By all means, Asmodias, I relish the thought of primal fury induced combat! However, it will have to wait as my fellow councilmen wish for me to stay in the jungle and serve as 'home defence' but I WILL find a way to claim that sword and any thing I my eyes lay upon!
Then let a crack in reality appear in the jungle you supposedly rule, and let thousands of Imps enter to have a little fun!
Probe Omega One report:
Analysis of unknown metallic titan is inconclusive. Energy readings and behavioral patterns suggest it is a "concept creature," bound by laws of cosmic consonance like outsiders and deities. It's trail of creation and destruction ended at a flat mesa with anomalous dimensional properties and planar overlap. Probe 1 tentative conclusion: a new god has forged a new demiplane to reside in, readings indicate anarchic bias and creation/destruction portfolios. Probe 1 controllers deemed planar incursion to be too high-risk. Probe 1 proceeding to secondary investigation; human settlements. Initial readings show low techno/magical development, engaging infiltration protocols. Omega Probe One signing off.
Probe Omega Two report: Citadel did not respond to hails, initial contact with Lightscar uneventful. Attempts to collect samples of fluid-like substance all failed. Preliminary hypothesis, fluidic aether? Communication systems disrupted by immersion in fluid as previously anticipated by handlers, probe 2 began primary descent. No further anomalies recorded during primary descent, but post-action analysis suggests stealth systems were temporarily disabled and unbalanced by Lightscar's "otherworldly energies". Cavern network extensive, numerous aberrant lifeforms sighted, mostly avoided. Minor altercations, probe 2 casing undamaged. Stealth system discovered to be non-functional within fluid, adjustments to my tactics were made.
Exiting fluid, contact was re-established between Probe 2 and home base, orders received to continue mapping area. As analysis continued, signs of a human were discovered. I followed this foreign explorer, curious as to what was going on. Activation of unbalanced stealth protocols resulted in immediate discovery by my quarry. Uncategorized emotion experienced, I felt embarrassed at my mis-step, then afraid of the alien feelings. I presume this growing sense of sapience and will is a side-effect of exposure to lightscar energies.
I am...
Probe Omega Two, the Human Bo-Rak has been told you are not a threat. You may accompany him to the resting place of the Spear, and other items of interest. He will need your help dealing with them. I hope your probe can assume an appropriate humanoid form to help out. The hope of humanity rests on him.
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Probe Omega One report:
Analysis of unknown metallic titan is inconclusive. Energy readings and behavioral patterns suggest it is a "concept creature," bound by laws of cosmic consonance like outsiders and deities. It's trail of creation and destruction ended at a flat mesa with anomalous dimensional properties and planar overlap. Probe 1 tentative conclusion: a new god has forged a new demiplane to reside in, readings indicate anarchic bias and creation/destruction portfolios. Probe 1 controllers deemed planar incursion to be too high-risk. Probe 1 proceeding to secondary investigation; human settlements. Initial readings show low techno/magical development, engaging infiltration protocols. Omega Probe One signing off...
Interesting. I am not familiar with technology, but during my "destructions" I have come across it. I suggest you send Probe Omega One to the peak of the Obsidian Mountain. The Primevan "Alsokar" is about to reach the summit, where that sword is waiting to be pulled out by him. Due to my agreement with the Gorilla, I cannot interfere in any way. I can only watch with great pleasure like everyone else. I have used my godly senses to try to find out who is Calling him, but I am unable to find out. It is no matter. Either way the release of The Destroyer is inevitable, and I am very curious to see what will happen. Now back to my Dungeons and...
The Druid stared in awe and amazement at the great platinum beast before him, being cut off from his god and patron so subtly and softly, that even he, the most devout, did not notice. Looking back at the great city, the Druid looked upon it and saw visions of great forests being felled, of land being struck with metal objects and of the earth being drilled for ore of all kinds. Deep hatred settled in the druid's heart as his lips pursed and his form seethed.
Yet, his nature, as all elves, is fundamentally good. Just as the Druid would fall into darkness, he seemed to recover for just one moment, turning to ask the beautiful dragon.
"But, Great Dragon, is not this place that of Leafar, The Lord of Light? Does not he wish only good upon the world and its many creatures? Is it truly right to hate his city...?"
Leafar hears the druid speak his name and he blesses him.
"Blessed are you, my friend, for rejecting darkness for Light!"
Leafar then prays, and from the far north come seven White Dragons who have accepted the Light. They tell Leafar they will protect Lighton.
He is pleased.
The Druid stared in awe and amazement at the great platinum beast before him, being cut off from his god and patron so subtly and softly, that even he, the most devout, did not notice. Looking back at the great city, the Druid looked upon it and saw visions of great forests being felled, of land being struck with metal objects and of the earth being drilled for ore of all kinds. Deep hatred settled in the druid's heart as his lips pursed and his form seethed.
Yet, his nature, as all elves, is fundamentally good. Just as the Druid would fall into darkness, he seemed to recover for just one moment, turning to ask the beautiful dragon.
"But, Great Dragon, is not this place that of Leafar, The Lord of Light? Does not he wish only good upon the world and its many creatures? Is it truly right to hate his city...?"
The dragon looks agitated.
~Light can blind and burn, Gentle One. Leafar looks after those who worship him, for he desires to rule. But what has he done for the elven people? See the terrible maze he has constructed to keep you out. You know his ways are not your own. He is different. He is an enemy.~
The Druid stared in awe and amazement at the great platinum beast before him, being cut off from his god and patron so subtly and softly, that even he, the most devout, did not notice. Looking back at the great city, the Druid looked upon it and saw visions of great forests being felled, of land being struck with metal objects and of the earth being drilled for ore of all kinds. Deep hatred settled in the druid's heart as his lips pursed and his form seethed.
Yet, his nature, as all elves, is fundamentally good. Just as the Druid would fall into darkness, he seemed to recover for just one moment, turning to ask the beautiful dragon.
"But, Great Dragon, is not this place that of Leafar, The Lord of Light? Does not he wish only good upon the world and its many creatures? Is it truly right to hate his city...?"
Leafar hears the druid speak his name and he blesses him.
"Blessed are you, my friend, for rejecting darkness for Light!"
Leafar then prays, and from the far north come seven White Dragons who have accepted the Light. They tell Leafar they will protect Lighton.
He is pleased.
...The Druid stared in awe and amazement at the great platinum beast before him, being cut off from his god and patron so subtly and softly, that even he, the most devout, did not notice. Looking back at the great city, the Druid looked upon it and saw visions of great forests being felled, of land being struck with metal objects and of the earth being drilled for ore of all kinds. Deep hatred settled in the druid's heart as his lips pursed and his form seethed.
Yet, his nature, as all elves, is fundamentally good. Just as the Druid would fall into darkness, he seemed to recover for just
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I am lightminder, a minor deity and member of a deities co-op, I do hinges and little bendy things. Thieves pray to me and offer oil ritualistically to keep dreaded squeaks from giving them away. Young lovers sneaking out to hold hands and share dreams also offer me oils. On this world the greatest of my dreams is realized, from small seams of metal I use a great portion of my power to call onto being hinger-flies, like door hinges delicately wrought, that flap about and fly to live in oily corners, symbiotically harvesting a tithe of velvety flocks of slowly migrating moss, and depositing their spores as they rest from flapping clumsily.
The hinges persistently fly, and when too tired or too wind blown, they fold and unfold inch worming sideways. The moss thrives on oily things and waxy things and some soldiers intentially engender the moss as it camouflages their gear and silences the clatter in soft velvety layers. It is fire resistant and the velvety moss also loves to gather under the lips of cauldrons. In some races it has the effect when eaten of calming them in contentment , in others it is a stimulant that helps them work extra hours when the moss fouled candles come into use.
When the weather gets warm the effects of the moss are greater and rebellious youth lay their oil in puddles in the woods while hinger-flies flock and flutter, and when that have done their work a portion of the hinger-flies are netted to be sold to the smithy to be bashed out in sheets to make the armour that the moss most favours.
"The Murmur" said:
I see the rapidly approaching war, and my scattered mind races. I have never dealt with Dogon before, but his presence fills me with dread. I decide to cast one more die before settling down to watch.
I will approach Axerus and propose a trick—a collaboration to prolong the so-called 'inevitable' (a concept that seems antithetical to my very being). Dogon could easily overpower me, even from afar, and I cannot pull off my brilliant scheme alone.
Let us combine our powers to tinker with Dogon's obsidian mountain. Let it change from the Destroyer's resting place to his prison. Let a sword be plunged into the highest peak, and until that sword is drawn out by one who does not serve Dogon, let the Destroyer never be able to leave. Though he may wage war against the Vandans, they will ultimately be able to escape when they realize this.
It matters little to me who the destined entity is, nor does it matter to me what the sword itself can do. But let us ensure that the Destroyer's escape be something not entirely in Dogon's power.
Carlok (a chaotic neutral deity of smithing, artwork, and mad genius)
said:
Numbers and symbols and shapes and measures. I awaken. My hand holds the sword, it is the key and the lock, as the mountain is the beast and the prison. I release the hilt and travel to the east. The fire in my belly and the hammers of my hands speak of what I am. I am Carlok the Smith, I was called to my craft from whatever I being came before. I shall forge such wonders for this world that all shall look and despair of their perfection.
The sword itself is a dimensional labyrinth that has to be entered and mastered to actually draw the sword. Its power is to turn energy and forces back on themselves. Alone it's a regular magic sword, but when you try to trip a dragon with it you use the dragon's CMB (+feat and sword enhancement bonuses) instead of your own. Also it can shoot lasers, because lasers are awesome.
Alsokar reaches the peak, and he see's the Sword! He then releases now how it came to be there. It was a collaboration between three gods: the Murmur, Axerus, and Carlok. It was Carlok who crafted the sword, and placed it in the highest peak to imprison The Destroyer. Whatever color the sword was before it was stuck into stone, he knows not. However, now it is as black as the obsidian mountain it was plunged into too, so Alsokar calls it the Obsidian Sword.
He is alone on the peak, and he hears a voice tell him what to do:
To draw the sword you must first enter it. I will teach you how to master the labyrinth within. Now you must simply touch the sword. Good luck.
Alsokar takes a deep breath, and he touches the Obsidian Sword; he disappears within it...
I am lightminder, a minor deity and member of a deities co-op, I do hinges and little bendy things. Thieves pray to me and offer oil ritualistically to keep dreaded squeaks from giving them away. Young lovers sneaking out to hold hands and share dreams also offer me oils. On this world the greatest of my dreams is realized, from small seams of metal I use a great portion of my power to call onto being hinger-flies, like door hinges delicately wrought, that flap about and fly to live in oily corners, symbiotically harvesting a tithe of velvety flocks of slowly migrating moss, and depositing their spores as they rest from flapping clumsily.
The hinges persistently fly, and when too tired or too wind blown, they fold and unfold inch worming sideways. The moss thrives on oily things and waxy things and some soldiers intentially engender the moss as it camouflages their gear and silences the clatter in soft velvety layers. It is fire resistant and the velvety moss also loves to gather under the lips of cauldrons. In some races it has the effect when eaten of calming them in contentment , in others it is a stimulant that helps them work extra hours when the moss fouled candles come into use.
When the weather gets warm the effects of the moss are greater and rebellious youth lay their oil in puddles in the woods while hinger-flies flock and flutter, and when that have done their work a portion of the hinger-flies are netted to be sold to the smithy to be bashed out in sheets to make the armour that the moss most favours.
Lightminder, welcome to our world! By your name, I hope you will join me in the Lights, and help spread their message to all corners of this mostly undefined world. Blessings!
The Human Hunter Bo-Rak now has a companion on his quest, Probe Omega Two. Bo-Rak simply calls him Probe. Probe has taken a humanoid form, so he looks like a very tall, metallic man. To go through the caverns Probe has to duck a lot, but its okay. They journey this way for days, Bo-Rak talking the whole time about his father, Hu-Nar, and how he through the Spear of Humanity that shatters the Amulet of Annihilation; Probe just says "AFFIRMATIVE".
Finally, Bo-Rak senses that they are near. They go into a large, damp, moss covered cavern, and they see an unusual sight.
First, Bo-Rak sees the Spear of Humanity! It looks the same! Completely unchanged! Next to the spear is the skeleton of a dead Dogarr male. It is Vorrak, the former high priest of Dogan. Around his neck is the shattered Amulet of Annihilation still connected to it's chain. In the hand of the skeleton is the Sword of Destruction, which is grey in color.
Bo-Rak reaches out to take the Spear of Humanity. It feels warm in his hand. He then tries to get the amulet, but Probe stops him.
"NEGATIVE! MY HANDS TELL ME TOUCHING THE OBJECT WILL CAUSE HUMAN DEATH.
I WILL RETRIVE OBJECT FOR HUMAN."
The Probe reaches down and takes the amulet off Vorrak's neck, and he puts it into one of his compartments. He then reaches down and takes the Sword of Destruction.
"I WILL CARRY THIS WEAPON AND USE IT AS A HUMAN WOULD, IN ORDER TO APPEAR HUMAN AND NOT CAUSE UNWARRANTED FEAR RESPONSE."
Having no problem with that, Bo-Rak and Probe left the cavern, but as they left they did not notice that the skeleton of Vorrak began to move. Slowly at first, but then it stood and it's eyes burned red! Vorrak, now what others call a LICH, decided to follow them...
All beings who oppose darkness are welcome in the Labyrinth of Light!
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The One in Twenty sees the dragons approaching the city. It knows it is the stronger, but seven will be too many even for one such as it. It dares not strike directly—not without corrupting others to its cause.
And so it merely awaits Ae's response.
Meanwhile, a trio of dragons—one aluminium, one silver, and one platinum—make for Obsidian Mountain. The weapon meant to destroy them is about to be drawn, but they have other plans.
A familiar whisper, A clink of metal, numbers and letters and screams cross the floor. My hammer fists ring and the work is done. Bat and rat and D'kin combined form a creature of sound. Its birthing cry shatters it's crystal cage. Her children shall sing me such songs.
Songs, the ring of metal begs harmony, a ghost of memory demands attention. Master Exploder, a living bomb.
It is not enough, I seek the trident of power, and cast it into the center of the stone cloud. The city beneath the sea that now calls itself Krageroth is given a weapon and a challenge, claim your relevance.
The metal rings on.
** spoiler omitted **
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Ae sat in emotional turmoil, his Elven passion fueled into both hatred and inspiration, threatening to rip his mind apart. Ae had stared up at the great dragon widened, disturbed eyes as both corruption and blessing sought their way into his being.
Suddenly he dropped down into a deep meditation, closing his eyes and moving not even a muscle, making no sound and his breath so meek that one might judge him dead. Some time would pass before Ae would stand once more, the sun now having set and he declares for both God and Dragon to hear.
"I shall neither hate, nor side. My visions tell me that much life has been sacrificed for the birth of this city, much ground torn up and many a plant stomped or cut to its death. Such is the nature of Law and Civilization." - he shook his head and waved his hand sideways in denial: "Yet it is not against the order of things and does not upset the balance of nature, for this too is its incarnation. Should this city grow too large or people too greedy, however, nature shall strike back. Be warned, people of Lighton!"
Turning to the great dragon, the Druid humbly bowed, his robes hanging down to the very ground as he has made himself vulnerable before it in sincere apology. With all of the Elven emotion and charisma, Ae spoke in hopes of calming the dragon, if not attempting to make it see his conclusion. "Great dragon! There is truth in what you say. They have done nothing for my people, nor have they done anything for anyone. However, there is truth with Lighton and blessed Leafar as well, for it is only my people that can live without order to guide them, and even that I have come to doubt as of late. I thank you for your wisdom, and beg for your forgiveness of having to disagree, if only in part."
The Druid remained silent, awaiting his verdict at the mighty dragon's mercy.
And so as time passed, the elves grew drunk with their gifts from various gods and deities, basking in good fortune and nature's favoritism both. Before long, these fair creatures grew lax and lazy, eventually abandoning the path of progress and cultural development for pleasures and arrogance, as its need declined. Any diplomatic attempts to contact the elves were as futile as attempting to get the Earth's Child to focus his childish mind onto diplomatic issues and politics between his fellow gods, for the Elves would not waste their time upon lesser races. The World Tree witnessed this decline and as his little god rested within his mighty branches and leaves, he attempted to reach out and speak to his children... Only to have his words fall upon deft ears, for the sound of laughter and idle banter blotted his soft whispers out and deafening the elves to the voice of even their patron.
Yet somewhere within the forest two elongated, lean ears managed to focus upon the voice of their Father, hearing his worries and pleas. His name was Ae of the Oak and there was no Druid more dedicated to The Earth's Child and the World Tree than him, for he was indeed the last of them left. Upon hearing the Tree's divine guidance his soul would become greatly worried, for his eyes were opened to the wrongdoings of his kind. The next day, the Druid would set out on a grand venture, traveling towards the Labyrynth of Light to seek out Leafar the Light. The result of Ae's spiritual journey around the Earthmother's skin would determine the future of the Elven race, for he sought answers to questions of spirituality and meaning.
His journey is a vulnerable one, for his ears are open and whispers of both evil and good may enter them.
Ae of the Woods
** spoiler omitted **...
Ae of the Woods, I feel as though we have wronged you. I feel as though you have served the Earth Child and World Tree faithfully, so I offer you godhood! There is both a light and darkside of nature, and you can serve the Lights and Nature. Join us in godhood as a protector of nature. No one deserves it more. Plant a garden in Lighton and feel welcome here.
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Ae sat in emotional turmoil, his Elven passion fueled into both hatred and inspiration, threatening to rip his mind apart. Ae had stared up at the great dragon widened, disturbed eyes as both corruption and blessing sought their way into his being.
Suddenly he dropped down into a deep meditation, closing his eyes and moving not even a muscle, making no sound and his breath so meek that one might judge him dead. Some time would pass before Ae would stand once more, the sun now having set and he declares for both God and Dragon to hear.
"I shall neither hate, nor side. My visions tell me that much life has been sacrificed for the birth of this city, much ground torn up and many a plant stomped or cut to its death. Such is the nature of Law and Civilization." - he shook his head and waved his hand sideways in denial: "Yet it is not against the order of things and does not upset the balance of nature, for this too is its incarnation. Should this city grow too large or people too greedy, however, nature shall strike back. Be warned, people of Lighton!"
Turning to the great dragon, the Druid humbly bowed, his robes hanging down to the very ground as he has made himself vulnerable before it in sincere apology. With all of the Elven emotion and charisma, Ae spoke in hopes of calming the dragon, if not attempting to make it see his conclusion. "Great dragon! There is truth in what you say. They have done nothing for my people, nor have they done anything for anyone. However, there is truth with Lighton and blessed Leafar as well, for it is only my people that can live without order to guide them, and even that I have come to doubt as of late. I thank you for your wisdom, and beg for your forgiveness of having to disagree, if only in part."
The Druid remained silent, awaiting his verdict at the mighty dragon's mercy.
The dragons hiss, but quickly recover themselves. They sit up, proud and enormous.
~Then let me leave you on one final counsel, Ae. An offer has been made to you, and if you accept, you will be mighty indeed—a terrific demigod that strikes fear into the hearts of the wicked. But should you accept, you will be cast off, split away from the world you love. As a god, your connection with the Tree and Child will be severed. You will be doomed to a life as an immortal, never again to be united with that which means life to you.~
The dragon heads lower as one to stare into Ae's eyes, though no magical trickery is in them now.
~Or you can remain mortal, and weak. And you will be as limited as any other of your kind as you seek to accomplish your aims. This is the choice I give you.~
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The dragon offered Ae to remain mortal, while the god offered him godhood. Before the Druid the possibilities and things he could accomplish flashed in a brilliant light of inspiration, yet also came with it the impossible grief of no longer being connected to the World Tree and its creator. He was torn, and his body shivered to show it.
Temptation was great, yet loss was also painful. As with all things, however, Ae had found his inner centre within this turmoil. Found the eye of the storm, bringing him tranquility and clarity of mind as a different path opened up before the Druid. A path that could not possibly be more beneficial to nature.
"I can not explain in words of any language, even Elven, how honored I am and cannot possibly share my emotions... However a conclusion I have reached. I thank both of you, O' Leafar and Great Dragon." - the elf allowed a pause to settle in before he would continue with a decisive inhale of air. "However, I can not bring myself to be set apart from nature and all its wonders, for to be a god is to be above nature, even if still mysteriously within it, as is the Earth's Child. I shall remain mortal and I shall stay within the Circle of Life, for if I were to exit, I would not be able to understand it and in such, unable to fathom a way to truly guard it." - he turned to the great city before him: "However, a garden I shall indeed make. I shall take one of Lighton's residents and train him in the art of Druidism, so that he and his successors may watch over it. Leafar, I humbly request that you choose those who you deem to be worthy, and of them, I shall choose one who I deem worthy. In that, balance will be kept and none shall be shown favoritism."
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Unseen to Ae, the dragon vanishes from sight, slithering off on seven connected bellies. Lighton would not fall just yet. But war was coming, and the One in Twenty knew that if the war was to be as bloody as Axerus would wish, the war would have to start on the wrong foot.
Knowing this, the dragon teleported itself to the tribes of the human hunters. There, it called upon powers given it by the foul god of war and strife. Taking flesh from the graveyards surrounding the tribe, the One in Twenty crafted itself a human suit, molding dead skin and tissue into the form of an old warrior.
The dragon entered its disguise and entered the mighty camp. It told the humans of a platinum dragon—one of the seven the tribe has long sought. The platinum dragon rests now, slower, unable to use its teleportation. The hide is next to priceless, of course, but of even greater value will be the glory of being the first to catch one of the elusive monsters.
The hunt is on. And the target?
Nesting beneath the roots of the arrogant elves' precious tree.
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The dragon offered Ae to remain mortal, while the god offered him godhood. Before the Druid the possibilities and things he could accomplish flashed in a brilliant light of inspiration, yet also came with it the impossible grief of no longer being connected to the World Tree and its creator. He was torn, and his body shivered to show it.
Temptation was great, yet loss was also painful. As with all things, however, Ae had found his inner centre within this turmoil. Found the eye of the storm, bringing him tranquility and clarity of mind as a different path opened up before the Druid. A path that could not possibly be more beneficial to nature.
"I can not explain in words of any language, even Elven, how honored I am and cannot possibly share my emotions... However a conclusion I have reached. I thank both of you, O' Leafar and Great Dragon." - the elf allowed a pause to settle in before he would continue with a decisive inhale of air. "However, I can not bring myself to be set apart from nature and all its wonders, for to be a god is to be above nature, even if still mysteriously within it, as is the Earth's Child. I shall remain mortal and I shall stay within the Circle of Life, for if I were to exit, I would not be able to understand it and in such, unable to fathom a way to truly guard it." - he turned to the great city before him: "However, a garden I shall indeed make. I shall take one of Lighton's residents and train him in the art of Druidism, so that he and his successors may watch over it. Leafar, I humbly request that you choose those who you deem to be worthy, and of them, I shall choose one who I deem worthy. In that, balance will be kept and none shall be shown favoritism."
There is but one member of the Light who I can send. Long has she cared for the woodlands near Lighton, and there can be no one more worthy of your teachings. Her name is Netura, a proud Human Shaman who left her tribe to come to Lighton, and I offer her to you. Teach her well, Ae of the Woods.
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"Truly, she is worthy, O' Lord of Light. Let her remind those who live in Lighton to take what they need and not more nor less."
And so, in half a century's time, Lighton and Humanity would gain their first Druid. Truly, those who live for the hunt should have some kind of aptitude for these teachings and philosophy. And when her training would end, Ae would depart, leaving the woman old, yet able to live longer still, for it is her duty to pass on this knowledge to another.
But that time has not yet come.
--------------------------
The Elven Druids continue their training back in the Forest of Beginnings. Slowly, yet surely. Some, however, refuse to leave their sugar-coated cocoon as they further drown in their arrogance and pleasures, treating nature as consumers, rather than its guardians and children. The World Tree begins to grow angry with its children, little by little.
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Alas, I was unable to claim the sword and Asmodias defeated me with his infernal army, rendering me enraged more than ever! However, Primeva is more than acceptable as a new place of conquest (particularly its first city, as the Primevans no doubt built it in that spot for a reason and I intend to find out what) thanks to its many forested areas. My fellowcouncilman, Gulian, is a mighty forest spirit and the perfect ally to further my plans (as one of my methods to conquer the world is to turn it all into one giant forest, something he no doubt would like). Besides, after our titanic battle, Asmodias and I have come to an accordance. In exchange for aiding him, I will be able to keep my home and have all the goddesses as my wives. A fitting trade, I rule the material plane and gain a harem of beautiful women and Asmodias gets everything else.
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Alas, I was unable to claim the sword and Asmodias defeated me with his infernal army, rendering me enraged more than ever! However, Primeva is more than acceptable as a new place of conquest (particularly its first city, as the Primevans no doubt built it in that spot for a reason and I intend to find out what) thanks to its many forested areas. My fellowcouncilman, Gulian, is a mighty forest spirit and the perfect ally to further my plans (as one of my methods to conquer the world is to turn it all into one giant forest, something he no doubt would like). Besides, after our titanic battle, Asmodias and I have come to an accordance. In exchange for aiding him, I will be able to keep mymnd have all the goddesses as my wives. A fitting trade, I rule the material plane and gain a harem of beautiful women and Asmodias gets everything else.
If you come to Primeva, Gorilla God, then all that you will find is death! The Primevans will die defending their city and homeland. I make no deals with devils.
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However, little did Grodd know that the very forest spirit he spoke of, known as Nuah, possessed no sentience of his own, for whenever he acted - it was entirely unpredictable and lacked any reason a mortal or divine mind could comprehend.
However the most learned of individuals would understand this creature to possess a different kind of intelligence than that of traditional minds. A mysterious and incomprehensible one at that.
Perhaps Grodd would have an easier time negotiating with the World Tree, who is Nuah's avatar, creation and caretaker. Its roots spread far and wide throughout the earthen crust, giving birth to many a forest from its seeds.
I spend my days and nights singing. My people slowly come my valley to embrace undeath. I feel a change coming. Soon, IT shall be released and I hope IT will bring destruction to the Great Land of Primeva, and then the World of Beriya. Soon I hope my valley will be full. I shall sing another song...
Stuff
Sword stuff:
** spoiler omitted **[/ooc]
Krageroth:
** spoiler omitted **[/ooc]
Names:
** spoiler omitted **[/ooc]Arachne the dreamweaver, child of Carlock, mother of the psychic spiders who ride the strands of thought and feel, delivers a messaage to Grodd. "Father Carlock says if your ambition fails so easily, so be it. If you wish to settle for less than everything, come to my workshop. There is a blade and armor awaiting your re-match against the would-be lord of everything. Against a devil or a demon it shall never fail, though you might.
The 2nd anchor nudged up against the territory of some demi-urge or deity calling itself Leafar. I removed the offending arcanological construct quickly and am in negotiations for what reparations I may owe, but something "leaked" up the link into the fungal forest. Creatures(?) with an affinity for positive energy are floating around, and I suspect they are still "forming" for lack of a better word. I cannot be certain as they are quite elusive, and I don't want to destroy one while trying to capture it. According to the one scout drone that survived a close encounter with one, it was a rainbow-patterned being of light, but beneath the near-blinding aura were beautiful multicolored feathers and scales. but for all I know that was merely an illusion or a transitional form. They certainly don't listen when I try to call them, I suppose I need to ask this Leafar to come take a look; if he is not too mad at me, he may have helpful insight. He's a goody-good, so like as not he'll either forgive me or judge me. Either way I'm glad I never got around to trying that Necrotic Engine, someone else can bring Necromancy to this world.
Thank you so much for the generous gift, Bo-Ring of Seven! Is Seven the name of your homeland? It was not difficult to use my godly gifts to steal the Necrotic Engine. I have found it easy to find Humans, Primevans, and even Dogarr to train as Necromancers, and they will enjoy playing with the engine. Have a nice day! :)
Thank you so much for the generous gift, Bo-Ring of Seven! Is Seven the name of your homeland? It was not difficult to use my godly gifts to steal the Necrotic Engine. I have found it easy to find Humans, Primevans, and even Dogarr to train as Necromancers, and they will enjoy playing with the engine. Have a nice day! :)Fair enough, Ms. Night, though from now on I will have to ask you to stay out of my files. Some of those things are private, especially my, er, the folder marked "slashfic" which clearly could have been written by anyone*.
To be fair I'm sure some industry-minded minion of yours would have developed a similar design anyway. Just try to remember most folk don't like it if you pollute the groundwater. I mean you DO have a sense of smell, yes?
** spoiler omitted **
*Grodd/Axerus OTP!
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The World Tree. Ancient, verdant beauty and beckon of life itself. Once I have tapped into all that primordial energy, nothing shall stop me. But now is NOT the time to act, my recent defeats and failures have weakened me greatly so I'm in no condition to further my plans. For now, at the very heart of my home, I have ordered my faithful servants to construct the mighty 'Gorilla City' (in Steampunk fashion) so that I may recover and contemplate on the next step forward. I just hope that I make a full recovery soon, as I sense a new threat rising. The Agazanti are on the move and I will see to it that they are ALL wiped out - for they are NOT true apes! And if I have to align myself with the forces of light to achieve this, then so be it! Because I may be a villain, but right now, I'm on the heroes side.
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As apes and men ally and war, as dragons and druids are birthed and inspired, still the Murmur sleeps.
As weapons and machines are forged and stolen, as the dead walk the earth and great heroes walk labyrinths of the mind, still the Murmur sleeps.
As monsters and cultures are revived and uprooted, as human hunters march on the Forest of Beginnings and dragons fly to the Obsidian Mountain, the Murmur begins to dream.
He dreams of things long forgotten. Great mazes spun out of flax, caves full of spikes and gears and levers so numerous even their dusters have forgotten their purpose. Lakes of acid and cubes of magma. Aberrations and horrors of negative angles swim through the Murmur's mind. Dragons, too. He remembers the dragons. Like the rainbows his kind never knew, the dragons of every color fly through his dreams. When he was mortal, he worshiped them. The Avaricious was the greatest of all, though he's long forgotten her true name.
As he dreams, magic begins to seep from his brain into the world. He has gone too long without expending some of his deific might on the World of Creation, and it must be drained. It settles on the goblins of the jungle. These flying, fire-breathing terrors have been delighting in the fireworks gifted them by a clever false god, but they now live in terror of being captured and transformed by the same false god and his followers into living weapons.
In his nostalgic state, the dreaming god sympathizes with the creatures. Their goddess has all-but abandoned them, and they are too disorganized to put up resistance on their own.
As he dreams, the Murmur's magic begins to suffuse the forest. Those goblins climbing or flying are unaffected, but those few on the ground find themselves consumed with eldritch insanity.
And from the madness, there comes method.
These goblins grow, and grow, and grow, until they are almost as large as giants. And with their new size comes new understanding. New intellect.
These "trolls" are not exactly smarter in the traditional sense. They're still mad. But from the god of madness they have been given an understanding of their place in the world. They have been given an understanding of fortune and fate that makes them almost prescient.
And so the trolls set to corralling their wayward kin. Though it is difficult—the trolls are weak fliers—the goblins are ultimately gathered en masse. The trolls begin organizing them, as best as can be expected. A great and confusing army forms. The goblins learn to stick together, to focus their fire breathers on the flammable artillery and their acid spewers on living foes. And so Targeteer Akron and Bo-Ring of Seven find their control over the borders of the jungle begin to fray.
But the goblins wait to launch a full attack.
The trolls know the war has yet to come. And they know whoever initiates the war is doomed to absorb the brunt of it.
I emerged from the Obsidian Sword a different person. For me it felt like a hundred years have passed. I look up at the sky and knew that in this world no time had passed. I had journeyed through endless mazes, traps, and obstacles. I fought countless creatures and aberrations. In time I found what I was looking for, the Final Obstacle. I was near death, but I was ready to meet my Maker!
Then I discovered who had it was who Called me; it was me! Time had no meaning with the sword. I had been called countless times before in other timelines, always to meet the same fate, until my last incarnation decided to stop the endless loophole. I had Called myself!
"Slay me, Alsokar, and accept your fate," I said to myself.
I choked the life from him/me, and the last thing I saw within the sword maze was my own lifeless eyes looking back at me. I emerged into the "real" world. Now I could draw the Obsidian Sword.
However, I knew what would happen if I did. I hesitated just a moment, for I knew all of the destruction I would unleash. I knew that I would probably die, but nothing mattered anymore. I had come too far.
I pulled the sword, and it easily came out of the mountain. The Obsidian Sword felt weightless in my sword hand. It's surface was so black that I could see my own reflection. I looked so much older!
I felt the mountain start to shake, and I knew my doom.
"By the Gods, what have I done?"
I had just a moment to jump before the mountain exploded...
DOOM! I SEE THE MY PRISON EXPLODE! I SEE THE PIECES FLY IN ALL DIRECTIONS OF THE LAND! I SEE PIECES OF THE MOUNTAIN HIT PLACES AND DESTROY! I SEE DESTRUCTION! I AM DESTRUCTION!
OTHER GIANTS COME WITH ME! I SEE THEM NEAR. GIANTS OF STONE! GIANTS OF ICE! GIANTS OF FIRE FAR AWAY! RISE GIANTS! TIME TO DESTROY! ALL WILL BE DESTROYED!
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Through the air sails a dragon of shining platinum, snatching Alsokar out of the air. Seven heads roar as the dragon carries Alsokar and the dragon-slaying sword away from the mountain at breakneck speed.
Even as it does so, the aluminum and silver fly towards the mountain's center. They are creatures of evil, but the destruction of the world will mean their deaths—and the restoration of balance. They fly to do battle with the Destroyer.
Dragons Slain:
1 aluminum dragon killed by Hutan's hunters, now has a cult around it.
1 gold dragon killed by the Amulet of Annihilation
Dragons in Action:
1 silver dragon captured by Vanda, driven insane by crystals and worms.
1 platinum dragon serving Axerus, currently disguised and leading hunters to attack the elves.
1 platinum dragon in the roots of the World Tree.
1 platinum dragon who apparently impregnated Bo-Ring of Seven, now with tons of magic gear. Current whereabouts unknown; alimony lawsuit pending.
1 platinum dragon trying to get Alsokar and the sword away from the mountain.
1 silver dragon heading to fight the Destroyer.
1 aluminum dragon heading to fight the Destroyer.
Current Count: 18 (11 unlucky, 7 lucky)
Through the air sails a dragon of shining platinum, snatching Alsokar out of the air. Seven heads roar as the dragon carries Alsokar and the dragon-slaying sword away from the mountain at breakneck speed.
Even as it does so, the aluminum and silver fly towards the mountain's center. They are creatures of evil, but the destruction of the world will mean their deaths—and the restoration of balance. They fly to do battle with the Destroyer.
** spoiler omitted **
Include seven White Dragons in your dragon tracker; they leave Lighton and join the other dragons to fight the Destroyer. All of Primeva, and perhaps all of Beriya, are at stake.
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Urgency.
Ae looked north in a sudden feeling of dread, growing silent and distracted from his communal meditation. Slowly, the first signs of worries crawled their way onto his face, while his elongated ears twitched about, attempting to detect the subtle shiftings of the Ley Lines.
Suddenly, a vision struck him in a blast of burning pain, despair and terror. A mountain has risen in the north, spewing fire and stones all across the world as the Earthmother cried in pain with a voice that only the most devoted of Druids could hear.
"What is it, Teacher?" - spoke Netura as she too would break from her meditation, reflecting Ae's worried expression.
"Woe has come. I must go." - he replied back in simple words, his voice thick with a pleasant Elven accent.
"You must leave? But wh-" - her sentence was abrupted by a great burning stone soaring through the sky, only to land into Lighton.
Speaking not another word, Ae looked upon a tree beside him in a sudden urgent inspiration. Reaching out his hand, he stepped towards it... And the tree let him pass inside. His being, as if dissolved and concentrated into pure life energies, raced through the web hidden within the world's soil, through the World Tree's mighty roots, eventually to emerge back within the forest, stepping out from another tree in a green flash.
Elves of great numbers stood worried, making sounds of horror, astonishment and shock, all standing in a wide circle before the place Ae had arrived at. Confused, the Druid heard the sound of wooden flesh bending and creaking as a sorrowful cry echoed far and wide through the land. He looked up, only to see their patron's body impaled with a great obsidian rock, the edges of it burnt.
"Brother. You've come at a time of need. Some would say your timing is so perfect, it was guided here." - spoke a blonde elf dressed in robes of green, patterned with various leaf-like shapes as he bowed in greeting, to which Ae would respond likewise.
"Trouble brews in the north, brother. There is little time to talk. We must prepare for war." - replied the Druid.
"We are aware, Ae. The Father told us, right before the stone you see struck him."
"The Father has told you? - he spoke in surprise, staring at him wide-eyed, their conversation clearly heard as elves were not ones to disturb the peace of their forest with screams, be it of pain or of terror. "But how...? I am the only one to hear his voice within this generation."
The elf smiled knowingly and bowed, this time in respect, as student to teacher. "Your departure has worried us greatly precisely for that reason, Wise One. Due to unfortunate events, some of us have been dispelled of our visions of superiority and invulnerability. We have managed to open our ears, as our forefathers have. As you have."
"Then the Druids are once more... - a hope lit in Ae's heart. There was yet hope for his people to survive.
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Ae had gathered and lead the Druids, forming a thinly spread circle around the agonized World Tree. Linking their minds together through the Earthmother, he spoke and directed them as the Druids began to initiate a mighty healing process, reverberating the very continent with primeval life energies, yet also alerting all who has the means to find out of its occurrence. Perhaps it is now that the Platinum Dragon resting beneath the Tree would aid them most. One can never know, for Luck is a fickle thing.
Those Druids who lacked the strength to participate in the holy rite would spread and speak to their kin of the coming dangers, yet reactions were different. Some agreed to take up arms and defend their world, casting aside their cocoon of arrogance, while still others refused, saying that the lesser races should be the ones spilling their blood and that no enemy could assault their forest and stay alive.
The Elves, as always, were a slow lot. Their long years and lives often made them take too much time making important decisions, for they were unused to being hasty. This was one of those times.
Some agreed to take up arms and defend their world, casting aside their cocoon of arrogance, while still others refused, saying that the lesser races should be the ones spilling their blood and that no enemy could assault their forest and stay alive.
And even then, the army of human hunters approach. Scared and confused without guidance from Bo-Rak, they have been twisted by the silver tongue of the One in Twenty into believing that the quakes are but a passing thing. Bringing glory to Hutan is all that matters, and this platinum wyrm that dares to hide behind the callous elves' defenses must be hunted down for wealth and prosperity.
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The elves have seen them and knew of their approach. Those who have found the will to fight knew that they much protect the Druids and their ritual at all costs, be it from demons or from humans.
Who is the prey and who is the hunter? As the humans approached, a thousand bows awaited for them, hidden in the shadows of every bush, tree and branch, watching them from places undetectable to all but other elves, who are attuned to this forest.
However, arrows did not fly immediately. Making himself visible, a tall, dark-haired elf approached them, wearing a fine Elven garb styled in various forest-like patterns, holding up one hand in a sign of peace, with him, several other armed elves.
The man spoke in Elven with a mesmerizing and emotional tone, truly displaying the great charisma, passion and potential for inspiration hidden within the Elven heart. Although the humans could not understand his words, they would no doubt find the gentle notes of his language soothe their disturbed minds, if only for a second.
Though the elves are skilled and in their home turf, the humans are numerous, and all of them experienced in the hunt. They have been gifted powerful weapons by Hutan, as well. Things ultimately most likely favor the elves, but any battle that takes place here is guaranteed to be a bloody one.
In answer to the ambassador, the humans seem uneasy. An elder steps forward. The leader of the tribe speaks at length, his voice laced with the ringing tones of one under a powerful enchantment. The elves soon recognize this, but it is clear the entire tribe is under the faint influence of another.
The elder speaks of the elves' cruel isolationist ways, of their refusal to send aid during times of disaster. He speaks of the elves' unexplained malice towards any non-elf to enter the wood, and of their hoarding of the mysterious druidic magic. At last, he accuses the elves of actually causing the cataclysmic state currently afflicting the world.
The One in Twenty is nowhere to be seen. Meanwhile, though, a strange get approaches a large group of the loathsome creatures, reminding them of their hated Second Generation cousins.
Elves reacted swiftly, no words or thought even having time to surge through their heads as an arrow flew at the get from the woodland covers, straight at the get. It seemed its accuracy was almost improbable heading straight for its vital parts, fueled by a deep racial hatred for the creature. Perhaps, if the gods were kind, the arrow would miss or be dodged.