Post/Author/DateTime	Post
Khaira 12-09-05, 10:27 PM	High above, gently spiraling downwards from the azure sky, a giant, feathered, winged mount approached the familiar location of the Flute and Boot Inn. Atop the winged creature sat two figures, one distinctively smaller than the other. In fact, as the winged creature approached the clearing below, it could be seen that the creature was a Roc and, atop the Roc, a red-haired individual was already standing. Within minutes, the trio were within several feet of the ground, at which point the red-haired epitome of infamy leaped from the still landing Swiftwing, a dust cloud rising from the spot where she'd landed. Softly, she murmured to herself with a sigh of relief. "At last ... we've made it." Khaira had sent the word out a while ago for assistance. Her harp must be retrieved! She knew, through interrogation of the assassin during the trial, the location of the one who'd taken her harp. Dishonorable thief! He would pay for the hurt that he had caused her! She couldn't do this alone, howver ... thus for the reason that she'd made the call out for assistance. She only hoped that the plea for help would be answered. Turning around to regard Swiftwing and the remaining individual that sat atop it. "My friend, it is time. Do you come?" Turning around once again, Khaira regarded the Flute and Boot Inn. It had been a long time coming, this freedom. How long had she remained in shackles? How long had Myranthor delayed? How long had Keldorn accused her? How long had she sat in shame? With another long, heavy sigh, Khaira made her way towards the doors of the Flute and Boot Inn.
firelizard Brad 12-10-05, 12:56 PM	The first hint the that the arrival of the red haired elf was watched is a hint of bronze flashing in the sun. Then suddenly that bronze flash turns into a small, flying critter, swooping low towards Swiftwing, the other, and the Bardess. He hovers just above them briefly, his head cocked to one side as he tries to see the whole group . Then with a chrip that convays the happiness he is feeling, he swoops over Khaira's head, the wind from his passing tussling her hair breifly. He zooms to the Inn and to someone inside of it, his passing nothing for then a fast streak of bronze in the sun. Inside he swoops low and lands on the shoulder of a figure in a dark cloak who is sitting as if asleep by the fire. The figure shrugs and reaches a slender hand to scratch the small winged lizards eye ridges. He purrs happily and convays what he saw to this figure....
ruthia 12-10-05, 01:11 PM	I sit quietly, staring at the fire, lost in my own dark world. Things have happened at a great pace since I was last here, much has changed, and much more is still changing. I await the arrival of one who may prove to be my downfall, my curse, or my salvation. Which she will be, I know not. I adjust my dark green cloak slightly, hiding my white hair and pale complication in the darkness of the hood. Inside the small flying lizard swoops and lands on my shoulder, though at first I do not bother to react. Then, ever so slowly, I reach my hand up from the hidden cowls of my cloak and scratch his eye ridges delicately. The small bronze purrs happily and conveys directly to my mind what he had seen while outside watching. I smile from under the darkness of my hood, for it was about time that damnable elf showed up. Since receiving her call for help I had been waiting here, in the comfort of Kulideb’s hospitality, for nearly three weeks now. Why did I answer her call one may ask? Well the reason is simple, I owe her. I owe her my son’s life, may daughters life, and perhaps even my own on occasion. With a sigh I calm Brad down with soothing thoughts, comforting his excited mind with my own calm one. I made no move to get up, to greet the one who was approaching, for even I knew better then to spoil her grand entrance into our lives again. Instead a reach down to pick up my travel pack and once again check my items over, preparing for an adventure into the unknown with one who may proof to be my undoing. But I am unscarred by this thought, for I had been through more then most would believe, would know, would understand. For I am Ruthia, savior of Pern, freedom bringer, the Great White, and greatest fear of my enemies…
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 12-10-05, 01:27 PM	Only when the roc finally discended onto the solid earth, did the other figure - a bald-shaven gnome in a chainshirt, with a band of silk around his head and a huge backpack to his shoulders - ever so carefully let go of the feathers and slided down next to Khaira. "Ah yes, eagerly so! The firmament's beauty is wonderous, when beheld from below, yet 'tis not for my taste to bask in it myself!" Relief is obvious on the gnome's face, and the words are said with a sincere, friendly smile, but for some reason... a sound seems to come from within the gnome's torso, reminiscent of a cruel loughter. When he belives Khaira's face is turned away, he slams his fist into the left side of his chest, whispering something angrily. Even muzzled, the dastardly parasite was boldly MESSING with him. And the further north they'll go, he knew, the worse it will become... "So, shall we go in? I could use a cup of Evermead and a marvelous elven mistress of winged beasts to have one with me.", he asked casually, coming to stand by the bardess' side. Then, as the flury of bronze scales passed by them, too quickly for him to discern what it was, he instantly dropped to the ground, switching within a moment his amiable and lighthearted demeanot for an efficient and wary one. "Whatwasthatupthere?! Ugh, be careful m'lady, i think someone just shot above our heads... or something." A wicked-looking mancatcher appeared in his right hand, as he cautiously looked left and right to make sure he and his companion are in no immidiate danger. If anyone who met him before were present, they'd be surprised to see his weapon clean, perhaps for the first time in decades.
Khaira 12-10-05, 08:16 PM	Many years ago, a grave crime was committed in the lightless depths of the Underdark. Many years ago, a drow house was severely weakened. Many years ago, it started. Matron Mother Maliril sat upon her elevated pedestal, two lifeless forms of drow lying at her feet. One, a male, was dressed in eloquent, flowing robes and still, in his hands, he clutched the two pieces of a slender, ebony-hued wand tightly to his form. Nargul Ma'Hazzen, the House Wizard, had been cruelly slain by the evil red-haired elf from the damnable surface world above. The second, a female, was adorned in the ornamental and decorative clothes of one of the faithful of Lolth. Her body was contorted and pierced in several different places. The final slice in her throat seemed to have been the most detrimental. Shazgolak Ma'Hazzen had been the House Psionicist, trained to counter the magical attacks of the enemy with another form of power: psionics. Matron Mother Maliril's face was contorted in an expression of grief. That expression often caused confusion and curiosity to arise. Did the drow feel emotion? In what situations did they feel emotion? Why was Maliril now feeling such grief - because of the loss of her children or because of the weakening of the house? Still, the rage that took hold of the Matron Mother's face was enough to put a halt to the thinking of those questions. After looking up at those gathered, Maliril's enraged voice had shaken the walls of the room, and most of the willpower of slaves gathered in adjoining rooms. "“Nargul and, more importantly, Shazgolak have been cruelly murdered! A surface dweller committed this act! Vengeance must be reaped upon the elves’ body or we shall fall out of favor! LOLTH DEMANDS IT!” Many Years Later... Diviniations had been conducted, spies had been sent out, and word had gotten back to the elite members of House Ma'Hazzen. The call had been sent out by Matron Maliril for all members of House Ma'Hazzen to gather here this day. The Matron Mother's face was now wrinkled and her eyes continued to be bloodshot. The rumor abounding about House Ma'Hazzen - and, perhaps soon, all of Menzoberran - was that Matron Maliril was completely obssessed with finding this one, elusive, red-haired surface-dwelling elf of above. Even in what some claimed was a weakened state, the Matron Mother still had a demanding presence. Especially in the maddened state that she was in, it was a dangerous risk to not pay complete and undivided attention to Maliril now. " First Sister of House Ma'Hazzen, Niura! Where is your hunting party?"
Xerafeln 12-10-05, 08:20 PM	Gods, the dark elf thought as his footsteps echoed on stone, I hate this city. Xerafeln Karan exhaled softly, running his thumb over the fallen star crest on his signet ring. His house was dead, now, but for him -- a single survivor of a lesser noble house of a fallen city. Had it been an option, he'd likely have sought training in magic there, where he had been known as a youth. With the fall of Maerimydra, a city that had once been the scourge of Shadowdale and all of Cormanthor, he was nothing more than a wanderer, a sword to be sold, a guide to be bought. His wanderings of the worlds above and below had brought him here, to a darkly glittering jewel in the Underdark's endless night, here to Menzoberranzan. Here, seeking more instruction, to hone his inborn magical gifts at the Sorcere. It had not been long since he'd offered his services to this house if they would sponsor him. And how he was back -- called before the Matron. He hoped against hope that his offer had been accepted, and a bargain could be struck.
Agudo Archmage 12-10-05, 11:10 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley A creaky wooden cart could be heard coming down the road near the forested Tavern know as the Flute and Boot Inn As the cart came closer to those with the misfortune of being on the wrong side of the tracks It soon became clear with endless wining and worst of all smell of fatten pigs that it wasn’t the best place to be. From a top of the cart a foul mouth short Dwarven woman could be heard yelling to her passengers Alright ye lazy no guud fer nutin rolling in the mud swine out ya go! She then turned swinging the whip in her hairy hand slapped hard on her fatten cargo. Squeals and shaking took place and then with a thud out came the ugliest pig anyone had ever seen. Covered in mud and other refuge it rolled about then groaned for a moment. To most it was a surprise that the swine stood up and started cursing with great anger as it brushed it cloths off “Yer an old goats lumpy backside of a mule! May thy warts grow as big as thy five chins! Rubbing his shaggy red beard and with a gruff looking face made clear that it wasn’t a pig but a Dwarf Sadly the smell didn’t ride off with the wagon as it rounded the bin. Cursing some more then as if in a after thought he yelled at the wagon occupant “See ya Maaa! Ill be home for the Mushroom harvest! Barely heard was gruff reply “If ya live !?! But ill keep the dog of yer bed if ye do.” Sniffing with a tear in his eye the smelly dwarf made his way to the tavern door “A mothers luv! Nutin can be it.” It was then the Dwarf saw the Gnome and tall redheaded Bard outside Reaching around several parts of his body as if looking for something and sometimes even scratching in places no one would dare look on him he finally smiles a toothy grin. “Ahh here it tis. He unfolds the scroll and blinks as he checks it out then eyes Khaira “Humph! She be gaining some punds on her legs and hips ...teehee...... has double chin starting under her pretty face But thy head is still the same! He said with a mix of lustful greedy eyes as he put away the scroll and walked up to the Gnome and Bard. “Halt ye flee bitten varmints ...Cough... uhhh I be meaning Hail and Well Met! Can ye tells me If ya have found that Cutesy elf’s tavern owned by Kulideb. With a snicker he added Hheheheh..... Yaaa knuuuws... the lass that has those see-through shadowy cloths and doesn’t wear any shoes. http://www.epilogue.net/cgi/database/art/list.pl?gallery=7593&genre=2 Agudo, Hoot and Friends at a tavern By Yvonne Power Then belching he adds I be Rocky the famed Tracker of these here parts if ya didnt know! And perhaps ya did He chuckels So wich one of ya wants ta drink me under the table Hahahha He eyes the Gnome and Bard with a sly look
Niura Ma'Hazzen 12-11-05, 02:00 AM	Moments Ago Niura sat cross-legged in her quarters in house Ma'Hazzen, impatience playing on her sharp ebony features. A single candle lit the dark cove that was her room, but to a drows eyes, the room was as bright as Narbonels center. Here she reflected on the events of the past few days. Her sister Shazgolak, the House Psionicist, and her brother Nargul, a powerful wizard of Sorcere had gone on a ritual raid to the surface, to slay the drows distant cousins, the faire elves. The same fared skinned surface dancing cousins that has bandished the drow to the Underdark, thousands of years ago. The only problem issuing behind this, her siblings had never returned. Later their mingled corpses, along with a score of the houses servants were found outside a cavern, not far from the surface. The markings of fine elven blade shown clearly on drow skin. Hired spies concluded the that the party had been ambushed by a large group of faire elves, that had followed them back into the Underdark. The supposed leader of this group was one Khaira Amasticia. Niura thought the meaning of the family name "gemflower" sounded weak, and ridicoulous, perfectly modeling the surface elves. They described her as having an almost golden complexion, and was taller than most of her kind. Lilth, and beutiful, she was said to have long red hair that cascaded down her back, and emerald colored eyes. She carried two swords, one that glowed as bright as the sun, and the other an icy blue. This woman had killed them, and Niura would soon return the favor, and reap revenge for her house. Then she would offer the elves heart to appease the dark goddess, Lolth. The death of her siblings didn't in the least affect her, infact she would have to thank Khaira personally before slaying her. However, the loss of the two had maimed the houses status, and left in vunerable. In Menzoberranzan, it was not uncommon for another house to war with another, winning, and elevating itself in the monarchy. It was the way of the Spider Queen. The lesser houses might see this as perfect oppurtunity, and like a spider, would strike its prey at thier weakest. Niura cursed her stupid sister, the matron for it all. And now, in just a few moments she would call on Niura, and send her with yet more Ma'Hazzens forces to seek retribution. She would surely send all to their deaths for such a rash decision Thus it was the Matrons choice, and her rule was law. The sound of a gentle rapping on a door brought Niura back from reveire, as she stood. This was the call. Then something dawned on Niura then. Maybe she could use this whole ordeil to her advantage. With the elimination of her siblings, none were left to stop Niura from claiming the matrons thrown. And Niura was only of a choice few preistesses that remained, that had graduated from Arach Tinilith. None of the cousins would dare challenge a high preistess. Her red eyes gleamed in the faint candlelight, as she snuffed it out, and opened the door. She just hoped that she could get back in time to save her house, and elevate to Matron. ********** Silence reigned for what seemed long moments, as Niura knelt on the chilly marble stones, her head bowed in submission before the Matron. She had not spoken aword since entering the audience chamber, and not dared do so now. Instead she listened to her sisters heavy breathing, and the occassional hisses or her whip vipers at her belt. But soon enough it would all end. " First Sister of House Ma'Hazzen, Niura! Where is your hunting party?" Niura inclined here head, and rose slowly to a standing position, locking eyes with Maliril with a cool gaze. Her shoulders made a slight shrug as the drows almost lyrical but dominant voiced purred out. "Mother Matron, I have not met in person this Xerafeln Karan yet, nor the mercenary from Bregan D'aerthe. However the two males were to be given entrance to the house, and should be here shortly. Treemmouphindar the drider will make his own entrance. Niura narrowed her eyes and almost smiled at her last remark, "As for your son, I don't find it on occasion not to know of his whereabouts. Though last I saw of Drizavin, he was flanking the servants. Will that be all Matron?" With this, the preistess bowed and stood waiting, trying best to hide the satisfaction of her jest. It wasnt everday that Niura got to see the full fury of Maliril's temper.
Savael 12-11-05, 06:45 AM	Place: Brandenhall, The Vast Time: Early afternoon Weather: Overcast, rain picking up A soft drizzle of rain seeped from the sky overhead as Savael Se’sehen Karaniir stared impassively at the local scenery from the confines of his bedroom window. What little his yellow-hazel eyes could make out would all be distorted by the rain in a matter of minutes, and he heaved a small sigh. It all reminded him too much of home... The Kemphris estate stood precariously upon a small hill just outside the quaint little village of Brandenhall. A three-story main house built in the architectural style common amongst the aristocracy of the Moonsea area, dominating a small bluff and staring down into the small village from a hundred window eyes. From where Savael was standing, the village looked like a sea of tiny, sparkling dots of light far, far below him through the dancing sheets of rain. Adjoining the main structure were many substantial wings built at different times. One led to stables and considerable stone outbuildings – most of them with sagging or even collapsed roofs – standing along the edge of the sparse woodland, and one could correctly presume this to be the servants quarters. The other wing edged the crown of the bluff, and was dominated by a massive tower of some sort. At the top floor of this tower, Savael currently stood gazing out at the grounds below him... the entirety of which was encircled by a low stone wall which had already begun to crumble in many places. So this was where he’d ended up, at long last. He, who had stalked through the dark jungles of distant Tashalar, who had roamed the Shining Sea on the decks of nearly half a dozen Rundeen merchant vessels. He had known the streets of Calimport and the green majesty of the towering trees of the Wealdath. He, who in cold and unforgiving Icewind Dale, had raised the banner of the Chimera proud and tall; and had gone on to command both men and armies during the Messianic Uprising – and lived to tell of it afterwards. . . . And yet, he couldn’t quite shake the feeling that someone . . . somewhere . . . was laughing at him. Savael shook his head angrily, his mane of dark brown cascading ‘round his shoulders, and turned to drain the last contents of the silvered decanter standing on the table beside him. Aaah. The stuff, mulled Sembian wine with just a hint of ziran in it, tasted sweet as honey on the way down. No, it was far from all bad. He’d landed on his feet, as they say, after fleeing the fall of Hillsfar and subsequent death of Messianica. Finding work again had come with a stroke of luck, and now, here he was. A small smile played around the edges of his brown, cracked lips. Now all that remained was to rid himself of that red-haired little pest, and he would be home free... Licking his lips with a forked tongue, the patches of brown scales on his otherwise flawless skin glowing dimly in the light of the lantern hanging from the ceiling, Savael turned on his heel and marched off down the stairs towards the barracks of the household guards with a good mind to do some martial training to pass the time. With any luck he’d even run into some of the other men and women Lord Kemphris had shackled him with. Knowing your enemies was one thing, but knowing your allies – now that, was something else entirely... OoC: Well, what to say about this post? Members of Sav’s team can find themselves anywhere they like in the mansion. Just make sure to introduce yourself, rub some elbows with one another and exchange a few words before the fun starts...
Xerafeln 12-11-05, 01:45 PM	The endless echo of his footsteps ceased for a time as he stopped before the doors of the audience chamber. A servant gave him a quick glance, then bowed his head and eased the door open. Xerafeln strode forward a few steps, keeping one violet eye on where the priestesses were, and stopped short of them, dropping to one knee facing the Matron. His gray woolen cloak swirled around him, almost eclipsing the vision of dark leathers, boots and vest. He pressed one arm against his chest, hand tucked into a fist and pressed over his heart. His other hand rode on the hilt of his shortsword, strapped to his left hip. He lowered his eyes respectfully. "Matron Ma'Hazzen, Priestesses of House Ma'Hazzen. You had summoned me?"
Sonnica 12-11-05, 06:18 PM	A figure raises it's head from prayer, the dim lights gleams off red skin and strange shadows play across the walls. The figure rises to it's feet and it's full form is revealed, standing six and a half feet tall the Fey'ri stretches it wings and smiles revealing a mouth full of fangs. So it has began, the one I have been instructed to wait for is present. I will seek him out and serve him as you command my mistress The Fey'ri's form shimmers and shrinks, the skin changes to alabaster white and the hair to ebon. Where the Fey'ri once stood now stands the form of a moon elf, small and delicate even for that race but with a radient beauty, Jezra smiles again this time a perfect smile. I think this form will suffice for now Dressing with due care ensure the robe is positioned correctly to cause maximum effect, she turns and examines herself in the mirror. Noting the impact of the contrast of the black silk of the gown against her pale skin she turns, picks up a small bag, unlocks the door and leaves the room. She wanders the halls silently for some time, ignoring all thoses who cross her path, finding a shadowed corner she sits and waits, watching. Time passes but this is immaterial the person she awaits will pass this way in good time. A figure passes, and after a moment she rises and follows observing the movement and form ahead, taking measure of the individual. So this is the mysterious Captain Savael, we shall see what he is made of in due course I am sure She continues to follow, observing as she does.
Taeldrin Laesrash 12-11-05, 07:33 PM	The practice room of the barracks was a finely equipped and spacious room. A quarter dozen racks of swords, polearms, and axes (Many of Sembian and Archendalic design) were propped against the wall, and several poorly painted archery targets lined a wall. From the rafter were hung several hooked ropes, for hanging various objects. Two tables topped with metal tools, old armor, and a recently displaced bottle of wine were on the far side of the room. The floors and walls were never painted like the rest of the mansion, remaining a rustic dusty brown. A single figure occupied the room. Her dark hair and shadowy clothing blended with the dim light of the room, provided by only a pair of lit lamps. Holding a rapier of rather plain design, she stood in front of a training dummy, in need of repair. Hay sprouted from numerous wounds in it. The woman leaned down, readying her sword, and lunged forward, eviscerating the dummy furthur. Stepping back, she sheathed the rapier. Extending her hand, she slowly moved her fingers, pointed at the dummy. It twisted and contorted into painful form, with more seams bursting. It snapped back into shape with the snap of her hand. The human contemplates what she had just done, and talks to herself in an icy tone. "Hm. You don't bend as easily as some of my former servants. Regardless, I can still use you." She walks away from the dummy, until the two are separated by about fifteen feet. Extending her hand again, a black ray of energy shoots from her fingertips. Upon hitting the dummy, it explodes in a shower of hay. Its destroyer shrugs, and casually walks towards a table, taking a sip from the wine bottle. Hearing a knock on the door, she steps into a corner of the room, casting a spell to obscure her figure.
Savael 12-12-05, 11:43 AM	Savael walked briskly down the last few steps towards the training room, booted footsteps on the cold stone floor resounding off the walls of the tapestry-clad hallway. A sombre, tuneless whistle followed as he knocked hard on the heavy oaken door... Anyone home? He could have sworn he'd heard the sound of someone in there moments ago... Bah. Leaning against the door frame for a moment, his yellow eyes scanned across one of the moulding tapestries which hung quite serenely on the opposite wall. A crimson-red dragon with gold frock and lining on a faded blue background; and not too bad workmanship either. This place had once been a beacon of wealth and opulence here in the wilderness, but now it was a mere shadow of its former glory. A gutted shell left to smoulder in the ruins of its own demise. On his feet were a pair of sturdy hunting boots, and from his waist hung a pair of baggy pants accompanied by a short, sleeveless tunic sienna in colour. A forked, velvet tongue chased lolled briefly on his lips and his dark, shoulder-length mane of hair would probably have looked a lot better if it'd been tied up into a bun of some sort. He was by no means handsome, his almost brick-like jaw complementing a pair of glossy muscular arms which made the total of his appearance come across as something slightly... quaint. With an annoyed sigh, he pushed the great doors open and slipped inside, the vaulted ceiling of the practice room yawning up to meet him. The place was well used, and the broken remains of a training dummy lying in a sea of hay which had most probably served as stuffing, told him that it had most likely happened recently. Well, either that or the servants were just lazy around here... On a long table on the far side of the room next to a battered old suit of scalemail, stood a half-empty bottle of wine. Whoever had been here before him had at least had good enough manners to leave it behind, and Savael carefully sniffed the mouth of it before taking a small swig - a taste of fire with a hint in it acorns sliding down his throat. Not bad exactly, although a touch too bitter for his tastes. Oh well. Putting the bottle down again, he turned his attention towards the nearest weapon rack... He dismissed the polearms entirely, and a grim smile of sorts tugged at the corner of his mouth as his eyes took in the sights of several heavy axes. Heh, don't think so... In the end he helped himself to a basket-hilted longsword of Sembian make with a dull, grey blade. He swung it testily through the air a few times before finally appearing satisfied, and went over to the nearest training dummy to have a few whacks at it. This also wasn't exactly what he was used to, but then again he couldn't do too much about it. There just hadn't been a decent smith around to take care of his old claw-bracers, and whatever sentimental value they might have had was considerably dampened by their tendency to break on him at the most inopportune moments... So, getting accustomed to something new didn't necessarily have to be a bad thing. Stepping across the sad remains of the other training dummy, his eyes couldn't help but linger at it for a second or two. What weapon could have caused this much damage? Some blunt implement or other, like a flail or maul perhaps, but there were none of them around... Odd. With such thoughts in mind and ever weary, he raised the longsword up for the first stroke of the evening, when suddenly . . .
Taeldrin Laesrash 12-12-05, 09:59 PM	Walking up towards Savael's back, the woman readies her rapier again. As she approaches him, she suddenly swings the blade. Whether through a magical effect or the piercing of the wind, a high-pitched shreik erupts from the side of Savael. The noise is forceful enough to disturb several weapons, and bounces off the wooden rafters, created a creepy, distorted sound. After about ten seconds, she sheaths her rapier, ending the wailing. She smirks, waiting to see her victim's reaction.
Savael 12-13-05, 08:53 AM	About to turn around to face the sound of soft footsteps behind him, the yuan-to contorted into a mask of momentary terror as a high-pitched shriek shattered the silence of the training room. ...The hell?! Momentarily kneeling on the floor, longsword clattering on the flagstones beside him as he clutched his ears protectivly with his hands, he eyes shut tightly in a purely reflexiv motion . . . and then rose slowly back up to his feet when the shrieking stopped just as suddenly as it'd begun, ears perched for even the slightest sound of movement... He wasn't alone here, that much was certain.
Taeldrin Laesrash 12-13-05, 09:15 AM	Dispelling her concealment, the woman leans down, checking for any sign of breathing. Regardless of whether she heard any, she shrugs, and remarks, "Able to survive that hell-rasing noise? Yes, you're the captain."
Savael 12-13-05, 11:32 AM	One moment, bare flagstone. Next moment, human female... a trickster, eh? Savael stumbled slowly to his feet, and turned to face the speaker. A woman in dark, drab garments stood not two feet away from him, cold fingers brushing momentarily against his throat. "Able to survive that hell-rasing noise? Yes, you're the captain." The woman's remark was curt, simple, and matter-of-factly. 'The captain' smiled a toothy, somewhat fixed grin, his ears still ringing like bloody bell-towers. If looks could kill, the human would have left the room in a basket... "And who in the nine hells might you be then?! That your idea of a practical joke or something?" the yuan-ti barked, sounding a lot tougher than he felt at the moment.
Khaira 12-13-05, 01:14 PM	Khaira blinked and ducked reflexively as the unknown creature that was Brad flew past Swiftwing, herself, and the gnome, pausing only to hover above their heads. In the brief moment that she saw Brad, Khaira nodded in consent to ... something. Smiling at the gnome's discomfort and anxiety, a soft, reassuring hand rested on his shoulder. "Fear naught, my little friend, it is nothing. I believe another has answered my summons. Shall we go in, then, to have a drink? It may be the last drink we have for a long time, in a civilized place of relative comfort." Moving with easy, lithe steps, Khaira began to make her way to the entrance of Kulideb's tavern when the rowdy voice, accompanying a putrid odor, split the peacefulness of the area. He unfolds the scroll and blinks as he checks it out then eyes Khaira “Humph! She be gaining some punds on her legs and hips ...teehee...... has double chin starting under her pretty face But thy head is still the same! He said with a mix of lustful greedy eyes as he put away the scroll and walked up to the Gnome and Bard. Then belching he adds "I be Rocky the famed Tracker of these here parts if ya didnt know! And perhaps ya did. Groaning, Khaira realized that she didn't even have to turn around to know who now stood behind her. Another had answered her summons ... though perhaps it would've been better if he had not. Of course, Rocky, the egotistical, near equivalent of Agudo's ego, and quite rude dwarf had answered her summons. She quirked a brow at Rocky's description of her form. Turning around, her emerald green eyes intensely piercing the form of Rocky, she moved, silently, over to tower over the smaller Rocky. "My dear Rocky ... I may have sent out a summons for help, but that most certainly does not mean I have to be kind to certain vertically-challenged - and, dare I say, cognitively-challenged? - midgets." Pausing, Khaira looked over to her roc, Swiftwing, who was now regarding Rocky with a seemingly hungry gaze. She returned her gaze to Rocky. "Swiftwing's hunger is sometimes insatiable, and he does so enjoy escorting individuals to higher altitudes for long drops." Turning around again, Khaira made her way back to the gnome's side, calling out to Rocky over her shoulder. "Yes, yes, we know quite well that you are Rocky. Your mannerisms and odor precede you. And I'd be careful if I were you ... someone might mistake you for a miniature form of Agudo. That would most definitely be an unfortunate thing, let me assure you." With that, Khaira dissapeared into the Flute and Boot Inn, to meet with the other individual whom she was most certain was already waiting.
Khaira 12-13-05, 01:27 PM	Niura narrowed her eyes and almost smiled at her last remark, "As for your son, I don't find it on occasion not to know of his whereabouts. Though last I saw of Drizavin, he was flanking the servants. Will that be all Matron?" With this, the preistess bowed and stood waiting, trying best to hide the satisfaction of her jest. It wasnt everday that Niura got to see the full fury of Maliril's temper. The Matron regarded Niura with a calm, cool gaze, her fingers stroking the handle of the snake-headed whip that now hung on the arm rest of the throne. Leaning forward, Matron Maliril smiled coldly, a sadistic look coming into her eyes. "It has been some time since we saved your pitiful existence from the failing house, hasn't it? As I recall, Niura, the only reason you were allowed to survive is because you yet served some purpose." With a malicious smile, Maliril leaned forward to look intently into Niura's eyes. "...and I would hope that, for your sake, you continue to serve some purpose. For one who does not share the same true bloodline, it would be a pity if you displeased Lolth." Leaning back, Matron Maliril looked on as Xerafeln made his way into the chamber. Yes, on his knees, as a male should be. Maliril looked from Niura to Xerafalen, addressing the male drow. "Your deal shall be honored, Xerafeln, when you return. You will accompany my naive "sister" through the Underdark and to the surface. There, you will locate an elf by the name of Khaira Amastacia. I will have her head! Niura! You will be ready by the eve of the 'morrow! Dismissed!"
Mystery_Person 12-13-05, 01:56 PM	Saliva and foaming spittle sprayed from the horse's mouth as it continued on at full gallop across the country side that was the Ardeep Forest. He'd just come from Waterdeep, where he'd tracked the foul infidel that was his quarry. The wind carried away the grim, deathly tone that escape the cloaked and hooded individual's mouth, heard only by the wildlife around him. "Jhelana..." He was getting closer. He'd tracked the foul creature this far. She was a criminal, a criminal whom had broken numerous laws in nearly every way possible. She was a monster, a mar to life, a disease that needed to be cured. For the past century he had travelled, looking for the foul beast, gathering information about the lies that she had constructed. He had tracked her to Waterdeep this past tenday. "Or is it Khaira? No matter ... your friends will not aid in your survival..." As he had made camp last night, outside of Ardeep Forest, two individuals had come to join him by the fire. After an hour of conversation, they had requested that he come with them. They had questions about Khaira. He was to come with them. He had refused ... he would not be swayed from his present course. They had drawn their weapons and give him no choice. "...no number of allies will stop me..." He had left the mangled forms of those two within the depths of Ardeep Forest. By the time they would be found, he would be long gone. It pleased him, at least, when he found the crescent moon and harp pins on the inside of their cloaks. So, they were Harpers. Members of the same evil group that Khaira was a part of. Members of the same group that had helped hide Jhelana. Revenge would be his. Without slowing his pace, the figure rushed on across the land, tracking the foul creature that was his quarry. "...justice will be mine."
Xerafeln 12-13-05, 03:06 PM	Xerafeln bowed his head a bit deeper before rising slowly. "I take my leave, then, Matron." He glanced toward Niura. "Priestess, I will await you in the corridor." With that he withdrew, back into the hall outside the audience chamber. He paced down it aways, boots echoing, tugging on the dark leather archer's gloves he wore, the gloves that doubled as bracers. Close to the goal, and yet so far. If this doesn't work out, we'll have to find another way. One hand drifted to rest on the pommel of his blade. There's always another way. One just needs to find it. This...this just happened to be the easiest way of achieving a goal. Nothing wrong with taking the expedient route. Absolutely nothing.
ruthia 12-13-05, 07:57 PM	I didn't bother turning toward the now opening door, or indeed to make any other movement to indicate that I acknowledge the powerful presence that just entered. I wrinckled my nose breifly though, my sensitive nose picking up a rather unpleasent smell wafting inside from behind the entering being. Sighing I quickly preform a spell to block my sense of smell, afriad that if I have to spend any amount of time with that..thing...I may be sick. Carefully I fold my hands into my lap and look at the fire, knowing that the one I waited for would see Brad and myself soon enough.
firelizard Brad 12-13-05, 08:13 PM	Brad causually wraps himself around Ruthia's shoulders, his whirling blue eyes focused on KHaira as she enters the tavern. He makes no sound as he watches and waits, knowing his big friend will react when it is time.
Agudo Archmage 12-14-05, 01:54 AM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley .......she moved, silently, over to tower over the smaller Rocky. The wicked little Dwarf grinned as he enjoyed the vertical views of the tall legged Khaira He made sure to get as close as possible to see all her natural glory upwards; to the darkest valleys onto the tallest peaks of the Redheaded vixen. Khaira "My dear Rocky ... I may have sent out a summons for help, but that most certainly does not mean I have to be kind to certain vertically-challenged - and, dare I say, cognitively-challenged? - midgets." He cocked an eyebrow and folded his arms with his shaggy head tilted peaking upwards he snorted at her remarks Khaira Pausing, Khaira looked over to her roc, Swiftwing, who was now regarding Rocky with a seemingly hungry gaze. She returned her gaze to Rocky. "Swiftwing's hunger is sometimes insatiable, and he does so enjoy escorting individuals to higher altitudes for long drops." Eyeing the beast he chuckled showing some yellow teeth But then frowned at what happen next Khaira Turning around again, Khaira made her way back to the gnome's side, calling out to Rocky over her shoulder. "Yes, yes, we know quite well that you are Rocky. Your mannerisms and odor precede you. And I'd be careful if I were you ... someone might mistake you for a miniature form of Agudo. That would most definitely be an unfortunate thing, let me assure you." With that, Khaira disappeared into the Flute and Boot Inn, to meet with the other individual whom she was most certain was already waiting. “Bloody Hell! I’ss turns away’ez fur a sec and me tempting entertainment gone runs off Blinking for a moment he frowns Agudo? That panzy prissy wizard! I may not takes me Baths but at least I wears differnt color cloths Blue's and whites Bah! Tis cheep I tells ya! He too's tights with his coin too's be buying more than one robe Seeing that the Bard was heading to the tavern the gruff Dwarf walks up behind the Gnome Quathmoir and slaps him on the back with a loud laugh “Hahah Ya knows I would’unt be feeling to bad.... Rocky cant help but snicker Yaaa knooows.... about Khaira calling ye a wee garden Gnomes of a midgets! Thou knowest that fiery Bard may say she not’s be kinds to a certain vertically-challenged fellows likes Ye be But HA! Bet thy coin purse she be flop’en with ye in the bushes after a few drinks He then winks at the Gnome. But yer looks as smarts enough to me! Most yer kind are .... Humph! So yaa’s is cog..tiv....blasted big word......cognitively-challenged are’re thou? Slapping the Gnome once more with a sly smile Khaira may know’s thy wee head better than me But I be thinking yer smart enough and sneaky enough to cut the coconuts off a Giant Nodding his head at Quathmoir he eyes the Gnome as if sizing him up Quickly smiling it was clear he was meaning the last words as a compliment. Come on’s ....We needs to buy supplies for tis a long journey and we needs are’res Ale Besides you'es and me'es knows the Verticaly Challenged gots the bests views in town Glancing at Khaira rearend to make his point And what a view! Hahahahah Grining from ear to ear Rocky started into the Tavern as he called back What’s thy name Gnome? Or should ya want me to make up a pet name fur ye? Once inside he quickly blurts out Serving winch! Brings me yer best brew and making it quick! For I's likes me lasses fast on thur feets!
Taeldrin Laesrash 12-14-05, 10:29 AM	"You know, that wasn't going to kill you. I thought that a little innuendo would make it far more interesting. And since you asked, I'm one of the mercenaries you hired. Vzerii til Corrinea." Vzerii stepped back, giving Savael some room to stand up.
Sonnica 12-14-05, 02:13 PM	Standing in the doorway Jezra smiles Ah the pleasure of pain even if it is that of another sending shivers down her spine. She watches the interchange saying nothing, seeing how long it would take to be noticed
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 12-15-05, 03:12 PM	"Treemmouphindar the drider will make his own entrance." Niura narrowed her eyes and almost smiled at her last remark The moment these words were uttered, the hellish noise of arachnide feet tapping rapidly on the basalt floor was heard, and in a moment all could see the face, hands, and unclad torso of a strikingly handsome drow male... The grace with which he advanced was even greater - if that is possible - than that of his appearance; it is as if instead of shifting his weight from one feet to another, as any other drow, dwarf or man would, this one were floating like a boat on a calm lake's surface. But the charm is gone within less than a second, for below this dark elf's torso are no dancer's feet, and his long, snow-white hair falls on nothing other than the huge, monsterous abdomen of a black spider. Walking on eight feet, each folded halfway, is indeed much smoother than on the two, or even four, that any mammal must keep mostly streight. His perfect, sharp-featured face, below which his artist's thin and long arms are folded on his duely muscular, bare chest - all of this holds absolute contrust to the utter, grotesque uglyness that begins from his waste and runs down and backwards. The name Treemmouphindar, "Horible Monster", is well earned by this drider. A maniacal smile plays on his lips, but even that fails to ruin the beauty of his visage... only looking down can do that. Treemmouphindar kneels at Niura's left side, a step behind her, his face bent low in submission to the Matron. Some of the equipment strapped to his sides makes a soft noise as it catches up with gravity after is sharp motion of kneeling. "Ilharess Maliril Ma'Hazzen, jallil Niura Ma'Hazzen, dosst rothe zhah kr'athin." * "It has been some time since we saved your pitiful existence from the failing house, hasn't it? As I recall, Niura, the only reason you were allowed to survive is because you yet served some purpose. ...and I would hope that, for your sake, you continue to serve some purpose. For one who does not share the same true bloodline, it would be a pity if you displeased Lolth." Adopted, he thought. Probably from a house destroied by Ma'Hazzen. If she lives after this ordeal, the Guideless Ones will be delighted to hear this! No sign of the drider's excitement showed on his face, ofcourse, and he remained still and bowed, as one should while a female - his mistress, no less! - is being scorned by an even greater authority - the Matron Mother - in his presence. "Your deal shall be honored, Xerafeln, when you return. You will accompany my naive "sister" through the Underdark and to the surface. There, you will locate an elf by the name of Khaira Amastacia. I will have her head!" A hireling of some sort. And from my dear owner's words, another mercenary is hired as well. Bregan D'aerthe... where in the Pandemonium is that? Oh well, this business has brought me way too far west to know of any... places nearby. Thank Vyzex, atleast the caves and tunnels here are no different from those beneath Thesk or Dragonjaw. I ponder what this Drizavin's story is... sounds like a youngster not yet blooded. "Niura! You will be ready by the eve of the morrow! Dismissed!" Even now the drider has not broken his reverent silence. He shall wait for his mistress to rise before he does - unless, ofcourse, she bids him otherwise. So... a once-captive priestess, two hirelings, a matronspawn male for whom this is just an extended blooding, and a newly aquired slave. Seems like Ma'Hazzen is much richer in gold - and perhaps owed favors - than it is in priestesses, warriors and magicians of its own. They will love this, back home... Treemmouphindar was keen to memorize and analize as much bits of information now as he could. With time, the powerful spell laied on him before he was fictively sold to Niura will fade, and his thoughts will no longer be disguised from divination. Thus, he will have to keep his pretence even on the level of thoughts and contemplation, once the day ends; and perhaps even sooner, should they emerge to the surface. Doubtlessly his owner has been monitoring his thoughts, and while the spell should so far have resulted in her reading nothing except bestial urges and obediance in his concience, in a few hours he'll have to maintain this pretence himself. After all, no drow would trust a slave bought so cheaply, and from someone wearing an isnignia never seen in these parts, no matter how perfectly the seller's role and that of the "merchandice" - his own - have been plaied. *_________________________ Drow: "Matron Maliril Ma'Hazzen, Lady Niura Ma'Hazzen, your slave is ready."
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 12-15-05, 04:33 PM	"Fear naught, my little friend, it is nothing. I believe another has answered my summons. Shall we go in, then, to have a drink? It may be the last drink we have for a long time, in a civilized place of relative comfort." "Oh, yes, hum. For a moment there i was 'fraid t'was an assasin's projectile aimed at you! After what happened back there, one can never know, you know...", said the gnome, as he rose and - in a motion he was completely unused to - dusted himself off. He then cought a sharp, familiar smell. It reminded him a time so long ago, when deep beneath Sardush, he was hiding from the minions of Zokir's glorious tyrants. It was the same odor that was in part responsible for his camouflage's success back then, and while few others would find any pleasance about a vast mass of everrotting, conjoined refuse through which the quickly decomposing remains of sloughtered othyughs are sinking, this gnome would never stop his nose at something that once saved his life and gave him his opportunity to serve the Mother directly and truely. Meeting an otyugh here, in the middle of a surface woodland would be quite odd, but soon he saw the smell was coming from a much more likely comrade: a dwarf. When that dwarf spoke, the gnome's brows went up with surprise. "Kulideb? Yes, i know her... we traveled together once! Lady Khaira, will Kulideb be joining us as well? Is that the reason you have set this spot as your rallying point? I would be glad to see her again." He lied. While Her Grace told him that Kulideb is a great friend to this controversial bardess, and that she is likely to attend the trial, he managed to avoid her gaze for as long as the trial - and the coupe that terminated it - lasted. Should she merely stock them with provision for the journey, escaping her notice should be easy, but if she joins... Kulideb knew who he is. She knew where his allegiance lies. And it was not time yet for Lady Amastacia to know such things. Should Kulideb become part of theyr expedition, he will have to speak to her privately earlier than she has time to speak with Khaira herself in any manner, and that will be hard. "Swiftwing's hunger is sometimes insatiable, and he does so enjoy escorting individuals to higher altitudes for long drops." At these words, he shuddered. He survived the avian monster's immidiate proximity for a considerable amount of time, but unless the elf pursues an alterante means of travel, and forfeits her most trusted companion, the danger will not be gone untill long after theyr planned adventure's end. Agudo? That panzy prissy wizard! I may not takes me Baths but at least I wears differnt color cloths. Blue's and whites Bah! Tis cheep I tells ya! He too's tights with his coin too's be buying more than one robe If that is true, to top all that we know already, i wager my Lady sent another to this Agudo's side even as she ordered me to aid Khaira! But what servant has she, whose worth is so much greater than mine, as to trust in his hands the establishment of an aliance with... with an Archmage of Light? This servant cannot be a True One; therefore, he cannot be superior to me. Yes, I must take advantage of my brilliance at deducing the existance of this rival, and so discover his identity and eliminate either his posission or himself. Rocky's friendly slap woke gnome from his contemplations, and he amiably smiled at the tracker. “Hahah Ya knows I would’unt be feeling to bad.... Yaaa knooows.... about Khaira calling ye a wee garden Gnomes of a midgets! Thou knowest that fiery Bard may say she not’s be kinds to a certain vertically-challenged fellows likes Ye be; But HA! Bet thy coin purse she be flop’en with ye in the bushes after a few drinks "Oooh," murmured the gnome in responce, positively agitated, "That would be MOST pleasing to the--... errr, I mean to me! I mean i'd be honored! And delighted!" But yer looks as smarts enough to me! Most yer kind are .... Humph! So yaa’s is cog..tiv....blasted big word......cognitively-challenged are’re thou? Khaira may know’s thy wee head better than me But I be thinking yer smart enough and sneaky enough to cut the coconuts off a Giant "Wow, thank you!", he exclaimed with pleasant surprise at the high praise, "I hope we'll be facing giants on our way, so that i may try and stand up to your expectation, friend!" Come on’s ....We needs to buy supplies for tis a long journey and we needs are’res Ale Besides you'es and me'es knows the Verticaly Challenged gots the bests views in town "Woo, oh yes! you're right on more ways than you know, my freind!" Nodding enthusiastically, he entered the inn together with Rocky and theyr awe-inspiring leader. "Evermead for the great weaver of elvensong! And, umm, then some for me, too." Turning back to the dwarf who asked about his name, he smiled casually, and with a shrug replied. "Y'know, i never really got into having one. So yeah, you can call me anything you'd like. Some of the ways people call me i can't even pronounce, hehehe!"
Savael 12-26-05, 07:21 AM	His yellow, slanting eyes measuring the human up and down once again, he couldn’t help but snort slightly as he rose to his full height, his face a mixture of contempt and… interest? So, they’d either shackled him with a bloody lunatic, or someone with a very poor, twisted sense of humour. Either way, he decided as he retrieved his weapon from the flagstone floor, he’d have to watch this one, and her rapier especially... “Savael Se’sehen Kaaranir” he said in response to her explanation, left eye twitching slightly as the aftermath of that sudden, piercing scream still made his ears ring. “That’s quite the nifty little trick you sprung on me there – evocation magic, no doubt?” The yuan-ti didn’t really know the first thing about the mummeries of wizards and their like. He might employ their effects in battle every once in a while when the situation called for it, but as long as good coin could pay for quality, he couldn’t care less about understanding any of the finer points of it.... She looked lithe, almost frail as she stood there in her simple, black gown, facing him. But he wouldn’t be deceived by appearances, there was probably more to this human than met the eye... “Vzerii til Corrinea” he let her name roll off his tongue, a bit puzzled for a moment despite himself. “I think I can say with some certainty that you’re not from around these parts, are you miss Corrinea?” A slow, toothy grin followed that question, fingers shifting on the grip of his basket-hilted sword. Wonder if she’s up for a good sparring... Just then however, a soft sound from the doorway – a sigh, or something close to it, barely audible in the suffocating silence between them – caught his attention. Halfway through the granite archway, leaning casually against one of the huge double doors stood yet another female, although this one’s pointed ears identified her as one of the fair folk. There was something unnerving about her though, Savael decided, an impression of something vaguely unpleasant lurking below that finely chiselled brow of hers... The feeling disappeared quickly though, lasting no more than a second, and Savael threw a questioning glance towards Vzerii. “It appears we’ve been interrupted...” he glanced back at the elf, a look of curiosity in his eyes. “And who might this be then, one of your friends, Vzerii?”
Taeldrin Laesrash 12-26-05, 09:40 AM	Turning to see the visitor, Vzerii gestures for the elf to come to them. She then turns to Savael, answering his questions. "Evocation? Yes, you can say that. I cannot exactly say for I did not see how it was made. And as for my homeland? It lies somewhere on the planes, the Outlands to be precise. Our community made much contact with the Yugoloths, so I learned much from them." Vzerii, noting the Yuan-Ti's grip on his sword, moved her hand to her rapier's hilt. Almost reading his mind, she nodded. (For the record Savael, Vzeri's wearing a chainshirt over a pseudo-clerical cassock and a pair of traveling pants. Just to avoid equipment issues for the sparring.)
Sonnica 12-26-05, 02:27 PM	Stepping silently into the room Jezra eyes intently those standing opposite her. Facing the Yuan-ti directly, "So you are Captain Savael, my name is Jezra, handmaiden of Loviator and my mistress has commanded that I am to present myself to you and to inform you that I am to accompany you on whatever endeavors you are currently preparing to undertake....it would perhaps be advisable for all our health if you would be kind enough to remove your hands from your weapons"
Agudo Archmage 12-26-05, 07:00 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Un-named Gnome Turning back to the dwarf who asked about his name, he smiled casually, and with a shrug replied. "Y'know, i never really got into having one. So yeah, you can call me anything you'd like. Some of the ways people call me i can't even pronounce, hehehe!" Kicking his heals up onto a near by bench the crusty Dwarf leaned back in his chair. The Halfling lass had brought his brew quickly just as he liked Taking a big swig he happily drank deeply from the foaming tanker. With a loud belch he wiped his red beard and smiled a toothy if some what yellowed grin. “So be it wee one thy name shall be..... Rocky closed his eyes and thought about it Hmm If I call him me Little Buddy then Ill needs a sailors hat for the gnome and me thinks a red shirt. Humph! Ya knows the Gnome will then call me Skipper and I don’ts have a blue shirt Ahhh I knows! “Yer name shall be Little Me! Fur ya reminds me of when I was a wee fellow try’en me first Axe out. Taking another swig he laughed I must of been five at the time. Heheheh Soooo Little Me...where ya from?
Savael 12-27-05, 09:11 AM	A frown came to mark Savael’s countenance for a few moments as the hard-faced elf introduced herself. Handmaiden of Loviatar? He didn’t know that much about the clergy or religion of Loviatar, but let the deity’s various titles and monikers speak for themselves. The Willing Whip. The Maiden of Pain. He had only crossed paths with a follower of Loviatar once before, back in faraway Calimshan, and the tools and implements that towering, gaunt-faced woman had purchased from the Rundeen merchants he was translating for should have been enough to make anyone back away slowly... Those people even tortured their own lot on occasion, didn’t they? The presence of one trained and schooled in the way’s of torture and pain would surely be a welcome addition at his back when the time came, but still, the disposition of the two mercenaries he’d acquired thus far wouldn’t do much to ease his sleep at night. A sadist and an addled one... Oh well, what were you going to do? Despite his thoughts on the subject, Savael offered a warm smile to Jezra as she introduced herself. “Hail and well met to you then, Jezra of Loviatar’s praise, I am certain I shall find a use for you when the occasion arises.” Savael said, stepping back to give a mock bow and flourish with an invisible hat towards the newcomer. At the elf’s suggestion of sheathing their weapons, Savael could only frown though. “I fear you might have misjudged the situation here, Jezra, for Vzerii and I were just about to enjoy a bit of sparring – weren’t we Vzerii?”, the yuan-ti added that last sentence almost as an after-thought, a harsh glare in the humans direction to underline the words. “Perhaps you’d like to oversee the proceedings? As a judge, I mean? It would be such a shame if any accidents were to occur so soon after our first meeting-“ he turned his attention to Vzerii again, as he said this.
Taeldrin Laesrash 12-27-05, 09:39 AM	"Indeed." Vzerii slowly nodded, turning her attention to Jezra. "While we were only about to spar, it would be such shame if there was a mishap or two." Meanwhile, Vzerii mulled the status of the newcomer in her head. Any group dedicated to pain and torture tended to be wild and unstable. She had seen such groups in her travels, and thought them as untrustwrothy and insane. Granted, she'd had tortued people before, but it was on harsh orders. Most of it, anyway. "Well, pleased to meet you." Vzerii said with a suspicious hint in her tone.
Sonnica 12-27-05, 04:29 PM	"Well met to you both. Thank you for such a warm and hearty welcome" At the same time returning Savael's warm smile though her eyes remain completely cold and emotionless, "I am sure that our future business will prove profitable for all parties and will prove to me most satisifying for us all on a personal level" "However that is all in the future, it would be most pleasurable for me to oversee the proceedings, though I am quite happy to act as a judge if that is all you wish, shall we say first to suffer three wounds looses? I am sure that it will prove instuctional as I have little experience of the blade my skills lie with other, how shall I put it, implements, which of course I am more than willing to offer instruction in should you have the desire" Isn't it nice to be associating with two such obviously trustworthy individuals. Well they both seem to have the capacity to inflict pain and I am sure they can learn to appreciate the subtley and joy of it. Leaving her thoughts behind she leans back against the wall "Please commence whenever you are ready, as you both say it would be a shame for any accident or mishap to occur, at least of the fatal variety."
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 12-27-05, 05:05 PM	Tis no revelation, that the word is an unfair place; and in an unfaur reality, many great men lack or loose what they deserve, while petty scrubs devoid of any true worth - with neither talent, nor heritage or noble purpose to redeem - wallow in luxury and aquire all theyr heart and waste desires, be it in consequence to fickle chance, to inscrupolousness of means, or perhaps to the perpetual incapability of theyr fellow men to see each man - in the broadest possible definition of the word "man", ofcourse - for what it is. The chariot, that has been making its way northewards from Daggerfalls {where it was unloaded along with its horses, crew, cargo, and sole passenger, from the ship which brought it up the Fire River}, was a perfect example of this: the four horses were of the best Nar breed, seldom used for anything other than war steeds due to its price. The chariot was both fancyful enough and sufficiently comfortable to carry a royal family. In addition to the driver and the six guards - all equipped richly enough to be the sacred inquisitors or crussadors of Morgadain - two more persons were present, obviously subservient to the chariot's passanger, whose roles were quite hard to figure out. Every detail of this vehicle was practicly screaming "Here goes a no-body, who ended up with way too much money for his own good, and no idea what to do with it!". While this would naturally attract brigands, inspite of the six guards' flashyness, a simple addition - that clearly took away some of the chariot's aesthetic marvel - seemed to give most prospective robbers a cause to think twice before attacking: a masterfully crafted military fork, pertruding from the chariot's roof, carried the severed head of a human on one tooth and an orc on the other, facing outwards. As it reached the Kemphris Estate, the chariot stopped, and the driver reached behind his back for a brush, with which he then began to dust off the horses without leaving his seat. Four of the six guards descended, and stood in a row from the chariot's door. Finally, the servant came down as well, struck a pair of cymbals, and announced in a loud, well-held voice: "Hero of the People, Master Stfu Catsdill the Articulate!" The second servant attaches a small staircase to the chariot's treshold, and finally the supposedly renowned Master Catsdill descends these stairs. The appearance of this "hero", as he steps down to the ground and dismisses the guards, could give the term "antyclimatic" a whole new meaning, but is unfortunately too rediculous to do even that. The figure is small. Atleast twice smaller than his servants or his chariot's driver, and easily thrice smaller than any of the guards. While the sheer price of his garments is probably as outlandish as that of the horses, chariot and hirelings, the absolute lack of any harmony or taste in theyr combination stands in sharp contrast to the class of all those things, clearly indicating that this person chose his clothes himself. A blue calishite turban, way too large for him, hides the entirity of his head, making one ponder how this pompously-announced traveler can see. Gnomish leather armor covers most of the body, but fits poorly enough to make it obvious: the wearer is NOT a gnome, although the height fits. The pants are laiden with valuable fur, looking like something a shaman of Uthgar would wear. A hand-crossbow, a forester's knife and a harmonica hanged from straps in his armor, and as soon as his voice was first heard, a suspicion would surely arrise in the hearers' minds that in his hands, the latter is much deadlier than both of the former combined. "Carry my belongings to the chambers i shall occupy in this mansion, good men-at-arms! Afterwards, you are free to go back to Raven's Bluff, and return the chariot. The deposit you'll recieve with its return is your payment. I would enjoy your company further, but the goals this journey is likely to pursue are better achieved without the attention attracted by such comodities as this fine vehicle, noble horses, and your simple minds. Farewell, good men!" What was hidden beneath the expensive and oversized clothes became revealed in his voice: the speaker ws a kobold. As the guards began to move sacks and chests from the chariot into a room in the mansion, and the driver came down to stretch his muscles before the ride back, the two servants - both well-dressed humans, followed theyr vane master inside.
Khaira 12-27-05, 11:39 PM	Khaira moved into the ever-familiar Flute and Boot Inn, pausing to glance around at those already gathered. Brushing a strand of vibrant red hair, Khaira noted that many had already come to heed her call. Soon, they would all be on the road, headed towards their ultimate goal: the retrieval of their harp and revenge upon the fool Savael, the one who had betrayed her during the great and unjustified War of Messianica ... the same war that she'd been captured in and put on trial...by her own companions and friends. Sighing, she shook her head as she noted that Rocky, the ever uncharismatic dwarf, was already playing at frienship with Gnome. Over in the other corner, near the fireplace, sat the familiar, miniature figure who had shocked Adept into such a frenzy ... a firelizard of Pern. She surmised, then, that the figure who's shoulder Brad now rested on could only be from one place: Pern. Moving over to the two figures by the fireplace, Khaira bowed with a flourish to the both of them. Flashing them both a dazzling, yet comforting smile, Khaira spoke, her voice like the melodic tune of an age-old song. "You both have answered my call, for which I am grateful. Yet, I know not the danger that awaits over hill, marsh, mountain, and stream. You need not feel an obligation to continue if such is not your desire. I will not force you to fight my battles." Looking around again, Khaira noted that it was only the four of them. A small number but, yet, she had survived with less than this number previously, against worse odds. After all, it was just one man - how dangerous could it be?
ruthia 12-28-05, 02:41 PM	"You both have answered my call, for which I am grateful. Yet, I know not the danger that awaits over hill, marsh, mountain, and stream. You need not feel an obligation to continue if such is not your desire. I will not force you to fight my battles." sighing I look up as she finally addresses my presence in this. She offers me a small ray of hope, the fact that I can still turn around and leave this fool's errand. But I give myself a small shake, no, I owe her to much to back out no. Debts must be repaid. And no one will say I never repay my debts. I stand, making know move to show who am I yet, though knowing that once I speak, she will know. "Pern always answers the Harpers call. And yours before most others Lady Amastacia. In fact, the dragons of Pern feel that it is only fair to answer your call by sending their best to your side." I gives a dark chuckle at my own words, for really I hadn't given my fellow dragons much choice. I told them what I was doing and that was that. My children had grumbled, my sisters and brothers had cursed my name for getting involved, but I was doing this for me..not for them. "When do we leave Khaira? I'm getting restless, and Kulideb thinks brad may eat her out of house and home."
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 12-28-05, 08:25 PM	With two motions, the gnome was free of his backpack's weight, and with two more he was mounted on a chair intended for humans, and probbaly for large ones at that. "Yepp, that'll do.", he replies cheerfully to the new alias given by the dwarf, as he raises his cup of evermead and listens to the pernian's voice. He had no idea where or what Pern is, or even whether the Dragons of Pern are actually dragons, or merely an organization or order of some sort, traditionally known by such a name. Under normal cyrcumstances he would assume the latter, but with Khaira... that elven lady sure had a penchant for consorting with dragons! He was trying to convince himself that even if actual dragons are in question, that's no reason for him to be afraid; and for now, he was succeeding in his attempts. Soooo Little Me...where ya from? " Oooh, i've been doing so much traveling that i'm not sure, really. The Alamir are almost like home, for once, but not quite... Heh, i bet if i end up passing through the place i was born in, i wouldn't even know it!"
Khaira 12-28-05, 10:29 PM	"Pern always answers the Harpers call. And yours before most others Lady Amastacia." Khaira smiled and nodded graciously. She was not, after all, about to deny the aid of anyone - especially not the aid of such a dear, old friend. Musing over some hidden thought or amusement, Khaira smirked to herself, chuckling lightly. "I am very appreciative that you have answered this, sole Harper's call. You owe me no debts, for I am no collector as such. You are free to make your own decisions with whom you will or will no associate with." "When do we leave Khaira?" Khaira pondered the answer to this question as she took one, brief glance about the room of the inn, musing over their options. The first step was getting out of this forest and that, in and of itself, would not be any walk in the park, especially once darkness fell. Still, time was precious to them, for every instant that she delayed, the further away Savael became. But they must play it safe, and with caution ... especially herself. After all, the last time she had given herself into fury, she had been betrayed by Gene, the unpredictable shadow dancer, and nearly slain by the bloodthirsty Savael. This time, it would be different... A dark look seemed to pass over her expression as Khaira continued to muse and ponder in front of Ruthia. After a moment, Khaira smiled, her emerald green eyes shining brightly and mischeviously to Ruthia. Her strained, determined, and, as it seemed, angry voice seemed to belie her expression, however. "We leave in the morning. Early. We've got a long ways to travel. Best get some rest tonight. But tonight ... enjoy yourselves." Turning to face her other comrades, Khaira's voice reached across the room, the musical nature of her voice spreading throughout the dining area. "Comrades and companions whom have answered my call this day!" Khaira paused ... whether for drama or attention was yet to been. Her sharp, emerald green eyes held each individuals gaze for a brief moment, mischief and simultaneous grimness in her expression. "My gratitude is yours, as is my debt. Your bravery for answering my call for such a rigorous voyage such as this is to be commended. Nowhere, and in no way, I believe, could the gods above and below have blessed me more." For a moment, only Khaira's radiant smile, matching the brightness and glory of any beautiful, breath-taking sunrise, was the only sight. "We shall depart in the morning, departing the gracious hospitality of Kulideb and the Flute and Boot Inn, and travel through the forest and reach its eastern border. From the end of the forest, we shall travel south and east down the Coast Way, through the cities of Beregost and Nashkel. After passing through these places, we travel north and east up the Uldoon Trail, until we reach Berdusk. At Berdusk, we shall retire for what is left of the darkness of the night, so that I may consult with my superiors and decide upon the best, possible route." Khaira spread her arms wide to her companions, tossing a hefty bag of coins upon the bar counter, to the halfling server there. "...but for tonight, my friends, enjoy yourselves and the company of the fellowship that has answered my call. You'll all be traveling together for a long, long time. Kulideb, my future appologies for any excessive rowdiness that you have to endure. Don't worry, if anyone's too rowdy, I'll give 'em a dunk in the river..." Khaira turned, watching Rocky with an intense, almost gleeful, look before turning, and going to the door. Looking back at her new comrades, she whispers something to herself before moving outside. "Lady Luck, may the fortunes of the coin of fate come heads-up for all of these innocents whom have answered my call..."
Mystery_Person 12-28-05, 11:22 PM	Matron Maliril looked down to the crouching, groveling figure of the drider that still stood before her throne. Casting a cruel look to Niura, she smiled sinisterly. "Your companions, First Sister, know their right place where some do not. I should hope that you do not fail this mission, for the Spider Queen is ever hungry for torture and worthless souls..." Looking down to the drider again, the Matron waved her hand in dismissal again. "Treemmouphindar, dishonored creature, fallen from the great Lolth's eyes, should you return, with or without my sister, you shall stand first as a guard of House Ma'Hazeen." There seemed to be a certain emphasis on those words, especially without my sister. What exactly was the Matron implying or referring to?Again, however, she spoke, in a tone of utter finality. "This audience has been dismissed, children of Lolth!" Niura With a smile of seemingly genuine thanks - but which was, in fact, simply a false, fallible thing - Niura rose and bowed to the Matron Mother. Inwardly, she fumed with a fury that could be unmatched. She had nearly unveiled her origins, and had dared to make reference to the very premise that she was weak! Now was not the time for a civil war and a coup d'etat within the House Ma'Hazzen. They were unstable and weak at the present. When she returned ... when she returned, the tables would be turned. Lolth would smile with great favor upon her for the chaos that she would inflict upon the fool Maliril. In fact, she would make sure that Maliril's heart was offered up to Lolth... Turning, her unholy robes swirling with a flourish all of their own behind her, Niura beckoned to Treemmouphindar, beginnning to move out of the audience chamber. "Rise and come, Being of Lolth's Disfavor! Our hunt will commence when the heat is nearly gone from Narbondel*!" Moving with a quickened pace out of the audience chambers, Niura turned to Xerafeln, intense fires of anticipation burning in her eyes. "Xerafeln, we depart Menzoberran when the heat is faded from Narondel's core on the 'morrow. If you are not ready to depart, I will send Treemmouphindar to retrieve you, ready or not!" With those words, Niura again stormed off, descending into the lower chambers of House Ma'Hazzen, where her headquarters were. It was time to make final preparations. * Narbondel is a giant monolith in Menzoberran. It is infused with heat energy in the morning by the Archmage of Menzoberran and, as such, is then all lit up when those with Darkvision look at it. Thus saying "...when the light is faded from Narbondel" is akin to saying "in the evening"
ruthia 12-29-05, 02:35 AM	I nod and listen quietly as the red haired bard gives her speech to her troop, throwing money out for us and saying we must enjoy ourselves before she heads out the door herself. Brad and I watch her leave with matching blue eyes and worried thoughts. I trn to my small friend and scratches his eye ridges gently while whispering to him. "Time for our last hunt friend. Are you ready?" Brad gives a small chirp and hangs on tight as I walk out the door behind Khaira, carefully to go in a differnt direction. Once out of sight Brad takes off flying into the sky...he is soon joined by a white dragon, soaring the skies with the small bronze. In the distance a thump and a crunch is heard, followed by the happy rumbling of a dragon.......
Savael 12-29-05, 06:37 AM	With the introductions being a thing of the past, the yuan-ti’s slanted eyes swivelled over to focus their attention on the opposition. Noting the human’s black, loose-fitting garments, Savael immediately envisioned speed taking precedence over armour. Those loose-fitting folds of cloth could perhaps obscure a leather cuirass or padded suit of some sort though – and he hadn’t heard the clink of metal yet, had he? No. With Tymorras grace, the addled female would be just as unprotected as he was, something his bare arms and tunic bore silent testimony to. He didn’t know too much about her skill with her weapon of choice though; he’d never been to much of a fan of the longsword, preferring instead other weapons to serve his ends when the need arose. The last time he’d actually swung a longsword must’ve been, what--? Eight or nine years ago? With the facts now standing clear before him, Savael gave a quick nod to Vzerii and Jezra in turn before raising his longsword up to form a low guard and began to slowly edge towards his adversary, a cocky smile on his sharp features. He’d use the difference in reach afforded by his longsword over Vzerii’s rapier to his maximum advantage, simply edging around her to administer a few quick jabs at her flanks. The’d decided on three wounds, after all. . . . Now, if he could only get his defences right and stir up some of those good ’ol memories from years gone by; he hoped the human wasn’t going to be as quick as she seemed...
Agudo Archmage 12-29-05, 03:56 PM	http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Little Me the Gnome Oooh, i've been doing so much traveling that i'm not sure, really. The Alamir are almost like home, for once, but not quite... Heh, i bet if i end up passing through the place i was born in, i wouldn't even know it!" With his second helping of clam chowder now dripping from his shaggy red beard the crusty dwarf leaned back and patted his ever growing round belly. “Thou is truly just like me little Me! ....Hahahahha.... Slamming his hand on the table several times with added laughter For nay a tavern that’s not home to me in one land ere another. It was then the redheaded temptress spoke of merriment and debauchery with the added sobering thought of the dangerous adventure ahead. “ Khaira For a moment, only Khaira's radiant smile, matching the brightness and glory of any beautiful, breath-taking sunrise, was the only sight. "We shall depart in the morning, departing the gracious hospitality of Kulideb and the Flute and Boot Inn, and travel through the forest and reach its eastern border. From the end of the forest, we shall travel south and east down the Coast Way, through the cities of Beregost and Nashkel. After passing through these places, we travel north and east up the Uldoon Trail, until we reach Berdusk. At Berdusk, we shall retire for what is left of the darkness of the night, so that I may consult with my superiors and decide upon the best, possible route." Khaira spread her arms wide to her companions, tossing a hefty bag of coins upon the bar counter, to the Halfling server there. "...but for tonight, my friends, enjoy yourselves and the company of the fellowship that has answered my call. You'll all be traveling together for a long, long time. Kulideb, my future apologies for any excessive rowdiness that you have to endure. Don't worry, if anyone's too rowdy, I'll give 'em a dunk in the river..." Winking at his wee little Gnome friend “Hehe you’ve and me have the rowdy job to fulfill Tehe but now if ye see that red headed lass when she be done frolicking with the trees; tells her to wakes me when she done in the morning. Slapping the back of Little Me with a wee bit of glee Thy knows I be the first man to say it to Khaira.... who nots be on his back with the temptress Hahahaha Of course all along Rocky was wondering who could be her superiors even as he laughed at his own joke
Xerafeln 12-29-05, 10:41 PM	"Xerafeln, we depart Menzoberran when the heat is faded from Narondel's core on the 'morrow. If you are not ready to depart, I will send Treemmouphindar to retrieve you, ready or not!" The drow bowed his head as Niura swept away and out of sight. A wry smile crossed his face. "Usstan orn'la naut lle'warin ol whol l' tresk'ri, Yathrin." Once she was out of sight, he made his way down the corridor and out of the holdings of the Ma'Hazzen. He made his way to the small, secure pocket of space he'd made into his temporary home. He stretched out on a well-loved bedroll, idly spinning his signet ring around his thumb, staring at the brief flickers and flashes it created as it caught even the slightest hint of light. After a moment or two, he sat up again, lighting a tiny enchanted lamp that he kept in his pack, drawing out a small leather-bound tome with the image of a falling star embossed on the cover. With an inkpen, he scrawled a few words in a language he was fairly certain few in this realm spoke with any sort of skill, let alone read: Things go as I'd hoped, though I'll not let my guard down because of it. When things seem to be going perfectly is when they are most likely to turn for the worst. I dearly hope that I will be able to finish what I have set out to accomplish and quit this place as soon as possible. There is so much I should be doing rather than this. He eyed the words on the page for a moment, then nodded to himself, closing the book again. He tucked it safely into his pack before putting out the light and stretching out again. "Ulnin nindol orn jal tlu phor, lu' Usstan orn tlu izil ulu mumbaro pholor,"$ he murmured softly. "Sooner rather than later, anyhow..." --------- * "I would not miss it for the world, Priestess." $ "Soon this will all be over, and I will be able to move on,"
Taeldrin Laesrash 12-30-05, 07:21 PM	Vzerii's eyes scanned Savael's with impunity, searching for weaknesses. The fighter seemed to lack armor, but hos serpentine heritage probably granted him some natural protection. Given the grip on his longsword, Savael seemed to have minor proficiency with his weapon. And his forward movement, albeit slow, was more than enough for her to add some extra force when she struck. A fast and movement-heavy attack would be enough to win this fight. Vzerii put her hand on her unsheathed rapier, waiting for Savael to make the first strike.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 01-03-06, 05:16 AM	"Treemmouphindar, dishonored creature, fallen from the great Lolth's eyes, should you return, with or without my sister, you shall stand first as a guard of House Ma'Hazeen." "This audience has been dismissed, children of Lolth!" "Rise and come, Being of Lolth's Disfavor! Our hunt will commence when the heat is nearly gone from Narbondel!" Rising with a bow, the drider followed the priestess as she ordered. His grin softened, and was no longer as maniacal as before; it was more of a sophisticated smile, showing some of the thoughts that crept within his mind. However, his treacherous calculations were well hiden behind a screen of lust; for now that he no longer needed to keep his eyes down, he was free to observe his mistress. Say what now? Did she just...? Oh yesss, she did. Hah, now i won't even have to report to run to the east immidiately after the hunt. I could first report to House Ma'Hazzen, and only then to the Lost One - beautyful! And speaking of beautyful, i ponder if Niura has a mount of her own, or would rather sit where paladines of Tyr and priestesses of Cyrollallee sat before her...
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 01-03-06, 07:03 AM	"I am very appreciative that you have answered this sole Harper's call." ... "At Berdusk, we shall retire for what is left of the darkness of the night, so that I may consult with my superiors and decide upon the best possible route." The Harpers have a base of operations at Berdusk? I ponder if Her Grace is aware of that..., thought the gnome. While most of Rocky's slaps on his back were absorbed without more than a slight rocking, one did cause Little Me to spill some of the mead on himself. However, he didn't seem to mind, and took it with good humor, as it should be. “Thou is truly just like me little Me! ....Hahahahha.... For nay a tavern that’s not home to me in one land ere another. Thy knows I be the first man to say it to Khaira.... who nots be on his back with the temptress Hahahaha He glanced briefly at theyr leader, whom he has been ordered to aid. The friendly dwarf's comments from now and before, as well as his own fondness of the bardess, and an effect from some of the things she earlier said, caused him to ponder waiting for a convinient moment, then looking in hr eyes without his handband on, and... ...but no; If time for that will ever come, it has surely not came yet. It was not part of his orders, and could interefere with them. And besides, Kulideb has seen him do it once, and an encore might trigger her recognition of him. And if Kulideb would recognize him... - well, that just wouldn't do. Therefore, he kept maintaining a low profile.
Savael 01-03-06, 01:41 PM	”Now, let’s see what you’ve got.” Savael thought as he lunged at Vzerii with a left-hand slash at about elbow-level. With any luck he’d manage to catch her off-guard, take the initiative and take it away from there. He’d never had much more than formal practice with long blades, but that wouldn’t matter much if he just put his brawn to good use and managed to keep her parrying for about half a minute or so... Those thin arms and frail wrists wouldn’t be enough to parry his attacks forever, not if he went about it with proper skill, (which you don’t really have, by the way) a small, simpering voice at the back of his head whispered. Savael shook his head angrily and tried to ignore it. He was the captain here, and he’d be damned if some sneaky prat of a woman was going to compromise his authority... * * * Stfu: The arrival of the garishly decorated carriage had obviously attracted a bit of attention from the mansions inhabitants. A small number of servants, scullery maids and other members of staff along with a healthy contingency of household guards stood in clusters around the various entrances to the mail hall, apparently gawking and muttering at the sight of the diminutive new guest. ”Is that a gnome?” ”Nah, shouldn’t think so... look at ‘is paws there, ‘nomes don’t ‘ave-“ “But isn’t that just the loveliest little harmonica you’ve ever seen! Look there, on his chest!” “So what? That’s the biggest bleedin’ turban I’ve ever seen, an’ no mistake I tell ya!” “Did any of you hear that speech now just outside? That was no gnome’s voice, I assure you.” From out of the crowd of tottering servants came a tall, wispy-haired man in blue robes and rather pompous air about him. His small, watery eyes focused on the new visitor and his servants, his slipperd feet almost skimming the flagstoned floor as he came towards them. “Yes? How might I be of assistance Mr, erm... Catsdill?”
Taeldrin Laesrash 01-03-06, 09:07 PM	Vzerii 'fell' backwards, barely dodging the slice. She crouched on her back leg as she landed, holding her rapier back. Savael had more skill than she thought, and it would be in her best intrests to end this fight quickly. As fast as she had fell, Vzerii leapt forward, rising a foot of length into the air. As her weapon left its sheath, a thin wave of sparks erupted from it, falling to the ground like snowflakes near Savael's feet. Her rapier was held high, preparing to give her opponent a 'gentle' tap.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 01-04-06, 12:12 PM	Throwing a silver coin at every servant whose either apperance or words pleased him, Stfu strode in, with both the male and the female human immidiately behind him. Nodding briefly to the blue-robbed man, he then spoke, looking at him with a kobold's compromise for a courtly smile, and trying really hard to blur the fact that this techinically forced him to look up. "Ah, yes, good butler! I trust a room has already been designated for me, so you may order a light meal for three persons, and some wine to be served thence, as well as a hot tub, if it lacks one. I wish not my servants to be a burden on the Captain and thyself, while he may need to host many others for our upcoming escapade, so they will both share my room, till the good Captain leads us forth. An hour from now you may announce my arrival, so as to neither disturb the Captain's from his preparations, nor provoke him to interrup our rest. As of the time you announce me so, pass my regards generously to himself, and to any persons who flocked to join his impending search as did I." With that and a tossed golden coin for tip into the tall man's hand, Stfu sidestepped and proceded to take the room into which the guards were carrying his traveling posessions {which they probbaly chose for relative comfort and accessibility, since if a herald was ever actually sent to inform of Stfu's arrival beforehand, it has probably either been waylaied or went home instead with his advance payment}. Just before entering the room, the kobold spoke to his servants, in a quieter voice, as to not attract too much attention or be heard by anyone not intentionally listening: "Ronleth, go socialize with the estate's people; spread rumor of my arrival - ...informally - and of the speach i'll give at the table, once the captain calls a feast before we embark on our quest. Yola, ...let's see if they got that hot tub in yet, shall we?" The male human, the same one who earlier announced his tiny master's arrival outside, shrugged and shook his head, but went to search for the servants' quarters with his orders in mind. The female, which was first seen helping the kobold out of theyr carriage, decently feigned joy as she followed Stfu inside.
Agudo Archmage 01-08-06, 02:13 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Blurry blood shot eyes blink open to see a mouse run by with a stale peace of cheese between its sharp teeth. Belching as he slowly raises his shaggy main of red hair from the tavern stained floor the crusty Dwarf moves his mouth as if trying to ascertain the many strange tastes still lingering long after he had finished his last rot gut bottle. Me head hurts he blurted out shaking his head as he grabbed hold of the bar stool Talking to no one in particular he adds Tis it morning? Or Tehhe is it time for round two of endless drinking?
Niura Ma'Hazzen 01-08-06, 02:45 PM	As Niura approched the giant slab of carved jet that served as her door, she stopped, and memorized the specimen of the male Xerafln in her mind. He was strikingly handesome, his angular face and sharp features depicting the peek of drow heritage. Unlike most drow male he kept very short hair, unlike her brothers who always had long hair, that was wrapped in colorful ribbon along their backs. Lilth, but toned muscles clearly visible behind garb, the male in all probablity was a capable fighter. She decided then he would be an asset to keep around longer. The drow opened her eyes, looking directly onto the smooth stone, an elaborate picture carved depicting an enormous black widow, weaving silky thread into a vast network of a web. Niura smirked as a fire rekindled within her. This had been a gift from the matron years ago, when she was first drafted into preistess hood. Though she soon realized that infact it was a symbol, one that bound her as property to Maliril. Putting the thought to the back of her mind, Niura pushed the door open onto her chambers, and left it open for Treemmouphindar to enter. As far as she was concerned, the drider wouldnt be much of a bother. Strawling to the center of her room she soon found her wadrobe, and had its shudders thrown open wide, digging through to find what she would need for this journey. Displayed were the dark silk robes of a preistess, and a beutiful red dress, that was she had specially tailored, it served her well at many a noble party. She shook her head, and pushed the garments aside. At the very bottem corner she found dark leathers, a chest peice and leggings to match, and simple tunic to cover them, along with a pair of sturdy boots. She also plifered a glittering piwafi made of spidersilk, it was enchanted to serve minor invibility to its wearer if covered completely. Yes, these would better serve her in the harsh dark stretches of the Underdark. Stuffing the items into a sac on her bed, Niura stalked over to a chest, where she found scrolls of protection, and healing. Later when everything was packed away, Niura sighed and rubbed the aching muscles of her biceps, ealier in the day she'd attended a weapons training excorsize with the houses weapon trainer. This was mandotory for all preistess to be efficient with atleast one weapon, though personally Niura did not favor the heavy shortsword that was given to her. Though she had admitted that the weapon had gotten lighter in her hands, and she could finally provide a good sparring match. The night was late, and there would be only one more thing to do before leaving, and that would be taking a visit to the temple of lolth for her favor and prayer. It would not do well to not have the Spider Queen backing her in this time of troubles. She would do that in the morning, but for now, it was time for some relaxation. She strained to think of taking off to the bathouses, where the servants there would rub perfumed oils on your skin, but instead called to have a hot bath drawn. This done, the servant like always asked permision to remove her clothes, as it was customary for any noble. Though Niura glanced codly at the male, and this was enough to dismiss him. She soon was in lounging in the wash vase,a wicked smile played on her face at the thought of what the future would hold for Niura, first daughter of House Ma'Hazzen.
ruthia 01-15-06, 10:36 AM	Mornings first rays peek through the trees of the woods surronding the Flute and the Boot Inn. Birds chirp cheerfully, almost to cheerfully for the start of a quest such as this one. I sigh as Brad scoots ahead of me on our way back to the Inn. Rations wise the little guy and I where set, hopefully the rest of the group was equally prepared for what this morning brings. Shaking my head as I watched my little friends antics as he flew. Once the tavern was insight I called him to my shoulder. I open the tavern door and step inside, looking around. Smiling at the quiet I move to Halfloaf and asks for a cup of tea which she provides. I take it and sit, sipping slowly as I wait for the rest of the group to assemble. Brad dips his head in and takes a sip of my tea also, content to wait with me.
Captain Binkle 01-16-06, 09:40 AM	Captain Binkle awoke to a knocking at his door. "Captain, We have arrived at Baldur's Gate. Selina, Hale and Thorn will accompany you while you're off the Sea Talon, sir," he heard Lucius say from behind the door. He huffed as he got out of bed and whipped the crust from his eye. He grumbled to himself as he put on his clothes, vest, eyepatch, and his cloak. By the time Captain Binkle was in the city with his companions, he was his usual cheery self. "So, where should we go first?" he said as they reached the center of the city near the Elfsong Tavern and Church of Ilmater. "We should go to a tavern," Thorn offered. Hale nodded agreeing with his brother. "Far too early for a drink," the one-eyed gnome dismissed the thought with a wave of his stubby hand. "I know of a place we could go to relax," the auburn haired ranger said quitely. Captain Binkle reguarded the half elf woman as she continued. "There's a tavern just outside of town. Small establishment just off the road east. The Flute and Boot Inn, I believe it's called," she said nerviously. She had only just joined the crew recently. A month ago she had been hunting for some food, when she was abducted by a crazed druid attempting to awaken the intelligence of a laviathan. Captain Binkle and his crew had saved her. Since then, she has helped Captain Binkle, and felt no reason to stay. But she didn't want to leave. She felt more at home with the ecsentric gnome and his crew, then she did anywhere else. Captain Binkle reguarded her couriously as she lowered her head to avoid his gaze. "Well, let's be off. By the time we reach this lonely establishment," Captain Binkle said walking towards the east gate. "It'll be time for a drink," the one-eyed gnome said, making a motion that resembled a wink.
Captain Binkle 01-16-06, 10:07 PM	Captain Binkle and his companions, reached the establishment in the early hours of the morning. He saw a woman outside had once seen in passing grooming a Roc. The one-eyed gnome bowed to he respectfully as he and his friends entered the Flute and Boot. The group picked an empty table and waved over a barmaid. "A round of ale for me and my comrades," Waldo said smiling broardly. "And keep them coming for them," he added knowing how Hale and Thorn get while drinklng. Once the brothers recieved their drinks, they began chuging them down. Trying to out do each other. Selina shook her head as she was offered her drink. She asked for water intead. Captain Binkle mearly sat sipping at his drink. Listening for any interesting conversations in the quant tavern/inn.
Agudo Archmage 01-17-06, 12:11 AM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Yep one jug of Rotgut safely tied to me pack, several slices of fried meat, five loves of unleavened bread with wrapped fermented cheese all put away for the long hall. The Dwarf said contently after a night of unbridled celebrating. Glancing about he sees an obvious band of adventures come in through the tavern door Humph tis couple knucklehead Barbarians a scrawny Gnome and Hehhe a cutiepie Halfelf. Chuckling to himself the Dwarf secured his travel pack about his back and walks by the group of adventures giving a gruff huff at most of them Yet winks at Selina as he grabs his axe Yer a fine lass for me to play with! Comes if thy heart is brave enough to take on the handsomest Dwarf thy’en eyes has ever seen Without waiting he goes to the backroom of the tavern and begins practicing his throws against the painted target board.
Savael 01-17-06, 07:23 AM	His blade being favoured with longer reach than that of his opponent, Savael took a hasty step backwards as Vzerii danced away, dodging his attack gracefully. The woman had yet to draw her rapier though, and Savael was grateful for this lest a swift counterattack to his exposed torso had given the human the privelige of drawing first blood. The tip of his cloven tongue flicked out across his lips for a moment, the ghost of a sardonic smile playing 'round them. If she'd only keep dodging like that... He had to admit later on though, that the shower of sparks brushing the flagstones near his feet was an unsuspected surprise. What other tricks did this vixen have tucked up her long, baggy sleeves? They wouldn't save her in the end though, he concluded. Silly trickster-bint. Standing at the sideline, the elven cleric simply watched them, impassively - although Savael thought he glimpsed a faint smirk marr the female's otherwise hard face. She probably enjoyed the sight of blood spilled like this, in the heat of combat. The yuan-ti's reveri quickly came to an end, however, as a sudden blur in the vicinity of the woman's swordarm heralded an unpleasant, stinging pain errupting in his left shoulder. A trickle of warm blood seeped from the wound, and Savael gritted his teeth not to cry out.Damn she was fast, wasn't she? Better be a bit more careful... He lunged forward again, a flurry of blows born of anger at his attacker. All obviously easy parrys, but hopefully backed with enough force to tire the woman, robbing her of some of that dangerous agility. OoC: This post was slow in the comming, I'll admit to that freely. I'm sorry for taking such a long time to get it done, and I'll try to post more regularely from now on.
Taeldrin Laesrash 01-17-06, 09:31 AM	Vzerii gave a sadistic smile as her blow neatly landed on her opponent. She could tell that the spectating cleric was enjoying this too, whether it was the fight itself or the wound she had inflicted on Savael. The sparks had obviously unnerved him, so that might give her a slight edge in combat. Apparantly not, Vzerii cursed in her head as Savael launched a rapid series of attacks. Stunned by the suddenness of the attack, she hastily deflected the first swing, although it left her off-guard. She barely parried the next attack, moving back from the strength of the blow and leaving her sword arm shaky. The third attack got her, clouting her in the stomach with intense force. Vzerii fell back, rolling into a crouched position, clutching her stomach and breathing heavily. (OOC: Don't worry, Savael. We're all patient here.)
Khaira 01-17-06, 09:35 PM	As the sun teased those waiting in the morning, slyly sneaking up over the horizon, Khaira stood by Swiftwing, softly whispering to her most beloved companion and friend. As she caressed the beak of the gigantic, winged Roc, it nuzzled the face of the red-haired bardess, nearly knocking her over with its strength. "Swiftwing, my friend ... how long have we journeyed together? How many centuries have we been together, braving the most dire of perils? How many deathtraps have we barely escaped?" Khaira smiled faintly as a large, feathered wing came to rest upon the elven bardess' shoulder. All the night, she had not truly rested. For a couple of hours, she had ventured into the trance-like elven reverie common for her race, but it had only felt as a moment of space in time. Softly, she murmured a common phrase in Elvish. "Sato ... sato, a'maelamin. E'coiasira lye il'usin gurtha."* Sighing, she leaned against Swiftwing's massive body, pondering to herself how long it would be before she would fall. Would it be this journey? Though she heard the familiar sounds of Brad and another moving through the forest towards the Inn now, she did not move. Softly, she murmured to Swiftwing again. "Sato, a'maelamin. Sato lye faranye."** It was then that, behind her, Khaira heard what was an unfamiliar sound. Well, relatively anyway. She always heard people marching through the forests and other wilds. Humans and other races of that nature could be so very loud and undignified. Then again, what was she, if no better than them ... according to certain individuals. Turning, Khaira moved to face the approaching threat that was Captain Binkle and his crew. A hard gaze from the emerald green eyes from the red-haired elven bardess was all that greeted the approaching crew. At the staring from Captain Binkle, Khaira nodded, her expression a stony one of blankness. Once they were within the tavern, Khaira pondered, and then looked around at the sunlit trees and land of the Cloakwood Forest. It was morning...Khaira turned back towards Swiftwing, a cynical twinkle in her eyes. "Well, you know, my friend ... we have survived for a long, long time. What's one more death anyway? Dear Correlon, Father of the Elven Race, Coronal of Arvandor ... be with me now." Swiftwing's only response was a fierce-eyed gaze into Khaira's own. Only minutes later, Khaira was moving with swift, light-footed steps towards the doors of the tavern. Khaira pushed out both hand and threw open the doors of the tavern, standing in the now open doorway, her red hair flowing in the light breeze that flowed through the forest and, now, the tavern. After gazing around momentarily and noting the presence of her comrades, Khaira strode a short ways through the floor of the tavern, piercing emerald green eyes meeting the gazes of those gathered here. "Comrades! 'Tis morning, and our grand hunt is about to begin. This, now, is your last chance to withdraw. In one hour, we shall depart, and we shall be travelling until evening steals the last of our light from us. Once we are out of this gracious forest, we strike south and east down the Coast Way, through the cities of Beregost and Nashkel. After passing through these places, we travel north and east up the Uldoon Trail, until the city of Berdusk, where we shall camp. Make ready in one hour, comrades!" With that, Khaira moved outside into the forest, the door closing behind her with a slam. She moved with a quickened, light pace, her eyes holding a fiery, determined look. She still had one more ritual left for her to complete... * "Soon ... soon, my beloved. In time, we will not escape death. ** Soon, my beloved. Soon we will hunt.
ruthia 01-17-06, 09:50 PM	I look up as the red haired wildfire storms in and makes the announcement we had been waiting for. Not reply as she leaves a slowly stroke Brads soomth neck and croon to him in Draconic. *Soon my little cousin...soon...* Brad nuzzles my cheek in response and watches the fire with a low hiss
Captain Binkle 01-18-06, 09:03 AM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Yep one jug of Rotgut safely tied to me pack, several slices of fried meat, five loves of unleavened bread with wrapped fermented cheese all put away for the long hall. The Dwarf said contently after a night of unbridled celebrating. Glancing about he sees an obvious band of adventures come in through the tavern door Humph tis couple knucklehead Barbarians a scrawny Gnome and Hehhe a cutiepie Halfelf. Chuckling to himself the Dwarf secured his travel pack about his back and walks by the group of adventures giving a gruff huff at most of them Yet winks at Selina as he grabs his axe Yer a fine lass for me to play with! Comes if thy heart is brave enough to take on the handsomest Dwarf thy’en eyes has ever seen Without waiting he goes to the backroom of the tavern and begins practicing his throws against the painted target board. Captain Binkle looked to Selina as the dwarf walked away. Rageful fires were lit in her hazel orbs. "It seems, my dear that you have an admirer," the one-eyed gnome said with a chuckle. Selina glowered at the captain as he sipped at his drink. "I've seen better looking dwarves with plauge," she said as she grabbed her quiver and bow. She stormed after the egotistical runt who had made a pass at her. Captain Binkle finished his drink and looked the Hale and Thorn. They were staring each other down through semi-blurry eyes as they finished another round. The gnome sighed as told the bartender that he would return to pay the bill and reclaim his comrades. He continued though the same door that Selina and the dwarf walked though. Praying that Selina hadn't done anything rash to the bold dwarf.
Agudo Archmage 01-18-06, 04:13 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Using a few colorful Dwarven words to describe his last off target throw Rocky grabbed angrily at the axe in the wall. Humph! Teaches me to drink that Gnomish Ale Little Me passed around Not far in the other room an Elvin melody like voice spoke up just then Khaira "Comrades! 'Tis morning, and our grand hunt is about to begin. This, now, is your last chance to withdraw. In one hour, we shall depart, and we shall be travelling until evening steals the last of our light from us. Once we are out of this gracious forest, we strike south and east down the Coast Way, through the cities of Beregost and Nashkel. After passing through these places, we travel north and east up the Uldoon Trail, until the city of Berdusk, where we shall camp. Make ready in one hour, comrades!" Hmm perhaps tis time to get a few more drinks under me slim belt before shoveling off Yet from the corner of his eye a fine Halfelf lass came walking up armed and ready What in thy hands me pretty? Ahh the arrow to pierce mine heart with thy love? He gagged at his own forced sweetness then winked at her again Heheh Ye knows a fun time when ya see it ah? Now why nots show me how good thou art’s by hitting yawn target He took a tipsy wave of his hand as he turned and pointed at the circular red colored board. If thy wants we cans bet on it....If ye be the winner thy can takes me in ye sweet arms The crusty red hair dwarf laughed as he adjusted his belt over his ever growing stomach. And If I be the lucky winner ...well Heheh He left the last words un-said
Khaira 01-18-06, 11:59 PM	(Oops)
Mystery_Person 01-19-06, 12:24 AM	The heaving, sinewy muscled form of the jet black horse pressed on and on down the road, travelling the Trade Way south. The animal was already pressing on as fast as its body would allow it to, and small spurts of dust spat up from behind the animal's hooves, already a blur to the common spectator.From atop the speeding horse, a voice whispered in a softly hissing voice, the wind the voice's only listener. "The end is near..." His cloak flowed out behind him, flying in the wind behind the heavily sweating animal. As the cloaked and hooded figure leaned forward to peer closer at the surroundings of the receding Ardeep Forest, his clothing shifted, revealing twin scabbards hanging at his side. "...you cannot hide for long..." By late afternoon, he would be passing through the city of Daggerford ... he would stop only long enough for his mount to replenish its strength, and then he would strike out on the road again. Riding by night, he could reach the city of Baldur's Gate by evening. Once there, he would find the answers he needed... "...your fame will lend to your fall, Khaira..." A spine-chilling laugh erupted from the shadows of the figure's hood as he rode on through the wilds of the Trade Way, his pace never slowing down. While his mount was long past weariness, he was not. Something fueled him ... something that was not natural. Some catalyst that served to further fortify the determination and passion that flowed through his blood. "...and Faerun will once again know peace..." He bent over the mane of his horse, whispering coldly to it, looking eagerly to the horizon. A hand caressed one of his swords sheathed within its scabbard, now concealed under his clothes. It would not be long now...
Captain Binkle 01-19-06, 09:18 AM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Using a few colorful Dwarven words to describe his last off target throw Rocky grabbed angrily at the axe in the wall. Humph! Teaches me to drink that Gnomish Ale Little Me passed around Not far in the other room an Elvin melody like voice spoke up just then Khaira Hmm perhaps tis time to get a few more drinks under me slim belt before shoveling off Yet from the corner of his eye a fine Halfelf lass came walking up armed and ready What in thy hands me pretty? Ahh the arrow to pierce mine heart with thy love? He gagged at his own forced sweetness then winked at her again Heheh Ye knows a fun time when ya see it ah? Now why nots show me how good thou art’s by hitting yawn target He took a tipsy wave of his hand as he turned and pointed at the circular red colored board. If thy wants we cans bet on it....If ye be the winner thy can takes me in ye sweet arms The crusty red hair dwarf laughed as he adjusted his belt over his ever growing stomach. And If I be the lucky winner ...well Heheh He left the last words un-said Selina's bow was pointed at the "handsome" dwarf as Captain Binkle walked out. Her bow was cocked and ready to fire. "I assure you, my petite friend ," she stressed the last word. "No woman, bearded or not, would find you handsome," Selina let fly her arrow, which narrowly missed the dwarf's pudgy ear. Hitting the target on the center. "It's more likely that they find you repulsive and rude," she said, unleashing another arrow. It grazed the dwarf's cheek, and cut her first arrow in half. Captain Binkle chuckled to himself thinking the dwarf foolish. "Here are my terms, now that I've won," she said throwing her bow back over her shoulder. The dwarf started to retort, but was silenced as Selina threw her short spear over the dwarf's head. The spear destroyed the two arrows as it also hit a bullseye on the target. "You will never speak to me in such ways. If you do I won't hesitate to cut your tounge out and feed it to sharks. If you continue, i'll cut something else off," as she finished her threat, the short spear returned to her hand. Captain Binkle walked over to the stunned dwarf. "You really should not have crossed her," the one-eyed gnome said, offering a pat on the back and a smile. "Come. Let me buy you a drink. I have to reclaim my companions from inside, as well as quench my sudden thirst," said the captain, making an odd gesture with his eye.
Agudo Archmage 01-19-06, 01:12 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Raising his bushy red eyebrow Rocky was truly stunned by the Halfelf spunky play Her words were that of a Dwarven poet firm and dangerous in manner The skill she showed by matching his own in playful fighting was a Bardic song to his waxy ears He shook his head to come out of musing as the Gnome patted him on the back. Captain Binkle You really should not have crossed her," the one-eyed gnome said, offering a pat on the back and a smile. "Come. Let me buy you a drink. I have to reclaim my companions from inside, as well as quench my sudden thirst," said the captain, making an odd gesture with his eye Laughing out loud and smiling as well at the Gnome who smelled of the salty sea She be the woman for me I tells ya.....She maybe a Half-breed but she has the heart of a Dwarf For only me kind would use such feisty killing words .....ahh I be in luvs As they came into the main room of the tavern he wonders as well if the Realm was being taken over by Gnomes Eyeing the captain folding his arms and frowning Well now ye said thy coin purse is buying Ill take a tall Dwarven Ale.
Sonnica 01-19-06, 05:30 PM	Jezra watched the duelists with only passing interest, the play of swords had never been something that had appealed. Just as her attention was wandering away entirely from the duel Vzerii weapon sliced through Savael's guard, as the resulting wave of pain hit her a small gasp of pleasure escaped her lips. Her mind suddenly refocused on the events in front of her Perhaps there is more to such an uncivilised practice than I first thought, while it is so unsubtle in its infliction of pain there are some obvious benefits. Noting the sadisitc smile on Vzerii's face she smiles Perhaps there is hope for this one, she enjoyed that almost as much as I did, perhaps should time permit we will be able to talk about certain matters She now watched the exchange of blows with undivided attention and a sense of anticipation, as Savael's blow lands her smile broadens and her sense of pleasure and enjoyment grows, distracted by these feeling she speaks with out realising "Most and enjoyable, please carry on"
Khaira 01-20-06, 12:22 AM	Khaira found herself outside the building of the Flute and Boot Inn. There was just one more thing she had to complete and, more like than not, it would take a whole hour. This was just as well, especially since she had told the rest of her company - some of whom she was sure hadn't been listening - to meet her in one hour. With quiet, almost reverent steps, Khaira came to Swiftwing, and looked into the deep eyes of her long time friend. With a soft, easy half-smile, Khaira's head came to rest upon Swiftwing's own head. From Swiftwing's head a nearly human -sounding moan emanated as elf and roc rested for a moment, each one seeming to lean on the other. After what seemed to be an eternity, Khaira broke her stance, whispering softly to Swiftwing as she moved over to a pack hanging from the roc's side. "Rest ... rest while you yet can, beloved." While Swiftwing nestled its silver-crested head into the feather of its breast and its breathing slowed, Khaira approached the makeshift saddle and packs hanging from that makeshift saddle. From the pack which served as a saddlebag, Khaira removed a crescent-moon shaped dagger which seemed to gleam with a magical vigor and a flask of clear liquid with the insignia of a misty crescent over a full moon branded upon its glass. Walking away from the now-sleeping Swiftwing, Khaira set the dagger and flask on the ground and removed her cloak, laying it gently upon the earth floor. She slipped off her shoes and set those, too, upon the cloak. Next came her bow and arrows, both of which she lay gently upon the cloak. From her fingers, she removed a ruby-red ring from her left hand and a jet-black ring forged of opal and set these, too, upon her cloak, next to her bow. Khaira fell to her knees before her cloak, then, whispering softly in Elvish. "Nae saian luume'atar ar'atara. Na'yassen amin e'seere." * Drawing up the dagger, Khaira rose after a moment of silence and walked further from the cloak and, crouching down, she began to draw a perfect circle in the dirt of the ground. After the circle had been meticulously drawn, Khaira unstoppered the flask and poured the silvery contents into the lines of the circle. "Aaye, ithil."** All at once, a silver light, the color of the moon, shone up from within the circle. Khaira felt the overwhelming power as the elven ritual magic took hold of her, lifting her spirits higher, higher, higher ... she sank slowly to her knees, awed by the love and power that she felt flowing within and throughout the circle. Her eyes closed, then, and she felt the solid, steady earth beneath her knees. It seemed to her that from this ground, she could feel every tree, every bush, every bird, every creature, and every symbiotic relationship. She could feel the life and the cyclic order that it brought. She saw all of the members of the races of elves - the sun elves, the moon elves, the wood elves, the wild elves, the sea elves and, of course, the drow elves. Slowly, all of the races of the Seldarine seemed to meld into one and before her she saw the charismatic face of a familiar individual form. Long flowing blond hair and piercing, all-seeing blue eyes and an unmarred face struck the elven bardess with awe, just as it always did. In his hands was grasped a naked sword that seemed to glow, shine, and pulsate with the very magnificence of the shining moon. Hovering off the ground but seeming to quite physically leave footprints, the now smiling elf approached Khaira, his arms opened wide. He approached Khaira and, extended a hand to the Khaira of dreams. Inside the circle, the elven bardess with a fiery attitude seemed to rise as if a magical force had lifted her up. Even as she rose to her feet, Khaira was hovering a few inches above the ground. Her body began to turn with lithe, graceful, almost dream like movements in what appeared to be an ancient, though mesmerizing dance. Her voice soon erupted in a wordless song, the notes of her voice seeming to penetrate the very life of the forest. From all corners of the trees, all manner of small animals came out of the trees to peer at the floating dancer with the voice of a siren. Inside that dreamworld, Khaira danced with the elven man, swirling upward and upward in a breath-taking dance dedicated to life and love and hope. The light of a full moon fell upon the pair as Khaira continued to spiral upwards when, quite suddenly, the other elf pulled Khaira close. His eyes moved upwards to regard the moon, and then back to Khaira. They were inches from the moon now, and the male elf's voice spoke, a resounding, compelling rich voice, full of respect, thankfulness, gratitude, and admiration. "Elen ithil lumenn omentilmo yassen eina, Khaira Amastacia, daughter."*** "Father, I have disgraced the Seldarine in my actions..." "Blessed daughter, you are forgiven. Be at peace, Khaira Amastacia, loved of many." In front of the Flute and Boot Inn, within the circle, chains appeared in Khaira's hands. From each chain hang six, simple blades, only about 3 feet long. The blades themselves are curved in a crescent moon shape. Faster and faster, Khaira began to swirl and twirl in an exotically blurring dance. Her hands lifted and spun, causing the chains to swirl in a semi circle. As the pace of the dance continued to speed up, the chains seemed to become one and the one chain soon became a blurring, deadly dance. Inside the dream scape, Corellon Larethian, Father of the Elven Race, released me, floating upwards, towards the brilliance of the moon. From the full moon, a female elf stepped from its blinding light, to float down to Khaira's side. Her skin shone with a silver brilliance and upon her forehead was emblazoned the full moon. Her clothing seemed to be made of the same brilliance as the moon, shining with soft, pale light. Slowly, she came inches within Khaira's head, twin orbs of light blue holding the gaze of my own emerald green eyes. Softly, in a motherly embrace, Sehanine Moonbow, the elven Lady of Dreams, Guide of the Dead held Khaira for a moment. Looking down upon Khaira, the brilliant lady kissed the top of Khaira's head. "Dear Khaira, your time has not come yet. Journey, with peace and the fiery persistence for which we smile upon you for. Do not sadden, brave daughter, but only look skyward when you have need of guidance." Within the circle, Khaira was a blur of red hair, black clothing, and bronze skin as her dance reached its peak. The chains and the blades attached to them created a blurring, mesmerizing dance of their own, blending as one. As the silver began to fade from the circle, and the lines of the circle began to sink into the ground, a male and a female voice whispered softly in unison. "Vanimle sila tiri, Khaira Amastacia. Maa'a giliath."**** Slowing down to a halt, Khaira once again sank to her knees, breathless, her wordless song fading into the last of their musical notes. Her face held a serene, peaceful look as the surroundings of the Flute and Boot Inn came into existence once again. It was time. *It has been far too long, Father and Mother. Be with me in peace. ** "Hail, bright moon." ** *** The moon shall shine with gladness of heart on the hour of our meeting **** Your beauty shines bright, Khaira Amastacia. Look to the stars.
Captain Binkle 01-20-06, 09:39 AM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Raising his bushy red eyebrow Rocky was truly stunned by the Halfelf spunky play Her words were that of a Dwarven poet firm and dangerous in manner The skill she showed by matching his own in playful fighting was a Bardic song to his waxy ears He shook his head to come out of musing as the Gnome patted him on the back. Captain Binkle Laughing out loud and smiling as well at the Gnome who smelled of the salty sea She be the woman for me I tells ya.....She maybe a Half-breed but she has the heart of a Dwarf For only me kind would use such feisty killing words .....ahh I be in luvs As they came into the main room of the tavern he wonders as well if the Realm was being taken over by Gnomes Eyeing the captain folding his arms and frowning Well now ye said thy coin purse is buying Ill take a tall Dwarven Ale. Captain Binkle gave the bartender ten plantnium coins for the tab that Hale and Thorn had made. Then ordered drinks for Selina, Rocky, and himself. He looked to the barbarians. Hale wabbled in his chair with a drunken grin on his face. Thorn sat on his chair with his face flat on the table. "Give them something to wake them up," he said paying for all the drinks. "So, my friend," Captain Binkle said drawing the dwarf's attention away from Selina as she stormed past. Selina went outside. She was still angry at the dwarf, and did not desire to see the desgusting dwarf. Her mood calmed as she saw a roc sleeping comfortiblily. The forest was beautiful as predawn set in. The half elf ranger thought it odd that a column of moonlight would be coming out. Going into the wood to investigate, Selina found a beautiful elf female in the middle of a deadly dance with spiked chains.
Agudo Archmage 01-20-06, 03:31 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Taking the frothy mug from the serving winch he happily drank away what must have seen like minutes before stopping for air. Wiping his shaggy beard with his free hand Rocky let lose with a loud belch before looking down on the Gnomish sea captain which isn’t often for the stout Dwarf. Ahh yer good fellow ill give ya that for buying me liquid breakfast. Tell’s me though who art thou and yer underlings? For ye smell likes a saltine crackers? Heehaw perhaps....Belch.... Thy is the famous adventuring group of land lumbering seafarers who get seasick so ye walks instead of sails Ahahahah The crusty red bearded Dwarf laughed at his own joke longer than most would but he was even more drunk now thanks to his new Gnome friend and didn’t care. Slaming his hand on a nearby table top he winked “Thy wee ears has the honor of being in the mists of the greatest Bounty Hunter in the land. With a shaky bow he gives a yellow toothy grin. Tis I Rocky
Khaira 01-20-06, 10:21 PM	Selina went outside. She was still angry at the dwarf, and did not desire to see the desgusting dwarf. Her mood calmed as she saw a roc sleeping comfortiblily. The forest was beautiful as predawn set in. The half elf ranger thought it odd that a column of moonlight would be coming out. Going into the wood to investigate, Selina found a beautiful elf female in the middle of a deadly dance with spiked chains. The circle that Khaira had been kneeling within had now receded completely, leaving only the bare ground beneath her knees. Her arms hung wearily at her side, the chains in her hands coiled neatly on either side of her. Her fiery red hair shot wildly in ever direction, and the light shone on the perspiration still clinging to her face. She bent low to the ground and softly kissed the earthy ground beneath her and looked up to the stars, whispering softly. "Cormamin niuve tenna' ta elea lle au'atar ar'atara*." Rising slowly, Khaira meticulously wrapped the coil of chains up once again and attached both chains to her belt once again. Not so long ago, Khaira had been drawn into an extra planar location and been trained on the ancient elven art of Queramquar, Bladedancing. A whole tenday passed while Khaira had trained, many times through day and night. At the end of that tenday, she was granted the honorary title of Middle Circle Queramquar, a title that was only bestowed upon the most honorary members of the elven race. With that, she had been sent with Correlon's blessings ... the same blessings which she still possessed. With a smile, Khaira began to move back over to her cloak, where she had lain all of her possessions. It was then that she noticed a pair of eyes gazing at her, eyes which belonged to a half-elf. Had she been there the whole while, observing the ages-old ritual that she had just completed? And where had she come from? Wasn't she one of the members of the party that'd just arrived? With a bow and the flashing of a smile, Khaira spoke to Selina, the ancient elvish language rolling flourishingly off her lips in a tone that seemed, all at one, musical and quite of another world. Her emerald green eyes seemed to practically shine as she spoke, and there was a nearly divine look of serenity and, simultaneously, mischievious humor within those eyes. "Mae govannen, Mellon-Quessir. Mani naa essa en lle**?" While she waited for a response, Khaira kneeled down before her cloak, beginning to gather and re-attach all of the items that she had taken off, as required for the ritual. * My heart shall weep until we meet again, Father and Mother. ** Well met, Elf-Friend. What is your name?
ruthia 01-21-06, 11:01 AM	The hour seemed to pass by slowly for me as I had to endure listening to the drunken dwarf's comments. Brad turned and looked at him a few times, hissing some draconic comments to me as he did. I just shook my head and sighed, the sooner we where underway the better in my way of thinking. When the hour had past Brad nipped my ear lightly, reminding me it was time. I rose quietly from my seat and headed out the door, shortly after the half-elf from the latest group of adventures had. I watched as Khaira picked up her things and addressed the half elf. Leaning against the tavern wall I remained a quiet presence, many would see me as aloft or a loner and that was fine with me. To many things were happening in my life at this point for me to want to talk to anyone. No one needed to know the deep saddness I hide in my heart, the wieght that would always drag at me forcing me down into the pits of dispair. A Few Months Earlier: Ruthia smiled as she finished the dishes in her small home on Pern. It was great to be home after spending all that time at that mockery of a trail back on Faerun. Outside she could see Ramoths children playing with three of Malendors children in the front yard. The grandchildre, she thoght with a smile, what a blessing they are. The other two where in Ormus's tower with their Grandpa, working on some new magic she suspected. Ruthia moves to the window that faced the tower, sometimes if she stood there long enough she would get a hint of what they were up to. She watched as the tower seemed to suddenly glow a light blue, out in the yard the other children stopped playing and also watched. Ruthia moves outside into the yard quickly, motioning the children to stay back as she headed toward her husbands tower. Then...the ground shook....the light became intensely bright.......then the light died and the tower crumbled.......Ruthia screams in pain and terror, running for the tower......but it was to late.... Brad grips my shoulder hard just once, his sharp talon drawing blood as he takes off into the air and up to the roof. I watched him for a breif moment, to be as free as he was... I sighed and shook my head, watching Khaira and the half-elf conversed. I placed my sorrow behind lock and key, in a corner of my mind that none will ever find. I was here to help one of the few I could call friend, and that was all there was to it...
firelizard Brad 01-21-06, 01:30 PM	Brad grips Ruthia's shoulder a bit hard as he takes off into the air. He swirls lazily toward the roof and perches, waiting for the signal to move out.
Khaira 01-21-06, 08:03 PM	Miles and miles beneath the surface, in a lightless, treacherous, vile underground city of ebon-skinned elves, it was quiet ... or, rather, as quiet as it got. Gromph Baenre, Archmage of Menzoberran and the First Son of First House Baenre approached the giant monolith that was Narbondel. Every morning, Gromph, Master of Sorcere, attended to Narbondel. The heat that he infused into the giant monolith served as a timeclock for the drow of Menzoberran. With their darkness-piercing vision, the drow could see the light that Narbondel emitted. As the hours waned and expired, so, too, did the light of Narbondel. It was in this manner - and only in this manner - that the citiziens of Menzoberran could tell the time of day. Some thought Gromph to be an anomaly in this matriarchial society that was Menzoberran. Not only was he a male in a position of great power and influence, but his centuries of practice in the magical arts (and many other reponsibilities) had earned him the command of respect from a great many individuals of the Underdark city - even the normally superior females. Approaching the giant monolith that was Narbondel, Gromph placed his hands upon its base. Flipping his shoulder length, white hair, Gromph closed his eyes. Murmuring the incantation that would bring the great surge of power. The ancient - but still spry and young-looking - drow's hands glowed with intense arcane power. In only moments, that light flowed upwards and through the massive monolith. In only a matter of minutes, Narbondel was already glowing vibrantly, marking the beginning of another day of chaos and anarchy in the Underdark City of Menzoberran, City of the Spider Queen. Averting his gaze from the blinding brilliance of Narbondel, Gromph shook his head. Drow would be moving through the city soon, but he would be gone long before any of them saw him. He had a lot to prepare for this day. He was, after all, Archmage of Menzoberran. With a dark mutter, Gromph was soon gone from the now-glowing sight of Narbondel. * * * Several houses away and even deeper in the ground, Matron Maliril paced the grounds of the temple. It was bound to be morning soon, and the journey was supposed to underway ... Lolth demanded justice upon a red-haired elf! Moving into a side corridor, Maliril waved her hand and murmured a few words in Undercommon. She moved into the unlit room, lifting a cruel-looking scourge from a hook on the wall. Improvisation was required... Only a few moments later, torturous, horrific screams resounded on the walls of the temple, the pained creature's voice soon gurgling in its mouth. Somewhere in the darkness, a drow Matron smiled cruelly with glee.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 01-22-06, 11:35 AM	As the morning's first rays entered the cracks between the frame and window of a room on the inn's second floor, Li'l Me crawled out of the bed, careful no to wake the room's resident and his hostess for the night. He didn't get much sleep, for more than one reason, but dutey is dutey; besides, this maneuvre allowed him to avoid checking in for a room, which would involve facing Kulideb directly, and thus risk being recognized. Touching his hands to his eyes, he whispered a few words, then moved these hands almost gracefully away from his face, opening theyr fingers, and pointing one to his chainmail, lying before him, and another to the door. As the prayer was answered, he quickly pulled on his clothes, then his now-unringing chainmail, and above it his overfull backpack. Turning the silent key and opening the door on its silent hinges, he carefully stepped out of the room and closed the door, leaving the new carrier of his progeny - the first of her halfbred race to become such a carrier, and HOPEFULLY also the last of that race to become that - to sleep behind the door. Lady Khaira mentioned she will need to make a stop in Berdusk, to contact her Harpers. She then won't object if i'll require a similar stop in Nashkel... hmm, yes, i suppose that's the closest spot i can send my first report from to Her Excelence. Once we leave Nashkel, the way our dear elf described will only be taking us even farther from Zokir than we already are. I better rememer to ask her later whether our following destinations are known, oh yes, i gotta know where our way lies to plan my reports accordingly! I should also ask permission to - hehehehe - act over and above my duties, mmyes. And where is Lady Khaira now?.. With these thoughts, he sat down at an empty table, shaking his head over the lack of a better place to do this. Drawing an orb of crystal from within his backpack, he held it between his palms, cleared his throat, and gazed deep into it, the cloth band on his forehead shifting ockwardy. "Khaira Amastacia", he whispered, between other words that are neither recognizible by anyine in the tavern, nor nearly as easily pronouncible as the familiar name. However, instead of seeing the location and status of the bardess whose lead he is to follow, the gnome faced a violently different result. "AAAYYYYYYYYYY!!!", screamed Li'l Me in pain, clutching his eyes and forehead, as a beam of light brighter than light itself struck them from within the crystal orb, which then, released from his grip, rolled off thet able and shattered on the floor, its shards still glowing brightly for a whole minute before stopping. The gnome himself was the next thing to hit the floor, falling from the chair, but soon recovered from the blinding light, and without us much as rising to his feet, left the Flute And Boot in the fastest way possible, still having no idea what has just happened to him.
Niura Ma'Hazzen 01-22-06, 09:03 PM	Niura knew it was well morning when the heat patterns lining the stalacite structure of the house grew brighter, and now it was time to leave. She would leave Menzorberranzan for the first time, a city of twenty thousand dark elves, a place she called home. The thought excited her, yet was unerving. The Underdark is a place of profound and foreboding silence, even to drow. A place of winding caverns, and always a predator waiting in the shadow and gloom. Though she knew she would thrive there, and go further into the lands of light to serve Lolth at any end. And so it shall be, Niura thought as the preistess, adorned with her dark leathers, concealed under her black and red silk robes, walked silently to her houses temple, where she was sure Matron Maliril would already be. But as she walked the near empty corridor, her light feet making naught a whisper,a dread reminder came to her, something Maliril had said the night before. Whether you return with or without my sister. Niura was not suprised as she approched the giant double doors that lead to the houses private chapel, the lashes of a whip, and screams of anguish, that echoed. Keeping the same cool, emotional facade she had the night before, Niura strode into the temple, her eyes following the sculptures of art, naked drow female, some holding the resemblance of the Spider Queen herself. This was not a place for males. The chapel was bright this day, ceremonial candles lit, and something rare. The brazier, sitting at the toe of the matrons thrown was burning, filling the chamber with some kind of aromic insense. Niura quickley overcame though, changing her sensative eyes to meet this new spectrum. Suddenly, the cracks of the whip stopped, along with the sobbing. Just the heavy breathing of the sucummbed matron remained. Niura knelt before the brazier, now holding her jet holy symbol of the dark Goddess, and did the only thing she could do, wait.
Xerafeln 01-22-06, 09:47 PM	The drow stood easily outside the gates of the holdings of House Ma'Hazzen, caring not to enter the sprawling grounds again. His pack was secured, hanging beneath his dark cloak. He watched the heat build in Narbondel at the urging of the master of the Sorcere, trying to fight the smile tugging at the corners of his mouth. Strange that I can find such wonder in such a small thing as that, he thought, one hand resting on the pommel of his blade. He stood and waited, staring at Narbonel, waiting for the priestess and the drider to arrive.
Captain Binkle 01-23-06, 05:55 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Taking the frothy mug from the serving winch he happily drank away what must have seen like minutes before stopping for air. Wiping his shaggy beard with his free hand Rocky let lose with a loud belch before looking down on the Gnomish sea captain which isn’t often for the stout Dwarf. Ahh yer good fellow ill give ya that for buying me liquid breakfast. Tell’s me though who art thou and yer underlings? For ye smell likes a saltine crackers? Heehaw perhaps....Belch.... Thy is the famous adventuring group of land lumbering seafarers who get seasick so ye walks instead of sails Ahahahah The crusty red bearded Dwarf laughed at his own joke longer than most would but he was even more drunk now thanks to his new Gnome friend and didn’t care. Slaming his hand on a nearby table top he winked “Thy wee ears has the honor of being in the mists of the greatest Bounty Hunter in the land. With a shaky bow he gives a yellow toothy grin. Tis I Rocky Captain Binkle quietly sipped at his drink as the drunking dwarf made his jokes. "A bounty hunter. I would have never guessed," the captain said playfully. "Well, my friend. I hope you don't have any bounties on my head. I am Captain Waldo Binkle, of the Sea Talon," he added with a bow. "They are Hale and Thorn," said nodding towards the drunken barbarians. "You've already met Selina." With a smile, Khaira began to move back over to her cloak, where she had lain all of her possessions. It was then that she noticed a pair of eyes gazing at her, eyes which belonged to a half-elf. Had she been there the whole while, observing the ages-old ritual that she had just completed? And where had she come from? Wasn't she one of the members of the party that'd just arrived? With a bow and the flashing of a smile, Khaira spoke to Selina, the ancient elvish language rolling flourishingly off her lips in a tone that seemed, all at one, musical and quite of another world. Her emerald green eyes seemed to practically shine as she spoke, and there was a nearly divine look of serenity and, simultaneously, mischievious humor within those eyes. "Mae govannen, Mellon-Quessir. Mani naa essa en lle**?" While she waited for a response, Khaira kneeled down before her cloak, beginning to gather and re-attach all of the items that she had taken off, as required for the ritual. * My heart shall weep until we meet again, Father and Mother. ** Well met, Elf-Friend. What is your name? "I am Selina Crosswind," she said helping the woman gather her belongings. "That was a beautiful dance. It was so graceful and tranquil. I had almost forgotten about where I was," she said in common. She could understand the Elven language, but could not speak it. The auburn haired half-elf wasn't shur if the elf understood her or not. "Is that your roc. It is a wonderful creature."
Khaira 01-23-06, 11:47 PM	"I am Selina Crosswind," she said helping the woman gather her belongings. "That was a beautiful dance. It was so graceful and tranquil. I had almost forgotten about where I was" Khaira smiled in thanks as Selina assisted her in the gathering of her belongings. When all of her things were once again in their rightful place, the red-haired bardess threw her cloak around her back again, reclasping it securely to her side. A reminiscient light seems to shine in her eyes as Selina comments about her dance. If she could dance like that when she performed ... Shaking her head, her wildly flowing hair flying in the wind, Khaira smiled softly. Her voice, when it came again, was of the same flourishing, musical quality, though she speak in the common language this time. "I thank you for your compliments, Goodlady Selina but... ...what you call a dance was an honor for you to perceive, for only a few have ever seen that "dance" before. Come to think of it, most of those whom have viewed that most holy act are probably now passed into the arms of the Father..." A stronger reminiscient look once again flashed before eyes. It seemed to tainted with a taste of sadness this time. It was a long moment before Khaira spoke again, speaking with a far away look in her eyes. "...yes. Passed on into the arms of the Coronal, I am sure. What you perceived, Lady Selina was the power, grace, and elegance of the raised power from another realm floating through and manifesting in the Material Plane, in the form of the dance that you saw. It was the remnants of the reunion with the Father and Mother and a message of which I was looking forward to hearing...." Moving forward, Khaira began to walk towards the Flute and Boot Inn where most of her companions were beginning to gather. "Were you going back inside? I've got to meet with the rest of my companions." "Is that your roc. It is a wonderful creature." Khaira smiled at Selina's comment of Swiftwing, and chuckled light heartedly. Swiftwing, in fact, seemed to raise a sleightly interested head to regard the approaching pair. "Swiftwing? Mine? No more mine than those others who walked here with you are yours. Swiftwing is ... a good companion, and has been a good friend for many decades. He's free to leave me anytime he desires, and often does. But after this long journeying together ... we've developed a bond." Nodding to Ruthia, whom was leaning against the side of the tavern, Khaira looked around for Rocky and the gnome of no name. "Well ... looks like we're almost ready. I hope Rocky's relatively sober by now ... of course, I can always drag him by his nose, and see how long it takes him to sober up."
Khaira 01-23-06, 11:58 PM	It was only moments before Matron Maliril appeared from within the darkened alcove and the room behind it. There was still the crimson stain of blood upon her fingertips as she approached Niura, First Daughter of Menzoberran. A crazed look flashed across the Matron's eyes for a moment before sh e looked to Niura, a humorless - and somewhat cruel - smile playing on her lips. With her hands, she beckoned to Niura impatiently. "You've proven yourself to Lolth thus far, First Daughter ... and now comes your final reckoning. Before you begin your journey of vengeance on behalf of House Ma'Hazzen, though, there is one thing that must be done..." Moving with a determined pace, Maliril began to move down the darkened corridor towards a wall that stood to the side of the altar. It seemed to be a truly odd place for a wall thus ereced and as Maliril moved up to the wall, she paused to touch the brooch of her insignia and murmur a brief incantation. Moments laters, she moved forward ... and through the wall.
Agudo Archmage 01-24-06, 04:12 AM	Captain Binkle quietly sipped at his drink as the drunken dwarf made his jokes. "A bounty hunter. I would have never guessed," the captain said playfully. "Well, my friend. I hope you don't have any bounties on my head. I am Captain Waldo Binkle, of the Sea Talon," he added with a bow. "They are Hale and Thorn," said nodding towards the drunken barbarians. "You've already met Selina Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Scratching his head he thought about as if it was a serious question Nay nots that I know of...Heheh buts if ye knows of a Bounty on thy wee head Hehehe I be glad to split the reward after yer in Jail Coughing more than laughing Rocky picked up his travel pack as he spoke on Binkle hmmm cants say I heard thy name before but then the sea be making me well Hahah seasick Looking around for Little Me his other Gnome with concern then shrugging he returned his blurry eyed attention to Waldo as the captain spoke of his crew Rocky belched at the others seafaring travelers in what he considered to be a friendly hello Leaning closer Tis true I mets the lass but I don’ts knows her like I wanted Ahh wells all that ends well as me Ma says Ye take care Waldo Im off on some fools task with little hope of coming out alive im sure Patting the Gnome Captain on the shoulder he walked passed yelling out loud LITTLE MEEEEEE WEEEES GGGOOOOTS TTTOOO GGGGOOO Kicking the tavern door open as he continued bellowing Where ya be me drinking buddy? Staggering a bit as he almost stumble off the porch of the tavern All along repeating almost sadly the nickname of the Gnome Little.... Me? Glancing about he looks to Khaira for the answer
Captain Binkle 01-24-06, 04:49 AM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Scratching his head he thought about as if it was a serious question Nay nots that I know of...Heheh buts if ye knows of a Bounty on thy wee head Hehehe I be glad to split the reward after yer in Jail Coughing more than laughing Rocky picked up his travel pack as he spoke on Binkle hmmm cants say I heard thy name before but then the sea be making me well Hahah seasick Looking around for Little Me his other Gnome with concern then shrugging he returned his blurry eyed attention to Waldo as the captain spoke of his crew Rocky belched at the others seafaring travelers in what he considered to be a friendly hello Leaning closer Tis true I mets the lass but I don’ts knows her like I wanted Ahh wells all that ends well as me Ma says Ye take care Waldo Im off on some fools task with little hope of coming out alive im sure Patting the Gnome Captain on the shoulder he walked passed yelling out loud LITTLE MEEEEEE WEEEES GGGOOOOTS TTTOOO GGGGOOO Kicking the tavern door open as he continued bellowing Where ya be me drinking buddy? Staggering a bit as he almost stumble off the porch of the tavern All along repeating almost sadly the nickname of the Gnome Little.... Me? Glancing about he looks to Khaira for the answer "Where are you off to?" Captain Binkle said getting up. Hale and Thorn stook off the effects of the "wke-up drink" as they rose the join the gnome. "Are you chasing a bounty or just wandering the land for a while?" he asked as they all walked outside and saw Selina with two others.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 01-24-06, 12:13 PM	As soon as the tavern's door opened, with Rocky coming out to meet Khaira who was coming in, Little Me hurried to theyr side. "Strapped 'n' ready!", he smiled to the dwarf, then looked towards the elf with wary relief: "Wooh, i'm sure glad'a see you, my lady!" Then, after bowing amiably to the third companion, who previously refered to herself as a member of the Dragons of Pern - thus giving making him fear she might be an actual dragon, by more than just name - he looked back up at Khaira and cheerfully called: "Wellthen, Beregost awaits!" * * * Meanwhile, far away, due north, and underneath the faerun's stony hide, Treemmouphindar followed the one who owned him, his eyes appearing to be constantly focused on Niura with obsession, while infact he remained keenly aware of every nearby motion or sound, ready as Selvetarm, at every moment, to defend his mistress. When she approached the temple, however, the monster's stride seized, as he froze in his place, awaiting her return. His purpose was to protect the priestess, but as it goes without saying - no slave is in a position to protect Lloth's meat from Lloth herself... * * * Neither as far north as the drider, nor as far south as the gnome, but far to the east, Ronleth was rubbing elbows with any lackeys and servants he could find in the estate, doing what every Master of Public Relations {a term Stfu claimed to have coined himself} does: spread word of his master's renown, thus creating such renown in the process. He was also trying to sniff out bits of info regarding theyr expedition's destination. While Stfu never told him to do so, probably not caring where exactly they shall go, the servant himself knew better than to leave everything to chance. If not for the sake of his master's interests or the extra gold Stfu might pay him in gratitude for such extra work, then atleast for his own safety and curiosity, Ronleth had to gain some peaks through the screen of ignorance which was hanged be his master's carelessness, spontanity, and sheerly chaotic disposition. At the same time, in Stfu's quarters... naught of relevance to the story took place.
Agudo Archmage 01-24-06, 04:27 PM	Captain Waldo Binkle "Where are you off to?" Captain Binkle said getting up. Hale and Thorn stook off the effects of the "wke-up drink" as they rose the join the gnome. "Are you chasing a bounty or just wandering the land for a while?" he asked as they all walked outside and saw Selina with two others. Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Rocky held onto the porch railing feeling even dizzier Huh? Yer nots Little Me....Hick up...thy is short like him heheh Trying not to vomit the Dwarf closed his eyes as he thought about Waldo question Where....Bounty?... Wandering? Tis the Redheaded winch that’s lost her Harp and is to cheap to buy’s another So ya see we is off on some dangerous quest just so she can fiddle around with it once more ......or die trying. Little Me As soon as the tavern's door opened, with Rocky coming out to meet Khaira who was coming in, Little Me hurried to theyr side. "Strapped 'n' ready!", he smiled to the dwarf......, Rocky nearly jumped out of his worn boots as Little Me came running up Laughing and smelling like someone who drank most of the night away The Dwarf leaned closer to Little Me I Sure is glad yer alive I was beginning to thinks I mistaken ye for a snack Shaking his head at some far off past memory “Let’s just say I didn’ts eat that Halfling no matters what the constable said Besides some places have laws against cannibalism and now I never drinks Spiced Thayen Liquor becouse of it Then looking about Rocky waited for them to leave or he to get sick on the ground Whatever came first he thought
Khaira 01-24-06, 11:38 PM	Khaira regarded Rocky's morning-after effects of the night of hard drinking with a mild amusement. She chose to ignore Rocky's vivid description of the purpose of this journey ... there would be plenty of time to gratifingly harm the dwarf later ... like when she had her harp back, and Savael was dealt with. Her voice, though, seemed gentler than before when she next spoke, and her eyes still held a hint of tranquility mixing with the ever-present fiery determination of Khaira. "You'd best shake off the haziness of your hangover, Rocky ... we're leaving, and I doubt anyone wants to carry you. Except for Swiftwing, perhaps, and that's only in his talons ..." With a shrug, Khaira regarded the gnome with interest and curiosity at his concern. "You sound surprised that I'm still here, friend. I've been here the whole while, you know. If you'd missed me all *that* much, you could've just come outside." Looking to Ruthia, Rocky, and the un-named gnome, Khaira seemed to nod at some unspoken thought. "Right, then. It seems we have everyone gathered, and nobody's gotten lost yet. This is well. Have you all everything that you need? This is your last chance..." Khaira turned to look to the east, where the start of the next phase of her journey would take place. The beginning of the end. It was high time to finish things. "We strike south and east down the Coast Way, through the cities of Beregost and Nashkel as our first leg of the journey. If you find you've need of anything, you'll have to obtain it in one of those places. I doubt we'll be passing through many other hopsitable places."
ruthia 01-25-06, 05:49 PM	I eye Khaira briefly, wondering still if I had made the right choice. I couldn't hlp but feel that some how this next step would change my life. But I paused and thought back to all Khaira had done, the family she has helped or saved in her time. With a resolved grin I take the next step, moving toward her and standing at her side. "Ready when you are Khaira."
Savael 01-26-06, 04:15 PM	The Duel Savael’s face was triumphant as his third blow finally connected, evening the score, tiny beads of sweat forming ‘round the scaly patch on his forehead. He regarded Vzerii with more calm now, most of his anger having been vented by the last three blows. Now came the time for him to make small cuts that would still count as hits even though they weren’t exactly harmful, a task his claw-bracers had been more suited for than a heavy longsword at any rate. Oh well, next move belonged to the human... or perhaps he ought to press the attack and take advantage of the shock and pain he’d just inflicted to size yet another hit? And speaking of pain... At the sideline, the Loviataress tittered with- excitement? joy? both? The yuan-ti was at a loss, but hid a slight smile all the same. If these so-called “Willing Whips” were as skilled at torture and cruelty as some rumours suggested, they’d have to have a pretty heavy hand in healing-magic as well, no? Regardless, Savael decided, she’d make a lovely addition to his little troupe, he’d see to that. * * * The Kobold The shower of silver coins brought whoops and cheers from the gathered servants and house-folk, a small stampede occurring as most of them try to get a hold of as many as possible. In the foreground of this sea of chaos, the blue-robed man appeared about to protest at the title of butler, but quickly changed his mouth shut as his eyes are alerted to the presence of gold on his hand. Around the mansion, the news of this remarkable kobold’s arrival was sure to spread like wildfire – if not by the work of Ronleth, than by the aforementioned display of wealth and success; a rare sight here in these halls, it seemed. In Stfu’s small, if well-furnitured quarters everything seems to be in order – a hot bath being brought in by a stout, shiny-faced servant woman in her early 40’s whose archetype would probably in another world have been named ‘Magda’, or something like that.
Taeldrin Laesrash 01-26-06, 09:21 PM	Vzerii's temper flared as she muttered a stange word under her breath. As she jumped up and back to avoid any more strikes from her opponent. However, her rapier shot forward, making three piercing attacks at Savael. As she looked on with a grim smile, Vzerii noticed Jezra's display of pleasure with the fighting. If the elf liked this as much as she did, there might be a common ground between them. And where common ground was, there was subversion...
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 01-29-06, 08:55 AM	After realizing that low-profiling out of this one won't e possible, and everyne expect some sort of an explanation from him, the gnome murmured, sounding as casual as he managed: "Hmm, well, i just wasn't sure where you were, and then i tried, umm, scrying, yeah, and, ugh, i didn't see anything, and that's... kinda rare not to see anything while, like scrying, so i was pond'ring... But hey, i prolly just didn't do something right - i'm not that good at scrying anyway, just dabbling, yeah." Then, dismissing the matter with a broad smile, he rubbed his palms, saying: "Well then, on our way! Can't wait till we get to Nashkel, so that i can send out my report and praise your splendor to Her Excelence!"
Agudo Archmage 01-29-06, 04:38 PM	Lil’Me "Hmm, well, i just wasn't sure where you were, and then i tried, umm, scrying, yeah, and, ugh, i didn't see anything, and that's... kind of rare not to see anything while, like scrying, so i was pondering... But hey, i prolly just didn't do something right - i'm not that good at scrying anyway, just dabbling, yeah." Then, dismissing the matter with a broad smile, he rubbed his palms, saying: "Well then, on our way! Can't wait till we get to Nashkel, so that i can send out my report and praise your splendor to Her Excellence!" Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Blinking with a bemused frown at the now talkative Gnome Lil’Me Rocky crosses his arms grunting at the odd behavior “Her Excellence? Now’s who ye be calling Excellence all of a sudden? Yer wife waiting for thy scrawny butt back in Nashkel !?! Then eyeing Khaira for a sec before leaning closer to the Gnome with a sly smile crossing his face Hehe now tells yer good buddy Rocky He elbows Lil’me Just what’s splendor of Khaira did thy peeping eyes see when ya were Scrying?
Sonnica 01-31-06, 05:35 PM	Jezra watches the combatant paying attention to their moves and emotions as feeding off them. At the increased tension in the room she smiles again Well she thinks this is most interesting and it would seem I am going to have to be watchful of my companions, it would seem that I cannot afford to underestimate them
Khaira 01-31-06, 10:49 PM	Khaira moved off towards Swiftwing, leaning close and whispering into the ears of the giant avian. Swiftwing lifts its head and, after nuzzling Khaira affectionately and regarding her with a pitiful look, it leaps into the air, taking fleight above the trees, and soaring off towards the east. Watching Swiftwing depart into the azure blue skies, Khaira found herself somewhat tentative about taking the first steps of this journey ... she would be on foot, as they all would be, at least until they got to Berdusk. Would that, perhaps, make them more vulnerable to possible threats? That worry touched on her mind for only a fleeting moment, however, as she turned to regard the remainder of her group. She noted Rocky already whispering secretly to the gnome. She hoped, fervently, that no secret alliances would be made during this journey ... secret alliances or secrets in general tended to have negative connotations. "We make our way out of this forest and travel east, then south, down the Coast Way. If the gods yet smile upon us, we should make decent progress...if there are no questions, let us move out."
Khaira 01-31-06, 10:57 PM	Maliril and Niura The First Daughter of House Ma'Hazzen approached the supposed "wall" that the Matron Mother of the House had entered and, with seeming ease, passed straight through. With confident yet cautious steps, Niura stepped into the wall, not in the least surprised when she felt a minor teleportation spell transporting her into the extra dimensional pocket of space, where Matron Maliril now stood, waiting impatiently for her. Niura noted, with mild interest, the pedestal that stood before her ... a pedestal with a bulging cloth draped over it. With a smile that almost seemed to be a sneer, Niura watched Maliril beckon to the cloth. "First Daughter of House Ma'Hazzen, receive these gifts for use on your mission ... gifts which should help you to gain more successes during this vitally important mission."
ruthia 01-31-06, 10:58 PM	"We make our way out of this forest and travel east, then south, down the Coast Way. If the gods yet smile upon us, we should make decent progress...if there are no questions, let us move out." Without further discussion or waiting, I thought to myself, finally we are underway. I look up to the roof and call out to Brad in draconic. He immedaitly flies down, Swooping low over rocky and Little Me's heads as he comes to rest on My shoulder. We stand patiently and nod to Khaira, just once together, signalling our readiness.
Agudo Archmage 02-01-06, 02:58 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Standing up straight and rubbing the top of Lil’Me head the Dwarf snickered Thy spying eyes can tells me latter on what cha seen on the redheaded fire breathing Khaira Spitting on the ground he added with a rascally smile Lil’me if thy stubby hands can draw me a picture that would be swell! Then tossing his backpack on his shoulder he started marching “Well comes now...lets nots be prancing about asking questions like a bunch of Halflings waiting for a free meal Besides ye know is least three days till we reach that ramshackle town Nashkel Bah! If ya hurry ya may make the Friendly Arms Inn by sunrise to’mor’row ...hehhe a glorified Fortress really Tis wee folks that run the place, is pretty good drinks if ya don’t mind the chattering they do
Khaira 02-02-06, 11:08 PM	Khaira nodded to both Ruthia and Rocky. At long last, it was time to start this journey ... at long last, she would get her harp back. A cynical smile lit upon her expression as she visualized the look that would be on Savael's face when she confronted him, and demanded that her harp be returned to him. In order to get to that moment, however, they would be travelling all over the face of Faerun. Over mountains, through the weaving streets of cities, and across treacherous swamps. Khaira turned to face her awaiting companions, her red hair blowing wildly in the wind, and her eyes reflecting an equally wild look. Her fiery, rebellious countenance and her kindred spirit seemed to be veritably reflected against the blue skies as her voice rang out. "We depart! And, in fact, Rocky, if we make good time, and no good-for-nothing, perverted dwarves become stuck in the mud along the way, we should reach Beregost by nightfall and Nashkel by mid-day on the second day of our journey. With all hope, in Beregost or Nashkel, we shall be able to obtain some horses with which to ride. Swiftwing will scout ahead for us and warn us of any impeding dangers which, at this point, should be nothing too dire." Turning around, then, Khaira began making her way down the path and out of the forest, walking the path that would lead her to the Coast Way.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 02-03-06, 05:51 PM	“Her Excellence? Now’s who ye be calling Excellence all of a sudden? Yer wife waiting for thy scrawny butt back in Nashkel!?! "Sudden?" he asked with eyes widened by impending loughter, as he took Rocky by the shoulder and strode forth with him, following the musical elf's lead. "Haha, i just don't keep the boss much in mind while drinking in great company, yaknow. Wife? By the Waste no! Do i look married? 'Sides, what kinda wenchwhipped sod would call his wife "Her Excellence", eh?" The good-natured lough that followed sounded a little like small river pebbles spilling from a sack. "Nah, i'm talking about my... well, it's kinda like a queen, only it's different. See, i'm representing her, and acting on her behalf here. She sure likes our Khaira, all right!" The last part was spoken with a genuinely enthusiastic tone. Hehe now tells yer good buddy Rocky Just what’s splendor of Khaira did thy peeping eyes see when ya were Scrying?[/B] The gnome blinked for a moment, thogh without stoppinf his pase. His words have been misinterpreted in a quite amusing way, and he knew just the way to answer without disappointing his new comrade, while still not needing to lie: "Ooooh, i hardly know WHAT i saw! T'was like "ZZZZZAPP"! Threw me right off my chair an' into the wall it did!.. but that ain't the stuff i'll be tellin' in my report, 'course." He was about to add some more casual friendly chatter, when his ears cought something that would, in different circumstances, made him dart away and hide, for just in case: wyrmish! I look up to the roof and call out to Brad in draconic. He immedaitly flies down, Swooping low over Rocky's and Little Me's heads as he comes to rest on My shoulder. Oh, by all that is round, i just KNOW that was wyrmish... Alright, calm now, there be no reason for such fear: wizards often speak odd tongues, and with that... dragonlike... thing - i think they call them "pseudodragons" for a familiar, that one prolly studied Wyrmish for her researches and stuff. With Khaira Amastacia herself as my ward, i'll have to prove myself to the godess by facing a wyrn unquiveringly at some point, but i really shouldn't worry about dragons that early and suspect theyr presence everywhere around me - that's paranoid! And i'm not paranoid, certainly. Hmm, i better think about something else to keep my mind off such foolishness... I do ponder, for once, who the adept Her Excellence must've sent to Agudo's side is, hmm... must be an elf, yes, and most likely an articulate and groomed one - a gold elf, likelier than not... With lots of magic gadgets and wands, and wearing that shiny, low-quality platemale humans make, yes, i can practicly see his face... i bet if i meet this tootall stickling of an unworthy imperfection of a living sacrilage of an adept - i'll know him right away! Then again, those tyles are cunning, so he probbaly deduced my existance too by now... well, i'll just have to penetrate him with my gaze sooner than he acts. Hehe. Yes. that's what i'll do. None of his thoughts relfected much on is face, however. To any unsuspecting observer, it would appear as thought Li'l Me was merely looking around, either keeping an eye or two out for any dangers, or merely enjoying the forest's beauty. he emerged from his thoughts soon enough to realize he's being spoken to: Thy spying eyes can tells me latter on what cha seen on the redheaded fire breathing Khaira Lil’me if thy stubby hands can draw me a picture that would be swell! "Hmm, remind me when we camp. I'm no bard, but the sight was simple enough, if quite overwhelming!"
ruthia 02-03-06, 06:37 PM	With Brad curled around my neck like a scaly scarf, I stride cofindently behind Khaira, purposely putting myself behind our wee companions. Some made me want to keep an eye on both of them as we walk. The gnome was to skiddish and the drawf...well lets just say no dragon really trust a dwarf....
Agudo Archmage 02-03-06, 08:24 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Nodding to the Gnome Rocky smiled yet was lost in thought The wind wasn’t bad a little breezy but it may keep the rain clouds away the Dwarf thought Grinning as he walked along with the other adventurers This place maybe called the Sword Coast...Tis more famous for being the rainy coast Speaking to the others Rocky commented Tis good thy road be clear no mud or snow in slowing us down Me thinks we only has to worry about occasional bandit or two If were lucky we may finds a caravan to hitch a ride with Hehe Just as likely a caravan will slay us where we stand than trust a bunch of brigands as ugly as us walking about Ruthia purposely putting myself behind our wee companions. Some made me want to keep an eye on both of them as we walk After a moment he noticed Ruthia was following them and leaned close to Lil’Me and whispered If we runs out of food stay away from the dragon lady Eyeing her for a moment then whispering in Lil’Me ear as if sharing some profound thought of Epic Intrigue Thy scrawny body makes nice snacks for them ....trust me tis true what Rocky says We Dwarfs never trusts sly Dragons tis a nasty race who takes treasure of me Kin We do all yer hard work like digging and ye see its ugly lizard mouths comes along proclaiming tis me Horde now! Just before it breath fire! I tells ya it eats all wee stout folks up for fun ya know! Just think what she would do to thy good looking of a plump Gnome like yer self Lil'Me an when its time to eat and she cants find anything to eat? Spiting on the ground as if to probe the point Thy eyes didnt see but I once knew a Dragon named Smog! It took over a whole Dwarven Hold and on top of it all earned its Smogy name by polluting environment! Blinking for a moment as he eyed Lil'Me If ye dont belive me ask a lazy Wizard named Gandolph who tricked a fat Hobbit just for nearly getting himself killed when sneaking into its lair! With that somber thought to his little buddy Rocky heaved his backpack closer as the wind picked up
ruthia 02-07-06, 08:48 PM	I smirck as I listen to the little folk talk in what they seem to think is a quiet voice as we walk. Unable to resist I speed up so that I am right behind them for a moment and say in a dark tone "Lucky for you Rocky, I prefer my food clean. And don't worry Lil gnome, I have better ways of getting food then eating companions." I fall back a bit from them. Brad chirps rather smugly as we walk. I scratch his eye ridges and he coons softly as we continue this journey. Sharp, our dragon hearing is. Possible only ears sharper then ours would be that of our fearless leader up front.....
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 02-08-06, 10:27 AM	The gnome was going to say something about the difference between having a dragons inside a dwarven mountain and not having one there, when Ruthia's words woooshed all of Rocky's recent words right out of his mind. For a few moments, after turning around to face the speaker, the gnome was stuck in a rather commical position: one finger up, on the left hand, the jaw firmly dropped down and a way to the right, while both eyes opened wide, though the left slightly wider than the right. The cloth on his forehead seemed to bulge, too. Blinking himself out of the stupor, he asked, voice hushed with what seemed like wonder: "So You... You are a true dragon, then, my lady?" Only the realization that if he doesn't start walking again, the others may stop as well, and hours will pass till they renew theyr journey, made him resume his stride; now, however, instead of lookign all around, his eyes were turned oakwardly and in full attention to Ruthia. Unsure of whether he should address her as he would a dragon, or continue speaking to her as if she were just an equal traveling companion - as everyone else seemed to hold her - he added: "Hidden in this so-imperfect form, may i ask what your breed is? What color shall your scales glisten with, when your full glory is revealed?" He seemed to trip, but stopped himself from falling, and continued walking in the same quick steps as before, still looking with apparent awe at the one who untill now he hoped was merely a wizard from a guild with draconic thematics.
Agudo Archmage 02-10-06, 12:32 AM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Ruthia Unable to resist I speed up so that I am right behind them for a moment and say in a dark tone "Lucky for you Rocky, I prefer my food clean. And don't worry Lil gnome, I have better ways of getting food then eating companions." His Dwarven hairs stood up on the back of his flaby thick neck causing his shoulders to rise as if the Dragons acid breath was washing over him. Lil’Me The gnome was going to say something about the difference between having a dragons inside a dwarven mountain and not having one there, when Ruthia's words woooshed all of Rocky's recent words right out of his mind. For a few moments, after turning around to face the speaker, the gnome was stuck in a rather comical position: one finger up, on the left hand, the jaw firmly dropped down and a way to the right, while both eyes opened wide, though the left slightly wider than the right. The cloth on his forehead seemed to bulge, too. Blinking himself out of the stupor, he asked, voice hushed with what seemed like wonder: "So You... You are a true dragon, then, my lady?" Only the realization that if he doesn't start walking again, the others may stop as well, and hours will pass till they renew their journey, made him resume his stride..... Rocky wanted to say I told you so to his wee little buddy as they kept walking But to the Dwarfs disbelief to point of being flabbergasted He noticed that the Gnome was staring at Ruthia like some hapless young Halfling lad on his first drunken night out. Raising his hands in mock surrender Rocky proclaimed to anyone in ear shot Huffs..... why nots just puts a bun on ye and plays deads Lil’Me ... he added: "Hidden in this so-imperfect form, may I ask what your breed is? What color shall your scales glisten with; when you’re full glory is revealed?" He seemed to trip, but stopped himself from falling, and continued walking in the same quick steps as before, still looking with apparent awe Slapping his face not bothering looking back Rocky just shook his shaggy head Without saying another word the feisty Dwarf just started making kissy sounds and his fingers slowly rose up the back of his pants Yet after a moment he stopped in mid walk as the dwarf spoted smoke ahead Squinting his eyes as he reached for his axe, not far along the path maybe no more than three hundred yards was a burnt out wagon Thy luck is a changing Khaira ...for worse Humph! So much for ya hitching a rides on ye old caravans Spitting on the ground the Dwarf continued Hmm tis possible alone rider gots her last ride and was jump or....bandits tooks yon other wagons Eyeing the group with concern then Khaira Thou be’ith our boss! Tis yer call Khaira shall we’s goes on past it or takes a side path through yon woodlands and me hopes nots see any head scalpers.
ruthia 02-11-06, 04:02 PM	I smrick slightly at the dwarf and gnome combo in front of me. I quickly push the though of acctually telling the truth to the two of them out of my mind, knowing the dwarf hasn't seen my true form yet either even though he seems very well informed. Calmly I smile and says to the gnome. "Why, yes I am a dragon. As for my breed, well let's just say my home planet is unknown to all but our leader and I prefer it that way. Though we do have an interesting past time back home called dwarf bathing. It involves taking one smelly dwarf a few thousand feet in the air and dropping him into an ice cold pond. I'll demonstrate for you mister gnome the next time we pass a mountian feed lake. I'm sure Smelly...I mean Rocky here will volunteer to be our testie." I keep walking quietly behind them, when the dwarfs voice breaks my thoughts. Sighing I listen to him quietly, choosing not to say anything till our leader does.
Khaira 02-11-06, 08:54 PM	After a short time of walking, when they had been making relatively good time, Khaira's keen senses picked up on the sense that something ... was not as it should be. Only a short while later, her nose caught the wafting smell of something ... burning. Slowing her pace to a cautious, tentative one, her hands drifted down to her belt, where the deadly chains hung still. In the next moment, Rocky announced what her elven eyes could already see. It was a caravan ... a massively burned out one, from the looks of it. Thy luck is a changing Khaira ...for worse Humph! So much for ya hitching a rides on ye old caravans Thou be’ith our boss! Tis yer call Khaira shall we’s goes on past it or takes a side path through yon woodlands and me hopes nots see any head scalpers. With a fiery scowl, Khaira turned to regard Rocky harshly. If the bandits that had done this hadn't known that they were coming, they sure did now! In quiet, hushed tones, Khaira held a finger up to her lips. "Rocky ... hush!" Khaira turned forward, then, and began creeping forwards and silent feet. She was quite thankful, now, that Evander had trained her so vigorously on walking in the forests and on how to deduce how long something had been in the forest ... one of those things had, in fact, been campfires. From the looks of it, this caravan didn't look too different. With a snap of her wrists, the chains sprang forth, the myriad of attached blades hanging barely inches from the floor of the forest. She would not be caught unawares if there were bandits or ambushers still hanging around. Once she reached the barely-smoking caravan, she kneeled down, running a finger through the ashes first, and then lifting up to her nose, letting the burnt smell of the ash drift up her nose. Finally, Khaira softly licked the ash ... it appeared that this caravan was not altogether that old, though some time had certainly passed. An hour, perhaps, or more. After poking around in the ashes for a few more moments, Khaira made her way back to the rest of the companions. "Whomever did this utilized relatively crude tactics. Their organizational skills, it seems, are not exactly the most skillful. Any bones from what might have been have been burned to ashes and, so, it is difficult to know whom it might have been. We will stay on this path ... we do not have long to travel before we are out of the Cloakwood. An hour, or two, if we run into conflict. Aye, we stay on this path ... the denizens of the forest are none too kind from those whom stray from the path ... or, even, those who keep to the path, so it seems. Keep your wits about you and your weapons at the ready. Let us hurry from these lands...I do not want to tarry here one night falls. Travel in pairs, when you can ... this will provide less of an opportunity to being surprised." With those words, Khaira looked down the path once again, beginning to walk down the path again. As soon as she was a distance from her companions, she smirked darkly. "Corellon knows, I'm sure ... I hope that we do meet whomever has caused this damage and loss of life ... I truly do."
Khaira 02-11-06, 09:11 PM	Maliril was gone in the next moment, leaving Niura to guess what she would of what was under the cloth. With revered, almost sacred steps, Niura threw off the cloth ... and sneered. This ... was unexpected. *** It was close to an hour later before Niura Ma'Hazzen, First Daughter of House Ma'Hazzen, made her way to the gates of House Ma'Hazzen. With these new ... gifts ... her voyage would be that much easier. Easier to manipulate the unknowing fools along the route of the trip, that was. She stopped at the gates of the House, looking around for the members that were to accompany her on this journey. "Are there any yet willing to enforce the will of the Spider Queen of the Demonweb Pits?" ((Piper - contact me whenever you have the opportunity, please))
Agudo Archmage 02-13-06, 01:49 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Ruthia Though we do have an interesting past time back home called dwarf bathing. It involves taking one smelly dwarf a few thousand feet in the air and dropping him into an ice cold pond. I'll demonstrate for you mister gnome the next time we pass a mountain feed lake. I'm sure Smelly...I mean Rocky here will volunteer to be our testie." Heheh I bets ya wants to take a bath with me Ruthia Nay I say! A cute Dwarf likes me aint for thy eyes seeing in me birthday suit! They moved closer to what was left of the wagon Khaira seem to become more jumpy than her normally chaotic self As if the bandit would pop out of the ground she chastised Rocky for speaking Khaira With a fiery scowl, Khaira turned to regard Rocky harshly. If the bandits that had done this hadn't known that they were coming, they sure did now! In quiet, hushed tones, Khaira held a finger up to her lips. "Rocky ... hush!" With a snicker at the hotly Elf, Rocky kept his weapon ready as they explored the burnt out remains Khaira pointed out that not much remained not even discarded booty or for that fact any thing else not burned up Khaira Whomever did this utilized relatively crude tactics. Their organizational skills, it seems, are not exactly the most skillful. Any bones from what might have been have been burned to ashes and, so, it is difficult to know whom it might have been. Using his tracking skills as a bounty hunter was often handy in moments like this Yet the Dwarf was disturbed at what he didn’t find no blood for one he thought Nay a track nor branch broken? Yon meadow seems undisturbed and are’s road shows nay a sign of fresh prints of any kind Whatever did this made clear we nots be following them....or it Frowning more and more the Dwarf knew it was best to be off Khaira We will stay on this path ... we do not have long to travel before we are out of the Cloakwood. An hour, or two, if we run into conflict. Aye, we stay on this path ... the denizens of the forest are none too kind from those whom stray from the path ... or, even, those who keep to the path, so it seems. Keep your wits about you and your weapons at the ready. Let us hurry from these lands...I do not want to tarry here one night falls. Travel in pairs, when you can ... this will provide less of an opportunity to being surprised." With those words, Khaira looked down the path once again, beginning to walk down the path again. As soon as she was a distance from her companions, she smirked darkly. "Corellon knows, I'm sure ... I hope that we do meet whomever has caused this damage and loss of life ... I truly do." Eyeing the Gnome Lil’Me he winked with sly smile Ya wanted advnture Lil’Me ye gots it now With that he walked on with the others keeping an eye out for trouble
ruthia 02-13-06, 02:11 PM	Deciding to not bother answering the dwarfes minature taunts, I choose to remain quiet as we walk. Brad repositions himself to be the eyes in the back of my head, watching for anything that may attack us from behind. As the others in the party ready their weapons, I ready my spells, concentrating my Will as I prepares a deadly, yet well focused spell I had been using a lot lately. I also run a mental check of all the ones that I know seem to work in any situation as I walk, watching the surronding woods. Khaira then mentions briefly, probaly thinking none of us could hear her in this quiet forest With those words, Khaira looked down the path once again, beginning to walk down the path again. As soon as she was a distance from her companions, she smirked darkly. "Corellon knows, I'm sure ... I hope that we do meet whomever has caused this damage and loss of life ... I truly do." Funny thing is, if any of our companions had had the time to compare they may have noticed an equally as dark smirck on my face as well......
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 02-13-06, 05:56 PM	As the wreckage came into view, the gnome repressed all other matters to the back of his head, concentrating on what Khaira seemed to deside {mayhaps rightfully, he thought} was important right now. Thinking for a moment about the words of theyr leader and those of Rocky, after each examined the caravan, he spoke: "The attack crude, and disorganized, as lady Khaira points out; yet no tracks or signs of the assailants coming or going, as did find Rocky. Nothing wielding power above the natural would be so raw and messy - it takes brains to manipulate such powers - so i guess that means someone desended on that caravan from the sky, right?" He searches the ground a little, for holes and such, just to avoid making the impression of the stereotypical gnomish professor from tavern jokes, who makes estimations without ever examning the subject himself. "Umm, if you hold it's important, i could, you know, check what happened here in a firmer, more... a more certain way." While he sounded perfectly eager to serve, his thoughts were of a different nature: The Great Mother's power would be much better used when, and IF, whomever did this actually tries preying on us next; but by the petrified egglayer of Ilmater - this elf is likely to actually care about the victims! And maybe even... maybe even the dragon... yes, i'll have to get used tot hinking of her as a dragon, i suppose. I sure wish i knew whether she's more likely to eat me for my alegiance, or just to hear me scream, or for no particular reason: metal, hue, or precious stone? And what in Pandemonium is a "planet"? I better ask her later; it seems safe enough for now... Just hope she'll inteprete it as a thirst for knowlege and not a disrespect of her privacy! * * * Far to the north and six miles below, Treemmouphindar silently bowed to the figure that came out to the gates, expressing more than a verbal answer would. Yet, as if under his breath, he whispered with determination, so silently that even Niura would hear only barely, and may even think he was not meaning for her to hear: "Alwayss, misstresss..."
Agudo Archmage 02-13-06, 10:30 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Twirling his axe slowly Rocky nodded his head at his new friend Thy brain is bigger than thy body me wee partner Tis good I say! Khaira wisely sees a crude attack We all knows it true Ye Lil'Me know like I er'es more danger in the ground than above Stopping to guard the Gnome Rocky pats Lil’Me on the back Do what ya must Lil’Me Ill watch yer back!
Khaira 02-19-06, 09:56 PM	As Khaira walked down the path that led through the Cloakwood Forest, she turned around at the sound of Adept's voice and, particularly, his offer to find out, more precisely, what had happened here. The red-haired bardess' expression was one of dark cynicism as she smiled with a dark countenance. Her voice drifted out in response to the gnome's offer, a sense of poetic justice hidden in the musical richness of her voice. "While I appreciate that offer of yours, my dear companion, what happened here is quite obvious. A caravan got ambushed by certain individuals who choose to prey upon those they perceive as weaker than them. Sooner or later, they will make a mistake..." As Khaira turned around again, continuing to walk down the path, her emerald green eyes darting into the blending of trees and bushes, a dark smile lit upon her face. "...and sooner, I hope..." Khaira paused and smiled as she looked further down the path. The wildlife had grown quiet up ahead. What lay ahead was, to her, relatively clear. With a shrug and a soft chuckle, Khaira began to make her way down the path of the forest, moving towards that location where it had grown quiet...
ruthia 02-20-06, 11:55 AM	With Brad grumbling uneasily in my ear as he watches our backs, I walk in silence. Our leader was right, no need to see what caused this for we would certainly find out soon enough. I give Brad a scratch to put him at easy as we walk, noting as well the quietness of the woods around us.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 02-20-06, 04:02 PM	Noddig silently, the gnome flipped the cover of his bacpack,so that the stretch of leather holding his javelines would hang from his shoulder. Seeing as Rocky would pose all the dwarven axemenship they could need, and a skirmish with some petty brigands lacks the importance that would call for taking prisoners or making religeous manifestations, he desided to leave his axe, mancatcher and dreadbite all down in theyr places for now.
Niura Ma'Hazzen 02-23-06, 08:55 PM	This was it, a new beggining. Niura stood at the gates of her house, and looked back over at Menzoberranzan, her red orbs just a speckle of light, compared to the shimmering, luminesent majesty of the city before her. Standing on the highest point among the cavern, Qu'Ellazoral, gave her a superb vantage point, gazed out at Donigarten, its giant mushrooms making almost a canopy over the feild of grazing rothe. She could see the humanoid shapes of goblin slaves, their stubby limbs identifying them, continue to carry carts full of goods to and fro from the island. On occasion one would stumble, and a male from house Hunzrin carrying an electrified pitchfork would be there waiting. Then her gaze settled on the Bazar, the heart of the city. It was a place for trade, and mostley shady business, always a bustle. Many different races walked there now, deep dwarves, gnomes, ithilid, and even on rare occasion a human merchant. It was early, and stands would be thrown open, and bussiness would begin anew. Finally, the Academy. The tall wizard tower of Sorcere could be seen. Here, students would come and learn from the masters, in the powerful art of arcane, and benifit from their magiclly inheritated abilities. Aside from the tower was Meelee-Maghere, the school of fighters. Its structure was of simplicity, just resembling the shape of a prymid. When Niura was still a preistess in training, she had strolled the outskirts of the school out of curiousity, and took great pleasure in vewing the warriors train. Their lean, toned bodies carrying a sheen of sweat, and the brilliant art of swordplay. How silly it seemed now, that a high preistess of Lolth, would have any use for males. Now when the drow beheld the next sight, she clenched her hands so tight, that Niura hardly noticed that her sharp nails had drawn a line of blood down her palm. Arach-Tinilith, a temple of enermous proportions carved entirely of jet stone to resemble a spider, leering over the city. It was not the place that displeased her, but rather the people who dwell there. True, this is where she had aquired most of her preistly skills, and dedication to Lolth, but it was the hardest years of her life. Always competing with peers of higher houses that look down their nose at you, or carrying Lolths highest favor. The one word that came to mind was Baenrae. If a daughter of that house ever was displeased in a rival student, or saw them as a threat, they seized to exsist. Twelve preistess that enrolled with Niura gradually dissapeared. There was no council held, or charges filed, or accustions. The reason why, Baenrae, the name radiates power, and why should it not, it is the first house of the City of the Spider Queen, sitting at the head of the ruling council for thousands of years. Perhaps when Niura came back and removed her mother, she would gradually work her way up into the ranks, slowly so as not to catch the attention of that acursed house. One day, if Lolth didnt forbid, her daughters, or grandaugters would seize the oppurtnity afforded and finally strike out at them. Oh what dreams! One day soon, they might become reality. A smile began to tug at the corners of Niuras lips, and she couldnt hide it, looming over this city, feeling like a Queen. Though this was not her way, over ambitious drow quickley find their throats cut open. Suddenly a series of 'clicks' brought Niura out of her reverie state and she turned to regard the drider Treem, scuttling towards her. It was about time her summons was answered. The clicking sound of manibles on stone seized, and Treem stood perfectly still, as it should be. It was a pity this male was turned, all aside from the huge abodomen and legs, and teeth, he was quite handsome, and she wondered what crime he had committed in the past, deserved such a harsh punishment. A question for another time, she supposed. Averting her eyes away from Treem, Niura called, as if you was addressing the air itself, "Where are the others? Surely I would think you dont all have personal agendas at this time. Speak!"
Khaira 02-24-06, 09:56 PM	With an arrogant smile, Khaira strode confidently in through the all-too-quiet place of the forest. She knew all too well what was coming. It had come many, many times before, during her travels on foot. This would be nothing new. Nothing new at all. Khaira did not notice, however, the dark, slinking figure, moving above her position up in the trees. What she did notice, however, were two distinct warcry's as two short individuals, both holding crude, wooden spears, leaped out, their projectile path aiming to impale Rocky. Behind Ruthia, another figure, short like the first two, but holding two wicked looking javelins, slinking out of the dark trees. With a reptilian scream, the creature hurled one of its javelins at Ruthia. Turning around quickly, Khaira saw the approaching doom, and grimaced. Looking closely, Khaira noticed that the creatures were none other than kobolds. Kobolds ... nasty creature that seldom came in so few a number ... swarming techniques were the favored method, as she recalled. If that were true, then where were the others? "Ruthia! Behind you!" No sooner had Khaira spoken than the large, slinking creature above her made a vicious leap, a savage, reptilian war cry coming out. This war cry was soon followed by the sounds of an indeterminable amount of other individuals coming through the trees...
ruthia 02-25-06, 10:36 AM	Behind Ruthia, another figure, short like the first two, but holding two wicked looking javelins, slinking out of the dark trees. With a reptilian scream, the creature hurled one of its javelins at Ruthia. "Ruthia! Behind you!" No sooner had Khaira spoken than the large, slinking creature above her made a vicious leap, a savage, reptilian war cry coming out. This war cry was soon followed by the sounds of an indeterminable amount of other individuals coming through the trees... Luckily for me, Brad had picked up on the approaching problem much quicker then Khaira had seen, or even warned me about. With an agility only to be contributed to a little creature such as him, Brad launchs himself from my shoulder and at the attackers face! Biting and clawing he Renders into the kobold's face, causing it to have to fight to get Brad to release it. Brad lets out a horrific little war cry of his own, some might even call it funny untill you watch how visciously he claws and bites, trying to get the eyes. Brad seems to have this one under control for now, so I turn my attention to my problem. Seeing the javelin coming straight at me, i twist carefuly out of the way, recieving only a minor scratch in the left arm as it passes. I hit it's butt end just as it passes, sending it off course so as my companions would also be spared of it. Hearing the war cries from around us I shake my head and face the woods, preparing a lightening spell quickly. Clenching my Will around me liks a comforting cloak I emerse myself into the spell, with a word sending electric shocks through the first three kobold's that appear from the woods....
Agudo Archmage 02-26-06, 10:07 PM	Khaira did not notice, however, the dark, slinking figure, moving above her position up in the trees. What she did notice, however, were two distinct warcry's as two short individuals, both holding crude, wooden spears, leaped out, their projectile path aiming to impale Rocky. Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley The Dwarf was motioning for Lil’Me to stay close when the inevitable sounds all to familiar to those of adventure That being the sadistic barking of kobolds! Who for some ironic twist of Realm humor may sound like angry tiny dogs But looked like underweight monkeys with a serious bent for violence. With barely a grunt of Tis one Rocky took the first spear in his leather chest armor that stood oddly straight out of him But the other spear was aimed high enough to gouge an eye like a spurned woman in a saloon fight Dwarves were not known for their dexterity and were more likely to take a hit than dodge it What taller folks didn’t fathom was that Dwarves knew it was “where” you took the hit that counted Leaning to his left the rugged Dwarf took the second spear in the shoulder blade blood could be seen this time Rocky let out a louder grunt as the sharpen spear pierced his shoulder pads made of chain mail armor Tis two! If this wasn’t so deadly of a battle Rocky would have looked almost comical As if some pincushion that had come alive or a mad porcupine, for each of the spears stood out of him with deadly aim Yelling a war cry Rocky charges the nasty beasties Nay ye shall not live ye yapping alley dogs! Run or thy monkey loving fathers shall pay fer having such ugly offspring’s Razing the mighty battle axe ever so high he swung down hard for the first kobolds head in hopes of cracking it like a nut Yet the wee bandit barley dodged left as it sly partner came around for an attack at Rocky back It barked out an angry cry as the second kobold bandit jumped on Rocky travel pack Holding a particularly rusty knife the short yapping bandit let lose with several jabs The brave Dwarf eyes widen with surprise Gets it off of me Lil’Me! Rocky spun around in a futile attempt to wrench the beast off of him It was a twist of luck that he was able to hit the first kobold with the spear that stuck out of his chest armor Latter Rocky would find out in taverns everywhere that Bards would proclaim hence forth it was now the Realm Year of the Flying Kobolds and the sport Kobold Batting was invented Of course Lil’Me the Gnome was the first to find out as the now hurtling Kobold screamed in pain heading straight for the brave Gnome
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 02-27-06, 04:25 PM	While the averege gnome has a special hatred for kobolds, the disdain of this one has always {well, not always, but almost ever since he remembers himself} divided equally between all imperfect species inclueding his own, as to not cloud his reason. "A feast of unhatched wyrmling bastards stripped off theyr wings is served, my friends!", he yelled as soon as the critters swarmed out of the forest around them. At some later point, he is likely to conclude this was not the wisest battlecry while fighting aslongside a dragon. Ruthia's magic was quick to shock the avangarde, and the gnome's attention turned in Khaira's direction. With a motion powered by strength and momentum and honned by training and experience, he hurled the first javelin into the face of the one whose innitial warcry announced the attack. Without tarrying for even the split second it would take to see whether his javelin did its work, he turned to face the wave of kobolds now pouring at them. Gets it off of me Lil’Me! The cry came before he could even release his next javelin, and focusing on Rocky, he saw one of the scaly runts riding the dwarf's backpack, trying to stab Rocky. He ran to aid his comrade, throwing the javelin in his hand without aiming much into the mass of approaching foes, but had to deliberately fall down, when a mishatched dragon's fetus - or perhaps a severely wounded kobold - flew through the air right towards him! To avoid losing time and momentum, the gnome completed his charge by rolling on the ground, and as he rose next to Rocky, his arms closed on the kobold whose clingy preence was interfering with Rocky's combat efficiency. "Gruazar vremyrelgrez!" The scaly flesh beneath Lil'Me's hands practicly melted into dirty blood as these unfamiliar words where pronounced. Swinging a weapon at this critter would mean the risk of hurting Rocky in the process, but exposing him to the godess' wrath, the gome hoped, would give a much cleaner - though not literally - result. To see whether the unnatural wounds were enough to snuff out the kobold's life, the Adept jerked him, in an attempt to pull the body - whether dead or alive - off his dwarven comrad, so that the attention of them both could be turned to the incoming foes.
Khaira 02-27-06, 11:03 PM	With a squeal, the kobold targeted by Brad backed up as it first lost a good portion of it's nose and, shortly afterwards, lost sight from one of its eyes. Falling down upon the ground, it assumed a fetal position, ignoring the continued scratchings upon its body. The second kobold, however, readied its javelin like it were a spear and, with a vicious dog-like squealing, charged at Ruthia. As Rocky swung around wildly, the spears still sticking out of the dwarf hit the kobold once, twice, and a third time. With a distorted squeal, the kobold that was trying to wrench me the crude dagger was sent flying, with a thud, into one of the trees. Meanwhile, the remaining kobold, eyeing the remaining gnome, was charging with reckless abandon, its ugly face sneering at the gnome at face level. Almost at the same time, Adept's spell took affect and the kobold barked in pain as it reared backwards, clutching at spontaneously bleeding arms. At long last, a stream of blood near its throat signaled its final death as the body fell down limply, with a thud ... directly at the gnome's feet. Far ahead from all of this conflict, however, the creature which had been trailing Khaira above was flying through the air. A creature which, as the light fell upon it, could be seen as none other than a fierce, hairy hobgoblin! With a quick leap and roll, Khaira missed the flying, tumbling bulk of a hobgoblin as it landed. As she stood up, however, the great creature kept rolling ... towards Khaira. The bardess leaped up and over the hobgoblin, stumbling over its bulking mass. During the time that she was in mid air, however, she swung the two chains in her hands in a semi circle at the kobold. From these two chains, a dozen serrated blades seemed to spring forth, raking the hobgoblin's side ... to which he responded with a great roar. At the same time, from the forest, a dozen kobolds sprang from the forests, attempting to surround the companions... From her position, now dodging the strikes of a bulking, stinking mass of hobgoblin, Khaira yelled out to Rocky, Ruthia, and the gnome. "Watch yourselves! Do not let yourselves get surrounded ... there are more of them, to be sure!" With those words, Khaira leaped, rolled, and leaped again at the hobgoblin that was on the offensive. Her words in elven echoed through the forests as the sounds of charging footsteps was heard further into the trees ... on the other side of the path. "Caela ie'elle*! Gurth gothrim lye**!" *Have at thee **Death to our foes!
Agudo Archmage 02-27-06, 11:31 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Not just a Garden Gnome! But a brave Gnome Clerical kick butt of nasty Kolbolds of mega proportions :D Gruazar vremyrelgrez!" The scaly flesh beneath Lil'Me's hands practicly melted into dirty blood as these unfamiliar words where pronounced. Swinging a weapon at this critter would mean the risk of hurting Rocky in the process, but exposing him to the godess' wrath, the gome hoped, would give a much cleaner - though not literally - result. To see whether the unnatural wounds were enough to snuff out the kobold's life, the Adept jerked him, in an attempt to pull the body - whether dead or alive - off his dwarven comrad, so that the attention of them both could be turned to the incoming foes. Rocky let lose with a yellowed toothy grin at Lil’Me as the wee fellow yanked the Kobold with his Gnomish hands flinging it free from Rocky backpack Khaira "Watch yourselves! Do not let yourselves get surrounded ... there are more of them, to be sure!" Ye be me Little Buddy tis fer sure me brave Gnome Nay is the time for hand shakes fer the hot tempered red head is right We be fighten fer ar'rs lives I say
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 02-28-06, 09:20 AM	"You stole my trick! Die!", yelled the gnome as he saw the large goblinoid arrive in a manner that could only mean he got himself lounched from a catapult by his minions. The javelin he hurled at him earlier apparently missed, so now, with Rocky freed of his burden, he threw another one into the massive, rolling roarer. The kobolds' numbers were now greater than he expected, and he realized the dwarf was right: We be fighten fer ar'rs lives I say He was too close to the pouring mass of kobolds now to rely on javelines, plus they were apparently too quick for him to nail with such a weapon. As his right hand went behind his back and into his backpack to grab at a more serious weapon's handle, he threw his left fist upwards with a shout: "The Great Mother's fiery eye is uppon you!" The blood from the victim lying at his feet seemed to strart trickling upwards, as if some entity beyomd the clouds was feeding on the blood of this creature slain in its name. A second or two later, as if in responce, a geometrically flawless pillar of pure fire descendd uppon the kobolds, in the place where theyr ranks - if such a disorderly crowd can be called "ranks" - were the thickest. Now reaching with his left hand to hold the same thing as the right held, he pulled out his heavy dwarven axe, its handle shortened to better suit the gnome's stature, and glanced around, ready to slice anything that comes close to Khaira or himself. "Two axes better than one, eh?", he called cheerfully in the direction where from the blood and screams of kobolds he assumed Rocky was.
Khaira 03-02-06, 06:28 PM	Brandenhall Mansion Savael, Vzerii, and Sonnica A muscled human male with chiseled features, and dressed in faded clothes of exquisite (and likely expensive) finery walked briskly into the training room where Vzerii and Savael were sparring. The upper lip of the new human curled upwards in disgust as Savael twisted and spun, being hit on the edge of the shoulder by one of Vzerii's strikes. This was the infamous captain, who had travelled all of Abier-Toril, had survived multiple wars, and had escaped the reaches of countless lawmen? With a sigh, the man strode forward, a baritone voice booming out, towards Vzerii and Savael. "Hold, sirs! Goodsir Karaniir, a message for you from Lord Kemphris, sir." Stepping forward with a blank expression of duty upon his face tainted by tentative disapporval at those gathered here, he held forth a white envelope, sealed with the insignia of Lord Kemphris and Brandenhall Mansion. Quickly, Savael took the envelope, after letting the rapier fall to the floor. How he despised rapier fighting ... he much rather preferred the weight of the long sword to the dainty fighting style of the rapier. Breaking the seal carefullly, Savael's eyes scanned the paper, a forked tongue flicking in and out briefly. With a spark of interest, Savael folded the paper up once again, murmuring to himself thoughtfully. Motioning to the doorway, the man who had entered now spoke to Savael again. "Sir, are ye ready to meet with Lord Kemphris or would you rather .... clean up first?" Savael waved in dismissal to the man, turning to the other two in the room. "It seems I have some rather urgent business to attend to. Our mission cannot go unattended, however ... I will need you to strike out on the road, today if possible. Gather what materials you need - the servants can get you what you don't already have - and gather whomever else is left to gether - I think there's only one other who has not yet revealed himself to us - and depart. Make for the port in Calaunt, in the easter sector of the city. Seek out Reyvan the Black Handed and inform you need to get to Harrowdale, by order of Lord Kemphris of Brandenhall. Once you land in the port of Harrowdale, chart your path directly east, through Cormanthor, and to Tilverton. When you reach Tilverton, seek out Captain Tanirus of the local enforcement agency in Tilverton. You will receive new orders there. Questions?" Reaching into a formerly concealed compartment in his clothes, Savael produced a ring with a detailed insignia upon it. He tossed three upon the ground. "You will need those to get passage uopn the ship and to speak to Captain Tanirus ... and live. I will meet up with you when my business here is completed. Track down one Khaira Amastacia .... she is the target." Turning, then, Savael departed, walking out the doorway. Stfu Two servants, whom were attending the diminutive kobold, looked wryly upon hiim. Surely Lord Kemphris didn't want them simply following such a ... queer creature about all day... One of the servants, an oriental-looking gentlemen, looked upon the kobold, bowing as he would to a superior Lord. "Goodsir, may we retrieve anything else for thee?"
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-02-06, 09:19 PM	"So," Vzerii said with a smirk. "You need us to go on your errands? Hmph. So be it. Follow me, elf. It seems that we need to go away." She points at Jezra commandeeringly.
ruthia 03-03-06, 01:47 AM	I sigh and looks around as Khaira yells watchout. Brad is still busily chewing the first ones face off so I leave him to it. I send a fire ball spell at the second kobold, then whip around in time to spot the rest coming. Cusing I cast a few more fireballs at the little beast, but my casting doesn't come fast enough to stop the one sneaking up behind me. It jumps on me, screaming in rage. Turning I try to pry it off my back, only to have another jump on me. Cusing again I find myself at the bottom of a pile of kobold's trying to fight my way out!
Niura Ma'Hazzen 03-03-06, 12:30 PM	After several moments of impatience went by, and still no answer from Trem, the muscles in her body clenched, and turned upon the drider, looking almost ready to pounce. Why dosnt he answer me!?, she thought regarding him, just standing there, obdiently, like the answer was clearly in view. Could it be she missed something here, in the long perioid of contemplation outside the gates. Sure enough, as she twisted in every possibe direction looking, the sillouete of a drow flickered amongst the shadows, standing easily near the gates, a smile playing on his lips. The fury drained quickley from Niura's face, and turned a deep shade of red of embarssment. The proud preistess turned back facing the city, trying to hide her emotion. It was true, that in her devices, she had missed such an obvious thing to others. Niura wondered if she would dare to make the same mistake on the surface, in the heat of combat. No, it would not be so. "We will travel through the Bazar, and then out through the north eastern tunnels that lead out of the city. As you both well know these tunnels will not be patrolled like the others." The words came out calmly, but remembering that one of Xerlafan's talents was scouting, and that he knew far more about the Underdark than she, Niura added, "Or perhaps there is a better route? Any objections?" Not waiting for a response this time, the preistess hugged her pack tightly against her shoulder blades, and took the first steps towards towards the busy market. The first steps that would mark a long journey.
Agudo Archmage 03-03-06, 03:28 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Lil'Me Two axes better than one, eh?", he called cheerfully in the direction where from the blood and screams of kobolds he assumed Rocky was. Laughing with a loud hearty Dwarvin cheer rocky cracks two Kobolds Heads together and tosses them aside Hahahah ya knows it Lil’Me ! Tis good team work we has Then with a bigger grin he sees Ruthia become the plaything of the Bandits whole have knocked her over DOG PILE ON THE DRAGONESS With lunge he throws himself into the air landing smack dab in the middle of the love fest Grabbing one by the nose twisting its fury yapping head Rocky yelled out for all to hear Nay ye flee bitten dogs! If anyone’s be rollen in the mud with Ruthia ....Tis me! With huff he throws the Kobold to Lil’Me Neuter it Lil’Me! The yapping now blooded Kobold lands at the Gnomes feet dazed and confused The Dwarf reaches down for another of the many Kobolds ravaging Ruthia “Come nows Ruthia aint even that cute! HA I nots seen so much passion since by gone days at the Ye Old Ale Shop Were me muther’s used to dance for a drink Rocky nearly gets bitten by the Kobold in his beefy hands and a grin crosses his red bearded face Thy bight maybe nasty ....But a Dwarf bight tis worse Opening his mouth to show rows of yellowed stained teeth Rocky bights down on the nose of the Kobold
ruthia 03-03-06, 05:36 PM	I let loose a massive fire ball from the middle of the pile a Rocky starts pulling them off of me...the fire ball singeing Rocky's bread as it bursts a few Kobolds in two.....
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-03-06, 09:57 PM	After several moments of impatience went by, and still no answer from Trem, the muscles in her body clenched, and turned upon the drider, looking almost ready to pounce.Though his face remained unchanged, showing no sign of the sensual bliss, Treemmouphindar breathed deeply in at this moment. The scent emanating from his mistress in her rage - way too subtle for practicly any humanoid to sence, but perfectly clear to his bestial sences - was amazing! The fury drained quickley from Niura's face, and turned a deep shade of red of embarssment.Quite clueless of the priestess' actual reason for such deep embarassment, a thought passed fleetingly in Treem's head: could it be that she has become aware to the her own agitated scent? Soon, however, his attention was drawn back to the practical matters at hand. Mostly. "We will travel through the Bazar, and then out through the north eastern tunnels that lead out of the city. As you both well know these tunnels will not be patrolled like the others." "Or perhaps there is a better route? Any objections?" Both devotion and enthusiasm rang in his whispery voice: "As you wishhh, misstressss.... for ass long ass we are underneathhhh the faerun'sss thick hide - be in in dread Menzoberranzan's environs... in fallen Shanatar's hallssss... or in the Ramparts of Night themselves - i am able to serve your Llothgiven will with the lightless realms' great power..." He could indeed feel the tunnels' power, theyr life, like veins through which flow all the energies that make the deep caverns such a perfect habitat for the likes of him. The surface's plains and forests had theyr own veins, but to him they always semed too dull to pay attention or even distinguish between them - as if they have been dried to death by the sun, or rotten in the soft. flat soil. He knew they will eventually have to operate above ground; moreover - theyr most desisidive moments are likely tot ake place there, unless they can lure the faeryelf into the deep... but while he enjoied the Underdark's vitality and smooth strength, he knew his worth when cut away from it as well. Not waiting for a response this time, the preistess hugged her pack tightly against her shoulder blades, and took the first steps towards towards the busy market. The first steps that would mark a long journey. As they walked, the tone of both Treemmouphindar's dark skin and darker chitine shifted in hue, constantly adjusting to the color of theyr surrounding rock formations. While that may be noticable to Niura and Xarafeln, as driders have never been known to posess chamelionic traits, to Treemmouphindar himself another thing was noticable: Theyr pace was slow. Much slower than the price of stealth would force them to be... by his own scale, that is. "Usssta jabresss... prior to your purchace of me, i have been trained extensssively in the protection of a rider... Should you wish to mount my back, you will command my sspeed, while ssaving your sstrengthhh for thossse tassksss worthy of a handmaiden of Lloth... and have my chessst for your shield."
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-04-06, 06:55 PM	Sparring hall: Ronleth was tailing the messanger, trying to work his PR on the man, but was pushed away once his "quarry" reached the training room. He stood still, not wanting to interfere with the dealings of the powerful and noble {which, when translated back from Ronleth's and Yola's lexicon, mosty just meant "rich"} people gathered therein. When Savael spoke, the bard's servant pulled out a scroll and an inkpen and started taking notes: "It seems I have some rather urgent business to attend to. Our mission cannot go unattended, however ... I will need you to strike out on the road, today if possible. Gather what materials you need - the servants can get you what you don't already have - and gather whomever else is left to gather - I think there's only one other who has not yet revealed himself to us - and depart. Make for the port in Calaunt, in the eastern sector of the city. Seek out Reyvan the Black Handed and inform you need to get to Harrowdale, by order of Lord Kemphris of Brandenhall. Once you land in the port of Harrowdale, chart your path directly east, through Cormanthor, and to Tilverton. When you reach Tilverton, seek out Captain Tanirus of the local enforcement agency in Tilverton. You will receive new orders there. Questions?" Reaching into a formerly concealed compartment in his clothes, Savael produced a ring with a detailed insignia upon it. He tossed three upon the ground. "You will need those to get passage uopn the ship and to speak to Captain Tanirus ... and live. I will meet up with you when my business here is completed. Track down one Khaira Amastacia .... she is the target." Crouching to pick up one of the rings, he nodded quickly: "Yes, m'lord, i shall take yer orders to master Katsdill at once." Stfu's quarters: "Goodsir, may we retrieve anything else for thee?" From inside the bath, Stfu dismissed both with a wave of his hand. "Sweet Yola, tip the servants from my purse, there uppon on the clothes chest. I should compliment the captain, Saviel i think his name was - he has fine servants here to attend his guests." The human lady rose, her light, semitranslucent gawn waving around her like a misty aura, and pulled out a few coins from the knitted purse, which she then gave to one of the servants, examining him with interest. She couldn't wait for the quest to begin and for her master to be on his way, so that she could recieve her final payment and stay behind to spend it and enjoy life, ending this long week of escorting the kobold and proceeding to see to her own pleasures. For now, however, her role had to continue, so with starry-eyed wonder as genuine as money could buy, she asked Stfu, leaning above the small creature in his bath: "Is it true what they say, that he has a serpant's blood in his veins? This captain you'll accompany, i mean." "Ah yes, although indirectly. See, my dear Yola, in the times when dragons and giants roamed the land in such numbers as goblins do today, and your kind was still so savage that my father's stupid tribe would look really sofisticated and worldly in comparison, there was a huge, powerful empire. Kinda like Netheril, only much worse. Bigger, crueler, more powerful - the things they used to pick theyr teeth after a meal would make the greatest netherese spells look like a jester's cheap trick. Oh, and they weren't any kind of people that live today, ofcourse - they were scaly things, like kobolds, but much bigger and uglier." Stumbling into the manor's servants, Ronleth reached the room, and was about to speak, but stopped himself as he realized what was going on. He knew one of his current employment's most sacred rules was "Never interrupt the master while he's busy looking knowlegable ebfore other people". Besides, it was usually something interesting, anyway, although he was quite sceptic about the truth of anything Stfu ever told. "This empire's people used to mess with life. They created new species, and many of the things that live today are theyr work. Some scholars claim, for example, that they created gnomes, by making dwarves mate with moles and removing some parts - such as the spine and the right lobe - from what came out... but this is obviously nonsence: how could a race dumb enough to create gnomes rise to such power, right? Anyway, one of the things they did was mate snakes with early humans - the bestial, undeveloped precendants of your kind. Now, i'm not sure how you mate a snake with a human, mind you, but that's why they had a mighty empire whose borders no dragon dared cross, whereas i'm staying at the house of some damarran human, and about to go help a bunch of people hunt down some elven wench. But i digress. See, they were scalykind, so to them, mating something with a snake made it feel more worthy. They were so wise, that they realized: with so much power they'll either die out one day, or finally transcend existance - another point against the theory that they could be retarded enough to create gnomes, by the way. And that's why they made those things: human, but real smart; oh, and scaly, too. They made these creatures to keep theyr memory when they are gone. They also give them the power to make more of theyr kind - not just by mating, but also in sort of the same way they were created in the first place. So when you see one of them, he can be all scary and wierd, or he can be kinda like a human... only smarter, and scaly, too. It all depends on whether he was laied and hatched, or created, and whether the ones who laid him were hatched themselves too, or created. So to answer your question, my precious Yola, our brave captain is either created by those things, or hatched from theyr egg, or maybe maybe even born by a human, but sired by one of them." After making sure that Stfu has finished his spontaneous spewing of random lore, Ronleth speaks, as he passes his master - through Yola, thus avoiding to look directly into the bath - the parchemnt on which he wrote down Savael's words, rolled out and held with the ring provided by theyr host. "Be his heritage what it may, the captain was called away, and spoke thus ere his wake, messir." After the kobold dried his hands with a towel conviniently offered by Yola, pulled the scroll out and streightened it to read, an unhappy grimace gradually creeped uppon his face. "Bah! I suppose this means no feast. I'll have to find a less onvinient opportunity for my inspirational speach, then. Very well... not! Let us meet my companions, then. Escort me, Ronleth, but do not announce me this time. I wish to start my aquintance with the ones i'll travel with on an in-formal note; teamwork is improved, if all members of the team percieve eachother on eye level." Making an enourmous effort of will to hold himself from sharing the thought that for this, Stfu would have to stand on stilts, Ronleth turned his back while Yola helped theyr little master get dressed. Now, having left behind his turban, which he deemed impractical for the road, Stfu Catsdill finally showed in the sparring hall's door, with the two humans standing at his sides and half a step behind him.
Xerafeln 03-04-06, 07:56 PM	The drow drew his cloak around himself, frowning a moment in thought as they walked toward the market. Finally, he shook his head slightly. "No, Yathrin*, that path is fine. We will merely have to be on our guard for any creatures that might be lurking. I hope you will be ready for a fight once we reach the surface, however -- we of the Underdark are not much liked in the world above." His eyes roamed, keeping careful watch for any taking too keen an interest in the group's progress through Menzoberranzan. *Priestess
Khaira 03-05-06, 02:25 AM	Khaira vs. Big Nasty The javelin thrown by the resourcefully brave gnome stuck into the hobgoblin's leg as it hit and, with a roar, it looked to the gnome, preparing to take out the little pest. Of course, this was just the opportunity that Khaira needed ... with a leap, the chains twirling in a blinding, blurring madness, Khaira made just the right movements with her wrists, causing the chains to wrap around one arm and the neck of the kobold. Her leap carried her to the top of the hobgoblin's head, which she used as a further foothold to leap again. In the next instant, both hobgoblin - which was, miraculously, still alive - and bardess were rolling, both trying to get to their feet. The hobgolin, however, had two bright lines of crimson on his neck but still was roaring in utter rage. Further down Khaira's end, sadistic chattering sounded out as more kobolds began to pour out around the forest, forming a large, circular crowd around the hobgoblin and Khaira. By now, there were approximately 15-20 kobolds, waiting for an opportunity to strike at the red-haired demon. Adept the Gnome THe blood which served as a rather effective offensive mechanism soared out and struck out against the charging kobolds, effectively dispatching several of the tightly ringed kobolds. Six burned and thourougly crispified kobolds fell to the ground, never to rise again. The remaining few of those six, however, were now on Rocky and Ruthia. Ruthia's koboldpile As Rocky and the kobold wrestled and got a taste of each other - literally - another kobold leaped behind the dwarf, and began yanking on the dwarf's hair, attempting to get a crude dagger in a good position for a scalping. Ruthia's fireball, meanwhile, took out three kobolds, sending bloody parts flying enabling her, if she moved quickly enough, to get up. From across from the pile of kobolds, Ruthia, and Rocky, however, a mass of 6 more kobolds were running, chattering wildly...
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-05-06, 06:30 PM	Approaching kobolds were exploding like rocks in a bonefire, but that was not enough to break theyr morals, apparently, and looking at Ruthia, he could see he burried under the assailants. With huff he throws the Kobold to Lil’Me Neuter it Lil’Me! The yapping now blooded Kobold lands at the Gnomes feet dazed and confused I let loose a massive fire ball from the middle of the pile a Rocky starts pulling them off of me...the fire ball singeing Rocky's bread as it bursts a few Kobolds in two..... With the axe in his hands, he carried out Rocky's advice to the best of his ability: bringing the weapon down like some sort of executioner, he instantly berought the helplessly lying kobold of his future ability to reproduce, to communicate verbally, to manipulate objects, to move around, and to breath. The kobolds apparently considered him insignificant, leaving him out of melee. Almost mechanically responding to the notion of a comrade overwhelmed, he pointed his index finger at Ruthia, and opened his mouth to speak the prayer... but then stopped, realizing something. Was he just about to add to a dragon's might?! He shook his head rapidly, as if to shrug off an illithid's enchantment, and seeing Rocky cought in the fire of Ruthia's spell - or was it her scorching breath already? He could not be sure - moved his finger to point at him. "Iglvdraz, igregdlaz, igssraz, igremdraz!*" Though beside a mild numbing of his skin, and an odd quality suddenly added to the air he inhaled, the dwarf would feel no instant effect, Lil'Me belived this protection of the Godess would suffice in enabling Rocky and Ruthia to fend the koblds off without harming eachother in the process. Now he needed to ensure the safety of the one he is here to aid in the first place. Pulling his axe's broad blade out of the kobold-fed soil, he hurried to the front, where he shall try to hold the onslaugh of koblds at bay, while Khaira disposes of the hobgoblin that seemd to lead them. The strong smell of burnt kobold flesh, strenghtened by the divine nature of theyr inciniration, filled his nostrills, lighting a ruthlessly playful spark in his eyes, as he stood between the score of scaly rats and theyr elven target. *_______________________________________ _________________________ "Undissolved, unfozen, unscorched and unshocked", his prayer for a Protection from Elements. I will not tell you what languege this is in, though it has been growing more and more obvious recently, tee-hee!
Agudo Archmage 03-06-06, 08:51 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Khaira As Rocky and the kobold wrestled and got a taste of each other - literally - another kobold leaped behind the dwarf, and began yanking on the dwarf's hair, attempting to get a crude dagger in a good position for a scalping. Ruthia's fireball, meanwhile, took out three kobolds, sending bloody parts flying enabling her, if she moved quickly enough, to get up. From across from the pile of kobolds, Ruthia, and Rocky, however, a mass of 6 more kobolds were running, chattering wildly The roar of the fireball shot by Rocky with barely inches to miss taking the backend of the Kobold with it The feisty Dwarf chuckled as he drop what was left of the crispy Kobold and even patted his red bearded face do to the slight singe he received Eyeing the Dragoness he sinkers Thou be cuten it close with thy love arrows to me heart ye old vixen Then sniffing a bit the Dwarf reaches into his singed pocket taking out his lunch Ye even toasted me bread fer me....what a woman! Ma would be proud if I takes ya as me own wife....hehe now stops laying around and gets up heheh we will have time fer that latter At that moment another jumped him and was attempting to offer a free haircut as its partners attacked Ruthia Lil"Me Though beside a mild numbing of his skin, and an odd quality suddenly added to the air he inhaled, the dwarf would feel no instant effect, Lil'Me belived this protection of the Godess would suffice in enabling Rocky and Ruthia to fend the koblds off without harming eachother in the process It was then the enchant by Lil”Me took effect Woo what tis that smell? Looking up at the Barber Kobold he laughs out loud HA! And I thoughts yer kind just tasted bad! The bandit just kept pulling on Rocky hair cutting away Reaching behind the yapping Kobold the Dwarf yanked on its tail Pulling it about in front of him bighting down as hard as he could making the Kobolds eyes bulge out in pain
ruthia 03-07-06, 08:26 AM	Relizing that my spells where not coming fast enough to save myself I let out a low growl of anger as I distangle myself from the pile of kobold. Snarling savagely I jump on the Kobold, Grabbing it's nasty little head. Headless of the weapons trying to jab at me I let out a draconic growl, causing a few of the Kobold to pause. As they do, I snap the kobold's neck I had jumped on.... Laughing I eye another one. This one yips a bit and tries to run. Snarling I chase it down, suddenly more then angery that this things have jabbed and poked me today. It squeels and keeps running..Suddenly the kobold would rather face the hairy dwarf then me!
Khaira 03-09-06, 02:50 PM	Rocky's kobold yipped with a sound of quite un-natural pain as the mean-mouthed dwarf's teeth clamped down with the insanely strong dwarven teeth. Eyes bulging and chittering wildly and madly, the kobold scratched and wriggled against Rocky's grasp. The remaining kobolds whom had intially thought of the lone, silver-haired woman seemed to get another idea. Turning around, they ran back into the depths of the forest while two of the remaining kobolds charged Ruthia, intent on avenging their fallen companions. As Khaira rolled and leaped to her feet, she scowled viciously at the hobgoblin that was still alive. As the stinking, roaring mass of ugly hobgoblin got to its feet, Khaira ran forward and leaped, both feet heading for the hobgoblin's neck. Simultaneously, Khaira twisted the chains, causing both to twirl dangerously around the hobgoblin's neck. As her feet connected with the hobgoblin, and it began to fall backwards, Khaira used her kick as a propelling point, jumping backwards, while yanking the neck in impossible angles. At long last, there was solid cracking sound as the bones in the creature's neck ripped and broke. Moments later, the hobgoblin was still. Meanwhile, three kobolds were already rushing forward at Adept the Gnome, keen on slaying the red-haired demoness that had slain their leader.
Sonnica 03-10-06, 05:57 PM	Jezra smiles at Vzerii her mouth slightly too large for her face and her teeth showing points, she then speaks in a pleasant perfectly calm tone " I would appreciate it you didn't call me Elf again Human you have no concept of who or what I am and it would not do to start this errand off on the wrong foot, would we? Now as you can no doubt see I am not prepared to travel so I would appreciate a moment to gather what I need, you are welcome to accompany me or if you have errands to run I shall meet you shortly in the greathall." Not waiting for Vzerii to reply, and pausing only to pick up a ring Jezra marches out of the room and heads to her quarters.
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-10-06, 06:58 PM	She's definately not quite elven, Vzerii thought. Fiend-blooded for sure. But I won't be able to push her around, that's for sure. As she stepped out of the training hall, Vzerii checked a pocket in her cloak. Her hand felt the brush of gems, rubies she had collected from various sources. They'd be worth quite alot in these run-down towns she had seen, if they'd be needed at all. As she walked, Vzerii went over the items she'd need in her head. Powers forbid that I'd be sleeping in the wilderness under a tree, so I'd better get those scrolls of sheltering spells. I've got plenty of money, my weapon and rope. What else do I need? Vzerii nodded as she emerged into the great hall. All she had to do was wait for her companion. One thing concerned her, however. As she had walked, she had picked up traces of conversation about a newcomer to the building. Filthy rich, gaudily dressed, and other such commentaries floated through her mind. How was this stranger going to affect whatever work Savael had brought them here for?
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-12-06, 04:52 AM	As Jezra and Vzerii parted, and were already making the first steps in the direction of theyr respective rooms to make final preparations, the trio finally arrived at the entrance of the sparring hall {ouf of which the two abovementioned women were assumingly coming}. Both human servants remained silent, as the kobold spoke: "Ah, greetings, fair ladies!", he exclaimed with a tone that suggested civil fascination with theyr beauty, "Allow me to introduce myself: Stfu Kacdill; traveler, scholar, and hero of the people." With that, he bowed corteously, his prolongued muzzle almost touching his knees. "I understand our valiant captain will only rejoin with us at a later point; His orders have been delivered to me, and i have percieved a route, by which we shall reach this point in a notably shorter time, without sacrificing stealth, and indeed faulting the efforts of any hypothetic spies - of which the harpers have an abundance. So, shall i meet you outside, once we are all ready for the road ahead?" The kobold's version of a "charming smile" which followed, had the single redeeming quality of being sincere in its amiable intention; sort of.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-12-06, 05:18 AM	Fortunately, the gnome's back was turned to Ruthia, which kept him safe from, perhaps, being affected by the same dragonfear that made some of the kobolds run away, theyr backs completely exposed to any strike. Not wanting to bother the Godess anymore with the petty issue of turning kobolds into stroganoff, his grinned, took half a step back, to enhance his foothold, and as the kobolds came, crushed his axe into the first to come close enough. Turning his head to the right, he saw one of the kobolds passing his position, the critter's eyes locked on Ruthia. Without moving his feet, Lil'Me turned his torso in the direction, and then followed with his axe-wielding hands, ramming the wide, heavy blade into the charging kobold's unguarded back. He still turned to his front quickly enough to parry the swings of two of the front kobolds which were coming streight at him - possibly taking theyr hands in the process of parrying - but in the next second, the mass of kobolds came into zero distance, and one jumped over his comrades, knocking the gnome - for whom it was too late to regain his mobility - off his feet. As they roled, the kobolds rushed on, and when finally the soles of gomish boots found the kobold's chest and sent him into the air -in a move of Rocky's new sport, mayhaps - the Adept was able to do little but rise back to his feet, as the foes surrounded him, leaving no room for an efficient swing of the axe.
ruthia 03-12-06, 09:59 AM	Facing the two who where brave enough to face me I smircked. One charged at me with axe raised,the other to the right slight behind the first. Looking slightly puzzled about what to do I watch as they get closer and closer to me. At last second I dive between the two. They both swing at me, and being as close as they were to each other they manage to miss me and hit each other with the axes. I roll across the ground for a few feet. Coming to a stop I stand and look around to see what the rest of my travel companions are doing.
Khaira 03-13-06, 04:22 PM	The kobolds scream as one's head is cleaved off and the other's leg is cleaved through, causing it to fall upon the ground, its movement disabled from this point on. As Adept moved with the kobolds, Khaira watched with satisfaction as he took out - disabled, really - two of the kobolds and slew two more kobolds. It was then that she noticed, however, the doomed fate that was the Adept's as the remainder of the kobolds charged towards the two dangerous individuals that were Khaira and the gnome. Running nimbly forward, Khaira leaped and planted both feet on one kobold's back, leaping towards the amassing numbers of kobolds, simultaneously twisting the creature's neck and body so that he fell into a most painful position, its arm cracking with the force of the fall. Weaving the chains which her blade were attached, Khaira landed in the midst of the kobolds, the swinging, blurring blades of the chains cutting bleeding swaths into two kobolds. Turning quickly, manipulating the chains, the chains wrapped around the arms of a kobold that was now charging towards the Adept and intent on making him a head shorter. With a yank and leap, the veins of the kobold were hopelessly pinched, causing it to yelp and drop the crude axe it had been holding. With a somersault and a leap, Khaira once again kicked out at a different kobold, causing this one to fall, too. With vicious precision, Khaira landed on its throat and leaped away, close to the gnome. "You didn't think you'd get all the fun, did you?" With a grin, Khaira surveyed the ring of kobolds that were yet threatening to charge at them both. The odds seemed unfair, and it appeared that their fates were doomed ... but what was new? She'd survived worse certain death's than these.
Agudo Archmage 03-13-06, 11:09 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley After giving a loud belch after finishing off what was left of the Kobold the crusty Dwarf grunts as he looks about for the others “Hmm now wheres did that dragoness run off to? Ruthia Facing the two who where brave enough to face me I smircked. One charged at me with axe raised,the other to the right slight behind the first. Looking slightly puzzled about what to do I watch as they get closer and closer to me. At last second I dive between the two. They both swing at me, and being as close as they were to each other they manage to miss me and hit each other with the axes. I roll across the ground for a few feet. Coming to a stop I stand and look around to see what the rest of my travel companions are doing. Putting his hand on his axe taps it a bit commenting aloud to Ruthia Come on’s woman! Ye cant be standing arounds all day... lets finds are redhead lass.... bets she's having a naps or something! Walking down the path Rocky could see the stout Gnome putting up a grand fight Lil”Me knocking the gnome - for whom it was too late to regain his mobility - off his feet. As they roled, the kobolds rushed on, and when finally the soles of gomish boots found the kobold's chest and sent him into the air -in a move of Rocky's new sport, mayhaps - Moving through the blood stained road Rocky calls out Lil’Me tis no time fer playing a cute garden gnome with yer friends Rocky laughes as one of the Kobolds goes flying by Ha fun sports we has here Lil’Me....hehehe....ahh well we’s needs to be helping thunder thighs Coughing he adds quickly Opps heheh I means Khaira Lil'Me the Adept was able to do little but rise back to his feet, as the foes surrounded him, leaving no room for an efficient swing of the axe. Rocky could see his wee friend needed aid and started to move faster to close the distance when the fearless leader shows herslef in dramatic Bardic style Running nimbly forward, Khaira leaped and planted both feet on one kobold's back, leaping towards the amassing numbers of kobolds, simultaneously twisting the creature's neck and body so that he fell into a most painful position, its arm cracking with the force of the fall............. ......With a somersault and a leap, Khaira once again kicked out at a different kobold, causing this one to fall, too. With vicious precision, Khaira landed on its throat and leaped away, close to the gnome. "You didn't think you'd get all the fun, did you?" Letting out a humph Rocky eyed Khaira as he closed ranks with her and the Gnome “Wells now yer grace.... Laughing he added glancing about the swarming circle of Kobolds holding his axe in a clear battle stance what's thy plan?
ruthia 03-16-06, 02:03 PM	Still outside the enclosing circle around my companions I take a moment to look over the situation and smirck. Calling Brad to me a speak to my little friend in hushed tones. He gives a small chirp of understanding and Landed on the ground. Focusing my energy on my little friend I whisper a single word......And Brad goes from being the size of a house cat.....to a small dragon the size of a war horse! Smiling, I send my "little friend" out to play with the kobold that are trying to surrond Khaira and the others......
Sonnica 03-19-06, 06:00 PM	Jezra walks back to her room blithly ignoring the interuption of the kobold her thoughts on the unexpected turn of events and how to manage Vzerii. On entering her quarters she immediately sheds her clothes and her form shimmers and transforms to that of her own. She stretchs taking pleasure in the feel of her own form, just standing for a moment she savours this feeling knowing that this will be the last time for days that she is able to assume her true form. Snapping out of her reverie she again transforms herself again returning to the previous form, though it appears slightly taller and more robust than previosly. She then dons black armour and straps a weapons belt with a mace and a scourge hanging from it. She bows her head and utters a short prayer 'Mistress, grant me strength and allow me to serve in the delivery of pain' Feeling suddenly refreshed, she turns and exits the room pausing only to pick up a small backpack that is resting just inside the door. Jezra enters the hall on silent feet, she walks up behind Vzerii and whispers 'I am ready'.
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-19-06, 07:34 PM	"Excellent. It seems that we have no more distractions. Let us go." Vzerii walked to the door, taking little notice of Stfu. But the elf...Definately fiend-blooded, she thought. She would be a good associate in the future. As she opened the door to the outside, she called to Jezra and Stfu. "Since we will be traveling together," She says, "We might as well get the introductions over with. One of you two first."
Niura Ma'Hazzen 03-20-06, 06:04 PM	The scene was typical as the Niura and party traveled down the paved, sparkling stalcite path, into the winding walkways and rabble of the Bazar. The first sign that they had entered new terriotory was the 'unique smell' that wafted through the air, carried only by small streams of wind allowed through the upper reaches of the city. So many aromas from far away places, some pleasent, and some not so lingered in exotic goods to be purchased. Merchants carts cluttered every corner, each one protesting that the buyor would be getting a rare deal. Goods sold varied from foreign foods, weapons and armor, to magical components, slaves and even prostitution. You could find anything in the Bazar, for the right price. Niura walked calmly through this place, almost radiating an aura of respect about her, as common folk scurried out of her path, in fear of inmant danger. It was unfortunate if one came across a preistess path. She knew at any time coming her alone would be dangerous in the open, for some dispised servants of Lolth, and would surely put a dagger in her back without care of consequence. But that would not happen, as the hulking form of the drider shadowed her movements, and with Xerafeln in her crowd. Just passing a group of ithilids, Niura casually held her hand out, in sign to stop. It was Treems distinct voice that gave her pause. "Usssta jabresss... prior to your purchace of me, i have been trained extensssively in the protection of a rider... Should you wish to mount my back, you will command my sspeed, while ssaving your sstrengthhh for thossse tassksss worthy of a handmaiden of Lloth... and have my chessst for your shield." Which only reminded the drow of how the matron has provided no means of transportation. A drift disk powered by magic would be nice, or even riding lizards would have been welcomed, regardless of their enermous apetite. Which gave her the choice between walking or mounting a drider? Had a preistess ever done such a thing, she thought worrying about her station. Quickley the decision was made, and Niura nodded, and held her arms out for Treem to proceed. At the same moment she glanced at Xerafeln, and motioned in the silent drow language, using intricite subtle gestures of the hand. *I hope you can keep up* P.S. I can assume that everything we say is in drow, but please continue to write it. It makes me feel special :)
Xerafeln 03-20-06, 06:57 PM	Xerafeln tamped down the wry smile that threatened to cross his lips. "Drill d' heen, Yathrin.*" He drew his cloak around himself and melted into the crowds, weaving around people and keeping fairly good pace with the drider and its passenger. He pulled up the hood of his cloak as he moved. I'll use a spell once we're clear of the crowds...I've no desire for anyone to know how I cast just yet. He smiled within the shadows and kept on moving. *But of course, Priestess.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-21-06, 09:42 AM	Leaving his large and currently impractical axe on the ground, the gnome reaches for the mancatcher attached to his belt, while leaning his weight on his left forearm. He hits the ankle of a nearby kobold and yanks, hopefully both tripping the creature down and breaking the bone into which his weapon held. This, he thought, is gonna leave him much bloodier than he hoped to end up so so soon in theyr expedition. Suddenly, however, the rescue came: Running nimbly forward, Khaira leaped and planted both feet on one kobold's back, leaping towards the amassing numbers of kobolds, simultaneously twisting the creature's neck and body so that he fell into a most painful position, its arm cracking with the force of the fall. Weaving the chains which her blade were attached, Khaira landed in the midst of the kobolds, the swinging, blurring blades of the chains cutting bleeding swaths into two kobolds. Turning quickly, manipulating the chains, the chains wrapped around the arms of a kobold that was now charging towards the Adept and intent on making him a head shorter. With a yank and leap, the veins of the kobold were hopelessly pinched, causing it to yelp and drop the crude axe it had been holding. With a somersault and a leap, Khaira once again kicked out at a different kobold, causing this one to fall, too. With vicious precision, Khaira landed on its throat and leaped away, close to the gnome.[/I] "You didn't think you'd get all the fun, did you?" With a grin, Khaira surveyed the ring of kobolds that were yet threatening to charge at them both. The elf's attack was so spectacular, than inspite of his risky position, he could not help but watch. As she landed by his side, he drove his mancatcher into an approaching kobold's pelvis, and with it, pulled himself back to his feet, then proceeding to break his hook out of his foe's pelvic bone, as painfully as possible. His eyes shone with deliht as he grinned with gratitude to Khaira: "It wouldn't be much fun if i couldn't share it with you, hehe!" It was definately good to feel he was no longer cut off from his comrades. He suddenly felt as though he really liked it that way - having comrades, that is, as opposed to only having minions on oen side and superiors on the other... Rocky could see his wee friend needed aid and started to move faster to close the distance when the fearless leader shows herslef in dramatic Bardic style Letting out a humph Rocky eyed Khaira as he closed ranks with her and the Gnome “Wells now yer grace.... Laughing he added glancing about the swarming circle of Kobolds holding his axe in a clear battle stance what's thy plan? His spirit rose even higher, as he saw all three of them were now facing the horde together, with only the Wyrm In Human Skin absent. Ramming his mancatcher's hook into a kobold's chest, so that it hooks to one of his ribs, he then placed his left hand halfway between the handle and the hook, and lifted his "catch" in the air, proceeding then to throw him into the other kobolds, breaking that rib in the process. Still outside the enclosing circle around my companions I take a moment to look over the situation and smirck. Calling Brad to me a speak to my little friend in hushed tones. He gives a small chirp of understanding and Landed on the ground. Focusing my energy on my little friend I whisper a single word......And Brad goes from being the size of a house cat.....to a small dragon the size of a war horse! Smiling, I send my "little friend" out to play with the kobold that are trying to surrond Khaira and the others...... Seeing what looked like a juvenile bronze dragon, Lil'Me suddenly lost the certainity of victory in which seeing the three of them standing together resulted. Raising his hands in prayer, he called: "Birthgiver of Greatness! These screaming imperfections dare stand in your slave's way! Guide us to punish them and take theyr worthless lives!" Gradually, from the spot where the adept stands and outwards, a dim, reddish light begins spreading, seeming to replace what daylight could reach them through the branches above. As Khaira, Rocky, the gnome and - unknowingly to the latter - Brad, all begin to feel lighter on theyr feet and more comfortable in theyr movements, even in theyr surrunded state, the kobold experience jus the oposit, theyr motions turning unsure and somehow unfunushed, as if they weren't quite positive on what they're doing anymore.
ruthia 03-21-06, 12:32 PM	((might want to read up on brad sometime....he's a bronze........)) I watched quietly as my friend and companion Brad started joyfully snapping what Kobold he could reach in half. He gives a cheerful chirp everytime he does so, as if taking great joy in being able to defend his friends. A few of the weapon grazed across his scales but seemed to have no effect on him as he kept going. I quietly stood out of the way, letting my little friend do his work.
Sonnica 03-22-06, 06:30 PM	"You already know who I am but for the benfit of the Kobold I will go through the introductions again. My name is Jezra I am a servant of Loviator, and I take it that needs no further explanation" and she smiles pointed at Stfu, her mouth full of razor sharp teeth and her eyes flashing read. What is the nine hells is a kobold doing here, they will smell him out a mile off and if we are to rely on subtlety we are all dead.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-24-06, 03:33 PM	Which gave her the choice between walking or mounting a drider? Had a preistess ever done such a thing, she thought worrying about her station. Quickley the decision was made, and Niura nodded, and held her arms out for Treem to proceed. At the same moment she glanced at Xerafeln, and motioned in the silent drow language, using intricite subtle gestures of the hand. *I hope you can keep up* Folding his legs beneath him, Treemmouphindar lowered his torso to the ground, making mounting him easy. Gallantly, he extendd his hands to assist Niura, in much the same fashion as a surfacer would assist a noble lady in stepping up into a chariot. After he made sure she was comfrotably seated on his broad back, the drider rose, and began moving forward, turning whenever his mistress would command him. His speed turns out to be no smaller than that of a good riding horse, while the abundance of legs ensured a finer and smoother shifting of weight, resulting in a ride much smoother than horseback; it is actually somewhat similar to sailing a quick boat, under fair wind, on realtively calm waters. While these benefits of riding a drider are understandable, although few would have thought of them, some other qualities seem less natural: Treemmouphindar's eight legs do not seem to produce the noise most driders make in theyr movement across the cave floor. They are not entirely soundless, but the little noise they make is lost in the background of the city's voices and sounds. Another thing is even stranger: both the skin of his upper body and the carapace of his lower parts seem to constantly change in hue, adjusting to theyr environment. Thus, few outside of theyr immidiate course notice the priestess' unusual mount, but those who do scatter away in the combined fear of attracting the noble's wrath and remaining too close to the monstrocity. Xerafeln tamped down the wry smile that threatened to cross his lips. "Drill d'heen, Yathrin." He drew his cloak around himself and melted into the crowds, weaving around people and keeping fairly good pace with the drider and its passenger. He pulled up the hood of his cloak as he moved. The drider knew, that the spell cast days ago, to mislead potential readers of his thoughts, would be wearing off very soon, if it was not gone yet. Thus, he was careful in the wording of even his unspoken musings: A lone, if great, priestess, accompanied by one mercenary and one slave. This will either be extremely easy, or was intended as a suicide mission...
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-25-06, 08:46 AM	Leaving both of his human servants behind, Stfu stepped out of the house, waiting for the two others. Jezra walks back to her room blithly ignoring the interuption of the kobold her thoughts on the unexpected turn of events and how to manage Vzerii. [ * * * ] Jezra enters the hall on silent feet, she walks up behind Vzerii and whispers 'I am ready'. "Excellent. It seems that we have no more distractions. Let us go." Vzerii walked to the door, taking little notice of Stfu. As she opened the door to the outside, she called to Jezra and Stfu. "Since we will be traveling together," She says, "We might as well get the introductions over with. One of you two first." "But... i just did.", says the small creature, obviously unsure of how to proceed. Then, with a shrug, he clears his throat, and repeats his earlier speach, almost word-by-word: "Stfu Kacdill; traveler, scholar, and hero of the people. I am delighted by the notion of traveling with two such wondrous ladies, whose grace and beauty can only be matched by theyr might!" He bows corteously again, almost as deeply as he did the first time. "You already know who I am but for the benfit of the Kobold I will go through the introductions again. My name is Jezra I am a servant of Loviator, and I take it that needs no further explanation" and she smiles pointed at Stfu, her mouth full of razor sharp teeth and her eyes flashing red. What is the nine hells is a kobold doing here, they will smell him out a mile off and if we are to rely on subtlety we are all dead. Suddenly, Stfu blinks, moving his face in a way one would expect if a hot iton poker was brought near his muzzle. He looks exclusively at Jezra now, instead of splitting his attention equally between the two women as always: "For my lady's information, i have just taken a bath, which my consort over there", he motions towards the house they have exited, "can verify. I am quite capable of subtlety; not that we will even need subtlery, mind you, as long as we follow my logistic concept, rather than our brave captain's hurried suggestion."
Khaira 03-25-06, 09:54 PM	With the combined efforts of Khaira's vaulting flurry of strikes and the Adept's swift, efficient style of permanently disabling at least three of the kobolds and Rocky's no-nonsense method of simply wading through the kobolds, in addition to the somewhat sadistic pleasure that Brad- the much enlarged Brad - was having chomping on the kobolds, their number of kobolds was soon down to half a dozen. Meanwhile, the kobolds were beginning to stumble as Adept's spell took effect. With a grin, Khaira turned to both Rocky and the Adept, a sadistic gleam that could only be the desire for retribution shining in her eyes. “Wells now yer grace.... Laughing he added glancing about the swarming circle of Kobolds holding his axe in a clear battle stance what's thy plan? "My dear and impressionable Rocky, one thing is clear to me now: these are the very individuals who took the lives of the poor individuals only a short while back. The one thing left to do is..." With a dark smile, Khaira looked to the kobolds, and began walking towards them as she finished her statement. "...return the favor."
ruthia 03-26-06, 01:06 AM	Hearing Khaira's statement causes me to laugh a bit sadistically myself. Aiming at one I chuckle again and build up a spell. I aim at the kobold's feet and throw an acid spell at them. I sit down laughing as the acid starts eating th Kobold from the feet up. He screams rather nicely for me I note. Meanwhile Brad, my now not so little friend. Is chasing another Kobold in circles with little spouts of fire, seemingly also havign a great time doing so! Which of course leaves four more Kobold for the rest of the group, I note with a chuckle....Hope Khaira lets them get a few...
Taeldrin Laesrash 03-26-06, 09:12 AM	"Very well...Stfu. We shall move out now. But before we do, please...Tell us of your logistics plan, and what makes it superior to our patron's plan and the little information we have to do the job." Vzerii sneers at the kobold, beginning to get a sense of the traditional cave-dwelling, greedy kobold from this creature. She extends her arm towards the door. "You two go first." She insists.
Agudo Archmage 03-26-06, 05:00 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley It wasn’t much to ask from him really All Khaira wants him do was kill a few yapping snapping kobolds Seem simple of enough plans he thought Right next to him a Kobold went down to the ground screaming in pain as its feet melted off Seeing that Ruthia was enjoying her spells results for she was siting down on the job and watching the show Chuckling Rocky calls out to her Now now Ruthia if ya wants to watch....hehehe...tis fine by me For Ill give ya plenty to see Flexing his muscles in a overly dramatic way the crusty Dwarf heaved his body forward jumping off a broken stump in the ground landing on the first pair near him ‘ Crushing one with his own well rounded wait the snapping of the Kobolds vertebra was loud and clear Yet the other bandit wasn’t going down so easily as it clawed at Rocky with all it might Slamming a hairy fist into the bulbous snout of the Kobold which sent it flying backwards broken nose and all Rocky then looks sideways at Ruthia with a sly smile on his face I hopes ye likes yer men strong and hairy likes me O’ pretty dragoness It was then that another yapping bandit jumped on to him tackling him to the ground The knife in the Kobolds hand lashed out missing Rocky face by inches With its loud barking and sickly breath the Dwarf felt like he was having flashbacks to one of the many salons he had been to With a quick kick between the legs Rocky sent the now doubled over Kobold down on the ground next to him Not waiting to see if the Kobold will squeal like a girl he slammed his elbow several times into the chest of the deadly bandit breaking its ribcage Rolling to his side and getting up as he did Rocky whip out his axe liking its tip as he did All this work is getting me hungry Me thinks some Kobold meat will taste fine and dandy this day A kobold who was about to throw a javelin at the Dwarf decided it had seen enough and ran Ahh well I need to go on a diet any hows
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-26-06, 07:25 PM	Fighting and calling uppon the Egglayer's grace so intensively - not long after the rocback flight, which, in turn, hardly provided any rest after his quick and vigorous responce to the new orders he recieved during the trial's culmination - has considerably drained the gnome. Yet, as he beheld the following responce from theyr expedition's leader, he appeared to get a nice second wind. "The one thing left to do is..." With a dark smile, Khaira looked to the kobolds, and began walking towards them as she finished her statement. "...return the favor." "YES, Great Khaira Amastacia! Eye for an eye! THAT is the spirit!!!" He almost danced in joy; it appears as though her words, along with something he saw in her face, and perhaps felt oin her tone, pleased him to an unnatural extent. Ripping the metal-framed band of cloth from his forehead, he looked at the back of the one remaining kobold, who was now running away from Rocky, but remained in Khaira's general course. A bulging eye, perfectly round and twice larger than each of the ones on his face, opened slowly on his forehead. No temporary effect of magic or prayer, that is surely what the band was meant to conceal. As it opens, whomever looks can see it in its full, monstrous and intensely red glory. He focuses it on the kobold, and although the critter's back is turned in his retreat, and no eye contact could be ppossible, the running one freezes in his spot, paralized in the sight of Lil'Me's third eye. Folding his hands on his chest, he watches the elf with unconcealed admiration through his two normal eyes, waiting for Khaira to sloughter the yet unharmed, but immobilized and helpless kobold. He doesn't seem to pay any attention to the multiple small wounds on his muscular arms and bald head, most of which he recieved during that stage of the battel, during which he was brought down and surrounded.
Khaira 03-28-06, 12:04 AM	Khaira turned to see kobolds confronted by Rocky being dealt with accordingly by the gruff dwarf with weird tastes for kobold. When the kobold ran, full speed, past Khaira, she moved to give chase when the Adept's voice rang out, ecstatically, in approval of her last statement of plans for these kobolds. Turning with a smile that reflected the need for retributive, poetic justice that she surely felt inside, the elven bardess winked mischeviously to the gnome, her voice humming with mystery as she began to walk towards the kobold. "Surely we must have been together in a past incarnation, my like-minded friend." With those words, Khaira was within a breath's distance from the now-helpless kobold. This just wasn't its day. It had been taunted by its mates, yelled at by a big monstrous thing and, now, chased by these other savage people. With a sneering smile, Khaira leaned close to the kobold, putting her hands on its sweat-drenched shoulder, whispering into its ear, her voice deceptively calm and innocent. "My companions frighten you, no? Wish you could just get away? Perhaps face someone weaker? Someone like me, perhaps?" Khaira's fingers traced a line up the kobold's neck. If it could have moved, it probably would have nodded in consent. It would like to kill the red-headed monster, the weakling. Khaira's voice, meanwhile, carried the same soft innocence, even as her hands paused on the kobold's neck. "...only, you see, I'm much worse than them. I really tend to get violently brutal sometimes ... especially when I face marauding vultures." Holding the kobolds neck firmly in both hands, Khaira twisted its neck around not once, but twice, her expression not changing even as the bones in the kobold's neck snapped and crunched loudly. Stepping back, the kobold crumpling to her feet before it could even gasp, Khaira shrugged nonchalantly before turning back to her companions, her voice once again merry and light-hearted. "Well, then, shall we carry on with our carefree journey through the forested wonderland?"
ruthia 03-28-06, 12:54 AM	I sigh and wave a hand at Brad, forcing him off his kill and to his normal size. He chirps in disappointment and flies to me, landing on my shoulder and preening himself. I walk toward Khaira with a frown "Awe, do we have to? Mine's still screaming....." Indeed the one I had used acid on was disingrated to his knees and still screaming nicely for me....
Agudo Archmage 03-28-06, 12:54 AM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley The Dwarf heaved his axe over his shoulder snickering at the sight of the finished battle Stoping close enough to his wee buddy Lil'me, Rocky slaps him on the back Ye did a good job me friend Tis a shame to die from yer wounds though Can ya not takes time to heal thy self? Hoping the Gnome would take the hint and heal himself the crusty Dwarf walks closer to the fearless leader Well nows Khaira Sliding up with a toothy smile If ya keeps it ups with all yon exercise blood lust ya been doing with yer rug rats Kobolds ye killed Thy lovely cottage cheese thighs may gets to be to irresistible fer us men folks Winking at Lil"me as if all men understood his tastless ideas
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-29-06, 02:08 PM	Turning with a smile that reflected the need for retributive, poetic justice that she surely felt inside, the elven bardess winked mischeviously to the gnome, her voice humming with mystery as she began to walk towards the kobold. "Surely we must have been together in a past incarnation, my like-minded friend." He returned the wink with his {lower} right eye. Obviously by his content smile, the thought was pleasing to him. With a sneering smile, Khaira leaned close to the kobold, putting her hands on its sweat-drenched shoulder, whispering into its ear, her voice deceptively calm and innocent. "My companions frighten you, no? Wish you could just get away? Perhaps face someone weaker? Someone like me, perhaps?" Khaira's fingers traced a line up the kobold's neck. If it could have moved, it probably would have nodded in consent. It would like to kill the red-headed monster, the weakling. Khaira's voice, meanwhile, carried the same soft innocence, even as her hands paused on the kobold's neck. "...only, you see, I'm much worse than them. I really tend to get violently brutal sometimes ... especially when I face marauding vultures." Holding the kobolds neck firmly in both hands, Khaira twisted its neck around not once, but twice, her expression not changing even as the bones in the kobold's neck snapped and crunched loudly. At this moment, the gnome closed his upper, monstrous eye, releasing the kobold's body from its magical stare. Stepping back, the kobold crumpling to her feet before it could even gasp, Khaira shrugged nonchalantly before turning back to her companions, her voice once again merry and light-hearted. "Well, then, shall we carry on with our carefree journey through the forested wonderland?" Suddenly, the appeal of forests became clearer than ever to him. The bardess' words were true, he thought, as he looked around the woods, opening his third eye: mutilated bodies everywhere, providing evidence, to the small of faith, of the undeniability of the mighty force of nature that is the Great Mother and all who follow her. She Herself has looked uppon this battlefield today, he knew; and through imperfect little him, no less! And the kobolds' blood on the undergrowth and tree-trunks was the signature of her gaze... it was, indeed, a wonderand. Folding the band he took off from his head, he tucks it into a side pocket in his backpack, and in a voice both weary and cheerful says: "Phew! Hope no one minds if i keep this thing off for now? We'll have a better chance to spot the next ambush in time, if none of our eyes are blindfolded, y'know." Stoping close enough to his wee buddy Lil'me, Rocky slaps him on the back Ye did a good job me friend Tis a shame to die from yer wounds though Can ya not takes time to heal thy self? He looks himself over, now using all three of his eyes, and passes a hand over his head, which comes out bloody. "Good idea! Bah, can't belive these pests actually managed to cut so much and so deep." He begins moving his right hand in spherical patterns in the air, as if caressing a small, invisible orb that floated infrom of him. He whispers a few indescript words in that languege, that already appeared in his prayers before, and as his wounds begin to close, shining with a reddish glow, he looks at Khaira, Rocky and Ruthia. "Are everyone else allright? The Mother is content with us this day, and will restore anyone to health through my prayers, as if we were hatchling of her own!" Well nows Khaira If ya keeps it ups with all yon exercise blood lust ya been doing with yer rug rats Kobolds ye killed Thy lovely cottage cheese thighs may gets to be to irresistible fer us men folks Winking at Lil'me as if all men understood his tastless ideas With a blink of all three of his eyes, the gnome added his opinion to the conversation - "Pretty irresistable as it is, if y'ask me!". While still waiting to hear if anyone else needed theyr hides and bones mended, Lil'Me sat down on the still-kicking half of the acid-dissolved kobold, and rested his feet att he half burn and half eaten remains of Brad's victim. "Woo! I sure hope we won't have any more surprises untill Beredusk. Know we just left the Flute and Boot a few hours ago, but after this here feast, i could sure use some sleep again, hehe", he mused with a yawn.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-29-06, 08:18 PM	"Very well...Stfu. We shall move out now. But before we do, please...Tell us of your logistics plan, and what makes it superior to our patron's plan and the little information we have to do the job." Vzerii sneers at the kobold, beginning to get a sense of the traditional cave-dwelling, greedy kobold from this creature. She extends her arm towards the door. "You two go first." She insists. "Ah, i'm glad my lady asked!", eakerly yapped the kobold, as he stepped out of the house, looking at the the human and the "elf" over his shoulder. He whistled loudly, and in the air before him ripped, creating a torn, purplish hole, about half a foot in diameter. Reaching into it, he produced a long item, made of wooden planks connected by axises; as he unfolded it, the object turns out to be a pepitre, similar to the kind a musician would place his sheets on. Stabilizing it on the ground, he reached into the hole again, pulling out a large tome, bound in blue velvet, and titled in alabaster letters as "Complete Atlas of the Realms by Agudo, Archmage of Light" on its back. On the book's cover, all letters, starting from the "by" and on, are ripped out, and the single word "THOK" is written in theyr place with some greenish, dimly glowing ink. Tapping the book with his finger in some tricky pattern, Stfu utters: "From the Dragon Reach's eastern shore, to the Great Desert's border, please!" With a magical spark, the book opens right in the middle, showing exactly the map requested by its current little owner. "First, allow me to briefly look over our captain's hurried suggestion." With that, he put his finger on the map, moving it slowly down as he spoke. "We were to travel south to Calaunt, here, and locate a pre-arranged contact of our host's. We know nothing of this contact, and he may well have been paied by now to switch sides, or simply tracked by those who would thwart us. In short, the flaw of this begining, is that it is pre-planned and pre-arranged with third parties, thus making us volnurable to subtrefuge, should we follow it. From there, according to the original plan, we were to be taken by this contact, on his on ship - leaving us on his crew's mercy, pretty much - to Harrowdale." With these words, he moved his fingers to the left, across the reach. "Other than the disadvantage of trusting a third, corruptible party, and following a route that could already be known, this destination has a purely logistical flaw, as you will now see:" "Our end destination for now is Tilverton." Leaving his finger on the dot marking Harrowdale, he now placed another hand's index finger on the map's soutwest corner, where Tilverton was marked. "According to lord Savael, we are to travel directly east, all the time, to reach it. This, as you can clearly see, is vastly incorrect: the actual direction from Harrowdale to Tilverton is to the west-south-west. Messir must have misspoken, in his haste to depart. That route, however, is also unncesserily dangerous: notice how most of the direct route from there would pass through Cormanthor - a forest controlled by vicious drow rebels, who follow a god of thieves." With that he moves one of his fingers back and forth along the "airline" between the two distant points. "Now, for my alternative and the reasons behind it:" He takes a moment to catch his breath, and proceeds: "First of all, we need to set sail on our own, and from a different port. Tantras and Ylraphon are obvious candidates, but the choice between these two i would rather trust in the hands of one wiser than myself. Namely You, my lady." Witht that, he nods respectfully towards Jezra. "From the port of our eventual choice, we should sail not to Harrowdale, which would be a bad choice for the two reasons i explained earlier, but further south, to the mouth of the Ashaba." Moving his finger across the Dragon Reach again, he now leads it diagonally south, to a point just below the mark of another town {Scardale}, where a river from the west flows into the reach. "We do not dock, but enter the Ashaba, and continue on our hired ship upstream, to the point where the river's tributaries merge." He moves his fnger to the left, stopping it where the river appears to "split" in three. "We debark on the northern bank, and from there, are able to go west, crossing the Cormanthor at its narrowest, and thus shortest and safest place." With these words, his finger moves just a bit upwards, then sharply darts to the left - as if severing a green head from its green body - across the forest's "neck". " Soon after, that direction will bring us on the Moonsea Ride. Down that great road, the way to Tilverton is both short and safe." He continues with his finger a bit more to the left, untill a fat line that marls the road, then quickly points along it to the large dot that markls Tilverton. Once again, he smiles and takes a couple seconds to catch his breath. "What remains to deside is whether we sail from Tantras, further south, or Ylraphon, to the north. Allow me to explain the difference, so that your wisdom can be best applied, your dsidion informed, and the result optimal for our cause." Two fingers of the same hand now point to two spots, one above Calaunt and one below it, on similar distance. "The interests of speed and efficiency are served equally well by both. What i am uncertain about, is which will better serve the itnerest of secrecy and safety." "Ylraphon has the same general dangers as Calaunt would have, though they are less organized than in the latter. Connections between illicit persons in Calaunt and ones in Ylraphon are also strong, so hypothetically, eventhough it's a stretch, we could be spotted there by those who would report back to Calaunt. Incidentially, Ylraphon is just a nice place to be, but that means little for our quest." "Tantras is safe, in comparison; But like Calaunt, lies to the south from here. Those who would expect us to head to Claunt - assuming they choose to keep an eye on us - will see our destiantion changed, if we start on the way south. Sailing from Tantras, however, provides a shorter cross of the Reach, with somewhat less risk of encountering pirates, and {unlike with Ylraphon} no crossing of the naval Calaunt-Harrowdale route, which would be watched by our compromisable, pre-arranged contact." "So what say you: which port will be best for us to set sail from?", he finally asks, looking with an eager and honest smile at Jezra.
Khaira 03-30-06, 12:45 AM	"Awe, do we have to? Mine's still screaming....." With a suble smirk, Khaira turned to face Ruthia, brushing a strand of red hair out of her eyes. "If it despairs you that much, you can carry him with you for sadistic pleasure. He might work well as a reverse alarm. Of course, sleeping might be a problem...and I don't know how hungry Brad might get. Speaking of which ... Brad! Good job!" Sliding up with a toothy smile If ya keeps it ups with all yon exercise blood lust ya been doing with yer rug rats Kobolds ye killed Thy lovely cottage cheese thighs may gets to be to irresistible fer us men folks Wrinkling her nose at the rotten breath and the smell of Rocky's singed hair, Khaira waved her hand as if dismissing the dwarf-stench away from her. With twinkling green eyes of mischief and a voice tinted with sarcasm, she smirked. "Try not to despair overmuch, Rocky. Towering over you on the rocky bed might be kind of awkward for you." Khaira leaned down, closer to Rocky, until she was level to his face, speaking in a soft voice to him. "Besides, dwarves have tried to mine these emeralds before ... I'm like the cycles of the seasons. Never ending ... going on and on and on....they usually fall asleep long before they've gotten their share of riches." With those words and a chuckle, Khaira strode away from the sick-minded dwarf, letting him decide whether or not she was actually serious about that statement. Folding the band he took off from his head, he tucks it into a side pocket in his backpack, and in a voice both weary and cheerful says: "Phew! Hope no one minds if i keep this thing off for now? We'll have a better chance to spot the next ambush in time, if none of our eyes are blindfolded, y'know." It seemed, for the first time, that Khaira noticed the third eye of the gnome. The quite visible third eye, in fact. Now that was something that one didn't see every day. Why she hadn't noticed it before, she didn't know, but it was quite apparent now. While she didn't have a problem with it being uncovered - hadn't she seen stranger things, after all? - or, necessarily, a problem with it at all, it posed the curious question of which eye(s) one should look in while speaking to the gnome.... In fact, Khaira at first tried looking in all three of the eyes as she next spoke, her eyes traveling back and forth between all three positions as she spoke, which seemed to pose a problem for concentration, since she seemed to be individually addressing each eye. "I really ... that is ... no problem for me ... but it might be prudent .... and even wise ... to cover it up..." After trying to speak - and realizing she was doing a sore job of it - to all of the eyes, Khaira cursed lightly in the elven tongue, before simply shrugging to the Adept, and looking at his face, instead of his eyes. "I don't mind, and it should give us a distinct advantage over the other two-eyed dangers of the forest and other dangers of the road. It would be prudent and wise of you, however, to conceal the eye before we arrive in the next civilized society. The fear of humans can drive them to conduct truly dreadful hunts and executions." "Are everyone else allright? The Mother is content with us this day, and will restore anyone to health through my prayers, as if we were hatchling of her own!" Khaira snorted at the chance that she could've actually been seriously injured. By kobolds?! You've gotta be kidding! Despite her indignance, though, she noticed she did walk with a limp and as she looked down, she noticed the scars where several spear tips had gotten through her defenses. Blasted, foul creatures from the Abyss! She'd just mended these clothes! "Kobolds and a measly hobgoblin? It'll take more'n that to kill me!" With a murmur off to the side, Khaira half-amusedly pondered out loud to herself. "Hmmm ... perhaps that's why the Zhents and the Cult detest my continued existence despite their efforts ... " With a nonchalant shrug, Khaira kept on walking, kicking a kobold body here and there, just to make sure all of them were truly dead and not merely playing at it, like the dogs that they were. [QUOTE=Adept]With a blink of all three of his eyes, the gnome added his opinion to the conversation - "Pretty irresistable as it is, if y'ask me!" With a wink to the gnome which seemed to span any sensual thoughts or feelings, Khaira amusedly responded. "Aye, and don't you be forgetting it anytime soon, either!" After addressing each of her companions in turn, and having kicked sufficient kobold bodies and having have ensured that each one was sufficiently slain, Khaira pointed a hand down the trail where, about 100 feet down the path, where the swelling of sunlight signals the end of the glorious, but dangerous forest. "Onward, companions! Beregost awaits, and 'twould be wise, methinks, to arrive there 'fore nightfall."
ruthia 03-30-06, 03:47 AM	"ah...guess I can leave my new toy behind.* With a sickening grin I casually toss a fire ball over my should, engulfing the screamer completely and getting one last loud satifiying scream of pain before he died. Brand chrips and keeps preening himself. With a shrug I move to follow Khaira down the path, pausing slightly to give the three eyed gnome an odd look. I chuckle slightly "Well it don't help your looks any, but your still prettier then the dwarf." Chuckling I walk away before either can comment
Agudo Archmage 03-30-06, 04:41 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Lil’me Are everyone else allright? The Mother is content with us this day, and will restore anyone to health through my prayers, as if we were hatchling of her own!" With a blink of all three of his eyes, the gnome added his opinion to the conversation - "Pretty irresistible as it is, if y'ask me!". While still waiting to hear if anyone else needed theyr hides and bones mended, Lil'Me sat down on the still-kicking half of the acid-dissolved kobold, and rested his feet att he half burn and half eaten remains of Brad's victim. "Woo! I sure hope we won't have any more surprises untill Beredusk. Know we just left the Flute and Boot a few hours ago, but after this here feast, i could sure use some sleep again, hehe", he mused with a yawn. Looking himself over a few bights and bruises but nothing to worry about Rocky shakes his head at Lil’me then chuckles at the Gnomes words for Khaira Irresistible? Pint of Ale is Irresistible But nay no women be that tempting a Few seconds latter the Bardes added her own ideas on the matter Khaira "Try not to despair overmuch, Rocky. Towering over you on the rocky bed might be kind of awkward for you." Heaving his pack tighter about his shoulder the battle harden Dwarf moves along with his adventuring group all along wondering about Khaira words Bed? Ya use a bed for that?!? Ahh well tis an Elvin thing Im sure Khaira Khaira leaned down, closer to Rocky, until she was level to his face, speaking in a soft voice to him. "Besides, dwarves have tried to mine these emeralds before ... I'm like the cycles of the seasons. Never ending ... going on and on and on....they usually fall asleep long before they've gotten their share of riches." Laughing So yer saying ill fall asleep at thy ravishing touch? Tis a first for me Then rubbing his reddish beard he mumbled rather dejected like Funny normally it’s the lasses who be fallen asleep before im done Seeing that Ruthia was done playing with her Kobold Rocky marched on keeping an eye for trouble
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 03-31-06, 01:44 PM	With a sickening grin I casually toss a fire ball over my should, engulfing the screamer completely Noticing Ruthia's gesture just in time, Lil'Me leaps away from his sitting position and rolls further away from the fireball's path, just a split second before the spot where he sat a moment ago is reduced to coals. Yepp, she's a dragon allright, he thought to himelf, panting from the sudden application of strength he had to undertake to save his hide, a Topaz one, i bet. Oh well, that's one of the least unnegotiably-threatening breeds, so i'm relatively lucky for now, praise the Egglayer. "Well it don't help your looks any, but your still prettier then the dwarf." Chuckling I walk away before either can commentMaybe a Crystal, then? Hmm, that would be even closer to a relief! "Besides, dwarves have tried to mine these emeralds before ... I'm like the cycles of the seasons. Never ending ... going on and on and on....they usually fall asleep long before they've gotten their share of riches." As he rises from the ground and walks towards Khaira, he hears her warning to Rocky, and takes a mental note of it; Just for any case. It seemed, for the first time, that Khaira noticed the third eye of the gnome. The quite visible third eye, in fact. Now that was something that one didn't see every day. Why she hadn't noticed it before, she didn't know, but it was quite apparent now. While she didn't have a problem with it being uncovered - hadn't she seen stranger things, after all? - or, necessarily, a problem with it at all, it posed the curious question of which eye(s) one should look in while speaking to the gnome.... In fact, Khaira at first tried looking in all three of the eyes as she next spoke, her eyes traveling back and forth between all three positions as she spoke, which seemed to pose a problem for concentration, since she seemed to be individually addressing each eye.[/I] "I really ... that is ... no problem for me ... but it might be prudent .... and even wise ... to cover it up..." After trying to speak - and realizing she was doing a sore job of it - to all of the eyes, Khaira cursed lightly in the elven tongue, before simply shrugging to the Adept, and looking at his face, instead of his eyes. "I don't mind, and it should give us a distinct advantage over the other two-eyed dangers of the forest and other dangers of the road. It would be prudent and wise of you, however, to conceal the eye before we arrive in the next civilized society. The fear of humans can drive them to conduct truly dreadful hunts and executions." "Oh yes! Humans, dwarves, and sometimes others, an be QUITE irreasonable in such matters. Besides, showing one's alegiance among people you've no reason to trust, nor have any relevant business with, is simply diplomatically-counterproductive. That's why i never take my headband off in cities. Well, except for once, when Her Excelence sought to..." suddenly desiding that continuing this thread of tale is about as "diplomatically counterproductive" to his relations with Khaira et cohorts as going bare-headed into a temple of Moradin would be, he let his words fade out, hoping no one will ask for him to continue that topic, untill he thinks up a good lie. Khaira snorted at the chance that she could've actually been seriously injured. By kobolds?! You've gotta be kidding! Despite her indignance, though, she noticed she did walk with a limp and as she looked down, she noticed the scars where several spear tips had gotten through her defenses. Blasted, foul creatures from the Abyss! She'd just mended these clothes! "Kobolds and a measly hobgoblin? It'll take more'n that to kill me!" "Yes, ofcourse, and what doesn't kill us - makes us stronger, and what does - strengthens the brood; all sacred truths. Still, no reason to keep any wound, far as it may be from lethanity." With these words, accompanied by eager nodding in confirmation of the elf's words, he gently closes his palms around Khaira's injured leg, caressing it a bit, and the reddish glow emanates from them once again, causing the blood to harden into scars, then fall off, leaving the leg and all other spots healthy and whole. He then looked with concentration on Khaira's clothes, speaking a single word: "Iglezraz!" The seams and threads of the bardess' garments, around the holes made by the kobold's weapons and teeth, begin moving like fine tentacles, tangling around eachother and rejoining, untill within a few seconds, all Khaira wears is as good as new... if you don't count the dirt, the enemies' blood, and so forth, that is. With a murmur off to the side, Khaira half-amusedly pondered out loud to herself: "Hmmm ... perhaps that's why the Zhents and the Cult detest my continued existence despite their efforts ... " As he walks by her side towards Beregost's distant lights, the Adept takes another {second for today} mental note of her words. He'll have to ask her later about what cult she refered to. Of the Zhents he knew - a political power seeking to dominate the surface and its magic. Her Excelence was yet to engage them, or be engaged by them, but naturally, he had no sympathies for them, either. Striding on, he looked up and to his right at the elf, with an expression of pride and comradrie.
Khaira 03-31-06, 03:03 PM	With a sickening grin I casually toss a fire ball over my should, engulfing the screamer completely and getting one last loud satifiying scream of pain before he died. As Khaira walked, she couldn't help but hear the sound of the impact of the fireball behind her and, shortly thereafter, smell the acidic brimstone that created an interesting new scent. "You know, if I didn't know any better, I'd suffice to say that she was a pyromaniac..." Heaving his pack tighter about his shoulder the battle harden Dwarf moves along with his adventuring group all along wondering about Khaira words Bed? Ya use a bed for that?!? Ahh well tis an Elvin thing Im sure She smirked subtly at Rocky's words; clearly, he knew very little of elven lovemaking. It was often quite intimate and continued for long hours. Seldom did elves stick with a single partner for their ten centuries or more of life. Though some were monogamous, it was a well-known rumour that they were, in fact, polygamous. "Ah, my dear, ignorant Rocky, you have not experienced joy until you have experienced the refined elven ... lifestyles." "Oh yes! Humans, dwarves, and sometimes others, an be QUITE irreasonable in such matters. Besides, showing one's alegiance among people you've no reason to trust, nor have any relevant business with, is simply diplomatically-counterproductive. That's why i never take my headband off in cities. Well, except for once, when Her Excelence sought to..." "Still, no reason to keep any wound, far as it may be from lethanity." Khaira chuckled at his mention of the varied races of Faerun raising dissent over the strange quality of the gnome's third eye. Yes, the civilized - or savage, depending on one's present situation - could be quite unreasonable, even when dealing with one of their own. "Many of the settled citizens of cities often have problems with things that they do not understand. They would, I believe, choose to believe that everything that is not like them is automatically evil or needing to be destroyed. In my experiences, one has to be awfully subtle when entering the cities. I think I would term most of them paranoid, really. It's unfortunate, especially when one has to battle both the groups that would do harm to the good people of Faerun whilst, at the same time, attempting to either hide from or conceal certain aspects from, those very same people your defending. Such is the life of a heretic..." As Adept went to work on healing her minor hurts and mending the scratched clothes, Khaira looked with fond admiration down at the gnome, whose talents seemed quite wide and varied, making him a very valuable member of this party. Whoever this Excellence was that the gnome kept referring to, she must surely be a wise entity, to have sent such a dependable individual to her side during this journey of hers. "Many thanks from my heart, dear friend. It appears that this is the second time that you have rendered aid to me. I am in your debt. " With a soft smile to the gnome, and a glance back to the rest of the party to make sure that they were all keeping up, she quickened her stride to the end of the forest. In a matter of minutes, they had reached the Coast Way. It appeared all was safe and sound. Now and then, caravans passed by the forest, going north ane west or south and east. As Khaira ventured out into the road, several members of caravans gave her curious looks, but even more curious looks were cast to the other members of her party. Together, it seemed, they made quite a motley party. With a nonchalant shrug, Khaira turned south and began walking down the Coast Way. They should be approximately halfway to Beregost by the time nightfall overcame them. With all hope, they would have a suitable camping site in their proximity when that time came. If not ... well, she had dwelled in worse conditions before.
ruthia 03-31-06, 03:17 PM	I walk along quietly at the end of the group, not taking any note of those passing us as I seem to be in deep conversation with someone. This of course gets me a few stares, though not as many little Brad gets. He twitches his tail now and then, making it seem as if I am wearing an odd looking scarf. Brad occasionally lifts his head and answers my quiet comments with a chirp, making even more poeple look at him. But we keep moving....
Sonnica 03-31-06, 05:33 PM	Jezra thinks on Stfu words for a few minutes her thoughts focused on the fact that she may have misjudged him. You have peaked my interest Kobold, there is much to what you say but I want to know why we have apparantly been misdirected. There is much to be said for going they way we were directed and confronting what is there. We have I am sure skills and abilities that will prove useful on this journey otherwise we would not be here As if to emphasise the point as she is speaking to Stfu her face and voice change to mirror perfectly the Kobolds features. She turns to Vzerii and her features change again What say you Vzerii? her own face and voice ask her.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-04-06, 06:06 PM	You have peaked my interest Kobold, there is much to what you say, but I want to know why we have apparantly been misdirected. There is much to be said for going the way we were directed and confronting what is there. We have I am sure skills and abilities that will prove useful on this journey otherwise we would not be here As if to emphasise the point as she is speaking to Stfu her face and voice change to mirror perfectly the Kobold's features. As he sees her face change, Stfu's own face changes as well, but not in any supernatural way: it merely twists into a rather comical grimace of surprise and confusion, with his jaw slowly dropping and perking to the right - further than a human's could painlessly do - while his left eyebrow rises so high that the respective eye looks almost twice bigger. Sure, he saw magicians do that, and even priests of some faiths, but that... no spell, no prayer, no nothing! "...Quite impressive.", he said, in a tone that would seem to downplay his actual level of surprise, if that level were not already displaied in full on is face. Snapping out of it and regaining his "business" tone - which was kinda bearable, once you get used to it - he replied: "The misdirection could be one of two things." The kobold's smile and cheerful tone hinted on a terrible thing: he is going to talk a LOT, now that he has the excuse to do so. "One possible reason, and the most obvious one, is that our good captain was in a rush. Have you seen how quickly he left uppon recieving that message? According to my good servant Ronleth, he took nothing with him: just told you that stuff in short, tossed out those rings" - with that, he showed his left hand's thumb, adorned by the ring identical to the ones Jezra and Vzerii had - "and SWOOOSH - ran off! He had no time to plan the road ahead for us; untill the messabger came, he belived he would be traveling with us, which would make pre-planning unnecessery. In such a hurry, he could also have misspoken, which explains his suggestion for us to head East, to reach a city that lies to the southwest of here. Hm?" He looked at Jezra, then at Vzerii, then bacl at Jezra, as if to make sure they both follow. "Another possibility is intentional bullspitting. See, he could intentionally give us directions that are false, inefficient, or both, to make sure we can think for ourselves, yes? He might wanna know for sure tht we're not just mindlessly obediant, intelectually irresourceful soldiers and thugs, whose useless kind he had to suffer for so long. See, Savael and our intended mark go back a ways: they both took part in a war, leading forces on oposit sides of it. In the process of that war and its aftermatch, theyr enemety grew more... personal. Our captain's side lost, and had the inflexible simpletoes - who are doomed by theyr stupidity to turn every mistake of a commander into a loss on the field - to blame. So it might be a test of sorts, see? A thug or a soldier takes the orders, and carries them out by the letter, thoughtlessly. The sort of followers sir Savel wants, however, are more clever than that, and would find the quickest, cleanest, safest and most efficient way to accomplish the actual, stated goal - don't my ladies agree?" After a moment of self-pleased smiling at his audience of two, he continued, addressing other points Jezra brought up. It was redundant, sure, but missing an opportunity to redicule an point that was not - at the moment -his, was not in his habbit. "You are right in that we are quite capable of prevailing no matter how we hinder ourselves. However, is that reason enough to accept a less than efficient course of action? I am perfectly capable of jumping into a pit full of dung and climbing back out, but i will not do so if my goal can be reached without it - and more with better results, at that." He grins widely. Apparently, in addition to being a way of getting his point across, this is also the kobold's idea of a comic relief. He continues: "But, just to be fair, i'll see this comparison through: when i showed you the benefits of our way over the captain's hurried suggestion, i omitted one detail of that latter, assuming that was just a misspeach. But lets examine that too! I'm speaking of the course streight to the East, which he suggested that we take after our crossing of the Reach." He stepped closer to the map again, slowly tracing his finger from Harrowdale directly to the right, as he speaks: "First, it means crossing the Dragon Reach back again to the shore we're now on. Then, upstream the Vesper, and into the Erthspurs, which are mostly held by goblins, orcs and the like; they've been a home to those for... well, ever since anyone remembers. Afterwards, we have Impiltur. A great place to be, or to pass through, but of little relevance to out misson, as it, like all the following, lies in a direction that takes us further away from Tilverton. Then, we cross the Easting Rich and into the shores of Lethir we land. Do you like druids? Because, see - they don't just "maintain" Lethir: they rule it. Then we're out of the forest and into Thesk. That's where we get robbed. Repeatedly. That has nothing to do with our power and skills - i've been there many times, getting robbed against all odds every one of them, and i tell you: In Thesk - that's mandatory. Then we're getting into Thay. I don't need to tell you about that - everyone knows what Thay's all abut. Now, after we get out of Thay and over the Sunrise range, we have the Endless Waste to cross. It's not really endless, mind you, but it sure is a waste allright; of time! Never been far into it myself, but i'm sure after a month or two, we leave it behind. That brings us into a very strange land: Kara Tur. No one knows much about it, and i've no idea how far it goes and how big it is. They say it's as large as all of Faerun, or even much larger. Anyway, Thesk is full of people who ran away from that realm, so we could get infromation there. One thing i know, is beyond Kara-Tur lies an enormous see. You know, those amnish folks proved the Trackless Sea actually has an end... I'm not so sure about the see that lies east of Kara Tur, though. Still, i knew atleast one sage, who said that if you sail east into that far sea for years, you'll eventually find yourself in that place the Amnish found, so going further east will actually bring you to Faerun again! So we could reach Tilverton by going east, it's just that we'd be kinda old by then, and likewise our lord Savael and that Khaira chick we're after." he grins with the expression of a dog, who has just brough his owner a pair of slippers - proud of himself, and eager to please. He was obviously enjoying this, however. "So, shall we make our crossing from Tantras or from Ylraphon? Or have you desided to follow "slightly" longer the route, suggested by our absent leader?"
Sonnica 04-05-06, 05:28 PM	Oh my sweet Kobold, it makes little difference to me, the slightly longer journey would perhaps be the most educational, but my mistress would not tolerate such delays, if we are all in agreement shall we say Tantras, one path is much as another and if it is heading in the right direction then that is all that matters She smiles sweetly at Stfu and can't help but thinking that it would be advisable to avoid letting him speak for too long on a matter in the furture.
Niura Ma'Hazzen 04-06-06, 08:12 PM	The ride was suprisingly smooth, as the wind from their momentum set Niura's bangs into a recklass dance around her face. At first, she was unsure of using Treem as means for transport, but she soon felt comforted by the bulk beneath her. This was unsual behavior, Niura thought as the spires and lights of Sorcere towered over the group. On through most of the crowd they had went, and up into the northern reaches of the city, that were less dense. Now the only faces she saw where those of wizard students, glancing this way and that. Not one looked directly at her, for Niura had aquired a uncanny proficiency for dark looks over the years. On they went until approching a steep incline, that lead to a tunnel. This tunnel would lead to the untamed Underdark. What Niura saw next momenterally took her breathe away. Flanking the right side of the exit loomed a a gargantuan construct, something built specificlly for death. A guardian spider, crafted by the greatest drow wizards, and carved completly from jade, which gave it a luminsent green glow. It stood dead still, no sign of life emitted from what strangers would think just a statue. Infact it was just inert, until the magical energies inside were activated. Niura had heard rumor that these spiders were controlled by a necklace consisting of a dozen stones, and whomever was in possession of it, controlled the spiders. Niura could only guess that the archmage of the city, Gromph now had them. It did not stir as Treem continued his rythmic walk past it, and into the tunnel where the air here was somehow different, and the walls felt constricted. A bolder darkness enveloped them, and Niuras eyes adjusted and compinsated. She had crossed the threshold, and left her beloved city. As a constant drip was heard in the background, Niura said aloud, unaware of the presence of the others, "One step closer to Khaira Amasticia."
Taeldrin Laesrash 04-09-06, 09:33 AM	"Your loquacity entertains and sickens me, Stfu. But onto the real, more pressing matters. Your plan has merit, and I believe a shorter trip would be best for all of us. Nevertheless, why waste our time walking and sailing, when magical means of transportation are available? Surely you both think that flying or even teleporting would suffice. I can formulate a method that would take us straight through the skies of Faerun." Vzerii smiled and rubbed her hands in anticipation of her companion's responses. Surely they could have bothered thinking it through a bit more?
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-10-06, 10:30 AM	As they came out of the forest and into the established, constantly traveled road, the gnome returned his "headpiece" to its place. Ambushes on the Coast Way would be much easier to spot intime than ones in the forest, which removed the necessity for keeping his eye opened, while the abundance of caravans and travelers here also made it such exhibitionism quite unsafe. A day will coem when everyone will know exactly what the eye means, and will fear and respect it. Untill then, however, there is no point in waving his banners; except in special situations. Though he mostly had no terrain or landscape he could favor over another, he found himself enjoying the road now. The company was good, and every step brought them closer to where he needed to go... in more than one sence.
Agudo Archmage 04-10-06, 09:44 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Rocky as well enjoyed the change of scenery Ahh tis good to be out of there Felt like a tree hugging Elf Cackling he winked at Khaira No disrespect me fearless leader
Khaira 04-11-06, 02:39 PM	Ther made their way steadily, making good speed. Khaira walked in front, her bow within easy reach at her back. One never knew, after all, what could strike at any minute, on this Coast Way. They were a couple of hours on the road, and Khaira brushed a strand of red hair out of her eyes. They were making good time now, and she began humming what might have been a marching tune of a civilization long gone. "Perhaps we may evade further disaster for the rest of this day ... perhaps." In fact, as if to emphasize this point, a heavily laden cart zoomed past Khaira, led by two strongly muscled horses. With a leap and a tumble, Khaira evaded the careening cart in timelely fashion, albeit slipping on the slippery mud as she did so. As she glared at the destructive cart, she could've sworn she saw eyes peering - glaring, really - out of the back of the wagon. As she begin to pull herself up from the ground, she shook her head as the wagon slowed down, for but a moment, and one man turned from the driver seat, a crossbow in his hand - and armed. "A pity, Amastacia ... almost gotcha that time!" Sinister laughter was all that followed as reins were cracked on the mounts' backs and the wagon, once again, rushed down the path. With a grumble and a murmur, Khaira watched the wagon dissapear ... for now. "Clearly, a watch will have to be set tonight..." With another shake of her head, the polished bow came off of her back, and arrow loosely notched to it. Soon, she was walking down the path once again, eager to camp and get themselves settled when night finally fell...
ruthia 04-11-06, 08:23 PM	I cuss as the wagon almost runs our leader over, luckily for me I was already walking on the roads side, not on the road itself. I glare at the wagon as it chargespast, getting as good a look as I can...especially after the talk to Khaira the way they did. Frowning I walk on as Khaira does, scratching Brad's eyeridges as I mummer to him softly. "Rest my small friend.....tonight you earn you keep." Brad looks at me, his small eyes glaring in shared anger. He chrips, once, that chirp commincating to me his understanding..and his willingness to protect his friends....
Agudo Archmage 04-12-06, 07:41 PM	Game Master In fact, as if to emphasize this point, a heavily laden cart zoomed past Khaira, led by two strongly muscled horses. With a leap and a tumble, Khaira evaded the careening cart in timelely fashion, albeit slipping on the slippery mud as she did so. As she glared at the destructive cart, she could've sworn she saw eyes peering - glaring, really - out of the back of the wagon. As she begin to pull herself up from the ground, she shook her head as the wagon slowed down, for but a moment, and one man turned from the driver seat, a crossbow in his hand - and armed. "A pity, Amastacia ... almost gotcha that time!" Sinister laughter was all that followed as reins were cracked on the mounts' backs and the wagon, once again, rushed down the path. Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Waving the dust away with his axe the gruff Dwarf looks more amused than mad Seeing that Ruthia had a colorful hold on the faerun language Rocky laughed Ye dont needs to curse Ruthia Tis clear that be an old scorned lover of our beloved leader Then with a smirk he added as he eyed Khaira Or am I worng and thy fans who show such respect of thy musical talents in nearly crushing thee O' hot temperd one?
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-12-06, 10:07 PM	Walking by Khaira's side, the gnome had to roll away, at the same time as the barde''s evading maneuver took place. He abrupted his rolling quickly with a leg on the ground, and looked at the man in distance-gaining wagon with pure rage. "You dare.?!" he inquired in a voice that was squeezed by his anger into a high pitch, as he pushed the band away from his thir eye and opened it... Seeming to calm down, atleast to an extent, in a second or two, he rose from his position and went to see if everyone else were allright. Before turning to them, he drew the headband back down, to cover his eye, as if he hasn't moved it since they took onto the Coast Way. The wagon went on, propelled by the strength and speed if its two horses. On its back, a limp and lifeless body shook for a while, as its wheels bumped off minor cracks or pebbles on the road, before falling off the cart and remaining to lye on the road. Apparently, looks could kill, after all. Nodding to the elf's observation, Lil'Me gave a smile that was both grim and cheerful at the same time. I'll take first watch. All pleasures are sweetest when delaied - rest incueded. The body fell of too far along the road for short little him to see, but he knew it might, and was prepared to explain his actions, should it happen, once they reach sight of the place where the cart lost its once-living "cargo".
Sonnica 04-13-06, 06:44 PM	I would be interested to here your thoughts on the matter you have raised Vzerii a knowing smile on her face, It would seem we will have to make choice between speed and discretion
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-14-06, 10:12 PM	"Hmmmm...", mused the alegedly famed orator. The sound was so unnaturally irritating, that one fact became intuitively clear: in the healthy, sane multiverse, Koblds were simply not meant to produce some sounds common to man. "My lady's option has merit, indeed! The one flaw is that we would arrive much too soon, which might make the one we're to get further orders from... suspiceous of us. But that can be solved by just waiting for a while, at relatively small, but safe distance from the city." He licks his lips. "So, shall we be transported to Tilverton's proximity by the will of the Willing Whip?"
Taeldrin Laesrash 04-15-06, 07:04 PM	"Give me a few days, and I could get a few transportation devices of excellent quality here, say, magic carpets or flying beasts of burden, silenced of course. Honestly, speed and discretion could be solved by the same metho here." Vzerii smiled sinisterly, the possibilities forming constantly in her mind. They could stand a few more days.
Sonnica 04-21-06, 06:25 PM	I have no need of your transportation devices, I have ways of flight for myself if necessary, that would mean I do not have to stay in this hovel any longer. If you insist on remaining here I will abide by the choice for now but we should put the time to use. I have some rather interesting toys that I have yet to fully experiment with perhaps you would care to join me in some entertainment? As complete contrast to the smile on Vzerii's face Jezra's face shows complete innocence which is probably more disturbing.
Khaira 04-28-06, 11:19 AM	Khaira was still walking along as the now-lifeless man fell from the wagon cart, and rolled several times before falling limp, glazed eyes staring up at the sky he would never see while a mouth hung, shaped like an "O" of surprise. Pausing at the lifeless corpse, Khaira kicked him over and, crouching, she withdrew a dagger from a boot, using the pointed edge of the blade to rifle through the man's contents. As a rolled up parchment was pulled from his belt, she visibly scowled at the wax seal before quickly breaking the seal and scanning written contents. With a growl, she threw down the parchment beside the corpse. Faint, aggravated sounds of a muttering Khaira could be heard being summed up. "Damned be your dogged pursuits, petty fools..." Turning around to face her companions once again, Khaira shouted out before beginning to run down the path, which much more haste than she had previously been making pace with. "Come ON! There's work that needs doing!" *((The parchment, if anyone bothers to stop to look, bears the now-broken wax seal of a capital "Z", formed by black blades.))
ruthia 04-28-06, 02:02 PM	Walking along I stop at the Parchment, frowning slightly about the reaction to it that Khaira had. I bend over and pick it up, scanning the seal, then shrugging slightly I open it briefly to read. As I read the rest of the group got further ahead. FInishing the letter a puzzle slightly over it's contents before taking off after Khaira and the others..and catching up rather quickly.
Khaira 04-28-06, 04:16 PM	As Ruthia picks up the note, she sees that the text is magically fading from the parchment. However, she is able to make out the following note: "...Beregost ... Alyuntair ... needs to be taken care of ... Network needs ... done .... take care of it. Watch ... for ... Silver Harp ... no obstruction and assuredly ... excuses..." The note is signed with what looks to be a personal sigil, that of a black scourge.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-28-06, 04:40 PM	Reading over an elf's shoulder was not exactly something the adept was built for. Rocky would, no doubt, come up with many alterantive uses an elf can have of a gnome. When Khaira threw the note down, he had no time to pick up and read it: he would fail to keep up with her now-speeding stride, if he did. As he ran after the bardess, he tried to search in his mind associations to the only thing he noticed about the letter: its seal. _ / ^ He has seen it before, more than once, but it never seemed to have much relevance to his faith, his missions, or his survival. He only knew it has something to do with Bane: a foolish, despicably imperfect and blasphemous enemy of the Mother; a mortal, who was only granted divinity on the whim of an unworthy deity, who - in his own imperfection - failed to bear what was his. So are Banites targeting Lady Amastacia? Well, they will soon meet him, then. And should that not suffice, they will meet those whom he serves. It has, indeed, been too long since the devilish church of Bane last collapsed. Should the arrogant godling test the Mother's patience, it will happen again... only this time, no eggs of his will be left to hatch; there will be no baneson this time. All that he thought, while he ran after Khaira as fast as his short feet could carry him.
Agudo Archmage 04-28-06, 07:08 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Rocky wasnt the smartest dirt digger to ever come out of the caves But whatever the note said didn’t matter to the him The Dwarf knew it made the Bardess mad and in his vast experience; it must mean a fight was a brewing Laughing softly patting his weapon he mumbled out loud Hehe....always ends with the tip of me axe....always Besides he was in a good mood for the three eyed Gnome Lil’Me, had made a clean kill and the Dwarf respected him for it Slapping Lil”Me on the back as the wee Gnome ran to catch up with Khaira Tis good to have skilled adventuring partners on such treks ...yes? Rocky said gleefully Rocky heaved his axe over his shoulder and gave what some would call a wicked smile Then grunting he puts his over sized girth into the long walk ahead
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 04-28-06, 07:52 PM	"Several days...", the kobold muses, contemplatively holding his chin with his paw, "Hmm, in several days we could as well complete our journey, should we take the route i suggested. The flying path might draw attention, and makes us linger here in waiting for the means... I thought you meant teleportation or something, which would mean instant arrival. Oh well. So! Which shall it be - Tantras or Ylraphon?" Stfu flashes, once again, his eager-to-please smile.
Taeldrin Laesrash 05-22-06, 09:26 AM	"I believe you misheard me." Vzerii replied frankly. "A few days at maximum. I could, in theory, get us out of here by nightfall. Of course, if flight gets you airy, we could always just teleport, presuming you've been anywhere in the region before." Vzerii's features began to contort in a frown. There was definately a greedy kobold beneath that bravado.
Khaira 05-24-06, 11:22 PM	They were running for most of the rest of the day before the fresh wagon tracks were discovered, along with what appeared to be a pathway of valuables littered along the Coast Way. Khaira was still running full bore down the road but, looking around, she noticed that night was falling. They could be running into any manner of ambushes or traps if they continued on in the night. And, after all, they were all weary and needed rest. With a pause, and a growl as she looked to the wagon tracks, she turned to her companions. "We must stop for the night. Alas, if we continued our pursuit, we would likely run straight into an ambush. Let us, instead, look for a good place to camp. I'll go have a look around..." With those words, she ventured off the path, into the wilds, to scout out any immediately visible threats that might strike at them.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 05-25-06, 11:45 AM	The kobold nods thoughtfully, his eyes darting to the sides once: "Myeees, teleportation won't attract as much attention as flight. Can't teleport into Tilverton itself, ofcourse - the Weave is all messed up there - but close enough... I remember a regular camp location of the Border raiders, at the very east of the Stonelands. The way to Tilverton form there will be festively short, but the distance significant enough to ensure no oddities distort what spell my lady should use. Shall that be our point of destination, then?" He rubs his hands together in anticipation.
ruthia 05-27-06, 11:05 AM	I shrugs and look at my other two companions. "Shall we boys?" Moving into the woods Brad and I search for a spot. Brad finds a few before I see one that suits our needs. I motion the others to follow me, showing them area brad had found quietly.
Agudo Archmage 05-28-06, 07:47 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Its about time we set down for grub! Huffing the stout Dwarf heaved his axe in his other hand quickly following the others into the woods.
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 05-28-06, 10:36 PM	When all arrive at Ruthia's spot of choice, the gnome, through a broad and long yawn, declares "Well then, I guess i'll take first waaa--"... and drops down onto the ground, snoring quietly but excessively.
Khaira 05-30-06, 03:39 AM	It was some time before Khaira came back again, carrying handfuls of berries, nuts, other vegetation, and a pair of grown rabbits. Looking at the already-asleep gnome, she shook her head with a cynical smile. She could wake him but ... nay, he had been a stalwart comrade today. Instead, she looked to the other two whom were already awake, before looking to the clearing that had been found. "Aye ... aye ... this shall do nicely, I think." Setting the collection down, she moved across and through the clearing, dancing in a square motion as her voice rose and fell with her steps. "Shadowtop, Helmthorn, and Blueleaf, Friends trusted by the passing ages, Leaf and bough and plant and air, Grant us for the night a residence of the sages." As she was singing, it seemed that the surrounding trees seemed to, quiet suddenly, reform themselves, bending branch and tree and leaf, in all the places that she had danced. Further continuing to dance, she began to sing further, birds and other creatures of the forest flocking to her. It seemed, now, that Elvish began to intermix with the common tongue she'd been previously singing in. "Rillifane, Father of the Forests, harken my call, Alae, avo'osto! Avo acheno, Linnon am meleth vîn, No in elenath hîlar nan hâd gîn Corellon, Watcher of the Fair, heed daughter's call, Im gosta, Aníron gladhad, Tula, vasa ar' yulna en i'mereth, Cuamin linduva yassen megrille." As Khaira's form came to a rest, so too did all the forces of nature, too. And before them, now, stood a medium sized hut, all manner of birds and other creatures. Oddly enough, it looked to be rather a complete and sturdy hut, despite the lack of any adehesives or nails. Bending to kiss the ground and pick up her supplies, Khaira looked back to the other two - and the third, on the ground. "Tonight's likely the last - or one of the last - times we shall e'er have much of a chance to have a hot, cooked meal, to sample the blessed fruits of the Fathers. Shall we?" With that, she walked into the hut, which seemed to, oddly enough, swallow her up...
ruthia 06-05-06, 09:37 AM	I looks at small Brad, who chirps hopefully at me. I nod to him and he flies up onto the roof of the hut, curling up with his senses fixed on our surrondings. Satisfied at my friends caution I step inside the hut after our fearless leader.
Agudo Archmage 06-05-06, 03:07 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Laughing out loud Rocky spoke to himself more than to anyone else No if the fearless leader can cook as well as create house ...hehehhe She would be a perfect woman! Hahhaha Just before he enters Rocky stops by Lil’me Huff! Now wouldn’t ya know! Yer snoring gnomish self would want be out in the garden sleeping. Suppose someone should carry thy boney tush in. Lets see cant take both....Hmmm leave me axe or a three eyed Gnome? Ahh....Why wake the wee one! Laughing some more as he walked in to the hut still Lil’me said he would take the first watch.! Hahhaha Just hope his snoring dont scare the wiled animals
Khaira 06-08-06, 12:39 PM	As the companions walk into the hut - which seemingly has only a dark, blank space for a doorway - the find themselves in what appears to be a large house. Across the room, on the east end, they will find four doors, which lead into simply furnished rooms. The main room that they are in appears to be a relaxation area, and sports a giant map of Faerun on the wall, and some simple furnishing consisting of mostly solid, wooden chairs, and few small tables. A giant fireplace on the sourthern side of the room has a cauldron sitting over it, apparently for cooking. A few windows linger around, offering a view to the outside. As Rocky ventured in, speaking about Adept taking first watch, she gave him a quizzical look. "Taking first watch...? Isn't he sleeping?"
Agudo Archmage 06-08-06, 02:27 PM	Khaira As Rocky ventured in, speaking about Adept taking first watch, she gave him a quizzical look. "Taking first watch...? Isn't he sleeping?" Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley O’ Hohohoho! Those garden Gnomes can be so tricky I tells ya! Be it standing in a cute pose with flowers or laying in a mucky mess snoring away; a Gnome is always on guards! Taking off his pack Rocky leaves it on one of the wooden tables He hoists his axe over his shoulder hooking it behind his shoulder harness Then licking his lips with wide smile Now where is yer grub? And I du'nts want no elvin slop of green leafs I be meat eating kind of Dwarf!
ruthia 06-08-06, 04:33 PM	"Brads out there too, you'll find he's as good as a gaurd dog, but with better senses." I wander around the house slightly, not nearly surprised by the sudden changes. After all, years of traveling with differnt wizards and bards, you kinda get use to odd things appearing from nowhere.
Niura Ma'Hazzen 06-11-06, 02:01 AM	Niura made a unsettled duck as a jutting stalcite nearly collided with her face. The twisting tunnels of the Underdark where hard enough navigating by themselves,without fumbling with a ancient map and trying to keep balance on a moving drider, Nuira thought. What was more unerving was that she had seen any sign of the other male ever since entering the Bazar. He had just vanished with the only assurance that he was still following. Hopefully scouting any upcoming obstacles. There is no such word as fear, or peril in a drows world. Everything was a step to be conquer. "Does this cavern grow smaller and more narrow every minute!?" The priestess had given up on reading puzzling runes, and stashed the map back into a leather satchel on her belt. As they rounded another tunnel, Niura felt the shifting bulk of Treem beneath her, and wondered what he thought about this mission. Ofcourse everything had been expressed as unyeilding dedication of late, devote obdience to herself and as a follower of Lolth. But was there some other intelligence that hadn't been destroyed in the grizzly transformation into a drider? The temptation to pry into his mind was strong, but her sensative eyes detected a change in the light spectrum. NO, not light. They had entered some new chamber, and a strange glow illmuntated the entire cavern. Closer inspection revealed a fungas, a shifting emerald and crimson encompossed almost every crevice of rockwall. Niura tried vaguely to remember the types of vegetation in her studies. The drow touched her brow, sweat. A heavy moisture was circulating in the air. Niura tensed for a moment. Where there was water, and possibly food, there had to be life.
Khaira 06-18-06, 04:18 PM	Khaira turned to Rocky, and narrowed her emerald green eyes dangerously at him. "You shall eat what the gods have provided us this evening, sir Dwarf, or you will find your own meal to devour, in whatever way pleases you. I have opened this humble abode out of hospitality ... do not make me close it." As she sat before the huge cauldron hanging over the fire, patiently stirring its contents, she muttered about Zakhara and manners and the whipping of rude manners regarding hospitality, and consquent whippings. At last, she arose from before the fire and moved towards the door, hands on her hips in a posture of determination. "...and I shall not leave our companion out there, to wolves and bandits. If you are too weak to carry him, I shall do so myself." With those words, Khaira exited the magical house, moving towards Adept on the outside.
Taeldrin Laesrash 06-18-06, 06:51 PM	"Wonderful," Vzerii said dryly. "So if you have any way to let me get a clear view of these camps, we should be out of this place as quickly as you decide, kobold. From there, we'll continue onward, unless there's any side trips you'd like to make." Vzerii pulled out a small silver hand mirror, and tossed it to Stfu.
ruthia 07-08-06, 10:44 AM	I yawn and lean back, relaxing as I sit. Khaira and the nasty smelling dwarf argue again. Shrugging indifferntly to myself I let my mind drift away from them, to things, to other concerns. Flashback "Mother, why do you sit here still? Why aren't you after those whodid this." "because son, I know now who they are." "you do to you white witch! I demand revenge!" "Malendor, your time will come my son..." Shaking myself out of my thoughts I sigh, closing my eyes.
Khaira 07-19-06, 09:32 PM	As Khaira stepped out into the wilderness, she looked for the mysterious - and probably still comatose - gnome. Walking over to the last place was that Adept had fallen asleep, she looked down at his body. "Considering what I've seen already, he probably has defenses enough to annihalate me if he mistakes me for a prowling enemy..." She walked a few feet away then and, picking up a handful of rocks, plucked one at the gnome's body. "You'll find more comfortable dwellings inside!"
ruthia 08-03-06, 01:55 AM	Eventually I settle down and fall asleep.
Agudo Archmage 08-03-06, 02:53 PM	Rocky http://www.members.shaw.ca/gordquigley/pictures/portlongrocky.gif Artwork copyright © 2003, Gordon R. Quigley Bah! Listening to that encrusted scaly Ruthia....Heheh that be just her feet! Rocky snorted as he thought to himself Snore away, was almost as disturbing as a Halfling chattering. With that Rock headed for his thoughtful spot...the outhouse Do me best thinking there heheh
Quathmoir Dlaeh Issarhai 08-03-06, 05:25 PM	As Khaira stepped out into the wilderness, she looked for the mysterious - and probably still comatose - gnome. Walking over to the last place was that Adept had fallen asleep, she looked down at his body. "Considering what I've seen already, he probably has defenses enough to annihalate me if he mistakes me for a prowling enemy..." She walked a few feet away then and, picking up a handful of rocks, plucked one at the gnome's body. "You'll find more comfortable dwellings inside!" With an underwhelming lazyness, the gnome opens one eye to look at his belly, where the pebble landed. He then revolves to his side, and smiles sleepily to Khaira. "Mmgood thought, indeed... thanks!" rising heavily to his feet he walks, eyes half-shut, past the generous hostess and into the hut which seemingly sprung out of nowhere. "Was that here when my..." he begins to ask, but then bites his tongue, reaoizing he actually fell asleep on watch - and for all to see, at that. He removes his backpack and sets it next to a bed, produsing out of it an egg-shaped oblect made of some uncommon semi-presious stone. An eye is drawn on its side with some red material. He sets it uppon the bed, goes down on his knees before it, joins his hands and begins reverently whispering words in the same unfamiliar tongue he has already been heard using before. Falling asleep on watch is grave, but failing to observe prayer - and during a mission, of all things - would spell a whole new level of bad.
Khaira 08-17-06, 02:36 AM	As Khaira followed the peculiar - very peculiar, in fact - gnome, towards the magically created dwelling, she shrugged nonchalantly in his direction. "No worries, my diminutive friend. I've made my home on the road often enough to know that the ground can be so deceptively comfortable to a weary soul." Those words brought a plethora of memories to her, of times long gone ... more peaceful times, before certain ... complications arose. These days were incredibly complicated and, more often than not, her actions had earned her only ire from most of everybody around her. A frown found its way onto her lips as she recalled the words of one of the Senior Harpers: "Sooner or later, in some degree or another, an Agent ends up working alone." A sigh found its way audibly out into the open and silent air before her. "By the gods, that much is true..." As she followed the gnome into the abode, she took a glance over to the yet untouched cauldron of stew, the fire still causing it to simmer. A wry chuckle escaped her lips as she wandered over to the map of Faerun, giving Adept a wide berth. She, whom communed quite directly with her own creators, was never one to deny another their divine prayers; such were quite often a deeply personal communion, a sacred relationship between patron and worshipper. Softly, she murmured to herself, whilst the map, when she approached, shifted and contorted, revealing little drawn lines of red and blue across integral routes, and several darts emerging from what one could only guess to be locations of cities. "Well now ... I knew my cooking didn't possess enough esteem to earn me a suitable place in the palace all those years ago on the blasted mission, but never would I have thought that it had the power to ward off individuals entirely! A new level of accomplishment it seems." Khaira came to a stop in front of the map, fingers tracing certain routes and tapping the darts, as if she were meticulously retracing various paths. With that Rock headed for his thoughtful spot...the outhouse Do me best thinking there heheh With a bemused smirk, she cast a sidelong gaze to the dwarf. "Careful for the wolves ... they might enjoy a bite-sized snack. Just make sure your back before sunrise; or, on second thought, don't. It'll give me a morning's laughter to see those stumps for legs running to keep up."
ruthia 08-17-06, 02:51 AM	With a bemused smirk, she cast a sidelong gaze to the dwarf. "Careful for the wolves ... they might enjoy a bite-sized snack. Just make sure your back before sunrise; or, on second thought, don't. It'll give me a morning's laughter to see those stumps for legs running to keep up." Upon hearing the red haired elf's words I open one eye and look towards her a moment. An almost evil smirck passes by lips as I chuckling lightly at the comment. The image of the dwarf running to catch the rest of us was rather amusing. I cover another yawn and twist a bit to get comfortable before closing my eyes again and heading back into a light slumber.
Khaira 08-31-06, 11:34 PM	Night comes and goes for those traveling with Khaira. The hut contains all of the civilization and comforts one could hope for:a warm, dry bed; plentiful food and drink; and perhaps most importantly of all, relief from the dangers of the road and, most particularly, the harried encounters of yestereve. The morning is crisp and clear, with only a few clouds tainting the blue skies. Khaira does not reside in the hut but, rather, stands outside of the hut, breathing in the refreshing air of the morning.
Faeryl 09-01-06, 12:29 AM	As the drow continued to move through the tunnel - the tunnel that seemed to get darker and more suffocating as the time went on - they came to a split in the tunnel. Fumbling malcontentedly with the jumble of maps, Niura swore a vile drow oath. She hated these blasphemous tunnels! They were dank and damp, held countless creatures of ill content, and were suited moreso for slaves and other lesser creatures. Much like the one that she sat astride on now... With a bolstering of resolve, Niura, Priestess of Lolth, Sister of House Ma'Hazzen reminded herself of the vital importance of her mission. She had to kill one particular blasphemer; a blasphemer whom had killed members of her House years ago. They had fallen out of Lolth's favor, her house, thanks to the efforts of that disillusioned elf! Now, however, they were back in favor. They had the blasphemous witch in sight and now, now she would dispatch her, and rise again to utmost favor in Lolth's eyes ... and dispose all that stand between her and power. But first thing was first ... Looking down at her maps, Niura noted that they needed to make significantly more progress. The lake they needed to arrive at was still a significant distance away from wherhe they were now. ''Make haste! Our quarry lies miles away from here, and I can already feel the stench of these foul tunnels filling my senses! We have much distance to cover!"
ruthia 09-01-06, 02:07 AM	I yawn and stand, streching out sore night muscles, but feeling surprisingly refreshed by the rest. Yawning a bit I move outside into the morning sun, running a hand through my hair and calling out happily to my small friend. Brad flies down, chirping to me about his good fortune at hunting this morning. I chuckles and scratch his eye ridges, causing him to purr happily. Looking toward Khaira a moment I move to the side to wait.
Xerafeln 09-25-06, 02:11 PM	The slender male scraped some lichen from his boot with a rock before stepping out into Niura's line of sight. "If it's haste you desire, Priestess, haste can be had. I have a trick or two up my sleeve that might suffice -- but only at your command, of course." He sketched a bow, letting a smirk tug at the corners of his mouth, dangerous as it was. Mayhaps this would be easier than he thought.