Out Loud: Blast it Astinios that is the last time I will hold my tongue while an Inept boy is chosen to speak for us. Master Ronin I thank for the opportunity that you presented us during this parley even though it was for naught. Our mission has now gotten harder with the bone biotch, the Solars, the competition in full swing, the battle above, we are still not camouflaged from our foes, the goddess is still held, the green man is now in the possible guise of a daemon, and being in an undead necropolis while our hearts still beat. Blast but This is getting exciting. Father always said if your going to die get all the biggest, baddest, strongest, and ugliest in the world get them all angry at the same time, enter the pit of death and fight your heart out. With your permission Lady Namastre I will prepare us for battle. Thornhen? Thorenhen where is that boy??
In the mind link: Thorenhen I know you can hear me I need you, Llevonic and Kalona to scout the area the goddess is being held you have till the end of this day to meet back with us with a enterance/Exit and possible plan and diversion. Lady Decidio if you can please find out if there is anything that we could use as a distractions Foes, hated enemies, Situations, even buildings of importance that we can get the populace moving away from the Goddess if they should happen to get blown up or pitted against each other. Lady Namastre see if you can scry for any sign of the green man in daemon form. when last my brother spoke of him he was forlorn and wandering but he always seemed headed towards something? its a long shot but with this grand assemblage we may get lucky - possibly ask master Ronin for assistance information is his field of expertise. Master Erkholt I believe that we will be needing a cleric soon after we depart to save the goddess if you please prepare yourself for battle and if possible get us scrols the magi of our group are ill prepared for events and a scrol here and there may save us. Grymbol bring your sword me and you are off to find the wayward kittens and bring them back. We shall meet in a few hours time and see what information we have accumulated. Grymbol I leave in 5 minutes with or without you!
I pack my stuff, grab my axe/hammer, shield and go for the front door.
In mind link: Kemnebi, Nebbit where are you. I know which way you initially went but where after that I will be out the door in 3 minutes.
The boy reaches over to Kalona and points up into the sky; "see what I mean (Kalona begins to see the group of Solars and other creatures in the sky as the boy points and wills him to see) That guy is looking at us; curious, with a frown to boot; but the others all look that other direction. Hmm; something wierd is happening; I feel funny....
Kalona ruffles her feathers a bit and shakes.
"While those powers that follow the path of good are no doubt more pleasant to be around than the other type, it still gives me shivers when they gaze at you like that...and find you wanting...sigh. And this power is...quite old and quite powerful...very much indeed...what an unexpected surprise."
"Yes, I see Aahz, that is a servant of a power, probably the one Decidio mentioned. Feel funny? perhaps you should put your protections up, likely this one is trying to find out more about you. You are still young and he does not know what to think of you yet. I doubt he means harm but they can be a bit...judgemental at times. I think the company you keep may wear on his nerves a bit as well."
Kalona looks around..."Well they do make a hasty retreat..."; looking to where Aahz's companions once sat.
Then back up at the servants. "Eh, odd, most servents seem more interested in what is coming...I have a bad feeling about this. Servants of powers do not show up in such numbers unless there is a battle of tremendous scale approaching. Aahz, I would not look at what they are observing, whatever is approaching might be dangerous to you and might alter you in a way you might not like. I do not know if you have the defenses to protect yourself at this time. Perhaps it is best if you went with your companions before this thing these servants will fight show up. I would not want to see you harmed and I think what will happen you might not be ready for. Though I will not condone what happened with your sister, I do think it may have been for the best she left before what will transpire with these beings occurs. It may very well have prevented something even more horrible from happening..." The worry in her voice is quite clear.
Kemnebi, Nebibit...something is coming, something I cannot or do not want to comprehend...I do not think we have time to satisfy our needs anymore. This is very bad indeed, much worse than I would have thought. It is one thing for powers to play their games...but this has even them rattled...yes that is the worry. I think we must make haste for this imprisoned power now. The other matters, must be taken up at another time.
Mmmm, Kosan, those items you found, the ones that are tainted with evil influence. It might be best to leave them elsewhere. It is likely that as that which approaches gets closer or the this group nears its destination those items may gain in strength. While perhaps your kind might not fall under their influence, there are others about without such blessings of dwarvenhood. Also, I think the...conflict...caused by Astinos's aura and those things may make this group easier to spot through certain means.
Kalona passes along the information through the mental link to her sponser.
When Astinos comes into the hall; Decidio gives him a tight hug and holds on
<sniff, she whispers> "we're all gonna die arent we"
I hold her tightly, my forehead against hers silent for a long moment.
"Not on my watch."
I raise my head and wait for her eyes to meet mine.
"And not without one hell of a fight! Let Axinous hide in his Southern strong hold, we have a goddess to save."
I reach up to her face, looking deeply into her eyes as I wipe away her tears,"Besides, I've only just found you, I have no intention of dying right now."
You are a dear man Astinos, but there is so much; so very much you do not know. Perhaps that is what the prophesy means by "the paladins blinded by their zeal" yet I dont think it is you. The forces of good have not been watchful; they have been slow to act. Base nuetrality and pettiness has cost the world so very much. I have watched the world in various forms for thousands of years and never has it been closer to, as your people say, "hell on earth" than it is right now. Existance is ripping itself apart; the planes of the upper, middle and lower worlds are shifting. There are more, as you say, outsiders in this realm than ever before; we are on the brink of a battle of annialiaton; warfare on a scale you cannot imagine; This entire world you call home is naught but an immense creature sleeping from the last great war, the scale of it all overwhelms me sometimes; even that creature is just a small pawn in an even greater war and so on and so on.
Balfic was once shown by one of the greatest of gods a metaphor of the problem. He saw it; and I saw it through him; but as I am so much smarter than he is, I understand it. This entire thing we call life is naught but madness. Its like a guy a million miles away throwing grains of sand from a bucket to a teacup; the grains of sand that miss are bad events that draw us down; the ones that make it to the cup are events that keep things in order. Granted he is a skilled thrower; but so many things seek to move the cup; change the medium of what is being thrown or throwing through.
It seems so hopeless. We are all just so small; all this posturing and all does nothing but serve destruction; and even if we win, there are no guarantees; no good life to go to; just more and more and more struggle.
I am so very tired. Just hold me a bit so I can rest; then we shall soldier on.
Those in the room see a peculiar thing:
from under the table comes a rat; it grows to man sized; fully robed in very rich clothing; it looks very mystical but has a very fine robe that covers almost all its features except for its ears; hands and tip of its nose; the robe is smoke grey.
"ah, a tasty dinner eh; well, lets not waste it, come my children; come to the feast"
rats of all kinds become pouring into the place and feasting on the food on the table; as does the large figure.
Sticks jumps back agaisnt the wall; but holds very still; Bones chuckles a bit and keeps eating; guess he as a monk is trying to be "one with the rats"
Kalona:
you know this to be an Avatar of Rat
"so how goes things, child of Crow" it says. "introduce me to your friend"
the kids says:
"sheesh, I get the feeling there is a whole lot I dont know"
The cloaked figure says: "as it is with all of us, that is why you need friends, more eyes, more ears, more knowledge, greater survival chance"
KEmnebi smiles at Nebibit in return, obviously just a little giddy, but still nervous. Then he goes still in shock as Kosan's authoritative voice echoes through the mindlink. He unleashes a nasty curse in Feline that probably raises an eyebrow from Nebibit, as she has never heard him speak that way before.
"Bast-blast it!" He hisses again, as he looks around at the two converging groups, and the hillbilly giants reception in the works. He looks at the line behind them, and the crowd in general. He takes a breath, and furrows his brow as he mentally sends his reply.
'Kosan, we'll be back as soon as possible. Right now we're,... kind of stuck. Be almost impossible to get back right this second. We'll push forward, and return when we've another route back. Also, please recall that the casters will require a minimum of 8 hours of rest, if not Actual sleep, to be at full strength.'
He turns to look intently into Nebibit's eyes. "If you've got any brilliant plans, this is the time." He says with a gulp. "If we get attacked directly, I've only got the Rope Trick, and a one person teleport swap to get us out with." He looks up to the kitten, then to Hathor on his shoulder.
"Think you can join our little friend over there? WithOUT getting stepped on?" He asks his familiar. In response Hathor looks at him with obvious disdain. Her look seems to say, 'That's like asking if I can catch a mouse.' She hops from his shoulder with a flick of her tail that whacks him on the nose. She pauses only briefly, to look over her shoulder and give her master a 'Be CAREFUL' look, then skillfully weaves her way through the crowd along the edge of the line and around the kiosk where the ticket sellers sit, too busy trying to keep up with the line to notice another addition tiny to the booth. HAthor sits next to the kitten, her nose up in the air as if babysitting is beneath her, but obviously watching the kitten with a keen eye.
Kemnebi smiles as he sees his familiar safely reach the booth, then looks at the crowd once more, a look of desperate excitement on his face.
"Quick!" HE hisses to Nebibit in Feline, "Look for scalpers! People selling tickets they bought earlier! If we can get a ticket before the groups get here, we can avoid this little conflict all together!"
At the look Nebibit gives him he shrugs. "I didn't spend ALL my time in the temple, i went to a couple of the games,..." He offers lamely. "I know they'll be outrageous, but maybe,..."
"so how goes things, child of Crow" it says. "introduce me to your friend"the kids says:
"sheesh, I get the feeling there is a whole lot I dont know"The cloaked figure says: "as it is with all of us, that is why you need friends, more eyes, more ears, more knowledge, greater survival chance"
Kalona sighs..."Its Raven not Crow, I understand it is difficult to tell us apart but..." She tilts her head at Rat...then giggles and nods politely.
To Rat: "Well, things have been quite exciting and it seems will continue to be that way. These folk of the low lands, seem not to know their natures much and tend to try and go against it. Their struggle to be other than what they are is absolutely intriguing. They also seem not to listen to well to others, not at all like back home. Even this Puck here behaves against his nature. I cant wait to see what the Queens or for matter this Leprechaun King thinks of him. He is...so orderly. Still it is quite fun and with the impending battle above, I think it will get more interesting yet."
To Aahz: "Yes, this existance is very large and there are many, many things to learn. That is what make things so interesting I think, if one knew everything...well then what would they do? I think that would be quite boring. The fun is finding something new, don't you think?"
Glances at Rat. "Well then, I guess I should be more proper. Aahz, this is Rat and his children. While the birds of the world listen upon the wind, the children of Rat know things where the wind does not blow. Quite the collector of information he is I have always enjoyed his instructions...though never really could understand his living accomidations and sometimes his humor is well...something of a different nature. That is the differences between birds and rats I guess. A good friend and teacher, a viscous enemy, quite sly and apt planner, a broker of information, that is Rat."
"And this is Aahz, newly formed child of essence, a power amongst mortals and a enjoyable person to chat with." winks at Aahz. "Though he has not chosen his path, he is a formidable combatant probably on the order of Cat and yet has a gentleness that wishes for peace. Inquisitive of mind, he will make quite the power in time. Truly fortune favored me for having made his aquaintance."
As she talks, she marks off her territory amongst the food, so that the 'children' understand what is hers. After the introductions, she keeps a watchful eye on the 'children' as she also partakes of the food. However, she does seem less worried about things now.
Kosan, at the moment I have this meeting I must attend too, I can catch up if you wish to move on.
Rat:
I have been watching you Aahz, and thought this might be a time of introductions; besides, the Old Blackbird asked me to help and I am of course, we all need that shiney bobble after all; helps make more food for the children to eat. So; I have noticed some new types of rats that walk upright around here and a few places; thought I might ensure my influence.
I came to tell you aid is on the way; look for an agent with my symbol. He glances at the place the two symbols were drawn on the table and Sniffs, "bad (meaning unsavory, poison, stomach cramps and bloating) ones those are"
<he shakes and his body falls apart into about 30 rats that join the feeding horde>
it is pretty obvious which way they went; not back the way you came; the road leads only one way; in the distance you see a large building; as you get closer you see thousands around it; all kinds of riding animals and carts; chariots; wagons; buggies; ect.
unless you use the mindlink for a location; it will be nigh impossible to find them in this mass amount of peoples of all types.
I let out a deep breath, and with it much of tension of from the brief encounter with Axinous and his friends. Their departure was certainly abrupt, but given their nature, not necessarily surprising.
The reaction of my new companions is a little surprising to me though. While we didn't gain the boon of being invisible to our enemies, we certainly gained some important information about why the goddes was captured and what our enemies were planning. I also gianed some great insight into the nature of The Green Man, and felt better prepared for my part in this quest.
[to the people still gathered at the table] "My thanks to ye fer the chance ter ask me questions. My appologies fer how it turned out, but methinks it were beyond our abilities ter change the course o' things."
[to the young godling Ahaz] "Did ye want me ter wait and help mediate in this matter of yer sisters honour, Young Lord, or are ye satisfied with the offer of attonement? I made promise to Lord Axinous to await and hear judgement on the matter, and while he may have left, I am honour bound ter remain ifn' ye ask it of me"
[to Kosan, when he speaks openly, as i am not in the mind link] "I'll need some time ter get meself kitted up lad, but I'll be ready ter back yer play when the time comes. Me gear is only upstairs and me spells are readied as fer travel and conflict underground against some o' the undead I encountered on the way. They'll need ter suffice fer what we have planned I'm thinking"
Cool; very appropriate actions; no armorers here in this side of town; is the poor section; once you meet a guildy they can point you to some where you get a "discount" or you can go to the Street of Iron and look for one as most places put all those noisy type craftsmen in the same section. Will keep your rolls for when you find a guy.
As for rumors; you hear very little about the drow team; more chuckles; they are not the favorites; some of the past champions people talk about are werewolves, vampire, and mummy teams, the new entry of the snakemen is causing a stir; seems they are doing well as a fast and tough team. Also, the goblin team seems to do well when they can get their Umber Hulk going the right direction; the troll team is double tuff, but often gets lost in the violence and forgets to score. The Orc teams do well; but just cant stand up to the double tuff healing of the weres, vampires, and trolls and the mummies have that rot going for them. The drow team is quick and fast, for humaniods, but the sheer speed of the werewolves and snakes put them at the top for speed. Seems whatever this game is; you need some real brute strength, great speed, toughness or fast healing as well as some gimmick. Seems the only thing the drow have going for them is all the poison and two very tough driders. The Ogrinns are strong and tuff, but not smart or savy enough to really make a cohesive play; the were's and the vamps are the favorites; 3 were teams, 4 vampire teams.
Also, there seems to be 4 mystery teams signed up that nobody knows much about, but most think if they had any game; they would have played in the past and lack of experience has no one taking them seriously.
Easiest marker is at one of the monuments around the arena; large sculptures of legendary winning teams. The closest one to you is dedicated to a legendary werewolve team.
** spoiler omitted ** Nebibit, Kemnebi I am here at...it is pretty obvious which way they went; not back the way you came; the road leads only one way; in the distance you see a large building; as you get closer you see thousands around it; all kinds of riding animals and carts; chariots; wagons; buggies; ect.
unless you use the mindlink for a location; it will be nigh impossible to find them in this mass amount of peoples of all types.
Kemnebi looks around at Thorenhen's mental contact. He shrugs his shoulders at Nebibit in a 'I don't know' gesture, then looks around in vain trying to spot someone he barely knows, in a different face, but with the same clothes. He quickly gives it up as a bad idea and looks nervously around at the approaching bully-boys and 'guard' groups.
'Thorenhen, i'll never spot you in this mass of,... beings. WE are smack dab in the middle of where two groups, both intent on busting heads, are about to collide onto the line we are in. IF you can find a landmark, one of the large statues around maybe, and tell us, I'll try wave at you.'
You see that the gang and the guards both have stopped about 30 ft apart from the line; lots of people are moving away nervously; the line your in gets shorter and you can move up a bit; their are still lots of diehards ahead of you and behind you though, you are now about 60 from the ticketeers shack.
there are now about 40-60 gang members and aout 25-30 guards; more of each coming each moment; they seems to be doing a stand off with poseing and clicking, stomping; and other gestures; the guys behind you laugh and stomp their feet and clap you on the back. There are about 10 of them; they look very tuff and have nobs and muscles on muscles (Ogrekin)
"Lookum likeum; gonna be scrappy; weez gonna hab some funnytimes now kittycat :) Youse stand wit us; den we party an split da spoils"
both Kenembi and Nebebit can see the statue of the were's about 100 ft away; that puts Thoronhen about 160 ft away; but Thoron; you can see the lines forming for the scrap; some people seem to be joining the lines just cause their dumb and think their lines for tickets hehe. the old see a line and somebody will stand it it routine.
Looks like these two groups will charge each other any minute.
Kemnebi smiles a wan smile in response to the ogrekin's happy bellow. He looks decidedly wan to Nebibit, but his toothy smile must seem like fierce bravado to the large humanoids.
"Sounds like fun!" He says energetically, if not enthusiastically. HE looks at Nebibit.
"Best seat in the house! Did you bring the popped corn?" He quips with an unusual show of bravado. Having several large humanoids to potentially hide behind seems to have made him a little more hopeful for his immediate future.
Seeing as how this party has no concept of what is about to happen if we do not save the goddess and they have all thrown in the towel and defeated themselves I get my stuff, listening to Thorenhen's & the kittens conversation I set off in the same direction as thorenhen did. Grymbol never answered so I go alone. Besides that there's going to be a fight.
In the mind link: If this is the strength of this party then you have already lost and I for one will not go down holding my precious girlfriend who I met this morning and imagining I am a great protector but am afraid to prove it, or wallowing away my grief in the gardens, or talking to a godling embodied in a child's body so that the totem creatures can gather him into their fold, or merely sit at this table when the world around me falls apart. I Shall leave you to your vile undeserved defeat while I go forth and possibly die but at least I will die as a warrior!
I leave towards the dome looking for the Cat folk. Shield in hand and Axe/Hammer ready for a fight. I make all due haste (as fast as me wittle legs can take me).
Kemnebi looks at Nebibit and raises an eyebrow.
"Well, the calvary's coming. Bette late than never?" He states/asks with a nervous glance at the posing and shouting groups. HE grins up at his large new friends, and fingers one of his wands.
'BEtter hurry master Kosan. I'd hate for you to miss the fun part!' Kemnebi sends through the link, nervousness competing with wry amusement in his thoughts.
In the mind link: If this is the strength of this party then you have already lost and I for one will not go down holding my precious girlfriend who I met this morning and imagining I am a great protector but am afraid to prove it, or wallowing away my grief in the gardens, or talking to a godling embodied in a child's body so that the totem creatures can gather him into their fold, or merely sit at this table when the world around me falls apart. I Shall leave you to your vile undeserved defeat while I go forth and possibly die but at least I will die as a warrior!
HOW DARE YOU JUDGE ME! I have been STABBED, BLOWN UP, MY THOUGHTS READ AGAINST MY WILL, RIDICULED FOR MY BELIEFS, AND USED FOR PETTY COURT GAMES! AND THATS JUST FROM YOU PEOPLE!!! So yes I am taking a few precious minutes to compose myself.
We have traveled far today. We had a long hike before we had to crawl through the sewers even before we got to under the bathhouse. The fights with the Sheet Phantom, the Shades, and the Gnoll Ghost. Not to mention the several hundred foot descent to where we are now. So I am Tired. So I am CRANKY. I had to travel through the city surrounded by the enemy. Holding my wrath. Bending like a blade of grass til its time to strike. I leave these ground I will kill something. And thats not what is needed right now. Tired minds and tired bodies make for stupid mistakes. Right now I see alot of stupid people.
Astinos and Decidio can have there moment. Erkholt I think is the only one still centered on task. Both Oracles told us we would have three days to save the Goddess once we got here. The Goddess Namaste swore to told us we would have three days. I have faith we still have the majority of that time left. The forces above us are guaranting us that time. All you are showing is a lack of faith in those powers, and your own brother.
Another thing. I will not go to Kemnebi's and Nebebits rescue. Kemnebi has repeatedly put his interests in front of everyone elses. He did that when he attacked the snake at the Oracles gaining the Sun Gods Wrath. Not just for himself, but for all of us standing or sitting nearby. Half this group would have already been burned to a cinder were it not for the Sun Gods brother who intervened on our behalf. I still feel the Messenger Gods blessing coursing through my veins telling me we are still being judged. Kemnebi and Nebebit have a DOOM that hangs over them. Yet Kemnebi choses to chase after the pussycat. He chose that over his friend Nebebits safety. He chose that over the group. He chose that over everyone above counting on us to carry the day. He chose that over the Sun Gods Sister. So no I will not go after him. He made his choice. He can live with it.
I made a Death Pact long before I met the majority of you. My word to save the Goddess. I intend to fulfill that oath, or die in the attempt. That requires that I give my best. Being tired and angry I know I wouldn't be able to do that. So I WILL take my TIME in this GARDEN. I WILL try to REGAIN my composure to DEAL with you all, and reenter the house. I WILL AWAIT Master Ronin's return with the knowledge about the games, MY COUSIN, and anything else he DEEMS will be of value. And I will get some needed rest. So I can do my best when I as the Blade needs to cut. NOT WASTING IT IN A STUPID STREET BRAWL! I will most likely quit this group if by some miracle we do succeed. It is clear most of you would rather see me dying bleeding in a ditch anyway. and one last thing...
I AM NOT A SCOUT!
"Where is everyone going, Aahz says to Kalona, something interesting I believe; let us make haste and follow; I have a feeling that has never betrayed me before; that a scene of great violence is coming very soon; I can taste it, somehow; it makes me feel stronger; bigger; faster
Grip tightly to my hand with your claws; I will move us to the scene I feel coming."
<Aahz moves with incredible speed (like that of a hyper quickling); a blur; and arrives in the epicenter of the violence; he drinks in and smiles; Kalona; you see him gain about a inch and ten pounds of muscle and his eyes are very shiny>
"Ah, look, there be your cat companions; and there be Thoronhen coming up; and in the distance you can see some of the others. Yes, this is where it will be."
The gang members; mostly gnolls and ghouls and some thuggy necropolitains and a wight or three number now about 100;
The guards; apparrently all necropolitains; though some appear to be mummies (perception 18) and one a armored figure with glowing red eyes who is mounted on a undead warhorse, number about 60. The line is about half the size it was; some of these people are just not giving up their place in line; clutching their gambling tickets and murmering amongst themselves; a toll of a giant "DOOM" resonantes and it becomes deathly quite; those in line have gathered in little groups so pockets of space remain between them in the line; the hooded figures in front of Kenembi and Nebebit make some arcane warding symbols and draw quicly on the ground; obviously; they dont intent to move from that spot; the large thug looking short for ogre guys behind the party; seems to stomp and are nearly frothing at the mouth; behind them are some naked tatooed guys with two handed swords; about 15; they look very insane and are laughing and licking their blades; in front of hooded figures are about 30 Hobgoblins; they make a retangle with sword and sheild guys in front; Glaives behind; in the center is the leader and two shamans; they still march toward the tickitteer; the leader hold a large box and thier gambling tickets.
"Doom" A loud cheer can be heard from the arena, with a fair amount of boohs and catcalls.
"Doom" Another not as loud cheer can be heard from the arena; a whole lot of boohs and catcalls begin and nearly drown them out.
"Doom" Gargoyles begin to circle above the coming skirmish like warped looking vultures or some macabre valkries.
"DOOM" the tension arises and a thick paul of anger and murderous thoughs is heavy in the air, those seeking Kenembi can see Aahz and Kalona standing a bit out in the open in the center of it all and from them see Kenembi and Nebebit and the rest I described; time for any last pre battle actions before we roll initiative. Stick, Bones and the Urgh and Durg follow Astinos and Decidio; if you all run you can all get to Kenembi, but...some might be upset if you take cuts in line hehe.
"DOOM"
Llevenoc,
Back in the garden you see a cloaked figure in the shadows of an alleyway; he is obviously watching you and the house; he obviously purposly moved out a bit into the light when you were glancing that direction then back into the shadow again....
If you don't hear back from me within 15 min assume the worst. Don't waste your time looking for me. Do what is necessary to save the Goddess.
The cloaked figure waits for you to come close, he is short; about 4'9 or so and is leaning on a walking stick; then your hear a strange hacking sound, then it occurs to you it is chuckling.
it speaks to you in a odd voice not made for speaking human tounges
"Anger, it can make you strong if harnessed yes? But, usually it stops one thinking and makes one a fool. I am Xixian Chang Chong and you are Prince Llvenoc; I know thee; auspicous was your birth, what strange fate awaits thee noble one. I know thy noble mother so I ask thee Prince, what is thy purpose in the city of the dead? Seek yea to raise up thy sovereign goddess? Do not waste your time, there is war in the Heavons; yes, war. The furies run amok on the mortal plain as thus the Heavonly armies battle he whom the Jade Emperor did not invite to Banquet. New powers arise on earth to fill the void; your diefic spider queen has thus been apportioned and arisen anew and knows not her people of old; she is new born and no longer what she once was. Did I see you travel with he who is sent by Raven and did I not smell Rat amongst that building? Did I not catch the telltail sign of the Apostate Lorm Dragonheart among you and a fey of low birth did I not see sitting dinner at your table? By the blood of your noble house; tell me true young prince"
The cloaked figure waits for you to come close, he is short; about 4'9 or so and is leaning on a walking stick; then your hear a strange hacking sound, then it occurs to you it is chuckling.
it speaks to you in a odd voice not made for speaking human tounges"Anger, it can make you strong if harnessed yes? But, usually it stops one thinking and makes one a fool. I am Xixian Chang Chong and you are Prince Llvenoc; I know thee; auspicous was your birth, what strange fate awaits thee noble one. I know thy noble mother so I ask thee Prince, what is thy purpose in the city of the dead? Seek yea to raise up thy sovereign goddess? Do not waste your time, there is war in the Heavons; yes, war. The furies run amok on the mortal plain as thus the Heavonly armies battle he whom the Jade Emperor did not invite to Banquet. New powers arise on earth to fill the void; your diefic spider queen has thus been apportioned and arisen anew and knows not her people of old; she is new born and no longer what she once was. Did I see you travel with he who is sent by Raven and did I not smell Rat amongst that building? Did I not catch the telltail sign of the Apostate Lorm Dragonheart among you and a fey of low birth did I not see sitting dinner at your table? By the blood of your noble house; tell me true young prince"
Well Xixian Chang Chong, I am indeed Prince Llvenoc. Though I do not know you, or your association with my mother. Perhaps if I saw your face. Or if you told me of how you are an aquaintence of my mother it would better help my memmory.
It is true among my number there is a Fey, and a Bird. There are no rats that I have seen. Unless you are speaking of duplicity. This Lorm you speak of was hear for a short time, but has long since left. What interest is it of yours with whom I travel with?
My almost contained anger explodes into a wildfire through the mindlink at Kosan's words. In the Mindlink. HOW DARE YOU JUDGE ME! I have been STABBED, BLOWN UP, MY THOUGHTS READ AGAINST MY WILL, RIDICULED FOR MY BELIEFS, AND USED FOR PETTY COURT GAMES! AND THATS JUST FROM YOU PEOPLE!!! So yes I am taking a few precious minutes to compose myself.
...
Astinos and Decidio can have there moment. Erkholt I think is the only one still centered on task. Both Oracles told us we would have three days to save the Goddess once we got here. The Goddess Namaste swore to told us we would have three days. I have faith we still have the majority of that time left. The forces above us are guaranting us that time. All you are showing is a lack of faith in those powers, and your own brother.
...
I made a Death Pact long before I met the majority of you. My word to save the Goddess. I intend to fulfill that oath, or die in the attempt. That requires that I give my best. Being tired and angry I know I wouldn't be able to do that. My voice in the Mindlink starts to flare up again. So I WILL take my TIME in this GARDEN. I WILL try to REGAIN my composure to DEAL with you all, and reenter the house. I WILL AWAIT Master Ronin's return with the knowledge about the games, MY COUSIN, and anything else he DEEMS will be of value. And I will get some needed rest. So I can do my best when I as the Blade needs to cut. NOT WASTING IT IN A STUPID STREET BRAWL! I will most likely quit this group if by some miracle we do succeed. It is clear most of you would rather see me dying bleeding in a ditch anyway. and one last thing...
I AM NOT A SCOUT! I continue to walk around the garden. Desperately trying to reign in my anger; but feeling overall alot better getting all of that off my chest.
In the mind link: That's it boy use that anger to spur you out of your melancholy. Use that fire to boil ye blood and give ye self strength to carry on no matter the situation. As for the the despicable deeds done to you by this party tis unbelievable - Well actually I could see that happening - Nay I do believe ye boy and though I was not by ye side before I will be now. Ye have but to ask and I will be by your side no matter the foe. Also lad I am sorry for the we bit of an explosion outside the lab but I did not know ye were close. Rest boy Me nerves would be in shambles too if I had been treated in like manner. I also have no wish ta see you hurt in a ditch so stay strong my pointy eared companion I will be by your side. Oh and another thing I BE THE BATTLE CAPTAIN OF THIS GROUP AND IF I SAY YE BE A SCOUT THEN GET UP FRONT AND SCOUT, blasted pointy eared, butterfly chasing, non order taking, grumbling silly dark elf.
I go to the cat folk in the plaza.
I sigh as again those left at the table seemingly flee the room with no real reason as to why. I get the very strong feeling that the others arrayed with me on my quest are able to communicate somehow without speaking, for it seems as if they respond to commands and looks without a word passing between them.
Realising that a fight is most likely imminent, I rush to my rooms upstairs and begin to don my armour and gather my equipment. While I don't know this city at all, it is unlikely that any other huge fght is likely to be occuring in the city, so I would merely follow the sounds of battle and with luck arrive in time to at least assist.
It is hard to tell if Kemnebi's eyes are wide from what he is seeing from his fantastic seat at ground zero,... or hearing through the mindlink. He blinks owlishly, sputters a bit, and then begins hissing and cursing in Feline, the hissing spitting language getting lost in the preparatory noise of the crowd,...
"What?!? Spoiled!?,...Selfish!?,... I find a slithering spy and try to catch it, how was I to know about the stoopid rules?!?,... I get cursed for something I didn't even DO!?!,... Told I should beg forgiveness for it?!?,... Selfish?!?,... My OWN Needs?!?,... I'm trying to,... OHHHH!!!,... !@#$%^&*&^%$#@!" He hisses and spits venomously, using words that Nebibit may know, but she was pretty sure he didn't.
A burst of confused emotions comes from Kemnebi through the link, then is just as quickly shut off.
His feline eyes flare with a momentary light of their own as he casts his defensive spell, and takes a firm grip on his staff and wand.
"That's. It." He mutters so low that Nebibit is not even sure that she actually heard him. "NO more 'Mr. Nice Cat'. If this bloody DOOM wants me, it can bloody well come and get me!"
Nebibit lives by the power of her belief. She believes in a 'dead' goddess, and yet casts powers granted by her prayers. Perhaps it is this power of her belief that allows her to see the sudden, if brief, change that passes over Kemnebi. For one brief, shining, moment, his belief in his own power is unshakable. For that moment, he seems just a little more solid, more real, to her sight. Like an archmagus wrapped in his own invincibility, and not just a spell-slinger out on his own for the first time.
She blinks, and the moment is gone, but if she tries she can still see the after image, like the fading spot in your vision after staring at a candle.
"I'm coming June." He murmurs, again so softly that he can barely be heard. It is impossible to tell if it is a self-pep talk, or a promise.
Fate, Prophesy; what is to come; things of the past; that is my interest, but mostly blood; bloodlines that is, the strength of breeding true bloodlines to reach the Queirserack Sadderaik. The ultimate purpose of each race and fortold by the Ancients; thus when the world is judged that a true breed will be available to be chosen for continuance that the Colossus be apeazed and our reality continue. Worth goal would you not say?
I have been seeing Ratmen who are not weres lurking in the shadows; a new race or old newly returned; they are not in the matrix of breeding; thus an unknown. You my prince; are too a part of our plan; thus; I have come to meet you, and perhaps test you to see is you are worthy; worthy of the bloodgifts of the Drow. The test is not given lightly; the test can kill if you are not developed enough in mind and spirit as well as having the correct bloodline.
Think upon what I tell you; gather what information you can of these ratmen as you travel.
Your companions; do they always seek battle even what can be avoided? Something draws them to my attention more than it should; curious, very curious. I desire a sample of their blood for testing to know who they really are.
I have also come to give you warning; take special care to avoid the vampires, they will capture and enslave you for your special blood if they can and your torment will be unending. Here, eat one of these cloves every four hours, and several if you fight one; it may help save your life.
he hands you a fairly thin but long canvas bag that covers a long thin leather bag; whatever in it is long and lumpy.
The cloaked figure waits for you to come close, he is short; about 4'9 or so and is leaning on a walking stick; then your hear a strange hacking sound, then it occurs to you it is chuckling.
it speaks to you in a odd voice not made for speaking human tounges"Anger, it can make you strong if harnessed yes? But, usually it stops one thinking and makes one a fool. I am Xixian Chang Chong and you are Prince Llvenoc; I know thee; auspicous was your birth, what strange fate awaits thee noble one. I know thy noble mother so I ask thee Prince, what is thy purpose in the city of the dead? Seek yea to raise up thy sovereign goddess? Do not waste your time, there is war in the Heavons; yes, war. The furies run amok on the mortal plain as thus the Heavonly armies battle he whom the Jade Emperor did not invite to Banquet. New powers arise on earth to fill the void; your diefic spider queen has thus been apportioned and arisen anew and knows not her people of old; she is new born and no longer what she once was. Did I see you travel with he who is sent by Raven and did I not smell Rat amongst that building? Did I not catch the telltail sign of the Apostate Lorm Dragonheart among you and a fey of low birth did I not see sitting dinner at your table? By the blood of your noble house; tell me true young prince"
Well Xixian Chang Chong, I am indeed Prince Llvenoc. Though I do not know you, or your association with my mother. Perhaps if I saw your face. Or if you told me of how you are an aquaintence of my mother it would better help my memmory.
It is true among my number there is a Fey, and a Bird. There are no rats that I have seen. Unless you are speaking of duplicity. This Lorm you speak of was hear for a short time, but has long since left. What interest is it of yours with whom I travel with?
Erkholt; you are added to the mindlink; and in a swirl of power you see an image of a great Raven; and hear a raven cry then get all the mindlink information from the start of the arrival of the other group in a rush.
in your room; a comely servant awaits to help you don your gear; with her help; it only takes two minutes, as she seems very skillful at this and knows each strap and buckle.
I sigh as again those left at the table seemingly flee the room with no real reason as to why. I get the very strong feeling that the others arrayed with me on my quest are able to communicate somehow without speaking, for it seems as if they respond to commands and looks without a word passing between them.
Realising that a fight is most likely imminent, I rush to my rooms upstairs and begin to don my armour and gather my equipment. While I don't know this city at all, it is unlikely that any other huge fght is likely to be occuring in the city, so I would merely follow the sounds of battle and with luck arrive in time to at least assist.
Fate, Prophesy; what is to come; things of the past; that is my interest, but mostly blood; bloodlines that is, the strength of breeding true bloodlines to reach the Queirserack Queirserack. The ultimate purpose of each race and fortold by the Ancients; thus when the world is judged that a true breed will be available to be chosen for continuance that the Colossus be apeazed and our reality continue. Worth goal would you not say?
I have been seeing Ratmen who are not weres lurking in the shadows; a new race or old newly returned; they are not in the matrix of breeding; thus an unknown. You my prince; are too a part of our plan; thus; I have come to meet you, and perhaps test you to see is you are worthy; worthy of the bloodgifts of the Drow. The test is not given lightly; the test can kill if you are not developed enough in mind and spirit as well as having the correct bloodline.
Think upon what I tell you; gather what information you can of these ratmen as you travel.
Your companions; do they always seek battle even what can be avoided? Something draws them to my attention more than it should; curious, very curious. I desire a sample of their blood for testing to know who they really are.
I have also come to give you warning; take special care to avoid the vampires, they will capture and enslave you for your special blood if they can and your torment will be unending. Here, eat one of these cloves every four hours, and several if you fight one; it may help save your life.
he hands you a fairly thin but long canvas bag that covers a long thin leather bag; whatever in it is long and lumpy.
Well Xixian I have business I must conclude in this city first. If I am not killed by it. Then I will take your test. No Blade of any worth would refuse the test of ones bloodline. I will succeed. There is no other option. Are you permitted to tell me what challenges I will face in this test? What are the rules? I would also like to know more about this Prophecy, and this Queirserack Sadderaik that I am risking my bloodline for.
ooooh those rats... They showed up on the surface out of a gate led by a Gargoyle with no wings covered in spikes. As for my companions... They remind me of a story I once heard about a Runesoldier. He was often refered to as a wildboar charging heedlessly to its own death. As for there blood. I am sure if you ask nicely enough they will give you some. If not I am sure there will be plenty of it that will be spilled seeing how much they like to scrap. Thanks for the garlic. I am sure it will repel the Vampires and just about everybody else.
Before you all decide to throw down. I thought you should know our group is being spied upon. At least by two groups. If our allies are watching us then so are our enemies. Be certain they will be taking note of our strengths and weakness's. Do you really want to tip your hand in a fight that means nothing? You might want to take a dive and let them think we are weaker than we actually are.
the test; it is of no moment; you will either pass or fail; will and fortitude; the test of a true bloodline; it is no more than that, called by some a poison; by some others a Gom Jabbar.
<cough, cough>
collect some of this blood for me if you will; a strip of old bandage would do; I would like to test it; I have tested your house and several others for centuries, but I could forward the information I gain from your companions to my collegues if they show any status of import.
<wheeze..drins some liquid from a vial; now sounds much stronger>
if it comes to dire staits and all seems lost; say this to any undead who have seized you with impending death. "Kiere Jikath Kol Lahaniiua Xixain; Uato Hito Uamjabii" perhaps they will let you go for fear of my allies, or perhaps not but you may try; but only in direst of need."
<hiccup...small burp>
repeat it back to me Prince, that I hear it said passable.
the test; it is of no moment; you will either pass or fail; will and fortitude; the test of a true bloodline; it is no more than that, called by some a poison; by some others a Gom Jabbar.
<cough, cough>
collect some of this blood for me if you will; a strip of old bandage would do; I would like to test it; I have tested your house and several others for centuries, but I could forward the information I gain from your companions to my collegues if they show any status of import.
<wheeze..drins some liquid from a vial; now sounds much stronger>
if it comes to dire staits and all seems lost; say this to any undead who have seized you with impending death. "Kiere Jikath Kol Lahaniiua Xixain; Uato Hito Uamjabii" perhaps they will let you go for fear of my allies, or perhaps not but you may try; but only in direst of need."
<hiccup...small burp>
repeat it back to me Prince, that I hear it said passable.
I will ask them, but I will not take there blood if they don't want to give it. Its there choice.
I never heard the term Gom Jabbar. What does it mean?
Kiere Jikath Kol Lahaniiua Xixain; Uato Hito Uamjabii. What tongue is that in, and what does it mean? Just in case they want to open a dialogue with me.
...'Thorenhen, i'll never spot you in this mass of,... beings. WE are smack dab in the middle of where two groups, both intent on busting heads, are about to collide onto the line we are in. IF you can find a landmark, one of the large statues around maybe, and tell us, I'll try wave at you.'There is a statue of a werewolf that has a broken canine and some words painted along the bottom in a human language. Where are you in relation to that. I am nearing the location of Kemnebi and Nebibit I am going to get then into the arena to speak with Llvenoc's cousin. Llvenoc can I please have a discription of your cousin and a way to have her know that I have information coming from you that is not to obvious.
...In the mind link: If this is the strength of this party then you have already lost and I for one will not go down holding my precious girlfriend who I met this morning and imagining I am a great protector but am afraid to prove it, or wallowing away my grief in the gardens, or talking to a godling embodied in a child's body so that the totem creatures can gather him into their fold, or merely sit at this table when the world around me falls apart. I Shall leave you to your vile undeserved defeat while I go forth and possibly die but at least I will die as a warrior!...
You who are new to my quest are so blood thirsty. I have the means to gain information that Astinos was apparently inept in doing. You Kosan are not even half of your brother as you have no focue so you hit everything that does not go your way with either words or with your weapon. Kalona you have never even agreed to the pact so you are even less trust worthy then the rest. Grymbol you are so inept in every thing you do that you are a hindrance if a quite one. Kemnebi and Nebibit it was not your fault that you have this Doom upon you but your actions state that you have no real regard to our endeavor. For that I can not excuse your actions. Everyone that I have mentioned in my eyes has either not agreed to the pact or have broken there word and so their part of the pact I will let you all go off and have your fight and probably die your glorious death. Namaste or Llvenoc if you are near Erkholt can you please let him know if he is not in the mindlink yet on where I am giving you directions to. Namaste please convey this next information only to yourself, Erkholt, Llvenoc, and The Jewel. We have work to do I will contact my Guild Master and let him know where we are and ask him if there are any other places we can set up for our insertion to save the goddess, the part of the greenman that I believe is here and take the artifacts that are to be used in the right.
Any spells currently on people that I should be reminded about?
_______________________
Thoronhen; there is a small gang of guys near the entrance behind the Ticket Booths; they have guild signs and are selling tickets; you can probably haggle a very good price for them; if you hurry; might even get the party inside before "The Big Street Brawl" hehe as you have been there with a little time to notice stuff and do a few actions.
I must take my leave now prince, Gom Jabbar; well, loosely translated as I understand it would be close to: great test of the living for sentience. As for the other; that you can speak it is enough; any more could endanger you.
He walks back into the shadows of the alley; others lurk there and follow him.
<hehe gm chuckles at thoronhens post>
the test; it is of no moment; you will either pass or fail; will and fortitude; the test of a true bloodline; it is no more than that, called by some a poison; by some others a Gom Jabbar.
<cough, cough>
collect some of this blood for me if you will; a strip of old bandage would do; I would like to test it; I have tested your house and several others for centuries, but I could forward the information I gain from your companions to my collegues if they show any status of import.
<wheeze..drins some liquid from a vial; now sounds much stronger>
if it comes to dire staits and all seems lost; say this to any undead who have seized you with impending death. "Kiere Jikath Kol Lahaniiua Xixain; Uato Hito Uamjabii" perhaps they will let you go for fear of my allies, or perhaps not but you may try; but only in direst of need."
<hiccup...small burp>
repeat it back to me Prince, that I hear it said passable.I will ask them, but I will not take there blood if they don't want to give it. Its there choice.
I never heard the term Gom Jabbar. What does it mean?
Kiere Jikath Kol Lahaniiua Xixain; Uato Hito Uamjabii. What tongue is that in, and what does it mean? Just in case they want to open a dialogue with me.
I bow before Xixian Chang Chong, and take my leave. I head back to the house and go inside. I head back to the dining room and see who is still there.
Well Thoron you can stand right next to my cousin and you wouldn't be able to recognize her. As I said before she is very clever. It would be much easier that she would find you. I am sure she already has many in her employ if she has been here for any length of time. Wear a symbol of a nude long haired female drow dancing with sword in front of a full moon. Clip a pin of a sword and a rose by her feet. She will find you by that mark.
"Such vitriol. I fear that without some glimmer of hope our group will tear itself apart. Time wears away while allies tear into each other, exchanging insults instead of words of encouragement. We need a strenghtening of purpose, a victory to lift our spirits. I cannot leave allies to their deaths in the street. Let us find the, gather them up and re focus this mission."
"Shall we see who else is willing?"
Well Kosan. I accepted your apology before, and I do so again. My temper sometimes gets the better of me. Though I did mean every word I said. You can yell til your beard falls off. I still won't scout. There are others who are better skilled amongest us. I will rely on there ability. By the way... What is a butterfly? and why would I want to chase after one?
Before I forget. I accepted a challenge which tests my worthiness. I gladly do this for the Honor My House. I will leave sometime after succeed in our mission.