|
After opening the passage, Alrik ensures that the illusions are all activated and looking as lively as possible. He copies the idea from the others and adds some books to the scene to make it more realistic.
"Oh, no. I wouldn't bother reading the primer. I'd skip to the Abra Kastillian's Annotated Edge of Empire, the Rise and Fall of Taldor XXXIV and does my hair really look like that from behind?"
She fuses over the scene a bit to get it "just right," and the slips into the passage. After noting the clue she immediately looks for the biggest portrait or mural.
As Solemnia enters the hallway and takes a few extra seconds before heading into the main hall with the rest of the party. Intrigued by the riddle engraved on the far wall, she considers its possible meanings but cannot find any immediately visible murals or pictures.
The band of pathfinders wastes no time getting into the great room and immediately begin to pour over the incredible amount of documents and books in this chamber.
Rorrim uses his experience as a librarian to quickly set out and find some sort of reference document. He succeeds in locating something akin to a card catalogue outlining the organization of a vast majority of the books in this section. Using this valuable information he is able to easily narrow down his search to just a few bookshelves. Thinking quickly, he grabs the attention of Lovissa, Alrik, and Etna and motions them over to help pour through these sections.
Across the room Solemnia and Amarsia both riffle through stacks of papers, books, and other materials left out in plain sight- but are unable to find anything of interest among these common materials and documents.
10-15 minutes into your search of the room, you can hear a swell of music from the orchestra performance from the plaza outside
Throughout the time in his room, you have the uncomfortable feeling of being watch. At several points, out of the corner of your eye, you think you notice the eyes and face of the lion following you about the room
|
"Orchestra's started," Lovissa points out as she searches the library.
A little while later she stops suddenly and looks around... Going back to her literary search warily. A minute late she stops again and looks around... She goes back to reading with hesitation.... She casually wanders over to Rorrim, as if she were going to point out a passage in a book.
"I feel as if I'm being watched," she whispers to him.
She goes back to reading -- although she's mostly trying to look around without being obvious about it. Suddenly she stops, stares at the Lion's Head carving and walks right up to it. She examines it closely...
"Why are you watching me?" she mutters at the lion.
As Lovissa approaches the statue, those watching share a held breathe of concern. For a moment the statue stays completely motionless and you begin to doubt your own senses about its movement. Then suddenly the jeweled blue eyes blink and a rumbling voice fills the room...
”Who gave you permission to approach the Magnificent Guardian, human? Now, step back that I might better observe you! Tell me, who it is that has the grandest pleasure of meeting the Guardian of this hall?”
His eyes move to each of the others in the room before returning to the human in front of him.
|
|
Etna would have been poking her head back and forth from the bookshelves as she keeps a close eye to the strange eyes. When it finally begins to speak she will lean out to approach it.
Name's Etna, a pleasure to meet you Sir Guardian. May I ask what is a chiseled creature such as yourself doing here in such a secret place?"
|
|
"Oh does it speak other languages? Kon'nichiwa." says Solemnia excitedly.
"I'm not sure if it is the grandest, per say, but I am always happy to meet someone who surrounds them self with great literature." she extends her hand to shake and then awkward realization dawns.
Justus perks up from his resting position upon hearing the voice, trying to pinpoint the source. He bristles seeing Rorrim readying to defend himself.
Thanks! It was all messed up on chrome, but flipping to a different browser fixed that. Take a +2 untyped bonus on your next search!
The guardian's eyes glow blue and focus intently on Rorrim, despite his caution. "Who are you that thinks such an item would be of use against the Guardian?" His lips snarl exposing the long and sharp teeth. "Don't be a fool, mortal"
Name's Etna, a pleasure to meet you Sir Guardian. May I ask what is a chiseled creature such as yourself doing here in such a secret place?"
"You may Etna, but it is an incorrect question. Perhaps you should try asking why this place was built in my presence! I have been here since the beginning- from the very first brick!"
He watches the undine approach, but doesn't appear to react to the words she muttered. "Speak up if you expect to be heard!"
"I'm not sure if it is the grandest, per say, but I am always happy to meet someone who surrounds them self with great literature." she extends her hand to shake and then awkward realization dawns.
पालक बर्याच पिढ्यांसाठी ऐकत नसला तरी ती इतर भाषा बोलते.
He enthusiastically awaits a response, and slowly his mood dours with the realization that Solemnia wont respond.
"Literature? These are historical accounts of great battles and noble pursuits! Who needs literature when you have history! Still... It is a pleasure to meet one who cares about books for the books themselves!"
-------------------
"I have met Etna, and a scholar of some sorts. Who are you that visit the library of the lion? Step forward and tell me your purpose in this place! The Guardian wishes to hear of your story"
|
Rorrim steps forward to he visible by the guardian, refastening his sword behind his back, "Excuse me.for this dear friends" Rorrim begins unraveling the wrappings around his face. The full extent of his scarring becomes apparent, his skin is mottled and pocked from burns and scarred from lacerations.
"Excuse my show of violence Guardian, mortal life is fragile and I was merely attempting to defend myself. I Am Rorrim Liebig, and our purpose here is simple. I am the result of tampering by otherworldly forces, and I am one of the lucky ones. My body is whole, mostly, and my soul is my own to give, Rorrim remembers his mother torturing him, telling him how magnificent he will soon be, then thinks of the horrors that must be happening in Mendev. Rorrim's face hardens"We are here seeking lessons of the past so others can have the same chance as me, we ARE only mortal but we have no choice but face something much greater than ourselves. This is your library Guardian, please allow us to use it,"
|
|
"Well we are in search of some knowledge about some particular subjects. Of key note are the history of some famous Taldan family lines. In addition we were oping to pick up some more information about the worldwound and what it was like before hand."
She will turn to the rest of the party
"Did I miss anything?"
The root of the language sounds very familiar to each of you (Lovissa's known languages more than Solemnia). If you didn't know better, the Lion was speaking in Ancient Azlanti. Of course, that is silly since no one has spoken that language in almost a millennia...
--------------------
As Rorrim approaches and unwinds the silks from his face- the Guardian's attention is diverted to the half-elf.
"The living are cruel to their own. By what circumstances do you inherit these wounds?"
--------------------
"Etna, you speak of the worldwound. Tell me- do the wardstones still stand? What of Mandev? Of Sky Citadel?"
-------------------
You notice little about the Guardian other than what is easily perceived through the conversation. You sense that he is incredibly vain, but noble and sincere. Based on his questions you feel confident that he prioritizes knowledge and history above "guarding" the library.
|
|
"Yeah they are all still good! I always hear about demons trying to figure out a way to smash them but so far they are still holding up swell. Mendev still exists at least. More than can be said for what ever country the world wound was before that whole invasion. I'm sorry I don't know much about any Sky Citadel. I thing one of our goals was to find out more information about all that. It does not do much good sitting here in some dingy library like a dragons hoard."
Etna will try to enlist his helps in tracking down any of this information. He may be stuck to the wall but it's possible he can point the group in the right direction.
|
|
"Etna my friend I am sorry to be the one to tell you this news but Mendev is not well, one of the wardstones has fallen. The demonic host has breached Mendev's defenses and a new crusade has begun. We seek knowledge about another threat mankind has bested, The whispering Tyrant. We have stopped great evil before and we must do it again, and this library can tell us how"
|
|
When the lion speaks, Lovissa smiles widely. "Hail and well met Magnificent Guardian! I am Lovissa -- " she pauses a moment, remembering she's not supposed to be here. Perhaps, just this once, she should leave out last names... "A child of Taldor raised far to the north! You are magnificent indeed!"
As the lion says words she doesn't understand Lovissa focuses on the magical essence stored in her headband and teases it out with her psychic powers, concentrating on the words she doesn't comprehend.
"Your words sound like Ancient Azlanti, Magnificent Guardian. Tell me, did you see that age? Or did you learn to speak the tongue after Azlant's fall?"
"These pews. Do students often sit here and listen to your words? Are you a teacher here?"
As Etna speaks, the Lion's face twists into almost a smile- further enhanced during the exchange between Rorrim and Etna.
"No, please. Do continue! It has been many moons since I have heard word of the outside world! The Guardian would find great joy in hearing more about these events. As for the shinning crusade..."
His voice trails off before the back wall of the library (directly opposite of the Lion) erupts in a gigantic visual image of a great battle. A grand woman is rallying her troops against an amassed army of undead and the tide of battle is turning in her favor.
...The Battle of Vaishali Pass. Before Iomedae stood the quest of the Starstone to ascend in Aroden's place, she won a great battle against the Lich King- where even Arazni had failed before her. Are these things the information that you seek?
The image flickers, and is gone.
The battle scene was a result of the spell silent image
---------------------------------------------
The lion shifts his focus to Lovissa and his demenor brightens with the awe and respect given by the human. "The Guardian has seen the age of which you speak, though perhaps not seen but known. Your Taldane... Your common... it lacks the beauty and subtlety of the languages of old."
The lions eyes wash over the empty pews in front of him, and sadness crosses his face. "There was a time when these pews were filled with those seeking knowledge. Those ages are past. Now, those that use these halls view the Guardian with contempt! The fools think they control this place but they do not. Like all mortals, their time will pass, and the Guardian will still remain."
You do not have a historical recollection of this creature. Though, if you would like to make a seperate spellcraft check...
------------------------------------------------
As the Lion is talking, a brilliant flash of magical energy fills the room- encompassing all of the pathfinders.
"You bring the Guardian contentment. You do not act like the other mortals who use this place. There is much knowledge contained in these halls- but little in this room. Now tell me: You who enter the Library of the Lion... Are you Lion Blades?"
|
|
"This is Iomedae battling the Tyrant's Horde, surely her strategies are contained in this Library, but time is running short Guardian" Rorrim feels the effects of the Guardians spell with over him but it fades quickly. "Great lion, I myself am not a citizen of Taldor or a lion blade, merely a seeker of knowledge,"
|
|
"W-wow, it's like a stream of consciousness service. You just think of something and it appears on the wall like magic lantern shadow-puppet show, but without the usual deformed rabbit."
"You bring the Guardian contentment. You do not act like the other mortals who use this place. There is much knowledge contained in these halls- but little in this room. Now tell me: You who enter the Library of the Lion... Are you Lion Blades?"
"Err. No, I'm a Daughter, but I'm willing to learn. Do I have to go someplace special?"
"If you are not Lion Blades, how then have you arrived to their secret library?"
----------------------
The great carved face turns to Etna.
"The Lion Blades have been many things over the years. Prosperous. Clandestine. Misguided. Currently the Guardian would describe them as insolent and petty. The Master of Blades has decided that he, and not the Magnificent Guardian, controls these halls and has ordered no Lion Blades to speak anything to the Guardian of the outside world. He thinks that his presence outshines the Guardian- but he is mortal and will soon pass like all the others- it is then that the Guardian's current darkness will be lifted."
-------------------------
He also acknowledges Lovissa's observations. "Having the heart of a lion is truly a compliment. This Guardian sees many of those qualities in those who seek knowledge for noble pursuits."
Your knowledge of the arcane arts confirms that this isn't a creature at all; rather some other sort of intelligence/sentience imbued onto (or into) this carving.
------------------
To Solemnia:
Where you go is the role of the Fates, not that of the Guardian. However, May the warmth of spring always greet you would be the appropriate blessing, would it not?"
-----------------------
-----------------------
The lion pauses and a contemplative look washes over his face. It is a few moments before he speaks again, but when he does his tone has softened and changed.
"The Guardian cares not if you are Lion Blades. You seek knowledge which is noble enough. The Lion Blades keep little information in this chamber- the rare texts rest beyond these doors". He turns his head to either side, indicating the chamber doors to beyond this wall. "Where exactly, I do not have the power to see- but the Lion's protect and hide their most valuable possessions behind locks, keys, and other defenses."
"There is one other in the Library... Iliyana is the caretaker beyond this wall. Her history with the Lion Blades is an unfortunate one that has cost her her freedom, her family, and her eye-sight. Her allegiances and motivations are complicated, difficult even for the Guardian to determine"
|
|
"If you are not Lion Blades, how then have you arrived to their secret library?"
"F-feet mostly. You being a wall and all I guess you might not have noticed. That, and as Loquacious the Fervent once said 'Time opens all doors.'"
Where you go is the role of the Fates, not that of the Guardian. However, May the warmth of spring always greet you would be the appropriate blessing, would it not?"
"Um sure. And err, 'may you never eat spinach with a stranger.'"
|
|
"We will keep a eye open for that Iliyana than. Maybe we can help her out. It's kinda sad that they are treating her so badly if she is so dedicated to them. Were gonna be heading deeper in so I hope we can talk some more when we have more time. Guys I would suggest saying that catch phrase before we enter this next room as well. Is everyone ready to move forward?"
"Must you leave the Guardian so soon? I haven't had intelligent or scholarly company here in ages! Please, tell me more of the outside world and the happenings. Would this company be willing to make a deal with the Guardian in exchange for assistance with your quest?"
|
|
Lovissa grins widely. "I suppose I do have a few tales I could tell you. But, we are in a hurry. It's imperative we obtain the information we seek quickly." Lovissa thinks for a moment...
"Alrik is right. What kind of assistance? If you give us what aid you can I will stay behind for a while and tell you some of the history you have missed. History, mind. Current politics aren't my forte."
[dice=Will Save]1d20+5
"Nae, I'm not a Lion Blade. Just a seeker of knowledge. I'm willing to make a deal. But what exactly are you proposing?"
The lion opens his mouth in a cat like yawn and you see dangling from his tongue a silver key. His face shifts into a knowing smile and swallows- the key disappearing with it.
"You honor the Guardian with your desire of knowledge for the sake of both justice and purpose. It has awakened a spark in the Guardian that he has not felt in many ages! I wish to leave these halls, and venture out into the world - no longer reliant on others to share me history the Guardian should be experiencing for himself. Find me a receptacle worthy of my splendor and carry me with you on your quests!"
”Oh, glory no! The Magnificent Guardian wouldn’t be capable of inhabiting a body, even should one be presented. No, a magical item worthy of the Guardian’s sentience is all that is requested in exchange for access beyond. Or the promise to seek out such an item to provide my freedom from this dark and unenlightened place.”
The Lion's stare falls on Lovissa as he studies her carefully. There is a pause that last a few moments longer than "comfortable" before his voice again fills the chamber.
"Heart of the Lion indeed! The Guardian believes you a worthy bearer, albeit one without a proper vessel. I have never envisioned myself as a sword. Armor, perhaps, suits my needs- but would limit the Guardian's autonomy. No. None of those would work for this endeavor."
"Go then and search for your knowledge. I bid you return to my presence if able! You have my blessing and my friendship, each of you!"
With that, he opens his mouth- and the tongue holding the key appears again.