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DM Zyren/ Heart of Light's page
2,205 posts. Alias of Zyrenity.
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Do we want to know more about the goblin's fate? :D
As Krisaga enters the Shark Pool, there is a moment of silence and Andreanu and Gorain exchange gazes with some of the customers before everything retunrs to the joyful atmposphere that seems so alien in this times.
Gorian points at a table in the corner and walks to the bar to get some drinks.
With a sigh Andreanu falls ina cushioned chair and puts his feet on the table
Cairn, be a good boy and shed some light into all this...what are Solaric and Victoria going to do next?
Wasn't ist Shark Pool? :D
Gorian and Andreanu accompany the part of the group heading for the Shark Pool. Bystanders and passersby frown at the sight of the giant feline, but with a half-drow as their lord, no one is overly surprised about the new allies.
The city is a miserable sight compared to the bustling place it was about a year ago. The streets mostly empty, the few people you meet haggard, pale and armed. Guards and militias at every corner, the windows dark no music coming out of tavern doors...
The Shark Pool - surprisingly - is a different sight, bright windows, and the sound of pipes and a beautiful voice echoing down the alley
Why isn't everyone like we Szcarnis? Andreanu asks and grins
Because, well...it just wouldn't work... Gorian replies, leaving out that the wellbeing of the Szcarnis is at least loosely connected to the problems of those around them.
As soon as you enter the streets of Karcau again, your troopf of Sczarnis begins to disperse, like sand caressed by a strong gust, one by one they trickle away.
With a smirk Gorian remarks
I wonder how powerful an army of my people could possibly be? Not even the most foul of liches would stand a chance I say. Yet, they are foxes, not wolves, they all feel kinda uncomfortable once there are more than a handful of them together, armed and ready for combat. Hah.
Is Solaric's plan accepted? And if yes, what gear is needed? Where are Krisage and Loric going to stay?
Gorian signals Andreanu to gather the men and soon the now much lighter wagons rumble back through the grey gates into the city.
The goblin following behind, the tongue lolling out, scared to death...
Plans?
The goblin needs about half a minute to remember the questions he was asked...beads of sweat form on his forehead and you wonder if thinking is really that exhausting for him
Suddenly, just at the moment the goblin was about to open its mouth again, Loric's horse bucks as if stung by an oversized wasp
Ride check Dc 15 to stay in the saddle.
Gorian smirks and and instead of grabbing the reins to help the rider, he just crosses his arms and observes the scene.
The goblin hasn't dared to avert his eyes from the massive cat and stammers
Bjöldur's brothers are Gjöldur and Mjöldur. The latter one is a shaman who commands the powers of the northern wastes, while Gjöldur is master of trickery and deceit, some say he can become invisible at will! Mjöldur commands the ice trolls while Mjöldur is lord of the goblins - both cannot be bested by humans, so you better flee while there is time.
Spellboundly the goblin stares at the large white fangs of the tigress and gulps audibly as a drop of saliva falls from canine's tip to the ground
Translationed already: Bjöldur has two brothers who command the different regiments of the army. Among the troops it is rumoured that he is immortal as longs as at least one of his brothers is still alive. He wields a massive two-handed warhammer with whiche he can shoot rays of frost and cones of ice. His tent is the largest one, right in the centre of the army, a light blue palace made from polar bear furs. No goblin has ever dared to enter it, only the yetis and trolls do.
Headchop's eyes widen at the mentioning of herds of hroses...the concept of those foul creatures gathering to form large forces is totally new to the goblin officer, but not less frightening.
Commands are given by Bjöldur Frostbeard, big big blue man! Breath like ice, grip like avalanche, ice as icebergs!
The goblin's eyes widen as he tries to follow Solaric's questions and after that Jo's explanations...in the end his tongue is lolling out for a moment
Uh...me corporal! Headchop is name! We are very many...command structure is: I give commands!
he seems very content with his answers and smiles from ear to ear.
Nothing from the roll Cairn
The goblin looks rather stupified
Uh...what wanna you know?
Not lie not lie!
the goblin squeaks
Tell all tell all...no kill, me friend!
the creature looks really miserable...
The Sczarnis snicker and try not to meet Solaric's gaze, like Victoria they just stare at the coffins in disbelief and some imitate the sounds of explosions.
Andreanu is also hardly able to hide his amusement
It was just as Lady Victoria said, we inherited an old cellar and what we found there we thought unfitting for our lovely Karcau...well and when we brought it out of the town *pooof*
There were 14 men accompanying you.
Andreanu seems a bit unsure of what to do next after he takes a closer look at Lucretia's ash
Lady Victoria, the drivers can bring the ashes to Jarovicha...but...I'm not sure that it is a good idea to send them alone...on the other hand, you're right, they would form a formidable raiding band.
Meanwhile Solaric and Jo have reached the gate and are able to observe the two Sczarni wagons and their strange cargo next to the road.
The coffins' covers are thrown open and for a split second an unearthly silence is everything that heralds the vampires' doom.
Sarenrae's fingers blast through the undeads' skin, burning flesh and long-dead muscles, cutting through sinews like daggers, pour into throats and drown any scream of pain...silently the vampires die, some struggle, but none of them is able to leave their casket.
Lucretia dies like the others, but she is able to lift her head and stare directly at Cairn and Victoria - stern and stoic while her skin turns to dust and her bleached bones crumble...
The sczarni drivers pull the reins to the right and slowly the wagons rumble off the road into open space...directly into the sun's face...
And while the tune had begun melancholical and slow, it takes up speed and rythm...it's almost a saltarello when the drivers stop the wagons...
You do the Naga talking? :)
The world is full of tests of prowess and morals :)
Solaric notices the wagons in the distance...a strange sight in this times, but you have encountered ALOT of strange things during the last weeks.
The guards in front of the gate however don't seem to be very interested in the wagons, they try to stay away from it and even avoid looking at it.
Gorian notices the wagons too and chuckles
Looks like some of my kin don't want to wait for the siege...I can't condemn them..out folk is of a travelling nature, staying and defending a city on the walls isn't natural for us.
Lucretia glances over her assembled followers and then nervously licks her ruby lips...actually it's quite amusing that a vampire can be nervous...well, but laughing doesn't seem clever now.
Ok...enough talking. You're right, the sun will rise soon enough...guide us to your wagons, but be assured, should you try to trick us, most of you are going to die...
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M'lord
Gregori nods and throws the goblin over his saddle...the ride back to Karcau is a bit more light-hearted...at least a patrol of goblins was no match for you...not the worst revelation.
As you return to the city, you can see two fully loaded wagons, disappearing northbound in the distance...
Counter argument against Vicky that is not backed by a dice roll? I gave that up long ago
Lucretia steps out of the darkness, she seems to be genuinely considering your offer...
I need some kind of security...I guess you understand that I can't just trust you...especially after what Solaric did...your offer though sounds well-thought to me.
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As you crash into the line of goblins, for the first time you feel how your life in Karcau has changed you. When you graduated, a snow goblin would have been a considerable foe, but now you just hew through the fragile bodies driving them away in no time - and just as Gregori had promised: a shot directly above the knee cap turns one of the creatures immobile.
After only about twenty seconds the whole fight is over and the remaining goblins scurry away into the night toward their camp
We should take the injured one to Karcau m'lord...
Diplomacy check pls Vicky
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Gregori nods and slowly draws out one of his pistols
We'll charge them...on horseback...these snow goblins fear horses, I've seen them flee before. I will shoot one down...though not wounding him lethally...that one will give us some answers.
Lucretia's bell-like laughter seems to come from everywhere
You're not here on Solaric's behalf? That I shall believe? How stupid do you think Iam? I offered him to save Sassandra and he tried to put his holy steel through me?! He's a lunatic, a fanatic...completely unsuited to sit on the throne.But you say you don't speak for him? If not why are you here anyway?
Gregori nods
You've always been right M'lord and trusting you was always the right way to get out of dire situation.
after several more minutes of riding the Nightscarf captain slows his horse down and raises a hand. He points to the shore of the nearby lake - a mirror of polished silver in the moonlight. There, several small creatures, maybe a goblin patrol stand huddled together next to an abandoned wagon.
Gregori is silent for a moment and only the horses' hooves disturb the serenity of the cold night
It does m'lord...but I fear we will be wishing for shadows once eternal night has fallen...that was what the Ragman wanted, right? Turn Sinaria into a land of darkness...
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Deep in the womb of Vizyalesh, you finally reach Lucretia's throne room again. A bit nervous, but still determined Andreanu and the Sczarni flank Victoria as she strides into the room, when suddenly torches light up and plate-mailed warriors step out of the darkness.
And from the dark distance of the room Lucretia's voice echoes over to you
The traitors? How unexpected.
So much the better Andreanu grins without joy and grips the hilt of his sword with one hand and pushes open the black gate of Vizyalesh with the other.
Even though you have entered the place on many an occasion before, the endless black corridors still give you the shivers.
Andreanu takes a torch and looks at Cairn
Ladies first, my friend.
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Gregori has been silent for most of the ride by now, but as you pass a group of firs, he muses aloud
M'lord, are the shadows our friends or foes? Aren't they creatures of the sun for that they can't exist in darkness?
As far as I understood you in the recent talks, the lair is down in the vaults of Vizyalesh, right? Maybe we should just send in a small group of men at first and gather the others once we are sure everything is safe? There have always been rumours that the academy is full of traps and ghastly creatures.
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We'll ride to the outskirts of their camp...maybe we even catch some unaware guards...I think that kidnapping one for interrogation would be a fine goal for our mission.
The Nightscarves mount their horses and on Dumitru's a silent command the whole party takes off like shadows darting through the night.
The Sczarni looks neither surprised nor repelled by the deed that is about to be done. Some of them nod, others just look around, play with their knives or give encouraging comments to their neighbours.
Once your little speech has ended, Andreanu claps his hands and brings some motion in the assembly of men
We accompany you to the university but wait outside, right?
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Some minutes later, in front of the imposing building that is the Royal Stables, you meet up with Gorian, Gregori and a band of ten Nightscarves, the best of the best as Gregori puts it.
Gorian, without turning from the lake, nods
Bad times that were and worse times we have now...I'll accompany you and Gregori on your mission...being proactive instead of reacting all the time feels much better.
he straightens and finally turns away from the gloomy panorama
I'll wait at the stables.
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At the Sharkpool, Andreanu and his men are more than happy to lend assistance. Quickly a band of twenty cutthroats, thugs and conmen are assembled and to say the least, they look determined to do whatever is needed to do.
As you step outside a strong gust of wind tears at your cloak blows away some red and brown leaves. The massive figure of Gorian stands near the cliff's edge and he seems to stare out at the lake, to the island where you faced the first incarnation of the Ragman. The island's only building, the thin lighthouse pokes out of the lake's surface like a threatening finger.
Gregori snaps open his pistol and takes a look down the barrel
I'm set for scouting...I'd suggest going by night, I got a trinket that enables me to see in the dark and I think you are able to do that anyway, right?
he snaps it shout again and nods to the door
Gorian is outside, he'll accompany you to the Shark Pool.
Gregori nods
A sound plan...tomorrow we will have fought the last remanants of the plague and then I'll be able to scout the enemy's camp with jo and Lord Zekkaran...when do you want to visit Lucretia, tonight?
Yes, please
Boris and Gergori say unisono.
Gregori scratches his head
[b|I wasn't able to follow the conversation you had with Lord Zerkkaran before...what exactly is your plan and can we help you?[/B]
Boris takes a small book out of a bag strapped to his belt and begins to thumb through it
Now in charge of Karcau is Prince Aduard Odranti...but as long as he isn't informed of Sassandra's death...no one would question Lord Zekkaran's claim, I think. I'm not sure about the Livgrace line, but most probably Stephen Livgrace is the one to follow her. Stephen has been her during the tournament, I'm not sure where he is now...St. Just should know. As far as I can remember their was a mutual friendship between Lord Zekkaran and Stephen, right? Lucretia's potential title claim is a thing to think about...actually I'd say Prince Odranti would not want a vampire to rule over one of the provinces, but you can never be sure, especially should she have the backing of the populace. Talking about Lucretia: Yes, she has send out her patrols and there are no trespassings on her side regarding the deal. The city also hasn't broken the deal by any means...well, beside the Lord's assault.
While you kept on talking and discussing the implications of your next actions, Gergori was smart enough to call for Boris Fanalio, head of Kiavelak Academy and one of the most gifted sages of the city.
From your days at the academy you always remember him as a tall, broad-shouldered man who always had an aura of underlying strength, but now he's only a shadow of his former self - haggard and pale.
He seems to notice your surprised looks and before any greetings are exchanged, explains
The plague had also hit me, but thanks to your endeavours, I was able to get some of the holy water.
So, the plan is to check out whether Gregori is right and directly afterwards enter the catacombs underneath the academies again hoping that Lucretia's lair is still there?
Dumitru scratches his head and after a moment of hesitation - seemingly unsure - explains
Mhm...I think that there is a law in Ustalavian corpus juris of aristocracy...well, I'm not sure, but when I was trained at the academy I think I once read about the possibility to either choose or elect a Steward of War in dark times with the ruler dead....umm and about the vampires, I doubt that Lucretia will continue the attacks against our enemies now that you have attacked her...we will have to face her full pack, I fear. Maybe it would be wise to give out magic weapons to all NIghtscarves, m'lord.
What is Johenric doing? Cairn is resting, right?
Gregori nods, but then hesitates
Victoria, I strongly advise not to wander the city's streets alone. Vampires are on the loose and the plague is still strong in many districts.
Then he turns to Solaric and straightens his posture
[b|M'lord...scouts are permanently on the alarm. The enemy's camp is about ten miles from here on the other side of the lake, I guess they could set up camp here at our walls within ten hours...at least if they rush, but there seems to be no indication for that. The size of Lucretia's flock is a matter of pure speculation...actually you were there and met her...how many others were at her court?[/b]
Gregori arches an eyebrow and gives Cairn a soft kick
You will not stay here...on the couch...this is a place of woe and grief.
then he turns to Victoria
Do you need assistance of any kind? I mean, magister Johenric will surely acompany you, but there are other sages in the city who could help you, too.
Sunken in thought and discussion, you finally reach Swansong House...the normally snow-white walls seem grey and gloomy now and behind it large dark clouds race by...Gregori waits at the entrance and nods
M'lord, I have sent small groups of Nightscarves into each and every corner and dark place of the city, Lucretia will be found...soon.
I'll wait with any events until you have agreed on a modus operandi - that is a very interesting discussion. Lannister vs. Stark ;)
Tanor seems very concerned and takes a deep breath
Problems in abundance...we have to make sure that no one thinks it is your lordship that is ill-fated but only a series of tragedies that are NOT connected...I will prepare a sermon for tomorrow and will praise your prowess and decision-making.
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Once Solaric is ready you can all gather at the gates.
The dragon sneers and greenish vapor rises from his nostrils
A goodn future that is!
and with two powerful flaps is in the air again.
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Tanor takes the flasks, but as the sick around you begin to push to get closer to their cure, he commands with thundering voice
No! We won't give out the potions to the strongest of you, but to those in most dire need! Form queues and we will examine you...you all heard that Lord Zekkaran was able to acquire more of the healing waters...so be patient!
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I guess we can assume that Vicky and Jo reach the city now and Cairn some posts later?!
Gadak nearly stops the cart as you speak the godesses' name
Shhh, are you some sort of lunatic?! Don't say the Forbidden Ones' names aloud! Umberweb must be a crazy place...hear they can flay you to death for such a thing...or worse...
the drow seems genuinely shocked
And no, I don't know who of the princes or princesses IS MOCKED by her...
The people raise their arms in praise and loudly echoes the Count's name over the square - loud enough to summon the temple servants and Tanor.
The imposing man looks tired and grey, but his smile is genuine
Count Zekkaran, the gods have answered my prayers, you found the healing water?
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The dragon takes the route back along the other shore of the lake.
Walking back to Karcau, Cairn is soon joined by Naga and feels at least a bit better now.
About a metres above him on the other side of the lake, the nighty black wyrm leaves the bolt throwers and spear slingers behind and speeds for Karcau. The enemy will reach the city in less than two days, so much is clear now.
The dragon was about to snap-catch Cainr when he notices the spell - the great wyrm snickers and doubles his speed once he is sure that the human is safe...
The trees beneath you fly past, a carpet of dark green every now and then with a small clearing in it. After a hwile the dragon has reached the other side of the lake and gives a deep resounding roar - here the vanguard of the enemy's army has set camp and this tiume they are prepared a host of ice goblins commanded by yetis and frost giants are adjusting bolt throwers and catapults and...as expected fire much too early...but still, the opponent's force is impressive. A city of tents, large as big tops for the giants and tiny for the goblins expand around the lake shore.
Cairn, once landed, do you want to jog to Karcau? About 2 hours from where you are
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Gorian nods, silenty shakes his head again and joins you in leaving Swandsong House.
During your ride through the city, everywhere people call Sassandra's name and moan her fate...it's a ghostly atmosphere especially in the districts suffering under the plague. Black signs have been painted on the doors of families with sick people under their roof and the streets are empty and look forlorn.
As you get closer to the House of the Vigilant Flame, you hear a loud noise from the temple squre, loads of people have assembled in front of the sacred place to pray for salvation and a cure for the plague.
Everyone is able to keep themselves steady on the dragon's back besides Cairn, who loses his grasp and slides towards one of the massive wings -
options:
1) Ram a blade into the dragon to get a hold and possibly injure the monster.
2) Use all your acrobatic abilities for a last chance attempt to stay on his back.
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Gorian nods determinedly
I can assemble the Sczarni, but you should go to the temple and speak to Tanor, then we can keep the city guard out of that...otherwise word would spread too soon and with the enemy so close to our gates we have no need for chaos and confusion inside the wall.
Gorian nods slowly, his eyes full with tears
She'll pay for that...her vampires have been striving through the city's streets during the last nights, spying but not attacking...I think she had planned that you wouldn't accept her proposal. Now we have enemies outside the city, threatening to lay siege and enemies within the walls.
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Waiting for Jo - what about Kirk?
No, sadly the water cannot restore her to life - even its miraculous powers are limited.
As you leave Sasandra's chamber, you run right into Gorian. The giant looks pale and haggard but as he grabs you by the shoulder you can still feel the immense strength the man has
Solaric, as soon as word spread I came here...I...
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The dragon darts through the air and you revel in the feeling of freedom and the ecstasy of speed. When the majestic predator suddenly swoops with a growl you have to grab the dge of one of the nightly scales not to fall
STR check DC 10
Or DEX Check DC 12
Sorry Solaric, didn't see your post and was wondering why you didn't write anything^^
Yes, you can verify her death, the marks of the plague are still on her neck and back. However, even now they heal once the fountain water is dripped onto them.
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Once everyone has boarded the black-scaled vessel, the dragon takes off with two powerful wing slaps. The sensation of flying is terrifying at first but soon the exaltation of the feeling takes over when you glide through the misty twilight of Ustalav towards the mirror-like surface of Lake Porphyria.
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