|
Noke is a small Wayang woman with shadowy long hair that almost darkens her surroundings. She has a mithral buckler in her hand and wears a custom-fit Haramaki suit that looks like it has been recently oiled.
Resting on top of her chest, an amulet showing the holy symbol of Chaldira Zuzaristan is visible.
Noke is sitting on a military saddle on top of a riding dog that looks like a mixture of a black wolfhound and a mastiff. It is clear that this dog can fight while carrying a rider and Noke is not really fully in control.
On Noke's shoulder you see a tiny horned lizard that has dark black scales which in some areas have a red coloring that curiously forms the holy symbol of Chaldira and glows.
Noke, her riding dog 'Happu' and her tiny horned lizard familiar 'Divune' enter and you see that Noke is somehow almost out of breath.
"Divune, Happu and I are here to support you and bring luck into your lives ... if destiny allows!" Noke says to the team with a strange smile.
|
It had been a typical day for Vina. Petite and covered in yellow fur, with a prehensile tail darting to and fro for one book or another, she was quite the unusual sight for her fellow Pathfinders. Devoid of any clothing in the traditional sense, at the exception of humble looking yew wood headband, pearl earrings, jade bracers, a simple bronze ring and a braided alpaca wool belt holding a two short sticks of darkwood, the only noticeable feature she wasn't born with which drew people's eyes immediately was a cluster of emeralds on her chest attached to a delicate golden clasp arranged in the likeness of a five-petaled blossom. Oddly enough her favorite oak tree outside was also marked by a similar gem flower along his trunk's bark...
When not scouring the Grand Lodge libraries, she had most often been seen outdoors in the nearby gardens that day, devouring a borrowed book while strangely speaking or softly singing to 'her tree'. Things got perhaps a little bit stranger later in the evening for any who may have witnessed the tree deciding to uproot itself and give her a ride towards the north part of lodge's grounds...
As the odd duo went along, Vina had heard the general hum of a small crowd gathered to discuss among themselves. This very much could be the gathering she had been told to attend by the Venture-Captains, but she was uncertain and didn't wish to intrude on a private meeting she was not invited to. Following the growing noise with caution, she arrived at the vestibule of a smaller building to see Pathfinders of all stripes and levels of skills, and the discussion appeared to circle around refreshments or cakes...
With a growing emptiness in the pit of her stomach, she waved Lakadee forward - she seemed to have named this particular tree for some reason - and motioned for her oaken friend to lean over so as to avoid defoliation by door-frame. Shrinking to small size, Vina climbed down a few feet lower, nimbly jumping from branch to branch, and settled upon a small tree swing swaying through the canopy. From the perceived safety of her companion's foliage, she then dared to listen further. After she spotted three familiar figures down below - a small wayang, a dog and a horned lizard she had met days before - she managed to shyly ask, "Noke? Divune? Happu? y-yes? We talked a few days ago as you enjoyed the beauty of the gardens remember? I... I'm not sure you remember me... my name is Vina. And this is Lakadee. Do we know why we have been summoned here?"
|
|
Stan approaches the group. He is a tall, blond, obviously Ulfen man with a longbow and two quivers on his back. The plates of his Kikko armor reflect the lights of the room like mirrors, but the odd cap on his head makes him look like a tinker instead of a warrior. He also has a bag of seeds hanging off his belt. I assume the Society has some new mission to send us off on, but I can't say for certain. If it is, I hope they send us someplace with fertile soil.
He takes a seat, and the sapphires on his gloves gleam as he drums his fingers on the table. I am Stan, servant of Erastil and the communities of the world.
|
|
"Hmmm-hmmmph!!!" replies the large walking oak tree, nodding in agreement, upon hearing Stan's wishes for fertile soil. Those who had not noticed Vina and Lakadee outside the entrance turn around upon hearing this low baritone grumble, and see what seems to be a smiling adolescent treant sapling, with a small monkey creature sitting on a tree swing that is swaying dangerously fast due to the intensity of the tree's vigorous agreement. The small monkey creature is smiling and seems to have no problem holding on, seemingly enjoying the speed of the tree swing!
|
| 1 person marked this as a favorite. |
A burly dwarf struts up to the gathering, his blond beard seeming to be barely held together in it's braid, and the draconic-looking plate mail seems to be in need of a bit of buffing. A heavy looking warhammer hangs from his belt, along with a few smaller hammers, and a large metal shield sits comfortably on his arm. It seems like he's a veteran of many battles, and is ready to get into another one.
"Greetings all o' ya! Name's Gilgrim Flintmaul, and I be havin' th' honor o' bein' yer front line!"
Gilgrim's attention seems to be most attracted by Vina's appearance. "Um... 'scuse me fer starin' ma'am," he apologies after a brief moment, turning his gaze away. "Can't be sayin' that I've ever met one o' yer persuasion." After composing himself, he bows to the druid formally, in both greeting and apology.
|
|
Vina nods to the dwarf, staring back at him through the foliage, curious with the appearance of his beard. She jumps from her swing unto Lakadee's trunk, and begins to climb down, head first, her tail periodically grabbing Lakadee's branches behind her as she comes down.
She crosses the few steps between Lakadee and Gilgrim, with careful, calculated steps, as if the ground was not a place of comfort to her. Crouching on the ground before Gilgrim, she points at his beard, asking "M-may I... braid your b-beard, M-master Flintmaul?"
|
|
“Hi everyone! I’m Anastasia, and I’m happy to meet everyone. I’m from Irrisen originally, but don’t worry, because I try to be nice to everyone, especially if they’re also Pathfinders. Also, that’s a really cute dog. Is it ok if I say hello?”
Anastastia is small but full of energy. She is dressed in a long black robe with white cuffs, and she has a skull hanging from her belt. A small pack holds her gear, and the rest is distributed across a variety of belts, pouches, and pockets.
|
|
Last month was exhausting for Morgoth and difficult for all his ustalavic family. His cold blooded aunt delivers some problems again. Patriarch Osvaldo seems to be frustrating by one of new family members which Lina D carried from another plane of existence.
Morgoth often runs into troubles with females. And with his herritage, partially unwilled. So he was trying to avoid his ex-slave and possible future bride. There were enough snakes around to not make engage with this vishkanya. But Osvaldo insists...
That's why Morgoth happily jumped into solving Blakros family issues with one of not so famous daughter...
And then gladly accepted an offer to aid some daredevils to investigate and face Lissala's cult.
He just ended the last papers to send when Aroden crawls in and whispers that there might be a party to join.
A case, my dear? Lead. - Morgoth took a strange lookin crooked glaive from the wall after stamping a paper and making a scroll out of it. -Bess, take my suitcase. I hope Cathehisis is still where I left him .
Morgoth found heavy black horse at the bright place, smiled, and mount him to ride towards the Grand Lodge.
As far as you can see Morgoth is an outstanding handsome man with charming smile. His skin as a bit golden, eyes are heavenly blue with grey, and blond hair makes jealous even elves probably. He weares a black camsoile with golden embroidery. But what makes him really notable is crimson lining cloak especially when he rides.
More closely an onlloker would be able to see a varisian tax collector symbol attached to the heavy advocates suitaces... And a small pin of infamous Shadow Lodge on the Morgoths chest. Looks like Morgoth also proud of his Way finder engraved with Delveheaven star and made crimson as the cloak.
And only keen eye would be able to see, that half of this pretty look is just an illusion...
|
|
Vina nods to the dwarf, staring back at him through the foliage, curious with the appearance of his beard. She jumps from her swing unto Lakadee's trunk, and begins to climb down, head first, her tail periodically grabbing Lakadee's branches behind her as she comes down.
She crosses the few steps between Lakadee and Gilgrim, with careful, calculated steps, as if the ground was not a place of comfort to her. Crouching on the ground before Gilgrim, she points at his beard, asking "M-may I... braid your b-beard, M-master Flintmaul?"
Gilgrim watches the little vanara make her way up to him. There is a tension to him, but it doesn't look like it's been made any worse by her proximity. He doesn't answer immediately, but just watches her, but finally he shrugs and gives her a nod of assent.
|
|
When Morgoth finds the group, he recognises them as if he's shure: here a barrister will find some job.
He approaches with heavier step than it could never expected for such size. Smiles charming to everyone and slowly said, as if ponder every word.
- Greeting. Morgoth Mobray. Advocate. At your service. Aroden believes I can be required here around. But only devil knows why. - he pauses as if expecting reaction and smile dissapeaered for a moment from his blue eyes when he gazes strangely.
He than put ancient crooked looking glaive to the closest corner as something moves underneath advocates clothes near camsoiles high collar.
So, have venture captain or some Decimvire already arrived with issues?
|
|
Vina begins braiding Gilgrim's beard. Her fingers move with great dexterity and her familiarity with fur grooming is obvious. Within minutes, Gilgrim's beard is arranged in four large, perfectly symmetrical braids. "D-do you have jewelry or a br-brooch to clasp the four braids together or do you wish t-to let them fly free?" she asks, her shyness still obvious and probably the main cause of her stutter.
She then jumps behind Gilgrim, grabbing his leg in fear as Morgoth surprises her with his arrival. She relaxes when the aasimar mentions the Venture-Captain, releasing Gilgrim's leg and saying, "Apologies, Ma-Master Flintmaul..."
|
|
Gilgrim takes a look down at the work that Vina puts into his beard, and the only sign of reaction is a soft look that comes to his eyes.
"D-do you have jewelry or a br-brooch to clasp the four braids together or do you wish t-to let them fly free?" she asks, her shyness still obvious and probably the main cause of her stutter.[/b]
He takes a moment to think, patting his pouches as if to tell by feel what was in them. Then he removes one of his throwing hammers from his belt and removes the leather cord tied around the handle and uses it to tie his beard in place. He takes a moment to check the work, then gives the Vanara a smile. "Thank ye, lass." he says, kindly.
She then jumps behind Gilgrim, grabbing his leg in fear as Morgoth surprises her with his arrival. She relaxes when the aasimar mentions the Venture-Captain, releasing Gilgrim's leg and saying, "Apologies, Ma-Master Flintmaul..."
"No needin' ta be apologizin' ta me, wee one. Tha's a face only a mother could love. Got even me shakin' in me boots." He speaks to Vina in a low voice, leaning down, so that only she can hear, then gives her a wink before standing up to face the Hellknight. "Signifier, aye?" he asks Morgoth. "Didna know that we had some o' yer lot here. Hopin' that we can all get along, then."
|
|
Polite smile appears again at Morgoths lipsnand eyes as he nods Gilgrim.
Did not mean to enterfere. Yes, Signifee of the Pyre order. But it is more an appointment than my own choice. As many things in my life unfortunately. But I am sure we all use ure position according with our interests. Sometimes even to provide some social grooming. ,- the aasimar now nods to Vina. And gazes then at Anastacia as if he proud and regrets about her at the same time. Nods again but said nothing.
Instead Morgoth finds a sit just to open his suitcase and put out a book of Pathfinder chronicle. Flipped through some pages thoughtfully and returned attention to the party.
We noticed animals and living plants here. They might not be happy about where are we going to be send. Oh, yes, Aroden, feel free. ... As morgoth sad this something moved in his black classic pants and then tiny golden viper appears from bottom side, crawld down the signifers boot just to move towards Lakadee just to coil around one of lower branches and gazing at the monitor lizard from afar. Attendants might even see a nimbus or a golden dust trail viper leaves behind.
At the same time Stan is able to hear a voice Oouugh. Nordic hunter. Who are you if clothes and arrows removed from your mortal body?
Morgoth obviously got nothing about Stans personal inner voice. He turns his attention to the vayang as if he have been familiar with her. Could not we met during debates couple years ago? Nike, Right? I still carry a mark of your dissolutuon people and wonder how soon your kin unite with the Shadow.
|
|
Noke smiles at Vina and her walking tree.
”Ahh yes! I think we’re going to be a team! No idea what’s going on but I heard Zarta is involved so it was natural that they’ve called me in, too!“
When the others arrive as well, she introduces herself to everyone.
”Yes, Anastasia yes, of course you can touch him. But I’m honest that he’s not listening to me at all and I’m glad that he goes where I want him to go. So what’s your story being from Irrisen and all! I’ve heard so many great things about the place!“ Noke says and claps her hand.
|
|
If Stan can reply to the thought he hears, he replies:
Any of us naked and alone is but a single voice in the wilderness. But we can be one part in a greater whole, working together to improve the lives of everyone.
Stan looks at Vina and asks: Based on this vigor of your tree companion, you seem to be very wise in the way of growing things. Perhaps we can compare notes as we travel? obviously trying to make her feel more at ease.
|
|
Vina nods to Stan. "Plants are living creatures, with varying levels of consciousness... r-rr-reality is like an onion. It has many layers. The magical, the natural, the ethereal, and many more. You can live your whole life looking at the outside of the onion and be fine. Some like to see the other layers, so they peel them one by one, take notes, and observe. Some cut right to the middle with non-subtle means, but those must be ready to shed some tears, as the universe does not like sudden changes. Plants and growing things are similar in that way..."
|
|
Anastastia goes to greet the much bigger dog. Quickly making criends. She scratches behind its ears.
Did you know that Irrisen is filled with witches? Well, it is, but there are giants too. Also fey, like me. Usually the Pathfinder Society is banned in Irrisen. You would have to be especially invited in, amd that doesn’t happen very often. I joined to male friends, I like to meet new people, so they thought I would be a good fit. I’ve been pretty successful so far, unless you count Mahu the guard, but he had poor manners.
In Irrisen, there’s a variety of witches, but the biggest group are the winter witches. Most of my magic is necromancy. Did you know skeletons are immune to cold? Sometimes people say ‘I’m cold to my bones” but if they were really made of bones, they wouldn’t care.
What kind of witch are you? Aside from one one with a very good boy. Yes, that’s right.
Anastasia continues to pet the dog until given a mean look, or asked to stop.
|
|
Noke looks at Anastasia with great interest.
“OK, it sounds as if you were especially brave or especially lucky to be a pathfinder in your homeland! What am I? Of course I am a lucky witch! I was once saved by two friends who showed me the lessons of Chaldira and since then she guided me on my path!!“ the little Wayang lady says and waves her shadowy hair.
|
|
Morgoth contemplates the reality and listens for the Noke and Anastasia with thoughtful face, but says nothing.
They are like children, these luckers and fansiers. Free from burden. I'd wish I could be alike.
Then write something down and seal the scroll with a Tax Collector finger ring. Just after Morgoth decided to interfere a bit...
You know, ladys, I try to respect cultures, but the Code demands that we not tolerate heresy. Once in Varisia, where I had to collect taxes, we found village with mistaken followers of Deznu. After short investigation, I gave them opportunity to return to the Butterfly's flock. But either because of fear of their leaders or becuse of low situation understanding - many of them disagere. Even though I did not suggest them to follow the Dark Prince and was polite. Many were burned that day. Some were lucky to live through and find redemption. Few were executed. I hope this lesson was taught by survivors and taxpayers. Was this luck? I doubt it. But I destroyed the Insect-Demons altars to make sure folks will be more prudent.
Meanwhile Stan "hear" an answer. I hear ou point. We call this Social Contract. Which is not written. But behold, that it differs from culture to culture. Even though my masters dislike it. Funny you are the only Human... ,- Morgoth real voice interfere with this inner voice: Bess, Stop disturbing folks! Now! I demand that you find lady Dralneen and accompany her here if she wish to. Go.
Nothing changed obviously, but Stans inner voice disappeared.
Sorry for this inconvinience. I try to teach her manners and widen her philosophical views... , - adds Morgoth, reffering to Stan.
|
|
It seems Zarta Dralneen urgently requests your assistance in the archives beneath Skyreach in Absalom... gathering your things, you are off.
--------------------------------
The vaults hum with nervous tension as researchers and guards hastily scribe warding circles and erect defensive constructs around a scorched circle of melted stone and smashed shelves.
Nearby, a sphinx carefully directs the containment of several sparking crystals fallen from a smashed Osirion urn. Venture-Captain Ambrus Valsin keeps his eyes firmly focused on the scorched circle, while engaged in heated conversation with Zarta. A handful of singed hairs mar her otherwise carefully composed appearance.
Valsin continues as you approach, “…a needless risk of agents and resources. Your countermeasures worked. Just accept that success and let’s be rid of the thing.”
Zarta gives an acknowledging smile to the new arrivals and lightly places a hand to direct Valsin’s attention. “We aren’t sure of another way to safely close the portal permanently. And here we have some of the Society’s best, eager to assist.” Valsin frowns, but Zarta quickly stymies further argument. “This is a risk but also an opportunity. Think of what censored history we might uncover from a pre-war Thrune. And if we fail, you’ll still have the pleasure of smashing the talisman. I have the experience and… this is something I need to do, Ambrus.”
Valsin gives an exasperated sigh, “If you don’t return and leave me to clean up this mess, trust that I will find you and give you a dressing down to remember.”
As Valsin stalks off, Zarta smirks as though about to make a cheeky response. She quickly refocuses, producing a dark iron talisman set with a ruby and inscribed with Infernal script. “This, my friends, is a melancholic talisman, a device of diabolic manufacture that opens a portal to a specific point in Hell. It activated spontaneously yesterday, allowing a flight of imps access to Skyreach.” Zarta continues with pride. “The Dark Archive has prepared for such planar incursions after last year’s intrusions, and we quickly destroyed or captured the devils. With information gleaned from the imps, I carefully reopened the portal and ventured through. I found myself in the city of Dis in the Nine Hells. I learned through my contacts there of the talisman’s connection to Gellius Thrune, a scion of Cheliax’s ruling family from just after the Everwar about 300 years ago. Gellius sold his soul to a devil named Leventi. Another devil, the osyluth Vetrivides, noticed my investigation, as they too are investigating this Leventi for acting against the interests of Hell. If we can find proof of Leventi’s wrongdoing, Vetrivides will award us the soul of Gellius Thrune, who we can then question on how to permanently close the hellmouth. Vetrivides provided me with writs to act as their agent for the next 48 hours.”
She smiles impishly and concludes, “As you’ve no doubt heard your enemies shout, it’s time to go to Hell.”
-------------------------------------------
-------------------------------------------
|
|
Morgoth consults with the celestial viper and takes a look into a book, while Zarta speaks...
Greetings, lady Dralneen! You can coun on us. As we are well prepared even for heaven and hell! But before we proceed, please, let me share our knowledge with others. Do you know something about The Crown and The Ring?
Morgoth reads some fragments from Pathfinder Chronicles and adds something from his own memories.
After that Aroden comes to Morgoth shoulder and in hissing voise talks, warning everyone about Dis, it's masters and it's Labyrinth. Fortunatelly, Morgoth can illustrate Dispater symbol .
The question, lady Dralneen is, what's your personal intereest in this mission? Do you expect us to extract this Gellius soul or find evideces versus Leventi?
|
|
"Devils and Hell, huh?" Gilgrim responds to Zarta after hearing her proposed mission. "Can't say that I'm ov'rly thrilled in dealin' with the brutes, but iff'n we can stick it ta House Thrune one more time, guess it's worth th' effort. Just point me in th' right direction, lass, and I'll be givin' 'em what fer!"
|
|
Noke claps her hands as if she wants to give praise but her facial expression shows that she is not amused.
"Oh I have never been to hell before!! How fun!" she says sarcastically.
She looks at Divune and nods.
"Zarta, I really value your leadership but isn't this a little reckless? I mean what dangers will we face? What allies do you have there? Can you tell us more about the plan you have?" she says and folds her arms.
|
|
Zarta produces a bone scroll tube with two writs scribed in Infernal, detailing the Pathfinders’ right to legally move about the city of Dis as Vetrivides’ agents for 48 hours after arrival, providing one copy to Morgoth - but holding on to it to tease him as she speaks. "My dear, I have but a scholar's interest in learning more of this particular situation, and how it may inform the continued tortured relationship of House Thrune and my own House Davian. I… we can’t miss this opportunity to question a Thrune who witnessed sights the current regime long ago excised from Cheliax’s history. More than that, I owe the Society a great debt and I wish to prove the Dark Archive's worth, as should you." She sneaks a quick side eye at Noke.
"In my younger days, I would have taken reckless as a complement. As you know, I worked with and for Cheliax and House Thrune until about 5 years ago, after which my employment ended on…poor terms. However, my training makes me familiar with Hell and its devils, and I still have numerous acquaintances willing to provide me intelligence. I hold them at more than arm’s length, though. That is why I am bringing you all with me. Together, we can track down any leads or suspicions that Vetrivides is too cowardly or stupid to realize. To be honest, I'm not sure what to expect, other than lots of devils, of course. But I've got six scrolls of sending, so that we can keep in touch when necessary, and coordinate our investigations."
Then, stepping unreasonably close to Anastasia, Zarta brushes back a singed hair and runs her finger up the gnome's arm. “Oh darling, Dis is an immense city of iron and fire and delights and torments of the flesh, with sights of wonder and horror in equal measure. Most there will be eager to learn your heart’s desire and provide it at a price. Rest assured, the denizens of Dis will strip you of freedom and hope in rapid succession given the chance. Don’t let a friendly demeanor deceive you.”
Stepping back, Zarta rubs at her wrists. “Some of you... actually all of you, will find Hell very uncomfortable and disorienting. Be wary of casting spells of good or chaos, and if you summon, keep in mind where you are, some summons will be killed on sight. Yes, attracting too much of the wrong attention could have dramatic consequences. Perhaps from Dispater himself if you are foolish. But - there are rules to this, and we can use them to travel safely. Keep to your word, and use caution in giving it. Fight only if you have no other choice to preserve your life... or soul.”
Strongly Evil-Aligned: Creatures who are not evil aligned take a –2 penalty on all Intelligence-, Wisdom-, and Charisma-based checks. This penalty stacks with the penalty for not being lawful.
Strongly Law-Aligned: Creatures who are not lawful aligned take a –2 penalty on all Intelligence-, Wisdom-, and Charisma-based checks. This penalty stacks with the penalty for not being evil.
Enhanced Magic: A spell or spell-like ability with the lawful or evil descriptor is treated as if its caster level were 2 higher.
Impeded Magic: To cast a spell or spell-like ability with the chaotic or good descriptor, a caster must attempt a concentration check (DC 20 + the level of the spell). If the check fails, the spell does not function but is still lost as a prepared spell or spell slot. If the check succeeds, the spell functions normally.
Additionally, PCs that receive divine power from chaotic- or good-aligned deities, such as clerics, inquisitors, or paladins (or any PC who has obvious celestial blood) take a –2 penalty on Bluff, Diplomacy, and Intimidate checks when interacting with the devils of Hell. This penalty stacks with the penalties from planar alignment above.
A PC who openly casts a spell with the chaotic or good descriptor, brandishes the holy symbol of a chaotic or good divinity, or actively promotes the worship of chaotic or good entities while in Dis draws the attention of Dispater himself, for such acts visibly disrupt the fabric of Hell. This also applies every hour to a PC who has a chaotic- or good-aligned outsider companion creature summoned (e.g. an eidolon, familiar, or called creature, but not a summoned monster that’s present for just a few rounds).
|
|
Stan digs a set of Silken Ceremonial Armor out of his haversack to cover his Reliquary Armor. I think some of us will have a hard time not attracting attention, but we will do what we can. He also drops his Holy Symbols into the haversack.
I also have this scroll of Breath of Life that I would like one of you to carry. I cannot easily cast it myself, but it may be useful to the group. I also have a spring loaded wrist sheath which can used with the scroll.
While I am not fond of the idea of going to Hell, if that is what is necessary to deal with this threat, I will make myself ready. I am normally one who likes to take the lead dealing with people we meet, but it sounds like I should instead support one among us to whom the locals may relate better.
|
|
[B] “Well I can hold the scroll. And your scroll-thing seems neato, so thanks for that. I can talk to people, or, um...the local inhabitants. I’m pretty friendly, and necromancy still works just fine there.
Hmm. I might need to dye my hair. I should look all goth, like I hate everyone. That’ll fit in, right?”
Anastasia begins digging around in her pockets and her bag. She doesn’t seem super organized, but she does have a wife variety of things packed.
|
|
Gilgrim expression doesn't seem to change much, but his hand starts idly tug at his freshly-braided beard in a nervous gesture. "That don't sound too friendly at all, but notin' that we can't overcome." Realizing what he's doing, he stops tugging his beard and slams his fist into his shield. "Guess there's nothin' to it but to get ta work, eh?"
|
|
Aroden will stay covered under Morgoth's clothes all the time under these circumstances. But surely aasimar can do nothing with his angelic blood and flesh.
Be sure I will find some gap in the Infernal Law so that we do not overstay it's welcome with just our appearence. I used to visit Hell couple time and as you see - I am still here , - Morgoth smiles charmly and winks to Zarta. After this he became very serious and trys to catch everyones attention to provide own breifing:
Remember that no one in Hell has rulership over you if you do not agree with this. But words and papers can be and will be tricky. Stay sharp minded and do not perform expressive moves. Stay silent if you doubt and remember to consult with your lawyer - Morgoth Mobray. And finlally, lady Dralneen says we have 48 hours, but time in Hell can be tricky as well. If we run out of time - stay close to me, I have a backdoor out for eight of us including me. Understood? And I suppose all mount creatures better to stay here. I need a minute now to take something from saddlebags and say farewell to Cathehisis.
|
|
Zarta nods to everyone, saving her fellow Dark Archive members for last. "You have only two hours to make preparations before departure. Meet me back here and we will pass through the talsiman together. From there we will decide on the best course of action for the next two days."
----------------------------------
|
|
Vina returns with a few potions and a scroll case hanging from her belt. She also wears a new dull-looking necklace. "R-r-ready as I'll e-ever be, I think, Mistress Zarta... w-which is to say, probably not. I am g-glad you are with us on this perilous journey to Hell... I trust that you shall do the talking whenever you are with us, y-yes? why ever did they choose me for this mission... oh... I don't belong here... this is not good..."
|
|
Stan appears at the rendezvous point carrying a simpler bow than he had earlier, and silken ceremonial robes over his mithral armor. This is not a trip I am looking forward to, and I hope I am up to the challenge. If nothing else, it will be interesting to see how Dis functions as a community. Who brings in the food? How is it distributed? How do the merchants function?
|
|
Morgoth takes off his usual civil look and appears as a Hellgnight's ambassador. He wears black and red bladed full plate with a rower rising from flames pictured at chest side. Brutal helmet remains chin and a smile uncovered. This part of face covered with cosmetics to be less golden-aasimarish. To the left shoulder attached a black buckler with red pentagram upon. There is also a penacle amulet made of barbed chains hangin from Morgoths neck.
Armored suitcase, Shadow lodge pin to crimson cloak, and the crooked glaive are reamin as those used to.
Stay closer to me. I can cover us from divination for 10 hours. Not sure we need it though. I will spend some time inside after we enter to provide additional aid.
|
|
Once everyone is ready, Zarta directs the melancholic talisman at the middle of the room and speaks the command word. The talisman’s jagged engravings twist and spin as if alive, and a wide, fleshy maw of teeth and fire tears itself open within the room’s warded circle. Thin films that cover the interior of the portal snap open like layered eyelids, slowly swelling outward as if under some great pressure. As the last membrane retracts, a blast of heated air billows into the room.
Through the portal, you can see the jagged towers and iron architecture of Dis.
"Let's do this, shall we, darlings?" Zarta steps into the circle and through the vertical portal with shoulders set, motioning for you to quickly follow.
---------------------------------------------------------
The odor of seared blood permeates the choking, hot, smoky air. A low scream resonates from countless writhing bodies impaled on spikes atop the surrounding structures. Fiendish sigils adorn banners hanging from palace walls that stretch across city blocks, while a river of fire wends its way through canals below the nearby courtyard. Flights of imps patrol the bloody skies, while the winged figures of erinyes perch atop buildings, always watching.
At the center of it all, a tower of impossible height stretches endlessly upward, its walls covered with gargoyles. Zarta checks a series of rods placed around the portal. “These should conceal the portal’s presence and keep anyone from accidentally wandering through,” she explains before looking around at the city and grimacing. “Ah Hell…being away for five years wasn’t long enough.”
She gathers herself and continues. “We have two writs and, with only two days to search for clues across a very large city, I suggest we pursue separate leads. I am used to this city and its inhabitants, I will be fine, but you all should stick together. I have a good supply of sending scrolls, so we can reconnect when needed.”
Peering around to orient herself, she gestures along the canal. “In this direction lies the Fallen Fastness, a library of mortal sin. Vetrivides waits there and may have more information.” She gestures in the other direction, toward the river of fire. “Following the Andrimal this way leads to the floating Market of Breaths. Information and treasure flow there, and my contacts say Leventi’s associate Arenthea frequents the market. Leventi’s business dealings may offer some…” She smirks, “…damning evidence.”
"Now remember this place so we can safely return to Golarion. And pray that Dispater doesn't decide to rearrange the streets whilst we are here."
|
|
Stan stumbles a little as he steps through the portal, obviously impacted by stepping into this place. While I am normally hesitant to break into smaller groups, I understand the need to cover as much ground as possible. Since Zarta knows the area and has contacts here, she should probably pursue her own leads. I suggest the rest of us start at the Fallen Fastness since Vetrivides may give us a better idea of what to look for in the Market of Breaths.
|
|
Noke feels unbelievably uneasy here.
She looks around with some desperation.
“I can really not believe that we are here! And all these people that are suffering are destined to stay here and we cannot help!“
She nods and arranges herself on her riding dog.
“Zarta, we are going to the Fallen Fastness as Stan suggested! We see each other later then. Take care of yourself!“
|
|
"I normally love libraries, but I sh-shudder to go closer to this central tower... are you sure there's a library in th-there?!? hmm... I'll follow the group's decision, whatever it is though..." Vina takes out her pocket watch, noting the time. "Could we meet here to sh-share notes after we're each done with our investigations, or should we be finding an inn or other place to gather? I'm not s-sure if congregating in the streets is safe here..." Vina looks up to the erinyes warily...