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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
 Posted - 10 Apr 2006 : 20:27:43
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Selm holds the door open for Emilio and ushers him inside. He then leads the
man to where the others are gathered. Before they have chance to question
Selm about who the stranger is, he introduces him. "May I introduce Emilio,
a seasoned blade and our guide to Shadowdale and beyond. Issinofil
recommended him." Selm then takes a step back, moving so he can lean back
against the wall, allowing the others time to speak.
"Emilio then. I take it our fair maiden shall not be entertaining us through our journey to Shadowdale," he says to Selm, more as a statement than a question.
"Pull up a stool, good elf, and tell us about your adventures while we share our story with you."
Daleson pulls an empty chair from the table behind him to the table next to him, and motions for Emilio to take a seat.
Emillo nods with gratitude the offer to sit and talk. As he casually lowers himself onto the stool, his eyes sweep the group seeing their faces, so that he might know with whom he would do business with. Then his voice comes forth low and unthreatening. "First off good Sir, let me say this. My name is Emillo Mysterion, Ranger in debt to the Goddess whom hath shown favor in times past. Thy faces and persons bestow honor to me, yet I know not how ye art called. I hath known master Selm for yet a small time. Please tell me thy names."
After they speak, his voice turns once again low but still it fills the air around them. His eyes cloud over slightly as his mind recalls the time when peace was all he knew, but those memories died quickly for they were not to be known at this time. "I am but meager in my travels, but I hath learned many hard lessons. Thy road hath surely seen more peril and should'st be filled with color and glory. I fortunately hath no trials of such that can compare. If ye wish I shall tell thee of my past, of whom I am born and from whence I hail." His stops finally, allowing his new companions a chance to add their thoughts.
"Daleson, son of the Dales," the paladin says in introduction. "Well met, Emillo."
"I am Caylith d'Varen. Honored to meet you."
Emillo nods his head towards Daleson. "It tis a pleasure Master Daleson. I woulds't pray that I am able to show thee my meager skills with a bow."
He then directs his almond shaped eyes to Caylith. He looks at her for several moments before speaking. "I know not what ye are, but since ye travel with such asteemed company, I greet thee Lady Caylith." He bows his head to her in respect.
Caylith explains briefly of her crystal dragon father and maenad tribe. Emillos brows rise after the telling of Cayliths background. "Thy heritage is something of legend then. I woulds't be amiss if not to ask thy story."
“Valanwé, son of Icthalien,” says Valanwé, raising his softly glowing palm to Emillo in greeting, “practitioner of The Art and friend to all who welcome it. A pleasure to make your acquaintance.
Emillo then listens to the Elven Wizard Valanwe. He then speaks with gentle and soothing words, spoken as only he can to one of his lineage. "May Mystra be praised to have such a one to study her gifts. Thy power will surely be of great value in times ahead. I am most pleased to meet thee Sir Valanwe."
Bach shrugs at the openness of his friends and introduces himself.
"I am Bach of Silverymoon."
Caylith talks briefly, and Emillo catches on quickly to what she speaks of, yet he knows not yet how to broach such a subject as their past trials. He leans back pulling the long bow from his shoulder, his fingers caressing the cold quiet wood. Blue steam rolls off the bow in chilly whisps, giving the weapon a deadly appearance. Finally Emillo addresses the party.
"My friends... I hope to call thee such, I am here on behest of Issinofil and have yet to hear of the reason. Woulds't thou lend thine lips to the service of ye travels? Certainly thou hast been given great and mighty trails most perilous, and it would only help to give me clarity to mine new found quest if ye were to bare the tale of thy adventures." He looks to the whole group wondering if they would indeed speak of their times past.
Emillo nods, coming to grips with gravity of the situation. "Alas I shall not be of much help then. This doth place a heavy burden upon my thoughts. But thou art truthful in thy words, for I could make things worse being with thee in or near the meeting. I shall shadow thy movements though, for I shan't want thou to fall into unfortunate distress."
"As far as I'm concerned, Emillo, we'd be glad to have you along. If
Issinofil recommends your services, well, that's good enough for me." Selm
smiles briefly at the elf, before growing serious once again as he starts to
speak of the company's current trials.
"Our situation," he begins, "is a difficult subject. Essentially, it is this
- we were captured by members of a Cult of the Dragon cell, where we were
held and one of our company was sadly slain, may Eldath bless Traehaern in
the next life. We were then enspelled to carry on as before, but acting as
the Cult's puppets. Fortunately, we were able to remove the spell, but we
are due to meet with an emissary of the Cult this evening. As you can
probably tell, this is a dangerous situation. I understand completely if you
wish no part in this, and nobody here will look on you unfavourably if you
decline to join with us in this."
He clears his throat. "As we have all pretty much agreed to go ahead with
this meeting tonight, I thought I'd share everything I know about the Cult
and their activities and behaviour. I'm sorry, Rhiannon," he adds, by way of
apology, "but I really don't think we can avoid this encounter
satisfactorally. Much as I would like to turn away, sometimes you have to
take the hard road. The Cult are not a group to turn away from targets they
have marked out, and we would be no safer if we didn't attend. I would
merely expect them to hunt us down and as Master Daleson commented, it is
wiser to keep your enemies where you can see them. Unprepared, yes, they
defeated us easily, but it was not a fight of our choosing. Cassius would be
a fool to try anything if he is alone, and while I think we should talk and
try and glean as much information as possible, we should be prepared for
trouble. My hope is that we can show them we are not worth their time or
resources, so they leave us alone, or that they continue to believe we are
under their influence, and over-extend themselves." He pauses for a second.
"I'm afraid I don't know anything about the strength of this particular
cell, but I have heard rumours that the cell has been operating from around
Ashabenford. However, I know a fair amount about the Cult in general. Their
central belief is that one day dead dragons will inherit the earth, as
discovered by Sammaster, founder of the Cult four centuries past. To further
this goal, they negotiate with dragons, to try and convince them to undergo
a foul ritual and take steps to become dracoliches, giving up life for
undeath. It understandably behaves in secret, and funds itself through
various criminal activities, including kidnap, as we have witnessed, and
also high paying crimes such as blackmail and extortion. Although strongly
devoted to their frankly insane cause, their structure is loose and their
behaviour erratic. Hopefully we can somehow turn this to our advantage. As
with all such groups, many members may be in for themselves first and the
group second, so we may also be able to capitalise there. However, do not
underestimate the cunning of their leaders, to act in secrecy and to deal
with dragons takes no small amount of nerve and skill. I hope this has been
useful, and that you now have a clearer idea of what we are up against.
Apologies if it sounded patronising, but I have no idea if all of you have
had dealings with this organisation before."
He sits down, keen to let the others digest what they have heard and hoping
it has sparked an idea in someone.
Rhiannon shook her head as Selm brought up the meeting, but she didn't say anything untill he had stoped talking.
"I am Rhiannon of the High forest, nice to meet you Emillo"
He turns to Rhiannon and bows his head in honor and respect. "It tis my pleasure to know thee Lady Rhiannon. I hope to know thee more once our travels begin."
Emillo listens patiently as Selm recites the knowledge only most historians obtained. But the words were spoken with passion, and it touched Emillo to know that this group was gravely troubled by the Dragon Cult. He'd of course heard the many horrific stories from other Harpers about the evil Dragon Cult, but this would be one of the first times that he'd be directly involved.
"Thy troubles are far greater then I'd thought. But it hath only forged a passionate care for thee and yon companions. I shalt be honored to travel with thee."
After Bach intro's himself, Emillo's brows rise slowly at the mention of SilveryMoon. He is about to speak about his own travels to the glorious place, then stops as his heart burns with a memory he cannot tell. He finally looks to the others as to what they might say.
Seeing Emillo about to speak, but then pause, Selm allows him a chance to
continue if he wants. When he doesn't, he decides not to push him and allows
him the space to speak in his own time, but noting the incident.
Emillo’s mind begins to fold back to the time before his current occupation. Back to when he knew love. Absently his fingers slip a golden ring with an ornate red sapphire atop, from beneath his tunic. The ring was fastioned to a thin chain around his neck. Then he takes a sudden breath and once again sees the group. He feels slightly out of sorts so decides to speak.
"Thou hath mentioned ye will be meeting with yon foe later. This... Cassius? I know ye dost not know me yet, but I woulds't want to assist in any way. Possibly I could scout ye meeting spot? Certainly Cassius woulds't not hold my personage to any account. Would thou be wanting to know if he be alone?"
"Your willingness to help is appreciated, Emillo, but there may be limits to
what you can do," says Selm kindly. "Certainly you cannot appear with us at
the meeting, for that would instantly dispel the notion we were still under
the spell. I would think you would be best to pose as just another customer
and be ready to aid us, should we need it. We'll find out if he is alone
soon enough anyway, and it is magical back-up I fear more than anyone who
may be with him. An acquaintance of mine, Daeryth Redstout of Arabel, an
extremely good gambler and a man far wiser than I, told me to always keep at
least one card close to your chest. If you can force your opponent to put
all their cards on the table, victory is almost a formality. And so I
suggest we play things cautiously and see what we can find out."
Emillo nods, coming to grips with gravity of the situation. "Alas I shall not be of much help then. This doth place a heavy burden upon my thoughts. But thou art truthful in thy words, for I could make things worse being with thee in or near the meeting. I shall shadow thy movements though, for I shan't want thou to fall into unfortunate distress.
Following everyone's introductions, Selm takes the opportunity to offer
Rhiannon a few private words, by way of apology and explanation.
"I'm sorry that you disagree on this, I can understand where you're coming
from, but I also don't think we have any alternative. I have no wish to
fight, I never have, and may my Lady watch over me so it ever remains so.
Yet I also cannot back down, to allow folk like this to threaten those I
care about, and yes, that doesn't mean all of you, as well as numerous other
innocent folk of the Dales. Sometimes running is the wiser course of action,
though how does one run from an enemy who can just track them down again? In
this case I just think what I have set out to be the wisest course of
action. Nobody asks to have to make these difficult decisions, I certainly
don't, but I also won't turn away from them. I wish I had something else to
ffer, but I'm afraid I don't, I just hope you can see my point."
Rhiannon pulls her hood up over her head
"No Selm, I am not afraid of making difficult decisions, I just don't see how our getting killed instantly will help us out.
Your friend that helped remove the curse seems powerful to take them out, why doesn't she help? Or Elminster? We are in Shadowdale after all and the Harpers are enemies of the cult right? Theres so many around here who are vastly more powerful than us who could actully beat the cult. We can not.
You say you're ready to make difficult choices? Then why can't you see that we are out of our league and can do nothing against them."
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Edited by - Kaladorm on 12 Apr 2006 00:56:34 |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 11 Apr 2006 : 11:03:29
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| Bach responds to the conversation between Selm and Rhiannon, “Rhiannon I am afraid that we must look at both sides of this particular coin. Our adversaries have apparently become both numerous and powerful. We have been given the chance to possibly gain small edge on one of those adversaries and I believe we should take it. The Cult has already proven that they can swoop down upon us like a hawk would a field mouse, so either way this confrontation is unavoidable. I guess what I am trying to say is that I have already made up my mind to go to this meeting because, while I might not know if I will die, I know for certain that my neck aches from looking over my shoulder.” |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 12 Apr 2006 : 01:01:17
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Bach's timely intervention allows Selm a breather that he was thankful for,
as he didn't want to get into an argument with Rhiannon.
"Rhiannon," he begins patiently, "let me try and explain to you what Syluné
said to me, when I asked her the very same question you are now asking me.
Firstly, she is just one being, she cannot be everywhere at once, cannot
help everyone, has gathered many friends and acquaintances over what I
gather to be several centuries of life, and simply cannot find the time to
do everything she can to help all of them, all of the time, no matter how
much she may wish to be able to. Not only that, but she has other concerns
of her own, other threats to try and counter, and many long term plans that
are probably far beyond our simple scope here. Finally, she, along with
various others, Elminster among them, are servants of Mystra, so she also
has the will of a goddess to contend with, and as I'm sure you're aware,
interpreting and carrying out the ways of the divine is not always easy.
Sometimes you have to fight your own battles, because there aren't always
people around you can call on to protect you, and what will happen when all
those powerful figures are no more? Who are the heroes then?"
He pauses, hoping the druid understands.
"And with regards to this in particular, I don't think the Cult would have
gone to all this trouble with us, the rings, the curse, if they intended to
simply slay us. It's just not... logical. They are not mindless killers.
Mad, quite possibly so, to me they are a corruption of life and peace, but
they are both intelligent and cunning. We know the strength of only one of
their members, and yes, her magical prowess does outstrip her own. We have
little idea of the strength of the others, yet I don't know that they have
seen our own true strength. The fact we have removed their curse ought to
make them pause for thought, and if we appear more dangerous than they
reckoned, or they fear we have more powerful allies, one looking out for
herself may not be willing to risk her neck against us. They also know, it
is probably safe to assume, that I am a Harper, and that may also make them
pause. It means they know we have potential allies, and the threat of
something is often as good a deterrent as the real thing. I go to this
meeting with no intention of anybody getting killed, if I truly thought they
would slay us on sight, yes, I would not be going. But I don't think they
will do that." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 12 Apr 2006 : 19:24:18
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The group arrive in the Velvet Veil in the early evening and pick a table to sit at. As the night goes on, the tavern fills up and the exotic dancers climb up onto the tables to entertain.
Time passes slowly and no word from Cassius arrives.
Around the hour of 11, one of the exotic dancers takes an interest in Valanwé. She dances closer to him, and then slips away to another side of the table, leaving in his palm a note which reads 'Kolar requests an audience with you, upstairs in booth 4'
Valanwé discreetly passes the note to Selm, and then Daleson, and glances toward the stairs. “Shall we?” he says, softly. |
Edited by - Kaladorm on 12 Apr 2006 23:35:18 |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 13 Apr 2006 : 09:48:17
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"Would it be prudent to cast spells now, do you think, or would that be a
waste of time, as he may well be expecting us to prepare in such a fashion
and have counter-measures prepared?" asks Selm.
"They never told us that we could not. As long as he thinks they are not harmful, then I do not see where he would think ill of it, or suspect anything." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 13 Apr 2006 : 12:37:55
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| After the meeting earlier on, Emillo had dismissed himself early so that he would not be found with the body of the group and had taken a seat at a table downstairs. When the room began to fill it was just another event, nothing to set off his senses. His eyes scanned the people and dancers as he only casually watched the group from afar. His brow moved slightly with the kind affections that Valanwe appeared to be getting from the dancer and went back to his drink. He began to wonder if there even was going to be a meeting. They'd never spoken of the where, when or how. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 14 Apr 2006 : 16:02:20
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Once the party have prepared themselves for the meeting, Valanwé leads them upstairs to and draws back the curtain of the designated booth.
He is startled to see Cassius sitting there, who beckons for them all to take a seat. "Please come in my fellow agents" he says, voice dripping with irony.
Once everyone is seated Cassius holds up a hand before anyone can speak, "Do not act until I tell you, I assure you it is quite within my bounds and preparations to kill you should you fail to cooperate"
He utters a few words in a language only Valanwé understands, offering praise to a draconic god, and then spreads his hands out wide, "I have covered this booth with a zone of truth, you are quite incapable of lying", he says, "and as it happens I am incapable of lying about your ability to lie whilst in the zone" he smirks.
"I see you have removed your rings, quite resourceful, but surely you are not ashamed of this great gift? I can only assume you went to such lengths to protect them from harm" he smirks again.
"You!" he says pointing at Selm, "Speak to me the name of who enabled you to remove them" |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 15 Apr 2006 : 02:27:18
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Emillo walks casually up the stairs noticing instantly the two guards. His eyes warily look them down but keeps up his composure. When he finally reaches the top of the stairs, he looks to the left noticing the scene around him. The numbered booths strike him as a way for people to have an impromptu meeting, or a way of hiding when things didn't go exactly as planned.
He looks to the two guards. "Good 'eve Sirs! Blessed be Mystra's continual light, for thy day hath been glorious!" He smiles graciously.
"Pray thee Sirs, would thou know how one woulds't occupy a booth?" His hands remain completely clear of his weapons, not wanting to draw any sort of adverse action.
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 15 Apr 2006 : 02:29:13
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| Peering at the strangers peculiar speech, the guard shifts the club to his hands, "Use by pre-arrangement only. Since you don't seem to have one booked, allow me to escort you downstairs" |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 15 Apr 2006 : 11:40:17
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Emillo frowns slightly, then perks back up. "Ah I thank thee for thy kind disposition Sir, but I can manage." He slowly makes his way back down the stairs knowing now that the guards were apart of the establishment. Question was... where were his companions? He knew he'd have to wait and see.
He took up a seat at a table very near the stairwell, making sure to have a view as far as possible.
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 15 Apr 2006 : 14:20:44
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Cassius raises his eyebrows at the mention of Syluné. "The dead witch? Hmm you have a strong will, no matter for the remainder of this conversation you shall remain silent," says Cassius glaring at Selm for daring to utter such nonsense.
"Paladin," he says, addressing Daleson, "I assume the geas has also been broken, but no matter. What was your mission given to you by Dawnmaster Heran?" |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 15 Apr 2006 : 17:00:40
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Rhiannon smiles, 'Cassius' had messed up, no need to keep up the pretense anymore.
"Don't answer him Daleson, just because we can't lie doesn't mean we are compeled to tell the truth."
At this interruption Cassius lashes out and slaps the back of his hand hard across Rhiannons face. As her companions start forwards Cassius glares and says "Remember my promise, and my terms, if you do not cooperate. Keep your mouth shut whore-spawn unless I deem you worthy to speak, lest you condemn your 'friends' along with you with your wagging tongue". He settles back in his seat and turns his gaze back to Daleson, "Please continue" |
Edited by - Kaladorm on 15 Apr 2006 18:38:26 |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 15 Apr 2006 : 19:26:17
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| Rhiannon rubs the side of her face, she steps back and starts looking around for any helpful insects or spiders that may be about. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 15 Apr 2006 : 19:54:01
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"Rhiannon, please, let me speak. Our 'host' is dangerous, and has the power of the Cult behind him. We must do as he bids, else innocents will be harmed.
I... we, are decoys, pawns of others than yourself." Daleson looks each of his companions in the eye, seeking to keep them from showing surprise across their faces. "The Morninglords seek to move on your agents, of which you have given up several with your actions against us. While you waste your time with us, and our false quests, the servants of Lathander and Mystra work to weed out those openly, and covertly, working against the Dales.
There is nothing you can do now. With powers such as Syluné arrayed against you, what chance do you have." Daleson laughs, a bright smile plays across his face. "Even now, barring teleporting or shifting through the shadows, you will be apprehended as soon as you leave this booth.
Help us, Cassius, and we will be lenient on you. I promise this, and, as your spell dictates, I am not lying." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 15 Apr 2006 : 20:09:17
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Cassius' eyes flick to the curtain guarding the entrayway to the booth, but his gaze remains impassive. "Indeed," he says in a light tone, "but that does not answer my question."
Cassius snorts and looks around the group, "You have been most 'useful'. I will be in touch when we have need of your services again."
In a croaking, harsh voice he suddenly screams "Zaun Epanomis", which Valanwé understands to be the finishing of a spell to transport him home, and in flash of pure blackness, Cassius is gone. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 17 Apr 2006 : 00:08:11
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"Well," says Selm, blinking. "Well, that was an... interesting meeting. Are
you alright, Rhiannon? He turns to look carefully at her face. "I'd say we
had him rattled there, though we've gained precious little. Assuming
everything else is fine, I suggest we go and find Emillo and head back to
the inn. Unless, of course, anyone fancies staying for the dancing," he adds
with a wink. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 17 Apr 2006 : 09:47:00
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| "A drink would be nice." Caylith says. "But I can get that the inn." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 17 Apr 2006 : 15:02:20
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| Valanwé sits silent for a moment, before standing calmly wearing a black expression on his face. “The next time Cassius and I meet,” he says, placing a hand gently on Rhiannon’s shoulder, in a gesture of reassurance, “one of us will not survive. I will make a trophy of his soul. I will cease only to turn his eyes towards his mewing, mutilated face so that he may look upon his own destruction and take pleasure in it as I shall.” |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 17 Apr 2006 : 18:46:12
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Emillo sat quietly, his nerves on end. He wanted to go up and find his friends, to know what was going on. But to do that would possibly give them away. But what were they doing? Were they having a secret meeting without him? Did they truly not trust him? Were they lying to him? Did Selm a fellow Harper know of this? He couldn't even begin to fathom the depth of such treachery, such horror that would topple the highest towers of Harper faith. Finally the questions being as vipers in a pit held him captive, and he knew he must have answers.
As he stood, he suddenly noticed Valanwe a lone elven soul coming down the stairs. Emillo stayed his tongue, knowing to assult the elven mage would possibly bring about the wrong response. He would not accuse without facts. Before he could utter a word Valanwe walked straight past him, out into the streets of the city. Emillo's eyes narrowed with suspicion. Had they already met with this... Cassius? This villan of evil they were possibly going to avoid?
Agin the questions seemed to bog Emillo down with the strain of iron. Without thinking the Ranger made haste to follow his elven kinsmen, knowing he might speak of what had happened. But he would not approach Valanwe if the Mage did not wish it. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 18 Apr 2006 : 11:05:22
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Selm is caught off guard and taken aback by the elf's violent outburst. "Who
spat in his Elverquisst?" he asks nobody in particular after Valanwé's hasty
exit. "Remind me not to cross him unless I, er, want him to make 'a trophy
of my soul'. Anyhow, shall we be leaving?" |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 18 Apr 2006 : 11:06:23
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| Bach nods his head, "I would like to prepare spells of identification so we can know what magic items we have been lugging around since our fight with the Zhents. I will be able to examine all of them tomorrow but I will not be of much use if we are forced into another confrontation." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 18 Apr 2006 : 11:31:00
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An hour after the party leave to meet Cassius, Holfast the innkeep of the White Hart Inn finds two males outside the adventurers room. He challenges them as they are fiddling with the door, "Excuse me sirs, what do you think you're doing up here? Breaking into peoples rooms?"
The younger man with a full red beard and scraggly red hair turns, susprised, “Oy, mate, we doan know nuthin about no breakin in. Out bossman, yasee, tole us, ‘here, youse two goes to da inn, right, here, y’know, and deliver dese here coneys to… wait, I’se ritted it down here… Vail an we? Somefin like that? And Daleson. And… Rye-annon? Dat’s dem!”
The older one with dirty blonde hair looks at his partner and then speaks, "Whut mah friend heah is tyin ta say is theat we’un supposed to give ‘um it assa presant, y’know.” He leans closer to Holfast and whispers “y’see, paht o’th’gift’s, we’re tole, ‘s commin from Shaundakul, an’ Meilikki. Naw, mah friend heah knows that Shaundakul’s supplyin’ th’ pressy – buht only in paht. Meilikki’s done gone supplied the utha, as Rihannon’s favoahed by Meilikki. An, she wants her, uh, Rihannon, theat is, ta know that th’ pressy’s’re on th’ up-n-up, y’know?” He gets a hang-dog expression, like a laborer used to having their best work fall apart around him. “Ah know theat this’s’nt th’ us’ule way ta do this, buht we’s tole ta do this th’ propah way. Ole Preachah, he’s specific-like on whut we’s supposeta do. Please, guv’nah, we’s jus’ wan’a do th’ job’s we’us sent ta do, nuthin moah.”
Holfast refuses to let them in, but suggests that they can wait in the common room for the party.
"Gov'nah, th' point ta th' pressy is the pressy, not us lumps carryin' it. On Shaundakul's path, it's no' somefin we ken jus' give ta them, but they find, y'know?"
Holfast sighs, ""Look I understand, but these are dangerous times, and I wouldn't have half the respect I have if I just opened other guests rooms. If you wish you can leave me with instructions and I will endeavour to make sure the gift reaches its destination"
The older ones face brightens as he gets an idea, "I gots an ideah... you'se ken watch, make real suah that all's we doin' is leavin the pressy. T'won't' take more'n a minnut!"
"I'm sorry but like I said, these rooms are private and they have to stay that way to ensure the saftey of my customers and my business," says Holfast shaking his head.
"Dere still private iff'n you'se'r theah. Doan'cha go in ta change th' sheets'n such?... I'se knowin' ya do. I mighten'n't have enuf gold'ta stay the night heah, but, gov'nah, you'se gots a good rep out theah. Please gov'nah, t'won't take more'n'a minnut. I got's the direc'shuns heak" he holds up an illiterate mass of marks and scrawls. "See, gov'nah. Right heah... says for Vally-an's, ...
"for Vally-an's to do it this-a way."
"Brutha... are... are... dey gonna beat us'n if'n we kain't do dis?" says the younger one.
"I doan think so... tha's not Shaundakul's way. But, th' Preachah not gonna be happy." says the older one, turning back to Holfast.. "If'n I es'plain how th' pressys'r sup'osed'ta be left, ken ya think ye do it?"
"Of course, you can tell your boss that the job is done"
The redhead looks shocked, "Bu.... but - dat be LYIN!"
"You do not have to tell him you did the job if you do not wish, just that his order has been completed. Now if you please, I am a busy man, and this is the best I can offer you, take it or leave it"
"All, rite, gov'nah... ken ya think ye ken read the direc'shuns?" The one with the blonde hair hands over the parchment, It really is nothing more than chickenscratch - the only legible or intelligible mark on the parchment is Shaundakul's sigil.
Holfast shakes his head at the mess, "I can see the mark of Shaundakul on here, these are not directions though. Explain to me what you want done, and quickly I am losing patience"
"Whut? I ken reed'em.... " *sighs pathetically* Ok... for Vally-an, we's supposed ta prop the coney up in a spare boot - Shaundukal tole th' Preachah dat he used'ta have a pet coney dat did dat.. An, lightly on th'boot, no damage nothin, scratch lightly Shaundakul's mark ta let him know it from Shaundakul. For Daleson, jus' on his pillah. set dere fo' him so's he ken eat it t'night. Dere ....Dere should be a mark o' Shaundakul somewhere near it. For Ry-an-non, hers'ud be on de bed too, wit Shaundakul and Meilikki's mark for hers," he says, pointing at the marks on the parchment as he's saying this, 'reading' the directions to Holfast.
"Of course I will do it exactly as you asked, now if you wouldn't mind I have things to do. Sharm will see you out" says Holfast, as a large man places a hand on each of Aron and Eochaids shoulders
"Gov'nah! one more thing... blankets" *holds up a bag with some towels and blankets in it, with an expression on his face like a little child seeking approval." "dere for de coneys... jus' in case dey, uh, leak. Dere a bit fresh." As a thought he also hands Holfast the parchment, "might need it, gov'nah.. it say how'n ta do it rite heah."
"Thank you, I'll look after it until they return. Pleasent evening to you both"
"An ta you, gov'nah. an ta you." |
Edited by - Kaladorm on 05 May 2006 18:54:53 |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 18 Apr 2006 : 11:32:24
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After venturing some short distance from the village, Valanwé climbs a sturdier-looking tree, and sits comfortably in it's branches, enjoying the reminder of the home he missed so much. Toying for a moment with his innate energies, he arcs magic between his fingers, creating a soft glow between his hands, tips his head back against the trunk of the tree, and relaxes, losing himself in his imagination. Contemplating the evening's events, giving not undue attention to his outburst in the booth upstairs at the Velvet Veil, he finds himself becoming angry once more, and distracts himself with an amusing mental fiction of what might happen if the booth were to be reused by a particularly shy couple, before Cassius's spell expires.
Twenty minutes pass, and having realised that the party would be expecting him back, but not yet feeling ready to return, he decides to move back towards the village, so that there would not be so far to go to return to the Inn. Brushing aside a few loose branches, he makes space to cast spells, works his magic, and takes on the appearance of an ordinary, but well dressed human nobleman. Subsequently, he flies upwards through the canopy of the tree to the height of a couple of hundred feet, and surveys the village below him. Deciding that the temple would perhaps be the quietest place to recouperate for a while, he soars overhead, and descends quickly to the front entrance, hoping to go unnoticed.
Entering swiftly, he nods an acknowledgement to an acolyte nearby, and sits quietly at the back of the church, first praying, and then contemplating his situation again, in silence.
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 18 Apr 2006 : 11:33:27
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As the party returns to the White Hart Inn, Holfast beckons them over to the bar, "Welcome back, I have some news for you, please if you would accompany me into the back?"
He leads them through to behind the bar and offers everyone a seat. Once everyone is seated he begins by drawing out a scrappy piece of paper, "I found two men upstairs outside your room, they wanted me to let them in so they could leave a present for you, but I refused. They didn't seem to know you, said they had come from their 'boss', but they did mention three names. 'Vally-an', 'Daleson' and 'Ry-an-non'. I don't think they were all that smart, but I told them if they left that I would deliver these gifts. The gifts were just a couple of dead rabbits, I don't know what they planned to do with them but once I took them I just threw them out. I did keep this paper though, I can't read it and it looks little more than scratchings to me, but these are apparently the instructions they were given. They read them out for me, apparently ;Vally-an' was to get a rabbit in his boot, 'Daleson' on his pillow, and 'Ry-an-non' was to have hers left on the bed with Mielikki's mark on it.
"Very strange this all was, I can let you know what they looked like in case you did know them? One was about 30, very short and quite scrawny with grey/blonde hair. The other was a lot younger, maybe late teens, but was a lot taller. He had a full head of scraggly red hair, and an impressive red beard which made him look a fair bit older. Quite well built, and pretty dirty looking.
"I'll leave this note with you in case it explains anything, they made quite a big point that it had the mark of Shaundakul written at the bottom here," says Holfast pointing. "And don't you worry, your room is quite safe here at the Hart," he says smiling, "but so you don't have to worry I've placed a guard outside your door for the rest of the night. If you have further need of me I'll be in the taproom" |
Edited by - Kaladorm on 05 May 2006 18:55:11 |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 19 Apr 2006 : 20:52:18
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Emillo shadowed the mystic elf Valanwe for sometime. It was not until he began to feel the need that exuded from Valanwe, the desire for solitude. As an empassioned Elven spirit, he understood that sometimes two was more company then one needed. Only through solace can one come to grips with his/her own demons. He wasn't sure what haunted the Elven mage, but it was enough to make him seek out a quiet corner.
Knowing that, Emillo decided to obtain his answers from the group. Spinning on his heels he sought out the group.
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 20 Apr 2006 : 13:41:56
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Finally Emillo makes his passage to the White Hart Inn, looking for his companions. He finds them in talking with Holfast, someone he himself had not taken time to get to know. Spotting Selm he moves up slowly to the Harpers side.
"What's going on Selm? Thy friend Valanwe is off by himself, and I hath not heard of what went on upstairs. I am unclear of what is going on." His voice was full of concern.
Seeing Emillo appear, and thankful he hadn't just overlooked him at the
Velvet Veil, Selm answers his questions. "Valanwé just needs some time to
himself. I think the encounter took a lot out of him, he found it hard to
sit opposite a man who he had watched condemn Traehaern, a companion of
ours, to death. He'll come back in his own time."
He gestures for Emillo to sit down. "You didn't actually miss much. I think
we unsettled Cassius - he knows who released us from the curse, and I doubt
he liked that, and Daleson had him on the rack, so to speak, so he just
left. I doubt this is over, but I think it went well for us."
"We have also been left gifts, so it would seem. I would rather like to find
our benefactors so as to thank them. That reminds me," he says, thinking
aloud, "I should go and enquire about them with Holfast. "If you'll excuse
me."
He stands, and walks through to the taproom, where Holfast is busy fussing
over a guest. He waits until the man is done, before asking him, "Do you
have any idea where those men who brought the rabbits might have gone? I
would like to speak to them, if possible. I judge them to be fairly
harmless, so it's up to you if you want to keep the guard on or not. I
understand if you want to keep them there for the safety of the other
patrons. And if the men do come back, perhaps you could give them this?" He
draws a sheet of parchment, writes a note conveying their thanks for the
gifts. He draws the symbol of Eldath, next to a sketch of a bottle, and
signs it 'Selm'. He then gives Holfast the letter, along with a vial
containing holy water. "That's for them too, should they come back. Thanks,
Holfast." |
Edited by - Kaladorm on 05 May 2006 18:51:12 |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 20 Apr 2006 : 13:44:01
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"I'm sorry I don't know, Sharm took them as far as the door and then left them outside. I'd like to keep the guard on at your door, to put my mind at ease as well as yours."
Holfast takes the note Selm gives him, "I'll pass this on if I see them again"
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Edited by - Kaladorm on 05 May 2006 18:51:29 |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 20 Apr 2006 : 16:15:30
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Emillo is about to reply to Selms words, but the man is whisked off by needs of his own. He had only really begun to know this crew, but perhaps he should start to trust more then just Selm.
Turning to the others who had the meeting with Holfast, Emillo begins. "Friends, or should I claim companions?As thou knows Selm left rather quickly, not allowing parley. Woulds't thou tell me what these gifts are, and from whom?" |
Edited by - Kaladorm on 05 May 2006 18:51:41 |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 21 Apr 2006 : 15:38:53
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"It's appreciated," says Selm, wandering back to where the others were
gathered. "I think I may call it a night," he says to them. "All the
excitement of the past few days has worn me out somewhat."
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 24 Apr 2006 : 15:22:06
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The companions rest for the night, and keep their room for the following night.
Bach spends the first day in study, and returns to the group triumphant, holding in his hands some of the items that the party gained after their battle with the Zhents. "I have examined the enchanted items. The amulet, the armor, and all the bracers are enchanted to make its wearer slightly harder to hit. The robe has an enchantment placed on it so that it can change its appearance to look like regular clothing. "
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Kaladorm's Campaign Journal
