know history
Approaching the greatsword and testing it out with some simple slashes as well weighing it and how it is balanced. Grapping the bag and giving it to Mithas "Around 200 Steel, give or take from that sum" Jor says after giving a quick look upon its context
"Now this seems interesting. Anyone have any idea about this sword? What is it, doesnt seem like Khurish design"
Terevalis checking the markings on the blade, he can tell that this is a sword that was wielded by members of the Dragonarmies back in the War of the Lance. Its build is of Nerakan make but defenately Pre-Dark Knight. The weapon is also magical. Give me a Knowledge Arcana check.
Know Arcana
The Weapon is a +1 Greatsword with an additional property. It has "Goblin Bane" property on the weapon. It has a +2 to hit and does an extra 2d6 damage against enemies of the Goblin subtype. The nature of this enchantment seems Arcane, probably enchanted by Black Robe wizards.
Quintis retrieves what arrows he can salvage from the bodies of the dead spiders. He says, "I am appreciative to have your help slaying these spiders. I would also recommend destroying the eggs lest they replenish their numbers."
Cole comes down the hall and says, "Are they all dead? Is everything done here?"
Looking at Terevalis as he examines the greatsword "Seems like you know something or just a normal sword?" Jor asks as he gazes around
Hearing the question of Cole "All dead and gone, ya. Might as well get rid of the eggs to prevent more of them appearing here." as Jor destroys one of the egg clusters with kicking it.
Between destroying eggs "Say, do you have any other problems here? Seems like the spiders and ghouls are now gone so it should be safe. Or anything else to worry about? Otherwise we can head directly back and at last bring this journey to end"
Quintis nods to Jor and says, "Yes, I believe we should not have any more delays. Let us continue onto the Enclave although remember to follow my lead as traveling the wrong way may lead us into the Goblin infested area."
This sword was enchanted by Mages of the Black Robes. It was enchanted to destroy goblins and their foul kin.
Nodding at Quintis and eyeing at the Greatsword "So magic sword in the end? Well, it could prove quite useful were we to encouter now some goblins but if not, well, magic is magic. I do find it amusing how such things are so rare these days. There used to be more of them, even an abundance of magic items as I have heard and understood from older people" Jor remarks silently as he test it once more in his hands.
"Might as well put it to good use" as he give it one good swing
The sword is well balanced and swings well although a bit sinister looking having some black dragon motifs engraved into its pommel.
As for the potions they appear to be 2 potions of light healing and one oil of Magical Weapon.
That was before sorcerers learned to leech the magic from items of power as they laid waste to the magical heritage of the ages snarls the elf.
Anyway barring any other delays in the room, the eggs are crushed and Qunitis leads the party although still badly wounded from the spider bite. He leads you a round about path through numerous sewer tunnels. While you see the occasional rat you have no other meaningful encounters with other monsters. The group arrives to what looks like a blank wall but Quintis lifts some green mildew off the wall revealing a well hidden elven symbol carved into the wall. He runs his finger along the symbol and it starts to glow a pale blue. He then says "Ael ura k" or in elvish "The Path Is Clear".
With a silent wispier a portion of the stone wall sides open revealing a long and narrow passageway that leads down a set of stairs. The stairs lead down deeper into the earth.
The stairs continue for about fifty feet opening up into an enormous room that seems to have been carved out of the earth hundreds of years ago. Soft radiance, apparently from small dancing globes of light, creates the illusion that the ceiling high overhead is a starlit sky.
Looking around you see numerous tents and lean-tos arranged in the chamber. The elves take notice of non-elves entering the enclave and word spreads fast as murmurs in elvish spread throughout the enclave. A majority of the elves there look strange however. They have a sickly skin tone and their eyes are pink in color and they look in rather sickly. There are a few glints of weapons but Qunitis puts his hand up and says in elvish "These are our guests. They have been welcomed here."
He leads you further into the encampment as the elves give you a wide birth. Then from out of the crowd comes two elves. One a sickly looking woman dressed in impressive leathers with the same pale skin and pink eyes as many elves here but with impressive equipment and light blonde hair. She stares daggers at the party before another elven woman comes out dressed in white. The elven woman is more like a spirit than a creature of flesh and blood. Pale blue eyes openly gaze at you. While she appears as a young woman her eyes hold a sadness that belies her apparent years.
"Greetings" she murmers softly, her voice barely a whisper as she draws to a halt a few steps away from your party. "I am Lady Shaylin Moonborn of House Mystic. It was I who called you here." She gestures around the chamber as all eyes on on your party, "Welcome to out humble home. I see that you are injured. Please allow us to heal your wounds and show you proper hospitality. We shall convine in my tent when you are ready"
Shaylin says in elvish, "Bring forth Angelyn Starsinger. Our guests require the healing grace of Quenesti Pah."
A minute or two later an elderly elven woman with silver gray hair dressed in priestly blue robes and wearing the holy symbol of the blue infinity comes forward. She gives a respectful bow to Shaylin and then looks to the party over and holds up her holy symbol and channels a divine burst of energy. Everyone heal damage. Seeing this is not quite enough she gives another healing burst for .
She then looks at the party and detects anyone for lingering disease and poison. She looks to Gabriel and says, "You bear the foul plague of the Ghoul Fever. Untreated it may kill you and transform you into one of the Hungry dead. Thus I shall relieve you of this illness with the power of Quenesti Pah."
She walks up and touches Gabriel if he allows it and his body feels cleansed of illness. "You have now been cleansed.", (Cure Disease). She then gives a respectful nod to the group and says to Shaylin."They have been healed Lady Shaylin as requested." and gives a graceful bow to her.
Shaylin gives a thankful nod to Angelyn and then looks to the group, "Please come with me. We have many issues to discuss among us that would best be done in the privacy of my own tent."
"Bless you servant of Mishakal. Thank you for you minstrations."
Alathea follows along noting the condition of the elves with sad eyes.
Many thanks to Quenesti Pah to you Last and the rest of House Mystic the elf will state in Silvanesti as he bows respectfully.
The group is lead to a large tent which is one of the biggest in this enclave. It looks well decorated in silk although bears some stains from the exposure to the sewers. Behind you the elven warrior woman follows the party closely. Before going into the tent the warrior woman elf looks to Shaylin and says in elvish to her "I must once again object to allowing humans into the enclave. What assurances do we have that they will not tell the Dark Knights of where our enclave lies."
Shaylin says back in elvish, "We do not have to worry of these humans Radelia Clearbrook. I have seen them in my Divination and they walk the path of the Gods. They can be trusted to keep the secret of our location. Please wait outside and keep watch"
Radelia Clearbrook looks to the party gives them a leery glare and barks in common, "You better not cause strife here humans. I have killed many of your kind before and I would gladly do so again if it meant protecting the Silvanesti people."
And with that she takes position near the entrance of the tent and you're let inside by Shaylin.
Once inside the tent Shaylin, "Forgive Radelia's abruptness towards you guests. She is a high Kirath, a sacred protector of the Silvanesti forest. Her life has been one of many conflicts and she has a dislike for other races having fought in numerous wars including the War of the Lance. The loss of the Silvanesti forest to the Minotaurs was a blow to her honor and she bears much hatred in her heart. What is worse the illness has struck her hard sapping her health and confining her to the boundaries of this enclave."
As for the inside of the tent itself, it is simple and rather space looking. The tent is illuminated by a flickering flame sitting in the center of the tent. The flame gives off a little heat and light but there is no smoke. A small chest lies off to the side with a simple leather backpack leaning next to it. A bedroll is there neatly rolled up and set upon a pillow. There also appears to be a shelf set up full of various reagents, a work table as well as a writing desk. Around the flame is a number of fancy looking cushions probably put down for places to sit. The smell of fresh jasmine and incense fills the tent, much a relief from the foul stench of the sewers above.
She gestures to the cushions and says, "Please take a seat.
She takes a seat on the most comfy looking cushion at the head of the circle and waits for the others to join her.
Alathea takes a seat, "It is an honor to meet you Shaylin. I would very much like to help your people. Please know that duty calls me to other endeavors and I may not be able to assist you at the present time. Once my duty has been fulfilled I would be glad to come back and assist. However, I am already a few days behind schedule..."
The elf will have a seat but will say in elven Shalafi we have things to discuss in private when this meeting is finished.
Shaylin nods to Terevalis and says "We will have time to speak after I have said what is required."
Shaylin's fair cheeks are brushed with a crimson hue and her gaze lowers as she softly admits, "I am sorry that I cannot show you true hospitality while you are here, but I'm afraid what little we have is carefully rationed." Shaking her head, she gracefully sinks to the ground, tucking her legs beneath her as she contemplates you all one by one.
"You are wondering why I summoned you here, are you not?" Shaylin tilts her head, patiently waiting for your answer before she continues. "It is because I have seen ... " Now a tiny furrow appears between her eyebrows. "I have been having dreams for the past few nights, dreams that are most disturbing to me. I wake shivering and filled with dread, but the details of the dream escape me as smoke escapes flame." She sighs softly, looking down at the glowing fire for a few moments before she continues. "All I have been able to remember is that it involves you. All of you with the exception of this man." She points to Cole. She then gives the group of you piercing gaze.
Suddenly, her eyes go distant, color draining from the two orbs until they seem a pure, solid white. Her voice falls into a sing-song pattern as she murmurs, "There is a pattern, you cannot see. Instead you must set your spirit free. Take the key to the shattered ruins, through the sands and over the dunes. Seek the answers in the sands of time, search your souls and find the sign." With a shudder, the elven woman,s head snaps up and she draws in a long, harsh breath, only toend up coughing violently. Wearily rising to her feet, she looks at you all once again.
After catching her breath she says, "Forgive me for the outburst but I am afraid the divination overwhelmed me somewhat. Please give me a moment to rest and contemplation. Terevalis you may remain. As for the rest, feel free to converse with the others here and get some rest. I will summon you again soon to clarify my words."
Looking at the young elf woman Jor just shakes his head slowly but wont say anything Prophecies, like always. I have heard enough of them from my uncle. But again something like this. Why not just make a sign and say: "looking for free workers. I neeed this & this to be done" uff
Standing up from his sitting position Jor stretches a bit before moving with others outside of tent Well, what do you want to do? Not much here and what is with this pinky color in their eyes and oh so healthy looking body. Sewers must do wonders speaking ironically while taking a glance around on his surroudnings
Gabriel stands and helps the elf to her feat after the violen coughs.
He speaks to her in elven.
"Save your strength my lady. Please take a seat."
He offers her where he was sitting on the pillows.
In Common "Come let us leave them to there elven business."
He looks to Jor as the leave the tent.
"Let us just focus on not doing anything disrespectful. Your trust can be purchased for the right price. The long lives of elves let them reserve there trust for those that earn it. They have been through more then we could know. Let us show them we are not those men they speak so ill of."
Gabriel approaches Radelia. He speaks to her in the elven tounge.
"Please forgive my accent. I don't practice much. I am Gabriel. I'm sure you guessed from the armor that I'm a knigh of Solomnia. My head would be put on a pike along side yours by the dark knights. I know you stay strong for your people and that is admirable. Will you talk with me of the battles you have faced. I could learn much from a skilled warrior as yourself."
Shalafi, we have among us a young human male, who trained at the Academy of Sorcery under Palin Majere. He seems to be a specialist in pyromancy. He has agreed to study high sorcery in exchange for his life and not being killed for profiteering in stealing the goods of the Silvanesti people. Can you arrange for his training or at least his epiphany from the 3 Cousins?
Shaylin says to Terevalis in elvish, "You must mean the man that was not part of my visions? Humm I can see why you brought him here. So you say he is was a student of the Academy? That does mean he has potential as a wizard so long as he is willing to devote himself to the path. I have been in constant contact through magical communication with the mages of the tower of Wayreth. I learned that Solinari himself has made a ruling concerning the Sorcerers. He is fearful of the dangers of Sorcery but also understands that in order to replenish our ranks we must find those who already possess the gift. His instructions are to approach the Sorcerers in peace and convince them to join the Conclave. As for the Epiphany, I can perform the ritual and start him on his path. Unfortunately spellbooks and scrolls are in short supply here so it would be difficult to provide him with what he needs here. He would be better for him to train with a wizard that has access to more magical resources."
Though it might be difficult for the human, Shalafi, could you not do his preliminary training? At least to get him ready for the Test? He might also he helpful on the surface? If not the opportunity for another potential wizard might be lost unless there are Tower wizards here in Pashin, other than those of House Mystic? Oh, I almost forgot pulling out his coin purse and handing her 50 stl coins This is for the needs of the Enclave.
Shaylin raises an eyebrow to the comment of the test and then says, "Interesting that you would bring up the test Terevalis. I have seen your progress so far and you are getting close to to the time to take the test of High Sorcery. Unfortunately with the troubles in the Qualinesti forest it has become very dangerous to travel to the Tower of Wayerth for training and the Conclave does not want to lose potential recruits to Goblins, Wild Monsters and/or Evil Humans before they can even be tested. As you know, local wizard institutions have been set up throughout Anasalon and have been given dispensation to perform the Test of High Sorcery. Thus it is time that you traveled to one of these places and have your training done. I know of two locations in Khur that have Wizards certified to perform the test. There is the Almas El-Hazard, a black robe wizard who has built a tower in the city of Kuri-Khan to the north. There is also Zoe Left-Hand, a red robe wizard who is the mage of Khurman Tor in the city of Ak-Khurman. As you will have to travel to either of those locations, perhaps you can take this human sorcerer with you there and have him offer himself as an apprentice to either wizard. Either one of these wizards can perform your test so I leave the choice to you Terevalis."
I still feel close to Solinari but lately my dreams have be troubled. The 3 Cousins speak to me. Solinari, Lunitari and Nuitari. The whispers of the Veiled Maiden do not call as strong as the call of the male cousins and I do not know what that means for the Test. It scares me. Can you offer insight into this, your skill with divination is second to none.
Gabriel's appeal is enough to break some of Radelia Clearbrook's shell to at least converse with him. She looks to Gabriel and says, "I have fought since my youth for the protection of the elven people. I have seen many battles in my time as a Kirath, the most memerable being during the invasion of the Silvanesti forest by the Dragonarmies. I lost many friends during that conflict, friends who have now passed from this world. Humans have been a cause for many hardships in my life. Be it the Dragonarmies, the Dark Knights or the Khur, humans are a source of strife in this world for they seek to bring all under their heel. I have heard stories of your knighthood Solmanic and while your intentions of your order appear to be noble it does not excuse the crimes that the many have committed. We of the Silvanesti chose to be separate from your world but your kind would not leave us in peace. While the Minotaurs were the most recent cause of our hardships do not think that one evil can make someone forget another one done."
As for Terevalis, Shaylin says, "You bear a heavy burden Terevalis with your close association with the moons. You are correct that the Veiled Maiden speaks little but she acts according to her nature. She is the trickster, the weaver of illusion and the transmuter of the elements. Her ways are of subtlety and guile for she is the balance between light and darkness. To be a wizard one must understand the nature of all of the Gods of Magic and know that each has their place and agenda that they wish to promote. As for the Test itself, it exists to put all that you have learned into practice and to see if you are worthy of taking up the burden of greater power. I cannot tell you what you will encounter on your test for it shall be tailored to your personalty. One thing I must warn you though is to not take everything you see in the test literally. While truth can be reveled during the test, lies can be just as prevalent. Wizards have been driven mad by mistaking the visions of the test for prophecy. The test will be difficult for sure and once you have taken it you will not be the same. I have confidence that you shall survive the test Terevalis for you are destined to accomplish great things for that I am sure. There is great purpose in your heritage and your role in events to come has yet to be played out."
Yes, Shalafi. I know that here pointing to his head, but not here. pointing to his heart. What if the Robes I come out from my Test are not White as I so sure of long ago? I would bring dishonor to the elven people and my heritage.
"Thank you for sharing with me. We can't hope for peace without a better understanding. I envoy your long lives. Though it provides more time to see those you care about pass, it also provides wisdome. I fear my kind is so ambitious because we live only moments in comparison to you. I can't speak for any of those that have wronged you, just know I am not them. I don't know what difference one man can make, but I will not make the mistakes those that came before me have. I would be happy to call you friend Radelia. I hope you will call me the same. I hope we will speak again in the future. We can come to better understand one another again."
Gabriel gives a small bow and a nod before rejoining with the rest of the group awaiting Tervalis to finish his business.
Shaylin understanding Terevalis concerns and says, "It is true that Silvanesti law banishes those elves who follow the Red and the Black. But nonetheless they have a place in the world even if it is not among the elven people. Your robes reflect what lies within the heart. Chose the righteous path of magic and Solandri shall take you. Do not fear dishonor from your test. To walk the path of a Wizard is to rise above such concepts of race, tradition and family. As the Foundations of Wizardry states, All wizards are brothers and sisters in their order. All orders are brothers and sisters in the power. No matter what robe you take, know that you will not be alone."
Nodding in understanding. Mistress, may I peruse your spellbooks one more time to see if I can take any of these wonderful spells with me? May I watch the epiphany? I have never seen one and would like to know how in case, after I pass my Test, I can help others to come to high sorcery.
Shaylin nods to Terevalis and says, "I will allow you to look into my spellbook and scribe some of my spells before you leave, in fact I will help you scribe them. As for the epiphany you are welcome to watch the ritual if you wish Terevalis as one day you may be called upon to perform the rite yourself."
Ok
I will take radiant dart (2nd level from War of the Lance) and Elemental Dart from the DLCS also second level.
spellcraft checks
Enlarge Person 10
Resist Energy 40
Scorching Ray he does not understand this spell
Detect Thoughts 40
Rope Trick 40
Anyway Cole is invited into Shaylin's tent and made to take a seat in front of the flames.
Shaylin looks to Cole and said, "Welcome. What is your name young man?"
Cole looks nervous but says, "I am Cole Azerak miss Shaylin."
Shaylin nods and says, "So Cole, I hear you have learned Sorcery from the Acedemy. A pyromancer correct?"
Cole nods "Yes miss Shaylin."
Shaylin says, "Now I am going tell you a story Cole. Sorcery is the oldest of arcane magic but also the most unrefined and raw form. The Gods of Magic decided such power was too dangerous to be wielded uncontrolled by mortals and thus founded the Orders of High Sorcery. And thus spells were given a written form and used to develop the art of Wizardry. This all changed with the Chaos War, where Sorcery once again was reborn into the world. But now that the Gods have retured the world, so much magic return to its previous form. To follow the path of a Sorcerer marks you as a renegade in our eyes. Either you embrace the art of Wizardry or one day you may pay with your life. What is your choice?"
Cole looks nervously probably conflicted but eventually cannot deny Shaylin's offer and nods "I...I agree."
Shaylin holds her hands out and says, "Then take my hands Cole Azerak anc lose your eyes and I shall bind your power to that of the Moons."
Cole reaches over the flames and takes the hands of Shaylin. Shaylin and Cole closes their eyes and the flames between them burn brightly as an image of the 3 moons appear in the flames. Terevalis gets the sense of some magical telepathic communication between them but does not hear anything. The flame eventually dies down and the image dissapears from the flame. Cole opens his eyes and looks around. Shaylin lets go of his hands and says, "Welcome brother, you are one of us now."
Cole looks to his hands confiused. "I feel different... but I can no longer see the magic as I once did."
Shaylin says, "You are a wizard now Cole. You no longer can tap into the wild magic. Your power comes from the Moons now. You must study your spells from tomes and scrolls and hold the words in your mind and then speak the words to invoke your power. With this comes versatility for you have the potential to chose what spells you learn. It will be hard to adjust Cole so you will need to get yourself a spellbook as well as apprentice yourself to a master if you wish to truly learn your new art."
Cole nods, "I shall do so Shaylin."
Shaylin says, "Now get some rest Cole. You have gone through a tiring change and you will need your rest so your mind is sharp on the morrow. You may request a tent to rest in among the elves. Tell them that I have given permission."
Cole nods and rises to his feet looking exhausted from his Epiphany and slowly moves out the door.
Shaylin looks to Terevalis and says, "I require some rest as well Terevalis. Feel free to read through my spellbook and decide on which spells you wish to add to your own grimoire."
I will share my spellbook with him Shalafi until such a time that we can find a spellbook for him
Welcome to wizardly magic, Cole Azerak. We are brothers in the magic.
As the Wizards spend time conversing in private Alathea approaches Jor.
"While you may be a mercenary you have certainly proven your fighting skills. In that bag we discovered were nearly 200 pieces of Steel. Divided amongst the five of us, that is 40 Steel each. I will allow you to keep my 40 steel and pay you 10 more on top of that if you travel with me to accomplish a mission of great importance. Any further riches found along the way which are mine to claim I will also dole out to you as I can afford for you to keep silent about where we go, what we do, and who we do it for. Agreed?"
Our heroes are left to wait a while for Shaylin to be ready to see them all again. In the meantime do you want to talk to any elves, ask questions or trade anything with them?
Once Althea's dealings with Jor are concluded she will move among them and see if she can find any converts for the faith of Zivilyn, have Medallion of Faith will duplicate!
Mithas is decidedly uncomfortable around so many Silvanesti and decides just to keep mouth shut.
Althea asks around at the elves to see who would be interested in converting. Unfortunately the elves are very biased toward the gods of Good and while some have respect for Zivilyn, none wish to become clerics not fully trusting a human in their midst. However she does find a good deal of the elves have the strange illness that gives them pale and sickly complexions as well as pink coloured eyes.
Alathea will attempt (in vain) to assist them any way she can.
"Ah, a contract. 50 Steel coins all in all you say hm... Well, better to keep myself in shape and earn some coins meantime. You have a deal Alathea" Jor agrees
Just whispering a bit for Alathea to hear And just to know, Legion of Steel might want to tone their activities a bit down here or learn to hide it better. It was not hard to find information about people and current factions in here Pashin. Just a friendly tip Jor reveals as he taps his belt.
Stretching his shoulder and arms a bit Ah, I guess I do need to write soon to Commander Gwynneth about the situation here in Pashin. There seems to be a lot of business going on muttering to himself while his hand moves from tapping the belt to touching his greatsword without Jor noticing himself
Althea is pretty confused on this illness. Definately something she has not seen before. It has some symptoms that resemble Leprosy with weakening health and disfiguring skin but also has other symptoms that are different from such an illness as well. It also resembles albinoism in other ways as their skin and eyes have lost or losing pigmentation.