Re: Book One: Chapter Three: "Barriers Breached"

[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

[Malazek]

"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.
----------------------------

"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?"

[Malazek]

OOC: As cool/humorous as all the drunk/complimentary OOC posts have been lately, I decided to move them all to the OOC thread; there was just SO many of them, I had to.

[Malazek]

OOC: As cool/humorous as all the drunk/complimentary OOC posts have been lately, I decided to move them all to the OOC thread; there was just SO many of them, I had to.

Awesome. Mordax says . . . nothing.

[Malazek]

Stalking from the room ... Mordax resignedly orders a bowl of gruel to break his fast

OOC: Ordering gruel after leaving the room? Does that mean he stalked down to the enlisted mess hall?

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.”

"TO MORDAX!" every calls out, raising their glasses.

...

The Lt. Colonel turns to Davin, "I will send someone over to the Beholder's Stein to keep a watch on these would-be assassins. There are approximately 2500 Dwarves in the city (1200 more than usual); it's not really enough to launch an attack against a target this size, but certianly enough to cause Havoc as their main force assaults the gate. ... but that may not be their plan, at all. My men will keep a keen eye on these assassins, and maybe they will lead us to discover their purpose for being here."

...

The Princess turns to Alex, "Alex, have you found time to visit the Imperial Library? I myself was stunned by the sheer size of the place. When you stop to think about how many books must be stored there, it is truly bewildering. They say a full quarter of the books in all the world are stored there!"

Aodhan Blas quietly turns to study Alex's response.

[Malazek]

"Yes. But surely you should be sequestered away to nurture the flame of firebending. You are surely too valuable to be wasted on the field of war should that happen. Of course, I know nothing of your abilities. I am sure they are great, but is it worth the risk? Surely you would be targeted constantly; for if you fall at least a small boom of power will raise.
Although saying that. Our abilities must have come from somewhere, so perhaps they just spontaneously generated in some people the great elements deemed worthy of wielding some small portion of their power. Then again, we cannot be sure. Are you sure you should be risking yourself? You are firebendings key to the world at the minute."

Alex feels like an ant standing next to a giant. This must be an expirienced mage, and almost all firebenders train in battle; the fire magic can heal somewhat, but there is certainly no 'alchemy' department, which with the rockbenders and waterbenders involves the sculpting of buildings, and other things using their substrate. It is likely that this pyromancer can summon a volcano in the middle of the city, or a firestorm that could sweep the world with him at its centre...hmm...perhaps not quite that big. But Alex would stand no chance.

Alex is actually quite glad to be fighting terramancers and not firebenders. Although their arts are no less virulent or potent (well, perhaps not, considering Aodhan's recent explanation) at least his icy and water defences can hold some sway. Raising wall of ice against an incoming jet of fire is rarely useful, unless it is particularly thick, Alex muses; but it can often completely ignore the threat of a large chunk of rock hurled at you.

[Malazek]

"Yes. But surely you should be sequestered away to nurture the flame of firebending. You are surely too valuable to be wasted on the field of war should that happen. Of course, I know nothing of your abilities. I am sure they are great, but is it worth the risk? Surely you would be targeted constantly; for if you fall at least a small boom of power will raise.

Although saying that. Our abilities must have come from somewhere, so perhaps they just spontaneously generated in some people the great elements deemed worthy of wielding some small portion of their power. Then again, we cannot be sure. Are you sure you should be risking yourself? You are firebendings key to the world at the minute."

"Perhaps. But as your friend will tell you, one cannot refuse their own destiny. I may be fated to die on the battle field, incinerating my enemies as I go (none too quietly) into the everafter ... but then again, I could be fated to die a lonely death, surrounded by musty tomes in some forgotten wing of an old library, quietly entering the void with the poisoned dagger of my enemy sticking out of my back."

"Each must go in whatever fashion Fate has designed for them ... but only by doing what YOU know must be done can you even hope that Fate has considered your wishes."

The Princess turns to Alex, "Alex, have you found time to visit the Imperial Library? I myself was stunned by the sheer size of the place. When you stop to think about how many books must be stored there, it is truly bewildering. They say a full quarter of the books in all the world are stored there!"

Aodhan Blas quietly turns to study Alex's response.

[Malazek]

Stalking from the room ... Mordax resignedly orders a bowl of gruel to break his fast

OOC: Ordering gruel after leaving the room? Does that mean he stalked down to the enlisted mess hall?

OOC: oops

Mordax takes the crate to the enlisted mess hall, where he quickly consumes a bowl of gruel. Afterwards, he wanders around looking for a nice, steaming bath.

Once clean, he dons the armor (after some serious adjusting) and places the mementos in his one small pouch.

He then quietly rejoins the companions.

[Malazek]

The Lt. Colonel turns to Davin, "I will send someone over to the Beholder's Stein to keep a watch on these would-be assassins. There are approximately 2500 Dwarves in the city (1200 more than usual); it's not really enough to launch an attack against a target this size, but certianly enough to cause Havoc as their main force assaults the gate. ... but that may not be their plan, at all. My men will keep a keen eye on these assassins, and maybe they will lead us to discover their purpose for being here."

"Sounds like a prudent response."

Davin takes one final bite of his fish, placing the plate, still half-full, on the ground beside him. The room is suddenly filled with the sound of Hound's smacking chops as he wolfs down the remainder. Taking an impatient look around at everyone still talking and eating, Davin pulls out his longbow and begins to wax the string.

-Swift

[Malazek]

The Lt. Colonel nods to the woodsman, and then moves to the door. "I'll meet you over there," he says to the Lord-General, and then makes his exit.

Sensing anticipation in the room, Draxus Ferall smiles and says "Let's finish up, and head over there. The sooner this information gets to the High-General, the better."

...

As soon as Mordax returns (armored and ready), the "Fellowship of the Scroll" (lol) heads out. When you reach the street, the there are two carriages waiting for you: the first is manned by an Imperial Wagoneer, complimented by an Imperial Sharpshooter; the second is manned by two Elves.

The Lord-General moves to the first, and says to all of you "You may ride with me if you like, but if you prefer you may follow in your own wagon. Mordax, my friend, come with me.". With that, Draxus Ferall and Bluto Rexus board the Imperial Wagon.

The Princess climbs into Elven Carriage. She smiles at all of you, but does not close the carriage door (implying an invitation to whomever would prefer to ride with her).

As Aodhan Blas steps out, an enormous black horse with fiery hooves and a flaming mane emerges from the shadows. The pyromancer mounts the demonic steed, and states "I will follow."

[Malazek]

Upon exiting the barracks, Verity turns to Veridic. "Trying times are ahead, Uncle. I fear things will get much worse before they get better. I'm sure you and my brothers will do your part to honor the Servinus name in your way, as I will in mine. Try to free up your next couple evenings, and have Frater and Fortis do the same. For my part I'll return when this business is done. If not tonight, on the morrow. Until then take good care." He clasps arms with the man. "Gods, it's been too long. It'll be a fine thing to bend elbows with the three of you."

Verity unhitches Zephyr from the back of the wagon. "If it please the General, I'll ride point."

[Malazek]

Mordax climbs into the wagon, opposite Draxus, after affixing his trident to the side of the carriage. The net he bundles in his lap.

I climb up on our wagon, calling Hound beside me. Then, I wheel the wagon around behind the other two, waiting to be off.

Looking at the open carriage door, I scratch my mutt under his chin.

"I'm sure that invitation's not for us, Cyl."

-Swift

Verity mounts and rides by Davin. He leans over and mutters, "Well played. I'm sure a beauty like that is accustomed to suitors falling all over her. Better to start the chase slowly, eh?" He cuffs the Half-Elf's shoulder and rides ahead.

[Malazek]

Confused, then embarrassed, I pull the hood of my Maor cloak up tight to hide my chagrin.

"HYAA!! HYAA!!"

-Swift

[Malazek]

The Princess turns to Alex, "Alex, have you found time to visit the Imperial Library? I myself was stunned by the sheer size of the place. When you stop to think about how many books must be stored there, it is truly bewildering. They say a full quarter of the books in all the world are stored there!"

Aodhan Blas quietly turns to study Alex's response.

After being spoken to, Alex climbs into the princesses wagon, mind thoroughly attuned to the matters at hand, and his supreme concentration from years of magic are enough to make the journey entirely business related.

"No, I have not. Though I would dearly love to. Perhaps meeting you or the others could allow me access to the building, which I don't think I can get in. Unfortunately I don't know where it is? Perhaps we could travel together, along with Aodhan here, to learn what we can of the dwarves. There must be books on dwarf warfare, and their magical arts and fortifications. History can teach us great lessons indeed."

[Malazek]

So, the travel arrangement looks like this ...

ELVES CARRIAGE:
Two Elven Teamsters
Princess Rhyannon
Alex

IMPERIAL CARRIAGE:
Two Imperial Soldiers
Draxus Ferall
Bluto Rexus
Mordax

YOUR WAGON:
Davin
Hound
Straegis II
Alverdine

RIDING SOLO:
Verity
Aodhan.

So, without further ado ...

The wagon train moves out, rolling through the Three Lions District toward the training fields; where the High-General and Land Force Command should be located.

"No, I have not. Though I would dearly love to. Perhaps meeting you or the others could allow me access to the building, which I don't think I can get in. Unfortunately I don't know where it is? Perhaps we could travel together, along with Aodhan here, to learn what we can of the dwarves. There must be books on dwarf warfare, and their magical arts and fortifications. History can teach us great lessons indeed."

"If I am correct, obtaining access to the library is only a matter of paying your annual dues. ... I suspect the High-General has made every effort to learn about Dwarf warfare; but a visit to the library might be fun, once all of my ambassadorial duties are seen to."

Mordax climbs into the wagon, opposite Draxus, after affixing his trident to the side of the carriage. The net he bundles in his lap.

"It's good to see you again, Mordax, though I wish it were under less trying circumstances" The Lord-General says, "But I see you haven't changed much, since last I saw you. Hopefully, with the war so close to home, things will be more cut and dry this time around."

The three wagons momentarily stop at another gate, and then continue on. Past the gate, vast fields of grass stretch as far as the eye can see; mud and puddles still lingering from days before. The wagons follow the outer wall for another half mile or so, where they join a dozen other wagons in the field.

A single wooden structure stands up ahead, surrounded by tents. A dozen Imperial officers are standing between you and the tents, many of them looking in your direction as your ride pulls up.

Further from the wall, out into the field, thousands of soldiers are training. There are so many squads, platoons, and companies that there has to be multiple regiments here; perhaps more than entire division, consisting of multiple races.

As he climbs out of his wagon, the Lord-General beckons you all to gather around him. As you draw near he says, "I am introducing you all as part of the Junior-Marshal's military entourage, thus making your presence here official. Your individual areas of expertise just might be the wild card we need in this war. Come with me, please."

As the party starts to follow, the princess says "Davin, after we meet the High-General, there is someone I want you to meet."

[Malazek]

As the party starts to follow, the princess says "Davin, after we meet the High-General, there is someone I want you to meet."

"As you wish, Milady."

I fall into line a step behind Princess Rhyannon.

-Swift

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