Rage erupts across Taldani's face. His eyes seem to burst into flame as he screams a primal shout and swings his glaive in rapid succession across the massive beasts body rending 2 huge bleeding wounds in the beast.
DANNA!!!
The elementals continue to flail away harmlessly at the Wyvern creating nothing more than a cooling breeze.
Upon seeing the blood spray across the field and one of his oldest friends fall to the ground all the blood drains from Kyras's face. Danna!!
Desperate to stop the creature from escaping with his dearest friend Kyras desperately weaves his hands quickly in an intricate pattern while throwing a handful of colored sand in the air.
Likewise enraged by seeing his friend torn asunder, Finwik lunges at the wyvern, seeking to jam his dagger between its scales.
As the life drains from Danna's body and her blood soaks the ground a tiny whirlwind swirls up from the drenched earth as if the the last bit of her life force is refusing to just drain away. Joining the wind it seems to dissipate as a faint tinkley sound is heard.
Taldani calls to the gods and swings mightily landing two tremendous blows upon the wyvern!
The elementals and Finwik continued to be frustrated by the beast's defences.
Kyras rushes around the bushes and attempts to take the monster down with a spell, catching an elemental in the blast of color...
...causing the elemental to suffer but not the wyvern. Knocked unconscious the cloudy creature floats gently downward...
The sudden spray of blood filling the air forces Bjelich to stop in his tracks, Great Erastil! Show mercy! As all colour drains from his face the eagle's frustrated scream gives voice to the Bishop's feelings of failure. Composing himself, the Bjelich raises his holy symbol and evokes the words he hopes will bring Danna back from the brink of the river of souls.
Bjelich's divine energy is too late and too little to save his friend. As the summoned eagle dives down, screaming as it goes, the shrill sound becomes louder and louder. Too loud, and then it is joined by the call of many other birds as suddenly a flock of giant eagles clears the nearby treetops and make straight towards the wyvern. Razer sharp claws flex in anticipation of the coming clash.
At the sight of the incoming avians, the wyvern drops Danna's remains and roars in anger as it beats its wings taking to the air and retreating from the advancing eagles.
You stand somewhat in awe as the enormous birds fly overhead in pursuit of the fleeing wyvern. After a few seconds both the wyvern and the eagles disappear over the edge of the canyon and total silence falls upon the valley. A moment later as sun dips beneath the horizon, there is a green flash before darkness takes the land...
...and then absolutely nothing happens.
Leaping from his horse Bjelich rushes to Danna's limp form. Danna! Taking up her head in his arms, the cleric checks for any signs that she may still be alive. Only vacant eyes stare back at him. Not willing to believe that this is the end for her, Bjelich grasps his holy symbol and prays to Erastil for yet more of his divine grace. Golden light surrounds the wooden symbol. Like a stream it fills Bjelich's hand then moves over his limbs and flows over Danna's form. As the radiance covers the druid, Bjelich urges her back to the living, Danna! Hold on Danna! We've got you now. You're going to be alright. Come now girl, open your eyes!
Bjelich's efforts are in vain... no spark of life remains in the druid.
Kyras drops to his knees cradling Danna's blood soaked head.Danna! So young.. Too young!!
Eventually Kyras cradles Her body in his arms and carefully drapes her body over horse carefully securing it. Silently he mounts his horse and looks over the others his eyes clearly red before slowly turning and leaving the clearing with her horse in tow.
Bjelich solemnly follows. After a mile or two the cleric speaks up, I shall begin preparations at once to preserve her body once we reach Greengate. I will also send word to Restov for, Bjelich pauses to search for an appropriate word, assistance. Bringing Danna back from the river of souls and Pharasma's judgement is perhaps already too late, but she can be called back. It is however beyond my skills, but not to others. Bjelich stops speaking to gauge Kyras' reaction.
Once the shock of the battle and Danna's death is over, Finwik suddenly realizes that he is sitting doubled over on his pony, following behind Kyras and Bjelich. He blinks his eyes several times and his thoughts whirl and confusion turns to anger as he replays the last moments of the vicious battle.
Twisting his tiny mouth into a snarl he yells at nobody in particular Why did she die!? What were we even doing there? We have a kingdom, a KINGDOM! Why are we trapsing around in the bloody woods fighting bloody wyverns!?
Focusing on the back of Bjelich riding in front of him, he grabs the first loose object he sees (a small, dense purse of tobacco resting easily in a pocket on his saddle) and flings it at his head. We should be feasting and drinking and whoring, not trudging about getting our friends killed!
His anger spent, he lowers his head and weeps. After several moments he rubs his eyes and reaches down into his saddle bags, fishing around until he finds a large flask of dark brown liquid. He drains a quarter of the bottle in a mighty swig before he proffers it to the others, offering them to join him in drowning his sorrows.
Bjelich turns to see Finwik's outburst just as the halfling launches the tobacco pouch. Moving his head an inch to the left, the pouch sails harmlessly past the cleric, landing with a tiny thump somewhere in the grass. I hope that wasn't an expensive variety Finwik. The cleric halts himself from saying anything more, Poor man is distraught. To remind him that it is our job to ferret out such creatures from our kingdom is unnecessary. Finwik knows what his duties to the kingdom are, right? Bjelich turns to glance at Kyras, Will our leader address Finwik?
Bjelich politely refuses Finwik's offer of drink reality into a pit. The wyvern may have been chanced off but the party was still not out of danger. A clear head, Bjelich surmises, will increase their chances of...of what? Bjelich's mind returns to the problem facing the group, how to deal with Danna? He knows there is a way to return her to the group, but the spell Bjelich has in mind is very expensive. Not to mention beyond his capabilities to cast, much less comprehend. He'd never even seen the ceremony performed! If there were another alternative, it does not rest within his area of expertise.
Kyras turns his horse at the comments by Finwick and looks at him solemnly. We have a kingdom my friend. It is a great treasure and a great responsibility. Would you of proffered that we let the wyvern be. Mayhaps wait until it had gone from eating animals to eating children? We all know the risks we take. Danna more so than others new that risk. She has scrambled throughout the woulds attracting trouble for as long as I have known her. I miss her greatly!
Riding beside Finwick he comforts him and takes a long drink from the offered flask.There may yet be hope, albeit a small hope. I will send word to her father. He is a powerful druid and may be able to help us but it will come at a cost. Nodding once more to Finwick as he squeezes the smaller ones shoulder, he pulls ahead again leading them back to Oleg's as fast as possible.
Upon returning to the fort he Kyras turns over the care of Danna's body Bjelich and immediately summons a guard. He quickly writes something on a piece of parchment then with hurried gestures sends the guard off running. Within minutes a mounted man goes racing out of the stables through the courtyard and out the gates.
Sighing Kyras turns and walks towards Oleg to pass on the horrible news.
Immediately upon their return, Bjelich orders Danna's body to be placed in a safe place, sheltered from the elements. He sends servants to fetch warm water and a clean shroud. He uses the water to respectfully wash the druids' wounds. When this is done, Bjelich lays the fresh linens over her body then rests for a time. Upon waking Bjelich begins his morning prayers, calling up his deity to infuse him with enough divine strength so as to preserve Danna's remains. Confident Erastil has answered his prayer, the cleric heads straight for Danna's side. Turning down the shroud to reveal her face, he places two copper coins over the druid's eyes, one covering each eyelid and carefully adds a pinch of salt on top of the coins. Summoning forth Erastil's power, Bjelich raises his hands above her body and lets Erastil's golden light pass from his hands onto Danna. Some of this light penetrates into her skin to keep her organ's clean of decay while the rest forms a gentle protective shell Danna's body to stave off those affects of nature which would normally consume the dead. Over the course of the week , both the coins and salt are gradually consumed however the cleric has made preparations, however Bjelich will not let the spell fade before renewing it.
For the remainder of the day and the days to follow, Bjelich stays near. He places fresh coins and new salt at the start of the fifth day, renewing the spell keeping Danna's remains encased in Erastil's divine light. The rest of the time Bjelich spends in quiet prayer, reflecting upon their encounter with the wyvern and whether it will one day reappear.
The mood in Greengate swiftly changes with the arrival of the Silverguard, returning in defeat just before midnight, and the death of the Marshal, to one of despair and fear. By morning most people in the settlement are aware of what has transpired the night before.
Early in the morning and upon finishing his first enchantments with Danna, a tired Bjelich approaches Kyras. The whites of his eyes are red from fatigue and grief - it has been a difficult task. Still his work is not done and now he comes to offer his aid in dealing with the people, Recent events do not leave the people feeling confident in our roles. This is worse than before, when that creature roamed unchecked. You should address the people Kyras, halt this swell of panic before it spreads negativity outside these walls. Is there some direction you'd like them to head in? Some banner of hope we can all stand behind? If you tell me, I can assist with their inspiration.
Kenan looks up at Bjelich. Fatigue clearly lining his features he slumps in his chair. What would you have me say? Danna is dead and we have returned lesser than we were before? How do I reassure the people when I do not feel sure myself! Leave me to my sorrow Bjelich! Pushing past the cleric Kyras stalks into the yard.
Before long he finds himself looking down on Danna's body. I let you down. Now I am letting our people down. What should I do now? I hope your father can help us bring you back. We still need you. Looking up. [i] I still need you![i] Taking a deep breath Kyras straightens his back and heads back outside. Kyras looks for Oleg and asks him top gather as many of the people of Greengate as he can to come to the gates of the town. At which point he climbs the gate to speak to the gathering citizens.
People of Greengate, as many of you already know we have recently returned bloodied and broken by the wyvern. It is also true that we lost our treasured Marshall, Danna in the fight. However, we will not be defeated by her loss nor will we abandon those we have sworn to defend. Your marshal gave of herself every day to protect the people of this kingdom and was willing to sacrifice herself to protect all of us. Her act of bravery allowed us to drive the creature off for now. To regroup and prepare for it's return when we can show it what happens to those who threaten our dear kingdom.
Danna rests for now but through Erastil's grace she lays preserved. We will do everything with in our power, and within the power of our kingdom, to bring back to us one who was so willing to lay herself down to protect all of us. Although we are all darkened by these events we will not let that darken the bright future we all have carved out together.
With that Kyras steps down from the wall his step slightly lighter as if a weight was lifted from his shoulders. He foes to find solace from his comrades and weight hopeful of some magic that may be able to help their friend.
After Kyras' speech, Bjelich mingles with Greengate's citizens. He does what he can to keep the flame of Kyras' inspirational speech alive. Bjelich also uses this time to gently remind the people that the Silverguardians are there for them. He does not use flattery to bolster Kyras' image or that of the Silverguardians but rather, takes a more common approach to portray Kyras in ways the citizens can relate to - a man like any other who devotes his time towards the betterment of others over himself. To support this, Bjelich recalls events in the kingdom's past when not only Kyras' leadership but the sacrifices of the Silverguardians saw the kingdom victorious. Look at all that we have accomplished! The cleric also hints to the unglamorous side of leadership (paperwork, reports, meetings) without which nothing would be built. He emphasizes and reassures the people that all that the group has done, was to benefit not just the kingdom, but all of its inhabitants. The odd time, Bjelich cites some of Erastil's parables choosing themes of strength in unity, gaining strength through adversity and to achieve victory often requires belief not only in yourself but in your neighbors. You'll see, we will overcome this hurtle and propel this kingdom to greater heights!
When the summons reached him Kai thought to himself, This can't be good; they know that my vow of non-interference precludes me from participating in the affairs of this kingdom in any significant way.
No one knows why Kai has made this vow, but he has his reasons. Possibly his semi-annual trips have something to do with it, but his straight up refusal to reveal his destination or purpose and the look that accompanies such questions, stops most in their tracks and they never mention it again. Brigit probably knows, but she keeps her husband's secrets with as much reticence as he does.
Sensing the urgency of the summons Kai asks the messenger, Please find my wife and let her know where I have gone. He then immediately turns into a pigeon and flies north towards Greengate.
A few hours later Kai lands inside the walls of Greengate and, after locating someone who will recognize him, assumes his normal form. The fear and worry in the fort is palpable and Kai senses it immediately.
With little preamble he instructs, Take me to Kyras.
Kyras rises as Kai walks into the room he has taken over as his defacto office. He walks across the room his jaw held tight to prevent the tears that are straining to stream down his face. Kai! I am so sorry to see you under these circumstances. There is no easy way to tell you this but Danna is... She was killed. I am so sorry. We ran into a wyvern in the woods and before we could stop it she was dead. If I could have given my own life for hers I would have. I am so sorry.... Stepping back he searches his face before speaking again.
I know you have stated before that you will not interfere but can you bring her back to us?
Although Kai is a man very skilled at keeping his thoughts and feelings from showing on his face, at Kyras' words he turns away from him but his struggle to keep his emotions in check is visible in the set of his shoulders. Without turning back, in a voice sounding almost like a growl, he barks, Where is she.
Although Kai normally dresses in the normal attire for a druid or person who spends a great deal of time outdoors, there is something about his bearing and manner that suggests someone who, with the right clothes, would pass easily in the company of those of a much higher station. Unlike many druids his hair and beard are neatly trimmed and well kept. His profile also hearkens to a lineage more liable to command than to muck in the dirt. For someone who has dedicated his life to nature he is surprisingly adept at dealing with people and seems to easily defuse tense situations.
His darker colouring makes an extreme and striking contrast to his wife's pale, northern skin and white blonde hair.
Kyras leads Kai to where Danna lies.
Without taking his eyes from his daughter's pale form he addresses Kyras, I spotted a small grove not to far from here on my way; can you get me a horse and cart. His words are more a statement than an actual question.
When Kyras leaves he goes to Danna; resting his hand on her forehead he laments, I should have at least tried to dissuade you from this life. Even though I know it would have been pointless perhaps my guilt now would be less.
He briefly incants something then bends to gather his daughter in his arms. When Kyras returns he wordlessly follows him to the waiting cart. Please drive us. I would like you to return here after you have dropped us off.
Bjelich looks up from his post as Kai and Kyras enter the room. The cleric offers his sincere apologies to Danna's father for the events leading to his summons but Kai looks to be a focused man and Bjelich's words are cut short. Instead, Bjelich stands attentive and ready to assist but also taking in everything Kai does as a kind of learning experience. The healing arts have long been a cleric's domain and any new magic of similar quality is of interest. As preparations get underway, Bjelich suggests the guardians should stay in attendance discretely outside the grove, Not all of these lands are tamed sir, it wouldn't hurt to take precautions.
Kai declines Bjelich's offer on behalf of the Guardians. I will protect her. He then remarks pointedly, I wish to be alone with my child. leaving no doubt that he wants Bjelich to leave with Kyras. His trademark diplomacy has been noticeably absent since he arrived. All of his will concentrating on not breaking down.
Knowing little of Kai's history, Bjelich respectfully retires to his chamber to await Kai's return, presumably after having buried his daughter in classic Druidic fashion.
Kyras raises his hand to grasp Kai's shoulder comfortingly. He then pauses closes his hand and turns away, the tears clear upon his cheeks. Quietly he leaves the room to arrange for a horse and cart to be readied.
Kyras also arranges to have all the oils procured and ready with the wagon.
After Kyras departs Kai arranges Danna's body in the centre of the grove. After casting Hide campsite to keep them hidden during the night he positions himself beside her and enters a meditative state.
As the morning sun breaks the horizon Kai finally stirs. As the first light begins to touch her body he anoints Danna with oils, all the while intoning a strange, beckoning, chant. When the sun lifts itself fully over the horizon a strange shimmering seems to envelope her body, like one would see on a very hot day. When the faux heat haze clears a new form is lying in Danna's place.
Skin, once brown now is decidedly green and small tusks jut from the lower jaw. White blonde hair is now black and the face and form so familiar is now that of a stranger.
Blinking from the brightness of the sun after a long sleep, Danna must rub them prove she is not seeing things.
Father? What are you doing her? The wyvern!! She jumps to her feet, searching for her enemy and her companions. Slowly she realizes that her surroundings are not what she remembers it also begins to register that things are even more strange. Her perspective is not quite what she is used to, and her body feels unfamiliar. She looks down and shrieks.
Kai is not taken aback by his daughter's new countenance and form. He had prepared himself during the night for this inevitability. Quickly he takes her in his arms and holds her tight.
Be calm my daughter. I will explain, be calm. He continues to hold her close while running his hand down her hair to her back in a soothing, repetitive motion.
As Danna sobs memories begin to return, the wyvern attacking her, the horrible crunching and terrible pain before everything suddenly disappeared. As her father strokes her hair she realizes that she must have died and the reason her father is here now.
Father. She says with a resigned sigh.What have I become?
You are still my Danna. he says softly, I was hoping that maybe I would now be a bit taller, but it seems I will have to continue to look you in the eye. He smiles a slightly wry smile at this and upon seeing a small smile quiver on her lips he smiles more broadly and hugs her again.
Let us spend a little while here while you get used to how things are now and I will tell you what I know. But remember, you ARE still Danna, you may look different on the outside but inside you are the same.
The two spend the morning in the grove. Some of the time is spent in conversation, some of it Danna spends in meditation or exploring the reach and feel of her new body.
As the sun reaches its zenith Kai asks, Are you ready to return? With a slight hesitation Danna nods and takes a breath. Her form changes again, this time into that of a bird. Kai follows suit and she tails him back to Greengate.
As they approach Greengate Danna circles a few times before finally landing beside Kai who has already resumed his shape. Even upon landing she does not immediately change back but after a few minutes finally assumes her humanoid shape.
Kyras spots Kai and Danna coming towards the town as he has spent every second since they left perched atop one of the watch towers. He watches as Kai swoops in to land and transform. He worries momentarily when he does not see Danna come down immediately. Upon seeing a second bird approaching he races downs from the tower. He watches as she lands and transforms.
He looks upon her new form as she emerges. He waivers for only a moment before throwing his arms around her in a bear hug. Danna!! You have returned to us!!