Equipped = None
Conditions = Heroes’ Feast (6/12h), Magic Vestment (6/13h), Status (6/13h, Eidi, Eri, Mort, Sol), Wind Walk (6/13h)
Life Link (12)(100’) = Eidi, Eri, Mort, Sol
Channel Energy (9/9)(7/7) (DC: 24)(Avoid 7, 35’r, 1/1 swift) (7d6+1+2d6 phylactery)
Amiable Blunder (1/1) (if Diplomacy failed by >5, re-roll to avoid worsening attitude)
Rod of Extend (lesser) (3/3)
Vest of Surgery (1/1) (Heal DC 20 to heal 1d4 ability damage)
Expeditious (3/3) (swift +10’ movement)
Melee Attack: BAB +9/+4, Size +1 Damage: +0
Ranged Attack: BAB +9/+4, Dex +1, Size +1 Damage: +0
Spells (Caster Level 13, Concentration +19)
Once per Day: Arcane Mark, Comprehend Languages, Message, Read Magic
Zero (16): Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Guidance, Light, Purify Food and Drink, Spark, Stabilize
First (17): (8/8) Bless, Cure Light Wounds, Diagnose Disease, Enhance Water, Liberating Command, Remove Fear
Second (18): (7/8) Burst of Radiance, Cure Moderate Wounds, Lesser Restoration, Light Prison, Pilfering Hand, Protection from Evil Communal, Status
Third (19): (4/7) Cure Serious Wounds, Daylight, Dispel Magic, Magic Vestments, Neutralize Poison, Prayer, Speak with Dead*
Fourth (20): (7/7) Blessings of Fervor, Brightest Light, Cure Critical Wounds, Protection from Energy Communal, Restoration, Speak with Haunt*, Terrible Remorse
Fifth (21): (7/7) Air Walk Communal, Breath of Life, Cleanse, Burst of Glory, Cure Light Wounds Mass
Sixth (22): (3/5) Cure Moderate Wounds Mass, Heal, Heroes’ Feast, Wind Walk
* Caster Level +2
As usual every morning, Ascaria ensorcels the shields of the party (Sol, Mort, Ascaria) and provides a sumptuous breakfast repast. He'll then watch over his friends and refresh the Life Link just in case...
"Why not something like this?" he shrugs.
Solrisa listens to Mort, smiling and nodding, but eventually turns momentarily sad.
"Oh Mort, those sound lovely...but I need to protect you and others. And I think the other ones would do that better. We don't always live in a safe world right now. But maybe after we kill Kyuss or whatever, and make the Rod safe, *then* I can get other pretty bracelets, but right now, I need to be able to protect you and others. So I need the other pretty ones."
Solrisa smiles, trying to break it gently to Mort that the world is not always a shiny happy place, but sometimes has bad stuff too.
"Black dragons" Eidi says with doom in his voice "The doom descended here even for such evil and powerful foe as them. That is the nature of the Runelords"
"Ok. Let's see to expend as less time possible with the authorities and check with the wizard as soon as possible"
Eidi will help pose questions to find the wizard as soon as they reach the city.
"Oh Mort, those sound lovely... But maybe after we kill Kyuss or whatever, and make the Rod safe, *then* I can get other pretty bracelets, but right now, I need to be able to protect you and others. So I need the other pretty ones."
'but I need to protect you and others'. Why does she always repeat herself? Why does she almost sound as if she's always trying to convince herself?!
... I don't understand revenge, or vengence.
"I know you will protect us, Solrisa," he says sincerely, reaching out to her. "I just thought the gold Bracers were more fitting of a solrisa -- a sun rise. They, uh -- compliment Your Radiance -- more than a Moon Glow would," he says simply, gesturing towards the silver Bracers. "But those are very pretty too."
~~~
"Black dragons. The doom descended here even for such evil and powerful foe as them. That is the nature of the Runelords"
Mortimer feels the hair on the back of his neck stand up. "Black dragons?!" Didn't we fight one of those a while back? "You mean like Illthane? Doom?" Mortimer gulps. "Well, I guess that means we should tread very very lightly here." He draws closer to the Elder as they approach their landing area, and does his best not to draw attention to himself as they pass through Magepoint.
I've got to find a way to look less... shiny!
He keeps silent, scanning the scenery -- drawing it all in.
Eri begins the day with plenty of Khava and eggs with cheese, mushrooms, and green onions and bacon and toast. Also he will consume a Mage Armor (+4 for 11 hours) , Detect Scrying and keep Message going. He will then have some tea and a snack.
So here’s my roll just in case.
"Ok. Let's see to expend as less time possible with the authorities and check with the wizard as soon as possible"
”Eidi, you are much better at all this than I am, but maybe I can offer a second set of eyes.”
Eri will assist and
Eri uses his downtime in Korvosa to visit a tailor's shop, very nearby your stay in Eodred's Walk. For a simple enough overcoat for each of the Outcasts, your sorcerer secures his desired reversible clothing, a couple of days before your departure.
You see a familiar barbed devil gazing directly at you. He was located due east, roughly 20 miles, at the time of your casting.
...
Barely larger than a hamlet, the bustling Village of Magepoint greets you, cloaked in the warmth of a sunny afternoon, though the sea breeze tempers the clime.
The outer walls of the village are themselves a wonder to behold- it is as if the forest was invited to cradle the settlement, without sacrificing its life to the building materials. The more annoying denizens of the forest are kept out easily, while the smaller animals find refuge both within the outer walls, as well as within the Village proper. Natural archways invite foot travel from the southwest, and the east.
For the entrance you take, you are greeted politely by several half-elves, armored in mithral shirts, armed with both composite longbows and elegant longswords.
Eidi steps forward to engage the Village Guard, and needs only a fraction of the time required to gather the information the Outcasts seek. Lycei, a young guard by half-elf standards addresses you. "You are expected. Rooms are ready for you at the All-Seeing Eye, our one and only inn. You'll find it easily enough, just make your way towards the shore, and you'll come across the only three-story building this side of the Bridge. I will say, we expected you much earlier. Manzorian has taken on another task, and has yet to return."
Solrisa nods to the half-elf, admiring the diplomacy and formality of it all.
"Oh, that's my fault! I spent too much time in Korvosa!" Solrisa coos apologetically with a smile. "Thank you so much for the information. This place is wonderful!"
"What else can you tell me about your town? What might occupy our time while we wait for Manzorian to return?" Solrisa entices Lycei for information. "Is there a zoo? A good place for walks? How about a place to spar or hunt butterflies? I *LOVE* cheese. Is there good cheese around?"
After that, Solrisa will lead the party (whilst guarding Mort, of course) to the All-Seeing Eye, the one and only inn. She will book appropriate rooms.
Ascaria nods along with Solrisa, "Yes, we took some time resupplying. We weren't sure what the options would be here, and didn't want to impose. We will wait patiently for his return."
He's a little curious that the guards are expecting them, but he lets it go for now assuming perhaps they are just very well organized, and small.
He strides into the village smiling in the sun on his way to the All-Seeing Eye.
Eidi slightly cracks his back bones and answers the guards with a smile "Oh, thanks, thanks for your considerations my nice young fellows. My back will really appreciate it. The All-Seeing Eye it is then. What a wonderful name!" the half-elf walks a bit forward just to turn back absentmindedly "Oh oh, what a head I have. Manzorian, of course, we came here for the wizard. You probably can tell us who could we talk to in order to know more about this new task our friend has engaged into. Is that a secret game of the wizard? To guess what it is?" the elder giggles silly after his last sentence.
"Is it at all possible to spread some mis-information in town that might make the Devil's job more difficult? I'm uncomfortable having people know my business at all. Knowing we are being hunted by a devil, I like it even less."
"Rooms are ready for you at the All-Seeing Eye, our one and only inn."
What?! Mortimer frowns. Why do they call it 'All-Seeing Eye'? ... Three stories?!
"Mmm, convenient..." Mortimer mutters. He addresses the young Half Elf. "Does Magepoint get many visitors then?"
... and do they stay at the one and only Inn... and if they don't, is it because it has such a disconcerting name?
"You probably can tell us who could we talk to in order to know more about this new task our friend has engaged into. Is that a secret game of the wizard? To guess what it is?"
Mortimer patiently waits for the Theurge to stop giggling.
"Yea, we've noticed at least one of his Wizard friends has a taste for adventure too big for his robes sometimes," Mort bursts forth jovially. "If he's anything like his friend, he may need looking after too!" he tries to smile, but it comes out more like a grimace.
Lycei listens politely enough to the arrivals at the gate, as there are no others to which he must attend other than they. The guard seems to measure the maiden's initial questions as worthy of reply.
"Magepoint is not known for its tourism, though travelers from far and wide come to visit our Library Temple." As the maiden's questions seem to wander into inanity, Lycei waits for another of you to speak up, and takes it as opportunity to move on in the interaction. He finds no relief as the elder half-elf burbles along with his curiosities.
"You must be Eidi. Well met. Archmage Manzorian's business is certainly his own, but you're welcome to inquire with Cymria of Celadon. As she'll be screening you, I'm sure you'll be found when she's ready."
Lycei turns to the giant next. "I'm not sure what you consider 'many'. As I've said, we enjoy the attentions of those who wish to avail themselves of the Library, and of course those, like yourselves, who seek counsel with the Archmage." Lycei seems comfortable ending his answer right then and there.
For your brief conversation with a Magepoint Village Guard, your knowledge of Magepoint begins. As you enter the Village, your knowledge grows. This is the very antithesis of Egorian. Coastal winds blow across undulating grassy hills, with very little foot travel to beat the paths brown between the buildings. Where paths are required, comfortable cobblestones have been laid down to ease the walks and avoid undue slipping from rain or snow.
The homes are expertly-crafted, and have their own personalities. Most of them appear to have associated coach houses for on-site servants' quarters. At a glance, the median wealth of Magepoint easily exceeds that of grander metropolises, though its population can only be estimated at roughly 500 souls.
A small business district lines the road that stretches along the coast, offering establishments that cater to a multitude of services and needs, though they tend towards more white tunic than blue. Scribers, crafters, lawyers, tutors... the businesses seem to support diplomats and couriers, business folk and facilitators. There are, of course, weapons shops, armor shops, magic shops, and supplies for even the most intrepid adventurers.
Your eye draws gently across the business district to an unassuming, but grand two-story building, which takes the shape of a 'U', its courtyard groomed in topiary. This is the Library Temple.
For a coastal village, one would expect heavy trade in fishing, with nets, and boats, and shabby-but-functional piers, but such is not the case with Magepoint. Well-maintained stone piers keep to themselves, quietly going about their seafooding business. Nary a fishy smell to be detected.
Off the shore, you lay eyes more closely upon the stone bridge that stretches across the waters to the Archmage's fortress. The stone pier stands dry in defiance of the waves which try to breach its unnatural presence.
The All-Seeing Eye is quite easy to locate for all of this. It has a direct avenue to the stone pier, and it doesn't restrain itself like the Library Temple does. The three story building is almost regal in its decor. It speaks to people in positions of influence and power, offering a luxurious stay in every level of accommodation. Entering its lobby, you are greeted in no time flat, and presented your individual room keys, each with a unique glass eye inlay.
Your attendant outlines your meal options, either brought to you individually in your rooms, or served as a group in one of the various private dining rooms. He only asks that you give their chefs enough time to prepare your request. He doesn't ask how long you'll be staying, only indicating that your rooms have already been paid. Pointing you to the stairs that will lead to your second-story stays, he excuses himself, leaving you to your own devices.
"Oh, I quite like traveling." Ascaria whistles as he sees the inn. He forgets, for the moment, just how much magic and wealth have smoothed the normally very rough edges of a journey such as they've had, and instead focuses on the newness of it all. He'd never been out of Diamond Lake before this began, and now...
He bounds up to his room to check it out, but he suggests a private dining room to enjoy his companion's company. Over dinner he says, "While we wait, we might as well do some window shopping tomorrow, and generally investigate what the village has to offer. Sounds like we've seen most of it on the surface. It's a small place!"
That night he sleeps soundly, and rises early to feed the party prior to going downstairs to greet the day.
As usual every morning, Ascaria ensorcels the shields of the party (Sol, Mort, Ascaria) and provides a sumptuous breakfast repast. He'll then watch over his friends and refresh everyones Life Link just in case...
Magic Vestment
Heroes' Feast
Status
If Eidi is surprised by the guard knowing his name, it is certainly not appreciated in his face expression "Oh oh! Cymria of Celadon! How charming!"
The elder walks along the streets with the party while cheerfully whistling and mumbling "Cymria... of Celadon... Cymria... of Celadon..."
Once at the inn he turns to the party "Mmm... why? why are we here? Is this our inn?" he blinks when the rooms are said to be paid "I think I am getting senile or something... I do not remembering paying the room, but if you said we already paid, you should be right mistress" the elder winks an eye and happily looks for his room.
Eidi works in Solrisa's bracelet for the rest of the day. Next morning he happily has the breakfast with Ascaria and the others "So, shall we check the Library Temple today? I am really curious to know when Cymria will fill safe to appear in front of us"
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This is the very antithesis of Egorian. Coastal winds blow across undulating grassy hills, with very little foot travel to beat the paths brown between the buildings.
Upon seeing the billowing grass, Mortimer immediately makes a beeline for a green clad hillock. He kicks off his boots of the Elven Kin and kneads the grass with his toes. "Aaaaaahhhhhhhhhhhh!" he cries in relief. He then throws himself upon the green face first, inhaling the earth deeply. He then rolls over and pulls his Headband of the Lizard folk down over his eyes, apparently napping and sun bathing.
No keep off the grass signs here!
It takes persistent rousting to get him moving again but he does eventually raise his headband and don his boots, albeit somewhat reluctantly.
~~~
"Oh look! The Mages here have their own special Cheese Shop!" he points out as they pass through the Village, noting in appreciation the lack of bouzouki players.
~~~
"Wow! They designed this for kings, I guess!" Mortimer exclaims as they approach and enter All-Seeing Eye. Impressed and somewhat overwhelmed by the staff's efficiency, he scowls warily at the glass eye inlay of his room key as it is handed to him -- but then it dawns on him.
"After weeks together -- we all get our own room!!!" he exclaims excitedly forgetting his uneasiness over the key's inlay, along with almost every other thing. Breathing space! Away from the Gnome's feet! Away from the Sorcerer's breath! This is too good to be true! I bet Sol and Eidi will really appreciate this too! They all get respite from my prevailing stink and overgrown hair!
"I'm just going to go and, uh -- freshen up a bit." He makes sure he has all of his gear, then immediately runs for the stairs scaling them two at a time. Once he finds the room designated for him, he quickly opens the door, steps into the room, then closes it gently but firmly behind him.
Solrisa follows Mort through the town, oohing and aahing all the way.
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Eri follows Mort to the woods and climbs up a tree and feels the blanket of comfort and security move over him as he takes a break. He barely notices it's time to leave to go back to the little town.
When in town he's a little uneasy, I don't like that everyone knows our business. While everyone looks around in wonder he looks around warily. He does sample some cheese, however.
Once he is safely secured in his room. he locks the door and sets up a simple trap on it The rest of his time is spent breathing and staring out the window.
Eri begins the day with plenty of Khava and eggs with cheese, mushrooms, and green onions and bacon and toast. Also he will consume a Mage Armor (+4 for 11 hours) , Detect Scrying and keep Message going. He will then have some tea and a snack.
The memories of hunger and cold and misery are fading. I don’t have much of those now. There is dying which I don’t really like, but I’m pretty comfortable. I like this group. I think I’ll stay.
As there seems to be nothing else to do, Ascaira agrees with Eidi, "Sure, let's check the library."
He glances at Mort on the cool grass. Though he hates to interrupt, he still calls out, "Mort! We're headed to the library, wanna stick together?"
Hat firmly on his head, he looks around the town as they walk, taking it all in. He loves traveling.
Once he finds the room designated for him, he quickly opens the door, steps into the room, then closes it gently but firmly behind him.
He rushes to the Polished Glass in front of the water basin and inspects his face.
More hairy than a bison! He stares at himself for some time. I swear that there is hair growing out of my eyeball! I didn't know I could do this! Well... better clean up a little.
He begins by shaving the space between his eyes just above his nose, not stopping until his upper lip, jaw and and chin are clean shaven. He then trims his eyebrows and shaves his ear-tufts. He splashes more cool water over his face, and towels himself dry. He leaves his eyeballs untouched.
He looks down at the rest of his body. Now what about the rest of me?
Finally noticing it, he steps into and activates the Warm function of the Prestidigitation Spa Room and enjoys the sauna for awhile. He then activates the Clean function of the Room.
This place has everything!...
He steps out of the Spa, and orders a glass of lemonade. Once refreshed completely and convinced that he is at least reasonably presentable, he stretches, yawns, and lays back on the bed.
But first... ' need a nap.
Still keeping the haversack close by, he pulls half of the top blanket over himself and closes his eyes.
Mortimer merrily glides down the verdant hillside on the back of Harri, his trusty steed. He coasts to the edge of the water, leaps off of the equine, and dives into the frigid water. Focused, he effortlessly swims toward the center island. In the open while the brutally chilled wind buffets them, he arduously boulder hops the three meters to the skiff that returns them to the mainland.
Damn that's fun!
He braces himself as his brother, seconds behind him takes too much time to land gracefully into the boat and instead careens into into him, falling prone at Mort's feet. Mortimer does his best and succeeds in steadying the vessel. He then beams at his brother proudly, and offers him a hand back to his feet.
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He glances at Mort on the cool grass. Though he hates to interrupt, he still calls out, "Mort! We're headed to the library, wanna stick together?"
Solrisa, laying near Mort in her shiny mail, picks herself up and offers a hand to Mort.
"Mort, listen!" Solrisa cheers, smiling wide. "We're going to the library! Come on! Libraries are fun...right?"
Solrisa helps Mort up and prods him in the direction of the library.
"We're going to read books, Mort! Maybe you'll help me find some books about the Dragon! Or Dragons! That would be fun, right?" Solrisa shooes Mort on.
"We're coming, Ascaria."
"Mort, listen!"
Mortimer lifts the corner of his Headband to peer out at Solrisa with one eye. Before being all but completely blinded, he sees her silhouette in the center of a great radiant ball of pure white light as the sun behind her lines up with her head. Are ... are those... wings? He shakes his head as if to clear it, then looks back up at her. As she comes into focus, he slowly blinks once.
"We're going to the library! Come on! Libraries are fun...right? We're going to read books, Mort!"
"Uh, read?" he asks, blindly as Solrisa shifts her head and the sun hits his eye. He kip-ups.
"Maybe you'll help me find some books about the Dragon! Or Dragons! That would be fun, right?" Solrisa shooes Mort on.
Unsure of how to react Mortimer blurts, "Uh... Yes?" He calls out to Eri in the tree. "HEY! Get bright! You heard the Lady, we have to catch up with Eidi!"
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Cymria of Celadon is Manzorian's local confidante in Magepoint. A wolfish elf, she is well-regarded by all but a few residents, particularly the local sheriff, who feels his position somewhat diminished by Manzorian and his inner circle.
As for Celadon, it speaks to a distant shore, likely Tian Xia, for its root name, but current geography withstanding, it must be an ancient land, for there is no territory your shrewd mind can pinpoint to define Celadon specifically.
You find your rooms more than accommodating, as to which Mortimer can attest for his grooming needs, and the rest of you can sense, regarding the construction of the All-Seeing Eye. Once the door closes behind you, you find it difficult to hear much of any of the comings and goings of your fellow guests. One can picture a lodger returning drunkenly to their room, their obnoxious noises falling on only their own personal eardrums...
The interior of each room is pristine, the linens crisp, the mattress king-sized, the windows shaded grey glass, with black-out curtains. The bath is a large copper structure, with two taps, which allow you to control for the warmth of your bath. Next to the bed, you find a small bookshelf, and several books of various titles, as well as hooded lanterns with continual flames.
Aside from your own personal subconscious experiences, you find your first night in the All-Seeing Eye one of the more profound rests you've had in awhile.
...
The morning greets you gently, with no significant noises of foot traffic to crack your sleep, until one or two of you gather the others to a first-floor private dining room, which houses your Heroes' Feast for the hour that it takes.
As you finish and ready to depart the lobby of the Eye, you are approached by a tall,wolfish-looking female elf, dressed in a deep crimson tunic, which distracts you from the elven chain beneath it. She smiles curiously, counting each of you leaving the dining room, until she seems satisfied that those she seeks are gathered.
"Good morning. I hope you've found your accommodations to your liking?" She pauses, more for courtesy, as it is apparent in the tone of her voice that she expects no objections. "Good. My name is Cymria, attache of Manzorian. I understand that Allustan Neff of Diamond Lake has petitioned an audience for you. An audience has been granted, pending our discussion this morning. Please, join me."
She turns immediately, and walks gracefully across the lobby. At the front desk, she passes around it, and through an unassuming rear door. There is a short hallway beyond, which ends in a private study, adorned with ceiling-length shelves filled with books and curios. There is only one door into the room. In the center of the room is an octagonal table, made from a single piece of obsidian, surrounded by eight darkwood chairs. As you enter, you find two of the chairs already occupied, and by familiar faces, no less!
Across from you sit Celeste, and Eligos. They both turn to acknowledge you, Celeste bidding you to take your seats, while Cymria remains standing, until all but she are seated. Then she sits, and addresses you.
"I'm sure you have questions. Please hold them for now. I'd like to know you better, and why Diamond Lake has sent you, instead of Allustan." She rests her intertwined hands on the table in front of her, and waits for your reply.
Across from you sit Celeste, and Eligos. They both turn to acknowledge you, Celeste bidding you to take your seats.
Mortimer's apparent curiosity over the glass-like table is derailed when his eyes set upon Celeste. He notices Eligos several seconds later, and stares at both dumbstruck.
He turns to Eligos, "Was it actually a -- ?" he cuts himself off and turns to Celeste. "Did you -- ?" This time he's cut off by Cymria.
"I'm sure you have questions. Please hold them for now. I'd like to know you better, and why Diamond Lake has sent you, instead of Allustan."
Forced to remember her presence, Mortimer's eyes drift over to Cymria, and lock on her momentarily as they focus. He closes his agape jaw and quietly takes a seat near Celeste. He looks again at Cymria, opens his mouth, then shakes his head hopelessly.
"Where do we start... ?" he says, addressing Cymria."I mean, Allustan is aging. He just lost his house. He's with Marzena at Neff's mansion. He's old... tired. The last time he went out it nearly killed him." Mortimer shakes his head. "He trusts us, I think. Why wouldn't he send us?" He folds his arms and looks levelly at Cymria. Purposefully and with genuine concern he asks her, "Why do you ask?"
Ascaria rises early and well rested. He looks longingly at the bed as he leaves the room and heads downstairs to 'make' breakfast.
He too is at a loss when he sees Eligos and Celeste, but he smiles warmly at the pair of them. When Mort has spoken he leans in to hear, also curious as to why they're being questioned.
Solrisa smiles brightly when she sees her good friends Eligos and Celeste, rushing to give them hugs.
"Eri, look! Our friends!" Solrisa cries with joy. "Allustan isn't coming? I thought he was?" Solrisa looks around confused, hoping Allustan would come at any moment.
Solrisa explains their trip as best she can (as if she was asked).
"Well, we had a lovely time in Korvosa! We met a kangazebra, I think! It was lovely! And a moose? Mort, was that a moose?" Solrisa looks at Mort before carrying on about a bunch more of the animals. She speaks until she is gently interrupted by someone actually answering the question that was asked.
"Where do we start... ?" he says, addressing Cymria."I mean, Allustan is aging. He just lost his house. He's with Marzena at Neff's mansion. He's old... tired. The last time he went out it nearly killed him." Mortimer shakes his head. "He trusts us, I think. Why wouldn't he send us?" He folds his arms and looks levelly at Cymria. Purposefully and with genuine concern he asks her, "Why do you ask?"
"Yeh, he's delegating. There are many things happening and much to do. Allustan's word is enough to get us an audience, but not enough to actually talk to?" As he talks Eri gets more and more agitated. He looks ready to say something further but stops himself and leans back into his chair.
"Where do we start... ? I mean, Allustan is aging. He just lost his house. He's with Marzena at Neff's mansion. He's old... tired. The last time he went out it nearly killed him. He trusts us, I think. Why wouldn't he send us? Why do you ask?"
Cymria absorbs the giant's initial answer, nodding gently.
"Allustan did not convey his personal losses, only that something of grave concern should be discussed with Manzorian. Theirs was not a lengthy discussion."
Cymria is trying to be polite, but there is a suggestion in the tone of her voice that something exists between Allustan and Manzorian which is less than amicable.
"Yeh, he's delegating. There are many things happening and much to do. Allustan's word is enough to get us an audience, but not enough to actually talk to?"
Cymria absorbs the sorcerer's addendum. Her expression remains placid, as her gaze looks directly upon Eri.
"You don't seem aware of your tardiness here. Manzorian actually waited for two days, locally, to receive you in the same day of your arrival. And you didn't show. Allustan's word was enough to prioritize the Archmage's time, which is no mean feat. It is now my word Manzorian wishes to hear, as I serve here in his absence." The elf looks away from Eri to address the table.
"Let me speak plainly. I do not know you. Manzorian doesn't know you. I am measuring this grave concern by what you speak this morning."
Cymria's patience is not endless, and she's thrown her last sentence out, with a tone of voice that suggests that she's already done a fair bit of measuring, considering her two earlier guests, Celeste and Eligos.
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"So what is it you want to know? Can we hang together in a fight? We've bested a dragon, as well as all manner of unwholesome creature from the dark - even a championship in Egorian."
"Can we be diplomatic? Well, yes, when pressed." he looks at Eri then gestures at Mort's throat piece. "That was granted to us by a tribe of lizard folk to indicate their pleasure at our assistance some time ago in saving their eggs."
"Can we keep a secret? Well, that's harder to gauge of course. But there are many things we know that we haven't shared to protect those who are innocent."
"If there's anything else I can tell you, please ask and I'll do the best I can. I apologize for our tardiness, but no one explained to us that we were inconveniencing anyone. We've been on the run for quite a long while now tracking down these endless worms. We needed to improve some items we found, and to be perfectly honest - take a breather so we'd be ready for this next step."
"But you have found us of ready breath, and eager, perhaps over eager, to proceed."
He smiles at her, trying to pierce that cold exterior with his glow.
Solrisa looks confused.
"We're tardy? How can we be tardy?" Solrisa asks the question. "Was there an invitation that was offered? Did we miss something?" Solrisa looks at Eri, then Eidi.
She smiles at Cymria.
"We didn't know you were waiting for us. No one told us. We're so sorry." Solrisa smiles sweetly.
Cymria encourages the gnome. "I already know that your nature is not evil. I know that you are Champions of the Gauntlet. You tell me what you can do. I ask you to tell me who you are. What do you believe? Where do you come from? What are your motivations?" She doesn't look only at Ascaria, but addresses you all in her questions.
"Allustan did not convey his personal losses, only that something of grave concern should be discussed with Manzorian. Theirs was not a lengthy discussion."
Mortimer face plants. Ohh, no... We tarried too long in Korvosa! ...
Wait?! Oh... I see! Mortimer looks at Cymria, eyebrows raised. ?
"Yeh, he's delegating. There are many things happening and much to do. Allustan's word is enough to get us an audience, but not enough to actually talk to?"
"You don't seem aware of your tardiness here. Manzorian actually waited for two days, locally, to receive you in the same day of your arrival. And you didn't show. Allustan's word was enough to prioritize the Archmage's time, which is no mean feat. It is now my word Manzorian wishes to hear, as I serve here in his absence. Let me speak plainly. I do not know you. Manzorian doesn't know you. I am measuring this grave concern by what you speak this morning."
Mortimer looks to the heavens for forgiveness, then sighs. Too much time in Korvosa. He refocuses. " We were fortunate enough to study some ruins of the AirDukes. We found that they closed this horrid rift in time and space that was leaking the very antithesis of Life. They gathered their strength and through great sacrifice managed to defeat -- or at least beat back -- the Undead invasion and close the rift."
He pauses, looking for a glass of water before continuing.
"Lately -- at least I've been wondering -- if someone has been trying to reopen that rift. As we've mentioned -- we've seen some very disturbing evidence of a lawless evil nature manifesting itself in an extremely endemic manner -- droves even. And because it's the kind of thing which I will not abide -- well, can not abide anymore than any living creature can -- Did we forget to mention all the Undead? Yes, many of them were Undead. The very antithesis of Life -- this Life that I seem to be enjoying so much of because it's so light and nurturing and forgiving -- because it's not dark and horrifying full of flesh boring parasites that use LizardFolk eggs -- there were a lot -- to procreate more flesh boring parasites that turn creatures like you" he gestures at Cymria, "and everyone else that I might meet and respect -- into some unrecognizable and hateful Undead Thing." He flashes back to the mazes in Dourstone and elsewhere rife with Undead, and shudders.
Did someone accidently press too far into some kind of rift?! The rift between Allustan and Manzorian? Mortimer glances at Eligos before returning his attention to Cymria. Maybe rift is too strong a word for whatever is between them...
"I have much respect for the WindDukes, and what I think they might have accomplished. He clutches the Haversack a little closer to his body. "It is regretable that Allustan is not here with his own words. Maybe someome made a mistake at worst, but maybe with the right help it's not too late to make amends."
He sips some water pensively then adds, "... or maybe Allustan is too busy using his energy to bolster Diamond Lake against some chaos, and is hoping for support from Manzorian to help protect the region against some Evil, and has sent us in his stead to assist."
He sips more water. "But ... we tarried too long in Korvosa for whatever reason," he confesses, quietly, hanging his head.
"I've spent much of my life outside in the quiet noise of nature. It wasn't until we were in the opposite of that, both in the city and underground fighting for our lives, that I realized how much the quiet noise is essential to me. I've already died to protect it once. There's no turning back for me now."
Cymria encourages the gnome. "I already know that your nature is not evil. I know that you are Champions of the Gauntlet. You tell me what you can do. I ask you to tell me who you are. What do you believe? Where do you come from? What are your motivations?" She doesn't look only at Ascaria, but addresses you all in her questions.
Ascaria laughs, "Over drinks perhaps you could ask such personal questions, but here, as an inquisition, they take on a rather more sinister tone. But I guess you're just trying to be efficient. Fine, we'll trust you and share ourselves."
"I bring light into dark places and aid those working there for the betterment of us all. Whether it's in the mines of Diamond Lake, where I'm from, or on the front lines in battle, it's the same task. This group, all of us, are bringing the fight to the enemy in our own way, and I aim to support that. The enemy is vast, with tendrils meandering throughout civilization it seems, and we're beating it back one bit at a time, until we can find the head."
"But what of you, and your master? Are you merely mercenaries in all this, or do you play a greater part in the defense against evil? We are prepared to trust you on Allustan's word, but I am curious as to your motives here as well."
Eidi smiles wide at Celeste, as if bringing together secrets that only they share and understand. The half-elf sits then calmly with the group and listens to all the interaction. He giggles a bit when silence is made "A hero is never late, nor is he early, he arrives precisely when he means to." he looks at Celeste again with a look of satisfaction, like saying, 'you made a good choice with them'.
"You ask yourself, who this lot is. And these people are just that. Heroes" he points one at one at his companions "Eri the Stormborn, devoted and loyal to his master Allustan." the half-elf says this name as if willing to provoke a reaction from Cymria to whom he observes attentively before proceeding "Ascaria the Soulkeeper, fond of appeasing the wrecked and find the order into the chaos. Mortimer the Passionate, engaged into fighting injustice and prejudice there where it is found the most. And Solrisa the Dragonshield, committed protector of the weak and all other of us. Heroes you prayed for and heroes you have" the elder sits back again.
"All of them courteous people of Diamond Lake willing to offer their lives for the success in this Quest to prevent the pure evil to consume the Inner Sea, with little other bond or servitude than those to the common people of their community. Now the question is, what can you achieve with a bunch of heroes?" as he finishes his speech, Eidi gets some food or brings one of his cookies to eat without much regard for his environment, then he sets himself comfortable in his chair.
Solrisa struggles to find too much more to add.
"I'm very good at protecting, like Eidi says," Solrisa beams. "And all my friends are very nice too, like Eidi says."
Solrisa beams as if she has says plenty.
Diplomacy
"I have much respect for the Wind Dukes, and what I think they might have accomplished."
Cymria vocalizes a wordless sound of agreement, before allowing Mortimer to finish his thoughts.
"I've spent much of my life outside in the quiet noise of nature. It wasn't until we were in the opposite of that, both in the city and underground fighting for our lives, that I realized how much the quiet noise is essential to me. I've already died to protect it once. There's no turning back for me now."
The elf nods, turning to hear the gnome's response to her prodding.
"Over drinks perhaps you could ask such personal questions, but here, as an inquisition, they take on a rather more sinister tone. But I guess you're just trying to be efficient. Fine, we'll trust you and share ourselves."
Celeste speaks up. "Be at peace, Ascaria. She means no offense." Eligos sighs, but doesn't add anything to the back and forth.
"But what of you, and your master? Are you merely mercenaries in all this, or do you play a greater part in the defense against evil? We are prepared to trust you on Allustan's word, but I am curious as to your motives here as well."
"Mercenaries? Heavens, no." Cymria leans forward to pour herself a goblet of wine. Sipping it, she allows a pregnant pause in a couple of swallows to regard Ascaria. "Cheliax certainly breeds paranoia." The elf takes another sip. "And gnomes are not known for their patient natures, though I will ask it of you. Trust, but verify. This is my opportunity to glean some understanding of your character. I have Celeste's word, as well as the word of Eligos. Certainly you wouldn't fault me for trying to establish my own word. My motive should be plain enough to you- meet with prospective audiences with Manzorian, and weigh their worth. You are no different from any of those who petition the Archmage's time." The elf raises her goblet to her lips again.
"You ask yourself, who this lot is. And these people are just that. Heroes... Heroes you prayed for and heroes you have... Now the question is, what can you achieve with a bunch of heroes?"
Cymria and Celeste share a knowing look, before the elf answers. "I am not disappointed, Eidi. Celeste wasn't wrong about you. Kind perhaps, but not wrong." Cymria sets her goblet down without a sound.
"I have not prayed for you, but perhaps in time I will come to thank the gods for your pursuits, with or without the Archmage's support. Manzorian's motives are his own. I'll be sure to mention your interest in knowing them. For what you have shared, of yourselves and of this peril, I am satisfied." The elf stands at the table, placing thin hands upon the obsidian.
"You will be notified when the Archmage has returned. Your meeting with him will take place within his fortress across the Bridge. Until then, please refrain from traveling to the island. It is well-protected."
"I'm very good at protecting, like Eidi says. And all my friends are very nice too, like Eidi says."
"I'm sure they are." Cymria excuses herself, nodding to Celeste and Eligos lastly. While Eligos remains pensive, Celeste stands and circles the table to embrace each of you, before addressing you herself.
"Words can not begin to express my relief, to finally set eyes upon you, to see you all..." she pauses, frowning briefly. "Tynan?" She tries to understand, allows time to hear what may be learned.
She saddens, looking towards Eligos. "It was all I could do to redeem myself for having been absent from Egorian, to bring Eligos's body here, once I learned your destination."
"Do not deny yourselves the comfort and tranquility of Magepoint, while you visit. I fear it will not last very long, once you consult with Manzorian."
When Eri gets a chance he goes off into the woods, climbs a high tree and sets up his hammock and stretches out. He lies there silent swinging letting the recent events of his life wash slowly over him while he listens to the life moving around him.
Never thought I’d talk to dead people. That was, creepy. The creepiness was less than the annoyance of Imps. I sure don’t like being watched.
Tynan, in his head Eri sees images flash of him as his eyes become useless with tears.
After a little while Eri takes a break from his thoughts to be with people for a while and maybe get a snack. Maybe a little beer, too.
Ascaria is pleased they passed whatever test they seemed to be under, but doesn't fail to notice Cymria didn't actually answer his question. He shrugs and hugs Celeste and shakes Eligos' hand.
"How are you faring, well I hope?" he asks them. When Tynan is brought up, Ascaria frowns unhappily, "He was scouting ahead when the dragon came upon us. He was taken and, being far from us, was killed before we could react with support. It was a very large dragon you understand."
Solrisa nods at Ascaria's solemn words, hugging Celeste for an extra long time.
"Mort and Eri killed the evil dragon, but it was a bad one. One that took our friend from us," Solrisa adds. "It was an evil bad dragon that spread the icky green worms of undeath. It needed to die."
"Heroes you prayed for and heroes you have"
Mortimer starts blushing and shifting uncomfortably in his chair. As Cymria reaches for the wine bottle, Mortimer leaps to his feet out of respect and rushes to pour it for her.
"I am not disappointed, Eidi. Celeste wasn't wrong about you. Kind perhaps, but not wrong."
Mortimer looks at Celeste and silently expresses his gratitude with a blink and a smile. I wonder what 'Kind perhaps, but not wrong.' is supposed to mean...
Mortimer opens the door for Cymria as she excuses herself, and watches after her for a bit, curious as to where she is headed.
What a job. I like this level of ... protection.
Celeste's embrace takes Mortimer completely by surprise and he melts a little. Is that... honeysuckle? Wow. Just ... wow. His eyes glaze over slightly and he falls silent for several minutes.
"Tynan?"
"It was a very large dragon you understand.""It was an evil bad dragon ..."
Mortimer comes out of his daydream hibernation mode. "Yes, Tynan... died scouting..." Speaking of evil dragons... "But, enough chatter on unfortunate things! -- we should be thankful for what we have!" He says, beaming at Celeste and Eligos. "Tell us, Celeste -- how did you handle the Captain of the Guard? She wouldn't let us near Eligos or his manor. She even commissioned some imps to watch us and rat us out if we did anything. And what did you say about us to Cymria? Whatever it was -- we thank you for that! And Eligos -- I'm sorry I mistook you for a Doppleganger. Egorian was very unpleasant for us. What happened while we were Gauntleting? Who did that to you? Was it someone Loris sent? How have you both fared?"
"How are you faring, well I hope? ...He was scouting ahead when the dragon came upon us. He was taken and, being far from us, was killed before we could react with support. It was a very large dragon you understand."
""Yes, Tynan... died scouting... But, enough chatter on unfortunate things! -- we should be thankful for what we have! Tell us, Celeste -- how did you handle the Captain of the Guard? She wouldn't let us near Eligos or his manor. She even commissioned some imps to watch us and rat us out if we did anything. And what did you say about us to Cymria? Whatever it was -- we thank you for that! And Eligos -- I'm sorry I mistook you for a Doppleganger. Egorian was very unpleasant for us. What happened while we were Gauntleting? Who did that to you? Was it someone Loris sent? How have you both fared?"
Celeste and Eligos remain standing, while they take in the death by dragon, and the barrow full of questions rolled out.
"I agree that it is good to get away from Egorian. It does make you appreciate the more pleasant parts of the world. As for handling the City Guard, it was easy enough, claiming his body for burial. I did have to wait for them to release it, him, of course." Celeste gives Eligos an apologetic look. It gives him the confidence to speak next.
"It was Captain Okoral. Celeste and I were able to establish this, from my description of the horrible man, and his likely association with Raknian." The muscles in Eligos's neck strain for a moment. "I remember you. Asking questions. I also remember being asked questions again, but time is a fuzzy thing from the other side of the Veil. I will be returning to Egorian, and begin proceedings against Okoral, if he still haunts the city." The older man grows quiet again, looking to Celeste to resume the duty of responding.
"Pending the outcome of our meeting with the Archmage, I think I will join Eligos in his return to the city. Can't be too careful, this time around. I am glad that you have remained strong, this whole time. I'm also glad that Allustan directed us here, so we might see each other, once again."
Solrisa's smile fades as Eligos mentions Captain Okoral.
"Oooh...I would very much like to help capture Captain Okoral. Very much indeed. I have questions for him about the death and his hands in it. And I would like to ask them with the point of my sword," Solrisa says grimly as if she is very unhappy with Okoral.
"If you want me to help in any way, I'd like to help." Solrisa's smile returns, happy to offer her sword.
"I'm quite sure we could come quicker to an invitation to find and capture Captain Okoral if you ask us," Solrisa speaks for the group.
Ascaria's usual uneasiness when dealing with lawful figures comes into play and he hesitates when Sol offers their services to deal with this captain. "Well, if we can prove they're bad, then sure, we're all over it. But they're a captain, so we must tread carefully lest they bring the law on us. We've had some experience with that." He remembers all the way back at the beginning, locked in a cell with no way out...
"But it is very good to see you both. This is lovely. Will you join us for lunch at least? We were going to the library I think, but we can put that off." he grins at Eidi hopefully.
Eligos regards Solrisa and her proclamation, his eyes tired. Gone is the old man's admiration for the fairer sex, he only listens to woman declare her personal desire.
"Vigilantism? In Egorian? I would prefer to use what legal means the city affords its citizens. It is, after all, my home. I will not be chased from it."
Celeste tries to bring the conversation back to pleasantries. "Yes, Ascaria, we would very much enjoy sharing a meal together. It will help pass the time well, I think. Shall we gather in the atrium for lunch then?"
"Excellent! Let's!!"
Ascaria tells stories as they eat, filling them in on all their exploits over the last days and weeks. He tries to make the tales entertaining, which means the truth sometimes falters, but he never strays far - and not in the important points. But he enjoys himself and has a good time.
When the food is cleared, he'll take out some scratch paper and draw the scene, as if the food were still there. The entire party, circling Celeste and Eligos all eating, and talking, and laughing, and just enjoying each other's company as they while away the time.
"It was Captain Okoral."
Captain Okoral?! Pompous Idiot...
"I'm quite sure we could come quicker to an invitation to find and capture Captain Okoral if you ask us,"
"Well, if we can prove they're bad, then sure, we're all over it. But they're a captain, so we must tread carefully lest they bring the law on us. We've had some experience with that."
Pompous. Idiot.
"Vigilantism? In Egorian? I would prefer to use what legal means the city affords its citizens. It is, after all, my home. I will not be chased from it."
Mortimer nods. "Indeed. But if Okoral is anywhere, it's probably with Loris and Kendra, and my guess is -- where ever that is it's nowhere near Egorian."
"Yes, Ascaria, we would very much enjoy sharing a meal together. It will help pass the time well, I think. Shall we gather in the atrium for lunch then?"
"Lunch sounds grand!" he says beaming, offering Celeste his arm.
Eri shakes himself from thoughts of trees and flashes a smile. He tries to nonchalantly dab at the back corners of his eyes and perks up for lunch.
Yes, let the law do their job catching a murderer. Better than if they do their job going after a bunch of murderer murderers.
Eri smirks at his own joke.
Solrisa claps her hands, delighted to eat again...and double delighted to eat with friends.
Seeing Eri offer Celeste his arm, she moves to her other side and offers an arm as well, so that they might stroll as a merry threesome.
Eidi scratches his head as Cymria leaves "What's in that Fortress? Why can we not cross the Bridge?" he is left with a stupid question mark face until Celeste approaches "My dearful friend. Did you find the answers you were looking for when we last met?"
The half-elf smiles at Ascaria "That sounds like a solid plan. We can have a read later on. It seems we will have the time "
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As Eri notices the world around him he blushes as he finds a powerful beauty on each arm. He smiles and carries on as if this is the most natural thing in the world.