As the beers arrive, Aeldris pours himself and Crystal fresh glasses of wine; he leaves the discussion to those with experience of Pirak.
"Yes, this Pirak... fellow. Is he, she, or it a chained soul like the other you speak of? Or are these just tales of times past?"
"That doesn't sound much like a heroic rescue from the clutches of slavery. I'm afraid that I don't know much about Sunar, so the plight of his holy warriors is foreign to me. Were all his deeds equally... debatable in nature?"
UU gives Ardil a hard look and snaps her fingers to draw his attention. "You look on a warrior of Sunar right here. Unless you've fought to free a people and done a better job than Fireheart," her look says she finds that doubtful, "consider withholding your comments."
Crystal quietly nods in thanks to Aeldris for the refreshed wine glass, instead of her being offered a....beer...
At Udaya's actions and comments to Ardil she looks closer at the dusk skinned woman.
"Well, Pirak just is." Gerald drinks smoe more of his mug, "But if he has gathered you then things must be dire indeed."
He waves his hand over the table and creating a small image of the Seacoast Mountains, "Within, just up the path, is your next step. A once hallowed ground is now corrupted. It's state really isn't a matter for Pirak though." He snaps his fingers and the image disappears, "She's more content when things just are, well they work how they are supposed to be. Kinda boring if you ask me." Drinking again, "But he is tied to the land...all of the land. If the land sways on the mythical pendelum then so does Pirak. She can be your greatest friend, just someone who is there, or your worst enemy. Ideally he wants to just be. And it seems that aspect is asking for help."
Gerald sits back and smiles, the same sparkle flashing in his eyes, "So do you two ladies know each other?" He gestures to UU and Crystal, "There is always much to discover in the world and somes things are more fun to discover." A grin creases his face, "I'd be happy to assist."
It is evident he cares little for the events taking place and definitely seems to have more of an interest in UU and Crystal.
Crystal smiles,
No, Miss...?" She looks to Udaya to correct any errors in her address, "Udaya and my self really have only just met." She frowns slightly,
"Why do you keep changing the gender description of Pirax?" She asks, realising she has missed something that is probably rather important, leaning enticingly closer eager to hear the Gerald's reply.
Gerald laughs, "Because that is Pirak! Male then female and vice versa." Gerald laughs some more, finishes his mug and orders another.
Turning to UU.
"I mean no respect m'lady, please forgive my ignorance. I simply seek to know more."
He keeps quiet for a bit and lets Gerald talk to the ladies that seem to interest him more than anything he could conjure up.
"And Gerald... how do YOU come to know Pirak?"
Avala notices UU's obvious irritation with what seemed an innocuous comment by Ardil. She wonders if perhaps the woman has been persecuted in the past for her beliefs, or what might have occured to cause such a reaction.
She's offended on her brother's behalf that the woman snapped her fingers as though attracting the attention of a dog, but keeps her temper and her mouth shut and stays out of it.
She's got no desire to instigate any further disagreements, and of course, her knowledge of her brother's intentions could be masking her ability to understand that his comment could have been offensive.
Gerald turns at Avalas' question, "Why how direct of you little one." He smiles, "Perhaps I under-estimated you. And as to your question, well i've spent some time with Pirak of course. Though to most cases I think he would say I was more of annoyance." He laughs at his own humor, "She can be such fun!"
Geralds face goes serious and he seems to look to the ceiling, shaking his head he turns back to you all, "But to the point of all this, why do you all believe you are here?"
Turning to UU.
"I mean no respect m'lady, please forgive my ignorance. I simply seek to know more."
He keeps quiet for a bit and lets Gerald talk to the ladies that seem to interest him more than anything he could conjure up.
Lasch also keeps quiet. And takes notes.
With Gerald's serious question Lasch says:
"A dear friend of mine died under mysterious circumstances. Pirak appeared soon after to give the information this group has conveyed to you. I'm here because I want to know why such a promising intellectual had to pass away far too soon. I'm here because, as a general principle, elemental aspects of the earth don't just stride into my study. I'm here because, well Gerald, I need answers that aren't in a book. And trust me, I've read all of them."
His voice trembles a little.
Professor Lasch
The Festival of Blades today was outstanding. I could not think of a better send off. Perhaps the planning of this trip was scheduled to tie into this event. The honors for Kalav were equally spectacular, Kergoth was the finest weapons master I’ve had the privilege to witness. His display paid great homage to the craft and showed what dedicated practice can achieve. I think he will go far in the order. Though much of its doings are at a loss to me - after paying my due respects to Shiran and saying my goodbyes to my family; it will be nice if I am able to come home to visit. I have been told the journey will be a long one, but it will be shortened by the Minotaur vessel The Sea Bull; her speed being boosted by magic’s from the priestesses of Shiran.
Today has proven to be a good day for travel, the seas calm and the winds at our back. I am excited to see the Elven lands; I’ve been assured by our Captain that we will be stopping there for a few days. I’ve taken the time to learn select phrases from the ambassadors to be sure not to offend any elf I may come across. I do wish I had spent more time in study for their language but I was advised to be more fluent in other dialects, namely human and draconic. Draconic I thought was an odd request but after having had some correspondence with Yesrin, I am to replace him in his duties, I understand the importance of it. It would seem I will be meeting a Dragon! And I will be the emissary for our people as he was in relations dealing with him. I am truly excited for this mission after having spent my whole life in study it is truly an honor to get out into the world and practice my skills.
I have found it hard to write this, and I do apologize to myself, being at sea. It seems my body does not want to grow accustomed to this method of travel. Had I only seen the place once before I would’ve just shortened the journey with a snap of my fingers. But at least after more than a month at sea we have arrived at Kelsinko. Its beauty is something to behold, though I’m saddened to learn it is only an “outer” city for the elves and regrettable the capital Saldarne is too far inland for us to visit. Though I think I may return her on the trip home and take some time to myself to see the great city. I have sent word to my Uncle of our short stop and apologized for my inability to provide an unknown visit. Some of the dignitaries I’ve spoken with here in Kelsinko tell me he joins the royal court regularly, so it is good to hear that relations with elves are still strong.
The Kra Kingdom, true to dwarven style its walls, security and fortifications appear they will last for an eternity. Their stubborn nature is true to heart and from personally experience I must say you may never find a more loyal friend. I had told Gorn of my coming this way and was excited to see him on the docks waiting. Our stay was short but we did have time for a short tour. Some of the crew came along and shared in the pleasantness of the city. There was an order about everything that seemed peaceful. And the dwarves strict beliefs seemed to go hand in hand with that of the crew; in fact I do believe that do to having a friend here I may have strengthened relations with the dwarves of this city and the crew that regularly makes this trip. Already my skills as a diplomat have proven themselves.
We have been sent below decks, well at least those of us with less fighting experience have. It appears our destination is located in the human kingdom of Furp who is currently warring with their westerly neighbors. I now find myself wishing I had spent more study with sea magic’s, or at least the practiced hand with water activities. We are sailing south of Umari – Furps un-agreeable neighbor – and have been warned that battle may take place with any number of their vessels. Apparently it is a land campaign as well as sea. I must admit I will feel a great relief once we arrive at Drokara and make our way inland to the Seacoast Mountains.
Professor Lasch
I must say the people of Drokara are friendly; though I cannot count how many times I’ve been mistaken for an elf. Apparently there are not too many in these lands. No matter, I had been warned to be prepared for such misconceptions. We have met our dwarven escorts, all of them from the Mithrilshield Clan, they are a friendly people as well and just as thorough as their cousins in Rant. We shall be spending the remainder of the day here then moving out at dawn to go into the mountains to the outpost. I have spoken with Yesrin as well and all is in order for arrival. I must say again that I am thrilled for this assignment. I’ve heard the travel will be a few days into the mountains so I may not write again till our arrival there.
The Secret Hold, the Minotaurs named it, I believe in honor of one of their deities. The craftsmen ship has no comparison. I must confess that I am amazed at its beauty and the lack of magics used in its creation. All save for the entrance. The main doors were grand indeed, but the bridge to cross the chasm is not visible. I can see how this place could be overlooked with one just passing along the upper trails. The main hall; its pillars of the finest obsidian and the detail to the works is a true credit to the craftsman at hand. I shall have to inquire who all was involved in the creation of this place.
Yesrin is pleased with my knowledge and my previous studies, he has assured me I will spent ample more time in study and in particular to fey magics. Apparently the humans of Furp have not explored Havenwood, a wood on their northern border, and we are to assist in the task. There are several rumors of the wood, some ancient fey court ruling the wood, and some old temple to Sunar located within.
Today was a truly blessed day, I can now say I’ve had the pleasure to meet a dragon, and not just any dragon a Bronze Dragon. He is still young, at least by dragon standards, and Yesrin has introduced him as Kalver. Apparently his name is much longer but Kalver being the most pronounceable in most languages. We had to access his hold by magical means, apparently no one, even Yesrin, knows exactly where is ‘chamber’ is. But he is friendly that is for sure and is as full of questions about me and the mortal races as I have of him. I do hope he will be joining us on our expedition.
It has been several days since I could last write. I have been too busy with my duties and for that I apologize. Yesrin has gone, back to True Valley, and I must say I do miss the beauty of the valley. I do grow tired of these stone mountains and their mundane appearance. Ah, just a decade to serve here, then back home. I imagine the experiences I will be able to share when I return, and be able to share with you. It is one of the reasons I’ve kept this journal, I hope that at the end of this ordeal I will have enough coin to begin work on our own home. And with as much as I miss the home I’m thinking more and more…how do you feel about living outside the city? Perhaps near the woods or the lake?
I’ve found something interesting in an old tome; it has brought me back to an earlier thought. If the expedition is to go on into Havenwood I will encourage Kalver to join us. The tome references an ancient Wyrm being involved with the downfall of the temple. And from Kalver I’ve learned that Wyrm is a title given to elders of the dragon races; to add more in most cases it is a dragon who has lived past one thousand years! Imagine what he has seen? Of course if it is a vile dragon, I’ve also learned there are as many vile ones as good ones, I suppose he would not like to indulge in discussion.
Ardil doesn't wait to ponder Gerald's question. He smiles broadly.
"I am here because adventure and profit are to be found here. My sister and I seek to find the dwarves, who I now hear have inconveniently disappeared. It's unfortunate that finding them seems to be shrouded in such a cryptic mystery, but I guess it's all part of the adventure!"
Gerald looks at Ardil, "I think you have more in common with this task than you may think." His finger traces a design on the table; a symbol of arrows pointing in all directions. "There are answers for all of you."
He then turns his attention to Lasch, "Your friend heeded the warnings and saw some truth in them. It was his research that brought about his end. Was it worth it. No. But I believe it has served a purpose to provide conviction with you in this task."
UU seems to be studiously overlooking Gerald's interest in her.
"No, Miss...?"
"U or UU or Legs works for me. Sometimes Doc calls me 'Biscuit' when he's feeling frisky. Pick whatever works for you."
"I mean no disrespect m'lady, please forgive my ignorance. I simply seek to know more."
UU winces and gives him a small, amused, smile. "M'lady? Not too many mistake me for a lady, Master Ardil, and my ear isn't used to such lofty terms. Maybe I mistook your comment. It sounded like a criticism of a man trying to free others. If I heard you wrong, I'm sorry."
Crystal smiles , if looking a little 'blankly', at Udaya's reply. Though she does glance towards Aeldris Caresti, bu it is not clear whether it is panic, distress, amusement or a mixture of all three that appear briefly upon her features.
"Um...yes..certainly..." Crystal takes a sip more of wine.
"Thus far, it seems to be coincidence that has brought us here...though it is turning out to be quite the coincidence. And the gods can work in subtle ways. And some not so subtle." He says the last quietly, with a flicker of a glance towards Gerald.
Gerald nods at Aeldris' remark, "Well I shall leave you all to your thoughts, I do hope your story will be one I can tell." He stands gives you all slight bow then goes back to the stage to continue his performances for the night.
The rest of the night goes well and when you all find yourselves willing you retreat to your respective rooms.
Crystal
The comfort of your room is welcoming a nice change from the bed on the ship. As you begin to drift off you notice you are no longer alone in your room. A female figure moves over to you, human in appearance, and very attractive. She moves onto the bed with you and gentle purrs, “So lovely you are. Have you been told that before?” She gentle moves the hair from your face, “I would like to offer you something my sweet. Would you be interested?”
UU
The bed is comfortable, a nice change from the accommodations on the ship. Your sleep is restful though plagued with a nightmare…You feel like a bird, flying over a great plains, villages below and families going about their business. You look to the west and increase your speed. Soon you see a battlefront; men battling men, orcs and beasts. In this dream you see the spectral images of angels coming to gather the deceased those still living unaware of the angelic presence. The men of good appear to be losing the battle and losing much ground.
Your direction shifts and you look back to the east; the Seacoast mountains you see in the distance and from behind you can feel the darkness spreading. Soon the darkness is around you, increasing your speed you fly towards the mountains and yet the darkness still catches up. Soon it envelops you and the land. It invades the mountains and then…then a spark…it grows…as if the sun itself is protruding from a point in the mountain. All the land is in darkness save this one place…
You awake as dawns light enters through the shuddered windows your dream over.
Ardil and Avala
Your rest is pleasant, the beds a welcome change from the road. Your dreams take you back to Farkep and further into the mountains. A tower sits there showing no entrance at its lower level. Its top decorated with plain windows. The vision moves you in – a man, wearing dark robes his face covered stands there talking with a grey skinned orc. “The mountains are ours,” the orc says, “We stand ready to make the final push at Farkep and from there the rest of the island.” A cold voice comes from under the hood, “Hold the mountains and maintain the borders, we shall push further once we have the key. I must make sure he still sleeps first.”
The mage turns as if looking in your direction and suddenly your vision pulls you away in a quick blur…you wake sitting upright your heart racing.
Aeldris
Returning to you room you make contact with your Lord, “The queen has gotten worse, she is not completely bed ridden. She speaks but in a language foreign to our lands. The priests believe there is deity influence in this as none of their arts work to end her suffering or allow them to understand the tongue. What is your status? Have you learned anything of what is to be done?”
Professor Lasch
Thorym Heartstone of the Clan Mithrilshield arrived today. He is to be our liaison with the dwarven clan. I’ve spoken with him and he is very knowledgeable and secretive as the dwarves have continued to be here. Through his attire and his own testament he is a very devout follower of Moradin the head of their pantheon of deities. Apparently the dwarves feel Moradin is the creator of their race and forged them in his own image; at the completion of the creating he breathed life into them. It is all a fascinating belief and one I don’t feel the need to re-detail here as I am not in the practice of religious studies. Though I believe him to be a priest he claims to be simply an ambassador. Through study of many texts and minor conversations I’ve discovered only few of us here are aware of Kalver and as such it would be almost impossible for him to join in on the expedition to Havenwood; which I’ve also learned may never take place. Apparently Thoryms’ appearance is turning more into one of asking for aid. It seems his clan is under some form of hostile relations with a race deep in the mountain.
Finally some clarity to my earlier entry; the dwarves have been warring with a mountain giant clan within the range and just recently have been ‘probed’ (Thoryms’ words not mine) by an older enemy from deeper underground. He has remained steadfast in the secretiveness of this old enemy. General Inaara has promised a small contingent of a military force (I believe about twelve soldiers) to the dwarves. He wants to keep peaceful relations with them, and doesn’t want to send more to their aid until they become more forthcoming with information.
Kalver and I have begun works on some defenses, well certain defenses I should say. Currently I am the only one, other than my predecessor, that knows how to get to Kalver and we plan to keep it that way. I’ve begun defenses for certain areas of the ‘Keep’, namely I’ve been able to put some use to craft albeit with the help of Rendor Forikson the Minotaur High Priest. I have high hopes the golems will all be in place and functional within the month. I’m going to entrust the key to bypass them with Kalver as I cannot envision a better protector. I’ve informed General Inaara of this and am glad to say he is in complete agreement.
It has been a busy month; the soldiers have not returned and the golems are in place. Sir Brisco Fireheart also arrived today, a holy warrior from the human kingdom of Furp. His purpose here I’m not sure of but I’m not privy to all the finer details of this place. He is a pleasure to talk too and is curious of me and our ways as I am of his. I hope to have more time to discuss things with him though I feel I may not be able too. General Inaara has tasked me specifically with finding out what I can about this threat to the dwarven clan.
I have found something disturbing to me; I think it is relevant to this ‘threat’. It seems, if I’ve interpreted the tomes correctly, that during the God War the elves had a large group of their population abandon their believes and follow someone named Lolth in a civil war. The end result was Lolth losing the battle when the elven deities themselves intervened on the battlefield chasing those who abandoned them into the underdark. The texts refer to this off-shoot of the elven race as Drow.
Two of our soldiers have returned with a small dwarf contingent. Apparently the dwarves were escorts for our men. I was pleased to be invited to the debrief. And I am equally stunned by what was said. The remainder of our forces that went where all deceased, fallen in combat. The enemy is in fact these Drow I found record of and apparently the dwarves went through a similar civil war as the elves. Duergar or Dark Dwarf was their respective branching; apparently following some dark deity named Abbathor. If I understand things correctly there are working with one another attempting to get something from the Mithrilshield Clan. Thorym will not say what they are after just that it’s something they gave a God Oath to protect. General Inaara has sent more soldiers both of our peoples and the Minotaurs. It seems dark times have come. Perhaps there was some insight the General had when he had me focus on those defenses. I find myself now wondering what those Golems are guarding and when, if I will ever return home to you. I pray to Shiran every day for her blessing and to return home safely.
It has been many days since I wrote last, things have gotten worse and better. I say worse because of the ‘state’ we are in. Constant patrols and checkpoints, magical barrier tests and searches for traces of hostile magic’s. What feats are these Drow and Duergar capable of? The better news is the Giants have been contained to one area in the mountains and have broken off all of their attacks. The dwarves truly have mastered fighting this larger race. I assisted in the last push and I must say their tactics are sound and effective. I imagine the General has learned something from witnessing their tactics.
Not wanting to worry his sister, Ardil keeps the dream to himself, waving it off as just another bad dream.
In the morning, he comes down the stairs to have his breakfast around the normal time. He sits and eats quietly pondering the events of the previous night and the cryptic messages the bard has left them.
CrystalSpoiler:The comfort of your room is welcoming a nice change from the bed on the ship. As you begin to drift off you notice you are no longer alone in your room. A female figure moves over to you, human in appearance, and very attractive. She moves onto the bed with you and gentle purrs, “So lovely you are. Have you been told that before?” She gentle moves the hair from your face, “I would like to offer you something my sweet. Would you be interested?”
Crystal comes back to the waking world slowly, initially thinking this apparition is some small part of the wine. As her senses sharpen though, she realises she is no longer alone in her chambers.
She sits up slowly, pulling the sheets up to cover herself,
"Uhm, am I still dreaming?" She asks, speaking slowly as if still not quite awake.
Even as she stalls, Crystal tries to work out who this mysterious stranger might be.
Crystal
She has little clothing on and what is on is placed in its most provocative fashion. “Dreaming? Why no. But perhaps I can make some of your dreams come to fruition.” She continues to gentle touch Crystal, not forcing any issues but just enough to be evidently attempting to seduce her.
Well, the church of Hanali is the Elven belief in Romantic Love and Beauty. So, if she's very beautiful and is romantic enough, I think Crystal will turn the whole affair into a sort of 'sacred ritual' to her goddess. :) So, unless Crystal needs some other saves against/for anything, then yes Crystal has a very good night.
A Bluff skill of the highest order for Crystal to try and 'minimise' the presence of her tail? ;)
Crystal
No saves are necessary at this point. Hiding her tail will fail and in its discovery it only seems to delight her. If Crystal becomes embarrassed about its discovery the stranger will make every effort to comfort her and expresses that there is no shame in her difference and that her lineage is a long one. “There is much of yourself you have hidden, but if you just let it show you will find new abilities hidden within.” And if you allow her, Crystal does have a very good night and at the end, “You and your companions are getting involved in something that very much interests me. I wonder if I could ask you to gather some information for me.” She removes a silver coin; one side plain and other an etching of arrows pointing in all directions, “Hold this for me so I may find you.”
So, maybe a bluff for Crystal to not let on about all the possible things she is going to do to this weird token after her very mysterious and open, yet still largely unknown stranger is?
Crystal might also like to get a name, maybe working the question into a joke or small talk to possibly catch them off guard.
Crystal
Yes Mother would have explained many things to her, and yes explained why she was different from the ‘other’ kids.
“You may call me pleasure,” She gives you a sly smile, “After all that is the greatest gift I can offer you.”
When Crystal wakes in the morning she will find herself alone in the room and the window open.
Come the dawn Crystal awakens feeling free and refreshed. Then she remembers her night and looks around the room. Spying the open window, Crystal's first act is to check her belongings and valuables.
Finding everything in order, she makes use of the Inn's services and has another bath.
Then, washed and dressed, she almost skips into the dining area to breakfast with every one else.
"Morning!"
"That is grim news my lord. My experiences thus far also point to divine influences. Upon our arrival, we were recommended to a particular inn by the ship's captain, where we met a number of peculiar individuals. Several of them had been contacted by a being by the name of Pirak; and later in the night, we made the acquaintance of a rather strange fellow by the name of Gerald, who was acquainted with this Pirak. He was apparently human, but....strange. He knew much, and held an odd power over the room."
"The only real clue I have obtained, however, regards the dwarf-folk; apparently, contact with the outside world has been cut off entirely. With your leave, I will investigate this lead with the aid of my new companions."
Crystal
All of Crystals belongings are there in the morning, though as she scurries about the room she feels more agile () and as she finally finds the comfort in her security she arranges for a bath.
Her feeling of agility remains and as she baths she feels a familiar voice in her mind, "My gifts can be permanent my love, you need only give yourself to me and embrace your heritage."
When she leaves the tub she feels her normal self.
Aeldris
"Interesting. I will have the sages looking into the names and hopefully i'll have news for you next we speak. Rest easy in those strange lands."
Avala is disturbed by the dream and hurries down to breakfast the next morning to discuss it with Ardil. Joining him at the table, she immediately launches into a recap of her dream in hushed tones.
"The man in dark robes I didn't recognize, but the orc was the same breed as the filth that murdered our father" she ends.
Suddenly she remembers something.
"Ardil - do you remember the symbol the bard traced upon the table with his finger last night during your talk? Seemed to me it resembled the symbol worn by those orcs - the arrows pointing in many directions."
Ardil's expression hardens at the mention of his father's death. Avala has avoided talking about it, and it's become somewhat of a taboo subject between them. The thought of it still makes him sad. A matter is at hand, however...
"Orcs... they're lal filth! I had a similar dream myself! Perhaps it was sent to us by the gods... or maybe that bard cast something on it. I wonder what that means. What would low life orcs be doing with a powerful symbol? I don't know anything about what this symbol may mean. Maybe one of our new companions has an idea. Gerald seemed to imply that it has something to do with the reasons each of us is here."
He waits for one of the elves or Lasch to come downstairs to ask them about it, talking back and forth with Avala about the events of the evening and the dream.
Though happy to be off the boat, Aeldris does not sleep well, his mind racing with the strange developments of the previous night.
Despite this, he appears in the common room looking refined and collected as usual. He is dressed similarly to the previous night, and carries no weapons or armor except a dagger at his hip. He arrives just before Crystal, and offers no comment on her disposition save for a briefly raised eyebrow.
UU strolls into the dining room tying her hair into a ponytail with a leather thong. She drops ungracefully into a chair at the table. She looks at the mixture of expressions of those present before saying brightly, "Mornin', kids! How are we doing today?"
Crystal continues to smile happily at the others as they gather around the morning table.
At the mention of pointy-arrow-stars she frowns, honestly puzzled by what such a thing could mean.
At Udaya's 'plonking' herself down at the table and rumbustious comment, Crystal smiles again,
"I am fine, freind Uday." She responds to the other woman's question, then she turns to the others.
"Perhaps we should use the facilities of the city to search for information on this pointy-star-thing? Try and find books in the libraries? Ask Sages, that sort of thing?" She suggests helpfully.
"The other option would be to immediately set out to investigate the disappearance of the dwarves. While more information about this strange symbol would be welcome, I am unsure it is the most pressing matter before us."
"I am fine, freind Uday."
UU responds lightly, "Please, say 'UU'. It's bad enough Doc calls me Udaya without the rest of you picking up his bad habits." She's clearly kidding.
Without preamble, she drops a more serious thought, "I think we need to head into the Seacoast Mountains. Salvation of some sort will come from there."
Roughly after an hour that you all have been sitting and enjoying your breakfast Professor Lasch comes down the stairs still looking tired. He comes over and joins you all at the table, quickly orders some food then focuses on the group, “My apologies I was up a bit late last night pouring over a tome.” He looks at UU, “You recall the book from the library? I’ve transcribed a section of it and it appears to be a journal of this same journey.” Sighing, “I do not know who penned it though. I’ve found no signature yet to the works. It has been an interesting read thus far and after breakfast I would like to offer you all a chance to read what I’ve transcribed. More minds are always better than one.”
After you all finish your breakfast, “Perhaps we can return to one of the rooms. I believe the elves purchased rather luxurious rooms with enough space for us all?”
Aeldris offering up his room you all go upstairs and gather in the common room there. Lasch makes a quick trip to his room and returns with several pieces of parchment. “Please take the time to read these and after all have I think it would be prudent to discuss our opinions of it.” He sets the parchments on the table.
The Festival of Blades today was outstanding. I could not think of a better send off. Perhaps the planning of this trip was scheduled to tie into this event. The honors for Kalav were equally spectacular, Kergoth was the finest weapons master I’ve had the privilege to witness. His display paid great homage to the craft and showed what dedicated practice can achieve. I think he will go far in the order. Though much of its doings are at a loss to me - after paying my due respects to Shiran and saying my goodbyes to my family; it will be nice if I am able to come home to visit. I have been told the journey will be a long one, but it will be shortened by the Minotaur vessel The Sea Bull; her speed being boosted by magic’s from the priestesses of Shiran.
Today has proven to be a good day for travel, the seas calm and the winds at our back. I am excited to see the Elven lands; I’ve been assured by our Captain that we will be stopping there for a few days. I’ve taken the time to learn select phrases from the ambassadors to be sure not to offend any elf I may come across. I do wish I had spent more time in study for their language but I was advised to be more fluent in other dialects, namely human and draconic. Draconic I thought was an odd request but after having had some correspondence with Yesrin, I am to replace him in his duties, I understand the importance of it. It would seem I will be meeting a Dragon! And I will be the emissary for our people as he was in relations dealing with him. I am truly excited for this mission after having spent my whole life in study it is truly an honor to get out into the world and practice my skills.
I have found it hard to write this, and I do apologize to myself, being at sea. It seems my body does not want to grow accustomed to this method of travel. Had I only seen the place once before I would’ve just shortened the journey with a snap of my fingers. But at least after more than a month at sea we have arrived at Kelsinko. Its beauty is something to behold, though I’m saddened to learn it is only an “outer” city for the elves and regrettable the capital Saldarne is too far inland for us to visit. Though I think I may return her on the trip home and take some time to myself to see the great city. I have sent word to my Uncle of our short stop and apologized for my inability to provide an unknown visit. Some of the dignitaries I’ve spoken with here in Kelsinko tell me he joins the royal court regularly, so it is good to hear that relations with elves are still strong.
The Kra Kingdom, true to dwarven style its walls, security and fortifications appear they will last for an eternity. Their stubborn nature is true to heart and from personally experience I must say you may never find a more loyal friend. I had told Gorn of my coming this way and was excited to see him on the docks waiting. Our stay was short but we did have time for a short tour. Some of the crew came along and shared in the pleasantness of the city. There was an order about everything that seemed peaceful. And the dwarves strict beliefs seemed to go hand in hand with that of the crew; in fact I do believe that do to having a friend here I may have strengthened relations with the dwarves of this city and the crew that regularly makes this trip. Already my skills as a diplomat have proven themselves.
We have been sent below decks, well at least those of us with less fighting experience have. It appears our destination is located in the human kingdom of Furp who is currently warring with their westerly neighbors. I now find myself wishing I had spent more study with sea magic’s, or at least the practiced hand with water activities. We are sailing south of Umari – Furps un-agreeable neighbor – and have been warned that battle may take place with any number of their vessels. Apparently it is a land campaign as well as sea. I must admit I will feel a great relief once we arrive at Drokara and make our way inland to the Seacoast Mountains.
I must say the people of Drokara are friendly; though I cannot count how many times I’ve been mistaken for an elf. Apparently there are not too many in these lands. No matter, I had been warned to be prepared for such misconceptions. We have met our dwarven escorts, all of them from the Mithrilshield Clan, they are a friendly people as well and just as thorough as their cousins in Rant. We shall be spending the remainder of the day here then moving out at dawn to go into the mountains to the outpost. I have spoken with Yesrin as well and all is in order for arrival. I must say again that I am thrilled for this assignment. I’ve heard the travel will be a few days into the mountains so I may not write again till our arrival there.
The Secret Hold, the Minotaurs named it, I believe in honor of one of their deities. The craftsmen ship has no comparison. I must confess that I am amazed at its beauty and the lack of magics used in its creation. All save for the entrance. The main doors were grand indeed, but the bridge to cross the chasm is not visible. I can see how this place could be overlooked with one just passing along the upper trails. The main hall; its pillars of the finest obsidian and the detail to the works is a true credit to the craftsman at hand. I shall have to inquire who all was involved in the creation of this place.
Yesrin is pleased with my knowledge and my previous studies, he has assured me I will spent ample more time in study and in particular to fey magics. Apparently the humans of Furp have not explored Havenwood, a wood on their northern border, and we are to assist in the task. There are several rumors of the wood, some ancient fey court ruling the wood, and some old temple to Sunar located within.
Today was a truly blessed day, I can now say I’ve had the pleasure to meet a dragon, and not just any dragon a Bronze Dragon. He is still young, at least by dragon standards, and Yesrin has introduced him as Kalver. Apparently his name is much longer but Kalver being the most pronounceable in most languages. We had to access his hold by magical means, apparently no one, even Yesrin, knows exactly where is ‘chamber’ is. But he is friendly that is for sure and is as full of questions about me and the mortal races as I have of him. I do hope he will be joining us on our expedition.
It has been several days since I could last write. I have been too busy with my duties and for that I apologize. Yesrin has gone, back to True Valley, and I must say I do miss the beauty of the valley. I do grow tired of these stone mountains and their mundane appearance. Ah, just a decade to serve here, then back home. I imagine the experiences I will be able to share when I return, and be able to share with you. It is one of the reasons I’ve kept this journal, I hope that at the end of this ordeal I will have enough coin to begin work on our own home. And with as much as I miss the home I’m thinking more and more…how do you feel about living outside the city? Perhaps near the woods or the lake?
I’ve found something interesting in an old tome; it has brought me back to an earlier thought. If the expedition is to go on into Havenwood I will encourage Kalver to join us. The tome references an ancient Wyrm being involved with the downfall of the temple. And from Kalver I’ve learned that Wyrm is a title given to elders of the dragon races; to add more in most cases it is a dragon who has lived past one thousand years! Imagine what he has seen? Of course if it is a vile dragon, I’ve also learned there are as many vile ones as good ones, I suppose he would not like to indulge in discussion.
Thorym Heartstone of the Clan Mithrilshield arrived today. He is to be our liaison with the dwarven clan. I’ve spoken with him and he is very knowledgeable and secretive as the dwarves have continued to be here. Through his attire and his own testament he is a very devout follower of Moradin the head of their pantheon of deities. Apparently the dwarves feel Moradin is the creator of their race and forged them in his own image; at the completion of the creating he breathed life into them. It is all a fascinating belief and one I don’t feel the need to re-detail here as I am not in the practice of religious studies. Though I believe him to be a priest he claims to be simply an ambassador. Through study of many texts and minor conversations I’ve discovered only few of us here are aware of Kalver and as such it would be almost impossible for him to join in on the expedition to Havenwood; which I’ve also learned may never take place. Apparently Thoryms’ appearance is turning more into one of asking for aid. It seems his clan is under some form of hostile relations with a race deep in the mountain.
Finally some clarity to my earlier entry; the dwarves have been warring with a mountain giant clan within the range and just recently have been ‘probed’ (Thoryms’ words not mine) by an older enemy from deeper underground. He has remained steadfast in the secretiveness of this old enemy. General Inaara has promised a small contingent of a military force (I believe about twelve soldiers) to the dwarves. He wants to keep peaceful relations with them, and doesn’t want to send more to their aid until they become more forthcoming with information.
Kalver and I have begun works on some defenses, well certain defenses I should say. Currently I am the only one, other than my predecessor, that knows how to get to Kalver and we plan to keep it that way. I’ve begun defenses for certain areas of the ‘Keep’, namely I’ve been able to put some use to craft albeit with the help of Rendor Forikson the Minotaur High Priest. I have high hopes the golems will all be in place and functional within the month. I’m going to entrust the key to bypass them with Kalver as I cannot envision a better protector. I’ve informed General Inaara of this and am glad to say he is in complete agreement.
It has been a busy month; the soldiers have not returned and the golems are in place. Sir Brisco Fireheart also arrived today, a holy warrior from the human kingdom of Furp. His purpose here I’m not sure of but I’m not privy to all the finer details of this place. He is a pleasure to talk too and is curious of me and our ways as I am of his. I hope to have more time to discuss things with him though I feel I may not be able too. General Inaara has tasked me specifically with finding out what I can about this threat to the dwarven clan.
I have found something disturbing to me; I think it is relevant to this ‘threat’. It seems, if I’ve interpreted the tomes correctly, that during the God War the elves had a large group of their population abandon their believes and follow someone named Lolth in a civil war. The end result was Lolth losing the battle when the elven deities themselves intervened on the battlefield chasing those who abandoned them into the underdark. The texts refer to this off-shoot of the elven race as Drow.
Two of our soldiers have returned with a small dwarf contingent. Apparently the dwarves were escorts for our men. I was pleased to be invited to the debrief. And I am equally stunned by what was said. The remainder of our forces that went where all deceased, fallen in combat. The enemy is in fact these Drow I found record of and apparently the dwarves went through a similar civil war as the elves. Duergar or Dark Dwarf was their respective branching; apparently following some dark deity named Abbathor. If I understand things correctly there are working with one another attempting to get something from the Mithrilshield Clan. Thorym will not say what they are after just that it’s something they gave a God Oath to protect. General Inaara has sent more soldiers both of our peoples and the Minotaurs. It seems dark times have come. Perhaps there was some insight the General had when he had me focus on those defenses. I find myself now wondering what those Golems are guarding and when, if I will ever return home to you. I pray to Shiran every day for her blessing and to return home safely.
It has been many days since I wrote last, things have gotten worse and better. I say worse because of the ‘state’ we are in. Constant patrols and checkpoints, magical barrier tests and searches for traces of hostile magic’s. What feats are these Drow and Duergar capable of? The better news is the Giants have been contained to one area in the mountains and have broken off all of their attacks. The dwarves truly have mastered fighting this larger race. I assisted in the last push and I must say their tactics are sound and effective. I imagine the General has learned something from witnessing their tactics.
Crystal blinks at the...mature Humans words. Not at the implied offer that she would allow these others to share her 'personal' space, but at the description of her room as 'Luxurious'....
Crystal will again be happy to await her turn in the order of things in which to read these documents.
Aeldris is surprised by several aspects of the journal--the apparent knowledge of the writer regarding elven cities, his mention of being mistaken for an elf, and the mention of the drow.
"Perhaps these 'duergar' are related to the recent disappearance of the dwarves? In which case, I do not know if they will be receptive to our aid; but I think we must take care as we head into the mountains."
Avala sits back after reading the documents. Very clearly there's more at play here than grey orcs. She's heard of wyrms , of course, but as none had been seen in her home in centuries, stories of them had slipped into the realm of legend and most were told to entertain the children. She has no recollection of a story with characters like this that wasn't meant as pure entertainment.
"Lasch - how old is this book? No wyrms have been spoken of in this area for centuries!"
As for these beings called Drow and Duergar , Avala has not even heard legends.
She suspects the dwarven cook could probably tell them more.
Lasch looks at Avala, no smile is there while he responds, "I honestly don't know. The books bindings are fresh as if just scribed over a month ago, maybe two. But nothing more." Confidence returns to his face, "What I do know is that for the entirity of my life working in Library at the school this book was never there. I think it might be tied into Piraks' presence as well."
Crystal reads through the pages of the tome, though she listens more intently to what is said by those sitting around her in the room. The words 'Duergar' (And probably Drow) not immediately meaning anything to herself, either.
Once every one has perused the manuscript she smiles,
"Well? Shall we put the small amount of time we plan on being here in town to good use?" She asks.
"I would like to see more of the local culture." She blushes slightly, hoping her words are not perhaps taken the wrong way.
Lasch nods at Crystals words, "A visit of the town might be a bit much. However if this journal is pointing to the direction we need to go; I suggest we do make sure to have enough provisions for the journey into the mountians."
"I agree. The journal does seem to be pointing us toward the mountains. However - on our way out, I think we should stop and have a chat with the dwarven cook here and see what insight he can provide.
"Perhaps also with the captain of the Sea Bull . Didn't you all arrive on the Sea Bull ? And here I see it mentioned again in the journal. Perhaps the captain will have some memory of the person who kept this journal."
"At the very least, it solves a bit of the mystery, for if it's indeed the same ship, this journal certainly cannot be thousands or hundreds of years old."
Crystal nods, acknowledging that Avala's words are correct.
"Though remember, a ship is like a house or sword. Many owners does such a thing pass through in its' life time..." She adds quietly, seeking to point out that the same ship does not equal the same captain.
"Of course. But it's at least worth a try, and it's a better place to start than just wandering blindly into unknown mountains."
Avala gives Crystal a wink and a smile.