Elfquest #28

[GM Mad]

Elfquest #28

Griffon Stables:

While Laucian and Talen settle in for the evening, Valena stands guard and converses with the Griffons. Ehlonna’s gift to Valena is the ability to understand animals and the exceptional creatures of the forests. The griffons here were specially bred and can comprehend elvish. These griffons will not harm other good creatures of the forest, so they will not bother the centaurs or unicorns.

The night passes without incident and the trio is off come the next morning. Their destination is the Sacred Grove where Laucian met the Unicorn when you first arrived in the Sylvan Realm. Laucian estimates that it’ll take about half a day to reach, so you might make it back to the griffon stable before you have to rest.

A path from the large clearing leads north to where you first arrived and discovered the crystal platform. The location in question was south of the crystal platform, so you’ll come across it sooner.

The elves keep a good pace as they follow the path. Travel is easy and good time is made. Near afternoon Laucian and Valena begin to notice sigil’s indicating that the Sacred Grove is near. The way leads deeper into the forest. Valena and Laucian have no trouble moving through the denser forest, but Talen isn’t having an easy time. Finally, he just agrees to wait here for your return.

Not long after that, the Followers of Ehlonna enter into the Sacred Grove. It is a lovely clearing in the forest with thick grass and sunlight. A brook flows through the clearing and there are numerous fruit bearing trees here. Near the center of the clearing Laucian sees the majestic unicorn he met earlier. He’s a large white stallion with a long ivory horn emerging from his forehead. Males are easy to distinguish by the white beard under their chin.

But the unicorn is not alone! Standing with him are two smaller unicorns! The larger of the two is a female, as she lacks the white beard and is slimmer. The smaller is also female, but only the size of a pony.

“Welcome Children of the Forest,” the male unicorn states. “How goes your quest to restore the Mother Tree?”

[GM Mad]

Centaurs:

Nariya leads the way through the elfin forest towards the Centaur Village. The way is slow going, as there is no natural path to follow. Instead you are led forward by Nariya’s trailblazing skills. The previous night passed without incident and you’re up early on moving again.

Lia will walk in the middle of the group; the cooshee’s seem to walk near her. “One of these days I should name you.” She says to the cooshee’s, wondering what she would call them to begin with. After a time of following the blazed trail, Lia approaches Caperling, “So, How did you get captured?” she asks curiously. “You couldn’t have gotten across that bridge on your own.” Lia will remain on guard.

“I was out wandering around,” Caperling will shyly admit. “I just love to explore. I know it was wrong, but I can’t help myself sometimes. Something grabbed me and the next thing I knew I was in that horrible place and couldn’t find my way out.”


The rest of the day passes without incident. By day’s end you’ve located the natural path that will take you directly to the centaur village. Nariya estimates that it’ll take about four more hours of walking to reach it. Sherwood decides to camp for the evening and set out again in the morning. You should arrive at the village around noon or so.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

I seem to recall there being a brownie named Robin Goodfellow (?) accompanying the group for a while. Does anyone recall where he got left behind and whether it was intentional? If so, did we have any plans to hook back up with him?

Robin simply was forgotten about and fell through the cracks unintentionally. Presumably he departed on his own and probably can be found back with his family where you first arrived in the Sylvan Realms.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

After a long day of hiking, Kylie is pretty worn out. At least she's had Dapple to lift her spirits, as well as plenty of time to pester Sherwood with numerous questions related to the theory and workings of magic. Hopefully, she wasn't too tired to have learned from his answers.

As the sun touches the horizon, they reach the main path. This will make going easier, so they should reach the village in about half a day or less. Sherwood calls a halt and they set up camp. Dinner is nourishing, though bears less of her usual panache as a result of Kylie's weariness. Fortunately, a good night's sleep should fix that.

Before she goes to bed, Kylie refreshes her Stoneskin. In the morning, she can fill that spell slot with her regular enchantment.

[Laucian]

Laucian

The elves keep a good pace as they follow the path. Travel is easy and good time is made. Near afternoon Laucian and Valena begin to notice sigil’s indicating that the Sacred Grove is near. The way leads deeper into the forest. Valena and Laucian have no trouble moving through the denser forest, but Talen isn’t having an easy time. Finally, he just agrees to wait here for your return.

“We will return shortly.” Laucian says making his way through the woods with relative easy. After several steps he looks down at Onyx down at his feet and wondering if the cat would make a good spy but dismisses it.

But the unicorn is not alone! Standing with him are two smaller unicorns! The larger of the two is a female, as she lacks the white beard and is slimmer. The smaller is also female, but only the size of a pony.

“Welcome Children of the Forest,” the male unicorn states. “How goes your quest to restore the Mother Tree?”

Bowing his head in respect to the Unicorn as well as its kin, Laucian raises his head and replies. “It is an honor as always. Our quest is almost complete, though we seek your guidance as well as strength in these troubled times.” He says looking to Valena for a moment then continues. “It is our belief that, the evil that plagues this land has used us to his means to kill the Mother Tree. We have gathered All but two, the Centaur Medallion and Eagle Medallion. What I ask of you is not so easy to ask, though indeed I must. It is our belief as we rejoin the medallions to link the rainbow bridge and reveal the mother tree, Moorkroft and his forces will strike hard and kill these lands once and for all. We ask your assistance in defeating Moorkroft so that all who dwell here will not fade beneath his treacherous rule.”

[Lia]

Lia

“I was out wandering around,” Caperling will shyly admit. “I just love to explore. I know it was wrong, but I can’t help myself sometimes. Something grabbed me and the next thing I knew I was in that horrible place and couldn’t find my way out.”

“Perhaps it best if you explore with others in the future.” She adds in reply with a half grin.

Lia relaxes as she unfurls her bedroll, and silently prays to her patron. She will take her place during the guard rotation and sleep when she can.

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

Nariya leads the way through the dense elfin forest. Even with his own woodsman skills, Sherwood will be hard pressed to blaze this trail. As the day progresses and when he’s not chatting to Kylie about things arcane, Sherwood’s mind will wander. He can’t help but wonder what is happening back home. Big events are taking place there and he wishes that he was taking more of a role in those. But saving the Mother Tree is also important to their elfin allies.

Finally, near days end we break out of the forest and encounter another path. Nariya says that we’re about four hours from the Centaur village.

“It’s getting dark out,” Sherwood notes. “Let’s camp here for the night and continue on in the morning. If Nariya is right, we’ll reach the village around noon. I’d rather arrive in the middle of the day. It’ll give the centaurs a chance to be up and active.”

Next morning we’ll be on the road again getting ever closer to completing this task.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

“You presume much, Talen. We will do as Sherwood said, while it would save time to do as you say, it would separate us, which was not part of our plan. You will come with us to see the unicorns, then we will all go and see if the Brownies are about.” He says firmly looking at the half elf.

“As my Forest Brother suggested,” Valena chimes in, “we should not separate at this time. Also, I would be concerned about going to the area of the Crystal Platform right now. If Sherwood is right and Moorkroft is waiting for us to free the Mother Tree, then his forces are in that area. It might be wise for us to do some scouting there, but I would recommend against making an appearance or trying to contact the brownies at this time.”

The elves keep a good pace as they follow the path. Travel is easy and good time is made. Near afternoon Laucian and Valena begin to notice sigils’ indicating that the Sacred Grove is near. The way leads deeper into the forest. Valena and Laucian have no trouble moving through the denser forest, but Talen isn’t having an easy time. Finally, he just agrees to wait here for your return.

Valena enjoys the walk with her animal companions and friends. She’s perfectly at home in the forest. As the day progresses signs are noted.

“There!” Valena calls out. “We are close to the grove!”

Valena looks at Talen for a moment, surprised by his inability to follow them through the undergrowth. Perhaps this is a way to keep outsiders out?

Not long after that, the Followers of Ehlonna enter into the Sacred Grove. It is a lovely clearing in the forest with thick grass and sunlight. A brook flows through the clearing and there are numerous fruit bearing trees here. Near the center of the clearing Laucian sees the majestic unicorn he met earlier. He’s a large white stallion with a long ivory horn emerging from his forehead. Males are easy to distinguish by the white beard under their chin.

But the unicorn is not alone! Standing with him are two smaller unicorns! The larger of the two is a female, as she lacks the white beard and is slimmer. The smaller is also female, but only the size of a pony.

“Welcome Children of the Forest,” the male unicorn states. “How goes your quest to restore the Mother Tree?”

Valena is in awe at the sight of the Sacred Growth. It is lovely beyond words. Then her eyes notice the three unicorns present. She’s never seen one before, let along a trio of them! Her mouth drops open in surprise and it takes several moments before she can even speak. Once her mind begins to work once more, she’ll say a silent pray to Ehlonna for granting her this once in a lifetime experience.

Bowing his head in respect to the Unicorn as well as its kin, Laucian raises his head and replies. “It is an honor as always. Our quest is almost complete, though we seek your guidance as well as strength in these troubled times.” He says looking to Valena for a moment then continues. “It is our belief that, the evil that plagues this land has used us to his means to kill the Mother Tree. We have gathered All but two, the Centaur Medallion and Eagle Medallion. What I ask of you is not so easy to ask, though indeed I must. It is our belief as we rejoin the medallions to link the rainbow bridge and reveal the mother tree; Moorkroft and his forces will strike hard and kill these lands once and for all. We ask your assistance in defeating Moorkroft so that all who dwell here will not fade beneath his treacherous rule.”

“It is as my Forest Brother says,” Valena adds. “That is why we have come before you this day. We need your help to save the Sylvan Realm and all the good creatures that live here.”

[Talen]

Talen:

“You presume much, Talen. We will do as Sherwood said, while it would save time to do as you say, It would separate us, which was not part of our plan. You will come with us to see the unicorns, then we will all go and see if the Brownies are about.” He says firmly looking at the half elf.

“As my Forest Brother suggested,” Valena chimes in, “we should not separate at this time. Also, I would be concerned about going to the area of the Crystal Platform right now. If Sherwood is right and Moorkroft is waiting for us to free the Mother Tree, then his forces are in that area. It might be wise for us to do some scouting there, but I would recommend against making an appearance or trying to contact the brownies at this time.”

“I guess that makes sense,” Talen will answer sheepishly. “I was just trying to help.”

The elves keep a good pace as they follow the path. Travel is easy and good time is made. Near afternoon Laucian and Valena begin to notice sigil’s indicating that the Sacred Grove is near. The way leads deeper into the forest. Valena and Laucian have no trouble moving through the denser forest, but Talen isn’t having an easy time. Finally, he just agrees to wait here for your return.

“This is ridiculous!” Talen cries out in frustration. “It’s like the forest is fighting me. I told you that those unicorns wouldn’t like me. Tell you what I’ll wait here. You’ll make better time without me.”

“We will return shortly.” Laucian says making his way through the woods with relative easy. After several steps he looks down at Onyx down at his feet and wondering if the cat would make a good spy but dismisses it.

“I’m not going anywhere,” Talen mutters.

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Unicorns:

Laucian and Valena have reached the Sacred Grove and met not one, but three unicorns. Their appearance suggests a family unit, father, mother, and daughter. Laucian speaks for the group.

Bowing his head in respect to the Unicorn as well as its kin, Laucian raises his head and replies. “It is an honor as always. Our quest is almost complete, though we seek your guidance as well as strength in these troubled times.” He says looking to Valena for a moment then continues. “It is our belief that, the evil that plagues this land has used us to his means to kill the Mother Tree. We have gathered All but two, the Centaur Medallion and Eagle Medallion. What I ask of you is not so easy to ask, though indeed I must. It is our belief as we rejoin the medallions to link the rainbow bridge and reveal the mother tree; Moorkroft and his forces will strike hard and kill these lands once and for all. We ask your assistance in defeating Moorkroft so that all who dwell here will not fade beneath his treacherous rule.”

“Then this is both good news and troubling news,” the male unicorn states. “The Mother Tree is both closer to restoration and potential destruction.”

The female unicorn leans closer to the male and whispers something to him. The two exchange brief words.

“You shall have our aid,” the male announces. “Our task is to protect this forest and that we shall do. Go now and rejoin your companions. We will speak with other creatures to aid in the protection of the Mother Tree. When the time comes, we shall join you.”


As the male speaks, the younger unicorn shyly trots towards Valena and will stand before her. The unicorn will allow Valena to stroke her for a moment before her parents call her back.


Laucian and Valena then withdraw from the Sacred Grove, rejoining Talen as they make their way back to the path.


GM Notes:

Which way now? On to the Crystal Platform or back to the Griffon Stable?

Now what?

[GM Mad]

Centaurs:

Elsewhere in the forest, the others are escorting Caperling back to his home village.

“Perhaps it best if you explore with others in the future.” She adds in reply with a half grin.

“Where’s the fun in that?” Caperling objects.


The night passes quietly and you’re up at dawn the next morning. Travel is much more pleasant on the path as the way is level and obstacles are few.

The sun is high in the sky as you reach the centaur village. Those centaurs you initially encounter are wary of the new arrivals that is until Caperling breaks into a gallop and rushes home. This action draws the attention of more and more centaurs.

Sherwood instructs those with him to remain at the edge of the village and wait. After a time, the Clanmaster will approach.

“You have lived up to your words,” he will say in elfish. “Faith in the words of the elves has been restored.”

With that the Clanmaster hands over the centaur medallion. The centaurs are brought up to date on the danger that faces all of the Sylvan Realm.

“You shall have our aid,” the Clanmaster states. “We’ll alert the other centaur tribes to the danger and join you at the Crystal Platform. If the Mother Tree falls, then we are all lost.”


Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

As usual, Kylie spends as much of the night studying her spells as she does sleeping. Being elven is really quite a benefit for a mage, which may have something to do with why the proportion of elves that are mages is much higher than for most other races.

Breaking their fast with a light meal, the group is soon on their way toward the village. Fortunately, the weather cooperates and they arrive around noon. Caperling dashes off immediatedly, but the rest - at Sherwood's recommendation - pause at the edge of the village. Soon enough, they are noticed and the centaur Clanmaster arrives to greet them. Keeping to his word, he hands over the medallion that was left in his keeping. He also pledges the help of the centaurs in protecting the Mother Tree.

"Thank you, Clanmaster," Kylie says. "We can ask no more than that of anyone. Your courage and honor do your people proud."

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

The centaur village is reached. Caperling rushes home and Sherwood will urge those with him to remain on the edge of town. No need to cause any more trouble with the centaurs than necessary. Several centaurs will approach, including an older one.

“You have lived up to your words,” he will say in elfish. “Faith in the words of the elves has been restored.”

With that the Clanmaster hands over the centaur medallion. The centaurs are brought up to date on the danger that faces all of the Sylvan Realm.

“You shall have our aid,” the Clanmaster states. “We’ll alert the other centaur tribes to the danger and join you at the Crystal Platform. If the Mother Tree falls, then we are all lost.”

"Thank you, Clanmaster," Kylie says. "We can ask no more than that of anyone. Your courage and honor do your people proud."

“You honor us, Clanmaster,” Sherwood will say. “Together may we restore the Sylvan Realm to its former glory.”

Accepting the medallion, Sherwood will turn it over to Kylie for safekeeping. Then he’ll lead the group away from the centaur village.

“Let’s keep moving towards the roc nest,” Sherwood states. “And hope the others will catch up to us on the griffins.”

[Valena Feador]

Valena:

“Then this is both good news and troubling news,” the male unicorn states. “The Mother Tree is both closer to restoration and potential destruction.”

Valena will just nod in agreement as the unicorn speaks. She wouldn’t dream of interrupting him!

The female unicorn leans closer to the male and whispers something to him. The two exchange brief words.

“You shall have our aid,” the male announces. “Our task is to protect this forest and that we shall do. Go now and rejoin your companions. We will speak with other creatures to aid in the protection of the Mother Tree. When the time comes, we shall join you.”

As the male speaks, the younger unicorn shyly trots towards Valena and will stand before her. The unicorn will allow Valena to stroke her for a moment before her parents call her back.

Valena is so focused on the older unicorns, that she’s astonished to find the young one so close to her! She’s beautiful beyond words and Valena can’t help but feel very nervous to have the youngling so close. She’ll glance back at the parents to see if they disapprove or not before attempting to pet the unicorn.

“You are magnificent,” Valena will whisper in praise as she lovingly strokes the unicorn.

The parents call the youngling back. The incident happens so quickly, but being so close to such a creature will never be forgotten. The audience with the unicorns is over and Laucian has to nearly drag Valena from the Sacred Grove as she’s lost in a daze. We come across Talen on the way back to the path.

“We have been blessed this day,” Valena will say dreamily. “To be so close to such magnificent creatures is almost beyond words. But back to the task at hand. I say we take the centaurs at their word that they will secure more allies. We should return to the griffin lodge and fly to rejoin the others in the morning.”

[GM Mad]

Post Continued:

Laucian and Valena have departed the Sacred Grove upon securing the aid of the unicorns in the struggle to come. They retrace their steps and come across Talen on their way back to the path. From there, the trio returns to the griffon stable, reaching it by nightfall. The night passes quietly.


Next morning, the seven griffons are prepared for flight and you’re off once more. Valena instructs the cooshee’s to remain here while you are gone and that you’ll return shortly. Laucian leads the way as the flight of griffons soars above the Sylvan Realm. In just a few hours the flight reaches the Centaur village and you spot the others as they are walking away from the village, their mission complete.

The griffons land and the group is reunited once more. The griffons take off once more and continue to fly to the west, towards the roc nest. For those who haven’t seen the roc before, the flight is nearly surreal. The great bird is sent at a distance and incredibly it keeps getting larger and larger as you approach! The roc is easily as large as a house! It measures 60’ from beak to tail feathers and has a wingspan twice that size! Even the griffons are dwarfed this giant bird!

At Sherwood’s urging, the group keeps their distance and allows Valena to speak to the roc once more. Armed with the Chimera Medallion, Valena flies closer to speak to the roc. After a few minute she returns bearing the Eagle Medallion! You know have all twelve medallions you need to release the Mother Tree!

In the background, the roc takes flight, generating a huge gush of wind with its wings flapping. The great bird flies off towards the mountains. Valena will relate that the roc has gone to ask others of its kind to help in the battles to come!


With all twelve medallions in hand, the group flies back to the Griffon Stable. You’ll reach it as night starts to fall. There you can plan your next step in the task of restoring the Mother Tree.

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

You have the chance to plan and prepare spell lists for what is to come. Nothing should occur until after the Mother Tree is released, by placing the twelve medallions on the base of the crystal platform.

Still no sign of Lilia.

Oh, and Valena instructed the Cooshee's with Sherwood's group to return to the Griffon Stable and meet up with you there. So all the cooshee's are present when you arrive at the stable.

Now what?

[Nariya]

Nariya:

Having arrived, Nariya stays quiet through most of the conversations. We do receive the medallion and Sherwood wants to press on. Taking point once more, Nariya leads the way.

The griffons land and the group is reunited once more. The griffons take off once more and continue to fly to the west, towards the roc nest. For those who haven’t seen the roc before, the flight is nearly surreal. The great bird is sent at a distance and incredibly it keeps getting larger and larger as you approach! The roc is easily as large as a house! It measures 60’ from beak to tail feathers and has a wingspan twice that size! Even the griffons are dwarfed this giant bird!

At Sherwood’s urging, the group keeps their distance and allows Valena to speak to the roc once more. Armed with the Chimera Medallion, Valena flies closer to speak to the roc. After a few minute she returns bearing the Eagle Medallion! You know have all twelve medallions you need to release the Mother Tree!

Nariya enjoys the flight once again, but more importantly we have all the needed medallions! She knows the real test is about to begin.

With all twelve medallions in hand, the group flies back to the Griffon Stable. You’ll reach it as night starts to fall. There you can plan your next step in the task of restoring the Mother Tree.

"We should of course be ready for anything," Nariya states the obvious. "Will we wait for our allies to completely arrive before we go about setting the medallions in place?" she asks.

"I would suggest not to show our entire hand by having allies in reserve," Nariya suggests. "although I don't suspect an entire army to move on us as that is too hard to coordinate, especially if Moorkroft is hiding from his own men. So what could we expect? Illusions and magical constructs?"

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Sherwood hands her the Centaur medallion, after receiving it from the ClanMaster, so Kylie adds it to the growing collection in her enchanted Girdle. Almost immediately, they continue on out of the village in the direction of the roc nest at Sherwood's urging.

They haven't walked far when the others arrive with the griffons. Mounting up, Kylie looks over at Talen. "How did it go with the unicorn?"

After flying westward for a little while, the roc comes in sight. However, it still takes quite a while to reach it due to its enormous size! Seeing so large a creature makes Kylie nervous, and she is glad to stay back and let Valena negotiate with the roc. Fortunately, Valena returns with the Eagle medallion and Kylie adds that one to her Girdle as well.

Turning back, they fly toward the griffon stables, arriving just as night falls. Kylie is very happy to be reunited with Dapple, but is troubled by Lilia's absense.

"Sherwood? I'm concerned that Lilia hasn't returned yet. Should we attempt to locate her tomorrow?" As she awaits his reply, Kylie mentally scrolls through the spells in her spellbook in an effort to identify any that might help in locating their missing friend.

"I would suggest not to show our entire hand by having allies in reserve," Nariya suggests. "although I don't suspect an entire army to move on us as that is too hard to coordinate, especially if Moorkroft is hiding from his own men. So what could we expect? Illusions and magical constructs?"

"I agree about keeping allies in reserve, about which we may not have a choice as we don't know when the various groups will arrive. However, I think Moorkroft may well have sent instructions to his commanders to bring their troops and lie in wait. It wouldn't be hard for him to disguise his appearance if he needs to lead the battle directly, or even create some kind of illusion to do so for him. Finding the real Moorkroft might prove to be the most difficult part of the battle of all."
____________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________________
I thought we still had to return to the mysterious lady (Jewel?) with the other 11 medallions in order to gain the House Medallion from her...

[Laucian]

Laucian

“I guess that makes sense,” Talen will answer sheepishly. “I was just trying to help.”

“I know my young friend.” He says in return, “There are times you must do what needs to be done and others you must listen. There is safety in numbers, Talen.”

“You shall have our aid,” the male announces. “Our task is to protect this forest and that we shall do. Go now and rejoin your companions. We will speak with other creatures to aid in the protection of the Mother Tree. When the time comes, we shall join you.”

“Thank you, Forest Lord.” He says inclining his head.


The griffons land and the group is reunited once more. The griffons take off once more and continue to fly to the west, towards the roc nest. For those who haven’t seen the roc before, the flight is nearly surreal. The great bird is sent at a distance and incredibly it keeps getting larger and larger as you approach! The roc is easily as large as a house! It measures 60’ from beak to tail feathers and has a wingspan twice that size! Even the griffons are dwarfed this giant bird!

“Sherwood.” The elfin ranger says in greeting as the griffons land nearby, “I trust all is well?” he asks curiously. As he sees all the others minus Lilia, He silently hopes that his clansman is well.

"Sherwood? I'm concerned that Lilia hasn't returned yet. Should we attempt to locate her tomorrow?" As she awaits his reply, Kylie mentally scrolls through the spells in her spellbook in an effort to identify any that might help in locating their missing friend.

“And how do you wish to search for her? Have you forgotten of the many Wyrven Patrols that roam these skies? The last time we attacked a fort, what is to say that won’t happen again?” he asks looking at the young thief.

[Lia]

Lia

"I agree about keeping allies in reserve, about which we may not have a choice as we don't know when the various groups will arrive. However, I think Moorkroft may well have sent instructions to his commanders to bring their troops and lie in wait. It wouldn't be hard for him to disguise his appearance if he needs to lead the battle directly, or even create some kind of illusion to do so for him. Finding the real Moorkroft might prove to be the most difficult part of the battle of all."

Looking to Sherwood as well as Kylie, Lia asks, “Are there no spells in which may helps us?”

[GM Mad]

GM Notes:

While doing some research, I seemed to have forgotten that you already went back to get the Eagle Medallion from the roc during Elfquest #21! The roc did pledge support if asked, so this extra trip must have been taken to gain the roc’s support for the battles to come. Yeah, that’s the ticket!

That and you only have eleven of the twelve medallions to needed to free the Mother Tree. The twelfth will be given to you by Jewel who will meet you at the crystal platform when you arrive.

Apparently the last update wasn’t my finest hour!

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

With the Centaur Medallion in hand, the group departs the village. Sherwood turns over the medallion to Kylie for safekeeping. Not long after that, the others arrive on the griffons.

“Sherwood.” The elfin ranger says in greeting as the griffons land nearby, “I trust all is well?” he asks curiously. As he sees all the others minus Lilia, He silently hopes that his clansman is well.

“We have the medallion,” Sherwood will say. “Otherwise it’s been quiet. Much like the calm before the storm.”

Once on the griffons, the group rides back to the roc nest where Valena asks for the roc’s help in what is to come. The giant bird agrees and flies off towards the distant mountains. From there, we fly back to the Griffon Stable for the evening. Food, rest, and planning follows.

"We should of course be ready for anything," Nariya states the obvious. "Will we wait for our allies to completely arrive before we go about setting the medallions in place?" she asks.

“I think we should wait a day, giving us more time to prepare and time to allow our allies to reach the Crystal Platform. Let’s go there tomorrow and set up what defenses and preparations we can and then place the medallions the next day.”

"I would suggest not to show our entire hand by having allies in reserve," Nariya suggests. "Although I don't suspect an entire army to move on us as that is too hard to coordinate, especially if Moorkroft is hiding from his own men. So what could we expect? Illusions and magical constructs?"

“Its tough to prepare for a battle like this,” Sherwood agrees. “There are just too many variables and given that our ultimate enemy is an insane mage, just about anything could happen. He might call upon his army for a large-scale assault or try to destroy the Mother Tree on his own. Illusions are possible, as are constructs. He might even summon creatures to do his bidding.”

“Instead of worrying about what Moorkroft is going to do, I think we should focus on what we do. We need to put each of us in a position where we are at our best. Our best bowman, Laucian and Valena, should probably be up in the trees. There they can cover a large area with their bows. I’ll take Moorkroft head on and make him focus on me. Lifeshield should protect me from most of his spells. That’ll free the rest of you up to attack him. He’s an Archmage, so use the Silence arrows to block his spellcasting and magic removing arrows to take down his defenses. Mages are the most dangerous when free to cast spells. If I can take him on hand-to-hand, then we’ve got a chance to take him down quickly.”

“As for the positions of the rest of us, simply spread out and take cover. If you have spells that will be useful in what is to come cast them as the last medallion is put into place. Keep your eyes open and we’ll all survive this.”

"Sherwood? I'm concerned that Lilia hasn't returned yet. Should we attempt to locate her tomorrow?" As she awaits his reply, Kylie mentally scrolls through the spells in her spell book in an effort to identify any that might help in locating their missing friend.

“It is a concern,” Sherwood will agree. “There are several possibilities that come to mind about her fate, and none of them are particularly pleasant. She might not have survived the black dragon attack or she might be working for the enemy.”

“And how do you wish to search for her? Have you forgotten of the many Wyvern Patrols that roam these skies? The last time we attacked a fort, what is to say that won’t happen again?” he asks looking at the young thief.

Looking to Sherwood as well as Kylie, Lia asks, “Are there no spells in which may helps us?”

“For those skilled in magic, there are always alternative ways to find her, Laucian,” Sherwood interjects.

Turning back to Kylie, Sherwood will say, “We can use a Magic Mirror spell to try and find her. It turns any reflective surface into a Crystal Ball. We are all very familiar with Lilia now. We can learn her fate that way.”

"I agree about keeping allies in reserve, about which we may not have a choice as we don't know when the various groups will arrive. However, I think Moorkroft may well have sent instructions to his commanders to bring their troops and lie in wait. It wouldn't be hard for him to disguise his appearance if he needs to lead the battle directly, or even create some kind of illusion to do so for him. Finding the real Moorkroft might prove to be the most difficult part of the battle of all."

“That’s part of my notion of waiting a day. We can make contact with our allies and set their positions up as well. As Nariya suggested, large-scale ground forces might be difficult to organize on such short notice. We might have wyvern riders to contend with. That’ll be something for those on griffons and the rocs to contend with.”

Sherwood will rest, memorize spells, and cast Magic Mirror in the morning in an attempt to find Lilia.

[Valena Feador]

Valena:


We depart the Sacred Grove and return to the Griffon Stable. Next day we ride west to catch up with the others as they walk toward the roc’s nest. We visit the roc briefly, asking for its support. The roc agrees and then flies off.

Once back at the stables, Valena will visit the cooshee’s and the griffons, spending time with each. She’ll try to explain to them what is to come and how much depends on our success.

“Jewel said that she’d meet us at the Crystal Platform once we had the other medallions. She knew how many we had when we were at her cottage, so she must know that we have the rest.”

Valena will actually beam at the prospect of meeting Jewel again, since the young priestess believes her to be an agent of or an avatar of the Lady of the Forests! Valena is feeling very blessed to have met so many wonderful beings associated with her goddess these last few days!

Sherwood lays out a general strategy and Valena really has nothing to add. It makes sense to work to our strengths.

“My arrows and spells will be ready,” Valena will say. “Just point out Moorkroft and I’ll target him.”

Valena will be ready to go the next day.

[Talen]

Talen:

“I know my young friend.” He says in return, “There are times you must do what needs to be done and others you must listen. There is safety in numbers, Talen.”

“Yes, sir,” Talen will answer.


The others return from seeing the unicorns and it’s back to the griffon stable. Next day we catch up with the others. Flying the griffons is exhilarating and Talen enjoys it immensely.

They haven't walked far when the others arrive with the griffons. Mounting up, Kylie looks over at Talen. "How did it go with the unicorn?"

“I never made it there,” Talen answers. “It seems that only those faithful to Ehlonna can go there. Laucian said it went well. Now things get really scary.”


Once back at the stables, Talen listens as the talk about what to do and what we’re about to face is discussed. The whole thing terrifies him deeply. He fears that he’ll do something dumb again and make matters worse.

[Kylie]

Kylie:

“I never made it there,” Talen answers. “It seems that only those faithful to Ehlonna can go there. Laucian said it went well. Now things get really scary.”

"I guess that makes sense, I suppose. I can see where a diety wouldn't want non-believers in their holy places. I'm sorry you weren't able to see it." Kylie pauses for a moment. "Personally, I've been pretty scared most of the time since we came here. I'm sure we'll find a way through this. Sticking together may be the key to success in this. Perhaps if you and I stay together, we can cover for each other. What do you think?"

“Jewel said that she’d meet us at the Crystal Platform once we had the other medallions. She knew how many we had when we were at her cottage, so she must know that we have the rest.”

"That's right, Valena! I had forgotten that. Good job!"

“I think we should wait a day, giving us more time to prepare and time to allow our allies to reach the Crystal Platform. Let’s go there tomorrow and set up what defenses and preparations we can and then place the medallions the next day.”

"I think taking time to prepare as best we can is a good idea. Knowing the lay of the land should help us plan our strategy, and perhaps we can create some kind of traps in case Moorkroft's allies get involved. I should probably watch for any attempt to steal the medallions; if Moorkroft were to get them from us, he wouldn't need us to actually activate the platform for him."

Kylie listens to Sherwood's ideas on strategy and begins thinking about her spell choices for the coming day.

Turning back to Kylie, Sherwood will say, “We can use a Magic Mirror spell to try and find her. It turns any reflective surface into a Crystal Ball. We are all very familiar with Lilia now. We can learn her fate that way.”

"Good idea. Do you want me to prepare the spell, or do you want to do it?" she asks.

“That’s part of my notion of waiting a day. We can make contact with our allies and set their positions up as well. As Nariya suggested, large-scale ground forces might be difficult to organize on such short notice. We might have wyvern riders to contend with. That’ll be something for those on griffons and the rocs to contend with.”

"Any thoughts on who among us should be mounted on the griffons? I suppose if I were mounted, it might allow me to put take some other spell in place of Fly. On the other hand, it might actually prove limiting to my versatility to be tied to a mount."

[Laucian]

Laucian
“For those skilled in magic, there are always alternative ways to find her, Laucian,” Sherwood interjects.
“Though it does not make it that much easier in reaching her.” He adds.
As Sherwood Lays out the plan Laucian has his hesitations. “Sherwood While Valena and I are your best shots with a bow we are also the best in the arts of Healing by blessings of Ehlonna. If we cannot reach you, You we’ll be surely pressed.

[GM Mad]

Small Update:

Morning comes to the Griffon Stable. Concerned over the fate of Lilia, Sherwood will cast a spell in an attempt to locate her. Using a mirror in the stable quarters, Sherwood casts Magic Mirror on it turning it into a temporary Crystal Ball.

Using the mirror, Sherwood attempts to locate Lilia. However, no image appears on the mirror. It seems that Lilia cannot be located in this manner!


GM Notes:

You have at least 10 more minutes before the Magic Mirror spell gives out. Want to try and find anyone else?

XP’s have been updated in the private area. It’s been over a year since I gave these out and might as well have everyone at their peak for what is to come.

Now what?

[Kylie]

Kylie:

Kylie is anxious the next morning as she waits for Sherwood to cast his Magic Mirror spell. When he finally is ready, Kylie hovers nearby, hoping that Lilia is okay.

The spell is cast, yet no sign of Lilia appears! Kylie is horrified as her mind works furiously, trying to come up with an explanation that doesn't involve Lilia being in grave trouble.

"I know there is a spell that blocks various forms of scrying; perhaps Lilia used it on herself to prevent Moorkroft from finding her? Do you know if she has that spell, Sherwood?"
_____________________________________________________________________
Once she's settled her nerves, Kylie will suggest trying to find Robin Goodfellow.

[Sherwood]

Sherwood:

"I think taking time to prepare as best we can is a good idea. Knowing the lay of the land should help us plan our strategy, and perhaps we can create some kind of traps in case Moorkroft's allies get involved. I should probably watch for any attempt to steal the medallions; if Moorkroft were to get them from us, he wouldn't need us to actually activate the platform for him."

“We’ll do what we can in the time that we have,” Sherwood agrees. “And do keep an eye on the medallions. It is possible that only an elf can use them properly, so Moorkroft still might need us. At any rate, better safe than sorry.”

"Good idea. Do you want me to prepare the spell, or do you want to do it?" she asks.

“I’ll do it,” Sherwood says. “I’ve got more spells available, so using it won’t affect me as much.”

"Any thoughts on who among us should be mounted on the griffons? I suppose if I were mounted, it might allow me to put take some other spell in place of Fly. On the other hand, it might actually prove limiting to my versatility to be tied to a mount."

“Honestly, I wouldn’t recommend any of us fighting on griffons. It takes years of practice just to learn to how to fight on the back of a horse and bonding with your mount. The griffons would be more affective by themselves, as would we. Plus on the ground you’ll have cooshee’s for support.”

As Sherwood Lays out the plan Laucian has his hesitations. “Sherwood While Valena and I are your best shots with a bow we are also the best in the arts of Healing by blessings of Ehlonna. If we cannot reach you, you we’ll be surely pressed.”

“A necessary risk,” Sherwood answers. “We’re going to be severely pressed no matter what. This is a do or die mission against an arch mage. We must all be on guard at all times. Were I a ruthless mage, seeing a priest healing someone would just make him or her a target, a chance to take out two enemies in one stroke. Any healing should be saved for after the battle.”


Sherwood casts Magic Mirror, but strangely enough he cannot find Lilia. Kylie is very concerned of the fate of her friend.

"I know there is a spell that blocks various forms of scrying; perhaps Lilia used it on herself to prevent Moorkroft from finding her? Do you know if she has that spell, Sherwood?"

“Not offhand, no,” Sherwood answers. “There are other ways to conceal oneself too.”

Sherwood reaches down his shirt and produces an amulet.

“You’d get a similar result if you tried to scry me. This amulet prevents me from being located in such a manner. Or it might even be a property of the Star Crown she wears. Unfortunately, this doesn’t answer any of the nagging questions we have concerning Lilia’s fate.”

Once she's settled her nerves, Kylie will suggest trying to find Robin Goodfellow.

Sherwood thinks it’s a fine idea and that Kylie should pursue that once they reach the Crystal Platform.

[Talen]

Talen:

"I guess that makes sense, I suppose. I can see where a deity wouldn't want non-believers in their holy places. I'm sorry you weren't able to see it."

“It’s all right,” Talen answers with a shrug. “I didn’t have any high hopes about seeing it anyway.”

Kylie pauses for a moment. "Personally, I've been pretty scared most of the time since we came here. I'm sure we'll find a way through this. Sticking together may be the key to success in this. Perhaps if you and I stay together, we can cover for each other. What do you think?"

“I think that’s a great idea,” Talen says excitedly. “I’m probably better at fighting in close quarters then using ranged attacks or spells. I’ll guard your back and you can use your magic.”


Later on, Talen discovers that he can learn new spells! He’ll seek out his Uncle Sherwood.

“Uncle! I think I can understand new spells! May I use your spell book?”

[Laucian]

Laucian

“A necessary risk,” Sherwood answers. “We’re going to be severely pressed no matter what. This is a do or die mission against an arch mage. We must all be on guard at all times. Were I a ruthless mage, seeing a priest healing someone would just make him or her a target, a chance to take out two enemies in one stroke. Any healing should be saved for after the battle.”

“I will do what I can from where I am positioned. At any case I will fire a Silence arrow into/ near him given the chance. Also I will pray for Silence spells as they will be needed.”

Laucian will make himself ready for the coming day as well as pray for Ehlonna’s Blessings.

[Lia]

Lia

“I think that’s a great idea,” Talen says excitedly. “I’m probably better at fighting in close quarters then using ranged attacks or spells. I’ll guard your back and you can use your magic.”

“Just don’t stand to close, brother.” She adds thoughtfully. “Two mages close at hand would provide an ample target as well.” Looking at Sherwood and Laucian, “Would not a hit and run tactic work? Attack Moorkroft at different sides at different times keeping him guessing at which point will attack next?” She asks curiously, knowing that this arch mage has no intention of fighting on equal ground.

[GM Mad]

Post Closed