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

[Malazek]

That is nuts! The current concordance is only 13 though. It's becoming painfully obvious that Davin is supposed to have the eyepatch. Which is a shame; I can think of nothing cooler. When it gets that high I promise I'll give it to you! But at the minute its giving me darkvision.

-----------------------

"I could use some rest. I don't think I've ever worked so hard. I vote we rest up."

[Malazek]

That is nuts! The current concordance is only 13 though. It's becoming painfully obvious that Davin is supposed to have the eyepatch. Which is a shame; I can think of nothing cooler. When it gets that high I promise I'll give it to you! But at the minute its giving me darkvision.

Sounds good! Thanks!

It looks unanimous to rest the night here and hit the road in the morning. With Mordax having NO surges left, I think that is the wisest course.

-Swift

[Malazek]

With talk of logistics replacing the clash of battle Verity is struck by the weariness of this very intense day. He looks longingly at the snug warmth of the wagon. Then he notices the Templar is doing a fine job shedding the rain. Actually he finds himself surprisingly comfortable.
Brightening at the chance to show his brother up by riding very nonchalantly through the raging storm, Verity swings atop Zephyr.
"Old habits die hard," he mutters a prayer to the Queen that she might forgive his vanity.
"Off we go then," and he does cheerfully, like a nobleman out for an evening trot. He'll keep abreast Fortis, that they may boast of their adventures of the past year.

Diplomacy:23

[Malazek]

"Sorry Agatha, I thought he'd put his quarrel with you behind him. Though I have to admit, he never said as much."

"Ahh, ah un'erstan' 'is plight, an' ah'm deservin' of 'is ire. My kin' 'as done terr'ble things, an' ah'm not entirely inn'cen' myself."

"If the cavalry is heading back to the city, I'm all for joining the convoy. No sense weathering this tempest with battalions of dwarves about. It'll give me and the corporal a chance to catch up besides."

"Indeed. If we're heading back to the Lions, then maybe we'll run into Frater and Uncle Veredic, too."

"We are all weary and have hurts that a night's rest among friends will soothe. Let us go report to the General and sleep in his command base. I can resupply, and since you are staying here, Agatha, we can introduce you to our allies there."

Agatha nods a solemn nod, apparently feeling guilty about Mordax's agony.

"I say we could probably all use a good night's rest at this point, especially since we have no clue what we will be stepping into as we go through that portal."

"Could it be that the dwarves have taken Jaru too?"

"Let's hope not."

... surprisingly comfortable. Brightening at the chance to show his brother up by riding very nonchalantly through the raging storm, Verity swings atop Zephyr. ... he mutters a prayer to the Queen that she might forgive his vanity. "Off we go then," and he does cheerfully, like a nobleman out for an evening trot. He'll keep abreast Fortis, that they may boast of their adventures of the past year.

Fortis listens intently, as Verity tells his tales.

It's becoming painfully obvious that Davin is supposed to have the eyepatch. Which is a shame; I can think of nothing cooler

OOC: It wasn't necessarily SUPPOSED to be for anybody except the Dwarven Bolter you pulled it off of ... but given that the Bolter was a Striker, I guess it stands to reason that the same benefits that helped him would also help the party's strikers (when I came up with the idea for the Eyepatch of Hemingr, there were TWO strikers in the party: Davin and Ayrikai).

By the same token, The Aqueas Templar was ultimately meant for the dead aqeaus templar at the bottom of the pool ... but at the time, I figured either Alex or Kardan would take it. But the AT is beneficial to the party no matter who has it (as it still has secrets to reveal).

the Aqeaus Templar suddenly flashes a bright bluish-white light

[Malazek]

Moments later, the heroic troops return from what will some day be called "The Battle of Tempest Hill." Pouring through the gates in vast numbers, the Imperial Army works it's way back toward the Three Lions District. Any Dwarves holding these first few blocks must be hiding, because not a single beard hair is spotted.

A flash of lightning illuminates a stout feminine figure on one of the roofs up ahead, but a moment later another reveals her absence.

In nearly the same instance, Alex hears a voice in his head; the voice of Trina. Yesterday, we discovered more Umarian ruins in the Western Sea. Many corpses inside. Many relics. Heading back to Jaru now (Need supplies). Will return ~Trina.

Surrounded by a dozen, two dozen, four dozen, eight dozen Cavaliers ... the wagon collects a massive escort as it draws nearer to it's destination.

As it approaches the final stretch before the district gate, Raed Jancalis climbs onto the back of the wagon. "I trust you fared well, Marshal? The Vanguard is marching back to the Three Lions as we speak. What will you have them do while you are gone? And what of the Maor? Are they to simply follow Alverdine's command and assist the Generals as he sees fit? Or do you have another purpose for them?"

[Malazek]

O.O.C.: I'm not gonna type out the whole conversation with an NPC in Elven, tho we definitely will be speaking in that tongue, so here's the long and short of it.

Straegis is definitely glad to see Raed still alive. He feels he owes an explanation at least, so he takes the closest seat and starts in with his story. Straegis tells Raed of how he had heard of the information swap between the Eladrin and the Human armies, he continues on by explaining that it was whispered to him one day that a traitor would steal that info and turn it over to their enemies. As he tells the story it dawns on him (and he explains this to Raed) that he is not sure now he should have trusted the person who enlightened him. The gravity of that fact along with the potential disastrous outcome of his own decisions, weigh heavily on him now. Trying to shake it off, he continues by telling Raed of how he decided at that moment to volunteer to take the scroll himself. When he was informed he would carry the decoy scroll and unsure who to trust, he took the real scroll and just assumed he (Raed) must be the traitor. He assures Raed that this was not personal but that he did not know what to believe when it took so long for him to arrive.

He tells Raed that he thinks the first priority is for the troops to get a good meal and a chance for decent rest. Straegis would like Alverdine to meet with himself and Raed as soon as practical. Hoping that there are no hard feelings between them, Straegis continues by telling Raed some of the crazy stories he has heard about him and his battle exploits. Most of all he wants to know if the tales of his mastery of their sacred Fey Step are real or embellished.

[Malazek]

He assures Raed that this was not personal but that he did not know what to believe when it took so long for him to arrive.

Jacalis nods, and says "Air'm eilol, tia jhys. Vaeri, pyl's shari eilyraes tystael paelol ol air." (It's alright, my lord. Please, don't waste another moment dwelling on it).

Most of all he wants to know if the tales of his mastery of their sacred Fey Step are real or embellished.

Smiling, Jancalis says "Perhaps a bit of both? If you have time before you leave, I'll explain to you how it works ... of course, you'll have to practice on your own, because I won't be around to supervise your progress."

[Malazek]

Minutes later, you reach the 3 Lions. The troops guarding the walls burst into cheer when the wagon and cavalry come through the gate. Another few minutes, and you find yourself at Ferall's Barracks.

"Well, done." Ferall address the troops, "After this glorious exploit, each and everyone of you are heroes! Never forget it, because the Empire never will! When all of this is done, I will commission the construction of 40 monuments built upon the sites of this great battle! Each shall bear the names of the men and women who risked (and sometimes gave) their lives to stop the destruction of our great city! .... but now is not the time for celebration. We will need every able bodied soldier to hold these walls for many days to come. So, let's get some food and rest, and be thankful that we're still here! Thank you all!"

Not long after that ....

Raed and Alverdine meet with Straegis in one of the many board rooms. Alverdine says "You wanted to see us, sir?"

...

Reed Canfield approaches Davin, and reaches out a friendly hand "You're leaving in the morning, then? Well, it's been an honor, Mr. Fletcher. I hope we meet again, someday."

"As do I." says Prince Helfare, walking into the conversation. "When all of this is done, you'll have to come visit the Femdrell. Or perhaps I'll come visit you, in the Malbog?"

As Helfare speaks, Reed returns to his usual shy demeaner. But he quietly slips a small bundle onto the wagon before waving good-bye, and then dissappearing into the shadows.

...

Aodhan and Siqerod approach Alex. Aodhan says "You did well, Aquamancer. Perhaps you ARE a shade smarter than that jackass Viktor." Siqerod adds "Aha! We meet again! I'm glad to see you made it out of the library."

The Lt. Mage also walks over. "A meeting of minds?" An expression of annoyance washes over Aodhan's face, but Siqerod smiles and clasps the Lieutenant's shoulder. "Yes! You should join us! I think we are about to talk shop over a friendly nightcap!"
"We are?"
"Thank you, I shall!"

...

Of course, Frater Fortis and Uncle Veredic all meet with Verity. Since the original tavern they chose for the reunion has been destroyed, the meeting takes place in a smaller bar that's much closer. Lieutenant Frater and Lieutenant Fortis have both just recieved field promotions!

"It's good to see all of you! Now drink up."
"Verity, you've been gone the longest. Tell us more about YOUR journeys!"
Uncle Veredic smiles, and snacks on the complimentary rolls.

...

One of the Maor approaches Mordax, as the fisherman sits alone cleaning his hammer. Mordax remembers its the sister he saw in Modo's Watering Hole. "Well, well. We meet again!" Reaching down and handing Mordax a flask, she says "Mind if I share a drink with you."

[Malazek]

One of the Maor approaches Mordax, as the fisherman sits alone cleaning his hammer. Mordax remembers its the sister he saw in Modo's Watering Hole. "Well, well. We meet again!" Reaching down and handing Mordax a flask, she says "Mind if I share a drink with you."

"If ye' wish. Funny, tha' last time I was asked that question by a fey me life changed forever."

Taking a swig, he hands the flask back and lapses into morose silence. The old man looks haggard, tired, worn down. His days-old stubble is mostly grey, now, and the deep fissures of his face belie the strong jaw outlined underneath.

Musing, he says in a voice barely above a whisper, "Tell me, do ye' remember Ularic? They called 'im usurper, but 'e was a prince among men. I faced 'im blade tae blade, once; 'twas but a lad, an' I shoulda' died tha' day. Instead 'e gut me fraem stem tae stern, an' left me fer' tha' clerics tae find. 'E let me live, mind; he knew tha' healers'd be comin' round soon enou'. A right guid man, tha', an' I slaughtered 'is crew all tha' same.

Turning his ice blue gaze upon the near-immortal, he swigs another swallow and continues.

"Tha' Empire subjugated me' peoples, yae knew tha', right? We used tae be lairds in oor halls, an' e'en tha' Dwarves acknowledged oor Chieftains rights tae tha' hills, dales, an' moors o' Toramor. That 'er three, four centuries ago. Now we be little more than rustic poets an' shepherds."

Inadvertently crushing the beautifully crafted flask, Mordax stares dumbly at the twisted metal in his meaty grasp. Perceptibly releasing the lump with conscious effort, the fisherman drops his head.

Looking up with red-rimmed eyes, he says "It's a tough lot, isn't it? Tha' life o' a soldier? Nothin' fer' yersel' 'cept a kit an' hardtack, a blade an' tha' march? All I ever wanted were a guid woman an' wee bairns tae run aboot tha' yard, a modest farm an' a pasture. What tha' gods gae' were that mos' beautiful few years a mortal can know, ashes fer' a farmstead, an' a life spent in dealing death.

Shaking like a wet dog, he picks up his hammer and resumes polishing the dull surface.

"Aye, but ye're young yet, an' dinnae need hear tha' ramblin's o' an old man. Look, I've ruined yer' flask, an' I've nothin' tae repay ye' wi' 'cept coarse coin. Ye should be oot wi' yer' own kind, wooing saem young buck what'll whisper sweet nothings in yer' ear."

"Ach" he exclaims, "what I wouldn't gie' fer' saem fresh fish. Does a thing fer' fortifyin' a man, ye' know? Nothin' beats a fresh fish fer' makin' a man strong. . ."

DM EDIT: This isn't Nissa. It's the Maor female you ran into, alongside her brother, in Modo's Watering Hole. Nissa is the other Maor female, who you met with Alverdine (though, later, all four of them were together).

[Malazek]

As Alex hears the voice of Katrina ringing in his mind he smiles. I do so hope we meet! It is so kind of her to inform him.

----------------------

As he is approached by the two other mages he smiles at Siqerod and at Aodhans complement -it's probably the best anyone has every got out of him anyway.

"Oh I only did Ok. My friends were better I think. Mordax climbed one of those beasts himself! Brave man. He deserves 40 statues of himself for that alone...I felt like I let him down; I tried to catch him in a snowdrift at the bottom - a bit like a web spell" He explains to Siqerod. "But I was a fraction too late, I did manage t-" He realises he is rambling as the Lt. Mage walks up and stops talking. He listens to the exchange and smiles. "Yes."

Alex takes four drinks from a table by lifting them towards the little group of mages on a little disk of ice. He begins to talk to the mages, beginning with.

"So what did you think of the dwarvern mages?"

During the conversation he also manages to slip in a few questions...

"So, Aodhan, did you get any contact with the Airbenders? Or did you meet that dangerous sandbender? Fortunately I managed to avoid him."

"Siqerod, I didn't know you ventured often outside the library. Tell me, did that spell you were working on come in handy? I found a note from one of the dwarves saying to watch out for you. You had dangerous magics or something."

Alex also takes Siqerod aside. "I was...erm...wondering. How long does it...erm take a novice to learn your kind of magic? In Imil I, err, never really had a chance. Being born with the gift my studies were obviously steered in an Aquanmancing direction. But I have read that a lot of the concepts are, erm, similar. Stretching out your senses, complex hand movements, mana manipulation etc. I don't suppose I might attempt to, ugh, learn some of the magic that you use? How long did it take you? One of my allies used it and I asked him...but...erm...I think he thought I was joking..." Alex looks to Straegis across the room. He pale skin showing the slightest hint of colour as he is rather embarassed about the subject. Feeling like it akin to 'mens troubles' or something of the sort.

[Malazek]

Of course, Frater Fortis and Uncle Veredic all meet with Verity. Since the original tavern they chose for the reunion has been destroyed, the meeting takes place in a smaller bar that's much closer. Lieutenant Frater and Lieutenant Fortis have both just recieved field promotions!

"It's good to see all of you! Now drink up."
"Verity, you've been gone the longest. Tell us more about YOUR journeys!"
Uncle Veredic smiles, and snacks on the complimentary rolls.

“Barkeep - a round of your finest for everyone, on me. This black day we all deserve it.”
Verity settles into a heavy wooden chair and props his elbows on the table.
“So you’d like to hear about my past year. Gods, but it feels longer. Seems an age since mum’s mum took sick with the Devouring. What to do when the family healer falls ill? Sure the village Clerics tried, but they were no better at curatives than Grandmum herself.
“I do miss her tales of the travels of her youth in service to the Queen. They held my attention as well as any imagined bard’s tale.
“Dark times it was as her condition became worse and worse. Still, when she sought a merciful death, I was mortified. Then when I found what it would cost me – well, I nearly fled to tell true. A years indenture. Slavery it seemed, and to a Goblin. Ha! It seems so selfish in hindsight. Looking back on it now I suspect the way she arranged her death was as much for me as for she. Intentional or not: The path it set me on, I shall never turn back.
“My life was much the same after I first left. I helped tend the crops that fed us. Occasionally Jugugg took me into Jura with him to haggle a good price for finished goods for the Temple. That is, until the Massacre there. Gods, if only we could have found the strength to fight them off, but there were so many…so many. Well, you know enough of what happened there; I’ll not burden you with more.
“After our escape we wandered about. Jugugg had a peculiar knack for avoiding Brackwater when he traveled with me but there were times he’d venture there alone. Part of the rules of my sevice I suppose. Mostly we stayed to the ‘Bog, continuing my tutelage and hunting the destroyers of our former home.
“Recently we met with some success. A week past we found the lair of the Bog Hag Mika and delivered her and her henchmen to the Queen. We rescued young Kalee there. Fine young lass she’s blossomed into to be sure. That was where my fate twined with my present companions as well. Fine company they are, stalwart and true the lot of them. Still I miss all of you. Vahng the dwarf as well: Even that surly Goblin Jugugg, wherever they may be.
“Much has happened in just the few days since then. We’d be up all night if I were to tell you: Davin Fletcher and the good lizard-folk of Garkondrak slew a Bog Hydra. We tricked a Dragon out of some of it’s horde. We’ve been assailed by Maor and dwarves until we arrived here and since.
“Most incredible, I was granted a most holy vision of the Queen. Still, I know not what her words mean, or I do and don’t yet realize, or perhaps I never will. I would tell you more of it, and will, when I know myself. It is to find the meaning to her words that I must go. Would that you all could join me, but of course the Empire needs you here.”
Verity removes the sword lashed to his pack. “Frater, take this. Father’s sword only went to me because I left first and had need; it is yours by right.”
“So what of the three of you? In the Grand Army less than a year and already officers of high rank? Surely there are stories there to be told, so tell.”

[Malazek]

Reed Canfield approaches Davin, and reaches out a friendly hand "You're leaving in the morning, then? Well, it's been an honor, Mr. Fletcher. I hope we meet again, someday."

"As do I." says Prince Helfare, walking into the conversation. "When all of this is done, you'll have to come visit the Femdrell. Or perhaps I'll come visit you, in the Malbog?"

As Helfare speaks, Reed returns to his usual shy demeanor. But he quietly slips a small bundle onto the wagon before waving good-bye, and then disappearing into the shadows.

"I too hope to see you both again. I am sure we will."

As Reed slips off, I turn a bit red as I say to Helfare, "Riri, shael o mi caes eindral, vae tia vaeraes sai os moraes, tia thol." ("Please, when you see her again, pay my respects to your sister the Princess, my friend.")

Left alone with Hound, I scan the room watching the revelers, before my eyes catch Agatha trying to disappear in a corner. Smiling I head over to the old Hag.

"I believe I promised you an introduction, Agatha." Taking her by the arm, I walk up to Draxus Ferall, and push my way through the sycophants that are already beginning to attach themselves to the most powerful man in the Empire.

"Excuse me - General Ferell? This is the lady we spoke to you of earlier, the one that put the "tempest" is the Battle of Tempest Hill? Agatha, this is General Draxus Ferall. General, Agatha. She was a great help at the battle, Sir, and, without her storm, I think we would have had a different outcome tonight."

I watch the two converse and wait for a lull before addressing the Emperor and Agatha again.

"Agatha's sister is still in the city, Sir, and working with the Dwarves. Agatha has said she is going to stay here, until she has faced off with her evil sibling. Be wary, for it is said she can haunt a man's dreams and kill a man in his sleep."

"General - our party leaves at first light. We are going to try to take the fight to the Dwarves. Sir Servinus has received divine guidance from the Queen, and so we will follow the path she leads us to. This may not be the right time, but we need some provisions before we leave. Can I buy them from your supplies here, or perhaps trade them for the Iron Hills machines? We have no need of them, and perhaps your blacksmiths and wise men can study and adapt them to your use."

"One last thing, Sir. A man fought with exceptional bravery and heroics today, and I felt he deserved mention to you. His name is Reed Canfield, and he leads the fledgling Imperial Rangers. I do not know if the Rangers are an official part of your forces, or a militia of some sort, but I know they all distinguished themselves today, and Reed was the best among them."

If it is appropriate, and he wants to know, I will tell Ferall of our plan to go to Jaru, seek out the Cave Temple, and infiltrate the Dwarven Halls.

After I leave the two, I wander off in search of Straegis. After a bit of looking, I find him in the board room talking with Alverdine and Raed Jancalis. Nodding at the two others in greeting, I turn to my friend.

"Ai cydi Ai eis byr ailaesedol, Tyrol. Ai ber shalaer sai koli o sor shyl. Ai thyl air eir Rainen's eil syl sar air tol maesi o shaer, tylodaesol eir si medeil o cali shael pyl os jhari." ("I hope I am not interrupting, Cousin. I just wanted to give you this book. I found it at Rainen's and thought that it might serve you well, considering all the studying you have been doing of late.")

At that, I hand over the slightly damaged ritual book I found at Rainen's.

"Ai shor jhaeli o sai os sherolaer. Mi o ail si tysol, Tyrol." ("I will leave you to your business. See you in the morning, Cousin.")

As Hound and I make our way back through the barrack's great hall, I get a piece of meat and give it to the mutt.

"Still a bit of work to do, partner." Hound and I leave the great hall, grabbing a handful of apples as I do, and head out to the wagon. First, I make sure it is in a secure spot. As I work, I notice the bundle Reed left in the wagon, and check it out. Then I unhitch and begin to work on the horses. Stroking each of their manes, I whisper, "You did well for us, my friends. Very well." I reward each of the horses an apple, give the team their daily training, feed, water, and then rub them down before putting them up in the barrack's stable for the night.

O.O.C. - I will take 10 on a Nature check to train the horses tonight for battle, giving me a 28.

Done with that (and depending on Draxus Ferall's replay earlier), I go in search for the supply Sergeant that gave me my shirt earlier.

"Greetings Sergeant. I and my party have need of some provisions and we leave at first light. Is that something you can help me with?"

(O.O.C. - As far as food, all we need is one days worth of provisions and were back to a full two weeks worth. I need a couple quivers of arrows, though, and, if I can get it, I want to get a reasonable supply of naptha and blackpowder.)

After loading the provisions on the wagon, Hound and I finally head back into the great hall, get a mug of ale, and take a seat at a bench. I chuckle to myself as Hound curls up at my feet, asleep almost instantly. My mirth doesn't last long however, as the day's event's take finally take their toll on me as well.

Before even half of my mug is drained I am sound asleep, head on the table, and not even the loud celebrations of the victorious soldiers around me disturb my slumber.

-Swift

[Malazek]

"Ye should be oot wi' yer' own kind, wooing saem young buck what'll whisper sweet nothings in yer' ear."

"Erm. Thanks. ... and good luck."
And with that, she wanders off.

"So what did you think of the dwarvern mages?"

"So, Aodhan, did you get any contact with the Airbenders? Or did you meet that dangerous sandbender? Fortunately I managed to avoid him."

"Siqerod, I didn't know you ventured often outside the library. Tell me, did that spell you were working on come in handy? I found a note from one of the dwarves saying to watch out for you. You had dangerous magics or something."

"I was...erm...wondering. How long does it...erm take a novice to learn your kind of magic? ... I don't suppose I might attempt to, ugh, learn some of the magic that you use? How long did it take you?"

"The Dwarven mages? I was sorely dissappointed; they put up little fight."

"You mean in this last battle? I didn't see either, actually. I only ran into ordinary earthbenders."
"Same here. I think. I wasn't really paying attention."

"The Dwarves are afraid of my spell? How interesting. Well, I still haven't finished it, actually. Here" He begins scribbling notes onto a napkin.

"Oh, well, it can take a novice several months to make their first breakthrough. Y'know, to actually affect magic on the slightest level. After that, it takes years before they actually understand the basics enough to be accepted as an apprentice. But really, you can never learn magic; it's ongoing process. No matter how much magic you understand, there's always more to be learnt. I myself have been studying 20 years now."

"I've never heard of an elemental mage learning to use non-elemental magic ... but y'know, there's a first for everything. There ya go ..."

He hands Alex a pile of napkins, all of which are written on. He seems to have written some spell theory. If Alex studies this for a while, he should have a better understanding or common magic; whether or not he can learn it.

Siqerod's Elemental Resistance Wizard Utility 10
You make yourself or another creature in range resistant to a particular source of magic.
Daily; Arcane
Minor Action .... Ranged 10
Target: You or one creature
Effect: Against a particular elemental magic (chosen by you), the target gains resistance equal to your level + your Intelligence modifier until the end of the encounter or for 5 minutes. Choose the magic source from the following list: Earth, Water, Air, Fire.

Verity removes the sword lashed to his pack. “Frater, take this. Father’s sword only went to me because I left first and had need; it is yours by right ... So what of the three of you? In the Grand Army less than a year and already officers of high rank? Surely there are stories there to be told, so tell.”

"Father's sword? Thanks, little brother.

"Truthfully, our tales are not as interesting as yours. We heard that the Empire was going to conscript soon, and that those who joined before the conscription started would be given preferential treatment."

"And that part was mostly true, at first. Those who've joined in the past few weeks have been lumped together into general infantry. Those of us who joined before the flood recieved positions suitable to their skills."

"I was allowed to train as a tactical officer under the High General."
"And I was assigned to the cavalry."

"But no conscription has ever started. Perhaps now that we are war, it will ... but thus far, naught."

"Anyway, I've met some interesting people -- nobles and heroes -- but compared to your adventure, it seems relatively tame."

"Same here. Before this evening, we hadn't even seen real combat. Just mock battles and training exercises."

Uncle Veredic just listens, and sips silently from his beer.

"This is the lady we spoke to you of earlier ... this is General Draxus Ferall. General, Agatha. ... without her storm, I think we would have had a different outcome tonight."

"Agatha's sister ... can haunt a man's dreams and kill a man in his sleep."

"General - our party leaves at first light. We are going to try to take the fight to the Dwarves. Sir Servinus has received divine guidance from the Queen, and so we will follow the path she leads us to. ... but we need some provisions before we leave."

"A man fought with exceptional bravery ... His name is Reed Canfield."

I wander off in search of Straegis ... "Ai cydi Ai eis byr ailaesedol, Tyrol. Ai ber shalaer sai koli o sor shyl. Ai thyl air eir Rainen's eil syl sar air tol maesi o shaer, tylodaesol eir si medeil o cali shael pyl os jhari." At that, I hand over the slightly damaged ritual book I found at Rainen's.

I notice the bundle Reed left in the wagon, and check it out.

Done with that (and depending on Draxus Ferall's replay earlier), I go in search for the supply Sergeant that gave me my shirt earlier. "Greetings Sergeant. I and my party have need of some provisions and we leave at first light. Is that something you can help me with?"

(O.O.C. - As far as food, all we need is one days worth of provisions and were back to a full two weeks worth. I need a couple quivers of arrows, though, and, if I can get it, I want to get a reasonable supply of naptha and blackpowder.)

Madam Agatha! I'm pleased to finally meet you."

"Mika, eh? My mother used tales of the Night Hag to scare us, as children. I have to admit, I find this information particuliarly distressing."

"The Empire will supply you whatever you need. Within reason, of course." He pulls a requisition form from his pocket, and hands it over. It is already signed, but otherwise blank.

"Canfield? Okay, I'll see that he's properly commended."

...

Reed's gift contains a selection of his signature arrows.

• 2 Acid Arrows (+d10 Acid and an ongoing 5 Acid {Save Ends})
• 2 Dragonfire Tar Arrows (Ongoing 5 Fire Damage {Save Ends})
• 2 Smoke Arrows (Obscures an Area Burst 1 until the End of your Next Turn)
• 2 Tanglefoot Arrows (Immobolizes Target for one turn, and then slows Target for another)
• 1 Silvered Arrow
• 2 Humming Bulbs
• 1 Grapple Arrow (5/10 Range)

At the supply depot, Davin gets enough food to fully load the wagon. He is also given a keg of Naphta and keg of blackpowder. He can take as many arrows as he wants.

[Malazek]

“Well, you’ve all seen action today, so let us speak of that. Bottoms up.” Verity arranges the now empty mugs in a zig-zag pattern on the table.
“So Frater, Fortis and his cavalrymen flew at the dwarves like a mighty hammer. But the dwarves, standing in this sort of formation, were able to break the charge. We suffered great losses including the lieutenant who, with Fortis was separated from the main body of their force, here. It was a most effective formation, and one we must learn to counter.”
“Your own circumstance, Frater, I doubt we’ll see again. Draxus does not strike me as the sort of man to station his best generals and advisors in a barely defensible tower in the middle of a field.
“Uncle, thanks for saving me a roll,” which the knight snatches quickly.
After some discussion of tactics, Verity reflects;” Well, history shall mark this day as one of our Empires darkest, there can be no doubt. All of us here nearly lost our lives and many thousands more were not so lucky. Yon river runs red with blood in the light of burning homes.
“Still we fought well, and shall continue until we prevail. The dwarves think the Empire fat and complacent in our prosperity, but they have waked a dragon. The little men of the hills will rue this day. Already they’ve had the first taste of our bitter rage.
“Minstrel, come listen, for your first song of this war is about to be born.”
Verity relates the tale of destroying the trebuchets to his kin, the bard, and anyone else who cares to listen. He paints his comrades, Agatha and his brother as heroes of the day.

Diplomacy: 32

[Malazek]

Raed and Alverdine meet with Straegis in one of the many board rooms. Alverdine says "You wanted to see us, sir?"

I wander off in search of Straegis. After a bit of looking, I find him in the board room talking with Alverdine and Raed Jancalis. Nodding at the two others in greeting, I turn to my friend.

"Ai cydi Ai eis byr ailaesedol, Tyrol. Ai ber shalaer sai koli o sor shyl. Ai thyl air eir Rainen's eil syl sar air tol maesi o shaer, tylodaesol eir si medeil o cali shael pyl os jhari." At that, I hand over the slightly damaged ritual book I found at Rainen's. "Ai shor jhaeli o sai os sherolaer. Mi o ail si tysol, Tyrol."

After Davin leaves, Alverdine says again "Sir?"

[Malazek]

“Minstrel, come listen, for your first song of this war is about to be born.”

The bard listens closely and begins to put together a meaningful tune.

O.O.C.: I guess it was my turn to be without power!

Straegis asks Alverdine and Raed about the men, how many Maor died or are severly injured? What about the Vanguard, how did they fare? Are there any perceived strengths or deficiencies against the dwarves? Lastly, he asks Raed and Alverdine to give him their own opinions of what has happened and any ideas they may have. As he is waiting for their answers, Davin walks up and hands him the book from Rainen's. "Grav, tyrol. An imet ba dilne vel nabir? Til ma leviran cel e abrir sem av renira!" (Thanks, cousin! Where are you going in such a hurry? I wanted to tell these two how you will soon become a prince!) He laughs a little, then before Davin can get too embarrassed he says "Halem, ba il tinire ve Thaeraes Rabol Talthanin." (Seriously, he is a descendant from House Thaeraes of Talthanin.)

[Malazek]

Laughing with Straegis, Davin replies, "Ai cali volaelia peror sai saji tasi os - bastaelia valol si shandryl eil mardol si cysaer!" ("I have princely duties to take care of - namely packing the wagon and stabling the horses!")

O.O.C. - I want to get 6 suits of "winter gear" from the supply depot and a new keg of ale.

-Swift

[Malazek]

Straegis asks Alverdine and Raed about the men, how many Maor died or are severly injured? What about the Vanguard, how did they fare? Are there any perceived strengths or deficiencies against the dwarves? Lastly, he asks Raed and Alverdine to give him their own opinions of what has happened and any ideas they may have.

Raed says, "Since the entire Vanguard was deployed against the center few trebuchets, they marched with overwhelming odds. I am told that none were killed, and only a few were injured."

Alverdine adds, "The Maor did not have the advantage of numbers; still none were killed. Though I must say, if we had the job of the cavalry, we very well might all have been. Every member of my team was injured."

"Obviously, the terramancer's were the biggest threat; especially since the Vanguard doesn't have a mage."

Same here; though, there are one or two part-time mage's on my team."

"In addition to a mage, I think it would be helpful to add a full-time medic to the team. My two part-time healers had their hands full"

"Agreed. The Vanguard has no healer whatsoever."

"Ai cali volaelia peror sai saji tasi os - bastaelia valol si shandryl eil mardol si cysaer!"

After Davin leaves, Raed asks "Shar sar ei aedaestor?" (Was that a euphemism?)

[Malazek]

“…and so, the gargantuan machines of death destroyed, the heroes returned home through the gale, victorious.
“Well it’s been my pleasure friends, thanks for lending an ear, but it’s time to bring this long day to an end. Yea, it do promise to be the first of many long, dark days. We’ve won the day but not the war. Let the dwarves bring their worst, I say. The people of the seven hills are
made of finer stuff than those sewer – grubbers. We here are citizens of the mightiest Empire in all creation. So stand fast all, and let the rout begin!”

Verity squares up with the innkeeper and heads back to the barracks with his uncle and brothers

[Malazek]

Alex folds the napkins neatly into his pocket after studying each one. "Thanks Siqerod, I appreciate it. I'll have a go in my free time."

Mordax, never a drinker, slips into an exhausted doze common to soldiers everywhere.

[Malazek]

Upon arriving at the barracks, the Servinus clan lead their horses to the stable.
“I imagine you all need to report back, I’ll catch up.”
Verity unpacks his grooming kit from a saddlebag. He digs out the hoof rasp. “C’mon boy, that’s a good lad.” He catches Zephyrs back left hoof and bracing it with his legs, he scrapes away the thick cake of mud. Once the hooves are clean, he replaces the rasp and grabs a stiff brush. He’s untangling the beast’s mane against Zephyrs whinnying protests when it strikes him: What use a warhorse in the catacombs beyond the Cave Temple? The Temple itself was spacious enough, and mostly of worked stone, but beyond all manner of obstacles would impede them.
As he brushes the formidable Percheron, he thinks back to how small Zephyr was when foaled. His Grandma had let Verity help, and after Verity was the only one the mare would let near her gangly little youngling. They’d been thick as thieves since.
“There you are now, princely as ever. You’re the envy of every horse here.”
Verity dunks the Templar in the trough to clean it of blood and hangs it to dry. He sits to reflect, landing heavily beside his horse. “All this way from home, yet in the company of kin. Great be the Queen’s Grace for we.”
He unsheathes Revenge and checks the blade; sharp as ever.
“So, what so you think of our new friends, quite the adventuresome lot eh? I’ll bet you didn’t think you’d be saving the Empire today did you?”
“Neeeiigh!”
“Nor I.”
The knight is taken with a jaw – popping yawn. “Rest well old friend, more hard work on the morrow.”
Verity shuts his eyes thinking to rest them a moment and falls immediatley fast asleep.

[Malazek]

After Davin leaves, Raed asks "Shar sar ei aedaestor?" (Was that a euphemism?)

Straegis' face reddens as he realizes he may have pushed the joke a little too far. "Aver li mor. Ren sa habil ov krun gemal. A remir e naef jorem fel." (I hope not. He does not want to acknowledge his royal ancestry. I'll have to talk to him about that.) Straegis continues, "Ti, a ben vi Ferall ya slemin e spival gan Maor sa Vanguard, ben pael?" (Ok, so I will tell Ferall we need magic users and healers to be sent with the Maor and the Vanguard, anything else?) Straegis tells both of them briefly of the plan he and his allies have now, he will invite Alverdine and Raed to go with him as he heads off to find Draxus Ferall. "Raed, maybe you can show me some of those steps I'll need to practice while we're on our way?"

[Malazek]

Straegis tells both of them briefly of the plan he and his allies have now, he will invite Alverdine and Raed to go with him as he heads off to find Draxus Ferall. "Raed, maybe you can show me some of those steps I'll need to practice while we're on our way?"

As they leave the board room, Alverdine says "Alright. Well, if you'll excuse me ... I have much to do tonight. I'd like to get to it before morning. But before I go, this is for you; a gift from all of us." He hands Straegis a heavy gift-wrapped block. Opening it, Straegis discovers a blank ritual book; a book into which he can scribe the rituals that he masters. "You're welcome, sir. I know you dabble in the arts arcane, even more-so than most of OUR militant kin. Goodnight."

Staring at the book, Straegis senses Raed's competitive nature take over. "A ritual book?! That was, erm, thoughtful. I guess. Here, let me see it." Jancalis draws several diagrams and symbols across the first few pages of the book. Straegis realizes that, now, those first few pages will never hold rituals; but if Jancalis is willing to share his legendary ...

"There," he says, "... study that. It's an enigma. If you don't get it right away (or ever, really), well, don't feel bad; nobody has ever REALLY understood it. But that there is the secret to my Warstep technique. I call it the Flux Engine. If you study it long enough, you could (in theory) master the Warstep, as well. I think that's more valuable than a few blank pages, don't you?"

"I should warn you, though: a few people have actually gone mad by looking at it. ... but most are relatively unaffected by it. They just don't get it, I guess. And a rare few have gleaned just enough from it to invent new techniques of their own. Their techniques were obviously not as grand as my own, but that's okay. Isn't it?"

Alex folds the napkins neatly into his pocket after studying each one. "Thanks Siqerod, I appreciate it. I'll have a go in my free time."

"My pleasure. Well, goodnight!"
"Wha? That was abrupt."
"I'm off, too. It's been a tiring day."
The Lt. Mage looks at Alex, "Looks like it's just us. Unless you're off to bed, too?"

Before even half of my mug is drained I am sound asleep, head on the table, and not even the loud celebrations of the victorious soldiers around me disturb my slumber.

Mordax, never a drinker, slips into an exhausted doze common to soldiers everywhere.

Verity shuts his eyes thinking to rest them a moment and falls immediatley fast asleep.

Zzzzz.

[Malazek]

Shocked over the gift of the ritual book he says "Thank you Alverdine, and please thank the men as well, it was unnecessary but definitely appreciated. I will do my best to get some mages and healers to assist you. Kindly make sure the men get enough to eat tonight, eh?" Straegis hands the book to Raed, as he draws Straegis thinks to himself how complicated it all looks. He trusts Raed tho when he says it will take time, and smirks when he considers the fact that he may actually be able to do these things.

Straegis will go to Draxus Ferall as soon as Raed is done making his notes, whether Raed goes with him or not. He will inform Draxus of the things his people need if they are to stay and fight. He is so hungry he can't even be sure he ate today, he finds food and drink and heads off to locate Alex. He wants to show him the book Davin got from Rainen's, perhaps they can look it over together? He will spend the last 4 hours before sunrise meditating and resting, every minute until then will be spent pouring over the pages of the book.

[Malazek]

Straegis (and Alex?) look over the mostly ruined tome of rituals, and discover the following rituals inside (along with its value/component cost/skill information): Arcane Lock (150/25/Arcana), Commune with Nature (360/140/Nature), Consult Mystic Sages (1000/400/Religion [Level 10]), Cure Disease (360/150/Heal), Enchant Magic Item (175/Special/Arcana), Eye of Alarm (100/25/Arcana), Gentle Repose (50/10/Heal), Knock (175/35+Surge/Arcana), Linked Portal (680/135/Arcana), Raise Dead (680/500/Heal). Any other rituals that it once contained are now ruined (that is, 106 of it's 128 pages are intact, and the ruined book is still worth atleast 3730 gp).

Of course, there's no time to learn any of these (it takes 8 hours to copy/master a ritual), but you surely get started. Soon, however, Alex drifts off to sleep (he's been up for for nearly 20 hours, afterall) and shortly after that Straegis settles into his trance.

...

That night, Mordax has a dream. He dreams that a creeping shadow enters the hall, covering him in a thick blanket of unnatural darkness and concealing him from the guards around him. He tries to wake, but he cannot. A dwarf-like figure approaches him, but as she draws nearer she proves to be a wretched hag; her talon like claw reaching for him. Though he struggles, his brain screams out, overcome by a sharp agony.

His scream wakes others.

Then, he sits up, stunned. A fleeing shadow drifting from the room. An elderly woman cradles him in her arms, and says "S'all right now, youn' Mordax. She's fled now, an' ah'm 'ere t' protect ya." Drained and unable to resist, Mordax drifts quietly back to sleep.

.....

Morning comes swiftly, and the heroes are waken by the numerous feet of shift change; soldiers are bustling in and out of the halls, trying to get to where they need to be.

As the party gathers in the main hall, they are greeted by Draxus Ferall, Bluto Rexus, and Agatha. Ferall says "Come, have breakfast with me. A heroes' feast has been prepared!

In the officers' lounge, the drowsy heroes find large eggs, steaks, potatoes, flapjacks, bread, assorted fruit, and large carafes of coffee. Sacked lunches have also been packed for each of you to take with you: ham and cheese sandwiches, jerky, hard tack, and trailmix.

After breakfast, Ferall says Well, I guess it's high time you got started on this mission. Waiting around here will only invite unlucky catastrophe. Agatha, did you say the ritual was ready?"

"Aye, t'is. 'Cept th' sigils an' th' a'tual castin' of it. Ah gots the lines an' di'grams 'ready drawn."

With the wagon already packed (and your goodbyes said the night before), Draxus leads the team to an alley where Agatha has prepared the ritual. As soon as the party is ready, she will need the sigil codes of Jaru from Alex. Once those are drawn, she can create the portal (of course, any help from Alex or Straegis will be appreciated).

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