As Trent continues raging at Leorn, Reginald can feel his own anger growing at the hot-headed boy, who won't listen to what he's saying. At the end of Trent's rant, Reginald growls and headbutts him square in the nose. His tears and a bit of snot hit Trent about the neck and chest, and Reginald looks Trent dead in the eye with a very serious expression after he recovers (provided Trent doesn't retaliate with his own attack). "You are helping nothing. They were training us at the fastest pace they could, and we cannot ask for more. Stop talking to Leorn that way ." He clutches his fists tightly to his side, feeling his rage coming back for the first time since he got here.
1d20+3
1d3+3
Not sure he'd simply let you hit him but okay. We'll say if you do hit him you only do one point of non lethal. Trent still has to make a reflex to avoid the hit. Unless he simply lets it go through. Sorry about making a deal about this but I see a fist fight about to break out and I am to see if one of you knocks out the other. Be fun too watch.
Yeah no way you hit trent sorry not with ten also yeah reggie I dont like pvp cause it usually goes overboard so just warning you this is my reaction though I will try and curb it
also side note
my Ac is a 16 even Flat footed is 13 so no im sorry you wouldnt hit cause I am on edge and ready to fight Leorn subconciously so nice try but as a player I am insulted from the "godmodding" of assuming that you pretty much said you tried to break my nose
Ashley at first watched the altercation with hardly any reaction at all. It felt as if all her emotions had been drained and she was dull and empty inside. The feeling was exaggerated even more because for the first time since the gem ceremony she felt no connection to her Fire. It some ways she found it strange that she could miss so much something she had only had for such a short time. But that was the truth of it. The feeling was a terrible one, it almost felt as if she had lost a limb, that an integral part of her had been cut off and was now gone.
Seeing Leorn drop to his knees and weep though finally gets her attention and seeing his blood causes her to finally sit up and then slide off the horse. She moves to go to him and help but Trent is already there and seems to know what he is doing. She is amazed to see his wounds heal so quickly after the potions are drank. She had read about such things of course but it was another matter entirely to see in person, in real life, someones wounds just magically close.
As the others got more and more upset she became more and more calm inside. Yalm was gone, yes, but she had never developed a strong emotional connection to him. She was sad for his death of course and the fact he had sacrificed his life for them moved her, but, if she was honest with herself, if it was down to either Yalm or Leorn dieing she was very glad it was Leorn that was still with them.
As the tempers escalate and a fight seems imminent she finally moves forward, putting herself right inbetween Leorn, Trent and Reginald, placing one hand each on Trent and Reginald's chests. In a calm and quiet voice she says "Stop this, all of you, right now. Terry is right, this arguing between you gains us nothing. We have enemies enough and at the moment, the only ones we have on our side are each other. Yalm made his choice, and he saved our lives. If we don't now do everything in our power to survive and follow out his plans for us we will make his sacrifice to have been in vain."
Turning to Leorn she continues "What are your contacts here in this town? We need somewhere safe to rest, eat, re-equip ourselves and figure out what our next best step is. After that though, Trent does have a point Leorn. Right now you are our only contact and friend in this whole world. If something happens to you, we are lost. You need to fill us in on everything you can and everything you know. But first, rest & food." Although her tone is calm, her words are said with absolute certainty and it is clear she will accept nothing less than agreement to, and answers for, her words.
----Segment 1----
Leorn sighs and nods. "I will tell you everything I can. Yalm already mentioned most of what you needed to know but I need to tell you what happens now. But first lets head into the city. We will go to the inn and grab some food. I just want to be in the safety of the city first." Provided you all follow without complaint Leorn heads to the stable.
----Segment 2----
At the stable you are greeted by a tall bulky green skinned creature. This thing is hideous to look at. His lower jaw is protruding out and his underbite allows his "tusk" To rest against his upper lip without issue. His nose is wide and flat. His ears are long and pointed like knives. His face is covered in blemishes and his eyes are squinty and nasty color of green. He "smiles" as you approach. In a deep throat voice he says. "Well looky what we have here. Leorn. Bringing me some unicorns hehe. Brought some kids with you. Last time I saw you, you was the kid hehe. Usual service?" Leorn nods at the man. "Yes and thank you Gremman." Leorn leaves the unicorns with the frightening looking man and the five of you approach the gate.
----Segment 3----
At the gate you see three well armed stocky looking heavily bearded men that stand at most four feet tall. The shortest, maybe just over three feet and a third, approaches Leorn. His beard is white and braided. His bushy eyebrows almost hide his squinty stern eyes. He snorts at Leorn. "I now ye er a bunch o mages! I cun smell it. No magic within city limits er we be on ye faster'n bees on 'oney. Got it?" Leorn nods at the short man. "They are sorcerers and they are rookies but they wont use any spells." The dwarf looks at Leorn quizzically. "Serserers? Day extinct! Dese folks is mages an no mer arguin got it? Na get in side!" The cranky dwarf ushers you all through the gates.
----Segment 4----
The town is not a very pleasant place. A lot of grey. Stone and mud houses are everywhere. You see Green ugly men and women. The short bearded men, and some humans walking about the town. It looks dingy and poor. The "dwarves", your best guess anyways. Are everywhere. They are also the most heavily armed too. Leorn leads you down the cobble stone streets in the direction of a sign that says Gully's inn. Along the way you notice the first sign of beauty since arriving here. Standing at one of the merchant stalls are four tall attractive humanoids. Their skin is dark with a bluish grey hue to it and their hair is white with just a hint of blue. They also have pointy elf ears like Leorn's. There are three stern faces and well armored men. Though the one doing the talking is a scantly clad female. She has a fine figure with no sign of any blemish. To the guys in the party, she could rival Ashley's beauty, depends on your taste in skin and ears though. Once you arrive at the inn you head inside.
----Segment 5----
Inside the inn, a female Dwarf,takes you to your seats at a table. There you are served meat and potatoes. Mmm real organic earthen potatoes. They are so fresh that there is still dirt in them yum. The meat is of an unknown origin and seems to be season with some kind of BBQ sauce, crude for sure. The meat isn't to bad if your a carnivore. It could use some seasonings though as the sauce may not be enough for some of you. It is also rare and obviously cooked over an open fire. You are each served a mug of a frothy liquid that you are almost certain is alcohol. Beer or Ale most likely. Any of you wish to ask for water, you get a tall glass of not so clear water. Drinking it may give you the runs.
Once your are seated, and potentially eating. Leorn looks to each of you. "Okay, I will start by saying that Yalm feared this would happen. He had hoped that the distance between the site of your landing and Xivasar's tower was great enough but he told me the spell vortex was bigger than he had anticipated. Therefore there was a chance that Xivasar may find us. However, Xivasar's tower is Miles away and it would've taken months for an agent to get here. Though Drethrum is no normal agent. If anyone was to show up fast, it would be him. Yalm had hoped that Drethrum wouldn't risk going out alone to hunt him down due to the sword but with Alexander gone, none of us would be good enough to match the hellmaster. Yalm had told you of his power. Also Yalm probably hadn't mentioned the brand. Yalm had been branded by Xivasar. Yalm's powers are limited to a few lower level spells a day thanks to the brand. Xivasar is the only man who can remove it. That is way Yalm......died.....so quickly." At this point Leorn is beginning to break down a little. He takes a moment to compose himself and continue. "Yalm told me that Drethrum may still show up and if that were to happen, I was to take you away while he held off the hellmaster. Now I am suppose to take you to Elendere. Home of the moon elves. They are the greatest scholars of magic in the world today and they will be able to finish your training in greater safety as they have numbers and walls. The problem is, they are on the other side of the dark lands. We will have to travel through Xivasar's territory to get there. I won't lie. This will be very dangerous. Before we leave here I hope to enlist an escort. The governor of this town owes Yalm a favor. A really significant favor. Yalm told me I should be able to collect on it if the worst should happen. Sincerely we thought we had more time. Drethrum got there faster than we thought possible and by himself which we thought he'd never risk. With no back up, Drethrum dare not attack us alone. Especially since we have this sword. If we find a capable swordsman in town, he will wield it and keep Drethrum away. This sword is the only thing Drethrum fears. I can only imagine that he somehow heard that Alexander had left, that is the only reason he would attack us so openly with such a small force. My sword skills are inadequate to protect us from him so we need to find someone. There are many good swordsman in the world, we just need one we can trust. We can't leave this town until we find one. Now, I am going to give you some money. Ten gold pieces each. That should be enough to buy whatever you want.....hopefully. I will meet with the governor about aid and then seek out a swordsman. Whatever you do, don't use your magic in this town. The dwarves wont hesitate to arrest you. Now before I go, please, ask any questions you have and I will answer to the best of my abilities. No secrets, I will hold nothing back. Yalm and I never intended to keep you in the dark on anything. What do you need to know?" Leorn looks at you intently hoping to satisfy your concerns.
Segment Uno
------------------
Satisfied with Leorn's answer, Ashley nods her head in agreement, and moves to follow him. But not without first giving a last warning look to Trent and Reginald.
Segment Dos
-------------
Although she was beginning to get used to the sight of some of the widely different types of creatures in this world, still the throw-up-in-your-mouth-a-little-bit hideousness of Gremman gives her pause. She manages to remain polite though and it is not until they are out of earshot that she whispers to Leorn "Are Gesebelle and the others safe with him? I mean, he wouldn't...eat them or anything, would he??'
Segment Tres
--------------
At the gate Ashley knows better than to do anything to make the cranky fellow even worse and so simply remains quiet and follows once they are led inside.
Segment Quatro
---------------
The grey of the city seems to suit the empty feeling she has inside without access to her element. As they walk, her eyes drift around disinterestedly. That is, at least, until they land on the four humanoids, most specifically, the female. Although aware she looks far from her best being dirty and tired and even still having specks of dried puke on her dress, automatically Ashley perks up, her posture becoming straighter and a hand unconsciously going to her hair in the face of this potential rival. Sensing the attention the woman spins around and both pairs of eyes of the females narrow in the awareness and challenge of being in the presence of an equal. Both their eyes immediately rove up and down the other, taking in every inch of the enemy. The female drow, taking in Ashley's fine but stained and near filthy robe, mutters under her breath "Tramp" while Ashley, taking in the scantily clad dark elf whispers "Slut!". Staring daggers at each other, their gazes locked, as Ashley's group passes for a moment it seems as if the air must freeze, or catch on fire, or both. But the group and the moment passes and both women look away with a sniff, far too good to give such an unworthy any more of their attention. Despite the intensity of this whole encounter most of the males are, of course, oblivious.
Segment Cinco
--------------
Immediately upon entering the inn, Ashley excuses herself, making for whatever passes for the water closet. There, in whatever privacy is afforded her, she quickly does her best to improve her appearance. Wetting and washing her face, fixing her hair and removing the worst of the road dirt and vomit. Willing at the moment to give anything, even her firstborn, for a mirror, she sighs, thinking about the 'glamor & exciting adventure' of coming to another world. Realizing there is little more she can do though she makes her way back to the others. Perhaps still self-conscious of her appearance, she makes sure to put on an extra bright smile and a little more sway in her walk. Once the food is before them though all thoughts of the dark elf whore and anything else are forgotten as she realizes she is absolutely starving and her stomach completely takes over. Just barely remaining able to eat with some modicum of manners and femininity she nevertheless eats ravenously, not stopping until she is stuffed. Perhaps it was her hunger, or the abilities of the cook or a bit of both but she truly cannot recall eating so well before.
Once Leorn begins speaking though she is brought back to their situation and she leans forward to pay close attention to everything he says. At one point, when his emotions begin to overwhelm him, she reaches out her hand and puts it over his, squeezing it and then leaving it there. As he finishes she leans back and thinks for a moment, taking everything in. Then, sitting up again she says "Well, the first thing that comes to my mind is that maybe it would help if you also give us specific names of contacts Leorn, that way, if anything should happen to you..but of course it won't!" at this point she again grabs his hand, but this time it is just a quick squeeze and she takes her hand back before continuing "But, you know, just in case, then at least we would know who to seek for aid. Also, you should probably make a map that we can all make sure we memorize, that way should any of us get separated we won't be completely lost."
Sitting back again she looks down at herself, laughs self-deprecatingly but charmingly as smiles as she says "And I know what I'm going to spend some of this money on at least. Do you know where I can get some new clothes?"
"Are Gesebelle and the others safe with him? I mean, he wouldn't...eat them or anything, would he??'[/i]
Sensing the attention the woman spins around and both pairs of eyes of the females narrow in the awareness and challenge of being in the presence of an equal. Both their eyes immediately rove up and down the other, taking in every inch of the enemy. The female drow, taking in Ashley's fine but stained and near filthy robe, mutters under her breath "Tramp" while Ashley, taking in the scantily clad dark elf whispers "Slut!". Staring daggers at each other, their gazes locked, as Ashley's group passes for a moment it seems as if the air must freeze, or catch on fire, or both. But the group and the moment passes and both...
Perhaps it was her hunger, or the abilities of the cook or a bit of both but she truly cannot recall eating so well before.
Segment 1: After spraining his face trying to keep from rolling his eyes at Reg and Trent (Idiots, he thought to himself. Hostile territory, we don't know anyone, our only way home is missing and presumed dead, and they want to fight each other? Spare me.), Terry wordlessly follows Leorn, looking around to get some idea of what the city is like.
Segment 2: Ugly SOB...at least he knows Leorn. 'Course, after Agatha, I shouldn't confuse ugly with unfriendly. Terry nods politely at Gremman and follows after Leorn.
Segment 3: Terry keeps his mouth shut and his face carefully inoffensive, paying particular attention to how his companions react in case he has to say something diplomatic. A little less luck on our side and he would've been right about the "extinct" part...too bad for Drethrum he failed, though. An astute observer might notice Terry's nostrils flare as the group heads into the city.
Segment 4: Terry only peripherally notices the drow woman's beauty, as he's still trying to keep as aware as possible of any threats in his surroundings without being distracted by anything. (Just to keep in practice, he'll keep an eye out for security in the merchanting area.) This place looks like parts of Eastern Europe. Wonder if it's just the war with Xivasar keeping things depressed? Quietly, he asks, "Leorn, what was this city like before Xivasar?"
Segment 5: The food's like the bad parts of Russia, too. Having been in Europe, Terry has had beer before. (It was probably better than this, though.) He'll eat what he can, remembering his parents chastising him for being a picky eater at a little hotel outside of St. Petersburg. Damn it...homesick because of terrible food. Well, we're stuck here now. The road home goes through Xivasar's tower. Hah! More likely all we'll get is a shallow grave and a watercolor epitaph. But if I can take Drethrum with me, I'll die happy.
Looking around to see if anyone is obviously listening in, Terry says, "Yalm told us--and showed us!--that he could do tremendous magic in our world, but that he was limited here. He didn't say anything about a brand, though."
He leans forward. "OK, Which way is Elendere, how far is it, and what are we likely to run into when we're crossing hostile territory? And what's the land like between here and there? Woods, open fields, cities, roads? That'll do to start with."
----Before Segment 1----
Trenton's eyes turn ice cold looking at Reginald as he grabs him and acts as if he was trying to hit him yelling into his face.
He goes to grab Geginald's own shirt and begins to raise his hand but soon Ashley is there interposing herself between the two young men but Trenton's state of mind was still hellbent on his anger and the loss of Yalm.
He looks into Reginald's brown eyes and calmy states slowly and carefully pouring into each and every word his feelings into them.
" Touch me again Reginald see what happens."
He then looks down at Ashley and walks a slight ways away his knuckles pure white as he grabs uselessly onto the pommel of his sword.
-----1-----
Cooling himself off, and repeating to himself that he cannot allow his anger to best him in his head, Reginald follows Leorn wordlessly.
-----2-----
Though this new creature is pretty ugly, it isn't near as bad as those damn demons were, and Reginald studies its face, curious about it. It seems friendly enough, and Leorn seems to trust it, so Reginald brushes it off as another of their friends, like Agatha. When outside earshot of the stable, Reggy asks Leorn, "What is he?" He says it in a level tone.
-----3-----
Reginald lets Leorn do the talking, not wanting to do anything to provoke this seemingly dour man. He's curious about this one too, though when they're through the gate and he sees more around, he decides not to ask about them, in case he says something insulting.
-----4-----
As they walk around, Reginald thinks about all that happened in such a small amount of time, and reflects on the horrors that have been presented before them. He wonders at how Leorn held himself so bravely in a fight against one that felt so powerfully evil. He doesn't notice the drow as the group walks by, lost as he is in his thoughts.
-----5-----
Reginald picks at the food, not really feeling hungry despite the amount of strain recently put on him. He tries the drink and nearly spits it back out at the taste of alcohol. However, he drinks it sip by sip, feeling glum and subconsciously thinking that people drink when they're depressed. He listens to Leorn as he drinks more and more of the mug at a time. The bitter, burning taste is new, and not really all that pleasant, but he bares through it anyway, not really sure why but not caring. When Leorn talks about how Drethrum was taking such risks to attack them, Reginald thinks on what that means in terms of the value of each of their lives. He feels a new sense of responsibility, knowing that if he dies, it may very well be the end of the world. He takes a larger gulp of the ale.
When Leorn finishes his monologue, Reginald waits and sees what the others ask, to gauge where each of their priorities lie. After their questions, he asks Leorn carefully, "Do you think we will be safe enough in this city to go alone?" He also thinks to ask about how much a gold piece is worth, then decides he can figure it out as he goes and withholds that question.
-----Pre-1-----
Reginald looks into Trent's eyes, then breaks away, looking off to no where in particular while listening to Ashley. He's steaming inside, and wants desperately to vent all his emotions right now, but something inside tugs at him, keeping him in check. As Ashley speaks, guilt starts to creep in underneath his anger and sadness and accusations. His fists unclench, and he thinks, What the hell am I doing? I've got things like... He thinks back to the demons and shudders visibly, and I'm fighting with Trent? Damn, I'm a fool. He looks apologetically to Trent and mutters, "Sorry, guess I got carried away." He then looks at the ground, repeating in his head how stupid he's acting while backing away physically and becoming more reticent. He stays silent for the rest of the way, all the way until he talks in segment 2. He's feeling embarrassed that he was venting on Trent, and though he's still angry and sullen about what just happened earlier, he keeps his emotions in check for now.
Sensing the attention the woman spins around and both pairs of eyes of the females narrow in the awareness and challenge of being in the presence of an equal. Both their eyes immediately rove up and down the other, taking in every inch of the enemy. The female drow, taking in Ashley's fine but stained and near filthy robe, mutters under her breath "Tramp" while Ashley, taking in the scantily clad dark elf whispers "Slut!". Staring daggers at each other, their gazes locked, as Ashley's group passes for a moment it seems as if the air must freeze, or catch on fire, or both. But the group and the moment passes and both...
Perhaps it was her hunger, or the abilities of the cook or a bit of both but she truly cannot recall eating so well before.
Still waiting on Trent to finish his stuff. Should be good considering what you've encountered in the city hehe. Which reminds me, I can't get stuck calling them Drow. In this world they are known simply as dark elves. Drow is an unknown word to the people of Kellmanor. Alternatively people call them Delves. I may have accidentally called them drow once or twice but that was habit and I will stop. However, your characters may have some fantasy knowledge and may want to call them Drow, that is fine but don't be surprised when folks have no idea what your talking about.
----Segment 1----
Trenton nods still angry but managing to remain calm and after he hears Reginald aplogize he nods managing a weak smile before saying very softly. "We are in way over our heads."
----Segment 2----
Trenton stands blinking slwoly at the .....Orc? Only thing that could describe that thing though I always pictured well not in civilization don't they like wage war against humans or something?
----Segment 3----
Trenton smiles and slowly bows to the smaller man trying to convey respect to the old mans words.He can smell us? He must be a dwarf in Warhammer they could do the same thing. Wow now if only I could see a drow. Heh like id that would ever happen don't they live underground or something oh well. If wishes could come true...Yalm wouldnt have died and I wouldn't be such a weakling.
Trentons brief spot of good cheer fades with the sobering thought of Yalm and slowly drifts to the back of the group only keeping up with the merest effort.
----Segment 4----
Trenton looks around his eyes taking in the dour sight of the town, So...sad, it's like all the happiness has been drained away from the townsfolk...If Xivasar is responsible for this there is just one more reason to put a stop to him. He shakes his head and continues to look around thinking if he was going to live here as he was determined to do then he might have to get tused to the sight of towns such as these.
He notices the heavily armed guards that seem to be more dwarfs. Well at least if we ever go to battle I hope we can have these dwarfs and more like them as allies.
But out of the corner of his eye he spies something that spraks his and turns his head slightly to get a better look.
....He stops dead in his tracks the group seeming to not notice him missing for a few seconds.
Drow...they have to be....they look like Leorn but they have to be drow or dark elves didn't Yalm say something about them?....
He takes in the sight of the male drow in an interested way his eye making his way over their polished mail and well cared for weaponry that to him reflects their nature. But when he sees the woman....
Ashley was a very beautiful woman, even more so once the ritual was complete and the spirt of fire was bestwoed upon her. But this woman had natural beauty. He had read many books speaking of elven woman's beauty but in the human's world all pictures came from the mind and how the reader crafted that image. All those descriptioons paled in comparrison to this woman.
Only when he was bumped into slightly did he realize he had been staring and he hurriedly looks around his cheeks fairly glowing red with the knowledge he had been staring at some stranger like some wanton puppy.
He rubbernecks around looking for the group and sees Terry's and Ashley's distinctive hair in the crowd and hurries after them only pausing slightly to look back towards the dark elf woman almost wishing she'd notice him..But then he was a mre human...well human sorceror maybe that helped with woman here. He grins slightly at the thought guy could always dream right?
I predict Trent has a lot to say to Leorn in segment five. If I get the post within the next hour, I will post before bed. Otherwise I will post in the morning if I have time, or the afternoon where I will have time.
----Segment 5-----
As he hurriedly makes his way in behind the last other group member he ducks his head hiding his still glowing face hoping none of the others would see it.
He coughs slightly and digs into the food not even really paying attention to the taste until the fifth or sixth bite. " Wow well almost makes one want some MRE's." he says jokingly trying to make up for his earlier behavior.
Afterwards he sips at the beer almost wishing he could dump it and just call some pure water from his magic and drink that but then the dwraf had said not to cast any magic.
And then he listened to Leorn and thought critically. Heh well at least I didn't find out the hard way
After Leorn finishes speaking Trenton remains quiete knowing anything he could say would be tainted by the words he had spoken earlier to Leorn. He would have to work on controlling his temper only in the good graces of Reginald had he made up for that fight but he figured he would have to prove himself to others before they forgot his violent outburst. Though once Leorn talked of hiring some others to help them his thoughts immediately flew to the dark elf woman and her group. Perhaps they would be worth mentioning to Leorn though maybe he won't even listen to me anymore after what I said.
I predict Trent has a lot to say to Leorn in segment five. If I get the post within the next hour, I will post before bed. Otherwise I will post in the morning if I have time, or the afternoon where I will have time.
EDIT ok both IC edited to include little more and correct drow/dark elf labels hehe
----Segment 2----
Ashley asks if the unicorns will be okay. Leorn lets out a soft chuckle. "They will be fine. Gremman may look monstrous but he is very good with animals, especially intelligent ones." Leorn then looks at Reggy and responds. "He's an orc. There are a lot of them in town since their home far east of here was coverted by Xivasar's obelisk over 4 years ago. The orcs that live in this town are surviving refugees for the most part. They may look menacing but they aren't all that mean. It is their eating habits that concern me most honestly. They eat ANYTHING."
----Segment 4----
Terry asks about the city before. "Well.....um I wasn't around before Xivasar but from what Yalm had told me......the only difference was there weren't as many orcs or humans. Still smelled liked a men's room at a gas station. At least that was how Yalm described it. I am not even sure what a gas station is." At that Leorn looked a bit uneasy. "I miss all the weird things Yalm used to say. He stopped saying strange stuff about 20 years ago but still, it made him unique." You guys will be able to ask more at the inn.
----Segment 5. Q and A session----
Listening to Ashley's question Leorn nods. "The most important contact is Galrand in Elendere. He was a close friend of Yalm and the oldest of the moon elves. He is the one who will take over your training. I also know Demming the governor of this town owes Yalm a favor. Then there is Kasheek a lizardfolk Shaman that lives in the Marsh of Myyrian just northeast of here. The last I can think of is a Vampire named Trista. I am unsure of her allegiance but Yalm often spoke fondly of her. Her lands are on the border of the free lands and Xivasar's lands. She have a kingdom of undead. Yalm said little else of her except that she was once a dear friend of his. He hasn't said anything ill of her though. As far as I can tell, they were still friends even after she was a vampire. I hope she counts as an asset because she may be where we head next. Other than that there are a few places we can go. The Marsh of Myyrian is one, after that there is Fallengrav where Trista resides. Then a Human settlement in the dark lands called Everstand, it is a strong defiant place full of proud good men. Then the celestial city of Cloudsdale, home of the celestians atop the Gawarey Mountains. Otherwise there is the serpentfolk kingdom of Sssansken in the Gawarey mountains. Then on the other side of the mountains is Durrnaham, a dwarven fastness that stands strong against Xivasar. The list goes on. I plan on taking you through each of those locations until we cross the dark lands to Elendere where you will complete your training and move against Xivasar with an army at your back. Well that is the hope at any rate. I really hope this works and you are everything Yalm says you are. I will try to draw out a map for each of you so I won't lose any of you. This I will have some time tomorrow." When Ashley comments about her clothes Leorn chuckles. "I am sorry to say you may not find anything better to wear here than what you have on. I could be wrong though. Worth a look after all."
Terry's comments make Leorn noticeably uneasy. "Well the way I understand it, the brand is only active in this world and loses it's power anywhere else. You see, Yalm tried to take Xivasar down once already. He led a massive army and wielded his full power. Yalm almost prevailed but that is when Drethrum and Brod betrayed him. Drethrum joined Xivasar but was still working for Yalm. Xivasar convinced Drethrum to brand Yalm with a permanent seal of magic dampening. Xivasar could then keep Yalm from using his higher level spells. Drethrum then turned the armies of hell against Yalm and Brod simply left the field and fled north to the Finterlands for his own unknown reasons. Yalm's armies crumbled and Yalm himself was forced to flee. It was during his flight that he stumbled across me and my brother and saved us. The rest of Yalm's army was either converted or wiped out. I think Trista was also part of that force but I do not know how she survived nor what part she played. Yalm never told me." Leorn takes a breath and a swig of beer. "About the land and the journey ahead of us. I suspect it will take anywhere from 4 to 5 months of travel to get from here to Elendere. We will be crossing a large expanse of land controlled by Xivasar and the environments will vary greatly. It is no easy trek. It will be dangerous and difficult but I will do everything I my power to protect you and make the journey as easy as possible. We may have to endure assualts from countless minions of Xivasar's. We are not without allies however, there are countless friends throughout Xivasar's territory who still stand in defiance of the dark lord. The most common being the magic resistant battle hardy dwarves. Hopefully, we will lose Drethrum and we can move without being noticed. Until we lose our pursuers, we need to keep a contingent around at all times. In particular we need a swordsman better than I to wield the sword of dispelling. That will keep Drethrum from attacking us directly."
At Reggy Leorn nods. "As long as you do not cast any magic, yes, you will be safe. The dwarves run a very tight ship and this city is under a loose martial law. Any sign of disturbance is usually met with hostility from the dwarves. They are everywhere patrolling at all times. Whatever you do, respect them. With so many refugees about and the fear looming, they are more than a little high strung. If someone even looks dangerous they trounce them."
Leorn straightens up. Looking around he zeros in on Trent. "I want to apologize to you if you felt tricked or betrayed. I want you to know that I completely respect and appreciate your choice to trust us and leave the safety of your home to help us. Us who are complete strangers to you. We have not be fair to you and I am sorry." Leorn turns to you all. "I am sorry to all of you." He bows his head in respect.
Thinking of the massive journey ahead of them Ashley's spirits sag for a moment. But then she remembers Yalm's sacrifice and enemies like Drethrum, who is now Real to her, and friends like Leorn, and finally the beauty of the lake she swam in and how their enemies seek to destroy all such beauty in this world. Feeling the vaguest stir of the fire within her, she takes a deep breath, sits up and asks Leorn "With the journey ahead of us, what kinds of supplies would you suggest we get? Maybe you could make us a list?"
Segment 4:
Terry stops short, surprised by what he just heard. "Wait, what? He said that? That's...interesting." He falls into silence, his mind racing. He must have been looking at other worlds for a long time--and probably traveling there, too, if he could say something about what they smelled like. Leorn's too fragile right now to even think about this, but I'm not convinced Yalm is dead. Gone from the world, yeah, so we can't count on him. We'll see.
Segment 5:
"Huh. So he tried before?" He pauses, thinking. Bet that's why Alexander was so upset about us...we look like just another one of Grandpa's crazy schemes that's going to get a whole bunch more good people killed. "How long ago was that, if you don't mind? Oh, and one more question for now. I was pretty out of it at the time--" He looks a bit embarrassed. "--but demons aren't the sort of thing I usually run into, you know? Anyway, I was thinking about the fight and flight, and I remembered that Drethrum kept talking about 'Brandon.' Who's that?"
After Leorn's apology, Reginald waits for a minute, then speaks in the deep and level tone which is so unusual for one of his age, "You musn't apologise for wanting to protect this world. In coming here, I have seen beautiful and wonderful things beyond what I ever thought possible, and I have already learned so much in this short time. I have found in this world something I want to protect as well, and if that means fighting Drethrum, or Xivasar, or anything else, by God I'll do it." He finishes with a determined look upon his face. He meant every word he said.
Trenton listens silently to the others questions and then raises his head at Leorn as he speaks to him and Trenton quickly looks away and leaves the table but pauses as he rises.
"Lets have everyone meet back up in an hour here." he says quickly then he hurries outside avoiding the coming and goings of the other patrons.
He thinks on what Leorn had told them.
"So if we pass through this overlord's lands will it not attract his attention. Why does this feel like some lord of the Rings plot? he mumbles to himself as he wanders through the strange new world's market passing a curious eye over things.
Leorn lets out a soft chuckle at Ashley's question. "No you don't need to worry about equipment. I have that covered. The money I am giving you is for your personal comfort. Anything we don't have I will buy on my own. "
When Terry asks about Yalm's first attempt Leorn nods. "That was almost sixty years ago. Back when Xivasar started his conquest. Yalm was on the run from Xivasar when he found me and my brother."
Suddenly Trent gets up to leave. Leorn calls out. "Hold up Trent. You may want to hear some of this before you leave. I don't want to "keep you in the dark" please stay for a bit. I have important things to say."
Leorn takes a deep breath at Terry's question about Brandon. "Brandon Walsh. I am not entirely sure but I think that is Yalm's REAL name. I have heard it once before when Yalm had first rescued me. We had ran into Drethrum. Yalm was angry at Drethrum's betrayal but they were saying strange things to one another. Most of which were so foreign to me I can't even remember them. The odd thing was the names they kept referring to each other by. Drethrum called Yalm Brandon over and over again. Yalm in turned called Drethrum Eric. They also mentioned someone named Luke once or twice. Several years later I read one of Yalm's journals. In the book it mention the following.....names? I am sure they were names. Brandon Walsh, Eric Deedmund, Anna Wilson, Luke Madison, and Gregory Meyers. I have no idea who those people were but I figured out two of them Brandon Walsh is Yalm, and Eric Deedmund is Drethrum. Aside from that, I know nothing else. It baffles me to this day why Yalm and Drethrum have two different names. It makes no sense." Leorn shakes his head and looks at Terry. "As for the demons, they are commonplace in the underworld but they rarely surface. They live real deep and only Drethrum has the power to summon them to the surface and control them. We may not have to fight them but there are countless dangers in this world to contend with. This is why I hope to acquire a small armed guard before we leave this place."
Leorn lets out one more heavy sigh. "Hopefully that helps you. Is there anything else you need to know?"
As Trent moves to leave Leorn calls out again. "Hey here your going to need this." Leorn tosses Trent a small pouch. As Trent catches it he hears a jingle in it. He opens it to find ten solid gold coins. "Buy anything you want. If you need more let me know and I will give you more if it is a reasonable request."
If Trent proceeds to leave, the following spoiler is for him.
As Trent leaves the inn he moves into the busy city. The place is crowded and reeks of B.O. You see many orcs and dwarves. Again only a few humans. Not far from the inn you see the "marketplace" And again you see the "drow" group shopping. Again your eyes see the lovely elven specimen. Do you wish to approach or move on?
Reginald ponders on what Leorn has said in regards to the names, and wonders at how commonplace the names sound. All the names of this world sound so foreign, but these sound like they could have... He quickly says to Leorn, "Hey, do you think it's a possibility that Yalm came from the other world, just like our group did?" He wonders at the implications of what he's asking, especially if Drethrum came from Earth.
Trenton nods his thanks to Leorn still unsure on where he stands Leorn had aplogized but Trenton's father had always drilled it into him to not admit mistakes or to aplogize. Maybe I should anyways...maybe after I go and try and buy somethings. He then ducks outside even as he hears the other continue to talk.
And then he spies the drow group again.
He knows he is stopped in the middle of the busy marketplace street but he decides that he wanted a new life to not be so insecure and shy.
He bites his lip once more before squaring his shoulders and slowly steps towards the armed group conciously keeping his hands away from his sword hilt not wanting to botch things even before he said anything.
Heck maybe they could even help us get to that moon elf place
Diplomacy
When he gets close enough he tries to catch one of the group members eyes before saying slowly and even though he tries his shyness comes out. "Um...Excuse me I know this is rude but....your uhh dark elves or is it drow? I am sorry but I am...new here." he finishes lamely knowing he had screwed things up even as he felt the words come out.
Terry nods at Reg's question. "Could be, though if there's two worlds there could be a lot more." Other than that, he keeps his thoughts to himself.
Reginald nods his acknowledgement to Terry's suggestion, since it seems very possible that they could go to different worlds if they could go to this one. He thinks up the possibilities concerning this group of people Leorn referred to. Perhaps they're all from Earth? Then again, perhaps they simply come from a different part of Kellmanor where the names sound more like Earth names. He reminds himself not to get too far ahead in his train of thoughts.
Leorn shakes his head. "I don't think so. Yalm, Xivasar, and Drethrum have been in this world a real long time. They control too much power to come from anywhere else. Besides, you four are the first time I have ever heard of someone coming from the other side. The spell used to get you here had such a high co....." Suddenly Leorn bites his lip. It is apparent that he said something he shouldn't have. "Uh anyways, I highly doubt that Yalm is from another world." Leorn hands out pouches of ten gold to each of you. "Now go shop."
The Dark elf looks at Trent as he approaches and begins to speak he notices a look of interest on the dark elf girls face. "My my, what have we here? A really good looking human boy with blue hair. You don't see that these days now do you? Yes we are dark elves. In particular we are referred to as Delves. But what are you?" She walks around behind you and leans in to speak into your ear. "I am ever so curious." She says mellifluously. Her voice is like honey to you and she is the most beautiful woman you have met to date.
Not wanting to press Leorn so soon after all the traumatic events occured, Reginald takes him on his word and stands, pocketing the pouch (assuming I have pockets) and heading out of the tavern to the open market.
He sucks in a deep breath of fresh air, then immediately regrets doing so as the stench of the place hits him. He tries breathing through his mouth as he starts to mill about the place, looking at the stands and shops for something interesting. He isn't really sure what to expect from the shops of Kellmanor, and thus doesn't look for a specific item, instead just browsing.
Trenton follows the woman's movements with his eyes standing stark still unsure of what to do or say his cheeks flooded with blood coloring his skin in contrast with his blue hair and eyes.
Delves? Wonder why they call themselves that? Or maybe its what others call them? Ok what to say? Damn why does she have to talk like that? What to say! What if shes an agent of Xivasar? Should I answer "Hey im a sorceror!" no thats stupid damn what to say. Why did I come over here?! His mind whirls through several thoughts at once before settling on a safe if perhaps hasty answer.
Bluff untrained
" I am a human....just from...a very distant place. Where I am from we have many tales of your people but I have never been able to meet one such as you." he manages to stammer out quickly his eyes darting over the other...Delves looking for their reactions before turning to face the beautiful woman.
"Though you have to ummm forgive me. I am quite new here and do not know much of the area or this market and the sights of these many differnt people made me wonder and then I saw you and your companions. My own companions and I...had a fight and I had to leave before I said things I would regret...even more later. So when I saw you and yours again I decided I would like to...meet you." He finds himself almost spilling his thoughts to her and only realizes this towards then end where he finishes haltingly meeting her eyes hesitantly.
Great now what oh powerful master of water and ice.
Terry also lets the matter drop. Great--one more thing for Alexander to be upset about. Not only do we look like we're going to get a lot of people killed, but it also cost something valuable to bring us here. I don't know what I'll do if they had to sacrifice a life.... I'll let Ashley talk to him alone, if she wants.
Taking the gold, Terry asks, "What sorts of things are for sale here?"
Ashley is struck by Leorn's revelations, and her mind has already begun travelling along the same lines as Reginald's but he beats her to asking the question.
She is even more surprised by Leorn's extended answer to learn that all of Yalm's past companions and then enemies all shared human sounding names. She also does not miss Leorn's seeming prevarication. She too decides to let the matter drop though, for now, but she intends to bring it up again later. It cannot be a coincidence that the most powerful people in this world, Yalm and the others, and now apparently herself and fellow Pathfinders, all seem to come from another world.
As the others all leave individually she briefly considers spending some time alone with Leorn, but she knows he has things to do and she does not want to slow him down. Sighing quietly, she tells herself that it will be nice to have some alone time on her own and that if she was going to be safe anywhere in this world, surely it would be here.
Stepping outside, she turns her face to the sun for a moment and closes her eyes, trying to literally pull the sun's heat into her. But the big ball of fire in the sky is much too far away and her efforts avail her naught. As she looks around as she begins to decide where to go first she does not see Terry or Reginald. But she does spy a certain blue haired young man, almost surrounded by the dark elves. What's more, that harlot of a female elf seems almost ready to devour him. Instantly fuming her mind roils 'No way is that slut going to tramp herself around my boys!' and begins to make a beeline for the small group.
Just before she arrives, although furious, she puts on the sweetest smile she can and then slips up right in between Trent and the Elfess. Sliding her arm through Trent's she beams up at him and gives him a peck on the cheek "Honey! Here you are! Why is it you always seem to wander into mud piles and dark, dank, dead ends when when you're off by yourself. I can't leave you alone for a moment!"
Then, pretending to see the woman and her cronies for the first time, she apes surprise "Oh! But how rude of me! I see you've met some cute little new friends! How nice! Well, don't be rude dear, introduce us already." as he puts on her megawatt number one smile, acting for all she's worth like she's pleased as punch to meet these strangers. The way she pulls Trent even closer to her makes it clear she is laying her claim on him.
Laeorn responds to Terry's question. "I haven't been here in awhile so I am not entirely sure. Just look around and buy something that suits your fancy. I need to go speak with the governor. Try not to cause any trouble for the dwarves please. That's more for your own safety than being polite." Leorn leaves the inn.
Terry and Reggy need to make me both a perception and Appraise checks please.
The dark elf women lets out a very cute giggle as she circles to Trent's front to look him in the eyes. "I know my lore boy. You are a sorcerer. Of this I am certain. She leans in real close and brings her nose to his hair and takes in a good wiff. [B]"Mmm the sweet succulent smell of water in it's purest form. " The woman straightens up pulling away from you. "My name is Arastil. I was formally a spell sword of the kingdom of Ursel. Since I have lost touch with the spirit however, I have had to become nothing more than a mere swordswoman. Truly. So you say you come from afar. To still possess such talent you must have. What is your name young sorcerer of Water? [/ooc]Make sure to read the next spoiler[/ooc]
[Spoiler=Trent and Ashley]
The dark elf woman looks amused. "My another sorcerer. Is that fire I smell. Hmm what are the odds that the other companions are also sorcerers. I can only hope."
Reaction to Ash:
Trenton feeling an arm slips around him looks distractedly and then sees Ashley even as she kisses his cheeck.
Immediately he disengages himself from her arms and glares at the girl his anger kindling to life at the petty display Ashley had put on.
"I know what your doing Ashley and I don't need even more trouble with Leorn so leave me alone and keep me out of your silly girlish pranks. God and here I thought you were differnt than all the other cheerleaders turns out I wasn't." he snarls and in the back of his mind he knows what he is saying is harsh but dammit he was having a hard enough time by himself and didnt need some petty diva ruining his somewhat cheerful mood.
Trenton turns his face and stares slightly at the dark elf woman. She could smell his magic? How could she do that?
Trenton hesitates perhaps at the thought of his harsh words he looks to Ashley for a second before looking back to the delvish? woman.
"My name is Trenton umm m'lady. How could you uhhhh tell that I was umm that we are?....I was supposed to someday try and become a spellsword? Is that what you call it? But that was...." he glances at Ashley before stepping away from the girl leaving his sentence unsaid as he studies Arastil wondering if perhaps she could train him but then she had said she did not have her magic anymore. Had Xivasar taken it away from her?
As you are moving about the marketplace you stubble across a strange hut. There is a large canopy built over the entrance. Sitting in a chair at the entrance is the ugliest creature you have ever seen. It is large, purple, covered in warts and has a hideous look about about it. As you walk past it smiles at you and waves. "Ya dere! Serserer! Com 'ere! Aye gots stuff fer ya in side. Majik items dat yud pobaby want. Com see Stan's tings. Ya wunt finds majik stuffs anwheres else in dis town. Com an see. A serserer like yerself needs dese tings. Com un an see." He seems quite eager to have you come inside. The dwarven security is all about and as far as you know they don't tolerate magic or violence in their town. It may ber safe to go inside but this dude is just plain ugly, maybe he wants to eat you? What does Reggy think?
You spend some time wandering but don't see anything too interesting. You do find some nice dwarven weapons at a local smith though. Glancing over the weapons you also notice some of them have glowing carvings. Not really sure what they mean though.
Arastil watches the little confrontation with interest. "Fight. I see what you mean. Water and Fire never did get along very well. You are a strong boy indeed if you can resist such temptation." She listens to Trent ask his question. She muses for a moment. "Trenton? That is a very strong name. I have heard none like it before. It is a pleasure to meet you Trenton. I can tell what you are almost completely by looking at you. I have been alive for almost 100 years. I was around before Xivasar stole magic from the land and sealed away the spirits. Before the sorcerers all died. They all had viberant features that would identify what they are. You have blue hair thus you are a water mage. Melves are the only race that have blue hair naturally. You are good looking but too masculine to be one of them. Which is a good thing. I like men who are real men. Not so much like these stiffs following me around, I mean REAL men. Human sorcerers are the most attractive. Also, because all Delven woman had a natural connection to the spirits, we know the smell and the feel of its power when present. It has been sixty years since magic was destroyed. I have missed it dearly. With you, I can feel a connection, even if slight but it is there and I yern for more. I used to be a spell sword back when I could still cast magic. Though I can no longer use magic, the training has stayed with me. You have the now rare gift of being able to use magic without any catalyst. I could show you how to mix combat and spellcasting together for a deadly combination. That is, if your lady will allow it and you have time."
Trenton looks down at his hands studying them slightly thinking furiouslyWill I ever find another teacher? If I say yes will the others hate me? Will Leorn accept her? Can I do this?
He resists the temptation to look to Ashley for help and Trenton finally comes to a decision looking up to Arastil's eyes. "If you would have me as a pupil I would be honored to learn from you. And you would gain a dedicated and obedient student. However, the others, and I will be journeying to the Moon Elves and we have need...of someone to help us there. Our guide said we would need someone skilled at the sword. Perhaps you would be willing to help us and teach me at the same time. I know Ashley and you have maybe started off on the wrong foot." Trenton now looks to Ashley's face looking for her reaction before looking back to Arastil. "But we need every all the help we can get."