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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
 Posted - 15 Aug 2005 : 23:59:50
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Valanwé looks up at the half-dragon, and smiles: "Of course," he replies. "I would be glad of the company, and I am sure that your assistance will again be invaluable, should we run into trouble. That said, how we are to go about returning Elussien the the Fortress Home remains to be seen. Certainly there are several possibilities which will need to be explored. Regardless of the course we take, I would not that our brief fellowship come to an end so soon, and I hope that we shall journey many roads further before we part ways. As for Master Daleson..." He tails off for a moment, and then continues in hushed tones: "I should not be surprised if we were to see him again soon. Daleson was slain in the service of his Lord Lathander, and I suspect that attempts are being made to raise him up once more. I confess that I am hopeful of their success, though that may not be what you had expected to hear. I do not believe that it was his time, but we must wait and see what may happen."
Not awaiting an immediate reply, he adds: "And how are you, daughter of the skylords? Is all well with you, or may I be of further assistance? |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 16 Aug 2005 : 00:36:59
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"Is it okay if we talk while we wait?" Caylith asks. "I have so many questions."
Valanwé merely glances to the seat next to his, with another smile, and nods for her to sit down.
She takes a seat beside him, carefully moving her new sword to one side. He turns slightly, altering his posture to face her, and waits for her to begin.
"When you say 'raised'?" she asks. "I am not certain of this practice? Is it like one of your spells? I have heard stories of how some would return from the dead as ghosts if their duty is not done? Do you think Lord Daleson is one of those?" She paused. "I feel that I have not been as forthcoming as everyone else. I know I have asked a lot of questions and fear I have given few answers in return. I have learned so much about the world in such a little time. But there still seems to be so much more to learn. You, Trahaearn and Elussien are the first Elvenkind I have met and I feel like there are so many things I could learn from you. " She hestitated again. "My people did not travel much."
"Fret not yourself for asking too many questions," replies Valanwé pleasantly, but seriously. "I for one, do not believe that to ask too many questions is possible. The pursuit of knowledge drives me beyond near any other cause. Though I do not believe that there are many, relatively speaking, who share this goal, those of us who do acknowledge that to ask questions is the only way to learn, and that to learn is the practical application of our inner thirst for knowledge. I suppose that must be a somewhat sesquipedalian way of saying that I do not mind answering."
He pauses, and replaces Aencar's tome into his backpack which lies in front of him on the floor. Waving a hand across his face, he dispells his ability to read the magical writings, and his eyes return to their original gold colour from the deep blue they had formerly appeared. Continuing, he says: "When I say 'raised', I speak of nothing less than restoring those who have fallen to life - they are brought back from their resting place and rejuvented to their former health and vigour. There are also those, whose spirits remain on the Material Plane after their deaths, rather than making the journey to their God's heaven or hell until some tie that binds them to their former habitations is undone. These are the ghosts - often called 'restless spirits', for they never cease their attempts to escape the 'prison' in which their souls are trapped."
Pausing again to allow Caylith to take in the information, he turns his palm upward, concentrates, and watches as his hand begins to glow with faint yellowish energy. "My magic," he continues, "is based upon meticulous study and practice. I am able to cast spells, not through innate magical ability as a sorceror might, but through careful reading and learning of the techniques that shape magic. With the exception of this extremely insignificant effect, which appears to be a product of my heritage," he says, raising his hand to indicate the energy emanating from it, "my spells are prepared from writings and texts which describe the processes my mind must take to produce an effect. It is from memorising these processes, and triggering their completion at the appropriate time that I weild the power I do. Conversely, a sorceror has his own innate power, which he must learn to weild using simillar processes - the difference being that his spells are cast without preparation, but those he can cast are limited by the magic held within him. The magic itself however, is very simillar in both sorcerors and wizards, and is known by many names, the most common of which is 'Arcane Spellcasting'."
Again, Valanwé pauses for Caylith to digest the information: "The ability to raise the dead, however, is not something that Arcane Magic can achieve. There is a type of magic of which I know next to nothing about, that is rumoured to allow a wizard to weild this power, but I do not even know the name by which it is called, or indeed, whether it even exists. The known magics that can raise the dead are weilded by powerful clerics, who offer prayers and supplications to their gods, that they might channel their deity's divine power through themselves to achieve such effects. This is divine magic, and differs in the sense that the power a cleric weilds is not his own innate ability, or achieved through study, but is the power of his deity, who may deny the use of such power if the cleric weilding it displeases them. In the case of Lord Daleson, I am able to assure you with near-certainty that he will not return as a ghost, should he return, but will be the same bold warrior who set out at the front of our column several days ago, leading our quest."
Pausing for the final time, he adds: "I hope that this has been of some help to you? If I am able to provide further clarity to your thoughts, please ask - I am more than willing to answer, to the extent of my own knowledge." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 16 Aug 2005 : 18:26:45
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| "Thank you, Valanwe. I am most appreciative of your help. I know that many of my father's kind wield the Arcane art but I have not seen it in action much. My mother's people's magic seems to be different than both but perhaps it is more like your sorcerers than I know. I only know what I can or cannot do." She sighed. "I hope that the God of Lord Daleson is willing to return him. He too is a good man." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 17 Aug 2005 : 11:52:12
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"Who knows what the Gods will do, Caylith," puts in Selm. "Daleson was a
noble man who seemed to serve his deity well. He also was taken from us
whilst on a quest for Lathander, so that ought to be in his favour.
However," he continues, looking Caylith directly in the eyes with his liquid
bluish-grey ones, "not all spirits are willing to return; would you wish to
leave paradise and the eternal love of your God?" He pauses, allowing the
question to sink in. "Lathander is a kindly deity with a strong personality,
I think there is a fair chance he may wish Master Daleson to return to
Faerûn, but it is an arrogant man indeed who believes he fully understands
the ways of the Gods." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 17 Aug 2005 : 18:10:16
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"I did not mean to question your gods." She said hestitantly. "I only meant...that...I mean..." She stopped and took a deep breath and looked Selm squarely in the eyes. "If it is pleasing to both Lord Lathandar and to Lord Daleson that he should return, then I will be glad. If it is not their will, then I would like to honor Lord Daleson in the manner of his ways." She smiled, hoping her words would not be taken harshley. She looked at Valanwe and Selm, and said, "I must admit to being unfamiliar with your gods. I only know my own and even they are difficult to fathom at times. Learning about people's gods and their beliefs is but one of the reasons I travel and so was one of the reasons I asked questions of Lord Valanwe. To be honest, Lord Selm, the very idea of returning from the dead as anything other than a ghost or restless spirit ( she glances at Valanwe) is something far beyond my ken. I do not know how I would react if such a choice were presented to me."
Selm studies Caylith for a while, choosing his words carefully. "In that, I
think you are showing real wisdom, Caylith - to say one way or the other how
one would react if presented with such a choice seems a little foolish to
me. And there is also much good about your quest for knowledge, knowledge
and experience are what make life more fulfilling. I am, of course, happy to
answer any questions you may have to the best of my ability, and would be
interested in learning more of yourself. I didn't mean to sound harsh, but I
do not pretend to know every whim of my beloved Eldath, let alone any other
God." He smiles, to reinforce the point he was trying to make. "I'm also
sure we'll all honour whatever decision is made with regards to Master
Daleson. And please, drop the 'Lord', just Selm is fine. I have no such
title, nor do I want one."
"Nor I," seconds Valanwé. "I am but a simple wizard, and deserve no such
special attention."
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Edited by - Kaladorm on 18 Aug 2005 10:46:51 |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 17 Aug 2005 : 18:17:40
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The hour grows long, and Cathalandra's guardian still remains outside her chambers. A cleric of the temple approaches the party and says gently "I know you are all anxious about our champion and your friend. Cathalandra is deep in prayer to the Morninglord and I cannot say how long she will be. You have all had a long journey, please get some rest here" He gestures towards an open doorway at the side of the church, through which can be seen a number of simple bunk beds.
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 18 Aug 2005 : 15:08:12
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| Caylith nods. "Selm and Valanwé then it is. More about myself...I suppose you are right. I have not shared as much as everyone else. As you know, I am Caylith D'Varen and as I am certain you can guess, I am half-dragon. My father is Justiariath...men call him a crystal dragon. He likes to travel and meet different people and I suspect I get some of my curiosity from him. It also wouldn't surprise me if I find I have other sisters or brothers with the same father. ( She says in a somewhat cynical tone.) My mother is Caren of the D'Varen clan. She doesn't like to travel. Our home lies high in the Thunderpeak Mtns. The dragons call our people Maenads. As you can see, (she holds out her arm so the shimmering nature of her skin reflects in the candlelight ), we look a little different. Many of our clan are blessed with special abilities similar to those of your sorcerers but the power we use is somewhat... different in nature. I have heard other learned call it psionics. I only know that I have some minor ability in this nature - most of what I can do makes me a better fighter." She pauses and seems to think a second. "I could keep going but my mother always said I talked a bit too much and didn't let people ask questions so...is there something in particular you would like to know?" |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 22 Aug 2005 : 16:07:22
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On the morning of the third day spent in the temple, the door to Dawnmaster Cathalandra's room finally opens slowly.
Cathalandra walks out of the room, looking incredibly weary, and her guardian moves swiftly to support her. She attempts to speak and then falls silent, her head bowed in exhaustion.
Behind her, a confused but determined looking Daleson strides out, looking as strong as ever. His wounds have been healed, and his armour glints in the light of dawn shining through the roof of the temple. He takes a few heavy breaths, and hefts the shield emblazoned with the symbol of Lathander. In his right hand he holds the Blood of Lathander, it's faint rosy glow now bright and beaming.
From Daleson's hands, the Blood floats upwards and resumes it's place at the forefront of the temple, it's glow washing over all present and imparting a feeling of joy and security.
Bathed in the aura of light, and decked in the Morninglords symbols, Daleson is truly an awe inspiring champion. Indeed a few of the clergymen fall to their knees, struck by the miracle that brought him back to life.
All are silent as Daleson moves to speak. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 23 Aug 2005 : 11:37:04
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As everyone gathers around, Daleson turns first to Selm and acts as if to speak. Instead, he strides forward and embraces the cleric's arm in a shake of friendship, then, still gripping Selms's arm, embraces him in a brotherly hug with his other arm. He follows with Valanwé, then the others. His hug lingers perhaps a few seconds too long on Caylith. When finished, he is shedding a few tears, yet looks as noble as ever.
"Thank you all. The Blood of Lathander is returned to its home and people. I thank you all for continuing our mission when I," Daleson falters, bows his head, then continues, "gave my life in the Morninglord's service."
He beems at you suddenly, as if a ray of light all his own, and exclaims, "I have been given an important responsibility. I know what I must do, for while I sacrificed myself to help recover the Blood, I came back to fulfill my life's work. It is the gravest of burdens, yet also the greatest of joys."
He glances ot Cathalandra, and she returns a motherly smile for him as he turns back to you, "I leave in the morning to start my new life and responsibility and hope that we may continue our voyage together, at least for a time." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 23 Aug 2005 : 23:41:18
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| "I am curious to know what he means," says Valanwé quietly, leaning over to Semwell as he speaks. "I have some idea of his implication, and I am sure he is a changed man. You were right my friend, when you exhorted mortals' inability to predict the Gods." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 24 Aug 2005 : 11:05:21
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Warmly returning Daleson's embrace, Selm stands back to watch the clearly
very emotional man work his way around the group. As Valanwé leans in to
talk to him, he quietly replies, "Indeed, though I am delighted wuth the way
things have shaped up here. And I'm sure Master Daleson will let us know
what he means in his own time," he adds, though like the elf, his natural
curiousity had definitely been piqued. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 12 Sep 2005 : 09:34:01
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Daleson's elation at his rebirth continues through the early evening. Dinner at the temple is simple fare, but no one notices due to the companionship and mirth shared ove the meal. The paladin lets slip a few clues as to his destination, yet he keeps specific clues from you until after the food is gone. Sitting around the circular table fashioned in the form of the sun, he rises and taps his dagger against his shield resting upright on the floor next to him.
"Friends, as I have said I leave on the morrow to fulfill my life's work. I know not what awaits me other than that which I have seen briefly before being reborn. I must travel to Ashabenford, and from there out to seek my ward. A child is born who will fulfill a great destiny. He needs the protection of the Morninglord, so I must go to him. I welcome any of you who would travel with me."
He waits expectantly for responses. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 13 Sep 2005 : 00:02:19
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The obvious glee Daleson had been showing all evening in having been
returned to Faerûn had rubbed off on Selm. Smiling warmly at the man's
dedication to purpose, when offered the chance to accompany him, Selm didn't
need to think before replying. "It would be my pleasure, gladly will I
accompany you on your quest, friend Daleson." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 13 Sep 2005 : 00:04:36
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"Aye," says Valanwé, first rummaging in his pack lying nearby, and then
standing up and looking briefly at each of those present in turn. Pulling
the bottle he had retrieved from his pack, from under the cover of his
robes, he places it gently on the table. "I propose not to speak," he
continues, "or disrupt our celebration for longer than I must. I know how
dull Elves can be, and I feel sure that I do not wish to reinforce that
stereotype. I do, however propose a toast to good health, and happy journeys
on the road ahead," he glances at Daleson: "upon which I shall be most
pleased to join you."
Passing a hand over the top of the bottle, a quiet 'pop' is heard as the
cork is removed: "I would be grateful if you would all charge your glasses,
in honour of our returned friend, and in gratitude to his Lord Lathander,
for allowing that return." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 13 Sep 2005 : 14:05:47
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"It would be my honor to continue to accompany you." Caylith raises her glass. "To Lord Lathandar and Lord Daleson."
A member of the clergy beckons for Valanwé to come aside and talk to him. When he does so the cleric speaks, 'We have sent word to your father as you asked, but he is yet to contact us. Master Daleson is anxious to depart and if you wish you can leave the fallen Elussien in our hands, we will do our best to carry out his will."
The cleric bows his head in reverence, then looks up. "I understand he confided his last wishes you master Valawé?" |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 18 Sep 2005 : 18:33:07
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"Aye," replies Valanwé, "that he did. Listen carefully, good sir, and I will do my best to recall..." He trails off, thinks for a moment, and continues with a sigh, albeit lovingly, as he speaks of his home. "Whether 'tis possible for you to carry out these wishes, I know not, for his wish was to be given back to the Earth, laid to rest in the Fortress Home of Evereska. In the meadows, to the south of the city, The Singing Waters flow by a particularly tall silver willow, whose longest branches touch the waters themselves. Not more than fifty yards due east of this tree, stands an ancient oak, surrounded by a sea of flowers - bluebells, snowdrops - many beautiful plants sprout there. Indeed, it is a place I know well, and it was Elussien's wish that his remains be taken there, and shown to the sky for a day and a night."
Looking at the cleric, to see that he had taken all the information to heart, Valanwé takes Elussien's dagger from his belt, and offers it to the man: "This blade is to be given to the Earth also, placed in his hands. It was his final reward, and so it must go with him to Arvandor. When the body has been shown to the skies for the duration, I would that you petition a cleric of Correlon to perform the necessary rights. From dust we are made, and to dust we return, and thus the body should be given to the winds, as is our custom. It is also in our nature to errect a shrine to the deceased, but I myself will take care of that. Elussien had no family that I am aware of, and thus I take it upon myself to perform the non-ceremonial rites."
Seeing the priest nod, Valanwé continues once more: "If it is not possible for you to enter the Fortress City, I would that you simply preserve the body, and find such suitable place to store it until I return. In either case, I pledge myself for the expenses incurred, and ask only that wherever he is laid be marked with a stone, and an everburning lantern, that I might find the place later on, to pay my respects, and perform what duties I must."
"I understand Master Valanwé. When something has been sorted out I will arrange for a sending to let you know what we have done"
He bows swiftly and scurries of into a back chamber to make preparations. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 20 Sep 2005 : 15:23:24
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With Elussien taken care of, the companions all find rest in the temple of Lathander. Morning comes late to the companions, who are in need of some rest after the long trials of the past few days. Daleson is of course awake and ready to greet the dawn, his first 'new dawn' having special significance.
Equipped and ready to embark upon their journey to Ashabenford the part leaves Hap by the same route they took to Aencar's Manor. The first day passes pleasently enough, with a cool spring breeze and a bright and clear day. Valanwé prepares a shelter for the night and the companions rest.
The second day finds Selm and Traehaearn awakening early, having not slept inside the cottage they are awoken by the abnormally cold weather that night. Shivering slightly whilst they prepare the morning meal, they awake the rest of their company. Travel is uncomfortable but not impossible.
At midday, the journey is broken up by the sight of 3 hippogriffs wheeling about in the air. They seem preoccupied and uninterested in the party until suddenly one of them dives sharply. the other two following. They are between 8 and 10 feet long, with a wing span of 20 feet, and combine the features of a horse and giant eagle. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 21 Sep 2005 : 23:20:21
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Caylith cries "Look out!"
Seeing the creatures swooping in to attack, and Caylith reading for action,
Selm quickly tries to come up with a non-violent solution. "Rhiannon, can
you do anything to try and calm the hippogriffs? Or does anybody have any
food or something so we can stop them attacking. Clearly they are just
looking for food and it is such a waste to slay such creatures when there
are other alternatives available."
"I see no reason for affray with these creatures," says Valanwé, pragmatically. "Draw close, if you will, and under the cover of invisibility, we might move away and confuse them. I would not wish to down such a magnificent creature lightly, though I will not hesitate to protect us."
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 21 Sep 2005 : 23:24:22
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The group moves close to Valanwé as he weaves a shroud of invisibility over all those nearby. Rendering them all invisible, the trio of hippogriffs break off their dive and pull up to their original altitude. After circling the skies above for several minutes, the hippogriffs fly away to the south.
Many hours later, as the day is stating to turn into night. The group enter the forest that their road leads through. Ready to set camp they go about their preparations until Traheaern calls for silence. A rustling and snuffling can be hear in the bushes to the west. The party, intent upon listening to the quiet noise, are startled by a loud screech from the east. A large owlbear pads slowly towards them, and two smaller owlbears approach from the side where the noise was first heard. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 01 Oct 2005 : 22:54:28
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Caylith's new sword sends tingles through her arm, alerting her to the danger. Instantly ready to act, she turns to the largest owlbear and brings the sword around in a sweeping overhead chop. The sword bites deep just above the beasts shoulderblade, causing a a large gash. Vicious dark energy crackles along the blade, searing the flesh of the owlbear. It bellows in agony as the wound is ripped wide open, and Caylith yelps in pain also as the dark energy harms her as well. She looks at her slightly charred hand and winces, but regains her composure in time to dodge a swipe from the owlbear.
Meanwhile, Valanwé weaves a complex gesture in front of him and then speaks a word to complete the spell as he throws an eagles feather into the air. He floats upwards towards the canopy of the woodland and out of harms way.
The other two owlbears roar and charge at Traehaearn, one biting through the soft armour at his thigh, and other barreling into him and winding him slightly. Traehaearn is left gasping for air and momentarily sees a flash of steel to his right, before registering that Daleson is bearing down on the two owlbears with his large axe. Swinging strongly, the paladin manages to wound one of the beasts and divert its attention from Trahaearn.
The newest member of the party, Rhiannon, stands calm in the centre of the fray. She mutters a prayer to Mielikki which can only be heard by Valanwé above the party and Selm stood next to her, and the leaves swirl about her feet. This small tempest grows as she directs it towards the largest of the owlbears. Finally, the swirl of leaves falls away and in their place stands a gigantic ape, with hulking muscles and sharp teeth and claws. A command from Rhiannon sees the beast leap at the owlbear and begin to attack. Attempting to bite the beast, the ape gets swatted aside, but undeterred he rakes at it with his claws. Unable to fend off this attack the owlbear sustains heavy wounds as the ape rips again and again with its claws, leaving the beast bleeding heavily and looking extremely gory.
Across the road, Traehaearn reacts and steps away from his opponents. With one of the owlbears embroiled in battle with Daleson, Traehaearn fires as many arrows as he can at the remaining one. The first two strike close to each other, forcing the beast to rear up in pain as they embed themselves in its ribcage. Traehaearn takes aim for the final shot into the beasts eye. In it's pain induced fury the beast writhes and lashes as it renews its approach on the elf, and it's beak deflects the arrow aside, causing a lesser injury.
Away from the direct combat, Selm stands in the centre point of the party, calling out for Eldath to aid his companions in their struggle. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 11 Oct 2005 : 11:41:20
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Caylith hefts her new weapon again, the blade starting to feel more familiar in her hands despite the shock at the power released when last it met with flesh. Dodging a probing bite from the owlbear, the half dragon brings the sword down heavily onto the beasts skull and cleaves it in two. The damage done by the physical blade isn't enough to sate the magic contained within, and it flares into life again, spattering Caylith and the ape nearby with bloody fur and chunks of the creatures brain.
Above ground Valanwé prepares a bolt of sound energy in his hand. As the energy grows he prepares to loose it at the owlbear in combat with Trahaearn, and takes his aim. Momentarily distracted from his task by the flash of light and flying gore from Cayliths direction, he misfires the arrow. Speeding straight towards the battling duo, the sound energy slams into Trahaearns shoulder, tearing his flesh.
The effect of being hit by the energy stuns Trahaearn momentarily, and he looks about anxiously to see what enemy could have hit him with such magic. This gives the owlbear he had been fending off enough time to leap at him. His great reflexes enable him to dodge some of the worst attacks but the beasts weight eventually pushes him down to the ground. Trapped under the beast Traehaearn struggles to get free.
Rhiannon whistles to get her summoned apes attention, and the duo rush over to Traehaearn. Attempting to heal the now heavily bleeding elf, Rhiannon reaches to try and lay her hands on him. Unfortunately she cannot get a grip on him as the owlbear pins him down, and the spell energy is lifted from her hands and carried away on a light breeze. Frustrated she points and gives a short command to the ape, who leaps at the owlbear with reckless abandon. Ripping and tearing the owlbears flesh eventually causes the beast to collapse to the ground, where Traehaearn can squeeze out from underneath and leave the ape to finish it's work.
As Daleson pairs off with one of the owlbears, the others hear a low throbbing coming from his direction. By the first hit on the creature you identify it as coming from Daleson. After the second hit on the owlbear, it begins to sound like a musical instrument is being played, but you realize it is a sort of humming sound, a low bass, which mimicks the hammering of a smithy as each successful hit brings a louder chant from the paladin. If given the chance, you would also see a soft glow eminating from him as he smiles wide amid the spray of blood each time his axe connects. Hefting his axe for the killing blow, as his chant reaches a cresecendo, an arrow flies swiftly beneath his arm and embeds itself in the owlbears neck, finishing it off. Daleson turns to give Traehaearn a grin, and goes to clean his axe on the beasts fur as Selm tends to Traehaearns wounds. |
Edited by - Kaladorm on 11 Oct 2005 11:42:05 |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 11 Oct 2005 : 11:42:55
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Descending to ground level, nearby to Trahaearn, Valanwé looks to the group as they relax from the combat just passed with as peevish expression as may be shown by an Elf. Deeply ashamed of his recent conduct, his head is lowered in shame, as he approaches his brother Elf on foot, and merely says to him in soft tones: "Forgive me, melloamin."
Looking justifiably annoyed, Trahaearn shoots Valanwé a sharp glance, and waits for him to continue. Noticing that more need be said, Valanwé offers: "I beg that there is some way to apologise for my appalling marksmanship - I am deeply ashamed, that my aim was not true. In the short term, I ask only that you take as much of this potion as may be needed for your present relief," he says, offering a small flask to the Elf. "I ask also, that I must be allowed to atone in some way for the injury I have caused you. If there is some way in which I can do this, I beg you to tell me, and it shall be done."
Somewhat placated by the manner of Valanwé's apology, Trahaearn raises an arm to the other Elf's shoulder and says merely: "In the heat of battle, mistakes are made. I may be young, but I am not naive to such things. We are both standing, having survived, and whilst I wish you had not misplaced your magics, I accept your apology. Whilst I will take your potion gladly, there is nothing I can ask of you now, bar shelter for the night, but when the time comes, I may call upon you for such atonement, as you put it." Looking round to the rest of the group, and then back to Valanwé, he finishes: "We each have our good days and bad days, melloamin. Let us hear no more of it."
Meanwhile,
Rhiannon walks slowly up to the slain owlbear, she drops slowly down to her knees next to the creature and strokes the feathers on its head, a tear forming in her eye. "poor creature" she whispers to herself. She says a short prayer to Mielikki and stands up, the Dire ape she summoned walks over to her then vanishes. Whipeing away the tear in her eye she turns to the group.
"We need to move. The smell of these corpses will attract predators" She looks around, then glances up at Valanwe "Think you could find us a suitable place to spend the night?"
"Madam," says Valanwé, with more than a hint of sarcasm in his voice, "after THAT performance, I should be glad to do something useful for the party, for a change." With a quiet call to Venterus, who appears directly, Valanwé issues some instructions, and sends the Eagle off to the diagonal left of the direction the group has been heading in. Turning to Rhiannon, he says: "I have a little over six minutes left in which I can take to the sky - would you care to join me? I propose we fan out, and look for a clearing where I might conjure us a cottage - I am loath to stay in these woods if there are more of these creatures about us." As he speaks, he glances to the owlbears, sad that blood had been spilt, but understanding that survival in the forest can come at a price.
Rhiannon nods "Yes I can help".Steping into a small clearing she losens her limbs then closes her eyes, her body disapears in a flash of bright light and a Golden eagle can be seen standing where she stood, Rhiannon, now in the form of the eagle flys into the air above the tree tops and begains searching for a good clearing.
Looking at Daleson, Valanwé says: "I apologise if I have forced the issue here. I will however, return, interfrastically." With that, he leaps into the air, and flies far above the trees, in a direction that Rhiannon and Venterus have not followed, looking for the required twenty foot square space in which to construct shelter for the night. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 11 Oct 2005 : 11:44:02
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Ascending to an altitude of three hundred feet or so, merely with his thought, Valanwé rises into the evening sky, and cannot help but pause for a brief moment, and admire the view. Looking back, down through the trees, he can see the glint of Dalesons armour in the fading light. Spreading his arms, and leaning forward, he moves once more, at full speed, flying into a light breeze. Surveying the ground nearby, he circles, and in the distance sees Venterus flying towards him. Looking down once more, he spots a gap in the trees, and descends headfirst, on a long diagonal swoop to investigate.
Rhiannon glided over the forest, its beauty all the more apparent from her height, her gold and brown feathered wings needing to beat only to change her course or speed. If she still had lips she would have smiled, being a bird felt so free - she felt as if all of Faerun was open to her - she wanted to fly forever. She finaly shook herself back to the task at hand, she was moving out of the area the party could easily reach before sundown and had found nothing of note. A few steady wing beats saw her turn around and head back to the party.
Meanwhile, Valanwé finds himself in a roughly egg-shaped clearing, somewhat out of place in the dense forest. He surveys the scene, believing there to be room for the cottage, but sees that the undergrowth around the clearing is as dense as any he had seen. Being some distance from the party, he decides that for those of the group who do not have the ability to fly, this place would be too difficult to access. Rising once more, he finds himself only a few feet above the trees, heading back toward the party, as Venterus joins him in flight nearby, to his left hand side. He turns to the Eagle, as he flies, and says: "I understand now, what joy you gain from flight. I would that I had better, and longer-lasting means to do so."
"Remember, Master," says Venterus, as they descend through the trees, to where the party wait patiently, "that it is merely a mode of movement for myself and my kin - the joy comes from the new found freedom. I would that I knew what it was to swim."
Smiling kindly at the Eagle, he descends to but a few feet above the forest floor, and approaches the party.
As she approches the party, Rhiannon takes one last circle around the area, enjoying the feel of the air beneath her wings, then she flies down to the others. Landing, she shifts back into the true form. She staggers a little, shapeshifting always took a little out of her, then she steadies herself: "There are no suitable clearings within easy reach that way," Rhiannon said pointing in the direction.
"I have discovered but one location which would contain a shelter," says Valanwé, "but it is inaccessible on foot. I believe we must sleep on the forest floor, or amongst the branches tonight. What is your opinion, Master Daleson? Shall we go further tonight, or set up camp in this area? |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 11 Oct 2005 : 14:03:07
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Better to be prepared in a place of our choosing than to stumble on some trap in the night."
Daleson surveys the forest floor, then looks to the woodland folk of the party asking, "Was there any place a bit more defensible we could use to camp at, or is this spot as good as the rest?" |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 19 Oct 2005 : 18:54:03
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Valanwé informs the group of the situation, and they make camp by the road. The night passes uneventfully and they carry on the next day a little more refreshed.
the weather returning to normal temperature, and it being a nice bright day. No other adventurers are on the road, and the party passes the day by chatting and joking (with audible groans at some of Valanwé's repetoire).
Around midafternoon on the third day, Traehaearn calls for a halt. They are on the straight piece of road a few hours past where they last turned off to Aencars Manor, which affords a good view ahead. In the distance they can see sunlight glinting off metal, and as the figures get closer you can see 5 mounted humanoids dressed in armour. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 19 Oct 2005 : 18:55:07
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Daleson rides to the front of the party and hefts his shield. Not as much for protection as to catch the sun's glare on the shield and redirect it towards the riders, hoping to sun-blind a few long enough for a couple of the party members to "relocate" to better positions should combat occur.
"Those good with bow find a defensible position or limb. All others form on me and make no threatening moves. Yet, we must be prepared," he calmly informs everyone.
Selm moves forwards with him. "Master Daleson, do not be too hasty, I pray. We have no idea of who these travellers may be and by preparing to take action, we may appear threatening
to them. I suggest we wait until they are closer so that we might better
tell who, or what, they are. I would be quite willing to go and speak with
them so as to avoid any unnecessary misunderstandings," Selm finishes. |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 19 Oct 2005 : 18:56:55
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"Worry not Selm. We will talk. As I said everyone, do not draw your weapons, or appear threatening. Just be safe. If they take a little precaution as hostility, then there is aught we can do to change their initial reaction, but we can change their minds if they mean us no harm."
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 19 Oct 2005 : 18:58:01
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The men get closer, and it can be seen they are wearing platemail with a red surcoat. Emblazoned on the surcoat is a flaming sword.
The leader of the party (on an armoured warhorse) rides forward, points his weapon at you and bellows "Submit!" |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 19 Oct 2005 : 18:59:50
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After the challenge, the riders come closer still. To be either in talking or fighting range is unclear to the party at that moment. Valanwé, having prepared himself at first sight of the men by flying into the trees by the side of the road, starts to prepare another spell in case of hostilities.
Upon divining that the riders are followers of Tempus, God of war and
battles, Selm decides it would be easier if Daleson negotiated and voices
his concern. "Master Daleson, while I would gladly go forth and speak with
these riders, I feel you would probably be better placed than me. My Lady
Eldath is a peaceful Goddess and I think that they would better receive a
follower of a, ah, more militaristic deity." |
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Kaladorm
Master of Realmslore
United Kingdom
1176 Posts |
Posted - 19 Oct 2005 : 19:02:00
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Daleson raises his free hand, axe at the ready, but not in hand, and swings his shield "open" so they can see that no weapons are in hand. "Men of Tempus, we wish for no battle unneeded. Yet, you would ask a warrior to submit when parley is called for?"
He waits for their reply, calmly humming a tune a bit different from that of the one he hammered through in the battle with the owlbears. This one is bright and cheerful, reminding everyone of the sound of a whetstone sharpening a blade.
One man, gilded in slightly more elaborate platemail than the others rides forward. Without removing his helm he says briskly
"State your business and purpose here" |
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Kaladorm's Campaign Journal
