New Frontiers #96

[GM Mad]

New Frontiers #96

A patrol from High Guard to the south has been misled into believe that it was the forces of Pyris that razed Wrasseldown. The patrolmen have split into two groups, one small group attempting to reach Ansimont while the main body returns to High Guard. The Guardians and Pyrisian Cavalry have gone to intercept both groups.

Baron Validar leads those intercepting the group riding to Ansimont. Lord Chareos, the Baron’s Squires, and cavalrymen accompany him. The men from High Guard are quickly overtaken and surrounded. A dialogue begins, but it quickly goes in unexpected directions.

"I do not know where you get your information, but it does not surprise me that you have been misled. I am a member of the King's new Council of Lords and a knight of Cynalon. I would give my life for my kingdom, my king and her people. The Crown Prince is now King and it was not through a coup. Cynalon is ready for her new king and needs him to lead her."

"My companions and I were instrumental in the defeat of the humanoid invasion force which recently attacked Corunglain. We have struck a blow for all of Cynalon in attacking the Hextor main temple in New Keln. We fight for the good of Cynalon and her people. We are not monsters and we are not your enemy."

"The Duke of Elcadan was killed. This is true, but not by the King. He was replaced by a demonic servant of the vile Deville family. They are cunning, they are cruel and they have tried to corrupt all that is Elcadan. Especially now that the truth is being made plain and they are being exposed to the light. You men have been duped by a desperate attempt to cloud your judgment and to become sacrifices for the Devilles to remain in power."

"Think on this, while you look around you. You are outnumbered by my cavalry. If I were your enemy, why would we be conversing? Would I not simply strike you down where you stand? Would we not at the least take you prisoners of war? There is nothing stopping us, other than the truth we speak."

"As for this other lie you have been told: my father was poisoned, but not by me. He was poisoned by the enemies of Cynalon. Relon VanArkus is alive and well. He is with us, not a short distance away. The only reason I am now Baron of Pyris so soon is not my own ambition. Elcadan has been declared broken by King Victor. The old Duke of Elcadan had been killed long ago. Relon is the new Duke of the territory, which includes Pyris now and is called the Duchy of the Streel. This land and Pyris are now one. We are not at war; we are allies. And our enemy is the same: the ones who have poisoned these lands for so long. Under Duke Relon, Elcadan will be brought into the status that was only corrupted by the Devilles."

"Everything you have been told has pieces of the truth, but are outright lies. You have been deceived by circumstantial claims and innuendo. I am not your enemy and neither is Duke Relon."

The riders’ murmur amongst themselves, some believing Validar’s word has a ring of truth to them, others calling them outright lies. While this is going on Lord Chareos rides up with a second horse with bodies laid across it. The ropes holding them in place are cut revealing a female drow and one of the undead just fought.

“What lays before you is all that was found within the village of Wrasseldown. You may not believe what I say nor of the Baron’s for whatever end, but know this. I swore no oath to the Baron of Pyris or of Elcadan. I am here of my own free will for the betterment of the people of Cynalon.”

"The people of Wrasseldown were murdered. By demonic forces of the Deville family and their drow allies. Corunglain was attacked by a contingent of humanoids and Hextorites, with drow assistance and led by the dragon Ember. The invasion force was halted and Corunglain is safe once more, but the enemies attention has been turned here and they seek to use you to their own ends."

Validar points to the undead with his sword. "This poor unfortunate soul was a citizen of Cynalon. But he was twisted into a monster. These creatures seek only to make more of their own kind, a self-replicating army that would slaughter all of our lands and all of humanity and demi-humanity beyond. That is the sort of evil that we face. We can fight them at every turn and eventually triumph. With the people of Elcadan behind us, we can turn the tide against the enemy much quicker and save many more people's lives before this is over."

"Now the choice is yours. You can choose to believe what I say and join us in fighting the enemies of Cynalon. Start the process of working together that the Streel Duchy has afforded us. Or you can believe the lies you have been told, that Pyris is on a warpath and seeks to destroy all of Elcadan. In doing so you will be a part of the destruction you seek to avoid."

Validar waits to see the men's reactions.

The men talk some more, but Sergeant Levine does most of the speaking. After a brief discussion, he turns back to Baron Validar.

“Your words and evidence are powerful, Baron. You say your father is still alive? Then let us see him so that we may learn the truth of things. If he does live, then it would seem that much of what we were told were lies.”

The men from High Guard will ride back to Wrasseldown with forces from Pyris.

[GM Mad]

To the south of Wrasseldown, other Guardians have been sent to stop those riding back to High Guard. This is a larger group and contains the woman who led these men to their false conclusions. Argent has teleported Lyonessa ahead of the riders and the Songstress used Emotion Control to install friendship in the leader’s mind. He slows the riders’ progress and seriously considers Lyonessa’s words.

"You are being deceived, but it is not by us," Lyonessa says. "Instead we merely wish to show you the whole truth, and then you can decide for yourself freely."

Sir Acerion arrives on his majestic Pegasus adding words of his own.

"I am Sir Acerion Kalindor, paladin of Heironeous," Acerion calls out. "Whatever these ladies have been telling you is absolutely true and I request you wait long enough for us to show you proof and tell the tale in full."

Using his innate ability to Detect Evil, Sir Acerion quickly notes the lone woman’s presence. Evil radiates from her like a beacon in the night. Her malevolence is on par with the demoness he spotted in Wrasseldown!

The demoness, frustrated by this interruption, belittles the High Guard men and then takes matters into her own hands. She begins to cast a spell!

Argent retaliates and gets a Magic Missile off first. The sparkling missiles issue forth and unerringly strike the woman. They simply fizzle out upon impact! Lyonessa casts a Command spell right after that, and it too has no visible affect!

Sir Acerion rushes to place himself between the woman and Lyonessa and Argent. He reaches them just as the peasant woman unleashes a Lightning Bolt! The Bolt streaks through those riders and their mounts between the demoness and her targets, slaying all who feel its affects. The magical attack next strikes the magical resistance field emanating from Acerion’s Holy Weapon and is stopped. The demoness curses loudly, using very un-lady like language.


A bit further back, the riders are drawing closer to the scene. Sir Corley, Serena, and Crysania are getting close enough to see what is going on. They all note the Magic Missile and Lightning Bolt spells cast. They will all reach the riders in mere moments. (And can act.)


Still further back, Yusef runs under his own power to reach the riders, but has been passed by those on horseback. (Sherra is not among them, so he didn’t try to climb on board one of the other horses.)

As Yusef runs along, he becomes aware of a figure before him. He slows as he draws closer, his jaw dropping in surprise as he identifies the figure.

“Hello son,” a woman who looks a lot like Yusef’s mother responds. She holds her hands out and adds, “This is no place for you. Come, let us go home.”


Now what?

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

"It would seem you know far more about my family than I do, Crysania. As for Krazzora, if she is truly Abigail as Thelma said, then she is no drow, even if she has taken that form. I know little of drow, but they must be truly wicked to be considered worthy allies by my family."

"The drow are generally wicked and depraved and extremely dangerous enemies. It is unfortunate that all the elves went with Sherwood. We could use their assistance, but no matter, we shall prevail against this enemy and any other that present themselves."


"My lecture is about the future, clearly, not the past. I simply explained why this information is important, so that you are aware of what is expected. So please direct your focus there. And as I said before, I would recommend changing your attitude as well as your repeated accusations towards members of the Guardians." Validar remains calm, but it should be clear by his words that continuing this conversation is not a wise course. "Your repeated weak defense of previous actions will only cause more scrutiny for your actions in the future.

Yusef's mouth drops open at Validar's bizarre statement. Is he hallucinating or just that deluded? "I cannot imagine what in Celestian's name you mean, as I have made no accusations against any of you." He can only shake his head, wondering if the new Baron is in his right mind.

Validar's eye narrow as he regards Yusef. His response does not seem to even make sense and Validar wonders if Yusef was somehow affected by his interaction with the necromancer known as Thelma. "We are clearly not having the same conversation then," Validar says. "You are speaking in circles and contradictions and continued discourse seems to avail us naught."

"I am telling you as leader of this team what is expected and what you have done wrong. I am no longer interested in any excuses or explanations. There is much work to be done here still before night falls completely."

As the discussion with Yusef continues, Sir Corley steps in to try and explain the situation more plainly. But even this seems to fall on deaf ears.

"If I seem cavalier, as you put it, it is because I know that death is the only thing that will keep me from accomplishing the King's task.

"As for the other, if it is your intent to execute me, at least have the decency and courtesy for someone who has fought at your side to do it now. I will do nothing to stop you." That said, Yusef simply stands there looking at Corley, waiting to see what he decides.

Validar cocks his head and looks at Corley to see if he heard the same thing, then shakes his head. He waits a moment for Corley's response, before commenting.

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Validar speaks to the men of High Guard and attempts to convince them of the deception which has befallen them. Soon, Lord Chareos arrives with evidence of the drow involvement and the undead infection.

After some more explanations, the High Guard patrols speaks amongst themselves.

The men talk some more, but Sergeant Levine does most of the speaking. After a brief discussion, he turns back to Baron Validar. “Your words and evidence are powerful, Baron. You say your father is still alive? Then let us see him so that we may learn the truth of things. If he does live, then it would seem that much of what we were told were lies.”

"My father does indeed live and will soon take the Duke's mantle and wear it with pride. Come with us, I am certain that the Duke will be wanting to hear of all that has developed this evening as well as meet with his subjects."

Validar indicates to the cavalry commander to break his group in two, one leading the column and one trailing, with the High Guard riders in the middle. Then they will then ride back to Wrasseldown. There he will leave control of the field to the cavalry commander and ride south to see what the result of the other group has been.

[Argent]

Argent:

Argent retaliates and gets a Magic Missile off first. The sparkling missiles issue forth and unerringly strike the woman. They simply fizzle out upon impact! Lyonessa casts a Command spell right after that, and it too has no visible affect!

“Magic resistance!” Argent calls out upon seeing her missiles fizzle.

Sir Acerion rushes to place himself between the woman and Lyonessa and Argent. He reaches them just as the peasant woman unleashes a Lightning Bolt! The Bolt streaks through those riders and their mounts between the demoness and her targets, slaying all who feel its affects. The magical attack next strikes the magical resistance field emanating from Acerion’s Holy Weapon and is stopped. The demoness curses loudly, using very un-lady like language.

Argent only sees part of what transpires next. The demoness casts a Lightning Bolt that carelessly goes right through some of the High Guard men! Sir Acerion steps before Lyonessa and I and his magical gear blocks the bolt from reaching us.

Argent will use her Fly spell to rise up slightly, giving her a clear path to the demoness again. She’ll cast Magic Missile again, hoping this time they’ll work as she doesn’t have any other spell that would not harm the High Guard riders too at this point.

[Corley]

Corley:

"If I seem cavalier, as you put it, it is because I know that death is the only thing that will keep me from accomplishing the King's task.

"As for the other, if it is your intent to execute me, at least have the decency and courtesy for someone who has fought at your side to do it now. I will do nothing to stop you." That said, Yusef simply stands there looking at Corley, waiting to see what he decides.

Sir Corley’s jaw drops in surprise. Clearly the lad has taken leave of his senses. Apparently Corley’s warning was completely misinterpreted.

“I have no desire to strike you down or do you any harm at all. What I do desire is to stop a companion of mine from making his situation worse than it already is. Maybe the information that you possessed you deemed not to be important, but that does not mean others will see it that way. It is entirely possible for such an act to be considered contrary to the King’s orders and you could be punished for that. The situation is further compounded by belaboring the point with someone who could also punish you should he see fit.”

“Would you address the King or even Duke Relon in such a manner? I would hope not for your sake. Validar is the Baron of Pyris. I care not if you like the man or his opinions, but you will respect his position. To be sure, we allow those who battle with us certain liberties to express their views more than a common citizen could. But there is a limit to our patience.”

Sir Corley pauses for a moment as if gathering his thoughts. “Clearing we have just witnessed a tragedy and emotions are running high. Nothing that is said here will change what has occurred. Harsh words were spoken by all in the heat of the moment and I make no excuse for what I said. Let us continue on with our mission and place our anger against our foes and not each other.”


As Sir Corley rides along, he sees that spell attacks are being exchanged! He can’t see clearly what is going on due to the falling darkness. Once close enough, Corley will slow and try to determine what is transpiring. He’ll not attack first, but will defend himself if necessary.

[Crysania]

Crysania:

Crysania can see bright flashes up ahead from spells being exchanged. A Lightning Bolt is cast and it briefly illuminates the night. The bolt slices through some of the riders and this indicates that the source is the enemy. Crysania will ride towards the bolt caster and when within thirty feet of them, will utter a Holy Word.

[Yusef]

Yusef:

Validar's eye narrow as he regards Yusef. His response does not seem to even make sense and Validar wonders if Yusef was somehow affected by his interaction with the necromancer known as Thelma. "We are clearly not having the same conversation then," Validar says. "You are speaking in circles and contradictions and continued discourse seems to avail us naught."

"I am telling you as leader of this team what is expected and what you have done wrong. I am no longer interested in any excuses or explanations. There is much work to be done here still before night falls completely."

Yusef nods. "I agree with you that there are other things we should be doing with our time. I do not believe that the danger here is necessarily past."

“I have no desire to strike you down or do you any harm at all. What I do desire is to stop a companion of mine from making his situation worse than it already is. Maybe the information that you possessed you deemed not to be important, but that does not mean others will see it that way. It is entirely possible for such an act to be considered contrary to the King’s orders and you could be punished for that. The situation is further compounded by belaboring the point with someone who could also punish you should he see fit.”

“Would you address the King or even Duke Relon in such a manner? I would hope not for your sake. Validar is the Baron of Pyris. I care not if you like the man or his opinions, but you will respect his position. To be sure, we allow those who battle with us certain liberties to express their views more than a common citizen could. But there is a limit to our patience.”

Sir Corley pauses for a moment as if gathering his thoughts. “Clearing we have just witnessed a tragedy and emotions are running high. Nothing that is said here will change what has occurred. Harsh words were spoken by all in the heat of the moment and I make no excuse for what I said. Let us continue on with our mission and place our anger against our foes and not each other.”

Yusef isn't entirely convinced that Corley or Validar doesn't intend to kill him once the Devilles are beaten, but that is a matter for another time. "Yes, please."

It appears that the argument has ended, for whatever that is worth, so Yusef gets to work trying to dig through rubble, reinforce or bring down damaged buildings as guided by the others, and generally help clean up the scene of this tragedy.

---

Still further back, Yusef runs under his own power to reach the riders, but has been passed by those on horseback. As Yusef runs along, he becomes aware of a figure before him. He slows as he draws closer, his jaw dropping in surprise as he identifies the figure.

“Hello son,” a woman who looks a lot like Yusef’s mother responds. She holds her hands out and adds, “This is no place for you. Come, let us go home.”

Seeing what appears to be his mother, Yusef is shocked into immobility for a heartbeat. <"Mom? What are you doing here? How did you get here?"> he asks her in Zakharan as he walks up to her. Taking her hands gently in his own, he looks deeply into her face. <"It's not safe here. Please, you must leave before you get hurt. I can take you to people who will protect you. Please, come with me. You won't have to be a slave any more.">

Yusef suspects that this may be one of the Devilles impersonating his mother, but he cannot bring himself to attack her without confirmation. At least, by holding her hands, it should limit what spells this person - if not his mother - can cast on him. Since his mother has no ability to cast spells, he will attack at the first indication of them being used or of not understanding what he's saying in Zakharan.
____________________________________________________________
Admittedly, it won't impede innate powers, but Yusef doesn't really think in those terms.

[Chareos]

Chareos

Having nothing more to say, Chareos gathers the bodies and lays them on the mount once again. Once they return to the village he will see them burnt. Then see what transpires with the Duke and Baron.

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

Argent retaliates and gets a Magic Missile off first. The sparkling missiles issue forth and unerringly strike the woman. They simply fizzle out upon impact! Lyonessa casts a Command spell right after that, and it too has no visible affect!

“Magic resistance!” Argent calls out upon seeing her missiles fizzle.

"That'll make this tougher," Lyonessa says.

Suddenly a bolt of lightning is streaking towards us but Sir Acerion steps valiantly in front of it and he seems to absorb it! "Blessed Mystra," Lyonessa says quietly.

Sir Acerion rushes to place himself between the woman and Lyonessa and Argent. He reaches them just as the peasant woman unleashes a Lightning Bolt! The Bolt streaks through those riders and their mounts between the demoness and her targets, slaying all who feel its affects. The magical attack next strikes the magical resistance field emanating from Acerion’s Holy Weapon and is stopped. The demoness curses loudly, using very un-lady like language.

Sadly many riders are struck down. Hopefully they no longer believe the deception and can escape or aid us. Lyonessa doubts there are any left to heal, but she will look later. There is still a dangerous demoness to defeat.

Uncertain whether all her spells will merely be resisted, Lyonessa will use her Ray of Enfeeblement against the demoness, moving a bit around Acerion to get a good view.

[Acerion]

Sir Acerion:

Sir Acerion rushes to place himself between the woman and Lyonessa and Argent. He reaches them just as the peasant woman unleashes a Lightning Bolt! The Bolt streaks through those riders and their mounts between the demoness and her targets, slaying all who feel its affects. The magical attack next strikes the magical resistance field emanating from Acerion’s Holy Weapon and is stopped. The demoness curses loudly, using very un-lady like language.

The spell is thankfully absorbed, but not before a number of these dupped riders are slain because of it. Grabbing his axe in both hands, Acerion advances on the demoness.

"Your deception is revealed, demon witch," Acerion calls out. "No longer will you plague these men with your forked tongue."

Acerion will attack the demoness with his holy weapon as soon as he can, assuming she doesn't manage to flee.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

To the west of Wrasseldown, one group of High Guard riders has been stopped. After a conversation with Baron Validar, and upon seeing the evidence that Chareos provides, the riders agree to return to Wrasseldown to meet with Duke Relon. In short order, this procession returns to the town. Validar then rides south to see how the others are fairing, while Chareos sees to the destruction of the drow and undead bodies.


To the south of Wrasseldown, other Guardians have cut off the main body returning to High Guard. The lone woman among them has been revealed to be a demoness of some nature. In her frustration, the woman casts a Lightning Bolt that killed several of the men riding with her. Sir Acerion’s Holy Weapon harmlessly absorbed the magic.

Argent rises up overhead and sends another Magic Missile at the demoness. Once more the missiles harmlessly fizzle out.

Lyonessa moves off to one side to get a clear view around Sir Acerion. The Songstress sings a Ray of Enfeeblement spell and it strikes the demoness! It didn’t fizzle out upon contact, but if it had any affect on the demoness remains to be seen.

Sir Acerion holds his axe high and rushes the demoness! However he is forced to circumvent the bodies those men and horses slain by the earlier Lighting Bolt, slowing his progress.


From behind, a trio of riders arrives. Argent can see that it is Sir Corley, Crysania, and Serena thanks to her Halo of Eyes. Sir Corley comes to a stop, looking to see if there is a foe to battle.

Crysania simply rides closer to the demoness and once within thirty feet of her, cries out a Holy Word! The powerful word washes over all those close to Crysania. The men from High Guard are visibly stunned by the display of power and the demoness is banished back to the Abyss! Sir Acerion can feel that Crysania has unleashed the power of Heironeous as it floods the area.

The High Guard riders have their hands on their weapons, as they don’t know what to make of what they’ve just witnessed. They eye the Guardians, as if waiting for them to make the first move.


A bit further north of that location, Yusef had been rushing after the others on foot. The horses passed him by, but suddenly a familiar figure came into view.

Seeing what appears to be his mother, Yusef is shocked into immobility for a heartbeat. <"Mom? What are you doing here? How did you get here?"> He asks her in Zakharan as he walks up to her. Taking her hands gently in his own, he looks deeply into her face. <"It's not safe here. Please, you must leave before you get hurt. I can take you to people who will protect you. Please, come with me. You won't have to be a slave any more.">

“I’ve come to bring you home, son” the woman answers plainly. “You don’t belong with these people. They don’t care about you and would see you dead. You heard them. They will harm you. Come with me and you can be safe.”

The woman does not resist having her hands grabbed and makes no attempt to cast any spells. The effects of Crysania’s Holy Word can be heard even at this distance. It’s clear to Yusef that powerful magic was just unleashed.

“That witch!” Yusef’s mom suddenly wails. “Oh, she will pay for that! They all will pay!”

Suddenly realizing what she did, Yusef’s mom’s form shifts into that of another familiar relative. It is Abigail, Yusef’s other Great Aunt.

“Did you hear that? One of your so-called friends just banished your grandmother, Josetta! I’ll ask you again. Why are you with them? You’re of our blood, not there’s. You’re superior to them! You should come back with us. If you want your mother you should have just asked. I’ll gladly give her to you. Listen to the blood flowing through your veins. You cannot deny what you are and you cannot resist it forever. Give in and you’ll be much happier.””


Now what?

[Sherra]

Sherra:

Having stayed behind to check on the child that she had rescued earlier, Sherra hears the sound of quite a number of horses. She knew something had happened that sent most of her friends off in two directions, but by the time she had arrived, they had all departed.

To the west of Wrasseldown, one group of High Guard riders has been stopped. After a conversation with Baron Validar, and upon seeing the evidence that Chareos provides, the riders agree to return to Wrasseldown to meet with Duke Relon. In short order, this procession returns to the town. Validar then rides south to see how the others are fairing, while Chareos sees to the destruction of the drow and undead bodies.

Sherra will move up to Chareos. "Everything all right?" she asks, indicating the High Guard that seem to be milling about and waiting. She'll also see if he needs any help with disposing the last of the bodies.

[Crysania]

Crysania:

The source of the Lightning Bolt cast earlier comes into sight. Crysania slows her mount as she draws even closer. By now she can see Sir Acerion moving towards the woman but he has to circumvent bodies of men and mounts slain by the bolt. Once she is sure she is within range, Crysania speaks the Holy Word of Heironeous loud and clear. The power of the magic is enough to slay lesser evil beings outright and to banish any evil creature not of this plane. It becomes clear that the woman was such a creature as she is sent back to whatever hell spawned her.

The men riding with the woman are, understandably, on edge. Crysania moves closer, but makes no threatening moves or goes for a weapon. Gathering up her inner strength, Crysania again calls upon the strength and power of Heironeous to aid her. Divine energy flares about the Priestess as she uses her Eminence skill.

“Hear my words, men of High Guard,” Crysania calls out. “I am Crysania of Heironeous and that thing that rode with you was a foul demoness. The power of Heironeous has banished her back to whatever pit it was she clawed her way out of. She can no longer delude you with her lies and half-truths. Do not let her words bewitch you any further.”

“She and those associated with her are the ones responsible for the slaughter of the citizens of Wrasseldown. The people were transformed into a vile form of undead that transformed those they killed into even more of them. This threat to all who call the Streel Plain home has been ended, thanks to the efforts of those from Pyris and their allies. You will find no enemies here, only those who wish to align against a common foe. Come men of High Guard. Come and see the truth of things for yourself.”

If the men are agreeable, then we’ll escort them back to Wrasseldown.

[Chareos]

Chareos

Somewhat relieved Chareos gathers up the bodies and heads to town with the Pyris and Elcadan force. Once there he proceeds to take the bodies and drop them in the fires that are burning

He hears a familiar voice asking what is going on. “It would seem that someone has told the High Guard that Pyris and the Guardians attacked this village for conquest. Though it gets far better: whomever is behind this wove an interesting tale of lies and deceit. Did you know Validar poisoned his own father, killing him so he could take the throne. Yet this was not good enough for whomever told the tale. Next he had the greedy Baron seeking more land so he marched with his men to go to war with Elcadan.” Shaking his head at the end, “An interesting tale to say the least.”

“The High Guard is here to see if the words and evidence we showed is true. They wish to see the Duke with their own eyes.”

“Have we heard from the others yet?” he asked curiously wondering how the others are faring.

[Yusef]

Yusef:

“I’ve come to bring you home, son” the woman answers plainly. “You don’t belong with these people. They don’t care about you and would see you dead. You heard them. They will harm you. Come with me and you can be safe

Yusef notes immediately that the woman posing as his mother does not reply in Zakharan. This serves to strengthen his suspicion that this is not his mother. She had taught him the language, and they had always used it when speaking in private.

The woman does not resist having her hands grabbed and makes no attempt to cast any spells. The effects of Crysania’s Holy Word can be heard even at this distance. It’s clear to Yusef that powerful magic was just unleashed.

“That witch!” Yusef’s mom suddenly wails. “Oh, she will pay for that! They all will pay!”

Yusef can feel the powerful magic released by Crysania all the way over here, and it doesn't feel good. What would have happened had he been within it's reach, he wonders. At the same time, the woman's outburst confirms without a doubt that she is not his mother.

Suddenly realizing what she did, Yusef’s mom’s form shifts into that of another familiar relative. It is Abigail, Yusef’s other Great Aunt.

“Did you hear that? One of your so-called friends just banished your grandmother, Josetta! I’ll ask you again. Why are you with them? You’re of our blood, not there’s. You’re superior to them! You should come back with us. If you want your mother you should have just asked. I’ll gladly give her to you. Listen to the blood flowing through your veins. You cannot deny what you are and you cannot resist it forever. Give in and you’ll be much happier.”

"Ahh, Great Aunt Abigail. Or should I say, Krazzora? Isn't that the name you go by now?

"Go back with you? So I can be a slave again? You think that will make me happy?

"You say you're willing to give me my mother. Fine. Bring her to me here, and I will consider your words."

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

Lyonessa moves off to one side to get a clear view around Sir Acerion. The Songstress sings a Ray of Enfeeblement spell and it strikes the demoness! It didn’t fizzle out upon contact, but if it had any affect on the demoness remains to be seen.

Lyonessa notices her spell doesn't fizzle out, and so she has hopes it has affected the demoness. However, before there is any chance of learning the truth, Crysania utters a holy word and the demoness is expelled.

As Crysania speaks and hopefully convinces the men, Lyonessa will hurry through their ranks and see if any are in need of healing. It is quite a grim scene, but she must still look to be certain there are none that she can save.

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Validar has convinced the troops from High Guard to meet with the Duke to prove the truthfulness of their actions, with Chareos' assistance. In moments, they are riding back into Wrasseldown and Validar leaves them momentarily to see how the other group has fared.

There is a flash like lightning near the ground and Validar has seen enough lightning Bolt spells to surmise that one has gone off. There is a battle brewing.

Validar spurs his mount on and heads for the encounter area which was briefly illuminated by the lightning. Up ahead, he can see silhouettes of two figures ahead, but they are two far away to see who they are exactly.

[GM Mad]

Small update for Yusef:

"Ahh, Great Aunt Abigail. Or should I say, Krazzora? Isn't that the name you go by now? “

“There are so many,” Abigail answers matter of factually. “Who can keep count any more? Abigail is fine for the purpose of this conversation.”

"Go back with you? So I can be a slave again? You think that will make me happy?”

“Silly boy,” the demoness counters. “You chose to be a slave! You took your mother’s name and wanted to be with her instead of your father. Not that I blame you, Daniel is far too self-absorbed to be any kind of real parent. I would imagine that even if he did know you were staying with your mother and being treated like a slave like her, that he figured you’d tire of the old cow and change your mind. Or he forgot about you. It’s hard to say with him. You didn’t want to be a Deville, so you were not treated like one.”

"You say you're willing to give me my mother. Fine. Bring her to me here, and I will consider your words."

“I’m not stupid, boy,” Abigail responds. “So you can have time to prepare for my return? I don’t think so. You want her, you coming with me now.”

Looking beyond Yusef, the demoness spots a rider approaching.

“Make your choice quickly. Come with me and I’ll give you your mother, or stay here and die with everyone else. What’s it going to be?”

[Yusef]

Yusef:

From what Abigail says, she uses more names than just Abigail and Krazzora. It occurs to him to wonder whom else she might be posing as.

“Silly boy,” the demoness counters. “You chose to be a slave! You took your mother’s name and wanted to be with her instead of your father. Not that I blame you, Daniel is far too self-absorbed to be any kind of real parent. I would imagine that even if he did know you were staying with your mother and being treated like a slave like her, that he figured you’d tire of the old cow and change your mind. Or he forgot about you. It’s hard to say with him. You didn’t want to be a Deville, so you were not treated like one.”

Abigail's explanation provides a perspective that he hadn't considered. If his father had paid more attention to him, might he have ended up being more of a Deville? Yusef doesn't know for sure, but he'd like to think not. Certain aspects of the family's life are fascinating, but other parts of it repulsed him even as a child. "I must admit that makes a certain twisted sense, Abigail."

“I’m not stupid, boy,” Abigail responds. “So you can have time to prepare for my return? I don’t think so. You want her, you coming with me now.”

"Actually, I didn't think it would take you that long, seeing as you can teleport from place to place in the blink of an eye."

“Make your choice quickly. Come with me and I’ll give you your mother, or stay here and die with everyone else. What’s it going to be?”

This is quite a conundrum she has posed for him, though not in the way she presented it. Yusef knows that the Duke and the Baron will not take it well if he goes, regardless of how it turns out. Then again, they haven't treated him that well, either. And he cannot say with any certainty that they don't intend to kill him, as Abigail has said. Then again, it is just as likely that his family will kill him for running away. At the same time, there is the possibility that he can get his mother out of there now, which would prevent them from using her again or her being hurt in the fighting to come. Chances are, Abigail is lying in some part as that is the Deville way, but Yusef doesn't know enough to know what is truth and what is falsehood.

Ultimately, the lure of rescuing his mother is too strong. It has been his reason for living for so long, he cannot refuse the opportunity.

"Very well, aunt Abigail. Let us be away."

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Validar sees two forms in the twilight up ahead as he heads toward the location where the Guardians had most likely stopped the riders from High Guard. A Lightning Bolt spell had gone off, likely from the opposition, but in any case illuminating the location where the conflict was taking place.

As he closes in, he can make out Yusef and a woman, holding hands and speaking. Not sure what to make of it, the Baron continues to ride his mount closer.

He can just hear the tone of the woman and it is spiteful, angry and tinged with hate. Likely she is one of their enemies. Continuing closer still, he hears Yusef answer to her hasty questions.

"Very well, aunt Abigail. Let us be away."

Validar will unsheath his sword with a flourish as he receives verbal confirmation of his enemy's presence. The woman is Abigail Deville, also known as Krazzora of the Drow, and a sworn enemy of Cynalon. It surprises him that a number of the enemy leaders were all here in this plot to stop them. That makes at least three, and possibly four or more, of their powerful group in this encounter. Still their combined power will not be enough to stop them from recovering Elcadan.

Validar is not sure what Yusef's intentions are, but it is clear that Abigail is a theat and so Validar will ride in with the intent to strike the demon-tainted evil woman. "Death to the evil of the Devilles!" He will keep a close eye on Yusef as well, just in case.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

On the plains to the south of Wrasseldown, Yusef faces a dilemma. His Great Aunt Abigail, one of the three Alu-Demoness daughters of Eleanor Deville has appeared before the Priest of Celestian, promising him the return of his mother. The other two daughters are the necromantic Thelma and Josetta who Crysania just banished with a Holy Word. The three sisters had numerous half-demonic children generally called Tieflings. One of Josetta’s sons was Daniel Deville, Yusef’s father.

Abigail's explanation provides a perspective that he hadn't considered. If his father had paid more attention to him, might he have ended up being more of a Deville? Yusef doesn't know for sure, but he'd like to think not. Certain aspects of the family's life are fascinating, but other parts of it repulsed him even as a child. "I must admit that makes a certain twisted sense, Abigail."

“Of course it does,” Abigail answers, her tone softening. “You’re a child of chaos as much as I am. You do what you want, when you want, and to whomever you want. That is what we are. We spend our lives satisfying our urges and cravings. Why fight what you are? It’s so much easier to just give in.”

"Actually, I didn't think it would take you that long, seeing as you can teleport from place to place in the blink of an eye."

“While it is true that I have that gift, where your mother is now I cannot get close to her. So I could not simply appear beside her, take her hand, and return her in a few heartbeats. It’s complicated.”

"Very well, aunt Abigail. Let us be away."

“Now you’re thinking clearly,” Abigail says with a smile. Behind the pair, hoofbeats of an approaching horse can be heard. Abigail touches Yusef’s arm and the two of them vanish from the Streel Plain. (Yusef, check your mail for what happens next.)


Baron Validar, blade drawn, thunders past the spot were the pair had been. Further searching turns up nothing in the area.


Still further south, Crysania’s words backed by the power of her god have been heard by the men of High Guard. Coupled with the mood Lyonessa established earlier, the men lower their weapons.

“We will come with you and see the truth with our own eyes,” the leader of the riders states.

Lyonessa does find some of the men to be wounded and uses her magic to heal them. The conflict ends quietly without any further bloodshed.


In short order, both groups of riders are in Wrasseldown and they see the undead and the few drow bodies for themselves. The occupants of the Magical Mansion Jallarzi summoned are alerted to what has transpired. The task of burning the undead continues and guards are posted. The riders see that Duke Relon is still alive with their own eyes. They openly question just what is true and what is false since so much of what they believed is plain wrong.


Now, finally, seems the time to discuss your next moves.


Now what?

[Yusef]

Yusef:

“Of course it does,” Abigail answers, her tone softening. “You’re a child of chaos as much as I am. You do what you want, when you want, and to whomever you want. That is what we are. We spend our lives satisfying our urges and cravings. Why fight what you are? It’s so much easier to just give in.”

Yusef listens quietly, but does not reply. In some ways, Abigail is right. Yusef certainly has some of those inclinations as a result of what he is. However, he has long dedicated his life to rising above that. To being better than his ancestry would indicate. That is a big part of why he became a priest of Celestian. He is certainly not as noble as his patron, but it gives him something to strive towards, without the overweening judgementalism of some of the more stringent gods.

“While it is true that I have that gift, where your mother is now I cannot get close to her. So I could not simply appear beside her, take her hand, and return her in a few heartbeats. It’s complicated.”

Abigail's statement takes Yusef by surprise, and he's not quite sure what to make of it. "I-- I didn't know that..."

“Now you’re thinking clearly,” Abigail says with a smile. Behind the pair, hoofbeats of an approaching horse can be heard. Abigail touches Yusef’s arm and the two of them vanish from the Streel Plain.

"Aaah..." Yusef yelps. He's not sure he'll ever get used to being teleported.

And then, they are somewhere else...

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

"Death to the Devilles!" Validar shouts as he rides towards the woman indentified as Abigail Deville, also known as Krazzora of the Drow.

His newest weapon, the magickal adamantine sword Warblade, cuts through the air and finds nothing. Validar rides by and as he looks back, he sees that neither Abigail nor Yusef are there any longer. A quick check of the surrounding area turns up nothing. They have apparently teleported away, which would confirm what Yusef last said.

After that, Validar can see the group further along and as he approaches, it appears that cooler heads have prevailed, despite the discharge of the Lightning Bolt spell earlier.

Validar will ride up and greet his fellow companions. "Greetings. It seems we were both successful in our goals to halt the spread of misinformation among the peoples of Elcadan. Unfortunately, we do not know how many other lies have been spread nor of what form. What I have heard so far belies imagination, but is tinged with enough truth to obviously be believable."

"Further, I have some more disturbing information. Krazzora, or Abigail Deville as she is also known, was just on the field as well and she managed to teleport away before I had a change to engage her in battle," Validar says, indicating back the way he had come. "The disturbing part is not her presence, but the fact that she met with Yusef and the left together. Based on Yusef's words, it was his decision and he was a willing participant. I am not sure what to make of this, especially given his previous actions. Moreover, we no longer have our guide to the location of the Deville manor and we will have to locate it ourselves now."

The group returns to Wrasseldown and meets up with the others there, including the squires, as well as Sherra and Chareos. The remaining tasks are completed, with the rest of the undead bodies burned and guards established. The Duke is summoned and he and the others are told what has transpired.

"Our way will be fraught with unknown dangers due to the lies and deception of the Devilles, your Grace. I recommend that we move cautiously, but decisively. We cannot be certain that this misinformation has gone beyond here, as we have managed to curtail the spread from here. It is possible that we could manage to go about our business as expected or we could encounter further resistance along the way."

We do not have the troops to become engaged in a battle should we be faced with open opposition of Elcadan forces. However, a swift move to Elcadan city could stop further misinformation from being spread."

"I see two courses of action. Continue on our way as planned, meeting with the representatives of Ansimont and having some of them accompany yourself on the journey, as a visible show of support. This remains important as a means of further legitimacy against not only the Devilles' lies, but also the opposition of the Guilds in Elcadan."

"The other option is to change directions and go toward High Guard and then on to Elcadan. It was clear we were expected to come this way and the devastation here at Wrasseldown was designed to not only propagate their experimentation with these horrible new undead, but to stop us from reaching Elcadan alive. This operation defeated, we are likely to see more such attempts along the way. The disadvantage is that from here, neither path is any shorter than the other, as we are confined to the roads with a caravan such as this."

"Further, the Guardians are supposed to meet the ranger that Jallarzi recommended in Ansimont, so we will be continuing from here without their assistance if we choose the route through High Guard. Although that is only less than a full day's difference in any case."

"What are the Duke's thoughts on these recent developments?" the Baron of Pyris asks.


After everything is under control here and conversations underway completed, Validar will spend a bit of time with Lady Gabriella when able.

[Chareos]

Chareos

As he saw the bodies burnt he turns to Sherra. “Have you seen Lady Jallazari?” he asked curiously. “I think we should brief her on the transpirings before Validar returns. Perhaps she would be able to inform the Baron,” he said evenly.

Growing increasingly curious, Chareos approaches some of the High Guard men, seeking out their Sgt. “Pardon me good sir, but I was wondering. Within the woods you spoke of what you were told, I was wondering where these stories originated or at least the first time you may recall hearing of them.” He hoped it would narrow down the hay stack…

Validar wrote-
"Further, I have some more disturbing information. Krazzora, or Abigail Deville as she is also known, was just on the field as well and she managed to teleport away before I had a change to engage her in battle," Validar says, indicating back the way he had come. "The disturbing part is not her presence, but the fact that she met with Yusef and the left together. Based on Yusef's words, it was his decision and he was a willing participant. I am not sure what to make of this, especially given his previous actions. Moreover, we no longer have our guide to the location of the Deville manor and we will have to locate it ourselves now."

Chareos is hard-pressed to believe the words of Validar but knows better to speak upon them though there is something gnawing about it. “There was no struggle?” he said leaning on his staff. “Curious,” he said softly to himself, “I wonder what she spoke of to make Yusef go with her.” He did not like the idea in the least, and as much as he did not care to think it. Yusef would now be a threat upon the field. “What have you done, my friend?” he said to the open air.

“Baron, my concern is this with the added men of Elcaden at our side. It could be a blessing as well as a curse. They will either be viewed as traitors and be attacked on sight or raise the curiosity of the populace. Perhaps it would be wise to ask some the High Guard’s men to go before us, spreading news of what they saw here. Counter their rumors with word of those who were there.” He looked between the Baron and the Duke awaiting a comment or answer.

[Argent]

Argent:

Argent hovers in the air and gets a clear view of what is happening. Crysania rides up and utters a powerful word and the demoness that had been troubling us is seemingly banished! Crysania is then seemingly enveloped in divine energy that lights up the night. She speaks and even Argent finds her agreeing unconsciously with the priestess' words!

“I had no idea she was that powerful,” Argent remarks. “I’m glad she’s on our side.”

The situation seems to have been defused and calm restored. Everyone returns to Wrasseldown and once there, Argent makes her way to the mansion. She’ll clean up and listen to the conversation that follows, but has nothing constructive to add. Politics like this are not her forte. Argent will retire early as she has many spells to replace come the morning.

[Ivy]

Ivy:

Unaware of the involvement of the riders from High Guard, Ivy continues to pray for guidance. After a time, she becomes aware of the stench of bodies being burned. Rising, she makes her way back to the pyre and will say a prayer that they all find their way to their proper place in the afterlife.

The events that transpired in Wrasseldown are eerily similar to those of her home village back when she was just a baby. The entire village was wiped out by undead. Ivy only survived by being hidden, presumably, by her parents before they were killed. She was found days later crying under some ivy by a band of adventurers. It was this event that pushed Ivy to become an undead hunter to destroy any and all undead so that something like that would never happen again.

But now it has. Old feelings of rage and retribution that had faded with the influence of Sir Acerion into her life had been rekindled. Yusef became the target of her rage upon learning that he withheld information. While Ivy feels that her questions were completely valid, the way she asked them was out of line. She goes in search of the priest to apologize for her actions. However, she soon discovers that he’s no longer here.

"Further, I have some more disturbing information. Krazzora, or Abigail Deville as she is also known, was just on the field as well and she managed to teleport away before I had a change to engage her in battle," Validar says, indicating back the way he had come. "The disturbing part is not her presence, but the fact that she met with Yusef and the left together. Based on Yusef's words, it was his decision and he was a willing participant. I am not sure what to make of this, especially given his previous actions. Moreover, we no longer have our guide to the location of the Deville manor and we will have to locate it ourselves now."

Chareos is hard-pressed to believe the words of Validar but knows better to speak upon them though there is something gnawing about it. “There was no struggle?” he said leaning on his staff. “Curious,” he said softly to himself, “I wonder what she spoke of to make Yusef go with her.” He did not like the idea in the least, and as much as he did not care to think it. Yusef would now be a threat upon the field. “What have you done, my friend?” he said to the open air.

Ivy is likewise disturbed that Yusef has seemingly departed with his relative. It makes no sense to her mind at all.

“Unless he was forced to go with her,” Ivy finally says. “They do have his mother, so it is possible that they used her as leverage against him. That could explain his inexplicable behavior and why he went away with this Abigail.”

At least Ivy hopes so, as no other reasonable explanation comes to mind.

Ivy will seek out comfort in the arms of Sir Acerion when he arrives. She really could use it right now. Ivy has nothing useful to say at the meeting. It’s clear that what happened in Wrasseldown coupled with the seeming betrayal by Yusef weighs heavily upon her.

[Corley]

Sir Corley:

Slowing his mount, Sir Corley looks to see if battle is going to erupt. He won’t initiate any attacks, but will defend himself. Alas, such measures are not required as the fair Crysania banishes the demoness and then defuses the situation with her powerful words.

Validar will ride up and greet his fellow companions. "Greetings. It seems we were both successful in our goals to halt the spread of misinformation among the peoples of Elcadan. Unfortunately, we do not know how many other lies have been spread nor of what form. What I have heard so far belies imagination, but is tinged with enough truth to obviously be believable."

“Hail, baron!” Sir Corley calls as he sees the rider approaching. “Aye, the demoness has been banished and her spell over these men broken. They are eager to see the truth of things.”

"Further, I have some more disturbing information. Krazzora, or Abigail Deville as she is also known, was just on the field as well and she managed to teleport away before I had a change to engage her in battle," Validar says, indicating back the way he had come. "The disturbing part is not her presence, but the fact that she met with Yusef and the left together. Based on Yusef's words, it was his decision and he was a willing participant. I am not sure what to make of this, especially given his previous actions. Moreover, we no longer have our guide to the location of the Deville manor and we will have to locate it ourselves now."

“That is disturbing,” Sir Corley agrees. The young knight makes no further comment, but his thoughts are filled with many questions.

Riding closer, Sir Corley will congratulate the Lady Lyonessa and the Lady Argent on their efforts. “You should be proud of your actions in this matter, miladies. Thanks to your efforts a great misunderstanding has been averted. Many lives may have been saved because of you.”


Later, everyone returns to Wrasseldown. The undead bodies are burned and the men from High Guard see that Duke Relon truly lives. Talk then turns towards our next course of action.

"Our way will be fraught with unknown dangers due to the lies and deception of the Devilles, your Grace. I recommend that we move cautiously, but decisively. We cannot be certain that this misinformation has gone beyond here, as we have managed to curtail the spread from here. It is possible that we could manage to go about our business as expected or we could encounter further resistance along the way."

“We do not have the troops to become engaged in a battle should we be faced with open opposition of Elcadan forces. However, a swift move to Elcadan city could stop further misinformation from being spread."

“I fear that even caution may not be enough to protect us,” Sir Corley adds. “These Devilles are not normal foes. They do not practice tactics of war as we understand them. We could be attacked at almost any time from almost any avenue. Anything we can do to stem the tide of misinformation can only help us in our quest.”

"I see two courses of action. Continue on our way as planned, meeting with the representatives of Ansimont and having some of them accompany yourself on the journey, as a visible show of support. This remains important as a means of further legitimacy against not only the Devilles' lies, but also the opposition of the Guilds in Elcadan."

"The other option is to change directions and go toward High Guard and then on to Elcadan. It was clear we were expected to come this way and the devastation here at Wrasseldown was designed to not only propagate their experimentation with these horrible new undead, but to stop us from reaching Elcadan alive. This operation defeated, we are likely to see more such attempts along the way. The disadvantage is that from here, neither path is any shorter than the other, as we are confined to the roads with a caravan such as this."

“It is my opinion,” Sir Corley will say when asked, “that Elcadan should be our next destination. The time we spend traveling to Ansimont will only give the enemy more time to spread their lies and further align forces against us. Those acts are far worse that what we would gain by going to Ansimont. They are, much like Wrasseldown, a town of farmers. Their leaders most likely do not have much weight with the powers of Elcadan and their military forces are negotiable at best.

Regardless of their destination, Sir Corley will be ready to ride come the morning.

[Crysania]

Crysania:

“We will come with you and see the truth with our own eyes,” the leader of the riders states.

“That is all I ask,” Crysania answers.

Validar will ride up and greet his fellow companions. "Greetings. It seems we were both successful in our goals to halt the spread of misinformation among the peoples of Elcadan. Unfortunately, we do not know how many other lies have been spread nor of what form. What I have heard so far belies imagination, but is tinged with enough truth to obviously be believable."

“Yes, I managed to get close enough to the demoness to banish her with a Holy Word. However, she has not been destroyed, rather just forcibly removed from this plane and sent back to the Abyss. She can return in the future. Like any demon, she can only be permanently destroyed in the Abyss.”

"Further, I have some more disturbing information. Krazzora, or Abigail Deville as she is also known, was just on the field as well and she managed to teleport away before I had a change to engage her in battle," Validar says, indicating back the way he had come. "The disturbing part is not her presence, but the fact that she met with Yusef and the left together. Based on Yusef's words, it was his decision and he was a willing participant. I am not sure what to make of this, especially given his previous actions. Moreover, we no longer have our guide to the location of the Deville manor and we will have to locate it ourselves now."

“I would dearly love to get my hands on that witch! She has much to answer for and has been the source of much suffering these last few weeks. It also speaks to just how widespread the conspiracy against the people of Cynalon is. These demons have the ability to appear as anyone they wish, go wherever they want, and manipulate those they meet with their words and charms. I fear they could easily turn good minded people against us with ease.”


Back at the mansion and explaining the situation to the Duke.

“There are enough of us here, that we could do both. Some of us could travel from here directly to Elcadan via magical teleport,” Crysania offers. “My involvement with you should not be public knowledge as of yet, so it is possible that my reputation remains intact in Elcadan. I could go there and speak the truth to those I trust, thus we can begin to extinguish these lies before they do any more damage. We should also examine those in power there to see if they are under the spell of the Devilles. Perhaps have Ivy and Serena come with us, so that we can unite our faiths against these foes. The words of the most powerful faiths in Elcadan cannot be ignored by the citizens.”

[Jallarzi Sallavarian]

Jallarzi:

Jallarzi waits by the door to the Magical Mansion for word of what is transpiring outside. Finally word does come and what happened is horrific at best. Jallarzi is unable to witness Wrasseldown first hand as she cannot leave the Mansion without ending the spell. Which may not be a bad thing as she’s unsure she really wants to see what happened.


Talk soon turns towards what to do next to combat the Devilles. Baron Validar proposes two courses of action. Either ride to Ansimont as planned or go straight to Elcadan.

“I fear that even caution may not be enough to protect us,” Sir Corley adds. “These Devilles are not normal foes. They do not practice tactics of war as we understand them. We could be attacked at almost any time from almost any avenue. Anything we can do to stem the tide of misinformation can only help us in our quest.”

“There are enough of us here, that we could do both. Some of us could travel from here directly to Elcadan via magical teleport,” Crysania offers. “My involvement with you should not be public knowledge as of yet, so it is possible that my reputation remains intact in Elcadan. I could go there and speak the truth to those I trust, thus we can begin to extinguish these lies before they do any more damage. We should also examine those in power there to see if they are under the spell of the Deville’s. Perhaps have Ivy and Serena come with us, so that we can unite our faiths against these foes. The words of the most powerful faiths in Elcadan cannot be ignored by the citizens.”

The words of Sir Corley and Crysania spark an idea in Jallarzi’s mind. “Your Grace, a course of action that, if successful, might break the web of lies that has been spun in Elcadan, has come to mind. Sir Corley is right; we cannot treat the Devilles as a typical enemy. They do not fight ‘fair’ and use their words to have others do their dirty work for them. I say it’s high time we give them a taste of their own medicine.”

“According to Crysania, the demoness she banished will return. And hopefully the other demoness is too busy elsewhere to focus upon Elcadan right now. What I propose is that a group of us teleport to Elcadan, go into town, and expose the Duchess of Elcadan for what she really is. At least that is what the general public will be led to believe.”

“I have a magic item that allows me to adopt other forms. I used it in the past to take the form of Duke Relon while he was ill. What I propose is that I take the form of the Duchess of Elcadan while the demons are away. Undo some of the damage she did and during a public appearance, be ‘attacked’ by Crysania and others. During the conflict, Crysania can use her Holy Word again. When that happens I can use my magic item to take the form of the demoness, revealing to all what the Duchess real was before vanishing as if being banished. No matter what the Duchess has said in the past, those who witness this will learn the truth and no longer believe the words of a demon.”

“But if we are to make this attempt, we must do so quickly, before the demons return. What say you all?”

[Sherra]

Sherra:

As he saw the bodies burnt he turns to Sherra. “Have you seen Lady Jallazari?” he asked curiously. “I think we should brief her on the transpirings before Validar returns. Perhaps she would be able to inform the Baron,” he said evenly.

"I really don't know," Sherra admits. "I was concerned about other things. If I had to guess, she's probably at or near the magical mansion."

It turns out that's exactly where she is at, and once everyone gathers together, Sherra hears the two tales. A truly wicked plot that nearly succeeded, she thinks. What further bothers her is what Validar witnessed with Yusef.

"Further, I have some more disturbing information. Krazzora, or Abigail Deville as she is also known, was just on the field as well and she managed to teleport away before I had a change to engage her in battle," Validar says, indicating back the way he had come. "The disturbing part is not her presence, but the fact that she met with Yusef and the left together. Based on Yusef's words, it was his decision and he was a willing participant. I am not sure what to make of this, especially given his previous actions. Moreover, we no longer have our guide to the location of the Deville manor and we will have to locate it ourselves now."

Chareos is hard-pressed to believe the words of Validar but knows better to speak upon them though there is something gnawing about it. “There was no struggle?” he said leaning on his staff. “Curious,” he said softly to himself, “I wonder what she spoke of to make Yusef go with her.” He did not like the idea in the least, and as much as he did not care to think it. Yusef would now be a threat upon the field. “What have you done, my friend?” he said to the open air.

“Unless he was forced to go with her,” Ivy finally says. “They do have his mother, so it is possible that they used her as leverage against him. That could explain his inexplicable behavior and why he went away with this Abigail.”

Sherra doesn't say anything as she lets it all sink in. Ivy surprises her a bit, especially considering what she caught wind of the discussion that had been going on not too long before.

"I have to believe the same thing," Sherra finally says. "There could be a myriad of reasons why he would seemingly leave freely. That could also mean, unfortunately, that he was forced to provide information to them. I can not fathom what he has had to endure, but I think it would be prudent that we be careful when we see him again."

It is hard for her to say such things, especially the way Sherra has begun to feel about Yusef, but he is not here and the rest of her friends are. "I don't think he would willingly hurt or betray us, but if they are harming or threatening his mother, he may not have much choice."

[Acerion]

Sir Acerion:

After Crysania banished the demoness and Lyonessa tends to those she can still help, there is little to do but return to hopefully find the others having met with success.

On their way back, Acerion finds a moment to speak to Crysania. "Thank you for such a timely and benevolent assist, Crysania," the paladin says to her.

Upon returning, there is disturbing news of Yusef and several of the others voice their ideas and opinions on the matter. Acerion finds it hard to believe, but he knows Yusef was not evil for he would have sensed it. However, he agrees that increased caution would be the best course of action.

Ivy will seek out comfort in the arms of Sir Acerion when he arrives. She really could use it right now. Ivy has nothing useful to say at the meeting. It’s clear that what happened in Wrasseldown coupled with the seeming betrayal by Yusef weighs heavily upon her.

"It is good to be in your embrace once more, my lady," Acerion says as he takes Ivy into his arms. He will hold her even as the discussion picks up again, as she seems to have need of his closeness.

Soon, there is talk of how to proceed further. Jallarzi offers up an interesting plan, but it doesn't sit quite well with Acerion. "I do not know if I am completely comfortable with such a deception despite its obvious good intentions," he speaks out. "Although it would most likely work as you describe it, I do not feel that tricking the populace is overly wise, and it could backfire in unforseen ways."

Knowing he is but only one voice in the group, Acerion falls silent again to see what Validar, Corley and the others think.

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Chareos is hard-pressed to believe the words of Validar but knows better to speak upon them though there is something gnawing about it. “There was no struggle?” he said leaning on his staff. “Curious,” he said softly to himself, “I wonder what she spoke of to make Yusef go with her.” He did not like the idea in the least, and as much as he did not care to think it. Yusef would now be a threat upon the field. “What have you done, my friend?” he said to the open air.

"It is difficult to say. I heard Krazzora say that 'the choice was his'. That seems to imply that she gave him an option that was more advantageous to him to depart," Validar explains. "It could be a choice based on his status as a Deville, his mother, or something else entirely. At this point, I would recommend caution should we encounter him again. It may be a perfectly rational choice or it may be some chaotic influence, either internal or external."



“Baron, my concern is this with the added men of Elcaden at our side. It could be a blessing as well as a curse. They will either be viewed as traitors and be attacked on sight or raise the curiosity of the populace. Perhaps it would be wise to ask some the High Guard’s men to go before us, spreading news of what they saw here. Counter their rumors with word of those who were there.” He looked between the Baron and the Duke awaiting a comment or answer.

"There are a lot of assumptions in your comments, my friend. If they ride with us and the populace has been exposed to the same lies as these men, they will be attacked because they ride with us first and foremost. Otherwise, a group this small is not likely to draw much attention within our own soldiers."

"This group is not large enough, nor likely to have much clout anywhere besides the town of High Guard to be very persuasive. Weighing that against the risk posed to them if there is widespread animosity against Pyris does not seem to make it a worthwhile option."

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

“Hail, baron!” Sir Corley calls as he sees the rider approaching. “Aye, the demoness has been banished and her spell over these men broken. They are eager to see the truth of things.”

"Hail to you as well, Sir Corley," Validar responds, raising his fist into the air in greeting. "We have been successful this night at least in averting further tragedy." Unfortunately, that does nothing to balance the loss of life suffered by the citizens of Wrasseldown.

“Yes, I managed to get close enough to the demoness to banish her with a Holy Word. However, she has not been destroyed, rather just forcibly removed from this plane and sent back to the Abyss. She can return in the future. Like any demon, she can only be permanently destroyed in the Abyss.”

"Yes," Validar says quietly, pausing for a moment as the word is drawn out, contemplating those words fully. "I had been so caught up in defeating this enemy and driving them from Elcadan that I had forgotten that even in destroying them, we have only delayed their future atacks, not halted them. We must at some point determine when and how we can take this battle to them and end it in total, or none of us will ever truly know rest with such an enemy arrayed against us." Validar has a bit of a sour expression on his face for some time after this sobering thought.

“I would dearly love to get my hands on that witch! She has much to answer for and has been the source of much suffering these last few weeks. It also speaks to just how widespread the conspiracy against the people of Cynalon is. These demons have the ability to appear as anyone they wish, go wherever they want, and manipulate those they meet with their words and charms. I fear they could easily turn good minded people against us with ease.”

"It appears that there are many powerful foes allied against us, but we will overcome them all. The forces we have assembled are powerful. We will need additional assistance however in coming conflicts. In the meantime, we must fight this enemy at their own game as well."

-----------------------------------
The discussion about Yusef continues, after Validar informs the others of what transpired between Krazzora / Abigail and the wandering priest.

“Unless he was forced to go with her,” Ivy finally says. “They do have his mother, so it is possible that they used her as leverage against him. That could explain his inexplicable behavior and why he went away with this Abigail.”

"That is possible and it would fit the circumstances as they are presented. Clearly such a situation would indeed cause possible unusual behavior. Most, if not all of us, would take extreme actions were those who are close to us threatened."

"I must caution against accepting this option wholely however, as we do not know the facts."

"I have to believe the same thing," Sherra finally says. "There could be a myriad of reasons why he would seemingly leave freely. That could also mean, unfortunately, that he was forced to provide information to them. I can not fathom what he has had to endure, but I think it would be prudent that we be careful when we see him again."

"Indeed. Unfortunately, we do not know him as well as many of the others who ride among us. Couple that with his background and his recent series of actions and trust is something that we cannot afford to offer him. Hopefully, we are being overly cautious, but we cannot risk otherwise."

--------------------------------------
With the recent events resolved as well as can be, the plan is now discussed, as well as possible changes to their itinerary.

“I fear that even caution may not be enough to protect us,” Sir Corley adds. “These Devilles are not normal foes. They do not practice tactics of war as we understand them. We could be attacked at almost any time from almost any avenue. Anything we can do to stem the tide of misinformation can only help us in our quest.”

"Truly, we cannot be ready for every conceivable option that a foe such as the Devilles could throw at us. That is apparent by the events which transpired here today. By caution, I mean that we must think through our actions and we cannot assume anything, not automatically trust anyone at face value."

"You are correct that this is a battle to be waged on several levels. Misinformation is certainly as dangerous a threst, if not more so, than arrayed troops on the battlefield, for such can cause us grief in many indirect ways. It is almost as though we are fighting a civil war and we must act accordingly. The populace can be on our side or against us and we fight against perception as much as flesh and blood."


“It is my opinion,” Sir Corley will say when asked, “that Elcadan should be our next destination. The time we spend traveling to Ansimont will only give the enemy more time to spread their lies and further align forces against us. Those acts are far worse that what we would gain by going to Ansimont. They are, much like Wrasseldown, a town of farmers. Their leaders most likely do not have much weight with the powers of Elcadan and their military forces are negotiable at best.

"In truth, the distance whether we go from here to Elcadan, through High Guard or to Ansimont, is nearly identical, perhaps a half day difference at best. Time is not really a consideration here, as any communication done in Ansimont would be during normal encampment anyway. With a caravan such as this, we cannot travel off-road, and I will not leave it unprotected now that the enemy knows we are here."

"While the leaders of Elcadan may not care about the presence of Ansimont troops or their backing of us, it may help sway some of the populace and more importantly, it may help to legitimize our standing with other organizations. It also gives us the opportunity to be certain of the level of misinformation directed about."

The suggestion of doing both actions is brought up by Crysania and details added to it by Jallarzi and others. Sir Acerion counsels against it as a risky tactic, however.

"My belief is that it cannot hurt us to meet with the leaders of Ansimont and establish at least a comfortable introduction with them and also ascertain the full situation there. If they are as undefended as Wrasseldown, then the whole barony is in danger. There has been little communication with them and the infrastructure there is as important as any in Elcadan, as so much food comes from this area. Where the lands ravaged, people in Elcadan would be starving. With some of the group going on, the Duke's caravan can travel to Ansimont with no time delay compared to the other route."

"Getting as many arrayed on our side as possible before we arrive is only good sense. So in that matter, I think it wise to do so. Further, the idea that Jallarzi proposes is a good one. We are not deceiving or tricking the people of Elcadan, merely showing them the truth in a sense. The ex-Duchess is indeed a demoness and it would not be a false presentation by us. We would simply be showing them a truth we cannot prove easily. Moreover, the benefit it would gain us would far outstrip any risks that are taken, in my opinion."

"It would allow us to gain support on multiple levels, to possibly counter plans that they have in place and to reduce the risk on the Duke when he arrives. I say we go forward with this plan. Who has the ability to teleport and how many people can travel with them? I would like to keep our magickal support here as well, so Argent or Serena should remain with the Duke's caravan. Also a swordsman or two going along to Elcadan may prove helpful."

Validar will look to his father for his comments on the discussions. "You have been silent so far, Duke Relon. What does your counsel suggest?"

-----------------------------------
Argent is one that is retiring early, excusing herself so that she may rest and recover spells.

"Good work today, Argent. You risked yourself for our people and I will not forget such an action. Rest well," the Baron says. "And while I understand that you know you spell selection well, I must of course counsel you to be as prepared as reasonable for other possible demonic encounters."

Validar will search out Lyonessa before the evening ends and thank her as well for her actions and the risk she took in the conflict.

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

Lyonessa does find some of the men to be wounded and uses her magic to heal them. The conflict ends quietly without any further bloodshed.

praise be to Mystra she thinks as she is able to heal some of the soldiers. None of the others wish to continue with the conflict and we all return together.

Riding closer, Sir Corley will congratulate the Lady Lyonessa and the Lady Argent on their efforts. “You should be proud of your actions in this matter, miladies. Thanks to your efforts a great misunderstanding has been averted. Many lives may have been saved because of you.”

"Thank you, Sir Corley," Lyonessa says smiling, then sombers quickly, "but I think we were ill-prepared to deal with a demoness. It is a good thing Sir Acerion and Crysania arrived when they did, or it might have turned even more tragic."

There is a lot of discussion, both about Yusef and what to do next. Although she doesn't add anything of her own, she agrees with everyone that when we see Yusef next, we need to be cautious.

A plan is next made to expose the ex-Duchess as a demoness. Sir Acerion warns against using deception as one of our tactics but Baron Validar still thinks the plan has merit. Since she doesn't have any teleportation spells, she has nothing to add to that stage of the planning.

Validar will search out Lyonessa before the evening ends and thank her as well for her actions and the risk she took in the conflict.

"I am glad we were successful," Lyonessa responds, "but as I told Sir Corley, if not for Crysania and Sir Acerion's quick arrivals, we might not have fared so well. Knowing that we will be facing demons and actually facing them appeared to be two different things entirely," she says humbly.

[Validar]

Baron Validar -

Validar will search out Lyonessa before the evening ends and thank her as well for her actions and the risk she took in the conflict.

"I am glad we were successful," Lyonessa responds, "but as I told Sir Corley, if not for Crysania and Sir Acerion's quick arrivals, we might not have fared so well. Knowing that we will be facing demons and actually facing them appeared to be two different things entirely," she says humbly.

Validar grins at Lyonessa's comments. "Your bravery takes a back seat to your modesty, my dear. I recall you riding alongside during the assault on the Corunglain gatehouse. Without bravery, nothing can be accomplished in combat. Facing the enemy gives us a chance. And as members of a group, we all support each other. Each has unique skills and abilities that work together. And you are as important a member of that group as any other."

[GM Mad]

Post Closed