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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
 Posted - 12 May 2005 : 22:04:59
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Caylith takes a deep breath, bends over the fallen attacker, cleans her sword on his shirt and sheathes it. Turning toward the paralyzed thug, she asks outloud to the group "Does anyone know who sent them? And are there more coming? Can we find out from him?" The word him is laced with disgust and dislike. She then leans heavily against the wall, wounds still dripping.
Valanwé stands over the body of the thug, a brief look of sadness crossing
his face. His lips move in a silent prayer for the souls of the men who had
died, as they began their journey to rest. It wasn't that he was glad, or
cared a great deal - it just seemed the decent thing to do.
He approaches the form of the leader, still paralysed. The man seems to be
eyeing him up, glaring at him. He calls to the others: "Will anyone help me
with this one? Should he be taken inside?" |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 13 May 2005 : 14:27:01
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As the party members killed the final Thug, Elussien felt a wave of relief. These people were extremely talented and he hoped they were not about to turn on him. But then he could always rely on his swift wit.
With cool ease Elussien stood up, sheathing his short sword. His cloak wrapped around his body as he stared at the companions around him. His appearence was that of a four foot little man, possibly gnome, human or even short elven. It was hard to tell, since his hood was drawn up over his head, leaving most of his face in shadow. His face was long and narrow, with slanted eyes almost like that of an elf. His garb was mostly dark colors, except for the gleaming blade he just slipped away. A sliver of a smile appears as he wipes some of the blood from his forehead.
"Evenin folks. Sorry bout the interruption, but I've been trackin these fellas for a very long time and when I knew they were about to cause harm..." His smile broadens. "...I just had to intervine. Are you all okay? I hope so. Well I have a job to do."
Walking over slowly to the lead thug, Elussien slips out his dagger. "Well now, what do we have here? Seems you got yourself into a whole peck of trouble. You and I need to have a very long talk, a close personal talk." He gently taps the tip of his blade on the hip of the leader. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 14 May 2005 : 22:21:22
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"Stop," says Valanwé to Elussien*, firmly, but without agression. "I bear
you no ill will, friend," he continues, "but I have a few questions that I
would prefer you answer before you depart. I would also like to suggest that
my associates and I have business with this fellow."
He glances towards the paralysed man briefly, before returning his attention
to Elussien. "I do not seek to impede any of your affairs of course - but I
must ask your name, and whatever you are willing to tell us about your
presence here. I fear that this is no attempted robbery that we have
suffered." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 14 May 2005 : 23:20:58
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"Please calm down Valanwé," interjects Selm in a soft voice. "I'm sure we're
all a little curious as to what bring you here," he says, nodding at
Elussien. "And your 'friend' too for that matter. But firstly, put the
dagger away. We are not going to hurt either of you. If somebody does have
some rope handy, could you please tie up this man here. Do it carefully,
mind. I have no idea how long his paralysis will last for but I think we
could all do without another fight currently, especially as we know not why
we are forced to do so." Turning to face the paralysed man and looking into
his eyes, he adds gently, "As I said, we mean you no harm but for the moment
you have shown yourself to be aggressive so it's for your own safety."
Turning back to Elussien, looking to see if he has sheathed his dagger or
not, he continues, "Well met, I am Selmwell. Perhaps you'd care to introduce
yourself and tell us what brings you here at such a late hour?" |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 14 May 2005 : 23:23:14
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Valanwé merely raises an eyebrow in Selms direction as he continues speaking
to Elussien. It was clear from the context of the conversation, and the
specific shape and curvature of the raised eyebrow that Valanwé was having
some difficulty digesting the 'calm down' comment.
He smiled to himself, and muttered not unkindly: "Calm? If I were any calmer
I'd be asleep. You on the other hand? Ten pounds of smokepowder just to get
you out of bed I'd suggest." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 14 May 2005 : 23:25:25
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Selms cracks a grin at the elf's comment. "Ah, so it does have a sense of
humour after all. But anyway, I believe we were addressing you, good sir,"
he says as he turns back to Elussien. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 15 May 2005 : 16:07:58
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As they both started to interject telling Elussien to not only leave this guy alone, they beat around Jacobs barn in just trying to get his name. He knew these people were the men Ronald was after, but the same past fears brought him to the only resolution possible.
Still tapping the edge of his dagger along the mans stomach, as if waiting to butcher the local cow, he turned his eyes back to the party. His eyes narrowed slightly, then an odd grin spreads across his face. "Mmm I guess the two of you need a room. But as for my name, most call me Val. Valinco Cappadoor to be exact. I am sorry to inform you of this, but I must insist on holding the blade. After all, he won't remain posioned forever. More over, he knows a few things that I personally 'need' to know. I will extract the information any way possible, I hope you guys are ready for that. If not I'd suggest you sit back while I question the man."
Elussiens face had drawn back into a serious stare, waiting to see if they would agree or try and persuade him to 'relax'. He watched the people, wondering if they could help him. They were definately not attacking, nor were they judging him. He would have to see what they said before telling them the truth. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 16 May 2005 : 15:55:41
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| Quickly stepping into the magical shed, Caylith then returns with a rope and after walking around behind the paralyzed thug, proceeds to begin to tie him up. As she begins to cross in front of Elussien, she raises an eyebrow and waits for him to either back away so she can pass the rope around the frozen thug or assist her in tying him up by taking the rope to pass back to her. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 19 May 2005 : 13:05:17
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Seeing Caylith starting to tie up the paralysed man, Selm nods his approval
and offers a grateful "thank you."
Then, turning back to Valinco, he begins, "Well met Valinco,thank you for
the introduction. Although I would still be interested to know how exactly
you and your friends", he nods at the paralysed man, "came to be here.
Particularly as I know you intended to find us by the conversation I
overheard. You'll forgive me if I'm a little suspicious. That said, there is
no reason to be afraid unless you give us cause to act, I suggest you think
about that. Right now I know little about you and even less about this one
here. I'd love to believe you and I want to help you, really I do. However,
you are the one holding a dagger and threatening to use it. I can see that
you also would like some questions answered so the best thing to do would be
to put it away. Take it from me that it will not help you get the answers
you want. An answer extracted through torture, my apologies Lady Eldath, is
of no use to anybody." He looks heavenward as he says this last bit, before
fixing his gaze back on Valinco. "He will only tell you what you want to
hear anyway, it's a completely unreliable way of finding out anything.
Look," he gestures at the newly bound man, "he is no threat to you or
anybody else, and it will be much easier this way." Holding his hands out,
palms upward to show he doesn't mean any harm, Selm steps closer to Valinco.
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 19 May 2005 : 16:05:38
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Elussien listened calmly to Selm and smiled as there was a slight threat invoked due to his 'knife'. Not to mention Selm was claiming he was apart of these thugs. Once he had stopped talking, he chuckled lightly. His eyes shift to Selm, a smile dancing along his lips. "I must commend you on your choice of words. You have not only 'told' me what to, but you have placed possible companionship with this... idiot.
"First off let me tell you this, if I were to want you dead or captured I wouldn't have been stupid enough to get caught. Second, you tell me to 'Trust' you, to 'think' about what you've said. Well I've thought about what you said, and I have a question for you. Why should I trust you? Why should I think you are going to be... generous with my life? You have told me nothing more then your name and as you well know, thats not enough to go on. So before I answer your questions, you might wanna 'think' about being a bit forward yourself."
The smile left Elussiens face, to be replaced with a serious grimace. "As for the obtaining of information with the blade. You don't know what answers I could extract, so please presume not, that I am some simpleton. You will need to show me you are of no possible threat for me to lower my blade. Especially since there is a caster among your ranks."
Valanwé watches the conversation from next to the leader, having stepped
back to let Selm take the lead. He glances to his left, at the previously
paralysed man, noticing that he was straining against the ropes binding him.
He stops and watches for a few seconds, and suddenly notices that the man's
sword is rubbing against the ropes, and that they are starting to fray.
"Quickly!" interjects Valanwé, controlled but urgent in tone, and gesturing
towards the the man tied up, "some fresh rope to bind our prisoner! His
sword cuts through his bonds!" |
Edited by - Kaladorm on 19 May 2005 20:37:29 |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 19 May 2005 : 20:38:31
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Taking note of Valinco's aggressive and paranoid manner, Selm was able to
deduce several a few things about their new companion. Decidely to keep most
of them to himself, as well as his sarcastic tongue in his head, he chose
his next words carefully.
"Okay, we'll play this your way. Selmwell Fletwaral, humble servant of
Eldath the Green Goddess at your service. To put things in black and white,
my Lady does not condone violence, therefore I have absolutely no wish to
use it against you. I ask you this, why do you assume we wish to hurt you?
To think such must be a terrible way to live. And indeed we do have a
spellcaster." He points out Valanwé. "We also outnumber you greatly, had we
wished to do you harm we would perhaps have attacked first and asked
questions later, no? Instead, we choose to try and find reason for this for
the good of all concerned. Am I being clear enough for you?" he asks in an
even tone.
Gesturing at the struggling man, he continues, "I know no more or less about
you and he than what I have heard. What I have heard is that this was no
accident, it was a planned attack on our fellowship here. What reasons
either of you have for this is what I'd very much like to find out, without
the use of violence in either case. What you could extract with that blade
is neither here nor there because you are going to pass it over to me and
discuss things civilly." He holds out his hand in expectation. "I have said
my piece, if you refuse to listen, that's your choice and I'll leave Master
Daleson to enlighten you about 'dwarven bargaining' techniques.
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 19 May 2005 : 20:40:53
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"Peace, friends," says Valanwé, stepping forwards once more with his hands
raised motioning for calm. He speaks quietly and openly: "This conversation
is becoming frivilous and unproductive. I am a wizard, yes, but if any of
you ask whether I wander this plane attacking persons with whom I have no
quarrel, the answer is most definitely no. I have no quarrel with you
Valinco Cappadoor, and I do not intend otherwise. However, I believe
Selmwell speaks truth - there is no need for the blade if all that is
required is conversation. The prisoner will not get far, should he escape -
I can assure you of that."
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 24 May 2005 : 18:01:09
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The leader of the assassin party, his bonds loosened and frayed by his
subtle sawing of the rope, springs into action, sneering as he does
so.
"Inept fools! You parley whilst I escape and the warning goes unchecked!
He sweeps his weapon outwards and upwards as the ropes fall away and
darts off towards the edge of the woods, sprinting into the darkness.
As he does so Valanwé, who had expected such a course of action,
calmly utters magical words. A glowing, pea-sized bead streaks from
his pointing finger and blossoms into a fireball, engulfing the
fleeing leader. The night sky is lit up, forcing some of the party to
shield their eyes against the sudden glare. The agile man manages to
fling himself out of harms way, and drops to the ground, as flames
explode above him. Unscathed he continues his hasty escape.In his wake
he leaves a circle of scorched, and charred trees. The area is
devastated by the blast, and a few trees continue to burn afterwards.
"Venterus!!" shouts Valanwé, turning about, looking through the trees around
them. The noise of birds wings flapping breaks through the brief silence,
and from above the currently smouldering foliage a golden eagle appears.
"Master?" says the bird in the private language shared by master and
familiar, coming to rest on Valanwé's
outstretched arm.
Valanwé turns, and points toward the man running away from them. "Follow
that man, as best you can. He is hostile, stay some distance from him. I, at
least will follow too. Return to me if he settles for any significant time.
Do you understand?"
The bird seems to nod its head in something of an affirmation.
"Good. Now remain here whilst I cast a spell on you. Then, go."
The alert Selm immediately starts to run after the fleeing man.
Caylith having returned into the hut to search out more rope steps
back outside to hear the rogues comment and see him begin to run.
Seeing the others begin to give chase and realizing in her wounded
state she is not going to be much help, she takes a breath and
concentrates on healing her wounds. She then starts to move after the
man.
The escaped rogue continues to crash through the wooded area, in a
panicked attempt to escape the reckoning of the party, and the
extremely vengeful one who had threatened his helpless form with pain.
Valanwé raises his left hand toward Venterus, whispers a near-silent
incantation, and vanishes from view, along with the eagle. But a few
seconds later, he reappears, facing toward the direction of the man
now escaping, his arms raised, having released the bird, which remains
invisible.
Lowering his arms once more, he rubs his hands together. They crackle
quietly with small shoots of pale red lightning as he focuses his
attention to the fleeing man.
"Let's see how much of a fool I really am," he mutters under his
breath, toward the fleeing thug. "I'm sure Messers Selmwell, Daleson
and Valinco will be able to speak to you, regardless of what condition
you're in when I've finished with you..."
"Fools! Someone help me go after him." Daleson dashes after the man, tossing his shield to the ground, but still hefting his mace. "Let me know where he goes mage."
When selm started to tell him once again what to do, it only seemed to ignite Elussiens blood pressure. His grip on the blade tightened, getting ready to fight. Selm was getting to be just as smart as Elussien, yet he was still taking on an arrogant attitude. Of course his own attitude wasn't helping any.
"Alright..." He was going to mouth off when Valanwe asked for all to just relax and calm down. He listened quietly to the wizard as he spoke his peace. It actually helped him to realize he was being extremely stupid. Not only were they being unproductive but they were also wasting time.
As Valanwe caught on to the thugs escape and tried to stop the man, Elussien could only think of how stupid he had been. He should have bound this guy himself and stopped yelling like a fool.
As Valanwe spoke to the golden Eagle, Elussien had to make up some time here. "Alright Selm, we have no time for idol banter right now, we need to work together. Come lets get after that guy and we can discuss later my reasons for being here. I will disclose those reasons in due time, but more importantly you can trust me for now. Please allow me this chance to prove it."
Elussien had to agree with with the Human, the squabbling was getting annoying and it was only preventing them from aquiring the target. He wondered if Selm would agree with what he asked, or if there would be another demand layed upon him.
Feeling stupid that the man had been able to escape, and sensing everybody
else felt similarly, he offered Valinco the simple words "Deeds tend to
prove a person more than their words. You do not need my permission to chase
this man down." He gives a slight smile before continuing, "I will gladly
work alongside you." So saying, he sprints after Daleson in order to assist him in any way possible
Selm catches up with the man shortly. Seeing the quick witted cleric
keeping fast pace with him, and realising he can't outrun the whole
party, the rogue turns and braces
himself, standing in a crouched position and ready to attack. As Selm
catches up with him he lashes out viciously, but in his panicked state
misses entirely.
From the back of the group Caylith focuses her self for a brief
second, and sprints towards the battle with a speed you've only ever
seen in animals.
Valanwé, standing in his original position, begins a long incantation.
From his hands shoots a near invisible missile, which screeches as it
flies past. The pure energy smashes into the mans stomach, and the
soundwave emanating from the impact hurts the ears of all nearby. The
force of the energy ripples the rogues loose clothing in the effect.
Elussien edges out to the side of the scorched area and into the
woodland, ready to emerge at an opportune time and place.
Daleson slows down his sprinting, and begins to take stock of the
combat situation. He steadies himself and lines up for a position
where he can charge into his assailant and catch him off guard.
Selm, mindful of the attack he had just recieved, attacks the rogue
back, his silver dagger shining beautifully in the moonlight. Careful
not to expose any part, Selm fights with his magnificently crafted
wooden shield in front him, refusing to give the vicious sword an
opening. Seeing an opportunity he stabs at the man, and quickly
withdraws back into his defensive position. The rogue easily
backpedals from lunge, and returns with a swipe of his own. The
desperate lunge is ineffectual, and Selm's shield forces the blow
aside.
Another arrow flies past you, this one dripping a corrosive liquid.
The arrow this time glances off his arm but not before delivering it's
vicious acid into the small gash left behind. The acid scorches the
area around it and the wound begins to hiss and steam, and turn black.
Seeing his opportunity Elussien darts out from his cover. The
hopelessly outnumbered assassin never even knew about this new threat,
before Elussiens sword enters his spine, and slips through his
ribcage, to protude out of the front of his chest. Blood trickles out
of his mouth, and Elussien slashes upwards as he pulls the blade out,
leaving a foot long gash and a fountain of blood. The man crumples to
the floor, blood staining the forest floor. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 25 May 2005 : 00:47:40
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Elussien looked at the husk of a man once thought to be dangerous. He had tried to fight, tried in vain to escape the hunter; Death. Even Elussien had been suprised at such ferocity, he had not thought it apart of his inner self, but then the man would of been killed when the questioning was over. Pity they would never know why the assassins had attempted to kill the party in the first place.
Elussien slowly cleaned the blade on the rogues garments, searching as he cleaned. If the man had anything on his person, he hoped to find it.
Once finished Elussien looked to the group, sheathing his blade. "Well I feel it is time to come clean, since we have spilled blood for each other. My real name is Elussien, please do not ask why I did not tell you in the first place. It is a long story, sometime I will tell you. I had been tracking these guys because they worked for a previous aquaintence whom I hate! This aquaintence worked for a group called the Cult, whatever that means, I hope this helps. I would be glad to join your party if you require my skills, but if ye trust me not, then I'll be on my way." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 25 May 2005 : 20:47:45
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Valanwé finishes casting his last spell, and sees Valinco putting the final
touches to the counter-plan of stopping the man escape. Sighing, he begins
his walk toward the group, now surrounding the rogue's corpse.
As he arrives, he observes the body, steps back, and looks around the
others. "Does anyone want to tie him up?" he asks, in an unusually sarcastic
manner.
Valanwé then kneels down next to the body, and examines the remnants of the
man's equipment. He raises his hand to the man's face, his lips moving in
silent prayer, and carefully shuts the corpse's eyes.
The rogue appears to be wearing some sort of ornate leather armour, largely
black, with two dragons embossed on the breastpiece, one red and one
originally green, now red with the blood that covers the man's chest. He
reaches over, and takes the mans sword out of his hand. Taking a piece of
cloth from a pocket in his robe, he wipes the splattered blood from the
blade and proffers it to Daleson, for him to examine.
About to stand up, Valanwé sees the mans buckler, unscathed from the fight.
He remains kneeling, undoes the clasp, and pulls it off of him. Standing up
once more, he holds it out, again for Daleson to examine.
"Master Selmwell," says Valanwé, "Tell me - are you able to converse with
the dead?" |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 26 May 2005 : 16:37:57
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Watching Valanwé examine the fallen man, Selm pauses for a second before
answering. "Am I able to converse with the dead?" he muses. "Well, not today
I'm not, no. I can, however, pray to Eldath that she might grant me the
ability to do so in the morning. The question is really whether I wish to. I
have done such before and I dislike disturbing the dead as much as any man.
Or elf, for that matter," he adds, scrutinising Valanwé closely. "You seem
very determined to get some answers, my friend. I've never seen one of the
Tel'Quess treat such an issue as this lightly, most are reluctant at best,
if not vehemently against it. Tell me truthfully, have you ever seen a man
speak with the dead? I admit I would like some answers too, not least
because of the latest, ahem, developments," he glances round at Elussien,
"but there is no guarantee that I will be able to find out what we wish to
know anyway, the answers are not often straight forward and I would need to
think carefully about what to ask. If everybody thinks it is necessary, I
will do it for the safety and wellbeing of all, but I just want to make it
clear that this is not something to be taken lightly and it certainly not
something I enjoy doing."
So saying, he takes a deep breath before turning away to face Elussien, his
face calm. "Well met then, Elussien." He pronounces the name somewhat
ambiguously but not in such a way that it could be interpreted as a
challenge and offers his hand. "I will not ask why you chose to hide your
name from us, it is something most of us have to do from time to time and it
is understandable. I thank you for your honesty in telling us this
information. To be perfectly honest we have not been companions ourselves
for very long and there are probably many untold secrets amongst us. I do
not begrudge you your privacy. However," his face becomes more grave as he
says this, "I understand your concern but your conduct tonight was
unacceptable. I will not tolerate torture or similar immoral conduct. As a
follower of Lady Eldath, I dislike violent conduct and do not condone
unnecessary use of it, though I am not naive enough to believe there are
circumstances when it becomes necessary. These are the tenets of my faith,
to me this is truth." His face softens again, "please try to understand
this. I would welcome you into our party assuming you are willing to
acknowledge this. The decision is not mine, however. Master Daleson heads
our little band and the final decision should be his because this is a
matter of importance to Lathandar but if it were up to me, I would let the
group as a whole decide. Whatever else happens, I will personally offer you
any protection I can and if you were to tell more about this 'Cult', I may
be able to help you with them also." Noticing the cuts and bruises Elussien
has sustained, Selm adds "I can also see that you are injured, if you'll
allow me I will do my best to heal your wounds." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 26 May 2005 : 16:39:09
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A little later, having left the body to the other's inspection, Valanwé
approaches Selm, and touching his arm gently to gain his attention says: "I
merely seek the truth my friend; it is a form of knowledge - perhaps the
very best - but I did not mean to offend." He pauses momentarily,
considering his next words: "I have seen powerful clerics speak with the
dead before - it was a matter of course in the war against the Fey'ri - but
I do not ask you to go against your heart if it speaks against this course." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 26 May 2005 : 20:03:16
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Having caught up to the group and seeing the now dead rogue, Caylith shakes her head and listens to Selm. At his suggestion that the group decides, she shrugs..."I would that Sir Daleson make the call."
Selm appeared to accept and even acknowledge Elussien as a member, even though the group had not yet decided his fate. This group was a jumble of rag tag members, probably on some crusade to 'protect' the weak, what with their desire to commit no harm. That was the only problem with Selm... he was soft hearted, but that was no reason to deslike him.
A smile slides along Elussiens face. "I am pleased that you are willing to keep my privacy, even though I have not proved my place among you all. In time if this group would have me, I could possibly prove a valuable member, even a respected one.
"As for the torture... thats something you must understand was a required need; in my opinion. Now I fully respect your desire to uphold your faith and commit no harm, but I cannot use your faith as my guidepost. I will do my best to keep from... hurting people in a way inappropriate to the groups wishes, but as I said I cannot let it rule my actions in difficult situations. Please understand me on this issue, I do not mean to be rude or disrespectful." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 29 May 2005 : 10:37:37
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Examining the sword and buckler, Daleson waits to respond to the question of Elussien. Taking a few practice swings at the air, he eyes the rogue to watch for a reaction. "I do not trust you sir, and I have no reason to allow you to assist in our quest. No reason other than to keep an eye on you. So, if the others will have you with us we will journey together. You will earn your keep if you will accompany us, and the first sign of betrayal and our peace maker here," pointing to Selm, "will not be able to protect you from my axe."
Daleson examines the blade again and looks at the body. "We should bury them, even if it is more than they deserve." He looks at Elussien expectantly while saying this. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 01 Jun 2005 : 15:00:08
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Elussien smirked at Daleson, showing he wasn't really impressed with the 'axe' threat. This wasn't a time to show off.
"Well if you're done 'speaking' your peace buddo, maybe we should discuss why those assassins were after you guys in the first place. All I know is that they were sent to kill a group of individuals, or I should say... interrupt them. Are you guys into something that would put my neck on the line, or threaten my life in any way?" The later portion was meant more as a joke and he wondered if they would catch on. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 02 Jun 2005 : 09:46:53
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| "We seek an item sacred to Lathander. These interlopers must have been sent to stop us, however I doubt their employer made it so easy as to give them any useful information for us to find it. Still, we may try if our peacemaker is so inclined." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 02 Jun 2005 : 16:28:34
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| "Aye," says Valanwé, speaking in turn. "We may very well encounter threats to our lives in this journey, but I'm assuming you knew of that allready. I, for my part, have no quarrel with you, sir, and will travel with you upon whatever path we are given, but as Master Daleson says - treachery will not lightly be forgiven." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 03 Jun 2005 : 02:03:30
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Elussien replies "Well said Sir Valanwé and I respect your words. I would not commit treachery to a group of people who have helped in saving my life. Hopefully we run into these trouble makers, I'd like for them to taste my blade and understand my wrath.
"But onto more important matters. Might I inquire as to why you search for this item and what it is? If I am to be apart of your group, I require knowledge. If you cannot trust me now, then why I am still here?" He shrugged, then folded his arms. His eyes shifted from Valanwe, to Selm, to Daleson and the others.
Daleson answers his request, "We seek the Blood of Lathander. It is a holy artifact sacred to the followers of the Morninglord. As a devout follower, I have no other path than to pursue the thieves who stole it. They were foolish to steal it since my brothers and I will not rest until it is back in a holy site dedicated to Lathander.
My companions are good folk who have volunteered to assist in the apprehension of the thieves, for which I am grateful. As I said, if you would assist us in this quest you are welcome. If not, we part ways with our thanks for your help in flushing out these would-be assassins."
Daleson bows his head in respect, with no negative connotations or implications, only sincere appreciation. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 03 Jun 2005 : 18:33:28
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Daleson buries the bodies, and Selm carries the body of the fallen leader inside, agreeing to speak with the corpse (thought reluctantly), as it is the will of the group.
Selm spends a long time in prayer, and consecrates the area around the corpse inside the house, protecting the area from evil.
Refreshed in the morning, everyone gets up at around 8.30am and Selm prepares to speak with the dead man. After a long time of chanting, intricate gestures, and praise to the peaceful goddess, the corpse slowly rises. It gets up haltlingly, and eventually is standing to it's full height, staring blankly forward. As Selm asks his questions the corpse responds in a monotone voice, it's eyes unblinking and blank.
"What or who were you looking for here?"
"A group of adventurers"
"What is the name of the man or woman who sent you"
"Ronald"
"What were your exact instructions regarding this adventuring party when you found them?"
"To kill them".
At this the corpse shudders violently and collapses to the ground. Bright blue light flares from its mouth, the raw magical energy used to animate the corpse and retrieve the answers imprinted on it, unable to be contained by Selm any longer.
Selm then sits quietly pondering the answers he recieved, and leaves the burial rights to Daleson. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 05 Jun 2005 : 14:12:00
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As Selm sits in the house, pondering, Valanwé moves from the desk at which
he had been studying his spellbook, towards Selm. Placing a hand gently on
his shoulder to gain his attention, he sits on another chair which is close
by, and says quietly: "Thank you, my friend - your sacrifice is much
appreciated."
Turning, but remaining in his seat, he looks toward Elussien, and asks:
"Might a wizard inquire whether our newst friend can offer counsel as to the
identity of this 'Ronald'? I think that whilst our shelter remains, it might
be good for you to tell us what you will of your story - at least as regards
this matter. If there are other matters more pressing, however, I will bow
to the will of the party. What say you?"
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 07 Jun 2005 : 20:21:41
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Elussien sat quietly for a moment thinking about what the spirit had said, and Valanwes question. It was important for him to open up to these individuals if they were to trust him. "Mmm well I guess I'll have to tell you more than I had originally thought. I did not want to burden you with my past transgressions for they are numerous and I have some very powerful enemies. I keep my past hidden for it is one of pain and sadness so I will not speak it in whole.
"As for Ronald. Well I have known him for a very long time, longer then I have known any true friends. He was at one point in my life, a figure head of great importance. I trusted him and he in turn trusted me. It was a successful venture. For reasons I still have yet to understand, Ronald turned his back on me and later tried to have me killed." Elussien stares at the floor as he recounds the memory.
"I of course fought back in the only way possible... I did what I do best, the very act you so graciously stopped me from." He looked up to the group his voice becoming hard and determined, he had to let them know what they were up against.
"If you hunt down Ronald, you must understand that he is a very powerful man. He is clever, devious, tenatious, vicious, cunning and most of all... dangerous. I will gladly follow you to the halls of hell and back, but if we hunt him down, I will do my best to kill him. In this you will not stop me, to do so you will have to take my life. I will kill my enemy, even if it means death to myself." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 08 Jun 2005 : 12:18:50
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Valanwé nods his head as Elussien speaks, understanding. He considers carefully the information he is being given, and waits for Elussien to finish beforehe speaks: Thank you for sharing this with us, friend. There is no doubt a connection between our quest and this man Ronald, but we know little of what that might be. My preference would be to continue on our way, as we have planned, though that is Master Daleson's perogative. It is likely we will be attacked again, but I fear that there is little that we can do to prevent this, except to defend ourselves as best we can."
He pauses for a moment, and continues: "I must also mention something I had kept to myself at this point. Whilst settling my affairs at the Inn, I heard a report of a drow female in the area, perhaps a spellcaster. She seemed to have forced her influence upon the Innkeeper, though to what end remains unclear. I apologise for not mentioning it before, if it proves to be important."
He awaits the others' responses with interest. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 08 Jun 2005 : 12:23:36
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Near the door, Trahæarn listened to the conversation with little attention, trying to be unnoticed as he toys with the sheath of his dagger. He looks up briefly as Valanwé starts speaking again, only to have his mind slowly drift away onto other thoughts…
“. . . a drow female in the area,” Valanwé stated.
Trahæarn started, dropping the dagger so its sheath slapped against his thigh; and makes as if about to say something. He stops, looks at Valanwé for a few seconds, then quietly heads outdoors.
Sensing that Trahaearn is a little perturbed, Valanwé raises his hand slightly, and says: “One moment, my friends,” before getting up, and following the Elf out of the door.
Stepping outside, Valanwé looks around, and sees that the vicinity is clear. Looking up to the trees, he scans the branches, and sees two booted feet hanging from a branch nearby. He moves towards them, and looks upward to see the figure of Trahaearn sitting on the bough above. He speaks in the language of their ancestors: “Have I said something amiss, my Brother – or do I sense that your contempt for the fallen race is perhaps stronger even than mine own?”
Trahæarn shifted on the branch to face the mage, replying in kind. “I did not know. With having all of these …” He gestures with his free hand towards the remainder of the camp, “others … around, I let my guard down.” He paused, sighing slightly, “I focused internally, on the others, rather than externally. I did not sense the approach of enemies, and I was out of position to deal with the escape. Now there is a Fallen One about – should I face Corellon, now, how would I account for my inactions?”
“’Inaction’ Brother?" asks Valanwé. “No indeed. We have not had opportunity to deal with this Drow,” he says, with more than a hint of disdain in his voice, “and you must not trouble yourself for that. The report I received was two months old, at least - she will be impossible to recover now. Our Lord Corellon understands these things, and expects of each of us only what we are able, or perhaps a very little more, to help us better ourselves. As for the approach or escape of enemies, you must remember that your actions alone are under your control. It was by chance that I noticed the human's bonds were fraying - and even then I was not fast enough to restrain him. And their approach? Perhaps you were unguarded - perhaps not; the important thing, however, is that we are all yet here, and our quest continues. I realise that this is perhaps unsolicited advice, but I would urge you to focus on the things you can change - not those that have passed.”
“I should have…” Trahæarn stopped, locking eyes with Valanwé. “Fear not, I will dwell on it no further now. I will, however, stand guard until we move on. Should we come across a Priest of Corellon, I shall atone for my misdirected attentions.” Trahæarn scans the rapidly lightening horizon, “I will stay here for now – but the newcomer may have answers for you.”
“Aye,” replies Valanwé, “that he may. I have a request to make of you at some convenient moment, but it is not urgent. Peradventure we may speak on the road, if you are willing.” He turns away to leave, and then looks back, and speaks again: Lle ume quel, melloamin.
Trahæarn nods, softly replying Noro go hûl, bado go Eru, as Valanwé returns to the house. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 08 Jun 2005 : 12:25:59
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Daleson considers the words spoken between the party before offering his opinion on the matter.
"I ride after this Ronald. What the rest of you do now, and at any point in this quest, is entirely your own decision. I will be honored to ride with any and all of you," he looks each member of the party in the eye as he says this, "and the blessing of the Morninglord be upon our mission.
That said, I have no quarrel with anyone seeking revenge. The law must still be obeyed, yet I know that too often those of unscrupulous behavior will not be taken lightly. Those who resist justice and the law will be met with force. Revenge for its own sake makes one too much like they who have done wrong. It is a fine line.
Let us retire for the night now. We will need our strength if Ronald does send more of his hired thugs at us, so set the watch and everyone else get some sleep."
Daleson turns to gather his armor from inside the building, not waiting for anyone to respond. He returns armed and armored several minutes later and prepares to set the watch. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 08 Jun 2005 : 12:43:40
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A little later, when the conversation is ended, Valanwé walks away from the house, leaving the front door open, carrying his water flask and a single vial of magical potion. About a hundred feet away, he enters the clearing in which his fireball had exploded the night before, and inspects the damage. The trunks of the trees around him are blackened and charred, but otherwise intact - their leaves however, are gone.
Carefully opening the vial of potion, he pours it into the water flask, reseals it, and shakes it vigorously. Padding around carefully, he makes a closer inspection of the roots of the trees nearby, and then looks up to the tops of the trees, and to the sky. One tree, is damaged significantly more than the others, now almost devoid of leaves. Those surrounding it retain more of their leaves, and look less charred.
Scraping some of the ash from the tree with his palm, Valanwé kneels, opens his robe, and marks his chest with the ash, in a symbolic representation of Rillifane Rallathil's Oak. Leaving his robes open, he holds his arms aloft, and, speaking in Elven, prays to Rillifane for forgiveness, for inflicting such pain on his woodland, and begs him to allow the trees to flourish once more.
As he finishes his payer, he stands, and opens his flask, and circumnavigates the tree, splashing the mixture of water and magic potion around the trees roots. He then places his thumb over the flasks mouth, and walks in lines across the damaged area of woodland, allowing drops of the potion to fall into the earth below.
Again, he returns to the most damaged tree, and repeats his prayer, before standing, and pausing for a few moments to reflect upon the scene. As he walks away, returning to the cottage, he turns back, and is glad to see the trees looking slightly less ashen, and the whole area appearing a little more healthy than it had. |
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Kaladorm's Campaign Journal
