New Frontiers #62

[GM Mad]

New Frontiers #62


At the Duke’s Fortress in Corunglain…

Alon/Validar

"That is good to hear, milord," Validar will respond. "I have heard good things about the Crown Prince who is now our King. There has been much frustration among some of the nobles, as many felt held back by the old King. I welcome the new King Victor and anxiously await the glory to return to Cynalon once more."

“There will also be those nobles who prefer things as they are now. They’ve grown too comfortable with their own power and don’t wish to see it threatened. They will be agreeable during this crisis, but it's afterwards that concerns me. I fear that Cynalon’s time of troubles is not over with yet.”

Later on if there is time Laucian will ask one of the guards or servants, “These past few days my armor has seen much battle and has suffered from it. Would you happen to have an leather worker or armorer that would be able to repair my armor?”

The servant will see what he can do, but makes no promises. Lots going on here, right now.


Chareos/Twins

While his mentor is in court with his fellow Lords and King, Chareos remembers several things said about a Mages Guild that was established not long ago. Finding the twins, he will ask, “It has come to my attention that Lord Sharadin has established a Mages Guild from the findings within Karn’s Keep. It is rare that I have a chance to speak with you since I left your home, which I miss,” he adds with a thoughtful smile as he realizes he still can’t tell the twins apart. “But I was wondering if there was room for another of Sharadin’s apprentices within this guild?”

“Of course,” one of the twins says.

“Don’t be silly, of course you can join.”

“I’m sure father will allow you in for free for locating these spell books,” the first twin continues. “That’s how Argent came to be a member of the guild.”

“Which is probably good for you, since you seem to always be away.”

“Paying guild dues for things you wouldn’t be able to use doesn’t seem practical.”


King’s Audience

Sharl

"Dame Harlena, it is a pleasure and an honor to finally meet you. I have heard of your many exploits and am privileged to be in your esteemed presence."

"It is a great honor to finally have the chance to meet you, Dame Harlena," Acerion says with utmost respect and a deep bow.

“I’ve heard a great many things about you gentlemen,” Dame Sharl says. “You’ve accomplished grand things in a very short amount of time. Perhaps we’ll share a campaign one of these days. Perhaps when we finally march on New Keln and remove the vile priests' seat of power there. I think I would enjoy that very, very much.”

[GM Mad]

After Validar’s tale the King will speak.

“It seems that Lord Sharadin didn’t cover the breadth and scope of your exploits. The Kingdom owes you and your companions a great deal of gratitude and thanks. I think I would like to meet them to thank them personally. Alas, the hour grows late. Perhaps this meeting would be better served in the morning.”

“We heard about the involvement of the Hextorites and the drow from Drakkimor and his associates. It gives us leads in our quest to locate the missing nobles. Even now Drakkimor and his band are going into the Underdark to catch these drow. We plan to send scouts into New Keln to locate this Xanathom and what she’s done with Corunglain’s nobility. Then we’ll plan a rescue mission.”

The King pauses for a moment, then turns to address Lord Sharadin. “Lord Sharadin, I read reports that suggested the pillar artifact found underneath Gateway could possibly lead directly into New Keln? Such a thing would greatly cut down travel time. Is this true?”

“It is, Your Majesty,” Sharadin answers. “However, there are risks involved in such an undertaking. I had Argent, a sorceress trained by Lady Jallarzi who is familiar with the Elder script, examining the pillars. It appears that the magic of the Pillar Artifact is failing. It accidentally sent the Seekers to Karn’s Keep when they were trying to reach Gateway.”

“Furthermore, there was an incident involving Argent herself that was most unusual. She used the artifact to travel from Karn’s Keep to Gateway. She arrived safely in Gateway, but felt strangely weak. The reason for this weakness quickly became apparent. For a second Argent arrived shortly before she did! This other Argent had appeared in the Pillar Artifact in the ruined city to the east of Gateway. The two were identical in everyway right down to their gear. Somehow, the Pillar Artifact created a second Argent.”

“Both Argents seemed fine, but I decided that it was too risky to rely on the Pillar Artifacts any more. The next malfunction might be fatal. It is for this reason that I cannot suggest using the artifact any further. One of the Argents is currently with Lord Validar, while the other departed on her own. Neither wished to be around the other. Understandable, I suppose.”

The King considers for a moment and then says, “A wise precaution, Lord Sharadin. What about this mirror Lord Validar mentioned? It seems to be usable to move troops and supplies en mass. That might be an alternative to using the Pillars.”

“Indeed it would be, Your Majesty. Unfortunately it was destroyed when the lava swallowed up Opikus’ lair. It would have been a very useful acquisition. Other means will have to be used instead.”


“Lord Sherwood, it is my understanding that you were investigating the Cult of the Blackflame? What have you discovered?”

“That is correct,” Sherwood answers. “My associates and I located one of the former members of the Swords of Cynalon, the adventuring band that defeated the Cult in the past. From her we learned the location of their old headquarters. We were going to explore there next before this Elfquest came up. The location in question is a run-down castle in the swamps south of Elcadan. It might lead us further in the right direction, or just be a dead end. Impossible to say for sure without going there.”

“This ‘Elfquest’ of yours does seem to be more important,” the King agrees. “When will you be departing?”

“They request that I and the others associated with this request travel to Alfheim with all due haste. We’ll be departing in the morning.”

[GM Mad]

"We will assist as we are able. But I must ask: if Fort Runnels was lost again to the humanoids in the recent invasion, who is going to secure that location? Surely it is a priority as well, even if not under the immediate threat of attack. And most definitely it is a necessary step in the liberation of Ardelphia."

“Fort Runnels was not lost. Not all the men that were sent there came back. There is a skeleton force there now, but their numbers will be increased. We’ve been drawing additional troops from the other lords’ domains and reinforcing Corunglain. Some of these troops will be sent to Fort Runnels as well. Lady Teris and Lord Torenscu will be in charge of that operation. In time, they should be able to assist you in your efforts to free Ardelphia.”

"We will complete your task, Your Majesty. You can rely on this to be done as you ask. Three days will be sufficient to prepare for this mission. As a personal request, is there some manner in which a message could quickly be sent to the Barony of Pyris. I wish to inform them of our current situation."

“But of course. I already have word that Baron Relon is sending a unit of your crack ballista operators. Once you’ve secured Fort Fletcher, they’ll be sent operate the fort’s ballistas. They should play a great role in defending the Fort.”

When a break in the conversation occurs, Lord Validar will address the King. "Your Majesty, The Guardians of Light will be ready in three days to invade Fort Fletcher and take it from the humanoids and undead that currently control it. While we have what I expect to be sufficient strength to take back the Fort, I am wondering if there are any others who are being made available to our initial attack."

“It is my understanding that you already have a Priestess of Azrella among you who is proficient in the slaying of undead. A second one will be sent along in more of a support role. Her long term role will be to operate the Fort Infirmary, but she no doubt wishes to destroy the undead there.”

“In the days that follow, more troops and supplies will arrive. Your men from Pyris to man the ballistas, a unit of elfin archers to man the walls, and a unit of dwarven warriors should it come to direct battle. Plus all the necessary support personal to care for and feed this large of a group. There may be more personnel that go along with Lady Aria. You’ll have to discuss the matter with her to find out about that.”


Lady Teris greets everyone who arrives by way of Sherwood. She’ll help get them directed to quarters. Ganging up will be required by all.


The Lords break their discussions late in the evening. All the Guardians are scheduled to meet with the King the next day.

Ivy and Lyonessa feel much better in the morning. Olivia heals the rest of their wounds and they are fully back to normal.

Those going with Sherwood will be departing shortly.


Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Moments later, they arrive in the city of Corunglain. Kylie has never been this far north before; she can feel a chill in the air that is greater than where they were earlier. It doesn't take much looking around to tell that there was a great conflict here recently, and the soldiers appear to be in a state of alert.

Fortunately, one of the people waiting where they arrive recognises Sherwood and keeps the soldiers from attacking them. Sherwood introduces the woman quickly and then departs to retrieve the others.

"Lady Teris," Kylie says with a curtsy. "I'm sorry but I don't have much experience with nobles or courtly ways. I'm Kylie Lanthorn of Elcadan. Pleased to meet you."

After Sherwood returns with the rest of the group, he departs to join a meeting with the new King. Meanwhile, Kylie follows Lady Teris to their assigned quarters. For some reason, wandering around in this huge fortress is leaving her with a desire for the open forest...

Once they have had a chance to settle into their new quarters, the group begins to wander the castle in search of the Guardians, who are also supposed to be here. Kylie has heard that a few of their number were gravely injured in the fighting here and are recuperating in the infirmary. She makes a mental note to visit them as soon as time allows.

They haven't gotten far when the encounter Laucian, and an elven woman who introduces herself as Valena Feador!

On the way back from the stables Laucian catches a glimpse of his clanswomen and soon catches up to them in the guest corridors. A few new faces emerge in the guest corridors. A smile comes to his face at seeing his recently departed friends, “Look who the cat dragged in!” he says with a smile. “What brings you to Corunglain?” he asks his clanswomen.

"Hey, Laucian! It is a pleasure to see you again! How are you?" Kylie asks. "As for what brought us here, the answer is simple: Sherwood," she says with a laugh. "He was called to meet with the new king, and brought us along for the ride."

Laucian and Nariya quickly fall into conversation about their tattoos, which becomes strangely intimate. Kylie thinks she senses a mutual attraction there; it will be interesting to see how that plays out. However, rather than eavesdrop on their moment, Kylie turns to Valena. "A pleasure to meet you, Valena. I'm Kylie Lanthorn of Elcadan. I couldn't help noticing your clan name was Feador; I recently learned that my mother was also of Clan Feador. Would it be possible for us to talk together later?"

“Kylie! How did you get here? How have you been? Who are your friends?”

"Argent!" she cries, truly delighted to see her fellow alumnus of Jallarzi. "It's so good to see you again. Sherwood brought us here because we've suddenly been diverted onto a new quest and he was called to meet with the new king. I'm fine, though we've had some very strange experiences. How are you?" Lilia handles the introductions for the gathering cluster of adventurers in the hallway, so Kylie leaves it at that.

After a time a commotion outside the room catches his ear;, it seems several of their former band have come to Corunglain! Chareos will go and greet them and though he has had little time speaking with Lilia and Kylie he will be friendly to them both. “It is good to see you both, I take it your quest is complete?"

Into the mix comes Chareos, and Kylie welcomes the warrior-mage. "Good to see you, Chareos. How do you fare? Unfortunately, no. We have been diverted onto a more crucial quest, so the investigation into the Cult of the Blackflame has had to be delayed for the time being. Still, it's an important issue and I hope someone discusses it with the new king so that it will be dealt with before the problem can grow into something unmanageable."

“Unfortunately, that is not the case,” Lilia answers. “Another matter has come up, but I cannot speak of it.”

Lilia drags Laucian off for a private talk. Kylie can only guess, but she has to assume that it has something to do with their new quest. It wasn't clear to her that this was any kind of big secret, but perhaps she should be careful what she says until she knows more.

Grondar trots forward to join Laucian, Valena and others in greeting the new arrivals. "Lilia! How wonderful to see you again," he says with a bow. Turning, he hoists Kylie into the air, knowing full well she's likely to throw a fit at the action. "Sprite! Couldn't bear being away from my charming and witty self, I see. Perhaps I can regale you with tales of all the rocks and stones I made friends with in your absense." His chuckle makes it clear that he's having a little fun with his diminutive friend.

Surprisingly, Kylie swallows her outrage at the dwarf's careless handling of herself. "Grondar, you miserable old lump of dirt and fur. Put me down. I see you haven't gained any manners or culture in the time I've been away."

"I see you brought some companions with you. Could you be so kind as to introduce me? Is Sherwood here as well?"

"Oh, very well," Kylie says with a deep sigh, then turns to her new companions. "This mangey flea-bitten wreck of a dwarf calls himself Grondar Foehammer. He claims to be a priest of their Revered Mother, but I cannot imagine that such an august deity as Berronar Truesilver would allow such a one as him to serve as her representative. He is a passable healer, however, and does know enough to stay out from underfoot most of the time," she adds in mock-seriousness.

Word travels that others have appeared, and it turns out its Sherwood and his new group. Arriving too late to see Sherwood, she says her hellos to Kylie and Lilia, although it appears there is something going on that is very serious. She will introduce herself to the new faces as well. "Hello, I'm Sherra," she'll say simply, but will talk more with anyone who wishes to.

Sherra soon joins the group. "Hi, Sherra. How are you doing? It is good to see that you came through the battle here intact. From what I hear, it was quite fierce and you managed to drive off thousands of goblinoids."

Those who know Kylie but have not see her in a while may notice that she seems somewhat different. On observation, she seems older and yet younger at the same, and perhaps a little less hard-bitten.

Some time later, Kylie encounters Argent and Chareos digging through a pile of books. It isn't hard to determine that they must be tomes of mystical knowledge and that they are transcribing spells into their own spellbooks. "Hi. Are those new spellbooks? Where did you get them?" she asks hesitantly. "I know I wasn't with you at the time they were collected, but do you think it would be alright for Lilia and I to have a look through them?"

[Yusef]

Yusef:

There is a palpable sense of relief when Sherwood reappears. It seems their plans have changed, as the old king has stepped down, and Sherwood has been called to appear before the new king in Corunglain. Yusef smiles at Nariya's chiding of the mage, but says nothing.

Amazingly, Sherwood calls on his sword to transport them to Corunglain. The next instant, they are standing in a fortress far away. A bite in the air proclaims that they have travelled far to the north.

Sherwood introduces them to a local nobelwoman, by the look of her, then runs off to his meeting with the king. "Yusef ibn Nerita bint Falawi Al-Rashid, Lady Teris," he says with a bow. "I'm very pleased to meet you."

The Lady Teris shows them to their rooms. "It seems we will be rooming together, my fierce friend," Yusef says to Rat. "Which bed would you like?" He stows what little gear he carries and rejoins the other in the hallway. It seems they are going in search of Kylie and Lilia's friends from the Guardians of the Light, of which he has heard so much. Yusef decides to tag along, as he would like to meet some of them.

Soon they meet two elves, whose names are Laucian and Valena. Laucian is known to Kylie and Lilia, but apparently Valena is not. Lilia introduces them, so Yusef just says, "It is a pleasure to meet both of you." Laucian is soon caught up in conversation with Nariya, so Yusef turns to Valena. "So how long have you know Laucian?" he asks.

Not long thereafter, a beautiful and well-dressed woman appears. Clearly, she is known to both Kylie and Lilia. When introduced, Yusef smiles. "A pleasure to meet you, Argent. We have heard much about you from Kylie. I am Yusef ibn Nerita bint Falawi Al-Rashid, a follower of Celestian. As I understand it, you were trained by Sherwood's cousin, the same as Kylie?"

A young man named Chareos introduces himself. Lia answers his question, but Yusef's reply is a little different. "I actually met them a little earlier. They boarded a boat heading upstream from Rifflian to Threshold, which I just happened to be already aboard. I have accompanied them ever since. From what Kylie has said, you and she joined the Guardians of the Light at the same time?"

A dwarf rounds the corner, and quite unexpectedly hoists Kylie into the air in greeting. The exchange is rather amusing, and Yusef chuckles as he watches them interact. Kylie handles the situation remarkably well, so perhaps she has grown as he had hoped. He also notes that Lilia and Laucian are talking in an alcove, then Laucian excuses himself and departs. Curious.

"Oh, very well," Kylie says with a deep sigh, then turns to her new companions. "This mangey flea-bitten wreck of a dwarf calls himself Grondar Foehammer. He claims to be a priest of their Revered Mother, but I cannot imagine that such an august deity as Berronar Truesilver would allow such a one as him to serve as her representative. He is a passable healer, however, and does know enough to stay out from underfoot most of the time," she adds in mock-seriousness.

Yusef smiles at Kylie's flourid introduction, then bows to the laughing dwarf. "It is good to finally meet you, Grondar. Kylie has spoken of you many times, much of which it would be inappropriate to repeat. My name is Yusef ibn Nerita bint Falawi Al-Rashid, but you are welcome to call me Yusef. I am a priest of Celestian and travel the ever-winding path. It is good to meet another who serves the gods. Unfortunately, I am not familiar with the dwarven pantheon; perhaps you could tell me of them sometime?"

Yet another attractive human woman joins the impromtu gathering. He introduces herself as Sherra. "I am very pleased to meet you, Sherra. Kylie speaks fondly of you. I am Yusef ibn Nerita bint Falawi Al-Rashid and follow the path of Celestian. Are you also one of the founding Guardians?"

She does notice Yusef and finds herself staring in spite of herself. He is quite rougishly handsome and he reminds her of some of her previous shipmates a number of years ago. "Might I inquire," she'll ask Yusef, "where you hail from?"

"Of course, Sherra. I am actually from Elcadan, though I do not consider myself to be associated with that foul city. My mother's people are from a land far to the west known as Zakhara. I have been told that I bear much of her grandfather's appearance. He was a good and honorable warrior."

[Chareos]

Chareos

Twins

‘“Of course,” one of the twins says.

“Don’t be silly, of course you can join.”
“I’m sure father will allow you in for free for locating these spell books,” the first twin continues. “That’s how Argent came to be a member of the guild.”
“Which is probably good for you, since you seem to always be away.”
“Paying guild dues for things you wouldn’t be able to use doesn’t seem practical.”

“That is also true, “ he says with a smile. “If Sharadin returns from court early in the evening, would you be as so kind to let him know I was inquiring about it? Though with the matters that have happened recently I doubt he will be free for some time. Perhaps tomorrow I shall ask him.”

Kylie

Into the mix comes Chareos, and Kylie welcomes the warrior-mage. "Good to see you, Chareos. How do you fare? Unfortunately, no. We have been diverted onto a more crucial quest, so the investigation into the Cult of the Blackflame has had to be delayed for the time being. Still, it's an important issue and I hope someone discusses it with the new king so that it will be dealt with before the problem can grow into something unmanageable."

“And you,” Chareos can’t help to notice her tone and mannerisms seem to have aged. “As well as can be expected, my friend. These past few days have been a trial to both skill and endurance,” he says with a smile.

Chareos listens intently on Kylie’s explanation of their mission and how it has changed. Still she is concerned over the unfinished quest in which they embarked on. “I am sure your worries will be put at ease. I doubt Master Sherwood would leave our new King in the dark on such an issue.”


While engrossed in writing a spell within his growing tome Chareos doesn’t realize Kylie’s approach till she says her hellos.

Some time later, Kylie encounters Argent and Chareos digging through a pile of books. It isn't hard to determine that they must be tomes of mystical knowledge and that they are transcribing spells into their own spellbooks. "Hi. Are those new spellbooks? Where did you get them?" she asks hesitantly. "I know I wasn't with you at the time they were collected, but do you think it would be alright for Lilia and I to have a look through them?"

“Evening Kylie. Aye that they are. We recently relieved them from a dying dragon who was impersonating a mage of some skill.” Her next question catches his ear as he notes the hesitancy within her voice and looks to Argent for a few moments then says, “I personally see no reason why you may not be able to look at them, though it is not my sole decision. These belong to all of the Guardians and it is all of their decision." Looking into her eyes, hopefully she sees he is serious though regretful. "Though you may look at my tome when I am done, as it is soley mine and not our parties' property."

Later on Chareos will ask Argent, “The items which we recovered have not yet been Identified. Perhaps we should take it upon ourselves to do so while the others are busy in their endeavors, then report our findings to Validar?”

Chareos will then memorize 3 Indentify spells in order to reveal some of the items' secrets. As well as casting a Stoneskin and Dispel Shield upon himself later on in the night.

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

Ivy smiles back and has been smiling since Lord Acerion’s visit. “I’m not really sure,” Ivy admits, “but I thought he was going to propose there for a moment!”

"That would have been wonderful," Lyonessa says, "maybe he still will. If the new king has called for him he may not have wanted to rush it!"

“You aren’t keeping me from anything,” he states. “Though Lilia and Kylie just arrived not too long ago. They did not bring very good news.

"Oh," Lyonessa replies as a bit of the happiness of having Laucian there is lost upon hearing that bad news has arrived. "I thought I had heard Sherwood and the others had returned, but I haven't been able to inquire while I lay here. Did they tell you what's wrong? I hope it's not Sherwood."

Ivy and Lyonessa feel much better in the morning. Olivia heals the rest of their wounds and they are fully back to normal.

Lyonessa thanks Olivia for everything she has done to restore them. She will find whatever room she will be sharing and eagerly await any news that may come to her. She will seek out anyone who may not have visited Ivy and herself and see how they are. She will also hope to be introduced to those who accompanied Sherwood. "I am Lyonessa, songstress of Mystra. It is a pleasure to meet you," she will say to those she meets.

Eventually she's bound to find Argent and Chareos pouring over the new spell books. There will probably be others there as well. "Good morning," she says to anyone present, "Mind if I take a look through some of these books as well? It's been so long since I've given proper time to learning new spells."

[Laucian]

Laucian

"Hey, Laucian! It is a pleasure to see you again! How are you?" Kylie asks. "As for what brought us here, the answer is simple: Sherwood," she says with a laugh. "He was called to meet with the new king, and brought us along for the ride."

“Good afternoon Kylie. It is good to see you well. I am well though I am somewhat tired from these past few days. It will be good to get some rest before we head out again.” Sadly this is not to be as Laucian is told of the crisis within the Elfin world.

Yusef Wrote

Soon they meet two elves, whose names are Laucian and Valena. Laucian is known to Kylie and Lilia, but apparently Valena is not. Lilia introduces them, so Yusef just says, "It is a pleasure to meet both of you." Laucian is soon caught up in conversation with Nariya, so Yusef turns to Valena. "So how long have you know Laucian?" he asks.

Laucian will extend his hand to Yusef in a warrior’s grip greeting him. Soon Nariya’s curiosity and beauty captivate the elf as he forgets of the follower of Celestian for the time being.

"Oh," Lyonessa replies as a bit of the happiness of having Laucian there is lost upon hearing that bad news has arrived. "I thought I had heard Sherwood and the others had returned, but I haven't been able to inquire while I lay here. Did they tell you what's wrong? I hope it's not Sherwood."

“Lilia spoke to me for a time about the situation.” he says cryptically, “No, it is not Sherwood for he is fine. It is a little more important then that, An Item of great importance to the Elvin people is threatened and will soon perish if not recovered from where it has lane for centuries.

I have been asked to accompany Lilia and the others to the Elfholds.” Judging her face he soon goes on, “And I will be leaving the Guardians for a time to do so.” he looks her in the eyes with great sorrow as he has cherish his time with her these past few weeks. He only wishes there was more time to spend with Lyonessa.


As he gets his gear ready and retrieves his armor from the servant Laucian plays several things over in his mind. His old friends and new coming together and soon departing, Alas this is the way of the world these days. Many faces come to his mind some friends some he has not known well.

A thought comes to him as his mind races, Starfire….. His one companion that has never left his side as well as Onyx his new cat. Looking at the sleeping form of Onyx he let’s out a smile, then realizes IF Sherwood is involved that he may have to leave Starfire behind, a fact that does not sit well with him. In the morning Laucian approaches Sherwood, in full armor/gear.

“Master Sherwood, Lilia spoke to me of what has transpired among my people. I will not stand by and watch others go and while I wait. Whether you have me or not, I wish to accompany you.”

Afterward Laucian speaks to Sherwood, “ I do not doubt time is of the essence, so I imagine that we will be teleported to the Elfholds leaving our mounts behind. I do not wish to see my horse left behind for he is very dear to me. I delivered him when he was but a calf and raised him since then, Is there anyway I could take him to the Elfholds with us or a place that will treat him well?”

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

“Lilia spoke to me for a time about the situation.” he says cryptically, “No, it is not Sherwood for he is fine. It is a little more important then that, An Item of great importance to the Elvin people is threatened and will soon perish if not recovered from where it has lane for centuries.

Lyonessa is relieved that Sherwood is fine, and seemingly the others as well. Even though he is being vague, she can tell the situation is dire and very important.

I have been asked to accompany Lilia and the others to the Elfholds.” Judging her face he soon goes on, “And I will be leaving the Guardians for a time to do so.” he looks her in the eyes with great sorrow as he has cherish his time with her these past few weeks. He only wishes there was more time to spend with Lyonessa.

Lyonessa isn't sure how to take the news as it seems a very private Elven manner, and she is only a half-breed. "I understand, and it makes sense that you should go with them." Reaching out for his hand again, she'll add, "Come back to us when you can, and promise to tell me all that you are able once you succeed." She will smile re-assuringly at him and enjoy the time until he departs.

The tears only fall when he is gone...

[Grondar]

Grondar:

Sherra laughs and walks over, kissing Grondar on the top of his head before leaving him to his studies.

Grondar blushes, but doesn't say anything as the human woman departs. No sense making a bigger fool of himself than he already is...

When she is introduced she will greet Grondar with a smile and shake his hand. She quickly gathers that he is also a priest of some patron though she is unsure of which. “It is a pleasure to meet you Grondar. Pardon my ignorance but whom do you serve?"

"Glad to meet you as well... Lia, was it? As the Sprite here has said," he says with a wink, "I do my best to follow in the footsteps of our Revered Mother, Berronar.

"As for you, I believe I heard you mention... Eilistraee? I tend to think I have a fair knowledge of the many pantheons, but that name is unfamiliar to me. Could you tell me more of your patron?"

Surprisingly, Kylie swallows her outrage at the dwarf's careless handling of herself. "Grondar, you miserable old lump of dirt and fur. Put me down. I see you haven't gained any manners or culture in the time I've been away."

"Oh, very well," Grondar says, sounding vaguely disappointed as he lowers her gently to the ground. "Of course not, young Sprite, after all, I am a dwarf."

"Oh, very well," Kylie says with a deep sigh, then turns to her new companions. "This mangey flea-bitten wreck of a dwarf calls himself Grondar Foehammer. He claims to be a priest of their Revered Mother, but I cannot imagine that such an august deity as Berronar Truesilver would allow such a one as him to serve as her representative. He is a passable healer, however, and does know enough to stay out from underfoot most of the time," she adds in mock-seriousness.

"Thank you," Grondar says, as he bows to the newcomers. "I'm honored to meet you all. And how long have you all had the pleasure of the Sprite's company?"

Yusef smiles at Kylie's flourid introduction, then bows to the laughing dwarf. "It is good to finally meet you, Grondar. Kylie has spoken of you many times, much of which it would be inappropriate to repeat. My name is Yusef ibn Nerita bint Falawi Al-Rashid, but you are welcome to call me Yusef. I am a priest of Celestian and travel the ever-winding path. It is good to meet another who serves the gods. Unfortunately, I am not familiar with the dwarven pantheon; perhaps you could tell me of them sometime?"

Yusef's comment brings a deep-chested chuckle from the sturdy dwarf. "I have no doubt of that, young man. Truly, your name is a mouthful, so I think I will stick with Yusef, as you say. Celestian is a noble and honorable deity, from what I've been told. Well met. And yes, I would be happy to discuss religious matters with you as time allows. Do you know where you're headed next?"

[Laucian]

Laucian

Lyonessa isn't sure how to take the news as it seems a very private Elven manner, and she is only a half-breed. "I understand, and it makes sense that you should go with them." Reaching out for his hand again, she'll add, "Come back to us when you can, and promise to tell me all that you are able once you succeed." She will smile re-assuringly at him and enjoy the time until he departs.

He soon feels the warmth of her hand upon his and he gives it a little squeeze as he looks into her chocolate eyes.
He smiles back as her smile is quite contagious. “ I would be happy to. Though I would not have to tell you the tale if you were to come with us,” he says somewhat bashfully. “You could play your Ballads within the Elfholds. Your music would be gladly welcomed and cherished there.”

Before he departs a thought comes to him and a smile soon after. Removing his necklace of beads and polished stone from his neck he looks to Lyonessa and says, “I wish you to have this. It once was given to my mother by someone dear to her; Now it is time to be passed to one who is dear to me."

"I will come back to you and tell you of all that has happened in our quest and look forward to hearing yours in return. When we next meet perhaps we could spend more time together?” he asks somewhat forwardly.

As he goes to leave Laucian will bend down and give Lyonessa a hug as well as a kiss on her cheek. He soon promises her as he removes a strand of hair from her face, “I will see you again, I promise.” Giving her hand a gentle squeeze he hesitantly lets go of her hand and turns to leave…

[Lia]

Lia

Kylie & Grondar:

"Oh, very well," Kylie says with a deep sigh, then turns to her new companions. "This mangey flea-bitten wreck of a dwarf calls himself Grondar Foehammer. He claims to be a priest of their Revered Mother, but I cannot imagine that such an august deity as Berronar Truesilver would allow such a one as him to serve as her representative. He is a passable healer, however, and does know enough to stay out from underfoot most of the time," she adds in mock-seriousness.

"Glad to meet you as well... Lia, was it? As the Sprite here has said," he says with a wink, "I do my best to follow in the footsteps of our Revered Mother, Berronar.

"As for you, I believe I heard you mention... Eilistraee? I tend to think I have a fair knowledge of the many pantheons, but that name is unfamiliar to me. Could you tell me more of your patron?"

Lia smiles as Kylie introduces Grondar with her mock seriousness. She quickly gathers that they are close friends. The hairy dwarf turns and greets her winking explaining of his patron as well as himself.

She nods as the dwarf pronounces her name correctly and then says,“You are correct Grondar. It is a pleasure to meet you," she says with a wide smile. "I would not be surprised if you haven’t heard of her for not many have. I am a Bladesinger of the Dark Maiden. She is referred to as that because she hails from the Underdark; she was wrongly accused and later redeemed herself to the Seldarine. Though freed of any wrongdoing she foresaw the need to be a beacon of light if you will, for any race that has lost its way, primarily dark elves, who wish to live in peace and free among the world.”

She soon recites some of her teachings to the dwarf:
“Be always kind, except in battle with evil. Encourage happiness everywhere. Learn and teach new songs, dances, and the flowing dance of skilled swordwork. Promote harmony between the races. Befriend strangers, shelter those without homes, and feed the hungry. Repay rudeness with kindness. Repay violence with swift violence so that those who cause it are quickly dealt with. Aid those drow in distress and give them the Lady’s message: "A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace and live beneath the sun again where trees and flowers grow. These are some of the many teachings of Eilistraee.”

If Grondar or any of the others begin to question her motives or teachings, she will simply say, “I understand you may not trust a word in which I speak but it is the truth, for I have no need nor want to lie to you. In time my actions will reinforce the words of which I speak today.”

[Validar]

Lord Validar -

Sir Alon -
“There will also be those nobles who prefer things as they are now. They’ve grown too comfortable with their own power and don’t wish to see it threatened. They will be agreeable during this crisis, but it's afterwards that concerns me. I fear that Cynalon’s time of troubles is not over with yet.”

"I am well aware of such instances being from the Outer Kingdom. We have troubles there and the Inner Lords will not all be pleased about the changes, as you say. Trouble may never be completely from our lands, but we can do all that we can to limit it and to challenge it at every turn. Any enemy of Cynalon, whether external or internal, is an enemy of mine and I will do all in my power to oppose them."


Dame Sharl:
“I’ve heard a great many things about you gentlemen,” Dame Sharl says. “You’ve accomplished grand things in a very short amount of time. Perhaps we’ll share a campaign one of these days. Perhaps when we finally march on New Keln and remove the vile priests' seat of power there. I think I would enjoy that very, very much.”

"You honor us with your compliment, my lady," Lord Validar says while exchanging looks with Lord Acerion and Lord Corley. "We have done what we can to oppose the enemies of Cynalon and will continue to do so while breath exists within our lungs, while our hearts continue to beat. That much we swear."

"And it would certainly be an honor to campaign with you. I too relish the idea of a march on New Keln and would gladly join such an invasion."

King Victor VIII -
After Validar’s tale the King will speak.

“It seems that Lord Sharadin didn’t cover the breadth and scope of your exploits. The Kingdom owes you and your companions a great deal of gratitude and thanks. I think I would like to meet them to thank them personally. Alas, the hour grows late. Perhaps this meeting would be better served in the morning.”

"I am certain that the rest of our group would be honored to meet the new King of Cynalon. I will inform them of your request for an audience. As for our actions, we respectfully appreciate and heartily accept the Kingdom's gratitude. Although we would have done what we did with no fanfare and no glory at all, simply in an effort to defend the realm from her enemies."


“We heard about the involvement of the Hextorites and the drow from Drakkimor and his associates. It gives us leads in our quest to locate the missing nobles. Even now Drakkimor and his band are going into the Underdark to catch these drow. We plan to send scouts into New Keln to locate this Xanathom and what she’s done with Corunglain’s nobility. Then we’ll plan a rescue mission.”

"It is good to know that plans are underway to rescue the captured nobility of Corunglain. The Duchy will never be fully restored without its leaders."

Eventually talk turns between the King and Lord Sharadin of the Pillar artifacts. The Seekers had uncovered several of these sites and had only begun experimenting with them when Validar left that group.

Surprisingly, talk comes to the degenerating nature of the Pillars and a magickal accident involving one of their own group.

“Both Argents seemed fine, but I decided that it was too risky to rely on the Pillar Artifacts any more. The next malfunction might be fatal. It is for this reason that I cannot suggest using the artifact any further. One of the Argents is currently with Lord Validar, while the other departed on her own. Neither wished to be around the other. Understandable, I suppose.”

So this Argent is only part of a whole, or is she a duplicate somehow? This bit of news is somewhat troubling to the noble warrior and he mst think further on this situation when there is time to do so. Lord Sharadin then explains the demise of the Mirror of Mental Prowess in Opikus' lair, as well and the loss of that potential item's use.

Lord Sherwood then explains the small lead that they found about the Cult of the Blackflame. While Validar does not know the extent of this 'Elf Quest' that they speak about, he is hard pressed to believe that the elf's concerns are more important than their own. Still assigning Lord Sherwood to the task is a minimum of resources at best, given everything else that is happening. And keeping ones allies happy is always an important political task.

Apparently Kylie is here with him as well, along with some 'others' who are unnamed as yet. Things are moving quickly around here, a good sign that the new King is being decisive. Validar finds that a welcome change from the rule of King Victor VII.


The King then explains that Fort Runnels is being reinforced after the humanoid ambush by Lady Teris and Lord Torenscu. They will be reinforcements for the attack on Ardelphia once Fort Fletcher is secured as well. Validar's mind is awhirl with tactical possibilities and strategic contingencies as he plays through possible scenarios for the various parts of the campaign. Lady Vera will be most pleased to hear that her lands are that much closer to liberation.


“But of course. I already have word that Baron Relon is sending a unit of your crack ballista operators. Once you’ve secured Fort Fletcher, they’ll be sent operate the fort’s ballistas. They should play a great role in defending the Fort.”

"Our light cavalry squadrons are among the finest in the Kingdom as well. I trust we will be able to supply light cavalry for the attack on Ardelphia as well, when the time comes."


The King then explains that other troops are being made available as well. Along with that, another Priestess of Azrella will be joining them. Having learned of their exceptional effectiveness against undead from Ivy, he is pleased to hear that. It will make this reclamation of Fort Fletcher go that much more easily.

Validar's mind runs through a checklist of activities:
Inform the rest of the Guardians of the King'a audience in the morning.
Meet with Aria regarding the role of the Dwarves and discuss the various strategies required by both groups in their tasks.
Send word to the Baron personally of the situation and request additional troops for this attack.
Send word to Lady Ardel of the progress they have made.
Retrieve plans of Fort Fletcher before leaving and map out a strategy to clear and secure the fortress.
Find time to meet up with Gabriella.

Eventually, the meeting is ended late in the night. Lord Validar is weary from the day's exploits, but there is still much to be done before sleep can come.

[Validar]

Lord Validar -

As it would be unsightly to simply rush off as soon as the meeting is ended, Lord Validar will say his goodbyes to each of the lords assembled here.

Validar turns to Sir Alon. "Perhaps we can speak in the morning, after the rest of the Guardians have their audience with the King?"


Validar will mention to Lord Acerion, "My understanding is that rooms are at a premium here in the Fortress as the moment. Lord Corley and I would welcome you to share our room with us."

"And how is Ivy recovering? I had but a moment to visit them once we arrived before the King's Audience."

"It seems that there is much to do. Lord Corley, could you request a series of plans for Fort Fletcher from the Castellan before retiring? We will need them tomorrow morning at the latest. It has been a long time since I saw those walls and the more information we have, the better. I want to secure the Fort as quickly and as simply as possible. Our actions are vital to the continued defense of the Kingdom."

Lord Validar will commandeer an available messenger or servant of the Fortress and have them give word to all of the Guardians of the King's requested audience. He will then seek out Aria and arrange a time to discuss their plans of attack. Lord Corley and Lord Acerion will need to be there as well as anyone else who desires it.

Once his duties are out of his way, he turns to personal attentions. Lady Gabriella might have already retired at this late hour but he needs to check, just to make sure. Retracing his steps back to where she was working, he sees the room is quiet in the dim candlelight. A few women have taken slumber in makeshift sleeping cots, but Gabriella is not among them. He thinks for a moment and then with a knowing smile, he heads to the area of this Gatehouse where the remaining refugees were still gathered, awaiting further assistance.

He passes by a few guards and they salute him as he surveys the rooms. One of them holds the children who have not yet been returned to their parents or who have lost their parents. The room is quiet and a fire burns in the corner struggling to ward off the cold. Validar hesitates in the doorway a moment, not wanting to disturb the sleeping occupants. He studies the room briefly and his eyes are quickly drawn to their intended target.

Lying upon a makeshift bedding formed of piled fabrics, Validar spies Gabriella fast asleep. A young girl he passes stirs and looks up. She rubs her eyes and points at the tall fighter. "I remember you," she whispers, pointing to his sword. Validar raises his finger to his lips. Pulling a pouch of gold coins from his belt the warrior considers a moment, then decides to pass the entirety of it to the child. He whispers back, "This is to share with all of your companions here." She takes the pouch as her mouth forms a silent 'O' in wonder and awe. "Now we mustn't wake anyone," he shares quietly. The child grasps the pouch to her chest and lies back down again, a look of contentment on her face.

With a smile on his lips, he turns back toward his sleeping lady. Gabriella doesn't stir, huddled against the cold. The blanket she uses is far too small, her legs and bare feet sticking out from beneath. Validar observes her a moment, then pulls his cloak from his broad shoulders. Kneeling down, he places the cloak over her body, as she murmurs slightly. Leaning down, a kiss soft enough to be certain not to disturb her is carefully placed upon her temple. Making his way out, he stops a moment at the door, looking back. Then he heads to the battlements.

It is very late when Lord Validar manages to reach his assigned room again. He has walked the walls and ramparts of the Duke's Fortress, surveying the damage done and the battles that took place here. Some of the remains of battle have been cleared and cleaned up but the area still shows the signs of death. Validar looks out over the city to the area of the Vesubian Gatehouse and smiles to himself. He is pleased that the plan to rescue the refugees they encountered on the way here succeeded at the same time that they were instrumental in the defense of the whole city.

Validar will likely never get to personally meet most of the people they saved, but he is proud to have been able to do so. While they are not subjects of Pyris, they are all citizens of Cynalon and as such, his duty is to them all regardless. He looks out over the city once more and is pleased at what they all managed to accomplish together. With a satisfied look upon his face, the noble warrior heads inside to some much deserved sleep.

Once there, he quietly enters, so as not to wake his room mates and drifts into a quick and deep slumber. It is a well deserved sleep that engulfs him.

[More exposition here on Gabriella and Validar. The last three paragraphs are original, with the encounter with the sleeping Gabby added in the retcon.]

[Sherra]

Sherra:

"Of course, Sherra. I am actually from Elcadan, though I do not consider myself to be associated with that foul city. My mother's people are from a land far to the west known as Zakhara. I have been told that I bear much of her grandfather's appearance. He was a good and honorable warrior."

Sherra listens to Yusef and notes he shows no love for Elcadan, and then mentions a distant land called Zakhara. She thinks she remembers hearing that name on the lips of a few people from her past, but no great details. "So have you ever been to Zakhara?" she will ask Yusef, "From the way you talk about it, it sounds like you haven't."

[Acerion]

Acerion:

Validar will mention to Lord Acerion, "My understanding is that rooms are at a premium here in the Fortress as the moment. Lord Corley and I would welcome you to share our room with us."

"That would be most welcome indeed," Acerion replies. "Thank you for the offer."

"And how is Ivy recovering? I had but a moment to visit them once we arrived before the King's Audience."

"She seems to be doing well, considering what she had endured," Acerion reveals. "I did not get much time to speak with her due to the important gathering here. Hopefully there will be some time before we depart once more."

Lord Validar will commandeer an available messenger or servant of the Fortress and have them give word to all of the Guardians of the King's requested audience. He will then seek out Aria and arrange a time to discuss their plans of attack. Lord Corley and Lord Acerion will need to be there as well as anyone else who desires it.

Acerion is eager to be involved in all of the planning to come. It has been something he has had little experience with, having undergone many trials solo, but seeing Validar in action has prompted him to fill that gap in his experience and gain some wisdom from the endeavor.

By the time Acerion has any time after speaking further with Validar, as well as exchanging a few more words with some of the other lords after the meeting has broken up, it is quite late. Passing the room where Ivy is staying he sees no light, so he strides past not wishing to wake her. He passes some of the night watch and exchanges pleasant greetings with them and continues on. Eventually he finds himself out on the wall and alone in his thoughts. Ivy mentioned my father he thinks to himself but how could she have spoken to him, unless it was delusion. I can not imagine that, although she was very likely on her way to the afterlife. Intervention of some sort?

Knowing he's not going to get the answers he seeks this night, Acerion finally retires to his shared room. Validar is not present, but that is not surprising. Acerion thinks he hears the door open as he lays his head down, but he is sound asleep before he can distinguish Validar's form.

[Argent]

Argent:

Sherra listens to what Argent has to say about the manufacturing of scrolls. It seems like a lot of effort for something that will vanish once cast. Also too that she is not proficient enough yet to manufacture them is something of a surprise.

"I had no idea it was so difficult," Sherra replies. "I would hardly see the reason for doing such a task then if it takes so long and the benefits are so minimal, although I guess it would depend on the type of spells chosen. What would you need, or does it differ for each spell? It would be something I can keep an eye out for if I know."

“It’s not something that I would look forward to doing,” Argent agrees. “Ideally, one would prepare scrolls before departing on an adventure, not during one. Although, I think my own time would better spent with other activities than writing scrolls.”

“The difficulty in scroll writing stems from that it’s not the same as scribing a spell into my book, nor is it the same as casting the spell. Instead, it lies in between those two extremes. It's far more than just a scribed spell, but not as complex as casting it. That’s where the element of skill comes in and that concept is something I haven’t quite grasped yet. But my knowledge and skills are increasing at a rapid pace.”

"Well thank you," Sherra will say, smiling at Argent. "I'm not familiar with all those spells, but they indeed could come in valuable, especially if they are not frequently memorized even though you posses them in your books." Sherra will secure the scroll in her case.

“I forget that I have it half the time, so it might actually be useful now.”

"Argent!" she cries, truly delighted to see her fellow alumnus of Jallarzi. "It's so good to see you again. Sherwood brought us here because we've suddenly been diverted onto a new quest and he was called to meet with the new king. I'm fine, though we've had some very strange experiences. How are you?" Lilia handles the introductions for the gathering cluster of adventurers in the hallway, so Kylie leaves it at that.

“Ah, I understand,” Argent says. She should have realized that Sherwood would have been summoned and most likely he didn’t want to leave those with him wherever they were at. “I am well, all things considered. It seems that we’ve been engaged in battle for days now. I even ran out of spells at one point and was trying to use a shortbow. That’s an experience that I don’t wish to repeat!”

A beautiful women approaches dressed in fancy garb of that Lia has never seen. Approaching Argent Lia will comment, “Your dress is very beautiful! Never have I seen such a dress,” She forgets to introduce herself.

“Hello, Lia. This old thing?”, Argent says, indicating her dress. “Something that I picked up along the way. Thank you for your kind words, nonetheless.”

Not long thereafter, a beautiful and well-dressed woman appears. Clearly, she is known to both Kylie and Lilia. When introduced, Yusef smiles. "A pleasure to meet you, Argent. We have heard much about you from Kylie. I am Yusef ibn Nerita bint Falawi Al-Rashid, a follower of Celestian. As I understand it, you were trained by Sherwood's cousin, the same as Kylie?"

“Nice to meet you as well,” Argent says with a smile. “A Priest of Celestian, is it? I can’t say that I’ve encountered many of those before. Yes, Jallarzi trained Kylie and myself, as well as another sorceress named Kharyna. I was the middle of the group and Kylie the most recent graduate.”

Later on Chareos will ask Argent, “The items which we recovered have not yet been Identified. Perhaps we should take it upon ourselves to do so while the others are busy in their endeavors, then report our findings to Validar?”

“Agreed. While it appears that we’re going to be down for a few days, let us get all our spells ready for the next adventure. I’ll memorize several Stoneskins in addition to the Identifiies. After all, since Sherwood is no longer with us, we’ll have to take care of our own protections and those of the others as well. We’ll have to protect Ivy and Lyonessa too.”


Once all the greeting is done, Argent will retire to her room to examine the spell books. However, she is not alone in that desire.

When word reaches him of the twins' return Chareos will go down and look for them as well as the spell books they carry. When time permits Chareos will take the two books Argent has given him to unveil and begin attempting to learn any spells that might intrigue him to learn. When completed with those two he will return them to Argent saying, “This Opikus knew his magic; some of these spells I had never heard of before. Imagine binding two spells at once? It is unheard of!”

“This must be Alphatian Magic,” Argent notes. “I’ve heard stories from Kharyna on the matter, but I don’t believe even she is aware of just how powerful they are. Binding attack spells can be very potent. Just look at what Opikus did to Lord Corley. It appears that some combinations became so useful that they researched a single spell to carry it out. As in the Shocking Web and Shock Shield spells, for example. The Alphatians are true masters of magic.”

Some time later, Kylie encounters Argent and Chareos digging through a pile of books. It isn't hard to determine that they must be tomes of mystical knowledge and that they are transcribing spells into their own spellbooks. "Hi. Are those new spellbooks? Where did you get them?" she asks hesitantly. "I know I wasn't with you at the time they were collected, but do you think it would be alright for Lilia and I to have a look through them?"

“Evening Kylie. Aye that they are. We recently relieved them from a dying dragon who was impersonating a mage of some skill.” Her next question catches his ear as he notes the hesitancy within her voice and looks to Argent for a few moments then says, “I personally see no reason why you may not be able to look at them, though it is not my sole decision. These belong to all of the Guardians and it is all of their decision." Looking into her eyes, hopefully she sees he is serious though regretful. "Though you may look at my tome when I am done, as it is solely mine and not our parties' property."

Argent considers the matter for a few moments before speaking. “Come on in, friends. There are only so many books to go around, so we’ll have to make arrangements. Kylie is one of us and I would open the new spellbooks to her and Lilia.”

“Since our time might be short, here’s the best way to go about this.”

Rummaging through the pile of spellbooks, Argent picks several of them out.

“Okay, Kylie you take Opikus’ third level spell book, Lilia you get the second level one. Learn what you can and then at a later date you’ll have to share with each other to pick up those spells the other learned. That leaves the Opikus’ first level book and forth level book for myself and Chareos. Is this agreeable to all?

Eventually she's bound to find Argent and Chareos pouring over the new spell books. There will probably be others there as well. "Good morning," she says to anyone present, "Mind if I take a look through some of these books as well? It's been so long since I've given proper time to learning new spells."

“Lyonessa! You’re up so soon? Remarkable! Yes, you may certainly learn what you can from my spell books.”

Argent will fish out her personal first and second level spell books for Lyonessa to use.

In the morning, Argent will renew her Stoneskin and that of Lyonessa as well. Then she’ll help Chareos start to ID the magic items. She'll also use Cantrip to spruce up her appearance.

[Ivy]

Ivy:

"That would have been wonderful," Lyonessa says, "maybe he still will. If the new king has called for him he may not have wanted to rush it!"

“I have to wonder if I’m worthy of such a thing,” Ivy reveals. “I mean, he’s a nobleman and I’m not. I’m just an orphan who has no idea who her family even was.”

More familiar faces arrive to visit and it's nice for a time, but then Ivy starts to feel very tired and sleep soon comes.

She feels much more refreshed next morning and Olivia restores her to full health. After cleaning and dressing, Ivy departs to meet her friends and comrades.

[Corley]

Corley:

Lord Validar claps the warrior on the shoulder. "It is hard to say what her magic may have unleashed," Lord Validar says with a half-grin. "This is why I try to avoid having such cast upon myself. One can never be too sure what the result is, unless you are one of them. Still I am very pleased that you are well and recovered. It is our first Dragon slain for the Guardians."

“The first and a most formidable foe! I have no desire to face the likes of him again soon.”

"It seems that there is much to do. Lord Corley, could you request a series of plans for Fort Fletcher from the Castellan before retiring? We will need them tomorrow morning at the latest. It has been a long time since I saw those walls and the more information we have, the better. I want to secure the Fort as quickly and as simply as possible. Our actions are vital to the continued defense of the Kingdom."

“Aye, the thought had crossed my mind as well, but I hadn’t the opportunity to state it. I will do what I can, my friend.”


The meeting continues on for a time and eventually Lord Corley is excused, as they will discuss council business. After saying his farewells, Lord Corley travels back to the groups’ chambers to relax for the evening.

Once back among his comrades, Lord Corley will say hello and greet the new arrivals.

“Well met, my friends. I am Lord Corley.”

As per his nature, he will kiss the back of Lia & Nariya’s hand, but will refrain from Lady Lilia’s, knowing of her dislike for such things. He will however, kiss the back of Lady Kylie’s hand. The men, Yusef, Talen, and Rat, he will shake hands with.

“I am pleased that you are well, Lady Kylie. How fairs your quest?”

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

At some point during the meeting of Lords, Sherwood asks to be excused so that he, Jallarzi, and Sharadin can discuss matters in private.

He’ll relate to them his encounter with Nightmist and the revelation that James sired children with her and that James' grandchildren are with him now. He’ll also mention that he’s going to be traveling to the Sylvan Realm on this quest and if they have any ideas on a faster way to get there.


Later that evening, he’ll locate Kylie, Lilia, Lia, Talen, and Nariya so that he can speak with them.

“It appears that the Elves have requested my help in your quest. Cynalon has agreed in return for Elfin support in the defense of this area. Therefore, we are to travel to Alfheim as soon as possible. We’ll leave in the morning. I’ll teleport us in small groups again. The Elfholds wish this mission to remain private. Other than myself, no other non-elves will be permitted to come along.”

“Get some rest. Tomorrow is sure to be another busy day.”

It seems that some other elves have been brought into the fold during Sherwood’s absence.

“Master Sherwood, Lilia spoke to me of what has transpired among my people. I will not stand by and watch others go and while I wait. Whether you have me or not, I wish to accompany you.”

“You are welcomed to come along, Laucian. The only orders I have is that no non-elf apart from myself may accompany us, so it is no issue with me.”

Afterward Laucian speaks to Sherwood, “ I do not doubt time is of the essence, so I imagine that we will be teleported to the Elfholds leaving our mounts behind. I do not wish to see my horse left behind for he is very dear to me. I delivered him when he was but a calf and raised him since then, is there anyway I could take him to the Elfholds with us or a place that will treat him well?”

“I’m glad you brought this up beforehand. Yes, bring him along. I’ll take your mount as well. I’m sure you can find someone in Alfheim to care for him or take him back to your home.”

As the meeting breaks up, Sherwood will summon Lia and Talen to stay. “Come, I’ve got some people I’d like you to meet.”

Sherwood escorts the pair to a nearby chamber where four individuals are waiting. “This is our Uncle Sharadin, his daughters Sherry and Terry, and our cousin Jallarzi Salavarian. Welcome to the family.”

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

"Greetings, I am Lia Galandol. Thank you. Is this Fort always this chaotic?" Lia stares at Valena for a few moments as her name registers… “Feador? As in the clan?” spoken in Elvish.

“It is a time of crisis,” Valena answers. “Such things are to be expected.”

“Yes. I am of Clan Feador. In my clan, we all use our clan name as our last name. It is short for Valena of Clan Feador. Valena Feador. It is a tradition of my people.”

Laucian and Nariya quickly fall into conversation about their tattoos, which becomes strangely intimate. Kylie thinks she senses a mutual attraction there; it will be interesting to see how that plays out. However, rather than eavesdrop on their moment, Kylie turns to Valena. "A pleasure to meet you, Valena. I'm Kylie Lanthorn of Elcadan. I couldn't help noticing your clan name was Feador; I recently learned that my mother was also of Clan Feador. Would it be possible for us to talk together later?"

“Well met, Kylie Lanthorn of Elcadan. Of course we can speak. What did you wish to discuss?”

Soon they meet two elves, whose names are Laucian and Valena. Laucian is known to Kylie and Lilia, but apparently Valena is not. Lilia introduces them, so Yusef just says, "It is a pleasure to meet both of you." Laucian is soon caught up in conversation with Nariya, so Yusef turns to Valena. "So how long have you know Laucian?" he asks.

“Only a few days,” Valena answers. “I was already working for Corunglain when the tragedy took place.”

Keeping one ear on the conversation between the elf woman called Lilia and Laucian, Valena is shocked by what she hears. She can’t help but come over to them.

“Is this true,” she asks in elvish, astonishment in her voice. “Then I too wish to accompany you. I have been told stories about the Sylvan Land that might be useful in the quest. I am also a follower of the Lady of the Forests like Laucian here.”

[Aria Stonehand]

Aria:

"That is wondrous news indeed, lady Aria! I don't know this region well, but my understanding is that Fort Fletcher isn't terribly far away. I suspect we shall be there soon. And good thing, too, as I feel a yearning to begin our quest to regain the lands of our people.

“The Fort blocks the Khyr Pass to the northwest of Ardelphia, so it is not as close as you suspect. The humans say they can get us there quickly. Probably through arcane means, I’d wager. You’d think they’d not put so much trust in magic! Bah!”

"Have you heard when we may be departing? I have seen as much of this city as I really need to. Seeing Hammerfall will give my spirit a great boost, as I suspect it will you."

“We depart on the third morning and hopefully I can add some more recruits between now and then. It will be good to be in a proper dwarven city. In the meantime, I need some ale! I’ll be in the dining hall should I be needed.”

[Lilia]

Lilia:


The Elf Maiden is startled by the interaction between Laucian and Nariya. One of her eyebrows rises up in surprise and perhaps a tinge of jealousy.

Grondar trots forward to join Laucian, Valena and others in greeting the new arrivals. "Lilia! How wonderful to see you again," he says with a bow. Turning, he hoists Kylie into the air, knowing full well she's likely to throw a fit at the action. "Sprite! Couldn't bear being away from my charming and witty self, I see. Perhaps I can regale you with tales of all the rocks and stones I made friends with in your absence." His chuckle makes it clear that he's having a little fun with his diminutive friend.

“And you as well, noble dwarf.” Lilia is surprised by the interaction between Kylie and Grondar, but makes no comment of it.

Lia can’t help but stifle her laugh as a dwarf picks up Kylie like a child or loved one. Switching to Elvish Lia whispers to Lilia, “Were they together at sometime?” she asks innocently.

“We were companions on the quest Sherwood gathered us for, before we left to try and find your grandmother. I was not aware that they were such close friends.”

Lilia soon ushers Laucian to an Alcove and Laucian can‘t help but wonder if this is necessary though quickly realizes she means business when she begins speaking their native tongue. She begins to tell him of what transpired and Laucian stands in awe listening to every word. “I gave my word to Lord Validar to accompany him….” he adds but after a second he continues.” But my duty is to my people and to preserve our Lands. When do we leave?”

“I knew we could count on you,” Lilia sighs in relief. “I am not sure when we depart, but I imagine that it will be very soon. Be ready.”

“Is this true,” Valena asks in elvish, astonishment in her voice. “Then I too wish to accompany you. I have been told stories about the Sylvan Land that might be useful in the quest. I am also a follower of the Lady of the Forests like Laucian here.”

Lilia isn’t too surprised when the elf with Laucian comes over and offers to help. She claims to also be a follower of Ehlonna and given her clan name, might have some information that may help us once we reach the Sylvan Realm.

“Sherwood is our leader, so it is for him to decide. But as you are a full-blood elf, I do not believe that there will be any difficulty in your helping out, Valena.”


Later, Kylie tells Lilia about the new spell books the Guardians discovered. And so, they go together to meet with the human mages.

Argent considers the matter for a few moments before speaking. “Come on in, friends. There are only so many books to go around, so we’ll have to make arrangements. Kylie is one of us and I would open the new spellbooks to her and Lilia.”

“That is most kind of you, Argent. I am in your debt. Perhaps upon the completion of our quest, we will have uncovered new magicks to share with you in exchange.”

The notion of Kylie learning some of the spells and I others, and then later swapping between each other is a logical way to allow the sharing of so many spells in such a short time. The human Invoker is a very intelligent woman.

Lilia accepts the spell book given to her and begins to look through it for new magicks to learn. She’ll say hello to Lyonessa when the Songstress appears.

[Talen]

Talen:

Talen is in awe at the magic Sherwood has at his command. To travel so quickly between different places is incredible! Then comes the time for Talen and the others to go with Sherwood. Surprisingly, he commands his sword to transport them. Talen can’t help but notice the strange metal of the sword.

A heartbeat later, he finds himself in a human fortress surrounded by many other humans. Talen will be polite and spends much of the time just looking around. This is so much to take in so quickly. He unconsciously finds himself hanging near Lia and Lilia as strangers come forth and introduce themselves.

"Hello, I'm Sherra," she'll say simply, but will talk more with anyone who wishes to.

“Uhm, hello!” Talen manages to utter. He’s quite taken with the very lovely human with dark hair. It seems that there are numerous attractive females here! Perhaps the outside world isn’t so bad after all.

Spinning, Talen sees Kylie interacting with a dwarf. She’s picked up by the dwarf and calls him a miserable lump of dirt and fur. Talen has no idea just what to make of that! But it does seem that they are known to each other, so Talen just says nothing.

“Hello, Grondar,” Talen says when introduced.

Then another friend of Kylie comes forth. She’s a beautiful and fancily dressed human female. He hears that her name is Argent. “Wow…” is about all that Talen can manage to say when introduced. “Nice to Talen you, I’m meet,” Talen spurts out before becoming embarrassed by his fumbling of words.

As if that wasn’t bad enough, there’s another fair lady elf here too. He’ll just wave to Valena when introduced.

Later Sherwood gathers us to speak. He plans to leave in the morning for some placed called Alfheim. Talen isn’t sure what that is, but it matters not right now.

As the meeting breaks up, Sherwood will summon Lia and Talen to stay. “Come, I’ve got some people I’d like you to meet.”

Sherwood escorts the pair to a nearby chamber where four individuals are waiting. “This is our Uncle Sharadin, his daughters Sherry and Terry, and our cousin Jallarzi Salavarian. Welcome to the family.”

Talen’s jaw drops upon meeting his famous relatives. Uncle Sharadin doesn’t appear all that old, while the ladies are devastatingly lovely. His mouth feels very dry all of the sudden.

“Uhm, hi,” Talen mumbles. “Nice to meet you.”


Next morning, yet another woman is met. This one is a half-elf too!

“I am Lyonessa, songstress of Mystra. It is a pleasure to meet you," she will say to those she meets.

“Wow! You’re a half-elf too! I’m Talen. If I may ask, what is a Songstress?”

[Rat]

Rat:

Rat looks on with great amusement as Kylie deals with the dwarf. The lass always did make a strong impression on others.

"Oh, very well," Kylie says with a deep sigh, and then turns to her new companions. "This mangy flea-bitten wreck of a dwarf calls himself Grondar Foehammer. He claims to be a priest of their Revered Mother, but I cannot imagine that such an august deity as Berronar Truesilver would allow such a one as him to serve as her representative. He is a passable healer, however, and does know enough to stay out from underfoot most of the time," she adds in mock-seriousness.

“Oh, the goody-two shoes you mentioned before,” Rat says casually. Rising up to his full 3’4” size, he steps up to Grondar. “So, you’ve been taken care of me apprentice, have you dwarf?”

The Lady Teris shows them to their rooms. "It seems we will be rooming together, my fierce friend," Yusef says to Rat. "Which bed would you like?" He stows what little gear he carries and rejoins the other in the hallway. It seems they are going in search of Kylie and Lilia's friends from the Guardians of the Light, of which he has heard so much. Yusef decides to tag along, as he would like to meet some of them.

“Don’t matter to me,” Rat says. “This place is huge! I’m gonna go look around! Lots to explore and lots to find!”

Out in the hallway, Rat hears a gruff female voice something about getting an ale. “Now there’s a woman after me own heart!”

Rat will follow along, weaving his way around the legs of all these humans here as he goes. He soon finds himself in a dining hall. Even better!

“Well, my dinner was a bit on the light side. Might as well solve that problem.”

Rat will help himself to food and ale and finds himself sitting next to a heavily armored lady dwarf. She seems to be able to eat and drink as much as Rat does. This could be interesting…

[Chareos]

Chareos

“Agreed. While it appears that we’re going to be down for a few days, let us get all our spells ready for the next adventure. I’ll memorize several Stoneskins in addition to the Identifiies. After all, since Sherwood is no longer with us, we’ll have to take care of our own protections and those of the others as well. We’ll have to protect Ivy and Lyonessa too.”

“I did not think on that, though you are correct. Perhaps we should split the Stoneskin spells as well. I know that you may not want to think on this but if in the coming battle you run out of spells before me, and if you are able tell me, I can lend you my Ioun stone and the spells granted there within.”

“This must be Alphatian Magic,” Argent notes. “I’ve heard stories from Kharyna on the matter, but I don’t believe even she is aware of just how powerful they are. Binding attack spells can be very potent. Just look at what Opikus did to Lord Corley. It appears that some combinations became so useful that they researched a single spell to carry it out. As in the Shocking Web and Shock Shield spells, for example. The Alphatians are true masters of magic.”

Chareos merely nods in agreement. He silently hopes that they can obtain more of this magic in their travels.

Argent considers the matter for a few moments before speaking. “Come on in, friends. There are only so many books to go around, so we’ll have to make arrangements. Kylie is one of us and I would open the new spellbooks to her and Lilia.”

“Alas, I was never one to argue with a lady. My apologizes, Kylie. Please come join us.”

“Okay, Kylie you take Opikus’ third level spell book, Lilia you get the second level one. Learn what you can and then at a later date you’ll have to share with each other to pick up those spells the other learned. That leaves the Opikus’ first level book and forth level book for myself and Chareos. Is this agreeable to all?

“It is agreeable.”

Lyonessa wrote:
Eventually she's bound to find Argent and Chareos pouring over the new spell books. There will probably be others there as well. "Good morning," she says to anyone present, "Mind if I take a look through some of these books as well? It's been so long since I've given proper time to learning new spells."

“Lyonessa! You’re up so soon? Remarkable! Yes, you may certainly learn what you can from my spell books.”

“Good morning, How are you fairing?” Chareos can’t but be surprised that she is up and around so soon. By all means join us. You are welcome to look at my Tome as well, if you wish.”

Chareos will memorize another Stoneskin and cast it upon Ivy.

[Laucian]

Laucian

“You are welcomed to come along, Laucian. The only orders I have is that no non-elf apart from myself accompany us, so it is no issue with me.”
Laucian merely nods and goes and prepares himself for the journey.

“I’m glad you brought this up before hand. Yes, bring him along. I’ll take your mount as well. I’m sure you can find someone in Alfheim to care for him or take him back to your home.”

‘I thank you,” he say with a smile.

The Elf Maiden is startled by the interaction between Laucian and Nariya. One of her eyebrows rises up in surprise and perhaps a tinge of jealousy.

Laucian notes Lilia’s eyebrow raise but says nothing of it.

“Is this true,” she asks in elvish, astonishment in her voice. “Then I too wish to accompany you. I have been told stories about the Sylvan Land that might be useful in the quest. I am also a follower of the Lady of the Forests like Laucian here.”

Lilia isn’t too surprised when the elf with Laucian comes over and offers to help. She claims to also be a follower of Ehlonna and given her clan name, might have some information that may help us once we reach the Sylvan Realm.

“Sherwood is our leader, so it is for him to decide. But as you are a full blood elf, I do not believe that there will be any difficulty in your helping out, Valena.”

“If Valena is indeed in question, I will vouch for her to Sherwood,” he says while giving Valena a supportive look. “She battled with us to regain a gatehouse. Her skill with a bow would be of great use as well as her knowledge.”

“I knew we could count on you,” Lilia sighs in relief. “I am not sure when we depart, but I imagine that it will be very soon. Be ready.”

‘I must retrieve my armor and gather my gear. If you will excuse me.”

[Lia]

Lia

“Hello, Lia. This old thing?”, Argent says, indicating her dress. “Something that I picked up along the way. Thank you for your kind words, nonetheless.”

“Still it is quite elegant.” She says, “It is a pleasure to meet you Argent.”

“Well met, my friends. I am Lord Corley.”

As Lord Corley takes her hand Lia can’t help but wonder what the noble is doing. Then he kisses her hand. Lia not knowing of this custom thinks it is a usual greeting, so in turn kisses his hand in return. “It is a pleasure to meet you. I am Lia Galandol.”

As the meeting breaks up, Sherwood will summon Lia and Talen to stay. “Come, I’ve got some people I’d like you to meet.”

Sherwood escorts the pair to a nearby chamber where four individuals are waiting. “This is our Uncle Sharadin, his daughters Sherry and Terry, and our cousin Jallarzi Salavarian. Welcome to the family.”

Late in the evening A summons to Sherwood arrives. Stiffling a yawn Lia readies herself then heads to Sherwood. “Whom are we to meet?” she asks. Sherwood seems to want to surprise them. Lia soon follows Sherwood and Talen into another room where three women and a man wait patiently.

Lia looks on at the group of people. Oddly enough the man and two of the women look similar suggesting they are family of some sort. Lia can’t help but smile wide as she has waited for this moment ever since Sherwood spoke of them perhaps being family.

She will introduce herself to her family members, “I am Lia Galandol, a priestess of Eilistraee.” Walking forward to each she will greet them with a hug, if they allow her. "It is a pleasure to meet all of you, Sherwood has spoken fondly of you,” she quickly adds.

[Lyonessa]

Lyonessa:

that night:

“I have to wonder if I’m worthy of such a thing,” Ivy reveals. “I mean, he’s a nobleman and I’m not. I’m just an orphan who has no idea who her family even was.”

"Maybe your parents were nobles then, or influencial people of a different sort," Lyonessa suggests. "Since you have no idea, there is no way of knowing."

He smiles back as her smile is quite contagious. “ I would be happy to. Though I would not have to tell you the tale if you were to come with us,” he says somewhat bashfully. “You could play your Ballads within the Elfholds. Your music would be gladly welcomed and cherished there.”

"I would love to, more than anything, but I still need to find my sister," Lyonessa answers. "I do not think her path took her to the Elfholds. Besides I fear until your quest is over there may little time for the enjoyment of ballads. We can go when the time is right," she'll say, smiling.

Before he departs a thought comes to him and a smile soon after. Removing his necklace of beads and polished stone from his neck he looks to Lyonessa and says, “I wish you to have this. It once was given to my mother by someone dear to her; Now it is time to be passed to one who is dear to me."

"I will come back to you and tell you of all that has happened in our quest and look forward to hearing yours in return. When we next meet perhaps we could spend more time together?” he asks somewhat forwardly.

"It's beautiful Laucian," Lyonessa says, "Thank you. Of course we can spend more time together. I would love nothing more."

As he goes to leave Laucian will bend down and give Lyonessa a hug as well as a kiss on her cheek. He soon promises her as he removes a strand of hair from her face, “I will see you again, I promise.” Giving her hand a gentle squeeze he hesitantly lets go of her hand and turns to leave…

She squeezes his hand in return, "You better." It makes it even harder to hold her tears until after he leaves.

following morning:

“Wow! You’re a half-elf too! I’m Talen. If I may ask, what is a Songstress?”

She smiles at Talen, "Yes I am. I am a songstress of the goddess Mystra. I'm a bard as well as a priestess. My spells are cast by singing."

“Lyonessa! You’re up so soon? Remarkable! Yes, you may certainly learn what you can from my spell books.”

Argent will fish out her personal first and second level spell books for Lyonessa to use.

“Good morning, How are you fairing?” Chareos can’t but be surprised that she is up and around so soon. By all means join us. You are welcome to look at my Tome as well, if you wish.”

"Thank you both," Lyonessa smiles warmly to both of them, although if either pays any close attention they will see what appears to be a hint of pain on her face. "Yes, the priestess Olivia is very skilled in her craft of healing."

Upon the offering of both books, Lyonessa is almost overwhelmed, "Thank you both again," she will say. She will make the best use of the day in learning many of these spells. The wording on some is slightly different from what she was first taught, but she sees the similarities and feels confident that she can make use of nearly everything.

[Validar]

Lord Validar

Lord Acerion:
Validar will mention to Lord Acerion, "My understanding is that rooms are at a premium here in the Fortress as the moment. Lord Corley and I would welcome you to share our room with us."

"That would be most welcome indeed," Acerion replies. "Thank you for the offer."

"Do not mention it," Validar will say simply.

And how is Ivy recovering? I had but a moment to visit them once we arrived before the King's Audience."

"She seems to be doing well, considering what she had endured," Acerion reveals. "I did not get much time to speak with her due to the important gathering here. Hopefully there will be some time before we depart once more."

"Our time will be short, but I trust that both Ivy and Lyonessa will be recovered enough to join us on our mission to Fort Fletcher. The healers of Azrella are quite adept at their task, I have seen."

"Meanwhile, we shall be quite busy with plans and preparations, but I am certain that not every waking moment will be filled. We all deserve a little bit of a break after this last series of battles."

Acerion is eager to be involved in all of the planning to come. It has been something he has had little experience with, having undergone many trials solo, but seeing Validar in action has prompted him to fill that gap in his experience and gain some wisdom from the endeavor.

Lord Validar will welcome as much input and assistance in planning this mission as possible. It will also be a good learning experience for Acerion and Corley and whoever else joins in the battle plans.

Lord Corley:
Lord Validar claps the warrior on the shoulder. "It is hard to say what her magic may have unleashed," Lord Validar says with a half-grin. "This is why I try to avoid having such cast upon myself. One can never be too sure what the result is, unless you are one of them. Still I am very pleased that you are well and recovered. It is our first Dragon slain for the Guardians."

“The first and a most formidable foe! I have no desire to face the likes of him again soon.”

"Now, where is that bravado that I know so well? Surely another dragon encounter would be glorious indeed. In truth, despite the fact that this dragon was older and much more dangerous, this battle went far easier than the green dragon that the Seekers killed when I was with them. We have a powerful group in the Guardians. I am sure that we will accomplish much good for the Kingdom."


"It seems that there is much to do. Lord Corley, could you request a series of plans for Fort Fletcher from the Castellan before retiring? We will need them tomorrow morning at the latest. It has been a long time since I saw those walls and the more information we have, the better. I want to secure the Fort as quickly and as simply as possible. Our actions are vital to the continued defense of the Kingdom."

“Aye, the thought had crossed my mind as well, but I hadn’t the opportunity to state it. I will do what I can, my friend.”

"Very good. I will make arrangements to meet with Aria Stonehand in the morning after the King's audience with the rest of the Seekers. I would like you to attend the planning sessions."


Aria:
Although it is late when the Meeting breaks up, Lord Validar finds Aria in the dining room still.

"Hello again, Aria Stonehand. It appears we will continue to be working together in the combined liberation of the areas, both human and dwarf, to the west of here. I am pleased that we will be continuing to work together and King Victor has indicated that we are to assist you in planning your attacks on the dwarven settlement near Fort Fletcher."

"I would like to meet in the morning. The King wishes an audience with all of the Guardians in the morning and we can discuss our plans once those festivities have been completed."

Lord Validar will order some food and eat heartily despite it being so late. He always has had a cast-iron stomach when it comes to food, although he generally avoids much in the way of strong alcoholic drink.

Validar will welcome anyone else who happens to be here that he already knows as well.

The next morning:

In the morning, Validar will awaken early, if not overly so, as his body does require some recuperation after the strenuous activities of the previous days' battles. He will send out a messenger to locate Lady Gabriella in the morning, to have her accompany him to the morning meal.

Before long Gabriella arrives outside the dining hall and the messenger informs Lord Validar that she is waiting outside. He wonders why she did not come in directly and heads out to meet her. A smile immediately forms on his face when he sees her lovely visage there and she quickly reciprocates. She was adorned fancily in a flowing, ankle-length green gown, made of silken brocade, with intricate embroidery and embellishments along the neckline, sleeves, and hem. The sleeves were flared and there was an oval cut-out in the center of her chest. An offset slit rose up the front of her left leg to just past her knee and exposed her legs and fancy sandals. Adorned head to toe as always in her gold jewelry, the woman had a shimmering opulence about her. Gabriella's striking almond-shaped eyes were accentuated by kohl eyeliner, and her raven-colored curly hair was well styled. To his surprise, she then curtseys to him, before he can reach her.

Validar stops and a look of confusion comes over his face but he bows in return, then looks around wondering what affair is happening of which he was unaware. “Am I missing something, my dear?” he then asked, still somewhat puzzled. Nearby there are two females accompanying his lady and they both bow deeply as well to Lord Validar.

“Oh, Validar,” she bemoaned. “Will we always have to submit to such formal proceedings?” With a heavy sigh and a somewhat forlorn look, Gabriella casts her eyes downward.

“Certainly not,” comes the quick response. “There is nothing formal about us sharing breakfast this morning anyway, my dear,” he says, still unsure of what is troubling his lady, but taking a few steps closer.

She looks up again, mouth dropping open slightly with realization etched on her beautiful features. Her eyes suddenly look bright and full of happiness. In one motion, she rushes forward and throws her arms about Validar’s neck. He envelops her into his chest, and she melts into his warm embrace. They separate and share a quick kiss. “Now that is a much preferable greeting to bows,” Validar says with a chuckle.

“I’m sorry, my lord,” she says as they walk arm in arm to the dining hall, and dismisses her guards. “When you sent a messenger for me to join you, I thought maybe this was some formal gathering that you wanted me to attend. As I told you before, my mother is not a Cynalonian lady and so my understanding of the noble’s world is rather lacking. I did not want to be unprepared." She hesitated for a moment. "I am so hoping that our life would not be all pomp and circumstance.”

“Ah, the noble’s world,” Validar says, a hint of sarcasm in his voice. “Do not worry yourself overly with the ‘noble’s world’, dearest. Certainly there are times when we must bow appropriately and hold our chins just so and hold our hands together at just the right height. But those are rare indeed.” She looked up at him hopefully. "And I promise in the future that if there is some important details you need to know, that I will share them and not leave you guessing. I did not stop to think that this might become an issue." Gabriella nodded slightly and mouthed the words 'thank you' as the corners of her mouth turned upward in appreciation. The soft relaxed smile reached all the way into her eyes.

“And we do not HAVE to follow the protocols of lordly courtship. If you wish to rush into my arms at my arrival, then you should not let anything or anyone stop you. Formalities be damned!. And if I wish to lift you in my arms and carry you into this dining hall and make a grand entrance, then I shall!” To make his point he indeed hoists her up and strides purposefully into the dining hall. Many there turn to look and a buzz of conversation immediately rises.

“Validar!” Gabriella exclaims, her eyes widening at the surprising gesture. She covers her eyes with a hand for a moment, then succumbs to the slightly embarrassing situation. She wraps her arms around his neck and smiles sweetly at the many onlookers. “We will be scandalous at court,” she says in a hushed tone.

“Then let us be scandalous,” Validar says with a chuckle. He sets her down and then taking her hand, leads her to sit with him and share the morning meal. Many eyes seem to fall upon them and hushed conversations continue around the pair.

“People are talking about us,” Gabriella murmurs, leaning in to Validar’s shoulder, in between bites of food.

“Yes, they are saying what a lucky man he is to be in the company of such a beautiful and wonderful woman,” he responds, leaning his head in toward hers with a smile.

She hesitates for a moment, her concern interrupted by the compliment. “That’s very sweet,” she says, following a small sigh. After a moment, she adds, “Does it seem odd to always be the center of attention or are you just used to it by now?”

“To be honest, I try not to think on it. I realize that what I and the Guardians do often appears in the public eye. Often it is larger than life. So it gives inspiration to people who need it. But I do not seek out the attention. I do not need others to feed my ego.” He laughs for a moment before proceeding. “Some would say it is far too large already!” he adds with a chuckle. “Does the attention bother you, sweetheart?”

“I am not sure. I am just starting to experience it on a more constant basis, I suppose. I mean, as a Court Lady I am welcome in the nobility’s social circles. But while my family name is known, I personally am certainly not.” She paused for a moment to take a sip of her drink and consider her words. “Suddenly, almost overnight I seem to have become the talk of the town here, amongst the common folk at least.”

“Oh really? How do you mean?” Validar questioned, intrigue showing on his face.

“I don’t know which story is getting around faster," she says with a smile growing on her face. "Between your quite boisterous greeting to me yesterday, or the sending a formal messenger to me with accompaniment.“

“That just happened yesterday and this very morning,” Validar says quizzically.

“Gossip travels fast,” she says sheepishly. “The women last night quizzed me endlessly about how I knew you and about our relationship. Most of the people I deal with know my family, but they think of me only as a businesswoman. Same for all the volunteers in our project here. Now suddenly I am the darling of one of the great heroes of The Siege of Corunglain. People I do not know are now smiling at me in the halls and waving. And the questions?!” Gabriella fidgeted with curls in her hair while she talked. Then she forcefully breathed out and placed both hands on the table for a moment, before picking up her fork to eat again. Validar just smiled, not sure just what to say, but wanting to show support for her concerns. The best thing he could do now was to just listen. Turning to more directly face her, he leaned in slightly, placing his hand gently on his partner's upper back as she continued to explain her consternation.

“And then there’s the story going around by the children about the heroic angel who magically appeared in their room last night.” She lightly elbowed him, indicating she was referring to his visit. “You’ll be pleased to know that little Annalee was quite fastidious in making sure that everyone received their own gold coin this morning.” Validar could only smile at the thought and nod understandingly.

“She wanted to give me a gold coin too, because she saw the angel tuck me in, just like her momma did to her and knew that the angel loved me too. A sweet young girl who will sadly grow up without her father. Now they all want to know when the hero will return.”

“Well, I was wearing my white military uniform,” Validar explains. “And I was well into the room, when the child awoke. Children have such marvelous imaginations."

“And the story changed, as children are wont to do; they now all believe that I am married to a magical angel who saved the city. Some of them even started calling me Lady Angel,” she said with some small consternation.

“There are worse things to be called,” he responded trying to make light of the situation. Before they could continue much further, a dark-haired bronze-skinned man was looking for an audience with Lord Validar. Bidding the man to sit, Validar leaned over and whispered to his lady, “See, not everyone is fawning over YOU.” She elbowed him again and flashed her eyes at him, trying hard to suppress a grin at his jest.

[As mentioned in the retcon story, somehow Validar was brain dead enough that he didn't ask Gabby to join him for breakfast. He hadn't seen her in a month! Clearer heads prevail in the rewrite.]

[Kylie]

Kylie:

As the conversations swirl about her, Kylie notes that Sherra is showing Yusef more than her typical amount of interest. Could she be interested in the Tiefling?

“Good afternoon Kylie. It is good to see you well. I am well though I am somewhat tired from these past few days. It will be good to get some rest before we head out again.” Sadly this is not to be as Laucian is told of the crisis within the Elfin world.

“That is good to hear,” Kylie says with a nod. “And I could use some rest as well, though it sounds like our group may not get as much as you.”

“Ah, I understand,” Argent says. She should have realized that Sherwood would have been summoned and most likely he didn’t want to leave those with him wherever they were at. “I am well, all things considered. It seems that we’ve been engaged in battle for days now. I even ran out of spells at one point and was trying to use a shortbow. That’s an experience that I don’t wish to repeat!”

Kylie smiles. “I know what you mean. I have found that my skill with a bow has been of great use to me as a supplement to my magic. I would encourage you to improve your skill with at least one weapon as a backup for such situations.”

“And you,” Chareos can’t help to notice her tone and mannerisms seem to have aged. “As well as can be expected, my friend. These past few days have been a trial to both skill and endurance,” he says with a smile.

Chareos listens intently on Kylie’s explanation of their mission and how it has changed. Still she is concerned over the unfinished quest in which they embarked on. “I am sure your worries will be put at ease. I doubt Master Sherwood would leave our new King in the dark on such an issue.”

“Thank you, Chareos,” Kylie replies. “I can only hope that you are right. It is an important issue that needs to be resolved.”

"Oh, very well," Grondar says, sounding vaguely disappointed as he lowers her gently to the ground. "Of course not, young Sprite, after all, I am a dwarf."

Something about this new nickname that Grondar seems to have given her bugs Kylie, and at the same time she kind of likes it. Could it be that it fits her too well?

“Oh, the goody-two shoes you mentioned before,” Rat says casually.

“The very one,” is all Kylie says, smirking.

She soon recites some of her teachings to the dwarf:
“Be always kind, except in battle with evil. Encourage happiness everywhere. Learn and teach new songs, dances, and the flowing dance of skilled swordwork. Promote harmony between the races. Befriend strangers, shelter those without homes, and feed the hungry. Repay rudeness with kindness. Repay violence with swift violence so that those who cause it are quickly dealt with. Aid those drow in distress and give them the Lady’s message: "A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace and live beneath the sun again where trees and flowers grow. These are some of the many teachings of Eilistraee.”

Lia begins to rattle on about the teachings of the deity she claims to serve. Kylie rolls her eyes, but says nothing.

As per his nature, he will kiss the back of Lia & Nariya’s hand, but will refrain from Lady Lilia’s, knowing of her dislike for such things. He will however, kiss the back of Lady Kylie’s hand. The men, Yusef, Talen, and Rat, he will shake hands with.

“I am pleased that you are well, Lady Kylie. How fairs your quest?”

The very sight of the large warrior makes Kylie suddenly anxious and uncertain, though she does her best not to show it. Knowing his prediliction for doing so, she allows him to kiss her hand. “Thank you, Lord Corley. It is good to see you once again. I’m very glad that you survived the battle here; I heard you were sorely wounded but I see that you have recovered.

“We made some progress, locating and speaking with Nightmist. She gave us valuable information on where to continue the search. However, a more urgent need was presented to us, and we have had to set that quest aside for now. Hopefully others will follow it up, or we can return to it when we have finished our new mission.” Kylie tries not to seem cold to the warrior, but at the same time doesn’t want to become too vulnerable with him. Despite all of that, Lia kissing Corley’s hand in return brings a snort of amusement from Kylie.

“It appears that the Elves have requested my help in your quest. Cynalon has agreed in return for Elfin support in the defense of this area. Therefore, we are to travel to Alfheim as soon as possible. We’ll leave in the morning. I’ll teleport us in small groups again. The Elfholds wish this mission to remain private. Other than myself, no other non-elves will be permitted to come along.”

“Get some rest. Tomorrow is sure to be another busy day.”

Kylie listens as Sherwood relates the current status of their mission. It appears not to have changed markedly, and the teleportation is becoming almost their standard method of transportation. “I will be ready. There was some mention by some of the others of a meeting with the new king; does that include us, or will we be leaving before then?”

“Evening Kylie. Aye that they are. We recently relieved them from a dying dragon who was impersonating a mage of some skill.” Her next question catches his ear as he notes the hesitancy within her voice and looks to Argent for a few moments then says, “I personally see no reason why you may not be able to look at them, though it is not my sole decision. These belong to all of the Guardians and it is all of their decision." Looking into her eyes, hopefully she sees he is serious though regretful. "Though you may look at my tome when I am done, as it is soley mine and not our parties' property."

“I understand, Chareos, and respect your position on it. Hopefully we can ask some of the others before we have to leave in the morning.” Kylie’s tone reflects a small bit of her disappointment.

Argent considers the matter for a few moments before speaking. “Come on in, friends. There are only so many books to go around, so we’ll have to make arrangements. Kylie is one of us and I would open the new spellbooks to her and Lilia.”

“Since our time might be short, here’s the best way to go about this.”

Rummaging through the pile of spellbooks, Argent picks several of them out.

“Okay, Kylie you take Opikus’ third level spell book, Lilia you get the second level one. Learn what you can and then at a later date you’ll have to share with each other to pick up those spells the other learned. That leaves the Opikus’ first level book and forth level book for myself and Chareos. Is this agreeable to all?

Kylie brightens at Argent’s words. “Thank you, Argent. This is an excellent idea, and I appreciate your generosity. Since Lilia and I don’t require as much sleep as you humans, could we study the other two books after you go to bed?” As soon as she receives an answer one way or the other, Kylie will dive into the book offered to her.

“Alas, I was never one to argue with a lady. My apologizes, Kylie. Please come join us.”

“No offense taken, my friend. It was a reasonable stance to take, and I knew that my request was somewhat extraordinary.”

“You are welcomed to come along, Laucian. The only orders I have is that no non-elf apart from myself may accompany us, so it is no issue with me.”

“Is this true,” she asks in elvish, astonishment in her voice. “Then I too wish to accompany you. I have been told stories about the Sylvan Land that might be useful in the quest. I am also a follower of the Lady of the Forests like Laucian here.”

This news cheers Kylie. “It is good to hear that you will both be joining us. I believe that we will all be pushed to our limits and beyond before this is over. I am also looking forward to catching up on the tales of all that has happened with you since we separated.”

[Yusef]

Yusef:

"Thank you," Grondar says, as he bows to the newcomers. "I'm honored to meet you all. And how long have you all had the pleasure of the Sprite's company?"

Yusef smiles. “As I understand it, I met them only a day or two after they seperated from the rest of you Guardians. You and Kylie were both among those originally drafted by Sherwood, yes?”

Yusef's comment brings a deep-chested chuckle from the sturdy dwarf. "I have no doubt of that, young man. Truly, your name is a mouthful, so I think I will stick with Yusef, as you say. Celestian is a noble and honorable deity, from what I've been told. Well met. And yes, I would be happy to discuss religious matters with you as time allows. Do you know where you're headed next?"

“That would be great,” Yusef says happily, then sobers. “Unfortunately, no. I don’t believe that I will be allowed to accompany Kylie and the other elves on their quest. This leaves me at something of a crossroads, as I must seek out a new path. I was thinking of asking Lord Validar for permission to join the Guardians. Do you think he would allow that?”

Sherra listens to Yusef and notes he shows no love for Elcadan, and then mentions a distant land called Zakhara. She thinks she remembers hearing that name on the lips of a few people from her past, but no great details. "So have you ever been to Zakhara?" she will ask Yusef, "From the way you talk about it, it sounds like you haven't."

“I must admit that I have not, fair lady. Though it is my hope to do so, once I have found some way to free my mother from my father and his family.”

“Nice to meet you as well,” Argent says with a smile. “A Priest of Celestian, is it? I can’t say that I’ve encountered many of those before. Yes, Jallarzi trained Kylie and myself, as well as another sorceress named Kharyna. I was the middle of the group and Kylie the most recent graduate.”

“I am not really surprised,” Yusef says with a smile. “Ours is not the most numerous order, and many of us travel to many distant places, so there are usually few in any one area.

Yusef shakes Corley’s hand when the large warrior arrives. “It is good to meet you. Kylie has spoken well of you.”

“Only a few days,” Valena answers. “I was already working for Corunglain when the tragedy took place.”

“Ahh… So you were here at the time of the initial attack on the city? That must have been a very dark time indeed.”

Yusef will get a good night's sleep before rising early the next morning. His first stop is the mess hall, where he will eat a nutritious yet moderate meal. Then he will go in search of the one known as Lord Validar.

"Excuse me, Lord Validar? I am Yusef ibn Nerita bint Falawi Al-Rashid, warrior-priest of Celestian, and have just returned from accompanying Sherwood, Kylie and Lilia on their quest in search of the Cult of the Blackflame. However, they have been diverted onto another quest - one that I cannot join them on as I have no elven blood. Thus, I seek a new path. Would you consider allowing me to travel with your group, known as the Guardians of the Light? I believe that you will find my skills to be helpful to you."

[Validar]

Lord Validar -

Lord Validar is feeling much better this morning, the exhaustion from their previous days' battles having completely left his frame, despite the short night's rest. Plus he has his lady by his side for at least a short while this morning. While the pace is slower today, there is still much to accomplish and many meetings to resolve.

Yusef will get a good night's sleep before rising early the next morning. His first stop is the mess hall, where he will eat a nutritious yet moderate meal. Then he will go in search of the one known as Lord Validar.

Yusef does not have to venture far as Lord Validar is eating this morning as well. When he hears a servant questioned as to where he could be found, Validar makes his presence known to the obvious foreigner.

"I am Lord Validar, son of the Baron of Pyris," he will say from his seat not far away. He rises politely, remaining in place. "What can I do for you?"

"Excuse me, Lord Validar? I am Yusef ibn Nerita bint Falawi Al-Rashid, warrior-priest of Celestian, and have just returned from accompanying Sherwood, Kylie and Lilia on their quest in search of the Cult of the Blackflame. However, they have been diverted onto another quest - one that I cannot join them on as I have no elven blood. Thus, I seek a new path. Would you consider allowing me to travel with your group, known as the Guardians of the Light? I believe that you will find my skills to be helpful to you."

Validar motions to the newcomer to sit, while he retakes his seat again. "I have heard about some sort of ElfQuest that Sherwood and some others have been charged with. Those three that you mention were part of our group, before splitting off in search of the Cult of Blackflame. It is an important task to be certain."

"A warrior priest, you say? That would be advantageous certainly. While Lord Sherwood and I have rather different opinions on things, he has shown a knack for identifying good potential allies."

"We are about to embark on a difficult campaign. We have been charged by our King to retake Fort Fletcher to the northwest of here. It was overrun by humanoids and is currently infested by undead. Warrior-priests would find much opportunity to practice their craft in this situation. We are to hold the fort and then move on to liberate Ardelphia and the rest of Stone Ridge, while also assisting the dwarfs in the reclamation of their fortifications and settlements that fell to the evil horde of invaders."

"Once we succeed in those missions, we will presumably be back on the trail of the Cult of the Blackflame. Provided something else doesn't come up to draw our attention. We are in a precarious situation in this Kingdom and especially here in the western Outer Lands," Lord Validar says between some final bites of his breakfast. "There is much danger, but also much opportunity for adventure and glory and many chances to combat the tide of evil."

"If you are interested in such a campaign, then I see no reason why you cannot join us in our mission."

Validar looks over the man, as he speaks. Finally he says, "You appear to be Zakharan, are you not? We receive the occasional trade caravan in Pyris from that land. I understand that Celestian is often favored by wanderers, which would explain you being in Cynalon. So what is the rest of your story, Yusef ibn Nerita bint Falawi Al-Rashid?"

(Here we add from G&V2)

After the discussion with Yusef about joining the Guardians and stories about his past and background, Validar and Gabriella have finished their morning meal and are now in the halls of the Duke’s Gatehouse. He specifically takes her hand, instead of offering her his arm, which would be the courtly thing to do. She acknowledges the intent, squeezing his hand tightly, and leans in taking his upper arm in her other hand.

“I apologize for the jesting back there, my dearest,” Validar finally admits. “But I wanted to try and raise your spirits. You seemed so despondent and sad.”

“The apology is mine, darling. It was certainly nothing about you… or us. I suppose the terrors of the battle and especially the aftermath weighed heavily on my emotions. It was terrible, frightening. But I couldn’t just stand by. While there was nothing I could do during the fighting, once the snow came and the enemy retreated, I heard about the terrible casualties and the refugees sequestered in the Gatehouses. I am told that was a magnificent plan that you and your team enacted for their safety, by the way.”

“We needed a place to protect them and a point from which to counterattack. It served both purposes,” Validar explains.

“And with a newborn babe, even,” Gabriella nods admiringly.

“We do what we must.” Validar shrugged. Thinking back, it was an epic battle if told as a story. He wondered how Lyonessa might spin a lofty tale with such an event as inspiration. His only thought at the time however was to save as many lives as possible and drive out the enemy.

“I was in the Duke’s Gatehouse and saw the issues that people were facing: lack of clothes, food, separation or loss of their family members, children without parents. I started working to organize the collection of supplies and enough food. We began with the excess we had in the caravan.”

“You started this entire project on your own volition?” Validar says, his eyes widening at the revelation and a smile of admiration filling his face. “You are to be commended, praised and…” he tried to think of another word, “…highly approbated even!” That made her laugh. To Validar this was one of his favorite sounds.

But she turned serious again. “I also simply did what I could. And it wasn’t just myself of course. One of the Sisters of Azrella soon joined the volunteers. Her name is Faith. She then took over the organization there with other priestesses of their faith and allowed me to duplicate the process at another location. Eventually we had volunteers at each, able to exchange information with runners and get family members reconnected quickly. For those that needed anything we could put together an efficient system to try and meet those needs. There was so much work to do,” she looks away, as the memories rush in. “And the children who have lost everything are the most difficult to deal with emotionally. We must take all their fears and worries into ourselves as we try to assuage them. It is tiring and emotionally draining and we cannot show any of it in front of them." Her eyes burned with a fierce determination that reflected the amount of effort and emotion she had put into helping so many unfortunate people.

"And they need that encouragement or even just a kind face to sit with them. That’s why I slept there last night. I waited until every one of those dear children finally dozed off. I’m sorry that I was unable to wait for you to arrive, but I simply couldn’t keep my eyes open any longer.”

Validar thought he knew this woman well enough already. In their time together in Gateway, he knew she was intelligent, pleasant, kind, warm-hearted, funny and so much more. The selflessness she exhibited here placed her in an even more otherworldly light. Silent, he stopped and turned to her and slowly pulled her bodily into an embrace. She happily accepted. He held her tightly for a time. It continued long enough that an onlooker might think their bodies had become one. It lasted long enough they could feel each other's heartbeats. This was not a flirty hug or even truly a romantic hug. This hug whispered ever so softly, “I love you.”

When they finally stepped apart, Gabriella had to choke back emotions and a tear started form in the corner of her right eye. She carefully wiped it away with a smile, careful not to smudge her eye makeup.

Validar beamed like a schoolboy looking at his first crush. When he finally spoke, his voice was barely above a whisper and filled with wonder and admiration and respect. “You are amazing.”

She dabbed at another tear, her eyes glistening, and quickly waved her hands in front of her face, trying desperately to stave off further welling up. Gabriella attempted to maintain a composed smile, her lips slightly trembling as she quickly blinked, the corners of her eyes crinkling with the effort to suppress the overwhelming wave of joy bubbling up inside her; her breath catches in her throat, but she forces a laugh, her voice slightly shaky, as if desperately trying to redirect the emotion before it spills over.

“That was nice,” she finally manages, her voice almost cracking on the last word. And they both laugh heartily at the humor of her understatement. Continuing their walk, the pair are silent for a few long moments, the enormity of their shared emotions lingering like a welcome guest.

“I should get back to my work,” Gabriella grudgingly asserts. “And you said you had a meeting about the dwarves attack still coming this morning,” she reminds him. "Duty calls unfortunately."

“Yes, thank you, I did not forget,” Validar agrees. “Even though I feel as though I was just hit by a bolt of lightning.” That made her smile. “Very well, I will be happy to walk you to your office.”

She smiles again. To be honest, she had been smiling continuously since that powerful emotion-drenched hug. “Thanks, my darling. I do need to change out of these clothes and help finish up the remaining work. Another day or so and we should have accomplished all that must needs done,” she adds hopefully.

“Ah, that might be a problem, my sweet.” A quizzical look formed on her face and her brow furrowed at the puzzling statement. He continued on. “Remember I promised to let you know about important details in advance so that you could be prepared?”

“Yes?” came the hesitant reply.

“After my meeting with Aria about the dwarven attacks, you and I are going to meet the new King." This revelation caused her jaw to go slack with surprise. "Well, not JUST you and I,” he quickly adds. “The King wants to meet the Guardians of the Light.”

“Truly?! An audience with the King? How wonderfully intimidating,” she responds only half-jokingly. “But I am not a part of the Guardians.” Her face shows some concern at this developing situation.

“True. But you, Gabriella, are an equal part of you and I. And WE are going to meet with the King.”

After seeing Gabby off and at some point in the many events of the day, Validar will hunt down Lord Sherwood and ask him some questions.

"Sherwood. I understand that your group is leaving soon on this ElfQuest of yours. I wanted to find out what the leads that you located regarding the Cult of the Blackflame were specifically," Validar states. "If all goes well on our mission, at some point I would like to take up this search again, unless you are able to do so sooner."

"It would be unfortunate and inefficient to not have this information available in the case that someone is able to further follow up. The Cult of the Blackflame is a dire threat to Cynalon."

[GM Mad]

Post Closed