I am a man of honor and live my life gladly abiding by my oaths. You are most generous, Great Wyrm. However, I must respectfully ask you a question. Now that you are renewed of strength, do you pose a threat to the good people of Karcau? For indeed I am honor bound to protect the people of said fair city!"
"I can only implore you not to get too comfortable, Great Lord, as the warring is not yet over, and I suspect that our mutual enemies might find themselves again assaulting one or the other of us. I did find your horde rather interesting, you seek the strongest powers available - knowledge and influence, and have seemingly achived them in abundance"
"When the territory of Jarovicha is granted to my family, you will be welcome there Great Wyrm...I need only to convince the Caliphvaso line that good allies who can be trusted are a rare and desirable commodity that should be well rewarded, of course, if a great Wyrm were to talk to them of such trustworthiness and reliability, well who knows how far that could go? Surely a staunchly allied family who understands the order of things would be well placed, where the treacherous bloodline continuing on there would only lead to more needless scandal, hardship, and bloodshed..."
I do not intend to break my agreements with the city of music. I'm content with what we have agreed on and don't like to see the treatises changed. I will wait and observe, as I always did. Should those hooded bastards return, I will be prepared.
The dragon eyes Victoria with curiosity as she offers him a new habitat
Jarovicha? That's very close to the mountains. I doubt I could find a place there I would like to call home, could I? But if you really want to haggle with the Caliphvasos, return to me and I can give you something that will make them accept whatever you propose.
"We are not too dissimilar you and I, Great Wyrm" She gives him a formal bow, and then watches the frogmen with great curiousity, or rather the chest they bear.
I do not intend to break my agreements with the city of music. I'm content with what we have agreed on and don't like to see the treatises changed. I will wait and observe, as I always did. Should those hooded bastards return, I will be prepared.
"Then it appears that today we are on the same side of the battle, for we indeed share a common enemy. However, I must tell you that many of these hooded fiends were slain by our own swords and you will not likely be seeing any more of them soon. However, Great Wyrm, I must ask you, where do these hooded fiends come from and where is their hidden lair located? Are they indeed the followers of Norgorber?"
I could smell the heaths of the north on them, the scent of of the first flowers on a grassy plain, the wind that sweeps over low bushes and muirs...they surely come from the lands north of the Kronstein Ridge.
"Ahh, this confirms my suspicion! Last night we all had dreams of the Kronstein Ridge and of a fortification filled with undead lead by an avenging angel with red wings. This evidence all points to the heart of their evil up on that Ridge. Who is this master that commands these hooded fiends. Name him, Great Wyrm, that I may gain a power over him and smite him down for both of our sakes!"
"This land is strange indeed.",Harl thinks to himself as he watches the discussion between his party and the dragon. "Only pact I trust with any of his kind is between my axe and its neck. But, then again it is the pact I would usually find between the 'em dark elves, too." Scratching his chin in thoughtful contemplation, he purses his thick lips a little as mulls over the situation he is most unaccostumed to.
"Does havin' long lives make you pointy ear folk so wordy too, elf?",Harl suddenly ask with laugh.
"Does havin' long lives make you pointy ear folk so wordy too, elf?"
"Hehe. Not you too, my friend? You are starting to sound like Pitr Jendarne. I think he believes that I could talk a creature to death! And yes, I too feel uneasy with the negotiations with Dragons, Witches, and other such questionable creatures. But trust me, Harl, my words are backed with passion and conviction that we are here to serve the people and bring the glory of truth, justice, and light to this land!"
Johenric is facinated by the great wyrm and all around him can see that he has a lot of questionmarks on his face - too much to ask them all.
Oh mighty dragon, I am a chosen one as I am venerated to see a great dragon like you with my own eyes. Considering all the secrets you know, you have mastered so many riddles of this world...but at the moment we should concentrate on the important questions....unfortunately...but I thank you for your present. I mean the chest...and of course your presence.
Johenric takes out a piece of paper and his inkpen. He writes down his impressions about this exciting event. Everyone can see that he is excited...
More to himself he says
I wish I could talk about all the things he know...
"Judge them by their words and in turn their deeds, not whether they are Dragons or Men, or Witches. Not that I would know, I am just a flighty courtier from the city of Karcau."
@Johenric: Zahur listens to you attentively as you explain, and confirms his interest in Wizardly magic. He shows you the spellbook that the group has.
Addresing the Wyrm.
Diplomacy:
As you certainly are no Wyrmling, and a wyrm of great wisdom, thank you again. I am sure we will return to you in the future in regards to our mutual foe and prospective alliance.
You don't know much more about black dragons than of their ability to use an acid breath weapon, that they are generally evil and that they live in swamps.
The monster grins as Johenric praises his wisdom, turning its large horned head (about the size of three full grown bulls) to Solaric, the black dragon replies
I already had a vague idea who leads this army of hooded ones from the shadows. The fact that you were looking for the Heptagon book proved that I was right. Yet, you must also know it, know about the twins. A dark one and a bright one. The question is, whose followers will have enough parts of the key gathered firstly.
Solaric looks the Dragon in the eye and replies, "Indeed I have heard the tale. What once was legend, I now believe to be our living history. By the light of the Inheritor, let us hope that the bright one prevails. So tell me, O Mighty One, will the Chronicles of the Heptagon reveal to us the location of the remaining shards?"
For those who understand what is written in it...yes. However, the book speaks in riddles and the locations aren't clearly named.
"I presume that the site of the other shards are still hidden from the cultists. However, I wonder . . . do you know if the location of these shards are found in any other sources?"
Johenric takes the spell book as soon as Zahur reveals them.
Great. Where did you manage to get those. Let me know when you need to know anything else and - especially - when you find more spells like this. Written in a book, on a scroll, on paper, or on stone.....doesn't matter!
"Johenric, If you are willing, we will need you to read through the Chronicles of the Heptagon and learn as much as you can. Time is of the essence as we race to find the next piece of the Heptagon Shard. Please read carefully and be sure to share with us any leads that you find interesting. Actually, perhaps it would be better if you just share with us any leads that you find important. The dragon has made it clear that it is written in riddles. So if you are stuck on anything, be sure to share with us anything that perplexes you. I suspect that the more minds we have working on the riddles, the better we will be at deciphering where we need to go next!"
Kirk eyes the great Wyrm cautiously, but trusts that his multiple thefts will be overlooked or forgiven, or at the very least ignored. He says nothing to the dragon about the incidents and pretends not to notice the look he is given.
Once business in the boggart village is cleared up, Kirk is very anxious to return to Karcau. He is ready to study his new book and practice in an alchemical lab once more.
"Does havin' long lives make you pointy ear folk so wordy too, elf?",Harl suddenly ask with laugh.
"Exactly! I really think he missed his calling as a bard. Although that might require a sense of humor. Come to think of it he doesn't have much sense at all. He is getting better though, be glad you weren't around at the start of all this."
"I have to say I do agree with Solaric's sentiment about your sewing circle though, Countess. Those deranged old ladies can't be a good influence. If we're done here then let's get Samara safely back home. I've certainly seen more than enough of this swamp."
"Some might say the same of us, dear Pitr, although I thank you for your caution and your concern. I realise that some of these 'allies' might reveal themselves to be capricious friends, but for now I marshall what influence I can to ensure obstacles are removed from our path, and my own particular ends..."
"On the other hand Pitr, becoming alike to those deranged old ladies is probably my destiny, so I must be sure to keep them distant from any potential suitors I might have so as not to frigthen the dears off prematurely. Much better that the realisation of what they have gotten themselves into reveal itself like acreeping dawn. Dawn, you know, the thing you use to measure when it's time to sneak home."
"Lets leave this swamp and its gloom, it's only missing a gingerbread house, it already has a Witch"
Harl burst into deep laugh, which jingles his armor and assorted gear. "Pitr,my boy, I see an ever increasing friendship possible, hahaha."
With the unopened treasure chest between you, you leave the dragon's domicile and since you don't have to hurry any more, you reach the point where you left Swan behind quite safely.
The beautiful Varisian diviner still waits there, together with her mother and you can clearly make out tears of joy that you're all still in one piece.
As son as your feet have stepped on safe ground, both women embrace and hug you (also the ones that have by know been unknwon to them), bury you under a pile of "thank you"s and "Desna bless you"s and promise to make up for the hardship you endured.
Victoria graciously accepts the hugs, then untangles herself and heads for the unopened chest.
"I wonder what is in store for us here"
She opens the chest, making sure no one stands too close...
Solaric graciously, if not awkwardly received the enthusiastic embraces of the two ladies. "My dears, it is an honor to serve and I assure you that you do not need to promise to 'make up' for anything. In fact, it is to you that we are indebted, for without this unexpected excursion, we would not have come across this important tome that will aid us greatly in the task appointed to us! It appears that the light of the Inheritor shines on us all!"
With the unopened treasure chest between you...
The beautiful Varisian diviner still waits there, together with her mother and you can clearly make out tears of joy that you're all still in one piece.
Pitr grins and in his typical humble manner states, "It was nothing, you know. It's what I do." His eyes tell Swan that's not all he does though...
The chest contains the following :
Chainmail of Champion +1
Dagger of Venom
35 arrows +2
1.5k gp
5k sp
A large scroll containing:
- Bungle
- Sleep
- Stone Fist
--Acid Arrow
--Darkness
--Whispering Wind
---Vision of Hell
---Daylight
---Ape Walk
----Secure Shelter
----Share Senses
Swan caresses Pitr's cheek and as soon as everyone is looking into the chest, she whispers
I heard quite some stories about you Pitr Jendarne, while you were in Jarovicha. How much of these are true and would you consider changing your habits?
Pitr thinks, Now who would have told here about Jarovicha? Oh wait, she's got mystical visions. DAMN!
"Ah, Jarovicha. That was a trap. I should have known better, but I was far from home and facing certain death. I mean I had just barely survived a wyvern attack! It was a moment of weakness."
"Beautiful Swan, how could any other woman compare to you and besides given your talents, I don't think I'd get away with anything." He smiles and kisses her.
Zahur nudges Pitr.
Dammit Pitr, your in a Swamp where it smells like a latrine and the scenery is similar; yet you still manage this. I'll never understand it I swear.
On another note, Swan may we discuss something in private once we return to Karcau?
Swan returns the kiss with as much bravado as Pitr...it takes a moment for her to untangle, then, with blushed cheeks, she replies
Umm yes, uh, sorry, what?
At the sight of Jendarne kissing the lovely Swan, Solaric comments to nobody in particular. "To think that I was concerned that my gentle sign of affection to her Grace would bring scandal when we have Pitr Jendarne, displaying passion unbounded for us all to see!" Solaric lets out a sigh. "I think it is time to pack up these gifts and return to the city. I must go and speak with Master Veredan once we return."
Zahur can't help but chuckle at Swan's response.
Wow Pitr, you make a damsel forget herself. At least Swan knows what she is getting into, in comparison to your other 'acquaintances' she is way ahead in the game
Once Swan collects herselfand the chosen are on the road to Karcau, Zahur readdresses her and her mother.
Ladies, once we return to Karcau, may we have a discussion in personal matters? There is some sensitivty to the issue.
Seemingly delighted that Pitr has found himself a 'good influence', Victoria joins the others for the ride home, deep in thought about the tasks and challenges that lay in the immediate future.
@ Zahur:
Th two Varisian women nod in unison
Of course Zahur, it must be a matter of grief and personal importance I guess, judging from the secrecy you keep.
@ All:
The ride (for some walk) back to Karcau during better weather, continues without any occurences...But at the city's southern gate, called Sunmaw by most of the populace, you spot a knight on a mighty warhorse wearing a black platemail and a helm formed like the head of a raven.
He must belong to the Raven Guard, the personal bodyguards of Countess Sasandra Livgrace, ruler of Sinaria, the county to which Karcau belongs.
He seems to discuss some matters with two of his squires and some nearby peasants.
Kirk eyes the scene with curiosity, but stays his course unless his companions stop.
Knowledge:Nobility
A litle inrigued by why a man of such station would be conversing with peasants, and mindful that he could well be a paladin or the like on the trail of missing children, Victoria breaks off from her fellows to investigate briefly. Similarly she curious as to who, or what, his station might be, not immediately recognising his livery.
Seeing Victoria divert toward the man in plate armor, Kirk seems to change his mind and he follows several feet behind her. Not that he figured she needed any protection or company... he knew way better than that.
Being unaccustomed to the nation, but not to men of battle, Harl pulls up short toobserve the man from distance. "Pitr. Solaric. Zahur. What do you make of this knight? I am not very familiar with the regalia of this nation. Is he of any house ya be recognizin'?"
Knowledge, Nobility
I do not recognize the coat of arms on him. Perhaps we should go and have a word with him. Solaric rides up to the Knight and greets him.
"Well Met! Welcome to Karcau! Where are you from, my good sir?"
Zahur follows the rest of his companions to the knight.
[b]Honestly Harl I don't know. I was too busy training Night and focusing on combat than to listen in the heraldry classes that were thought at the academy. Obviously I'm regretting it now.
"There be times when known your enemies is as important as known how to wield 'em pointy bits, Wellsbottom. Might be somethin' ya look into someday.
@ Zahur:
Samara nods and whispers
Visit us whenever you have the time and are minded to speak about these things.
@ All:
The knight turns in his saddle and one of his squires positions himself between Solaric and his master at once. Then he opens his visor and says
I hail from the court of our Countess Sasandra Livgrace and I just asked these nice folks here if they knew something about the way north to Belfurth.
"Hail! I am Solaric Zekkaran and my companions and I have recently returned from Belfurth and the north. Are you on route for the town formerly known as Jaracovia? There is much we can share with you in regards to that area."
Seeing that the knight seems to be posing no immediate threat, Harl moves forward to join the rest of the party. But, without placing himself in a direct line with the horseman's mount should his disposition sour.
"Well met Sir knight, my dear Solaric here is an Acolyte of the Inheiritor and can most certainly help you in advice relevant to a man of arms such as yourself, but what ever could you want in Belfurth and Jarovicha?...or is the matter more confidential?"
"Pitr. Solaric. Zahur. What do you make of this knight? I am not very familiar with the regalia of this nation. Is he of any house ya be recognizin'?"
Pitr snorts, "I don't pay much mind to these supposed nobles. Seems like a lot of inbreed gits dressing pretty and pretending they're a big deal."
Pitr follows along, but doesn't display much interest in the raven helmed knight.
The knight seems surprised that you have been there recently
Good to hear folks can still travel in the north. We heard rumors of monsters...living deads that roam through the area of the Kronstein Ridge. And not single ones, but rather warbands of twenty to fifty of them. Did you encounter anything like this? But, wait a moment, have you been north of the Ridge or stayed south of it?
"We got very close to the Kronstein range as we travelled to North beyond Belfurth, but we only made it as far as Castle Jaracovich. We did encounter a band of ogres on the way to Belfurth, but we did not meet any warbands unless you are to count the late Count Jaracovich's own warband of undead. So tell me, good sir. I beg your pardon for asking, but what errand sends you north to the Kronstein Ridge?"
Were these undead wearing any armour? Did they have a semblance of sentience or did the reports seem to point that they were mindless minions?
If they are the former then we should be extremely worried.
Victoria simply watches the conversation unfold, this is seemingly a matter for men in armour, not courtiers.