Dragonlance: Heroes of a New Age

Game Master Shalafi2412

I myself took the Test just a few weeks ago. I was prepared for the results. I knew what the risks were. We who take the Test all do. It is no different that a Knight knowing that when they go out to battle they may not return. Without the risk there is no glory, no honor. But again, Zakwan, you seem more than ready to spread lies and propoganda about secret knowledge. Is there some secret knowledge about you that we do not know about? Is there a reason the Dark Knights are able to slip into the city under YOUR guard?

"The question is a ridiculous one Terevalis, the Dark Knight are a powerful organization with operators of great skill. The issue you raise has already been discussed.

I do not see why there is debate, if a recruit does not wish to take the Test he can remain a Legionnaire, should the recruit wish to take the test then his loyalty is to the Order of High Sorcery. While that recruit may be a future ally of the Legion, they will never be entrusted with secrets or Leadership. This compromise allows for the ranks to flourish on both sides".

Centurion Rayhan says to Zakwan "Centurion Zakwan, you cannot let your past hatred blind you towards creating a better future. You must let go of what bias you may have for the Wizards and look toward the future. Why are you so resistant to this course of action?"

Centurian Zakwan seems overcome with emotion and says, "It was because of Wizards that my family had to suffer! My Grandfather Ebrahim Zakwan was a great wizard who never hurt anyone and used magic to help those who were suffering from the war of the Lance. Then the Orders of High Sorcery came and took him away as a Renegade, forced him to take the test and took his life just as surely as pushing him in front of a rampaging wagon. His death left my father's family penniless leaving only his mother to care for him. In turn I was born to poverty and saw two of my sisters die from hunger and me having to fight for everything to survive. When the Legion formed I was among the first recruits and embraced the art of Sorcery, in fact I mastered it faster than any of my peers. Now I teach all that I have learned to a new generation of Legionaries and I do not want to see their lives ruined like the Orders of High Sorcery did mine. As for your words Terevalis, a knight dying on an honored quest is an honorable death. What honor is there in failing your test? There is none."

The wizard will grab a steel from his coin and flick it at the Legionarre. You are not penniless now.

Zakwan gives a hateful glare to Terevalis but restrains himself. Just then Sir Lionel stands and says, "You have my condolences Centurion Zakwan for your Grandfather and family. It is true that the Orders of High Sorcery have taken lives in the past, some perhaps unjustly but we cannot dwell on such things if peace is what we seek. Still, Wizards Terevalis and Zoe Left-Hand do make a point that magic in the wrong hands is dangerous. The Dark Knights and the Dragon Overlords certainly are an example of this. Still I also respect tradition as well, be it the old tradition of the Orders of High Sorcery to the newer traditions of the Legion of Steel. Both are viable in this day in age. It comes down to choice in the end. Forcing all Sorcerers of Ak-Khurman to submit to the Orders of High Sorcery may well destroy the traditions the Legion have worked so hard to build. On the same level, the Orders of High Sorcery have an important place in history and will need those gifted in the arcane arts to rebuild their numbers. I therefore propose that some of the Sorcerer recruits be given over to the Orders of High Sorcery for training. How many recruits to you currently have Centurian Zakwan?

Centurion Zakwan says, "I have ten currently in training Sir Lionel."

Sir Lionel nods and says, "Would you be willing to give five to the Orders for training."

Centurion Zakwan says, "Only if I can be one of them."

There is a gasp from the other Centurions in the room at this surprising revelation.

Centurion Rayhan says with surprise, "You can't be serious Centurion Zakwan. You are the head of the Legion Sorcerers. By becoming a Wizard you will lose access to many of your legion techniques. Who will teach those that remain?"

Centenarian Zakwan smirks and says, "If anyone is to risk their lives to become a Wizard, I would give my own before those of my recruits. If the Wizards think they can break me, let them try. There are others that I have taught the techniques to. They can follow my path and teach it to others."

The wizard will arch an eyebrow and give a smile. Zakwan, would you and your recruits be willing to undergo an epiphany so that you can begin the study of High Sorcery?

Zakwan says to Terevalis, "Of course I'ed be willing to do so Black Wizard, so long as I am the first among those chosen to do so. The other students that come will follow in my path and I shall make sure they are prepared when the time comes. I shall walk the path my Grandfather did and I will prove the strength of the Zakwan line."

Zoe gives an amused smirk and says "This is very unexpected Zakwan, but then again you are the strongest Sorcerer in Ak-Khurman. Perhaps with you in our ranks, Wizardry can grow more popular among the people in this city."

Alathea smiles as well, "Centenarian, your sacrifice embodies the spirit of what we seek to accomplish here today. I believe that the Gods smile upon you and I hope they continue to grant you great fortune in your endeavors.

I addition, I believe that a council should be set up between the two sides with the Kinghts of Solamnia or a member of the Order of Gilgeam present to mediate",

Centurion Rayhan looks to Zakwan and says, "If that is your decision Centurion Zakwan I shall respect it. If there is any man that I trust will hold true to the ideals of the Legion in the face of adversity, it is you."

He offers his hand and Zakwan shakes it. "If there is a sacrifice to be made to keep the Orders of High Sorcery placated, then there is no better man than I. I assure you Centurion Rayhan that In will protect the secrets of the Legion and make sure that those who join with me do the same. Even as a Wizard I shall still be a Legionnaire. I will survive the test and fight by your side when the war comes to Khur. Pray for my success my good friend."

We have only two members in our ranks who are but apprentice wizards here. One is too young to begin the formal study of magic though he has the talent, his parents are aware that he came to study the Art of High Sorcery. The other has already undergone an epiphany. I am here to represent the Order of the Black Robes. Mistress Zoe is in charge of their training, though I would say that it would not be an even trade as there are fewer of us to begin with. The choice, though should be Cole's just as the choice of who the Legion wil lsend will be up to them.

Zakwan, when would you like to undergo your epiphany?

Would he probably win the Red robes or the White?

Definitely a White Robe, he's self-sacrificing and noble and wants to look out for the well-being of those under him and use magic to protect people. He's also skilled in both Divination and Evocation magic (He's more a Diviner than an Evocation caster though due to his Legion techniques but is also a combat sorcerer with a good deal of offensive spells) He's also Neutral Good in alignment.

Zakwan says in response, "It will take a few days for me to get things in order. I also have to chose who will replace me as instructor for the remaining recruits and to decide which four recruits I will take with me to Khuraman Tor. Is three days an acceptable amount of time?"

He looks to Mistress Zoe.

Zoe Left-Hand nods, "That is acceptable Centurion Zakwan. Indeed I would have preparations to make myself at the tower for new recruits. I do not think I have the space to accommodate living quarters for five new recruits though. Perhaps you and your recruits can stay here at the Legion Fortress for your lodgings and come to the tower when you need to receive instruction."

Centurion Zakwan says, "I would have it no other way. Beyond studies a the tower I still have other affairs at the fortress to deal with."

Zoe Left-Hand nods and says "Then I welcome you and the recruits under you to Orders of High Sorcery. May this exchange bring both of our organizations prosperity in the city of Ak-Khurman."

Are the recruitsa ll human or a mix of the races?

The wizard will wait to escort Zoe back to the Tower.

So suffice to say, documents are written up for this exchange supervised by the Centurions, Sir Lionel, Alathea, Terevalis and Zoe Left-Hand. If there is any additional requests to add to the treaty you are free to make them.

The agreement has the following presidents.

1. Any potential arcane magic users have the freedom of choice to either join the Legion Sorcerers or the Orders of High Sorcery.

2. Centurion Zakwan and four recruits of his choosing will volunteer themselves to the Orders of High Sorcery. In the future any legion Sorcerers may chose to join the Orders of High Sorcery of their own free will. No magics of influence may be used to affect this decision.

3. The Order of High Sorcery will respect the secrets of the Legion of Steel and likewise the Legion of Steel with respect any secrets of the Orders of High Sorcery.

4. The Wizards allied with the Legion will follow the oaths and precepts of the Legion and use their magic to aid the Legion in their efforts.

5. The Wizards of High Sorcery will respect those choosing to follow the Legion Traditions of Sorcery, only intervening if such sorcerers prove themselves to be dangerous to the world at large.

As for the Orders providing their own members, this is not part of the deal. In the end those who are getting trained as Wizards are still members of the Legion. Eventually it is hoped that if Zakwan becomes tested Wizard he can act as a mediator between the Orders and the Legion of Steel. If not, one of the other recruits will take up that mantle.

As for recruits, 9 of the 10 are human. One of the recruits is a Afflicted Kender who immediately gets refused as one of the 4 to be picked as the Orders have a standing rule of not recruiting Kender into their ranks.

Are the White and Red Robes the only ones that the Legion will accept?

No they will accept any robe so long as they are willing to uphold their oaths to the Legion. The Legion of Steel is not as concerned about alignment as it is helping the greater good of the people of Krynn. Remember that a number of former Dark Knights helped found the order in the end.

The wizard is happy to finish up the sword for Lord Summerhazel and then take it to him so that he can be present for the epiphany ceremony
spellcraft 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (13) + 15 = 28

Terevalis finishes the sword and presents it to Lord Summerhazel. He looks it it and tests out its flame property and balance and looks suitably impressed by the craftsmanship. He then says to Terevalis "Well done Wizard Terevalis. My college to the north will find this weapon most useful in dealing with those gruesome trolls in his lands. I believe I could make quite a profit from the sale of this fine weapon. As promised, here is your payment for the work. "

His servant gives Terevalis a solid metal box with 4000 Steel Pieces on the inside as is proper.

Can I get the payment in platinum my Lord, it is easier to carry? Also, do you happen to have any of the clerics of the gods of Light in your employee? There is an elven item that we recovered from a tomb that had an elven prince from before the Rise of Istar with an item usable only by a cleric of the gods of light. Also, do you have any in your employee that might be able to study wizardy? Perhaps one of the children of the member of House Woodshaper? It might do you well to have a wizard in your employee.

Lord Summerhazel says, "Of course I can pay you in platinum if that is what you prefer. As for such a relic you have mentioned, there is a number of elven clerics that regained their blessings of the Gods and now reside here in Ak-Khurman. They probably will not receive you well so if you give the relic to me, you have my word I will make sure that it gets delivered to them. As for elves looking for Wizard training, you must remember that only members of house Mystic are allowed to study High Sorcery. Your fellow black robe Dalamar fell out of favor because he was not born under house Mystic yet still practiced the art. A great deal of house Mystic died from the Silvanesti Shield and others from the attack of the Minotaurs. What few refugees we have of the house are but younglings it could be decades of study before they are of age to become true wizards like yourself. Besides I would rather not have to deal with that Half-Breed at the tower for training nor would I like a scandal to have a black robe educate them in the art. Until we can get a white Silvanesti mage of House Mystic, those few potentials will have to wait I am afraid."

He gets the money changed to equivalent platinum (So 400 Platinum), or if you prefer gems if you want even lighter means.

40 or 400?

(There is 10 steel to a Platinum so 400 Platinum)

:)

The elf will say that he understands but he would encourage Lord Ummerhazel to help any of the young who might have the talent to persue the study of the Art. He will then return to the Tower to help prpepare for the ephiphany as well as scribe scrolls.

Ok well then that covers the council meeting and lord Summerhazel. Now its time to give Gabriel another interesting sidequest.

Gabriel, you're heading back to the Legion Stronghold after having paid a visit to some of the other party members at the inn for an update on the situation. As he is walking back he hears a scuffle from a back alleyway. He hears in common, "Ow... stop hitting me. I'll give you anything ya want, take it dam you. I didn't know it was stolen. I thought it was a getting a good deal."

The a gruff uneducated voice responds "Da boss don't like you taking his stuff. We're going to take the value out of yer hide."

More sounds of of someone getting beat up. How does Gabriel react?

Are we going to RP the ephiphany or are we going to do it off screen?

That will be RP'ed later.

Gabriel will approach.

"You there. Stop this at once. Explain to me why you are beating this man. From what I overheard it seems you expect he stole something from you?"

You see two tough looking half-ogre thugs beating the hell out a brass haired gentlemen dressed in a merchant's outfit. The man's dress and features do not look khurish but perhaps more Kharloian in its origins. Despite clearly taking a beating from the two thugs and covered in dirt he seems to take the beating better than Gabriel would expect.

The half-ogres turn a glace to Gabriel and one of them barks "This ain't any of your business hummie. This merchant had items belonging to our boss. We're taking back what's his and teaching this fella a lesson."

The man on the ground gasps. "I...I bought these things from a local merchant... I didn..cough... know they were stolen."

What does Gabriel do?

"Justice is my business. This is unjust. You have two choices here. Talk this out with me. We come to an accord. Perhaps I can meet with your boss so we can clear up this situation, or You continue. I put you down and you call a cell home until we figure this mess out."

Gabriel moves his left hand to the top of the scabbard. He pushes the blade free with his thumb and grips the pommel with his right hand as he stares at half ogres.

"I am Sir Gabriel "The Just" Knight of Solmnia. Make your choice."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (17) + 13 = 30 This may be intimidate, if so its a "21" He is not trying to intimidate simply stating he is sure what will happen if they continue the current course of action.

Inst it cute how he gave himself the title, the Just? :)

It is more intimidation, however Gabriel mentioning his name does spark the knowledge of the two Half-Ogres. The word of him has spread in the city and the Half-Ogres react to it.

1d20 + 3 ⇒ (5) + 3 = 8

The half-ogres say some things in Ogre to each other looking somewhat nervous. A half-ogre then says to Gabriel, "Humph, we don't want to cross swords with a dammed knight. We'll take what belongs to our boss and leave him to you."

I added Ogre when we leveled back in the temple so I know what they said. I will wait and post after I know what they said.

You overhear the Half-Ogres talk saying, "I heard of this Knight. Word has it he single handily took on a squad of dark knight Soldiers."

The other Half-Ogre says, "Too much for us to handle, just look at the armor on him, he's strong. We got what we came for. Not lookin to get killed fighting a dam knight, especially one with gear like that."

The first Half-Ogre says, "Yea, we got what was taken by the thief. Da boss will be pleased to have it back. We'll just tell him off and avoid fightin and bring back the goods."

They both nod and then the Ogre says the common response to Gabriel.

"And what do you say merchant. What can you tell me of this item? Who did you buy it from. If what you are saying is not a lie then someone is selling stolen goods. Do you agree to let them take what they say belongs to their boss. I will see you are given back your money if you take me to where you bought this item from."

Sense Motive: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (4) - 1 = 3

Sounds like they are being truthful to me. I should be "The Naive" with no sense motive :)

The Merchant pulls himself to his feet and coughs out, "I bought a soapstone sculpture from a street seller... it was a great deal, only 200 steel pieces... when I appraised it to more than three times that value. Thought I could make a good profit on its resale."

The Half-Ogre shows a beautiful looking sandstone sculpture of a beautiful woman crafted with great artistry. He says "That sculpture was stolen from the home of our boss by some thief and we were sent to find it. It is a valued family heirloom to him. We're taking back what belongs to him."

"I understand the dispute. Tell me what is your bosses name please. I should have no questions for him but it would be best to leave no loose ends. Also who did you purchase the item from. It seems likely he may be selling other stolen goods. Take me there. You two may go after you give me your bosses name."

Is the law the legion? Is there a constable or a court of sorts that handles disputes like this?

The Half-Ogre says, "We work for Bahir Husain, a wealthy individual in this city. And he really wanted this statue back so hired us to crack a few heads to find it."

The Merchant says to Gabriel's Question, "I bought it from some seller in the south end of the city. In the flea market. Often I can get good deals on stuff there. Probably could identify him if I saw him again."

"I will have the legion look into this. It seems the deals there are good because of the way things may be procured. Come with me we will report the issue together. If nothing can be done I will cover your loss. You two don't get in any more trouble. Tell your boss there are lawful ways to handle issues like this. Now go on."

The Half-Ogres grunt in an agreement and leave the alleyway to probably bring the soapstone sculpture back to their employer.

The merchant dusts himself off. Despite the damage to and the dirt on his clothes, it looks like he took the beating far better than Gabriel might expect. The man checks to see that they are gone and says to Gabriel.

"Thank you Sir Gabriel Lucas Barca, Knight of the Crown. It appears to be that you uphold the precepts of the measure even here in the city of Ak-Khurman. It looks like I have found the man I am been looking for for. Here I go by the name Rand Lucas and use the identity of a merchant to interact with the populace. But I am far more than I appear, I assure you."

Do I know that name?

"I try to do what I can against the darkness in this world. Judging how you carry yourself after a beating like that I suspect you are more than just a merchant. Allow me to aid you."

Gabriel says a few divine words as his hand glows with a soft bluish light. He puts his hand on the mans shoulder. LOH: 3d6 ⇒ (4, 5, 6) = 15

"Interact with the populace? So you are a noble? Forgive me as I know little of the city."

No Gabriel has not heard the name before. By his words though you can tell it is an alias. Gabriel heals the wounds on the man, what few they are considering most of it looks superficial.

He chuckles at that comment and says to Gabriel, "A noble, I am afraid not although I suppose in a way I am far more than a noble could aspire to be. I mainly work as broker of deals so to speak. Its is an enjoyable enough profession I suppose, with its own excitements from time to time as seen by those lumbering brutes that accosted me. It appears trying to find a bargain in the Flea Markets got my hands on some pilfered goods it seems. Not that I was in any danger but I would rather not take a life unless the situation called for it so I let those brutes rough me up a bit. No, I am not anyone very famous but my mother was quite famous. A friend and ally to the Knights of Solamnia and the Legion of Steel. You would probably know her as great brass dragon known as Splendor."

As the name is pretty famous among the Knights of Solamnia I will allow Gabriel to make an intelligence check.

Intelligence check: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (14) + 1 = 15

"Forgive my lack or learning but that would make you a dragon, or half dragon. So you can change shapes? I know little of the abilities of dragons beside common lore. I would say you were not in any real danger indeed, so is shopping for such nick knacks a hobby?"

Gabriel you indeed know who Splendor is. The Brass Dragonlord the of the Plains of Dust. She helped the Legion of Steel and the Knights of Solamnia during the age of mortals in many ways before being murdered by another Dragon Overlord and the Tarmaks near the start of the War of Souls.

Rand smirks and says "Quite so, Sir Gabriel Lucas Barca. I am a true dragon, one of the sons of Iyesta. I have the power to take a human form and use this identity to interact with the human populace. Those who know me in this city call me "Sandstorm". You might call me a guardian of the Khur people. As for collecting nick-nacks, you could say I like to collect things of value. I am a dragon after all."

"Truly, I am honored to meet you. Forgive me if I overstep, but if you are protector of the Khur why do you not move against the dark knights in the area? Do they post such a threat for even a creature of your power? I wish I could strike against them, but I have been tasked with a quest of my own. I soon leave with my companions. We travel to Kendermore."

BOOOO! BOOOO! Brass dragons! BOOOO! BOOO!

"Oh I fully intend to get involved in the war with the Dark Knights. In fact I aided in repelling the Dark Knights during their last invasion. But I cannot fight an entire war for Khur alone. The Brass Dragons are powerful but we're not created to be the strongest of our kind, thus I need to act strategically. If the Dark Knights were to know that I am protecting this city they might send their dragon allies to draw me out. It is safer for the populace to not know of my existence and for me to act when it is prudent to do so."

Sandstorm then continues, "Ah listen to me rattle on, perhaps I shall get to the point of why I have revealed myself to you of all people Sir Gabriel Lucas Barca. The son of the Platinum Dragon, the god you know as Kiri-Jolith spoke to me in a dream. He told me that a young knight of Solamnia will face the Might of Dragons and when his need is great he will need to mount on the back of a dragon. I heard of your more recent knighthood and I believe you are the one he spoke of. I therefore wish to give you this."

He reaches into his pouch and takes out a brass coloured orb. "This orb has a powerful teleportation spell inside of it. When you need of me, twist this orb and open it and the spell will activate. It can only be used outside however and cannot cross the boundaries of the planes. It can only be used once so use it only when there is great need. I would not appreciate if you call me frivolously sir Knight."

Will Zivilyn make an appearence¿

Zivilyn makes an appearance whenever I use my powers :-) Yay Dragon Mount!