Book One: Chapter Three: "Barriers Breached"

[Malazek]

Chapter Two is Complete. The Story Resumes HERE.
_____ _____ _____ _____ _____

The Lord-General pulls a small candle from his pocket, "Well, here goes. Let's see if it works.". He lights the candle and stands it on the table. He holds the scroll case over the candle so that the flame touches the special wax; within seconds, the seal evaporates, filling the room with a thick purple fog.

Next, he slides the scroll out of the case and unrolls it. Then, he pulls an exotic quill from his pocket; a quill that seems to have been made with the feather of a Coatl. He begins to scribble on the page. As he does, the purple fog coalesces on the page, forming words.

"Remarkable," he says.

After a few minutes the fog is gone and the writing on the scroll is complete. The Lord-General takes another moment to read it over, and then says "It is as we feared. But worse. Here, listen to this ....

Dear Lord-General,

The High-General was right to be concerned. The Dwarves are indeed preparing for war. Their workshops have been busy day and night, producing deadly weapons, unbreakable armors, and terrible war-machines. The Dwarven armies are equiped like the Iron Legions of Yore. But there's more.

It seems they have allies.

The tribes of the Great Peninsula have joined with the Dwarves, and indeed thousands upon thousands of the Eastern warriors are encamped in the mountains, ready to climb down and wage war against your city.

The Dwarves have also sent emissaries to the Ritland and to the Island States, seeking support from your subjects. We have not yet discovered how these emissaries faired.

Lastly, the Dwarves have entered a truce with King Lug of the Fomorians, informing him of their plans; so, the Eladrin army will be unable to infiltrate the Fomorian Halls, to gain access to the Dwarven Halls on the other side of the curtain.

Though we will still send troops to aid you, we will not be able to send as many as expected. With the Fomorians watching our troop movements, leaving our own cities undefended would be foolish.

Sincerely,
Lord-Marshal Straegis I

"We must inform the High-General!"

[Malazek]

Mordax stares at his old friend for a long moment, until reaching some inner conclusion.

"Aye," he begins slowly "I'll definitely need tha' armor."

Oblivious to the crowd surrounding him, he begins pacing back and forth.

"Sae tha' bairns 'ave grown full, an' see vengeance within reach, eh? Hmm, hmm. An tha' dwarves see profit an slights a'righted, o' sure, sure. Tha' lumpy's hate us, sae tha's nae surprise.

Stopping abruptly, he says "Tha Ritlanders are tha' key. If they revolt we're done fer'."

Walking over to the maps, he cranes his neck and clasps his hands behind his back.

"We're in a pincer here, and there wilna' be a siege. It'll be a hard strike, mark my words. They dinna' have tae take tha' city, after all, only raze it and throw tha' Empire into confusion. Once the Rits and tha' Islanders revolt, tha' rest o' tha' Empire wilna' be far behind."

Turning to the Lord-General, he squares his shoulders and repeats "Tha' provinces cannae' revolt. It must be stopped, and stopped now. That's tha' key."

[Malazek]

Straegis attempts to convince himself that the situation is not as grave as it seems, but he can't. He shakes his head slowly and then asks, "Lord-General, surely this discussion would be most productive with a full belly and a sound mind? My allies and I could dearly use a safe nights rest and a decent meal or a few pints of ale. Perhaps we have some unexplored options we could discuss? There is after all, a great deal of representation and experience here in this room."

[Malazek]

Responding to Mordax, Draxus Ferall says "Perhaps, but we'll have to leave that decision to the High-General. If he doesn't share your viewpoint, then we'll have to convince him ... to send emmissaries or otherwise deal with the distant provinces."

Then, turning to Straegis, he says "We can grab a bite in the Officers' Lounge before heading over to LFC, but I'd prefer not to dally too long. The sooner we get this information to the High-General, the sooner we can formulate a plan."

"Of course, as the Junior-Marshal of the Eladrin, your input would be valued and appreciated." Turning to the Princess, he adds "... just as yours is, Princess Rhyannon."

"Come then. Let's see to that old crate, and then to some grub." The Lord-General stands and walks to the door, Bluto Rexus following closely behind. As he opens the door, he beckons for everyone to follow, and heads down the stairs.

"Davin," the Princess calls out as everyone exits. "A moment please."

After everyone else is gone, she continues, "You are not from the Eldworn, Mr. Fletcher? If I might ask, where you were raised? And how did you come by such a human-sounding name?"

After hearing Davin's response, she says "Walk with me to the Officers Lounge. Tell me more."

At the bottom of the stairs, Aodhan Blas calls out, "Mage." If Alex responds, the Tiefling continues "I hope you wield battle magicks. You will not find libraries or books upon the field of war. Be ready." He doesn't wait for a response before following the rest of the group.

The Lord-General and his staff continue on toward the same long hall you entered from. Along the way, he stops to whisper to a random Deck Officer, handing him a small key. "Go to my quarters, where you'll find a crate labelled Mordax's Stuff. Bring it to the Officers Lounge. Thank you."

"Yes sir, Lord General," the Deck Officers responds, and then quickly bolts off in another direction.

Immediately after entering the long hall, the Lord-General opens the second door on the left and goes in. Inside, you find a comfortable lounge with a cpzy fireplace, a private bar, a small kitchen, and several leather sofas. Three attendents stand at the ready. "What do you have for us?"

The attendent closest to the kitchen replies, "Sir. Today we have tuna steaks, asparagus, tomatoes, and potatoes; all of which are cooked to order. For desert, we have a chocolate cake. And as usual, the bar can pair your meal with a bottle of wine ... or with the ale you usually prefer, sir."

The Lord-General smirks.

After the chef finds out how you'd like yours cooked, he runs off to prepare it. The bartender likewise comes over to get your drink orders. Of course, the drinks are ready first.

Sitting comfortably, with a mug if ale and a long tobacco pipe, Draxus Ferall says "Tell me, Mordax. What have you been up to all these years?"

By the time the food comes, everybody is present and the crate has been delivered.

[Malazek]

Verity lingers in the war room as people begin to file out. His burning curiousity to know the reason for the coming war satisfied, he finds no comfort in it. His eyes seach the map for Brackwater, wondering what the coming war will mean for his village.
Then as they move to the officer's lounge he says wryly, "The Dwarves now truck with the vile Formorians? Truly their once great race has fallen as lowly as their stature."
When they sit to eat he will wait for a good opportunity to address the General.
"Ahem, General if I may...we were escorted here by a very capable Captain of the City Guard. After our altercation with the Dwarf assassins, the Captain was within rights to haul us to the dungeons to await trial. Instead he had the keen insight to meet our need that we be brought here. He deserves commendation if you've the authority to provide it."

[Malazek]

Alex is a little shocked by the tiefling. "Yes?" He answers.

"I hope you wield battle magicks. You will not find libraries or books upon the field of war. Be ready."

Alex makes to respond. "Of course I am ca..." But is ignored. He spends a moment scowling at the tiefling. The history books are indeed true. Firebenders have a firey temper and a hot attitude; and a tiefling no less. Alex looks around him a moment, and rolls his eyes as Davin wins the attention of the amiable princess. He considers following behind them to listen to their conversation, and smell the fresh scent of her hair...but he decides it would be too obvious and makes off after the tiefling.

As the group travel. He begins to question him.

"Yes. I wield battle magics, as all waterbenders are taught. I seem to recall you being a pyromancer? I would dearly love to discuss the arts of magic with you..."

[Malazek]

"Ahem, General if I may...we were escorted here by a very capable Captain of the City Guard. After our altercation with the Dwarf assassins, the Captain was within rights to haul us to the dungeons to await trial. Instead he had the keen insight to meet our need that we be brought here. He deserves commendation if you've the authority to provide it."

The Lord-General turns to the Velius, who clarifies. "Hawkes." ... then, Draxus Ferall responds "Oh, yes, Captain Hawkes. He is a very capable patrolmen. A bit unorthodoxed at times, but I think that's to his advantage. Wouldn't you say so, Lt. Colonel?" The Lt. Colonel squnits his eyes and responds dryly, "Indeed."

"Yes. I wield battle magics, as all waterbenders are taught. I seem to recall you being a pyromancer? I would dearly love to discuss the arts of magic with you..."

"You're a waterbender? Well, then, I hope you're more capable than that fool, Viktor. ... but if there's time, sure, we can compare notes. If you like. Anything to skew the elemental forces in our favor, and against those accursed rockhumpers."

"It's their fault, you know: what happened to your people."

[Malazek]

When the food arrives Verity asks the server, "We've a companion guarding a traitor in the brig. Can you see to it she gets a proper meal as well?"
He beings forming a question to find out more about Captain Hawkes, but forgets as the Teifling's statement causes him to drop his fork in astonishment.

[Malazek]

O.O.C. - mmm - Is the asparagus bacon-wrapped? hehehe...

-Swift

"Davin," the Princess calls out as everyone exits. "A moment please."

After everyone else is gone, she continues, "You are not from the Eldworn, Mr. Fletcher? If I might ask, where you were raised? And how did you come by such a human-sounding name?"

After hearing Davin's response, she says "Walk with me to the Officers Lounge. Tell me more."

"Umm...Yes! Princess...ahh...Milady?" Davin stammers a bit, clearly uncomfortable and unaccustomed to speaking to royalty.

"Cyl, tysti." ("Hound, come.")

"I was raised at the edge of the Malbog, Milady, near the town of Brackwater, but I was born in Talthanin. When the settlement was razed, my mother managed to escape and get me to an old woodsman by the name of Fletcher who sometimes traded with the people of that ancient Elven stronghold."

As I tell my story, my voice drops lower, but becomes stronger.

"She died shortly thereafter. As far as I know, I am the only one who survived the massacre at Talthanin. Fletcher raised me and taught me his craft and our language."

Realizing the intensity of my narrative, I pause for a moment, embarrassed, then, looking the Princess in the eyes, I smile.

"Davin was the name he gave me; Fletcher was his trade, a naming custom often followed by humans. I kept both out of respect for the one who was my surrogate father. But, before he passed, Fletcher told me that my name in the Elegant Tongue is Palol Thaeraes.

Thoughts of the black dragon's fountain swirl in Davin's head.

Say something witty, or smart, or impressive, Fool!

Davin switches from Common to Elven before continuing.

"Ae thol os toli calaer thys si Aelys. Cor basti air Kardan Voellis. Ci orael myji os si shaeria os si vali eil air'm vaedi. Ai tal mi byrn, Toladia, sar ci myji si ser." ("A friend of mine hailed from the Eldworn. His name is Kardan Voellis. He often spoke of the beauty of the place and it's people. I can see now, Milady, that he spoke the truth.")

By the Gods, Fletcher - that was terrible.....

-Swift

[Malazek]

After skipping breakfast this morning and all the rough meals on the road, Straegis is pleased to hear the dinner options. As soon as the Lord-General orders Straegis chimes in "I would like the tuna- flash grilled on each side, asparagus and tomatoes- steamed, and the potato- boiled please. For dessert, hmmm could I skip dessert and just get one extra grilled tuna. Thank you sir. Oh, I'll have one of whatever the General here is drinking." Straegis notices the attention being paid to Davin and chuckles lightly to himself. He hopes she has changed for the better, but he definitely remembers the screaming and the tantrums she threw when she was younger. "Better you than me" he mumbles inaudibly. Straegis smiles politely so none will be the wiser and patiently waits for his meal and beverage.

[Malazek]

Says Verity to the princess,”Whether Davin learnt his bowmanship from Mr. Fletcher or begot it by his Elven blood, only the Gods know. But a finer archer you’d be hard pressed to find.” Then he tries not to think about pressing hard against the princess.
Straegis II mention of food brings him back to reality. “Pardon me, yes; I’ll have his dessert then. Waste not want not. Yes, thank you.”

[Malazek]

"...As far as I know, I am the only one who survived the massacre at Talthanin. Fletcher raised me and taught me his craft and our language."

"Indeed; I believe you are the only survivor, for I have never heard mention of another."

"Davin was the name he gave me ... my name in the Elegant Tongue is Palol Thaeraes."

"Palol? That is a good name. It means beloved. Tell me, Mr. Fletcher, who IS the lady that holds you so dear? I sense that your heart is still with her."

"Ae thol os toli calaer thys si Aelys. Cor basti air Kardan Voellis. Ci orael myji os si shaeria os si vali eil air'm vaedi. Ai tal mi byrn, Toladia, sar ci myji si ser."

"Sal o, sher Ai't mesi ci myji os si talia tandraeros kylaer, maesaeli kadaer, eil saler palaer sar eisi thyl saesi. Saesi eisi talia ail si Aelys shai eisi tes tysi shaerorer sal Ai" (Thank you, but I'm sure he spoke of the many magestic groves, serene glades, and tranquil dales that are found there. There are many in the Eldworn who are much more beautiful than I).

"And yes, I do know Kardan Voellis. He was a Spearguard of the Femdrell. I wish he never left. His skill with the pike would be needed now more than ever; with the Eladrin pressed to send troops, I doubt we will see many of their Elite Spearmen."

As Davin and the Princess enter the lounge ...

"I understand Mordax is skilled with the three-pronged spear. To hear the Lord-General speak of it, you'd think Mordax is the one who put out Gruumsh's Eye."

Draxus blurts, "If it wasn't Ol' One-Eye, I tell ya, it sure LOOKED like him!"

O.O.C. - mmm - Is the asparagus bacon-wrapped? hehehe...

OOC: Sure, if Davin orders it that way. Actually, I started to type it out that way, but decided to leave the options open, instead.

"I would like the tuna- flash grilled on each side, asparagus and tomatoes- steamed, and the potato- boiled please. For dessert, hmmm could I skip dessert and just get one extra grilled tuna. Thank you sir. Oh, I'll have one of whatever the General here is drinking."

"Yes sir. Right away."

“Pardon me, yes; I’ll have his dessert then. Waste not want not. Yes, thank you.”

"Of course. Right away, sir."

"Whether Davin learnt his bowmanship from Mr. Fletcher or begot it by his Elven blood, only the Gods know. But a finer archer you’d be hard pressed to find.”

"That is good to hear. Every arrow will count in the days to come, I am quite sure."

"Tell me, Mr. Verity, as a servant of the Raven Queen, do you expect to be busy in the days to come? With a war brewing, I mean?"

[Malazek]

O.O.C.: oh, hahahhahahaha, almost fell outta my chair, she asked Davin about his girl, he rambles on about kardan, hahahahahahahah! A little tongue tied, Tyrol???

DM EDIT: Haha. I didn't even notice that. Hahahe.
Tho, I figure he can interject a comment in there. If he chooses to.

[Malazek]

"Tell me, Mr. Verity, as a servant of the Raven Queen, do you expect to be busy in the days to come? With a war brewing, I mean?"

A vision flashes across the Paladin's mind of his brother Frater crushed under the finely wrought boot of a hideous Formorian. His heart in his throat, he takes a drought of ale before answering.
"Yes milady, I shall be very busy sending as many of our treacherous enemies to the Queen as one man can, until I go to her embrace myself or this foul war ends. And yes, though it pains me to speak of it, I may well need to perform rights over our own fallen. It honors the dead. Too, the right lights their way to the next life that they not be left to wander, cursed with undeath.
"But my devotion is seldom so morbid as all that. It is the glorious gift of life that gives Death meaning. And the Queen is not only Death, she is Winter too, and Fate. It is her aspect of Fate that my study focuses on now. All of us here, now, represent a great convergence of Destiny. I seek to learn more of it that may help in the struggles ahead. To this end I will consult the priests of the High Temple. I pray they shall offer augury to point the way ahead."
He stabs his last bite of rare - seared tuna. "Server, another pint if you please."

[Malazek]

You're a waterbender? Well, then, I hope you're more capable than that fool, Viktor. ... but if there's time, sure, we can compare notes. If you like. Anything to skew the elemental forces in our favor, and against those accursed rockhumpers."

"It's their fault, you know: what happened to your people."

Alex finds it difficult, rowing through a fast river of emotions, surprise, confusion, and settling upon anger...

"What? What?! What did Viktor do? Why was he incapable? What do you mean they Terramancers are the ones behind our magical slump?"

Alex stops where he is standing and confronts the tiefling. Condensation forms on his skin and frost is expelled from his body with each breath as his anger can barely contain his magic.

[Malazek]

The Firebender responds, "Viktor didn't DO anything. That's exactly WHY he was incompetent. I was worried that all Waterbenders were that dullwitted, as if the Terramancers had sapped your brains instead of your magick. Honestly, I'm not altogether convinced that isn't the case. But perhaps you will convince me otherwise?"

"Listen, you must know what the Earth-mages and Air-mages did to US. Well, I suspect those bedamned rockhumpers got a little taste of elemental imbalance and found they liked it. Think about it. They wipe out one bloodline, and the other three get stronger. Sometime later, your bloodline shrivels and weakens and theirs grows and strengthens."

"And I have to tell you, as the lone Fire-mage I seem to have the lion's share of power; but nowhere near the combined power of all the old fire tribes! Proprotionally, the elemental forces of fire are still weak."

"I only wonder what has happened to the Air-mages? Are they as strong as the Earth-mages? Or are they weak, too? Or extinct?"

Aodhan continues to walk as he speaks, finishing the last of his words as he enters the Lounge.

[Malazek]

O.O.C. - I guess I don't have the lock on drunken Thursday posting!

-Swift

"Palol? That is a good name. It means beloved. Tell me, Mr. Fletcher, who IS the lady that holds you so dear? I sense that your heart is still with her."

"I did not know that, Princess. I must admit, I am a man of action. I have not had the opportunity or leisure for affairs of the heart."

"Sal o, sher Ai't mesi ci myji os si talia tandraeros kylaer, maesaeli kadaer, eil saler palaer sar eisi thyl saesi. Saesi eisi talia ail si Aelys shai eisi tes tysi shaerorer sal Ai" (Thank you, but I'm sure he spoke of the many magestic groves, serene glades, and tranquil dales that are found there. There are many in the Eldworn who are much more beautiful than I).

Nodding in deference, "Rail Ai thol air cas sai shaeloli, Ai shor ser os bedael, Toladia." ("Though I find it hard to believe, I will trust your judgment, Milady.")

Yup...she's a Princess, and your a Fool, Fletcher!

O.O.C.: oh, hahahhahahaha, almost fell outta my chair, she asked Davin about his girl, he rambles on about kardan, hahahahahahahah! A little tongue tied, Tyrol???

DM EDIT: Haha. I didn't even notice that. Hahahe.
Tho, I figure he can interject a comment in there. If he chooses to.

O.O.C. - Done. Bastages....lol

Says Verity to the princess,”Whether Davin learnt his bowmanship from Mr. Fletcher or begot it by his Elven blood, only the Gods know. But a finer archer you’d be hard pressed to find.”

"You exaggerate, Verity..." cracking a rare grin, "but thanks."

You're a waterbender? Well, then, I hope you're more capable than that fool, Viktor. ... but if there's time, sure, we can compare notes. If you like. Anything to skew the elemental forces in our favor, and against those accursed rockhumpers."

"It's their fault, you know: what happened to your people."

Alex finds it difficult, rowing through a fast river of emotions, surprise, confusion, and settling upon anger...

"What? What?! What did Viktor do? Why was he incapable? What do you mean they Terramancers are the ones behind our magical slump?"

Alex stops where he is standing and confronts the tiefling. Condensation forms on his skin and frost is expelled from his body with each breath as his anger can barely contain his magic.

Sensing his friends anger, I take a half step in front of Rhyannon and put a readying hand on my bow.

Despite not used to being the voice of reason, I attempt to calm Alex, placing a steadying hand on his shoulder.

"Perhaps he has given you a clue to the puzzle you seek to solve, my friend. And perhaps this Bearded Confederacy is a threat not only to the Empire, but Imil as well...."

Addressing the crowd, I continue.

"I know this. I myself shadowed a gathering of a dozen dwarves outside an inn called The Beholder's Stein last night, all gathered to assassinate Straegis and stop the delivery of your scroll. They planned to kill our party and had no qualms with murdering innocents in their way. My companions and I met five of those same dwarves less than an hour ago, and sent them to the Queen."

"The enemy has already infiltrated your city, General. Of that, there is no doubt."

-Swift

[Malazek]

Sensing his friend's anger, I take a half step in front of Rhyannon and put a readying hand on my bow. Despite not used to being the voice of reason, I attempt to calm Alex, placing a steadying hand on his shoulder. "Perhaps he has given you a clue to the puzzle you seek to solve, my friend. And perhaps this Bearded Confederacy is a threat not only to the Empire, but Imil as well...."

Addressing the crowd, I continue."I know this. I myself shadowed a gathering of a dozen dwarves outside an inn called The Beholder's Stein last night, all gathered to assassinate Straegis and stop the delivery of your scroll. They planned to kill our party and had no qualms with murdering innocents in their way. My companions and I met five of those same dwarves less than an hour ago, and sent them to the Queen."

"I see. Then, immediately after we eat, should deliver this scroll to Land Force Command."

... the crate has been delivered.

OOC: To save time, I am going ASSUME Mordax opens the crate ...

The crate contains several items, the largest of which is Mordax's old armor. Though reminiscent of the OLD Imperial Uniform, it has been heavily modified (out of necessity and opportunity) so that it's current piece-meal state looks as much like gladiator armor as anything else.

The spear-arm is protected by a segmented manica (complete with a heavy steel galerus), while the other arm is covered only by a meshed leather sleeve. Similiarly, one leg is covered by a steel half-greave, while the other is covered by a full leather grieve. A partial steel cuirass covers the chest, but the rest of the torso (including the skirt) are made of lorica plumata (a leather balteus helps distribute some of the weight). Mismatched gauntlets and military boots complete the outfit.

None of it looks to be made of ordinary materals. All of the "heavy" plate and scale components shine with the distinct glint of lightweight mithril; while the distinct woven leather looks to be tougher than cowhide. Imperial symbols, mingled with northern elf-runes, decorate the unique armor.

Mordax's Armor (Piecemeal)
Constructed piecemeal, this masterwork armor was later enchanted.
Armor Bonus +9, Check 0, Speed -1, Weight 45 lbs, Special +2 Fortitude
Enhancement: +4 AC
Property: While you are not bloodied, you gain an item bonus to AC equal to your Dexterity modifier up to a maximum of +2.

In addition to the armor, the crate contains half a dozen medals of valor, dozens of letters written on aged parchment, a small silver locket on a fine chain necklace, and a bunch of old gear (a moth-ridden bedroll, a small leather pouch containg flint & steel, a silk rope, a mundane flask still half-filled with whatever liquor was left in it).

[Malazek]

Responding to Mordax, Draxus Ferall says "Perhaps, but we'll have to leave that decision to the High-General. If he doesn't share your viewpoint, then we'll have to convince him ... to send emmissaries or otherwise deal with the distant provinces."

Sitting comfortably, with a mug if ale and a long tobacco pipe, Draxus Ferall says "Tell me, Mordax. What have you been up to all these years?"

By the time the food comes, everybody is present and the crate has been delivered.

Mordax casts the briefest of glances toward the Princess, and then stares off into the distance.

"Weel, I've been hunting hags fer tha' most part. I've rid tha' Malbog o' most o' 'em, save tha' truly vile; four sisters I've hunted fer fourteen years now. One day I'll settle up wi' 'em, and curse agin' tha' gods wha' made 'em."

Rumaging through the chest, he casts aside the medals and flask, immediately reaching for the locket. Clasping it with a lover's tenderness, he looks back at Draxus and says "Oh, an a bit o' fishin' on tha' side, like. Been sellin' tha' offal tae tha' local garrison what couldn't tell a decent striper fraem a bottom-feedin' Gullywauger. You?"

Wrapping the locket chain around his wrist, he methodically inspects the armor, taking each piece out and running his hand along the edges and holding each plate to the light.

"Aye ye've taken right proper care o' tha' ol' set, me'friend. Though I swore it off years ago, I cannae thank 'e enough fer keepin' it aroond."

Running his fingers around a silver-woven symbol, he mouths "paelyrol" (devotion).

[Malazek]

At Mordax’s tender handling of the locket, Verity wonders who elicits such gentleness from the soldier. He then whistles with admiration as Mordax pulls the storied armor from the crate. He wants to inspect the fine workmanship himself but refrains, lest the old veteran see it as an affront. As Mordax holds the last perfectly crafted piece to the light Verity exclaims, “That’s the raiment of a great hero to be sure. Ye gave more than ye got from the Maor traitor armored in naught but courage. It's a terror you'll be now. Your foes will fall as wheat to the scythe.”

[Malazek]

At Mordax’s tender handling of the locket, Verity wonders who elicits such gentleness from the soldier. He then whistles with admiration as Mordax pulls the storied armor from the crate. He wants to inspect the fine workmanship himself but refrains, lest the old veteran see it as an affront. As Mordax holds the last perfectly crafted piece to the light Verity exclaims, “That’s the raiment of a great hero to be sure. Ye gave more than ye got from the Maor traitor armored in naught but courage. It's a terror you'll be now. Your foes will fall as wheat to the scythe.”

With measured stare Mordax eyes the young knight, saying simply "It's tha' fool tha' sees beauty in death, young lord. Life is tae be treasured, an' time is ne'er enough tae enjoy it in full. Look rather tae yer' kin an' kith than tae yer' crow goddess, fer' I've looked 'er full in tha' eyes an' cannae say any good came o' it."

And with that simple exchange Mordax throws the armor back in the crate, slamming the lid. Stalking from the room, crate cradled in his arms, it's obvious that he favors his right hand; the wrist upon which the simple locket hangs.

[Malazek]

“May ye not see The Queen again, good Mordax, until you’re old, frail and suffering, and finally longing for her embrace. Too, may it be many scores of years hence.” Verity calls after Mordax. Then he raises his glass to the remaining company, “I’d like to make a toast to my battle-scarred comrade Mordax – may he triumph yet in all of his battles.”

[Malazek]

“May ye not see The Queen again, good Mordax, until you’re old, frail and suffering, and finally longing for her embrace. Too, may it be many scores of years hence.” Verity calls after Mordax. Then he raises his glass to the remaining company, “I’d like to make a toast to my battle-scarred comrade Mordax – may he triumph yet in all of his battles.”

Sighing, Mordax resignedly orders a bowl of gruel to break his fast.

[Malazek]

The Firebender responds, "Viktor didn't DO anything. That's exactly WHY he was incompetent. I was worried that all Waterbenders were that dullwitted, as if the Terramancers had sapped your brains instead of your magick. Honestly, I'm not altogether convinced that isn't the case. But perhaps you will convince me otherwise?"

"Listen, you must know what the Earth-mages and Air-mages did to US. Well, I suspect those bedamned rockhumpers got a little taste of elemental imbalance and found they liked it. Think about it. They wipe out one bloodline, and the other three get stronger. Sometime later, your bloodline shrivels and weakens and theirs grows and strengthens."

"And I have to tell you, as the lone Fire-mage I seem to have the lion's share of power; but nowhere near the combined power of all the old fire tribes! Proprotionally, the elemental forces of fire are still weak."

"I only wonder what has happened to the Air-mages? Are they as strong as the Earth-mages? Or are they weak, too? Or extinct?"

Aodhan continues to walk as he speaks, finishing the last of his words as he enters the Lounge.

"How will the fire line continue?"

------------------------------
History: 28, Arcana 29: Air-Magic and what happened to them.
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"How does this work exactly? Is there only enough magic to sustain a certain number of mages? When the terramancers killed the flame-benders, did they somehow take the portion of power that belonged to them, and now with that power they are sucking the source, whatever it be, so dry that the watermages suffer as well? And perhaps the air mages? Or is it something different?"

[Malazek]

"How will the fire line continue?"

"I can only hope to produce enough off-spring, so that some day my descendents will again rise in power."

History: 28, Arcana 29: Air-Magic and what happened to them.

Nothing, as far as Alex knows. He has NOT heard of aything strange or ominous happening to them; according to the text books, the Aeromancers are functioning as always. ... but come to think of it, he hasn't heard mention of any in several years (not since he was a child, when a few windbenders came to visit Imil as ambassadors).

It's possible that Aodhan is simply speculating on WHY they have been so elusive in recent years.

"How does this work exactly? Is there only enough magic to sustain a certain number of mages? When the terramancers killed the flame-benders, did they somehow take the portion of power that belonged to them, and now with that power they are sucking the source, whatever it be, so dry that the watermages suffer as well? And perhaps the air mages? Or is it something different?"

Commonly accepted lore on the subject dictates that "benders" draw their power from the raw elements themselves; and the elements are both infinite and equally proportioned. What Aodhan is sprouting is not only radical, but bordering on heresy.

"Well, I can't claim to know the specific mechanics of elemental reality; but I have studied lost, obscure, and forbidden volumes that state and/or imply that Aeromancers, Terramancers, and Aquamancers experienced a boom of power (a golden age of magic, if you will) immediately after the Pyromancer line was eradicated. Logic demands that others would have wondered if the two events were connected."

"Assuming they did, and assuming they are, it was only a matter of time before those someones would want even more power, and will decide to take it. They probably already have. Am I right?"

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