Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Wednesday December 12th, 2018 5:25:25 AM
Jass attaches himself to Bralin and Tahni, vaguely waving towards the harbor. “ A nice walk and a private dinner is the ticket!”, he exclaims.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday December 12th, 2018 6:24:31 AM
Tahni's ear prick up at the mention of the Scab. She makes a note to try and speak with Ingrge in private later. He may have information that could help her search.
"What? Oh. Yes. Dinner" Tahni gestures towards the tavern to escort Jass
Ingrge Nightseer; Emerald Dragons - Dragon Consortium Wednesday December 12th, 2018 8:08:45 AM
Continuing the conversation, Ingrge pauses a bit and unconsciously brings his hand up to his scarred face for a moment.
"I understand very well, I found that returning to the place that caused the greatest pain very cathartic, but it took me a while to get to that stage. I also understand the feeling of things being beyond my power. There were times before we took out Parnoth that we all felt powerless to help ourselves let alone a whole country....
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Wednesday December 12th, 2018 11:16:35 AM
Upon reaching the ship, Rill is glad to see the industrious Jozhur took the initiative to get the crew working on making the hold a suitable meeting place. Well, mostly suitable - it is still a ship's hold. Rill let's Tula know that Zeoll was called away, and that while Rill will act as captain he needs Tula to continue to see to the day-to-day running of the ship and crew. He uses the strip of flag that Jozhur gave him to change the ship's standard to show a white dragon against a black background to reflect the meeting guests.
As all arrive and the food is later brought, Rill will turn to Fang and ask that she call for Alemi's blessing on the food and the meeting.
After that, he addresses the assembled guests.
"Welcome to our humble vessel that has become our home on the seas of the Wold. I wish we had a place more fitting for such legendary persons as yourselves.
"We were set to a task and it is done, though one escaped. We can likely chase that miscreant down if needed. What would you have us do next?"
DM Kathy Wednesday December 12th, 2018 11:17:57 AM
[Everybody (except the Dragons) please take 98,000 XP for the previous scene.]
You decide, on balance, that the Lionfish would be the best place to meet, so you begin making your way to the docks. Yesterday's rain is, fortunately, a thing of the past; the morning is cool but clear.
Reaching the docks, you realize that the Black Falcon is no longer there. She must have departed while you were restoring the temple. That may or may not spell trouble for the future, but for now you have other matters to attend to.
In the hold of the Lionfish, you make yourselves reasonably comfortable on lockers, boxes, and piles of canvas. Food arrives from the pub--hot soup along with bread and cheese and a small cask of ale. Given the time of day, it's more like brunch than dinner, but it is very welcome nonetheless.
And now the meeting can begin in earnest.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Wednesday December 12th, 2018 4:46:05 PM
(dragons don't get out of bed for less than 100,000xp!)
Terser is surprised to hear that Fang comes from the Scab as well. He didn't know any of her clan when he was there, and is ashamed of himself for not engaging with her about it earlier. He supposes it hasn't been long since she joined the crew, and between dealing with cultists and krakens, there hasn't been much time for pleasantries.
Still, this is something he will rectify. Ingrge - when was the last time you were back in the Scab? I haven't seen it in years, but perhaps between Tahni, Fang, and myself, we will find a way to return and help to restore it someday. Though I didn't fit in the family mold, I would do well for them should I have the chance.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Wednesday December 12th, 2018 5:39:43 PM
Bralin dutifully walks Jass to the Lionfish. "Welcome aboard The Lionfish", he tells the man. "A finer vessel, I do not know."
The dwarf leads his companion to the hold, where he notes Jozhur and Tula and the crew have hastily assembled a meeting place. He nods in approval.
Taking a perch on a nearby crate, he turns again to Jass.
"You are welcome here, of course. But, I am curious as to why you have come. Have you another quest for us?"
Ingrge Nightseer; Emerald Dragons - Dragon Consortium Wednesday December 12th, 2018 6:00:23 PM
Looking around at the others Dragons, Ingrge stops and then looks to Bralin,
"Well that remains to be seen at this point. We may have something in mind, but we would first like to hear from you all on how this last quest went what you faced what went wrong what went right and what if anything you might do differently if faced with the same situations?
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday December 12th, 2018 7:43:35 PM
With the prospect of fine food and ale being brought to the Fish Aex is happy to return. Back on board she first checks on her latest herb collections and the weeds she was boiling in preparation of her next concoction.
The she returns to the hold to sit with her friends and the Dragons. Oh well... it is but a small cask of ale but a whole lot of people around the table. Future stories would probably relate how the Black Lions and the Dragons emptied the little casks in no time... but hey... it's comfy, home, tastes good and the company is admirable.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday December 12th, 2018 8:21:39 PM
Jozhur helps himself to some soup and a little ale. He ponders Ingrge's question, they never formally talked about such things, but perhaps it would be a good practice.
When it comes his turn to speak Jozhur has a couple points, "I wish we could have captured or killed Dekkar to ensure he is no longer a threat to anyone, but he is a slippery bugger and was expecting us. Tactically, splitting up as we went into the keep caused some problems, but everyone being stuck in the doorway was not a good alternative."
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Wednesday December 12th, 2018 9:34:34 PM
Yes we have a bit of information about your final challenge, but we'd like to hear the story of your first one. He sets a crystal pyramid upon the table and speaks a command word and it begins to glow.
"This should give us privacy from any observation by any being other than a full god. Feel free to add any wards of your own choosing.
"Yes it has happened before."
Bosk (James D) Iron Dragon of Hook City Thursday December 13th, 2018 12:15:43 AM
Bosk sips a particularly dark ale as he prepares to listen to the others tale.
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Thursday December 13th, 2018 10:33:37 AM
Jass smiles at Bralin, lays a finger aside his nose, and nods at Ingrge. “Talking after helps reinforce personal and team tactics, what went well and what could have been done better. “
“Now, leaders and dwarfs usually concentrate on what didn’t go right. But if you were successful (and you WERE successful, eh?) you have good points too. So, Master Bralin, tell me of your great deeds!”
The undead-looking Sorcerer appears to be in earnest, listening intently to Bralin and each of the Black Lions as they speak of their exploits.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Thursday December 13th, 2018 1:41:06 PM "I think our biggest concern each time we encountered Lifebb and his minions was how to limit the loss of innocent life. I think that having to chase him down again is worth it, considering that each time we were able to free all of the captured folk and return them to some semblance of a normal life.
And how many more bases of operations could he have? He's lost his ship, his keep, and dozens of minions. We've always given the grunts the option of defecting once the leader abandoned them. With his recent track record, he's going to start losing troops before we even get there."
DM Kathy Thursday December 13th, 2018 1:59:11 PM
As the meeting begins, the Dragons ask about the recent mission and how it went. Many of the Black Lions, however, are more concerned with The One That Got Away.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Thursday December 13th, 2018 2:13:10 PM
These kind of after-the-fact assessments are good, though they can be difficult to retell. Rill gives this some thought before speaking up. Eventually though, he chimes in.
”You have asked us to assess our performance on this task. The simplest assessment is that this went well, and as Jozhur pointed out we made a mistake that could have been a bit disastrous.
“We set out to disrupt a dragon cult. We intercepted some of their slaving operations, and this led us to a very large ship which was a sort of headquarters on the seas. We used divination spells to anticipate what we might face. Tactically, we used another ship to minimize the risk to the Lionfish and our crew, and we used magic items and teleportation magics to deal with the unanticipated as we went. We defeated a very large kraken that eventually fled the fight. Dekkar Lifebb also fled, and we used information and divination to chase him to this island.
“Once on this island our party used investigation skills to determine were the threat was. We were perhaps a bit hasty in our assault on the keep where the cult was hold up, but has to be a limit to endless preparation - sometime, you just gotta attack. Jozhur is right - the decision for some of us to teleport to the back of the room looking like it was going to end badly, but we pulled together as a party to rectify that. In the end, Dekkar escaped again.
“The key that I see is that we generally know what each other can and cannot do, and we do our best to enable and rely on each other's strengths, compensating for weaknesses where we need to. We do well reacting to unanticipated changes. A concern that I always have is becoming overconfident in our abilities.
“Oh, and it also helps that six our of the seven of us have some healing magics.”
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday December 13th, 2018 6:09:46 PM
Aex nods as Rill describes how the last fight went. It did end with a minor victory since Dekkar escpaed yet again but it could have ended sour... the little greenmage is not a fan of all that jumping around...
"What's wrong with using a proper door anyway?!"
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday December 13th, 2018 7:07:57 PM
Fang, for one, is very unhappy and concerned that the leader escaped. "We should have anticipated his flight and tried to stop it in some way. I'm not sure how, I"m not the best at planning, but it's going to come back to bite someone, somewhere sooner or later. You don't treat stop treating a disease just because the patient is doing better, you have to cleanse it entirely from the system or it'll just spread again, stronger and more resistant to treatment."
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Thursday December 13th, 2018 8:18:26 PM
“Ah,” Bralin understands now. “Ye wish a tale.”
“Very well”
The dwarf, mug in hand, climbs atop his crate.
“T’was mere weeks ago when members of your august body” - raises his mug toward Bosk - “charged us to prove our worthiness by destroying this branch of the Dragon Cult, and Gimp ported us to Bonetown.”
“We’re given but a single clue, to seek the Bloodkin. But, nothing more about the Bloodin, or their whereabouts were provided. In truth, no more than that was needed. When the likes of Rill, and Terser, and Zeoll begin searching, nothing remains hidden for long.
Following the trail they discovered, we first journeyed to Market Island, where, under cover of a fog bank conjured by Aexana, we waylaid a Bloodkin vessel and easily overcame her crew. No less than three vessels came to their comrades rescue. We overcame them all. Now, knowing the ships were all crewed by slaves, we were forced to take great pains not to sink the craft. Instead, by means of flight, teleport, and dimension door, we boarded each ship in turn, killed or captured the crew, freed the slaves, and met up with our latest companion, Fang.
We took one of the four ships for use in our next attack, scuttled one deemed unseaworthy, and gave the other two to the freed slaves.
After questioning the captured crew, t’was on to the flagship of the Bloodkin, The Bloodreaver. ‘Ere we reached her, our own ship was attacked by a mighty Kraken. With spell, sword, and axe we drove it from our ship, made hasty repairs, again with much help from Aexana, and resumed our journey.
Realizing the foe now knew of our approach, Rill activated a Fan Feather Token, causing our ship to race across the sea. Catching sight of The Bloodreaver, we found our ploy worked, and we had gained surprise. Again, Rill teleported most of us to the deck of the Bloodreaver, avoiding the possibility of encountering the Kraken again. Aboard that vessel rang out a battle for the ages. As noted, a Dragon Cult mage of great power proved troublesome. Yet we overcame his comrades, and he fled.
We followed him to this place, where we assaulted yon keep. To avoid confinement in a narrow hallway, Rill and I and others teleported to the back of the hall, intending to destroy the foe between us. But, they were stronger and more numerous than we expected, and for a moment we were in danger of being slain piecemeal. But, the Black Lions are no easy prey. With Walls of Stone, Blade Barriers, and ferocious winds, our casters isolated their men, breaking up the attack. Summoned companions healed our most grievously wounded. Our warriors cut through the foe.
In the end, all the enemy were slain or captured, save one. The slaves were freed, and the villagers released from their overlords.”
Bralin raises his mug. “And now, we revel in the spoils of our victory, drink with our comrades in arm, and sing of our mighty deeds!”
With that, the dwarf drains his mug, and sits back down.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Friday December 14th, 2018 4:36:40 AM
Tahni smiles and raises a mug. It was good to see the party in high spirits, and the tale from Bralin is a fair account. She stays quiet throughout though.
Dahlia Light Fingers, Gold & Platinum Dragons, Dragon Consortium Friday December 14th, 2018 6:17:46 AM
Dahlia lifts he mug in a gesture of well done, then takes a drink in tribute.
Ingrge Nightseer; Emerald Dragons - Dragon Consortium Friday December 14th, 2018 8:32:22 AM
Well it sounds like you had some difficulties but came through them pretty well. As for Dekkar, Ingrge chuckles to himself. No doubt you will run across him again at some point. I won't tell you the number of times Parnoth slipped through our fingers and managed to escape his doom. And The Golds had a nemesis or two that kept escaping and popping back up as well...I seem to recall Flame, and wasn't there a thief (Korig) or something like that, and his crew that kept getting away....
So, I wouldn't stress overly about him right now. I am sure you will get to a satisfactory ending with him at some point in time.
More importantly perhaps... Ingrge pauses and looks over to Valdor, Jass and Bosk...
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Friday December 14th, 2018 10:56:02 AM
Jass listens and makes encouraging comments through Bralin’s story.
“Not all Power is in the fight, eh? Seeking and traveling are just as important!”
“Yes! Protect those that can’t protect themselves.”
“I agree, plan as best you may, but an OK plan executed violently is better than a perfect plan too late.”
The Sorcerer becomes thoughtful on the description of escaping mages, then leans in conspiratorially. “Yes, villains are often evil, but seldom stupid, more’s the pity, and mages more so than most. But a ‘Dimensional Anchor’ Spell often takes those magical options of escape away, and can be a nasty surprise. If you don’t have a caster with the spell, a scroll does in a pinch!”
DM Kathy Friday December 14th, 2018 1:57:15 PM
You report on your recent adventure to the Dragons. It all went well, apart from that pesky Dekkar Lifebb.
A couple of points of correction about Master Lifebb. You've seen enough of his spells to know that he is a cleric, not a mage. Also, you know from your conversations with captured cultists that he was the liaison between the Middle Seas Death Dragon cult and the Bloodkin. He was not the leader of the Middle Seas Death Dragon cult--that honor belonged to a man named Tyzos Nightshade, who is now dead on the floor of the keep. So you did get the main bad guy--it was one of his lieutenants who escaped.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Friday December 14th, 2018 2:32:17 PM
Rill is impressed with Bralin's recounting of our tale. He also smiles at Jass' remarks.
"An OK plan executed violently is better than a perfect plan too late? You know Jass, you don't look like a dwarf, but you talk like one. And your advice about casting Dimensional Anchor is well taken."
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Friday December 14th, 2018 6:22:33 PM
Valdor holds up a drink. "To the Black Lions! May their heroism continue to make Bonetown a better and safer place to live! And most importantly may the people of Bonetown forever be thankful!!
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Friday December 14th, 2018 7:07:27 PM
Nodding approvingly, Jozhur raises his mug and downs it all at the completion of Bralin's tale.
He grunts at Jass's comment, "Indeed, violence in action is key. I'd say we were plenty violent." The human grabs another mug of ale and listens intently for what the Dragons have to say next. He also looks at the puny cask, wondering how long it will last.
Dahlia Light Fingers, Gold & Platinum Dragons, Dragon Consortium Saturday December 15th, 2018 6:31:17 AM
Dahlia raises he glass at Valdor’s toast then adds a toas of her own, “May your enemies fear you more than you fear them, and may they find the end they have rightfully earned!”
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Saturday December 15th, 2018 8:45:18 AM
Fang takes a mental note about the dimensional anchor suggestion. Maybe she'd better get some of those scrolls?
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Saturday December 15th, 2018 12:31:01 PM
Bralin takes a great swig from mug after each toast, requiring an additional mug to get through them all.
Having said more than his fair share for the evening, the dwarf is content to eat, drink, and wait for the Dragons to reveal the next quest.
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Saturday December 15th, 2018 12:55:25 PM
Jass gives a rictus grin and a nod at Jozhur’s comment. “I’ve never been one for over planning. Was never interested in planning at all until I was killed and lived as a ghost for a month.” He Shakes off the mood and raises his glass for another toast. “To friends and companions who will stand by you, even to Fae Skiemir!”
It is impossible for the undead Sorcerer to look innocent, but he tries his best as he widens his eyes at Valdor. “What? Too soon?”
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Saturday December 15th, 2018 7:00:07 PM "Uh... lived as a ghost for a month?" Tahni had no idea a person could do that. You'd probably have to be on very good terms with Gargul. Of course, Jass is a part of the Consortium so they're probably on a first name basis.
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Sunday December 16th, 2018 4:15:54 PM
Valdor, mid-drink, sputters and gags at Jass' comment.
He coughs, laughs, and turns beet red. "Oh holy Lem!"
He spends some time recovering.
Then with a totally serious look on his face glances around the room. Then his eyes center on Jass.
"I'm sending you with them."
Ingrge Nightseer; Emerald Dragons - Dragon Consortium Sunday December 16th, 2018 7:28:39 PM
Now Valdor don't handicap the Lionfishers like that. At least give them a chance......
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday December 16th, 2018 7:58:05 PM
Aex is amused as the tales go around. While not all plans have been executed according to plan it is with teamwork that every encounter had been overcome till now. Yes there's much to improve...
Then she captures Valdor's direct message to Jass... was he joking? His face clearly says the opposite...
DM Kathy Sunday December 16th, 2018 8:29:33 PM
You finish recounting your adventures to the Dragons. There is a round of toasts. So far, the cask seems to be holding out just fine.
Then Jass mentions something about Fae Skiemir, and says he spent time as a ghost. Valdor chokes on his ale and threatens to send Jass with you--but which remark was he reacting to?
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Monday December 17th, 2018 12:41:54 PM "I'm still unsure where or what a Fey Skimmer is. But before we trundle off anywhere else, we still have a number of matters to attend to here. We have prisoners to deal with and a keep to raze. Also, there may yet be some of the slaves we found that are not native to his island. We should at least secure them passage to whereever they call home.
"Oh, and a visit to the Catacombs is needed, but not until after we know where we're headed next. There may be items we need, and I have some things I must replenish.
"By the way, who's Lem?"
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Monday December 17th, 2018 1:42:53 PM
Terser is still stuck on the living as a ghost remark. How does one live if they are dead? No matter though. Terser has been to Gargul's realm once, and as much respect as he has for the God, he means to avoid him again until he dies valiantly in glorious battle many years from now.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Monday December 17th, 2018 6:43:52 PM
Bralin listens. And drinks.
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Monday December 17th, 2018 6:47:59 PM
Jass is about to answer Tahni when Valdor makes what little color drain from the Sorcerer's corpse-like face. Thinking quickly, he shrugs. "Well, of course I would be honored to, but it would hardly be a good Second Test. As it is, it looks like the Black Lions are really looking for more information than a name, eh? And I don't think you want me to be the one telling it, eh?"
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Monday December 17th, 2018 7:55:45 PM
Very slowly his serious face changes back to a warm smile. "Jass, I couldn't very well let that opportunity pass me by could I my old friend."
We are indeed sending you to Fae Skiemir, City of Greed. It will challenge you in every way. Combat, inner strength, cooperation under stress, with a goal to accomplish.
You will indeed have all the time you need to prepare, Rill. Finish up all your business, both from your last trial and preparing for the next. Be sure your affairs are in order. Oh, and by the way, Lem is a shortening of Alemi's name. It is what Domi used to call him when they were mortals.
I'll tell you a bit about Fae Skiemir just to get your thinking to flowing. It is located in one of Maab's Vales of Twilight. There is more treasure there than in any other single location...well anywhere. But that is not why we are sending you there.
You are looking to join the Dragon Consortium. It is the most elite group of adventurers anywhere. The challenges that get thrown our way is very challenging in exactly the same ways that Fae Skiemir is challenging.
It will test your individual and group combat skills as well as your ability to lead people and negotiate agreements. It will test both your inner and outer strength. If a person has a flaw that will hurt your adventuring team, this place is likely to bring that out. If you, the Black Lions, survive this trial, you will be able to deal with anything this Wold can throw at you.
When you are ready to go, contact me and I will return. I let you know what you will be going there to do, how to get there, and anything else that you need to know about before embarking on this grand quest.
I hate saying this part, but it is very true and needs to be said. The DC is not for every adventuring group. There is no dishonor in deciding after this mission that you no longer wish to join us. We'll still be friends and allies, just not brothers of the Dragon Consortium.
We wish you success. We need you in the Dragon Consortium. Joining us will bring your hometown much honor and your ability to influence the Wold around you will greatly increase. It will give us in the DC a new set of allies. Some of us are way past needing to step down and pass the mantle on to others.
I should not say anything more specific now. Part of the challenge is finding your own way and learning how to deal with the challenges of the place.
He pauses for a second and seems to remember something from his past. He sits and finishes his drink.
Ingrge Nightseer; Emerald Dragons - Dragon Consortium Monday December 17th, 2018 8:19:32 PM
Ingrge pause for a moment and then looks to Valdor:
I guess I can tell you a little about Fae Skiemir. And you can tell them the rest.
He takes in a deep breath and lets it out in a long sigh. Fae Skiemir, the sound is almost one of longing and loss..
The City of Song, of Hope Reborn, the City of Beauty, and now the City of Darkness and Terror.
There are more legends, songs, stories and more adventures surrounding Fae Skiemir than arguably any other city.
Once it was considered to be the most beautiful and peaceful of any of the cities in the twilight lands and no other could compare to the glory of Fae Skiemir at its height.
Magic flowed within the surrounding air, water, and land, and peace and prosperity second to none gave every citizen reason to be happy.
All races lived in complete harmony for the first time in memory, without fear or corruption, under the protective device of the Mythal, one of the greatest spells in perhaps all of the Realms.
The races merged and formed many alliances amid the myriad guard units, military, guilds, and magisters.
But the City's peace and glory did not last. Like everything else time caught up to Fae Skiemir, as well as greed, gluttony, conceit and treachery. In the end, even Fae Skiemir fell.
Maab had the elves that were the last to leave, leave the place hidden and sealed, for the most part, and the city faded into legend, lost in History, one of the most dangerous adventuring sites in all of Planes.
It has remained so for the past six centuries, the city's ruins have now become home to many lethal predators including alhoons, devils, dragons, the Cult of the Dark Naga and phaerimms, and any sort of miscellaneous adventurers. And there are rumors of colonies of deepspawn inhabiting the under regions of the city......
Done Ingrge's voice trails down into silence.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Monday December 17th, 2018 8:23:13 PM
Fang listens intently to the short description of the city. "Sounds like a fun place. Why does anyone even go in there, other than for greed? Why not just let it lie abandoned?"
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Monday December 17th, 2018 8:33:52 PM
Aexana does not interfere when the Dragons tell their tale but she does Wenn Rill suggests a psamlrdd mody : will be interesting .nd to
DM Kathy Monday December 17th, 2018 10:38:22 PM
And now you reach the point of the conversation. Valdor and Ingrge tell you about Fae Skiemir and the danger it represents. Besting it will prove you worthy to stand beside the Dragons--but can you succeed?
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Tuesday December 18th, 2018 11:51:16 AM "To be sure, I am honored - I think we are all honored - to be invited to join such an esteemed group. And none of us would be here if we did not already accept this challenge and all it brings.
"One concern I have is this trip to Fae Skiemir. I am not so much worried about the difficulty of the task nor the dangers we will face, though I'm sure it is a serious test. But we have a responsibility to the Wold to do good where we can. For it is written, 'Do not fear death. Fear instead a wasted life.'
"Ingre's tale implies that this place is contained in the Vale's of Twilight. If this place poses no risk to the Wold, why send us there? If we journey to this Fae Skiemir only to prove ourselves to you, I'm not sure that's worth putting at risk all the gods have invested in us. Gargul has called me to this group of adventurers, and I am responsible to him for how I use his power. I seek neither glory nor honor, but only to do his will. And he expects me to discern his will to the best of my ability.
"With all due respect, and you are due much respect, I need to understand the value of this task. I need to understand that doing this betters the Wold and is worth risking lives."
Rill is interested in the response from these DC members, and it attitude is submissive and respectful. He will also cast Divination, asking "Should the Black Lions travel to Fae Skiemir to undertake this trial of the Dragon Consortium?"
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 d100=63 ; Tuesday December 18th, 2018 11:53:14 AM
(Oops - forgot to roll the Divination chance. 85% chance of success. Rolled 63% - Success!)
You ask good questions and sometimes there are good answers and sometimes they are less good.
Apparently over time the protections that kept Fae Skiemir truly separate form the Wold, have and are weakening, which has lead to some very unsettling disturbances in several places around the Wold.
So sending you there has never been so much about proving yourself to us, but to lessen Fae Skiemir's overall threat to the Wold, and more to show the Wold that you are ready and capable to protect it from all necessary evils and finally to prove to yourselves that you can handle anything that the Wold may need you to.
We do not go into offering any of these challenges, to different groups, through whim alone. we consult with those whose knowledge is greater than ours and through these consultations we gather a sense of what needs to be done and who perhaps should be doing them. The overall feeling was that at this time the Black Lions should address Fae Skiemir. Whether you do or do not is as Valdor said, up to you.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Tuesday December 18th, 2018 4:44:02 PM
(OOC - hmmm just read what I wrote yesterday... it makes no sense... fact is I slept 9 hours combined over 3 days and I literally fell a sleep while I was making this post it seems. Sorry)
Maybe it was the warmth, perhaps the ale, or the relaxing feeling of being home with a fantastic group of friends but somewhere during dinner Aex begins to nod at the table. Her eyes feel so heavy...
... catacombs... yes I need to go there! Wait for me!!
... Dekkar we will get you next time...
... Fang! Watch out!!!...
... gonna miss that old taur...
... Black Lions... no Black Dragons...
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) d100=83 ; Tuesday December 18th, 2018 5:14:43 PM
Terser was wondering what was getting into Aexana. Maybe being a monkey too long was affecting her speech patterns. Still, Rill asks good questions, and Ingrge's answers seem reasonable. But what can they do about weakening protection spells?
Perhaps the ancestors know something. He tries to call back to someone who was alive back in the time of Fae Skiemir's grandeur and fall to ask what they know of it.
divination: How can we renew the protections keeping the Wold safe from Fae Skiemir? 83% vs 85% = success
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Tuesday December 18th, 2018 5:42:28 PM
Bralin regards Valdor carefully. The man's familiarity with the gods is unnerving, and the dwarf wonders if such companions are in his future should they overcome Fae Skiemir.
Ingrge's description of the horrors of this place raises concerns as well. The dwarf begins to mentally compose a list of items to be procured for a quest of a lifetime.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Tuesday December 18th, 2018 6:39:43 PM
Fang listens then grunts non-commitilly.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Tuesday December 18th, 2018 9:33:00 PM
Jozhur smiles at Fang, "Sounds like quite the party, eh?" He thumbs the dagger on his belt, "I should buy a better blade".
Turning to Ingrge and Valdor, "I live for adventure now. I'm more than willing to go to this...Fae Skimmer. It sounds like quite the challenge, we will need to work together and use all of our individual strengths together if we want to make it back."
DM Kathy Tuesday December 18th, 2018 10:29:42 PM
As you discuss whether to accept this mission from the Dragon Consortium, some of you consult the gods for guidance.
Rill asks "Should the Black Lions travel to Fae Skiemir to undertake this trial of the Dragon Consortium?" His reply: Those who would achieve their full potential must undertake great risks.
Terser asks: "How can we renew the protections keeping the Wold safe from Fae Skiemir?" His reply: The work of the mason is not for the blacksmith.
Meanwhile, Bralin begins composing a shopping list, and Aexana has a little nap. Jozhur, for one, seems ready to agree to the mission.
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Wednesday December 19th, 2018 1:05:15 AM
Rill shares the result of his Divination.
"OK, Gargul says go. Hey, you DC guys have been to Fae Skiemir. Any advice about stuff to bring or spells to prepare? Will we find any allies there?
"Where did Bosk and Dalia go?"
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Wednesday December 19th, 2018 4:16:09 AM
Tahni sits quietly and stares into her mug. Fae Skiemir. She had heard tales of that place. None of them good.
Still, if Gargul said to go there then there must be a good reason to go.
OOC: Sorry guys for my posting of late. Not so pleasant family things to deal with
Valdor [Gold and Platinum Dragon, Dragonstone] (Jerry--playing him as an NPC) Wednesday December 19th, 2018 8:09:24 AM
"I couldn't have said it better, Ingrge. Those sent there or born there we definitely want to keep there and keep their interests focused within their own valley. On the other end of the matter, if they never see anything different, they can't learn anything different and won't change. If they don't change, they will remain there.
"I'll admit that 40 years ago, we did tend to go there more for the loot. It helped us fund the DC, help those in need, etc. For awhile, the Gold Dragons went yearly. However, after....the death of King Claudia we lost our way for awhile. Even after we got back together and formed the Platinum Dragons with some other DC members, we never returned.
As for your future name, consider that carefully. There was a Black Dragons group before. A few of them still live, but they are older than us. And they turned...we had to fight them several times. So if you take that name, they won't like it, but I doubt they could do anything about it at their age. And though some will remember the old, creating a new group with your quality and reputation could be a very good thing. I am not trying to influence you, just advise you of the history of the name.
"Anyway, thanks for putting up with us...and being willing to join with us." He stands and bows. respectfully.
"DC friends, I believe it is probably time to leave them to their business." Almost as an afterthought, he pulls a jewelry box out of a pocket with a short flash of light. He places it on a nearby crate. "This ring is not a full DC ring, but it will let you contact any of us if you need us, or have more questions. Just speak into it. When you join us after this trial, we will gift you full rings with full 2 way communication, teleportation, etc. Give me a shout when you are ready to leave."
He offers every Black Lion his hand as he turns to leave. "It has truly been a pleasure. We are honored that you will join us."
Dahlia Light Fingers, Gold & Platinum Dragons, Dragon Consortium Wednesday December 19th, 2018 1:23:21 PM
“Good luck guys!”, Dahlia says as Valdor prepares to depart, “We believe in you guys, you can do it!” When she thinks they are out of ear shot of the Black Lions, (even though she isn’t) she asks, “Do you think they can handle it?”
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Wednesday December 19th, 2018 6:10:38 PM
Terser gives Tahni a big ol' dwarf hug, as he also has family struggles to deal with, especially with the Yuletide approaching.
On mention of a group name, he will mention that he's always liked Amethyst (the gem and the colour).
He's also got some shopping to do, once business here is done and he can hitch a teleport.
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Wednesday December 19th, 2018 6:27:46 PM
The Dragons leave. Bralin lets a smirk slip at Dahlia's statement. Of course the Lions can handle it.
Knowing that Rill still has a Catacombs trip planned, Bralin refrains from serious shopping until he returns.
There is one thing. Putting down his mug, he turns to Rill.
Ingrge stands with the other dragons and looks around at the Black Lions for a moment. Nods his head for a moment and as a party salutation says, Yup I think you all will do just fine. He raises his hand in a salute goodbye and simply just isn't there any more.
Jass (SteveK) Gray Wyrms - Dragon Consortium Wednesday December 19th, 2018 7:36:39 PM
Jass, keeping quiet and letting the DC who know about the city to take the lead.
The discussion is clearly over, thinks the Sorcerer. He rises to leave. “Good Luck, and we’ll see you again. Be sure of it!”
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday December 19th, 2018 7:49:39 PM
Jozhur shakes Valdor's hand when offered and bids all the Dragons adieu. He notices Tahni looks a little down and puts a hand on her shoulder, nodding in silent reassurance.
He begins mentally preparing for the trip, thinking of any items which may come in handy.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Wednesday December 19th, 2018 8:20:06 PM
Aex's head just nearly hits her plate when she suddenly shakes up... the Dragons are leaving! Oh no... did she sleep through most of this meeting?!? Her cheeks turn red as she sheepishly stands and shakes hands with them before they go. Hopefully they'll forgive an old lass...
Like Brain, Aex intends to go to the Catacombs before they go to this Fae Skiemir. She just wished she did not sleem through most of this gathering... at least she would know what they are up against.
Then she scuttles over to Leafy and gives him a little stomp... "Why didn't you wake me you... you... tree trunk... . Of course she's not angry at Leafy... just ashamed.
DM Kathy Wednesday December 19th, 2018 10:51:19 PM
With a few parting words of encouragement, the Dragons take their leave. The ale cask is empty, but Tula brings another one from the ship's stores.
It seems as if it's been a long time since the Dragons first appeared, but it's only been a few hours. And you still have the same tasks before you: freed slaves and captured cultists to be dealt with, loot to sell, and possibly, a keep to shake down to its foundations. What would you like to do next?
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday December 20th, 2018 2:37:36 AM
Tahni smiles and goes a little bashful. The attention from Jozhur and Terser gives her comfort that whatever lies ahead - difficult as it may be - will be met head on. This group of friends will not be beaten easily.
"If the people here do not want the keep destroyed then perhaps we can aid them in repairing it? Some of the former slaves may want to help and call this place home. Some of the cultists could also be put to hard labor as well as part of the punishment for their crimes. It would also give us a place to rest and prepare for our next steps"
Rill (MarkB) HP 102 /128 - AC 27/17/54 CMD 24 Thursday December 20th, 2018 1:37:51 PM "Tahni, I cast Augury, asking 'Will it bring weal or woe to the town to cast Earthquake on the keep on the hill.' The response was 'weal.' It take that to mean destruction of the keep is in order. An Earthquake should bring it down easily enough. If it will cause other damage, we can just summon a earth elemental to do the job for us."
Rill, and perhaps others, will speak to the local town leaders to put the fear of Gargul in this and ensure they have turned from their cult-supporting ways. We let them know of the plan to raze the keep. Assuming it is a good distance away and poses no threat to the town, he will cast Earthquake on the keep. If it may threaten the town, Rill can work with Aex to summon some very impressive earth elemental. In either case, it should impress upon the locals that we mean business.
Terser (Warren) [AC22/13/19 - CMD 30 - HP 193/200, DR 1/-, Regen 1, Mind Blank] (25% no crit, rage 30/34, channel 4/5) Thursday December 20th, 2018 5:16:00 PM "I agree that it should come down. If it stands, it's that much easier for Lifebb to come back to it once we're gone."
Still, there are only so many people that an island can support. Perhaps they should take some time to find another island sanctuary for future groups of freed people.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Thursday December 20th, 2018 7:03:32 PM
Fang lets the others handle the keep and slaves. She focuses on working with the townsfolk and finding out anything they need the party might be able to provide.
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp d20+21=39 ; Thursday December 20th, 2018 7:11:14 PM
With the decision made, Jozhur starts talking to the townfolk, particularly any one of authority. He informs them the Black Lions will be destroying the keep and explains why. Jozhur doesn't want them to be upset about the keep being destroyed.
Diplomacy: 39
(MikeK)Bralin (AC34 / T16 / FF29) CMD 35 - HP 176/176) Thursday December 20th, 2018 7:17:34 PM
Bralin makes a side trip to the crumbling keep, and stuffs some of the more interesting stones from its walls into his haversack.
They should make for good base material for future sculptures.
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Thursday December 20th, 2018 8:54:17 PM
While some go to check on the keep Aex is more interesting in gathering fresh herbs and plants. After all they might be needing some new potions soon. She hopes Rill will help her again with some nifty spells that she herself can not cast. She spends as much time as they have with gathering. This should allow her to brew plenty of things.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Thursday December 20th, 2018 9:19:05 PM "If the good people of this town wish for the keep to remain then we should respect their wishes. It is their town after all. We should not act against their wishes no matter how wrong they may be. We can't leave a trail of destruction because we think we should. If they agree then yes, we level it. We need to respect the free will of sentient beings. It's what the consortium would expect we should do"
ooc: on my phone so can't check but any lawful good pcs have to respect any lawful authority here. Best we convince the town before we take action
DM Kathy Thursday December 20th, 2018 10:29:57 PM
You decide that your first step will be to level the keep. You speak with the town council about it. They are unsure, at first--the town had been planning to "fix the place up." You know, for the last 20 years or so. Jozhur is able to reason with them--the keep is only useful to the village if somebody is able to live in it and keep it in good repair. Absent a tenant, the best thing is to destroy it. They eventually agree.
Fang also speaks with the townsfolk, asking if there is anything they need. They ask you to carry a letter to Delume, requesting a cleric to replace the man murdered by the cult. Delume is not far out of your way.
Bralin, meanwhile, is able to find a few likely-looking stones for carving. Nearby, Aexana gathers her herbs.
Once you have the go-ahead from the council, Rill casts his spell. The earth shakes. Fissures open in the ground. The keep shudders, and the roof collapses. So do several of the walls. When the shaking stops, however, some walls remain standing, though most of the keep is in ruins. Another casting of the spell should probably finish the job, or you could leave things as they are and trust that the keep is now too damaged to be inhabited.
Terser has a good point in that you can't keep bringing people to Comeri forever, but really, this should be the last bunch and there's only a few of them. You're probably fine on that score.
There are still trips to the Catacombs to be taken, and decisions to be made. But for now, your adventure has wound to a close.
[Everybody take 3,000 XP]
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Friday December 21st, 2018 6:59:27 AM
Fang takes the letter and resists the urge to read it. She mentions she's never been to Delume and asks which god's temple she should take the letter to.
Fang (Mitch) HP: 89/177 (207 rage) AC: 30/20/25 (-2 while raging) CMD: 22 Spell List Friday December 21st, 2018 6:51:30 PM
Fang does something interesting and useful so I can get my 5th post in.
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Saturday December 22nd, 2018 6:01:44 PM
Satisifed that the keep situation is behind them, Tahni turns to the rest of the group "It sounds like some serious preparations might be needed here. Did we end up working out who wanted to keep what from the loot? There are some things from the Catacombs I'd like to purchase"
(Brock) Jozhur AC26 / Touch 16 Flat 19--CMD 30--HP 117/117 --Shadow Companion 58/58hp Wednesday December 26th, 2018 10:36:55 PM
Jozhur is currently (temporarily) wearing the Ring of Chameleon Power the party found earlier. He weighs keeping it or taking the ring of protection. In the in end, he chooses to keep the Chameleon ring. Of the remaining loot, none of it particularly interests him.
Jozhur smiles looking over the treasure piled up in the hold, "We should be able to stock up well, and it sounds like we will need to."
RobC - Tahni Wyrmrider -- AC 21/13/18 -- CMD 20 -- HP 144/144 -- See Invis,ArcaneSight,DarkVision Monday December 31st, 2018 11:50:40 PM
Over the following days Tahni finds all sorts of ways to keep herself occupied. She finishes off some crafting she had started, reads a few books, does a little Catacombs shopping, and scribes some new spells into her spellbook*.
Those were the things she had set time aside for "just her".
The rest of the time is spent looking about the town, trying to comfort folk to let them know everything would be ok, and trying to spend some time with Fang. These beastfolk were very new to her and having Fang about was a terrific opportunity to get to know one face-to-face.
OOC: I'm not sure on the exact gold amount we are getting, but at a minimum Tahni will be buying 6 scrolls to copy into her spellbook
(StevenVdB) Aexana Monkey HP106/106 - AC29/25/23 - CMD 23 and LEAFY (L) - HP89/89 - AC34/27/31 - CMD 20 Sunday January 6th, 2019 2:40:11 PM
OoC - I've got first post in 2019 here :-) - best wishes to all of you my friends!
Aex hustles into the bar once again. She'll been out to the catacombs to finally spend some of the Gold the group has gathered. Two odd stones now circle around her head. The rest of her purchases are not noticeable.
"Well... I'm not looking forward to our next journey... but I'm guessing it will be inevitable. What's our heading and plan c'ptain?"
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