<After-school-special music playing> <electric guitar riff>
Turngut stands transfixed by all of the words coming at him. His only thought is: Wrinklebutt's papa is harry? Harrybutt?!?
Poppo can wait no longer to chime in, So where is this tapestry? And how did all the stars get created to start with? And what's up with you eye? He simply can't hold his curiosity back.
Pamat does not lie. Dettlaff says with a very serious look on his face. The Dark Tapestry lies in a land called the Underdark or as some sometimes refer to it, the Crossroads. This is where all the planes of existence meet. As for how the stars were created, even Pamat doesn't know the answer and he knows everything. Some say an even higher being created them some say it was just an explosion of atoms. When you ask about his eye he chuckles a little bit The eye of Pamat allows me to see what will, what has, and what will become.
Pamat has given me no knowledge as to how to get there, I believe it shall be revealed to you in time. Many creatures inhabit the Crossroads but not all of them nice drow, drider, beholders. When you do arrive there be cautious.
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So, Beatrip is Beatrice, and we need to get her and you to the Underdark and this dark tapestry, but in time, as we have no idea where it is. Hope that about sums it up.
Nalia pokes around a little, looking at some of the book titles, but remembering the mean nuns who taught her, she doesn't touch anything.
I guess we'll know when we're to begin this task. Are supposed to be doing anything for you? If you are indeed messenger to the gods, I want to make sure I listen to anything you say or ask of us.
I can't resist asking, Master Detlaff, you most likely know already that I've been tasked by Malphas to seek two more swords like this one. Can you aid me with any knowledge of them?
Hmm... Dettlaff ponders then holds out his hand as book flies directly into it. I know very little of them he turns through the book for a moment The blade you carry is known as the Blade of the Boreal Valley. Created by the snow elves of Arktwend thousands of years ago. Its original name is actually Cyfiawnder in elvish or in common Justice.
He pauses and sifts through several more pages Flameroar a blade created for a knight who saved Malphas from a Primordial Lion. The blade was said to have been wielded by the first Arantheal, a far decendent of the current Holy Order Grandmaster Tealor Arantheal.
He turns through more pages before landing his index finger on one And finally the Waterblade. The ancestral blade of House Waterblade. The original wielder of the blade was the most loyal of Malphas' knights. When he received the sword he left his original surname and took the name Waterblade. I know the blade is currently wielded by the legendary Loram Waterblade.
I'm afraid Pamat has not granted me the privilege of knowing where the two swords are.
Wow, do all these books deal with history? or do some of them deal with magic! Poppo tries to contain his enthusiasm.
The books of Apocrypha deal with all informations but spell books aren't likely within these shelves.
Elnil is the White Phoenix, though to most mortals he appears as a dove. Elnil unlike Carsis believes those revived by way of undeath are in some way redeeming themselves. But unfortunately Carsis still holds large sway on the majority of undead, Elnil seeks to gain that control to use undead for good. Her realm the Dark Tapestry is one a lot more pleasant then you would think, everyone there is undead but it smells of flowers during spring. From a person not knowledgeable of the Dark Tapestry you would think the population to be alive because in the Dark Tapestry they have regained their physical beauty. However when they leave they revert back to what they look like dead. Anything else you wanted to know?
Turngut continues to look around dumbly, wondering why Wrinklebutt never told him his father was Harrybutt.
Some gods are known as male or female, Elnil goes by either of the two it matters not to him or her. Estoc's are Elnil favored weapon and from what I've seen you already have one being made for yourself. As for his symbol he retrieves from his pocket a white gold holy symbol, a beautifully crafted and intricate feather. Additional Dettlaff holds out his hand and a white leather bound book flies into his hand A holy text to go along with a holy symbol. He hands BobE the Holy Text of Elnil.
Finally I know before you came here you were snooping about for a certain magical item, a certain Lesser Rod of Giant Summoning. He retrieves an iron rod with long metal flanges. A certain god of knowledge wished for me to grant you a gift in good favor, to the heir of the Tapestry. He hands the rod to BobE.
For now keep on the path presented before you, and very soon an opportunity to visit your god will present itself.
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Wow, thanks for the information on the holy swords of Malphas. I know we certainly don't want to overstay our welcome and you look very busy as well.....maybe we should be heading home gang.
The absurdity of knowing a godlike figure is speaking to us, giving us gifts and taking the time to teach us has finally weirded Nalia out. She looks a bit wild in the eyes and nervous, like a high strung mare stamping to get moving.
The absurdity of knowing a godlike figure is speaking to us, giving us gifts and taking the time to teach us has finally weirded Nalia out. She looks a bit wild in the eyes and nervous, like a high strung mare stamping to get moving.
When Dettlaff hands BobE the rod, Poppo's practical mind flashes back to running around Ark in search of one. All that time I spent shopping, he thinks of his folly.
Noticing Nalia's unease, Yes, yes, we have dinner with that noble. We won't want to be late, and we certainly have taken up enough of your time. Also realizes the power of the being before them.
Poppo begins to depart.
Nothing comes to mind Dettlaff answers BobE Good luck on the path! Suddenly you feel the same feeling you felt earlier when you teleported into the realm of Apocrypha. Then you reappear within the relatively empty toy shop, the music box mysteriously gone.
You reconvene with Dagroar and make it safely out of the Undercity. Would you like to go anywhere else before your dinner with Belis Ormaris or would you like to time skip to that?
Let's head back to the Nomad, rest up, get cleaned up and then head to the dinner. Once back at the Nomad, Poppo arranges for Turngut to get a bath, if needed, and makes sure he looks presentable in his new outfit. Although in the end, Poppo has to cut off the selves as the shirt just wasn't made for the orc's bulging muscles.
You re-enter the Dancing Nomad only a few hours after the previous time you were there. Business continues on there as if nothing had ever happen but you do hear a distinct murmur from people about how to tavern was attacked. You guys don't quiet have time to get a full long rest in but have enough time to get groomed up, it takes a particularly long time to get Turngut looking decent. Then you guys head out toward the Noble Quarter.
You go to the address written on the letter a very large estate with beautiful gardens and a very large house which is guarded by dozens of city watch and personally hired guardsmen. The man at the front door asks for your invitation and welcomes you inside My master apologizes as he is currently in a meeting with another noble right now. The meeting should be over briefly if you would just wait in the foyer.
When you enter you hear a distinct argument coming from a nearby room I'm telling you Belis my informants tell me that the Carvers are moving to start a full on revolt in the Undercity! And their's nothing that Lania, I, or any of the other gangs can do about!
You worry to much Dakrast, those rumors have been around for months. Plus Irdok is a Enderlan patriot despite being a gang leader he wouldn't think to start a full blown revolution.
That may be but one thing can sway Idrok more than patriotism, gold.
Are you suggesting we pay him? To not cause a revolution that may not even happen?
No, I'm saying we may have to if push comes to shove.
I wish not to discuss this any further, besides I'm expecting guests. I'll see you out. Emerging from one of the many offshoots of the foyer are two men one an imposing man. Nearly seven feet tall and bald, with a rather noticeable stomach. The other man only about six foot tall with long brown hair and bright blue eyes. He wear purple garments with a star clasping together his cape.
I see your guest's have arrived Belis. the imposing man says with a slight sneer.
It appears they have. With a proper bow Belis Ormaris greets Good day, I am Lord Belis Ormaris, member of the council of eight and your host. This is Dakrast Motylek, a fellow council member and a good friend.
How do you do? councilmen Motylek greets you.
Also if anyone has knowledge nobility you can roll me two in regards to both of the these guys.
Dakrast is a mysterious noble who has only been in Enderal for about eight years. Before then he was a noble and spymaster for the former King Henselt in Nehrim. Dakrast made heavy investments in prominent business such as the The Dancing Nomad and several other taverns in shops around the city. Soon after a former member of the council a man named Bardar Hawkcrest was voted off the council for poor financial choices and Dakrast was the one who would replace him.
Despite his young appearance Belis is actually a veteran of several wars. Belis even once upon a time was a keeper of the Holy Order and one of its best knights wielding his blade "Night". Night is a blade made of the shimmering black crystal from a fallen star hence why many regard to Belis as the Black Star. While leaving the Holy Order is often frowned upon , Tealor Arantheal saw what good Belis could do being a lord of Enderal instead of just a warrior. Belis has one of the best minds for politics and is also a prime strategist when it comes to sieges.
As they approach the fine estate Poppo seems to be getting extra nervous. He moves side to side as they move up the walkway, taking extra stumbling steps as he goes. Once inside and waiting in the foyer, he tugs at his new fine clothes trying to make them feel right, as he bounces from one leg to other like some impatient child. He listens in as the argument goes on, then as the door opens the little halfling loses most of the color in his face, turning pale, a bead of sweat dangles from his brow.
After the introductions, Poppo manages a quiet sounding, How do I do? I mean how do you do Councilmen Mot-i-lock? He unintentionally pronounces the the nobles name incorrectly, then gives a funny little bow, that comes off more like a curtsy. Then gives his toothy grin, suddenly self-conscious about his awkward greeting. His face goes from pale to quiet red with embarrassment, and side steps so he's sort of behind Nalia and not up front.
Dakrast grimaces at Poppo's pronunciation Its pronounced Mot-e-leck, you'd do well to remember that. I fair well halfling. the large man says towering over the whole party.
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Nalia tries to remain calm, smiling in front of the party. Well met Councilmen Motylek and Ormaris. Thank you indeed for the invitation to meet Lord Ormaris. May I introduce my friends? You've met Poppo, this is Turngut, Bobie and I'm Nalia. I'm a humble servant of Malphas while Bobie is our cleric. We're happy to keep waiting if your business is not finished, sir.
Like a preschooler getting a bath from his mom, Turngut squirms and whines as Poppo cleans and dresses him. Even though the massive orc could easily overpower the halfling, he allows the cleaning and even the dressing. Standing there with the (now) vest barely containing his chest muscles, he looks sheepishly at Poppo while tugging at the edges of the garment.
Turngut not wear shirts like boss-men, Hoppo. Sometimes boots, but not shirt. Poppo might recall that when Turngut was first discovered, he was without any equipment and only had a loincloth on. Even currently with his mithral breastplate armor, it wears more like a cuirass with just the plates in front and back, but his sides and skin showing in most places. His legs remain bare and if not for the magic boots, he'd likely prefer going barefoot.Turngut will try very hard to be like Hoppo and Woman. Turngut will be good when meeting with boss-man for dinner today.
On the way to Lord Ormaris's manor continues to pick at the fancy clothes. During the interaction with the councilmen, Turngut stands stock still and alert. Outwardly, and perhaps to the 2 councilmen, he looks very disciplined, like a bodyguard. But to his 3 friends who now know him better, it is fairly evident that he is just holding it together and that his respect and friendship for you is the only thing keeping him from leaving this strange social engagement (at least strange to this former orc slave) . His eyes dart back and forth from Nalia and the 2 men as they talk, but he also scans the room for any danger, ready to put himself between his friends and danger, without hesitation.
I too regard myself as a servant of Malphas. Belis responds And no need to keep waiting me and Lord Motylek will discuss this further at another time. Councilmen Belis nods as the seven footer Dakrast shares a nod and departs.
Please follow me. Belis says leading the party further down the foyer. A grand staircase goes up before branching to the left and right and leads to several more rooms and a balcony that overlooks the foyer below. A maid quickly and efficiently dusts a delicate and priceless vase before moving onto dusting several other things. I am fortunate to live in such a lap of luxury, such was the wish of Grandmaster Arantheal. Belis leads you into a grand dining hall, well lit with silver candelabras. Small appetizers such as fruit, fine cheeses, and crackers are neatly organized upon the table. And most prominently is a very large bowl of delectable looking oranges, Belis smiles Lord Featherwill had described the young halfling as quite fond of oranges in his letter, I hope these shall suffice for the young master before the main course? Belis asks Poppo before sitting down at the head of the table and motioning you to all sit in chairs with pre arranged silverware and glassware.
Assuming that the lavish meal is for the actual guests, Turngut takes a step or 2 into the room and then takes up a position by the door, much like a servant or attendant would do in a lord's house. In fact the ill-fitting and now altered "vest" that he wears adds to his appearance of a servant, but perhaps with a bit more of a comical air. Hands clasped in front of his hips, nothing on his face makes it look like he's bothered, but rather that he expects to be treated as such. In fact, his friends see a slight relief on his face that Turngut gets to escape any further social formalities!
Oh My! Yes it will indeed! Poppo stares at the big bowl of oranges with excitement. You see I have this sc... He begins before realizing he about to overshare. Face going red again. Anyway thank you sir.
He very politely takes one of the oranges as he sits down, then quickly swipes a second, hoping to do it unnoticed.
Then he notices Turngut standing guard and uses body language to urge him to sit down. Motioning for the orc to sit down.
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Nalia smiles at her friends, noticing Turnguts sweaty discomfort and Poppo sudden nervous ticks. Bobie, strangely quiet, observing the conversation.
Sir, you'll have to forgive us. We're not highborn, and don't always know the proper social graces, as they say. We certainly appreciate your kindness but I'm at a loss as to why you would want to meet with the likes of us. We're new to this continent and seem to have had nothing but trouble since we've arrived. We're learning but know next to nothing of local politics. I'm not sure how we could be of use to you
Please friend Belis says to Turngut Have a seat, you are a guest. He then turns to Nalia and holds out his hands Do you see my hands do you see the calluses? These are not the hands of noble but of a farmer. So we speak to each other peasent to peasent. True Malphas chose me to serve him as a Keeper of the Holy Order and such deeds have led me to the position I now hold today. Belis says very genuinely Nalia thinks.
I havent invited you here to talk with you about petty squabbles between lords or the deteriorating of the Undercity. I invited you here as a basic welcome to Ark. And truth be told be told I had wished to hear a few adventuring stories, I long for the heat of battle. Belis says looks to the an almost entirely black great sword mounted on his wall.
Poppo eats the first orange, and as no one noticed him take the second he starts in on that one as well. Only a discerning eye would have spotted the transition, as the interchange between Nalia and the host goes on.
Suddenly much more at ease after hearing of Belis's background, he takes a third orange tosses it to Turngut, then grabs a forth one for himself. Taking a big bite...
Oh tales of adventure! I like those as well. My these oranges are tasty. Not quite as good as the ones Vexin use to sell me at the Old Lemon, but then again those were Sun Coast oranges, so no wonder, but thanks and tasty indeed, how did you hear of my cond, love of oranges? His mouth is full of citrus as he says this and he makes a squishing noise as he chews and talks at the same time, but undeterred he continues to speak, taking a big swallow to finish his bite. Not waiting for an answer,
So what will it be the horrors of Caste Croft, the capture and strange escape of the Butcher, the even more horrible horrors of Anor Colair, the valor at the Tourney of Tallfield, or this morning's early morning thwarted assassination attempt on Constantine Firespark! They are all good! Poppo rattles off most of the parties recent adventures. Takes orange number five, and sits back waiting to hear Belis's pleasure.
Tell me about the battle at Castel Croft, Jugar had mentioned that in his letter! That should pass the time before the main course is served. Belis responds in high spirits.
Turngut doesn't move, but looks to Belis without expression when the man bids him seated. However, sensing the change in mood in Nalia and Poppo, the orc's stance softens. When Poppo tosses the orange, Turngut's battle reflexes kick in and he snaps the orange from the air without any of his body moving but his arm.
With the tension broke, Turngut's face splits into a goofy grin and he strides up to the table and plops into the offered chair while popping the orange into his mouth (once again, peel and all) and chops happily with juices running down his chin.
Haw haw! Woman and Hoppo like Boss-man. Boss man kind. Nice to Turngut and friends. Turngut say Th-thank you. He adds with a bobbing bow of his head.
Without pretense, Turngut reaches over and grabs a paw-full of oranges and slams them into his mouth, chewing and smacking loudly. With pits of pulp and rind spraying the place setting in front of him, he tells his version of Castle Croft. ...err, then, Turngut smash other door. Found more scarys. But scarys not fight and Wrinklebutt say stop punching. Woman found sword, but say Mal-FASS gave it...and, and Mr Whippoorwill happy about... He pauses mid sentence/chew when he notices everyone staring at him (hopefully in humor and not horror at his faux pas).
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Bone's mind continues to race at the downpour of new information and material. Back at the inn,he quickly dressed but spent much time reading his new text. He barely perceives the conversation as he considers what he is learning. During to social restraints he has beatrip enter his mind. But now contemplated what that actually means. At the manor, he cannot keep his mind focused enough to really follow the conversation, until he is sprayed by turngut's citrus filled story.
yes turngut fought bravely and with valor, but perhaps we can let Malia and poppo give more details my friend. And can you hand me a napkin please?
Hahaha! hehe ha! Poppo rolls with laughter as Turngut tells the tale. Yes! yes, very good Turngut! Haha
Let me back up a bit, I think our host would like a bit more in the way of details. He pauses and takes a breath.
Well we had found our way to the town of Riverville, I had only recently discovered the Old Lemon when a notorious bandit known as the Butcher, had the audacity to attack the town. A big battle happened and when we won the day, it was found the Butcher was working with a certain snake cult that had run Mayor Featherwill's family from there ancestral home, Castle Croft. Poppo has a drink and continues.
Now the Mayor asked us to travel there and put a stop to this cult, who had clearly grown too bold or perhaps too desperate. So we head there.... Poppo continues on in great detail about the events of Caste Croft.
Finally, Beatrip, the spirit that lives in BobEs head, who is I guess really Beatrice, servant of Elnil. Slammed into the snake cultist's queen. With blood trickling from her mouth she whispered, No. Then she stared blankly back at Beatrip, then she looked to the sky and screamed loudly NOOOOOOO!!!. Her body crumpled to the ground as the last of her life drained from her eyes. But before she could hit the ground her body exploded into a thousand black as night crows! They all flew away. Then Nalia got the sword like Turngut said.
Well that's what happened, it seems funny to me now that we know that Beatrice was a once a champion of Elnil, and that crows are associated with Carsis. Coincidence?
He sits back satisfied with himself. What's the main course?
A fine tale, told from two unique perspectives Belis chuckles looking at Turngut. Ah the main course will be a freshly spit roasted pig. Freshly baked bread with a fine garlic butter. Roasted vegetables and likely even more than that. My chef Benjamin goes all out when we have guests, he refuses to do anything less.
Soon after the main course is served with all the delectable and fine dishes being spread about the table. You all eat and swap tales with Belis many of his stories are about war, namely the war on the Lightborn three years ago. You can tell from slight twitches and uncomfortable body motions that Belis had seen some awful things serving in that war.
We were defending Kaer Rzeka, a castle well known for its defensibility as it sits on a hill overlooking a deep rapid filled river. We only had a bout ten men and had been there for days defending he pauses and clears his throat Umm, defending Lord Charles. The opposing force could have easily starved us but I guess they some glory in storming the castle. They did just that sent men after men and hundreds fell to our arrows, but eventually they got in. Killed all seven of the ten men defending Lord Charles, and then their leader ran through the lord with his blade. Me and the two other lads had no choice but to surrender our lord was dead and we stood chance. Soon after the war ended and thankfully they let us go, we all ventured back to Enderal.
He sits back satisfied with himself. What's the main course?
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BobE nods tries to signal caution to poppo during his account and the amount of information he his giving, but the halfing's nervousness seems to be compensating into his mouth. Oh well at least this noble appears to be decent. he then head appropriately with the lord's story and adds at the end. pray tell, who were these other brave men who survived? Surely you keep in touch with them still.
I wouldnt say I keep in touch with them but you've most likely heard their names, Tealor Arantheal and Loram Waterblade. I'm proud to say I fought alongside them.
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Chef Benjamin should certainly be commended for such fine fair! This is far finer fair than I could say we've ever had, and better by far than anything we've had in recent weeks. Thank you again for your kindness to us, sharing stories as we break bread together.
As he mentions Tealor and Loram Nalia's ears perk up. Lord Belis, you mention Tealor Arantheal and Loram Waterblade as companions you've overcome great odds with. I must say that I just learned their names earlier today as bearers of Malphas's swords. If I can indulge you for a moment, I would love to share, as Turngut and Poppo have already mentioned, how Malphas gave me my sword, The Blade of the Boreal Valley. I believe Malphas himself tasked me with seeking out the other two blades for some reason that is yet to be clear to me. A companion we met in Castle Croft named Brynstan helped me when I found the blade.
The war on the Lightborn is one of mystery, and no one truly knows actually won the war. Narathzul Arantheal son of the current Grandmaster of the Holy Order Tealor Arantheal, led a war upon the Lightborn. You would know that the Lightborn have physical forms upon Vyn but are still seldom seen. The war occurred all over Vyn, Nehrim, Enderal, Arazeal, but mainly was fought in the elven continent of Arktwend.
The start of the war was about five years ago remained similar to most wars fought over the years the only difference being Narathzul fought against the forces of the Lightborn. The start of the war Lightborn actually took most of the battles but about a year in the tide turned and it is said that Narathzul found an artifact capable of killing gods.
But toward the end of the war no one really knew what happened large battles seized. And Narathzul and the Lightborns physical forms all but disappeared. Many theorize that Narathzul was successful in killing the Lightborn. Others say that the Lightborn killed Narathzul and simply hide out of fear that mankind will once again betray them.
Ah he says curiously looking at Nalia's sword Cyfiawnder! A legendary blade. The sword was said to have been lost in the Suncoast but it is good news that it has been found. And Malphas himself has tasked you to find the other three. he laughs Malphas always was a fan of quests like that, he truly is an adventurer at heart.
I'm afraid Grandmaster Arantheal isn't actually a bearer of one of the three, he wields a sword called Storm Ruler. A powerful blade but not one of the three anointed by Malphas.
Loram on the other hand still holds the Waterblade to this day. I'm afraid however Loram disappeared some time ago, around a year I believe. He disappeared on a journey to the far East of Enderal, Thalgard.
Belis stands and walks to the fireplace looking into the fire before casting in another log Flameroar, is the third correct? I'm afraid just like Cyfiawnder it was lost long ago. I'm certain its in Enderal but no one is sure where the blade is.
Wow, Lord Belis, that is so interesting. Why was Loram headed to Thalgard? Oh and my complements to Benjamin as well, he's the best. Poppo asks
Surely you've heard of the demon of Amoruk? he sees your puzzled looks and explains I suppose non Enderlan's wouldnt of heard of the Sunfire impact. How do legends of dwarves go, it usually starts with them digging too deep and unleashing a monster. Well the Diamond Heart clan did just that fifty years ago. They unleashed a greater demon which destroyed the clan and even some of the clans neighbors. It has since then ruled over Amoruk and no hero has been able to slay the demon.
Loram is a big believer in fate, for on the same day that the Sunfire Impact shattered the halls of the dwarven city the heir to water was born. As Loram grew into the legend he has become he also grew to belive that he was destined to stop the demon of Amoruk. After the war on the Lightborn when we returned home, Loram set out to fulfill his destiny.
Wow! That's amazing, I hope he did it? Poppo says mouth a little agape at the true heroism of Loram.
Considering he has yet to return. he pauses a little bit of concern and sadness on his face I just hope he's still alive.