You guys think you have it bad. The rest of us haven't gotten to do anything in years! He's ashamed of us! Screw canceling him—I say we string that jackass up in the streets!
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No you are my sock puppet. Retroactively.I thought that was because you're my sock puppet, and I don't like talking to myself. C'mon, the Favorites will start piling up any minute now.
Nope. Never.
"I...I..."
"No. We can't be sure it can be reversed."
:Let me out, Mask! I won't let you!: Its eyes shift, and turn black. "I can expel you from my body, and I shall do so!"
Meanwhile, Jay Frogskin and the Mask are arguing again. :The Foreseer is our only hope. Nothing can hide from it:"No. It would do untold damage. It--oh no...what's the matter?" Frogskin asks, alarmed, as the angry emotions of Tristan touch him. He looks up to the ceiling of the cave. "What could that be?" The Mask takes advantage of Frogskin's distracted state, and attempts to gain control. "What? No! Don't! It--" The raven closes his eyes, and sighs. When its eyes open, they glow deep crimson.
Meanwhile, Frogskin keeps working, watching several scrying balls at once, his eyes barely open. His feathers are falling off, leaving patches of bare skin in some places.
Frogskin opens his eyes.
"They are shadow. Only force magic is certain to harm them, unless you have magical weapons of a certain type. Wards won't be easy. Spotting them is hard, and if you manage to see one, you can't let on that you have. They'll scamper. Just watch the shadows. I have to go." And with that the raven flies away, to find a new cave.
"A member of the Servants did. They've sent Shadowdancers. Spies, and very dangerous ones. I just killed one, and took a lot of the cave with it.""I'm afraid that is not possible right now, she has isolated herself from the rest of the Eyrie. She said only Arielle was allowed to see her, and I will make sure she is the only one who does. If you wish to talk to her, you will have to asked for Arielle's help. Now, do you know who screamed just now?" "It's...different, for the shadowdancers. They have ways of confusing wards. Unfortunately for them, this confuses all the wards, thus denying them any protection. Fortunately, this magic also weakens them a great deal, making them easier to notice. And to kill."
"I'm afraid that is not possible right now, she has isolated herself from the rest of the Eyrie. She said only Arielle was allowed to see her, and I will make sure she is the only one who does. If you wish to talk to her, you will have to asked for Arielle's help. Now, do you know who screamed just now?" "A member of the Servants did. They've sent Shadowdancers. Spies, and very dangerous ones. I just killed one, and took a lot of the cave with it."
Frogskin flies to meet Sky. "Listen, where is Lynora? I need to talk to her!"
Frogskin sits in his cave, staring at the crystal ball. Suddenly he freezes. "It can't be...I'd have noticed..." He is still for a minute. Then, suddenly, he whirls around and explodes the wall behind him. Daylight rushes in, greedily filling every nook. There is a scream that can be heard throughout the Eyrie. The raven flies out, to find the others.
Jay Frogskin sits in his cave, gazing into a crystal ball. He looks tired beyond words, like he hasn't slept in weeks.
"There must have been a good reason," Allura said, doubtfully. "I mean, she wouldn't deliberately send her own daughter into a dangerous situation." "Madam..." Frogskin flies out of a cranny in the wall. "There was, I am sure. We cannot doubt any decisions that have been made. I am worried about what Jack Hammer is doing. I am worried what happened back at the Bazarr may attract the attention of...other factions. I am worried my worse half will wake up and try to impose...suffice to say...a very bad idea. But I can't do anything about it. The most I can do is watch. Watch the Servants. Watch the Mask. Watch Alaina. Watch the kids. And I can't--" Frogskin stops. "Oh, crap. I have to go." He flies off, muttering to himself.
"Oh, crap. How did that ring get past the wards? How the hell was it functional? That's not supposed to happen. Kiba, are you alright?""I would not fret too much Frogskin. I do not believe it is as much to be concerned with as you think. That ring was an exact duplicate of the one I constructed to allow Jack Hammer and Arielle to practice so that she can learn how to fight. I do not know how the stranger obtained one though." It's different. That one was allowed by the goddess. It makes a difference. The worst part is, Kiba was goaded." Frogskin seems to be talking to himself. "Yes, not at all good. We can't let that happen. There's not much we can do. But, really, this is terrible...dreadful. Do you realize the danger we're in? Yes, but the important thing is to stay calm." Frogskin clearly is talking to himself. "Training may not be safe. If the rings are permitted past the wards, things could get incredibly difficult. And if Kiba can be goaded...think about it. Bad. Something must be done. No, it's not a good idea. What if--yes, I know, but it could be necessary. If the Servants get ahold of one of these...no, not a good idea!" Frogskin looks up at the others. "We have to be elsewhere. Some..issues come up. Goodbye." Frogskin flies off.
"Oh, crap. How did that ring get past the wards? How the hell was it functional? That's not supposed to happen. Kiba, are you alright?"
She turned to JH. "What do you think, love? It's not just me that should decide this. This trial of fear has real risk involved. I'm not sure I can do that. What if I didn't come back? I want to be here with you. I want to watch Arielle grow up. There are people here who depend on me. But if I take it and pass then I can do a better job of keeping everyone safe. I just don't know what to do." "Lynora..." Frogskin whispers. "I don't like this guy. He was at a bunch of our previous battles, and he wasn't on our side. The Mask is really, really upset. I don't know if this is a good idea. You don't need power, we can go without it. But if you die, this whole place could collapse. It all depends...how it relies...look, it isn't worth the risk. Tell the demon to get out of here. With luck, maybe the Servants can do something useful."
"Before the battle. I think. I don't really remember clearly, but that seems right."Frogskin sighs. "When did you last see the Mask?"He relaxes. "Good. It would be a bad idea for her to be present. Listen, this is...not a matter to discuss with so many ears about. Is there somewhere we won't be overheard? By anybody?" "Listen, he's been every active. Setting Frost and Candle Lighter to guard the Giggler, trying to keep informed of the Servants' dealings. Look, he...he needed a vessel, to regain his strength in. I provided one." Frogskin sighs. "The Mask was lost in the destruction of the Palace of Skulls. Until we find it, I must suffice. I thought you should know."
He relaxes. "Good. It would be a bad idea for her to be present. Listen, this is...not a matter to discuss with so many ears about. Is there somewhere we won't be overheard? By anybody?" Frogskin sighs. "When did you last see the Mask?"
Frogskin recovers. "They are not attacking us without reason. They dislike you because they prefer new gods to be run by them, first. To make sure they're not a threat. Unfortunately, they didn't exist when you became a god, and we would have had no time for it anyways. So, they aren't sure what to make of you, but they're probably very wary, especially now that they see that you would prefer KC stepping back into the light. They are frightened, Lynora. They aren't back to full strength yet. So they aren't undertaking any major jobs. Which is why Sytt is the only one being attacked. I'll be next, I--erm, I was closest to Kobold Cleaver before he fell, and they aren't sure...listen, I have more news. Or, rather, something important to tell you. But...have you had any word from Alaina recently?""No, I haven't spoken to Alaina recently. I've been meaning to. There are a few things I need to speak with her about. But she's been busy at Sunny Godhead's temple, and I haven't been free to leave my own temple since I got back. There's been so much work to do, so many things that got through into our reality while I was trapped inside Yggdrasil. And I've had to hunt down every one of those things and send them back to where they come from. It doesn't leave a lot of free time." He relaxes. "Good. It would be a bad idea for her to be present. Listen, this is...not a matter to discuss with so many ears about. Is there somewhere we won't be overheard? By anybody?"
Frogskin recovers. "They are not attacking us without reason. They dislike you because they prefer new gods to be run by them, first. To make sure they're not a threat. Unfortunately, they didn't exist when you became a god, and we would have had no time for it anyways. So, they aren't sure what to make of you, but they're probably very wary, especially now that they see that you would prefer KC stepping back into the light. They are frightened, Lynora. They aren't back to full strength yet. So they aren't undertaking any major jobs. Which is why Sytt is the only one being attacked. I'll be next, I--erm, I was closest to Kobold Cleaver before he fell, and they aren't sure...listen, I have more news. Or, rather, something important to tell you. But...have you had any word from Alaina recently?"
Frogskin sighs wearily.
"What bad news is that Jay? And you look like you could use a healing spell or two. May I?" He leaps back. "No! I mean...it's not important, look. Fir--" Before he can finish, the Slaad runs in, and distracts him. When the excitement has died down, he continues. "First of all, Sytt seems to have left the Eyrie. It would appear that he's being tracked by a bunch of Cleaners. He's rapid teleporting to try and shake them, but it isn't working, they're hot on his heels."
Jay gasps for breath. He doesn't look good, his eyes weary and his feathers ragged. He coughs. "No time, Jack Hammer. I have a lot of bad news to give you all."
Jay Frogskin flies into the Eyrie. He flies up to one of the starhawks.
The raven flashes in, and hears the group talking. He smiles sadly, and vanishes again.
meanwhile, in a small cave in one of the rocks, a raven flashes in and out, every few seconds.
"Yes, I'm sure even the hungriest dragon would get tired of eating zealots after a few decades," she said dryly, "but I'd like to be restores a little sooner than that.""Sort of a you're the biggest baddest dragon and we couldn't possibly have done it without your help sort of thing? It has merit, but what if he really just wants the satisfaction of having them? As in so big and bad that he even has a goddess in his collection kind of mentality." "Hmm. One sec." Frogskin grabs a scroll and pen from his pack and starts writing. He vanishes. A few seconds later, he reappears, still writing. Then he disappears again. This goes on for a few minutes, til he finally puts down the pen. "Alright, this may do the trick." He hands the letter to Devlyn and then vanishes again.Spoiler: Dragon Lord Daelemos,
We congratulate and thank you for deigning to collect the pieces of the goddess of song. We understand that it is quite an honor for Daelemos himself to take interest. The pieces which you have so easily collected had eluded us, and believe me, many heads connected with walls when we saw how simple a matter it was for you. These pieces, as you know, are vital in the return of Lynora. We would deeply appreciate it if you would aid in her return, by sending us these pieces. We would be willing to reward you, of course, but perhaps a greater reward would be the prestige: You will have brought a god cast down by the forces of chaos and madness into power, which could be vital in the fate of the Board. You will have, in short, directly altered the Board. I doubt many other dragons can say the same, certainly not your 'rivals'--if they can be called that. We have researched these 'rivals', and while they are certainly far from weak, they are hardly equal to a more powerful lord such as yourself. The pieces are almost useless in their present state, and any power you may derive form them will be easy to destroy. The favors of a goddess are not. Not to mention, minions of chaos will constantly be breaking down your door to destroy the stars, and then you will have gained nothing but a broken-down door. Consider this offer, please. Contact me in any way you deem fitting. --Jay Frogskin, Champion of the Boards
"I hate to bring the topic back around to other unpleasant subjects, but we do need to think of some way to deal with Daelemos. Great Erl, Tree Emperor, Meg, do any of you know of a good way to trick a dragon into giving up its treasure?" Frogskin flashes in again. "I know of no way to trick a dragon like that. I doubt it is possible. Could you not make a deal with him? Find out why he want them, anyways. Perhaps he hopes to use their power? In which case, we could give him something of equal or greater power."
"Sometimes relationships can be...complicated. Sometimes even family members can get angry and fight with each other." "Tell me about it." Frogskin mumbles. He seems to be going in and out, disappearing for short periods of time and then reappearing for a few seconds. There is a pause as he fades, then he returns. "Hope the wolves are alright. Looked mad. Hard to tell though."
"I wish you well with that, Frogskin. It's not a pleasant thing, I imagine.""Indeed. The secret of the Board Lich is a great burden, and those who learn it are generally expected to use it." "It's actually not all that bad. You keep your mind and spirit, and gain a fair amount of power. But yes, it is difficult. You must forgo any normal life that you might have had. We only tell those with the least to lose the Secret, but sometimes they make mistakes...." Frogskin sighs. His cough seems to have cleared up."Finally. Now, I must rest. Good night. Or is it good day? This forest is quite darrrr..." Frogskin falls asleep.
"Mainly, watching. It isn't fun, but I have work to do, so I'm not completely bored. All I can do is wait.""Well, I am sorry for your suffering. And I know what you mean about waiting. It can be very difficult to do at times. I miss having a body. I can't for the life of me figure out why KC stubbornly spent so long without one. It's driving me batty after only a few days." "Indeed. The secret of the Board Lich is a great burden, and those who learn it are generally expected to use it."
"What exactly is it you are here to do, Frogskin?" "Mainly, watching. It isn't fun, but I have work to do, so I'm not completely bored. All I can do is wait."
"It's nothing. A-a small s-sacrifice to pay. It was n-necessary. Nothing to w-worry about."I hope for your sake that you are right. But remember this, there is always a choice. If you ever have need of my help, you know I will give it." Frogskin coughs. "The sooner I get out of here, the better. Unfortunately, that is not an option."
"Why would you refuse an offer for healing? For something that is obviously bothering you? Frogskin, what have you done?" "It's nothing. A-a small s-sacrifice to pay. It was n-necessary. Nothing to w-worry about.
"Frogskin, are you alright? I would suggest drinking from the spring over there if you are hurt or ailing. It will help." Frogskin looks decidedly nervous. "Um, that's a-alright. Just a l-little...cold.
"He swore to me that he would protect our daughter, and I have no reason to doubt that he will. I will speak to him on the matter of caution regarding that dragon. But it is Daelemos who has provoked a fight. To send that abomination to Arielle... Jack Hammer is not the only one who is angry right now." Frogskin coughs. "H-he certainly i-isn't. But as you s-said, c-caution is necess-necessary. O-our heads must be clear."
Dammit. I knew I'd forgotten something. Allow me to rephrase that: [i]Frogskin appears, looking a bit ill.[/] "That's right. He's possessed by the Mask. I don't know how long they can hold him, though..."
Frogskin suddenly stops walking toward teh city and sighs. "Damn it! I gotta go!"He vanishes. Sytt sighs and does the same.
"Could you guys point me to Mirathan's family?" He nods. "I know. Good luck!"
"Could you guys point me to Mirathan's family?"
Frogskin appears next to Sytt.
"Yes, I believe it can. There are likely more pieces still left to find in this realm before that one must be braved. Here, child," he says, handing Arielle the star in his hand. She clutches it too her, humming a little song that sounds very much like the tune that used to emanate from LJ. Frogskin nods, distracted, and vanishes.
Frogskin nods. "Can I talk to her?"Frogskin nods."Alright, I'll go when she's ready. Where is she? More importantly, who is she?""She is inside. As for who she is, I cannot say for certain, though I have my suspicions. I think you will understand why when you meet her. Her memories begin only a few hours ago, at the moment when her m- ahem, excuse me. At the moment when the Star Song died. She appears older than she is, but underneath she is still an innocent newborn." Frogskin nods. "So he did. And we need to go on a journey to find more shinies. Okay?"He looks at a small watch. "Oh, crap. I have to go, Azurith, I'm sorry. Can the trip wait?"
Frogskin nods."Alright, I'll go when she's ready. Where is she? More importantly, who is she?""She is inside. As for who she is, I cannot say for certain, though I have my suspicions. I think you will understand why when you meet her. Her memories begin only a few hours ago, at the moment when her m- ahem, excuse me. At the moment when the Star Song died. She appears older than she is, but underneath she is still an innocent newborn." Frogskin nods. "Can I talk to her?"
"Yes, I think that would be best, as long as you are willing. There are many there who would try to take advantage of the child's innocence.""I could go, I still have some spells left and she'll need some help.""Yes, but I have some bad news. One of the Yugoloths spotted two nymphs taking two of these stars somewhere, and decided to tell me about it."The elder air elemental curses under his breath. "Thank you for telling me this. It is very bad news. If they are the nymphs I think they are, I have been banned from ever entering that realm again. Arielle will have to go. And the child is only a few hours old." Frogskin nods."Alright, I'll go when she's ready. Where is she? More importantly, who is she?"
"Yes, but I have some bad news. One of the Yugoloths spotted two nymphs taking two of these stars somewhere, and decided to tell me about it."The elder air elemental curses under his breath. "Thank you for telling me this. It is very bad news. If they are the nymphs I think they are, I have been banned from ever entering that realm again. Arielle will have to go. And the child is only a few hours old." "I could go, I still have some spells left and she'll need some help."
"Yes, but I have some bad news. One of the Yugoloths spotted two nymphs taking two of these stars somewhere, and decided to tell me about it." |