Black Jewels Campaign In-Character

[MistressBaerne]

Ebon Askavi
Askavi, Kaeleer
Evening

The Keep.

The Black Mountain.

Ebon Askavi.

The Sanctuary of Witch.

In fifty thousand years, the ancient fortress built in and upon the mountain at the heart of all three Realms had never behaved like this, reflected Saetan Daemon SaDiablo, called by some the Prince of the Darkness, by some the High Priest of the Hourglass, and by some the High Lord of Hell.

And once, by a woman whose name he refused to speak, husband. That however, was before he recieved his third son.

In a box.

In pieces.

Mentally shoving himself off of that thought track before it consumed him, Saetan considered the strange circumstances he found himself in. The High Lord had seen a very great deal of life, followed by an even greater deal of half-life, but he was at a loss to explain why the wind running through the spires of the Keep seemed to be whispering something in a joyous, exultant tone. Or why the oldest demon-dead, the ones who had been in Hell for tens of thousands of years, who usually vaciliated between apathy and dejection, had visited SaDiablo Hall in Hell to tell him that something was... different, better, in the Realms.

Nor could he explain why he himself, the being most aware of the horrifying manipulation of Blood Law and Protocol in the Bright Realm, found himself awaking each day with a feeling he hadn't felt in millenia.

Optimism.

Still, as the High Priest of the Hourglass, he knew enough about the Darkness to realize that unexplained feelings were usually worth heeding. Perhaps it was finally time to see about some retribution.

The High Lord of Hell has waited fifty thousand years for vengeance. If revenge was best served cold, his would be an ice storm out of a clear sky.

Later that night, he sent the letters.
************************************

It is not every day that one recieves a letter from a childhood story. It is not every day that one recieves a letter from the most terrifying man in history.

Strangely enough, both of these things happened to you today. A letter on heavy, almost archaic paper, sealed with black wax and a stylized "SD" - Specifically, an invitation to a meeting at SaDialbo Hall in Kaeleer, transportation to be provided.

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth reads the invitation over a couple of times, thinking to himself about it. "Well, an evening with the High Priest of the Hourglass. I'm curious, maybe my lady will give me leave for this night." He stands up from where he is sitting and stares out the window at the city he has lived in his entire life."I wonder what tonight holds there."

[Jangoose]

Ark sweeps back into the castle from the cold outside. Not in the best of moods, he gets a smirk of satisfaction from the tinge of fear he sees on the guard's face, and a faint laugh echoes across the mental link between he and the blood red jewel at his neck. When in the city, he's careful to keep his arm hidden, and when he does, he's just another 16 year old kid, just another face in the crowd. Here, in the castle of the good Lady Mythlye, people know who he is, know what he can do. As he walks into the inner courtyard, a courtier rushes up to him, bearing in his hands a letter of ancient looking parchment.

A wave of shock flows across the link as does an image of the black wax seal on the letter. Looking more closely now at the seal, Ark can tell it bears the letters SD. The man presents him the letter (which Ark can now also see is addressed to him), and then recoils slightly as Ark reaches for it with his damaged hand. The skin gone, all that remain of Ark's right hand are the gaunt grey musculature and bone structure. His annoyance flaring he snatches the letter from the courtier and self-consciously turns away as he splits the seal and reads the letters contents.

After the first time reading it, he finds a bench to sit down on before reading it twice more. Shock and awe emanate from his jewel. Noticing for the first time now that several of the guards are watching him, he quickly dismisses the letter into his psychic cupboard, before rising and striding off towards the throne room.

As he approaches the throne-room's back entrance, he whispers a few words, and the rough town clothes and leather jacket he was wearing swirl out of existence, replaced with formal robes. Arriving, he pushes through the curtained opening into the room beyond.

OOC:

If the queen is there, he approaches, if not, he keeps looking for her, asking servants etc. if necessary...

[Strawman]

Copper reads the letter once and puts it into a pocket. He mumbles to himself, "People keep saying I should be more sociable. I hope this does not turn out to be too much of an ordeal." He looks at his bow resting against the wall.

[Cespenar]

Daros stood fast in front of the Queen in her chambers as she read the letter silently. Unbelieving, she read it again. Then, after carefully arranging her face to better mirror her personality (which was of dubious kindness), she quickly explained Daros that he was to pack as hastily as possible and leave for a mission of great importance. He was to go to SaDiablo Hall in Kaeleer and (did he hear that right?) assist the High Lord of Hell in a task.

He was, of course, dismissed before he could even ask a question, so he left the secretly fuming Queen in the chamber and quickly made his way to his own room (which wouldn't even make justice to the word "spartan"), where he packed his few belongings and readied himself for the transportation to be provided.

Just another mission? Or did her Queen finally ran out of mercy and sent him to his death? He fooled around with these thoughts for a second or two, but found out that he really didn't care. He would see what is going to happen soon anyway.

[tonberryking]

Solomon

A sonorous laugh of a young lad was hardly the expected reaction when the boss of Hell sends you an invitation, but Solomon was prepared for this eventuality. The strange 'guest' of the Lady Mythlye had assure her that such an invitation would arrive days after he first appeared, and even now, Solomon Skyes (as he refers to himself in the third person) wings his way through her court. At least he's had the decency to use the windows and now just fly through ill-fitting hallways.

In fact he's perched in a window currently, looking for the Lady in the room below. His black hawk wings fold up behind him, the youth giving a slight smirk. It is as Solomon expected, Mythlye, we've been invited formally..."

[Delandel]

Javarel

The man's heart began to beat faster as he read over the letter. Never, never had he heard of such a meeting ever taking place with the High Lord. He carefully examined the paper, the seal, looking for cues of a forgery. There had to be a conspiracy afoot -- but he was well-versed in the intricacies of a good conspiracy, and this utterly confounded him. No, it was real. It had to be.

The human passed a hand through his jet black hair and looked around his chambers suspiciously. Obviously no one was there, or else he would've picked them up with his mindsight. And still he was uneasy. SaDiablo was no ordinary noble chump. Javarel wouldn't dare try to deceive a man he knew could wipe his very existence away with a simple hand gesture. He'd have to go there, naked without his social powers to protect him.

To his surprise, Javarel began to grin. Then he laughed. He had no control of the situation and he might as well accept it. Hell, things might turn out in his favor in the end. He threw on his wealthy attire and exited his chamber, moving purposefully to the queen's. He'll tell his toy of his unexpected absence, and then it's off to destiny.

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

Sat laboriously in her throne Mythlye just thought to herself, this is just going to be one of those days.

Not that, anyone looking at her would be caught by how she was sat, or more to the point, would they? With long locks of Platinum Blonde hair fallig down around her shoulders, it was a surprise anyone could keep their eyes off of her face. Especially with those electric blue eyes staring out at them, with a small pink and green stone rotating in a lazy circle around her head.

This was not all though, she had a voluptulous hourglass shaped body, with just the right amount of Flesh shown at just the right parts. Not so much that anyone would call her a hussy, had they dared, but enough so that males would imagine and imagine quite freely.

Yet amongst all of her physical beauty it was the sheer power that she exuded which drew people inexorably towards her, especially with the darkest jewel on a fine chain around her neck that anyone had seen in a long time, it was not quite black, but it was Gray.

Standing in the background slightly behind the thronw was a rangy fellow, stood at about 5 foot 8, she whispered something to him as the winged Eryian came swooping into her throneroom.

"Well Kadyn, keep an eye on Solomon I bet you he too got that invite."

As the man starts to talk Mythlye, cuts him off mid-sentance

"Be it that you are a guest here Solomon, it is still LADY Mythlye to you."

Then as her throne room doors slam open again she lets out an over-exaggerated gasp,

"Its like a free-for all circus in here!"

Then her face and voice softens as she see's that the young lad walking in is Ark.

"I presume you too have the letter Ark? Well then, let us four retire, I need to make sure everything is in order before we set off, after all we don't want him thinking we will rush to his beck and call instantly, now then. Do we?"

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn nods in agreement with his Queen when she whispers to him. She's more than he ever expected, and his protective instincts come out strong when the Eyrien comes blasting in and then Ark barges in. He takes a step forward and crosses his arms across his chest as she takes Solomon to task.

He looks forbidding in his Queen's colors with his red jewel on a chain around his neck. The other two will recognize that he's a warlord prince and not to be trifled with.

Kadyn respectfully responds, Yes Lady Mythlye, shall I alert your chamberlain that you'll need to see him?

[Jangoose]

Ark bows quickly to the queen as he exits, murmuring, as you wish m'lady

Once clear of the throne-room, he resets his wardrobe to casual wear and makes for his small personal room. In truth he rarely uses the room itself, preferring to get up to the roof of the tower and sleep under the stars when the nights permit. He likes talking to the birds he finds up there. Animals are rarely as judging as humans can be (although, there was that mule with the attitude problem that once...). Stopping only momentarily in his room, he packs a small bag with the few non-work related items he owns as well as quill, ink and parchment, before throwing himself headlong from the open window.

Freefalling for nearly 6 seconds, he smiled more than he had in quite a while, before rocketing back upwards in a swirl of vague wings of silvery force, and eventually touching down lightly on the roof. Sitting in his favorite niche, he pulls out the quill and parchment, and begins to write a letter to his family. In it, he tells them that he will likely be out of the area for a while, but that he should be fine and they shouldn't worry if his letters stop for a little while. Followed of course by the customary hugs and kisses, etc. folding up the parchment, he searches the towers for a familiar hawk, before, in a series of what sound like sharp twittering chirps, asking it to deliver the letter to his family.

He stays up for a while longer, looking out at the surroundings, and watching the hawk as it disappears into the distance.

call of the beast provides "speak with animal", and wild empathy as a druid of my warlock level. I will make rolls if necessary, but i was sort of assuming that i already knew this particular bird so it was on good terms with me... i figured it would be interesting if i had animal friends but no normal friends... ah, the RP benefits of being an outcast:smallbiggrin:

[Strawman]

While preparing for his journey, Copper overhears that Lady Mythlye and others in her courts are making the same journey. He brings with him everything that would seem appropriate to a military scout. Copper leaves his room and makes an exagerated sigh.

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

"Yes please Kaydn, and make sure everyone else is ready as well?"

With this she swept out of the room and made sure that her regant would be happy enough to rule whilst she was away.

With all the preparations made she dons her most expensive court robe filigreed through with gold inlay and small precious jewels twinkling like dark multiple stars.

Once everyone is ready she climbs into the carriage invites everyone else in and waits for the door to shut before she starts to speak again.

"Onward then."

"Well boys any thoughts on what he could possibly want with us? You think Dorothea is rearing her very ugly head again?"

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth waits outside of the Queen Mythlye's palace. He looks over at the Queen and bows before answering her question in a polite fashion.
"That is possible, my Lady. However, my own Lady has sent me to accompany you on this endeaver." He looks at everyone else. "Well, I hope we can get along, dispite following different Queens."

[tonberryking]

Solomon

"It is not Solomon's intent to insult or disrespect you, Lady Mythlye," our young fencer offers with a bow from his perch on the window, before he turns to seek his own gear for travel, I shall add Lady to your title but know that it was out of mutual respect I did not bind you with titles or courtly red tape but rather addressed you directly. Solomon has been away from any court for some time...

After loading his own storage with a few odds and ends, Solomon once again finds an annoying perch to sit on, or rather, finds a sitting perch to annoy from. In this case he's sitting cross legging atop the carriage, but in all fairness, you doubt he'd be able to fit his wings in without making everyone mad at him.

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn follows after his Queen a few moments later and heads off in a different direction. He contacts the chamberlain and readies everything they'll need for the trip. By the time the coach arrives, everything that might be necessary is packed and ready for the trip.

When the coach arrives, he assists Lady Mythlye up into the coach before checking that the baggage is loaded appropriately. He climbs inside and settles opposite her, Possibly, she never has been subtle.

[Strawman]

Copper smiles, "Maybe it's the other way around. She can't always be the one to ruin lives."

[MistressBaerne]

SaDiablo Hall
Dhemlan Kaeleer
Evening

Arriving at SaDiablo Hall is an experience none of you are likely to forget, even those used to the dark splendor of a Queen's court. Its imposing-yet-elegant gray bulk looms over the village clustered around it in a manner that could be described either as menacing or protective, depending on one's temprement, and it appears easily large enough to swallow the population of a small town and remain uncrowded. A circular drive leads past clipped lawns and a small forest - Which, you realize with a start, would also fit inside the Hall, itself much larger than you'd originally suspected - and up to a slab of black marble with a dragon's head doorknocker attached. Giving it a tug results in a small cloud of steam, a gong ringing somewhere inside the house - And the door sliding abruptly into the floor, apparently vanishing into the floor. In its place stands, unsurprisingly, a butler.

What is surprising is the exact nature of the butler, specifically the Red Jewel at his throat and the physic scent unique to Warlord Princes you can detect coming off of him. He bows, and says:
"Lady, Princes, and Lords, the High Lord is expecting you. If you will follow me?" And he leads you into SaDiablo Hall.

[Jangoose]

Seeing and hearing the carriage's arrival out front, Ark picks up his bag (which basically contains personal items, writing equipment, and a small journal), and then dismisses it to his psychic cupboard before flying down to join the others in the carriage.

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

Getting out of the carriage, Ark looks around in wonder. Turning to the horses, he thanks them for the ride, before returning his attention to the rest of the group, and the butler leading them. Senses of foreboding and curiosity emanate from the twin minds of his jewel as they walk into the massive hall

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth walks calmly through SaDiablo while keeping a calm eye on the butler, but appearing like he is observing his surroundings. He seems impressed by the size of the building. He pulls out his own Tiger Eye Jewel and thinks for a moment.
Warlord Princes are known to go berserk when prompted, we should probably be careful around this man. He tucks the jewel away and resumes following the butler.

[Cespenar]

Daros

Stepping out of the carriage, Daros spends a moment or two to examine the great place he heard since his childhood, but now that he has seen it, it somehow seemed to lose its mystery.

It's just a very large building with a very powerful man in it, nothing more.

Encountering the "butler", Daros responds to the man's bow with a quick one of his without much thinking- he wasn't used to be respected at all. He follows the Red jewel with a sure-footed, march-like walk and pays little heed at anything else.

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn exits the carriage before his Queen, then helps her out. He will wait and follow her up to the Hall. He is subdued and circumspect, offering a bow to the butler and following the others inside.

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

Taking a single moment to compose herself Lady Mythlye alights from the carriage with Kadyns help and strides forward keeping pace with the butler matching him stride for stride keeping an eye all about

[Strawman]

Copper exits the carraige and walks a few feet behind everyone else.

[Jangoose]

As the group enters the actual building, a wave of self-consciousness filters over from one of Ark's jewel's minds (he often wondered if this personality was once a warlord prince (perhaps remnants of his father?), with its need for formality and its chaotic agressiveness...). Looking around though, Ark does indeed feel severely under-dressed, and so with a murmured word, he commands his wardrobe to shift, which it does, into an elegant black set of rune embroidered formal robes.

[Delandel]

With permission from his queen, Javarel begins preparations to head to SaDiablo Hall. He diligently packs all his necessary provisions and dons his most expensive, elaborate attire, a pristine white silk shirt, stylish blue pants, a gold-inlaid black leather belt buckle, black leather dress shoes, a glistening silver necklace, and a regal navy blue cloak on top. When he is ready, the queen summons her personal carriage for him, and the journey begins.

Javarel reaches the Hall at last, incredibly impressed by its intimidating splendour. He has mixed feelings about meeting the "butler," on one hand he is annoyed that such a lowly servant has such an impressive jewel compared to his own, but on the other he is in awe at the might of a master of such a powerful servant. He makes a mental note to be on his very best behaviour.

Not long after he is ushered to wait at a sleek marble bench does the butler recede back to the Hall's entrance, welcoming newcomers. Javarel feels them out with his mindsight as they approach -- they certainly aren't the High Lord, though one entity does confuse him a bit (Ark's jewel).

When they come close the young human rises from his seat, and oozing with social charm, flashes a warm and sincere looking smile, giving a courteous bow to the obvious Queen. "I see more have been summoned by the High Lord. A pleasure to meet you all. My name is Javarel Hyth."

OOC:
I know diplomacy doesn't work on chars but I figured it would at least indicate how tactfully he says things.

I can roll Bluff though if necessary! :P

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn walks quickly behind her, keeping in step with the group. He continuously looks side to side for anything of interest or that he might need to know.

[MistressBaerne]

SaDiablo Hall
Dhemlan Kaeleer
Evening

The corridors of the Hall seem to run for miles, branching off in every imaginable direction - Including ones that shouldn't be possible; you see several servants flying straight up one passage that runs perpendicular to the floor. A gravity-transmutation aura visible to those of you with altered sight explains this, and the outer walls glow with the blacks and reds of protective and necromantic spells, though curiously only on the inside.

With a start, you realize that the High Lord doesn't mind people getting into his home, but that leaving would be a much more difficult endeavor.

After walking for what seems like at least half a mile, you arrive in front of another of the black marble slabs that seem to serve as doors. It slides into its niche in the floor without any knock from the butler, who stands aside and gestures for you to enter.

An L-shaped room is visible beyond the threshold, the shorter side facing you. A massive wooden desk at the far end holds an assortment of papers, a portrait of a woman wearing a Black Jewel, and, oddly, a child's drawing of a unicorn. More interesting than these, however, is the man behind the desk.

Tall, with black hair gone silver at the temples framing an elegant, handsome face and a pair of intensly golden eyes above a black cloak and white shirt, the High Lord of Hell appears exactly as described in myth and legend, down to the icy expression and Black Jewel at his throat. He is awash with magic, visible at the edge of sight even to those without special vision, and blindingly so to those with it; his skin is lit by a variety of effects, both benign and malevolent, and his garments are likewise covered in spells.

"Lady, Princes, Lords, do be seated," he says, gesturing to a scattering of chairs before his desk. "There is much to discuss."His voice is a wash of honeyed syllables, and all the more unsettling for it's appeal.

[Delandel]

Javarel

Javarel strides into the room, his emotions calm and collected. He absorbs the scene around him and gives a deep, courteous bow to the magnificent presence seated before him. The High Lord truly lives up to the legends. Javarel doesn't need to rely on his mindsight to know he must be on his best behavior for this meeting. The human sits down in one of the chairs offered to him.

Javarel takes a quick glance at the portrait of the woman on SaDiablo's desk, and briefly ponders the woman's background.

Knowledge Nobility to find out more about the woman in the portrait?
[roll0]

[Strawman]

Copper unconsiously becomes rigid and formal in his posture. His military training floods through his mind and he takes a seat. He seems tense enough that he may not be sitting at all, but rather squatting just above the chair.

[tonberryking]

Solomon

The winged fencer remains quiet upon entering the mysterious hall, Solomon recognizing a feeling of deja vu; this place holds a similar feeling to where he sought training. In fact, Solomon seems, well, solemn upon entry of the High Lord's study, regarding its occupant with a serious, gauging look.

He recalls the last time he met with the Lord, and the bargain struck. Plainly he hopes that it will still be upheld. "Solomon sees that you've been busy offering invitations to more malcontents than a simple fencer..." he offers, crossing his arms, "This won't upset the nature of our agreement, will it?"

[Cespenar]

Daros

His stiff march echoing against the walls, Daros enters the hall and again at once, his eyes draw every aspect of the room in an uncontrollable reflex. Taking the High Lord's words as order, he suddenly drops himself on a nearby chair and waits for the man to speak with an intense concentration, which only breaks once as he spares an aggressive glance at the winged fencer that spoke out of hand.

[Zipding]

Marth
When Marth entered the room, he began to feel somewhat intimidated, although he did not show it. After bowing politely to the High Lord, he sits in one of the chairs that were offered.

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

Walking up to the High Lord, Lady Mythlye actually bows her head towards him, a feat that not even Kaydn has seen her do ever before.

After this she takes the comfiest seat facing the Lord sits down relaxes into and a smile forms on her lips, but not touching her eyes.

"Well met, My Lord. Care to tell what the trouble might be for so many of us to have been called? My money is either on Dorothea showing her ugly face again or something to do with one of your Sons?"

The second half she says in a quieter and slightly more reverent voice.

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn walks in behind her and the High Lord's voice washes over him, it stirs something deep inside him, but he doesn't falter and follows the proper protocol. He bows a moment after she does and when she takes a seat, he stands behind her chair. His body language is clear. He's deferential to the High Lord, but protective of Lady Mythlye. Good Evening High Lord. He folds his arms as he waits to hear what he has to say.

[Jangoose]

Ark walks into the room, keeping just behind Lady Mythlye, and to the right of Kadyn. He remains within arms reach of the queen, taking a seat behind her and to her right. He keeps his left hand loose and ready should the need arise to "flee the scene". It was a simple but good plan, one he used whenever he accompanied the queen anywhere dangerous. Should anything go wrong, Ark would be ready to teleport her out of harms way at a moment's notice. Not that it would likely do much good under the current circumstances, it was more force of habit than anything.

The brilliant aura that rings the figure of the High Lord make looking at him directly almost uncomfortable. As he is sitting down, Ark nods in a sort of short bow and murmurs High Lord.

Continually readying to cast the invocation "Flee the Scene", teleporting myself and the queen back the direction we came from by 50'. Doing so will leave an illusion of both of us which will remain in our places for 1 round and act as we would.

[MistressBaerne]

"You would be half-correct, Lady." the High Lord says, responding to the highest-ranked person's questions first. "The errand I would have you perform does indeed involve the High Priestess of Hayll, and my sons, albeit in an ancillary role. You see, I have come to a decision.

"For the past 1,700 years, I held to my honor and stayed out of Terreille. Such are the ways of the Blood - I had no right to be there; denied paternity and without holdings. In the absence of any force powerful enough to stop her, Dorothea spent those centuries twisting Blood Law and Protocol into a fascimile of justice, while I watched helplessly from Hell. Prince Kadyn, especially, knows of what I speak.

"However, the time for waiting is over, the time for watching ended, and damn the consequences. You will be my steel fist, striking terror into the hearts of Dorothea's cronies and offering succor to her victims. In return for your efforts towards the utter annihilation of the abomination that calls itself Terreillean society, you will recieve my gratitude, the thanks of an entire Realm, and anything it is in my power to give."

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn has experienced it all first hand. His eyes close as he remembers those years. With a savage feeling, he shoves them all back down before they overwhelm him. He clenches his fists, driving his nails into his palms to distract him and bring him back to the present.

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

"You have come to such a decision after centuries of being held here by protocol. So I see why you send us, you yourself will not have your honour impeded, and therefore not descend to the level that the priestess is on. But I must ask, and you of course may choose not to answer if you don't want to, but does this desicion and the decision to collect so many powerful people so quickly have anything at all to do with something that may have happened to your children?

We hear whispers on the wind that a change may be coming soon, and something will be involving them, is this why you need action now rather than a 100 years ago?

This is idle chatter of course, and merely speculation, I myself will be willing to pledge myself to your cause, even if it is in an un-official enterprise. I also assume you have a first "target" lined up? Or something you would like us to do."

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth looks at Lady Mythyle as she talks to the High Lord. When she finishes, he focuses his attention onto the High Lord and responds. "I believe that I may be able to help, High Lord. My Lady would not mind too much if I do this."

[Cespenar]

Daros

Daros waits silently as the Lady's intuitive off-hand question remains to be answered, not wishing to cut into anyone's words. He just nods once when the High Lord asks for their help.

[Strawman]

Copper

The stiff scout says, "I will help out in any way you wish, lord. Dorothea is a personal enemy of mine."

[Delandel]

Javarel is mildly intrigued by the avian humanoid's brashness. What type of deal did he and the High Lord have?

The young human also gives the queen a good lookover, tactfully of course. He is quite impressed by her... Assets. Quite an entourage she has! Her bodyguard stands by her so protectively, perhaps naively thinking they could protect her in this lion's own den? Well, it's the thought that counts, Javarel concludes.

The beguiler is most surprised by the boy sitting down near him. A child was called upon by the High Lord. And more disturbing, with his mindsight he 'sees' two individuals sitting in that very spot, but his naked eyes plainly tell him there is obviously just one! Javarel wonders which of his senses are betraying him. And yet, there is something strangely familiar about the boy, but he cannot put his finger on it.

Javarel listens intently to what the High Lord has to say, and what his new collaborators respond with. When it is his turn to speak he says, "I am flattered that you brought me here for this, High Lord. I am at your command, of course."

[Jangoose]

Although unintentionally, his eyes wander around to the others, and he can't help but seeing Javarel looking at him rather intently. Ark keeps his head moving, trying now specifically to avoid meeting Javarel's gaze. In the brief flash in which he had looked at him though, Ark seems to somehow feel as if he has seen this man before...

Hearing the others around him chime in, Ark nods his acceptance of the task, saying, I will follow my queen. if you have her loyalty then you have mine as well. (He still tries to keep from letting his gaze stray directly onto the High Lord's blazing aura)

Oh yeah, and Delandel, there are 3 minds :smallbiggrin: mine, and two in my jewel

[tonberryking]

"Solomon is going to go off on this slaying spree anyway; it makes no difference others ally with myself." The eryian says, though he looks at the High Lord, expecting an affirmative that his own personal deal is still being upheld.

"The Lady Mythlye and her entourage will still accept Solomon's aide? It's outside help to be sure, but I promise that my help is able help indeed..."

[MistressBaerne]

The High Lord nods once to Solomon, seeming mildly irritated at his lack of decorum. Turning to the group as a whole, he says: "I thank you for your cooperation. Your actions will not be forgotten."

Switching his golden gaze to Lady Mythlye, he continues. "As to your questions, Lady, know this: There is a reason behind my choice of time, but it cannot now be revealed. I shall simply say that the change the Darkness whispers of is coming, and I wish to make it's task easier.

"Your first task shall be to see that a pet Queen of Dorothea's reaps what she has sown. I speak of Mairead d'Kell, Queen of Tigrelan, Terreille. I can tell you little but that she willingly swore allegiance to Dorothea, and that her people suffer as she lives in excess and luxury."

[Strawman]

Copper

"A specific target. That makes things easy. Does she have any weak points in her defense?"

[Delandel]

Javarel listens intently but remains silent. He chooses not to speak unless called upon, for now at least.

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth sits quietly thinking this over before asking.
"Where can we find this Mairead d'Kell? Or do we need to find her ourselves?"

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

Firstly to Solomon :

"I assure you, your aid is appreciated, don't worry about that, as long as you have no turn of alligance part way through of course."

Then when the High Lord speaks

"I have but one question, transport? Provided or not?"

Then she seems to muse on her own for a few moments

"So the whispers spoke true, she may be coming."

Then to Marth

"A good guess would be in her palace, there are so many tedious functions of state to perform that unless she is on a royal procession she will most likely be there surrounded by guards."

[Cespenar]

Again, Daros only nods and continues to listen to the cloud of words around him.

Why would they ask so many questions? We already got our mission for Darkness' sake.

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth nods to Lady Mythyle after she answers his question and thanks her in a very polite voice. He looks at the others before focusing his attention again on the High Priest of the Hourglass.

[MistressBaerne]

The High Lord smiles slightly at Marth's question, as if remembering something from his past.
"As just stated, Lord Marth, I can't begin to guess where you might find Dorothea's minion - I have not set foot in Terreille in 1,700 hundred years; my sources are rather thin on the ground after so long. I am afraid you shall have to be your own scouts for this mission.

"Lady Mythlye is likely better equipped to predict the moves of a fellow Queen than I, and in answer to her question, I shall provide transport to the Dark Altar in Chaillot, the nearest of the thirteen to Tigrelan. A Priestess friendly to me guards the Altar, and will help you to cross into Terreille and provide any aid she can. When you decide to set out matters little, though I confess that the earlier my vengeance begins, the more pleased I will be."
That honeyed voice is entirely too pleasant for the words, and the glazed, sleepy look in the golden eyes manages to be far more terrifying than a rage-filled glare.

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

Lady Mythlye attempts to counter the High Lords stare, or even look into his eyes as he finishes talking, and barely supresses a shudder as she notices the deep look intently, as if for the first time. Almost as if a spasm passes through her, she blanches, and quite forcefully, the first that anyone has ever seen of a weakness in her.

"Well I see no reason for us to delay our pursuit of this goal for any longer than is necessary. I will need about an hour to transmit and recieve new instructions and a quick update from my regent, after that I am ready to go.

I would suggest that anyone who has any work that needs to be concluded, should do so now, and we can set off and be back in time for tea tonight.

One last question, My Lord: After this first queen, will we have free reign or will there be other "targets" of higher value that need to be addressed first?"

[Delandel]

Javarel continues to listen intently to the conversation. Keenly aware of diplomatic etiquette, he waits his turn to speak, if he believes it's correct that he speaks at all. In a modest tone he says, "Do you have a deadline for these missions in mind, High Lord? In my opinion, stealth and patience will be vital to eliminating these minions of Dorothea. If we start outright killing loyal servants of the priestess she may become aware of our existence, lowering our chances of success. I suggest we study our victims carefully and play off their flaws, make them look responsible for their own deaths. I have many ideas in mind, of course."

He nods to Mythyle when she speaks. "I am ready to leave for the task at hand whenever everyone else is."

I'm not sure if it's allowed since it's another plane and all, but if I can here's a knowledge nobility check on Mairead d'Kell:
[roll0]

[Handsome Dan]

And just incase Mythlye can shed anything else on the queen heres her nobility check

[roll0]

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn is uncomfortable here, but hides it as best he can. He's ready to leave, that look in the High Lord's eyes looks like a promise of violence and he knows that if he were to slip over the edge, he'd lose. He nods, My Lord, I will be willing to do whatever it takes to assist you.

[Strawman]

Copper remains silent, taking his lord's words to mean that he should wait for Lady Mythlye's commands.

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth leans back and sighs calmly before looking at the High Lord and asking:
"When do you want this done, milord?"

[MistressBaerne]

"You may begin whenever is convenient, and I will have another mission for you after this one is completed."

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

"Well then I suggest we get the show on the road boys and avians."

With this she will stand up and wait for the rest to stand before sweeping out of the house and towards where the transport has been arranged for us.

Along the way she opens a physcic link to her chancellor or regent, whoever is in charge transmitting new instructions and recieving updates from the kingdom.

[Strawman]

Copper respectfully bows to his lord before following Lady Mythlye.

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth stands up after Copper and bows to the High Priest before following the others out of the chamber. As he is leaving, he pulls his chain from his physic cupboard and wraps it around his armoured shoulders.
"Well, this should be interesting. I wonder if Caladan Brood ever spoke with the High Priest of the Hourglass before."

[MistressBaerne]

Lady Mythlye: Your Steward, an Opal-Jeweled Prince named Garrow Rivtrue, responds to your physic inquiry. "What is thy will, Milady?"


Everyone: The unreasonably powerful butler, who you discover is called Beale, escorts you towards rooms in the East wing of the Hall - It is approaching midnight, after all, and sleep is generally considered useful before setting out on a combat mission.

In the morning, after a sumptous breakfast at which the High Lord is not present, you are taken to an upper-floor room with a gigantic glass door covering one wall - Through which you can see a floating coach, with a cloaked figure in the driver's position, and a walkway extending to the door.

Entering, you find the interior rather larger than would seem possible, though it is certainly comfortable. After perhaps two hour's journey, you arrive at the Dark Altar in Chaillot, where a middle-aged Priestess greets you, saying;

"Good morning, friends. I am Lady Margot, and the High Lord has asked me to take you to Terreille and assist you however I can. May I know your names?"

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

Before Leaving : "Greetings Garrow. Just wanted to make sure everything was still all okay back there. Basically try not to blow the place up, if there is a major dispute, contact me, any time, day or night, otherwise use your own judgement, I trust it. Good luck Garrow and don't get everyone killed, they are relying on you, and so am I."

At the other side :

"Greetings Lady Margot, my name is Lady Mythlye" This she says with a nod of acceptance to the Lady, but not of deference.

"and as you were expecting us so promptly I assume you already know why we are here. Here are my companions in arms in this travel, but I will let them introduce themselves."

With that said she stands easy and starts to have a good luck around just to see if theres anything interesting she hasn't seen or heard of before.

[Delandel]

Smiling warmly and bowing courteously before the priestess he says, "A pleasure to meet you, Lady Margot. I am Javarel Hyth. Your assistance is most appreciated. We have much to discuss about this particular mission."

The priestess' face reminds Javarel of someone familiar. It doesn't seem tactful in the beguiler's mind to just ask the woman about her background just yet, but he may bring the topic up at a later time.

[Cespenar]

Daros

Daros, who has been staying silent even since the High Lord's Hall, sharply bows at the priestess as he opens his mouth rather forcibly.

"It is Daros Echran, milady. At your service," he declares with a deeply bass voice.

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn nods politely. My Lady, I am Kadyn Demarcus.

[Strawman]

Copper

"Greetings, my name is Copper. Your assistance is much appreciated."

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth looks at Margot after entering the coach and politely introduces himself. "My name is Marth the Retaliator. I am at your service until my death."

[Jangoose]

Ark

Once out of range of the High Lord, Ark seems visibly more comfortable. With a word he shifts his clothes again, into a simple and casual outfit.

After Arriving:
Greetings Milady. My name is Ark he says...

[MistressBaerne]

"A pleasure to meet all of you, I'm sure. Shall we begin, then? The process is not quick, and I assume you'd like to reach Terreille before nightfall." Lady Margot smiles slightly, beckoning towards the chamber at the end of the hall, from which a sense of dark power emanates.

Lady Mythlye:As you step forward, a physic thread opens. Lady Margot speaks in a quiet tone of voice, though no one can hear. "Lady, I was told to pass a message to you, and only you: As given, it is 'Like calls to like, and the Blood shall sing to the Blood'."

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

"Indeed to reach there before nightfall would be of great benefit."

As she is walking she keeps an eye out for anything out of the ordinary, who knows how far Dorotheas dark grip had spread yet, lets just hope she hasn't passed through Realms.

To DM


"I don't suppose you know who told you to pass this message on do you? Blood singing to blood and like calling to like, doesn't make me feel all too good at all. How does she know we're here already? This bodes ill, for us all. But if it happens, my blood will be singing with victory before hers."

[MistressBaerne]

Lady Mythlye: "No, Lady, it's not that at all - It's the High Lord's message, and I've been ordered not to elaborate. Something about any more information spoiling that which was given. In any case, I'm only a messenger. If I were you, though, I'd trust the only male Black Widow in history to have some clue what he's talking anout."

[Handsome Dan]

To DM


"It still makes me uneasy no matter how much I trust him. I guess all will be revealed, the only question is when. Anyway lets get moving, I would like to reach Tereille before nightfall if possible."

[Zipding]

Marth
"What can control such power? It is so dark." Marth remarks when he sees the chamber.

[MistressBaerne]

"Nothing, Warlord. The Darkness is not controlled, but served. That is my function, and, I fancy, yours as well." Lady Margot steps into the Altar room, bows once to the black crystal candle that serves as the representation of the Darkness, and says;

"No more questions, then? I'd like to begin."

Lady Mythlye: "In that case, Lady, we should begin immediately."

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

"Indeed, let us being milady. Do you require any of us to do anything or simply stand and wait for you to complete the ritual?"

[Delandel]

Javarel is shocked when he hears the boy say his name, but as usual he tries his best to keep an air of respectful indifference. Ark's name, his appearance, his age, all suddenly come together to point at one person in particular. The noble child, the lucky one. He was born in the lap of luxury, while Javarel was a bastard child under the care of disgraced servants. From what the man could remember he was a good kid, but Javarel couldn't help but still feel some resentment. Could this really be the same person? So much time has passed, and this Ark is so different from the one he remembered.

Bluff to keep looking indifferent towards everything.
[roll0]

He follows Lady Margot's lead and bows to the candle as well. "I am ready, milady."

[MistressBaerne]

DM's Note: Daverick, a Sense Motive check, if you please.

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn waits for the ritual to be complete so they can get on with their mission. He'd love nothing better than to bathe in the blood of that evil Queen.

[MistressBaerne]

"If you would be so kind as to all place a drop of blood in this bowl," says Lady Margot, indicating a crystal bowl on the altar, "We can be finished shortly."

[Cespenar]

Daros

Being rather used to this kind of rituals, Daros drives a nail into a finger sharply, drawing a few drops of blood. Without an expression on his face for good or bad, he shakes his finger slightly on the bowl, making the drops... drop.

He then takes a step aside to let the others do the same, eyeing them occasionally to see their reactions.

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn steps forward and with a knife he pulls from somewhere, he pricks a finger, letting a single drop fall into the bowl before he steps back and vanishes the knife.

[Jangoose]

Ark

Ark gestures vaguely, and a dagger appears in his hand, a brilliant white crystal embedded in its hilt. With just a tiny bit of discomfort, he makes a small cut on the middle finger of his left hand, and flicks a drop of blood into the bowl. Watching the blood fall, a strange excited hungry feeling emanates from one of his jewel's minds, and Ark turns his head away from the bowl until the feeling calms.

Sense Motive

[roll0]


-edit(ouch, a 3)

[Strawman]

Copper pulls out an arrow and takes off his shoe and sock. He pricks a toe and lets a drop of blood fall into the pool.

As he composes himself he explains, "Old archer's trick. I do not want my hands getting infections."

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

"A single drop will suffice? I do not like giving excessivley where I need not to."

With this she will withdraw her shiny dagger, and every so gently slice a small wound at the top of her little finger and squeeze out a single drop of blood, instantly wrapping it afterwards and compressing the wound so no more follows.

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth pulls out his spiked chain and proceeds to jab one of his fingers onto one of the spikes and lets the blood drop into the bowl. When he finishes, he looks at Copper.
"Well, that does make sense," he tells the archer.

[Delandel]

Javarel frowns a bit as he watches everyone else approach the crystal bowl. Blood is one of the most potent materials for powerful spells and he's a little reluctant to give such a personal part of himself away so freely. Still when it's his turn to contribute, he does not hesitate to approach the bowl, prick his finger with a dagger he draws from his cloak, and let a drop of his blood fall with the rest.

[MistressBaerne]

With an expression of great concentration on her face, Lady Margot bows once again towards the altar, and, chanting something in a language none of you know, slices her own hand open with a magic-sharpened nail. Drawing her bloody palm across the wall behind the altar, chanting all the while, Margot forms an angled, geometric shape that nonetheless seems fluid and everchanging. Indeed, the main circulular line around which all the others flow seems to be shifting, expanding...and suddenly, the wall is replaced by grey mist. She empties the bowl containing your blood onto it and stands still, her voice silent for the first time since the ritual began.

The mist lightens. Behind it, though still indistinct, you can see a room much like the one you stand in, but with the air of a place long deserted. She gestures for you to follow her, and steps through into the Realm of Tereille.

As the rest of you emerge, you see Lady Margot and Lady Mythlye on their knees with expressions of bewilderment and terror on their faces. They start to rise just as the males in the group reach to assist.

[Jangoose]

Ark scrambles to help his queen up. meanwhile, his jewel looks around the room for him to try to see what is causing such a reaction from the ladies.

the jewel has a 60' radius field of vision/hearing, and can communicate with me its findings with flashes of emotion or images etc.

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

Staggering downwards, Mythlye has a look of horror on her face as if one had not just seen their own demise and passing, but the fate of an entire world crumble. She looks to be on the verge of madness, and it passes.

The look had been there for but a second and that was enough. All had seen it clearly and all had witnessed it.

For a moment she stays on her knees, then as the males reach her and Lady Margot she takes Ark's arm and hand on one side, and Kaydns on the other rising to her legs, and standing straight a moment later.

When Lady Margot had been helped to her feet she lays a reassuring hand upon the Ladys shoulder and smiles at her as genuinley as possible.

"Well that is certainly a different feeling.

Anyone have any plans so far? Or even where we are, my Lady, you don't happen to have directions do you for where we are needed to go, or at least the general direction?

I think the best way may be to get the Queen to ride out for some reason, and catch her in a trap, rather than bursting into a castle full of heavily armed and armoured men and magicians."

With that said she stands, intones a few words of power and a shimmering field of force descends upon Mythlye.


Casting Mage Armour, 15 hours left.

[Cespenar]

Daros

Extending a firm arm to Lady Margot if she lets him, Daros curiously raises an eyebrow as to their condition, but characteristically keeps silent. He looks at the other males in the group to see if anyone else has felt whatever the ladies have experienced.

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth helps Ark bring Lady Margot to her feet. When he is sure that she is okay, he sees if Lady Mythyle needs any help.
"Lady Mythyle, I do not have any idea for a plan, but with the outlook on the group, it looks like Solomon could scout out the tower through the windows to be able to find any gaurds or perhaps, our target herself."

OOC:
Solomon does have wings, right?

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn is there when she needs him, ready with a hand on her elbow to help her up. His face is carefully impassive, he isn't sure what happened to bring that look to her face and he isn't sure if it's something he was meant to know.

After she's standing, he keeps one hand on her elbow in case she suddenly feels faint, as he looks around for anything that may be menacing or unusual in the local area.

[MistressBaerne]

Lady Margot smiles faintly at the aid offered her, accepting gracefully. Blinking slightly at Lady Mythlye's abrupt change of subject, she says unsteadily:
"Lady, recall that I haven't been to Terreille in decades, or out of this Territory in even longer. I cannot say what the weaknesses in d'Kell's defenses could be, but yes, I think stealth is in order here.

In any case, you'll need transport to Tigrelan, which is just across the Chaillot Strait. As I recall, there's a ferry service running between Beldon Mor, the capital of Chaillot, and somewhere in Tigrelan, which should serve admirably. Let's see, Beldon Mor is... About three miles West of here, getting there ought not to be hard. There's horses in the stable attached to the Altar if you need them."

[Jangoose]

I can help with that!

Ark excitedly says in response to Marth's suggestion, obviously happy to have useful skills,

I can not only fly, but fly invisibly. It should be easy enough to scout out the grounds... And besides, he adds, while i'm there, i can have a chat with the local fauna about our dear target. You'd be surprised what birds and squirrels can learn.

[Delandel]

A distinctive change in Javarel's demeanor can be noticed as he walks into the new realm. There's an air confidence as he strides into the musty room. He was quite humbled when meeting with the High Lord, but now feels much more relaxed. After quickly looking around his new surroundings both with his eyes and his mindsight, he speaks up, "Ah, well stealth is a subject I have some knowledge in as well. I can scout too, and help Solomon out by making him invisible. We may have some things in common, kid." He nods and smiles at Ark before looking back at the rest of the group. "Firstly I must ask, is there anyone in our group that might be recognized in this realm? We may run into some troubles if our ladies could be pointed out by one of Dorothea's lackeys on our journey. Disguises should be used in that case."

Bluff for the "smile" 1d20+15 :smalltongue:

Turning to Lady Margot he adds, "Is there anything else the High Lord has set up to aide us? Perhaps more contacts on this realm to have a safe place to sleep?"

Without looking at Ark he speaks to the boy telepathically without using his psychic thread.
"What is your last name, boy? Don't try to lie, I assure you it won't work."

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn looks away when Javarel asks who might be recognized. He has a past history in Terreille, but he doesn't want the others to know. He didn't recognize the name of the Queen they're going to kill, but that doesn't mean he wasn't once the property of someone she knew. He never even knew most of the names of the Queens he was passed around to. He keeps his eyes on the floor, unwilling to speak.

[Jangoose]

Ark
Surprised by the unusual form of telepathic contact, and put off by the harsh tone of the voice, the smile on Ark's face falters for a second, but is soon replaced with a fake

Bluff for the smile
[roll0]


He responds along the created telepathic link
whats it to you? who are you?


he looks around for suspicious faces.
Sense Motive
[roll1]

[Cespenar]

Daros

Slowly turning to Javarel, Daros shrugs at his question as he scratches his cheek.

"I did some... business around here from time to time, but I hardly doubt that someone would recognize me."

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

"Well none of us know who or what could inform to who in this realm. But at a guess, a group of this many unrecognised faces alone will be reported, let alone if they see how powerful each of us are. So as reprehensible as it may be, we may have to hide our jewels as we travel through the realm.

If we intend to do this by stealth, I would suggest going in pairs at least, even if one of us could be perfect for a task, if they have any form of magical guards or sentries, we don't want someone going down without anyone else knowing and being able to contact the group.

First I suggest we find some form of town, and see what the Queen is up to and like, if she spends most of the time in the castle, we can work at it from there?"

[Strawman]

Copper

"I find your plan agreeable my queen. I would be well suited to a one or two person group, but some of the others may not be. If we do opt to spilt up, perhaps we should discuss our strengths with each other now. That way no group would be unable to function on their own.

"I am a scout of military training. I excel at speed and long ranged combat. I also have acute senses."

[MistressBaerne]

"An excellent plan, Lady Mythlye. The nearest settlement of any size is, as I've said, Beldon Mor, ruled by... I'm afraid I don't remember; it's been rather a while since I last visited. Something to remember, by-the-by: If anyone mentions Cassandra's Altar, they mean here. Can't recall why.

I'll be remaining here, to provide a safe base and to relay any messages the High Lord might have for you. If you'd like to rest for a bit, do so, otherwise, good luck and may the Darkness embrace you!"

[Zipding]

Marth
"Thank you milady," the human says as he bows. He looks around at the others to see if they are ready to go.

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

"Well seen as we're sharing information, I wouldn't work as well in a pair as most of you guys probably will, and to be honest, I think most of my skills would have to be person skills.

Well then lets get a move on, I suppose if your skills are as a scout, Copper, lead on. And anyone else who is sneaky and quick go with him, if we start working together properly now, we should mesh better as time goes on, and we can iron weaknesses out of our dynamic now."

[Delandel]

"Yes, that's a good idea. Splitting up will draw less attention to ourselves than travelling in a large group. I also recommend, milady, that you slip into some more modest clothing when we arrive at the town," he says, grinning at Mythlye, "You dress fitting for a queen of your status, but alas that may be a problem if we want to remain unseen."

After looking over his group he continues, "So, it appears Copper, Ark, and I are the ones most capable of scouting? That's a good amount. Alright, let's be off then in the suggested pairs. About half hour intervals would suffice I'd say. Meet at the nearest inn inside the town?"

Javarel nods politely to Lady Margot, "Thank you, milday. We will be in touch."

Knowledge nobility / arcana about the "altar of cassandra"? [roll0] +15 if arcana +12 if nobility.

Speaking telepathically to Ark:
"Ark Syle. That's who you are. You may not remember me but I certainly remember you. No need to look around -- I'm Javarel. If we're to pair up, you're coming with me. We have much to catch up on, brother."

When all is said and done, Javarel (either with Ark, Copper, both?) heads out to the ferry and is off to the town.

[Jangoose]

Ark

Ark's eyes widen in shock momentarily he glances quickly over at Javarel. Brother?

He responds telepathically to javarel:
I haven't gone by that name in a very long time. you have a lot of explaining to do...
Still slightly phased, Ark takes a second before he can process what is going on (the new form of telepathy is not quite as natural feeling to him as a typical psychic link, not to mention the fact that a man he had only just met was now calling him brother), then nods,

I agree. it will be best to stagger our arrival into town. I will join Javarel in the first group...

and he and Javarel leave.

Once outside, Ark commands his garb to shift again, which it does, to a set of well worn looking leather breeches, boots, and bracers over a yellowing cloth shirt and pants and a long brownish scarf to cover his jewel.

[Strawman]

Copper turns to Marth and says, "You look tough. I like to stay out of the front lines. I think we'd make a good strike force together."

[Zipding]

Marth
"Alright then." Marth responds. "Let's get going Copper, you look like you can back me up pretty good."

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn would rather stay with Lady Mythlye, being a warlord prince isn't easy to hide. He turns to her, If it would please you my Lady, I'd rather stay by your side.

[Cespenar]

Daros

Daros suppresses a smirk as three pairs immediately form and leave him alone.

That's... much better than what I thought.

Looking back one last time to see if anyone else has anything to say, Daros begins to march his way to the city with great, wide steps without uttering another word.

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

"Obviously Kaydn, you don't think i'd be going without you do you?

Daros, if you wish, you can travel with us, I don't wish to leave anyone feeling ostracized "(I have no idea if thats vaguely spelt right.)

As to the clothing, she hasn't packed anything mundane, it was the one thing that slipped her mind.

She waves her hands over herself and with a simple cantrip (prestidigitation) it looks as if she is wearing a slightly smelly disheveled peasant suit.

"Lets hurry this up, I don't want to have to look like this for long."

[Cespenar]

Daros

Freezing in his tracks, Daros gazes back at Lady Mythlye and bows swiftly.

"Ostracized? Hardly milady, I'm very much used to working alone, and have no qualms about it. However, if your Highness would wish me as company, I'd -of course- oblige."

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

"I will force no one to come with us, if you wish to keep yourself to yourself then travel on alone, and we will meet each other in the town.

If we are to work as a group though, I would have no one resenting anyone else."

With this she sets off towards the town without looking back, but slow enough that if Daros wishes to catch us up he can do and really quite easily.

[MistressBaerne]

OOC: Right, we'll do this by groups, shall we?

Ark and Javarel:
Getting to Beldon Mor takes rather less time than you'd expected. Well-paved roads wend their way through a remarkably pleasant-looking, if rather briar-filled wood, then past fields in which a scattering of farmers toil, the more prosperous aided by sorcerous constructs. A manor house on a hill is the only thing noticably different from Kaeleer - A vaguely repulsive physic scent emanates from it. Not evil, per se, but... a sense that one would be better off not knowing what lies within its walls.

The city itself has that curious air of a beautiful place once much more so. Green parks and tree-lined avenues alike are filled with young aristocrats on the strut, and by armed guards wearing what you presume to be the Lady Alexandra's livery. One stops you on the way to the inn district, but waves you on before you have time to answer him. Clearly, the Watch is not too watchful in this Territory.

Note: Any conversations you wish to have can still take place, but mark them with "Unreal Time" so I don't get confused. :smallsmile:

[Cespenar]

Daros

Daros looks at both interchangeable options: the empty road, and the queen with her sorcerer. After couple seconds, Daros shrugs as he moves after Lady Mythlye.

"No offense milady, but basic tactics would suggest always to put a sword in front of every staff, so I'd travel with your group, if it'd be no problem," he says, walking a little faster to catch up to them.

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn follows after Lady Mythlye. He looks around with interest, but remains alert for trouble, they're in Terreille after all and anything could happen. When Daros joins them, he smiles in welcome. He doesn't really have much to say.

[Jangoose]

Ark

as they travel, Ark observes the garb of the people around him and surreptitiously modifies his outfit accordingly, changing cloth styles, embroidery, color scheme, etc. while keeping the same general garments. (always careful to keep his withered arm hidden beneath long sleeves, and his jewel hidden beneath a wound scarf)

As they pass the guardsman, Ark makes sure to memorize his outfit, as it could possibly come in handy later...

unreal time: (all this is via psychic link (Ark initiated this time))
so... i think its time you've told me who you are... i have no brother, and if this is some scheme to come into my family's wealth forget it, we haven't been wealthy in a long time... then, less forcefully, we haven't been a family in a long time...

[Cespenar]

Daros

Finding the sorcerer's silent manners to his liking, Daros nods politely at Kadyn and even manages to conjure up a smile in return. He will travel a little ahead of the group if he can, gazing around to find anything suspicious.

[Delandel]

Javarel keeps an eye out for any notable people as they enter the town. He's intrigued by the manor -- perhaps he will be paying a visit there soon. When inside the inn, if there is a bar he approaches the counter with a smile and orders two mugs of their finest ale and then finds an empty table for him and Ark to sit at. If not, he'll lounge around the main room until everyone else shows up.


unreal time (telepathy again):
"No, this isn't a scam. I don't need your daddy's gold, I've got more of it now than he could've dreamed of. It's more curiosity than anything else. What happened to the 'perfect' family?

Well, you're right, I'm not exactly your brother. It was a quick way to get you to join me on this walk though. Technically, I'm your half-brother. When you were little my parents were servants for your dad. The red-haired maid that took care of you, that was my mom. And boy did she love you! But when my parents were killed when your house was being robbed, your father came to me and gave me ten silver pieces and told me to never bother him again. I was a blemish on his reputation of course.

Now, what's with that jewel of yours? It seems to have a mind of its own."

[MistressBaerne]

Copper and Marth:

Your trip is much the same as that of your comrades in the first group, save one thing: A flash of movement catches your eye near the ominous-feeling manor.

Spot checks, if you please.

[Strawman]

Copper tries to keep a steady eye.

[roll0]

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth tries to see the flash.
[roll0]

[MistressBaerne]

Neither of you move quite quickly enough to see whatever it was clearly, but Copper notices that it is small and very, very brightly colored - Probably what drew your eye in the first place.

[Jangoose]

Unreal Time: (@Javarel via psychic link)
broken and retrospective:
I happened... funny how your mother used to always say i was such a blessing. I guess i just turned out to be a curse... first he died, my father, and then... and then my arm, and then... mother... It was my fault you know... my mother's death. I was just 8... i couldn't control my powers, there was lightning, and then darkness... and then she was gone. They said my family was dead, that i was worse than useless, that i was a cripple, a misfit, a nobody. and so my family passed out of existence... I haven't gone by the name Syle since...

My jewel? in truth, it has not just one, but two minds. They are sometimes my only companions. they watch out for me. I think one might be some remnant of my father... this was his jewel before he died... the other? your guess is as good as mine. I don't remember much from the days around my fathers death, when i first bonded to this jewel, just vivid nightmares... well... one nightmare, over and over again.

[MistressBaerne]

Lady Mythlye and Group: Nothing of particular interest occurs between Cassandra's Altar and Beldon Mor.


OOC: Sorry this took so long, I made the mistake of inventing possible encounters before seeing if they actually happened...:smallsmile:

[Handsome Dan]

Lady Mythlye

Strolling round the town, Lady Mythlye looks for the second best inn in town. She has hopefully already cast a few minor cantrips and changed her clothes to look something more like a minor noble would wear in this realm.

"Right then boys, I think we need to be stopping for the night, then finding a way into the proper tomorrow, no one can plan on a tired mind and empty stomach."

I'll also open a physic thread to all the others and inform them that we're stopping and if they wish to come to this inn its called ..... if not, they are welcome to find their own lodgings and a place for the night, and we'll meet them in the morning.

Walking through the doors she strides up to the bar and says :

"Greetings good fellow, three of your best meals and lodgings for the night please."

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn has their carry-able belongings and he's right behind her when she enters the bar. He leans with one arm against the bar and looks around, taking in who's here, who they are and what their threat might be. He sends out psychic tendrils to see if any of them have a jewel and what color it might be.

[Cespenar]

Daros

Daros walks into the inn with carrying nothing additional than what's visible on him, pauses for a second and gazes on the patrons. Having the (perhaps too) militaristic and wary mind that he has, he takes a moment to concentrate, assessing the inn completely for any possible threats.

Auravision is already active. To add, I'll take a Detect Evil too.

So he's sensing... magic and evil for now. :smallsmile:

[MistressBaerne]

The inn is rather typical for its kind - Bland decor, good food, cloaked stranger drinking ale in a corner. Two things draw your attention: Five men wearing the cloaks of the City Watch are playing a drinking game in a corner, and a man wearing a Purple Dusk Jewel who sits at the bar with a bottle of whiskey at his elbow. The bartender seems to be avoiding him, and a human-shaped construct is removing empty glasses from the pile in front of him.

Daros:The guardsmans' cloaks are radiating minor Abjuration magic, and the man at the bar seems to be oddly fuzzy, as though he were a lantern viewed through a thick blanket. The clockwork creature behind the bar is, of course, riddled with Transmutation signatures, and the bar itself has a minor Conjuration effect of some sort.

One of the guardsman is suffused with Conjuration magic, and the dagger at his side is slightly evil. Several other patrons are carrying magic items of various degrees, but nothing else jumps out at you.

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn will keep a surreptitious eye on the guardsmen and the man with a purple dusk jewel while he quickly eats dinner. He doesn't make any threatening moves, he just makes it clear that if you leave his party alone then he'll leave you alone.

[Cespenar]

Daros

Raising a curious eyebrow against the guard with the dagger, and seeing Kadyn notice the purple dusk jeweled one too, Daros shrugs contentedly but mentions nothing to the Lady. Things seem to be in order, for now.

[Jangoose]

Ark

Ark and Javarel sit quietly as they wait for the others to arrive. The two continue to converse telepathically however.. Although it has been several hours, Ark has yet to touch the proffered glass of ale.

When Lady Mythlye makes contact, Ark replies, I think it would be best if we remained apart for now... When dusk falls, im planning on flying over the river... i'll begin scouting out the other side, and meet you all there when you arrive in the morning.

An hour or so before dusk, Ark telepathically explains his plan to Javarel before dropping money for the ale he didn't drink and leaving, giving his goodbyes verbally to avoid undue suspicion. Walking out into the darkening streets, he hurries over to the nearest bakery, and purchases a roll of bread. He waits till he is out of sight though before he vanishes it into his psychic cupboard.

From there he will go to the pier, find a secluded spot, and then take off invisibly, flying to the other side of the river.

Caution, OOC math...
(normal speed = 40 ft. / 6 sec. = 4.54 mph)
i will be taking double move actions the entire time (i don't think i get a run equivalent while flying (although if i do thats even more awesome :smallbiggrin:))
also, i will be first flying directly upwards for a minute or so (half speed), and then, flying across and downward, which is at double speed.
so basically i have a short pause while i gain altitude, followed by my traveling at 18.16 mph (1 mile in a little over 3 minutes)

[Strawman]

Copper

"I prefer to travel on foot whenever possible. If anyone would like to join me, that will be fine. If not I can do well enough alone."

[Delandel]

Unreal time (telepathic):
Javarel mentions all the relevant tidbits of his own past, including how his powers began to manifest coincidentally the same time Ark's did. He explains that he's never mentioned this to anyone before, and follows up with a threat that he will not hesitate to kill Ark if the boy reveals this information to anyone else. I think it's safe to assume they're all caught up by now.

Out loud, Javarel makes small talk with Ark as they wait for the rest of the group to filter into the inn. The friendly banter is just a front, of course, for their telepathic conversation, and allows Javarel to secretly observe the other people in the room. Specifically, he searches for the person who seems to be of the highest status of the lot. He also double checks with his mindsight that there are no minds in the room that are not clearly visible.

When Ark leaves, Javarel rents a room for the night and heads upstairs. In his room he quietly casts a spell to match his attire to that of the most high-ranking authority he observed, and for good measure he also changes his face to some other generic human male. When this is done he contacts Copper with the psychic link:
"Would you come with me for a stroll around this area? I have a recon mission in mind. I want to find the highest ranking man walking around this place. I wouldn't mind a bodyguard though. I changed my appearance a bit though, so when a strange looking man approaches you and calls you cousin, it's me, just play along."

I cast Disguise Self to change my attire and facial appearance.

Javarel then walks out of the inn (hopefully with copper!) and begins scouring the streets for the highest ranking noble he can find, someone he could assume has enough authority to perhaps gain an audience with the local administration. He does this as tactfully as possible, trying his best to hide his true intentions. If Copper is with him, he makes friendly smalltalk with him as this happens.

Bluff check so people don't notice me observing them in the inn and on the streets:
[roll0]

Spot + Search if necessary to single out the highest ranking people.
Spot: [roll1]
Search: [roll2]

[Strawman]

Copper responds to Javarel, "That sounds good. I'm glad to be of use."

Copper practices his small talk with Javarel, trying to have as normal a conversation as he is able. He also keeps an ear open for any useful information about nearby people of importance.


Bluff check to appear nonchalant

Listen check
d20+15[/roll]

[Strawman]

Oops, messed up listen roll. My bad.
[roll0]

[MistressBaerne]

Copper: A pair of men dressed too casually for their wary eyes and well-worn sword hilts catch your eye, leaning against a jeweler's across the street. They both look in your general direction, and you just barely hear one saying to the other: "Looks a bit nervous, doesn't he?" You miss the other's response, but it's accompanied by a decisive nod.

[Strawman]

Copper says to Javarel via the psycic link, Do you see the two with swords looking our way? By the jeweler's. They're suspicious of me and it might be trouble. How do you feel about turning the tables on them? Maybe we can question them before they can question us."

[Jangoose]

Ark

Flying in over the new city, Ark begins circling, still invisible, scoping out the general layout and trying to commit it to memory. If an obvious castle can be spotted nearby, he makes note of that as well.

Finally, he drops down into one of the poorer districts nearer the port, in as secluded an alley as he can find before becoming visible again. He begins walking the streets, looking around and listening for any interesting news regarding the target queen, and at the same time, keeping an eye out for anyone suspicious, or the local guard. spot
[roll0]
listen
[roll1]
once again, as he sees people, he will make minor adjustments to his clothing to better suit his surroundings. If he happens to see any guardsmen, he takes note of what they are wearing in case the uniform will come in handy later.

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth puts on a common travellers cloak over his mithril armour so as not to bring attention to himself in the tavern. He is also observing others, but not as intently as Copper and Javarel have. He takes note when the two point out the suspicious men seen there. He does not worry when Ark leaves the tavern.

[Delandel]

Javarel responds via psychic link, "They're suspicious of you because you keep looking around nervously. They're annoying, but things could get worse if we start questioning them in public. We might draw too much attention to ourselves. If they don't follow us, then we have nothing to worry about, we'll be gone by tommorrow. If they do follow us, then we'll have to deal with them."

Javarel continues to walk and make smalltalk, but remains alert, looking around with his eyes and feeling out individuals with his mindsight (http://dnd.savannahsoft.eu/edit_feat-1960-mindsight.html), as well as listening.

Javarel is still actively using bluff, spot, and listen, as well as searching for high-ranking nobles.

If nothing eventful happens as they wander, Javarel will contact the other party members and suggest that they either sleep at the inn for the night or head to Tigrelan.

[Strawman]

Copper talks via the link, I'm in no mood to rest. As soon as everyone else is ready, I'm ready for the road."

[MistressBaerne]

Javarel: Few truly important people are strolling in this part of Beldon Mor, but every so often a carriage will drive by, some practically dripping magic. One of these, the most ornate by far, bears the crest of the Queen of Chaillot - Your mindsight doesn't penetrate the wards around the carriage, but the guard detachment surrounding the vehicle suggests that the occupant is rather important.

Later in your walk, you spot a man wearing a City Watch uniform with the badge of a 2nd Circle commander, but he's the extent of your findings.


Ark: The city is unusually well-planned - Concentric rings of buildings inside an impressive wall, the outer face of which is uncluttered by the usual squatters' camps and ramshackle dwellings, instead being surrounded by a cleared area extending almost a mile inland. At the center of the city is a colossal palace, topped with a crystal dome and surmounted by a floating coat of arms outlined in green fire.

Touching down in an obviously less well-off section of the city, you are struck by the lack of guards - It's as if the authorities simply don't care what happens here. In lieu of official troops, though, groups of mercenaries stand on most street corners, often wearing badges that seem to signify their status as the protectors of a particular shop or tenement.

The only information you pick up is that the Queen's signet - The flaming heraldry in the sky - means that Lady d'Kell is at home.

[Delandel]

Javarel frowns when he sees the elaborate carriages pass by. Too many people for him to work his magic, and therefore bad targets. The high ranking guard piques his interest though. He speaks via psychic link, "I agree, we should leave as soon as possible. If for whatever reason we need more time here though, I have a target in mind to pursue."

[Jangoose]

Ark

Ark informs the others of his findings over the psychic link. Call me whenever you all are set to arrive, and i will meet you at the docks. I haven't managed to find out too much more from this side, although i do know the queen is currently here, in Tigrelan. As a side note, we are going to want to be very careful over here. There doesn't seem to be an official city watch, instead, everyone has privately hired mercenaries and guard companies, all of whom, I'm sure, are in fierce competition with each other for business.

[wxdruid]

Kadyn

Kadyn is at the inn with his lady. If he knows about the plans, then he'll set in motion to meet everyone in the morning at the ferry landing. His jewel should be dark enough to send a psychic thread to each of their party members.

[Cespenar]

Daros

Daros uncharacteristically breaks his silence by inquiring Mythlye.

"If you wish, milady, I can arrange a private boat instead of using the ferry."

[Delandel]

Javarel begins heading over to the docks as he contacts the rest of the group via psychic link, "Alright, I'm heading over to Tigrelan now. I suggest we use the same strategy that got us here. I'm going to be wandering the streets looking for a high-ranking official to copy. Hopefully that will give us easy access to our target."

Still in his nobleman disguise, Javarel boards the ferry (presumably with Copper) and arrives at Tigrelan.

Speaking to Copper via psychic link, "Alright Copper, I'm going to do the same thing as before but this time I suggest we don't walk together. I'll stay close though, since if anything goes wrong I'll need your arrows to get me out of a sticky situation."

Javarel wanders the streets in the same manner as the last town, looking for a high ranking individual who is preferably moving around unguarded.

Bluffing to pretend he isn't watching people, listening in case people are watching him, spotting / searching for his target or if someone is watching him.

Bluff: [roll0]
Listen: [roll1]
Spot: [roll2]
Search:[roll3]

[Strawman]

Copper tries to appear less suspicious by doing something that feels natural to him, browsing the wears of weapon dealers. While he does so, he listens for any useful information that might be said be people buying quality weapons. He hopes to get lucky enough to overhear someone who guards the queen.


bluff check, so that his browsing is not suspicious
[roll0]
listen check
[roll1]

[Zipding]

Marth
Marth wanders through the streets, trying to not look suspicious at all. He keeps his cloak covering his armour on so that he doesn't draw as much attention to himself.
Bluff to avoid looking suspicious: [roll0]
Spot: [roll1]
Listen: [roll2]

OOC: Thank you Dice Gods!