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Shining Force Central Forums > RPG Gallery > Shining Force: The Chaos War Part II

Posted by: Rusty Thu Nov 03, 2005 6:38 am
*Faralon approaches Van, seeing he is particularly interested in the weapon.* Faralon: "Ah, found that in the armory?" Van jerks his head up, his eyes wide open with surprise. It was obvious he didn't hear Faralon apprach. "Uh... ah... yes, I did. Though.... I'm tempted to sell it depending on how much it is worth."
Faralon: "Sell it? Don't you wield a guisarme?"
Van nods slowly. "Yes.... but if its worth enough gold I'll have enough to help my village AND buy another guisarme for me to wield in battle."
*Faralon shakes his head.* Faralon: "I don't know how much it's worth...But, in my opinion, if it is worth that much, it is better kept to fight in this quest to save King Nick. Once that is accomplished, gold would be awarded to us."
Van: "That.... that could be too long. I told you what is happening in my village, and I'm afraid if I wait to long there may be no one left to benefit from the gold I'm sending home."
*Faralon sighs.* Faralon: "I don't think you understand what is happening here. Do you really believe the Chaos Cult only is interested in King Nick? This could be happening all over the place...That is why we have to put a dent in their goals."
Van raises a hand to ward off another speech from Faralon. "Before I left my village, I never even heard of this King Nick. As such, my village comes first, after that I'm glad to follow the rest of you and help out."
Clearing a spot in sight of the main body of the group to lie down his unconscious female acquaintance, Jokulligr gently lowers Acacia to the ground to recover from her fatigue, before looking about the chamber to survey the new surroundings. He was quite surprised by the number of people that seemed to be fellow travelling companions of those that freed him, but he assumed it made sense for them to have allies. Spotting Faralon off to the side, he decides to approach him to learn more about the circumstances surrounding their appearance, and makes his way over to where he and an unfamiliar individual seem to be holding a conversation.
((Diplomacy check from Faralon. 25.))
Faralon: "I can understand your personal feelings in this. However, what good would the money do if the threat simply returns?"
Van pauses for a moment, considering the bard's words. "By the same token Faralon, if I don't get the gold to them in a timely manner, there may be no one left by the time we find this King Nick."
The monk frowns as he overhears these last words spoken by the stranger. "Pardon my intrusion, but what is this about noone being left if gold is not sent to them?" He arches an eyebrow curiously.
Van's mouth drops open at the sight of the dragon man. He had never heard of, much less seen, a being such as Jokulligr. "Uhhh........ I was.... uh.... talking about my uh... village."
Faralon: "Ah, Van, this is one of the prisoners that we found being held captive here. His name is Jokulligr. Well, he's not a prisoner now." *Faralon chuckles, realizing his wording was odd.*
"Uh.... I see..." Obviously Van is still stunned by the unusual being before him.
Jokulligr bows respectfully. "Pleased to make your acquaintance, friend."
Faralon: "I was just telling Van that this guisarme would be better suited for him to keep it than trading it in for gold to pay his village back. We need to take down the Chaos Cult, and we'd need the right tools to do so."
Van: "Yeah........Uh.... pleased to meet you..."
Jokulligr looks at Faralon questioningly. "There is a debt owed? For what reason?"
Van is still trying to overcome his shock and is in no position to respond.
*Faralon glances at Van.* Faralon: "It would be better if you told him yourself, Van. You could explain it better than I could."
Noting the human's expression, Jokulligr can't help but chuckle with amusement. "You seem shocked by my appearance. Yet you seem to have such a...diverse group of travelling companions."
Van: "Yeah........ but I have at least heard of their species before.... eh... I have not the faintest clue what you are."
Faralon: "He's a dragonman - silver dragonman, at that."
"Dragonman? I have never heard of those..." Now knowing what the person before him was, Van seemed to recover from his shock, at least enough to talk. "But as we were talking about, people have been vanishing from my village recently. I have been trying to get some gold together to send back to them so they can raises defenses against whatever it is that is abducting people. Hence why I'm considering selling this weapon."
Jokulligr nods. "Your lack of prior contact with others of my kind is understandable. We are...not faring well in terms of numbers, I suppose you could say." He frowns for a moment after saying this, but shrugs it off. "As for your situation...your village lacks the funds to defend itself from attack? Have they not seeked aid from any allies or neighboring regions?"
"What allies?" Van shakes his head slowly. "We are an isolate village with little, if any contact with others."
Jokulligr: "Ahh, I see...so you intend to help them by providing the money they need yourself. Quite a noble cause, I must say. Defending one's people despite any hardships you may face in the process. Is that why you are here?"
Nodding, Van continues speaking. "More or less. I started with some other minor jobs I found elsewhere, but I didn't get much out of them. Then while in another job, this group showed up and maimed a bunch of undead that were attacking the caravan I was guarding."
*Faralon thinks to himself...Ah, that was when I had sung my very first battle song. That was a fine song indeed.*
The monk nods. "I am all too familiar with the task of caravan defending. Well, it is a wonderful goal you pursue in helping your village as such. What, then, is the quandary that you two seem to be trying to deal with?"
Van raises his new weapon slightly so the Dragonman can get a better look at it. "I found this after the battle and it seems to possess magical power. I was thinking of selling it. With that gold I would have enough to send to my village and then could buy a more normal weapon for use in combat. Faralon says I should keep this weapon and wait until I can find more gold. I would rather not wait that long if I can help it...."
Faralon: "Yes, I think it best that he keep that weapon. His other guisarme broke in battle, and this one looks quite powerful. Furthermore, while the Chaos Cult exists, they can target any village - even Van's."
Van: "Perhaps that is so.... but it won't matter if I don't get the gold to them so they can fend off whatever is kidnapping people."
Jokulligr: "I see...that is indeed a complication. To directly assist those you fight for in exchange for decreasing your ability to fight overall..." He looks at Van. "Do you have an idea in mind of how much gold you need to acquire for your village?"
Van: "I already sent 3000 gold home, and by the estimates I was able to get from people elswhere, I should only need 3000 more gold to cover everything the village elder wanted."
Jokulligr: "3000, you say? Hmmm..." The monk looks down to the floor for a few moments, appearing in thought as he weighs the options for the situation, then looks up again. "Very well. For the benefit of those whose fate depends upon your victory over the Chaos Cult, it would be best if you kept the weapon that you have acquired rather than to sell it in exchange for a weaker version. This will also allow you to better defend your village yourself upon your journey's end. To allow you to do this without regret, I shall take it upon myself to assist you with your debt."
Faralon: "Really?? You have just met the man..."
Van rocked back slightly in suprise. "Wow.... I thank you for your kindness."
Jokulligr smiles. "No thanks is necessary, though I accept your appreciation. I am glad to be able to aid your cause. As I have no desire for gold myself, it seems logical to give it to those who are in need."
Van: "In that case, I have no trouble holding onto this weapon for the time being."
*Faralon smiles.* Faralon: "Well, that problem is solved. Wield it well, Van. No one else in the group is as skilled with guisarmes, after all."

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Nov 03, 2005 6:45 am
[Diplomacy 2 + 14 = 16] "Ryhir, you are a noble warrior and a true friend but I cannot agree with you." Cedric looks the warrior in the eyes, "We cannot leave strongholds such as this behind us. Let me explain myself so that you might understand better my words. Though they may not sound so, they are based on thought as well as emotion."
The Paladin pauses, collecting his thoughts, "This fortress is a rallying point of the chaos cult, our enemy. Even though we have vanquished its current inhabitants, there is no doubt in my mind that others such as the necromancer who set ambush on us are about. Raiding parties will return here and even a single necromancer can restore the might of this fortress through slaying the people of this land. We cannot allow them to retake this fortress and maintain a stronghold on our flank. There are not enough among us to leave a garrison."
Cedric's face becomes troubled, "The people of this land are gathered like lambs to the slaughter... In places such as this they are converted. This place is not only a holy place in the dark religion of our enemies, it is also a place of military power for them."
The Paladin gestures out with his hand, "Examine the location of this fortress, it has no value save to hinder and destroy an enemy force. If...when we vanquish the Strife Lords from this land, will we make the same mistake as the illustrious Shining Force and assume that this place will fade away on its own? Already it has been taken by darkness again and even lesser evils can take this as a place of power. Look at the riches amassed here, it beckons to bandits and brigands. It is a perfect stronghold for such, a place where except for one weakness a small band can withstand the assaults of an entire army. Recall the pirates we faced on our sea journey, they are not alone in this world."
The Paladin shakes his head, "I digress, you seek to understand the need for its destruction now. As I have said, we cannot leave a stronghold such as this cutting off our retreat and sending forces after us. How long could we withstand attacks from both sides? It would weaken the infrastructure that our enemy is using to terrorize and dominate this land. Destroying it now would lighten the yoke of oppression upon people of this land and send a sign to our enemies that our resolve is unquestioning. Our goal is to find King Nick but that does not mean that we should not do what we can to lighten the suffering of others. The funds of the party are sufficient... No...if need be, I will even fund the destruction personally. I feel that leaving this evil fortress standing is to welcome disaster."
Cedric looks to the floor, "The Strife Lords have struck us a grievous blow, slaying the wise Dava and burning her mansion filled with the wisdom of the ancients to the ground. Shall we not struck them a devastating blow as well, shattering their influence in this region and leaving them with one less stronghold? We can accomplish this with relative ease thanks to the presence of Derrik."
A pointed expression comes over the Paladin's face, "In combat, if you had unarmed a demon and rendered it helpless, would you allow it to escape while it was in your power to destroy it? ...or would you move to attack others, leaving yourself open for it to arm itself and attack your unguarded back..." A grin cracks on Cedric's face, "...but I forget myself, you rarely leave yourself unguarded."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Nov 03, 2005 7:01 am
"Why don't we contact Derrik and find out how much this will cost before crying out over money and efficiency?" Kyoji asks. "If it's a matter of money and time, we should know the facts before making any judgments. Perhaps the merchant has an item he can use that will level this place in a matter of moments, or longer for less money."

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Nov 03, 2005 7:06 am
Cedric nods, "Wise council... I had thought to speak with him earlier but he suggested that Lady Yeesha might be of service." A frown comes over the Paladin's face, "I fear that her health is growing worse... So much so that I would not have her aid in this."

Posted by: Kyosokun Thu Nov 03, 2005 7:13 am
"We have slain the Cult, and defeated an Ancient General. I have no doubt that alone is a grivious blow to the enemy we seek. Besides, I doubt they will attempt to reclaim this place. It is not a place to stage a 2 front fight. It was built to be a trap. It hold use as a hide away from civilization, and as a lure. We have shattered their influence. Out search will now lead us elsewhere, and their focus will shift as well. Keeping on the move is more protection against their effort than destroying this place. As I said, thats merely a waste of resources. While I'm no master of construction, nor of destruction, I cannot believe that reducing a structure such as this to rubble would be easy.
I also don't agree that this place holds any special significance to the enemy. As a matter of fact, I believe one of the mages apon the tower top refered to it as "this stinking old glorified watchtower..." I understand your zeal in destroying evil, it is a part of who you are, but you perhaps need to learn to temper it a bit better. Resources are scare, our own group squables over our gains, when they aren't squabling over something else. This was an outpost to watch for us, and has served it's purpose by slowing us down. Let's not further that by delaying and wasting more."

Posted by: Knight_019 Thu Nov 03, 2005 7:54 am
((Knowledge: Religion - 1d20 + 11 = 29)) *Aurik hears Cedric's request, and he agrees that it is fitting. Preparing the necessary items for a proper funeral, even if they were limited, Aurik begins to hearken back to his days he had spent in a convent of Volcanon. His trainings had involved proper funerary rites, but seldom had he needed to invoke them. Thinking of a proper eulogy for one such as the Storm, who he had known little of outside his battle prowess and undead form, Aurik began coming up with ideas with which he could consecrate this area, and that gave him the perfect way to send off the Storm. Feeling he was prepared, Aurik freed his holy symbol into his right hand, raising it into the air toward the sun. The phoenix emblazoned on it shone with a firey intensity as the sunlight reflected from it, as though signifying Volcanon himself was pleased with their course of action.
Reaching into his pouch, Aurik slowly paces around the area, spreading a silver amalgam around. He creates a semi-shining circle around the funeral pyre of the Storm. As Aurik paces, covering as much as he can, he hums at first, then chants without words the melody of a plainchant from his days in the convent he had grown up in. ((Brahms - German Requiem (Blessed Are They))) When he has finished, Aurik says a short prayer, and the area seems to be filled with a near visible holy radiance, consecrated against evil's touch, and centered on the funeral pyre. ((Consecrate cast)) With preparations complete, Aurik speaks loudly, as if to the heavens, to any who would participate in the Storm's funeral.*
: We are gathered in this now holy place not to oversee the destruction of a mighty foe, but instead to see that a fellow person finds his way safely to the afterlife.
*Aurik pauses for a moment, letting his words sink in.*
: He had been robbed of his peaceful rest once before, and now, by the divine power invested in me by Lord Volcanon, keeper of the most sacred and purifying flame, cleanser of the unclean, will the one known simply as "The Storm" find his way into the afterlife.
: Though he stood against the forces of light, let those who decide his fate bear no ill will against him. Though by his hand friends of ours were slain, let it be known it was not his will. The Storm fought with great vigor and valor against imposing forces, and let us have the resolve to do the same.
: Though none of us know him personally, nor might anyone in the current day, his lot should be a happy one, for he shall be lofted up to the heavens, borne on wings of flame as the phoenix, and brought peacefully to his eternal slumber!
*Completing his emotional eulogy, Aurik moves seamlessly into the realm of formalism, giving the Storm his due and his rights, praying for his salvation at the hands of the great Volcanon and the other gods, and seeing him away from an eternal hell for his afterlife. In the form of another plainchant, now decidedly melismatic, Aurik begins the ending of the ceremony.*
: We send thee to eternal slumber,
Find thy peacy among cleansing flame.
Born again as the phoenix,
Thy new beginning is at hand.
*Aurik moves slowly, stately, and solemnly to set the pyre alight. Now Volcanon would do the restand the Storm would rest in peace. Taking a few steps back, Aurik bows his head to watch and pray, ensuring a safe delivery.*
~~~
*Amongst any gatherers, one would see Merkass standing back and away, as was his place. Of few words, Merkass had little to add, and lauded Aurik's masterful handling of the situation. With little to work on, Merkass found the workings of this priest highly acceptable and fitting for a warrior. Especially one who had given his all, aided them after being corrupted so foully, and who had fought so incredibly. Arms folded across his chest, Merkass nodded, closed his eyes, and breathed deeply.
Rhizor could also be seen standing close to the action. As a druid, he felt it his duty, as little as he cared for the workings of churches, ordered instutions, or otherwise, to oversee the cycle of nature take its course. In the Storm, balance had been achieved. He had struck like lightning, and now he must dissipate. His lingering presence in this world had been truly horrifying and abominable, but now the situation was remedied. Fires begin life anew, and so through this pyre the cycle of nature could continue. Further, it would prevent the Storm from ever rising again, and so Rhizor was pleased.*

Posted by: Aldur Thu Nov 03, 2005 12:13 pm
(( Where the hell did I say everyone get drunk? That birdman needs to stop assuming. I meant be merry...as in be happy and proud. Not raging drunk.)) Amelios frowns as he notes the birdman stiffen and resolves to talk to Brand later. He then looks down at the somewhat broken armour before him. He sighed, having not had the chance to speak to the amazing warrior who had worn this magnificent piece.
He nodded to himself, hoping to never bring disgrace to the armour, or the dutiful warrior who had once worn it.

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Nov 03, 2005 2:10 pm
[Diplomacy: 7 + 14 = 21] The Paladin pauses for a moment, looking at Ryhir and speaking in a soft voice, "You are dreadfully underestimating our foe and assuming that we their primary concern. Did you not see the axe that was given to Castor? Did you hear the words of Faralon concerning it? It was the axe of Ruce son of Luke... We have yet to face the true might of our enemy. If we believe the words of the dark priest and the testimony of that axe, they overcame the Shining Force...do you not understand what that means? A force of warriors each as powerful as Lady Yeesha armed with weapons such as that Axe was defeated by the cult. We have been successful thus far only because they underestimate us."
Cedric speaks earnestly, "This fortress was not garrisoned to defeat us. Look around, look at what is happening in the world. No doubt we are swiftly becoming more of a threat in their eyes but many other things are afoot."
The Paladin sighs in frustration, "We have had success against our enemy so far...but do not allow that success to blind you. This stronghold serves as a rallying point for them. Their raiding parties use this location as a headquarters and refuge, we have not defeated all of the cult in this area and those that remain will return here. The only preparations they made for our coming was the summoning of the Storm. Look at the treasures stockpiled here...look at the prisoners locked away here...look at the undead we have faced... It is a center of their military power and will be again if we neglect this chance. Just because this fortress is located in the wilderness does not mean that its influence is so limited. Its purpose was not to slow us, never to slow us down. Its purpose is to serve as a refuge for the chaos cult, a safe location for them to torture and convert the people of this land, horde their spoils, mass forces, and to destroy any forces of light that happen to come across them. This fortress has been in use since long before we left Cypress, can you not see that?"
Cedric levels his gaze, "Followers of the arcane are generally not the best to question on matters of reverence. Yet, even the one you quote mentioned that this 'old watchtower' was glorified. The dark priest once bound and awoken cursed us for 'defiling' holy ground. However, I am not speaking of a blow to morale. The enemy seems to remain fanatical even under the most dire circumstances, I am speaking of a blow to their power structure in this land."
The Paladin shakes his head, "...and as Kyoji wisely suggested, let us see just what time and resources are needed for its destruction before we 'squabble' over costs."
...
Cedric observes the lighting of the pyre quietly, his eyes watching the tongues of flame lick at the corpse and the thin wisps of smoke begin to raise. His face is solemn and distant, slightly troubled by the sight of the ancient fallen warrior. He watches the flames for a long time... Finally, when the roaring flames have almost died out, he turns and steps back into the depths of the fortress.
((Consecrate... 25 gold and a bottle of holy water for 12 hours of purity...))

Posted by: Aldur Thu Nov 03, 2005 2:36 pm
((OOC: from looking at a few things...Algam fort is not out of the way. Over land it's the first line of defense for Iom Castle. Just an FYI)) Amelios makes his way over to Cedric and sighs. "I see that you are set on blowing this place sky high. However. I would ask of you one thing. That we find a way to do this once we are a goodly distance from the fort. As it will be a beacon to the enemy. That is unless you wish for them to rush to the fort and then we ambush..."

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Thu Nov 03, 2005 4:02 pm
((I believe your direct quote was: "Let us set up camp and be merry" which isn't that far a stretch from the stock phrase I posted, drink and be merry. Drink doesn't mean get drunk, by the way. Heck, back then, wine was safer to drink than water.
As for assumptions, in real life, people will always draw assumptions based on their own opinions. So would it be in a game. The trick is to make sure the assumptions they draw are the ones you want. For example, by now I'm sure you've all assumed that Brand is an arrogant, hardheaded, anal-retentive type, and the last sort you'd want to befriend. Which is in line with what Brand wants you to assume, so I'm happy.))
Brand sits on the clifftop above the fort, scanning into the night.

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Nov 03, 2005 4:27 pm

QUOTE (Aldur @ Thu Nov 03, 2005 2:36 pm)
((OOC: from looking at a few things...Algam fort is not out of the way. Over land it's the first line of defense for Iom Castle. Just an FYI)) Amelios makes his way over to Cedric and sighs. "I see that you are set on blowing this place sky high. However. I would ask of you one thing. That we find a way to do this once we are a goodly distance from the fort. As it will be a beacon to the enemy. That is unless you wish for them to rush to the fort and then we ambush..."

The Paladin blinks, looking at Amelios in surprise, "Amelios, we have just set two massive fires ablaze atop the structure. The enemy knows where we are. As for the destruction of this fortress, I have no idea how that will be accomplished. I will leave that decision to Derrik and Zook, both of whom are more capable in that area than I..." He sighs, "If only we had a cleric would could cause the earth to quake and swallow up this place."

Posted by: Aldur Thu Nov 03, 2005 5:36 pm
Amelios shakes his head at Cedric, looking equally puzzled. "Two fires yes. But they don't know who set them. For all the other members of the cult know, they could merely be liting fires. As for that...I am sorry. That spell is indeed far above me at the moment..."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Nov 03, 2005 9:50 pm
Assuming, he's consulted, Derrik will gleefully quote the price of the tower's destruction at 6,000 gold for a series of four Ancient bombs and some gunpowder for the tinker to mix up some explosives of his own to finish off the mix. ((Does anyone have Kno: Architecture or Kno: Engineering?))

Posted by: Rusty Fri Nov 04, 2005 12:56 am
"I'm glad that you all assembled here," Ashathel said, leaning against one of thick stone walls. There are some things which I'm not happy about." Faralon: "I think we're all disagreeing on some things here and there...Go on." Cedric looks at Ashathel intently.
Ashathel: "I'm just curious as to who's truly in charge here. With the exceptions of the paladin here taking the reins during battle, I feel very much as though we're all separate people who just so happen to aim at the same thing every so often."
"I was hired as a scout and warrior, and that is what I do," Kyoji states. "If someone wishes my advice I will give it, but I am not a leader. I lack the force of personality to cause others to follow."
"And you, Lady Yeesha?" the elven swashbuckler said. "Are you not the one who organized this expedition for the prince in the first place? If you are not making decisions, who is?"
"I hired all of you to help me find the Prince, but with my injury, I'm not going to be as much help in battle... I like to think I carry some authority, but I must defer a combat leader role to another," Yeesha says.
Ashathel: "Which has been Cedric, more and more. Do you have an answer for your style of combat then, Paladin? I see no major pre-battle preparations, no enhancing spells cast, no discussions about the nature of our enemy and the best way to defeat them. Is there a reason for this?"
Cedric looks at Ashathel flatly, "I assumed leadership because there was too much discussion before battle and not enough action. This was most notable at the mansion of Dava where had we moved sooner, her life might have been saved. Before nearly every battle that we have had time to prepare for we have discussed strategy until we are blue in the face." The Paladin crosses his arms, "Prior to this last battle, several of us did cast enhancement spells. I myself cast a ward against evil on Brand and Yeesha read a scroll that increased my size...notably I would assume. Everyone who requested magical aid received it. At almost every decision I make, I receive an uproar of opposition from the group. I attribute this to their love of freedom but in a struggle such as this some unity is necessary. I make an effort not to take command more than is needed because of the nature of the member's of this group." Cedric sighs, "What do you expect of me? I cannot enforce order and respect freedom in every situation. It is true that we did not discuss the weaknesses of our enemies atop the fortress but we had faced their kind before. As for the ambush and Storm, we had no idea what we were facing..."
*Faralon shakes his head.* Faralon: "The leadership is not the problem here. It is the internal problems. I had wanted to address these issues, but..."
Ashathel: "Cedric, I do not mean to question your abilities as a leader, but there are certain things I thought were common sense and are not being done. Discussion is useless without a point, and I would hope that there would be a strong leader to make sure that the discussions stay on course. Do you want to know why I asked for this meeting? Statements like what my brother made. I owe no alleigance to Prince Nick or any of Cypress; my home is a forest far beyond the trifles humans so often embroil themselves in. But this matter," he muttered, shaking his head as he stood straight, "this matter will affect all, if it is not dealt with soon. What I come to you for now is assurance, because if I am to simply be slaughtered in battle with this group, I will take my brother and go."
*Faralon looks at Ashathel and shakes his head.* Faralon: "I didn't really just take this job for the money. I would not be returning home with you were you to leave now, brother."
Cedric frowns, "Let he have his say, Faralon."
*Faralon nods.* Faralon: "I just wanted to let him know that."
"We can easily warn other nations and have a true contingent of warriors available to fight the darkness," he continued, ignoring his brother's words, "rather than leaving the burden of first knowledge and first action to this group. And Faralon, I have been content to ignore this matter now, because I know why you came here. But if I see reason to leave, I am taking you with me. Even if it is by force."
*Faralon shakes his head.* Faralon: "You would really try that? Am I not an adult now?"
"That's what this whole trip has been about for you. I know," Ashathel sighed. "Mother babies you incessantly, and it is no way to live. It's why I left, as well, though it meant losing time with you as well."
"Would we?" Kyoji asks. "The western countries are in disarray thanks to the rebellion in Guardiana and invasion. My homeland refuses to send aid, gripped with xenophobia and insular tradition. Cypress is without a monarch, and who knows what the colonies on Parmecia are doing," Kyoji says. "This is why this is happening now..."
"Then if that is the case, this group must be whipped into better shape," the spellcasting swashbuckler said firmly.
Faralon: "I do agree that we need to work better as a team, Ashathel. However...I fear this quest of ours has grown into something more than we first imagined. I don't think this is just about Nick anymore..."
"Fittingly enough, the Chaos Cult is striking when chaos is rendering what might have been their fiercest foes impotent," Kyoji continues. "Not to mention the troubling rumors about the gods".
Ashathel: "Well, put it like this... Kethra behaves more like a human schoolgirl than a half-human monk. Rhizor spends to much time communing with nature than he does with any of us. Van keeps trying to sell everything all of us own to help his village."
Faralon: "Clearly...the group just needs someone to catch their attention." *Faralon says with a small grin.* Faralon: "Don't worry about Van, by the way. Our new monk is helping him with that."
Ashathel: "Laika's mouth only opens to rend flesh. Zook is more machine than gnome. Though, to be fair, what I know of their culture does not make this surprising."
*Saying all this in front of Lady Yeesha and the Paladin? Ashathel, you're going to get yourself into trouble this way...*
Pacing lightly, Ashathel continued "The fact is, all these little quirks are going to keep getting us killed. Ever since the first battle, we've been injured more and more with each fight. Today, two of our ranks died - one being a cleric who chose to close into combat range, despite his time spent studying tactics, and the other being a sorceror who's decided that he hates us all."
"From the way you speak, he is not alone in that," Kyoji notes.
"I respect those here," the combat caster snapped back.
Faralon: "I don't think it's their 'quirks' that are the problems, really...I know Cedric is the apparent leader here, but has that ever officially been stated? I'm not certain everyone knows it."
Ashathel: "The quirks are fine with me, but when it starts interfering in life-ro-death situations we have a problem."
"I appreciate it, but I request you take a moment to calm yourself, Asathel," Kyoji says. "You are angry and may not speak or think clearly because of that. It would be a shame if the point you are trying to make is muddled by the emotion you sheath it in."
The elf moves, as if to say something, then raises his hand and pauses. "Your words are sound."
*Faralon looks about at the group, particularly at Yeesha, who has remained mostly silent.*
Ashathel: "Very well... I've brought not only complaints but possible solutions."
"So... Do you have any solu... Oh," Yeesha says, as she's interrupted.
Cedric nods in agreement with the words of Ashathel, "It is not a matter I can address alone..." He looks pointedly at the archwizardess, "Especially without official authority. If we are to unify the group, create a power structure. Lieutenants to watch over portions of the battlefield that I cannot. Perhaps even divide the group into squads each lead by a lieutenant."
*Faralon sighs. A chain of command...of course. Must there always be one? I still think it is only the internal affairs and cruel intentions of the party members that drags this force down.*
Asthahel: "I intend to speak to each of the members of this force, and bring up what I see to be the most pressing issue they have."
Cedric frowns then as he notes Zook in the distance, "This is a matter of importance but would you pardon me? I need to speak with the gnome and he is difficult to locate." The Paladin bows.
Ashathel: "Of course. Another time, my friend."
Cedric nods, "Thank you, please continue discussing this."
Faralon: "How would the division be done? If the group is not satisfied, backlashes are most certainly expected."
Ashathel: "I'm assuming that this matter can be dealt with, wiithout anyone losing their freedoms. I for one do not enjoy too many rules. I'm sure a simple explaination of what's wrong is sufficient to give all cause to change their ways, given the fact that these battles are no game. However, so that I can be sure of my own abilities... I have two requests. First, I ask that Kyoji teaches me the art of combat with two blades. Between my blade and the magical beam I use, I could be far more effective in melee combat. Second, I ask that Yeesha continues to assist me in learning new spells, so that I can increase my competence in that area as well. Now, if all would excuse me... I would like to have some words with the Lady."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Nov 04, 2005 3:08 am
((Ahh, here we are. Brought to you by DM and Rusty )) Faralon: "You said you wanted to speak with me?" Damas nods slowly, the sorcerer noticeably leaning on his staff. "Yes, now those other issues seem to have been cleared up." Faralon: "Heh...What did you want to talk to me about?"
"You have a way with women, so I thought it would be prudent to seek your advice on such matters. I am not that good with words."
*Faralon raises his eyebrow, curiously.* Faralon: "Well, I suppose you have come to the right person." *Faralon smirks.* Faralon: "Who's the lady?"
"Only if you promise not to laugh."
*Faralon nods, looking a bit more serious.* Faralon: "Okay."
Damas shifts nervously, his face turning red. "...Isyndel."
Faralon: "Ah, Isyndel? Really? Hmm. Well, you need help with words, then?"
"I am unsure of how to express myself without...making her feel uncomfortable."
Faralon: "Well, you should first approach her as a friend, or if lesser, an ally. Perhaps if you spend more time with her, you'll grow more comfortable around her, and would feel less awkward speaking with her."
"As far as actual words...You should probably just say what's on your mind. Just be mindful not to say too much too quickly. After all, it's just an attraction, right?"
Damas nods. "So be honest but move at a pace both of us are comfortable with?"
"Of course. It's simple enough, isn't it?"
Faralon: "Is that all you wanted, then?"
"Actually, there is something I am quite curious about. If you don't mind me asking, that is."
Faralon: "Go ahead."
*How do I say this without offending him?* Damas thinks to himself. There is a long pause before the elf opens his mouth to speak again. "How...do you feel about Kethra, honestly? I mean, I know it isn't really my business or anything, but she is my friend and I worry about her."
*Faralon sighs. Nosy people...Certainly I won't tell him everything, but...* Faralon: "As of now, I don't know what to say on the matter. I haven't spoken with her much as of late, but I think we're both on good terms with each other. I would at least call her a friend, myself."
Damas bites his lip nervously. "I'm sorry about that. My curiosity gets the best of me at times."
Faralon: "Sorry about what? That it's still a bit undecided?"
"I shouldn't have asked you. It wasn't my place. Kethra may be my friend, but her personal life doesn't concern me." Damas sighs. "To be honest though, I am worried. Her behavior as of late has not been fitting of a monk, though who am I to talk? I have made my share of mistakes, but I am trying to make up for them. However, it is a bit difficult when some seem to hold grudges. I have never been one to hold a grudge, myself. If someone is truly sorry for what they've done and show that they want to improve, I think they can be forgiven. A rather odd point of view for a sorcerer, I suppose."
*Faralon nods.* "Well, it has been a long night. Everyone is uneasy about the future, and they're thinking of the ill past that have led to unpleasant results. But everyone's fine now, right? If it were up to me, I would say people need to lighten up a bit - enjoy the little victories we do get, you know?"
"It is never a bad thing to be mindful of the future, but some seem to forget about the here and now at times."
*Faralon nods.* Faralon: "I didn't say not focus on the future...But I did say that we should celebrate as a group our accomplishments thus far. Even if we haven't saved Nick, or if we were unable to save Dava - at least we've saved two prisoners and have wiped out a number of enemies in the process."
Faralon: "Perhaps tomorrow I shall play a song to help lighten the mood of things." *Faralon smiles.*
"That sounds nice," Damas says with a smile. "To be honest though Faralon, I felt quite threatened when I first joined this group. Some rather...painful things in my past had made me quite introverted, to the point where I found it difficult to trust others. I still have nightmares at times, but I am trying to follow Amelios' advice and leave the past where it belongs."
Faralon: "Well, keep at it, I guess. I noticed this group is growing ever more paranoid - don't fall into that same trap yourself. It only raises tension."
"I agree. Paranoia will not help, at all. After the assault on our camp in the middle of the night though, it would most definitely be prudent to be cautious from now on. I have also noticed that there are some who are paranoid about how others in the group feel about them." Damas sighs. "I know the feeling. Sorcerers are often judged very harshly simply because of what they are. Even Wizards are sometimes feared by the general populace. The thought of a mortal being with so much power frightens people, and practitioners of the arcane are looked upon with suspicion, at best."
Faralon: "Ah well...If you don't mind, I think I'm going to turn in now. It has been an exhausting day. I hope I helped."
"No, I do not mind at all Faralon. In fact, I am quite tired myself. Thank you for your advice." Damas smiles. "Good night." With that, he turns and leaves.
((If anyone wants to speak to Kethra, she is alone in a corner <_<))

Posted by: Knight_019 Fri Nov 04, 2005 5:45 am
((You completely ignored the funeral, so none of my 3 characters are talking to you ))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Nov 04, 2005 6:31 am
((Damas was not doing anything before talking with Faralon, and he would have attended the funeral. Kethra, however, is in her own little world at the moment. I didn't see a point in elaborating because he prayed for the Storm already, and he wouldn't have said much anyway. If you would like a post though, I can do that))
[Earlier]
Damas attends the funeral, but watches in silence. He had paid his respects already, and funerals are quite upsetting to him. Feelings of sorrow fill his heart, though he did not know the Storm, he felt bad that the warrior had been used in such a way. Hoping that he will find his peace, the elf leaves when the funeral is over, leaning on his staff.
Kethra, however, remains where she has been seated for a while now. Her eyes are closed and her body rigid; she seems to be meditating. However, it seems a bit too rigid for meditation.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Nov 05, 2005 9:41 pm
Surprisingly, the night passes without incident, and the group is able to move on their way, deeper into Iom territory... Their destination? The devastated ruins of Iom Castle. ((You all have approximately two week of downtime as you proceed towards the Castle, also sending out search parties and patrolling as you move, and checking out various rumors from townspeople that you meet along the way.))

Posted by: Rusty Sun Nov 06, 2005 1:44 am
((Faralon and Ashathel are performing at the two towns we come across. First town's performance: natural 1 + 13 (Perform) + 2 (Masterwork) + 2 (aid other) = 18. Second: natural 19 + 13 (Perform) + 2 (Masterwork) + 2 (aid other) = 36. Faralon will also be gathering information when possible, and talking about with the group between towns and the like.))
*Along with his brother Ashathel, Faralon puts on a performance for both towns the group comes across. He plays his lute as Ashathel sings.*

Posted by: Kyosokun Sun Nov 06, 2005 3:13 am
*shortly before leaving the Fort* Faralon walks about, knowing that by now Derrik has finished with his newly enchanted armor. On his way to see him, he comes across Ryhir and nods to him. Ryhir tosses a smile Faralon's way. "Howdy, Faralon. How goes?"
Faralon stops and turns to face Ryhir. "Ah, as best it can, I suppose." Faralon smirks. "How are you doing?"
"I'm tired and sore, but alive, and as such, not in much of a position to complain." Ryhir returns with a grin.
Faralon nods. "At least some have the decency not to whine about the adventure. I noticed you have a new weapon there."
Ryhir hefts his new Scimitar. "Indeed. It's rare find, a very special weapon indeed... From what Lady Yeesha tells me, I'm blessed to have recieved it. As for the adventure, it's what I live for. What of you? Did you recieve any of the spoils of the great horde we seems to have fallen apon?"
Faralon nods. "Though I've not much experience with them, I received a wand...If I remember correctly, I received a wand that can shoot lightning bolts. I'll need to study it more before I try to use it on battle, but it should definitely come in handy. I also got new armor, which I'm actually about to go pick up now. I did get this armor enchanted, but I think my newly found, and now enchanted armor should suit me better."
"Heh, I'm sure you will find it to good use. I certainly know I've been taking a beating in my Armor. I've been saving up, hoping to buy better, perhaps enchanted, but what with this," Ryhir says, gesturing to the scim, "I'm not getting any raw funds from this trove." Ryhir grins. "Not that I find fault with that, in the beauty of a weapon such as this..."
Faralon looks down at his own chain shirt. "Well, I did get this enchanted. I was planning on selling it to Derrik after obtaining my new armor, as I have nill funds. But, if that's what you're planning on getting anyway...Well, I would hate to see money wasted. You could take this one instead of getting your own enchanted, if you want."
Ryhir gives Faralon a surprized look "Thats a very kindly thought. If you'd like, I could pay you some for it, or perhaps give you my Armor to sell, at the least."
Faralon nods. "That would do."
"Very well then." Ryhir smiles broadly. "I'll clean it up a bit, put some polish into it, maybe you can get a bit better price from Swiftjoke for it. Unless you'd rather have it off my back." Ryhir comments with a laugh*\
Faralon laughs, as well. "Yes, of course. I can wait. Though, I'm curious..." Faralon lowers his voice. "Are you still interested in...I think it was Isyndel?"
Ryhir gets a rather amusedly curious look on his face. "I suppose. As I said, she has a spark to her, a fire, if you will, that I find attractive, though she still manages to be scare when I have free time. Perhaps holed up with her magics..."
Faralon nods. "I do not see it myself, but another apparently does. You might want to approach her soon if you feel strongly about her."
"Oh really?" Ryhir prompts, not expecting it to take much to get Faralon to spill whatever juicy tidbit he seems to have.
Faralon nods. "It's not my brother, either, but it is an elf. That should tell you who it is, I think."
"Wait... you mean... ISYNDEL IS FALLING IN LOVE WITH HERSELF?" Ryhir says in an exaggerated whisper, feigned look of shock as laughter dances in his eyes.
Faralon's jaw drops slightly and a look of confusion comes over his face. He shrugs it off. He must be joking...Odd, though. "Heh. You're such a kidder."
Ryhir grins.
Though he's probably right about that, too... Faralon smirks. "I just thought I'd let you know."
Ryhir nods. "Appreciated, though I don't know the import of the news. She is an item of curiousity to me, interesting, but I would not say my feelings for her are strong. We've barely said 5 words in passing. But, perhaps it warrents a doubling of my efforts in getting to know her. Perhaps soon it'll be 15 words total..."
Faralon laughs. "She is quite distant, isn't she?"
"At times, but when she is in the here and now she can be a site to behold. Very fiery." Ryhir says with a laugh "I think perhaps the strain of our journey wears on her, as well. Combat isn't something that seems to come to her naturally."
"Well, she is a wizardess. She spends more time in her book than anything else, I think. But, the events that we've all seen and have endured seems to be taking a toll on the rest of the force, as well. Some of our party members are, well...paranoid." replies Faralon.
"Paranoia I have not noticed, though tensions have been running high." notes Ryhir.
"Ah well...perhaps today will be better." he says in return.
"One may hope. After all, we're alive, and very Wealthy." Ryhir says with a grin.
At that point, Ryhir gets up with a stretch. "I should get out of this Chain and prepare it for you."
Faralon nods. "All right. I hope mine helps you in battle."
"I hope as well." Ryhir heads off with a nod and a wave.
~later~
Ryhir drops off his masterworked Chain shirt, meticulously cleaned, polished, and taken care of. "Here you are good sir." Ryhir takes Rusty's Chain Shirt +1, contemplating perhaps strengthening the enchantments apon it.

Posted by: White Rose Sun Nov 06, 2005 8:01 am
((Give me a few more attempts at editting these chat conversations before skewering me. I'm still figuring it all out. Oh, yeah. Timeliney, this is before we set off.)) The morning sun rises over the eerily calm fortress that less than a day earlier had been a stronghold of the Chaos Cult. None of this sunlight reaches Jokulligr, however. Residing in a room deep within the structure where the group that had freed him was spending the night, the dragonman monk makes no move nor sound, kneeling beside his prone female comrade in a meditative state as he had been all night, his body relaxed yet his focus ever vigilant.
Soft shivers run up and down Acacia's smooth skin while little balls of sweat begin to form on her forehead. With a sudden gasp, her eyes shoot open and she swings her arm out to grab Jokulligr'. Jokulligr's eyes open as well, but with trained restraint he keeps his natural defensive reflexes in eheck, knowing the contact to not be of aggressive intent. He looks down at Acacia and smiles softly.
"Lady Acacia, I am glad to see you have awoken. Were you able to attain any peace while recovering?"
At first her grasp is tight, but it softens as soon as the monk speaks. A gentle sigh escapes her as her body begins to relax. "Nightmares." She lets her brows furrow as she says it, realizing the irony. She only awoke from her nightmares to the reality that they had created.
He nods. "I see. I take it the events of late are the focus of them?"
The room spins and fades as her head pounds. There were no tears left for her to cry, not that she had cried any since her predicament began. Her body was desperate from thirst. She managed a nod to the question and asked for something to drink as she began to life herself into a sitting position. At her request, Jokulligr retrieves the skin of water offered to Acacia in the dungeon from the floor on the opposite side of him, and offers it to her. "The food also previously offered is still avaliable as well if you are hungry, milady."
Clasping the water skin between her fingers, she held it, feeling the weight. She was so much weaker now and her fingers were nearly raw from the experience. She shook her head sadly. "There is no hope that I'd be able to keep down food just yet."
Drinking small sips from the skin, she was already beginning to feel fatigued. "What now, Jokulligr? Who are these people?" Jokulligr frowns a bit thoughtfully as he looks about the room at the various other inhabitants of the room, be they sleeping or absorbed in their own devices. "I am not entirely certain of their intentions just yet, but it is apparent they are in opposition to the Cult that attacked and imprisoned us. I am also certain they bear us no ill will, so rest assured that no harm will come to you here."
*Faralon found himself unable to get a good night's rest. He wanders about through the fort until he comes across the woman Acacia and the dragonman Jokulligr.* Faralon: "Ah, you're up." Acacia, her eyes turned towards the floor, nods slowly, but does not respond otherwise.
Jokulligr looks up at the bard as he approaches. "Ah, good morning, friend Faralon. Were you able to rest well in these unusual environs?" *Faralon shakes his head.* Faralon: "Not well, honestly, but I'm sure I'll be able to make up for it in nights to follow. How about you both?" *Faralon says, glancing at each.* The dragonman shakes his head as well. "I've had little to do but sleep since being held here, so I needn't any more for the time being. I found a night of inner reflection to be much more refreshing for the spirit." Setting aside the water skin, Acacia turns her attention to Faralon. She offers a soft nod, her eyes showing a hint of pleading, but she still does not speak.
*Faralon's face turns into one of confusion as he gazes at Acacia.* Faralon: "What's wrong? Are you not happy to be free?"
"No, no. I am grateful to you and yours for the kindness you have shown me. It is other situations that have left me feeling empty. I know so little of who all of you are and where you have come from and where it is you are going."
*Faralon nods.* Faralon: "Well, I'll try my best to summarize the situation, then. I'm not sure where you're from, but I imagine you probably have heard of King Nick of Cypress, right?"
Jokulligr arches an eyebrow at the name. "King Nick? I am familiar with the name. I heard a good deal about him from my time in the city before I took residence in the valley monastery. Why is that important?"
Faralon: "You see, King Nick disappeared some time ago. We're the task force hired by his wizardess, Yeesha, to find him. On our journey, we learned that the Chaos Cult is involved in his disappearance." *Faralon glances into each of their eyes.* Faralon: "Eventually, that brought us here - and then we found you two."
The monk's features shift into an expression of understanding. "I see...so that's it. I believed the Cult to have sinister intentions...the Priest regularly sent to the dungeon was quite insistant I join their cause...fanatical individual, I must say." He smiles once more. "But I have pledged myself to The Light. Noone and nothing will convince me to betray the divine creator."
*Faralon nods.* Faralon: "Last night we had spoken with one of the fanatical priests. He was quite mad. Apparently, the Chaos Cult worships the Strife Lords...Who they are, I do not know. I know only of their names."
Faralon: "Xadoss, Shailtor and Erebus, the eldest of the three. They plan to recreate the world as we know it into whatever their twisted views want it to be."
Faralon: "So, that tells you about our little quest. If I haven't already told you my name, it is Faralon. Now that you know what our group's intentions are - would you mind me asking where you intend to go?"
Jokulligr seems to give this information and the question posed fair consideration before speaking. "I am unsure of our intended destination at this time, myself." He looks to Acacia. "I was contracted to protect the caravan we were with at all costs for as long as my services were wanted. The caravan itself may have been destroyed, but as far as I am concerned, so long as any people of the caravan live, I am still bound to said contract. I will go with Lady Acacia wherever she decides without hesitation."
*Faralon turns to Acacia.* Faralon: "And you - where do you plan to go from here?"
Acacia meets Jokulligr's gaze steadily, although her voice shows signs of faltering. "I am not sure. There is little cause or purpose left on my previous path. The woman you were contracted to protect, Jokulligr, no longer exists. I can not ask you to remain by my side." With that, Acacia breaks and turns to Faralon. "I desire resolution. In what form it may come, I am uncertain. All I know is that it will come with the path your group now treads. If desired, I will offer you my arm in combat." Acacia's eyes are soft, but her voice has become confident, hiding her weariness from recent events.
*Faralon smiles.* Faralon: "Troops are always welcome. I'm sure Lady Yeesha would be glad to have you on the team. And Jokulligr, do you also plan to journey with us?"
The dragonman shakes his head at Acacia's words. "Milady, you have not asked, nor are you required to ask me to remain with you. I could easily claim my role to be over and return to the monastery, but I choose to continue on of my own accord. I began this journey with the intent of fulfilling my obligation to those whom I departed with, and I will see it to the end, be it an early demise at the hands of the enemy or to see the followers of darkness stopped once again. Do not concern yourself with my safety, if that is what bothers you. My life's path is what I decide and I take full responsibility for my fate resulting from this decision." He allows a small grin to form.
Acacia allows a small nod and then addresses Faralon. "It seems you have received your answer."
Faralon wonders to himself before responding *Ah...must every woman on this force have a protective holy figure with them?*
*Faralon nods back, smiling.* Faralon: "Good. If you wish to join us on our journey, I will go and let Lady Yeesha know when she awakes, as well as our Paladin, Cedric.* Faralon: "By the way, Cedric is, to my knowledge, the leader...So you might want to have a word with him, too, when you can."
Before parting from the duo, Faralon reflects *I wish I could have said for certainty he is...But after that talk with Ashathel...I just don't know anymore.*

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Nov 06, 2005 8:23 pm
Back at the fort... As soon as everyone is a safe distance from the fort, Zook detonates the explosives Cedric paid for. The bottom level of the tower blasts outward in a spray of brick, stone, and mortar as the thunderous sound of the explosion assaults everyone's ears. The structure topples into a pile of rubble and debris, a threat to no one, anymore.
((Cedric, you lose 5,000 gold coins. You gain 500 XP.))
-------------
On the road...
Yeesha lets Acacia and Jokulligr know she wishes to speak with them when they feel comfortable and ready to talk.
The first town the group comes to that Faralon performs at, his music is received politely enough, but people don't take any special notice of him. The second town is a much different story. People hoot, holler, and cheer and the bard draws a huge crowd. Money is thrown at the elven brothers as the crowd demands song after song, and they only manage to end it when night falls and the townspeople leave the performance with a sigh. Several merchants offer contracts to Faralon, asking him and his brother to sing at various events, or to retain him as a personal musician.
And Yeesha silently boils as she distinctly recalls stating the purpose of this group was to keep a low profile.
((Faralon gathers a total of 225 gold coins from the performances, and make a note that your reputaton/fame factor has increased by +1.))
Faralon finds out the following rumors from his Gather Information rolls.
> "I hear it's open war in most of Rune... All the towns not taken over by the invading Guardiania forces are under assault either by monsters, cultists or others... I'm glad we've got none of that here! Cypress and its neighbors have been fairly peaceful, despite the undead sightings and disappearances."
>"I almost tripped this lady all in white plate mail the other day. Man, she gave me a glare. I half expected her eyes to shoot fireballs at me or something!"
> "With all the chaos here, I wonder how the colonies Guardiana founded on the Parmecian continent are faring?"
> "In Ancient days, I hear towns could communicate with each other instantly... Nowadays it's all up to either wizards or messengers... Not exactly reliable either way..."
> "Hey... You're the *hic* musician I heard a few *hic* minutes ago... I've gotta song *hic* fer you... I wrote it after reading 'bout *hic* Hapon... It's the *hic* Master Ninja Theme Song...*hic*"
>"Hey, have you ever heard the name 'Swiftjoke'? He appeared four years ago and made quite a stir among the mercantile circles here... He only sells his wares to certain people, but they say that he can get anything money can buy for his customers! They also say he's a bit of a jackass, but I suppose if I had resources like that, I might be a bit of a jerk myself. I hear he once had the gall to try and sell beauty cream to the famous seeress Dava!"
--------
Zook's gather information check reveals the following rumors about Mechanis.
> "I hear Mechanis was destroyed by raiders a year or two ago... I guess they rebuilt it somewhere new, because there's still a lot of goods bearing their seal coming into the markets..."
> "Everyone knows that the old Mechanis was destroyed because it was peaceful and relatively unarmed, but I hear the NEW one is armed to the teeth! Ancient weapons and tinker machines all guard the fabled city of gears... Now if someone could only pinpoint where on earth they are so I could visit..."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 06, 2005 9:40 pm
[Morning] Damas lays in his bedroll, his form relaxed and his eyes open, staring up at the ceiling above all of them. Shortly after the sun rises, he blinks a couple of times and returns to consciousness from his trance. Letting out a soft moan he sits up and stretches, trying to rid himself of any soreness that might remain. While the others are either waking up or still asleep, he crawls out of the bedroll and rises to his feet to take a look around. Everything seemed to be alright, and the night had passed without incident. "Wow, that's surprising." After taking a moment to walk the stiffness out of his legs, he gathers his belongings and makes his way towards the two prisoners they had found. Being as polite as he knows how to be and bowing at the waist while he does so, the sorcerer introduces himself to both Acacia and Jokulligr.
<>
Kethra stirs in her bedroll, a cold sweat forming on her smooth skin. Not long after everyone else begins to awaken, she awakens with a start. Her breathing is ragged and her eyes are wide with fear. "Nightmares... Why do I keep having these?" She sighs and shakes her head, crawling out of bed and looking around at the others. Trying to avoid locking gazes with anyone, she packs up her belongings and prepares to set out. Though she does take the time to introduce herself to Acacia and Jokulligr, she does seem to be a little withdrawn.
[On The Road]
Kethra stays to herself during a better part of the trip, the young monk unusually grim and silent. While most of her time is consumed training or meditating, she sometimes just sits and stares at the sky.
<>
Damas tries his hand at being social during this trip, the sorcerer hoping to learn as much as he is able about his comrades. Of course he does not push for answers and does not bring up matters that make them uncomfortable. When he has the chance he approaches Jokulligr. "Greetings friend," he says politely. "I was wondering if we could talk about something."
((Yup, I think that's it for now <_<))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Mon Nov 07, 2005 7:11 am
"Yeesha... I have a personal matter I need to speak to you about," Ashathel said, after the rest had departed. It involves your... your spellcasting. From time to time, I've come to note that your spells have come later than expected. I do not know why or what may be causing it, but if you care to discuss it, I am willing to aid as best I can."
"My injury is not a normal one, I have come to realize..." Yeesha says with a frown. "The fact that the healers couldn't heal it should've tipped me off... but it never proved more than a slight hindrance until lately."
"Healers could not cure it? And it causes you that much distress in battle?"
"Well, it didn't until a few months ago... Shortly before all this trouble started," Yeesha says.
"If that is the case, then... it would seem that perhaps the wound has been cursed. I can't remember anything else, but if I do I'll be sure to let you know."
"I've already researched it using the books I have with me..." Yeesha says, quietly. "The wound was struck by Woldol during his incarnation as an avatar of Iom. Only it was more than a wound... As the battle drew on and victory drew closer for us, Woldol began to see he was doomed. I believe he used the last of his power for two things... The curse than turned Nick's right hand to stone, and this... wound. Furthermore, the wound did not bother me aymore after Iom was slain... But as I said, it began to act up again a few months ago... I speculate that whatever curse infected my wound was reactivated somehow, but I can't seem to find anything out about it. My most powerful divinations are useless..."
"You aren't alone," the elven swashbuckler said, placing a hand lightly on her shoulder. "Powerful or not, curses can be dispelled. Whenever you'd like, call the clerics, the paladin, Isyndel and myself. We'll work to remove it, so that Iom's rage no longer holds dominion over you."
"I thank you for your concern, but if this curse can't be even detected by High Priestess Sarah and myself, I don't think there's much to be done for it... When I have time after all this, I intend to make a pilgrimage to Tristram on Parmecia and ask Mitula herself for her help."
"I see," Ashathel said, nodding after a moment of thought. "Yes, that would be a sound idea. Perhaps I'll even accompany you, and see what all the fuss is about. But in the meantime, don't hesitate to ask for my help. It is, after all, why I was hired, and I intend to help you as best I can."
Yeesha nods and smiles, lightly. "I thank you."
"It's nothing," he replied, smiling warmly. "If you'll excuse me... I need to speak with some of the others. Have a restful night, milady."
"You as well, Asathel," Yeesha says, nodding with the same smile still on her face.
((Sometime between making his brother look good and blowing up forts, Ashathel sold his Masterwork Chain Shirt and bought a Belt of Armor +1.))

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Mon Nov 07, 2005 3:48 pm
(Morning at the fort...) Jokulligr contemplates what Faralon had told him and Acacia, musing to himself of how complex the journey seemed to be becoming in comparison to what he had originally anticipated. When they are approached by two more members of the group introducing themselves as Damas and Kethra, he greets them respectfully and introduces himself in turn.
(On the road...)
Jokulligr's eyes roam the scenery as they travel, his expression one of contentment. If nothing else, this journey certainly held promise of new experiences, with the opportunity to interact with new acquaintances and traverse lands he had not had prior opportunity to see. His attentions are drawn away from the surrounding environs, however, when he's addressed by the sorcerer from before. He smiles softly as he responds. "Greetings to you as well, friend Damas. I would be happy to oblige your request. What is it you wish to discuss?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Nov 07, 2005 9:38 pm
"Thank you," Damas says politely. "I wish to discuss a matter regarding a woman I consider my close friend. You remember the half elf that introduced herself to you, do you not? Kethra? She is a monk as well but as of late, I fear for her." He sighs. "I do not understand very much about her order because I am not a monk, but I do know that she is not behaving in a way that is fitting for one. Perhaps she was not ready to leave her monastery, or perhaps she is stressed like many of us are. Yes, I do know that training and meditation are important to a monk, but she has been flat out antisocial. She will not even speak to me anymore." There is a long pause before the young elf moves to speak again. "I do not know what is troubling her, but she is making a mistake by thinking it will just go away. Sometimes talking about your problems is the only way to overcome them. Jokulligr, what I am trying to get at here is that I would like you to speak with her, if it is not too much trouble. You come from a different order, but I still think that communing with you could help her out. Do you think you could do me this one small favor? I do not want to see whatever is eating away at her lead to more...serious problems."

Posted by: Aldur Mon Nov 07, 2005 11:15 pm
Amelios repaired his armour and did various things. Yet the cleric spent the majority of his time in meditation and writing in the book that was always at his side. If anyone happened to spy on the Cleric in the nightimes they would have found that he was mumbling to himself, scribing notes in the small book by his side, and moving little stones around a map.
And whenever the subject of the undead comes up, by chance or more the cleric's eye's glitter with Malice. The Kyantol obviously did not like his defeat at their hands. He was more silent and rather antisocial, dismissing his comrades in the majority.

Posted by: Kyosokun Tue Nov 08, 2005 3:08 am
Ryhir, before they quite reach the city, stops in to talk with Yeesha. After a rather quick discussion, Ryhir takes his leave, with a dance to his step. Well, looks like things will be interestig for a while yet... he thinks... ((Convo to be posted at a later point.))
((Hey look, it's a later point >.>))
Ryhir Approaches Lady Yeesha. "Lady, if I may have a moment?"
"Certainly. Come in." replies Yeesha from within her quarters.
Ryhir enters and tosses her a smile. "How do you fair tonight, Yeesha?
"Fair enough, I suppose," Yeesha says with a sigh. "What can I do for you?"
"Well, I notice we've got many in the camp clamoring for order, yet no one willing to provide it. And in all honesty, most of the group are so individualistic, I'm not sure how much order could be imposed. I know I myself prefer remaining unfettered. Still, I do understand the need for someone to try and hold the group together..." Ryhir shakes his head. "I'm rambling towards the point. My apologies. Do you think I could be capable of taking lead? Admittedly, part of why I ask is, if I am the lead, then there is no one to place fetters apon me. But I also think maybe it would be best if someone who understood many of the groups love of personal freedom tried to take the reins. I would impose order only when it was neccesary, not try to fix what isnt broken, and I think I have a good repoire with most of our merry little band..."
"Cedric has stepped up, but I suppose you could act in a fashion as Vice Leader, if thats what you want...." Yeesha told him.
Ryhir flashes a tried smile. "I dunno if I really want it, but I'm willing to try. I was kinda figuring I'd lean on Cedric in any case, for the moral support."
Ryhir stands. "Should we make any sort of formal announcement?"
"I suppose. I'll announce it at dinner tonight. I'm arranging for a feast to boost morale."
"Oh really?" Ryhir says, face lighting up. "Thats an excellent idea."
"I thought it might be," Yeesha says with a small smile.
"Well, since I'm being so forward tonight, should the feasting give way to dancing, might I ask for the first dance?" Ryhir asks, with a florished bow and a big grin.
"Such a gentleman," Yeesha says with a smile, that fades a little. "I may not be the best partner, though... My injury hasn't helped my steps any."
"Then I shall wear a fine set of boots. I might suggest you invest in the same, as while I have had some practice in steps, I could yet use some work." Ryhir says with a laugh.
Yeesha chuckles, then laughs aloud at Ryhir's statement. "Thank you, Ryhir... I... Thank you."
Grinning, Ryhir responds "No thanks are neccesary. Laughter is one of the worlds greatest gifts, given by the winds to man, and meant to be shared generously." Ryhir bobs his head. "With your leave?" Ryhir says, ans takes his exit
"Fare thee well, Ryhir," Yeesha says with a smile. "I'll see you at the dance."
Ryhir takes his leave, but pops his head back in for just a moment. "Concerning the announcement... Perhaps you could leave my acting as Vice-Leader off? I'll let Cedric know of my willingness to help, but I feel that perhaps I would aide best in a position not officially recognized..." Ryhir quickly bobs his head, and is gone.

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Wed Nov 09, 2005 12:12 am
Jokulligr glances at Kethra curiously as Damas speaks of her, then looks at the elf and nods. "Of course. I shall be sure to take time to talk with her when next we stop, be it in town or camp. However, it will have to wait until after I meet with Lady Yeesha, as she has requested I approach her at that time. I hope that will not be a problem?"
((Basically Jokulligr's conversation with Yeesha will come next, then he'll approach Kethra, is what he's proposing))

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Nov 09, 2005 12:56 am
Cedric had stared at the smoking ruins of the dark tower, a distant expression on his face. Although clearly relieved that it would not haunt them as they continued on their journey, the face of the Paladin remained troubled. As the group continues on deeper into the lands of their enemies, Cedric continues to display confidence and assurance in such uncertain times, yet dissonance is apparent in his spirit and something clearly troubles the noble knight.
When the group reaches the first town after the fort, Cedric separates himself from the revelry of Faralon and the others. Instead, he walks to the quiet outskirts of the village and stares out at the landscape.
"I thought as much. You didn't seem like the type to indulge in a festival," come a neutral voice from behind him.
[Sense Motive: 7 + 11 = 18]
Cedric remains unturned silently for a long moment, then he speaks in a troubled voice, "Tell me Kyoji... Why do they oppose me in everything? I have attempted to respect their free will and let them voice their opinions...yet continually they refuse to acknowledge my judgment on what is necessary for survival. In all of this, there is hardly a voice that supports me..."
The Paladin stops abruptly and when he continues speaking his voice ashamed and weary, "No, no..." He rubs his forehead and speaks in a soft voice, "I am weakening... My resolve begins to falter, the Goddess has become distant and her will hidden from me. I knew...I knew that I was to come here. That someone had to travel to this land and confront the evil here, yet now...now when our enemies encircle us and my own allies turn against me at the slightest whim...she has left me to stand on my own."
The Paladin chuckles sadly, "How can I stand without the aid of either deity or man?"
"The same way we all must stand eventually," Kyoji replies. "On our own two feet, with our own will. I am not a particularly religious man, though I do respect the goddess. Do you not trust her?"
Cedric replies quietly, "I do...else I never would have chosen this path. Perhaps I should work on my discipline, learn not to doubt her so easily. Yet...the words of Faralon...the continued discord of the group... It shows my failure, my failure to bring them in and allow them to become the instruments of good."
"In everything there is a lesson, my father taught me," Kyoji says. "That is how I deal with things that are... hard. You ask me how can you stand without your fellows and your goddess? You must find your own strength first. What is yours? Who are you? Do you think your goddess wishes for you to rely upon her and her alone? Do you think she wishes to dominate your thoughts? We are individuals first, paladin. It was the foremost of the gifts the Light granted us. The will to choose. Our own minds. Before you seek to find others, have you found yourself? A mother cannot baby her child if she wishes it to grow into a fine man. So must the gods refuse our own wishes from time to time, lest we let our own strengths atrophy and turn ourselves into wards of their care."
"Truer words I have not heard for a long time..." Cedric sighs, "Lessons I learned long ago but somehow forgot in these dark times." The Paladin pauses for a moment, then speaks in a voice filled with resolve, "You are wrong in a way my friend but your words restore me. I do not believe that the Goddess is trying me though certainly in the past I have been through such struggles. No...in these dark times I can feel her power fading... What I fear is that she might be lost forever..."
"If the Gods were to fall..." The Paladin shivers slightly, "...if the words of the dark priest were to come to pass and Mitula were to become a Goddess of darkness... The mortal races divided and corrupted would be the last hope of the light. Never have I heard of such a struggle, even in ancient times the Gods would have remained pure even in defeat."
"Consider the source. Such beings as we face will say whatever they think will sway you. Do not trust their words," Kyoji says.
Cedric shakes his head slowly, "It is not just their words that trouble me. It is what is happening around us... Nations that withstood the darkness crumble. The Shining Force, champions of the light, fall. Long dead warriors devoted to good are twisted into darkness..."
Kyoji states flatly, "That is true, but even if the threat is so dire, that should only strengthen your resolve."
Cedric turns to face the ninja, "It disturbs me is that in the face of all of this, those who fight with me cannot see beyond their own petty whims and desires. They continually bicker and squabble, ignoring the greater good and..." The Paladin stops, his eyes softening, "The words of Asathel are true...they act like children." His shoulders slump , "Most of them are little more than children... They may have faced combat but war is something new to them. I have been approaching them in the wrong way..."
"Whatever way you choose to deal with them, keep in mind that condescension will only worsen matters. Some may act like children now, but war will force them to grow up sooner or later. Our job is simply to make sure they survive the process," Kyoji replies. "The second Shining Force were only into their mid teenage years when they were called upon to war."
Cedric nods, "Yes, actually that is a matter on which I meant to speak with you. Most of the group seemed shaken by our discoveries at the Fort, I suspect that even those merry making are not so unaffected as they would seem. Kethra seems in a rather dark mood since the last battle. I know you have trained with her as I requested earlier, I'm certain that she would open up to you given that." Trouble passes through the Paladin's eyes, "I need to speak with Amelios, I checked with him following his resurrection however since then he has become increasingly erratic. I fear that he is losing his focus..."
"It happens to the best of us at times," Kyoji says with a nod.
Cedric shakes his head with a wry grin, "True..." He then looks into the distance, "I feel the need to meditate, my focus of late has been too much on reaching the Goddess and not enough on developing myself. Thank you, my friend." The Paladin then starts back towards the town.
"You are welcome," Kyoji says, looking at the paladin as he moves back toward the town, then lifting his gaze to the sky.
...
During the breaks in the journey, at each town and at the camps Cedric spends time in deep meditation. His hammer rests in his lap as he seeks inner truth and almost seems to glow, perhaps merely a trick of the lighting.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 09, 2005 4:56 am
"No of course not," Damas says to Jokulligr. "Thank you." Li peeks out from the hood of Damas' cloak and stares at Jokulligr and Acacia with wide eyes. *He seems to be concerned about everyone but me...* the rat thinks bitterly. <> ((And here we have another character scene <_< Forgot to actually make a starting post in character, so I wrote one up ^_^))
When they arrive in the next town, Kethra immediately heads for the library. Taking a book on the history of the Iom territory from one of the shelves, she sits at a table in the corner of the room. Any that happen by see that her mood is dark, and she seems troubled.
"Knowing your enemy?" a voice comes from behind Kethra.
Kethra gasps and looks over her shoulder, letting out a faint sigh of relief when she sees who is there. "Oh, hello Kyoji..." she replies in a solemn tone.
"Something is bothering you. You've been training hard, and that is good. But there is a difference between training to get better and training to take your mind off something," Kyoji says.
"There is no use trying to keep anything from you, is there?" Kethra asks with a sad chuckle. "Yes, something has been bothering me..."
"Not just myself, many of us have noticed and are concerned," Kyoji says. "What is bothering you so?"
"The others...are concerned?" Kethra looks away for a moment. "I...I didn't realize..." She sighs and tries to regain her composure. "I am...rather disappointed with myself. I feel as though I could be doing better, but that something is getting in the way. While I have seen battle, what we have been fighting seems a lot like a war... It is stressful, and is taking its toll on me... I am just...unsure of what to do about it." Her shoulders sag. "I have...also been having...frequent nightmares."
"What of?"
"My nightmares concern this group. I see battles against our foes in which terrible things are happening to my friends... I...can do nothing..." Kethra has to actually blink back tears now. "I know they are only dreams, but they feel so real...
"Is it the same dream over and over again? Or just a general theme?" Kyoji asks.
"...The same dream again and again..." She says softly.
Kyoji is silent for a moment. "Perhaps you should tell one of the mages. They are generally knowledgeable about such things. Or one of the priests. Does Damas know about dream lore? You are friends with him; perhaps you'd feel better talking to a friend."
"...Damas might know something about this...but..." Kethra sighs. "With the way I've been brushing him off... I hope he isn't angry, even though he would have every right to be..."
"Well, he did pull a knife on Isyndel that one time... but he has calmed considerably since then. And you lose nothing by asking."
"Yes, Damas has come a long way. He is even conversing with the others now..." Kethra takes a deep breath and then breaths out again. "I suppose I have nothing to lose... Thank you." She grins sheepishly.
"You are welcome," Kyoji says. "Is that all that's bothering you?
"Yes, I think I will be alright...after I apologize for the way I've been pushing people away." Kethra grins. "Hopefully none of them are the type to hold grudges."
"I think the druid might. Possibly the birdman. But that's all, and I don't think they'll form one in this instance."
"Maybe, but you cannot expect everyone to like you, right?"
"Correct."
"I appreciate you coming to talk to me. I feel as though some of the burden has been lifted now, but I will speak to Damas when I have the chance."
"Good. If that is all, I will leave you to your reading," Kyoji says with a nod.
"Alright. See you later," Kethra says with a smile.
"Take care," Kyoji says, and then turns to leave.
"You too," Kethra says before turning back to her book.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Nov 09, 2005 8:23 am
The night of Ryhir's talk. Yeesha announces that everyone should gather at the inn at six o clock for an important announcement.

Posted by: Aldur Wed Nov 09, 2005 4:49 pm
Amelios frowns, he was nearing a breakthrough in what he was doing...and to be disturbed now was not good. He sighed and decided to be there, knowing this was the command of the Lady Yeesha. He arrives at the forsaid time and leans against a wall, deep in thought, the solution becoming clearer and clearer the more he thought about it.

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Nov 09, 2005 5:45 pm
Shortly after his talk with Kyoji, Cedric approaches Amelios who seems deep in thought, "Cleric of Mitula, what troubles you so?" Amelios turns around looking at Cedric. "Nothing that you can help with for the moment." He studied the Paladin in annoyance. I'm so close...why must they bother me now!?
[Sense Motive 20 + 11 = 31]
[Diplomacy 6 + 14 = 20]
Cedric frowns for an instant as if taken back, then sighs sadly, "Amelios, I fear for your health. Tragic as dying was, you must not allow it to consume you. What are you writing in that book of yours? Why do you not watch after your wards? You have been a shining example of a servant of Mitula until now..." The paladin frowns, "Watching you, one would suspect that you were a follower of Volcanon consumed with and driven by hate for the darkness."
((Aldur OoC: Damnit. I knew this plan wouldn't work. I told TUM it'd be you. BUT NOOOOOOO... See, Amelios has been kidnapped and replaced with an Incubus))
"My Wards...? I do this for their safety! Do you not see? If I master these arts then I can aid them all so much more! Silly mistakes like back at the fortress won't happen again! My book...contains all that I have learned in the ways of tactics and strategy. I act out various scenarios, and think of a way to get the upper hand! But lately...the very last thing I thought of...I can't beat it. And if we are ever in a situation like that then...I'm powerless! I'm almost done! I'm so close to victory! As for hate for the darkness...I admit I have a very strong loathing for the undead..." The cleric mumbles something under his breath at this point, his eye's burning with the same zeal the group had seen over the past week. "I am justified in this I believe..."
Cedric leans forward slightly but cannot make out the last mumbled words of the cleric. He silently regards Amelios for a moment before speaking cautiously, "You...have an invulnerable strategy?"
Amelios looks at Cedric and laughs for a moment. "I am but a youth in these ways! It woudl seem invulerable to me, but a more experienced general could most liekly see a way through. I was thinking of asking the Lady Yeesha for help...however, I decided to try to figure it out myself. And I'm so very close...but yet I cannot see a way through without loss."
Cedric rubs his chin, "How long have you been pondering this?"
"The past half weekend or so. You must have heard my ravings increasing? I'm sure most others did." The Kyantol laughed a little, the happy twinkle coming into his eyes once more before fading into frustration. "I can easily plan a path through to victory if I decide people are expendable. And yet, these are my comrades. Nay, my friends! I could not sacrifice a single one to the death machine that is this cult!"
Cedric nods slightly, "Amelios, I will trust you with this... This seems of great importance to you, however if you have not found the answer you seek within a week... I will seek you out again and I will ask that you allow others to aid you."
Amelios nods, and then grins at the Paladin. He studies the mans resolve and then chuckles. "And if I refuse such aid?" They do say that pressure is the leverage that can unlock new things. I shall do this. And they will all see...the path to victory! He waves a hand in dismissal of his statement. "Forgive me, I do not mean to be rude, however, it is one of the few things I wish to do alone. But I shall conclude my findings in the next week. I also owe you an apology for something else..."
Cedric stiffens slightly as Amelios threatens to refuse aid, concern flickering in his eyes.

Posted by: Aldur Wed Nov 09, 2005 6:00 pm
((The kidnap thing is only a joke. This still isn't finished incidentally. And yeah. he's obsessed.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Nov 10, 2005 10:18 am
((Another character scene... This takes place before the meeting that Yeesha told them to be at ^_^)) Kethra remains within the library for quite some time, pouring over the book she had taken from one of the history book shelves. While she had never been much of a reader, she now finds that it can be quite useful for finding out certain things. Countless hours after Kyoji leaves her, she finally finishes with the book. Closing it carefully, she stands up and moves back towards the shelf she had gotten it from.
"I never thought that I would live to see the day that a monk showed up in a library," a familiar voice says from behind her.
Kethra turns around to see who is there and sure enough, it is who she thinks it is. "Ah, it is only you Damas. I was worried for a moment there."
Damas looks at her with his arms wrapped around a large leather bound tome of some kind, the young sorcerer obviously puzzled. "I take it this means that we are on speaking terms again?"
"You are not angry with me?" Kethra asks in a hushed tone.
"Of course not. I will admit I was a little bit irritated, but nothing close to anger. You are my friend, after all." Damas smiles. "So, how are you doing? Have you spoken to Jokulligr yet?"
"No, I have not. Actually, Kyoji came by earlier. He said that the others have been quite concerned about my dark mood..."
"Yes, we have all been quite worried about you...even those who do not wish to admit it." He places his hand on her shoulder. "What did you two talk about, if it is alright for me to ask?"
"O-oh, yes...of course." Kethra sighs and looks away for a moment. "I have been disappointed in myself...especially after the last battle. For some reason, I keep slipping up even though I know I can do better."
"Do not be so hard on yourself," Damas says with a reassuring smile. "We all make mistakes, you know that. After all, we are not gods or anything. Mortals are far from perfect beings, no matter how hard we try."
"I have seen battle before, but this is...just..." She stops there and does not say anymore for quite some time. Eventually, the young monk opens her mouth and speaks. "I have...not rested well these past few days. Nightmares have kept me from getting any decent sleep."
"I know how that feels...believe me," he replies in a somewhat solemn tone.
"These dreams... They are of suffering, and p-pain... I see our foes doing terrible...unspeakable things to everyone I care about, and I can do nothing but stand there and watch... What could these dreams mean?"
"Hmm..." Damas murmurs while tapping his chin thoughtfully. After a few moments, he lets arm fall back to his side. "It is most likely that these dreams are merely made up of your fears and anxieties. I have noticed that when one worries too much or sees something traumatic, they tend to have nightmares. What causes this, I do not know, but dreams are dreams. That is all they are, Kethra. It is highly unlikely that they are premonitions or anything."
"Even if they are, I will not let them come to pass," Kethra says firmly. "So long as I am alive, I will not allow anyone to hurt my friends if I can help it."
"Now that is the Kethra we all know and love," Damas says with a grin. "Well, most of us... Some are still a little stubborn, paranoid, or self absorbed. As you may know I am no soldier kid, and I had never fought a battle in my life until I joined this group. I will admit I was quite frightened when the big baddies started showing up, so much that I sometimes just wanted to run away from it all." He turns away for a moment then looks over his shoulder. "Things have changed, though... This is not just about finding King Nick anymore. We have some major baddies trying to take over not just Cypress, but our entire world. I normally would not worry about human affairs, and I owe nothing to King Nick or lady Yeesha, but regardless of how scared I may be...I will not run and hide. While I know little of King Nick, lady Yeesha has earned my respect, and so has everyone else in this group. If we do not stand against this cult, then who will? Better to possibly die fighting for something you believe in than being made a mindless drone, right?"
"You can be inspiring when you want to be Damas..." Kethra says with a chuckle. "I think that you would make a great leader, were it not for your...recent lack of stamina."
"Ah yes...that... I suppose it is something I will have to improve upon if I would like to avoid another accident."
"Perhaps I can teach you some exercises that will help build your stamina up again?"
"That sounds nice," Damas replies. "So...you never did tell me why you are here."
"Me? Oh, yes, I was reading up on the history of the Iom territories." Kethra grins sheepishly. "What is that you have there?"
"This heavy thing? The nature of arcane magic."
"I kind of thought so. Actually, I am looking for some religious texts..."
"Over there," he says while pointing to a far off shelf on the opposite side of the library.
"Ok, thank you." Kethra looks as if she if about to leave, but looks back to Damas instead. "So, have you spoken to Isyndel at all?"
"No, I am afraid I haven't." Damas sighs. "I thought for sure that she would be here, though. Either I missed her, or she is hiding from me."
"I do not think she would hide from you. Maybe she is into whatever book she is reading that she did not notice you?"
"Hehehe, perhaps. I know that sometimes happens to me when I am reading. I do wish to speak with her though, and I will be sure to do so when I have the chance." Damas holds his hand up and grins. "See you later Kethra," he says before heading off to another part of the library.
"So long..." Kethra moves towards the far shelf and begins looking for a suitable book. When she finds one about Mitula, she takes it from the shelf and moves back towards the table she had been sitting at before. Flipping the book open, the young monk begins to pour over the text.
((The period after this up until the mentioned meeting is open for anyone who wishes to speak with either of these two. Of course, the only two people I can think of that would be there are Isyndel and Ashathel ))
<>
Later that evening, both Damas and Kethra arrive at the inn as instructed, though at different times. The sorcerer arrives first, then the monk about ten minutes later.
Kethra appears to be a little weary, but her dark mood has most definitely vanished. For the first time since the incident at the tower, she is smiling.
Damas is in a fair mood as well, keeping with his change from solemn and moody to cheerful and talkative. In the eyes of his companions, this is probably a change for the better.
((This inn scene makes for much fun character interaction me thinks And what is with me and these long posts and 3:00 in the morning?))

Posted by: Aldur Thu Nov 10, 2005 10:26 am
(( ...baddies? XD ))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Nov 10, 2005 5:40 pm
((Oh be quiet Bad guys, baddies, same thing damnit ))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Nov 10, 2005 8:42 pm
Yeesha walks in front of the gathered group, clapping her hands to get their attention. "Attention everyone! I know it's been rough for the last couple of weeks. Morale is low, people are feeling edgy, some of you may even be wondering wy thye signed up in the first place. Well, don't get discouraged! We destroyed a major stronghold of cultist power, we cut off a large supply of funds from them, we did great! And I think it's about time we gave ourselves a pat on the back for all this work! So for tonight, there's no rations, no canteens, no jerky... No, tonight, it's a feast!" Yeesha gestures and on of the inn staff opens a door to a large room. Inside the room, a merry fire crackles cheerfully and a large table holds platters of meat, fruit, fish, and vegetable dishes, as well as pitchers of ale, wine, and water. The smell is wonderful.
"I spent some money out of my own pocket here," Yeesha says with a grin. "So don't be shy. Eat up, drink up, be merry! This is our one chance to cut loose for a night. This place is safe. I cast all the wards I could onto it. So stop worrying and rest! A tired warrior is soon a dead one, after all!"

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri Nov 11, 2005 5:46 am
Ashathel sat in the chair closest to the door, slowly sipping a mug of mead. His thoughts were far less light than Yeesha or some of the others would have liked, but even he could scarcely enjoy the meal. All of this is going to get me killed, he thought, shaking his head as he set the wooden cup on the table. Machines of the Ancients and undead of all sorts... this is far from normal, and certainly only a recipie for disaster. Worse still, so long as Faralon stays I can't go - and if he's still harboring any lust for the half-elf, we're going to be with them for the long haul. Can't even say I'll just take the money and go, although it is a tempting idea indeed...
"Sometimes, I could do without having a conscience," the swashbuckler muttered, reaching for his mug slowly before taking another sip.

Posted by: Kyosokun Fri Nov 11, 2005 7:09 am
Ryhir grins broadly, and proceeds to take a seat and dig in, taking a generous portion of Venison and adding smaller portions of some vegetables. He looks to Van, who happens to be sitting next to him. "Some feast, hmm?" On his other side, sits Isyndel. "Well, I see I find myself blessed with beauty on one side at least." He says with a broad smile. "What of our sumptous feat would you recommend, my dear wizardess?"

Posted by: FreedomJu Fri Nov 11, 2005 7:26 am
Van shrugged lightly as he finished chewing on a piece of meat and swallowed. "A bit bigger than anything we ever had at home. Though... the food seems to be lacking something."

Posted by: Aldur Fri Nov 11, 2005 9:56 am
Amelios noted Asathael standing apart, and remembering the Paladin's words he makes his way over and nods to the troubled elf. He looks at the mead and grins a little. "Trying to forget your troubles? I'd advise a lot more than that in that case. What troubles you? Come, a problem shared is a problem halved."

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Nov 11, 2005 5:33 pm
Cedric takes part in the feast, encouraging the others and seeming to having a wonderful time himself. Only the most observant note that he remains on alert, watching and drawing out the others. ((I'm off for the weekend, good fortune without me.))

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Fri Nov 11, 2005 6:18 pm
"What I have to say, my friend," the swashbuckler said, looking straight at his drink, "will only lower the spirits of those present. I very much doubt you'd like to subject the others to such thoughts."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Nov 11, 2005 7:00 pm
"I haven't seen this much food in my life," Kethra murmurs when she takes a seat. The young half elf sits there for a moment, staring at all of it and feeling quite shy about this. Damas, who happens to have taken a seat on Isyndel's other side looks towards the half elf and laughs. "You're not shy, are you Kethra? Come on, you can't tell me you're going to just stare at the food all night. Waste not, want not kiddo."
Kethra shrugs her shoulders and takes a little bit of everything, since she has never had a lot of these things or has not had them very often. "Call me a kid again and watch what happens," she says in a teasing manner.
The sorcerer chuckles a bit and holds up his hands. "Oh come on, you know I'm only kidding."
"Well I would say you've got the merry part down, but not the drinking or the feasting."
Damas blushes a bit, looking down at his plate that is mostly filled with fruit, vegetables, and fish. There is hardly any red meat there at all, and his cup is filled with wine. "Well, I am not a really big meat eater, and I do not like the taste of ale. I prefer wine."
"To each his own I suppose." Kethra pours herself a glass of water then digs in to what is in front of her. "Mmm, I don't think I've had this much good food in my life. Thank you lady Yeesha."
"Indeed," Damas says shortly after. "You are very kind." After this he returns to his meal for a brief moment until Ryhir's comment to Isyndel reaches his ears and makes them quiver. The sorcerer leans over a little to get a look at Ryhir and grins broadly. "You are such a flirt," he says in a manner where Ryhir knows he's only joking. "At least you have good taste in women though." He chuckles a bit. "I hope we are not...embarrassing you Isyndel." He smiles and turns away for a moment and then turns right back when he realizes someone or something is missing. "Do either of you know where my familiar went? She usually hides in my pouch or the cloak but she isn't in either of those places."
<>
Li had gotten tired of Damas talking it up with Isyndel and Ryhir so she left in search of someone else to spend a little time with. Figuring that the woman who have provided the feast would be fun to hang out with, she crawls up onto the wizardess' shoulder and begins to nibble on a piece of stolen fruit from her master's plate.
(())

Posted by: Aldur Sat Nov 12, 2005 12:52 am
"I see..." Amelios looked hard at Asathael, the magic hood suddenly going over his head, hoping to gain insight. Sense motive (17+6=23) The Cleric nods and then grins. he leans in a little closer to the elf and asks a simple question. Hoping he'd guessed correctly what was on the Wizardly Warrior's mind.
"Second thoughts about things?"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Nov 12, 2005 2:16 am
Zook looked at scrawled notes he'd made on a napkin, muttering to himself around a mouthful of pheasant and apple. By his calculations, he had 10.7 days of worktime left to bring ADAM back to full functionality. But he wasn't concerned with ADAM's functionality. His thoughts turned to the reactor recovered from the Storm...
The sky emanated dark portent. Like aimless infantrymen milling about before the call to arms, towering thunderheads inched across the sky, forming a shadowy corona around the mountaintop as they prepared to do battle. At the tops of the clouds, sparks of light danced and flickered, throwing the curvature of the storm into stark multidimensional relief, the raw energy rendering so much insubstantial vapor into a formless, angry hulk. The wind and thunder weren't nearly as subtle, the howling heralds warning off all those fools who dared to stand against the tempest, who failed to take the sanctuary of stone walls and stone ceilings, of a home so firmly rooted into the earth as to be part of it.
One of the many riddles that passed among the gnome-children of the Cypress Range as easily as the Kobold Pox asked, "Who can jump higher than the tallest mountains?". The answer came, inevitably, through a curtain of snickers or a chorus of slapped, oblivious foreheads. "Everyone can, because mountains can't jump!"
Sweat beaded Zook's forehead as he surveyed his handiwork, from exertion, from the oppressive humidity, and from his nagging apprehension. Anyone with half a working eye could have told him that the patchwork ornithopter before him was a slipshod piece of work, and no one with half a grain of sanity would have trusted that contraption to stay together without the heavy, rusted stand it rested upon, much less bear a gnome aloft for more than the time it would take him to plummet to his death.
To the young tinker, however, days shy of his fiftieth birthday, there had never been a thing more beautiful crafted, conjured, or naturally found in this world or any other. To Zook, the deadly sky was a boundless vista beyond a locked gate, and flight the key to it; with her he wouldn't need to resort to childish wordplay to soar over the highest mountains, wouldn't need the arcanist's crutch to propel himself through the skies. With his flying machine, Zook would be kin with the Ancients who came before, those who merged mind and matter to perform feats beyond the sum of its constituent componenture. Best of all, there was no one to call him mad, to hound him with foolish admonitions of danger and failure, the imagined hurdles of those without vision. Those people had all headed to the heart of the mountain to ride out the storm.
It was in a machine very like this, Zook realized with a mixture of pride and sadness, that his uncle Jimbeddo had last been seen, raving about walking amongst the stars, and exploring the furthest reaches of the skies.
The first raindrops tapped on the leather canopy of the vehicle as Zook went through the preflight checks. Methodically, he tugged and tested every strap and harness, every simulated ligament and tendon in the great batlike wings, proofed and double-proofed the tiny steam engine, and lubricated every gear and articulation. As he entered, his hand ran over a rough patch in a metal plate. The lightning illuminated a scratched and scarred surface, as symbols overlaid upon each other in varying degrees of erasure. There would be time to design a sigil, Zook had finally decided, after the flight.
Satisfied, Zook giggled gleefully, the sound drowned out even to himself by the wind and thunder. He climbed into his ornithopter, his legs unprotected by the eggshell-shaped body of the vehicle. He'd run through this so many times in his mind now. He was going to kick the support lattices away, and lean off the edge of the mountain, letting the rudder right him as he fell, and the engine engaged the wings, and then Zook saw himself zooming off, to someplace less grounded than this. Taking a last deep breath, Zook closed his eyes, and kicked off the metal braces.
The wind didn't let him move along his fantasy track past that. A particularly fierce gust hit the ornithopter directly, the perfect headwind allowing Zook lift but no forward motion. Slowly, he rose upward, and the engine stuttered to life in the increasing downpour. He allowed himself a glance downward as he felt his feet at long last leave the ground. Upwards of ten feet from his touchoff, he estimated, which was itself nearly two miles directly up from the base of the mountain. He had done it, finally. Now he was an aspect of the sky and not a warren-crawling gemcutter. Screaming with delight, didn't notice as the headwind exceeded his thrust and he flew backwards, into the crags of the mountaintop.
Even over the roar of the storm as he stood eye to eye with it, Zook could hear the wings tear against sharp outcroppings and feel the wrenching crunch as the engine crumpled in the rear impact.
For an instant, less than a millisecond, the storm, the wind, the crash all stood silent, and Zook at this instant looked down.
As if bade downward by his glance rather than gravity, the destroyed ornithopter fell with an unceremonious clatter back onto the cliff it had taken off from, a full meter behind its launchpad. At least, that's what Zook would have realized had he remained conscious.
He awoke three days later flanked by gaping onlookers and a harried cleric. He'd been out there all night, they told him, because "only a madman would go out in that weather". In the morning he'd been discovered, and mistaken for his uncle Jim, "You know, that totally bonkers one." Despite the pain it caused him, Zook felt no regret in cuffing the cleric's apprentice in the ear, splint and all.
He'd laid there for three weeks, which was more than enough time to contemplate what had gone wrong and how to better prepare for his next trial. He'd been forbidden from flying again by the clan elders, but no matter. He studied, and bided his time, waiting to tag along as an adventurer to some party that would be exposed to Ancient technology. It was three long years before the summons from the castle came, three years of hearing "Zook the Mad" whispered behind the cupped hands of insufferable landlocked gossipers.
But that was all in the past, and Zook bent his mind away from contemplation of the past, and into planning for the future. The Ancients had sought to bend the power at the heart of stars to their will, and the tinker had in his posession the fruits of that endeavor, a pocket sun in the form of a Portable Fusion Reactor.
He giggled as he poured out a goblet of mead and grabbed another apple.
"Let the headwinds come now." he said aloud to no one in particular.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Sat Nov 12, 2005 2:56 am
((Bluff: 1d20 + 6 = 21. Blast you, Cleric...)) "Reservations about being in this group, given our previous track record. I thought we were doing all right until you and the Sorceror departed for other planes of existence. So as of now... I don't quite know what to think."

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Sat Nov 12, 2005 3:55 am
She nibbled quietly for awhile, caught between Ryhir and Damas during their brief stint of silence. Ryhir spoke first, catching her completely off guard. "I do no...," she blurted, but stopped herself short of remarking about his remark. It was nice to have a break for a change, and she felt some of the tension of the travels slide away. The wizardess decided she would attempt to have fun in some way or another without her customary "alonetime."
Sleet watched careful from a distance, careful to remain out of view for the time being.
Damas spoke next. Her nostrils flared as she shot him a glance, narrowing her eyes shortly. For some reason he angered her with those words alone, and she began to boil at the audacity of it all, even if her cheeks had taken the slighest cue of pink.
"I imagine neither of you have been around a great many women, given your judgment of them," she spoke in soft defiance. "Fortunately your aim in battle has proven to be somewhat effective despite your apparent lack of eyesight."
The woman laughed at herself for a moment before returning to her plate, wearing a faint smile.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Sat Nov 12, 2005 3:59 am
((Knight pointed out that while Elven chinmail is a specific item, it has the same cost and stats as normal mithril chainmail. He also pointed out that a mithril breastplate would cost 100 gp more, but has better stats. Is it too late to change my purchase?))
Brand had remained quiet during the trip, spending most of his time adjusting small things in his new cart, and teaching tricks to a small owl the birdman had picked up while scouting one night. His only excursions within the two cities were to buy and sell his goods, though he did keep out an ear for any rumors he might pick up.
(Sell 1, 3 + 8 = 11)
(Sell 2, 16 + 8 = 24)
(Listen for rumors 1, 3 + whatever)
(Listen for rumors 2, 5 + whatever)
At the party, the birdman sat in a corner, an unreadable expression on his face. 'Right. A party to raise morale. That addresses the issuesat hand.' the birdman thought. Still, the food was good, though Brand only went to the table for a plate once Yeesha had mentioned her wards and protections over the area. Even so, he wore his greatsword on his back. No need to be unprepared.
Brand has gained a level! (It's about time, eh?)
Brand is now level 6! (Fighter 2/Ranger 4)
BaB increased by 1!
Fort save increased by 1!
Hp increased by 5 (+2 Con)!
Brand gained +1 to Merchant skill!
Brand gained +1 to Intimidate skill!
Brand gained the feat, Improved flight!
Brand gained the feat, Winged Warrior!

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Nov 12, 2005 5:18 am
((No, it's not too late to change your purchase.)) "If you enjoy a compliment, the correct response is thanks, not denial. Though I suppose that your response is a tribute to humility," Kyoji says to Isyndel as he sits down at the table, looking at all the food laid out. "Hmmm... I suppose I will try the venison... Eh... No sake... I suppose that I'll give your mead a try..."
Kyoji fills his plate with venison as well as a hunk of bread and a few small pieces of fish. He also fills his glass and brings it to his mouth, stopping himself while the glass was half way there.
"Heh... I wear it so often I forget it's there at times..." Kyoji says, quietly, setting his glass down and reaching a hand up to touch his cloth mask.
"Oh, you're all quite welcome," Yeesha says in response to the thanks. A small smile plays on her lips as as plucks a grape from a bunch set on the table and hands it to the rat perched on her shoulder.
"Here you are, little one. You're Dama's familiar aren't you? Heh... Well so long as Sleet doesn't try and chase you down, you should be OK," Yeesha says as she pats the rat's head.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sat Nov 12, 2005 3:31 pm
((Kyoji could always hit Faralon up for sake. )) Zook leaned back in his seat, content. He sipped idly at his mead, patting his stomach restfully. After a moment's such laziness, the gnome gestures to the imposing-looking dragonman and his friend. "Jokulligr, is it? And....Acacia?" The tinker taps his temple absently. "I'm not good with names, usually, and in a group this size, despite our... unique composition, it becomes exponentially more difficult to keep track. But, I make it a point to remember. And what I try to remember, I never forget. I'm, ah...." He snaps his fingers rapidly, trying to stimulate whichever synapse wasn't firing. "Zook! Yes, of course. Zook." Giggling, he shifts in his seat.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sat Nov 12, 2005 6:32 pm
Li gratefully accepts the piece of fruit and nibbles on it, nodding in response to Yeesha's question. When the wizardess pats her on the head, the small rodent lets out a happy squeak. Damas is quite taken aback by Isyndel's response to his compliment. He had not expected her to react this way at all, and her words hurt him. |What a fool I am| he thinks bitterly. Looking briefly to the wizardess with sad eyes, he speaks in elven so very few near them can understand his words. ~"I-I did not mean to offend you... I-I'm sorry."~ After this he sets down his glass of wine and his napkin then stands up. "Forgive me, but I have lost my appetite." With no further words he moves around the table and out the door.
Li then turns her attention to her master and her nose twitches. The small rodent squeaks sadly and nibbles on her food. |I told him that mean wizardess would be nothing but trouble! Poor master...|
((...I rolled a 1 on Bluff, 'nuff said. Anyone with a reasonable Sense Motive can tell that he is deeply hurt and offended))
[Speaking of which. Sense Motive 18]
Kethra looks to Damas as he leaves the room, the young monk clearly able to see what it is that he is trying to hide from them. Not at all happy about this, she turns her gaze to Isyndel. "Isyndel...was there really any need for you to be so mad? Damas was only trying to give you a compliment."

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Sat Nov 12, 2005 10:49 pm
Brand, sitting nearby, chuckles. "Leave her be, Kethra. I think he has much to learn before trying to court her, and sometimes this is the only way to learn it. She's only helping him build character." he states with an amused chuckle, adding, "Though I'm surprised he fled after the first jab. Perhaps he needs to spend some time around Faralon? The two might rub off on each other."

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 13, 2005 12:15 am

QUOTE (Arcdragnbreth @ Sat Nov 12, 2005 1:56 am)
((Bluff: 1d20 + 6 = 21. Blast you, Cleric...)) "Reservations about being in this group, given our previous track record. I thought we were doing all right until you and the Sorceror departed for other planes of existence. So as of now... I don't quite know what to think."

(( The holy ones see all.))
Amelios sighs and nods understandingly. And then grins at the elf.
"And those were our own mistakes. And we have learnt from them. Such a thing will not happen again. But perhaps...is it you fear for your own life?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 13, 2005 1:25 am
((*Baps Aldur* Your death, maybe. Mine was just bad luck. This happens between the time in the SFCW chat where Brand leaves then comes back)) Brand steps outside to hall, and glances around. Seeing the sorcerer standing nearby, the birdman watches him for a moment, then walks over.
Damas' ears quiver and he turns to face the birdman.
"So." Brand says after waiting for a moment. "What happened?"
"I did not think I would be scolded for a mere compliment." Damas leans his back against the wall. "Perhaps I was foolish to say anything in the first place. I do not know what to think anymore. My mind is pretty much like a room that hasn't been cleaned in ages." He chuckles grimly. "Kind of sad, isn't it?"
The birdman sighs. "I don't know you, Damas. I don't know your past, I don't know your race, and I don't know your path. I also don't know if it's the girl's respect you're looking for, or just the team's respect."
"As for the scolding..."
"Damas, I'll level with you. People are different. Some people enjoy bandying words. That's the way they show affection. Others are more open. And of course, it could be that you just managed to offend her."
"If it's the first case, then you've just run away from her own method of giving you a compliment."
"And if you managed to offend her, well, that tells you a few things. You know that she isn't used to your way of talking, and that you don't know what she's expecting."
"You'll have to learn what she expects and what she likes, and you arn't ever going to learn that sulking out here."
Brand sighs. "I'm not good at this, friend. If you had trouble swinging a sword or running too slowly, I'd show you. But I'm not what you'd call a people person."
"But in my experience, people don't respect strength. And they don't respect weakness. What they do respect depends on the person and the culture, but most of them respect courage."
"Don't show how tough you are. You're a killing machine, and you show it every time we enter a battle."
"You went through death without blinking an eye. You've faced the undead, prists of a demon, the death of a legend, all without blinking. We know that."
"You've got strength, but you also have the courage to only show it when it's needful. You've got weaknesses, too. Now you need to find the courage to show they don't fret you too much."
"So she barbed you. So what? So you aren't as quick with your tongue as you'd like. So what? Don't flee the field, man. Stand your ground. Smile if you want, and show her that you've got the courage, if not the language."
The birdman glances over at the sorcerer, trying to guage the effect his words are having.
Damas looks at him with as calm and expression as he is able to manage. "I am not sure if it is strength or lack of compassion, but I believe I understand what you are saying. You believe there is a right time and place for everything, and that just because something does not go my way does not mean I should give up. I should learn from it and become stronger for it. 'If at first you don't succeed, try again'?" The sorcerer grins. "Am I getting warm?"
Brand shrugs and grins wryly. "Wow. I didn't realize my advice was that corny, but I'll admit that I'm a firm believer that what doesn't kill you, makes you stronger."
"You're advice is not corny." Damas chuckles. "I am very greatful for it, actually."
The birdman shrugs again. "You've got the courage on the battlefield thing down pat. Time to tackle the harder challenge. Ready to face the team again, friend?"
"Yes, I do believe so. Besides, I think I could eat a horse right about now." Damas tries not to, but he laughs a little bit.
"Keep away from mine." Brand says sharply, but with a chuckle in his eye.
"Of course friend," Damas says with a grin.

Posted by: Kyosokun Sun Nov 13, 2005 8:38 am
((Here is the Feast Chat RP, eddited and formatted to fit this thread)) Ryhir grins at Damas. "A flirt? I suppose a bit..." He looks back to Isyndel. "If having sight means seeing less than the beauty I see now, than perhaps sight is overrated." Ryhir says, with a smile at Isyndel, eyes dancing.
Kyoji removes his mask, revealing short black hair and brown eyes as well as the narrow eyes common to those of Hapon descent. Setting his mask aside he takes a cautious sip of the mead.
Ryhir raises his glass to Kyoji. "It's good to see you, Kyoji."
"How's it taste, friend?" Brand asks curiously.
Zook smirks behind his own mead.
"It's good... Very good," Kyoji comments as he takes a second sip
Kyoji chuckles at Ryhir's joke.
"What kind of drinks do they serve in your land, Kyoji?" Ryhir asks.
"Well of the alcoholic kind, primarily sake, a kind of wine made from rice," Kyoji responds. "Though we also have milk, water, and the like."
Ryhir nods, then turns to the gnome, seeking to pull him into the festivities. "Zook! How about the gnome lands? What kinds of drinks do they have? Anything interestig?" he shouts to him with a smile.
Brand shudders. "Rice... rabbit food. I've never seen how so many of you land-bound races can stand vegetables. If it doesn't bleed, what's the value of eating it?"
"Sometimes game is scarce and sometimes people find they have no talent for hunting," Kyoji says. "For those times and people, a grain of rice or stalk of wheat doesn't move from where they planted it."
Zook sips his mead before answering. "We've got mead and wine and ale, which are all artificially sweetened, too rich for my taste. A stiff drink should taste it, I think. Give me a good Dwarven Firewhiskey any day."
Isyndel gave an audible sigh as she nibble quietly on a slice of bread. "I do not seem to be as well off as the rest of you when it comes to merry banter," she said. "Either that or perhaps your skins are thinner than what I am accustomed to."
"Perhaps merely the sorceror's skin," Kyoji says with a shrug.
"I am grateful for my thick skin. Brushing off words and shrapnel are helpful traits indeed."
"He's not used to people. He'll grow a thicker hide someday. Better that he start sooner rather than later."
"Heh, I noticed at the tower you weren't brushing off the shrapnel so effectively." Ryhir teases Zook a bit.
"I prefer to dodge such things rather than shrug them off," Kyoji says with a grin.
Ryhir nods in agreeance with the ninja.
Zook smiles slightly. "You can't brush it all off, and I wouldn't want to. Keeps you vital, I think."
"My intent is not to thicken his skin," she replied flatly. "I do not aspire to such noble intentions, truth be told."
"You need not aspire to them to elicit their effects." Zook said simply.
"Truthfully? What are the intentions you aspire to?" Kyoji asks.
Brand starts to reply, then bites back his response.
Isyndel mused over the question for a moment. There were several answers that presented themselves to he in that moment and none seemed to be the one she was looking for. "I would be satisfied," she chose, "if we all were to survive and succeed so I could go home." She smiled a bit, feeling comfortable in the skin of that reply.
"And where is home, most esteemed wizardess?"
"Wherever there are new books, of course." She laughed.
Kyoji chuckles, lightly. "Perhaps the Prince will allow you use of the Royal Library when this is all done."
Ryhir eyes lit up at that. "Indeed, an excellent answer. Some say the entire wotld is a great book, if you know how to read it."
Brand shakes his head. "The world is not read in pages or knowledge, but in the day to day living of its inhabitants, and in the stories they tell." Then the birdman looks surprised at himself, that he said so much.
"But those experiences and stories can be transcribed onto paper with the right amount of skill," Kyoji says.
"Some people," Zook said, "like to think and speak in aphorisms. The world is no more a book than a tree is a trebuchet. Books are the products of life. The world is life."
Kethra remains silent for the time being, eating her food and watching the others carefully.
"A page can't capture the expressions in their eyes, or the tones of their voices as they tell you. It can't capture their children nodding or laughing at the memories." said Brand.
"I simply enjoy to read a great deal; it may surprise you that there is no other meaning to my time in doing so than that." says Isyndel.
"And as for you!" he says to Zook in mock severity, "As soon as I figure out what an aphorism is, I'll... probably look stupid."
"A book is no substitute for experience, but it is better then no knowledge at all," Kyoji says, simply. "That is all I meant."
Brand grins, leaning back with a chuckle. "Every man has a different joy that gives meaning to his life. I'm glad that you found yours so early in yours. And Kyoji... that's a hard one to argue with."
"Indeed, though I am certain there are books that may debate their own usefulness." admitted Isyndel. "Ones that would make it somewhat more simple to argue."
"But where's the fun in a simple arguement?" Brand asks, enjoying the debate for the debate's sake. It had been too long since he had spoken with someone outside of an official setting. Too much like the northlands.
|There is no fun in argueing| the monk thinks to herself. She reaches over and pours herself another glass of water.
Ryhir looks at Brand, Amused. "Perhaps you could better find truth in the saying 'All the world's a stage'?"
Brand thinks about it for a moment, then asks, "But then what is the plot?"
"Perhaps our purpose in life is to find out?" Kyoji suggests.
Ryhir thinks for a moment.
Zook giggles. "If life is a play, we mere players have to write our own scripts."
"Unless we are masters of ad-libbing," Kyoji says with a grin.
"Well, think of it this way. The world is a stage. But there are a great many different plays being performed apon it" says Ryhir
Isyndel says "I shudder to think of the seating arrangements such a play holds."
"Improvisation is the cornerstone of genius, my uncle would say."
"Exactly, Zook." Ryhir says, grinning.
Brand nods appreciatively "And who is the audiance?"
"Those who have left the stage and those who created it..." Kyoji says with a sigh.
Kethra looks to Kyoji for a moment, thinking of speaking but does not do so.
Whistful "I'd really like to turn my play into a nice comedy or romance, as opposed to the epic poem it seems to be bound to be..."
Zook flutters his hands passively. "Take your pick: Gods, fate, ancestors. Some would say that there is no one, that we are...shadow actors in an empty theater."
"Those who created it? I think Cedric would appreciate that thought." Brand notes.
"Some would suggest that we are puppets." says Zook. "Some would endavor to be the puppet-masters."
"I refuse to believe we are but puppets," Kyoji says. "We mortals have decided the fate of this world many times."
"Thats why we're still the play wrights." Ryhir says, nodding.
"Have we? Or have we simply saved ourselves, puppets to our own ideology, our own instinct, our own notions of free will." asks Zook.
To Zook "Well, the world still exists, so logic says we've saved more than just ourselves..." Ryhir takes a large drink, feeling the need to be more intoxicated before this conversation is through.
"Never, Zook," Kyoji says, a hint of iron in his tone. "Mortal hands cast down the Dragon. Mortal hands defeated Iom. Mortal hands prevented this world's destruction."
"If one won't allow that the world is as much a part of us as we are a part of it, we a product and shaper of nature." continues Zook.
"I do not doubt that, Kyoji. But... a hand can be forced, imperceptibly. All I say is that when we wake up to each new day, we take a leap of faith akin to that which a Paladin or Cleric places in the service of their deity.
"But in that case, whoever has sought to break our world would also be a part of us, for nearly all comes from nature." Ryhir says to Vox.
"We take a leap of faith that the world around us is predictably as our senses serve it to us, that what's behind the veil of perception doesn't provide an illusion of what lies before it." Zook continues.
Brand chuckles. "I think I need more meat, if you're going to start into theology. If you'll excuse me..."
Ryhir shakes his head. "You're going too deep for me, Tinker man..."
"That is true, but as you say, I have faith in what I said," Kyoji states.
Brand gets up, but heads for the door instead of the food-laden table.
"I share that leap with you; I cannot concieve of the absence of free will. But I can concieve that there are things that I am unable to concieve." says Zook.
"Leaving so soon?" Kyoji asks of Brand.
"Another one of my uncle's sayings: 'To know is to know not'." says Zook.
"Ah, you know the saying. Duty first." Brand says over his shoulder with a chuckle.
"It is difficult for me to comprehend that there are things as such. Still, life tends to move where it wishes...possibilities seem endlessly created and destroyed."
"You're patrolling?" Kyoji asks.
"Not quite. I'll see you in a bit." Brand says, then strides out the door.
Zook smiles broadly. "Chaos is nothing more than an order beyond our ken, a machination the likes of which we cannot fathom. At least, according to your friendly mad tinker."
Grinning, ryhir says "Yes, endless possibilities. Though I would not say destroyed. Merely a path not taken. Sometimes one is able to find a path one passed up, sometimes it is lost there after."
"But we pick our path, and get to see where is leads. And there are always more choices, more paths."
"So what paths have you tread upon?" Kyoji asks.
"Too numerous to mention. That of a child, that of a warrior. On hard occasions, that of a thief. That of an explorer. Occasionally, that of a lover. Often the path others mark for a Philosopher, though I wouldn't call it that...." ryhir says.
"A year ago, I'd have called my path a spiral down into the heart of a mountain, seemingly so high up, but in reality so far underground. Now..." Zook sighs and shrugs. "We will see."
Ryhir shakes his head, letting the drink pleasently spread through his body. "I... need another drink." says Ryhir, before taking a large swig. "NOW, I desire some music. But a moment..." Ryhirs tell them, and gets up to search for Faralon.
Zook giggles. "The wisdom men find at the bottom of ale tankards... it is beyond me. I never get anything out of my drink but drunk."
Isyndel nodded. "I cannot fathom it myself."
"Now, the wizard is, by definition, a scholar, correct? I wonder then, does the wizard share the scholar's disdain of the untrained adept?"
"Most do." She nodded as if it was common knowledge.
"True, but those untrained adepts can someday become the next generation of scholars," Kyoji says.
Zook nods, sipping slowly on his mead. "Kyoji, on the subject of paths, from where does yours bring you to us? Is your shadowy path a common one in Hapon?"
"Hardly," Kyoji says with a sigh.
Ryhir shouts back at Zook. "Perhaps drunk is the wisdom, ne?"
"Ne? I didn't know you knew Haponese slang," Kyoji says.
"Hah!" Zook cries. "The wisdom of clouded senses. I say, why not, if they can call ignorance bliss?"
"No, the path of the ninja is a commonly misunderstood one," Kyoji says. "My clan has trained its members since the time of the Ancients to combat evil in all its forms and guises. With precision and stealth, we have sought to strike at the head and heart of the enemy for ages, but the common folk of my land misunderstand us and label us assassins. In truth, we are as dedicated to the defense of our lands as any of the paladins in shining armor you see riding into battle," Kyoji says.
"One man's enemy..." Zook shrugged. "When you're short-sighted enough, a savior and a tormentor are perilously close kin.
"Mmmmm," Kyoji mutters as he sits back and crosses his arms, thinking.
"The sky is beautiful at night," Zook said suddenly. "There is unlimited potential in boundless shadow." As if snapping out of a trance, his eyes widened.
VoxPVoxD: "Listen to me, prattling on like a destitute madman."
Ryhir returns at this point. "Why destitute?"
Zook smiles. "My uncle was always careful to make the distinction between the destitute madman and the employed madman. The destitute madman, he said, was like a chorus of conflicting voices.
"The employed madman harmonized his insanity, and accomplished with his many voices what one alone could not. My uncle," Zook finished, chuckling, "was an employed madman."
"I see......"
Ryhir eats some buttered bread, and enjoys some exotic fruits. "Mmmm....."
"Enjoying the food?" Yeesha asks, from her spot.
Li rather enjoys her spot on Yeesha's shoulder, still nibbling on a grape.
"Indeed. One should enjoy what one can, when one can." RYhir replies, with a smile.
Brand opens the door to the hall, marching in and making a bee-line for the food-laden tables.
"Good! Glad to hear it!" Yeesha replies to Ryhir.
"Milady is an Archmage, correct?" Zook asks Yeesha.
"Yes," Yeesha answers.
"Have you ever invented a spell?"
"Yes, I have. A few, in fact," Yeesha says, brightly.
Properly provisioned, the birdman heads back towards the small cluster he had left earlier. Settling down, his eyes are drawn to lady Yeesha, and the small morsel crawling around her shoulder.
"Is there a thread of commonality between them?" asks Zook.
"Pardon me, ma'am, but does that one belong to you?" he asks, pointing at the animal perched on her shoulder.
"Eh? No, it's Damas'," Yeesha replies. "And Zook, usually my spells involve lightning, fire, energy of some sort."
A few minutes later to everyone elses' surprise, Damas walks back into the room. The sorcerer looks about at the others slowly and smiles. "I wonder if I missed anything." He then hears Brand's comment and strides over to where Yeesha is. "Indeed. This troublesome rat is my familiar."
Brand glances at the sorcerer, then buries his face in his hands with a helpless chuckle. "So much for dessert." he states.
Li squeaks and drops the grape. "Master, help!"
Ryhir covers a grin in his cup.
"Brand is not going to eat you. Stop worrying you silly rodent." Damas chuckles. "So my lady, has my familiar been any trouble?"
"You'd eat rat over all the food I bought for you all?" Yeesha asks Brand, eyebrows raised. "Such manners..."
Zook laughs loudly.
Kethra cannot help but laugh.
Ryhir continues to hide his expanding grin in his cup
"Then, my lady." Brand says with a wry look in his eyes. "I wouldn't travel to Bedoe, if I were you."
"Perhaps Damas would also be warned such, it seems..." Ryhir says, eyes dancing merrily.
"I did once," Yeesha says with a wry smile. "But as far as I know, it's still bad manners to eat your own food over that of the hosts' when present at a feast."
"I do believe I will make note of that," Damas says jokingly. "Li, why did you hide on me like that?" he asks his familiar. "Because you're not giving me enough attention," she says with a pout. The rat equivilent of a pout, actually.
Isyndel stared at the sudden change in attitude. Whatever was done, it had certainly worked.
"I stand corrected, my lady." Brand says with mock humility. "Please excuse a poor scouts manners, which I know are unfit for the grace of your halls. I'm not particularly expert on animals or familiars, but that rat seems awfully whiny."
"Li becomes jealous very easily." Damas says
"Li is a young rat, I take it?" asks Vox
Yeesha laughs, "If you keep addressing me as a lady, I'm going to expect better and better manners."
Damas returns to his seat. "I am not quite sure, actually."
"A lady is no less a lady before a black-hearted rogue than before a silver-tongued courtesan." Zook says to Yeesha. "As much difference as can be found between the two of them, milady."
Yeesha sighs, "Even when I think I can escape formalities and decorum, they follow me around..."
"Maybe she is one of those types that must be the center of attention?" Kethra asks.
"Perhaps," he replies. "Wait a moment... There is food missing from my plate." Damas looks over to Li. Li squeak nervously.
"Oh, pish-posh, Damas. There's more than enough here to feed a rat and his master 'till the end of days. Even if the end of days isn't as close at it might look."
"That thieving little rat," he says jokingly.
"What about Faralon, now?" Yeesha asks.
Speaking of a silver-tongued Rogue... Zook thinks to himself. Or was that a black-hearted courtesan?
"I guess I'm no good at jokes," Yeesha sighs.
"Rats thrive in the spaces between walls and the pockets of an arcanist's robes. Bards wither and die without the limelight like a vine with no sun." Zook quotes.
Damas makes a few noises to try and get Li to come to him. "Hey, look what I've got." He holds up a peice of cantalope.
"It's an interesting relationship, master/familiar. Some strange amalgam of comrade, servant, and pet. Ahh, the things I could do with artificial intellegence..." Zook trails off.
"It would be interesting to see what he could design, given what he has imbibed." Brand notes.
"Li is not so much a servant as she is a friend. She is usually stubborn about doing things, but the promise of treats helps put things into prespective." Damas chuckles.
And the feast continues....
((RP XP: 200 for Damas and Kethra. 300 for Zook and Brand. 400 to myself.))

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 13, 2005 2:27 pm
( You always do that when I'm asleep. =/ Also DM, You forgot to make Damas duck. A stupid mistake. I didn't take into account the render's reach. It's the same thing really.)

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 13, 2005 3:25 pm
((It could have happened regardless, but there is no sense worrying about it now On with the roleplaying!))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Sun Nov 13, 2005 9:36 pm
((By the way, just as a timing issue. The convo between Damas and Brand happened when Brand left in the middle of the bar convo.))

Posted by: Rusty Mon Nov 14, 2005 6:34 am
*A stage area suddenly lights up and one by one the group quiets down. (Faralon cast Light.) A few moments later, a curtain is pulled open as Faralon sits at the edge of the middle of the stage, holding his lute in his hands. He begins to sing - and as he does, six female dancers, three on each side, appear on stage and dance to the music and song.*
((Perform check on the song/music: 18 + 13 = 31.
The quality of the dancers: average.
-6 gold to Faralon.))
:
"Tonight we dine,
Drink ale and wine,
Or drink some tea, at least!
The meat, we'll brine,
Serve in a line,
And have a fancy feast!"
: "Now I want to hear you all roar with joy! I'm just getting warmed up!"
*Faralon says, excitedly, as he begins to play his lute and sing a more upbeat tune.*
:
"Pass me some ale - some ale - some ale,
I'll tell a tale - a tale - a tale,
Pass me some ale - some ale - some ale,
And don't bring it stale!"
*Faralon continues, the tune changing slightly, indicating a verse.*
:
"A poor soul named Fred - an unlucky man,
Fred's things never went - according to plan,
This poor soul named Fred - fell in love with Jan,
But Jan was taken - by this fellow Stan!
Stan then picked up Fred - and tossed him around,
Soon Stan did let go - Fred hit on hard ground,
'Stay 'way from my girl' - Stan said with great sound,
And Fred ran away - and fell down the mound!"
*Faralon calls out to the crowd and the group before returning to the refrain.*
: "Come on, join in!
Pass me some ale - some ale - some ale,
I'll tell a tale - a tale - a tale,
Pass me some ale - some ale - some ale,
And don't bring it stale!"
*Faralon starts up another verse, his eyes gazing about, meeting with the eyes of his fellow companions one by one as he sings.*
:
"Fred rolled into Bell - who looked in Fred's eyes,
Asked Fred on a date - and Fred did comply!
Bell said 'There's a dance - I need clothes to buy!'
So Fred went with Bell - but Bell was a guy!
"An unsightly sight - Fred had seen that night,
Bell wearing a dress - Fred cried at his plight,
Fred then looked at Bell - much to Bell's delight,
Fred fled and cried out - 'This just isn't right!'"
*Faralon again starts up the refrain, motioning with his hands for the others to sing along.*
:
"Pass me some ale - some ale - some ale,
I'll tell a tale - a tale - a tale,
Pass me some ale - some ale - some ale,
And don't bring it stale!"
*Faralon continues the song with another verse.*
:
"Now Fred was quite down - his face in his hand,
Told himself to go - to another land,
So he got a boat - though it was not grand,
And Fred found new land - but not as he planned!
Fred did row and row - then fell off the bow,
He tried to get in - but strong winds did blow!
They carried him high - they carried him low,
And sent Fred down hard - much to his great woe!"
*Faralon stands up, playing the refrain again. He temporarily stops playing his lute to clap his hands to the beat as he sings the refrain, expressing that the others should join in with him.*
:
"Pass me some ale - some ale - some ale,
I'll tell a tale - a tale - a tale,
Pass me some ale - some ale - some ale,
And don't bring it stale!"
*Faralon sings yet one more verse, accompanied once again by the lute he plays.*
:
"The fall broke Fred's leg - when he hit the isle,
Surrounded by storms - quite strong and most vile!
Fred crawled very far - he crawled half a mile,
He looked up and saw - a sinister smile!
A terrible sight - the worst Fred saw yet,
A fat ogre girl - who called herself 'Gret'!
Gret picked up poor Fred - put him in her net,
Carried poor Fred home - and made him her pet!"
*Faralon motions for the crowd to join in, then motions for them to be louder on the second refrain to finish the song.*
:
"Pass me some ale - some ale - some ale,
I'll tell a tale - a tale - a tale,
Pass me some ale - some ale - some ale,
And don't bring it stale! Ooooh!
Pass me some ale - some ale - some ale,
I'll tell a tale - a tale - a tale,
Pass me some ale - some ale - some ale,
And don't bring it staaaaale!"
*After the performance, Faralon and the dancers bow for an applause. Faralon goes offstage and takes a seat where one is free, after putting his lute on his back.*
((Yeah...>.> Cheesy. *Shrugs* I thought an upbeat/silly song appropriate for a cheerful party like that. And at least it's the longest song yet! ))

Posted by: Kyosokun Mon Nov 14, 2005 7:01 am
Ryhir claps, then rises. "Faralon, play a tune one can dance to. I'd had enough drink to want to move my feet!" Ryhir says with a grin.

Posted by: Rusty Mon Nov 14, 2005 7:04 am
*Faralon shakes his head.* : "You demand too much of me. Can't I eat something first? I'm a bit hungry, you know."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Mon Nov 14, 2005 7:05 am
"I ENJOYED THAT!" Zook roared over the applause. "AND THAT'S HOW YOU CAN TELL I'VE LOST ALL MY FACULTIES!" Collapsing in giggles in his seat, he slinks out and to bed.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Nov 14, 2005 4:03 pm
Damas claps as well and then turns to Ryhir, a huge grin plastered onto his face. "Who do you plan to dance with, yourself?" the sorcerer asks teasingly. "I do suppose you could ask one of the ladies, though." He folds his arms behind his head and kicks back in his seat. "I think I'll just sit here and watch."
Kethra applauds Faralon's performance but on the matter of dancing, she frowns. "I think I'll pass," the monk murmurs, staring down at what remains of her food. |Not like there is anyone who would ask me...and I sure won't ask!| she thinks to herself.

Posted by: Rusty Mon Nov 14, 2005 10:39 pm
*Faralon glares at Zook as Zook leaves, then nods to Kethra and the others. After finishing a small meal, he returns to the stage and begins to play a slower, more serious song at Ryhir's request.* ((Assume Faralon takes requests and plays whatever. I may be busy again today.))

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Nov 16, 2005 1:28 am
[Sense Motive: 10 + 11 = 21] [Will Save: 11 + 11 = 22] [Bluff: 17 + 5 = 22] Cedric seems to join in the merry making yet the most observant note that he drinks only one glass throughout the entire night. Even in the midst of Faralon's performance he quietly watches the others.
((Basically, the Paladin is watching over the group while trying not to seem like he is. Keeping alert in case anyone gets out of hand or if an enemy attacks.))

Posted by: Kyosokun Wed Nov 16, 2005 1:39 am
Ryhir calls out to Yeesha. "Come, time to dance. Everyone, Dance! Find a partner." He approaches Faralon, and drums out the tune for a familar folk dancing song. Then he turns back to everyone. "I've heard this played in most of the lands I've been to, so most everyone should know it. And if you don't, well, you'll pick it up quick. So come on!" He waits for everyone to get up, and goes to get those who seem to hang back. After everyone is up, he stands across from Yeesha, and awaits the start of the music.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Nov 16, 2005 2:23 am
Yeesha gets up and awaits Faralon to play a song.

Posted by: Rusty Wed Nov 16, 2005 2:57 am
*Faralon looks curiously at Ryhir. Is he serious? But he knows my brother has a thing for Yeesha...And wasn't he interested in Yeesha? Hmm... Faralon takes his lute out once more, gets onto the stage and the dancers take their places as he begins to play his lute once again. It is only music - not accompanied by singing. He plays the song that Ryhir requested of him, recognizing the pattern of the 'drums' Ryhir did.*

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 16, 2005 3:58 am
((I'll post when I get a hold of Kyo))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Nov 16, 2005 4:15 am
Ryhir and Yeesha take the floor and dance, but it's not very good at all, both missing steps and generally messing up left and right despite their training. Ryhir laughs it off as being rusty and a little tipsy and Yeesha agrees, the dance ending with amusement rather than embarassment at the spectacular failure in grace.

Posted by: Rusty Wed Nov 16, 2005 4:30 am
*Faralon chuckles as he finishes the song, unable to help but notice Ryhir and Yeesha's dance.* : "Perhaps I should try another? Maybe you're just not accustomed to each others' style of dancing."

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Wed Nov 16, 2005 4:35 am
"An interesting night indeed," the swashbuckler whispered to his familiar neutrally, watching both his brother and those who danced with interest. "I don't know about you, but I'm thinking a bit of rest is in order..."

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Nov 16, 2005 6:52 am
[Diplomacy: 11 + 14 = 25] Cedric chuckles as the old song begins and glances around the room. A slight frown crosses his face as he notes several members of the group looking akward. Shaking his head, he walks up to Ashathel and lays a hand on his shoulder, "Don't just sit here and stare, get up there and join them. Take the joy your brother would give you, relax Kyoji and Brand are watching over us."
(Low sense motive to note that Cedric is keeping his guard up as well.)
[Diplomacy: 2 + 14 = 16]
Moving on, Cedric taps Damas on the shoulder, "Come on now, do not be so shy you are among friends." With a grin, he nods towards Isyndel and moves on.
[Diplomacy: 9 + 14 = 23]
Cedric steps up to Kethra and shakes his head, "How can this be, young monk? A woman as fair as yourself sits by herself in the company of so many men?" With a mock scowl he glances around the room, "Are the men here mice afraid to ask you to dance with them?" Chuckling, the Paladin shakes his head once more, "Then do not wait for them, go and join the dance yourself."
[Diplomacy: 15 + 14 = 29]
Still grinning, Cedric glances in the direction of Van, "Friend Van, you still sit? You have fought and bled with us, will you not dance with us as well?"
[Diplomacy: 9 + 14 = 23]
Cedric then turns his terrible gaze to Merkass, "Friend Merkass, please partake in our strange customs and do not judge us harshly!"
[Perform Dance: 19 + 5 = 24]
Cedric then joins in the dance himself, doing well despite his large frame.

Posted by: FreedomJu Wed Nov 16, 2005 7:11 am
Van had started to rise, but then he recalled the last time he had danced. It had been the night before his wife had vanished, and that very thought destroyed the good mood that had been forming in his mind. He sat right back down in his seat before he started to gently prod his food as his mind wondered back to memories of his lost wife...

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 16, 2005 7:35 am
Damas' cheeks tinge pink and the looks towards Isyndel for a moment. Deciding that there could be no harm in asking and that he may regret it if he doesn't, the young sorcerer rises up from his seat. "One as fair as you should not be be forced to sit here all alone," he says in a kind tone, holding out his hand to her. "Might I ask for the first dance, my lady?" He smiles reassuringly, hoping it will calm her nerves a bit and help her relax.
[Diplomacy: 15 + 4 (charisma) = 19]
((Ooh, he's a gentleman. Wow ))
<>
Kethra watches Cedric as he moves past her, his words striking her to the core. |For warriors, some of these men sure are sheepish...| Even though she had always had old fashioned views, she decides that she really has no choice but to make an exception in this case. She moves onto the dance floor and rests her hands on her hips. "Is no one man enough to ask me for a dance?" she asks, pouting. "Would you really allow a lady to dance by herself?"
[Diplomacy: 13 + 1 (charisma) + 2 (racial) = 16]
((Wasn't sure if I'd need diplomacy, but I did it just in case. Don't hunt me, it is all I could think of))

Posted by: Aldur Wed Nov 16, 2005 10:06 am
Amelios had sat down, noting that almost everyone else was dancing. Apart from him. He looked down at his empty mug and realised that perhaps he'd had a bit too much to drink. He shrugged, as he did need a break from the that damn book of tactics. He got another drink and smiled a little woozily at his companions.
He sat and watched the dancing, chuckling to himself as the kyantol became good friends with the ale.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Nov 16, 2005 1:22 pm
((Zook went to bed before he otherwise would've gotten legitimately drunk. Hangovers slow work.))

Posted by: Aldur Wed Nov 16, 2005 1:44 pm
( Very well. Incidentally the Kyantol's only had around 3 or 4 cups. Doesn't take much for Kyantol. XD Post editted.)

Posted by: Kaihaku Thu Nov 17, 2005 1:15 am
Joining in the whirling dance of rapidly changing partners, Cedric dances first with one of the village girls hired by Faralon then with Lady Yeesha for a brief moment before switching with another of the village girls.

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Thu Nov 17, 2005 11:22 am
Ashathel, despite the Paladin's words, remains in his seat for a bit longer. Watching the dancing and song for a few moments, he eventually rises; however, instead of joining in the festivites, he departs for his own bedroom, immediately withdrawing his spellbook.

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Thu Nov 17, 2005 3:35 pm
Brand raises his eyebrows as the elf leaves, but then turns back to watching over the group. The roof was too low for his own people's version of dance, but it was interesting to see the ground-dwellers as they pranced about. Eh, it was good to have at least one person on guard, anyways, and they seemed to be having fun.

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Thu Nov 17, 2005 11:52 pm
Isyndel searched the Sorceror's eyes in silence for a moment, fully aware of how that moment affected men. She did not smile so much as tilt the edges of her lips in the faintest of creases as she pondered the query for a moment. Her decision, naturally, had been made the instant he approached her once again as she were able to do.
"I suppose. In the worst of cases my feet end up somewhat swollen," she replied. "But do be mindful of your hands and steps; I am neither your pleasure toy nor your ragdoll." She took his hand softly with a nod.

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Fri Nov 18, 2005 1:03 am
Jokulligr was honestly rather stunned by the grandeur of the festivities going on in the hall. but found it quite amusing to behold, muttering to himself as the others ate. "The Light has provided such good-natured travelling companions...quite a welcome change from the prior days of travel..." He himself seems to avoid taking any food from the table, an out-of-place seeming look in his eyes.
The dragonman smiles at Zook when he is addressed, and bows his head briefly in response to his greeting as a respectful gesture. When the dancing begins, he continues to appear to withdraw from the surrounding activity, opting instead to remain silently in his seat and observe.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Nov 18, 2005 1:25 am
"I understand," Damas says with a nod and a smile. "Please do forgive me if I am not very good at this, but it is my first attempt at dancing." He leads her to where the others have gathered, being careful not to pull on her arm or move to fast for her.
[Rolled 13...which comes to about 17 total with charisma]
The sorcerer misses a few steps, but does alright despite his lack of training. As he promised he is very mindful of where he puts his hands and of his steps as well. After the dance is over he looks to Isyndel and grins sheepishly. "I told you that I was not very good at this." Despite his assumption that he failed, he laughs. "It was fun, though."
Li watches the two from her 'vantage point' on the table, the little rat obviously not very happy. |Of all the women in this room, why does he have to dance with HER?|
((Making fun of yourself... You don't get much braver than that... And watch out, there is a jealous rat on the loose! ))

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Nov 18, 2005 1:27 am
((Meanwhile... Isyndel's familar notes the rat and a hungry grin crosses the feline's face.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Nov 18, 2005 1:28 am
((*Feeds you to Sleet* ))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Fri Nov 18, 2005 4:37 pm
((No fair! If anyone gets to eat the carpet-weasel, I do!)) Brand watches as Jokulligr takes a seat nearby. After watching him for a moment, the birdman finally shakes his head and says quietly, "I understand if your recent adventures haven't left you in the mood for this sort of fun, but I doubt you'll find an easier way for the others to start thinking of you as one of their own." Shrugging, Brand adds, "It's up to you." before returning to his post near the door.

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Fri Nov 18, 2005 7:00 pm
Blinking with surprise at being addressed, figuring most of the group was absorbed in the dance, Jokulligr turns his head to look at the speaker, and finds the ever-vigilant-appearing birdman of the group. Searching through memory for a name to associate with the person, he came up with nothing, either from lack of introduction or his own faulty memorization. He makes mental note to have to take record of the names of his many new companions in the future.
But for the moment, he smiles softly before responding. "You make a good point, friend...however, it's not that I have no desire to join in the entertainment, but rather...well...Lady Yeesha stated this was a sort of reward for the hard work of the group in their efforts to defeat the Chaos Cult." He returns to watching the participants of the dance as he continues. "I have only joined this group just recently. It seems...imposing of me to partake in this feast, when I had no part in the events leading up to it."

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Fri Nov 18, 2005 7:12 pm
Brand hears the response and shakes his head. "Did you break?" he asks. "A prisoner has the hardest job of all, and the fewest thanks for their struggle. No one will quarrel with your right to join in."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Fri Nov 18, 2005 7:35 pm
((No one gets to eat the rat )) Kethra sighs as she watches the others dancing and moves back towards the table. "Damas found a partner to dance with, but no one will dance with me?" She sighs and pokes at the remaining food on her plate. From the corner of her eye, she notices Li coming towards her and smiles. "Hey there, little one." The young monk picks the rat up and sets it on her shoulder. "You don't like watching your master have fun without you, huh?"
Li squeaks sadly and looks at her master. |Master, you're making a big mistake... If only I were human...you might be out there with me and not her...| The rat then goes back to eating.
((Ahh, poor rat... Oh the cruel fate of a familiar that loves her own master ))

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Fri Nov 18, 2005 7:40 pm
Jokulligr frowns, thinking over this logic for a while. After a couple minutes of deliberation though, he smiles again and nods, getting up from his seat to fill his empty plate, not much for dancing unless requested, but having no qualms with taking some food and drink for himself. placing a few pieces of fruit and a fair portion of meat on his plate and filling a cup with water before returning to his seat contently, muttering to himself to the tune of the song that had been sung earlier. "Bring me some tea - some tea - some tea..."

Posted by: Aldur Sat Nov 19, 2005 12:59 am
Amelios, now rather drunk looked around at the others seated at the table still. He saw that Kethra was still without a dancing partner and with great skill managed to walk normally out the door, stepping into the fresh air a moment. He lurched towards the water trough nearby and discovering it was more or less clean dunked his head, his fabulous hair swinging back out of the water.
He shivered a little and made sure his hair was suitably back in place. He looked up at the stars and he seemed more in control of himself. The Kyantol walked back into the feast and walked over quite normally to the monk.
"I'm sorry to interrupt your conversation with Li but...Care to dance? I admit it's been rather a long time so don't go too fast for this ole Cleric. So what do you say?

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sat Nov 19, 2005 7:28 am
Kethra looks at Amelios for a moment, the young monk rather confused. |He must really be drunk...| she thinks to herself. After a few minutes, she decides it can't hurt and takes his hand. "Alright," she says with a smile. [Dance: 9 + 5 = 14. Meh, she does ok...]

Posted by: Aldur Sat Nov 19, 2005 2:30 pm
"Excellent." The Kyantol takes her hand and somehow manages to lead her around very gracefully, his talents at dancing showing through. He smiled at the monk as they got into the dance, noting that she wasn't too bad but needed some practise.
"Have you been enjoying yourself?"
((I gots me a natural 20. Nyah to you all.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 20, 2005 12:13 am
(()) Kethra blushes, rather embarrassed by her lack of skill but amazed by Amelios ability to dance so beautifully and gracefully. After the dance is over, she grins sheepishly. "I suppose I could use a little practice...but I am enjoying myself. Speaking of which, where did you learn to dance like that?"

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 20, 2005 12:48 am
"Sister Amelia back at the orphanage taught us all. Even though she was blind she was still perhaps the most beautiful dancer we had ever seen. And she taught us all." He smiled at her and then shook his head a little, trying to think more clearly. The priest looked back at Kethra, somewhat amused.
"Though you aren't bad. Monk training includes dance lessons?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 20, 2005 2:30 am
"Sister Amelia sounds like a nice person," Kethra says with a smile. "Monks do not normally train to dance. It is usually something we do for ceremonies, or just for fun. There was one time I caught the others monks dancing to some old music one of them would play on drums." The young monk chuckles at the memory. "My sensei was there too, and he asked me to join them. When I claimed I couldn't dance, he laughed and said 'If you can be so good at martial arts, you can dance too'."
The mildly drunk kyantol nods and then frowns. "Sensei...so you where trained in Hapon then? As for the sister...indeed she was and my inspiration for the majority of my life. She was always smiling, so I strove to do the same." He strokes at his chin, idly thinking about something and then brings his attention back to Kethra. "It was a popular joke about our names, being the same thing you know. She was a kyantol as well, so people talked. It was funny really, as we weren't related at all."
"No, I wasn't, but it was common in my school for students to use that term for their teachers." Kethra smiles. "She may not be related to you, but it sounds like you look up to her."
"I see...A Haponese term so far away from there...Interesting. And yes, she was also a powerful healer. I once asked her why she never cured her blindness. And her answer was indeed a good one. She said that without her eyes she had to feel people's souls to find out about them rather than judge on appearances." The Kyantol grinned and then frowned, the room being a little warm for him. "Sorry to ask but...could we continue this outside, I'm too warm and the stars are nice."
"Alright," Kethra replies. "It is a little stuffy in here."
The kyantol sighs in relief and leads the young monk outside, and then sits down on the ground and leans back against the building they'd come out of, and patted the ground nearby, implying Kethra to take a seat. "It's nicer out here."
Kethra takes a seat next to Amelios. "Yes, it is." She looks at the sky for a little while, entranced by the beauty of the stars. While she has things she would like to ask, she cannot really think of what to ask about first.
Amelios looks over at Kethra and grins, shrewdly guessing what's entrancing her. "The stars. Points of sparkling light that can never be touched or corrupted by anything we do. Cold and aloof, always there regardless of our situation. Indeed...worthy of praise." The Kyantol turns to Kethra and looks at her quizzically. "Why did you come on this journey?"
Kethra snaps out of her little trance and looks towards Amelios. There is a bit of sadness in her blue eyes, but she tries to hide it. "I came...to test myself, and to help. I have been tested every day of this journey, but it is difficult. Being depended on is not something I am very used to."
((This is what we got done so far. It will continue))

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Nov 20, 2005 3:40 am
*Merkass meets Cedrics gaze with a steadfast look of his own. As graceful as he and his people may be, their energies are channeled into dance seldom, if at all. He had no place in his background dedicated to such an artform. Merkass, however, is not unappreciative or ignorant of such an artform. He simply was not a dancer. What he did not appreciate, however, was Cedric's demanding tone. Without great fanfare, but with a quick response would Merkass answer Cedric's "challenge." The Paladin certainly had potential, and Merkass liked him for it and his steadfast devotion. His domineering nature, especially on one who had wandered the plains for years with his tribe, however, seemed a bit much. Cedric was intriguing, nonetheless.*
: Your request is well noted, Paladin, but I must decline. My people are not known dancers, and I find pleasure and enjoyment in watching the festivities. If one might inquisition me, however, I may be willing to learn. Especially if said one were lively. I would, however, wish to discuss an issue with you later.
*And so Merkass waited, and watched. He wondered if any might try to connect with him in a more emotional fashion. That he could relate to.*
*Aurik, however, is far more festive. Quite the sight out of his crimson breastplate, Aurik is seen in burgundy clothing with yellowish-gold embroidery. His white hair is still combed neatly, but it plays differently against his face in this happier setting. Sitting around for a time, reclined back in one of the chairs with one leg crossed over the other, he appears completely comfortable with a cup of wine in his hand. Tapping his foot still on the ground to the musical accompaniament to the dance, Aurik eventually sees Kethra come out after he has finished his drink. She appears sullen, as usual, and Aurik would have none of that. The outgoing person he is, he hops right up out of his chair, setting the cup down on the table none too softly, and walks right over to her. Though she doesn't appear to shy away, she looks somewhat inquisitively toward him. He wasn't sure if she was frightened, but for all that mattered now, that didn't. He had good food and good drink in him, so he was ready to be merry and share it with others as well.*
: Why so quiet, child? Even Volcanon, the Avenger, sets time away for celebration. Surely, a cleric such as myself and another person such as you can do the same, then.
*Aurik outstreches a hand toward her, and the other hand back toward the dance area. He had no expectation she might take his hand, given her shy nature, though he surely wanted to act as a guide.*
: Come, dance, and partake in the merriment!

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 20, 2005 3:58 am
((We have not finished Amelios and Kethra's conversation yet, but I assume this would take place after Kethra comes back )) Kethra looks at Aurik curiously, though she does not seem to be afraid. Rather than staying quiet, she speaks up. "I was thinking about something, but now is not the time to worry, is it?" The young monk takes his hand gently and smiles. "Let's dance, then."
[21 on dance including her bonus. She does much better this time ]

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Nov 20, 2005 4:35 am
*While dancing with Kethra, Aurik is glad to see her in such a festive manner. Hoping to further break her from her shell, Aurik strikes up conversation with her, looking to know her better. His manner is non-flirtatious and entirely friendly and conversational. Though not the best of dancers, Aurik is certainly lively and capable of a jig or two.*
: You are certainly quite graceful, if I might say so. Your monk training seem to have passed on to your dance as well. Tell me of your monastery, and what brought you here.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Nov 20, 2005 5:33 am
[Sense Motive 9 + 11 = 20] Cedric frowns slightly at the words of Merkass and wonders if the archer somehow misunderstood his diplomatic invitation somehow. Slightly disappointed that his attempt to encourage and draw together the others was either being ignored or taken as insult by many in the group the Paladin grows silent. Eventually, he stops dancing and claps with the music for a few moments. His good spirits seem to return as he watches the clerics dance with the monk but the observant note that this is not completely the case.
As the dance draws on, the Paladin sits and watches the others quietly, a warm smile hiding the troubled glimmer in his eyes.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 20, 2005 6:24 am
"Why thank you Aurik," Kethra says with a smile. The young monk finds that Aurik's cheerful attitude is rubbing off on her, but she doesn't seem to mind anymore. "I trained at the same monastery that Cray and Luke trained in. Since I was either orphaned or...abandoned, I grew up there." The mention of this brings sadness to her expression, notably her eyes. "I'm 27 years old... One would think I would be over never knowing my parents by now." She chuckles sadly, and then shakes her head from side to side. "Nevermind. I doubt anyone wants to hear about that. I should focus more on the good times. My sensei was very strict, but he was also a very kind man. Though he was very spiritual, he loved to have fun and he loved to make jokes. He was more like a father than a teacher, really. As you can imagine, I miss him and all the others..." Her gaze wanders from him for a moment, for she knows what question she had to answer next. That question always made her feel nervous, but she knew that it would only be worse if she didn't just say it. "I came here because I want to help people, and I have wanted to test the limits of my abilities. So far they have been tested, even stretched in every battle...and even outside it at times. I am far from used to having others depend on me..."

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Nov 20, 2005 6:49 am
*Kethra's concern was one found in many people, but she just didn't realize it yet. Aurik indeed is a cleric of Volcanon. However, he is more than a divine war machince or a healer. He is also a priest, and one who would act as a friend when in desperate need. Kethra's soul was in need of healing, and no spell could do that for her. He would help her find strength in herself if he could. His thoughts drifted back to his own origins. He, too, had spent much of his early life in the way Kethra had. Where her training was physical, his was spiritual. She sought enlightenment through physical perfection, while he sought to reach it through devotion. Aurik understood everyone has their own path they follow. Everyone seeks their own "enlightenment." However, spiritual perfection and the power of self was not one all achieved. Indeed, Aurik understood Kethra's plight all too well. Aurik smiles and nods in response to Kethra's storytelling. She had already begun to open up, and thus was on the way to healing herself.*
: Indeed, Kethra, but do we not all depend on others in some way? Luke and Cray were both powerful warriors, yet they worked with their teammates. They were trained in the same way as you were, as you have indicated. You may think of your training as an inward process, but consider your teachers at the monastery. You have relied on them in the past by learning from them. We all do. I rely on Volcanon in hopes that I may gain a bit of his wisdom every day.
: Kethra, you are of strong will, and I do not believe your trouble is in relying on others. I believe yours is one of fear, in that you are afraid of letting those who rely on you down. Remember that all we can do is our best. Amelios fell in our last encounter, and in doing so feels that he has failed. Is it not I who failed in protecting him, just as he was protecting the others? No, Kethra. None have failed, for we have done what we can. Your friend Damas has also seen death, but he has been given another chance because he has also given his all. It is all anyone can ask, and it is all anyone expects.
: Since you have told me of yourself, let me relate to you as well. I had similar training in an abbey while young after my father was taken away from me by an evil spirit. Though nothing my mother or I might have done could save him, it was still a horrible experience that I blamed myself for. As I progressed through my training, I sought spiritual enlightenment through my devotion and through the Keeper of the Flame himself. So too do I seek to write wrongs and vanquish evil from the land. Though I seek to avenge my father, I realize now that no death of an evil creature will ever bring him back, nor will it lessen the pain. I do not fight for my father's memory, I live for it. I fight for salvation instead.
: We have much in common, Kethra. I hope we might learn from one another. I've done so much talking, I'm sure you have questions for me as well.
~~~
*Meanwhile, Rhizor sits about the table, partaking in the food. As he is not the most personable of those around, nor the most human by far, he continues to eat and drink the goods left from their banquet. No sense in letting it go to waste. While he understood the importance of the group and its joy, Rhizor felt more important matters needed attendance. When he had his fill of food and drink, which for a batling, was not necessarily all that much, he lazily outstreched his winged arms to increase bloodflow again. Streching his arms back a bit, he released them in a normal position and then hopped into the air. Flapping a few times, Rhizor ascended into the rafters and caught on with his feet. Hanging upside-down, Rhizor closed his eyes and meditated, contemplating the recent events, and how he might restore balance. Nature is restless now, and only as a force of nature might he return it to its natural state. Only time would reveal the path he must take, for time is the keeper of all knowledge. Closing his eyes tighter while relaxing slightly, Rhizor pulls his wings around his body and thinks on the matter further. Something would give way eventually.*

Posted by: Cyrus Sun Nov 20, 2005 7:02 am
Castor looked at the party with a disinterested eye. He ate little, drank less, and though he watched the festivites, it didn't feel like he was really watching. Celebration was not a new experience for him, but all this just seemed...wasteful. His time in the civilizied world had made him accustomed with such shows, but it still churned his stomach to see such a feast wasted here. Besides, what had they really done that would deserve all this? Yes, they brought a stronghold down upon itself, and had slain two of the most pretegious soldiers in the enemy army, but...there was still much more to be done. Why have this now? He couldn't get that thought out of his head, pausing to glance back at the inn door, expecting something to come crashing through at any moment. He shook it off...he'd have to talk with one of the clerics in the morning about the fear he'd been feeling. Nevertheless, he finished his meal and left the table, proceeding to the fresh air of the cool night. Finding a large tree a ways away from the inn, the minotaur settled down under it, looking out at the poorly paved road ahead.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 20, 2005 7:27 am
Kethra watches Aurik as he speaks, her crystal blue eyes never leaving his. Every word he speaks etches itself into her mind, and resonates in her heart. His words are all too true, and being encouraged like this makes her a bit happier. However, she feels quite bad for him and his plight, but says nothing about the matter. He seemed to have accepted it and moved on. |I must do the same| she thinks to herself. Going through tons of possible responses in her mind, she finally comes up with one that makes sense to her. "Thank you for your wisdom, and for caring." She smiles, her eyes seeming to sparkle when she does so. "I suppose it is time for me to ask some questions, isn't it? Well, why don't we start with simple questions... Where are you from? How old are you? What do you like to do?"
((You can insert a response after each question, since it is assumed she'll move on to the next question after she gets an answer. This should save a little time...hopefully...))

Posted by: Knight_019 Sun Nov 20, 2005 7:56 am
*Kethra was beginning to connect, and so she was indeed making progress. If she could talk to him, it would be easier for her to talk to the others as well. She had proposed excellent questions to break the ice, and so he would indulge her.*
: Why of course. I am 23 years old, and I hail from Cypress. I never thought much of myself or asked probing questions as a youth. Ironically, the things I enjoy are both introverted and extroverted. After the ordeal with my father leaving and his terrible outburts caused by the creature, I found much comfort inside myself. As such, I find my prayers and meditation to be enjoyable experiences. Similarly, I enjoy things of great beauty and calm, such as walks through the woods, the sight of happiness, and other wordly things. However, I also enjoy spreading the word of Volcanon and discussing matters of such profound nature as religion, for example. You might think of me as a philosopher, then.
*Aurik takes a moment to think before continuing*
: Now, you seem to be quite friendly with Damas, even extending before we all met together. How did you come to meet him?

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 20, 2005 10:13 pm
"You're 23? I thought for sure that you were younger." Kethra is caught off guard by his question, and for a moment she doesn't know what to say. After a few minutes, she composes herself and tries to answer him the best way she knows how. "I met him in the city, before the meeting. He seemed to be cold at first, but then I thought about it a little bit. What if it was just a front? It turned out to be, as he was actually quite introverted. At first, I suppose you could say that I pitied him... He was quite reluctant to really open up to anyone, but I didn't blame him and I didn't try to pry into his affairs. Whatever caused him to be that way was not my business." She sighs. "The more I got to know him, however, the more I realized that deep down he really is a good person. He is quite shy though, but I think the others are trying to break him of that." Her gaze turns to Damas for a moment, then back to Aurik. "I think he really does care about 'her', but he still seems to be holding back for some reason. Maybe something in his past... All I know is that we cannot pressure him. He'll tell us when he's ready."

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 20, 2005 10:15 pm
(( Amelios knows because he's cool. >__> Take that Cleric of Volcanon! They're becoming hppies with me! Get off my turf! *shakes fist* ))

Posted by: Rusty Sun Nov 20, 2005 10:43 pm
((Ooo, you view Kethra as your turf? That's even worse than Faralon, cleric of Mitula. ))

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 20, 2005 10:47 pm
(( As cedric said. MY wards. he can have laika and I get everyone else. Muwahaha. ))

Posted by: Rusty Sun Nov 20, 2005 10:48 pm
((Hehee, you're delusional. ^_^ This will be amusing.))

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 20, 2005 10:56 pm
(( Silly Rusty. Amelios != Me. I'm saying this. Not him.))

Posted by: Rusty Sun Nov 20, 2005 11:09 pm
((Oh, I know. <.< I did say "you're".)) *After a time, Faralon notices much of the party members leaving to either retire or speak. They just don't know how to party, do they? This isn't something that's to last only for a bit...We're celebrating here. Do they not know the importance of morale? Faralon gets off the stage and gets a mug of ale. Swiftly, he returns to the stage and calls out those still present, holding mug up.*
: "Attention, everyone! I'd like to propose a toast to my comrades...*He looks out to the group, waiting for them to ready a cup of liquor.*...for fame, fortune and good health in our future!"

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Nov 21, 2005 12:08 am
Yeesha and Kyoji both take up their glasses, waiting for everyone else to do the same. ((As this is winding down, I hand out the following XP: 500 XP for everyone who posted at least twice or took part in the massive IM convos. In other words, everyone but Van, Acacia, Gabriel, and Castor, I believe. Castor did post a single in depth post, and gets 100 XP for that, though.))

Posted by: GE Silver Dragon Mon Nov 21, 2005 1:47 am
After refilling his glass with water, Jokulligr too raises it up to join the toast, deciding to add to it as a friendly gesture to the group of which he was now a part. "For plenty of grand experiences with new friends!"

Posted by: Knight_019 Mon Nov 21, 2005 3:08 am
*Aurik remains steadfast, keeping eye contact with Kethra as she speaks. His lips are drawn tight as he contemplates what she has said. She is certainly in a position to do much for her friend, especially if she remains as she is with him beyond this conversation. She had much personal growth to do, but she was doing well already.*
: Then you must be strong for him. Recall all that we have discussed and consider how it might apply to him. The healing process is a long one, but with time, aid, and caring friends it can be made all the better.
*Faralon's display interrupts the conversation, and Aurik sees no reason to decline. Excusing himself for a moment, Aurik grabs two cups from the table and filling them with wine, then returns. He offers one to Kethra for the toast.*
: *Aside to Kethra,* And to new beginnings... *He raises his cup into the air, and then drinks of it*
~~~
*Merkass, too, takes his cup in front of him in his hand. Raising it up, he smiles.*
: To friendship! *And he drinks*

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Nov 21, 2005 5:05 am
As the toast completes, Kethra feels an odd sensation in her stomach. Also, in unison, Faralon's instruments begin playing of their own accord, and an oddly familiar melody fills the air... Theme: http://www.shinola.radh.com/guest/Vox/Derrik's_Theme.mid
The familiar form of Derrik Swiftjoke enters the room, grinning.
"What? A party? And no one invited me? I'm hurt. Truly, I am..." Derrik says with a grin. He makes a grandoise bow. "And there was dancing and drink to be had! Ah well. But business is business, and I've got places to be. Care to hear what I have to say?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Nov 21, 2005 6:16 pm
Damas' ears quiver in response to Faralon's announcement and he dismisses himself briefly from his dancing partner. He return to the table then comes back with two cups of wine and hands one to Isyndel. "Good health and friendship are things I can toast to." He raises his cup in the air, and then drinks from it. As it looks like he is about to open his mouth and speak, Derrik arrives on the scene. |Of all the people to have at a party...| he thinks to himself.
<>
"You are indeed wise," Kethra says with a smile. When Aurik comes back with the drink, she is a little reluctant to take it at first because of her previous problem that she had linked to drunkenness. After a few moments, she figures it would be rude not to and takes the cup. "Hear, hear." She raises her cup into the air, and then drinks from it. After the toast is over, she feels an odd sensation in her stomach. She doesn't know what it is or how it got there, but all she knows is she did not feel this way until after the toast. "I knew I shouldn't have done that..." she murmurs.
((I'll finish when TUM tells me why she's the only one who feels like this ))

Posted by: Aldur Mon Nov 21, 2005 10:34 pm
( *Finds it incredibly amusing* ) Amelios had sat back down after coming back in and grinned as the Monk danced with the other cleric. He sighed happily and looked around at the others still seated. He drinks a glass of water slwoly, beginning to recover his wits and turns to Derrik.
"What can we do for you Master Merchant?"

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Mon Nov 21, 2005 10:40 pm
"To good health and friendship, then," the Wizardess replies, swallowing the wine completely in a fashion much faster than one would of expected from her. When the merchant arrives, she turns to him in expectation of explanations without gesturing or speaking otherwise. It was bound to be bad news.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Mon Nov 21, 2005 10:40 pm
"Might as well now that you've crashed the party," Yeesha says with a roll of her eyes. "Oh, come now, that's taking things a bit far, isn't it? I show up and it causes the ruination of a celebration? Please. You're still bitter about not taking my offer when you had the chance..." Derrik says with a grin. "But it still stands! 100 gold for a passionate kiss! Come on, win, win. Anyway, I thought you might like a few pieces of advice. First off, you'll be pleased to know you're on the right track. Second of all... Well this is good and bad news. You've attracted the attention of the Strife Lords themselves! Blowing up Algam caused them to take notice. This is good on one hand because it means you're doing significant damage to their plans... but bad for obvious reasons... Just thought you might like to know that."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Mon Nov 21, 2005 11:49 pm
Damas rolls his eyes and whispers to Isyndel in elven. ~"That man just doesn't know when to quit, does he?"~ The news that they have gotten the attention of the Strife Lords is quite unsettling, but he tries remains calm as not to cause his female friend any stress. |So we destroyed one of their major bases of operation, but now they're pissed off... This doesn't bode well for us...|
Li watches her master for a few more minutes before deciding that she has had enough of just sitting there on the table. She crawls down and skitters across the floor towards Damas, then crawls up onto his shoulder.
After a minute or so, Kethra overcomes the shock of the sensations in her stomach. The young half elf stands up strait and looks around the room, her eyes settling on Derrik. As she does, a feeling of attraction to this mysterious merchant overcomes her completely. Then as he addresses Yeesha, the monk's gaze turns and she finds that she has the same attraction to the beautiful and intelligent archmage. Her soft lips curve to form a dazzling smile and her cheeks begin to tinge pink from the intensity of these feelings. After leaving Aurik's side for now, she moves to get as close to the objects of her 'affection' as she is able. Kethra's eyes shift from one to the other, back and forth, again and again as she watches their every movement with admiration and adoration in her pretty blue eyes. |Derrik is so mysterious, but he's so witty too... Perhaps I should try to get to know more about him... And lady Yeesha... She's the most...beautiful creature I've ever seen in my life... Plus she's so intelligent, witty, and fun to talk to... It is unfair that she has to suffer with that wound... Hmm, I'll have to make a note to spend some time with her later...| Hearing Derrik's offer to Yeesha, she smiles and murmurs to herself quietly. "I wonder if that offer is open to anyone..."
((Hmm, I think that's all for now... Probably more to come))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Nov 22, 2005 8:08 am
((Listen check made.)) "Eh? What?" Derrik asks, turning to the nearby Kethra with surprise. "I suppose... Sure. Why?" Derrik asks with a lopsided grin. "Trying to steal me away from the Lady Yeesha? If you're bluffing, you're in trouble, because I have the gold right here," Derrik says as he pats a pouch on his belt. "I'm calling your bluff! 100 gold for a kiss. A deep one, too, or it doesn't count!"

Posted by: Rusty Tue Nov 22, 2005 8:20 am
*Faralon looks over at Derrik with dark eyes, then to Kethra with a puzzled look on his face, not knowing what she had said. What's that? What's going on? Who does Derrik think he is?! And what does he mean?*

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Nov 22, 2005 8:43 am
Damas snaps to attention and looks at Derrik, then Kethra. "What the hell is going on?" he gasps in disbelief. ((I'm confused TUM... Is he offering her money, or does he want money from her?))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Nov 22, 2005 6:07 pm
((He jokingly offered Yeesha a hundred gold coins if she'd kiss him, then you asked about the offer, so he's replying that sure, he'll pay for a kiss.))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Nov 22, 2005 10:42 pm
As Damas eyes wander about the room, he swears that he can see a very familiar head of long lavender hair disappear into a doorway. His garnet red orbs widen, and his mouth opens but no words come out. |Valkana? I-it can't be... Are my eyes playing tricks on me? I-I have to know for sure...| The young sorcerer turns to Isyndel and decides it is best to tell her. "I think I saw someone out there, someone I know... Whether or not my eyes are deceiving me, I have to know for sure. I'll be right back." He nods to her and leaves the room to investigate what he had seen.
Kethra places her hands on her hips and raises an eyebrow. Her cheeks turn a brighter shade of pink, but there is a somewhat confident smirk on her face. "Is that a dare?"

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Nov 22, 2005 10:47 pm
For a split second, Derrik raises an eyebrow, surprised at the reply. Then his usual playful expression returns. "As daring as you can make a kiss," Derrik replies with a confident look similar to Kethra's. ----- Damas leaves the feast hall and sees the figure he is following vanish up the stairs.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Nov 22, 2005 10:54 pm
To Derrik's surprise and that of anyone who happens to be paying attention, Kethra accepts the dare and actually kisses him. She makes it count as promised and blushes bright red when she finally pulls back. ----- Meanwhile, Damas follows the familiar figure up the stairs then stops for a minute to look around.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Nov 22, 2005 11:18 pm
Damas sees one of the doors on the second floor is slightly ajar. --------- Derrik, not being one to miss an opportunity, puts his arms around Kethra, and returns the kiss with gusto. He leans over the young monk and supports her with his arms as he brings Kethra's head parallel with the ground in a sweeping motion before bringing her back up again like a dance move.
"Well..." he says with a grin as he passes a small pouch to Kethra. "It looks I'm out a hundred coin."

Posted by: Rusty Tue Nov 22, 2005 11:21 pm
*Faralon's eyes buldge - clearly, he is extremely shocked at the response of the young monk. What?!?! What is going on?! Have I been tricked?! Derrik - that...that...DEVIL! Visibly shaken, Faralon angrily splashes the remaining contents of his mug out towards (and onto?) Derrik. He promptly tosses the now empty mug onto the ground and exits the place in a huff, shaking his head as he leaves. He says no words as he leaves, but grumbles.*
===
*Once outside, Faralon looks up to the sky and the stars, contemplating just what happened. Do you mock me, stars? Maybe this is some sort of punishment for what I tried to do...But how could I have let myself be fooled by that slime of a merchant, Derrik? Clearly, that 'love potion' wasn't even meant to benefit me...Only Derrik. That weasel...I knew I should have never bought it... Faralon takes out the sake he bought and looks at the bottle. I spent a fair amount on it...Only to learn it has only brought me pain. My gold would have been wiser-spent on anything else. Faralon slams the bottle of sake onto the ground, shattering it into pieces. He looks at the remains of the potion, clenching his fist. I would have had a much better chance with Kethra were it not for that potion. I wouldn't have risked getting in big trouble with the force - I wouldn't have any secrets to hide, and Derrik and Kethra wouldn't be making out in front of the entire force if not for that potion! What a fool I was to trust a dirty merchant. What a fool I was to actually use it on Kethra...*
*Faralon looks back up to the sky. And now the group will surely suspect something, and I don't doubt that that rat will tell them exactly what I did! I should have never joined this expedition...I thought it would be fun...I thought I would be rich...I thought I could fool around a bit...Now I'm just a fool...And I actually used that potion on her. Thanks to me, she's kissing that snake! I don't know who to be more disgusted with...Derrik or myself. Faralon looks back, then turns his gaze back onto the now broken bottle of sake. I saw how scarred Acacia had been due to actions similar to my own by the Chaos Cult...Had I gone through with it, would Kethra be scarred the same? Am I no better than my foe? Faralon hangs his head low, into his arms...*

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Nov 22, 2005 11:30 pm
"I don't have need of money," Kethra murmurs quietly. Her gaze turns to Faralon for a moment as he storms out of the room, and she tilts her head to the side. "What was that about?" ----- Damas cautiously approaches the door and opens it, peering inside. "Hello?"

Posted by: Aldur Tue Nov 22, 2005 11:35 pm
Amelios noted Faralon's abrupt exit and slipped quietly out after the ailing bard. He stops, seeing the elf lost in his thoughts and the cleric sighs and walks over to him. He clears his throat to make his prescence know and smiels wanly. "The Stars...Always so cold and aloof. Not the best of comforts methinks."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Tue Nov 22, 2005 11:37 pm
"Well that's why you've got to be forward, you idiot!" Derrik calls after Faralon as he shrugs. He looks at his alcohol soaked clothes with a sigh. "Well, I don't suppose anyone has a cantrip to clean clothes?" "What was that about?" Yeesha asks, eyebrow arched in confusion.
"I do believe the bard is jealous of me," Derrik says as he wrings out his shirt. "A hundred gold and whatever it costs me to clean my outfit... Still not that bad a price," Derrik says with a wink towards Kethra. "Sure you don't want to sample my wares, Yeesha? Kethra can testify my lips are a quality product! Ha!"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Tue Nov 22, 2005 11:46 pm
"Well, I could... He is a rather good kisser..." Kethra blushes and looks at Yeesha from the corner of her eye. |I wonder how good of a kisser she is...| she thinks to herself, blushing even more. ----- Damas can see nothing out of the ordinary except that the room has been used recently. However, the sorcerer does spot some motion in the corner. He casts a spell of light on a silver coin for a light source and cautiously enters the room. His gaze turns to the corner where he had spotted the movement, and he sees a ghostly vision of Valkana, the elven woman that had once been his lover. Her body is torn and wounded, and her clothes are dirty and ragged. The ghostly form rises and looks towards him, her mouth opening in a silent scream. She rushes at Damas, but disappears when she hits him and leaves only a deep chill behind. It runs down to his very core, nearly stopping the poor elf's heart. Whether she had intended to attack him or embrace him, he could not be sure, but the experience had undeniably shaken him. "Valkana..." her murmurs in a shaky voice, leaning on the door frame for support. "Was this...an illusion...or are you really...dead?" Tears well up in his eyes but he chokes them back. "I...I need some air." The young elf staggers out of the room and back down the stairs, and then walks outside. Both Amelios and Faralon could easily notice that Damas is clutching his chest, and a cold sweat has formed on his body. He is also visibly shaking.

Posted by: Rusty Wed Nov 23, 2005 1:56 am
*Faralon turns his head to face Amelios momentarily. It's clear he's very upset and saddened over what happened.* Faralon: "And I suppose the gods should comfort me more?" The Clerics shakes his head and looks at the bard, face somewhat amused at his last comment.
"No. People work best with this. And though I could hazard a guess as to what's wrong, maybe you wish to tell me yourself? After all, I'm becoming used to listening to people's problems."
*Faralon looks back to the ground with dark eyes.*
Faralon: "I don't see how it'd help...I think it's clear enough what's wrong."
"Indeed...but that's so...not like Kethra. We both know her. She's rather...naive about things like this. I was rather shocked. Hmm...maybe he did something to her, I'll need to check it out."
The Kyantol frowned, wondering if something was wrong with Kethra, and if so...it could indeed be a dangerous thing. He looked sympathetically at the bard and pats his shoulder.
"But you know...it's not like you to give up at the first hinderance. Especially when it comes to Kethra. If I remember a certain encounter when we all first met no less."
*Faralon shakes his head. I'm sorry, Amelios, but I can't tell you that I'm why she kissed Derrik...*
Faralon: "Can you just leave me be? I'd rather not be seen like this...You know...not good for morale and all..."
*A weak excuse...but it's all I've got. If anyone were to find out what I've done...I'd be hunted just as badly as the Chaos Cult.*
"If that's what you wish...yet, what about your morale? Don't worry about it. We can just say we got roaring drunk and went to sleep. Besides, this is a chance for us to talk. Something we rarely do. Indeed, I often got the feeling you were avoiding me."
The Kynatol smiled at the Elf and stepped away, looking back up at the stars for a moment, his fabulous hair billowing in the gentle twilight breeze and he sighed lightly.
Faralon: "Not avoiding...just a...very busy elf. Unlike most of the rest of the group, I do go out of my way to talk with most everyone I can, when I can..."
*Faralon looks around, then casts Invisibility on himself.*
Faralon: "If anyone asks, I am not here. If you want to talk to me about Kethra and that snake...Well, I'd rather not speak of it right now. If there's anything else you wanted to talk about, maybe...That would get my mind off of things."
Amelios nodded, and then sat down against the wall nearby. "Then it'll just look like I'm raving to myself as usual then! Tell me Faralon, I've asked some of the others this but...Why did you decide to go on this journey? What was your reason?"
He looked in the general direction the bard had disappeared at, idly sweeping his hair out of his face a she waited for a reply, the night silent except for the occasional call of an owl.
*Faralon speaks quieter than before, for no reason other than he doesn't want others to go to him.*
Faralon: "First it was money and experience - but after I learned what it was about, it was more for glory. To be part of such an important expedition, it would surely help aid my songs. I didn't really used to write lyrics before...I just played my lute. Experiences like these, and to be a part of a large group on such a quest - well...It's hard for a bard like myself to turn down the opportunity, wouldn't you say?"
"Probably. Heh, I wouldn't know much about that. I am not musically skilled. So...for glory. A good response I see. Hmm...I wonder however, is glory worth your life? And if repots are true...your very soul?"
The kyantol is silent for awhile, the party seeming another world away. Amelios adjusts his position to get more comfortable, finding a good niche against the wall.
*Faralon looks down...What is he saying? Am I unwanted in this group? What a dreadful thing to say...*
Faralon: "What? I know it's dangerous...But is life worth living if it's not challenged, or enjoyed?"
"Hm. And yet...personally, I would be just as happy with a small cottage and enough to get by on for the rest of my days. Compared to most...my reason for coming on this journey was highly petty. I was bored, so I came along. I was tired of being a temple runner for the various shrines dedicated to Mitula. So I accepted this job and abruptly left. Hah! What a motivation..."
The Kyantol chuckles darkly, eyes flashing with amusement at his own foolishness. Well...at least you're not bored anymore.
Faralon: "But then, don't we have somewhat of the same reasoning? It was something to do. It makes life more interesting - for better or for worse. I could have just stayed back in my hometown and continued my studies as an astronomer...But I thought it was a good opportunity to see the world, experience things and such."
"Perhaps you are right. I travelled much, unhindered as I carried the official seal of the temple. And yet...it was always the one same part of the world. Always the same thing...spiraling on and on. Indeed, from the incident at the orphanage until I joined up with you all...my life has indeed been stagnant. I grew disillusioned. I feel somewhat shamed however. Kethra battles to prove herself, Cedric battles on to save the innocents...and then there I am. The bored one."
The Kynatol sighs and grins wistfully, looking around him. He again looks in the general direction of Faralon and laughs quietly to himself.
"This isn't right...at moments like this we need a jug or two..."
Faralon: "I should feel like drinking, yet I don't...Because then I'd have to go back in there..."
*Faralon can't very well point to the spot he's referring to - but then, he doesn't need to...They both know very well know exactly where he's referring to. Faralon's voice trails off in a sad manner.*
"Ah...the first despair of the suitor. That takes me back a few years. And besides, don't give up! I mean...true she went for him, but something was obviously wrong with her! Ah...you didn't wish to talk about this. Hmm...Well I do happen to have a somewhat special brew back with my things. It's the last I have of my mentors...Sister Amelia. If you liked I would be happy to share it. It is...rather potent however. If you'd rather just continue to talk it is ok as well."
The Kyantol stood up and leant against the wall, grinning somewhat insanely at the thought of the sister's brew.
*Faralon leans against the wall...His sadness leaves him to take a bit longer to respond than he intended to.*
Faralon: "......No. I would rather just not have a drink and be alone...Sorry..."
*I can't risk getting myself drunk and leaking any information about the situation to a cleric...*
The cleric nods and grins, sitting back down against the wall. He ponders things for a few moments and remembers something that sparked his interest. "So...you like star gazing?"
*Why won't he leave me be?...*
Faralon: "Ah...yes. I admire the stars. Their mystery is very captivating."
"I should like to know more abou- hm? Isn't that Damas...? I wonder why he's out here...something's wrong with him."
Amelios heads over towards the somewhat stricken sorceror concernedly, noting that he was shaking and really didn't look too well.
"Damas? What's wrong?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 23, 2005 2:07 am
Damas looks towards the cleric, his eyes heavy with emotion. |I cannot tell him... How foolish I would sound...| This in mind, the sorcerer tries to lie but he is not very good at it. "It's nothing, really..." ((You need to beat a 16, Aldur))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Nov 23, 2005 2:56 am
"What? What's that look?" Yeesha says, noting the look in Kethra's eyes but unable to discern the meaning. "Obviously she's trying to think of a way she can seduce you!" Derrik says, jokingly. "No, I'm just kidding. She's obviously trying to think of a way to set me up with you in gratitude for the kiss that changed her life! Ha! But seriously, do you mind horribly if I have a mug of ale? I'm thirsty as hell!"
"Well, I suppose you can't be peppering me with your advances if you've got something in your mouth... Sure. Plenty here. Have a mug," Yeesha says with a roll of her eyes. "I need a refill myself."
"Trying to fortify your spirits with spirits in order to declare your love for me?" Derrik asks with a chuckle. Yeesha sighs.
"No, though it's on the mark if you say that dealing with you makes me need a drink..." Yeesha says.
"See, this is what I love about this group. The witty banter. It's just so fulfilling," Derrik says as he pours himself a mug of ale. "I also love the fact that this group has three attractive women for me to chase after. The last group I dealt with had one, and she was taken! Ha!" Derrik chuckles as he begins to drink.

Posted by: Kyosokun Wed Nov 23, 2005 5:27 am
Ryhir grins at the antics, eyes going wide when Kethra actually goes through with it all. "Wooooo~! Kethra, I never woulda guessed." Ryhir exclaims. "Seems you Monks can loosen up and have a good time." he says as he takes another drink.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 23, 2005 5:47 am
Kethra blushes bright red. "Attractive? Well, thank you..." She looks at Ryhir for a moment and tilts her head. "I've been around other monks for my entire life, and some of them have a habit of getting drunk even worse than you are." She chuckles and looks back to Derrik and Yeesha. "I'm thirsty... Be right back." The young monk moves back towards the table and pours herself a glass of water, then comes back. "Come now lady Yeesha, there is no need to be so sour... At least try to smile..." She smiles herself then looks back to Derrik. "Why don't you tell us about this other group you've dealt with? I'm rather curious."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Nov 23, 2005 6:05 am
"You're right, Kethra. The point of the party is to boost morale, after all," Yeesha says, smiling faintly before smiling fully. "I suppose I can put up with the self proclaimed 'Jackass of the Realm' for a night." "Ooooh, I'm all aquiver," Derrik says with a grin at Yeesha. "Well, I've had some major dealings supplying this adventuring outfit in Guardiana. Ex-military types, the lot of them. An interesting group to be sure. Heh, their cleric... I heckled her as I heckled Yeesha... Ah! That reminds me. I've got to see if I have a contract or something for them, they wanted to keep in touch and I haven't checked in with them for quite a while."

Posted by: Kyosokun Wed Nov 23, 2005 6:09 am
"I, my lady, am not as think as you drunk I am." Ryhirs says, grinning. "Come, help me on my way, have a drink!" With that, Ryhir grabs another goblet, and gives it to Kethra. "To Monks who know how to unwind in proper fashion! Last one to the bottom has to give Derrik another kiss." Ryhir says, winking, and starts on his glass.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 23, 2005 6:16 am
"Yeah right," Kethra says teasingly. When he hands her the goblet, she raises an eyebrow. Believing that this could be amusing, she accepts the bet. To his surprise and everyone's, she downs it faster than they had ever thought possible. After that the looks at Ryhir to see if he's finished yet.
((This is so very wrong))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Nov 23, 2005 7:49 am
((Ryhir having rolled a 12, and Kethra a 6...)) Kethra sees that Ryhir's mug is indeed, empty. "Aw, what a shame, sorry you lost..." Derrik says to Kethra, shaking his head with a grin.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 23, 2005 8:01 am
Kethra blushes a little and shrugs. "Well, I lost the bet, so I suppose I'd better pay up." The young monk kisses him again, but in her current 'state' she doesn't mind. After that, her gaze wanders to Yeesha again.

Posted by: Kyosokun Wed Nov 23, 2005 8:36 am
"Well done, lass. You're quicker than I expected." Ryhir says, filling up her glass, as well as all those near, and rasing his cup in salute. "Drink, and be merry." cheers Ryhir as he down another glass. Wooo... I'm really starting to feel the warmth... well, good company, good times. "Care to try again, Kethra, perhas for a raises stake?" Ryhir preposes with a grin.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 23, 2005 8:38 am
Kethra quirks a brow at Ryhir. "What kind of stakes?"

Posted by: Kyosokun Wed Nov 23, 2005 9:09 am
"A far more fair prize than our fair friend swift joke (and I do believe you'll agree with me, Derrik). First one to the bottom of this one gets a kiss with our fair madam and rallier, the Lady Yeesha. That is, if you don't object too much, Lady." Ryhir says, filling up Yeesha's glass for what must be the fourth or fifth time now.
Yeesha, not particularly paying attention, replies offhandedly. "No, of course not. Have fun..."
"Well, Kethra?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 23, 2005 9:17 am
Kethra looks towards Yeesha for a moment, her cheeks turning bright red. After a few moments, the fair monk turns back to Ryhir. "Fine, you're on." Sadly, the monk isn't quite that fast this time. "Aww, poo..." she whines with a pouty look on her face.

Posted by: Kyosokun Wed Nov 23, 2005 9:24 am
Ryhir grins. "I'll teach you to long pull sometime Kethra. It's a neat trick I learned from the dwarves in my travels." he tells her with a wink. "Meanwhile, why don't you go practice your drinking with Derrik. I'm sure he could use some comforting after what he's about to see...." he says, with a little nudge to move her along.
Turning to Yeesha, he smiles a stupid smile. "My lady, I have come forth victorious. Might I receive my well earned prize?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 23, 2005 9:29 am
"Meh," Kethra replies sadly.

Posted by: Kyosokun Wed Nov 23, 2005 9:57 am
"What?" Yeesha asks, turning her head. "My prize." Ryhir says, standing there expectantly with a stupid grin on his face. "What prize?" Yeesha asks, blinking. Ryhir looks a bit confused. "The kiss we just agreed apon." "Oh damn!" Yeesha says, wincing. "I thought that's what... Yeah. Sure. Why not. Go ahead," Yeesha says, setting her mug down next to the other's she's drained.
Ryhir grins, takes Yeesha's hand, twirls her close with a flourish, and takes his prize.
"Hey, hey now, I do the flourishing here," Derrik says with narrowed eyes. "It's one thing to steal one of my girls, it's another to steal my style!"
"My most gracious apologies. I'm sure you'll charge me for it later, so it's not really theft." Ryhir says with a grin. Then, leaning close, he whispers a slightly exaggerated whisper "and I ~did~ manage to beat out yon fair elven maiden, to your benefit."
"Speaking of which, perhaps she'd like a rematch," Derrik says with a smirk.
"Perhaps, but I think for now I'd rather savor my victory. Perhaps you should go comfort her, she seems to be sulking a tad."
"Very well, I shall..." Derrik says with a grin as he moves over to Kethra.
Turning back to Yeesha, still holding her close. "Would you care to take another try at amusing our companions to the rhythm of music?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 23, 2005 10:16 am
"I get a rematch later Ryhir," Kethra says before returning to the table. As Derrik approaches, her ears twitch slightly and she looks towards him. "Hello..." She blushes a little. "Hello! You know, I didn't figure you for a drinking contest type," Derrik says jovially, sipping his mug.
"Then again, since this is a party, I suppose everyone might cut loose a bit."
"Well, I didn't think it could hurt... I've only had three drinks so far. Hopefully I won't get drunk, because I hear hangovers are hell." Kethra chuckles sadly.
"Well, whatever doesn't kill you makes you stronger, they say," Derrik says with a grin. "You really gunning for a rematch with the scout?"
"Why not? I don't plan to lose again."
"Heh, accustomed to winning, eh?" Derrik asks with a grin.
Kethra shrugs. "Not really, I just don't like losing."
Derrik chuckles and takes another drink of his mug. "Well, I'd rather see you kiss Yeesha than Ryhir, so I'll be rooting for you," Derrik proclaims, getting up and patting Kethra's shoulder. "Sure you don't want the hundred gold you won from our dare?"
"I'm sure," Kethra replies. "I have little need of money, anyway."
"You say that, but everyone needs money. Especially when going off on such an expedition..." Derrik grins. "I'll just apply it to a future purchase. Unless you'd like to trade it in right now for one of MY kisses, ha!" Derrik jokes.
"Now now, is it fair to hog all of my attention?" Kethra asks with a pout.
"No, but I, like life at times, am not always fair... Why, though?" Derrik asks, with a grin. "Hoping to snare the eye of a certain young man?"
"Well no, not really..." Kethra blushes.
"Ah, so you're simply tired of talking to me," Derrik says with an overdramtic downcast look. "I see. I'll go then,"
"I didn't mean it like that..." Kethra says sadly.
"Hey, hey, I was kidding..." Derrik says, a smile tugging at his face. "Well, perhaps it's for the best. A merchant like me, dashing as I am, can't always help with everything. And I doubt you'd be the type to buy a love potion!"
Kethra frowns slightly. "Love potion? I don't like that idea... Love is something that should be fostered naturally, without compulsion or aid."
"Exactly as I thought. See? I told you that you didn't seem the type to buy such a thing," Derrik nods, sagely. "It's indicative of the fact that some people want magic to solve everything for them that such things exist. I prefer using my natural charm. The chase is half the fun, after all."
"So it would seem," Kethra says, chuckling. "Well, I'll be off to declare a rematch now." The young monk stands up.
"And I shall cheer you on," Derrik says with a wink, lifting his mug to salute Kethra.

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Wed Nov 23, 2005 5:41 pm
Several rooms away, Zook giggles inexplicably, turning over in his bed.

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Nov 23, 2005 6:41 pm
Distracted by his own thoughts, Cedric is torn away from his inner struggle as Derrik passionately kisses Kethra. For a long moment, the Paladin merely stares unmoving...then he blinks and shakes his head as if to clear it. Standing, he pauses for a moment glancing around the room urgently before moving swiftly around the room.
Reaching Kyoji, the Holy Knight opens his mouth to speak then stops, taking a deep calming breath. His next words are lightly whispered, "Kyoji, attend to Kethra before..." The Paladin is cut off as the drinking contest begins and he glances back at Lady Yeesha in disbelief. Shaking his head, he looks back to the ninja, "...before she violates her order's code of conduct in drunken revelry." The Paladin looks back at the group, "I will speak with Derrik..."
[Diplomacy 3 + 14 = 17]
The Paladin steps lightly through the party, his eyes locked onto Kethra and Derrik. He waits quietly until Kethra has left. Then he looks at Derrik sternly and speaks softly, "Friend... I would have a few words with you. Would you step outside with me for a moment?"
(Assuming that Derrik accompanies Cedric...)
Outside, Cedric moves away from any others on the street and turns to Derrik, an angry expression on his face, "I consider you a friend of this expedition but your conduct threatens that friendship. How dare you take advantage of Kethra in such a manner? Not only is she barely more than a child, she is also clearly overcome with drink." The Paladin pauses for a moment, his eyes looking over Derrik, "Do you care at all for the girl? Her youth is not something to abuse to satisfy your lust. The same holds true for her drunkenness..." He stops for a moment, glancing back at the party, "...or the drunkenness of more mature women." The Paladin looks back to Derrik, "Appealing for sexual or sensual favors from women in moments of weakness when they would not give it otherwise is completely unacceptable." Once again, the Holy Knight glances back at the party, speaking in a lower voice, "...and I will speak on this matter to Ryhir once I am done with you."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 23, 2005 7:12 pm
((Whoo hoo, go Cedric! Ok Aldur, with your sense motive, this is what you get; From his appearance and shakey voice, it is clear Damas is lying to you. His reasons for doing so seem to be that he does not want to trouble you with his problems))

Posted by: Kaihaku Wed Nov 23, 2005 9:59 pm
"I would hardly call a kiss, involved as it may be a sexual favor," Derrik says, shaking his head. "I have to ask you, how many drinks did Kethra have before acting this way? I noted her glass, not the one filled for her for the toast, the one next to her plate, the one she'd been drinking from, was full of water."
Cedric looks at Derrik flatly, "I do recall her drinking wine earlier in the night but I was not watching her closely. Regardless of how much she consumed, she was clearly not in her right state of mind." The Paladin crosses his arms, "Personally, I am not interested in what you consider a sexual favor or not. If you want to prove to me that your act was not based on sexuality, I'll give you 100 gold to go kiss Castor in the same fashion."
"Tsk, tsk. Sorry, I'm not that hard up for money," Derrik says, shaking his head. "If I had done something like grope her or the like, I'd see your point. As it is, I think you're merely being uptight. However..."
Cedric arches an eyebrow, "Uptight? She's a sheltered young woman out in the world for the first time. I won't have you or anyone else taking advantage of her youth."
"It's a kiss. That's hardly taking advantage of her youthful innocence. To be blunt, you can't lose your virginity by liplocking, paladin," Derrik sighs. "If you had such an objection why didn't you intervene sooner? Bah. Anyone, as I'm trying to tell you..."
Cedric nods, "I should have intervened sooner, it was my fault for being distracted." The Paladin shakes his head, "To you, its just a kiss but what to her? Her first kiss?"
"... having been around some fairly strange things in my time, in addition to a history of alcohol related revelries, I had a suspicion after a few minutes of observing Kethra. Now, the first kiss I chalked to whimsy. She's wasn't drunk then. I don't know about now, as she's had a few mugs, but when this started, she retained her faculties, balance and everything..." Derrik shrugs. "I could be wrong, but whatever is up with her, I don't think it's alcohol."
Cedric blinks, "What do you mean?"
"So I decided to observe further, which is why I have stayed longer than I intended. What do I mean? I'm not sure... yet. My questions and jokes, playful as they seemed had a secondary purpose of seeing how Kethra's attitude has changed. I've concluded that her basic personality remains the same, and I don't think it's anything malevolent." Derrik shrugs. "I was concerned that perhaps an agent of the Cult had done something or perhaps a doppleganger had infiltrated your ranks. I'm fairly sure it's not either of those now. Surface, surface, surface, Cedric! If you always judge by what's on the surface, you'll get into trouble!" Derrik berates lightly, with a grin. "And I doubt this was her first kiss, but if it was, I can think of worse people to receive it from."
"You doubt it was her first kiss? That shy young monk? Just what kind of monastery do you think she's from?" The Paladin frowns, his face troubled, "I apologize for my first reaction...I sometimes forget that you are more than you seem. However, I strongly disapprove of your methods even if your purpose was meant to be helpful."

Posted by: Rusty Wed Nov 23, 2005 10:23 pm
*Now alone, the still invisible Faralon goes to a yet more secluded area. He sits under a tree, looking up at the stars once again. Amelios...I can't tell you what I've gotten myself into. I can't tell anyone...If it were to surface, only bad things would happen. It's better that it never comes out. For me, and for everyone else...But that bloody merchant...That Swiftjoke swindled me into buying that potion...Now he's taken both my gold and Kethra! I guess my throwing my drink on him won't keep him from telling people what I have done... Faralon sighs, looking down. This was supposed to be a fun night...Why did that stupid Derrik have to show up? That trickster...I knew I should have listened to my father. 'The real world is cruel. Don't be in such a hurry to see it all at once.' I thought he just didn't want me to grow up...*
===
*Eventually, Faralon heads back towards the group, but staying outside, so he can merely observe and listen in on what is going on inside. He is more calm than before, though expectedly still a bit upset. I guess I have no choice but to not anger Derrik enough to the point where he would tell the group what he sold me...I hope I haven't already done so. But...I'm not going back in there, and I'm not going to drink...I can't risk anyone learning of what I've done... Faralon stays outside, but listens in, as his curiosity gets the better of him. I want to know if they're doing anything more...*
((Listen check...16 + 10 = 26.))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Wed Nov 23, 2005 10:27 pm
"Well, if all agreed on what precise methods to use, there would be no variety and the world would become dreadfully dull," Derrik says with a shrug. "Shy she may be, but she seems very receptive to simple goodwill... but what do I know, anyway? Perhaps I am wrong."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 23, 2005 11:08 pm
Amelios grabs Damas sharply by the shoulder and shakes the one of elven blood hard for a moment. "Not acceptable. It's obvious that you are lying. You're shaking and seem to be in shock. What has done this to you? I can understand not being a burden but this looks like it could threaten your health!"
Damas winces slightly but doesn't cry out in pain. He looks to the cleric with heavy eyes. "I know you're concerned Amelios, but I'm not sure if what I saw was even real..."
"How much have you had to drink young sir?" Amelios looked slightly less worried now, assuming that alcohol was the problem with Damas. He grinned and then looked into the sorcerer’s eyes, and saw the disbelief. "But maybe that's not it...I think you should tell me what happened. Now."
"Bossy as always..." Damas chuckles sadly, his body still shaking and his skin pale. "I only had two glasses, and I assure you I am able to handle much more alcohol than that." He sighs for a moment and sways. "Can I sit down?"
"Well, I tend to be bossy when it comes to other people’s health. And I think that would help." The Cleric helps the elf sit down and then stands in front of him, somewhat alarmed. This...I don't think that skin tone is normal for Damas, and he winced when I shook him...which really wasn't painful. Something is obvious up here.
"Thank you," Damas murmurs. The young elf stares up at Amelios for a moment, attempting to gather his thoughts and think of a way to describe what he had seen. "After the toast, while I was with Isyndel, I saw a familiar person disappear into a doorway. I was not sure if I was imagining it or not, so I followed all the way up stairs to a room. At first, I saw nothing...but upon closer inspection I saw movement in the corner and decided to go inside. First I cast a light spell on a coin, and a barely made it into the room before I saw what I had been following..."
Amelios' face show concern over what Damas is telling him. And he's not drunk...this is worrying, The Cleric frowns and yet comes up with a blank, having no idea on who it could be at all. He isn't from anywhere near here I think. So...who or what...could it be? "What was it you saw?"
"I saw a ghost..." Damas speaks in a voice of restrained sadness. "It was...Valkana... B-but she didn't look like she did when I last saw her... Her body was torn, and wounded... Her clothes looked like something attempted to rip them from her... It just...looked like she had suffered so much... T-then she caught sight of me..."
"Where is this woman now? She must require healing!" Amelios sounded concerned for the woman, but stopped remembering what Damas had said about the last time the two had met. This is problematic...why here and now of all places? This night gets stranger and stranger!
"I too thought that perhaps she was alive, but believe me Amelios...she was as dead as it gets..." Damas trembles now, his eyes wide. "W-when she saw me...she opened her mouth as if to speak but no words came out... She lunged at me, and my fears were confirmed when she faded into nothingness...leaving only this behind... M-my current state."

Posted by: Kyosokun Wed Nov 23, 2005 11:09 pm
((This is not the post you are looking for))

Posted by: Aldur Wed Nov 23, 2005 11:19 pm
((OOC: Saved until I know what to do. ))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Wed Nov 23, 2005 11:37 pm
"What are you doing?" Kyoji asks quietly as Kethra gets up to go to the other table. Kethra looks at Kyoji for a moment and tilts her head. "What do you mean?" "Drinking contests? Kissing? This doesn't seem like you. Is anything the matter?" Kyoji asks.
"I don't think so... Before that toast, I was drinking water... Then just as the toast ended, I felt this weird sensation in the pit of my stomach."
"What did it feel like? Was it poison? Are you OK?" Kyoji asks.
"Do you feel sick?"
"It was an oddly pleasent warmth in my stomach, that spread to every limb. I cannot explain it, but I know I felt it once before..."
"When?" Kyoji asks
"That time where Faralon offered me the sake... It was not as intense then as it was now, though..."
"And you felt this way after the first sip?" Kyoji asks.
Kethra thinks back on it for a moment and replies softly. "Yes..."
"The feeling in the stomach might be just alcohol... But the effects..." Kyoji mumbles. "You started acting odd after the first sip. It can't be the alcohol. Are you consicous of acting odd, are you acting this way purposefully?"
"The last time, I remembered everything...b-but I did not know how it happened or why..." Kethra looks a slight bit more worried now. "W-what are you suggesting?"
"Where's the pitcher you drank from?" Kyoji asks.
Kethra grabs the pitcher and hands it to him. "T-this one."
Kyoji examines the pitcher thoroughly. "Did anyone else drink from this pitcher?"
"Let me see your glass."
Kethra hands him the glass and then sits down, the young monk now shivering a little. "W-what's happening to me?"
Kyoji examines the glass and pitcher both, then raises an eyebrow. "I'm going to have to taste the stuff... If I start acting strangely, please stop me."
Kyoji runs his finger along the rim of the glass and tastes it, then does the same to the pitcher.
"It's not any sort of drug... It would leave an aftertaste... and there's nothing..." Kyoji says, shaking his head.
"This is beyond my expertise... Eh... I'd ask Yeesha, but she's a bit... off right now."
Kethra looks to Yeesha for a moment, then back to Kyoji. "I'm really confused... This is starting to scare me... What should I do?"
"I don't know... Perhaps you should go to bed early. Perhaps a night of rest will improve your state. At the very least, Yeesha will be sober then, and we can consult her."
"If you...think that's best...t-than alright..." Kethra stands up.
"Before you go to bed, perhaps one of the clerics can discern what's wrong with you, actually..." Kyoji says.
"I'd check in with one."
Kethra nods. "Perhaps you're right..." The young monk dismisses herself and seeks out a healer to speak with. Since Amelios is no where in sight, she goes to Aurik.
((A note to all, I will not be around tomorrow, for it is Turkey Day and I will be spending it with my family. I should hope all of you will be doing that same Have a happy Turkey Day everyone! ))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Thu Nov 24, 2005 2:02 am
Brand had been focused on the doorway and outside, as first Damas, then the elven bard exited the party. Then he glanced back in as Cedric stormed out, Swiftjoke in tow. Something in Cedric's face made Brand turn his focus back to the party, and what he heard surprised him. Kethra's behavior... and Yeesha's! Drunk? Drugged? Kyoji was with the one, and Cedric had apparently cornered Swiftjoke, but Yeesha still hadn't...
Wait a minute... Yeesha controlled the wards.
Suddenly, Brand was on high alert, but he didn't want to be the one to ruin the festivities. Not yet. Quickly, the birdman made his way over to where the catman rested, and laid a hand on his shoulder.
Quickly, Brand whispered to him, "Be on guard. I suspect Kethra, and possibly Yeesha's actions are not natural, and Yeesha controls the wards that guard us. I am going to check on the others and the ground here. Merkass, I trust you to guard this room while I'm gone."
Without waiting for reply, the ex-scout made his way out the doorway, pausing only long enough to grab his arms and armor, before leaving the building for a quick scout around.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Thu Nov 24, 2005 2:52 am
Brand finds nothing out of the ordinary during his patrol.

Posted by: Dark Maiden Thu Nov 24, 2005 4:04 pm
((Unless you count Damas who looks like he's seen a ghost ))

Posted by: DragonmasterDon1 Thu Nov 24, 2005 9:09 pm
Isyndel nodded as Damas left and helped herself to more to drink. A moment or so passed before curiousity got the better of her and she took to following the Sorceror for reasons she did not bother to discern. ((I am not certain how easy it would be for her to find anyone; therefore I'm leaving it open right here as to whether she stumbles into Damas/Amelios or anyone else.))

Posted by: Knight_019 Fri Nov 25, 2005 5:58 am
*Aurik quite simply could not understand it. Kethra's composure had changed completely and so suddenly. Searching through his repertoire of healing knowledge, none of Kethra's symptoms implied intoxication or anything else wrong. His knowledge of the arcane was somewhat limited, and he could not discern anything indicating either direction in that regard. However, he knew something was amiss, even if he couldn't place his finger on it. There was more to this situation than meets the eye, and he would get to the bottom of it. Setting his toast cup down, Aurik left the room, a hand on his chin as he pondered what to do next.*
~~~
: A fine plan, Brand.
*Merkass watched as Brand left to take care of business. The recent events seemed to have been strange, though Merkass was simply out of the cultural concerncs of humans and their like. Why they chose to partake in such strange events as drinking contests and toy with such matters as kissing, to the lengths that one would charge for it, he simply didn't understand. However, much was left to do for the night, and so Merkass stepped up and took charge of the situation. Setting his cup down on the table, Merkass stands from his seat, looks around the room, and calls order.*
: As the night seems to be at a close, and a fine night it was, I believe it is time to prepare for the evening. I do not know if anyone has been hired to clean the room once we are finished, but at least ready up your area. We'll want to be welcomed back again, after all.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Nov 25, 2005 6:13 am
Kyoji approaches Isyndel. "You are following Damas?" he inquires. Isyndel is visibly startled by the voice. "Strange, is it not? I cannot help but be curious what would cause him to...well, it sounds humorous in my head." "Cause him to what?" Kyoji asks.
"To suddenly find something more interesting than me," she remarked, joking.
"Hmmmm... It is curious. You were quite hostile to him before. Now you are quite civil."
"The intent was certainly not hostility, but just the same I can see where others would perceive it to be so. I am just as confused as to why I am suddenly so interested in discerning his whereabouts. Perhaps I am intoxicated."
"You... didn't happen to drink from the same pitcher as Kethra did, did you?" Kyoji asks, raising an eyebrow.
She shook her head. "No, I doubt my stomach would be particularly fond of ale, truth be told. I do not care for it."
"It seems very strange the turnaround both of you have taken. Damas pulled a knife on you, then later claimed to be in love with you. You have gone from being cold to him to accepting a dance from him. It puzzles me."
"And come tomorrow I may very well go back to relative disinterest," she spoke, with a bit of a laugh. "My father would say to behave as such is just like a woman," she spoke, giving the end of her sentence and awkward, nasally sounding tone.
"Interesting..." Kyoji says, tilting his head slightly. "It seems everyone is acting a bit out of normal this night... Perhaps this is what happens when we all 'loosen up', as they say."
"You do not seem out of the ordinary to me," she mused. "But I am concerned. The Sorceror's eyes seemed somewhat peculiar to me as he dismissed himself."
"Odd to hear myself say that," she spoke, rubbing her temples.
"I think we all saw it. Something scared him," Kyoji says, flatly. "Brand's gone on patrol. If there was something to be afraid of, we should know about it soon."
"That is reassuring. Given the pace of the mission thus far I suppose it would be prudent for me to prepare for the worst."
"Indeed."
------------
The rest of the night passes swiftly enough, and in the morning the leftovers of the feast are used to break the fast. Yeesha sits grumpily at the end of the table moaning as she holds her head.
"Why in the Abyss did I drink that much..." Yeesha mutters. "Never again. You'd think I'd learn my lesson from watching Ruce get so drunk... damn..."
It's only a day's walk to Iom Castle, and from there, four days to Iom Shrine, the former heart of the Iom Empire.
((Post whatever you do in the morning as well as whatever you do enroute to the Castle/preparations.))

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Nov 25, 2005 6:40 pm
Zook wakes up at 8AM the morning after the feast, burps, and prepares himself to work on ADAM. ---- During the journey Zook can be seen inside and out his armor, or some combination thereof, ratcheting, mending, and realigning ADAM. ((Do these 5 days count on top of the two weeks we just had, or are they part of them?))

Posted by: Kaihaku Fri Nov 25, 2005 7:53 pm
The night before... Cedric rubs his forehead for a moment and sighs, looking at Derrik wearily, "I'd take a dull world over a world filled with strife any day." The Paladin looks into the starry sky, "Regardless... Thank you for paying heed to me concerns."
During the journey
[Diplomacy: 16 + 14 = 30]
[CHA Check: 14 + 5 = 19] ((For Knight, since apparently diplomacy checks have no affect on PCs.))
Cedric gathers the group together during one the many stops along the way. His face is determined as he looks them over, "Our situation is becoming more and more dire with every passing day. We can no longer afford to make the mistakes of the past, we must become more organized if we are to accomplish our goal." The Paladin pauses, looking over the group meaningfully, "I know this will be difficult for many of you to bear but for the sake of good and our own survival we must relinquish some of our freedom. I would like to establish a chain of command within us."
Cedric speaks calmly, his eyes meeting those of each of his companions, "I have been acting in the position of leader of this expedition." The Paladin glances at Lady Yeesha, "However, this has not been made official. It need not be me but someone needs to take on official leadership. Lady Yeesha cannot due to her injury."
Cedric looks back to the group, "If I am appointed, I would prefer that the group be organized into smaller squads. Hand to hand combat would be divided among three squad comprised of three to four warriors each. I envisioned Kyoji leading Kethra and Laika in a swift striking squad. Ashathel would lead Van and Castor. Finally, Ryhir would lead Gabriel, Jokulligr, and Acacia. Aurik would be given authority over the healers. Due to his extensive knowledge, Faralon would be given authority over the mages and would inform them of the weaknesses of our enemies. Brand would lead a strike team of himself and Elias. I would remain independent, reinforcing any forces in need and managing our overarching strategy."
The holy knight looks around the group once more, "During combat, Faralon and Zook should provide information on our enemies. Merkass, Brand, and Kyoji should continue to serve as the primary scouts for the expedition."
Cedric looks over the group once more, "Your response?"

CODE
Melee 1 Leader: Kyoji Kethra, Laika Melee 2 Leader: Ashathel
Van, Castor
Melee 3
Leader: Ryhir
Gabriel, Jokulligr, Acacia
Strike
Leader: Brand
Elias
Healers
Leader: Aurik
Amelios
Snipers
Leader: Merkass
Zook
Magic
Leader: Faralon
Isyndel, Damas
Special Operations
Scouting: Merkass, Brand, and Kyoji.
Item Id: Faralon, Yeesha, and Brand.
Technology: Zook
Enemy Information: Faralon, Zook

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Fri Nov 25, 2005 8:20 pm
Zook waves his hands dismissively. "Any strategy's better than none. I cede to whatever the group will may be. I just want to reiterate what you no doubt know; that the infighting caused by an unpopular order is more detrimental than the absence of it. Now, if you'll excuse me..." he says as he walks back to ADAM.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Fri Nov 25, 2005 9:32 pm
"I have no objections to the plan," Yeesha says, leaning on her staff. "Nor do I," Kyoji states.

Posted by: Kyosokun Fri Nov 25, 2005 10:02 pm
"While I think in battle, units are possibly a decent idea, I think more thought needs to go into the formation of said groups, so they can be effective. And perhaps it can help us fine tune our battle efficiency. Group members talk about the battle with their unit leader, Unit Leaders get together and discuss it over all. But I don't think the assigned groupings are very good. Perhaps you should gather those you think capable of being the Unit leaders, and discuss who would be most effective where." Ryhir states.

Posted by: Aldur Sat Nov 26, 2005 1:16 am
"I myself have no problems with you as leader. However, from the way you phrase things I understand you desire no aid in advising the tactical course of the battle? Also, what would you have the Lady Yeesha do in the midst of a battle? If we wear to fall...I mean no offence to you Lady Yeesha but...I do not think you would be able to escape alone. I believe someone should be assigned to that. To retreat and escort the Lady Yeesha if things are looking too bleak for victory. Though I pray to the goddess that such a thing would not happen.
In general Faralon and Zook should be able to help us in the weaknesses of the enemy. However, sometimes the specialised Expertise of myself and Aurik would sometimes know more in certain situations. If so...I would hope that we could freely give advice."
Amelios paused for breath, collecting his thoughts and steeled himself, looking solidly back at the Paladin.
"I also think that I should be allowed to advise you or the elected leader in matters of strategy. Whether you or the elected leader take my advice is entirely up to them. I should just like the chance to offer my own opinions, because as you know...I am studying these things.
As for the teams. I mean no disrespect to Kyoji but, I think his ability to lead a squad and use his special abilities would clash. His ability to turn invisible would perhaps be made somewhat less useful the enemy could hear him. I'd personally make him like you suggested for yourself, only with the idea to sneak attack when he's able and use his special skills to the teams advantage rather than reinforce. To make up for the lack of Kyoji from the Strike team I would Put Jokulligr in the strike group. As for a leader for that squad...I would think that Jokulligr, having the most experience should take over.
That...sums up my differences with your own. Also, If possible I should like a quick word with you or the leader elected whenever you have the chance."
The kyantol took another deep breath, and unusually for the cleric he smiled, no longer having that worried frown on his face that had plagued him before.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sat Nov 26, 2005 1:18 am
Kyoji shrugs. "I was planning on splitting the group up when the battle started, but acting alone would work as well."

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sat Nov 26, 2005 1:39 am
Kethra heads off to bed as soon as she is through speaking to Aurik. The young monk falls asleep fairly quickly and sleeps peacefully. Damas makes his way up to his room, but happens to bump into Isyndel on the way there. Though his expression softens a bit when he sees her, she can clearly see that something is wrong with him. His skin is almost as pale as a sheet, a cold sweat clings to his body, he is shaking, and his eyes are heavy with emotion, particularly fear and confusion.
((I'd like to get a convo in here between them, even if it is short. He's not doing a good job of hiding his symptoms))
After that he heads off to bed, but his sleep is plagued by nightmares.
*****
Damas is within the bedroom of the old guild, screams echoing from outside, and the spell of smoke wafting in through the window. It awakens him from his sleep and he opens his eyes, nearly gagging because of the horrible stench. His gaze moves about the room for a moment, and yet he cannot seem to find what he is looking for. All he does see is his robes discarded on the floor at the foot of the bed. "Valkana?" he asks in a shaky voice. "Where are you?" The sorcerer crawls out of bed and hurriedly puts his clothes back on, then runs outside.
He is greeted by a scene that can be described as truly horrific. Bodies of various people lay shrew about the grounds, mutilated in several ways but some much worse than others. Many of the other buildings are damaged and on fire, smoke billowing into the air. He nervously moves through the grounds, his eyes settling on two people that are familiar to him, their broken bodies side by side. The female is human with long brown hair that is stained with blood, and the vestments of a monk that are tattered and torn. Beside her is a half elf, short red hair crusted with grime and his samurai armor cracked and broken. The two were holding hands when they died, for they are still joined in this fashion now. "Sapphire....Amon..."
Damas wipes the tears that form in his eyes and keeps moving, knowing that they are beyond his help now. After moving around for a few more minutes, terror truly grips his heart when he finds his mentor. The elven woman is pinned beneath a large piece of rubble, various large wounds covering her body and blood leaking from the side of her mouth. Her azure blue hair is stained with blood, and her eyes are closed. He kneels down beside her and tries to pry her from the rubble, but to no avail.
"Leave me Damas," she chokes out, her emerald green eyes opening a little to look upon him.
"Auril..." Damas whimpers, tears forming in his eyes again. "Mom... D-don't talk like that... You're...you're going to be just fine. I'll get you out of here...somehow."
"No, it's...too late for me..." Auril coughs a little bit and then continues. "I am...bleeding internally... S-save...any one else that may...still be alive..."
"No...I can't lose you too..." He fights to stop himself from crying, but he finds himself unable. A hand brushes softly against his cheek and he looks back to see Auril smiling at him weakly.
"Don't cry... I'm going to...a far...better place... Find...Valkana...and get out of here...before it is...too late..."
"Please...tell me what happened here... Who did this?"
"I...don't know... Damas...be strong...and..." Auril suddenly begins to cough violently, hacking up blood onto her shirt.
Damas takes her hand in his and stares down at her, his vision clouded by tears. "Hold on! ...Don't leave me..." he sobs.
"...remember that...I love you...and I'll always be watching over you..." As these final words escape her lips, Auril's body falls limp and her head rolls to the side.
Damas gasps and watches as the life slips from her, powerless to stop it. His mentor lays before him now, lifeless and gone forever. He finally breaks down and cries, his shoulders heaving with every sob. Eventually he is no longer able to cry and he stands up, leaving her side. In the distance he sees a figure coming towards him.
As it gets closer, the figure turns out to be female. A small elf with long lavender hair and ruby red eyes. Her rogue tunic is a little torn up, but she doesn't look to be hurt all that badly. The only thing that seems odd is her eyes, which look quite blank and devoid of life.
"Valkana?! Oh thank Mitula that you're alright! What happened to you?"
"I'm...fine," she murmurs. "Mere scratches..."
"All that matters is that you are safe. We should go..." Damas takes her hand in his, finding it is a bit on the cold side but pays little mind to it.
"I would be unable to sneak both of us out... Our best hope is to hide." Valkana leads him back to the only building that still stands; the dorms. Once there she opens the secret hatch to the basement and leads them down. "This...should be safe..."
Damas sighs and turns away from her. "I hope so..." His voice is obviously shaky, but he tries to play it like nothing is wrong. "Valkana...what happened any w-" Before he is able to finish his sentence, he feels a sharp pain in his back. He suddenly begins to feel quite tired, and he turns around slowly to find a dagger stuck into his back. What is even more horrifying is that Valkana is the one standing behind him, holding it. "Val...kana..." he murmurs before losing consciousness and crumpling to the floor.
*****
"No!" Damas screams as he awakens with a start, his eyes wide and a cold sweat clinging to his currently bare chest. His breathing is heavy, and his heart is pounding at an unnatural pace. The young sorcerer pulls back the covers with a shaky hand and crawls out of the bed, making his ways towards the window. He sticks his head out for some fresh air and breathes it in deeply, hoping that it will clear his head. "Valkana... Even in your death, do I still belong to you?"
-----
The next morning, Damas arrives at breakfast wearing his traveling outfit; a pair of black pants, a black and blue sleeveless shirt, and knee high traveling boots. His hair is braided, and he is wearing a dark black cloak with silver trim. It looks rather nice, as does the pendant around his neck, but he knows they are not just for show. He eats in silence, and the others can tell that something still troubles him deeply.
Kethra awakens feeling the same as she did the night before, though she had a little more control over herself now. She eats breakfast in silence, but she watches Yeesha closely. |She shouldn't have had so much to drink... I shouldn't have had any either...|
-----
During the stop when Cedric addresses the group, Damas keeps his eyes on the paladin at all times. Despite the troubles that he has been having, he agrees with everything he is saying. "It will make escaping and staying out of sight easier if things ever get that bad... I understand that some of our freedom must be given up in battle, but so long as I am free to express any problems I may have with my leader, and I am allowed to make suggestions and give advice without being snapped at, the plan sounds good." He nods and leans on his staff slightly.
Kethra's attention is torn between Yeesha and Cedric at this point, the feelings she still has very intense now. "I have no objections," she murmurs. Within the last few minutes, she finds that she cannot resist the urge to be near Yeesha. She scoots over to the archmage and smiles, her cheeks turning pink. "I'm glad to see that you're alright my lady. By the way, you look really nice today. Say, I was wondering if..." Before she can finish, her mind suddenly clears, the influence of whatever had caused her behavior having worn off. She looks at Yeesha with wide eyes and she is unable to move for a moment. |What...was that about?| Her expression becomes one of fright and she moves away before Yeesha can make any remarks. Almost as soon as these feelings go away, she begins to feel the same thing for Cedric and Ryhir though she cannot explain why.
-----
Over the next 19 hours during their trip, Kethra pays both of them quite a lot of attention, even more so than normal. If it was not clear that something was wrong with her behavior before, it should be raising a major red flag right now.
Sometime during this period, Damas attempts to get both Ryhir and Cedric alone, having noticed Kethra's unusual behavior. "I need to speak with both of you. Now I know it may not be the right time for anything not related to our mission, but I am sure both of you have noticed Kethra's behavior. I have as well, and I am almost positive that none of this was caused or is being caused by booze. I believe she has either been drugged, or has had some sort of spell cast on her. Even with my arcane knowledge, I cannot make out what is ailing her, but this has me worried." He sighs and bites his lip. "You both know Kethra well, and she isn't like this..."
((That should be all for now. This will probably be one of my last big posts until college is out, because all of my finals start next week. Wish me luck everyone))

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Nov 26, 2005 5:24 am
Cedric gives Ryhir a perplexed look, "I did give the matter a great deal of thought and I must admit that I wonder what your critiques are..." Shaking his head, the Paladin looks around the group, "But yes, I do feel that this system needs to be completely open to criticism except during combat. With suggestions and criticism it can only improve." The Paladin rubs his chin thoughtfully, "I did feel that it was somewhat meaningless to put leaders over the healers and ranged units, but I felt it was wise to have some hierarchy in place should we ever be joined by allies."
The Paladin listens to Amelios quietly and shakes his head almost sadly, "You misunderstand my words, I was not forbidding tactical advisement but rather attempting to organize it." Cedric looks at Amelios questioningly, "It was my understanding that you protected by full plate and bearing the staff of life would serve as more of a front line healer, channeling divine power to drive away undead at the same time. In that degree, I thought it would be difficult for you to discuss matters of tactics with me or anyone else during combat. Perhaps you should speak with Aurik about trading items if you wish to remain in a position to clearly observe and direct the battlefield. I am not an expert on tactics and would certainly welcome assistance in managing such."
Cedric then nods, "You raise a valid point, however since Rhizor has taken over management of the wagon I assumed he would also take the task of watching over Lady Yeesha."
The Paladin then looks at the monk, "I mean no offense to you but I cannot recommend you for leadership among us...at least not at the moment." Cedric looks to Amelios, "Jokulligr has never fought along side us. If he states that he has fought many battles, I do not doubt him. However, he has yet to fight a single battle along side us. It will time before he knows and understands us. Each member of this expedition is a unique individual..." Cedric smiles at the distant figure of ADAM, "...some more than others...and I do not feel that he can adequately lead until he is more familiar with us."
Cedric looks back to the group, "The three I named for melee commanders are warriors who I have noted watching over the members of this expedition and attempting to instruct others." The Paladin rubs his nose lightly, "In that light, I felt that Kyoji was an excellent choice as he would develop the members of his squad and keep them alert. It is true that working in a unit would..." Cedric frowns slightly, "...hamper his style but it seemed an acceptable sacrifice."
Cedric rubs his chin, "Perhaps a solution might be to leave Kyoji in command until Jokulligr has been with us for a few battles? Then Kyoji might join the strike team?"

Posted by: Arcdragnbreth Sat Nov 26, 2005 6:18 am
"Actually, I have a suggestion," Ashathel said, stepping forward. "Have at least one combat caster backing up each melee force; mine excluded, as I can cover both types of offense. Instead, I'd suggest you add another melee combatant for my group, as I usually can't swing a sword and cast a spell at the same time. Dividing our magic users into a separate group only leaves an easy target, and keeps them from covering our forces adequately. Other than that, I don't see any problems."

Posted by: Rusty Sat Nov 26, 2005 8:07 am
((Knowledge (Arcana) on knowing for a fact that these side effects are result of the love potion: natural 20 + 10 = 30. Pass!)) *Surprisingly, for a time Faralon kept mostly to himself - a bit unusual for the bard. I'm sure my potion was the cause of Kethra's condition. I guess...Yes, side effects would make sense. She doesn't really like Derrik after all. She's just experiencing temporary side effects. Strange, though, that they would come up now. She will be fine, though...If she recovers before any of the clerics successfully learn what caused her to be like that...She should come out clean, and hopefully I'll have nothing to worry about...*
===
*At the open discussion, Faralon shakes his head at his brother's remarks.*
: "It's unnecessary, really, to separate the magic group. Keep in mind that while the groups are split up in terms of rank and order, that does not mean the groups cannot aid each other, or temporarily split up in battle if need be. Magic users also generally can do quite a few things from quite far away, even so. You of all people should know that. Regardless...They don't HAVE to be a good fifty feet away from the rest of the force, nor do they have to be all together at all times. Loose ends are quite all right, after all."
*Faralon smirks.*
: "But I guess we have to set up a solid chain of command before we can battle loosely, eh? Personally, I have no problems with it as it is now."
*But then, I don't really care. Just as long as we all stop dying, I'm happy.

Posted by: Aldur Sat Nov 26, 2005 2:11 pm
"I see. You didn't mention that...but no matter. Asathael also raises a good point. Also...as for us cleric's...their are but two of us. And I think that perhaps I should go Asathael or Ryhir's group, Aurik perhaps taking the other. We cannot move fast enough to keep up with the strike team...and they are skilled at getting out of tight spots so that they could retreat for healing."
The cleric seems to be in a much better mood than when Cedric spoke to him a few days ago, the problems no longer weighing on his mind.

Posted by: White Rose Sat Nov 26, 2005 7:36 pm
*Sorry for my absence. Also, this takes place during the first two weeks on the trail.* Acacia had been solitary the majority of the time since having been rescued. Under the night sky, she sat considering her situation and options. She still ached inside and out from what had transpired, but maintained a cool appearance. It was obvious she was weak and still ill, most of the time food deciding not to agree with her. In the distance, she spots the dragonman, Jokulligr, sitting by himself facing away from camp. Remembering that Lady Yeesha had requested a conference with them, she decided that now would be better than later. Upon approaching the dragonman, Acacia lays her hand gently upon the monk's shoulder in order to garner his attention.
Jokulligr, who had been staring off into the wilderness as if day-dreaming, is called back to attention by the contact of the female hand upon his shoulder. When he looks over and sees Acacia, he smiles softly. "Yes, milady?"
"I am sorry, Jokulligr. I must appologize for my general malaise as of late. Lady Yeesha requested a moment of our time at our earliest convenience and I feel compeled to approach her without further delay. It would provide me much comfort if you were to come with me as well."
He nods to this request. "Very well. I had been meaning to go see Lady Yeesha soon, myself. I would not mind accompanying you at all."
Acacia offers a warm smile in thanks to Jokulligr and then motions the direction she had spotted Yeesha. As they begin to make their way over, Acacia quanders "Do you know of what she wishes to speak to us about?"
The dragonman tries to recall the wording of Yeesha's request, then shakes his head. "I do not believe she mentioned the purpose of wishing to meet with us. She just requested that we do so at the earliest convenience."
Acacia nods silently as they approach the cart. Somewhat unsure of herself, she asks into the cart "Lady Yeesha?"
Acacia walks in on Kethra and Yeesha, limbs entangl...
Er, I mean...
"Yes? Come in," Yeesha says from within the cart.
Acacia lifts aside the flap, stepping inside and to one side in order to let the dragonman pass. When they have both entered, Acacia turns to face Yeesha. "You wished to speak with us?
"Yes," Yeesha says, turning. "You may sit if you wish."
Acacia nods and sits, letting a glance slide to the monk. She was already feeling out of place and wished to defer most of the business to him.
"I want to know what exactly you want to do now. Do you have family you wish to return to? A home? Where can we drop you off?" Yeesha asks.
Acacia's eyes close in thought for a second before she responds. "Jokulligr and I had discussed this earlier. We wish, the both of us, to join you. I have no family to return to and no home to which I can lay claim. I am of the ability and will to bear arms, if it is so allowed."
Yeesha is silent for a moment. "You are aware this group is headed into grave danger, correct?" Yeesha asks.
Acacia sits with her hands folded neatly in her lap, preparing her words carefully. "No, I must confess I am unaware of the exact dangers that this group is headed into and I must confess that it is probably little that I have heretofor experienced. This brief ignorance does not shatter my will. I have heard words spoken of where this group is headed and the dangers posed, but I will not know them until they are realized. My life has been challenged before, but I feel as though it will be different if I am to travel with you."
"All right... Why, though?" Yeesha asks.
"My life was forfeit the moment my carriage was attacked. I am displaced within this world with no definable meaning or purpose. The life that I now hold I owe to you and the people within this group. I am in the possession of skills which may prove useful to you. My life, whether requested or not, is bound to the mission that saved me. This is what I have and what I desire."
"Very well... and you monk?" Yeesha asks of Jokulligr, before turning back to Acacia. "Wait, what do you mean forfeit?"
"If the information I have received is true, then my husband passed during the attack. The life I lead prior to now belonged to him. I had no claim to it or anything provided by it," was all Acacia offered.
"I see... My condolences..." Yeesha says, quietly. "Very well. You may journey with us."
Acacia nods politely. "Thank you, Lady Yeesha."
*Jok assumingly answers. We lost Bolt pretty quickly, it seemed, to the evil thing known as falling asleep at the computer.*
During the festivities, Acacia remained withdrawn to her room. She professed a need for privacy and reflection behind an actual door she could close.
---
Now, during the discussion, she remains silent for the time being. At one point she cringes inwardly at the suggestion that she be split from Jokulligr. Although Jokulligr was still a veritable stranger to her, she knew him the most out of all her present company. It had been a few weeks, but she had remained very much isolated while she paid her mourning dues.

Posted by: Kaihaku Sat Nov 26, 2005 8:22 pm
Cedric arches an eyebrow, "The entire purpose of dividing the group is to allowed specialization. Splitting the group into several miniature forces would fail to serve that purpose." Cedric looks at Amelios, "The healers can still travel with the squads without being part of them and due to the healing wards he bears Aurik usually can aid everyone without closing to combat range. I feel that the clerics need to have the freedom to move where the need is greatest."
The holy knight glances back to Ashathel, "It was because of the split nature of your training that I thought Castor and Van should accompany you. Castor is an army unto himself and Van with the long reach of his weapon can provide you cover if you need to fall back to cast a spell. Keep in mind the weapons both of them bear... I could think of none better to balance out your style."
Cedric frowns thoughtfully, "Ashathel, I understand the thought behind your suggestion but I must disagree. I believe that in order to be as effective as possible the mages need to function as an independent unit."
The Paladin looks to the archwizardess, "Due to her injury, Lady Yeesha is unable to take an active part in combat except for under the most dire circumstances." Cedric looks around the group, "We need organized magical support. Directed by Faralon, the mages can weaken our foes and strike down the most dangerous of them. Scattered across the battlefield, I do not believe they could effectively combine their abilities and act in a consolidated manner."
The Paladin looks at Damas and Isyndel, "Throughout this expedition the mages have often had the semblance of a unit. They often fall far behind the front lines remaining in the same general area. They often use their abilities to soften up large numbers of foes and target specific enemies from a great distance. It was during the assault on the top of the fort that I felt that our expedition made the best use of our diverse magical talents. They suppressed and weakened the enemy forces, with the advisement and direction of Faralon I feel that this performance can be repeated and surpassed."
Cedric looks back to Ashathel, "In situations in which the mages need defense, a squad can be assigned to watch over them. In situations in which they need to close on enemies, they can move behind and support a squad of front liners."
The Paladin chuckles, "Another matter of consideration is that I feel that each squad needs a unique name. Instead of calling out Ryhir's squad it would be easier to call out for Salamander or a similar name. That is something the squads can discuss and decide on once we decide on the formation of the squads."

Posted by: Rusty Sat Nov 26, 2005 8:35 pm
: "I was saying, under certain circumstance, we might have a person from the group move off to another, temporarily - in battle. Does that not make sense? If not, our moves are far too predictable to the unpredictable enemy, and if they even send ONE spy to observe our style of combat, we would be in trouble. Too much order can be a bad thing, too. That's all I am saying."
*Faralon looks over at Acacia and Jokulligr.*
: "I also think, even if they're better suited on separate teams, they should remain on a single team for now. They are new to us and they have not yet become familiar with our battle style. But, if you think it necessary to split them up and have them fend for themselves a bit more, I just hope they can handle it. They have been starved for some time."

Posted by: Kaihaku Sun Nov 27, 2005 12:14 am
Cedric nods, "I agree, Faralon. Order need not lead to inflexibility... We must be willing to adapt to each unique situation. Organization should limit the chaos and conflict among us so we have the freedom to adapt, not make us rigid." The Paladin then looks towards Acacia and Jokulligr, "Indeed... For now it seems wise for the two of you to remain together."

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Nov 27, 2005 12:19 am
The Malefactor: http://www.vgmusic.com/music/console/nintendo/snes/kefka.mid As strategy and the role of each member in combat is discussed, a slow chill creeps up everyone's spine as a slightly shrill laugh echoes around the camp. Six points of red light flare in the shadows cast by a caravan, then a figure steps out from that shadow, revealing the light to be eyes. The figure is armored, face covered by a mask that seems reminiscent of a spider somehow. The body is concealed by a long cape that wraps around it, and the figure seems to ooze malevolence. The six eyes travel over each of you and you feel suddenly smaller... you feel like a mouse being eyed by a hungry cat.
"Heh heh heh... I do hope I'm not being too much of a nuisance by interrupting... but I just had to pay a visit..." the figure says, eyes glimmering.

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 27, 2005 12:35 am
Amelios looks over at the...thing in front of them. He frowns and yet cannot recall anything at all from his religous training on what the hell on Rune it is. he shivers and grabs a hold of his holy symbol seeking comfort from it. "May we...help you in some way? And perhaps you should introduce yourself. It is very rude to not tell us who you are."

Posted by: Kyosokun Sun Nov 27, 2005 12:36 am
Ryhir just turns fluidly, bringing a dagger out of his belt and chucking it at the intruder all in one smooth motion. Unfortunately, it merely clanks near off his armor. ((AC 22 hit, attack fails))

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Nov 27, 2005 12:50 am
Shailtor looks down at the knife, nonchalantly. "It's also rather rude to throw knives at people who have yet to introduce themselves!" Shailtor remarks cheerfully as he bends down to pick up the knife. "I am Shailtor... Hmmmm... This is a good knife..." Shailtor remarks, murmuring some words and turning to Ryhir. "You might want this back."
With that, Shailtor hurls the knife, now charged with shadowy energy back at Ryhir. The dagger lodges in his chest and Ryhir feels pain coursing through him.
((Critical hit on a dagger swift-empowered with lesser Shadow Strike. Regular damage: 12. Shadow Strike damage: 30.))
"I don't like being attacked, sorry," Shailtor says in the same cheerful tone as before. "If I had intended to kill you, I'd have done it in a far more amusing manner. But I wish to offer you a proposal still, despite your comrade."

Posted by: Kyosokun Sun Nov 27, 2005 12:53 am
((Heh. Ow. I'll remember this. Shailtor is now my special bitch =P (Declaring this prolly seals my fate XD)))

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 27, 2005 12:54 am
Amelios hurries over to Rhyir putting a hand on the wounded warrior and cast a healing spell. (( CSW: 2+6+7+6 = 21 hp restored. )) "And that is?"

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sun Nov 27, 2005 1:08 am
Zook, who had stopped working on ADAM to grab a skin of water, observes the sudden goings-on with a vague distraction. "Shailtor?" Scratching his chin pensively, the tinker turns his mind back, to the encounter on the tower. His eyes light up suddenly, then his whole expression darkens. He affects a bow.
"Shailtor of the Twisted Web!" he calls. "One of the fabled Lords of Strife has graced us."

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 27, 2005 1:11 am
Amelios' polite facade drops off his face in an instant of finding out who this mysterious being was. His eyes smouldered with somewhat murderous zeal. "You mean...you are one of the leaders of this cult? This twisted cult that revives the dead...breaks the peaceful rest of their eternal slumber...for your own ends!? How can you justify that? Wait...What have you done with the Prince?"

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 27, 2005 1:44 am
Damas sighs and shakes his head at Ryhir, believing his actions to be extremely rash and foolish. He continues to lean on his staff but he does not draw a weapon. "So you are Shailtor? If I may ask, what is it that you want with us?" Kethra narrows her eyes slightly but remains where she is standing, crossing her arms over her chest. She is not at all happy about the attack on Ryhir but she keeps her cool for now. She had no desire to start a fight unless she had no choice in the matter.

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 27, 2005 1:47 am
(( How does she know that? Been sizing him up eh? OMG SHAILTOR X KETHRA))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 27, 2005 1:50 am
((Common sense? The fact that we were told they are damned near god-like? The fact that he makes us all feel tiny? *Edits post*))

Posted by: Aldur Sun Nov 27, 2005 1:53 am
(( Did you miss the joke? ))

Posted by: Dark Maiden Sun Nov 27, 2005 1:55 am
((No, sadly ~_~ *Hides*))

Posted by: Wandering Dezorian Sun Nov 27, 2005 2:53 am
Brand, who had been standing near Cedric while the discussions were going on, whispered for the human's ear alone, "We are too bunched. A single spell could end the godling's problem." While the cleric heals their wounded ally and the others talk, Brand draws his bow and moves to tap Elias on the shoulder, motioning for him to follow as the birdman walks carefully to the side, maintaining a constant distance from the shadowy figure even as he circles counter-clockwise until the team and the two birdmen stand at right angles to the godling.

Posted by: TheUnknownMarine Sun Nov 27, 2005 4:37 am
"The Prince? Why, I'm shocked and offended you would even THINK we harmed him... He is in fact, going to benefit greatly from his time with us..." Shailtor says, then turns to Zook with a chuckle. "My, my... of the Twisted Web no less... You're a knowledgeable one indeed..."
Shailtor returns the bow, chuckling, then straightens. "My proposal is thus. We have been cognizant of your little expedition for some time now... We knew it was only a matter of time before some sort of rescue party past the normal humdrum soldiers was formed... We didn't know it would prove to be quite this effective, though..."
Shailtor steps forward, his red eyes gleaming, almost eagerly. "I can feel your desires... you all have them... I propose a trade... I will give you your desires... in exchange for your service.
: "Don't you mean slavery?" Yeesha asks, narrowing her eyes. Shailtor laughs.
"Not at all, my good mage... Indeed, you will be freer than you have ever been before... I couldn't help but notice your leg, a nasty bit of work Woldol did before he passed, hm? We could fix it... easily... Something not even Mitula can now accomplish..." Shailtor slowly begins walking, his eyes passing over the group. "All of you have dark desires... secrets..." Shailtor pauses, looking at Faralon and chuckling. "I see them all... I can grant them all. Everything you've ever wanted."
Shailtor stops suddenly and turns, walking away from the group. "Of course, if you've no wish to serve, I suppose there's no helping that... This offer will remain open for a while... it will give you time to dwell on the subject and the possibilities..."

Posted by: VoxPVoxD Sun Nov 27, 2005 5:38 am
Shailtor's words wash past Zook as he monologizes. It is odd, how the evil and powerful seem to bluster so. One wonders if the vision and faculties needed to enact such far-reaching schemes bear the unforseen burden of a love for one's own voice.
The tinker's own internal monologue is cut short by another voice, an intruding intonation that Zook realizes after a moment to be the same voice he hears coming from Shailtor, if softer, almost a whisper.
"I can grant you access to technology such as this world has never seen, tinker... Knowledge the Ancients held in their golden age, and even a few secrets past them..."
Zook's vision morphs, a new reality superimposed over the old. He is surrounded by machines, in a massive workshop with dozens, no, hundreds of engineer subordinates. Tools of every concievable make (and more than a few beyond the current limits of his conception) surrounded him. Strange Crystalline displays spouted out huge databases of the most prized Ancient lore as it they were shopping lists. Zook knew their secrets, expanded upon them. Creating wonder after wonder surpassing even the prowess of the Ancients.
"All this can be yours... We have need of people with technical expertise..."
The gnome's short legs threaten to give out. A vacant look spreads over his features, a hungry light behind his eyes.
Oh... if only Jimbeddo were here to see this...
A voice resounds in Zook's head, louder, clearer, more familiar. It pierces the tinker's reverie.
"I did NOT raise any nephew of mine to be a sycophantic simpleton. THINK, blast you. You're smarter than this. One piece of the puzzle, one cog in the machine. Think larger, Zook. Pull back, see the big picture.
Pulling out as Jimbeddo advised him, Zook saw the world outside his cloistered technologist's paradise, the world held in the stranglehold of opression disguised as anarachy. He also saw himself, a fly in Shailtor's twisted web.
A keen clarity broke over his face, and he stood a little taller, more resolute. He recited aloud in his mind a fragment of a nursery rhyme from his earliest childhood.
Oh, what a tangled web we weave, when first we practice to decieve.
Zook shook his head.
"If that will be all, I must withdraw from our parley. I have work to do."

Posted by: FreedomJu Sun Nov 27, 2005 5:39 am
"Poor soul... You've lost someone so close to you..." Shailtor says, telepathically. "Wouldn't you like to see her again? We don't have her, but we can find her easily, and bring her back to you. You don't like to fight anyway... Wouldn't you rather go back to your village with your wife? We can protect it far better than anyone else can..." Images of his village, prospering and at peace fill Van's mind. In these visions, he is always with his wife, alive and well, more in love with him than ever.
Van tightens his grip on his weapon, a bit confused as to how someone's voice could appear in his head, then the images erupted into his mind. He blinked rapidly at the images of his wife alive in the village. He shook his head, but the images persistaded. These.... can't be real. No.... why this offer...?
"Not real yet... We can make it real... Join us."
Van could dimly recall as a kid stealing, and doing other things to get what he wanted without working for it. He also remembered the consequences of those actions. The easy path is more trouble than its worth.... It has never worked out before and I have no reason to believe that it will now.
"Easy path? This is the only path. No one else can protect your village or bring back your wife. You must choose now where your values lie..."
I don't see why it should matter to you what I do.... If my wife is dead, so be it. I will not have her become as the Storm was. Van's eyes narrowed. No... I see no reason why I should trust anything you say.
"We had to force the Storm, unfortunately... With your wife... why would she not be willing to return to your side? You've seen ressurections performed, she will not be undead..."
Van's mind fought against the Strife Lord's voice and latched onto the memories of the Storm with the ferocity of a drowning man clinging to the last bit of floating wood. If you are so beneficial as you claim.... you wouldn't have had to force the Storm to do anything.... Again, I see no reason to trust you, but I see every reason to fight against you.
"So you would oppose me at the cost of your wife's life and the lives of all those in your village?" Shailtor asks, bluntly.
Those who would force others to do their bidding against the victim's will should not be allowed to continue living. Van took a careful step towards Shailtor, guisarme at the ready.

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