Lasch i'm confused...what's with the D2?
I know you have all knowledges as a bard, but History and Geo are two different subjects, which is why I asked for a roll on both. And if you wanted to use your '20' on one of those.
Udayas
At closer examination you do see just above the path in the mountains is an 'x' marked spot, the marking itself relatively new.
UU points out the mark to Herik, "I don't... What would you call that: an unfortunate error of the quill or outrageous luck?"
Lasch i'm confused...what's with the D2?
I know you have all knowledges as a bard, but History and Geo are two different subjects, which is why I asked for a roll on both. And if you wanted to use your '20' on one of those.
Udayas
** spoiler omitted **
Linguistics. Using my 20 here. Add an additional +1 if this is a check similar enough to descyphering a scroll or identifying a magic item (apg 81 "Magic Lore")
History.
http://verydemotivational.files.wordpress.com/2010/10/demotivational-poster s-professor-badass.jpg
Lasch
The first pages of the book are in fact a rosetta stone of sorts, it's a guid on how to interpret the book in it's base language. You also determine once skimming the next following pages, they are in fact very old and it's generally make up and flow would suggest that of a journal. Though it will take some time to decipher it all, but the code is right there in the beginning. Assuming of course the reader can read Celestial, Common, or the unknown langauge that it is all based in.
The Seacoast Mountains, located within the Furp Kingdom. Far north of your present location and only reachable by sea or great magics. The kingdom itself predominantly human, with few half-breeds. There are at least two known dwarven clans in the mountain that the people of the kingdom have peacefull trades with. The neighboring kingdom, to the west, the Kingdom of Umari, has kept a tight border. There is some trade that exists between the two kingdoms though the peace is an uneasy one. It all stems from a war roughly 800 years ago, about 400 years ago a pause in hostilities was created and signed. Too much death on either side. It's current balance is unknown. The area to the North of the kingdom; Havenwood, is uncharted and unexplored. Creatures of dream and fantasy dwell there and apparently don't take kindly to visitors. Well at least to say no visitor has ever returned.
Lasch and Udayas
Herik looks at the both of you, "Well i'll leave you two to the book and map, i'm going to get a message out for aid in" he gestures to the body, "cleaning the rest of this area up so the school can continue on." He pauses, "I am sorry for you loss Professor." Then exists the library.
Shortly after Herik leaves you find yourselves the only ones in the chamber. Soon the room is filled with an earthen smell, something of fresh tilled earth. Peace attacks your emotions entracting a presence of calm, then a man stands there, his robes a earth brown and a simple staff/cane in hand. He helps himself to a seat, "Please," his hand gestures to seats near him, "Join me? We have something to discuss."
CrystalSpoiler:I see the tail as...well like a cats...it's there for balance...so it's somewhat unconscious that it moves about if you will.
UU eyes the robed man carefully, cautious of his sudden appearance and mysterious ways. She stands, not sits, behind the indicated chair - for the moment. Her words are guarded, "I think introductions come first. I'm Udaya Udas, in the service of Sunar. And you are?"
Aeldris and Crystal
Mother smiles at your mention of something, “something indeed. I have a bit of a shock for you then.” The door opens to the office, turning you see; An attractive female elf enters the room, no not an elf, a tail gentle sweeps behind her -slender, smooth- her eyes giving a red glint, her skin slightly ashen, and her ears...they seem to move as if responding to sounds. These minor differences are apparent to you, but she is still elven and an attractive one at that. Beneath her attire, silken finery, your eyes cannot help but be drawn to the grace with which she moves, though it is apparent its worn by its choice to seemingly obfuscate such things, a strange choice given how in concealing it does seem to do more in drawing the eye than not.
“Ah my child, please come in and have a seat.” Your attention comes back to Mother as she speaks, “Sir Aeldris Calesti I am pleased to introduce you to my daughter Crystal.” Mother smiles at the mention of her child and before you can respond, “She is not my by blood, but by divine right. Hanali tested me many years ago with her and I have passed that test.” She stands and moves behind her child, “What you see before you is what you allow yourself to see, she is no demon, no devil. She is a child of this temple and more so a child of mine.” Returning to her seat, “We have a room for you and your companions here, your other companions should return from the port in the early morning with your travel arrangements.”
Udayas and Lasch
“Ah Sunar,” He lowers the hood of his robe-you see a man full of hair, his beard covering most of his facial features and that on his head covering even more. His hair the color of dark earth and his skin a rocky appearance. “I know this name though I have not heard it in many years.”
Looking directly at you both, “Please sit, I mean no harm. In fact I hope you can help me.”
LostSoul/Nox
Sent you an email, is Nox completed? Are we ready to roll with him?
Ardil and Avala
The next morning comes quickly; you gather your belongings and meet up with the Caravan. Jonas greets you both and gestures to the seven armored men on horseback “Gaurds.” He motions to one-he looks older than the rest, “Captain Grines, he’s been doing this for years. Well after he earned his commission on the battlefront with Umari. Ah the extra protection is probably his paranoia.” He smiles, “He retires shortly I believe.”
Jonas leaves you two and finishes assembling the wagons. Once everything is set the journey begins. Within half a day you reach the base of the mountains and just before dusk you stop and an established resting ground. There is a stop at noon, and dusk each day. The regularly use of the trail is apparent as there are marked and in some cases carved rest areas. There is a theme with each evening and the deeper into the mountain you begin to notice everyone’s unrest. You easily will over here talk of a shadow in the mountains, something that feeds off of humans.
Happy to be on the road again, Ardil spends the days telling Avala and anyone who's interested in listening stories about his travels, embellishing them a bit (but being careful to keep them believable). He's a little concerned about Avala's continued quietness, but he still doesn't say anything. The first time he overhears something about the murderous shadow in the mountains, he takes the opportunity at the next stop to find Captain Grines and get as much information out of him as he can about this shadow and what he knows about it. He is careful to conceal his concern from Avala.
Diplomacy to get information about the shadow (if needed):
To the robed man: "Talk, Stranger, and we will listen." *sits*
UU acknowledges Lasch's comment but makes no move to sit down. Instead, she leans on the chair's back and casts a serious look at the robed man. "I have two rules," she enumerates them on her fingers as she continues, "One, I never drink with people I don't like. And two, I don't sit down to chat with folks who won't even do me the courtesy of dropping their name in return for mine. You want my help? I want your name. That seems a fair price to me... but you decide. Either way - standing or sitting - I'm still listening."
Udaya and Lasch
He shakes his head, “Sorry I do forget myself at times. I am just an aspect and in this aspect you may call me Pirak, for it is in that name I seek your aid.” He shudders as if from some unseen pain. “Please, this book will help you,” he gestures to the book at the table “and the map is where you must start.”
He looks at you both and in that instant you both could’ve swore he just visible aged, his hair showing a few strands of white and his skin slightly paler. “Time is of the essence.”
Ardil (and Avala if she goes with Ardil to see Captain Grines)
Captain Grines laughs at the mention of this shadow, “Well boy that’s a good one.” He straightens himself up noting that you are serious, “Eh, shadow then. Well it’s more of an old wives tale these lads no. Some say its shadow alive, or just some shadowy monster that thrives on death. Personally I ain’t seen anything to make me think the things real or not. I’ve not lost anyone on any trips I’ve lead, though I have heard of vanishings.” He sighs, “Pay those no heed lad, people come from distant lands for whatever reason to scale these mountains and often are never heard from again. Either they seek to find some fabled treasure, or just to say they’ve traversed their entirety. Not many can say that but the dwarves that reside in them.”
UU drops into the chair, instantly concerned. 'Aspect'? Aspect of who? Aspect of what? She nods encouragingly, "Keep talking, Pirak. Tell us what you can."
Aeldris is clearly at a loss for words as Crystal enters the room, his eyes darting between her various infernal features.Who....what? I come expecting an artifact or guidance, and I get a devil-blooded girl?" By the time Mother finishes the introductions, he is sufficiently recovered to say, "I am to take her with me then?", with a doubting look upon his face. "I am afraid I do not fully understand the situation, Mother; why her?"
Crystal keeps her eyes demurely lowered as she enters the room. Continuing to do so while the Knight asks her Mother Superior questions, some of which mirror her own thoughts. Others, more troubling, she pushes deep into the back of her mind.
Aeldris and Crystal
Mother nods, a signal she appreciates the Knights calm demeanor,"I have prayed long on this matter." She sips from her glass and seems to lose her self in the wine as she gentle swirls it,"Hanali has shown me great darkness crossing our land, then images of eyes." She looks up at both of you, "Elven eyes and non-elven. They are closed at first, then open. For awhile they open seperatly but in one dream they open together and when they do light spreads across the land. It chases the darkness away."
Mother places a hand on Crystal, "I believe, and the Queens' letter aids to it, that our people will need allies in the upcoming struggle. Allies we may not be used too. Crystal, my child, is a much a part of it as you are to be."
Udaya and Lasch
"It weakens me to take form," He flinches again, "But know that darkness comes to the land." Looking at Lasch, "Your friend knew this, this is why he searched these tombs. I made this tomb available to him. But someone else interfered. I am sorry for you loss, but know he is at peace." His eyes seem to look past/through you both, "I am of this land as the land is of me, what transpires to it will transpire within me." His focus comes back to the room with a flinch of pain, "Darkness is spreading and soon what should never have been will be. I must ask you to open the eyes of the sleeping the children."
UU casts a quick glance at Lasch to see how he's taking this news before turning back to the ailing Pirak. "Where are the Children? How do we awaken them?"
UU casts a quick glance at Lasch to see how he's taking this news before turning back to the ailing Pirak. "Where are the Children? How do we awaken them?"
Pirak, this is mysterious news indeed. Is there a way we can keep you here a bit a longer? Can we tend to your pain? There must be a healer or philosopher we can summon to tend to you for a bit. This is a great institution of knowledge and I know I speak for the HEadmaster when I say our services are yours for the night if you wish.
Udaya and Lasch
Pirak nods, "Your healers can do nothing for me. This is a bigger picture than I can relay. I cannot linger too long or he will also sense my involvement. I cannot offer much, at least not in direct aid, but if you find yourselves in the most dire of situations you need only ask for me."
His appearance begins to fade, going ghostly, "The Sea Bull awaits you in Jur-Kal, they have the prophecies...please save me and in doing so save this world." His voice carries into your minds as he vanishes from sight and you find yourself again alone in the library.
"A strange vision....I will have to think on this." Help? From outsiders? All they do is cut down our trees and make trouble for us. Yet....if that is my mission, I must follow through.
UU sits back heavily in her chair and looks at Lasch, utter astonishment registering clearly on her face. With disbelief, she says, "Well butter my ass and call me a biscuit. I guess we're heading to Jur-Kal, eh, Doc?"
UU sits back heavily in her chair and looks at Lasch, utter astonishment registering clearly on her face. With disbelief, she says, "Well butter my ass and call me a biscuit. I guess we're heading to Jur-Kal, eh, Doc?"
I suppose we've been caught in the net of Fate, Udaya.
I also suppose that you need me, Biscuit.
Lasch stretches and calmly begins to gather a few things, relatively unfazed by the spectral fading of the figure he was just speaking to a moment ago
UU rises, giving her old professor a smile and chuckling at her new nickname, "Biscuit... well you didn't butter my ass first, Doc, but I'll let it go this time."
She gives him a wink before turning serious. "I've got to report these developments to Herik and my Order. Hopefully, they won't try to hand this off to a more senior Paladin. In any case, I'll return soon - kitted out and ready to go." She heads quickly out the door without another word.
The wife has been busy lately and will be posting tonight for Avala.
We should have this moving along here nicely.
Lasch-Are you taking the book??
Aeldris and Crystal
"Think not long on this Sir Knight, the heavens have already aligned for this to happen." Mother stands, turns to Crystal, "His chamber will be in the east wing, higher quarters." She then turns to Aeldris gives a slight bow, "I leave you two to get acquainted. When you are ready Crystal will show you to your room. I would be honored if you would join me for breakfast before your departure." And with that Mother leaves the two of you alone in her office.
Definitely taking the book
"So...Crystal...what are your skills? Are you any good with a blade?"
Avala accompanies her brother as he goes to speak with Capt Grines. She knows he's concerned about the rumor of a deadly shadow in these parts, and, truth be told, she's concerned too. She wants information.
Still, she's pleased to be gone from the city and headed back into the wilderness, even if it's bare rock instead of trees. She's found herself relaxing somewhat over the past few days, even smiling and laughing ruefully at her brother's stories of wild adventure and derring-do. Ardil was always the traveler of the family, no one could argue that!
Aeldris and Crystal:
"So...Crystal...what are your skills? Are you any good with a blade?"
Crystal nods in response. "I have been taught in the arts of self defence, good Sir Caresti." She replies. "I am skilled in many things, from diplomacy ranging to fencing." Her eyes raise slightly, but still not enough to meet Aeldris' own gaze. Her soft reply spoken in elvish words with no hint or trace of accent at all.
Avala
Many legends like this come from not understanding the natural world around oneself. It is more evident in cultures more built around city life than those that dwell at peace with the land. It is also evident this caravan is mostly comprised of traders and merchants, by their attire would show them to be wealthy merchants/traders at that.
Of course with tracks to prove existence of any such shadow would help you greatly in identifying any validity in the rumor.
Ardil and Avala
Udaya and Lasch
Aeldris and Crystal
Once all the above is accomplished I will be fast forwarding, placing the journey in this thread and at the bottom I will link to the actual game thread. Please do not feel rushed, I want to make sure we get all the loose ends tied up here.
UU races along the cobblestones, her well-made pack bouncing lightly against her back, causing her chain shirt to clink dully beneath her robes. She grins, half excited and half surprised that the Order allowed her to pursue this mission. Maybe they thought this was the best way to get rid of me?
UU rounds the corner and slows... approaching the library at a lope. Before she left, She'd weighed whether to take the book and map with her or leave them with Doc and his colleagues. It's a Library... if those guys don't know how to treat a book right, who would?
She slows to a walk and enters the building, tying her hair into a loose pony tail with a bit of leather thong. The musty smell of old tomes takes her back to her teen years here - with some bad memories and quite a few good ones. Most clearly, she recalls sneaking away with a boy into the older stacks to explore studies that weren't *ahem* on the official curricula. Who knew books could make relatively comfortable couches. She snickers to herself and goes to find Doc.
Lasch tidies up his desk and begins to write out various notes to his colleagues and understudies. He arranges to have his students transfered to another professor and leaves research instructions to his assistants.
He also steals various artifacts and priceless books in order to buy a tome of infinite knowledge, granting him a +5 to his int score.
Ardil is happy to sit back and enjoy the caravan ride and continue to tell his stories, unless he runs across someone in the caravan who is very out of the ordinary.
Udaya and Lasch
The white stones of Pilaxious fade into the distance as Udaya and Professor Lasch depart. Their short caravan headed to a familiar destination to Udaya. Perhaps some relief comes over Udaya as she realizes there is not enough time in their stay there to visit with family. Arriving at the small port town, the sun beginning its descent, they arrange quick accommodations and secure passage on a small sea vessel.
Captain Limi, a rugged half-elf, greats the duo as they board his vessel “Welcome to the Sea Maid! Our journey is a bit long, with a few scheduled stops. We will be skirting the southern part of the island and end our journey at Jur-Kal. “ He gives a slight bow, “If you would please make yourselves at home below decks. I have taken the liberty to look into further transportation for you and I’ve discovered that the Sea Bull will be putting out to sea just a day or two after our arrival. Her destination Drokara.” Stowing your belongings and finding you small space somewhat cramped the journey begins.
The Sea Maid arrives at Jur-Kal; “Come lads, see her as we enter her grand defenses!” Defenses they truly are. The city proper itself is completely sealed by a stone wall, at its height three men tall, and it’s shortest that of a man and a half. Parapets decorate corners and changes in the angle of the walls. The wall itself continues into the sea leaving an opening four vessels wide to allow ships back and forth from the enclosed bay. A great axe under a minotaurs head against a sea green background decorates the banners flapping in the wind, “ ‘Tis her mark lads, the mark of the Kingdom. To spit on it may earn you banishment, so watch yer place.”
Once past the outer wall and in the bay, the beauty of the city is evident. Her stone structures finally crafted, small angelic statues decorating each building in various corners. Where some cultures placed horrific gargoyles these people have placed angelic warriors. The ships in the bay just as grand, and the work on the docks is evident as the you make port. Men and Minotaurs work side by side, moving cargo about, barking orders, sharing in humor…and at the far end of the docks, “There she is lads, the Sea Bull,” you turn and see Captain Limi, “She’s an all Minotaur crew. Mind your words with them lads; they don’t care to be offended. An honorable lot though, you wouldn’t find a braver crew anywhere.”
Entering the far dock, finding only one vessel present, a red haired minotaur steps down from the plank – dressed in simple, loose clothing; perfect for sailing. With a thick accent he greets you in common, “We shall be under way in a few days, you may make lodgings on board or in town,” He extends his hand, “I am Captain Sar-Ek Verkon first son of Ker-Valk.” You get onboard and stow your belongings again for another long trip. You notice that the Sea Bull is built for space, she has cargo and passenger room.
The Sea Bull sets sail, her crew hard at work and excelling at catching the wintry wind, her sails full as she crosses the outer defenses. Her ride much smoother then the Sea Maid and her speed, her speed most be a gift from the sea. During the journey certain other members of the crew standout, Udaya and Lasch see less and less of the Captain, having more dealings with first mate Korth Ja-Kail son of Rook . They find a friendly ear with Mikar Simfak, the cook and eldest of the crew, as well as his best supporter “Dove”; Dove is obviously a knick name, which stems from his gentle nature and his lack in intelligence. In their discussions on board with Mikar it is evident he was the one who made advised the Captain of their arrival.
The Sea Bull arrives in Kora, a short stay here, as she unloads a small amount of cargo; mostly cloth. Kora, Kingdom of Argothia, is a well built city though her populace is full of half breeds. It is apparent on the faces of the locals, and is quickly learned through rumor many are refugees from a war torn nation farther south. Rumors speak of the Living Marsh and the monstrosities stepping out of its heart. Mostly of orc armies, allied with strange lizardmen, and of more sinister things most are afraid to even mention. She picks up a few more passengers going north and sets out again in a day.
Arriving at Keldoran, it’s banner depicting a dolphin jumping from a wave, her port much more simple and it’s visible town just as visible. “She ain’t been around long, perhaps only a few decades. They people here are simple folk,” Mirak gestures too many of the ‘refugees’ departing here, “They’ve grown in population lately. As long as their hearts stay clean they won’t grow into a community of pirates and thieves.”
Most of what is done here is off loading passengers. Though few trade goods are off loaded, and fewer still placed on board.
The beauty in the port of Kelsinko is her architecture; smooth flowing arches, graceful curves, and flawless detail. “Don’t get too excited, these elves tend to keep to themselves.” Mirak smiles, “They named their port to mislead visitors, the city herself is actually a day’s travel away further inland.” Looking at the dock as the ship pulls in, “Best be making some more living quarters, got two more passengers to gather here. They’re going the same as you both.” And Mirak leaves you both to take in the view going below.
Avala is good to enjoy the ride and relax.
"Both skills that may be of use in m...our mission. Your elvish is good...you could probably pass as an elf outside of Kelsinko." He pauses for a moment, then continues, "I suppose you're probably as surprised by this as I am; do you have any questions for me?"
"Both skills that may be of use in m...our mission. Your elvish is good...you could probably pass as an elf outside of Kelsinko." He pauses for a moment, then continues, "I suppose you're probably as surprised by this as I am; do you have any questions for me?"
At Aeldris' comment about 'passing' for an Elf, there is a flicker of Crystal's eyes.
Though her poise crumbles and her cheeks flush with colour.
"Ahhm..n'no M'Lord. If you are tired from your journey here, perhaps showing you to your rooms, where you can relax..and..." Crystal's voice trails off, even as she glances about the room, her thoughts and feelings scattering like doves before some sudden loud noise.
Aeldris pauses for a moment, confused by the break in Crystal's calm. "Ah, certainly...lead on." En route to his rooms, he ponders her reaction. I seem to have said something upsetting...a fine start to my mission if I can't even befriend my own companion. Hmm...of course, she's probably been raised as if she were another elf. Upon reaching his rooms, he addresses Crystal. "I must apologize; I did not mean to offend earlier. I think I did not heed your Mother's words as closely as I should have."
"Thank you for showing me to my rooms. You should try and get a good night's rest; we leave at dawn tomorrow."
Crystal nods as she quickly stands and leads the Elven warrior towards his rooms.
Her walk quickly becomes more assured as she flits through the halls. Upon arriving at the rooms set aside for Sir Caresti, Crystal takes a small moment to show the Knight the room's amenities. Then she comes to stand near to him, hands clasped before herself and eyes still down cast.
"Does M'lord wish any further assistance?" She asks quietly.
Aeldris finds himself briefly distracted by Crystal's swaying hips before returning to himself. Perhaps I misjudged her...if Hanali herself has seen fit to bring us together, I should not be so quick to dismiss her abilities, or to question her heritage.
As Crystal shows him the room, Aeldris comments, "Excellent, these quarters are the finest I could have asked for."
On the conclusion of his brief tour, Aeldris tells Crystal the following, his delivery much like a general giving orders to his troops. "Only one thing--we depart in secrecy. You may tell others that you are leaving, but you must not mention my name; I do not wish to cause undue alarm among the common people. I must yet consider whether the same secrecy is called for outside of elven lands."
He adds one last comment, "Oh, and also--call me Aeldris. Formality has its place, but that place is not among companions on a vital mission."
"Excellent, these quarters are the finest I could have asked for."
On the conclusion of his brief tour, Aeldris tells Crystal the following, his delivery much like a general giving orders to his troops. "Only one thing--we depart in secrecy. You may tell others that you are leaving, but you must not mention my name; I do not wish to cause undue alarm among the common people. I must yet consider whether the same secrecy is called for outside of elven lands." He adds one last comment,
"Oh, and also--call me Aeldris. Formality has its place, but that place is not among companions on a vital mission."
Crystal nods and curtsies to Sir Caresti's words,
"As you wish, M'Lord." She acknowledges his commands then leaves him to his own devices as he is want. Heading to her rooms to make sure her things are ready for the early start as promised by Sir Caresti.