and Ivy cast their Charm spells on these girls. Berronar has blessed me with the ability to detect lies, so I will stay close by during the questioning. Would it be best to separate them while we question them, or keep them together?"

Lyonessa thinks on the question a bit. "You probably have to be close by to use your spell, is that correct Grondar?" Lyonessa asks. "If so, then we would need to keep the girls close together unless your spell lasts long enough to question them seperately."

"Whichever way we do it, we probably shouldn't crowd them," Lyonessa suggests. "They will only really be friendly to the one casting the spell if it succeeds. The winged girl will remember her flight to escape no doubt and might be the trickier one to convince."

"We probably should untie them too," Lyonessa adds. "The spell might not take if they find themselves bound when they would normally not have reason to be. It's not a very convincing 'friendly' behaivor," she adds the last with a smile.

Unless a reason is brought up, Lyonessa will prepare to use her Charm Person spell on the horned girl. If we are questioning them seperate, Lyonessa will suggest going first since that girl has been unconscious longer and Lyonessa doesn't know how long she will will remain subdued.

[farian]

Farian
Stepping up to the window, he turns around and wait’s a few moments. A bitter wind came through the window behind him, gripping his war hammer in front of him Farian swung it before him only catching air. He shook his head in frustration, and grumbled out. “Know I know what it feels like….”

Within a few moments the situation is contained when Yusef brings the other Demon priestess to the ground.

"Whichever way we do it, we probably shouldn't crowd them," Lyonessa suggests. "They will only really be friendly to the one casting the spell if it succeeds. The winged girl will remember her flight to escape no doubt and might be the trickier one to convince."

Farian rests his war hammer across his shoulder as he listens to this. He chuckles slight at this… “Than we will be needing to convince her by other means,” bringing his war hammer across to rest on his hand where he began to tap the head into his other hand. … “If it don’t work. “

Having no heart for sweet talk to an enemy Farian will move away from the prisoners and go to the doorway and keep watch.

[Ivy]

Ivy:

The missing priestess is quickly found by Yusef and captured. Stepping in to the room, the discussion turns to charming the two girls for information.

Soon, the question of how to question them is brought up again. "I recommend that Lyonessa and Ivy cast their Charm spells on these girls. Berronar has blessed me with the ability to detect lies, so I will stay close by during the questioning. Would it be best to separate them while we question them, or keep them together?"

Lyonessa thinks on the question a bit. "You probably have to be close by to use your spell, is that correct Grondar?" Lyonessa asks. "If so, then we would need to keep the girls close together unless your spell lasts long enough to question them separately."

"Whichever way we do it, we probably shouldn't crowd them," Lyonessa suggests. "They will only really be friendly to the one casting the spell if it succeeds. The winged girl will remember her flight to escape no doubt and might be the trickier one to convince."

"We probably should untie them too," Lyonessa adds. "The spell might not take if they find themselves bound when they would normally not have reason to be. It's not a very convincing 'friendly' behavior," she adds the last with a smile.

“I have to agree with Lyonessa,” Ivy adds. “Let her cast her charm on the horned girl first. Question her before dealing with the other girl. The winged girl can remain tied for now and left in the area of Silence. We can move the horned girl away from her. Should Lyonessa’s attempt fail, then I can try my Charm on her.”

“There’s just the matter of what questions to ask her. I would imagine things like who she is, what this place is, what their plans are and things of that nature.”


Once we are ready to begin, Ivy will step away from Lyonessa and towards Grondar. She’ll watch as Lyonessa tries to use her magic on the horned girl.

[Argent]

Argent:

The Invoker has little to add to the proceedings. This sort of ‘subtle’ magic isn’t her forte. So instead, she’ll stand beside Chareos as he stands guard.

“Impressive magic was used to build this place,” Argent will say in Alphatian, as she doesn’t wish the others to hear her words. “I would really love to learn such secrets. Perhaps this time we’ll be able to reap the rewards before this place comes tumbling down. Some new magic items and jewels would be lovely.”

“I noticed that you placed yourself in front of me to keep me from danger. Thank you. That was very gallant. Perhaps once we’ve returned to Fort Fletcher we can discuss things magical, and perhaps other more intimate topics in private?”


Argent will keep her eyes open for treachery and have the words to a Magic Missile ready to be spoken.

[Corley]

Corley:

The second priestess is discovered and put down just as easily as the first by Yusef and his unusual style of combat.

“Well done!”, Sir Corley will complement. “We’ll let you priests handle the questioning of these two. The rest of use will give you room and take up guard positions. We’ve got many exits from this area, the stairs going down and the four bridges to the other towers. Spread out. I want at least one guard per exit.”

“Ask the girl about the enemies numbers. How many priestesses are here? What kind of creatures do they have as guards? What sort of defenses are in place here?”

Sir Corley will take a guard position on one of the bridges to the outlying towers. He’ll keep one eye on the bridge, and the other on the girl being questioned.

[Chareos]

Chareos

Silently watching the prisoners from behind, Chareos didn’t hear Argent approach till her voice reached his ears.

“Impressive magic was used to build this place,” Argent will say in Alphatian, as she doesn’t wish the others to hear her words. “I would really love to learn such secrets. Perhaps this time we’ll be able to reap the rewards before this place comes tumbling down. Some new magic items and jewels would be lovely.”

“It is indeed a magical marvel. I to wish to learn of the magics used in its creation.” He paused looking down at Argent a smile about his face, “Though ,You do not need many jewels, Milady. There are not many jewels in all the world that would do your beauty justice.” He said evenly in Alphatian.


A thought had crossed his mind at that moment. “Perhaps if this citadel survives, Silvarn would wish to call it home?”

“I noticed that you placed yourself in front of me to keep me from danger. Thank you. That was very gallant. Perhaps once we’ve returned to Fort Fletcher we can discuss things magical, and perhaps other more intimate topics in private?”

Chareos was at a loss for words for a moment then nodded in acknowledgement to her thanks, “I would gladly do so again.” he gaze fell upon her as the start of a smile formed about his face though he kept it in check. “I would like that, Perhaps over dinner?”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

The two Auril priestesses have been captured without any permanent injury. Both are secured while the group ponders what to do with them. Chareos relieves them of any jewelry or obvious magic items. Both girls have a silver circlets on their heads, similar in appearance to the one Argent acquired yesterday. Several minor rings and bracelets are liberated as well.

It is decided to try and charm the horned girl first. She is untied and moved away from the area of Silence. Lyonessa casts the spell while Grondar will attempt to determine the accuracy of her answers.

The horned girl starts to come around and seems both confused and surprised to find Lyonessa before her.

“Hello, friend,” the girl says with a smile. “Have you come to worship the Frostmaiden?”

A dialog is started and the girl will reveal the following. Her name is Anja, and the other girl, her sister, is Nina. Their mother is named Mina and she is the High Priestess of the Ice Palace. The Ice Palace was created by invoking the magic of a large diamond called the Heart of Winter. It created the Ice Palace and the ice creatures that guard it.

The goal of the Aurilites is two fold. The first is to restore Auril to the glory that she has lost. That means they plan to cover this part of the world in ice and convert as many followers to her faith as possible. Secondly, the traitor to Auril most be found and punished for her transgressions.

The only other significant priestess here is named Kalandor. She matches the description of the one Argent fought yesterday. She is a priestess and an Ice Sorceress. Her major weapon is the Staff of Winter, yet another enchanted item dedicated to Auril. It can create icy servants, but not as many as the Heart of Winter can.

Grondar will varify that Anja is telling the truth.


Now what?

[Sherra]

Sherra:

Immediately, he scrambles to get an immobilizing lock on her arm, but soon discovers that she is out cold. Hoisting her over his shoulder, he carries the unconscious girl back to where Grondar is guarding the other one. Sherra pulls out some rope and quickly binds them quite effectively.

Sherra watches with amazement, as do many of the others, how Yusef quickly and masterfully deals with the winged demon girl. Seeing the task is over, Sherra quickly uncoils some rope, binding the two girls since she isn't exactly sure what will happen next or how quickly.

As the others prepare to question the girls, Yusef approaches and smiles at Sherra. "You did a great job of tying them up, Sherra. I could learn a lot from you."

Well, he doesn't seem quite so tongue-tied anymore, Sherra thinks as she tries to suppress the shock and smile at Yusef's comment. "Agreed," Sherra replies slyly, "rope in the hands of one who knows how to use it can be quite leave quite an impression on the one bound."

"We probably should untie them too," Lyonessa adds. "The spell might not take if they find themselves bound when they would normally not have reason to be. It's not a very convincing 'friendly' behaivor," she adds the last with a smile.

Sherra doesn't add anything to Lyonessa's comment, for fear the young bardess might become quite embarrassed. Instead, Sherra simply says, "Easy enough to do, just tell me when."

The charm spell seems to work, and soon Lyonessa is learning quite a bit of information. Sherra doesn't linger though, instead keeping an eye out for trouble as Corley asked. She returns to the stairs she had been watching before.

[Yusef]

Yusef:

"That was incredible, Yusef," Grondar says. "I've never seen anyone move like you did in midair just then."

"Oh, uhm, thank you, Grondar," Yusef says, sounding a bit embarrassed. "Muscular control is one of the keys to our art."

“Well done!”, Sir Corley will complement. “We’ll let you priests handle the questioning of these two. The rest of use will give you room and take up guard positions. We’ve got many exits from this area, the stairs going down and the four bridges to the other towers. Spread out. I want at least one guard per exit.”

"Thank you, Sir Corley," Yusef replies, still a little red-faced.

Well, he doesn't seem quite so tongue-tied anymore, Sherra thinks as she tries to suppress the shock and smile at Yusef's comment. "Agreed," Sherra replies slyly, "rope in the hands of one who knows how to use it can be quite leave quite an impression on the one bound."

It takes a second for what Sherra is implying to register, at which point his face turns several shades of red. "Ahh... that is... yes, I'm sure it does-- can." Like many a teenage boy, though he is older than that, Yusef has knowledge of the what and how, but little-to-no personal experience.

“There’s just the matter of what questions to ask her. I would imagine things like who she is, what this place is, what their plans are and things of that nature.”

“Ask the girl about the enemies numbers. How many priestesses are here? What kind of creatures do they have as guards? What sort of defenses are in place here?”

Yusef steps forward. "If I may suggest, also ask about the layout of this castle, what non-priest leaders they may have and where we are likely to find the leaders."

With that, he leaves to guard the entrance where he had so recently caught the horned girl. If she sought to leave that way, it may be the most direct route to the other inhabitants.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

"Oh, uhm, thank you, Grondar," Yusef says, sounding a bit embarrassed. "Muscular control is one of the keys to our art."

Grondar frowns as he considers. "That makes sense, I suppose. Your art, as you call it, is different from anything I have ever seen, but is proving to be quite effective for all its strangeness."

Lyonessa thinks on the question a bit. "You probably have to be close by to use your spell, is that correct Grondar?" Lyonessa asks. "If so, then we would need to keep the girls close together unless your spell lasts long enough to question them seperately."

Grondar nods his agreement. "It's as much an inherent ability as a spell, but yes, I do need to be close by to hear clearly what is said."

He has no real comment regarding the rest of Lyonessa's thoughts on questioning the girls.

Farian rests his war hammer across his shoulder as he listens to this. He chuckles slight at this… “Than we will be needing to convince her by other means,” bringing his war hammer across to rest on his hand where he began to tap the head into his other hand. … “If it don’t work. “

Grondar looks at Farian. "Hopefully, the spell will make that unnecessary."

“I have to agree with Lyonessa,” Ivy adds. “Let her cast her charm on the horned girl first. Question her before dealing with the other girl. The winged girl can remain tied for now and left in the area of Silence. We can move the horned girl away from her. Should Lyonessa’s attempt fail, then I can try my Charm on her.”

"Using the area of the spell as a means of separating the girls and allowing us to question them separately is a good idea. Perhaps once we're finished questioning the first, Lyonessa can lead her away to guard one of the exits while we question the second."

Ivy, Corley and Yusef all make suggestions regarding what questions to ask. The list seems reasonably complete, and Grondar has no others to add.

The questioning of the first girl begins, and Grondar stands nearby. He nods periodically to indicate that what she says is true. She provides useful information, though Grondar is intrigued by the mention of this magical gem.

"Lyonessa, if I may, it might be worth knowing where this Heart of Winter is located. Also, can we verify whether Kharyna is this traitor she speaks of?"

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

Sherra doesn't add anything to Lyonessa's comment, for fear the young bardess might become quite embarrassed. Instead, Sherra simply says, "Easy enough to do, just tell me when."

Lyonessa nods and lets Sherra know when she will begin to cast the spell. thank Mystra the spell works against the horned girl.

“Hello, friend,” the girl says with a smile. “Have you come to worship the Frostmaiden?”

"Indeed, this is quite a marvelous palace, my friend," Lyonessa replies carefully, leaving her greeting vague enough for her new 'friend' to interpret in a positive way.

Talk turns very casual, and Lyonessa gains a lot of new information. She looks to Grondar from time to time to see his nod that she is being truthful in everything she says.

“Ask the girl about the enemies numbers. How many priestesses are here? What kind of creatures do they have as guards? What sort of defenses are in place here?”

Yusef steps forward. "If I may suggest, also ask about the layout of this castle, what non-priest leaders they may have and where we are likely to find the leaders."

"Lyonessa, if I may, it might be worth knowing where this Heart of Winter is located. Also, can we verify whether Kharyna is this traitor she speaks of?"

"So where is your room in this grand palace? I would imagine the view of this wintery paradise from your window would be quite spectacular," Lyonessa prods. "Do you share with your sister, or have seperate rooms?" Lyonessa hopes this will lead to a discussion of the layout of where everyone's rooms are.

"I would imagine the Heart of Winter to be very well guarded indeed, probably with some of the fiercest creatures it could create," Lyonessa hopes to boost the pride the young girl feels in this magical item in hopes more information slips.

"You speak of a traitor," Lyonessa says, mimicing shock. "Do you know who this might be so that I may be prepared should I encounter this traitor myself?"

"How many followers have arrived like I have, seeking out this palace? I can only imagine the ranks of the faithful swell even now," Lyonessa inquires, hoping to learn if there are any others here besides the priestesses and created guardians. Again though, Lyonessa is careful not to say she is a follower, merely that she arrived here. By using such vague comments Lyonessa is letting the girl make the conclusion herself (hopefully!) to 'enhance' their friendship.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Lyonessa continues her dialog with the charmed Anja.

"So where is your room in this grand palace? I would imagine the view of this wintry paradise from your window would be quite spectacular," Lyonessa prods. "Do you share with your sister, or have separate rooms?" Lyonessa hopes this will lead to a discussion of the layout of where everyone's rooms are.

“Oh, yes the view is quite nice from my balcony, but not as nice as up here,” Anja softly answers. “My room is three floors down along with Nina’s. Mother’s chambers are on the floor below and Kalandor’s the floor below that. The snow makes everything look so nice and clean and so pretty. It is Auril’s greatest gift along with ice to protect everything it coats.”

"I would imagine the Heart of Winter to be very well guarded indeed, probably with some of the fiercest creatures it could create," Lyonessa hopes to boost the pride the young girl feels in this magical item in hopes more information slips.

“Yes, mother makes sure it’s well guarded. It’s down in our main temple, hovering over the altar. Would you like to see it and pay homage to the Frostmaiden?”

"You speak of a traitor," Lyonessa says, mimicking shock. "Do you know who this might be so that I may be prepared should I encounter this traitor myself?"

“We’ve only been told stories about her. She was a chosen of the Frostmaiden and even had hair the color of snow. Through her treachery, the good people of Everwinter were deprived of Auril’s gifts of ice and snow. Now they only have dreary greens and browns. How horrible! We are not allowed to speak the traitor’s name, but it is said that she was twisted to evil ends by another goddess who had designs on Auril’s power.”

"How many followers have arrived like I have, seeking out this palace? I can only imagine the ranks of the faithful swell even now," Lyonessa inquires, hoping to learn if there are any others here besides the priestesses and created guardians. Again though, Lyonessa is careful not to say she is a follower, merely that she arrived here. By using such vague comments Lyonessa is letting the girl make the conclusion herself (hopefully!) to 'enhance' their friendship.

“No, not many,” Anja says in disappointment. “I can’t understand why others don’t rush here to accept the Frostmaiden’s wondrous gifts. You seem to be enjoying the conditions here in the Ice Palace, but others want to cover themselves to block out the Goddess’ gifts and seem afraid of us. Why is that?”

[Grondar]

Grondar:

The questioning continues, and Grondar listens in with interest. The girl seems quite happy to answer Lyonessa's questions. This is potent magic indeed!

“Oh, yes the view is quite nice from my balcony, but not as nice as up here,” Anja softly answers. “My room is three floors down along with Nina’s. Mother’s chambers are on the floor below and Kalandor’s the floor below that. The snow makes everything look so nice and clean and so pretty. It is Auril’s greatest gift along with ice to protect everything it coats.”

Grondor's eyebrow rises a notch. "Ask her about this Kalandor," he whispers to Lyonessa.

Listening to the girl, Grondar can only shake his head. She has been so thoroughly indoctrinated at her young age; it seems so wrong.

[Argent]

Argent:

“It is indeed a magical marvel. I to wish to learn of the magicks used in its creation.” He paused looking down at Argent a smile about his face, “Though, You do not need many jewels, Milady. There are not many jewels in all the world that would do your beauty justice.” He said evenly in Alphatian.

“That’s a sweet thing to say,” Argent responds with an easy smile. “But I like gems and jewelry and magic items. They make me happy. Call me greedy, but I like riches. The more, the better.”

A thought had crossed his mind at that moment. “Perhaps if this citadel survives, Silvarn would wish to call it home?”

“Maybe. Depends how she feels about the Cold One. It is certainly an isolated citadel, but way to drafty for my tastes. It needs some colors.”

Chareos was at a loss for words for a moment then nodded in acknowledgement to her thanks, “I would gladly do so again.” he gaze fell upon her as the start of a smile formed about his face though he kept it in check. “I would like that, Perhaps over dinner?”

“It’s a date,” Argent says. “Once we’re out of this wintry wonderland, of course.”


Argent pays attention to the conversation Lyonessa is having with the evil priestess. It’s going surprisingly well and some very interesting details come out. This Heart of Winter gets her attention!

The Invoker whispers to Chareos, “A giant diamond? I like the sound of that! It does suggest that if we shatter the diamond, then this citadel will come down with it. We’d just have to do it to capture the diamond shards. They must be worth a fortune!”

The dialog continues and takes a disturbing turn. “Then they are after who we think they are after,” Argent states. “It fits her description. From the way she talks, it sounds like this girl is completely ignorant of what its like to be cold!”

[Ivy]

Ivy:

From her position near Grondar, Ivy is able to hear the conversation between the Aurilite and Lyonessa.

Grondor's eyebrow rises a notch. "Ask her about this Kalandor," he whispers to Lyonessa.

“She’s the priestess sorceress Argent fought back at the fortress,” Ivy whispers to Grondar. “The one who carries the Staff of Winter.”

After hearing everything said thus far, Ivy can contain herself no longer.

“This is monstrous!” She whispers. “Everything is so twisted that things that are truly evil are made to seem good and wholesome! It must be the only one that such an evil goddess can get followers, by perverting the truth to fit their needs! Their dogma is so ingrained that we may not be able to make them see the error of their ways.”

[Corley]

Corley:

Sir Corley can hear much of what is said between Lady Lyonessa and the prisoner. What he does hear makes his blood run cold.

The goal of the Aurilites is two fold. The first is to restore Auril to the glory that she has lost. That means they plan to cover this part of the world in ice and convert as many followers to her faith as possible. Secondly, the traitor to Auril most be found and punished for her transgressions.

“This will not happen while I still draw breath!”, Sir Corley silently vows. “Cynalon will never full under the thrall of one so evil! It was fortuitous of the Lady Kharyna to break free of such vile teachings!”

The conversation just strengthens Sir Corley’s resolve. These followers of the Cold One must be stopped for the good of all. Fortunately, it sounds as if there are only two powerful Aurilites here, along with some lesser priestess and their icy creature creations. The key to it all seems to be this Heart of Winter. Destroy it and all the icy constructs, even this very fortress, will be no more.

Sir Corley will gesture for the rest of the Guardians to move closer to him, but well away from the misguided half-demon priestess.

“Our course of action is clear. We must defeat the higher-powered priestess’ and smash the gem that gives them so much power. Only then will this region be freed from their infection. Let us continue downward. Perhaps we’ll find these other two in their quarters. If not, we must then move towards the altar the priestess mentioned. The one the Heart of Winter hovers over and smash it.”

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

“Oh, yes the view is quite nice from my balcony, but not as nice as up here,” Anja softly answers. “My room is three floors down along with Nina’s. Mother’s chambers are on the floor below and Kalandor’s the floor below that. The snow makes everything look so nice and clean and so pretty. It is Auril’s greatest gift along with ice to protect everything it coats.”

"Yes the undisturbed snow is quite a marvelous sight," Lyonessa agress, glancing over to make sure at least a few of her friends are getting the details of this palace.

Grondor's eyebrow rises a notch. "Ask her about this Kalandor," he whispers to Lyonessa.

“She’s the priestess sorceress Argent fought back at the fortress,” Ivy whispers to Grondar. “The one who carries the Staff of Winter.”

Lyonessa doesn't bother with a further question barely hearing Ivy's response to Grondar.

“Yes, mother makes sure it’s well guarded. It’s down in our main temple, hovering over the altar. Would you like to see it and pay homage to the Frostmaiden?”

"I would most definitely like to see it, as well as all of the temple. It sounds quite grand," Lyonessa replies.

“We’ve only been told stories about her. She was a chosen of the Frostmaiden and even had hair the color of snow. Through her treachery, the good people of Everwinter were deprived of Auril’s gifts of ice and snow. Now they only have dreary greens and browns. How horrible! We are not allowed to speak the traitor’s name, but it is said that she was twisted to evil ends by another goddess who had designs on Auril’s power.”

Lyonessa doesn't comment further, but glancing over, it definitely looks like Argent and some of the others confirm who they suspected this traitor was.

“No, not many,” Anja says in disappointment. “I can’t understand why others don’t rush here to accept the Frostmaiden’s wondrous gifts. You seem to be enjoying the conditions here in the Ice Palace, but others want to cover themselves to block out the Goddess’ gifts and seem afraid of us. Why is that?”

"I am quite comfortable right now," Lyonessa replies truthfully. "I would imagine though that some of the others who might want to journey here have lived with the land being green and brown for too long. I could only imagine it would take a little while to adjust to the change."

Lyonessa excuses herself enough to hear Sir Corley's words, but not enough to lose sight of the girl. Since we need to get moving, Lyonessa goes back to the girl with the eagerness to be shown around more.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“She’s the priestess sorceress Argent fought back at the fortress,” Ivy whispers to Grondar. “The one who carries the Staff of Winter.”

"Ahh, thank you, Ivy," Grondar replies. "Then who is her mother? She is obviously important here."

[Yusef]

Yusef:

Yusef's attention is split between the interrogation and keeping a watchful eye on Sherra. Thus, he has nothing to really contribute to the discussion at this time. Instead, he scans the room, making sure that someone is covering all the possible entrances.

[Sherra]

Sherra:

Although Sherra can't really hear the conversation between Lyonessa and her charmed "friend," she can tell they must be getting a lot of good information.

She remains where she is covering the stairs, confident that she will be brought up to speed quickly enough once a decision is made. Sherra occassionally feels like someone is watching her, and turning her head results in seeing Yusef looking her way. She turns back to her duties, and although Yusef can't see the smile, it is definitely there.

[Chareos]

Chareos

"There is nothing greedy about it. You merely know what you like. No one may fault you in that.” he said evenly, though he couldn’t help but say, “But, there maybe a time where the jewels and gems lose their luster, and you crave something deeper then that of material wealth.”

“Maybe. Depends how she feels about the Cold One. It is certainly an isolated citadel, but way to drafty for my tastes. It needs some colors.”

A smile spread across his face as he can’t help but smile. Drafty? It was far more drafty….. Chilling to the bone would be a better description he muses to himself.

The Invoker whispers to Chareos, “A giant diamond? I like the sound of that! It does suggest that if we shatter the diamond, then this citadel will come down with it. We’d just have to do it to capture the diamond shards. They must be worth a fortune!”

“Whose to say we need to shatter it…. We could merely take it, Spoils go to the victors, after all..“ a smirk etching across his face, “If upon we leave and the citadel does not fall, then we can see to shattering it, the Citadel with it. Though I am concerned...If it is similiar to Ember's citadel in nature and creation, We may need to leave with all haste.”

As the dialog goes to a morbid direction Chareos can't help to whisper, “I am curious, if they are brought up in these beliefs from birth…. No rational being would agree to such a Dogma.”

[farian]

Farian

Letting the others, to the interrogation, Farina stand near the door his crossbow in hand. He keeps a diligent eye upon the stairs.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:


Thanks to a Charm spell, Anja is only too happy to speak with Lyonessa on the dogma of Auril and their mission in this part of the world. They seek to spread their faith and cover the world in ice, locking the lands into a perpetual winter!

Sir Corley has heard enough and summons all the Guardians into one place. The group must continue on to defeat this menace. Anja mentions two significant priestesses. One is her mother Mina who is also the High Priestess of the Ice Palace.

The other is known as Kalandor and she is not only an Ice Priestess, but also an Ice Sorceress. She was driven off by Argent back at Fort Fletcher and wields a powerful magic item known as the Staff of Winter. In addition to many ice-related spells, the Staff can animate ice to form the various ice creatures you’ve battled.

The most powerful magic item is the Heart of Winter, a large diamond that is a holy relic to the Aurilites. Using the Heart of Winter, Mina erected the Ice Palace. The Heart also animates ice creatures, but in far greater number then compared to the Staff. (And presumable it was the Heart of Winter that allowed the Aurilites to change the orcs into icy thralls.)

Lyonessa returns to Anja’s side and relates that she is ready to see more of the temple. Anja is only too happy to oblige. However, as she begins to lead the way, she spots her sister Nina still bound and lying still.

“What is this?!” Anja cries out in shock. “What goes on here? Who did this to my sister?”

The half-demoness Ice Priestess eyes her new friends warily…


Now what?

[Corley]

Corley:

“What is this?!” Anja cries out in shock. “What goes on here? Who did this to my sister?”

The half-demoness Ice Priestess eyes her new friends warily…

It was only a matter of time before the priestess realized that something was amiss. No matter, as we’ve learned much from her.

“YUSEF!” Sir Corley cries out, motioning towards bewildered girl. “Once more please.”

Assuming the monk is just as efficient as the first time, Sir Corley directs that the girl be tied once more and left up here with her sister for the moment.

“That’ll keep these two out of mischief while we continue onwards. If I understand the magic used on her, the girl would turn against us as soon as the first battle occurred. Far better to neutralize her here and now instead of in another conflict.”

“Let us continue down this tower. The mother’s private chambers are one floor below, so be on guard. Farian and Yusef have the point as before.”

Once we are ready to move along, Sir Corley assumes his position and keeps his eyes open for the enemy.

“You did well in questioning the girl, Lyonessa,” Sir Corley tells the bardess when he has the chance.

[Argent]

Argent:

"There is nothing greedy about it. You merely know what you like. No one may fault you in that.” he said evenly, though he couldn’t help but say, “But there maybe a time where the jewels and gems lose their luster, and you crave something deeper then that of material wealth.”

“Oh, I know what I want and usually how to get it,” Argent agrees as she continues to converse in Alphatian. “But treasure lose its appeal? Bite your tongue!”

“Whose to say we need to shatter it…. We could merely take it, Spoils go to the victors, after all.“ A smirk etching across his face, “If upon we leave and the citadel does not fall, then we can see to shattering it, the Citadel with it. Though I am concerned...If it is similar to Ember's citadel in nature and creation, we may need to leave with all haste.”

“If this Heart of Winter is half the artifact the Aurilites make it out to be, then they’ll target us to get it back. Of course, no matter what we do, we’re going to be joining their most wanted roster along with Kharyna. But if we shatter the diamond, then they’ll never be able to make use of it again. That seems like a more practical solution to me in the long run. Besides finding a buyer for something that large would be difficult!”

“If the situation is as we suspect, then it’ll take some timing, but should be doable. One person hits the diamond shattering it, while the other holds a Bag of Holding underneath to collect the shards. Then the pair just teleports way before the ceiling caves in on them. Hopefully it’ll be as simple as it sounds to pull off.”

As the dialog goes to a morbid direction Chareos can't help to whisper, “I am curious, if they are brought up in these beliefs from birth…. No rational being would agree to such a Dogma.”

“Most likely,” Argent agrees. “It always easier to indoctrinate the young to such nonsense. But if as I suspect these girls are naturally immune to cold, then it was probably easier to for them to accept. Especially if its their mother who is telling them all of this.”


It seems that Sir Corley has heard enough and wishes to move along. Anja unexpected sees her downed sister and begins to question things. The Invokers keeps her eyes open just in case Yusef cannot down the girl once more.

“Time to move on,” Argent says to Chareos as she takes her place in the procession going down below. “Guess we’ll be finding out real quick just how powerful these Aurilites really are.”

[Ivy]

Ivy:

"Ahh, thank you, Ivy," Grondar replies. "Then who is her mother? She is obviously important here."

“If I heard correctly, the girls mother is named Mina and she’s the High Priestess here. She’ll be the most powerful of the enemy we face here if she was able to survive mating with a demon. It sounds like she’s pretty demented too.”

Sir Corley seems to have heard enough and wishes to continue onwards. Truth be told, Ivy doesn’t really want to hear any more either. What she has heard is so disturbing and twisted that she cannot stomach it.

Ivy holds her mace at the ready just in case it is needed, but has no real desire to attack the poor girl. She’s more deluded than anything. Her ethics twisted at a very young age. She simply doesn’t know any better.

“Let us continue down this tower. The mother’s private chambers are one floor below, so be on guard. Farian and Yusef have the point as before.”

“We will be returning for them, won’t we?” Ivy can’t help but ask. “They may be the enemy, but these girls are little more than victims of this twisted dogma. I cannot in good conscious see them killed out of hand.”

With mace in hand, Ivy will take her place in the ranks as we move deeper into the Ice Palace.

[Aria Stonehand]

Aria:

“Let us continue down this tower. The mother’s private chambers are one floor below, so be on guard. Farian and Yusef have the point as before.”

“’Bout time!” Aria cries out as she brandishes her axe about. “I was beginning’ to fall asleep! Let’s get the mission back on track!”

Aria has no comment as the human priestess mentions what to do with the girls. It’s clear to the dwarven battle maiden that nothing will change the way they look at the world. You can’t reason with such madness. Trying to do so will just lead to personal anguish.

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

Lyonessa returns to Anja’s side and relates that she is ready to see more of the temple. Anja is only too happy to oblige. However, as she begins to lead the way, she spots her sister Nina still bound and lying still.

“What is this?!” Anja cries out in shock. “What goes on here? Who did this to my sister?”

"Um.." Lyonessa mumbles as she quickly tries to come up with a convincing story. She had been careful to leave things vague when agreeing or siding with Anja during the questioning, but she doesn't think a vague response now will work.

“YUSEF!” Sir Corley cries out, motioning towards bewildered girl. “Once more please.”

Lyonessa steps back, ready to use her Command spell to have Anja stop from fleeing in case Yusef either fails or resists the attempt to subdue her.

“That’ll keep these two out of mischief while we continue onwards. If I understand the magic used on her, the girl would turn against us as soon as the first battle occurred. Far better to neutralize her here and now instead of in another conflict.”

Lyonessa turns to agree with Sir Corley, "Yes, we would have had to dealt with her quickly once the deception was revealed."

“You did well in questioning the girl, Lyonessa,” Sir Corley tells the bardess when he has the chance.

"Thank you, Sir Corley," Lyonessa replies. "I am glad I was able to get us valuable information."

“We will be returning for them, won’t we?” Ivy can’t help but ask. “They may be the enemy, but these girls are little more than victims of this twisted dogma. I cannot in good conscious see them killed out of hand.”

"I hope to, although I don't know what we can do with them," Lyonessa replies solemnly. "It is probably all they have known since birth. They may not even be aware they would be considered evil, no matter how vile it may appear to us."

Lyonessa gets ready to head downstairs. Hopefully they can catch the priestesses unaware. The thought of being frozen to death isn't appealing.

[Yusef]

Yusef:

Yusef notes Sherra catching him looking her way. He nods in as business-like a manner as he can manage, then looks quickly away with just a tinge of redder color to his cheeks.

“YUSEF!” Sir Corley cries out, motioning towards bewildered girl. “Once more please.”

Fortunately he has not strayed far. At Lord Corley's summons, Yusef turns into a blur of motion, attempting to subdue the girl once more. Once she is incapacitated, he will rebind her.

“Let us continue down this tower. The mother’s private chambers are one floor below, so be on guard. Farian and Yusef have the point as before.”

"Yes sir," Yusef replies. He returns to the stairs and waits for Farian to rejoin him before descending. His movements on the stairs are nearly silent, and he moves slowly as he keeps an eye out for any impediments.

[Grondar]

Grondar:

“If I heard correctly, the girls' mother is named Mina and she’s the High Priestess here. She’ll be the most powerful of the enemy we face here if she was able to survive mating with a demon. It sounds like she’s pretty demented too.”

"Thank you," Grondar says to Ivy. "Hopefully, their father isn't hereabouts as well. Might have been good to know more about him. Speaking of which, we probably should have asked about those other four connected towers."

Fortunately he has not strayed far. At Lord Corley's summons, Yusef turns into a blur of motion, attempting to subdue the girl once more. Once she is incapacitated, he will rebind her.

A quick command from Lord Corley and Yusef turns into a whirlwind once more. "Just watching that boy is a bit intimidating," Grondar grumbles to no one in particular. "Glad he's on our side."

Grondar moves to take his place at the rear of the group as they prepare to descend the stairs. He gives Sherra a gruff smile and nod, then readies his crossbow.

“We will be returning for them, won’t we?” Ivy can’t help but ask. “They may be the enemy, but these girls are little more than victims of this twisted dogma. I cannot in good conscious see them killed out of hand.”

Grondar nods. "I have to agree. As long as they are unconscious and bound, they should be no threat to our mission."

“You did well in questioning the girl, Lyonessa,” Sir Corley tells the bardess when he has the chance.

"I would have to agree, lady Lyonessa. Well done. The information you obtained will be quite useful."

[GM Mad]

Post Closed