Erkholt is led by the footman down the hall and down the stairs from the second floor to the entrace hall and then into the parlor.
the parlor itself has several couches or divans if you will, several individual chairs all stuffed and covered with velvet; the rug is ornate; but old and chewed by bugs and rodents; but was once a handwoven masterpiece.
all the the silver and brass about the room in the way of vases or picture frames are all tarnished and the pictures are covered with dust and hard to see; in fact; there is quite a bit of dust on everything, but neither the maid nor the footman appear to notice.
Erkholt; you only person you recognise in this room would be Thoronhen, the rogue; but there is a Dwarf, but not of your clan or hold.
{everyone please make introductions and descriptions that are not available on your character sheets}
the maid brings in several trays of thing to eat; but does not seem concerned in the slightest if you eat them or not.
Erkholt moves immediately over to Thoronhen and grabs the elf in a great bear hug "I dinnae think I'd be seein ye again Thoron. Tis a good thing yer alive still."
Standing back, he bows low to the others "Blessings of teh Forge be upon ye all. I am Erkholt Grgn, once travelling companion of yon elf."
To teh dwarf he offers a firm hand shake and a traditional dwarven greeting "Forge and fire lad, tis good te see another of the earth folk again".
He appears well dressed in silken clothes, though the fit is a little awkward, as if they have been alteres somewhat to fit Erkholt. A silver symbol of Moradin hangs around his neck and at his waist is a curious looking mace or club.
As the girl brings around food, he eagerly reaches for some and begins to eat, his stomach growling in reminder of how long it has been since he's eaten.
Seeming as if carved from marble, and carrying himself with the bearing of a warrior-born, it is obvious to thse of divine persuasion that this man is blessed by the gods. His long raven black hair and chiseled features are more than enough to turn heads, but it is his steel grey eyes with their crystalline intensity that draw your attantion.
Dressed in the full regalia of his armor, the polished relief of Athena gleaming on his shield, his presence is almost overwhelming, despite the scuffs and wear of battle and travel.
"I am Astinos, Champion of Athena, it gives me great pleasure to meet one who follows the Soulforger. As an associate of ThoronHen's I trust that you are the one who will join our quest. Allow me to present my allies."
He turns to gesture toward the party
"Beside me stands the Lady Decidio, one of wisdom to match her beauty and many talents, the noble warrior behind me is Llvenoc, champion of the Drow Empire,beside him the Lady he protects, the illustrious Jewel of the Empire. The noble catfolk you see are Kemnebi Ibenbast, wizard of no small power, and Nebebit Sanura, living representitive of Bast herself. The small but mighty warrior is Grymbol, fey champion of The Grey. You have already met Kojan mighty warrior of the Silveraxe clan.
Allow me to present our leader, the one responsible for the cohesion of the group you see before you, Lady Namaste."
Astinos greets the dwarf with a warrior's salute the guestures to each person as they are mentioned, concluding with a small bow towards Namaste
Erkholt moves immediately over to Thoronhen and grabs the elf in a great bear hug "I dinnae think I'd be seein ye again Thoron. Tis a good thing yer alive still."...
Erkholt friend I am so glad to see you. What of Quiet Rama and did the visions come to pass? How did you get here? Where is your armor? You did not even take it off when we where on ship. Well we can compare stories later. These are the group that has agreed to complete the quest and some others that have been added. Unfortunately Caran Lith Draug was not able to come with us.
[small edit; Astinos means Kosan; not Kojan the red hammer wielding dwarven hero]
[hehe i messed up too; the monk's name is Koob; I got my npc's mixed up.
..."I am Astinos, Champion of Athena, it gives me great pleasure to meet one who follows the Soulforger. As an associate of ThoronHen's I trust that you are the one who will join our quest. Allow me to present my allies."
He turns to gesture toward the party
"Beside me stands the Lady Decidio, one of wisdom to match her beauty and many talents, the noble warrior behind me is Llvenoc, champion of the Drow Empire,beside him the Lady he protects, the illustrious Jewel of the Empire. The noble catfolk you see are Kemnebi Ibenbast, wizard of no small power, and Nebebit Sanura, living representitive of Bast herself. The small but mighty warrior is Grymbol, fey champion of The Grey. You have already met Kojan mighty warrior of the Silveraxe clan.
Allow me to present our leader, the one responsible for the cohesion of the group you see before you, Lady Namaste."
Astinos greets the dwarf with a warrior's salute the guestures to each person as they are mentioned, concluding with a small bow towards Namaste
Namaste and Llvenoc have pledged before the Oracle to complete our quest and also we have pledged to rescue the Oracle's niece from here. We had an opportunity earlier to do the second but things happen that made it unable to be completed. We have also taken up a cause that Kosan can tell you in more fullness as it deals with an other of your race and a relative of Llvenoc.
After several minutes go bye; pleanty of time for the party to get aquainted; a 5'5" tall oriental man comes into the room; he is wearing a loose fitting brown robe with forarm length sleeves made of canvas; and a white silk and linen tight fitting undergarmet; his left hand looks quite different from his right hand; though both are scarred and tatooed; the left hand looks much more so; even his bald head has sigils and tatoos of various creatures that wind up his neck.
unlike the others you have seen so far; this is a living, breathing monk; though he is very graceful and his eyes have a certain dreamy quality.
He is followed by an human (though the drow notice him as a half breed) in exquisite studded leather armor; he has a dagger but sports twin identical clubs that have very intricate, masterful scrollwork on them. Other than that he is fairly non descript; tall for an elf at 6'2" and powerfully built. He appears to watch all things and nothing at once; he too is living and breathing; he gives not even a flicker of on his face at seeing the drow or a puck.
The monk speaks in Greek; though he has an accent:
"Grate thee all; Master Koob am I; Sticks be him; we escort you to dinner now, chop chop; you meet Big Boss; get many answers and dine well. Follow now Peeze! Most polite face warn you now; many humble lives yes."
The footman leads you out followed by Bones; Sticks waits for everyone to leave then will follow.
assuming you proceed; (all characters have pleanty of time to interact and post though they may not have yet before this point; just start with [in the parlor] or like that so we know when what happened.
you are taken back through the hallway through a grand hall with interesting and intricate tilework which has many doors and windows; to the right through an anteroom; once lushly carpeted room that measures about 40'x40'; you are then taken into a grand dinning room.
This room is 100ft by 40ft wide and the central part is taken up by a massive wooden table of intricate scroll and design work along the edge and feet. There is one other door going outside at the far end south side. At the far end of the room is a massive fireplace and at the far end of the table is a massive; nearly thrown like chair, though all of the chairs are heavy and ornate. There is a fortune of silver and gold among the tableware and table ordamentation. Once rich tapestries line the walls of the room; this room unlike the others has been thoroughly cleaned and smells of rich scented oils; it is also warm as there is a good fire in the fireplace. There is a place setting for each of you; Sticks and Bones move to the two places nearest the near throne but do not sit. Sticks nods to Thoronhen to take the space next to him.
the footman indicates that none yet sit as he goes to stand by the outer doorway.
the table has fresh fruits and several cheese wheels and many loaves of bread; also there is several large pitchers of fresh water, been and chilled wine as well as warm spiced wine.
A servant is turning several spits on the fire where a large suckled pig and several birds the size of cornish hens are roasting; the smells in this room are very inviting.
At one place at the table, there is all kinds of interesting nuts, seeds and bird like food; some even wiggles delightfully :)
Game time is early evening.
*gasp*
<looks toward the doors as color drains from her face>
"oh my"
[Back in the parlor] I nod a greeting to Erkholt. "It is my pleasure to make your acquaintance, Sir Erkholt. Sir Astinos speaks too highly of me, it would seem, as our group's cohesion is not my doing alone. Finding the one mind has been a group effort, and each of my valued companions has played a valuable role. If you are a companion to one of us, then please allow me to welcome you as a companion to all of us."
Namaste eyes the food hungrily. It has been awhile since we have eaten. But heeding previous warnings, she refrains from accepting any of the offerings.
Stepping up to Bones, "Would you please convey our thanks to the Lady of the Manor for her hospitality? Might she offer us some chambers that we might rest and refresh ourselves? And when might we meet her?"
*gasp*
<looks toward the doors as color drains from her face>
"oh my"
Mentally : What is it Dear one?
Nebibit eyes all the food
In the mindlink "You know if the food is okay we are going to look extremely rude not having any. Perhaps if one of us were to taste it?"
mindlink: 'That one would be bound to the underworld eternally'
My concern is that the food and drink may be drugged or poisoned. How well do you know our hosts Thoron?
To Astinos:
My mother; whom I have not seen in the ten thousand years of my imprisonment; yet who brokered my release from that foul dieties prison; is nearby; I can feel her; beware; maintain purity of mind and noble thoughts; for she is not like I; she is evil and corrupts all.
Mentally : What is it Dear one?*gasp*
<looks toward the doors as color drains from her face>
"oh my"
Master Koob laughs like a madman: "your hostess; I have not met her; she is of the left hand; you are hear at her Masters bequest; but, you may tell him.
the food is safe; the Master brought it with him from the surface world though it would be impolite to start before the Master arrives."
Namaste eyes the food hungrily. It has been awhile since we have eaten. But heeding previous warnings, she refrains from accepting any of the offerings.
Stepping up to Bones, "Would you please convey our thanks to the Lady of the Manor for her hospitality? Might she offer us some chambers that we might rest and refresh ourselves? And when might we meet her?"
Please note I missnamed Bones; there is a npc named that; but this is Koob; my bad.
... You have already met Kojan mighty warrior of the Silveraxe clan. ...
[in the parlor] I shake the Dwarves hand and say "Many are the secrets under the Mountain"
Desscription: Male Dwarf, 4'6", Brown Hair, Eyes and Skin, Have on a holy Symbol of Dumathion, Battle Plate A shield (that bears the Arrowed symbol of Law upon it)A Dwarven Battle Axe/Hammer combination weapon, 2 Throwing Hammers on my belt, A flaggon in My hand (which I tell "Ale and make it cold").I say release my hand shake and glare at Astinios and Say: Blasted Boy can you not figure out my name. Kojan is the one with the blasted screaming hammer and I am Kosan. Do any of my weapons scream at you boy.
Grumble under my breath: About how blasted pretty boys never do have a lick of sense or memory capacity. To darned busy brushing their blasted pretty locks to look at whats around them.
Offer the new dwarf a drink of ale. Also [whisper to Him] Do you need armor because I don't think that shirt will protect you in a fight? If he does not drink I do.
Master Koob laughs like a madman: "your hostess; I have not met her; she is of the left hand; you are hear at her Masters bequest; but, you may tell him.
the food is safe; the Master brought it with him from the surface world though it would be impolite to start before the Master arrives."
Namaste eyes the food hungrily. It has been awhile since we have eaten. But heeding previous warnings, she refrains from accepting any of the offerings.
Stepping up to Bones, "Would you please convey our thanks to the Lady of the Manor for her hospitality? Might she offer us some chambers that we might rest and refresh ourselves? And when might we meet her?"
Thinking to myself: Not my master.
I get a tidbit of food (Meat or something close by) and when the baffons at the end of the table are not looking directly at me put a small piece in my mouth and wash it down with ale from my mug.
[in the Parlor]
The dark-furred one grins nervously when introduced, and sketches a quick bow, managing not to displace his familiar in the process. He raises his hand to wave and say something, and only then seems to realize that he is still holding a wand in it. Wide-eyed, he hastily shoves it into his robe, muttering 'Sorry'.
[in the mindlink] Astinos,... are you sure? About the food I mean? I understand your concerns, but as far as I can tell, we haven;t actually left the real world,... yet. And I'm fairly certain the rules you're concerned about only apply to those who willingly visit Pluto's realm. Um,,, Of course, I haven't actually traveled as much as you have, and I'm willing to go the 'better safe than sorry' route,...'
Val
[parlour]
I nod a greeting to all as they're introduced, noting the motley assortment of peoples gathered together on this mssion.
"Aye, things are movin' at a pace aright. Young ThoronHen has done hisself well te be algined with so many o' power" I think to myself
In response to ThoronHens questions, I retell my exploits to date, though my recounting of teh time with the man and his fire deep underground are a little hazy
As Kosan makes his offer of Ale, I heartily accept, drinking deeply and thanking the fighter. "Nay lad, me own armours safe n sound in me rooms upstairs. I figured as these folks took the trouble ter dress me in such finery, I'd be just as kind and stay in 'em. When the times right I'll go get meself suited up again. I feel kind o' naked as it is. Still, I did bring me mace along. Twas gifted to me by on o' great power, and I'd not leave it lyin' idly about."
I listen politley as the man speaks and welcomes us to the feast. When he mentions we should wait, I do so, politely and quietly. It certainly wouldn't do to upset the people who have shown me such curtousy to date.
just silence.....
Val
** spoiler omitted **
The kitten jumps out of your pocket; runns across the table and starts licking the cheese [hehe you know kittens]
[in the Parlor]
(IE=like you would expect to see in an adventure movie) traveling clothes. Heavy pants, durable boots, (of odd cut to fit clawed feet), and open-necked tunic with a vest. Over this is a more well-worn hooded cloak/robe of obvious Egyptian make. He carries a darkwood staff polished to a bright sheen with odd markings in no discernible patterns on it. His demeanor is at once both nervous anticipation and fearless curiosity, and he often switches from one to the other with no warning. There is an egyptian ring-tailed cat sitting perched on his shoulder, eyeing you. And you get the impression that whatever she is judging you by, you have somehow been found wanting.
The dark-furred one grins nervously when introduced, and sketches a quick bow, managing not to displace his familiar in the process. He raises his hand to wave and say something, and only then seems to realize that he is still holding a wand in it. Wide-eyed, he hastily shoves it into his robe, muttering 'Sorry'.
[in the mindlink] Astinos,... are you sure? About the food I mean? I understand your concerns, but as far as I can tell, we haven;t actually left the real world,... yet. And I'm fairly certain the rules you're concerned about only apply to those who willingly visit Pluto's realm. Um,,, Of course, I haven't actually traveled as much as you have, and I'm willing to go the 'better safe than sorry' route,...'
[thanks, I prefer first person; sometimes it is difficult to determine who says what to whom and how; the base language everyone agreed to speak is Greek and in the mindlink which you are not yet a part of; use /ooc for out of character for player speaking as you did; or denote what language your speaking and how; like /whisper to Kosan in dwarven "good beer"; as long as I can figure it out is all that matters otherwise will assume its the base Greek and in Mindlink; I generally use " this " for spoken outloud and in Greek.
[parlour]
I nod a greeting to all as they're introduced, noting the motley assortment of peoples gathered together on this mssion."Aye, things are movin' at a pace aright. Young ThoronHen has done hisself well te be algined with so many o' power" I think to myself
In response to ThoronHens questions, I retell my exploits to date, though my recounting of teh time with the man and his fire deep underground are a little hazy
As Kosan makes his offer of Ale, I heartily accept, drinking deeply and thanking the fighter. "Nay lad, me own armours safe n sound in me rooms upstairs. I figured as these folks took the trouble ter dress me in such finery, I'd be just as kind and stay in 'em. When the times right I'll go get meself suited up again. I feel kind o' naked as it is. Still, I did bring me mace along. Twas gifted to me by on o' great power, and I'd not leave it lyin' idly about."
A pugnatious half orc enters the room followed by the two wartrolls; the half orc is dressed in a very fancy mithral chain shirt and black leather; he wears a very very expensive looking cloak and has a lot of jewelry; but it is not his fancy dress or the wartrolls that really grab your attention; it is the long red two handed sword that floats in the air behind him about 6ft; it is a dull red color and is covered by arcane runes of power; it is a relic of great power and humms; the very air around it seems to crackle with magic. If your a male and in this room; make a will power test DC 18 as the sword is not actually trying to get your attention; but it does know how to make an entrance. Failure means your eyes are on the sword and not on other things on the room and any sensual or lustful feelings in your character are heightened; if there was a sword that was an icon of pure sex; this sword would be it.
those who make the save notice two female wizard types who stay by the door.
Once the half orc stands before the throwne-like chair the sword moves behind the chair and its intensity seems to wain. The half orc looks at each of you and waits until your eyes are upon him. He reaches out to the table and the kitten fairly leaps into his hands and he begins petting it very gently and says somewhat quietly, though you can all hear.
" I am Ronin, Grandmaster of the lawful and guilded worldwide organization of assassins called, The Body, thus, I am the Head of this esteemed order. I have invited you here because you and I have a common enemy. Business...is down. As you can guess; Demons are on the whole; bad for business. A demon cannot be reasoned with, bargained with, they are what they are and that is all bad...bad for business. They destroy with great malice; it is what they do and what they are. Having demons, especially in massive numbers; and a gateway constantly to the Abyssal Realms is untolerable. The fact that forces of Chaos have attained and broken five of the nine seals that bind the Creators of all Demons only shows the inept handling and protection of those seal; thus, I must step in and take a hand cleaning up yet another of the worlds messes by helping or assisting those who are not strickly on my payroll or part of the Body."
"So, you might be asking yourself why you are here and why did I come to you; two reasons thus:
Lady Amber; High Priestess of Isis, has told me of the evil of the Old Ones and that it is the breaking of the first three seals that has awoken the dieties of the snakemen that now infest every continent as they are but a lucid and ancient dream of said Old Ones. Old Ones...are bad for business. I have it from the snakes mouths that their intent is to do no less than the total and complete destruction of all non reptilians and they, so far, seem to have the power to do just that, Lady Amber has asked me to do what I can to see that the Old Ones remain sleeping and the Snakemen are defeated and that we get that Demon Gate closed and get rid of the demons, and THAT would be good for business."
"That leads me to the second part of why your here, good business. For the last decade I have been funding and assisting heroic parties by providing both funds and information; I still help those that choose to remain outside of our grand organization, and some I have to provide information to covertly. So, basically, I am the greatest source of mortal information on the planet in any realm, culture or land. I also have a great deal of resources in various diefic camps, and I have quite frankly, countless followers. So; that begs the question; why you. Well lets answer that one. You are here; there is a seal here but I cannot get to it and you can. So, as it is good for business for that seal to not fall into the hands of the demons; I am willing to help in that regard; and to show my goodwill; provide you with certain information about that situation;
It has also come to my attention; that a group of concerned individuals cant be ...pursuaded...to stop their insane plan to steal or destroy the sun. Not having the sun is bad for business; the economic impact of that Well of Darkness thing back a couple years ago was tremendous and the expansion of the undead and death of the living was cataclysmic for this continent, very, very bad for business. So, I can provide information about that situation as well."
"this food is safe to eat; safe as any food ever is; let us discuss this situation and see if we can come to some arrangement"
He sets the Kitten on the floor and gives it a hunk of cheese.
Koob and Sticks sit down and nod for you to do so and the three of them begin getting food and eating; the servants begin bringing meat of various kinds on platters from the fireplace and hot vegatables and soup from the kitchen.
Kemnebi starts to reach for the escaping kitten as it charges a hunk of cheese, but his attention is immediately grabbed by an AURA of power. His eyes snap upwards, at first inquisitive, but then wholly entranced by the rune covered greatsword. HE stares at it in fascination, his eyes locked as if enspelled, even as his lips move soundlessly as his mind attempts to translate the runes on the blade. Even furtive attempts of distraction from his ring-tailed familiar do not take his eyes off of the blade. As he watches he stands just a little taller, and his chest sticks out just a little bit. There is a low, dull rumble that most people won't even hear over the entrance of the group, or recognize if they do hear it. It is the subsonic sound of a Caitian expressing his masculinity. Something that Nebibit has never heard Kemnebi express in public.
Kemnebi stands motionless as the leader enters, introduces himself, and explains the reasons for inviting them to his table. It is only after he sits and places the kitten on the table that Kemnebi blinks, obviously in complete control of himself once again. He hastily sits with the others, and uses a flicker of power to make the cheese dance and roll so the kitten will pursue it. Once the cheese and kitten are both within reach, he scoops them both up. He gives the cheese to the kitten once more, and rubs it's ears as he playfully scolds it.
"YOU need to be more careful!" He murmurs in the kitten's ear, apparently unaware of the whole 'pot/kettle/black' saying. "I promised June I'd take care of you. And I can get into trouble all by myself. Please don't make my job any harder than I already have!" He whispers to the kitten before placing it safely back into a deep pocket. His ring-tailed familiar simply places a paw in between her eyes, and shakes her head slowly, refraining from any other comment.
Kemnebi smiles weakly at Nebibit and the others, and despite his nervousness, gladly takes a generous portion of the proffered food. It has been a long, more-than-exciting day, and he is hungry for something better than trail rations. And it does smell good!
As a moment's thought, he reaches back into his pocket and pats the kitten once more, then sends through the link;
'My Lady June? I think in all of the excitement, I may have forgotten to thank you properly for your assistance earlier. If so I'm very sorry. And very grateful! Thank you very much for your guidance earlier. I have no doubt that it prevented me from doing something rather foolish with that door.'
'As you no doubt are aware, we once again find ourselves leaping into the frying pan, and managing once more to find surprising allies. I hope you are safe. Stay safe, and worry not for your tiny companion. I shall guard her until I see you again.' He sends sincerely through the link. He pauses, as if considering saying more, but a glance at the sword makes him reconsider, as he wants to make sure that everything he tells her is the truth. And to so that he needs to be certain that he is control of his own feelings, something he is not certain of at all with that sword around!
Keep in mind that the intensity of the sword wained after its intial presentation; things were pretty much back to normal before Ronin started talking.
As for the ladies:
one is human, celt; seems very arrogant; and while she scans the party; she looks totally bored and unconcerned; she wears the badge of a full wizard. She is dressed in a grey cloak with mystic symbols and wears a wizards cap; has several peices of jewerly and wears a mystic robe; she also has a wizards staff. She has fair comiliness and is a bit portly. She is 5'5"
The other is part human; part something else; she is dressed much like her companion; full wizard badge; grey cloak and robe; wizard staff; parry wand; pink eye glasses; she looks interested, but no evidence of breathing or at least; not much. her skin is a bit grey and her fingernails long, white and sharp. she is aluring and fairly attractive. she looks strong and wirey. She stands about 6'2"
The other is part human; part something else; she is dressed much like her companion; full wizard badge; grey cloak and robe; wizard staff; parry wand; pink eye glasses; she looks interested, but no evidence of breathing or at least; not much. her skin is a bit grey and her fingernails long, white and sharp. she is aluring and fairly attractive. she looks strong and wirey. She stands about 6'2"
Heeding Decidio's warning I steel myself in years of training, focus and doctrine. The sword's aura does not touch me. My eyes narrow as I focus on the two women, taking in their appearance and details.
Attempting to block out other distractions and ignoring the sword, I focus my gaze on the women's souls
I listen to the half orc speak without looking directly at him and weighing his words accept that the food is safe.
Mindlink: 'Dear one, is one of these women your mother?'
I stop staring at the mouth watering food as soon as the man and the magnificent sword enter the room. The weapon is amazing to behold, almost intoxicating in its beauty. I shift a little uncomfortably as feelings well within me I hadn't had for many years. It is strange and awkward, especially since there were no female dwarves around to help explain why my emotions would be riding so high.
As soon as Ronin sits, the feelings are gone and I am left feeling a little empty for their loss. His introductions and explanations for why he is helping do not leave me feeling any comfort or warmth towards the man. It would seem we must take assistance from one who would inflict evils on the world, in order to stop a greater evil. Moradin forgive me for what I must do to succeed on this mission.
When everyone starts to eat, I also begin. Taking meat by the plenty, and washing it down with hearty ale if it's available.
As people are eating, I say to Ronin "My thanks to ye sir, fer providin' me with the clothes and shelter when I was surely lost in those caverns. Tis a grand thing to put yerself at risk fer the sake of anothers quest, even if yer own reasons are purely business."
Ok; there are several candelabres on the table lit and adding light as well as the fireplace. FYI to all
Yes, fairly close, but much more gray; like a gray elf or like stone granite. See sees you looking right at her and she looks directly into your eyes; she gives a half smile and returns to scanning the room.
The other is part human; part something else; she is dressed much like her companion; full wizard badge; grey cloak and robe; wizard staff; parry wand; pink eye glasses; she looks interested, but no evidence of breathing or at least; not much. her skin is a bit grey and her fingernails long, white and sharp. she is aluring and fairly attractive. she looks strong and wirey. She stands about 6'2"
There is a general aura of evil in the room no matter where you look; the mages have much evil themselves; but not as much as you would expect for full wizards so doubtful they are committed to it; Ronin is definately evil and that runic sword is blinding in power of evil. Both trolls are definately evil born and bred.
Heeding Decidio's warning I steel myself in years of training, focus and doctrine. The sword's aura does not touch me. My eyes narrow as I focus on the two women, taking in their appearance and details.
Attempting to block out other distractions and ignoring the sword, I focus my gaze on the women's souls
I listen to the half orc speak without looking directly at him and weighing his words accept that the food is safe.
Mindlink: 'Dear one, is one of these women your mother?'
to Astinos
yes, the one behind Grandmaster Ronin, the sword was created binding my mothers essence quite against her will; the elves did it to her long, long ago. She was helpless against their powerful magics.
Erkholt
a voice, sexy and sultry beyone mortal ability whispers to your soul...
"I hear your need, I hear your desire, I taste of you and pledge by my daughters that your need shall be provided for; it is done for you"
it fades away and any loneliness inside you wells up; but hope burns like a clear flame.
Ronin replies:
"long have I been friend to dwarves, I have done what I could for your people. Vengeance such of that written in the Book of Grudges; is in fact much like my business, fear not dwarf; drink and eat well, for your day of vengance shall come; I will see to it I promise you."
the sword suddenly gives the shriek of a woman possessed; it blurs and spins in motion even before Ronin moves, faster than fast in suddeness does he act. An Illithid mindslave-assassin appears out of thin air behind him and seeks to destroy Ronin with a hideous sword that drips acid and poison so vile it burns the eyes of those within 10ft radius. Yet, Ronin avoids the blow and catches the foul four tenticled chaos changed human across the back with the dread sword. Whatever the creature that oozes chaos and evil planned next; we shall never know; for the moment the sword touches him; he turns, shudders and a moan of eerie sheer pleasure escapes his vocal cords. At Ronin's second slash; the creature screams in lust and need and seeks to impale himself on that dread blade. One more slash and not a wisp of life or soul exists in the creature; it turns to dust and is no more. The dread blade pulses with life; the runes wiggle and flare. Ronin once again lets it go and says to it "on gaurd my faithful one"
He returns to his seat and begins eating as if nothing happened; so fast was it over the trolls didnt even move; the mages barely had time to raise their staffs; the tall one only getting one mystic syllable out of her mouth.
Koob and Sticks dont even move; Koob watches; Sticks doesnt watch; he stares at his plate and shudders.
I stop staring at the mouth watering food as soon as the man and the magnificent sword enter the room. The weapon is amazing to behold, almost intoxicating in its beauty. I shift a little uncomfortably as feelings well within me I hadn't had for many years. It is strange and awkward, especially since there were no female dwarves around to help explain why my emotions would be riding so high.
As soon as Ronin sits, the feelings are gone and I am left feeling a little empty for their loss. His introductions and explanations for why he is helping do not leave me feeling any comfort or warmth towards the man. It would seem we must take assistance from one who would inflict evils on the world, in order to stop a greater evil. Moradin forgive me for what I must do to succeed on this mission.
When everyone starts to eat, I also begin. Taking meat by the plenty, and washing it down with hearty ale if it's available.
As people are eating, I say to Ronin "My thanks to ye sir, fer providin' me with the clothes and shelter when I was surely lost in those caverns. Tis a grand thing to put yerself at risk fer the sake of anothers quest, even if yer own reasons are purely business."
"Godfather mine; may I ask a favor"
Ronin looks up "Certainly by dear, you are as lovely as ever, what is it this week that has caught your eye?"
"it is a thought dear Godfather; so I will speak slowely and use little words"
Ronin chuckles, he wipes his short tusks with a napkin.
"I would like some of my aquaintences from the southern continent; to meet with this group; and share information and make plans, could you enforce a peace as a nuetral observer? I will ask the CandyCane Magus to do the teleports; I believe these groups need each other; but their natural animosity; especially from the Puck, might get the better of their manners"
Ronin says "if your group agrees, I shall do as you ask; nuetrality, no favors for either side; strickly enforced; we can do it right here; one to one side of the table; the other; the other side."
"can you do so if either agrees or not; it really is in their best interest"
Ronin: "I will consider it, depends on how are dinner goes."
"thank you Godfather"
Ronin nods; then goes back to eating looking at the party to see if any wish to ask anything, finally says; "you Kenembi; magus, have you no questions, nothing you would ask me, not even about June? That is a very spirited girl, I think I am beginning to like her; father to daughter many times removed so to speak."
Kemnebi, so used to being ignored and invisible when not trying to attract attention, starts in surprise and almost chokes on his food when addressed. He holds up a palm to indicate he is alright, and washes the errant bit of food down the correct pipe with the nearest cup of wine, not paying attention to if it is his glass or not. After glancing around the table and meeting the Grandmaster's eyes, he hastily finishes the glass of wine before speaking.
"Hrm,... Umm,... Yes Grandmaster. Actually, truth be told, My mind fairly burns with questions so that I am at a loss as to where to start." HE says amiably, but nervously, with a brave attempt at a smile.
"So, allow me to start by adding my voice of gratitude for allowing us to enter here safely, and for any aide you render to us. I assure you, any and all assistance you can provide is greatly appreciated."
"I DO have many questions your grandmastership, beginning with Where is Lady June and is she alright? As well as questions about her history, for she is a most beautiful and,... fascinating,... woman,..." At this he looks around the table, and clears his throat self-consciously. He continues by swiftly changing the topic, less nervous as he goes on, his natural affinity for conversation and curiosity overcoming his nerves. For now,...
"I was wondering if you or your associates had any information about a 'Doom' that can be placed on others to attract unwelcome attention their way. My primary curiosity is for the removal of said 'Doom' without harming either the recipients or the placer."
"I also wonder if you can tell me what kinds of mystic protections and defenses we might have to go up against as we continue or mission, so I can figure out how to defeat or bypass them. What sort of creatures are guarding the sister of the Sun, for the same reasons. I was also wondering about your sword, it is magnificent, but I don't recognize the runic combinations, and I was wondering,..." At this he mumbles off as he looks around the table once more, then buries his face in his plate, obviously wishing he could disappear.
"Stop me anytime,..." He mutters into his plate, filling up his mouth to stop his flow of words.
Decidio(mentally)
If your a male and in this room; make a will power test DC 18 as the sword is not actually trying to get your attention; but it does know how to make an entrance. Failure means your eyes are on the sword and not on other things on the room and any sensual or lustful feelings in your character are heightened; if there was a sword that was an icon of pure sex; this sword would be it.
Will Save 17 (on 1d20) + 3 (Mod) = 20 I make it.
Thinking to myself: Hmm That might not be too bad of a weapon if it were an Axe or a Hammer?
Grandmaster Ronin. What kind of information do you have to assist this group in freeing the Earth Goddess? Maps, scouted out entrance and extraction points? What is guarding her, wards, or anything else of note.
We were told that my Cousin has the seal you speak of. But we do not know where, or if she is still alive. Only that she passed by the Gate Way to the underworld about a week ago.
As for the Snakemen. We came across a Gnoll Ghost who was betrayed by a Snakemen named Aethliss. He took from the Gnoll the heart of the Daemon Prince of Gnolls. The Gnoll was asking for the Heart of Corruption. So they can complete a ceremony to control the Eye of Worlds which the Snake Men have dug up. These names are foreign to us. Perhaps you know what they are.
I reel at the speed of the attack and response by the grandmaster of assassins. Barely had I registered the presence of the abomination before it was destroyed, fed to the lustful needs of whatever it was that powered that dread blade.
To mask my shock, I gather a mug of ale and quickly drink, gathering my thoughts so I can speak further with this powerful man.
Across from me, the dark elf, Llevenoc? was it, speaks quickly and asertively. As he does so I find myself nodding in agreement.
"Aye Grandmaster, 'tis the nature of me own quest to be gettin' things done sooner rather than later. Any help ye can give would be greatly appreciatesd, and remembered by meself to me clan when next I reach them."
I lean forward slightly as I talk, eagre to hear wht this man has to say in regards to teh green man.
I seat myself get a plate of food , mostly meat, and drink from my mug. If there is no ale around for Erkholt to drink then I find a goblet and fill it with ale and give it to him.
Speaking out loud: Grand Master Ronin, Head or what ever title is most appropriate here at this time. I do not wish to be impolite in your home but I must speak freely. I do understand your plight as to the assistance that you wish to bestow and the need to keep, as you say business going, but I have a problem with consorting with a world wide guild of assassins and do not wish to be bound to your organizations actions. So I can not pledge me self to you or your cause for the assistance that you wish to bestow upon us. So can we possibly make our association one of mutual benefit you give us the aid we need and we kill, or complete the tasks needed, and business continues. With no strings attached, no bonds for future assistance, or pledges of fealty to you and your organization.
I need the answer to two questions:
1. where is the sister of the sun being held, who is guarding her, and do you know of a way in so that we can free her and get out?
2. Where is the seal of doom that was held by the Deeprock clan, who guards it, and do you know a way into the area where it is so that a party of our size can go in, retrieve it and get out?
I await his response while I continue eating and drinking.